A Day in the Life of a ____

[Namgo]

Lady Hestia rushed into her father's workroom with no regard for the knights standing guard outside. When she burst into the room, her appearance was messy and completely the opposite of what a noble young lady should look like, but the excited look in her eyes told another story. The young miss didn't even notice how she nearly gave her father a heart attack at her abrupt entrance. As soon as she came in, she started blabbing at the mouth.

"Father! I got us the help we need to defend our territory from Lord Edmund!" Hestia excitedly shouted.

"How much did they ask for?!" Lord Rohan was in disbelief that his little girl had actually accomplished something that he had failed to do himself.

"Uhh..." Hestia stammered.

"You didn't do something foolish like promising them more money than we actually have, did you!?" Lord Rohan yelled.

"No! We can pay them! It's just... they didn't ask for money..." Hestia's voice got lower.

"They didn't ask for money? Did they ask for land? Well, I'm not in favor of it, but at this point, we have no choice. Either we lose some land, or we lose all of it." Lord Rohan sighed. It was an acceptable loss.

"No... It wasn't land either..." Hestia murmured.

"What did you offer them exactly...?" Lord Rohan was getting a bad feeling.

"Their leader refused to accept anything other than my hand in marriage." Hestia lied. She only offered money, and the thought of offering land or anything other than her hand didn't come to mind at that moment.

It was at those words that Lord Rohan let out a huge breath of air. He leaned back in his chair with his head looking at the ceiling. This crazy daughter of his made him think she promised something incredibly valuable! Taking a quick peek, he saw the little maniac with her face red.

The fact that she wasn't angry or showing displeasure at the cost must mean that whoever the leader of that mercenary group is quite handsome. Rohan didn't have any opposition to giving his daughter to the man even if he hadn't met him yet. If he could save his territory from being taken away, he would even give himself up! Since Daphne's arranged partner's family was content with watching them face this impending threat without any help whatsoever, they wouldn't mind if he canceled the arranged marriage and set her up with someone actually willing to help their family.

"Inform me when they arrive immediately. I'd like to speak to your future husband about important matters." Lord Rohan ordered.

"You don't care that I'm going to be married to a commoner?" Daphne Hestia looked at her father.

"Honey, I love you, but if that commoner is the only option to save our territory, I will do it in a heartbeat." Lord Rohan didn't mince his words or spare his daughter's feelings.

"..." Daphne didn't know what to feel.

"You may leave now." Rohan Hestia waved her out.

Daphne had an inkling deep in her heart that perhaps her father cared more about the family name than he cared about her. And what exactly did that mean for herself?

"Our first battlefield as mercenaries! I can't wait!" Leo exclaimed.

"It's going to be different from all the other battles we've fought," John stated in his golden armor.

"Do you think the Lord will allow me to lead?" Lydia asked.

"Maybe if we put a helmet and breastplate on ya to hide your girl bits, Boss." Julian laughed.

"My new father shouldn't be dumb enough to think he can command my men personally, but I'll let him know just in case," Pete said for Lydia's sake.

"My first time leading on a proper battlefield! I can't wait to see how different it is from our usual battles." Lydia excitedly gushed.

"I'll finally be able to put all that inhuman training to use." Peter flexed his biceps, showing off just how muscular they were.

"I know, right?! We've been training all this time but never been really able to show off just how strong we really are now!" Phil flexed alongside Peter.

"Unless you count exterminating those nobles." Julian chuckled.

Julian, Peter, and Phil were a part of Golden Snakes. They were from the first batch of Golden Snakes and have been with John and Lydia since then. Alongside those three were William, George, and Dante. The half dozen who stayed even though they were to be directly under John's wife instead of John himself.

"This battle is going to be a breeze, boys!" Pete shouted to the hundreds of bandits. "Listen to your Heads and go have some fun!"

"So, those rats are finally leaving the nest? I believe it's time we do some thorough cleaning this time around. Never again will I allow some rats to make a nest in my city again!" Captain Frank banged his fist on the desk.

Throughout the years, Captain Frank has slowly lost everything! The respect that comes with being a Captain in the military, the power that comes with being a Captain in the military, and the privileges given to Captains! Accepting those bribes of the Black Snakes was like slowly being fed a poison. While he sat content and fed, those filthy rats bred, spread, and sunk their nasty shit everywhere in Desmont! But no longer shall he tolerate it!

Now that that monster of a bandit and his wife was gone, it was time to finally put into motion his plan to take back Desmont. Captain Frank sent the order for all his soldiers to gather. No longer will Desmont be the haven for criminals and run by them! Order will reign supreme, and the military might will prove superior to bandit trickery!

"So, you're my new father-in-law?" Pete grinned, putting his feet on top of Lord Rohan's desk.

"S-So you're the mercenary leader who's more interested in my daughter than any amount of coin..." Lord Rohan shook as he frequently glanced over to the towering golden armored man standing next to the handsome young man.

"She is quite lovely, isn't she?" Pete gave a short, comforting laugh. "Don't mind, my friend here. John's just here to keep me safe." Pete patted John's cold metal armor.

"W-What could possibly hurt you in my territory?" Lord Rohan stuttered with a forced smile on his face.

"Believe it or not, my face is pretty well-known. Back in Desmont, I had a hand in over a dozen businesses. Who knows what sorts of villainous scum would target me for my purse? With this big guy, who would be willing to make some trouble with me? You understand, right?" Pete continued to give Lord Rohan a flowery smile.

"R-Right! Absolutely correct. I'm also of the same mind when it comes to taking a look around my territory. You never know what sort of riffraff can be lurking around when I'm doing my best to make sure all my citizens are living happily and safely." Lord Rohan nodded his head rapidly.

Lord Rohan didn't understand why, but he had a terrifying feeling coming from these two ever since they stepped into his workroom. They'd acted politely and friendly enough, but something about them made him feel that they were incredibly dangerous. Sure, the big guy named John hasn't said a single word, but just him standing there was menacing enough. While Rohan was terrified, he was also very excited as well. With mercenaries like these, how could he possibly lose to Lord Edmund!?

"Let's discuss more about the upcoming battle." Pete changed the direction of the conversation.

High-quality dress, fancy jewelry, and a noblewoman's disposition. Aldo nodded at the others before moving in. His head looking down to the ground as he walked toward the noblewoman opposite side of the street. It only took a moment to snatch her loosely hanging accessories before racing down the street into an alleyway. Aldo heard the sounds of someone running behind him, but he knew these streets better than anyone. Out of all the others, he was the only one who could run through them blindfolded without running into a wall once! He's practiced on a bet once and almost won if there wasn't a stupid black cat that ran in his way during the end.

As Aldo safely made it away and couldn't hear anyone chasing him anymore, he laughed loudly in joy. The noblewoman who had just been robbed didn't look all that shocked or even upset. Her escort asked if it was really okay to leave the boy alone. She simply smiled.

"I'll get it back in due time," Lydia stated. "Now, follow me. With that little stunt, I know we're getting close to where I want to be."

"While I'm more than happy to be your escort and all through this place, Boss. Are you sure I'm needed for this specifically?" Leo asked.

"You're the most reliable person I can count on." Lydia didn't mention that since her husband wasn't around, he was the second most skilled person in Golden Snakes.

"Well, since you place so much trust in you, I better not let you down." Leo grinned as he spun his unique spinning blades he received from John.

It didn't take long for Lydia to find the haven for scum, degenerates, criminals, and orphans in Lord Rohan's territory. The talking was loud, the fighting sparse throughout the place was even louder, but the cheers and betting on those fighting were the loudest. Leo's grin widened as he realized the Boss's plan. The two of them walked to the counter of the bar, and with a tap on Leo's shoulder, he smashed his fist on the wooden counter. Cracks spread throughout the counter as Leo raised his voice and shouted, "Listen up, you fucking sons of bitches! My boss has a few words to share, and I'm not patient enough to tolerate any fucking disrespect towards her."

As Leo expected, several voices shouted. Some brandished weapons, while others even ran up to shut his mouth. Leo spun one of his blades and sent it flying through the crowd with impeccable control. Blood spilled, bodies fell, and a few limbs were chopped. The young, dashing bandit effortlessly caught the spinning blade back in his hand and coolly stared into the crowd, daring someone else to speak up.

"I apologize if you were stupid enough to act before thinking and suffered for it." Lydia started, speaking into the crowd with a clear voice. "I have a job for all of you. Work for me, and I'll pay all of you based on how well you do the job."

"What's the job?" Someone asked.

"Information. I want information about anything and everything. Rumors, gossip, merchants, new travelers, nobles, anyone and anything. I am the one that will determine if your information is worth keeping you around for. If I find it insufficient, you will not be paid any longer and can go back to your regular lives." Lydia informed.

"Can we give information now?"

"No. Tomorrow, I will be at the most expensive inn in town. My men will record your names, appearances, and the information you brought, but you will not meet me. Come back the day after tomorrow after I check all the given information, and you will be paid by the men you meet at the entrance. Any more questions?"

"How much will you pay us? One copper coin? One silver coin?"

"It depends on the value of your information. It's even possible to gain one gold coin." Lydia took out a gold coin from her purse. "So, work hard, and an easy life is at your very fingertips."

"What about the kid, boss?" Leo reminded her.

"Oh! If you find a group of orphans trying to sell some expensive jewelry anytime soon, capture them and return my belongings. Consider it a bonus if you are able." Lydia added.

"I know where those stinking brats stay!" Someone yelled as they got up and ran out the door.

"Hey, wait for me! You can't capture all those kids by yourself!"

"Yeah, some of them might run away! Hold on!"

At this point, several people ran out of the bar to capture some orphans. "Hopefully, they don't rough them up too much. I only asked for them to capture them." Lydia muttered. Leo chuckled before saying, "I guess it's going to be a good opportunity to test your medical skills on some kids soon, boss."

 

[Namgo]

"Lord Mistress Boss..." Aldo stuttered as he wasn't sure how to refer to this monster in the form of a lady.

Bruises were present all over his body, along with swollen black eyes. Behind Aldo stood the only people he could call family in this world—his brothers and sisters, who were also abandoned by their parents. As the eldest, he couldn't show fear in front of this woman for the sake of his siblings. Even if they were nearly beaten to death because of her, he would secretly hide his hatred and plans of revenge deep down inside. One day, he'll pay this evil woman back for what she did to him and his family.

"Boss, I don't like the look in the kid's eyes. He looks like the type to bite the hand that feeds. We should get rid of him and keep the rest. Trust me, I would know. I had that same look on my face after my father got done beating me after drinking." Leo idly chatted.

"He does, doesn't he? Too young to realize his emotions are showing right on his face." Lydia giggled in amusement.

Aldo wanted to respond with rage, with fury, and yell at them that they were wrong. But now wasn't the time. He couldn't prove them right, especially in front of his siblings. If they had any thoughts in their heads that were similar to his in any way, they wouldn't be able to survive in this town anymore, especially since that wicked woman had bought the loyalty of most of the people in the slums. Aldo dropped to his knees completely and bowed with his forehead to the floor.

"Look at that." Leo laughed, also amused. "He knows when to put away the pride. This kid definitely has the will to wait several years to take revenge."

Aldo was in disbelief. How could they see through him so easily?! However, he didn't change his stance or say anything. He continued to bow with all his being, hoping that they give him a chance to prove his loyalty or something! While he didn't want to die, if that was what it took to keep his siblings safe, he would be willing...

"There's no logical reason I can see to keep such a dangerous factor around in our group. Hydra is a group full of happily content people who joined for all sorts of reasons but none that would endanger the entire group. Get rid of him." Lydia coldly gave the order, and Leo followed.

With a single toss of his folded spinning blade, it sunk into the skull of Aldo. At the same time, all the orphans screamed for her to spare their eldest brother, but unfortunately, it was too late. Aldo's body went still as cries rang out from the orphans. Neither Lydia nor Leo showed any joy in this situation.

"Have the monks arrived yet?" Lydia asked, the execution already out of her mind.

"August said a few have, but they've been staying at an inn while helping those out in the slum through lessons and medical services," Leo responded.

"Ah, give them this to start up a monastery here. If they run into any trouble, tell them to contact me or Pete." Lydia handed him an embraided purse with a hydra etched on the surface of it.

"We're really spreading all over the world, huh?" Excitement built up inside Leo.

"As long as this battle with Lord Edmund goes well, this is only the beginning." Lydia also brightly smiled.

The two bandits ignored the children, still loudly crying and sobbing over the death of their eldest brother. Soon enough, a group of miscreants came in and took them away to become future monks. While the church was for the worship and sharing of Christ's teachings, it was directly funded by Hydra. Lydia may or may not have bribed the Abbot for a few new inclusions into the religion for the sake of saving the souls of the bandits in Hydra and creating future snakes for Hydra.

As the time for battle came closer, Lydia quickly and firmly made Hydra a solid foundation within Kinter. It turns out that with a seemingly limitless amount of money that her husband received from Lord Feedback, it isn't hard to do whatever you want. Of course, there were still limits. Eventually, Lord Rohan caught on to their expansive building and tried to put a hard stop to it, but it was a bit too late for the noble. Lydia had effectively captured both the commoners and the slum dwellers. It didn't really matter, even if Lord Rohan wanted them to stop. After Pete marries his daughter, they would own Kinter in no time.

---

Hydra looked down on the opposing army with sneers and mockery. They stood atop of a giant hill with fortifications, horses, armor, and the high ground. Lydia grumbled as she waddled in the armor that John gave her. She could barely move or see out of this thing! Couldn't he have at least given her something in her size!?

"If they manage to get up here, I'm going to be a training dummy for them to whack on!" Lydia complained.

"I trust you," John replied with love as he took off his wife's helmet. This way, she could at least see while she waddles around.

The Golden Snakes giggled at the sight of their usually positive and terrifying Boss waddling around like a baby bear cub struggling to walk. John refused to let her go into battle in just her dress, so he forced her into that abomination. It wasn't that he didn't trust in the plan. He just knew that even the best plans don't always go well. Anything and everything could go wrong. Might as well prepare for the worst.

"I'd be more useful in my dress than this stupid hunk of metal! Even if, on the slightest chance, everything went wrong and they somehow made it up the hill, I wouldn't even be able to flee or fight back! It would be smarter to get me out of this than to keep me in it!" Lydia argued.

"Leo, looks like it's your time to shine. I'll stay here and protect Lydia. You lead the Golden Snakes and take the enemy commander's head." John said.

"No! That's going to ruin everything!" Lydia whined.

"The armor stays on, and I go fight. The armor comes off. I stay." John didn't back down at Lydia's glare.

Lydia sucked in her teeth angrily before saying, "Fine! But you better make sure nothing goes wrong, or I'll willingly let them beat me to death!" Lydia put back on her helmet, pouting all the way inside. John smiled inside his armor. "Thank you, Lydia. Leo, I'll still leave the commander's head to you." John knew how much Leo loved the limelight and fame.

"Sweet. I can't wait." Leo was already spinning his two blades.

Everyone knew the plan, even Lord Rohan's soldiers and conscripted commoners. It was made by Lydia, Pete, Lord Rohan, and Knight Commander Giles. Lydia and Pete took charge of the planning due to their higher experience. This was Lord Rohan's first real battle with his soldiers. Although it was also Hydra's first real battle in a war-like setting as well, they had something to pull on as experience to help them strategize.

Lydia was still upset with John but was also very excited about this battle. Golden Snakes desperately needed this type of experience. Well, not just her branch in Hydra but all of the snakes. They've been cooped up inside Desmont this entire time, doing nothing but training till their bodies broke, soaking in expensive medicine baths, and partying. If it was up to Lydia, she'd have them raiding, pillaging, and starting fights with the surrounding towns and villages. Unfortunately, Pete said that was pointless since they would be doing it for no reason. They lacked no food, no water, and no coinage. Lydia was forced to agree at that point. Experience was valuable, yes, but the unneeded risk was not.

---

"Hmph! You aren't the only one willing to hire mercenaries." Lord Edmund scoffed as he looked up the giant hill filled with defensive fortifications and enemy soldiers. "We'll distract them by charging head-on. It's your job to charge from the right to sneak up the hill and take care of Lord Rohan's commanding knight or capture him personally. If you screw up, this entire battle is lost. So, don't screw up, and you get your gold and land, got it, Ivar?"

"Aye, aye, boss man. Alright, boys, we'll hit them fast and hard, then get the hell out of there. We're here to make some money, not lose our lives. Don't forget that." Ivar reminded his men on top of their horses.

"Everyone else, get ready for a long battle. I didn't bring these toys for playing." Edmund smiled when looking at his multiple catapults being wheeled forward.

Edmund didn't know what Lord Rohan was up to when deciding to ambush them on their way to his territory, but regardless, he wouldn't be stupid. This battle was too important for Edmund to assume he'd win cleanly and easily, even if he had superior numbers. Just to be safe, he brought those catapults and hired some mercenaries. Edmund may have promised those mercenaries land and coins, but how could he stay true to his words to a bunch of criminals? They have neither loyalty, nor honor, nor respect for the common man. It should be their greatest honor to serve and aid Lord Edmund at his behest. Yet, they place their eyes on more materialistic things. Coinage instead of honor. Fear instead of respect. Vices instead of virtues.

"CHARGE!!!" Lord Edmund commanded.

 

[Namgo]

Ever since he was a young lad, people always complimented Ivar on his exceptional eyesight. Out of all of his men and the people he's come across, his eyesight has always been superior. No one even came close to being able to see what Ivar could see every day. So, Ivar was the only one laughing when he saw a golden armored chap at the top of the hill swinging a slingshot!

"What's so funny, boss?" Oliver wanted to laugh, too.

"There's some bastard up there using a slingshot. You know, those things we used as kids?" Ivar wiped a tear from his eye. He was laughing too hard as they raced up the hill.

"Really!?" William had burst into laughter. "What kind of stupid bastard would bring a toy to a battlefield?"

Ivar and his men all laughed together while slaughtering their way up the hill. Lord Rohan's soldiers tried to stop them, but the teamwork and skill of the mercenaries weren't something they could keep up with. None of the arrows fired and shot at the mercenaries landed on them as they skillfully weaved or defended against them. Heads continued to fly along with bodies falling until they made it halfway up the side of the hill.

"Are these bastards even trying!?" William exclaimed before he and his horse were instantly thrown off their feet into the air.

No one but Ivar saw that a hand-sized rock hit William straight in the chest. That thrown rock somehow had enough force behind it to fling both William and his horse through the air. The world slowed to a crawl after witnessing the death of his friend. Ivar's head cracked to the top of the hill, where he saw another rock heading straight for another one of his men. From the angle and speed, it was clear that it would hit Oliver on his right.

Ivar's mouth slowly opened as he shouted for Oliver to dodge. Oliver just slowly turned to look at him as his face contorted into confusion. The mercenary leader couldn't do anything more to prevent Oliver's life from being taken, even if he tried. The rock caved Oliver's face in as he went spinning off the back of his horse into the air. By this point, the rest of the fellas finally realized that they were being taken out!

"On top of the hill! The slingshot thrower!" Ivar informed them all. "Don't fucking move in a straight line if you want to live!"

By following Ivar's orders, the survival rate of the mercenaries rose. The golden armored bastard had good aim but not impeccable aim. Some unfortunate bastard on his horse occasionally got slugged by Ivar with a tossed rock. It didn't take a glance to realize that they wouldn't be getting back up ever again after being hit by one of those rocks.

The soldiers in their way were still slaughtered, just not as easily as before, while trying to prevent their rush up the hill. Although, because of the slingshot asshole at the top, Ivar's men were a lot sloppier in killing them. This led to numerous injuries and cuts that could've been easily avoided if they weren't pressured by that golden armored stone thrower! Their momentum was slowed, and more and more mercenaries were falling to the rocks.

Lord Rohan's soldiers and conscripted commoners didn't just lie down and die for the mounted mercenaries. Even with their lacking skills, they could use a spear to poke a rushing horse. Those stabs built up over time and lowered the speed of the horses. With the combination of the unskilled but determined soldiers and the accurate powerful thrower whittled down the mercenary troop to mere dozens by the time they made it up the hill to the golden knight. The golden knight was not as big as Ivar thought, but his chosen weapon, a giant flail, sure made up for that.

He stood tall. His body, weapon, and mind were ready to face Ivar and his remaining men all by himself. It felt absurd to say, but why did Ivar feel like this match-up wasn't as clear-cut as it looked? Superior numbers should easily win this, right? Just to be safe, he ordered his men to attack first.

"Charge him! Surround him and attack all at once! Don't go easy on him because he's one man! I can see Lord Rohan's tent behind him! Don't let the sacrifices of our brothers be meaningless!" Ivar shouted.

The mercenaries were filled with rage and courage all at once. The remaining horseback mercenaries charged with their weapons. That golden knight didn't move an inch. He just continued to stare at the stomping rush of horses coming his way without a single shake of his figure.

It was a slow wind-up from the golden knight. Even without his superior eyesight, he knew his men would be able to handle such a dawdling attack. The mounted soldiers surrounded him on all sides while Lord Rohan's men just watched, unable to interfere. His men's weapons all converged on the knight at the same time as the golden knight was still swinging his weapon. Ivar's eyes glowed in anticipation of the annoying stone thrower's death.

"Die!"

"Kill him!"

"One man vs dozens!? Are you mad or suicidal!"

Sparks from the colliding of weapons on the armor flashed. However, the sparks only lasted a few moments until he began to hear groans and yells. That bastard's flail swung into the side of a horse, and its momentum didn't stop at the first horse. The flail continued to swing around in a circular arc, knocking into horse after horse. Ivar and all the surrounding soldiers were in complete disbelief as one man swung around half a dozen horses. The mercenaries cried out in agony after falling to the ground with various debilitating injuries.

After knocking down his men, the golden bastard swung, this time with a little more speed to his movements. The mercenaries behind him were too close to avoid being smashed like the others. At that point, the dozens of men lost their minds to fear of the golden knight's great strength. They rushed at him once more, not even thinking of retreating.

The golden knight stood courageously as he brutally slaughtered the mercenaries and their horses with his giant flail. Skulls were smashed in, torsos were crushed, and bodies were flattened. No matter what kind of weapon the mercenaries used, none of it managed to get past the knight's armor. That armor covered every single inch of his body and regular weaponry had no effect on it besides leaving a faint mark on it. Even their blunt weapons merely slowed the golden knight's rampage, but not enough for anyone to deal effective damage to him.

"Damn it! Stop running, you bastards! Those with blunt weapons need to attack together! Everyone else, use your horses to stomp him to death or throw your bodies to hold down his limbs! He may be strong, but he isn't strong enough to beat all of us together!" Ivar shouted in a mixture of fear and anger.

The mercenaries listened to their leader with effective quickness. If the horses weren't trying to bite or kick at the knight with their legs, the mercenaries that lost their horses rushed forward with suicidal determination. In response to this change in tactic, the golden knight took the attacks of the horses head-on without losing his footing. The crazy bastard took a horse's back kick straight to the chest and was simply sent sliding a few feet backwards! Although it did leave him stunned for a few seconds, the mercenaries still had no way of landing a major blow on the knight.

For the men who tried to lock down the knight's limbs, perhaps it was better not to speak of their brutal deaths. If the golden knight could lift six horses off their feet with his bare strength, there's no need to speak of the possible things he could do to someone who managed to get grabbed by him. It was at this point that Ivar realized a lost battle when he saw one. Fighting this golden bastard was suicide and a major loss for him. As a mercenary leader, he knew when to cut his losses.

"All able men, stop the attack on the golden knight! Spread out and rush toward Lord Rohan's tent! He can't catch all of us, and I have no doubt that he is this army's strongest soldier!" Ivar changed his orders as he rushed forward with his remaining mercenaries.

The golden knight was helpless to stop them from retreating. Despite his great strength, it seems his speed was nothing to speak of. He only coldly watched them ride their horses past him. Ivar grinned with a victorious smile on his face. As the mercenaries rushed to the tent, the laughs and smiles on their faces slowly dimmed as they saw something, if not as intimidating as the golden knight from before. Their speed immediately slowed as they were reminded of the monstrous golden knight from before. Was it possible this army had two incredibly strong knights? There was no way, right?

A strangely moving knight in black armor stood in front of Lord Rohan's tent. He locked his gaze on them and made a weird motion before making a high-pitched whistle. At that whistle, several soldiers rushed over on war horses. Ivar couldn't help but click his tongue at the sight of those freakishly developed horses. They were twice the size of the horses gifted to them by Lord Edmund. Then those mercenaries pulled out longbows and aimed directly at them.

"Retreat down the hill! This battle..." Ivar gritted his teeth in frustration. "Is lost!" Ivar's mercenaries spared no hesitation in splitting up and fleeing down the hill like scattered mice. He was shocked to realize that the black knight didn't order his mercenaries to fire at them while their back was turned, but Ivar cared more about being alive than making fun of the knight's foolish good nature.

 

[Namgo]

Lydia smiled inside her stupid clunky armor as she saw the advancing mercenaries retreat down the hill. Trusting in her husband to defend their core was the best choice. Those mercenaries were more skilled than any other person in Lord Edmund's army from what she saw. It seems that their first battle is concluded with this.

"Support the main army until the opposing army is dealt with. Once Lord Edmund realizes the mercenaries, he's hired failed to do their job, he should order a retreat." Lydia shared.

"Understood, Boss!" The golden snakes took aim with their superior longbows and began to fire into the enemy ranks.

Leo and the other golden snakes massacred their way through Lord Edmund's soldiers. Even the most skilled of soldiers were helpless in the face of their skills and inhuman training. The only thing that was slowing them down was the fact that there weren't that many golden snakes! If they were numbered in the hundreds instead of the dozens, they probably would've won this war by now. Unfortunately, not many snakes had the strength necessary to withstand the Boss's training despite its obvious results.

The handsome rogue and fame-hungry bandit used his spinning blades to unleash an unstoppable whirlwind of offense. Swift, agile, and always deadly, Leo's attacks never missed a weak spot! Any knight going against him would find themselves outmatched in terms of speed and skill. After all, it was the only way to survive when training against someone like John. You can't stand against a man like John without being able to avoid his powerful natural strength.

"What kind of man brings a knife to the battlefield?" The commander of Lord Edmund's army looked down on Leo.

"These knives are better than you think. Wanna see?" Leo tossed one of his spinning blades at the knight.

The blade flew at an incredible speed toward the knight's neck. He barely managed to raise his shield in time to save his life! A look of disbelief and surprise appeared on the knight's face as the spinning blade went flying off somewhere. Leo chuckled as he caught the returning spinning blade and ran forward toward the mounted knight.

He tossed his other spinning blade into the air and leaped up to take the knight's life with his remaining blade folded up into a triple-layered knife. The knight met his knife with his sword before grunting in shock. Leo grinned as he managed to surprise the knight with his strength. The hellish training and medicinal baths given by his Boss were really amazing when used in combination, you know? Although Leo had the advantage in strength, his position just wasn't good enough to take the commander's neck as well. He was pushed back to the ground, and the knight rushed forward to take advantage of it.

"I wouldn't do that if I was you." Leo looked up at the swinging knight with a maniacal grin on his face.

"Die, you overconfident fool!" The knight commander swung down.

The only result that came from their fight was a head falling to the ground. Leo caught his previously thrown spinning blade with ease, and cheers erupted from the sea of men. The victor soaked in all the praise. It was the start of his legend! No longer would he just be John's sidekick any longer but his own man! He took down a noble knight commander all by himself!

With the cheers of the bandits, the morale of Lord Edmund's soldiers fell quickly. Pete had a small smile on his face as he recognized those cheers. Might as well finish up his side of things as well. He and his men were head-to-head with Lord Edmund's strongest knights. For some reason, he kept them hidden in the back to protect himself.

"It's time to surrender, Lord Edmund. You won't be able to escape our pursuit even if you sacrifice your skilled knights and try to leave them behind." Pete chatted.

"Who are you?! How could a group of no-good peasants possibly defeat my men!?" Lord Edmund refused to accept reality.

"I'd like to think we got lucky. A bunch of no-good peasants can get lucky sometimes, too. The nobles can't hoard everything." Pete chuckled. "Now, will you make this easy or difficult on us, Lord Edmund? We could return with your head or you alive. I'm sure either will be fine with our employer."

"You're mercenaries!? How come I've never heard of you then?! Why would you work for Rohan instead of someone more worthy? I just don't get it!"

"Lord Edmund, quit thinking so hard. You might just kill over asking so many questions. You'll learn all about us back in Lord Rohan's territory. Drop your weapons, and we'll make sure you don't die on the way." Pete advised kindly.

"Fine!" Lord Edmund knew he had no way out of this. He lost this battle completely.

"Thank you so much, Lord Edmund." Pete's voice took on a friendly, submissive tone. Edmund only reacted in disgust to it.

With Lord Rohan taking the credit for the victory over Lord Edmund to all the surrounding nobles and the king, Lydia, and Pete had to do some extra work to make sure that everyone knew that victory was only possible because of their merry band of mercenaries. That extra work entailed paying minstrels and carriage drivers to spread stories of Hydra's might and prowess to their future customers and patrons in all locations. This also put Lord Rohan on the shit list of most of the snakes because of how he tried to claim everything for himself sneakily.

"Pete, my son-in-law, isn't what I gain basically yours anyway when I pass away? What's the big problem with enjoying things while I'm still alive?" Lord Rohan laughed as he drank some wine at the victory party hosted by Hydra.

"Father-in-law, let's not talk about such an unpleasant topic in such a festive setting. I'm just going to tell you once and once only, alright?" Pete had an amiable smile on his face, as usual.

The former bandit leader pulled Lord Rohan by the shoulder till his breath could be felt on the man's ear. It was at this realization that Rohan remembered that just because he was a noble didn't mean he was invincible! Pete didn't even have to say anything for Rohan to understand that his people were experienced killers and hated to be cheated, even if it was something as insignificant as victory in battle!

"I don't like being fucked over," Pete whispered into the noble's ear but kept smiling all the way in case anyone else saw them.

Pete's menacing nature as a former bandit willing to kill the country's knights and loot them without fear bared down on the chubby noble in full force. Lord Rohan shivered like a leaf in a storm as he rapidly shook his jowls up and down in understanding. "Keep a smile on your fucking face before someone gets the wrong idea." Pete's previously friendly voice was gone. An unnatural smile plastered itself on Lord Rohan's face while his wine swished and sloshed in his shaking hand.

"I'm glad we could come to an understanding, father. Don't let it happen again." Pete playfully patted his shoulder before walking away.

"I'm not wearing that oversized suit of armor again," Lydia told her husband in clear terms.

"I had it resized. It'll fit you now. You'll be able to see, move, and even defend yourself if it ever came to that." John responded back.

"If that's true, I guess I could give it another shot." Lydia wasn't against protection for herself.

It was just that the stupid armor was too big and literally stifled her in every way! Sight, smell, hearing, touch, mobility, and reactions. All vital things on a battlefield that should not be limited in any way! She would also get more respect in the armor from the soldiers and enemies. They wouldn't know she was a woman in the armor since it covered every inch of her body.

"Boss! We did great for our first battle, right!?" Dante, one of the youngest golden snakes, asked excitedly.

"It was an acceptable performance from you all. The others need to step up their training if they wish to survive in future battles." Lydia thought back to what she saw after taking her helmet off in the battle.

The other snakes from the other Heads didn't respond to Lydia's words nor did they look bothered by them. John was eyeing them like a hawk, basically daring them to say something negative regarding his wife's words. So, they all just nervously laughed and turned away. It wasn't worth getting on the bad side of the strongest man in their group by insulting his wife. Just let the woman talk. It wouldn't hurt them nearly as much as John could. If she wanted to play knight commander, who were they to stop her? That was Pete or John's job. A job that they seem more than content to let her play out.

"Something tells me we still got plenty to work on tomorrow, Boss." Leo laughed, with the rest of the Golden Snakes joining in.

"Well, of course! Don't think I didn't see some of you tiring out halfway through the battle. We need to work on endurance next. War is a tiring process. Even I got tired somehow despite only giving orders and not fighting at all. So, I can't imagine how tired you all were actually putting your lives on the line." Lydia was happy to have a solid goal to work on with her snakes.

To this cheery voice, the golden snakes could only cheer in distress for the hell they were going to go through tomorrow.

 

[Namgo]

"I'm not going to say I told you so even though I really should." Lydia looked up at Pete.

"Thank you so much for your gracious mercy, My Lady." Pete performed a flattering noble bow to hide his annoyance at the situation.

"The real question is how should we reclaim our power back in Desmont. It's simple enough to deal with Captain Frank and his soldiers, but the real issue is the lack of military presence that will be reported to the higher-ranked nobles by the nobles living in Desmont. We can't stop them from sending out letters or messages through our people forever."

"I already have a plan for that. We just replace Frank and his soldiers after killing them." Pete clapped with a smile.

"If it was that simple, why didn't you do it before?" John asked.

"I didn't believe Frank was this stupid. He was useful and had his place in Desmont among the locals." Pete shrugged.

"Guess you'll have to learn about people more, leader of mine. An opportunistic pig like Frank was just waiting for something like this to happen, you know? I never trusted him." Leo added.

"I got it. I got it." Pete waved his hands. "I'll make sure something like this doesn't happen again or at least plan better for it if it does."

"Who're you sending out?" Leo asked.

"I'm thinking about sending the Green Snakes. They suffered the most casualties in the last battle, and it wouldn't hurt for them to rest while bolstering their numbers. I was also thinking of sending John with them as insurance to make sure everything goes to plan." Pete shared.

"I'll send a few of my people as well. Lord only knows what Frank has done to our businesses and presence in Desmont since we've been gone." Lydia nodded.

"When do we head out?" John asked.

"Should be near the end of the week. I still have to tell Robert and his men to pack up and get ready to go before explaining to them their new responsibilities." Pete informed.

"Got it." John nodded.

The journey toward Desmont was rather uneventful for John. Suppose you exclude the looks of awe and constant revering given to him during the travel. John's status within Hydra was basically legendary, from what he could see. Everyone respected him, idolized him, or feared him. He wasn't quite sure how to feel about such a thing. John was only a mere commoner and a farmer not too long ago. It was with that mindset he looked at the world for the most part. The bandit part came much later in his life.

John did know that he wasn't going to try to live up to the heroic idolization given to him by the other bandits, though. He was just himself. There was no need to act like anyone else. So, when the guys showed up in Desmont with the intention of causing havoc and chaos, he didn't hesitate to quickly put them in their place.

"These are our people, and this is our town. Our only targets are Captain Frank and his knights." John threatened the rowdy bandits.

It only took those words to reign in their chaotic spirit. They followed behind John as they were stared at by the commoners of Desmont. John ordered the Green Snakes to split up. The majority headed with him to deal with the knights, while the others went to seal off the exits for anyone who managed to escape during the fight.

John was surprised to see Captain Frank personally come to find him himself. He came equipped with his best armor, weapons, and men but still. It took courage to face someone like John. Over the years, John knew he was slowly becoming something more than human. The more gracious rewards given by Lord Feedback, the stronger he became. That strength showed in more ways than just his body. It showed in his demeanor, the way he talked, walked, and even breathed. The way he thought, expressed his emotions, and went about life.

"To think you rats would come crawling back. I'm sorry to tell you, but Desmont will no longer harbor any filthy rats trying to make their nest here! Order shall reign!" Captain Frank shouted.

"Order shall reign!" His knights chanted with righteous fury.

"I'm not Pete or my wife. I have no interest in playing word games with you, Captain Frank. I only hope you all left something behind for your next of kin. None of you will be making it back to them." John sent a stare into the watching commoners.

They fled out of natural instinct to preserve their own lives, but it didn't stop them from looking out from a distance at this upcoming battle for rule over Desmont. Humans were curious creatures at their core. Even if they knew what they were going to watch would be unpleasant or in some way taboo. They would still do so. After all, there wasn't much for entertainment ever since Captain Frank ruined the businesses of Hydra after their temporary leave.

"Kill them all!" Captain Frank ordered, his men charging forward down the streets.

The resulting battle was something that would be spoken about for years to come! John led the charge himself and bowled into the fully armored knights with his giant flail with no hesitation. Knights went flying into their allies, incapable of getting up again to continue the battle. Such a strong start from the group of bandits seemingly set the tone for the rest of the fight. One man standing over the downed bodies of properly equipped knights filled the bandits with infinite courage and the knights with infinite terror.

At least, that would be the case if Frank's maniacal laughter didn't cut the atmosphere apart. "Hired warrior! Do your job before any more of my men get hurt!" Captain Frank commanded from the far rear of his knights. A hooded man came walking toward the front of the battle that had halted ever since the first clash. John had a head or three over the hooded figure, but his gaze was without fear as he looked up into John's eyes.

John looked down into the man's eyes as he pulled out his sword. Neither man needed to say a single word to get their intentions across. Everyone could subtly feel the difference between them and the two men. The pressure they gave off was enough to force everyone to unintentionally step back and give them room to fight. If this was a battle between knights and bandits at first, now it was a duel between two men of incredible strength.

The fight started in an instant without any shared words. A sharp clang roused the eardrums of everyone present as John blocked the sudden sword strike aimed at his neck. Decked in armor that covered every inch of his body, it was hard for the bandits and even some of the knights to think that the hooded warrior stood a chance. However, his skills spoke for themselves, as he actually held the advantage through quick, deadly slashes and incredibly agile moves.

Every time an opportunity revealed itself for John to strike, the warrior would avoid his tremendous blows. It was the first time in a long time that John actually had to properly defend himself instead of crushing his opponent in one blow. Because of his inexperience in defending with his flail, John's golden helmet was knocked off and nearly his neck as well. Gasps rang out from the mouths of the bandits and knights.

Although John's identity was no secret, few people actually saw his face outside of his armor and could recognize him. This wasn't because there was something special about his face or anything. It was the opposite, in fact.

"He looks so normal..." The disbelief or disappointment could be felt off of the bandit's tongue.

"I thought he'd be ugly or a pretty boy. He doesn't look special at all..." Another bandit whispered.

"So, this is the appearance of the infamous Golden Behemoth..." A knight gaped as he recorded this memory in detail.

John realized in this battle that his skill with his hefty flail was sorely lacking compared to the swordsman. Defeating most of his enemies in one hit was coming back to bite him in a way he never could've expected. The only reason he was still alive right now was solely thanks to the rewards given to him by Lord Feedback. Due to his big body and tough armor, he could withstand the vicious flurry of sword strikes. As long as he protected his neck and head, this battle wasn't over yet. John hasn't given up in the slightest. The realization that he needs more training after this was put to the back of his mind.

The young farmer-turned-bandit focused everything on his battle with the highly skilled warrior. As John was being pressured back, sporting several cuts on his face but nothing life-threatening, he suddenly did something that surprised everyone watching the duel. John tossed his weapon. That large unwieldy-looking two-sectioned flail was lobbed at the hooded swordsman when they were locked in a clash of strength.

Even the swordsman was caught off guard. His eyes widened in shock at the fact that a warrior would abandon his weapon in the middle of a fierce fight. Unfortunately for him, John was no warrior. John was a bandit through and through.

John's flail crushed the swordsman straight to the ground. He was smashed with a horrifying wheeze as it caved his chest. The bandit stood over his struggling foe, who was trying with all of the power in his body to lift the flail off of him. John easily picked up his weapon without straining himself at all. A clear contrast in strength between him and the hooded warrior. With his heavy foot pressing down on the swordsman's chest, preventing him from rising, he smashed the swipple at the warrior's head, ending him in a gory shower of bits.

"Kill them all." John ordered.

 

[Namgo]

"Stop! Don't do this!" Captain Frank begged for his life as two bandits captured him. "Do you think the noble lords will let this be?! They'll inform the King of your villainous group of miscreants! He'll bring the royal army down on your head and exterminate every living relative of yours, along with cutting your heads!" Spittle flew from his mouth as he desperately spouted off at the mouth.

"..." John raised his flail.

"Do you really not fear death?! Do you take everyone for a joke just because of your great strength!? One man cannot defeat an army! Even you will fall eventually!" Realizing the bandit was madness incarnate, Frank could only curse him in death as that disgustingly big farmer's weapon came swinging down on his head.

Brain matter, blood, and skull pieces went flying from the knight's head. "Come to me! We head to Lord Gaveston to discuss the new permanent changes in Desmont. My wife's men stay here to deal with the businesses and everything else she ordered you to do. Two or three of you come to me to deal with Lord Gaveston." John loudly shouted. Hydra marched their way to the castle, still covered in the blood of Franks's knights. When they arrived at his manor, they sent the personal knights of Lord Gaveston into a frenzy. Like chickens with their heads cut off, they mobilized in a panicked and chaotic manner.

They cut any knights attempting to stop their march down without hesitation. John informed them beforehand they wouldn't lose their lives if they stepped out of the way, but how could honor-bound knights officially leave their lord to the mercy of bandits without fighting? Thus, John and the Green Snakes made the perfectly maintained grass in front of Lord Gaveston's castle turn into a field of blood and steel. They stormed their way into the castle and eventually found Lord Gaveston in the middle of fleeing with the help of his most trusted knights and servants.

John ordered the bandits to leave any servants and slaves alone. There would be no point in reaping their lives as their business had to do with Gaveston. Robert and his snakes cut down Lord Gaveston's most trusted knights and left the man himself alive for John to deal with. John slowly walked to the man, cowering in fear with his clothes completely soiled.

"I don't care if you knew about Captain Frank's plan. I don't care if you agreed and went along with them. From now on, Desmont and any other land owned by you is now under the control of Hydra. Understood?"

"..." Lord Gaveston rapidly nodded his head. Death was the only outcome for foolishly trying to resist at this point.

"I'm glad we could come to an agreement. You three take over and watch him closely." John told his wife's trained men. "Robert, keep half of your men here as Gaveston's new knights, while the other half will take over as security for Desmont," John ordered next.

"I won't let you down, John." Robert nodded as he began relaying orders to his men.

The most trained of the Green Snakes were kept at Lord Gaveston's castle, while the other half would return to Desmont. John journeyed back with those returning to Desmont. His job here was finished. There wasn't anything left he needed to do at Desmont, so he would be returning back to Kinter.

The citizens of Desmont didn't know whether to cry or be grateful for the return of Hydra. It was a sad reality when it seemed that bandits cared more about their well-being and happiness than legitimate knights and their lord. Hydra brought back several things that Captain Frank was more than happy to destroy or ruin.

The Monastery that had most of its funding stripped now had its coffers filled with more money than they knew what to do with. Instead of spending money on frivolous things like statues, luxuries, and the like, Abbot Jim used the money to help those desperately in need. Madam Boss left him a set of instructions on ways to use the gratuitous amount of money he had received from her. He and his nuns went around Desmont, taking in orphaned children to become monks or nuns now that they could afford the extra mouths. They created more hospitals across Desmont and with the medical techniques left behind by Madam Boss. Ill and injured citizens weren't afraid of going into the hospitals with fears of never leaving them once they went in! Monks and nuns who were fully educated in the ways of Christianity and felt that they could deepen their faith elsewhere now had the capital to travel elsewhere to spread the teachings of Christ and help those less fortunate across the world. They would give the Christian pilgrims a set amount of funds and necessary tools for travel before they could go off and deepen their faith.

Abbot Jim constantly spoke praises of Madam Lydia to the point that she was as revered as much as the Saints! The children who grew up in the Monasteries learned about the infinite grace and wisdom of Madam Lydia. The nuns all inspired to be like Madam Lydia, a woman who knew how to care, teach, and protect. Eventually, this monastery, funded by Madam Lydia, grew to the point that even a bishop from this church was a part of the King's Court!

Brothels were now running with more rules in place, but somehow the atmosphere was a lot better than before. Under Madam Lydia's control, the brothel transformed from a place riddled with sin and depravity into a place of sexual freedom and relief. The workers were paid, and no longer considered slaves in all but status. The Green Snakes swiftly beat any unruly customers and taxed them based on the extent of damage caused to their employees or the place of business. Somehow, Madam Lydia even got nuns to serve as in-house doctors for the workers. Abbot Jim was hesitant to talk about it in most cases, but he mentioned something about how sex was natural and indulging in it was as human as one can be. Man can strive to be like Christ, but Man will never be Christ.

The school allowed girls to become students again and removed the payment fee Captain Frank added to keep the poorer citizens out. The school invited teachers who had left after being underpaid by Lord Gaveston and Captain Frank to come back and teach. Their pay would be the same as it was when they were first hired. In no time, Desmont University was back up and running for children of all ages.

Children studied arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, music theory, grammar, logic, medicine, self-defense, strategy, and rhetoric. By the time graduation came, there were few places these graduates could go without excelling. Once news spread of the amazingly intelligent graduates of Desmont University, more people around the nation came to enroll their children. Due to this, an increase in the number of teachers was needed. It snowballed in an explosive manner, with Desmont University becoming the top academic institution in the entire nation.

Initially, those of noble birth and higher looked down on the insignificant school for commoners. They all thought, how could a school full of peasants possibly amount to anything? And in a way, they were right for quite some time. Desmont University didn't accomplish any amazing achievements until its second batch of students graduated. Twenty-four years of being unknown to the world. Then graduates who managed to secure powerful and enviable positions within the nation spoke about their schooling. Many were surprised to realize that the married wives of many powerful men graduated from Desmont University, and they didn't have any problems saying that it was because of their wives' help that they had become as great as they were now.

Famous military generals, warriors, doctors, teachers, merchants, abbots, poets, and painters. All of them graduated from Desmont University. All had humble beginnings as young girls or children of peasants. Even orphans could excel when graduating from Desmont University. It only took the words of several respectable and admirable people praising Desmont University for even those of noble birth to shut up and get in line.

Although it still took several years for that to come. Their first decision was to create a noble academy to suppress and surpass Desmont University called King Andrew's School of Elites. Yes, King Andrew himself personally funded and supported the creation of this noble school. The Church thwarted his attempt to directly destroy this place of learning completely. They sent scripture after scripture at him and the court to dissuade them from directly harming Desmont University.

By this point, Madam Lydia and Hydra were the biggest backers of the Church. How could the Church let anything untoward happen to their biggest sponsor if they could help it? It doesn't take much to rile up the feathers of nobles by spouting religious babble. The Good Book had quite the history on it! There were more than enough pages to find something to support their causes if they looked deep enough, especially with all the monks and nuns being able to read and write.

With a heavy heart, King Andrew and his supporters were forced to retaliate in a different way against Desmont University. Young boys and young men of noble birth were allowed to enroll as students in their noble academy. Women were not allowed to enroll, regardless of their lineage. King Andrew and his court were somewhat lenient on the enrollment requirements. No matter the lineage of nobility, as long as they showed sufficient proof, they would be allowed in to study. From princes to squires, they were let in.

Instead of copying the various classes given at Desmont University, they decided to choose classes more relatable to nobles. Swordsmanship, horse riding, etiquette, ruling, law, warfare, and more. For some time, the nobles had their academy, and the peasants had theirs. If the world was just and reasonable, the two sides of the social ladder would do their own thing and leave it there. However, the noble lords weren't satisfied with just living on the same level as peasants. They couldn't stand their noble blood being compared to the rabble they were supposed to rule over.

So, they thought to make a friendly competition. Of course, the initial draft of this competition was anything but friendly. It was only because of the Church's fervent protests that it turned friendly and came to the least amount of bloodshed. Although, regardless of the nobles' intentions the outcome of the competition only soured their mood even more. This led to a severe disconnect between nobles and commoners within the region. It wasn't an exaggeration to say that tensions were high and the atmosphere in the nation could be lit with a spark.

And two people sought to take advantage of this delicate and tender mood running through the nation.

John, Lydia, Pete, Leo, and the rest of Hydra's Heads came together at a large round table. They were all dressed in distinguished outfits that no commoners could afford without saving money for years. Lydia and Pete looked at each other with mischievous smiles on their faces, while everyone else was mostly lost to what this meeting would entail. Even John had no idea what his wife was up to. Although he was more than capable of being a strategist, he left that to his wife as he focused on honing his skills for warfare, combat, and, surprisingly enough, teaching.

Lydia and Pete were too busy thinking up schemes, plans, and strategies to further Hydra's influence to train the new recruits. That left John and Leo to pick up the things they couldn't do, as Pete and Lydia did everything they could to expand Hydra as a force that no one could contend with. John didn't mind it and actually grew fond of teaching others. Leo, on the other hand, was not a fan of teaching despite making several little prodigies of his own. As the fame-hungry bandit he was, teaching some brats was not going to help him become known throughout the region.

"That's not true," John argued. "If you teach them well enough and they accomplish great things down the line, guess who is going to be given credit for their achievements? Their teacher." John explained.

"I'm not like Pete or Lydia, John. I live in the now, not the far future. Hell, I might be dead by the time these brats achieve anything. What good will that do me by looking forward to their possible future achievements?" Leo replied.

"Don't you want to be remembered by future generations?" John asked.

"Well, no shit."

"Not only will you be remembered as one of the greatest knights in Hydra but also one of the greatest teachers as well. It will only add to your list of achievements after your death. Anybody could be known as a great warrior after their death, but how many could be thought of as a great teacher?" John tried to reason with him.

"I guess when you put it like that, it couldn't hurt to add more achievements to my name..." Leo rubbed his stubble. "Fine, you convinced me to actually give a shit while training these tit suckers."

"The Legendary Reaper of the Battlefield. One of the Greatest Teachers in History. Man With a Hundred Wives." John spouted off like some amazed child.

"Alright, ya fucker, I get it." Leo laughed as he slapped John's shoulder.

"Are you all ready to turn this nation upside down?" Lydia asked, starting off their meeting.

"Haven't we already been doing that?" Robert, Green Snake's captain, asked.

"Well, you're not wrong, but," Lydia grinned like a little excited girl. "What do you all think about killing the king and his lords and then replacing them as rulers of this land?"

Silence filled the room. Pete quietly analyzed the shocked and stunned expressions of his men. John's face was stoic as he didn't really care all that much. Those words to him just sounded like more warfare, and as a bandit and devout follower of Lord Feedback, he was especially good at banditry. Maybe after the end of this war, he could take up farming again.

Decades have passed since John became a bandit. He was in his forties now. John started his banditry in his early twenties. It felt like forever since the last time he picked up a hoe or did any farming at all. With all the money gained through banditry, warfare, and Lord Feedback, he never saw a reason to go back to the hard work of farming. It didn't make any sense to after all. The amount of labor put in wasn't equal to the payout given afterward.

"Boss, do you agree with her thoughts?" Charles, Red Snake's captain, gazed suspiciously at Pete.

"Tell me your thoughts first. Feel free to be honest. I promise nothing bad will happen to you by me just by being honest. After all, a group can't run properly if no one is honest with each other." Pete responded.

"I think she's not all there in the head, and there's nothing wrong with our life right now." Simon, Blue Snake's captain, spoke up without hesitation.

"Anyone else?" Pete looked at the rest, who seemed to feel similar.

"I agree with Simon." Dudley, Yellow Snake's captain, nodded.

"I feel the same as those two." William, White Snake's captain, shared.

With half of Hydra in disagreement about Lydia's plan, Pete couldn't go ahead with her plan no matter how badly he wanted to. So, he gave Lydia the opportunity to try and convince the other Heads. He also had to tell John to stop glaring at them for disagreeing with his wife. They had all the right to agree or disagree with his wife all they wanted. It would be different if they disrespected her, though. Then he had free reign to defend his wife's honor.

"Are you all men, or are you cowards?" Lydia stood up and stared into the eyes of the four Heads.

"Don't go insulting us because we don't agree with your crazy plan!" Simon shouted.

"What's crazy about it? You've all committed the worst of crimes already. Arson, theft, murder, and who knows what other crimes you've committed." Lydia spouted off. "What's a little treason and regicide going to hurt?" She smiled with nothing but ambition behind her eyes.

 

[Namgo]

"Why should we take that risk? Our life is better than it has ever been before." Charles spoke up.

"Don't you want to live like actual royalty!? When we're long gone and dead, we'll be thought of as nothing more than members of a mercenary group that became an official army under the King's name. If we're lucky, then our Lord..." Lydia motioned to Pete. "Will take most of the credit for everything we've accomplished." She explained.

"Sounds good to me." Simon crossed his arms.

"But it could be even better if you followed my plan. Our legacy will expand tenfold if we overthrow the king! You, you, you, you, and even this thing!" Lydia pointed at everyone and even one of the Head's dog. "Will have their own legendary retelling. We could be treated like mythical figures after our passing! Some of you will be treated as heroes and figures to emulate for children to hear about growing up. Like fairy tales! But our story was real. Our story is real! All we need to do is take that step to grab it within our hands and ensure that our legacy as Hydra continues to the far future!" Lydia passionately shouted.

"More legends and stories don't sound too bad to me." Leo flipped his spinning blade into the air repeatedly and caught it.

"I don't give a damn about what happens after I'm dead, woman. I care about my life now. A life that could end in the near future because of your insanity!" Simon smashed his fist on the desk.

"Don't be such a coward! What bandit would dare to admit they were afraid to fight for gold?! Has living off the coattails of Hydra's rise made you lazy and afraid of death!? You'd rather die as a coward than live like nobles?!" Lydia shouted back, unafraid in the slightest.

"John. Control that woman of yours before I do it for you." Simon threatened.

"Ha! You're willing to come at me but shy away from fighting against the King's army?! You really are a pathetic dick-less son of a bitch!" Lydia slammed her palm on the table, glaring into Simon's eyes.

Simon shot up from his seat. Never in his life has he been insulted by a woman. Not even his own mother talked to him this way. There wasn't a single point in Simon's life where he was talked to in this manner by a lowly woman! In his humiliation and rage, it blinded him from the fact of who's woman he was arguing with in the first place. It also made him forget Pete's words from the beginning of this meeting.

Simon stormed over to Lydia and raised his hand to give this annoying sharp-mouthed woman a slap. Only for him to be taken off his feet somehow. Before his brain could properly analyze the situation, Lydia was already on top of him after slapping him first. She slapped his face without holding back her strength as she mounted him. Reality didn't begin to set in for the brutish man until he's already been slapped thrice times on the ground! "S-Stop! Get off of me!" His request was met with another slap. It wasn't until the bastard's face was swollen like a pig's and he was whimpering that Lydia stopped.

Lydia gave a relieved breath as she stood back up, leaving Simon bleeding and bruised on the ground. She looked refreshed, as if she just took a huge shit in the eyes of Leo. Her gaze made it toward the others who disagreed with her. "Now, are you all cowards too, or do you have other reasons for not wanting to agree with me?" She asked.

Nobody decided to respond. Seeing such a tiny, beautiful woman beat the absolute shit out of a grown man was something not even written about in myths and fairy tales. Simon was a big guy. He was more than a head above most men with the muscles to match. They heard rumors of John's wife, but none of them ever extended to her being able to fight. How do they reason with this she-beast of a woman without being seen as a coward? Most of the remaining Heads who disagreed with John's wife knew they couldn't defeat Simon in a straight fight. Trying to understand that somehow John's tiny wife was stronger than a man of Simon's size made them all speechless.

"I'm glad we could come to an agreement, gentlemen. Thank you for being reasonable and agreeing with me," Lydia spoke for them.

"Very well. It looks like there are no further disagreements." Pete gathered their attention. "Prepare your soldiers, everyone. We're waging war against the king's army soon. You'll be fighting against the nation's strongest soldiers. Be prepared as if you were going to die. Meeting adjourned." Pete stood up and left.

John, Leo, Lydia, and Robert left together. Those who disagreed with Lydia looked at Simon's quivering body as a reminder to be careful of her. They left him behind on the floor. Right now, they were already on John's wife shit list. Turning out like Simon was a very real possibility if they weren't careful.

"An army is coming our way from where?" King Andrew frowned in annoyance.

"All around us, Your Majesty." The royal messenger was panting like a dog.

King Andrew and his court of advisors reacted with shock to the sudden news. Murmurs and heated discussions sprang up while dangerous gazes looked over at the King occasionally. The King and his very close followers did not like these looks. King Andrew took charge of the room with a sudden shout.

"Calm yourselves! We've been at war before. This time is no different! Act as proper men of your positions should, or I shall remove you from it." King Andrew threatened.

A few moments passed, and everyone settled down on the surface while inwardly, they were still panicking. An army doesn't just suddenly sprout up out of nowhere, and from the messenger's words, they were somehow surrounded!? What sense did this make?! Where were their armies positioned at the borders of the nation? Something should have warned them far ahead of time, even if the armies at the borders had fallen.

"Who is coming to attack our kingdom?" King Andrew demanded.

"Hydra." The royal messenger answered out of breath.

"Hydra..." King Andrew squeezed his royal throne with all of his power.

That name only reminded him of unpleasant things. It was almost every day that King Andrew had to hear about something regarding that group of mercenary peasants. The peasants around the kingdom were absolutely in love with them. There hasn't been a day that went by when Andrew didn't think about wiping them out.

King Andrew directed his furious gaze at the bishops who represented the church and, more recently, the common peasant. Like a peacock strutting around without a care in the world, the religious figures weren't bothered in the slightest. While everyone knew of the major connection between Hydra and the Church, there was no definite proof that they were in a partnership. All the impromptu investigations he had for several churches that were known to take up changes in how they were run resulted in nothing. No names, just sudden windfalls of money and parchment detailing how they should run things. Even secretly torturing captured monks and nuns did nothing to help aid him in locating Hydra or a branch of it. Those monks held on to their knowledge with dying breaths.

Blabbing about how they were dying for a just cause. Hydra has saved more lives than King Andrew ever could hope to! The Lord would look at Hydra and welcome them into Heaven with a smile. While King Andrew would be sent to hell for his evil, greedy, heartless soul! For some reason, his men wanted him to hear every word as if he asked for such extensive details. When all he asked was if they completed their task or not.

"How could this have happened?!" King Andrew demanded. He needed someone to blame.

"My lord, have you not read the messages I've delivered for these past few months?" The royal messenger politely, quietly, and hesitantly asked without looking up into the king's eyes.

"I'm sure I have. I've been quite busy trying to improve our kingdom. Remind me, what did they say?" King Andrew.

"I don't have the authority to read your letters, Your Majesty..."

Frustration filled King Andrew's bones. He looked to his advisors and hoped one of them had some useful information for once. Those from the Church merely smiled while contributing nothing. Those bastards were openly mocking him! If something happened to him, they would be delighted to see it! If anything did come to sort, he would make sure to burn every damn church down before he dies himself.

"Last I heard from Lord William, he was requesting aid from me. Soldiers, horses, and weapons."

"Lord Bartholomew also sent me a letter asking for help against some barbarians or something."

"Lord Philip did to same to me."

"And none of you idiots thought something was up!? Messenger, go bring the commander as we discuss how to deal with these treacherous peasants!" King Andrew ordered.

As the royal messenger fled out of the king's court, tensions rose. King Andrew could tell more than half of his court wanted to do nothing more than run away and hide in their homes. Abandoning their kingdom to the fate of mere peasants. Bandits, barbarians, and savages! Who were in bed with the Church who never liked him or his policies! However, he refused to go down alone. They were going to fight together or die together. There was no other option.

 

[Namgo]

John stood on the battlefield as he peered at the king's army. He frowned at what he saw. His wife and Pete shared his feelings as they looked at the paltry state of the army sent to defend the entrance to the capital where the royal family lived. It was an excellent strategy, John had to admit, but it was useless in this case.

"They want us to sully our reputation by slaughtering the peasants they forced to take up arms," Lydia explained.

"Well, we can't just let them manipulate our future people for their own selfish means." Pete smiled as he patted John's shoulder.

"I'll get them to stand down. Leo, you take out the leaders that are there to ensure the peasants don't just flee." John replied.

"Couldn't think of an easier job to do." Leo spun his spinning blades.

"Golden Snakes, head out," Pete ordered.

John led his men toward the army of peasants at a leisurely pace to not frighten the peasants into attacking out of fear for their lives. He still had to speak with them to get them to stand down and hopefully reveal the King's knights, forcing them to fight a battle they had no interest in fighting. Hydra wasn't a name that the kingdom didn't know of. Hydra was a name that inspired hope, joy, and relief amongst the peasants in the kingdom. Even the peasants under King Andrew's direct rule have heard of the amazing group, Hydra. Thanks to the efforts of the bishops, monks, and nuns inside the capital.

As the Golden Snakes approached the army that held far more numbers than they did, they could see the peasants shaking in fear. Their gilded armor designed with the Hydra's sigil brightly shined in the sun-lit sky. When they arrived some distance away from the peasant army, they heard multiple shouts to charge. Just as the fear of death was about to drive them mad and send them spiraling forward, John took charge of the situation.

"Halt!" His voice seemed to reach every person on the battlefield. "Stand down innocent farmers, tradesmen, and youths. Hydra is not here to harm you but to save you." John's words calmed the frenzied aura previously held by the army.

"Charge, or we will kill the traitors to the Kingdom!" A voice shouted, forcing a young man to run forward.

"Point out those that would force innocent people to their death, and we will help you return home without a single injury." John offered.

John's reasonable words instantly took the peasants who didn't want to be here in the first place. Instead of fighting a hopeless battle against a group they liked, why not help the group they liked? They looked a lot stronger than them, anyway. What could a bunch of commoners like themselves do against a trained army with proper weapons, armor, horses, and tactics?

John's words lit a spark within the repressed majority. The peasants captured those that the King sent to kill them if they didn't fight. Some lost their lives trying to fight against the trained knights, but in the end, the troublemaking leaders were swiftly killed or captured. Leo killed the more resistant ones while the peasants captured the ones who couldn't handle being surrounded. Once the King's knights were captured, John, with his giant flail, killed them one by one.

"Please stay here and wait till we end King Andrew's tyranny. Hydra will bring peace and comfort to everyone within the kingdom! This is my promise! Commoners will no longer be treated as toys and playthings by nobles but as individuals with heard voices and protected rights. Just as the laws protect the nobles, they shall now protect you and your families as well. No one will be above the law! Not even the king himself!" John shouted.

The peasants roared out in support of John's words. "Let us support you, Hydra! To take down the greedy, selfish king! Some people were so inspired that they wanted to help out. However, John shook his head. "I thank you for your brave words, but leave this type of fighting to us. It is enough for Hydra that you all are willing to stand behind us even during these trying times. Please continue supporting us as we strive for justice, fairness, and comfort for all. Spread the word of our actions once this is all over. That is my only request." John pleaded.

They only had to talk about Hydra's righteous actions after this was all over? They didn't have to risk their lives or anything but just spread the word? That was too easy, wasn't it? Was that really enough to make up for Hydra risking their lives to bring peace to the kingdom? The commoners didn't get an answer as the Golden Snakes charged forward toward the royal city where King Andrew's true army was waiting for them.

King Andrew's true army came flooding out of the gates, perched on top of the city walls, and ready to defend the king with their lives, unlike the army before. This was going to be a true battle. There was no time for talking, negotiations, or anything of the sort. An army rushed at the Golden Snakes with superior numbers, along with arrows prepared to fly overhead.

Since John's wife was away, he shouted orders for his men to follow. Orders to help them survive in the battle. John was at the head of the charge alongside his best friend Leo and his longest comrades. With each swing of his giant flail, three or more knights would fall. His armored horse, which was far larger than any war horse should be, killed any infantry by stomping them to death.

Through John's charge, the Golden Snakes managed to cut through hundreds of men before the desperate combined forces of the King's army and his loyal Lords halted their momentum. It turned their brash charge forward against them as the nearly split enemy army turned inward to surround and choke them to death. Slowly, they were being forced backward. At this turn of the battle, John ordered them to fall back as he protected their backs. Leo stood next to his side, killing just as many or even more knights as he was.

As John crushed any knights that neared him one by one, Leo tossed his spinning blades and de-limbed any knight that looked like they were shouting orders within his eyesight. The two most famous figures within Golden Snakes were covered in blood, surrounded by corpses, and frightened the knights around them into quivering messes. Eventually, their men managed to break through the encirclement, and they were successfully retreating. The King's army just watched as John and Leo ensured that no one had any ideas to stop them by standing their ground and simply staring at the enemy army.

Once their men were safely out, John and Leo left without anyone trying anything. Of course, once they made it a safe distance away from the King's army, they filled the skies with raining arrows. It surprised John to see the enemy had the same idea as them. Arrows came flying down on both armies as the rest of Hydra finally caught up.

John didn't bother protecting himself, thanks to the armor given to him by Lord Feedback, but instead stood in front of his men, who were too slow to react. Leo spun his spinning blades and easily deflected any arrows that came flying toward him. After the first clash, the Golden Snakes lost some men, but in comparison to the hell they caused for the King's army. John thought it was an acceptable loss.

Hydra shot their arrows toward both the King's army and the castle walls. Along with the arrows came a bunch of fun devices his wife and Pete were excited to use again so soon. Multiple catapults came rolling over the horizon. John and his snakes joined up with the other Heads to regroup before charging at the King's army while arrows continued to fly.

However, now they had giant stones destroying the castle walls. John smiled as their job got a hell of a lot simpler. "All we need to do is kill them! Once they're dead, the kingdom is ours!" John shouted. Hydra shouted with a bloodthirsty cheer as they rushed forward.

It was a complete slaughter. Hydra ripped through the king's army like they were children. If facing against the Golden Snakes was a struggle, then facing all of Hydra together was like trying to stop a force of nature. Man did not beat nature. He only did his best to survive against it.

However, survival against Hydra? There wasn't a strategy in the world that could stop the onslaught of bandits tearing them apart. They took no survivors, even from those who surrendered. The battlefield was a mixture of death, madness, and terror.

The King's army, which had been sitting on its laurels for years, stood no chance against the ever-growing army of Hydra that had never stopped expanding since John's recruitment. Sure, they may have trained in preparation for fighting a mere mercenary band, but Hydra was no mere mercenary group. They haven't been for a long time. It was King Andrew's willful ignorance that caused the downfall of his army today. It was also that ignorance that led Hydra straight to his throne room with him at their mercy.

 

[Namgo]

"Saintess Lydia, we've captured the royal family along with their most loyal supporters." Cardinal Godfrey smiled.

John, Pete, Lydia, Leo, and some others from Hydra appeared in the throne room armed. In front of them were their enemies. Tied, muffled, and slightly roughed up from the armed monks and nuns. Lydia couldn't help but smile brightly at the sight of this unexpected boon. This wasn't even a plan of hers!

"I'm impressed, Godfrey. I didn't think you had it in you to give me such a good surprise." Lydia happily replied.

"It wasn't much, Saintess. Once our people heard Hydra was on their way, we immediately started to plan for your arrival." Godfrey explained.

King Andrew shouted all of his fury and hatred out toward both Hydra and the Church. Since his mouth was muffled, nothing he said could be understood. Although, everyone knew the gist of what he wanted to say. Pete calmly walked over to the captured members of the King's court.

"If only you spared the time to care about someone other than yourself." Pete happily lectured the bound king. "Then we probably wouldn't be in this situation in the first place."

"An idiot through and through." Lydia clicked her tongue. "Why go against the people that make up the majority of your kingdom? Jealousy? Incompetence? Insanity?" Lydia only shook her head as she already started to think of how to improve this kingdom for the better.

"Should we execute them?" Cardinal Godfrey asked.

"No. Not yet." Pete shook his head. "Their execution for their crimes toward the kingdom needs to be a public display. Everyone needs to know that this wasn't a treasonous uprising but an undertaking of righteous justice. For the betterment of everyone and the punishment of those who wished to do wrong to the innocent." He explained.

"Understood." Godfrey motioned for his men to take them to the dungeons.

"I'll keep watch." John offered as he followed the trained monks and nuns.

"Thank you, dear! Love you!" Lydia called out.

"Love you too," John responded back while keeping an eye on the prisoners.

"Right, so, now we gotta run a kingdom, boys." Pete looked at his Heads. "Before ya start pissing your pants, let me tell ya, it won't be that different from what we've been doing before. Me and Lydia will do most of the hard work and thinking. All you knuckleheads need to do is just listen to us and don't get fucking conceited. I'm still your boss. It's just that now I'm gonna be your king. A simple change of address and a few other stuff won't be too hard, will it, boys?"

"No, Your Majesty!" The Heads responded.

"You're starting off great already." Pete laughed as he sat on the throne.

---

The next few weeks were spent preparing for the execution of the previous king and his closest followers. It was a public event as everyone was invited to come watch in the front of the palace. There were attempts to free the royal family and previous advisors for the king, but John swiftly stopped them without much trouble. These supporters of the royal family were simply added to the dungeon cells—more heads to chop off when it was time for the execution.

Pete, Lydia, John, and the other Heads stood on the podium with the chained criminals. John held the executioner's flail as Pete prepared to speak. Pete was dressed in royal attire alongside his wife and children. He walked forward and silenced the crowd with just his presence. It was an impressive sight for a man who was previously just a regular Lord. John knew that Pete had something that made him worth following, and it was that something that allowed him to capture the crowd without any words or actions. He couldn't put a name to it, but he could certainly feel it.

"My people. I bring you all here today to witness justice in action. No longer will this kingdom allow corruption, success through connections, and injustice to run freely. Andrew Marys has failed to properly run the kingdom. He overtaxed those who worked hard every day just to have enough food to feed their families. He punished those who did nothing wrong for the sake of pleasing nobles to feed his own vile greed. He cared little for the suffering of commoners and only the problems of the nobles. It wasn't enough that he didn't care, but Andrew Marys actively went against the very heart of the kingdom. That heart, being you all. You are the heart of this kingdom. Without you, there is no kingdom. I am your king, but I cannot run this kingdom without the help of all of you. I seek to fix all of the wrongdoings of the previous king and show you all a much better life. A life where your king has your best interests at heart." Pete took a breath. "And my first act of showing you all that is by punishing the ones that actively sought to destroy our very home. My good friend John, punish those that have been poisoning our home for so long and without any remorse." John raised his flail in response and swung down multiple times over.

---

John executed the royal family and their closest supporters. Each one had their head smashed in despite their struggles, cries, and begging. The crowd cheered at the sight of justice being done. John shouted alongside them as they dealt with one of the biggest illnesses eating away at their Kingdom. Hope rose within all of the citizens as Hydra took over the most powerful positions in the Holy Kingdom of Hydra. The pope made this day a special holiday in the holy calendar.

A huge celebration was held the next day, which was all funded by Hydra. Food, drinks, games, and acts of kindness and charity were all done at the celebration. After all, it was the founding of the Holy Kingdom of Hydra. What better way of imprinting this day as a great day than by directly improving the lives of their citizens? The celebration was done through Pete utilizing John's unknown source of funds along with the income from Lydia's many businesses. There wasn't a dent in the royal vault because of those two loyal Hydra members.

Lydia was made the Grand Advisor to King Pete. She would be his right-hand man in helping him manage the kingdom. In Pete's mind, there was no other person better suited for such a position. As far as he knew, there wasn't another man or woman alive smarter than Lydia. It was only because of her help that Hydra came so far. There was no doubt in his mind that making her his Grand Advisor was the only correct choice.

Of course, there was some resistance and muttering from noble lords about a woman having so much power and status over them. These simple-minded Lords thought a woman incapable of relying on logic and reasoning, as most men thought of women as emotional creatures. Not creatures capable of managing a kingdom. A household, sure, but a kingdom? The scales were far too different in their minds.

Lydia silenced them immediately with actions instead of violence as she would have in the past. Her first action was swiftly cleaning up the mess made by the previous administration. She started a system of records that made it incredibly difficult to be a corrupt official working for the court. Numbers, reports, and personal funds were checked three times over. If any discrepancies were found, all those related would be fined and removed from their positions as long as it was proven not to be incompetence but intentional mistakes.

Positions were steadily being filled up thanks to Lydia and her men directly hiring students from Desmont University. Previously, these people were unable to find higher employment due to the previous administration caring more about status than skill or experience. It was a purposeful effort on Lydia's part to toss out these fossils that got by through the last king's laziness and replace them with her own investments. Even the slightest signs of corruption or discrimination based on status would have them sacked.

Due to Lydia and Pete's efforts, the Holy Kingdom of Hydra was quickly entering an era of prosperity. As the King and his Grand Advisor were working on improving the situation around the kingdom, John was made Knight Commander. It was his job to train, improve, and lead the army. A task far too easy for the follower of Lord Feedback. With the rewards given to him by his Lord, he transformed the royal army into an insurmountable force that could only be resisted with the combined force of three foreign nations.

Leo worked as the King's Shadow and protected him from all that wished to harm him in the dark. It wasn't as glamorous of a job as he thought it would be, but from time to time, he had some fun. He had a harem of concubines and more children than he knew what to do with. John made sure everyone knew of the King's Shadow and his impressive peerless strength. Knowing that Leo loved attention and would probably get bored if he didn't have people constantly talking about him.

As the years went by, The Holy Kingdom of Hydra became an unstoppable nation. John and Lydia never had any descendants, and not for a lack of trying. Neither complained about their circumstances but did adopt a few children as they couldn't simply die without experiencing parenthood at least once. All of John and Lydia's belongings were split between their three children. Three children went on to revolutionize the world thanks to their parents' upbringing. In other words, the myth of Heroic Giant John and the Saintess Grand Advisor went on to create further legends in history. None knowing that it was only possible, thanks to Lord Feedback supporting John all this time.

---

AN: I hope you all enjoyed the story of John the Bandit. I actually wrote this a long time ago, and I'm thoroughly surprised by how much people liked it.

 

[Namgo]

When she was born, it was with the scream of her brethren. She felt herself being pulled out of the ground and forced to hop away. Adrenaline, fear, and a small portion of annoyance mixed within her as she didn't understand a single thing going on. She simply followed the two bigger creatures in front of her and hopped with all the strength she could muster. As the high-pitched horrific screams continued, she was tempted to turn around to see what she was running from, but with her body being the way it was, she'd slow down, and no doubt suffer whatever fate the slower people went through.

"Gimme exp. Gimme exp. Gimme gimme gimme."

"The monsters are so realistic in this game."

"I knew I should've put more points into Body..."

They hopped and hopped and hopped until their stamina exhausted itself. The newly born creature was brought to a cave entrance. When others saw a refuge and a safe haven, she saw it as a death trap. Her parents saw her reluctance and tried to drag her inside, but she refused and hopped away. Although her stamina was at its lowest, she continued to hop away deeper into the forest. Even as her health started to drain from pushing herself past her limit, she continued until she saw something that resembled safety.

She rolled down a hill and lodged herself in a dense bush. At this point, her health was dangerously low. If she received even one hit or tried to push herself anymore, she would be no more. Time passed inside the bush as she recovered her health and stamina. As she stayed inside the bush as still as she could be, she realized her parents must not have followed her.

Hours passed until she felt safe enough to leave the bush. Her eyes peeked out, looking for danger or the sounds of more screaming. Neither appeared, so she began to eat her way out. Being born not too long ago, along with running for her life, built up quite the appetite. She ate and ate until the thick foliage that could hide her tiny body was reduced to branches.

Pop!

She jumped in fright at the sudden sound coming from her body. Her first instinct was to run, and run she did. Until she noticed that the popping sound didn't stop even as she hopped away, all it took was a single look down, and a quick glance up to realize whatever was happening to her was coming from her own body. She stopped running as differently colored mushrooms continued to extend out from her body and then dropped to the ground.

When she looked up, she didn't exactly understand what she was looking at but could somehow understand the weird symbols on it. It floated in the air, and when she focused her eyes on it, it suddenly expanded! This startled her into hopping backward, but once she did that, it did nothing else, so she continued to look at it.

Name: None


Level: 1


Race: Fungus


Job: None


Health: 100/100


Magic: 0/0


Stamina 100/100


Skills: Budding I (X100), Bounce I, Tackle I


Body: 1


Mind: 5


Magic: 0


SP:0 ​

None squeezed her insides to stop the even tinier mushrooms from popping out of her body. It worked until it started hurting by doing that. So, she immediately stopped doing that, and the mushrooms continued to pop out every few seconds or so. The mushrooms that popped out of None kind of reminded her of her brethren. They resembled them in all but size and color.

The mushrooms that popped out of None's body looked like any other mushroom, except they had small black beady eyes that could blink and immediately made it their goal to separate from None and hop off into the forest. Instinctively, None could tell what each of her mushrooms did just by looking at them. She thought it was cool, except their first reaction was to get as far away from her as soon as they came out. That made it difficult to eat them. So, None just found herself a safe place to hide and simply waited while soaking in the sun.

---

None's mushrooms hopped their way across Astoria Forest as if it were their mission to spread to every part of this monster-infested area. Some bothered to hide, some seemingly hopped with infinite energy, while others deliberately ran toward other creatures. This sudden and uncontrollable event couldn't be stopped even if someone looked for the source of the mushrooms. As such, events that normally wouldn't have come into place have now been put into motion by a strange turn of fate.

An innocent young doe could be seen eating a rather large, colorful mushroom. It smiled as the delicious taste of the fungi spread through its tongue, unaware of the changes happening to its body after taking a single bite of the item. Those changes happened instantly, and in the blink of an eye, the young doe quickly grew into a giant doe that towered over the trees in Astoria's Forest. However, it seemed not to notice a difference and simply began to eat the tops of the trees happily.

In another part of Astoria's Forest, a bunny could be seen peeking its head out of its burrow. In front of it was a hopping golden mushroom that made it shriek in fright. The rabbit dashed back into its burrow out of fear, only for the mushroom to hop down into the burrow to get closer to the animal. The rabbit screamed its little heart out as it backed up to the wall of its burrow out of terror at the golden mushroom. Once it extended all of its energy and adrenaline screaming while accepting its inevitable death, it realized a few things. This thing wasn't a monster that wanted to eat it. It smelt quite delicious and didn't taste so bad, either. Next thing it knew, the rabbit was zipping around the forest high on its newfound super speed.

Close to Astoria Village, a mushroom monster was innocently sitting in a forest clearing. It soaked in the sun while lazily relaxing. Unbeknown to it, as it was lying about, a silver gleaming mushroom suddenly hopped into its mouth when it yawned! The mushroom panicked as it felt something force itself down its throat. Since it had no arms, it had no way to try and force it out of its throat. It expected to start choking and dying, but instead, its body became a shiny silver coloration. Confusion took hold of the mushroom once it realized it wasn't dying. Then, a grey wolf suddenly attacked as it was still trying to process what the hell was happening. It shrieked in fright as it froze with a beast pouncing on top of it and biting into it.

When the mushroom monster realized that he could barely feel the claws and teeth of the monster, the paralyzing fear that stilled him disappeared. In its place, infinite courage soared within! Using its innate skill, Bounce, it hopped into the air with the wolf frantically holding on to it. The two of them soared high above the trees as the mushroom repositioned itself on top while they began to descend to the ground. A harsh crash and the remains of a grey wolf monster were left as the Metal Mushroom hopped its way deeper into the forest with a cocky grin on its face.