Chương 27: Sparring Between Gray and Goburus – I [ Bonus Chapter ]

As the Sphere Barrier solidified around the territory, a sudden change in the atmosphere caught Gobusuke's attention. Looking up towards the sky, he narrowed his eyes and muttered under his breath, "Hmm... a barrier. It must be Gobun who set that up."

Gobusuke continued to stare up at the barrier, analyzing it carefully. "Interesting," he murmured. "This barrier is pretty capable. It can actually defend and deflect any monster below 3-star rank."

He paused for a moment, considering the power of the barrier. "Gobun certainly has some good skills," he added, impressed by his fellow goblin's magical abilities. "This will certainly make our job easier and bring in a safer environment in the territory."

[ Lightning Samurai Goblin ] ( Legendary )

- Name: Gobsuke ( M )

- Level: 9

- Traits: Disciplined, Decisive, Opportunistic

- Loyalty: 100/100

- Skills:

- Lightning Whirlwind ( Active ) ( LVL: 1-star )

- Katana Mastery ( Passive ) ( LVL: 2-star )

: Enhances Gobusuke' proficiency with katana and other sharp weapons. His attacks with a katana deal 12% more damage.

After setting up the barrier, Gobun made his way towards Gray's cabin. When he arrived, he knocked twice on the door and said, "Good evening, my lord. It's Gobun here. Are you awake?"

"Yes, I'm awake. Open the door," Gray replied.

Gobun opened the door, and as he entered, he bowed in front of Gray as a sign of respect.

"Are you done placing the barrier in our territory, Gobun?" Gray asked.

"Yes, my lord. I've just placed the barrier in our territory a few moments ago," Gobun replied.

"Excellent work, Gobun. You have done well," Gray praised him. "May I know the strength of the barrier you have put in place?"

"I have managed to set up a barrier that can defend and deflect any monster below a 2-star rank," Gobun responded.

"Pretty d*mn good," Gray said, nodding in approval. "You must be here because you need some mana potion or something, right?"

"You guessed it right, my lord. I do need it to maintain the barrier in the territory," Gobun replied.

"Fair enough. Our territory is pretty big now, and setting up a barrier enough to cover it is an impressive feat," Gray said, nodding.

"Here," Gray said as he retrieved a crate from his inventory. "This contains 30 pieces of 1-star mana potion that I have brought for you. Let me know if you need more."

"Thank you, my lord. That is more than enough for now. I will keep improving my skills to form a stronger sphere barrier than what I can currently create," Gobun said with a determined expression.

"Good to hear. Keep up the good work, Gobun," Gray said with a smile."However, do remember that even the most talented people need rest. Burning the midnight oil is admirable, but neglecting your health could render all your efforts moot. So, take a break every now and then, okay? Your well-being is just as important as the well-being of our territory."

"Thank you for your concern, my lord. I will make sure to take a break whenever necessary to avoid exhaustion and maintain my physical and mental health," Gobun replied respectfully. "I understand that my well-being is important not only for me but also for our territory. I will continue to work hard and strive for our territory's success."

"I'm glad to hear that, Gobun," Gray replied, nodding his head in approval. "Remember, a healthy body and mind are the foundations of success. Take care of yourself, so you can continue to contribute to our territory's growth and prosperity."

"You may leave now, Gobun. Get some rest and come back energized," Gray added with a grin, dismissing his loyal servant.

Gobun's Loyalty +5!

As Gobun exited Gray's cabin, he couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. His work paid off, and he felt proud to be able to contribute to the protection of their territory. With a satisfied smile, he closed the door behind him and took a deep breath of fresh air.

Meanwhile, Gray lay down on his bed, staring at the ceiling with a thoughtful expression. "Today was a good day," he thought to himself. "But I can't let my guard down. I need to become even stronger if I want to ensure the safety and happiness of everyone in our territory."

With those thoughts in his mind, Gray closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep.

The next morning, the sun rose once again, casting a warm glow over the forest. Gray woke up feeling refreshed and ready to face the day ahead. "Time to get to work," he talked to himself.

Gray did his morning rituals and exited his cabin. He made his way to Gobusuke's usual location, the training ground, and found Gobusuke already training some of the goblins.

"Good morning, Gobusuke. I see you're already hard at work training the goblins," Gray greeted him.

"Good morning, my lord," Gobusuke replied. "Yes, the goblins are always excited to improve themselves."

The other goblins in the training ground also followed suit and greeted their lord, Gray.

"Good morning, boss!"

"Good day, chief!"

....

"Good morning to all of you. You can continue training now. I just need to borrow Gobusuke for a task," Gray said.

"What is it, my lord?" Gobusuke asked.

"I need you to investigate the territory of the lizard men. I suspect there is a coal and iron steel mine near them that could be of use to us. Create a team to go with you and come to me when you're done with it." Gray instructed.

"Understood, my lord. I'll form the team and report to you when we're ready," Gobusuke confirmed.

"Good," Gray said with a nod before leaving the training ground.

After bidding farewell to his goblins, Gray made his way towards the summoning altar. With a deep breath, he began the daily ritual of summoning goblins, hoping to receive a valuable addition to their workforce.

"I hope lady luck doesn't hate my guts today," Gray chuckled as he approached the summoning altar. "Or maybe she's too busy playing a prank on me, who knows?" He then proceeded to activate the interface, hoping for the best but expecting the worst.

Gray followed the usual step-by-step process, and this was the result of today's summoning:

- Farmer Goblin ( Uncommon ) ( x2 )

- Carpenter Goblin ( Uncommon ) ( x1 )

- Archer Goblin ( Common ) ( x1 )

- Warrior Goblin ( Common ) ( x1 )

"Regular luck today, but not too shabby," Gray said as he greeted the freshly summoned goblins. After introducing himself, he explained their specific job duties within the territory.

Once he had finished with the introductions, Gray led the new goblins to the training ground. He introduced them to the veteran goblins, who would help with their training and ensure they understood their responsibilities. Gray then made his way to a corner of the training ground and picked up a wooden katana.

Gray took a deep breath and began his daily exercise routine, which consisted of a series of warm-up stretches, lunges, and squats to loosen up his muscles and improve his balance.

Once he was warmed up, Gray began his iaido sword art training routine. He drew the wooden katana from its sheath in a smooth, fluid motion, slicing through the air with precision and elegance. He moved through a series of stances, thrusts, and parries, each movement executed with perfect form and control.

As Gray was focused on his iaido training, he noticed Goburus training seriously in the corner as well. "Impressive work, Goburus," Gray said, walking over to the goblin. "You've really been putting in the effort lately."

Goburus looked up, a look of surprise on his face. "Thank you, boss," he replied, trying to hide his excitement.

Gray smiled. "I can see that you're getting stronger and more skilled with the scythe every day. How about we put your training to the test? Would you like to spar with me?"

Goburus' eyes widened with enthusiasm. "Really, boss? I'd be honored!" he exclaimed, ready for the challenge.