Broken and Freya made their way to the training grounds, where the knights were hard at work. Broken asked Igor to gather the others, and within minutes, his initial six knights, along with a dozen additional knights hired by Maylock, assembled before him.
However, Broken noticed that Elowen and the newly recruited knights weren’t present. It seemed Maylock had intentionally separated the newer recruits, likely to ensure they could catch up with the rigorous training program he had designed.
“My Lord, we are ready to accept your orders,” Igor declared firmly, standing at attention.
Broken looked over the group and said, “I have several talent and skill scrolls to distribute, but unfortunately, there aren’t enough for everyone just yet. So I hope those who don’t receive one today will be patient and wait for their turn.”
He then pulled out a Charge Attack Skill Scroll. “I think this skill would suit you well, Igor,” he said, handing it over.
Igor accepted the scroll but hesitated for a moment. “My Lord, do I truly deserve this honor?”
“Don’t worry,” Broken replied, smiling. “You’ve more than earned it. This skill will serve you well in battle, especially since you’ll be leading troops. It’s important that you are equipped with the best abilities to ensure victory.”
Igor nodded firmly. “Thank you, my Lord. I will make sure to use this skill wisely in service of you and the town.”
Broken continued distributing the scrolls, his eyes now shifting toward Karl. “The Giant’s Strength Talent Scroll. I think this would be perfect for you, Karl. As a swordsman, this will greatly boost your physical strength and increase your damage.”
“The Spell-shaper Talent Scroll is best suited for you, Damir. Since you’re the magic user of the group, this will allow you to customize your spells and make them more efficient.”
Next, he turned to Yann. “The Arrow Barrage Skill would be ideal for you, Yann.”
Broken then addressed Anna. “The Heavy Slam Skill is just right for you, Anna, since you wield the greatsword. It will enhance your combat power significantly.”
Finally, he turned to Inggrid. “And the Sword Dance Skill will be perfect for you. It will
enhance your agility and precision in combat.”
With that, Broken distributed the scrolls to the six knights standing before him.
Anna spoke cheerfully. “My Lord, thank you so much for this amazing skill.”
Karl followed. “My Lord, we are truly appreciative of your generosity.”
Damir added, “You are the most important person in our lives, and we are so grateful for everything you have done for us, My Lord.”
Ingrid and Yann, standing side by side, echoed their gratitude in unison, “My Lord, thank you.”
Broken nodded, pleased with their appreciation.
[Ingrid believes that her newfound abilities will allow her to fight with even greater ferocity.]
[You receive 24 Reputation Points.]
[Anna is elated that she can now fight with a higher degree of brutality.]
[You receive 29 Reputation Points.]
[Karl is thrilled that his strength boost will enable him to perform his duties with greater efficiency.]
[You receive 22 Reputation Points.]
[Igor is confident that his increased power will allow him to serve his Lord more effectively.]
[You receive 27 Reputation Points.]
[Yann is looking forward to making a greater contribution to the war effort.]
[You receive 26 Reputation Points.]
[Damir is excited about the prospect of learning more powerful magics.]
[You receive 22 Reputation Points.]
Broken carefully read through each notification, noting how each knight’s response reflected their distinct personalities.
Anna’s focus on brutality aligned perfectly with her fierce and aggressive fighting style, while Igor’s emphasis on serving better highlighted his deep loyalty and sense of duty. It amused Broken how these small details revealed so much about each of them.
He paused, carefully reconsidering his plan for the upcoming expedition.
Yann, the archer with the talent Pathfinding, was an obvious choice. Maylock had recommended him, and with his unique skills, Yann would be invaluable for navigating the Wildwood Forest.
He also knew he needed to bring another one or two knights. This expedition would be a meaningful experience, giving them the chance to quickly increase their potential. Who knows-maybe some of them would level up faster than ever after facing the challenges ahead.
Igor’s progress, in particular, was remarkable. He was already at level 213, and his development had skyrocketed.
Is it because they’ve been hunting alongside Ivana?
Anna, too, had shown incredible progress. Her Strength Stat had surged by more than 200 points, and she had reached level 165. Broken reflected on her earlier levels.
What was her level before we set off for Slumdon? Somewhere in the 100s… 105 or 106, I think.
He was impressed by how quickly they had all advanced, making it clear that this expedition would push them even further.
Broken began addressing his knights.
“In two days, I will be embarking on an expedition with some adventurers you may already know: Maylock, Toberry, Livelywood, Starfall, and Ivana.”
The knights stood at attention, listening intently to every word.
“I will be taking Yann with me, as I need his Pathfinding abilities,” Broken continued.
“I am ready to serve, my Lord,” Yann declared confidently.
Broken turned to Igor next. “Igor, even though you possess the highest level among the others here, I believe it would be best if you stayed behind to help protect the town.”
“I am prepared to carry out my responsibilities, my Lord,” Igor responded. “Karl,” Broken said, “you have shown great potential, and I am confident that you will become an even more valuable asset in the future. I am extending an invitation to you to join us on this expedition.”
“I am ready and eager to fulfill my duties, my Lord,” Karl responded without hesitation. “Damir,” Broken continued, “you still need further practice with your magic, so I need you to stay here and continue honing your skills.”
“Yes, my Lord,” Damir replied obediently.
Finally, Broken turned to Ingrid. “Ingrid, while I know you would be an excellent choice for this expedition, I need you here as a backup to guard the city. Your flexibility will be
invaluable in protecting Slumdon.”
“Understood, my Lord,” Ingrid responded firmly.
Initially, Broken was only considering inviting Yann and Karl, given that their levels were already above 175. However, his curiosity got the better of him, especially regarding Anna. She was the youngest among the group but had shown the fastest progress in such a short time.
“Anna,” Broken said, turning his attention to her, “I know your level is the lowest compared to the others, but I’ve noticed your rapid development. I’m offering you the chance to join us on this expedition. However, you must understand-the challenges you’ll face won’t be
easy.”
Anna’s face lit up with determination. “My Lord!” she exclaimed passionately. “I became a Knight for a good reason, and I’m prepared to work hard and face any challenge that comes my way. You can count on my determination.”
“Good,” Broken replied, satisfied with her response. “We will set off early in three days, so
make sure you’re prepared.”
***
“I’m going to burn Slumdon Town to the ground!” shouted SpeedGang, Champion of Gluttony from the Horde of Hell Guild. “I can’t wait to see that rookie’s face. What’s his name again? Broken? I want to watch him crumble!”
“You’re such an idiot, SpeedGang,” snapped Akiko, a 20-year-old girl with a pair of horns and a set of bat wings. “Didn’t you hear the Guild Master’s orders? Broken has an alliance with the
Ass Guild!”
“Alliance? Who cares?” SpeedGang shrugged it off, grinning wickedly. “I’m just here for a good time. Besides, that damn rookie Broken had the nerve to mess with me.”
“What’s your deal with him anyway?”
“That bastard picked a fight with me, and made Hazel defend him right in front of me! We
were at a shoot, and he just waltzed in and took her away afterward.”
“Oh… Hazel. The girl you do those commercials with.”
“Not just some girl! Shut up. Hazel’s mine, and Broken’s gonna learn his place. He’s nobody
compared to me! I’ll make sure he knows it!”
Galactron, the 14-year-old Guild Master of the Horde of Hell Guild, said. “I’m not taking any blame when this backfires on you,” he warned. “Go ahead, if you’re willing to deal with the
consequences.”
The truth: all three of them are Champions of Gluttony. The Horde of Hell has also allied with the Shadow Wolves, and together, both factions vying for power in the Dissidia Kingdom.