Chapter 100

After seeing Quon off as he left the capital, the two clan masters continued their conversation.

Altrius of 'Camelot' and Eleanor of 'Eleanor Guild'—the masters of two of the largest clans in terms of scale.

The topic of discussion between them was the arrangements for the alliance that had just been formed between their clans.

"Let's start with small transactions... After all, we're both large-scale, and it wouldn't be wise to push too hard."

"Yes, starting with small contracts is fine. If we start too big, it would be difficult to make adjustments."

"In that case, we'll need to revise our order forms for the clan... We can't offer much of a discount for small orders."

"We can handle a certain amount of production on our side. Let's focus on simple items and order in bulk. That way, we can free up our production teams for other necessary items."

The two masters of large-scale clans are also well-known figures.

So much so that if they were in the city center, they would immediately draw attention. Altrius and his close aides, including Dean, stepped into a nearby branch of the 'Eleanor Guild'.

Eleanor, who had made significant profits from the recent event, was already expanding her store.

The interior, still under renovation, was bustling with returning clan members.

Altrius watched this scene with a sense of admiration and spoke.

"In summary, we can provide materials, information, and accept escort missions."

"That seems manageable. From our side, we can offer items, discounts, and permission to participate in research and development."

"...Is that fine? That's a trump card for you, isn't it?"

"It's fine. Of course, we'll need to carefully select members and manage information... The frontline information that 'Camelot' possesses is very useful for us."

The 'Eleanor Guild', which conducts item research and development, aims to facilitate information exchange among craftsmen.

By inviting 'Camelot' members, who have easy access to frontline materials, they can expect the research to advance.

Of course, there are risks in terms of information, but Eleanor judged that the benefits of cooperation outweighed these risks.

"Then, let's start with this. We'll run it for a month and fine-tune the details."

"That sounds good. Thank you, Altrius."

"No, thank you. I hope we can maintain a good relationship going forward."

They shook hands—however, Eleanor gave him a skeptical look.

Despite this, Altrius maintained his usual demeanor, and Eleanor sighed slightly before speaking.

"You, bringing up such a proposal while hiding something... You really have the nerve to say that."

"It's true that there are benefits... After all, with what Quon has done, he needs a backer. Considering his connections, it's more convenient to accept."

"I see, you care about your comrades, Eleanor."

In response to Altrius' words, Eleanor returned his gaze while hiding her true feelings.

She wanted to frown deeply, but she didn't want to show any more weaknesses to Altrius, who already seemed to see through her.

"Still, you're not denying that you're hiding something."

"Denying it now would be pointless. You already have your suspicions."

"...That's just like you, Altrius."

Eleanor's voice was almost a groan, and Altrius chuckled.

He was aware that his position made it difficult to gain trust.

After all, he was indeed hiding things from Eleanor and the majority of the clan members.

"Even this proposal is unnatural. While a partnership with a production-focused clan like ours makes sense, supporting Quon, who competes on the frontline, doesn't logically follow."

"I thought I explained that."

"Knowing Quon's destination and attacking elsewhere? I can understand that, but... If you're serious, you could compete with Quon. There's no reason to avoid competition."

Indeed, Quon's abilities are exceptional.

He would likely wreak havoc on the frontline without even realizing it.

However, Altrius has the operational skills and organizational power to counter him.

If he wanted to, he could outmaneuver Quon.

Yet, he offered to support Quon. This means—

"...You want Quon to excel. His presence on the frontline is convenient for you."

"Do you understand that and are willing to go along with it?"

"Quon being on the frontline is a significant advantage for the 'Eleanor Guild'. Both he and Fushin are exclusive to us... Thanks to the growth weapons, they are almost like dedicated staff. However, I don't understand why you're pushing Quon."

Eleanor looked Altrius straight in the eye as she said this.

She wouldn't tolerate lies—she was trying to discern the truth behind his words.

Altrius, in turn, chuckled with a sense of resignation.

"Yes, I won't deny it. I want Quon to excel on the frontline."

"...Why?"

"I can't say right now. But... I promise I won't be your enemy."

Eleanor met his gaze and responded.

For a moment, they stared at each other in silence—then, they both broke into smiles.

Eleanor sighed and spoke to Altrius.

"...Alright. For now, this is fine. Your secrecy isn't new to me."

"Thank you for your understanding."

"Ha... Quon is a reckless existence, but in terms of mystery, you're no different."

"Hehehe, I can't deny that."

Altrius smiled brightly, and Eleanor gave him a skeptical look.

However, she judged that it was impossible to extract more information and decided to stop pressing the issue.

Still, it was a matter of concern. Altrius, based on the reactions of those around him, was likely a person of some standing.

However, why he could maintain such long login times was a mystery.

—Eleanor, who had her own reasons, was all the more cautious because of this.

"Ha... Well, it's fine. I don't intend to retract the cooperation proposal. Let's work together effectively."

"Yes, thank you. I'll take my leave for today."

With that, Altrius stood up.

He left with Dean, who was waiting by the entrance, and turned back to Eleanor by the door.

"I'll talk to you and Quon eventually."

"...Are you serious?"

"Yes, it will take some time, but eventually. Until then, please be patient."

With that, Altrius left the branch.

Eleanor watched him go and sighed deeply.

"Maybe there really is something behind this. If so, that instruction from Father—"

She swallowed her words and slowly stood up.

After a moment of closing her eyes, she raised her face—her expression had returned to that of a capable guild leader.

* * * * *

"Your 'Enhancement Magic' skill level has increased."

"Your 'MP Auto Recovery' skill level has increased."

"Your 'Magic Manipulation' skill level has increased."

"Hmm... I don't feel like I'm using 'Life Force Manipulation' as much."

"Is that so? People with a magic-focused build can really feel the difference, especially with 'Magic Manipulation'."

"To be honest, I don't really understand it. But it seems to improve efficiency somewhat."

As we continued north, we were testing the new skills we had acquired.

I learned 'Magic Manipulation', 'Magic Technique Ensemble', and 'Swordsmanship'.

However, 'Swordsmanship' seems to only slightly increase weapon power, and I don't really notice much of a difference.

"More importantly, how about you? You learned a new skill with the gold skill orb, right?"

"Yes, it's called 'Ritual Loading'. In simple terms, it's a skill that allows you to imbue weapons with magic."

"Is that what made the sword catch fire earlier? Is it different from the magic combat techniques you usually use?"

"Of course, it's completely different."

Indeed, it didn't seem like her body was moving on its own, as it does when using magic combat techniques.

This means you can achieve similar effects while controlling your actions, which is quite convenient.

However, since my magic is 'Enhancement Magic', it wouldn't be useful for me to learn it.

"When you use 'Ritual Loading' and then cast a spell, the spell lodges in the weapon. Depending on the spell, different effects are activated. For example, with 'Fireball', swinging the sword will launch a fireball."

"I see... There are many possible applications, Fushin."

"Exactly! Plus, the attack power increases with the spell's power, so you can use 'Spell Charge' and other buffs."

"Indeed, it seems quite versatile."

"Yes, but the MP consumption isn't great."

As Fushin said, the effect of 'Ritual Loading' doesn't last long.

Considering it's a single-use spell, this is understandable, but the MP cost is quite high.

Still, this is a skill that becomes more useful as you progress.

If you can fully grasp its potential, it could become a powerful tool.

"So, how about you, teacher?"

"'Magic Technique Ensemble'? If I demonstrate it—"

I've already tried it a few times, but demonstrating it would be faster than explaining it.

Looking around, I spotted two orcs walking a fair distance away.

They haven't noticed us yet, but a light attack should draw them over.

"Fushin, I'll demonstrate with those. Lumin, try out that 'Divine Seal' thing."

"This? I can only use it once a day."

"You can't use something you don't understand. First, we need to grasp its capabilities."

Lumin's right hand, hidden by a gauntlet, bore a golden emblem of wings.

This emblem, which appeared when she equipped the 'Divine Seal', might indicate that it can be used when it glows.

However, with a daily use limit, it can't be used carelessly.

While considering how to test it, Fushin provoked the two orcs with a light spell.

"Teacher, they're coming."

"Good, then—'Life Drain'."

Using the shortcut word I set, I simultaneously activated 'Sword of Life' and 'Sword of Deprivation'.

The sword, 'Garo Maru', was enveloped in a spiral of gold and black aura.

The large orc, wielding a massive club, charged at us—dodging, I struck its torso with a single slash.

The sword, enveloped in aura, deeply cut into its side, severing its internal organs and ending its life in one blow.

At that moment, my HP recovered as if absorbing the orc's blood.

"The difference in the sword is part of it... but the power is still lower than using 'Sword of Life' alone. However, it's more powerful than using 'Sword of Deprivation' alone, and the increased damage seems to compensate for the reduced absorption."

"For those with single-attack skills, this offers many combinations. Though it's limited to platinum users."

"True. If