Chapter Text
Cale raised an eyebrow as he waited for his companions to speak out.
Choi Han peeks at the silver kitten before shaking his head.
"... It's nothing, Cale-nim."
"Okay?"
Cale looked at Raon Miru, who looked softer than when they first came into this room.
He is even playing genuinely with the kittens now.
"We shall visit your mom once we get out."
"O, of course!"
However, the black dragon seems more nervous than excited.
"Great."
Cale coughs to hide his smirk.
He definitely doesn't have any ulterior motive for visiting the place as soon as they are out. The poor black dragon just seems so excited that Cale took pity.
Choi Han looked down and sighed.
The red kitten Hong noticed Choi Han and decided to ask.
"Are you okay, nya?"
Now everyone was looking at him.
The swordmaster scratches his head and laughs dryly.
"Ah... was I being obvious? I'm still in shock that my uncle was the First Dragon Slayer and was lost in this world the entire time."
After coming to this world, his uncle ending up in the same place he did was the least he expected. Choi Han thought he had already lost all his connections to his family. Turns out, not only was his line of family involved with the God of Death, but he was also so close to his family. It was such a shame they never met. Choi Jung Soo too, when he was alive and breathing.
Choi Han laughs nervously after noticing their still worried gaze on him.
"B, but I'm fine! It's only processing slowly for me."
"... Right."
Cale looked away and took the children in his arms to let Choi Han have a moment with himself. He looks like he needed it.
"Weak human. Who was that goldie?"
"... Goldie?"
As Cale pondered, he couldn't help but think about the stunning elf who revealed himself as a dragon. Eruhaben, as he's known, appears to have a tsundere personality. Unfortunately, Cale is unsure of Eruhaben's whereabouts as the only dragon mentioned in the book is the black dragon.
The redhead sighs.
'I try to avoid dealing with difficult people. However, due to the unexpected strength of our enemy, I may need to work with him in the future.'
Is slacker life still reachable? It looks farther the longer he stays in this cursed place...
Cale huffed.
'Of course it is. I'm thinking nonsense.'
He vowed to find the gold dragon, not knowing that there were already four dragons who had their eyes on him. They might or might not kidnap him once they get back to the real world.
Outside the barrier, everyone is talking about the last viewing.
"First of all, he is rich."
Cage was laughing as she said that.
For some reason, Bud was quiet at her side, seemingly deep in thought. That was the first time he had been quiet and serious since coming here. It was a bit troubling.
"That is one thing."
Taylor sighs as he looks at the Mercenary King.
"Sir Bud Ilis-nim, is there something bothering you?"
Bud snapped out of his thoughts as he glanced at the noble. Seeing his sincere expression, Bud sighs.
"Please feel free to call me Bud, no need to be formal. And... well, I may have a theory as to why the Directory was destroyed in the future."
Cage and Taylor stopped laughing and exchanged serious looks.
"It is because of what the Eruhaben-nim said, isn't it?"
Cage began as she crossed her arms on her chest.
Since the gold dragon already hinted at it, most of them had already figured it out. That is why their curiosity regarding the matter increases.
"It is likely that he used the directory to collect all of the ancient powers he currently possesses. Even though we only have one record of an Earth AP, I still find it hard to believe that we, as members of the Mercenary Guild, inadvertently aided the villain."
Bud sighs as he massages his head.
Cage and Taylor couldn't blame him. The Directory is the treasure of the Mercenary Guild. To think it was used for evil... Bud must be feeling conflicted.
"Hmm."
Taylor hummed as he put his hand on his chin.
"Sir Bud, are you still planning on destroying the directory?"
The Mercenary King nodded.
"I don't want that bastard to use the directory anymore. It's better relocated and hidden somewhere he can't find."
Despite only discovering Arm and Cale Barrow recently, Bud is resolute in his determination to triumph over them. Although it may appear to be a daunting challenge, he is confident in his ability to succeed.
Taylor thinks otherwise.
"Wouldn't it be too late already?"
It seems unnecessary to destroy the Directory at this point, as Bud has stated that there are no records of Earth attribute Ancient Power that Cale Barrow is searching for. Therefore, Cale Barrow has no reason to return to the Directory.
Bud Ilis visibly lit up at the realization.
Moving is still necessary, but he now has a reason to postpone it. Bud has a lot to take care of upon his return, and he must be cautious. When Cale Barrow becomes desperate for the final AP he requires, he will likely target him.
"Furthermore, Cale Barrow might notice something amiss if we destroy or try to relocate any records right now."
It's best to exercise caution as no one knows how much patience Cale Barrow has left to spare.
"The best we can do right now is not update the directory."
"That's a great idea."
Glenn agreed with the suggestion and the rest of the group followed suit. It seems to be the best option considering their current difficult situation.
"You have my gratitude, Count Deruth."
"Anything, Your Highness."
The Count nodded at the crown prince.
Accompanied by his wife, Count Deruth personally approached Alberu Crossman to propose the construction of a naval base. They expressed their readiness to speak with the Ubarr liege and provide financial support for the project.
Alberu was politely smiling, but inside he was filled with happiness and excitement. It appears that he no longer needs to be concerned about dropping hints to the Ubarr leader while also hiding his true motives.
Now.
His eyes landed on the nonhumans in the room.
The man with silver hair, who calls himself Bob, caught his attention. He stood in the corner of the room, away from the crowd. Bob appeared to be a nobleman, but he also seemed to possess great strength. Even without using magic, his presence exceeded that of the Whales.
Alberu was observant of everyone in the room, so he immediately noticed when 'Bob' had reacted to the mention of the Endable Kingdom.
All individuals have made known their association except for the esteemed individual with silver hair.
It is evident that he is a member of the Endable Kingdom, but the real question is, why did the God of Hope choose to place their confidence in him? Alberu ought to investigate.
Basen Henituse stared at the pink-haired.
It has been a while since the viewing indeed and since then, the pink haired never stopped talking about Cale... or is it Kim Rok Soo?
"... You like my older brother that much?"
'Like' would be an understatement given how the pink-haired haired sings praises nonstop. It's almost unhealthy.
"Older brother?"
Dodori stops muttering and gazes at the brown-haired child who persists in bothering him. Did the child really say they were siblings with his hero?
The dragon stared for a moment, then suddenly beamed.
"Ah... Dongsaeng!"
"E, excuse me!? We are the same age!"
Basen almost gagged. And why is he being friendly so suddenly?
The dragon's eyes fell on Lily and went closer to where the siblings were sitting.
"Yeodongsaeng!"
"Stop!"
What is happening? Basen wants some answers.
"Looks like the next Lord is already born."
Mila glanced at Raon as she said that.
Rasheel was frowning as he stared at the tiny blob who was the last Lord's child but decided just to close his eyes and take a quick nap. He doesn't really care that much and would rather sleep.
Eruhaben hummed but he was frowning.
Mila seemed to notice and decided to ask.
"Is there a problem?"
"Cale Barrow and his fake dragon slayer have been hunting down dragons. That child wouldn't be safe if he continues to follow that redhead human."
It appears that the baby dragon is still in its early stages of development. As a potential heir to the Dragon Lord, he must be kept in a secure location, as the likelihood of Cale Barrow seeking him out is significant.
How Cale Henituse manages to find Raon Miru remains a mystery.
"I understand your point. However, if we can retrieve the White Castle and move it to a location that Cale Barrow and Arm have not yet reached, the Lord's illusion would keep him safe."
The Lord's desire to protect her only remaining child will be enough to empower her ability, ensuring the safety of Raon Miru in the meantime.
Mila then glanced at Eruhaben, who had been quiet.
"It appears that you are their intended target."
The Eruhaben on the screen mentioned his lair was ransacked by Arm, leaving him poor and homeless and at the mercy of the unlucky bastard.
The gold dragon's eyes lit up dangerously.
"I'd like to see them try."
"Ha."
Mila just chuckled and it seems to be the end of their conversation.
Eruhaben looks at everyone.
"Shall we continue to the next round?"
No one denied the dragon's suggestion and so the game continued.
The next round was Harol's but they were only able to gather 9 points.
Despite being a prominent and influential figure in the Whipper Kingdom, the man did not engage as openly with others in the room, resulting in fewer points than most rounds.
[ ACCUMULATED POINTS: 13 ]
[ 06. THE SACRIFICES
07. THE MOGORU EMPIRE
08. FIRST MERCENARY KING
09. CROSSMAN HOUSEHOLD (FOUNDER)
10. SECRET ORGANIZATION (ARM)
11. THE DRAGONS (6)
12. THE DRAGON LORD (LORD SHERITT)
13. DRAGON SLAYERS ]
"Hmm, we only have limited choices..."
Everyone keeps staring at the choices, not knowing what to choose that would give useful information.
'I'm really curious about number six, but I'm still skeptical.'
Harold thought it might be related to the Mogoru Empire where it was already revealed in the last viewing that they were doing nasty experiments in the Alchemy Bell Tower. It might sound cruel, but he believes it is a waste of points, especially since they are already at the 7th round and there are still more interesting topics yet to be revealed.
They can't choose number 11 too because they could feel Eruhaben glaring at them whenever they tried raising suggestions.
Now that leaves numbers 8 and 9...
Suddenly, someone stepped forward. With a rare serious gaze, he spoke.
"Excuse me, but may I pick this time?"
It was none other than Mercenary King Bud Ilis. The one who is rarely serious ever since the game started doesn't have a playful aura right now. It was as if his past persona was a lie.
"I don't mind. Do as you wish."
Witira shrugged and the rest followed.
The others have no complaints because Bud looks troubled. Since he was revealed to be a good person willing to use all his money for the sake of mother and son dragons, they should indulge him just this time.
"I'm guessing you are picking number 8? Go ahead, I am also curious."
Bud nodded in confirmation at Eruhaben.
"Ha? What's so important about that directory?"
The Holy Maiden complained.
It was mentioned they destroyed the Directory. It is exciting but not as exciting as seeing someone bleed out.
"Hannah, please be nice."
Jack scolded.
Hannah just clicked her tongue in displeasure.
Since no one voiced any objections, they picked the number 8.
"What did they choose this time?"
Cale looked at Choi Han, who was looking at his screen. He taps something before facing the redhead.
"The First Mercenary King, Cale-nim."
"Huh."
"Cale-nim?"
"... It is starting."
The screen turned black for a moment before slowly showing a scene.
There are several people on the screen and they are somewhere dark. They were in a completely dark tunnel. They were crawling too but no one said anything when they saw the esteemed Gold Ancient Dragon also crawling in the dark.
"Ahem."
"... Where are they?"
"It seems like a tunnel? A secret passage perhaps?"
"That!"
Bud's eyes widen in shock.
That place where they are on the screen is the secret passage to the Directory. But he immediately calmed down upon realizing it didn't show the entrance. He trusts some people here but not to the point he wants the location of the Directory to be revealed. It is for the Mercenary Guild only and it should remain that way.
"Tsk."
Even though Beacrox was not the one crawling on the screen, he still felt disgusted. Why the hell do they need to crawl in the future?
"...Is this really necessary?"
Beacrox was the one who asked that question. There was a terrible frown on his face as he crawled on the floor.
"I, I'm sorry. The HQ will be alerted if an unauthorized person uses magic in this tunnel."
There were magic circles throughout the tunnel.
These advanced magic circles did not match the shabby tunnel.
This was a secret passage that only the Mercenaries Guild's top leaders knew about. They made sure that no unauthorized person could use magic in the tunnel and the area at the end of the tunnel.
"And that area will explode if someone tries to infiltrate it using any type of power."
Bud continued.
That was the reason Cale's group was currently crawling through the tunnel.
"... I see."
Although it wasn't the real Beacrox who asked the question, Bud Ilis still answered.
The Chef nodded but still did not wipe out the frown on his face. He could see the other Beacrox's meticulously combed hair was being covered in dust. It was disgusting.
It is not like he can't understand why they have to crawl. They don't want any of the information destroyed, do they? But that doesn't mean Beacrox likes it.
"I thought we were heading toward the marble buildings because you said we were going toward Resting City."
It was rare to see Beacrox sighing and grumbling like this. Cale thought.
Choi Han can't help but smirk even though Beacrox is not with them. Just seeing his annoyed face already made him happy.
"Resting city?"
"Ah, yes..."
Bud reluctantly replied.
Resting City is a free city located in the central region of the Eastern continent.
That was where the first branch of the Mercenaries Guild was built in the past, and it was where the building that was now being used as the central headquarters was located as well.
The original Mercenaries Guild base was an old three-story wooden building on the outskirts of Resting City.
This building used to be the central headquarters in the past, however, the Mercenaries Guild purchased land inside Resting City about two hundred years ago and built a new central headquarters that was quite spectacular and tall.
The new central headquarters was a building built with marble that was famous for its beautiful and extravagant exterior.
A small house built in the forest outside Resting City's walls. The tunnel was in that house's basement. That house was thoroughly hidden by magic circles created by the Mercenaries Guild.
'Surely, they won't reveal it, right?'
However, given that others' secrets are also revealed without consent, even a dragon, then who is Bud to be given an exemption?
Choi Han, who was crawling in front of Beacrox, made a comment.
"You're being so annoying."
"...What did you say?"
Beacrox started to frown even more.
However, neither Choi Han nor Beacrox could say anything else.
"...Both of you should shut up."
It was because they heard the ancient Dragon's low voice.
Eruhaben was crawling as well.
"D, dragon-nim is crawling in such a place..."
Pendrick seems so shocked upon seeing Eruhaben crawling while being covered in dust. Even though he still looks elegant, he still can't help it, so he almost faints.
Eruhaben just sighed and told Pendrick to sit down and quietly watch.
"What a grandpa."
The gold dragon glared at Mila but the latter just grinned.
"Enough, just keep moving."
Cale's voice made Bud flinch before he started to quickly crawl once again. He said just one more thing to them.
"Ahem, I should have said something in advance, but I didn't remember it until we got here. Ha. Ha, haha-"
Bud coughed as he was revealed to be quite incompetent in front of his future allies. He has to regain his dignity.
"A, ahem. I won't forget next time."
He heard Ron's voice at that moment. It was a decently warm tone.
"The Directory is located at the end of that tunnel, right?"
However, Bud felt that that voice was cold. It almost sounded like a threat. It sounded as if Ron was saying that Bud was dead if the Directory was not there.
Bud quickly shouted back.
"Yes sir! The room with the Directory is at the end of this tunnel, patriarch-nim! That is why I am leading the way! Hahaha."
"I see."
「 The current situation. Cale's group had been crawling for one hour. 」
"... 1 hour?"
Bud gulped as the dragon muttered it in a low voice. He wasn't even talking to Bud but the Mercenary King felt like he was questioning him.
"I, it's a very long tunnel..."
He weakly said.
Without using magic, it's natural it would take that long to crawl.
The dragon just stares at him for a few seconds before looking away. Bud felt like he dodged a bullet.
'Heh.'
Yet someone, someone who is supposed to be his friend, looks like he was enjoying it. He could also feel the pitying gaze of others in the room.
Bud started to wonder if he just dug his own grave.
"Weak human! Should we rest again? Your arms are shaking! Is it tiring? Should I give you another apple pie? Human, we have already rested twice, but we can rest again if you're struggling!"
"We can rest again!"
"You're the only one sweating so much!"
Bud's cold sweat became even worse after hearing the children averaging nine years old.
Raon was fluttering his wings and leisurely flying around while On and Hong were easily walking in the tunnel in their kitten forms.
The children averaging nine years old who were tiny were just amazed by the tunnel.
Bud coughs when he notices others glancing or blatantly staring at him. He needs to explain himself again, especially after meeting the gold dragon and the Henituse family gaze.
"Ahem, the central headquarters will be alerted if an unauthorized person uses ancient powers as well."
That was the only thing Bud could say.
"...Just hurry up and go."
Bud started to crawl faster after seeing Cale make a comment instead of sighing.
Cale held back a chuckle at Bud's reaction.
Cale's arms were shaking. But they had rested twice while crawling for an hour. Cale was fine.
Even if the amount of muscles he had had gone down, he had not become a complete weakling.
Cale just ignored the excessive concerns of the children averaging nine years old. Instead, his mind was quickly moving. He was thinking about what Bud Illis had said before they came into this tunnel.
'This tunnel was created by the first Mercenary King. It was created when the Mercenaries Guild was small and weak. That was when everybody just considered mercenaries to be cannon fodder.'
Suddenly hearing Cale's thoughts, Bud, Alberu, and Cale simultaneously froze.
Since Mercenaries are one of the few organizations that contain a ton of information all across the world, the one trait that they want their new recruits to have is loyalty. Someone who is willing to throw away their lives rather than surrender to the enemy. Someone they could trust. It's why they managed to operate for a very long time.
Not only that but how could Bud forget? That tunnel was only accessible to the top leaders of the Mercenary Guild. Not even their most loyal subordinates are allowed to know about their guild's most guarded secret.
So how did Cale Barrow find the entrance? Cale Barrow seems to be doing this for a very long time.
Did someone betray them?
Did someone really betray them?
There are only two reasons why Cale Barrow knew about this. Either he got the information from someone with a high rank within the Mercenary Guild's Top Leaders or...
A sudden realization hit the three.
... or he was the one who created it.
Unbeknownst to the three internal struggles and realizations, the screen continued playing and the rest watched.
"F, finally!"
Bud excitedly shouts.
They could faintly see some shining stones past Bud.
"Those shining stones are the entrance! They are at the door! Hahaha!"
Baecrox took a deep breath. Good.
"Your Highness?"
The future Magic Tower Master whispered.
Rosalyn was watching the screen when she glimpsed at the frown on Alberu's face. The crown prince doesn't frown, at least not out in the open where everybody could see. That is why Rosalyn knew something was wrong.
Alberu took a deep breath, glad that she was careful when asking him.
"Yes, Miss Rosalyn. There is something... troubling that I realize just now."
There were a lot of things that were bothering Alberu.
The war, the secret organization, the dragon slayers, the outsiders, and now a person who wanted to become a god. He learned all of this in such a small amount of time. The one-hour break isn't enough to let his mind rest and think more about all this information dump.
Now he is only noticing some rather disturbing revelations. It hit him hard that he missed all the hints.
However, he cannot show weakness so he smiles at the redhead princess.
"Is that so? However, you shouldn't push yourself too hard, your highness."
"Yes, you as well. Thank you for your concern."
"It is only right to feel worried about a friend."
Alberu flinched at the proclamation, surprise colored his face.
Rosalyn continued to smile at him.
"Please call me Alberu."
"Of course."
The two nodded at each other politely and returned to watching.
"L, let's quickly head over there!"
The Mercenary King quickly continued to crawl and finally arrived at the end of the tunnel. He touched the shining stones here and there.
"Bud, you're oddly quiet."
It's not only Rosalyn who noticed something was wrong.
Glenn watched his friend's expression.
It's very rare for Bud to be very quiet and even rarer when he looks this emotional. His face was showing guilt, anger, and betrayal.
"Haaaa. Damn it. This is ridiculous."
He shook his head but didn't say anything else.
Ron watched the interaction with sharp eyes.
It was at that moment.
Boooooooom-
They aren't that surprised with the sudden boom anymore but some still jumped.
"Stop doing this!"
Cage grumbled.
Bud started to speak in an excited voice.
"Here it is!"
Cale flinched at the sudden loud noise and looked back on the screen. He could see the tunnel start to shake and a new entrance appeared with a loud boom.
He sighs and runs his fingers through his hair.
'Ha. Fuck.'
Why is he here again? He was just a trash who would become a rich slacker.
'Maybe I should have just got myself beaten up.'
That would be the only time he would be in pain but at least he won't get involved in everything else. It was a small sacrifice to pay.
Cale found himself staring at Choi Han's puppy face. He looks like a normal teenager hugging two cute cats and a dragon plop in his head.
He looked away.
Haaaa.
He can't stop sighing it seems.
"..."
'Cale-nim looks tired.'
This is the same look he wore when they watched the trailer earlier and when he found out about Raon and Cale Barrow. He probably realized something that is of the same magnitude as those two.
Meow~
A red paw gently pats his chest.
Choi Han and the children looked at each other. They wore the same worried look. After all, it's rare to see Cale distracted.
"Please follow me."
Cale watched as the Mercenary King crawled into the entrance before he followed behind him.
"I'm going to turn the lights on."
A click and then slowly they could start to see a large area.
Flash. Flash. Flash.
The lights started to turn on one by one.
"A library."
Cale could hear Choi Han's voice behind him, sounding amazed. Contrary, Cale was panicking inside.
'Aigoo.'
Seeing the huge library, he had an inkling he would be using that. It is a bit annoying. He didn't want that many people finding out about that ability.
Cale had a theory on the identity of some of the participants partaking in this game. Rosalyn, Alberu, Lock, Ron, and Beacrox are already given. Litana and Billos are debatable. The whale tribe? Maybe. Don't even ask about Toonka.
He is fine with some of them knowing but the number of strangers is still far greater.
'... Damn it.'
Where is his slacker life?
"Amazing."
Beacrox was mumbling to himself.
The ancient Dragon huffed. He sounded amazed.
Alberu and Harold looked the most interested. If their kingdom has this much information, it could potentially be their greatest weapon against other nations.
Cale started to walk.
Bud Illis started to speak once Cale got a good look around the area.
"I believe that this is the Mercenaries Guild's greatest pride and joy."
He laughed as he introduced the area to the group.
"This is the Eastern continent's first and greatest record library."
Bud and Glenn anxiously looked around. They could see everyone, except the children, interested in the library.
Thankfully, the secret entrance, the tunnel, was never shown nor revealed by God so it makes them feel at ease.
The Mercenary King smiled and asked Cale a question.
"What do you think? Do you think you can find the information you are looking for here?"
"Are they going to read all of that...?"
Everyone is skeptical.
That's tens of thousands worth of books. It'd take years to find the exact information they needed. And shouldn't they be busy fighting against Cale Barrow? Where did they find all this free time?
"That is amazing."
"Indeed."
Tens of thousands of books.
The Henituse couple are in awe.
"I expected this. 1,000 years' worth of records should at least be this much."
The area with the Directory. Jopis thought it was obvious that a significant amount of information would be present.
The group looked at Cale and the Mercenary King. Their expressions did not look good. Even the ancient Dragon seemed a bit upset.
It was at that moment.
"It's been a while."
Cale stayed quiet, eyes unfocused. There's a lot on his mind right now.
Despite having reunited with Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo and finding peace in his heart, it's not easy for him to forget the memories of the past. Those memories would keep haunting him for eternity.
Choi Han was looking at Cale again. He could see a bitter smile appearing on the redhead's face.
"Human!"
The black dragon suddenly appeared on Cale's face.
"If you're sick, then you should sit down!"
"Please sit!"
"Nya!"
On and Hong rub their faces on him.
"... But I'm fine?"
The three children look up at him with puppy eyes.
Cale thought they were acting weird. Nevertheless, he obeyed and sat down. His legs have been shaking from standing for too long anyway.
Cale started to laugh as he continued to speak.
"It really has been a while."
A frown appeared on Alberu's handsome face.
Cale Henituse's face doesn't look very okay. Judging by the worried look on Rosalyn, Lock, the Molan father and son, they must have noticed it too.
Bud titled his head.
'Why do I feel like we're going to watch some miracle here?'
He will not be surprised if his intuition is correct. This is Cale Henituse after all. There seems to be nothing this bastard can't do.
"Do you like reading, Cale-nim?"
'Out of nowhere?'
The redhead raises an eyebrow.
Choi Han was smiling gently at him.
Haa.
"I guess I do."
Choi Han's smile widened.
"Mn. Me too."
perhaps they can spend some time reading somewhere relaxing once they are out.
Cale brushed his hand past his eyes.
"I'll need to record for the first time in a long while."
"Record?"
Everyone looked confused.
Glenn was looking at Rosalyn, his fellow magic friend.
"Is there a magic recording device somewhere that could record books?"
"I'm not sure..."
Manually reading the book while recording would take even longer so it's not that.
Is it a magic device that could read and record then? Something like that would have been popular in the market.
The two glance at the gold dragon. With his hundred years of life, then perhaps he may know about it. However, based on his expression, it looks like he does not know something like that existed.
'Is it his ability from when he was still Kim Rok Soo?'
Choi Han realized. Though it was strange that his abilities went with him in this world and his new body.
He didn't have to think very hard because someone answered his question. It was Cale.
"I don't know how, but it went with me."
He continued.
"My slacker life instinct is telling me it is the God of Death's doing."
It was originally him who gave Choi Han the Black Yong and Cale the Embrace ability. He also offered a deal with the original Cale Henituse to swap them without his consent. Someone that meddlesome could only be the culprit.
"Is it with you since the first day?"
"Yes."
"Amazing."
Choi Han nodded and smiled at Cale for being honest with him. It felt nice that he was starting to trust him.
"... It's a troublesome ability but useful enough."
"... Oh."
Cale looked like he didn't want that ability.
「 Kim Rok Soo had noticed something odd when he had first woken up as Cale Henituse. He remembered. 」
「 Even though Kim Rok Soo had transmigrated into Cale Henituse's body... For some reason... Kim Rok Soo remembered all of the contents of < The Birth of a Hero > until volume 5, as well as the rest of the information he had recorded. 」
'So it is an ability.'
Everyone realized.
An ability that could record everything...
'That's amazing. That damn bastard.'
Alberu can't help but shake his head. He would be perfect as an informant.
The Henituse family went stiff at the reminder that their Cale was no longer the one they used to know. They felt conflicted. They have been worrying about the new Cale but what about the old Cale?
They really needed a break and privacy to talk about their feelings.
「 Those records had not been erased even as time went by.
Even the conversations he had with everybody since living as Cale had not disappeared from his mind. 」
These memories that a normal person would have long forgotten about...
「 He remembered everything he wanted to remember.
No, to be more specific, they had been recorded. 」
Kim Rok Soo had realized it when he realized that fact.
'My brain has come here too. No, a portion of my ability has come here.'
Cale brushed his eyes once again.
'Did he perhaps record something he didn't want to remember?'
Choi Han wondered.
「 Cale Henituse's eyes were reddish-brown.
Kim Rok Soo's eyes were reddish-brown as well. 」
Deruth perked up at that.
'They have the same eye color?'
His son and Kim Rok Soo?
Deruth wondered if they were related somehow. Is it through his wife's family, the Thames household? All these mysteries surrounding his wife and son... how could he not notice?
「 Kim Rok Soo, Grade 1 Ability User.
First brain-related special ability, 'record.'
Medium to use ability, 'eyes.' 」
They watched in anticipation as Cale started to walk toward the tens of thousands of books.
How does his ability work? How much could he record?
Cale faced a familiar sight for the first time in a long while as he unbuttoned the first button of his shirt.
"Uh..."
Glenn hesitated.
Was that part necessary?
"Is he... going to strip?"
Even if he only takes off his top, the people here are nobles. That would be very awkward.
"Surely not?"
Alberu cough.
He is a noble, Kim Rok Soo should know decency, especially in front of children and the ancient dragon. Right?
「 His mind always heated up when he recorded things.
He had unbuttoned the top button in order to help with the stuffiness. 」
That was Kim Rok Soo's habit whenever he worked.
"Ah."
Everyone sighed in relief.
"...You're going to go through all of these?"
The Mercenary King urgently chased behind Cale, who was heading toward the center of the area that was full of thousands of books. He seemed to be nervous.
"Cale, I remember what you told me when you made me the offer."
"Offer?"
'What kind of offer?'
Bud wondered. If it's the redhead, there must be some kind of twist there.
"You asked me to show you the Directory."
The Directory was not a file that even the Mercenary King could easily show others. However, he still brought Cale here, even acting stealthily in the process.
There was a simple reason for it.
"You said you needed to know the Cale Barrow's history."
Cale turned his head and looked toward the Mercenary King.
The Mercenary King flinched.
'I see.'
They went to the Directory to find out more about Cale Barrow. This is probably the part where it is revealed that he is also the 'First Mercenary King.'
'Why did I never thought of looking at the First Mercenary King's record again?'
After his first attempt of investigation which only leads to a dead end, he gave up. Why did he give up? If only he persisted, he might find more clues and move the records much earlier. But it is too late now.
Bud felt like laughing and drinking. Too bad his alcohol is already gone.
"Have you finally gone crazy?"
Glenn said as Bud suddenly started laughing.
"I might as well be!"
"Cale Barrow had existed for approximately 1,000 years."
Cale confirmed the Mercenary King's expression changing before turning back around and heading toward the records.
Eruhaben looked toward Cale who stopped in front of a desk and was looking around before speaking.
"That is why we came here to look for records about him. He should have left traces throughout the Eastern and Western continents."
Bud quickly responded back.
"...There's no way that we have no records on such a strong individual."
"That rat is very good at hiding."
Eruhaben was smiling but his eyes looked cold.
For 1,000 years, Cale Barrow managed to avoid the dragons' radar and other strong beings. Or perhaps he had simply disposed of anyone he came across.
"He is a slimy one indeed."
Mila mirrored Eruhaben's expression.
Rasheel and Dodori shuddered in the background.
Bud hesitated before speaking.
"However, it is close to impossible to find traces of him in these tens of thousands of books."
As the current Mercenary King, he had the most knowledge about these records than any other living being.
"I don't blame you for being skeptical. Cale probably didn't tell you about his 'Record' ability."
Cage laughed as she patted the Mercenary King in the back.
"He just seems that way."
Taylor agreed.
"Bud."
Bud continued to ramble before someone cut him off. It was Cale.
"Where is the first-ever record?"
"Haaaaaaaaa."
Bud sighed at Cale who seemed ready to start looking from the first-ever record. He quickly walked over to Cale.
"One week."
"I will find the first within that time."
"He is planning to read all those books in one week!?"
"What about eating and sleeping?"
"Bathroom break?"
Lock was sweating bullets as he took a glance at Rosalyn and Ron. This was the first time he felt a shiver watching them smile.
"My, young master Cale doesn't seem to care about his health."
"Hoho. This old man will need to have a nice long chat with our young master."
Cale suddenly shivered.
'Scary.'
He felt scared for some reason.
"Are you feeling cold, Cale-nim? You can have this."
Choi Han said, ready to take off his coat.
"No, keep it. I'm fine."
"That book is the first record."
He heard Bud's voice coming from behind him as he pulled out the first book from the bookshelf. He then started to turn the pages.
Flip, flip.
Only the sound of pages turning could be heard.
Cale just stood there reading.
"He is serious."
Could he really read all of those books in just one week?
The others who are with Cale in the Directory pick up books, find a spot, and start reading. However, the group of people heading toward Cale had to stop.
Bud was the first to stop. Next were Eruhaben, Choi Han, Ron, and Beacrox. Even the children averaging nine-years-old flinched.
Flip, flip, flip.
The group just stared at Cale.
They just heard the sound of pages turning.
Harold had to blink multiple times.
"... What is up with that speed?"
Alberu laughs shakily.
'Crazy bastard.'
Flip. Flip. Flip.
Cale was slowly turning the pages faster and faster. It seemed as if he was just taking a peek before turning the page.
"Is he not thoroughly going through and remembering the details about each strong individual?"
"Is he just quickly skimming through?"
Duke Fredo in his corner chuckled in amusement.
'He only needs to see it once to record everything?'
He doesn't need to read it too. Just a glance and it would be all in his head.
"Cale."
Cale raised his head after hearing someone calling his name.
The ancient Dragon observed Cale's eyes with an odd expression on his face.
"You're remembering all of it, right?"
'You're not just skimming it, you actually remember the information, right?'
Cale answered the ancient Dragon's question.
"Of course."
Bud could only quietly watch Cale.
'... What a scary ability.'
He really thought that this ability was scary. It was different than the fancy magic, destructive aura, and even the different types of ancient powers. This ability was something that was not visible.
It was so unnoticeable that you would not even realize that he was using an ability if you did not look closely.
It was not an ability that could kill someone, but Bud thought that this ability was really the one that would make it easy to kill or control someone.
Everything would be recorded in the user's mind.
Choi Han called Cale, wanting to help.
"Of course, I am a slow reader and my memory is not that good, but I thought I could still help."
Cale recalled some memories of his past.
'Team leader-nim, shall I help?'
'Isn't it time to go home?'
'Nah, it's okay.'
'Like hell it's okay. Isn't your kid waiting for you at home? Go home.'
'But...'
'It's fastest and most accurate for me to do it. You don't need to do this part.'
Eruhaben clicked his tongue.
'Unlucky bastard.'
Cale's face did not change despite remembering memories of his past as Team Leader but Choi Han noticed how his fingers twitched.
"..."
Cale did not say anything, and so did Choi Han.
"Is it his hobby to do everything by himself?"
Countess Violan has a look of disapproval on her face.
Deruth hummed.
"That is a bit worrying."
Alberu briefly thought that he and Cale were a bit similar but quickly shook his head. What a terrible thought.
"I think it would be good to look through there."
It was rare for Cale to not give detailed orders. However, Choi Han smiled and walked over to the second bookshelf. Eruhaben and Beacrox followed behind him.
"... I hope Cale-nim could rely on me in the future."
Choi Han quietly said, which made Cale flinch.
Raon flew toward Cale's face, making the redhead step back at how close the dragon was.
"M, me too! You can rely on me, weak human! Since I'm strong and mighty, I can protect you!"
The kittens were snuggling his neck.
'Why are they acting like this?'
The redhead was dumbfounded.
He could only mutter a quiet thanks.
Ron stood next to Cale.
"Looking at the books like the others is not my task. I am your servant, young master-nim. Tending to your needs by your side is my role."
Cale quietly looked at Ron for a moment before turning back to the book.
"...I guess that is your role."
Cale shivered at the reminder that this scary old man would not leave his side.
He really needed to send away that old man soon. That benign smile on his face is going to give him nightmares.
The screen suddenly turned dark.
Everyone did a double take.
"Wait, is that it?"
They are so ready to murder the God of Hope for scamming them again when the screen lit up again. It looks like there was a time skip since Cale was already sweating profusely while flipping the book. His butler Ron was wiping his sweat with a handkerchief.
There were close to ten thousand record books behind his back as if they were his footprints.
"How many days was it now?"
Cale doesn't look too good.
'... Why is he sweating so much?'
Ron Molan could see Cale who was sweating profusely. His face had become extremely red as well.
"Mercenary King."
"Mercenary King? What about it?"
Bud asked back.
"Ha!"
Cale began to smile.
'The bastard was quite smart.'
The bastard that was the threat to his dream slacker life. It would be so much fun destroying all his hard work. Fufu, Cale was feeling a bit excited.
'What about the Mercenary King?'
"It's not there."
"Huh?"
Cale's smile started to grow wider as he looked at Bud.
"There's no record of the first Mercenary King."
Bud and Alberu sighed at the confirmation.
Cale's smile started to grow wider.
"Eh?"
"What does that mean?"
The others were confused as they looked at each other.
"Oh?"
So it was like that? That unlucky bastard was really good at gathering information. Eruhaben thought.
"The first Mercenary King."
Bud Ilis started.
Taylor's eyes widen.
"... Perhaps?"
"The first Mercenary King. Who was he? What powers did he use?"
Cale's smile became bright.
"I feel like he is Cale Barrow. Why is my intuition telling me that?"
"What!?"
Glenn shouted, looking at his friend.
Jopis hummed as she stroked her sleeping dogs.
"The Mercenary Guild was founded 1,000 years ago, no?"
"Yes."
Bud answered.
"Their theory makes sense."
Eruhaben said, gaining everyone's attention.
Cale Barrow would have come out into the world after destroying his village and killing his family and friends.
No matter how strong that bastard was, he would have been alone. He would have needed some sort of foundation.
He would also have needed a job that he could easily start in his situation.
"Being a mercenary. That was a job that anybody could do."
Cage laugh.
"If that bastard tried to hide himself..."
He would need a new identity.
"...It is not here."
Bud could not hide his shock.
"It's not there. It's really not here."
Bud's pupils started to shake as he looked at Cale.
"I have always found it odd. I did investigate but it got me nowhere."
Bud admitted. He brushed back his hair after feeling frustrated.
Glenn smacked the back of his head.
"Stop blaming yourself."
"I contacted the city's library and libraries around the Eastern continent and asked for information on the first Mercenary King."
"You asked, and...?"
"Ha!"
Bud let out a gasp-like laugh.
"Do you know what information I got? The Great Mercenary King who created the large faction that managed to survive on the Eastern continent while many kingdoms rose and fell for 1,000 years. He was the role model for all mercenaries and the mercenaries did not hesitate to act on his behalf."
Bud scoffed as he continued on.
"That's all I found."
"So he was hiding himself in the Mercenary Guild."
Choi Han clenched his fist. He needs to find that bastard fast and...
"I doubt he is still hiding amongst their rank."
"Is he in their base in the Western Continent then? The Molan's mansion?"
Cale shook his head.
"It is just one of their bases."
Cale replayed all his records since coming here. Recalling all the choices, the hints, and connecting some dots, Cale already had solid hypotheses on where Cale Barrow was currently hiding or what title he was using.
The redhead glances at Choi Han.
"Choi Han, let's talk later."
The Korean tilted his head in wonder but didn't ask.
"Okay."
The screen continued playing but they did not hear anything. It was also fast-forward before it stopped.
"Do you really think this is just a space to hold the records of strong individuals? "
Cale grimaced as he remembered Jour Thames.
'Was she...'
He can't bring himself to continue.
However, one thing is for sure, Cale Barrow has her power. He must have been the one to kill her. What a mess.
Cale closed his eyes.
"There are records of the strong individuals who revealed the ancient powers they had."
"When Eruhaben-nim asked you if there is information about ancient powers in the Directory..."
Glenn trailed off.
Bud nodded, answering.
"Cale Barrow sneaked into the Directory multiple times to read records of people who acquired ancient powers."
"But why?"
Lock wondered.
"The easiest way to acquire ancient power."
Eruhaben began, eyes lingering on Cale and Count Deruth.
"Is to kill the user and collect it before it disappears."
The Patriarch of the Golden Turtle felt like his world collapsed. Cale's words echoed in his head like a mantra.
'My mother possessed an Ancient Power.'
'That bastard has my mother's ancient power.'
The black-haired Cale Henituse in Kim Rok Soo's body's face was full of anger.
'Was Jour killed?'
They all thought she died in that carriage accident but she was killed? He didn't even notice?
Bud awkwardly coughs, snapping Deruth out of his thoughts.
Violan held Deruth's hand and squeezed it in comfort.
"Cale Barrow sneaks into the Directory using the same tunnel we used in the beginning. He is updated through us and probably kills all the owner of his AP's and steals their powers."
The Mercenary King glances at everyone, observing their reactions.
Cage greeted her teeth.
"That bastard. He won't get away with this."
To think such individuals exist.
"As much as I want to talk, we are running on a time limit. We shall discuss everything once we are given another break."
Alberu cut off the discussion. He then looked at Taylor, who was responsible for recording.
"I hope you wrote all the important parts, Sir Taylor."
"Sir Cale's ability would be very useful in this situation."
Taylor Stan chuckled, glancing at Cale inside the barrier.
'To think we wasted points for this.'
Alberu lamented.
"Cale Barrow is trying to get my ancient power."
The redhead villain is currently lacking only the Earth attribute of the five natural attributes.
"If he had my ancient power and these records, it would be much easier for the White Star to find that earth attribute ancient power. That is why he tried to kill me. That is also why he is trying to have Arm gobble up the Mercenaries Guild."
Cale Barrow who had not appeared for 1,000 years was not hiding anymore. He was slowly showing himself.
"Because he is feeling a sense of urgency as well."
This time, it was Bud who pointed toward Cale.
"Because you appeared."
Cale Barrow would have never seen someone like Cale before.
You needed heavenly luck to obtain ancient powers. It would be amazing if someone had two powers, but this bastard had over five.
He also had the Earth attribute ancient power that Cale Barrow wanted.
"That bastard is probably thinking that he only has two options. Kill you and gain the Earth attribute ancient power, or be killed by you."
Everyone shoots out in alarm.
"Fuck."
Cage cursed as she repeatedly glanced at Cale.
The group was divided. The other half shows obvious worries and the other stealthily peeking.
Nothing changed. Inside the barrier, Cale's face remains unbothered. Choi Han and the children by his side look like they are ready to commit genocide.
Alberu massages his head.
"There will be two targets in the future. Cale Henituse and Bud Ilis."
What a headache.
However, this would allow them the opportunity to lure out Cale Barrow.
Bud thought he could tell why Cale was smiling. He opened his mouth to speak.
"He's panicking. You made the bastard become anxious."
"He is smiling?"
Tasha was looking at Cale in disbelief.
Cale was smiling even though his entire body was covered in goosebumps.
Riding the line of life and death was something that Kim Rok Soo and Cale had been doing for over fifteen years now.
He opened his mouth to speak. His calm voice flowed out.
"Yes. Just like us."
「 The White Star was in a state of urgency just like them. 」
「 They each needed to kill the other. 」
The world turned black.
Everyone slumped down, emotionally drained after everything.
However, there was a figure who remained standing. He looked like he was out of it.
"Is father okay?"
Lily asked in worry.
Deruth Henituse doesn't look too good.
Countess Violan held Lily's hand and called for Basen. The three walked towards the Head of the family. They needed to talk.
To give the Henituse family some privacy, the group went into the corner to talk about their recent discovery.
"It'll be fine, Choi Han."
The Korean had been worrying about Cale after the latest revelation.
Choi Han clenched his fist. Someone as powerful as Cale Barrow would be after Cale in the future, of course he can't help but worry.
'I need to become stronger.'
"Hey human, the strong human is getting stronger."
Raon whispered to Cale which made the latter flinch.
'Again?'
What a scary protagonist.
Satisfied with his resolve, Choi Han faced Cale.
"By the way, you said you wanted to talk to me?"
"Right. Choi Han, does your screen show who and what they voted for?"
"Ah, yes."
When it is time for voting, the screen is usually empty. It slowly started to fill the more the other participants voted. However, on Choi Han's screen, he could only see his name, and the rest of the participants' names were distorted.
"Good. I want you to vote for the Endable Kingdom right after the viewing ends."
"Sure, Cale-nim."
Choi Han was confused but Cale rarely explained anything anyway so he just followed whatever the other wanted him to do.
'Good. I'm sure it'll attract some attention.'
Cale nodded in satisfaction.
The break this time felt a bit longer than usual when the screen lit up again.
Everyone was prepared to play but it wasn't what they were expecting.
[ ADDITIONAL TIME~ ]
"Again?"
This is the second time they are including 'Additional Time.'
Glenn sighed.
"Please don't tell me this is Cale Henituse flexing his money again."
The scene starts with Bud.
"They are still at the Directory."
Basen notice.
"...What are you doing?"
Bud asked but Cale ignored him.
He then started to undo the buttons of his shirt one by one.
He needed to get rid of this heat in his body.
"It's hot."
Cale was mumbling that it was hot as he continued to undo his buttons.
"This scene is quite fruity."
"Cage! Please don't say that to young master Cale."
Taylor scolded.
"Is it the side effect of your ability?"
Cale nodded at Choi Han's question.
Beeeeep- Beeeeeep-
A sharp alarm rang inside the library at that moment. Bud turned away from Cale.
"Oh no. Are they being attacked?"
"Were they noticed by Cale Barrow?"
Bud scowled. Are they attacked or did someone just accidentally use magic? Either way, he isn't worried because it was already revealed that the Ancient Dragon will keep the records safe.
"Human!"
The black Dragon's paws that looked ready to cast teleportation magic suddenly had a video communication device instead.
It was glowing red.
"Human! It's the crown prince!"
"Ah..."
There wasn't any attack.
'Alberu?'
Tasha perked up at the mention of her nephew.
「 Cale's personal video communication device only glowed red when Crown Prince Alberu Crossman was calling. 」
The crown prince could already feel the headache coming.
"Human! The crown prince is calling! Should I tell him to call back later?"
Bud also peeked toward Cale before starting to speak.
"I'm fine even if you connect the call. We already decided to use magic anyway. But your condition is, mm."
Alberu maintained a smiling face but his head was chaotic.
'Please don't tell me he won't pick up the call in such a disheveled state.'
He doesn't believe in gods but he prayed nonetheless.
The current scene is just too inappropriate to be broadcast live like this.
Cale did not seem to be in a condition to accept a call right now.
However, Cale petted Raon, On, and Hong on the head before starting to speak.
"Connect him."
Alberu Crossman could feel other people's eyes on him.
"..."
'Are we really that close that he could nonchalantly answer me in such a state!?'
This redhead transmigrator is going to drive him crazy.
"... I guess the two of you are comfortable with each other."
Deruth quietly hummed.
Alberu fakes a smile and activated his glib tongue.
"Young master Cale Henituse is our dear commander-nim in the future. Being comfortable only means we trust each other."
'Ha. Trust between us? I doubt it.'
The two of them are way too similar to trust each other. It was just an alliance as they had the same enemy and the same goal, to save their people and home.
Nothing else.
"But this is still inappropriate even if you two are men. I will make sure to remind him next time, Your Highness."
"Your help is much appreciated, Count Deruth."
'Damn it.'
He was getting annoyed because he was hot.
However, Cale was quite relieved as he undid his buttons.
"Why was he getting too hot?"
There was some cut in the scenes so they never got the answer as to why he was sweating too much and feeling hot.
"Must be because of his ability."
"He did record those mountains of books for a week. It must be some sort of side effect."
"Overloading, perhaps?"
"It was mentioned he overheats."
"Ah–"
The discussion was cut off as words were shown.
「 He could not undo his buttons nor pull up his sleeves in front of his subordinates when he was Kim Rok Soo, no matter how hot and sweaty he became. 」
「 He didn't want to show them the scars on his body. 」
He didn't like scars?
For nobilities and royalties, scars are quite a big deal. However, for those who fight, scars are their pride.
The transmigrator seems like a fighter in his past life judging by his huge build and muscle. Was he not proud of his battle scars? It made them wonder.
The redhead's eyebrow twitched.
'Why are they showing this?'
It is not even important. Showing his vulnerability in front of several strangers... He clicked his tongue in irritation.
Cale looked down at his body which was now visible and started to think.
'...This is nice.'
「 This body did not have any scars. 」
Even if it did, the Vitality of the Heart would quickly get rid of them. That was good.
「 Scars were records as well.
Terrible records. 」
「 It was better if those disappeared.
It would only cause pain to those watching and those nearby as well. 」
Beacrox frowned as he read.
'Does it have something to do with his Record ability?'
Some wondered.
It seems to them that Cale hated that ability a bit too much. Why was that?
'Did he record something he didn't want to remember and cannot remove it from his memory?'
It looks that way to Rosalyn.
"Human, I connected him!"
Cale sighs in relief.
It's finally over.
A familiar face appeared on the screen.
Naturally, it was crown prince, Alberu Crossman.
Alberu, who was wearing a more majestic outfit than usual, started to speak.
– ...What are you doing?
'I wasn't even phased?'
His tone was extremely casual.
Is this a normal occurrence between the two of them!? Alberu is going to have a heart attack at this rate.
Alberu's majestic-looking face started to frown.
– ...Have you been drinking?
What a disrespectful face. The redhead thought.
The crown prince's expression seemed to be saying that Cale was doing all sorts of crap now.
It could not be helped.
The crown prince probably never had anybody answer his call with a red face while unbuttoning their shirt. That was only possible for someone who was so drunk that they didn't care about respect or etiquette.
– Did you just decide to return to your old alcoholic trash days? Hmm? How much did you drink that your face turned so red and your head is full of swea-
He suddenly stopped talking.
He then started to frown for a different reason.
– ...What did you do this time?
There are a few snickers in the room.
Choi Han smiled at the casual interaction between the two.
'It seems like they are really close.'
This world is new to both of them so they have very few people they could trust. That was why Choi Han was happy to find out that Cale would find more people that he could trust in the future.
'His name is Alberu Crossman, the crown prince of the Raon Kingdom.'
Choi Han peeks at his screen.
{ 10pts. Relationship between Cale, Alberu, and Choi Han. }
It is interesting. He was considering buying that information in secret since Cale seemed to think it was only bothersome.
-...Did you use an ancient power? And who is that person wearing glasses? Is that the Mercenary King?
Rosalyn chuckle.
"Sir Alberu knows the young master well."
Alberu had goosebumps. What a scary thing to say.
"Pleasure to make your acquaintance, your highness. My name is Bud Illis. I am the Mercenary King."
– Nice to meet you. I am Alberu Crossman.
The two introduce each other.
Bud's tone was respectful, but he was standing tall while Alberu's self-introduction was short.
"I am currently going through the Mercenaries Guild's Directory."
– The Directory? Why?
Alberu was confused for a moment before his eyes clouded over. He saw Eruhaben's better complexion and immediately answered his own question.
– Looks like you went to find information about Cale Barrow.
'He is really easy to work with.'
If only he wasn't the crown prince.
The people in the center of politics are too annoying to deal with. However, for Cale to smack the Empire and Cale Barrow in the future, he needs the crown's support.
It was still annoying. Too bad he cannot avoid him.
"You are correct, Your Highness. I went through the records in the Directory."
Cale then calmly explained everything he learned by going through the records.
The hypothesis that Cale Barrow might be the first Mercenary King. The hypothesis that the Directory might be a record of ancient powers.
Hmm.
For the redhead to be revealing all this to him, Cale Henituse must really trust him. It was comforting to know he was on Alberu's side and not the Second and Third Prince.
Alberu's expression looked heavy after hearing all of that.
– ...Cale Henituse. So, what is it that you need?
The corners of Cale's lips slowly went up. This was why it was fun to work with the crown prince.
"Seven days and approximately 9,889 record books."
"Holy F...!"
Cage can't help but curse.
Basen's jaw dropped.
Dodori's eyes were sparkling.
"That many?"
Eruhaben eyes glint in amusement. For a mere human to read and remember everything in those 9,889 books in just a week. Even dragons couldn't beat such an impressive feat.
Wow!
Wow! Wow!
The kittens circled Cale and kept chanting wow.
"I, I could do that too!"
The black dragon looked determined.
"Sure."
Cale rubbed their heads.
Cale closed his eyes.
His eyelids were shaking.
– What is that?
"That is how many books I read."
– ...What?
"I acquired information from 9,889 of 45,788 total books."
"Ho."
Ron exhales.
The new young master sure is impressive.
Cale still had his eyes closed.
However, numerous records were going through his mind like pages in a book.
"There were a total of 31 people with ancient powers in those 9,889 records. 29 of them are determined to have passed away. Four of them had water attributes, nine had wind attributes, six had fire attributes, one had wood attribute and 11 had other attributes."
Mercenary King Bud subconsciously gulped.
Harold's hands were shaking as he listened.
How could a human remember all this? Even if it is an ability, it is still impressive. No, it's a godly power! A cheat.
'Is he really human?'
"The first record of someone using an ancient power was about Lisetter, an archer. Born approximately 962 years ago in the northern part of the Eastern continent. Died 901 years ago at the age of 61. He had a wind attribute ancient power."
"You are sweating too much, Cale-nim."
"Ah. It's nothing concerning."
That Cale must be feeling hot. However, he did not stop talking.
'Nothing concerning?'
He looks like he would overload any minute from now!
Choi Han wanted to scream his frustration at Cale but he doubted the redhead would listen. He would just brush off his concern. He was always like that.
"Second, Chaaru, a swordsman. Born 954 years ago on a southern island. Died 930 years ago at the age of 24. She had a water attribute ancient power. And the third......"
Duke Fredo brushed the back of his hand. He had goosebumps all over his body.
'Impressive. Very impressive.'
Why is such an entertaining man only appearing now?
"The seventeenth person, Elsren, a spearman. Born 781 years ago in a free city. Died 740 years ago at the age of 41. He had a fire attribute ancient power. The eighteenth......"
Cale was bringing up every person within the 9,889 books he read who had an ancient power.
Cale's confident voice that continued without any hesitation made him believe Cale was not bluffing.
The crown prince looked full of disbelief. However, he too had goosebumps all over his body like the others.
'He read 9,889 books and memorized all of the information? Crazy bastard.'
Alberu was rendered speechless.
A totally crazy bastard was in front of him.
"The thirty-first person, Inkter, a fighter... Year of death, unknown. Water attribute ancient power."
Cale looked toward Alberu after mentioning the final ancient power wielder before seeing Alberu start to speak without any hesitation.
– I will gather records of people with ancient powers on the Western continent.
'I see. The two of them understand each other without having to say anything.'
It was as if they shared the same mind.
Tasha now realized the reason why her nephew's most trusted ally in the future was the transmigrator.
She then smiled. They would look good as siblings.
The corners of Cale's lips started to go up again.
The crown prince then bluntly added on.
– What's so funny?
「 Cale found it easy to deal with Alberu. There was no need to explain things in detail to him. 」
「 The crown prince also felt that it was easy to work with Cale. 」
"The two of you work so well together, your highness."
Taylor complimented.
Alberu Crossman doesn't know what to say so he fakes a smile.
– I need to gather information on ancient powers, but it looks like you guys need to do the opposite.
Bud let out a sigh before starting to speak.
"It looks like."
If the White Star was the first Mercenary King, it was very likely that he had stealthily infiltrated this place many times. That was why he needed to make up his mind.
"Is this the part where they destroy the Directory?"
Hannah muttered excitedly. She's been bored listening to all those complicated things. A little destruction would lighten the mood.
"Hannah..."
Jack glances at the Mercenary King, hoping he didn't hear what his sister said and won't be offended by them.
He let out a sigh of relief when he found Bud sobbing comically in the center.
"Damn it!"
Alberu flinched.
It was not because the Mercenary King suddenly shouted. He understood why Bud would feel that frustrated. There was a different reason he flinched.
"Damn it! I can't say it while I'm sober!"
He opened a bottle of alcohol. The Mercenary King then started to chug.
Cale understood the look Alberu was giving him.
'Where did you find such a person...?'
That seemed to be what Alberu's gaze was saying.
"Kaaaa!"
Bud one shot a whole bottle before starting to speak.
"This place, this place! Yes, this place!"
He seemed to be shouting to himself.
Glenn sighed and massaged his head.
His Bud Ilis was beside him, moping.
'This is embarrassing.'
Why are they friends?
"We will blow it up!"
Bud looked toward Cale and continued to shout.
"We'll make it so Cale Barrow can't come here! We will move the Directory and blow this place up! Kahahahahah! Then he won't be able to find the Directory in the future even if he wants to do so! Kahahahahah!"
He was laughing in a refreshing manner.
"Oh dear."
Jopis shook her head but she was smiling.
'One day, I will blow up the underground labyrinth in the Molden Kingdom too.'
She just needed to convince these people to help her in the future. She can wait while they finish their fight.
"Kahahahah! Blow it up! Destroy everything!"
Cale looked away from Bud with a stoic expression.
"Soob, it doesn't make sense that I, the Mercenary King, am going to destroy the first Mercenaries Guild building and this records storage place, sob, but I have to do it."
"I wanna do it, weak human! Destroying sounds fun!"
On and Hong perk up at the suggestion.
"Yes, youngest! Let's destroy it once we are out!"
Hong looks up to Cale with puppy eyes.
"Can we? Can we?"
The redhead was frozen stiff. His pupils are shaking.
'What?'
Cale whole body was trembling as the dragon and the two kittens proclaimed they wanted to try destroying things.
'Scary! This is a bad influence on the children!'
That damn God of Hope! Why bring children to such a place!?
Choi Han laughed at the children's enthusiasm.
"You guys take after Cale-nim."
Cale was now staring at the Korean with a blank look on his face.
'Is that a compliment or an insult?'
[ ' FIRST MERCENARY KING' ENDS HERE ]
The screen turned black.