Chapter 123
"I… I forced Rin into this…"
The Vatican’s backyard.
Isabel was crying with her face buried in her knees. She felt guilty for dragging Rin here.
“I wanted to refuse His Holiness's command… But I was afraid… I know how much Rin hates the current Vatican… It is because of me… Rin came back here because of me…"
Cassus tried to soothe her, “If you refused His Holiness's order, Rin would've been brought back by another person. Rin will be grateful for being brought politely by a friend, rather than being dragged by someone else. So please don't beat yourself up about it."
"…."
Isabel slowly raised her head. She looked at him with moist eyes. She carefully brushed her long platinum hair away from her eyes and asked gently.
“Rin… What will happen to her?"
The pope had convened the high ranking members of the church in order to determine Rin's fate. Isabel wanted to watch, but the pope didn't give her permission, making her become more anxious. She didn't want Rin to be treated unfairly.
Cassus couldn't say anything.
‘Perhaps Rin will… She might be deprived of her qualifications, or in the worst case, she can lose her life.'
On the surface, Rebecca’s Daughters were treated as sacred beings only second to the pope and received everyone's respect. However, the senior members of the church dismissed Rebecca's Daughters as consumables, mere powerful weapons. As long as the three divine artifacts were preserved, Rebecca's Daughters could be replaced at any time.
'Right now, Rebecca's Daughters are people who serve the pope. They are a thorn in the eye of the current pope. The pope will want new Rebecca's Daughters, who are unconditionally loyal.'
The pope would try to pass on the three divine artifacts to new people.
'Rin isn't the only one in danger. Maybe sooner or later, Isabel…'
Cassus' heart dropped. Rebecca's Daughters were raised in the church. They only knew how to exist as enforcers of the church!
‘… Once they become useless, they are deserted.'
Why was this terrible thing happening?
'It is a poor fate.'
Isabel was only 17 this year and Rin was 19.
They were born with inherently high divine power and taught how to fight and be loyal to the church since childhood. If they were abandoned by the church, would they be able to adapt to ordinary life? It would be even more unfortunate if they were killed. It was too harsh for them to die without feeling the warmth of family, friends or even a lover.
'Also…'
Once new Rebecca's Daughters were born who were absolutely loyal to the pope, no one would be able to stop the pope for any longer. From then on, the Rebecca Church would walk the path of complete corruption. It was getting out of hand.
“Someone…"
Cassus, who was usually stoic and expressionless, couldn't hide what he was thinking. He shed tears for the first time in his life.
“Someone, please… Save us…"
"Cassus…?" Isabel was embarrassed by Cassus' unusual appearance. She had no idea what to do. "W-Why are you crying all of a sudden? Huh? I-Is it because of me? Am I so depressed that I am making you cry? I'm sorry. I’m sorry so don't cry. Everything is good. Rin will be okay, and someday Goddess Rebecca will lead His Holiness to the right path."
Isabel was free-spirited. Despite being harshly raised by the church, she had a strong personality. There were many times when she made people tired, but she had a warm heart like sunshine. She was in the most difficult position, yet she was smiling and comforting her subordinates?
Cassus became sadder at the thought of this sacred, beautiful and warm life ending. The moment he was about to burst out sobbing.
“Why is a big man crying? Eh? Especially in front of a girl. What a shame."
"…!"
Why was this voice familiar? Cassus was surprised by the emergence of an unexpected figure and hurriedly looked back. A black-haired young man was standing there with a smile.
"It has been a long time, Cassus."
"Grid…!"
Winston Castle had asked for the support of a priest to make the Divine Shield, and Cassus had been dispatched. At the time, Cassus had bonded with Grid while two Divine Shields were produced. But he never dreamed that this relationship would continue again.
Why had Grid come to the Vatican?
“Why are you here… No?"
Cassus' eyes widened in the middle of his question. It was due to the evil magic power and blood of virgins coming from the cloak that Grid was wearing.
"That cloak…!"
Isabel said, "That is Malacus' Cloak."
"Malacus' Cloak… Really?"
"Yes."
Isabel had several encounters with Malacus. It was because she raided several sites where Malacus was offering virgins as sacrifices. She was interrupted every time so she kept missing him, but she heard rumors that mighty soldiers of Winston destroyed Malacus. One of those mighty people seemed to be the young man called Grid.
"It is an honor to meet such a great warrior."
"Ah! You!" Grid glanced at Isabel and was startled. Then he became excited as he recognized her. "Shield Thief! No, Shield Thief Girl! Ah, this… Ah! That’s right! Was it Rebecca's Daughter? Hey! Rebecca's Daughter! Give me my shield!"
“What?"
Isabel had encountered Grid at Winston Castle. But she didn't remember Grid because she didn't see Grid at the time. Cassus explained to Isabel who was puzzled by the nonsense. "He is the blacksmith of Winston. He is the creator of the Divine Shield that you are holding."
"Omo, really? This young man has that type of blacksmith skill? Huh? But how can a blacksmith kill Malacus?"
Grid strode towards the puzzled and admiring Isabel. Then he unabashedly demanded, "Give me my shield."
Isabel was embarrassed. “I appreciate the fact that you defeated Malacus. But I can't help you. The Divine Shield is a dangerous weapon so we have decided to recall all of them. That other shield that you made, could you please give it back?"
“W-What?" Grid was dismayed. “How much money did I spend making these shields? Do you have any idea how great the value of the shield is? I can be rich if I sell it!"
"I understand but… I'm sorry. It can't be helped. The policy has already been set."
"D-Dammit!"
Grid was grumpy at the thought of losing his legendary rated Divine Shield. How could he be calm when he was going to be robbed of items worth hundreds of millions of won? In the end, Grid's face turned red as he prepared to fight.
“Blood won't be shed if you give me the shield immediately."
Grid was currently level 150. He was different compared to when the Divine Shield was stolen by the Yatan follower. His confidence was overflowing, despite facing the Rebecca Church's strongest paladin.
Cassus tried to talk to him as Grid pulled out the greatsword. "Grid, please calm down. Let's start with a conversation first. Why did you come here?"
"Ah, you! What are you saying? Do I seem like I want to talk right now? Eh?"
“Grid, please. Please calm down."
Cassus bowed deeply. Grid was reminded of the time he made the items with Cassus and somewhat calmed down. Then he explained, "I came to see the pope."
“His Holiness?”
“I have something that I want him to bless… I also wanted to ask for the Divine Shield back."
"Hah…"
Cassus felt it was mysterious. It was amazing to reunite with someone who he thought was merely a passing relationship.
'This is all Goddess Rebecca's doing…'
What did his relationship with Grid mean? The moment that Cassus was deeply interested.
Kwaang!
"…?!"
A powerful explosion rang out from inside the Vatican. Isabel's face turned white.
"This divine power… It is His Holiness!"
Something had certainly happened to Rin. Was the pope doing something terrible to Rin while she stood here? Isabel was concerned about the worst situation and rushed towards the Vatican immediately. Cassus blocked her way.
“Didn't His Holiness command you not to enter? Don't go. If you break his command, His Holiness will punish you and Rin."
Cassus was convinced that Rin was being punished.
Isabel gritted her teeth.
“Indeed… I have to save Rin from His Holiness!"
A gold circle was drawn in the empty space. Then a white spear emerged from it. It was one of the three divine artifacts of the Rebecca Church, Lifael's Spear. Grid observed the spear with admiration.
'I didn't recognize it before, but isn't this a huge weapon? It is much better than the Gale Spear that I made. No, it is a few dimensions above Dainsleif.’
There was only one person who could produce a weapon like this.
'Pagma…!'
He found a clue to Pagma in a place like this. Grid excitedly grabbed Lifael's Spear.
"Hey! Let me see this!"
"What?"
Isabel became angrier at Grid's actions and firmly waved her spear. He dared put his hand on a sacred weapon. She wanted to blow Grid's body into a tree that was 100m away. However…
"Huh?"
The spear wouldn't swing freely. It was because Grid's strength as he grasped the spear was beyond the category of humans.
"Eek!"
Isabel wielded the spear with all her strength. Then Grid's body was thrown 30m and he rolled across the ground.
Ku tang tang tang!
"Uhh…"
Grid felt his vision blurring. He barely managed to get up.
"What? What is with this girl's strength?"
Grid stopped pointing points in intelligence after securing a certain amount of mana. Then he invested all his points into strength. At level 150 and combined with the effect of his titles, Grid had over 1,500 strength. He had the power to break rocks by swinging a fist.
Grid's strength had grown to the level where Toon couldn't compete anymore. Yet this huge strength wasn't a match against Isabel.
'Rebecca's Daughters isn't an empty name.'
She was a slender girl, but she exerted physical strength that was beyond the limits of humans! Isabel reached the front door of the Vatican while Grid was admiring her.
“Isabel! Please stop!"
'Just wait a little longer, Rin, I will save you!'
Cassus couldn't stop her. Isabel opened the doors to the Vatican, filled with the desire to save Rin. It was at that moment.
Kwaang!
A girl with purple hair descended from the roof of the Vatican and attacked Isabel.
"You!"
Isabel was astonished as she barely managed to defend against the attack. The girl who suddenly appeared at the entrance of the Vatican! She was the last of Rebecca's Daughters and the owner of Everiel's Shield, Luna.
"Here… You can't enter."
Isabel shouted at her, “Luna, get out of my way! Rin is in danger!"
Luna shook her head. "His Holiness' commands are absolute… I have to follow them."
"Really… You really can't? It is a request."
Isabel begged. But Luna was adamant.
"I'm sorry… I can't."
Luna was much younger than Isabel and Rin. She was 14 years old this year so the brainwashing was still strong. Unlike Isabel and Rin who thought for themselves, she only obeyed orders. She was the one who had the most achievements when suppressing the rebellion three months ago, and she was the one most favored by the pope.
"It is impossible to break Everiel's Shield… This can't be… Rin…!"
Isabel was well aware that she couldn't persuade Luna and felt desperate. At this moment, Rin was suffering alone. Isabel was the only one who could help Rin, but why was the goddess giving her such trials?
“Goddess, are you throwing Rin away…?"
The moment that Isabel felt despair… A notification window flashed in front of Grid.
[Help the Rebecca Church!]
Difficulty: Class quest.
The Rebecca Church is a religion with deep ties to Pagma. The friendship between 5th Pope Franz and Pagma is still spoken about hundreds of years later.
As Pagma’s Descendant, you are obliged to help the Rebecca Church that is being corrupted by 13th Pope Drevigo.
Kill Pope Drevigo!
Help the Rebecca Church!
Quest Clear Conditions: Drevigo's death.
Quest Clear Reward: Goddess Rebecca's blessing.
* This is a sub-quest that works in conjunction with the second class quest. If you fail this quest, you won't meet the conditions to clear the second class quest.
"Are they crazy?"
Look at the warning window! If he failed this quest, he would fail his class quest! Grid couldn't understand it.
“Shit, what is this craziness?" It was a quest that caused him to tremble. "Ah, this is really… If I fail… Huh?"
Grid was complaining when his gaze fell on the spear in Isabel's hand. A transparent arrow, visible only to Grid's eyes, was pointed at Isabel's spear.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 124
A transparent arrow, visible to only Grid's eyes, was pointed at Isabel's spear. It was the helper system that guided the user. Like every other user, Grid received a lot of help from this system in the early days. It helped him even after he became Pagma’s Descendant, like with the bellows.
Anyway, this meant the system was telling him that the spear was a clue to this quest.
"I see," Grid reminded himself. In the case of quests with an extremely high failure penalty, the system was set up to help the user succeed.
“Hey, Isabel."
“What?”
Isabel, who had been feeling despair over Luna, frowned at the call.
Grid told her, “I will kill the pope and then rescue Rin. In return, give me my shield. Understood?”
"…."
Why? Isabel felt an unknown sense of trust from Grid's absurd words.
'Believe in him.'
Somehow, she seemed to hear the voice of Goddess Rebecca.
"…Really? Will you really save Rin? Has Goddess Rebecca condemned His Holiness?"
Grid nodded at her question and replied, “Yes, that's what the sky said."
He approached Isabel and grabbed her spear that the arrow was pointing towards.
“You!”
Isabel panicked because Grid once again touched the sacred spear. Grid ignored her and used a skill,
"Legendary Blacksmith's Appraisal."
[The blacksmith who becomes a legend can appraise items with an excellent discerning eye. If a hidden feature exists in the target item, it will be found.]
[Sealed Lifael's Spear]
Rating: Legendary
Durability: 1,000/1,000 Attack Power: 730~1,270
* Divine Power +1,500
* All stats +60.
* 100% increase in health recovery.
* Fixed damage of +2,000 on each attack.
* There is a high probability of activating the 'Light Wheel' skill.
* There is a high probability of activating the 'Shield of Light' skill.
* There is a high probability of activating the 'Light of Guidance' skill.
* The skill 'White Peril' will be generated.
* Attack power +20% against those with dark magic power.
It is one of the three divine artifacts of the Rebecca Church.
The 5th Pope Franz asked the legendary blacksmith Pagma to seal its power.
Conditions of Use: Rebecca’s Daughter.
Weight: 400
In the case of 'Failure' which Grid created without considering the balance, the conditions of use were ridiculously high but the performance was superior to common sense. And Lifael's Spear was a weapon that was almost like Failure. However, the surprising thing was that it was sealed.
'Pagma sealed it? Why?'
The moment that Grid was feeling admiration. A white flash emerged from the spear! Then a golden glow appeared and a notification window popped up.
[You have discovered a hidden feature in the item!]
[Lifael's Spear]
Rating: Myth
Durability: 1,500/1,500 Attack Power: 2,330~2,890
* Divine Power +3,000
* All stats +200
* 300% increase in health recovery.
* Fixed damage of +5,000 on each attack.
* There is a high probability of activating the 'Light Wheel' skill.
* There is a high probability of activating the 'Shield of Light' skill.
* There is a high probability of activating the 'Light of Guidance' skill.
* The skill 'White Peril' will always be invoked.
* Attack power +50% against those with dark magic power.
It is one of the three divine artifacts of the Rebecca Church.
It contains a tremendous divine power that human beings can't afford to handle, placing a heavy burden on the user's mind and body.
Since Rebecca's Daughters became short-lived after being unable to cope with the power of this weapon, 5th Pope Franz asked Pagma to seal its power.
However, Pagma’s Descendant emerged during the 13th Pope's reign and was able to discover the true power of the weapon, unsealing it.
Conditions of Use: Rebecca’s Daughter.
Weight: 400
[You have witnessed a god-made weapon!]
[Insight has increased by 200.]
[Your insight stat has exceeded 500. You will see the world differently from before.]
[All blacksmith related skill levels have increased by +1.]
[You can now produce myth rated items.]
"This?"
It transcended even 'Failure.' No, this was a weapon strong enough to disrupt the balance of the world itself.
'Myth rated items…' He never imagined that items higher than a legendary rating existed. 'Myth rated items, does that mean I am able to make items like Dainsleif? Rather…'
It was a new experience for Grid.
'This is a jackpot.'
There were numbers listed above Isabel, Luna and Cassus' head. Isabel had 55,000 above her head. Luna had 26,300. Cassus had 4,000. Through Grid's increased insight, he was aware of what these numbers meant.
'Their combat power.'
Kuoooh!
An enormous golden energy started to explode from Isabel. Due to the awakened Lifael's Spear, the skill 'White Peril' was automatically activated. Then Isabel's combat power started to climb until it reached 120,000.
Grid laughed. "It is convenient but… What is this? I'm not the protagonist of a manhwa."
100 years ago, there was a manhwa that was regarded as one of the best masterpieces and created a craze all over the world. The manhwa characters could measure the target's combat power with a machine or ability.
"Why did an ability from a manhwa 100 years ago appear?"
He was only complaining with his mouth. Grid was well aware of how useful the newly acquired ability could be. On the other hand, Luna was looking at Isabel.
“…”
She had admired Isabel's beautiful hair for a long time. Luna's hair was colorful and curly, while Isabel's hair was platinum and long, like beautiful silk. Luna coveted it more than jewellery. Now Isabel's beautiful hair was influenced by the explosion of divine power.
“I have to fight." Luna also liked Rin. She followed Rin like they were actual sisters. It was the same with Isabel. Isabel was as good as Rin. But Luna had to fight. She was taught to obey commands.
In the end, Luna also used White Peril. Her combat strength only reached 50,000. The difference in combat power was obvious.
'Isabel will win this fight.'
Grid was confident, while Isabel was feeling confused.
"H-How did this happen?"
Lifael's Spear became much more powerful than before. It was a power that couldn't be controlled. It seemed like she could beat any opponent. She was confident that she could penetrate Everiel's Shield, which boasted a high defense.
"Hey."
She was panicking as she felt her divine power rising indefinitely when Grid reached out to her. He spoke as if he was blessing her, "Have strength. I will go rescue Rin first."
"Um…!"
As soon as she heard Rin's name, Isabel recovered his spirit and grasped the spear tightly. She felt a desire to fight Luna.
'Okay.'
Isabel was motivated by the mention of Rin. Now Isabel would fight to save Rin. She would defeat Luna and kill the pope. It was perfect insurance. This would allow him to clear the quest.
“Let's go!”
Grid entered the Vatican after passing through Luna, who was blocked by Isabel. He ran down a long hallway while pulling out Dainsleif and the Frostlight Orc Chief's Helmet. Then he felt something from the innermost giant doors that were closed.
"There!"
Kwaang!
Grid kicked the doors with his feet. He witnessed the pope standing on the other end of the red carpet like a villain.
"That guy?"
The bewildered pope asked. Grid examined the situation before replying. A man and woman were surrounded by dozens of paladins and priests. It seemed like he appeared at an exquisite moment. Yes, just like a character from a movie.
Grid laughed at the atmosphere.
"A protagonist? I see."
He answered and put a hand on his belt.
[Kenen's Dart Belt]
Rating: Unique
The favorite belt of Kenen, a master of assassination who made many people panic.
One dart will be charged every 20 seconds and up to three darts can be charged.
The type of dart generated is random, and it will have different effects depending on the type.
Conditions of Use: Assassin Throwing Technique Level 7 or above.
Weight: 140
It was an item dropped by Sniffer when he died. It was similar to an infinite quiver, but the infinite quiver commonly had fixed types of arrows. But this belt produced random darts. This was a disadvantage, but Grid tried using it on the way here and the performance was very interesting.
‘That bastard, he must be crying tears of blood after dropping this item.'
Really stupid. A PK user had a very high probability of dropping items upon death. They dared to attack even knowing the risk, how stupid.
Papapat!
Grid laughed and threw darts towards the pope.
“Block it!"
The paladins used their shields to protect the pope.
Pepepeng!
The darts hit the shields and caused a smoke screen. Grid clicked his tongue. “There is the poison fog function, so why is this just plain smoke?"
As expected, he had no luck. He scowled as he moved quickly and rescued Rin and Damian. Then he checked their combat power.
'Oh, isn't this great?'
Damian's combat power was 12,500. It was very powerful for a user, considering that Rin had 27,000. He must be a top ranker. He seemed to be a paladin, so he should be useful as a tanker.
Grid told him, "Invite me into the party. Also, can I have all the items that the pope drops? I think that is sufficient for saving your life."
“…”
The silence was a positive agreement! In the first place, Damian must be completing a similar type of quest. Grid was convinced that Damian couldn't refuse, so he set the party leader to acquire the items and sent a party invitation. Then the desperate Damian was forced to accept the party.
Grid was happy as he confirmed the party information.
‘As expected, he is a top ranker.'
Damian was a huge level 227. It was similar to the average level of the Tzedakah Guild. It meant he was within the top 200 of users. Damian was also stunned.
'What?'
The main character who emerged in an urgent situation and saved the heroine! The person had such a strong ambiance, yet he was only level 150? He thought Goddess Rebecca had given him a lifeline, but it was just a rotten lifeline. The moment that Damian was feeling regret.
Kwarurung!
A red lightning bolt pierced the roof of the Vatican and nestled in a black greatsword.
Pachichik! Pachik!
The appearance of a greatsword with red currents around it was very powerful. It was certainly a unique rated item.
‘That weapon is amazing.'
Damian was feeling admiration when Grid asked him.
"As a paladin, can't you use buff skills? Please use buffs on me."
Originally, Rebecca paladins couldn't use buff skills. It was common sense that everyone should know. However, Damian awakened his abilities and received a buff skill. He checked the information on his newly acquired skills.
[Light’s Blessing]
You and your party's defense, attack power and accuracy will increase by 80% for 3 minutes.
Skill Mana Cost: 900
Skill Cooldown Time: 300 seconds
[Heart’s Desire]
The dead will be immediately resurrected on the spot.
* This doesn't apply to NPCs.
Skill Mana consumption: 80% of the maximum mana.
Skill Cooldown Time: 24 hours.
Amazing skills. A buff skill more powerful than Light’s Blessing didn't exist yet. In addition, the resurrection skill was a top-tier skill that even second advancement Rebecca priests hadn't acquired. Perhaps he was currently the only one with a resurrection skill in Satisfy.
‘Yes, this user might be weak but if I use these skills well…'
Maybe it was worth fighting. Damian used Light’s Blessing.
“Wow.”
Grid sincerely admired the buff effect. Then he started to show his transcendent sword dance.
"What is this?'
Damian was confused as he watched the man dance instead of attacking. Then Grid stopped dancing and discharged a red and black sword aura.
Kwa kwa kwa kwang!
"Keok."
Damian was so amazed that he hiccuped.
Every time this man swung his sword, the 23 high ranking paladins that the church was so proud of would become injured. The priests struggled to save the paladins from the ruthless bombardment, but the speed at which the sword auras were flying was much faster than the heals. Three or four swords flew while the priests could only use Heal once.
The heals could no longer keep up and the paladins had to retreat, meaning there were no longer any people protecting the pope.
"You…!"
Grid spoke to the indignant pope, “Were you relying on them to protect you? How tragic."
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 125
The pope shouted.
"Don't you know who I am? I am Pope Drevigo! I am the parent of 70 million people and as the agent of the goddess, the most sacred being in the world! You dare point a sword at me? This infidel, you aren't afraid of divine punishment!"
"Hrmm." Grid listened quietly before saying something. “You spat at me."
"W-What? Disgraceful person!"
He had never been insulted like this until now. A paladin was helping the traitor and now this? The pope's head turned red with anger.
“I will punish you myself! Don't think about leaving here alive!"
Grid glared at him coldly. “You are always talking about divine punishment… Pope, you haven't grasped the situation yet? I have come here to inflict divine punishment on you. You are the one who will be punished, not me. So shouldn't you act a little better? Tsk."
It wasn't just the pope who wasn't happy with this situation. Grid felt the same. If the pope was a normal person, it would've been easy to clear the quest to get the pavranium blessed. However, the pope was a corrupt man and endangered the Rebecca Church, causing Grid to struggle unnecessarily because of the quest changing.
“The introduction I received from my father-in-law is useless… You, this is really annoying."
Peeng!
Grid nervously squeezed Dainsleif. Then his sword aimed at the pope. But the pope wasn't going to stand still. He responded by launching light magic power.
Kwa kwang!
A powerful explosion occurred as a white flash and black flash collided. Due to the aftermath, 10m of the long carpet was burnt to pieces. The remnants of the carpet fell like red eyes looking at Grid with disapproval.
'My sword was blocked?'
Grid's sword was enhanced by the red lightning bolt and Damian's buff skill. The fact that he couldn't win against the pope's magic was basically proof that the pope's magic power was stronger than Grid's sword.
'My attack power right now is higher than Malacus' magic power. Malacus himself would fail to stop me, even if he unfolded a three-layer shield.'
Grid couldn't understand it. His increased insight showed that the pope had a combat power of 24,000. Given Damian's combat power of 12,500 as a level 227 ranker, 24,000 didn't seem very high. Just looking at the numerical value, two Damians would be able to exert combat power over the pope.
'Based on Damian… The Tzedakah Guild has an average combat power of 12,000 at the time of the Malacus raid…'
17 guild members were involved in the Malacus raid. If the average 12,000 combat power of each person was combined, the total combat strength would be over 200,000. But didn't they get overwhelmed by Malacus' strength, even with a combined combat power of over 200,000?
In other words, Malacus should have at least 200,000 combat power and the pope in front of him should be 10 times weaker than Malacus because he only had 24,000 combat power. But after an exchange of blows, the pope felt stronger than Malacus. It was curious.
'Well…'
Grid's high insight allowed him to understand the concept of combat power.
‘A small gap in combat power is, in reality, a large gap to cover.'
Grid's assertion was correct. While Rebecca's Daughters, the pope, and Damian's attack power were all valued in the tens and hundreds of thousands, actual combat power was delicate enough to feel when there was even a single digit difference.
The concept of combat power wasn't 1+1=2.
Let's assume that an attack power of 1 was an ant and an attack power of 2 was a praying mantis. It was impossible for two ants to beat a praying mantis.
Therefore, combat power was 1+1 < 2.
This was how the 17 Tzedakah Guild members were overwhelmed by the lone Malacus.
“The sum of combat power is meaningless. 17 cats gathered together can't beat one elephant. And the pope is a top predator that can devour an elephant. Isn't he incredibly strong?"
"Cat? Elephant? What are you saying?"
The pope couldn't understand Grid's words. Grid grinned at his confusion. "I am a cat or an elephant. This is an opportunity to gauge which one."
“I don't know what you are talking about. Infidel, are you crazy?"
"Don't worry too much about it."
Grid wasn't discouraged despite learning that the pope was much stronger than Malacus. Rather, his blood was boiling with excitement.
'I wonder how far my strength will prevail!'
Grid had learned how to use his weapons freely during the Guardian of the Labyrinth raid. Lacking destructive power could be covered with control.
Pepeng! Pepepeng!
In Grid's hands, Dainsleif slashed at a different angle each time, the sword auras all flying in different orbits. Some flew to the front, to the side and to the rear of the pope. Unless the pope had eyes all over the place, it was impossible to intercept them all with magic!
Grid smiled with satisfaction. However, the pope was more formidable than Grid expected. The pope continuously unfolded his light magic power and intercepted Grid's energy swords one by one.
"This won't work!"
A wide area light magic attack was emitted along with the pope's shout.
Kwa kwa kwa kwang!
It was an overwhelming sight. The white magic power spread like sunlight and shattered the black energy swords.
"Wow." Grid stared at the brilliant light that was slowly disappearing and truly admired it. “Really strong."
Was he feeling discouraged? No, that wasn't it.
"Okay! I have to do my best!"
There was a unique buff skill just for Pagma’s Descendant. He could only use it for himself, but the effect was extraordinary.
"Blacksmith's Rage!"
[Blacksmith's Rage has been activated. Your attack power and attack speed will increase significantly for 20 seconds.]
“Ohhhh!"
Pepepeng! Pepepepeng!
Grid doubled the speed with which he wielded Dainsleif. It meant that his attack speed had doubled.
Kwa kwa kwa kwang!
The attacks poured down like a heavy rain due to Grid wielding the sword without a break!
"Hah…"
The pope's face turned white. He continuously fired light magic, but the speed of the light magic couldn't keep up with Grid's speed. Once again, the pope released light magic around himself. He was planning to sweep away all of Grid's energy swords again.
But this time, the result was different.
Kwa kwa kwa kwang!
Blacksmith’s Rage strengthened the power of the energy swords, causing the power of light to be destroyed instead. Then the swords landed on the pope's body.
"You have become stronger? Kuaaaaak!”
The light magic couldn't withstand the power of the swords, and the pope's body was hit again and again. The pope's terrible scream echoed in the hall as notification windows appeared in front of Grid.
[You have dealt 13,300 damage.]
[You have dealt 13,910 damage.]
[You have dealt 14,080 damage.]
[The Best Gauntlets option effect is activated, causing you to attack the target twice.]
[You have dealt 28,300 damage.]
[Critical!]
[You have dealt 31,050 damage.]
The pope's health gauge was dwindling at an incredible pace. Grid was able to determine the pope's total health by comparing the amount of damage suffered to the pope's health gauge.
'Is it around 300,000?'
The Guardian of the Labyrinth had a total health greater than 1.2 million. But it was a golem, not a human. The pope was a human being. His inherent health was lower compared to monsters, so this increased Grid's confidence.
'I can catch him with around 20 more hits?'
He might be able to overcome the pope without Isabel's help.
"Puhahahat! The pope should die and drop some items!" Grid burst out while expecting victory. He attacked the pope relentlessly and the health gauge ended up dropping to a quarter. Then the duration of Transcend and Blacksmith’s Rage was over.
"I'll drive in the last wedge here!"
The pope was in a dying state. His white garments embroidered with gold thread had been torn to pieces a long time ago. Grid ran towards him. He narrowed the interval to 10m in a short amount of time and used the strongest skill.
"Pagma's Swordsmanship, Kill!"
Kuooooh!
The overwhelming killing intent heated up the atmosphere. A dark haze surrounded Dainsleif. The moment Dainsleif was about to be stabbed into the pope's heart.
"Goddess' Breath…!"
The pope used magic. Then the pope's health gauge was refilled in an instant.
'A heal that restores hundreds of thousands of health?'
The pope's magic effect didn't end there. A green translucent shield was unfolded and completely neutralized Kill. Grid was scared. "What skill is this? Damn, is he a guardian knight?"
The pope used the invincible skill only meant for guardian knights! Grid was surprised by the unexpected move and retreated. Then the pope ridiculed him.
“The goddess' divine blessing fully protects my body and soul. No matter what you do, you can't harm me!”
The pope was fundamentally a priest. If Rebecca's Daughters were the peak of the paladins, the pope was the peak of the priests. The bloody body was restored and he used a broad heal for the paladins who were severely wounded and had withdrawn from battle. He ordered them.
“What are you doing? Kill that infidel right away!"
“…”
The paladins didn't like the pope. They didn't want to follow such an evil existence that made their church corrupt. But no matter how depraved the pope, he was obviously an agent of the goddess. The high rankings paladins were deeply religious and couldn't imagine rejecting the pope's order, grabbing their weapons. Then they simultaneously rushed towards Grid.
"No, Damian. What are you doing? Are you just doing to watch?"
Grid reacted nervously as he looked at all the opponents in front of him. Damian, who had been watching Grid with shock, belatedly recovered his spirit.
"I'm sorry!"
A person who was only level 150 had overwhelmed the pope! What the hell was Grid's identity? It was suspicious. Despite his deep skepticism and confusion, Damian added his power to Grid's in order to defend Rin.
Chaaeng! Chaeng chaeng!
Damian blocked a paladin's sword with a shield and fought back. His sword was sharp and the paladins couldn't easily defend against it. Then blood started to pour out of the paladins. Damian was awakened by this quest and received the strongest buff skill. This made him strong enough to overpower the church's senior paladins.
Both Damian and Grid were unaware of this, but Damian was now stronger than Toban, who was number one on the paladin rankings. He might not be able to defeat 23 paladins with his power alone, but he could tie up their feet for a while.
"Okay! I'll leave this to you!"
Grid determined that Damian alone was enough and rushed to target the pope again. However, the pope had no intention of allowing his approach. The pope blasted him with light magic power to stop him.
Pepeng! Kwa kwa kwa kwang!
The magician bombardment was concentrated on Grid. Grid wanted to avoid it, but it was hard because the pope grasped his movement patterns and reaction rate, using the power of light efficiently.
"Ack~!"
Pepeng!
A white ray narrowly passed over the top of the frightened Grid's head. Then another ray aimed at his face without giving Grid any room to breathe.
Jeeeong!
Grid hurriedly used the Divine Shield to defend. Then a notification window popped up.
[The durability of the Divine Shield has decreased by 78.]
'Crazy!'
The Divine Shield was famous because it was strong against dark magic. But even without such features, the Divine Shield had excellent defense. Even with that, the pope's blow had reduced the shield's durability by 1/8th.
Grid lamented.
'If only I was holding the legendary rated Divine Shield…!'
He wanted to get rid of the pope quickly and regain the legendary rated Divine Shield. Grid placed the shield in front of him and continued to move forward.
“How dare an infidel carry our battle gear! It is disgraceful!"
Kwaang! Kwaang! Kwaang!
Every time Grid stepped forward, a ray of light magic power flared and struck the Divine Shield. The Divine Shield rapidly distorted and cracks started to appear. It happened when Grid took his seventh step. The pope thought that his next strike would completely shatter Grid's shield.
But Grid had no intention of letting his item be destroyed.
Peeng!
Grid identified that the white flash was approached and put away the Divine Shield. Then he armed himself with the Ideal Dagger and used Wind Blast. The swirling wind slightly twisted the orbit of the white flash. Then the ray brushed past Grid's cheek.
Jjejeok! Part of the Frostlight Orc Chief's Helmet was broken and a little bit of Grid's face was exposed. Grid endured it.
“This method worked."
The pope gritted his teeth, “You still have a lot of tricks left!"
The pope was annoyed since that explosion should've blown off Grid's head, and was about to attack again. Two golden discs appeared out of nowhere and stuck to his back.
"Kuk?"
The moment that the pope was panicking. Grid used Quick Movements and succeeded in narrowing the gap with the pope. Then he fired Pagma's Swordsmanship, Link.
Pipit! Pipipipipi-!
The attack speed of the dagger was incomparably fast compared to the greatsword. Then Quick Movements maximized his agility.
Grid used Link after equipping himself with the Ideal Dagger and managed to unleash 22 attacks. While the damage inflicted was less than that of when he used Dainsleif, the dagger's delicate control made sure that the pope was persistently hit.
“Kuaaaak You!"
The pope screamed and launched a counterattack, aiming precisely at Grid's heart.
Peeng!
"No!"
Damian screamed as he confirmed that Grid's health had fallen by more than half with a single strike. Those who lost more than 40% of their health in a single would be stunned and unprotected, meaning Grid was in considerable danger. Damian wanted to run over to Grid to give him healing and protection, but he couldn't move because of the paladins.
'This is the end! This quest will fail! I won't be able to save Rin-chan!'
At that moment, something strange thing happened: without taking a single potion, Grid's health still recovered as he remained unaffected by any abnormal status effects. Grid coolly plunged his dagger deep into the pope's heart.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.