Trait Hoarder – Chapter 141

Kim’s Party — Part 3

First, let’s check on Kim Mabeob’s status.

[Phoenix Pyromancy] [Heart of the Phoenix] [Fire Specialization]
[Mana Soul] [Rampage] [Meditation]

Is this for real?

‘Is this really the same Kim Mabeob who could barely use magic at the start, with [Mana Bullet] being his only usable spell unless you added a [Magic] trait or advanced him to a Pyromancer?’

In just a few months, he’s completely transformed.

It’s like watching an ugly duckling turn into a swan.

It looks like the Tower Master has been seriously training Kim Mabeob.

At this level, you’d have to consider him an SR-grade character.

[Sacred Apostle] [Full Recovery] [Light of Purification]
[Holy Domain] [Wrath of the Divine] [Golden Blessing]

Kim Saje hasn’t changed much.

His traits are still optimal for supporting from the rear.

To be honest, just rotating Golden Blessing across the entire party would fulfill his role completely.

Hide in the Holy Domain, unleash Wrath of the Divine, and use Full Recovery and Light of Purification when needed—that’s all there is to it.

‘Still, he’s weaker than the Black Demon King or the Angel King.’

Those two are also SR-grade.

Moreover, they’re level 6 SR-grade.

No matter how old they are or how close to death they might be, you can’t ignore the level gap.

In a 2-on-2 fight, we’d smoothly lose.

In the end, I have to be the wildcard.

“Well met, Mabeob.”

“Hello.”

It had been weeks since I last saw his face.

Kim Mabeob shook my hand with an awkward smile.

While he smiled as if nothing was wrong, he couldn’t quite meet my gaze.

As I thought, something’s up.

If it were the Tower Master or other sly schemers, they’d expertly hide their expressions, but Kim Mabeob clearly couldn’t.

“Let’s go inside and talk. You said you wanted to learn practical experience from me?”

“Yes. Thanks to the Black Tiger Swordmaster, I’ve become a Pyromancer and grown much stronger, but it seems I’m still lacking in my grandfather’s eyes.”

“That’s how it is for every grandfather. Saje, it’s been a while.”

“It’s been a while, hyung!”

We entered inside.

Kim Chulkwon, Baek Sorin, Janet, and Kali were already waiting.

“Hello!”

“I’ve heard so much about you.”

“You’re the grandson of the Sun Mage Tower Master? Wow!”

“Huh, haven’t we met before?”

While everyone exchanged greetings, my eyes met with Kim Saje’s.

Kim Saje subtly gestured.

He glanced at Kim Mabeob, who had his back turned and couldn’t see us, then turned back to me and made a locking motion across his lips with his fingers.

I understood immediately.

Kim Mabeob—or more accurately, the Tower Master—must’ve made some kind of secret pact, binding Kim Mabeob to silence.

It’s disappointing that I couldn’t get a proper explanation, but this much is already enough.

I sat down on the sofa and swapped my traits.

[Bright Eyes] [Sixth Sense] [Insight]
[Track] [Focus] [Meditation]

I equipped every trait that seemed useful and began deducing.

What’s the Tower Master’s aim?

Why would he negotiate with the Old Father’s Cult, bring Kim Saje along, and place his grandson at my side?

The conclusion came quickly.

‘Every mage pursues knowledge.’

A mage’s curiosity.

A mage’s thirst for knowledge.

It’s the same for mages who covet power, wealth, or authority.

There’s no mage who lacks curiosity and the thirst for knowledge.

The Tower Master is among the extreme cases of this.

He must’ve gotten a sense of my trait swapping ability.

‘He plans to observe me through Kim Mabeob.’

The same likely applies to Kim Saje.

The Tower Master must’ve presented an offer Kim Saje couldn’t refuse.

Privately, Kim Saje might be my acquaintance, but publicly, he’s a faction leader and an Apostle of a god.

If a deal threatening the survival of his cult was on the table, there’s no way he could turn it down.

There’s only one issue.

Will they simply observe and write reports, or will they use some magical method to deliver the information directly to the Tower Master?

‘The Tower Master isn’t the type to use such tricks on his own grandson.’

But Kim Saje?

On second thought, it’s impossible.

Kim Saje is an Apostle.

No matter how weak a god is, if it’s a god who has regained their self-awareness, they wouldn’t allow their Apostle to be used in such a way.

This much should be fine.

Report writing? Let them do as they wish.

I’ll soon reach level 6.

I can feel my mana circuits and physical stats nearing their limits.

If I handle this Unlimited Battle well and train for a bit, I’ll be ready to challenge level 6.

Once I hit level 6, I’m confident I can challenge even level 7.

Level 8?

Of course, that would be hard.

Especially against someone like the Tower Master—it’d be almost impossible to win.

But if I risked my life, I could at least stab him once.

If worse comes to worst, I’ll just escape to the Eastern Army.

Would the Thor Cult, Gaia Cult, or Protector Alliance just sit quietly?

I’ve already grown too big for them to easily abduct me as a test subject.

If it’s impossible to hide everything perfectly, sometimes it’s better to flaunt and boast instead.

“A level 5 Warrior, a level 5 Reinforced, a level 5 Mage, and a level 5 Priest… a textbook party composition.”

“It’s an honor. I’ll lend my strength for the glory of the Black Tiger Swordmaster.”

“I’d love to join too…”

“For a party battle, having diverse roles is better. It complements each other.”

Kim Mabeob’s eyes sparkled.

It was clear he was excited for his first party battle.

“In terms of firepower, I’m stronger than a regular Mage. I’m terrible with defensive and support magic, but I’m confident in offense.”

“I saw him at the Mage Tower. Wow, he’s incredible. His firepower is right below the Sunfire.”

“My grandfather says that once I reach level 6, I’ll be comparable to the Sunfire.”

“Really? That’s amazing!”

“It’s a bit unfortunate, though. A Mage can use Sunfire along with a variety of other spells.”

On the other hand, Phoenix Pyromancy had much faster casting speeds.

Unlike the widespread, radial blasts of the Sunfire, Phoenix Pyromancy can be used in various ways—firing like a machine gun, swinging like a whip, and so on.

I gave the three of them a warning.

“I’ve already mentioned this to Saje, but I didn’t explain it in detail, so I’ll go over it now. Our opponents are the King of Destruction’s party. The King of Destruction is a level 5 Warrior-type superhuman, commonly referred to as a Brawler. Under no circumstances should you allow him to close the distance. The same goes for you, Kim Chulkwon. Even if you transform into Asura, it will be difficult to shake him off. Don’t let him get close—dodge and fly low to keep your distance. Got it?”

“Yes, Black Tiger Swordmaster. I’ll keep that in mind.”

The King of Destruction’s chained joint locks.

Once you’re caught, it’s over.

I only managed to counter him because I’d encountered him so many times before in the game. If I hadn’t known how to deal with it, the match would’ve ended right there.

“The real issue isn’t the King of Destruction but the other three. There’s a high likelihood they’re all level 6.”

“Level 6…”

“They’re superhumans with experience, powers, and equipment befitting their level. Do not underestimate them.”

“Come on, brother. Who underestimates level 6 superhumans? Even level 5s are treated like bosses wherever they go. In smaller municipalities, they could even win elections if they ran for office.”

He wasn’t wrong.

I glanced at Kim Chulkwon, Kim Mabeob, and Kim Saje.

All three of them were burning with fighting spirit.

This was their first time going up against high-level superhumans.

They were tense enough that their pupils were slightly dilated and their bodies were sweating lightly from the heat, but their muscles were relaxed—an ideal state for combat.

For someone like me, who used to think of these three as just low-level, game-like N-grade characters, this was a refreshing shock.

It meant they’d already finished mentally preparing themselves, even though they hadn’t yet experienced real combat against high-level superhumans.

Feeling satisfied, I nodded.

“The timeframe is two weeks. I plan to apply for the Unlimited Battle exactly two weeks from now. Until then, we’ll stay together, train, and even spar with other suitable parties to prepare.”

“Phew! I’ll do my best. I won’t bring shame to you, Black Tiger Swordmaster.”

“I’m looking forward to this!”

“Hyung, what about me? Do I just stay in the back and sprinkle blessings?”

The strategy was simple.

Using the help of a magic spirit, I materialized a colosseum.

Among the various battlefields in the deepest regions, I chose the most basic one.

Four pillars and two platforms.

“This is our strategy: a full-on charge and chaos.”

“Charge? Chaos?”

“That’s right. Not a conventional strategy, but an all-out assault.”

“What?!”

“You and Mabeob won’t just stay in the back—you’ll be charging too.”

“H-Huh?”

“Can we even do that? I’m worried…”

Having Kim Mabeob and Kim Saje stay in the rear won’t work.

If the King of Destruction breaks in, they’d both get taken out in under a minute.

No, scratch that.

One minute? I’d bet on it being over in 30 seconds—or even 10 seconds.

“Think about it. While I’m holding off their Warrior, can the three of you handle the other three on your own?”

“That would be tough.”

“Against level 6s, to be honest…”

“What if I hold off their Warrior and charge in?”

“Could we even hold out until then?”

“Right. Our defenses are weak.”

“Why are our defenses weak? Oh… I’m the weak link, aren’t I?”

Kim Mabeob’s mouth dropped open as he realized the flaw.

Kim Saje was fine.

He had good defensive abilities as well as support capabilities.

The problem was that Kim Mabeob couldn’t provide any defensive support.

As an attack-specialized Pyromancer, the moment it turned into a 2v2 ranged firepower battle, they’d be finished.

“I’ll take the front and absorb all the incoming attacks. Meanwhile, the three of you will charge from the rear. Kim Chulkwon, you’ll need to protect Mabeob and Saje.”

“Yes, Black Tiger Swordmaster.”

“Uh, but… I don’t have a way to charge…”

“Just run.”

“What?”

“I’ll make some potions and consumables for you. Use them, run at their Mage, and punch them.”

“Whaaat?!”

Kim Mabeob let out a panicked scream, clearly wondering what I was talking about.

Kim Saje also looked equally startled.

“Punch them?”

“Yeah. Saje, you too. Go after their Priest—tackle them, trip them, do whatever it takes to bring them down. If we turn this into a brawl, we’ll have the advantage.”

“I-I’ve never done anything like that before…”

“It’s fine. You’ll learn from me. And remember, all three of them are over 80 years old. They might have close-combat experience, but they won’t be able to match us physically.”

If they were Warrior-types, underestimating them because of their age would be a huge mistake.

But Mage-types? Priest-types?

They could be underestimated.

At least in a hyper-close brawl.

I stared intently at Kim Chulkwon.

“Kim Chulkwon is the biggest problem, though…”

“Who’s their Reinforced?”

“My guess is a Flame Wyvern bio-enhanced Reinforced. They’re more adept at mid-range suppression than close combat. I hear they use guns, missiles, and beam cannons, and resort to flame throwers or emergency evasion when things get up close.”

“A Flame Wyvern…”

I could already picture it.

Kim Chulkwon chasing them desperately, while the Sky Dragon King nimbly dodges and slips away.

Low-altitude flight versus soaring and gliding.

Considering the power difference between level 5 and level 6, catching up would be nearly impossible for Kim Chulkwon.

Baek Sorin, who had been listening quietly, spoke up.

“What if you handle the Sky Dragon King yourself, Teacher?”

“Hm?”

“I was thinking… Isn’t Kim Chulkwon at least stronger than the King of Destruction? At the very least, he could keep him occupied. If he stalls for time, and you take down the Sky Dragon King first, you can go after them one by one. What do you think?”

Now that I think about it, that makes sense.

Even if I’m level 5, I can still take down a decrepit level 6, no problem.

If Kim Chulkwon doesn’t get caught in a joint lock by the King of Destruction, he can buy us some time…

And Kim Mabeob and Kim Saje have a chance in hyper-close combat.

I snapped my fingers loudly.

“Good. Sorin’s suggestion makes sense. Let’s go with that. Kim Chulkwon, there’s something to keep in mind against the King of Destruction. Never get caught in a joint lock. If that happens, it’s over—even for me.”

“Even for you, Black Tiger Swordmaster?”

“Yeah. The King of Destruction’s joint locks are top-tier among everyone I’ve seen. Let’s spar. I’ll teach you how to avoid them.”

“Yes, I’ll rely on you completely, Black Tiger Swordmaster.”

“And Mabeob and Saje, you’ll be sparring with me as well.”

“I’ve been waiting for this!”

“Phew, I’m nervous. Uh, but why are you looking at me like that, Sorin?”

“It’s nothing.”

Baek Sorin, who had been looking at him with a pitying expression, quickly adjusted her face.

Even Janet and Kali were shaking their heads as if they could already see what was coming.

And thus began their descent into hellish training.

Exactly one week.

I worked the three of them to the bone, barely letting them sleep.

Their lack of rest was supplemented with hearty meals, holy water, and healing potions.

With the [Instructor] trait equipped, I drilled them relentlessly for a week.

By the end, their eyes were sunken deep into their faces.

Yet, their skin glowed with a milky radiance—neither completely wrecked nor fully normal. They were walking a fine line between burnout and peak conditioning.

“Ughhh…”

“Bleurgh!”

“Mabeob! If you’re going to puke, go over there!”

“C-Couldn’t you go a little easier on us?”

“I’m fine, Sir—no, Black Tiger Swordmaster! Please, push us harder!”

“You’re insane, aren’t you?”

“Mabeob, you wouldn’t understand because you’re a golden spoon. Opportunities like one-on-one guidance from someone like the Black Tiger Swordmaster are incredibly rare. You have to seize moments like this!”

“Can’t I just hire a tutor?”

“Who would even agree to that? I’ve never learned anything from anyone my entire life. I had to figure everything out on my own. This is the first time I’m receiving proper guidance.”

“Wha…?”

Kim Mabeob was born with a golden spoon.

Kim Saje, while from a questionable background, still belonged to an established cult.

Their circumstances were worlds apart from Kim Chulkwon, who had clawed his way up from absolute rock bottom.

Hearing Kim Chulkwon’s story seemed to awaken something in both Kim Mabeob and Kim Saje.

They clenched their teeth and threw themselves into the training with renewed determination.

“Today’s a practice match.”

“Finally!”

“I’ve been waiting for this.”

“Is it time?”

“Yes, but we’ll keep our tactics hidden. We’ll stick to a standard strategy.”

“W-What about all that training?”

“No need to use it. Mabeob and Saje, you’ll stay in the back and use magic while Chulkwon and I charge forward.”

With overwhelming base stats, what tactics were necessary?

It was simple.

The practice match was, quite literally, just practice.

No one could stop me as I charged forward under the Golden Blessing.

When I unleashed the Black Tiger Sword and threw Mjolnir, the superhumans on the other side knelt before me without resistance.

“Khh… We’ve lost.”

“Now, fulfill the conditions.”

“Khh… Understood.”

I stripped the superhumans of their Diamonds and magical equipment.

While the equipment was decent, it wasn’t enough to impress me.

Most of it was R-grade, with occasional SR-grade gear mixed in.

The Diamonds and magical equipment were divided into four equal parts.

The three of them were visibly stunned as they received their shares.

“Is it really okay to take this much?”

“But Black Tiger Swordmaster did all the work…”

“Honestly, you could take everything, and we wouldn’t have a right to complain.”

“It’s important to be fair in these matters. To be honest, there’s nothing here I particularly want. Just give me priority if something catches my eye later.”

“Of course!”

“I agree.”

“No complaints here.”

Even against me, there were parties reckless enough to challenge us, thinking we lacked teamwork due to being hastily assembled.

What a ridiculous assumption.

Both in the game and in this world, the Kim Party fit together perfectly.

We won three matches in a row.

Diamonds, magical equipment, and cash—our earnings were plentiful.

By the time we could communicate with just a glance,

By the time we could comfortably call each other brother without hesitation,

We faced the King of Destruction’s party in the colosseum.

–TL Notes–
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