https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-563-The-71st-Frost-Giant-Suburbs-of-Isdalia/13677168/
Chapter 564: Players' New Life
"Who would’ve thought? Just took on a random quest and ended up with this much Experience Points? Feels like a pie fell from the sky!"
"Haha, Noodles, let’s go! I’ve got to show off to that hardcore player!"
Stuffed Bun stood upright on the back of his Wyvern, the heavy, blood-stained sack slung over his shoulder — stuffed with the head of a Frost Giant — radiating confidence.
"Aaaarrrrgh!"
The Wyvern, sensing its master’s excitement, stretched its long neck high, tilting its head back and letting out a triumphant roar.
Now, Stuffed Bun was no longer just a player — he was a Dragon Blood Baron of the Empire. As the saying went, "When one ascends, even the chickens rise with him." And Wyvern, his loyal mount, was no exception.
Noodles was now over seven meters long. Though its neck remained slender like a noodle, it was armored in thick, hardened Dragon Scales, and its body had grown far more solid and powerful.
In short, after multiple Bloodline Gifts, Noodles had become even more Red Dragon-like — or, to put it another way, more primordial.
Still, the sheer size made riding it a bit uncomfortable. Stuffed Bun was already considering buying a saddle with a proper seat.
Swish—
Noodles unfurled its massive wings, the tips slicing through the air with a sharp, spine-chilling screech. With a mighty beat, it soared into the sky, carrying its knight toward the heart of Isdalia City.
The Frost Giant Rebellion warehouse lay just outside the city walls — a mere ten kilometers away. It didn’t take long before Stuffed Bun reached the Southern Gate.
He’d picked up the quest at the Empire’s Emergency Affairs Bounty Office, far from the Red Scales Garrison. So he didn’t bother landing at the usual Dragon Landing Pad near the guard post. Instead, he came straight in.
The Southern Gate was renowned as the most majestic in the Empire of Ashen — a perfect blend of military might and architectural grandeur, serving as the proud gateway to the capital.
Even with the Empire Construction Crew, a team of expert Construction Guys and Soil Elemental Energy Evocation Spellcasters, it had taken months to complete.
The gate towered dozens of meters high, its banners snapping in the wind — the standard of the Empire of Ashen — and jutting from its walls were grotesque stone Flying Dragon Heads, each with a gaping maw. Legends said these Two-Headed Dragons could fire Fragmentation Shells of immense power, capable of reducing any invader to ash.
Tiefling Guards, clad in gleaming Majestic Armor and wielding polished Rifles, stood motionless atop the ramparts, unshaken by wind or rain.
And on the towering Stone Pillars, real Wyverns crouched, ready at a moment’s notice to launch into the sky and intercept threats.
Even the bravest warrior would feel a flicker of fear before such a sight. Many a spy had been caught red-handed right at this gate, their secrets exposed.
"Please, citizens, line up in order — no pushing!"
"Imperial Citizens, be mindful of your conduct — King Kai Xiusu is always watching!"
From the Amplifiers atop the walls, a Tiefling Captain of the Guard’s voice rang out, passionate and commanding.
Below, the crowd surged — bustling, noisy, yet orderly in neat lines.
"Things have been busy lately. We just got a batch of rural contracts."
"Tell me about it."
"Word is, we’re going to war again!"
"War’s good! With King Kai Xiusu’s protection, the Empire never loses. Every time we fight, orders pour in like snowflakes — everywhere’s hiring, and money’s flowing."
"Exactly! My home tavern’s doing great — when the soldiers return victorious, I’m raking in gold every day."
"Hah! May the Empire keep fighting — never make peace!"
Hundreds of people, caravans, and traders formed endless lines. Fully armed Tiefling Guards conducted routine checks. But their process was swift and flawless.
Beep—
Safety. Entry permitted.
A flat, mechanical voice echoed from the speakers. The citizens passed through smoothly.
The Tiefling Guards used the Technology Department’s brand-new Magic Scanners, scanned a few documents, and let them through — no fuss.
But Stuffed Bun, as a 尊贵的 Dragon Blood Baron, didn’t need that.
"Aaah!"
Noodles circled lazily in midair, giving a friendly nod to the Wyverns perched on the pillars before slowly flapping its wings and descending onto an open field just outside the city.
Its wings stirred up a gale, kicking up dust and drawing gazes from the surrounding crowd.
"Look! He’s riding a Two-Headed Dragon!"
"That’s the Crimson Scale Conqueror!"
"A being capable of taming a Two-Headed Dragon — rumor says every Crimson Scale Conqueror is personally favored by King Kai Xiusu! Incredible!"
"I wanted to try, but the Wyvern Valley Trials were way too dangerous."
"Wait — look at that knight’s medal! He’s a Dragon-Blooded Noble — a Viscount!"
As the Wyvern landed with a heavy crash, Stuffed Bun dismounted with practiced grace, striking a pose befitting a true knight.
"Good morning, Viscount!"
"Viscount!"
"Your noble presence on a Two-Headed Dragon is unforgettable!"
People bowed deeply, even those from afar gave respectful nods — such was the status of a Dragon-Blooded Noble within the Empire.
Stuffed Bun smiled warmly, waving at the cheering citizens, then took the reins and began walking toward the gate.
Before he even reached it, a group of Tiefling Guards approached — their Squad Leader personally welcoming him.
This was the privilege of a Dragon-Blooded Noble. And not just any noble — a Viscount. There were fewer than four hundred such titles across the entire Empire.
Even in Isdalia, the capital, brimming with Important Figures, a Viscount was not to be treated lightly.
"Good morning, Viscount. This way, please."
The Tiefling Guard bowed deeply, then stepped forward to take the reins from Stuffed Bun’s hand.
Stuffed Bun gave a slight nod, walking beside them toward the designated Special Passage.
Then, suddenly, the guard turned, his tone casual.
"Ah, I’m Going to Eat a Steamed Bun, Viscount — would you mind showing your Flying Dragon Driver’s License?"
Stuffed Bun blinked. "Huh? Didn’t I just need my Noble Medal to enter before?"
The guard smiled sheepishly. "Sorry, Viscount. New policy from above. We’re just following orders.
Apparently, a few Stellarfallen broke the rules recently — they sneaked out of Wyvern Valley, stole Dragon Eggs and Dragonlings, and rode Two-Headed Dragons through the city without passing the trials. Caused a real mess."
"Hah! That’s the guy — Da Shui Lanzi!" Stuffed Bun chuckled. He knew that player. A content creator known for his chaotic stunts. He’d just jumped into Ailezegai, and in just months, had already caused a stir.
"Alright, fine. If that’s what they want, I’ll dig it out."
Stuffed Bun rummaged through his pack and pulled out a sleek, small green card.
Driver’s Name: I’m Going to Eat a Steamed Bun
Driving Experience: 3 years
Accident Record: None
Status: Crimson Scale Conqueror member, Isdalia Thirteenth Squad, Intermediate Peacekeeper
The Tiefling Guard took the card, scanned it, and after a moment, grinned.
"All clear, Viscount. Your mount may enter. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation with our Public Order Unit."
Stuffed Bun waved casually. "No problem. I get it — everyone’s just trying to do their job. Hard work, right?"
With that, Stuffed Bun and Noodles stepped into Isdalia City.
The streets were alive — people bustling, carts rolling, steam locomotives chugging along tracks, their whistles echoing.
Stellarfallen wandered aimlessly, stopping strangers to ask if they had any quests. But most Imperial Citizens, too busy with work, simply walked past without a word.
The Stellarfallen had earned a reputation across the Empire: unreliable, clumsy, often making things worse. As a result, they were mockingly called "Useless Ones".
People preferred to go to Magic Affairs Office or Royal Power Bounty Office — established institutions staffed by experienced, powerful Stellarfallen.
Stuffed Bun glanced at the Newcomers in their basic Newbie Uniforms, shaking his head.
"Tch, more new players every day."
"Whoa — look! It’s Stuffed Bun!"
Suddenly, a New Player pointed, recognizing him. The crowd around him swarmed instantly.
"Look at him — he’s got a mount!"
"I joined because of his videos! Stuffed Bun, your Alerzage Diary’s been dead for two months!"
"I want to ride a Two-Headed Dragon too!"
The sudden attention made Stuffed Bun break into a cold sweat. For a moment, he seriously considered fleeing.
"What’s going on here?!"
"I told you — no gathering in the city!"
Thankfully, a Peacekeeper on patrol arrived, barking sharply.
He waved his baton like a broom, scattering the Useless Ones like startled sparrows. They bolted, not wanting to end up in Detention Facility.
The Peacekeeper approached Stuffed Bun, bowing respectfully.
"Long time no see, Viscount. Didn’t let you get hurt, did I?"
"None at all. Thanks."
Stuffed Bun nodded — but couldn’t place the face.
Did I forget someone?
Then, the Peacekeeper stepped closer, his tone suddenly dripping with sarcasm.
"Haha… enjoying the Noble treatment, are we?"
That voice. That tone.
Stuffed Bun stepped back, eyes widening in disbelief.
"Wait — you’re Hardcore Player?!"
The Peacekeeper nodded, smirking. "Not recognized, huh? My New Faces are that good."
Stuffed Bun studied him — and was stunned. Not only had his appearance changed completely, but his Player Nickname wasn’t even showing. He looked like a real Non-Player Character.
"How’d you even do that?"
Singo pulled out a folded gray leather pouch from his pack, shaking it proudly.
"Golem Mask. Wear it, and you can disguise as anyone — even hide your Player Status. Rumor is, it was developed by the Magic Coin crew — for their Double-Agent Operations."
"Whoa — a Status-Hiding Artifact?!"
Stuffed Bun’s eyes lit up — then he paused, sighing. "Alright, Hardcore Player. Just tell me the price. I’ll accept defeat."
Singo shrugged. "It’s made from the hide of a Shapeshifter. Materials are rare. Minimum 500 gold coins."
Stuffed Bun’s face fell. He feigned tears. "Oh, perfect. Just another thing I can’t afford."
Then — the Golem Mask was tossed at him.
"Here. Take it."
Stuffed Bun caught it, staring in shock. His eyes sparkled with surprise — but also suspicion.
The tightfisted Iron Chicken had just handed over 500 gold coins’ worth of gear?
No such thing as free lunch. This guy’s up to something.
"Uh… you don’t want it back?" Singo feigned a pout. "I can take it back."
Stuffed Bun quickly snapped the mask onto his face. "Wait — what’s with the sudden generosity? Did the sun rise from the west?"
Before he could finish speaking, his face began to shift.
Then — it settled.
Now he looked like a famous male celebrity.
"Think you’re Peng Yuyan?"
"Just showing my true face. That’s how I look in the real world."
"Get lost. You’ll attract all the New Players!"
"Fine… I’ll compromise."
His face reshaped again — this time into a bland, unremarkable face, almost identical to his original look.
"Alright. So why the gift? And why’d you want me to be a Black Slave?"
Singo chuckled, shaking his head.
"Truth is… I was wrong. The Full Party Defeat? I take full responsibility. This is my compensation — one for each of us. I was so desperate to prove myself, I ignored the most basic Intelligence."
He pulled out a book from his pack — Ennobled cover, embossed with a Red Dragon emblem.
Guide to Dragon Studies
"Based on my research, a 30-meter Ancient Red Dragon has a Challenge Rating of over 20. The Abyssal Dragon we fought? It likely surpassed even that. I challenged it with a full party — like a mantis trying to stop a tank. Completely out of my depth."
Stuffed Bun stared, stunned.
"Whoa… that boss was that strong? The Challenge Rating must’ve blown the Watch!"
"Wait — what about King Kai Xiusu? He killed that Abyssal Dragon alone. Doesn’t that make him insane powerful?"
"I don’t know." Singo shrugged. "Right now, Player Power Levels are still too low. Even the strongest — me, Steel Tide — are only level 11. We’re still light-years from High-Level Power.
But one thing’s certain: in this Version, as long as you’re under King Kai Xiusu’s Winged Protection, the Empire of Ashen won’t fall."
"Good. All my Wealth and Status is tied to the Empire. If it collapses, I’m done for — Bankruptcy."
(End of Chapter)
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