Maylock began his explanation. “There are four key parties involved here: the Horde of Hell, Shadow Wolves, the Ass Guild, and Slumdon Town.
“Let’s set Slumdon Town aside for now and focus on the guilds.
“First, any conflict between two powerful guilds will be a long, drawn-out affair. Players will keep respawning, and vengeance won’t be satisfied until one guild is completely obliterated. This applies even if a war breaks out between the Ass Guild and the Horde of Hell.
“Second, the Shadow Wolves are aiming to win this race to power by any means necessary, with or without the help of the Horde of Hell. So, if an early war were to ignite between the Ass Guild and the Horde of Hell, the Shadow Wolves would be more than happy.
“Because while the Ass Guild and the Horde of Hell weaken each other, expending resources in their conflict, the Shadow Wolves will reach their full strength. They’ll be able to carry out their missions without the threat of the Ass Guild, which would have otherwise made things more difficult once the true war begins.”
Maylock paused, glancing around the room to ensure everyone was following his reasoning. Jovina let out a frustrated grumble. “This kind of strategic talk makes me sick,” she muttered. “I know we need a strategy, but sometimes brute force is just as important.”
Goldrich chimed in, stating, “The Guild Master of the Horde of Hell is famous for his brilliance, both in battle and tactics. So, what Maylock’s saying here isn’t something to be taken lightly.”
“That piece of shit! A kid? I’ll crush that little pest with one strike! His undead army won’t stand a chance against my beast army!” Jovina snapped, her patience running thin.
Maylock nodded slowly. “Yes, that kid-the shit-is unfortunately pretty sharp. And it’s annoying.”
Broken, still sitting calmly, gave a slight nod. Even he had to admit, it was impressive that someone as brilliant as Maylock would acknowledge the genius of an opponent-especially one who was only 14 years old.
But if the Horde of Hell and the Shadow Wolves really join forces, wouldn’t that be a massive problem? Or was Maylock merely recognizing Galactron’s intelligence without admitting defeat to the boy genius?
However, there was one thing Maylock hadn’t considered yet-SpeedGang’s personal grudge against Broken. If their Guild Master didn’t want a war between guilds, then why would SpeedGang challenge him? It had to be a personal matter. But if it was purely personal, why would their Guild Master allow it, knowing the risks involved?
“Therefore,” Maylock continued, breaking Broken’s train of thought, “brute force alone won’t make us win. We need a well-planned strategy.”
Elincia nodded in agreement. “Please, go on with your explanation, Maylock.”
Maylock resumed. “Given what I’ve said, I’m certain Galactron is aware of the same factors. He won’t push for an early war against the Ass Guild.”
Jovina cut in, “If they don’t want a fight, then why did they come to this town and challenge Broken?”
“That’s the real question,” Maylock replied.
Freya, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke. “Maybe Galactron wants to test how strong Broken is—to see if he’s a real threat in the upcoming war?”
Everyone turned toward Freya, her words answering the unspoken question on many of their minds.
Maylock continued. “So, Broken, if you accept SpeedGang’s challenge, it’s almost like you’re walking straight into their trap. But, of course, the final choice is yours.”
Goldrich spoke up next. “You don’t need to worry about Slumdon. I’ll personally do whatever it takes to defend this town, even if it means leaving the Ass Guild.”
Jovina snorted. “You stupid idiot, you’re only saying that because you want to ditch the guild and join the Shadow Wolves-since there are so many pretty girls there, huh?”
“Khi khi khi… Oh, you’re too harsh on this old man’s sincerity,” Goldrich chuckled, trying to mask his amusement.
Everyone turned their gaze toward Broken, silently waiting for his response. He fell into a brief silence, his mind drifting back to the tarot session he had with Freya and Yara-the Emperor, the Tower, and the Wheel of Fortune. The decision he faced now wasn’t just about himself; it would have a ripple effect on a much larger scale.
Broken had gained an overwhelming number of upgrades and achievements in a remarkably short time. From an ordinary player, he had transformed into a Divine Champion, equipped with an array of extraordinary skills. He had crafted legendary-grade items and even forged contracts with powerful beasts, including a Legendary-grade demon beast.
Not only that, he now had a Legendary-grade golem protecting the town!
But his encounter with Gremory had been a sobering experience. Despite all his power and accomplishments, there were still forces out there far beyond his reach. That battle had reminded him that, no matter how strong he became, there were always greater threats lurking in the world.
“Yes,” he thought. “I need alliances.” And right now, the Ass Guild was his strongest ally, the best friends he had in this game.
Could he take on SpeedGang? He was confident he could, especially in a one-on-one fight. He had a diverse set of skills and summons that could adapt to any fighting style.
But he knew he couldn’t be reckless. He had to make careful, calculated decisions. Though he wasn’t the type to back down from a challenge, he wasn’t foolish either.
Was he just itching for a fight? Maybe. There was a certain thrill in facing an opponent head- on, and the potential for battle stirred something inside him. But this time, he had to think beyond that excitement-there was too much at stake.
“Make a decision, Broken. I’m fine, and the Ass Guild is fine,” Elincia murmured softly, sensing his hesitation.
Maylock sighed, nodding. “Yes, take a decision.”
“Khi khi khi,” Goldrich chuckled. “You know, Broken, Maylock always has a safe plan in place,
but I know his mind is wilder than he lets on. So, I can guess what he’s hoping for… and I can probably guess what you’re thinking too.”
A few people in the room gave small, knowing smiles. Only Jovina burst out laughing. “Hahaha! I love this!” she exclaimed, clearly enjoying the tension.