The rhythmic, emotive voice echoed in every ear.
He briefly told the story of Romeo and Juliet.
From star-crossed lovers of feuding families—
To tragic misunderstandings leading to double suicide—
Their deaths finally ending the family feud.
A classic was a classic. During his telling—no one interrupted.
The entire deck fell silent, even patrolling Dragoncleaver Guards drawn in.
All listened, entranced.
When he reached the scene where Juliet awakens to find Romeo dead by poison—several noble ladies' eyes turned red.
"Now—listen to Romeo's confession as he leaps over the garden wall to Juliet."
Black's voice grew solemn—reciting the timeless poem:
"With love's light wings did I o'erperch these walls;
For stony limits cannot hold love out;
And what love can do, that dares love attempt;
Therefore thy kinsmen are no stop to me.
If they do see thee, they will murder thee:
Yea, kill thee, rather than thou shouldst disdain
To die for want of love. Love gave me means
And I have found it. I am no pilot; yet,
Were you as far as is the uttermost
Pole from this earth, I'd sail to find you out."
When he finished—the entire hall froze.
Many noble men stared wide-eyed, mouths agape—as if seeing the tragic lovers before them.
Most noble women had tears streaming down—large drops falling silently, soft sobs echoing.
This was the power of a classic—unbeatable, even in another world.
Black scanned the crowd—faces of those he knew were priceless.
Elaina, the little glutton, was frozen—fork suspended mid-air.
Her pudding—half-eaten—dripped with tears. Salty now, probably.
Krystin unconsciously clenched her skirt, lips tightly pressed, eyes red and pitiful.
Alice didn't cry—but her dazed, distant expression showed the poem had shaken her deeply.
Maid Karina wept openly—tears like rain.
Sigh. Women are so emotional.
Just as Black mentally mocked—
he saw Lord Lambert wiping tears too.
Wait… seriously? You're old!
"Such a story! Such a poem! Never have I heard such a heart-wrenching, unforgettable tale of love!"
Lambert sobbed—his wrinkled face twisted in sorrow.
"Seth's poem was a gilded toy sword—flashy but weightless!"
"Yours is a blood-stained cross spear—each word crushing hearts!"
Lambert passionately declared his verdict!
The hall erupted into thunderous applause!
Except for those who hated Black—everyone else clapped sincerely.
Other elderly dukes closed their eyes, sighing:
"This poem… carries the weight of a soul."
This wasn't just "excellent"—excellence couldn't describe it!
Only Seth was utterly shattered.
"This… impossible!"
His face had never been so livid.
"You—a pirate—how could you know this?! You copied it!"
Black expected this—smirked coldly:
"Then tell me, Lord Seth—have you seen this poem in the Dragonheart literary world?"
"Or… need I copy another one on the spot?"
The crowd erupted. Of course—the Empire's literary scene had nothing like this!
And a poem with a tragic love story? Unheard of!
Poem + story = unstoppable combo.
It could dominate the literary world!
Seth, challenged like this—no matter how angry—had no words.
He knew poetry somewhat—and never imagined Black could create such a masterpiece.
"Now—judges, your evaluation."
Duke Gran said, highly entertained. This Literary Duel exceeded expectations.
These youths were one after another, exceptional.
Even he had to admire Black's poem.
"Excellent? No—Masterpiece!"
Led by Lambert—all judges unanimously rated it a Masterpiece.
They ignored Seth completely.
To these elders—even offending a Duke—could not bury such a work.
With Black's poem standing tall—no one dared step forward.
He naturally won the Literary Duel!
Returning to Alice—Black noticed her gaze was… odd.
As if it held admiration.
He thought he was imagining it. How could this villainess admire him?
"Good poem."
"I underestimated you."
Hearing praise from Alice—Black was shocked.
What? First time she's said something nice!
Before—she'd either threaten to cut him or punish him with no food.
"Your Highness—what did you say? Could you repeat it?"
Black shamelessly perked up his ears.
"… …"
Alice was speechless—refused to answer.
After the Literary Duel—came the Martial Duel!
This would be much purer than literature.
No frills. Just pure fighting.
No chance for substitutes.
Either crush others with strength—or be crushed.
And the Martial Duel had a special rule:
Anyone who entered could challenge anyone present!
Whether the other accepted? Up to them.
But once challenged—it was an insult. Refusing meant surrender.
So the Martial Duel often became a stage for nobles to settle grudges.
Of course—fighting was to the point of submission only. No killing allowed.
"Now—among all young people here, Seth is the strongest."
"He won't miss this chance—he'll challenge us."
"But at Level 45 Mid-Tier Knight—he's too proud to fight you. He'll target me."
"Unfortunately—I'm no match. Likely, he'll win. But we still have a chance in the Dragon Duel. Losing one is fine."
Alice gently touched her red longsword—voice calm.
But Black sensed the resentment beneath.
Of course—Alice was proud. Admitting defeat to a madman? Natural to feel不甘.
But…
Black wondered—would Seth really ignore him?
He felt it—after humiliating Seth in the Literary Duel, he'd become public enemy number one.
This time, Seth wouldn't just retaliate—he'd do it at any cost.
But whatever. If challenged, he'd just refuse.
As Duke Gran announced the start of the Martial Duel—someone couldn't wait.
"Elaina! I challenge you!"
A Viscount's daughter stepped forward—directly targeting Elaina.
Black was puzzled. Her tone was arrogant.
Yes, the Martial Duel allowed free challenges.
But Elaina was a Duke's daughter—even as a bastard child, no mere Viscount could afford to offend her.
This wasn't simple.
"This girl is close to Lily and Marsha."
Alice casually mentioned.
Ah.
Black instantly understood—it was a premeditated attack.
Clearly, Elaina's "sisters" were making trouble for her.
But what was the point?
Just to embarrass her?
No—Black recalled lore from the original world.
If a Duke's child lost to a lower-ranked noble—Viscount, Baron, etc.—it was a huge disgrace.
They'd be despised by other nobles.
Worse—they'd face family punishment. In severe cases—expelled from the family, losing their noble status.
Most noble families had many children—they didn't need every failure.
In the Dragonheart Empire—this happened all the time.
The noble hierarchy: Duke > Marquis > Count > Viscount > Baron.
The gap between Duke and Viscount? Massive.
If Elaina lost to a Viscount's daughter? Disgraceful for her family.
And as a bastard daughter? This fight could end her standing entirely.
Of course—a mere Viscount's daughter wouldn't dare challenge a Duke's heir.
But with backing? Different story.
Elaina's legitimate sisters truly hated her.
"Hmm? You care about her?"
Seeing Black frowning, Alice asked thoughtfully.
She'd seen Elaina cooking for him before.
That scene looked intimate.
"Cough cough—we're not even friends. How could I care?"
"As Your Highness's sharpest blade—I only serve you!"
Black placed his right hand over his heart—performing a symbolic loyalty gesture.
Though a blatant lie—his attitude was perfect.
"… …"
But he didn't know—those words shook Alice deeply.
Though silent—the princess felt a strange flutter in her chest.
She didn't understand this emotion—only a sour, bittersweet feeling.
For the first time.
Not sadness. Not hurt. Something stronger.
Was it because—no one had ever said this to her?
Even if he was lying—Alice couldn't shake that bitter sweetness.
She bit her lip—trying to suppress it—but her ears turned red.
Only Karina noticed.
Your Highness…!
Karina was shocked. She seemed to understand Alice's feelings now.
Alice had always been invisible in the royal family—ignored by princes, princesses, servants alike.
This loneliness? Unbearable.
And Alice was stubborn—faced hardship alone, never seeking comfort.
Such a lonely, love-starved soul—affected by a casual line?
Seems normal.
Like sunlight piercing through a window—warming a girl hiding in darkness.
Bright. Warm.
Maybe… this man could change the princess.
For the first time—Karina hoped her intuition was right.
Meanwhile, oblivious Black didn't realize his words' power. He studied the Viscount's daughter—couldn't gauge her strength.
But likely Level 20–30.
"No need to look. She's a Level 20 Novice Summoner."
Alice finally suppressed her strange emotions.
A Novice Summoner?
Then Elaina should handle it.
Black knew Elaina likely consumed the Obsidian Nectar—already Level 20.
At equal levels—battle experience and skill mastery decided the winner.
Below, the girl under everyone's gaze slowly stood.
Elaina remained calm—wiped her mouth with a napkin—transforming from glutton to cool beauty.
She seemed prepared for this.
Other nobles weren't surprised. The feud between Duke Zoke's legitimate and bastard daughters was common knowledge.
All wondered—would she accept?
Refusing? Still a disgrace—same as losing.
"I accept your challenge."
Elaina raised her eyes—locking onto the Viscount's daughter.
Before, she might've hesitated. But now—Level 20.
Retreating would betray Black's help.
She took her staff—walked to the arena—facing the girl.
And gave Black a nod.
Black smiled. Didn't expect the little girl remembered him—a grateful child.
"Hmph. Some courage after all."
Liz, the Viscount's daughter, sneered.
Her mission? Simple—crush this girl.
Make her lose shamefully. Better yet—break her limbs, turn her into a useless cripple.
Of course, Liz held no personal hatred toward Elaina.
Blame Lily's tempting reward: 100,000 gold coins.
"Not bad—she actually accepted! What a fool!"
Lily laughed like a pig—her fat body jiggling.
"She's only Level 19—no combat experience. No way she beats Level 20 Liz!"
Marsha, flat-chested, laughed like a monkey—her pockmarked face twisted.
"Better break her limbs—makes it easier to kick her out of our house!"
The Martial Duel was a rare chance. They'd planned long—choosing someone low-status but similar level.
Too high a level? Losing wouldn't be shameful—defeating their purpose.
As they gloated—Elaina released her aura!
A Level 20 magic fluctuation filled the arena!
"Level 20? Impossible!"
Lily's fat face twisted—her wine glass shattering on the floor.
"She was Level 19 three days ago—and stuck there for months!"
Marsha bared her teeth—ugly, no trace of nobility.
This outcome defied both their expectations.
They couldn't fathom how Elaina broke through to Level 20—without Black Obsidian Nectar.
They'd bullied her, stolen her money—to prevent her from buying it!
Could someone have given it to her?!
"It doesn't matter! Even at Level 20—her combat experience can't match Liz's!"
Lily snarled—face puffed with rage.
"Easier said than done… she does have talent in magic. What if—"
Marsha sounded uneasy.
"Forgot already? If things go south—don't we have that thing?"
Lily's expression turned sinister.
"Oh right!"
The sisters grinned—two villains conspiring.
As Lily and Marsha shattered, the battle began!
"Frost Spell!"
Elaina's staff tip erupted with blinding ice-blue light!
The arena's temperature plummeted!
Ice frost spread from her feet—air filled with floating ice crystals.
Her hair floated—surrounded by visible magic vortices.
With a staff swing—countless sharp ice shards shot toward Liz!
"Flame Cat—answer my call!"
Unfazed, Liz formed a seal—
A red energy mass gathered—condensing into a flaming cat.
"Meow!"
The Flame Cat spat a massive fireball—melting every ice shard mid-air!
Effortless.
That's a Summoner for you! Truly extraordinary!
Black stared in awe at the fire-furred hamster.
Exactly as seen in-game.
In Dragonblood, Summoners were incredibly popular—second only to Sorcerers among magic classes.
Simple reason:
Easy to learn. Even weaklings could play.
The lowest barrier profession.
Farming dungeons? Effortless.
Just toss summon spells—summon beasts to fight for you.
Then AFK—collect rewards later.
To summon beasts—you first kill wild ones, capture their souls.
Number and level of summons? Tied to your own level.
Novice Summoners (Levels 1–30)? Can summon two beasts—equal or lower level.
Like this Flame Cat—Level 20, same as its master.
Summoners' range? Extremely broad!
Top-tier Summoners could even summon dragon species!
Thinking this—Black eagerly anticipated unlocking the Summoner class.
The battle continued—Liz, with superior experience, gradually gained the upper hand.
"Wind Shield!"
Elaina barely blocked the Flame Cat's attack—magic draining fast, stamina dropping.
Meanwhile, Liz stood relaxed—occasionally commanding her flaming pet.
This was why Summoners were annoying.
But Elaina wasn't weak.
As the novel's protagonist—her intelligence ranked just below Jiaye!
In game lore—if not for facing Jiaye—Elaina might've survived.
"Vine Bind!"
Green light burst from her staff—
Transforming into countless vines—binding the Flame Cat!
"Meow!"
Trapped—furious—unable to move.
Seizing the gap—Elaina launched two elemental attacks!
"Frost Spell!"
"Fireball!"
One after another—fire and ice—racing toward Liz at high speed.
"Smart. Once the summoned beast is immobilized—the Summoner becomes vulnerable."
Alice nodded approvingly.
A Summoner's strength relied on their beast.
If the beast was trapped—the Summoner became fragile.
Their self-defense? Far weaker than Sorcerers.
Game balance.
"Unfortunately—she still has one beast left."
No sooner had Black spoken—than Liz formed another seal!
"Ironhide Rhino—answer my call!"
BOOM!
A heavy impact—then a giant rhino in iron armor appeared before her.
"Trouble. It's an Ironhide Rhino."
Black said, surprised.
"What's special about it?"
Alice didn't understand his concern.
"The Ironhide Rhino has extremely high elemental resistance. Most basic elemental spells won't affect it."
"And Elaina's strongest skill? Elemental magic!"
As a player—Black hated encountering Ironhide Rhinos.
High HP, high resistance—while his character was a Sorcerer.
Often took ages to kill.
The battlefield mirrored his words—both elemental attacks hit the rhino—left no mark.
Elaina's expression turned grave.
For her—this fight just got much harder!
"Good job! Let the rhino smash her into a cripple!"
"Hmph! That brat's in for pain now!"
Lily and Marsha cackled—words full of malice.
No sisterly love—only cruelty.
As they said—Elaina's situation grew dire.
Facing two summoned beasts? Immense pressure.
Especially with an elemental counter like the Ironhide Rhino.
The rhino's heavy steps made the ground tremble—each charge forcing her into desperate dodges.
Meanwhile, the Flame Cat broke free—spewing flames to block her retreat.
"Wind Spirit!"
Elaina cast a spell to boost her speed—barely evading the rhino's charge.
"Wind Shield!"
She cast a shield—blocking the Flame Cat's fireball.
She looked calm—but was actually in total defense mode.
At this rate—she'd either get hit—or run out of magic.
"Surrender! You can't beat my Ironhide Rhino!"
Liz raised her chin—triumphant.
"My Ironhide Rhino is specifically designed to counter elemental mages like you!"
Frequent spellcasting left Elaina exhausted—stamina and magic draining rapidly.
Her robe was scorched in places, bangs soaked with sweat—clinging to her pale cheeks.
If she surrendered now? Only shame. No serious injury or disfigurement.
But Elaina refused.
She never wanted to hear again:
"Servants are servants—even mixed with noble blood, you can't wash away your lowly nature."
She stayed in the Duke's mansion—not for luxury—but to reclaim dignity for herself and her mother.
If they told her to leave—and she did—wouldn't that be running away?
No. She'd stay—grow stronger—surpass and crush them—legitimately claim the Duke's inheritance!
This battle? She wouldn't lose.
Wouldn't waste Black's Obsidian Nectar!
She'd bet everything!
Elaina bit her lip—stopped dodging.
She crossed her staff over her chest—then did something unexpected:
Closed her eyes.
The crowd erupted!
"Is this brat insane?! Closing her eyes at a time like this!"
Lily shrieked.
But Black's eyes lit up: "Wait…this is…"
The tip of Elaina's staff suddenly glowed with an eerie blue aura!
Brighter than previous ice spells—like the omen of an incoming blizzard.
Countless ice crystals floated in the air—changing trajectory, slowly orbiting her.
"This is… Ice Seal? Can a Level 20 even cast it? Such terrifying talent!"
Krystin's mouth opened slightly—amazed, eyes filled with admiration.
Ice Seal was a spell only Level 35 Mid-Tier Sorcerers could master.
Yet Elaina—only Level 20—was casting it. Her magical talent? Exceptional.
Among those Krystin had seen—only herself and Elaina could cross such a level gap.
"But at Level 20—forcing it might cause backlash, harming herself."
Alice, knowledgeable in sorcery, saw Elaina's instability.
"She knows. But she still chose to bet!"
Black smiled—he believed Elaina would win.
Because—she was the novel's protagonist.
Liz sensed danger—ordered both beasts into a pincer attack!
But just as the Flame Cat's fireball and Ironhide Rhino's charge neared Elaina—
She snapped open her eyes—now fully ice-blue!
Elaina whispered an ancient word: "Freeze."
The moment she spoke—everyone felt the deck's temperature plunge by thirty degrees!
Like winter had arrived.
A fierce cold storm erupted from her—engulfing the battlefield.
In that instant—time froze.
The Flame Cat's fireball turned to ice sculpture mid-air.
The Ironhide Rhino—mid-charge—froze into an ice statue.
Clearly—Elaina had won her bet.
Veteran sorcerers shot up—beards trembling:
"A Level 20 achieving this?! Truly extraordinary talent!"
"Impossible!"
Liz's face twisted with terror. She couldn't believe—her Ironhide Rhino, which had beaten higher-level elemental mages—
Even Level 30 ones—was defeated by a newly Level 20 mage!
Lily and Marsha were dumbstruck—jaws nearly on the floor.
They never expected the girl they scorned to have such high talent.
Then—a strong sense of crisis hit them.
Their family valued strength above all. The strongest child—regardless of legitimacy—held absolute power, inherited authority.
Their father—the head—ignored Elaina's bullying because he allowed competition.
Only the one who emerged victorious deserved to be his heir.
Now—Elaina's talent shone—likely earning their father's attention, special training.
Then—their future would vanish!
Realizing this—Lily and Marsha's faces turned cruel.
They exchanged a secret glance with Liz.
"Still use that thing…?"
Liz hesitated. Using it broke rules—and carried severe side effects.
Then Lily made a hand signal below the table.
Double the reward.
200,000 gold coins.
Astronomical wealth!
"Men die for money. Birds die for food!"
Liz's eyes flashed with ruthlessness. Under spell cover—she pulled out a crimson potion, downing it secretly.
The move was subtle—only one person saw it.
Host Duke Gran.
But he showed zero intention to expose her.
"Drinking potions? How interesting."
Gran's lips curled—sinister amusement.
To him—anything dramatic was good entertainment.
The moment the potion took effect—Liz's aura exploded with terrifying magic!
"Soul Fusion!"
Liz formed ancient seals—chanting mysterious incantations.
"Indeed—using a Divine Edict."
Alice said calmly.
Black nodded—Soul Fusion was a Summoner's Low-Tier Divine Edict.
It merged two summoned beasts—greatly boosting power.
At once—the Flame Cat and Ironhide Rhino screamed in agony.
Shattering the ice trapping them.
Their bodies twisted—fused together.
Fire and steel intertwined—forming a never-before-seen monster.
Top half: A cat's head burning with blue flames.
Bottom half: An Ironhide Rhino body covered in lava patterns.
Tail: A fire-spitting serpent.
"This is… Hellfire Rhino-Cat!"
Alice's face paled—disbelief as she stared at the beast.
"It's a Level 30+ fused spirit creature!"
Even Black was shocked. He frowned.
How could a Level 20 Summoner fuse a Level 30+ beast via Divine Edict?
Even with all her magic, max fusion was Level 25.
Unless…
Thinking the same thought—Black and Alice exchanged a glance—same conclusion.
"Potion!"
Black realized—Liz must've taken a magic-enhancing potion to create the Hellfire Rhino-Cat.
This was cheating—but Duke Gran clearly didn't care.
Now Elaina was truly in trouble!
eeing Liz summon a Level 30 Hellfire Rhino-Cat, the audience erupted in shock.
Lily and Marsha danced with glee: "Good job, Liz! Tear that brat apart!"
Elaina's calm shattered—desperation flickered in her eyes.
Her hastily cast Wind Shield shredded like paper under the Hellfire Rhino-Cat's claws.
A wave of scorching heat surged—she barely dodged—but was still thrown back, crashing hard onto the deck.
Before she could rise—the beast lunged—its maw snapping toward her right hand, where she held her staff.
"Danger!"
Krystin realized it—Liz's intent was cruel.
For a sorceress, the right hand was essential for casting.
If Elaina lost it—her magical career would be over.
"Wind Spirit!"
At the last second, Elaina cast a speed-boost spell—barely evading the bite.
Yet unless she killed this beast—her hand would be severed.
ROAR!
The Hellfire Rhino-Cat targeted again—lunging once more.
Watching that frail, battered figure stumble under relentless attacks—on the brink of death—
Black's heart tightened.
He'd fought Hellfire Rhino-Cats many times in-game—knew their fatal weakness.
But logic told him—this life-or-death moment was crucial for Elaina, a growth-type protagonist.
Like other novel heroes—at such a crisis—they'd often break through or gain sudden insight, boosting their power.
If he intervened—he might ruin her growth opportunity.
In game lore—Elaina died by Jiaye's hand.
This duel? She wouldn't die—just suffer a heavy defeat.
But it made her mentally stronger.
His interference could alter the plot.
As he hesitated—Elaina slipped—struck by the beast's massive claw—slammed to the ground.
Blood spilled from her mouth.
"HAHAHAHA!"
Mocking laughter echoed—her sisters' voices cold.
Around her—indifferent onlookers.
Before her—the beast's bloodthirsty maw.
For the first time—Elaina felt helpless.
Just like when she watched her mother beaten to death before her eyes.
She didn't want to die. Didn't want to be crippled. She still had revenge to take.
But… she was so tired.
After her mother's death—no one cared about her anymore…
Her vision blurred—memories flashed.
Then—a figure appeared before her.
That figure said: "From now on—it's yours."
And handed her the precious Obsidian Nectar.
So kind. That was the first gift she'd received since her mother's death.
Truthfully—she hadn't said everything that day.
It was her birthday.
She cried not just from being bullied—
But because she knew—another birthday would pass alone.
After her mother left—no one sang to her. No one gave gifts.
So when, after years—she received a birthday present—she nearly wept.
But she held back—afraid that guy would mock her.
I wish I could talk to him again.
Perhaps fate connected them—as the Hellfire Rhino-Cat's claw descended—
Her gaze met Black's across the chaos—
Her ice-blue eyes flashing rare vulnerability, pleading for help.
Like a stubborn little bunny showing its soft side for the first time.
That single look—sealed Black's decision.
To hell with the plot! I can't take it!
Since arriving in this world—he'd endured too much.
If he stayed passive—he'd regret it forever!
At least this once—he'd be selfish!
"Your Highness—borrow your sword."
Without waiting—Black snatched Alice's red longsword.
Then pulled out his stored Obsidian Nectar—downed it in one gulp.
The Obsidian Nectar wasn't just a breakthrough material—
It temporarily boosted physical stats.
"You'll only die."
Seeing his determined back, Alice's delicate brows furrowed—voice complex.
The boy before her seemed transformed—cold, lethal.
No longer the laid-back youth.
But could a Level 10 pirate fight a Level 30 Hellfire Rhino-Cat?
Black didn't answer. He raised the red sword—aiming at the beast.
Softly—said three words:
"Three strikes will suffice."
Those words shook Alice and Karina deeply!
As he spoke—Black's form became a crimson lightning bolt—tearing through the air.
His red sword exploded with light—ancient dragon patterns swirling across the blade!
Alice's personal weapon—Crimson Soul Sword—was a rare 5-star weapon.
With his Level 10 swordsman skill? He couldn't match the beast.
But with this 5-star weapon—and knowledge of its weakness—
Could three strikes kill it? Worth a try!
The sudden crimson light stunned everyone!
Its brilliance drew the Hellfire Rhino-Cat's attention—halting its attack on Elaina, focusing on the light.
"Interesting! So interesting!"
Duke Gran laughed heartily. A Level 10 pirate daring to interfere—trying to be a hero?
Tonight's Martial Duel was unbelievably dramatic!
Logically, as host—he should stop this.
But to him—entertainment above all!
Elaina looked up—heart pounding violently.
She saw it—that familiar silhouette!
Still so reckless!
Just like when he jumped into the sea for magic materials.
So confident. So decisive.
She knew his strength was worse than hers—yet she believed in that boy.
The Hellfire Rhino-Cat, seeing a human, roared—spitting three giant fireballs!
They rose with melting fury!
"Ah!"
Krystin recognized Black—gasped in shock!
She never expected him to be so impulsive—fingers unconsciously gripping her skirt.
Cyril, son of a Round Table Knight, was shocked.
He admired Black's courage—heroic.
But disagreed with such recklessness.
In mid-air—dodging fireballs was nearly impossible—like a sitting duck!
One person cackled wildly—Rampant Wolf Seth.
"Fool! A Level 10 weakling dares—"
Seth's mockery cut short.
Black's figure twisted three times mid-air—each turn perfectly exploiting the fireballs' blind spots.
He just barely grazed past all three.
"Autumn Wind Triple Fold!"
Alice jolted upright—pupils shrinking, breath stopping, chest heaving violently.
Other nobles reacted the same.
Even Duke Gran—the old man—was stunned.
They were shocked for a simple reason.
Everyone knew: Warriors, Knights, Swordsmen, Assassins, Archers, Pirates—all drew power from Spirit Energy.
These six classes were interchangeable. Low-tier moves could be cross-class used.
But class-exclusive skills? Extremely difficult—nearly impossible to cross-learn!
Autumn Wind Triple Fold was a Swordsman-exclusive skill. A Pirate mastering it? Unthinkable.
Unless—extraordinary talent across classes.
A polymath!
In Cassel Continent's history—such people existed. But they were geniuses of legend.
How could a mere pirate be one?
"Throat, three inches down. Left scapula. Seventh tail vertebra."
Unfazed by the crowd, Black called out three weak points.
These were the Hellfire Rhino-Cat's vulnerabilities.
His voice—cold, lethal. Sword like a rainbow—fast as lightning!
Using the Obsidian Nectar's boost—he executed Autumn Wind Triple Fold again.
Speed so high—only afterimages remained. The beast couldn't even track him.
Whoosh!
His blade sliced the rhino-cat's throat—spraying molten-like blood.
The monster roared—turning to attack this sudden insect.
But Black predicted every move—leaned back to avoid claws—then drove his sword into the left scapula—where the lava core pulsed.
As a player who'd fought Hellfire Rhino-Cats countless times, Black knew its patterns inside out.
"ROAR!"
The beast froze. Cracks spread across its scapular lava patterns.
Liz was dumbfounded—no idea what just happened.
Lily and Marsha? Same. Stunned, speechless.
But Alice was most shocked.
To her—every move Black made seemed calculated millions of times. Even the monster's muscle contractions in pain were predicted.
Like he'd killed countless Hellfire Rhino-Cats before—unbelievable.
What she didn't know? As a top-tier Dragonblood player, these moves were basic gameplay for Black.
"The final point."
Black suddenly threw his sword upward. As the beast instinctively looked up—
He leapt—planted both feet on its snout—caught the falling sword—and spun like a drill, driving it into the tail vertebra!
At the moment the blade pierced—time froze.
The massive beast twitched like a broken puppet—molten blood gushing from all three wounds!
BOOM!
With a dull thud—the Level 30 fused spirit creature collapsed, shattering into countless red fragments.
Black knelt—one knee down—sword tilted at the ground. Magma-like blood crystals formed a crimson carpet around his feet.
The entire deck fell into deathly silence.
Dragoncleaver Guards gasped.
They saw it—though Black's level was low—his combat experience and skill mastery were maxed.
If he were their level? They'd be crushed.
Elaina stared at that back.
Moonlight pierced the clouds—bathing Black, turning his crimson sword into a burning torch.
In that moment—she understood her mother's last words:
"Never give up—someone will always cut through your darkness."
"…He's truly not ordinary."
Alice's voice trembled—rarely shaken. She couldn't read this boy at all.
During sparring—even when she aimed at his throat with killing intent—he never fought back.
Just a clumsy beginner.
Any real expert would instinctively counter—life under threat.
Unless he faked it perfectly.
But from the Spirit Energy he emitted earlier? He was truly Level 10.
A Level 10 Pirate—astonishing reflexes, combat experience, mastering Swordsman-exclusive skills?
Alice wondered—was he possessed by a Swordsman master?
Krystin thought the same.
After this fight—her belief in Black's mystery solidified.
"Three strikes defeating a Level 30 summoned beast? He must know its weaknesses!"
Her long lashes trembled—like a butterfly startled.
To her—how could someone so young, so low-level, know so much?
She'd studied Comprehensive Analysis of Summoned Beasts—yet didn't know the Hellfire Rhino-Cat's weakness.
The Glacier Snow Lotus too—Black was like an encyclopedia of Cassel Continent.
"This is impossible!!" Liz spat blood—backlash from Soul Fusion knocking her unconscious.
Lily and Marsha hugged each other like ghosts—their paid-for trump card shattered by a Level 10 pirate in three strikes.
"Wait! This was Elaina vs. Liz's battle! He broke the rules!"
Fat Lily used her tiny brain—grabbed this point to attack Black.
"Exactly! Punish him severely! And since he's clearly allied with Elaina—she must lose the Martial Duel!"
"Your Grace Duke Gran—we demand fair judgment!"
Pockmarked Marsha quickly agreed.
They'd hold onto this.
Nobles murmured—though impressed by Black's flashy moves—rules were rules.
Interfering in a duel? Under imperial law—years in prison.
Hearing this—Black smirked coldly, eyes sharp!
Whoosh! He turned his sword—pointing it at the two sisters.
They screamed in terror, scrambling backward.
"AAAAH! HELP! HE'S GOING TO KILL US!"
Of course—Black only scared them.
He sheathed his sword—bowed to Duke Gran—voice clear:
"Respected Duke Gran—I acted not out of impulse. I discovered Liz secretly took a magic potion—breaking the duel's rules. Elaina is my friend—in urgency, I intervened."
"I've heard you are wise, righteous, and noble. Please have someone check if Liz took potions—deliver justice for my friend."
A steady voice rang across the deck.
Hearing it, the crowd suddenly understood—Black's words made sense.
They never believed a Level 20 Summoner could summon a Level 30 fused beast.
But Elaina's surprise wasn't about her opponent cheating with potions.
Her mind ignored everything else—repeating two words: "friend".
Ah… friend?
He said I'm his friend… I'm his friend… I'm his friend…
I'm Black's friend…
She tilted her head slightly—her once-lively eyes freezing, pupils widening instantly.
A faint blush spread across her pale cheeks—like cherry blossoms touched by morning dew.
Fingers unconsciously twisted her skirt—knuckles whitening from grip.
What did "friend" mean?
Mother said:
A friend gives you gifts on your birthday.
Stays by your side when you're lonely.
Comforts you when you're sad.
Defends you when you're bullied.
Elaina wanted a friend so badly—but in her seventeen years, as a Duke's illegitimate daughter, mother just a servant…
Noble peers looked down on her.
When someone dared befriend her—her sisters threatened them away.
So when Black called her his friend—she wanted to cry.
She wanted to sob: "Mom, I made my first friend."
Yet if Black knew her thoughts—he'd be speechless, shocked.
In the original novel The Dragon-Slaying Girl Longs for Love, Elaina's first friend was the male lead—the one who triggered this emotional wave, boosting her affection toward him.
Now—Black had stolen that moment.
Of course—he had no idea.
Duke Gran listened—face calm, but internally smirking.
Black's praise—"wise, righteous, noble"—seemed like flattery.
But truly—a trap.
Forcing him to act—send someone to check Liz.
And hidden beneath? Subtle mockery.
Accusing him of knowing about the cheating—yet staying silent.
This youth was interesting.
Gran stroked his beard—glanced at Alice, seeking her opinion.
Black was now the princess's man. How to handle this—must respect her will.
Noticing Gran's gaze—Alice paused—stared at Black's figure—then nodded.
Not just for Black—she despised cheating in duels.
With the princess's approval—Gran waved:
"Guards! Test Liz for traces of magic potions!"
A priest cast a spell on the unconscious Liz.
After confirmation—he reported:
"Your Graces—Liz did consume potion residue. Upon waking, she'll be punished per regulations!"
"Therefore—I declare the first Martial Duel: Elaina wins!"
Hearing this—Black finally exhaled.
Earlier, he had no full confidence.
Autumn Wind Triple Fold was a skill unlocked after becoming a Swordsman.
He understood it well:
Consumes Spirit Energy—allows three instant teleports in quick succession.
With his fragile body—even a graze from the beast would've meant serious injury.
But combining the skill—his top-tier player reflexes—and the monster's clumsiness—a flawless victory was possible.
Of course—only because he knew its weaknesses.
And thanks to Alice's sword.
Without it—he might not have penetrated its defense.
So what seemed like cool, smooth moves to others?
Were precise calculations to him.
Black held the sword upside-down—walked to Elaina, still on the ground—extended his hand, smiling gently:
"The floor's cold. Let me help you up."
Elaina stared at that warm smile—frozen for half a minute.
Only after a while—blushing—did she take his hand and stand.
"Thank you…"
Voice soft as a mosquito.
"Huh? What'd you say?"
Black didn't hear.
"…Nothing. You're just… really stupid."
Elaina lowered her head—expression hidden—voice muffled.
"Eh?"
Black was confused—why insult him after saving her?
No good deed goes unpunished!
"I mean—you're weaker than me. If you messed up… you could've died."
"Well… blame my damn kindness. My little bunny begged for help—how could I ignore that~?"
Black grinned—cheeky, carefree—like the cold warrior earlier was a dream.
"… …"
Knowing "little bunny" referred to her—Elaina pinched his hand, embarrassed.
"Ow! Why's this bunny biting? Ungrateful!"
"… We're friends… right?"
Elaina asked hesitantly—nervous, awaiting his reply.
"Of course! Didn't I give you something before? That was the friendship fee—you're not denying our bond, are you?"
"… Mm."
Relieved—Elaina finally smiled.
Holding back overflowing joy—she thanked Black again—then slowly returned to her seat.
Watching her slender back—Black's expression calmed.
Honestly—he couldn't guarantee his intervention was right.
Maybe later—Elaina would face greater danger because of him.
But regardless—he didn't regret it.
Composing himself—Black turned to return to Alice.
But before he took a few steps—
A haughty voice suddenly cut through—
Stopping him.
"Wait, Black."
Black halted—frowned—turned to the speaker.
"What does Lord Seth want now?"
It was Rampant Wolf Seth.
Clearly hostile.
From his aggressive gaze—Black knew he was targeted again.
Exactly as expected.
"Black—I challenge you!"
"Black—I challenge you!"
Seth's next words made everyone pale.
And from his murderous expression—this battle maniac was dead serious.
The deck exploded with chaos.
"Has Seth gone mad? A Level 45 Knight challenging a Level 10 Pirate? He's shaming the nobility!"
"He lives up to his name—Rampant Wolf, bites anyone he grabs!"
"Exactly! Such a petty mind—can't even let go of a mere pirate?"
"He's truly shameless. Watch your words—you don't want this madman after you."
"Still, it won't work. The princess's guard won't accept."
…
No one expected Seth to be this insane.
Just because the princess forced him to apologize—now he'd hunt down Black?
After all—Seth started it.
"Seth—is bullying the weak something to boast about?"
"I'll be your opponent!"
Krystin said sharply—the usually gentle saintess showing anger for the first time.
To Krystin—Seth could harass her all he wanted—she'd ignore him.
No matter how expensive his gifts—she'd donate them to orphanages.
Her stance was clear: She didn't like Seth!
But now—because of her, Seth hated Black.
This was unacceptable.
She even wanted to cast a high-tier spell—make Seth regret it.
But Seth didn't take her seriously.
Instead—he gave her a cold smile:
"My dear Krystin—I'll prove to everyone—you're mine."
"Anyone who dares touch you… will suffer unimaginable pain."
Arrogant—so much so that even old-school nobles frowned.
But they knew—Seth only dared say this on the Hodir.
The Church wasn't here.
If he said this in the Empire? It might spark war between the Church and Round Table Knights.
The Church wouldn't care about his father's status.
"Seth—do you truly not fear me?"
Alice took a deep breath—voice colder than Antarctic ice—imperial authority radiating.
She thought he'd challenge her.
But she underestimated Seth's madness and shamelessness.
A proud noble—seeking revenge—challenging someone so far below him?
Truly a madman.
"Heh. Don't rush, Princess."
Seth's mentality was rock-solid—unfazed by any criticism.
"You think I'm bullying the weak?"
"Then let me make it clear!"
His gaze shifted to Black—cold smirk, slow and deliberate:
"If he accepts my challenge—I'll suppress my spirit energy to Level 10.
That's not bullying, right?"
Hearing this—another uproar.
They never expected Seth to make such a huge concession—lowering his Level 45 Knight power to mere Level 10.
From Mid-Tier back to Novice.
The gap? An abyss!
In theory—a Level 10 Knight vs. Level 10 Pirate? Even match.
But anyone knowledgeable knew—this "fairness" was a lie.
"You're truly shameless."
Alice tilted her chin—expression dark.
"Even if you suppress your level—your combat experience, reflexes, skills, equipment—all crush him."
"You call this fair?"
Hearing the princess, other nobles suddenly understood. Seems valid.
Like in an RPG—if a Level 45 character has a 6-star weapon, 300% damage skills, and mastered combos—
Even if their level drops to 10—their weapon star, skill level, combos remain.
You can't win against a 100% damage skill when theirs is 300%.
Seth clearly knew this too. He touched the fierce scar on his face—amber wolf-eyes blazing.
"Princess—you see through me."
"Fine. Let's say this—if he defeats me—my Overlord Spear becomes his prize!"
"And I'll add 500,000 gold coins!"
As he spoke—servants brought out a massive spear!
Jet-black as night—the shaft wrapped in dark red dragon carvings, like dried blood snaking upward.
The tip wasn't ordinary metal—but some unknown dark silver material, glowing with cold blue light under illumination.
It seemed to pierce the air itself—just looking at it hurt the eyes.
This was the Overlord Spear.
As soon as he finished—gasps echoed.
Most nobles' breaths grew hot.
Unbelievable—Seth would bet his legendary spear and half a million gold?!
Especially Knights—
The Overlord Spear? A family heirloom—a true 6-star weapon!
"The weapon that drank Dragon King's blood!"
"It grants the user dragon-like strength!"
"Has Seth gone mad?! Betting his family's treasure?!"
Yet Seth wasn't mad.
He knew his absolute dominance—that's why he dared to bet so big.
A man who'd killed countless enemies, drank dragon blood, earned glorious战绩—
Invincible at equal levels!
Let alone—he once slain a Level 50 enemy general while lower-ranked.
Even if Black were Level 45—he'd still bet!
This was absolute confidence in his own strength!
"If he loses? Simple. He kneels—calls his mother a prostitute—and swears never to approach Krystin again."
Seth paused—calmly eyeing silent Black.
"Well? Isn't this a no-loss deal?"
From an outsider's view—this was a sure-win trade.
A 6-star legendary weapon + 500,000 gold vs. kneeling and humiliation?
Not even comparable.
"Seth's betting big! Family treasure, 6-star weapon—his father'll have a stroke if he finds out!"
"You really think he's stupid? Even at Level 10—Rampant Wolf is still Rampant Wolf! Tell me—you're Level 25—can you guarantee you'd beat Level 10 Seth?"