Praise the Orc! Chapter 197-200

Chapter 197 – Like a Slave, Like a King (1)

Crockta's group left the great forest. They were in the territory of the orcs. Although the forest was still thick, it wasn't as dangerous as the great forest area. As they passed through the forest, animals like deer and rabbits stared at them.

“A nostalgic landscape.” Crockta muttered.

This was the scenery he saw when he was on his way to Grant to defeat the mutant wolves, his first assignment from Lenox. If they kept heading north, they would soon reach Orcrox.

“It has been a long time since I've been to Orcrox, so it feels good." Zankus said. Crockta laughed.

“Don't be excited, we are going to war."

“That makes me more excited."

"Kulkul, me too. It is exciting!"

Both orcs expressed confidence in the following battle.

“An incredible number of enemies will probably come."

“It doesn't matter. If there are 10,000 people, hunt 10,000 people. If there are one million people, hunt one million people."

"If the gods come?"

Zankus smiled, “I will hunt a god."

An absurd remark! But they were Zankus, the hunter who penetrated the sun, and Crockta, the warrior who conquered the north and stopped the empire. It wasn't arrogant to say this. Crockta and Zankus weren't bragging, but talking about their aspirations in the future war.

"I see something dot." Tiyo shouted.

As he said, there was something. An adult's figure could be seen from behind the bushes. As they approached, the appearance became clearer.

"This…?"

It was an elf. But it wasn't an ordinary elf.

“What the hell is this guy dot?"

"It isn't an ordinary elf."

"A little… No, the elf is very strange."

The elf, dressed in splendid clothing, was sitting on the rock and thinking about something. He failed to notice Crockta's group approaching him because he was deep in thought. The figure of the elf was clearly like Rodin's 'The Thinker!'

But unlike the naked sculpture, his outside was beautiful and colorful. The silk and gold threads made him look as luxurious as the emperor. It was a strange appearance that didn't match the forest.

"You over there." Crockta said as he approached. But there was no answer.

"Hey dot!" Tiyo shouted. The elf didn't panic at the sudden yell. He raised a hand from his chin. It was a signal to keep quiet. However, Tiyo couldn't.

"What are you doing dot?"

"……"

"Hey? Can you hear me dot?"

The elf, who had his eyes closed, sighed and got up. His clothing flowed downwards. “There are two kinds of people in the world. A person who interferes with someone's thoughts, and a person who leaves them alone."

“Did we bother you dot?"

"I didn't say that. But at the very least, I can't let it go." His quiet voice had an air of dignity. They met an unusual person in the forest.

“What happened?” Then the bushes rustled and one more person appeared. An orc warrior. He stood next to the elf and faced Crockta's group.

"No, who are you?" The orc asked.

“That is what we want to ask dot!"

An orc stood beside an elf. The combination of the luxuriously dressed elf and the orc warrior with the weapon was curious, like a nobleman and the servant who served him.

The orc rolled his eyes and introduced himself. “I am Arakunta, who is accompanying this person. A warrior."

“The elf?"

The elf didn't open his mouth. The orc explained. “We met in the forest. I don't know his name."

"What is your relationship dot? The combination of elf and orc is strange."

“Your group is also strange but…" The orc shrugged. “I am on my way to Orcrox. I think that you are the same. Not long ago, there was an absurd divine message about the orcs being attacked."

Crockta nodded. “Yes. We are on our way to meet the enemies of Orcrox."

"I am doing the same. Although immature, I am still a warrior recognized by Hoyt and Tashaquil! I can't stay still."

Hoyt had become the warrior instructor after Lenox. In other words, Arakunta was a warrior younger than Crockta.

Crockta smiled warmly. "How brave! Truly an orc warrior, Arakunta!"

“Kulkulkul. It is nothing, Senior!" Arakunta already noticed that Crockta was a more experienced warrior than him. “Anyway, I was going to Orcrox because of that, and was surrounded by ogres when passing through the great forest. It would be different if there was one, but there were too many for me."

Ogres were classified as some of the most dangerous among the creatures. There weren't many monsters stronger than ogres, but they weren't the top predators because of their small numbers. Being able to face one ogre alone already made him a great warrior.

Of course, Crockta's group were an exception because they had already gone beyond the normal level.

“Then this elf saved me."

“This elf dot?"

"Yes. He is a quiet person with many thoughts, but he has great strength. He defeated the ogres in an instant. He followed me once I said I was heading to Orcrox. I just took a few minutes to hunt."

Crockta's group looked at the elf. There was something about him apart from his unique appearance. Crockta felt something unknown from him. There was a sense of familiarity about him. It felt like he had seen the gaze that penetrated inside him before. However, this was definitely the first time he saw the elf.

Crockta stared at him and asked, "Anyway, it is nice to meet you. What is your name? I am Crockta. As you can see, I am an orc warrior."

The reaction came from the side.

"Crockta…!"

Arakunta's eyes widened. Crockta was the envy of all newbie warriors. The last person trained by legendary instructor Lenox, the apprentice warrior who grew up and quickly became the strongest orc. His name was all over the continent. In particular, the story that he attacked the imperial army alone and eventually destroyed it with his friends was heard in every ear.

“Are you really the 'Northern Conqueror' and 'Empire's Deficit' Crockta?" Arakunta asked.

“It is the first time I've heard of 'Empire's Deficit' but I am definitely the 'Northern Conqueror.'"

"Ohh, Crockta! It is an honor to meet you!" Arakunta approached him for a huge and to shake hands. Crockta laughed and accepted him. “Then the people here…"

Arakunta looked at Tiyo and Anor in turn.

“The famous two people who are always with Crockta…! No wonder why the combination was strange!"

Tiyo and Anor pricked their ears. Arakunta pointed at Anor with shaking shoulders and shouted.

“Then this dark elf! You are the lord of the dead, 'Death's Ruler' Anor!"

“……!”

Anor looked awkward. He hadn't used his necromancy often after coming down to the continent. Nevertheless, his reputation increased as he traveled with Crockta and such a great title ended up attached to him.

“If so, this small gnome!"

“Hehet, yes, I am that gnome dot!"

Tiyo shrugged.

“Magic Bullets Berserker!"

“W-What dot?"

“When a battle is going on, there is a rampage of magic bullets, 'Magic Bullets Berserker' Tiyo!"

Tiyo's mouth twisted. He didn't seem to like the expression 'berserker.'

Tiyo cleared his throat and said. "Hum hum. Well, rather than that expression…merciless shooter…storm bombardment…"

But Arakunta had already turned away. “These two I know, but Orc, what is your name? You look like a hunter."

He examined Zankus. His tone was polite because he realized Zankus wasn't an ordinary hunter after seeing the huge bow. “Is your name perhaps…"

Zankus shrugged at Arakunta, "Zankus."

“Z-Z-Z-Zankus!"

Arakunta was thrilled as he looked at Crockta's group.

"Crockta and his friends, as well as the legendary hunter who shot down the sun, 'Sun Killer' Zankus! That is a really huge arrow! I will have no regrets, even if I die today!"

He shook like Zankus' arrow was pointed at him.

"Calm down. I'm not that great of an orc."

“What are you talking about? Zankus and Crockta are legendary orcs. I met legends today!"

Arakunta's fussing continued.

“Hrmm…”

Crockta ignored Arakunta and looked at the elf. He hadn't heard the name of the elf yet.

“Anyway, so what is your name?”

"Name…I can't tell you my name." The elf replied.

Crockta raised his eyebrows.

“What an expensive person."

“We aren't going to stay together long, so there is no need to know my name."

“I see. Are you going to Orcrox?"

"No."

“Then where?"

"I'm not going anywhere."

His words were like a zen riddle.

"Then?"

“Until when is the right question. I will walk until I find the answer."

"Umm…"

“If you are heading to Orcrox, we should go together."

The elf wanted to join Crockta's group. 

This elf had a strange head His clothing wasn't that of a warrior, but he was a magician strong enough to defeat ogres. There were plenty of magicians who became strange due to their long research. The elf probably belonged in that category.

"Crockta! Let's go to Orcrox together!" Arakunta’s eyes shone as he exclaimed.

Crockta looked back at his party. Everybody shrugged.

“Well…there is no reason to reject dot."

“It doesn’t matter.”

"Huhu, I will show you my skills dot!"

Thus, Crockta was accompanied by the novice warrior Arakunta and the unidentified elf.

***

Aklan's expedition was cruising. A few unexpected places declined but it was heading in a positive direction.

The number of volunteers increased as the faithful and temples continued to participate. Nobles and knights who wanted to build merits also joined the expedition. There were too many people, so he had to divide the command.

“The Blacksmith Company declined the deal," Aklan said as he marched beside Adandator.

They were near Arnin, the city of elves.

“Why?”

“It is the result of the meeting they called."

“It is about trust. The orcs."

Aklan scratched his head. "Well, it isn't a big deal. We can find another company before the battle. There is time. Ask the Thompson Company; its headquarters in Anail are right in front of Orcrox."

"You should find out more." Adandator said while swinging his blade through the air. “There are many unexpected things. Who knows what will happen in the future. Don’t you know? Perhaps Crockta has a relationship with Thompson."

"……"

Aklan imagined it. It seemed possible.

As he organized the expedition and moved across the continent, he had to face Crockta's trail. In fact, Aklan didn't know much about Crockta. Before appearing in the south, the gods had whispered 'Northern Conqueror' and he was 'Empire's Deficit' after fighting the empire. That was all he knew.

However, Crockta had many achievements outside the south. The people praised him. It was an act difficult to imagine with a person colluding with the gray god.

"If that is the case…"

“Don't worry about it."

Someone said from behind him.

It was one of the nobles who joined the expedition. He ruled a small territory in the east. Rather than volunteering because of faith, he wanted to increase his reputation and earn some of the profit from this expedition.

"Peros."

“Anail has a very dangerous man."

"Dangerous man?"

“He rules the underworld there. A man who runs Anail and exerts influence throughout the continent. The king of the back alleys." He smiled. “Even Thompson can't fight him in Anail. And I am familiar with the king of Anail. I did something for him before, and his work is thorough. I'll ask him to stop Thompson from refusing the deal."

“He is a criminal."

“Of course, the worst villain and cold-blooded. But in this case, a villain is the strongest ally. Thompson can't resist him."

Aklan fell silent. While it would be better if the deal with the Thompson Company were successful, he was unwilling to hold hands with a criminal.

Adandator asked instead of Aklan. "What is his name?"

“Derek."

"I've heard it somewhere before. Then, please ask."

"Please leave it to me. I will send a messenger down. It will be a quick horse.”

A cooperation with Derek was established. Aklan declared, “But we are are an expedition that follows the gods' will. Holding hands with such a person…"

“You are a very stiff person."

Peros frowned. Adandator also winked at him.

"Everybody…"

Aklan sighed, "Do you think so as well?"

Aklan looked back at the army following him. Numerous gazes were gathered on him, They were the heads of the expedition moving with them. The nobles and commanders, as well as Aklan and Adandator. They nodded as he listened to the conversation.

“If there is light, shadows have to exist. Please leave it to us this time."

“We need to be as prepared as possible. The orcs are tough opponents."

“There is a secular way of life. We need to use everything possible.:

Even the priests of the other temples closed their eyes. It was unspoken consent. He couldn't go against the majority opinion. Aklan once again felt nervous about the expedition. There was an anxiety that kept stabbing at his stomach.

Yes, it was present since Maillard.

'All of them admire Crockta.'

It was the same at Chesswood.

'Listen carefully, Crockta is our hero!'

He once again deeply sighed.

"…I understand."

Peros gave an order to his deputy, who headed to the rear. Within a short time, a messenger rose away from the army. Aklan felt heavier with every step. He wanted to stop this. But, he didn't stop. Numerous volunteers were following behind Aklan. Now he couldn't stop.

He moved forward like he was pushed. Adandator, Peros, the other nobles who were shoulder-to-shoulder with him. Aklan stepped forward like he was caught in their wave. The momentum of the crowd didn't stop. He couldn't tell whether he was leading them or being pushed by them.

Praise the Orc: 

Current schedule: There will now be 14 chapters a week, meaning two chapters every day.

Chapter 198 – Like a Slave, Like a King (2)

“What are you thinking about?" asked Crockta.

The furrowed lines on the elf's face didn't disappear as he continued simultaneously thinking, walking, and eating. Yet he kept looking at Crockta, Zankus, and Arakunta, as if he were observing them.

Crockta felt a monkey being studied by a zoologist. 

“I don't know what it is, but I might be able to help."

The elf stared at Crockta with an intense gaze. However, his answer was a refusal. "No, it is a problem that I have to answer."

“Then please stop. Do you have to look at us to find the answer?"

The elf nodded in agreement, "That's right."

"Then what's the problem? I feel worried when you look at us."

"I can't tell you."

“Ohh, how frustrating!"

Arakunta laughed as he watched both of them. “He's a person with many secrets. Still, he isn't a bad person so calm down."

Crockta nodded as he chewed on meat. "I understand. By the way…."

They were eating the venison that Zankus hunted and Tiyo cooked. Their speed was a little slower after Arakunta and the elf joined, but they were steadily heading towards Orcrox. They would arrive soon.

“Setting aside the elf friend for now, what's that noise?"

“Isn't it someone passing by dot?

"They seem to be hiding."

Zankus chewed on the venison and said, "Sounds like bandits."

They were talking about a rustling bush. While Crockta's group was eating, the bushes moved and a group of humans approached. They seemed to be sneaking around, but it was impossible to fool Crockta's group. They all knew about the approach of the humans and kept quiet.

"Y-You noticed quickly!"

“But that doesn’t change anything, Orcs!"

The humans popped out from the bushes, all wearing the same equipment: leather armor, a sword, and a shield. Their posture was poor, but their willpower was good.

"In the name of the gods!"

“Punish the orcs!"

They rushed forward. Crockta's group exchanged glances, as if passing on the burden, before eventually settling on Crockta. Crockta couldn't hold up against their heavy gazes and stood up with New Slayer in hand.

"Annoying."

Crockta stepped forward and wielded the sword. The wind blew. The enemies were pushed away by the wind pressure and fell.

“Hup!”

"What?"

Their momentum was quickly dampened by his overwhelming dance. They couldn't come any closer and stared at Crockta. The fallen people raised their bodies. Their weapons trembled.

"What strength…!"

They grabbed their necklaces and prayed to their god. The group wasn't made up of bandits, but fanatics targeting the orcs. Apart from the expedition, there were also small groups raiding orcs. However, they found the wrong opponents.

“Follow the divine message! For the god of war!"

“We shall shed blood for the goddess of mercy!"

"For the divine message!"

They rushed towards Crockta's group again. However, Crockta broke all their weapons using New Slayer. As soon as the greatsword hit it, the shields flew away from the shock. They weren't his opponents.

“Do you still want to continue?"

Crockta headed towards the fallen humans. The humans wriggled as the shadow approached. Crockta smiled and placed his foot on the chest of one person, who let out a moan.

“Yes, the gods want to kill us?"

“Kuock…that's right. The goddess of mercy, no one else, said that! How wicked must you be for the goddess of mercy and compassion to want to kill you! For the goddess!"

They wielded their weapons again but were forced to drop them due to Crockta.

"Keeeok…"

"The gods…"

Crockta shrugged and asked, “Have you ever wondered about the gods you are following?"

"What nonsense is this…?”

“I will let you know. They aren't perfect. They lie as we do and deceive others for their own benefit."

Crockta knew about the divine message. So he knew that the gods weren't absolutely omnipotent. The gods believed that Crockta and the orcs were colluding with the grey god. This was false. Crockta had met the grey god. But they were closer to enemies than allies.

The situation was ridiculous in Crockta's eyes, so he thought that the people who believed in the divine message were pitiful.

“We aren't conspiring with the grey god.”

“What nonsense are you saying?"

"We have no intention of causing a war."

“Shut up! We will get rid of you!"

“I see."

The humans had no intention of listening to Crockta's words. Was it because Crockta was pointing a sword at them? Or was their beliefs really that high? Crockta lifted New Slayer to confirm it. He moved the blade.

"W-Wait a minute…"

The greatsword slowly fell down. The struggling man caught the blade with his hand. He couldn't wrap his hand around New Slayer's huge blade.

"Kuooooh…"

He also couldn't beat Crockta's strength. He closed his eyes as the blade of the sword pointed at his neck.

“W-Wait a minute…!"

“I’m going to kill you." Crockta grinned.

The man shouted as it was about to touch him, "S-Spare me!"

The blade stopped.

“Spare you?"

"Y-Yes. Stop for a second…"

“Didn't you say you wanted to kill me and the orcs?"

"I lost. I admit it." The man shouted with closed eyes. Moisture emerged from the tightly closed eyes. “I surrender! Spare me!"

His hands shook while holding onto the blade and he shouted.

“Do the rest of you have the same thoughts?"

Crockta looked around at the believers. Their breathing was rough as they watched Crockta and the man. Then they nodded. Crockta pulled New Slayer away.

"Understood."

The man got up quickly and stood with his party. They all looked at Crockta.

Crockta declared, "Throw away your weapons."

They exchanged looks before slowly dropping their weapons. The spears, swords, shields, etc were all dropped.

"And…" Crockta placed New Slayer on his shoulder. "Get out of here. The scared humans started to run away.

Crockta admired their quick movements before returning to the party. His face was calm because it was a natural victory.

“Daring to go against Crockta… humans are so stupid!"

Arakunta was delighted after seeing their movements. Crockta laughed as he sat back down and picked up the venison. It hadn't cooled down yet.

"Hey." At that time, the elf opened his mouth. “Why did you just let them go?"

Crockta chewed on the venison and replied.

"Why?"

“They will come back again after running away. They will join the expedition or attack the other orcs."

Crockta nodded. “I guess so."

“Then why did you leave them alive?"

"That…" Crockta laughed. He swallowed the venison and said. “It is a good day."

“What are you talking about?"

“The sunshine is good and the wind is cool, so I let them go. They are just following the gods' divine message, and haven't sinned."

"……"

"In addition, a warrior doesn't attack unarmed people!"

The lines on the elf's face thickened further. “Are you serious?”

“I'm serious." Crockta got up after the meal. “There is one thing I want to say."

“What is it?”

“I don’t know what you are so worried about. Anyway, all of us will die someday. Life is short so we should just focus on the present." Crockta grinned. “You are alive right now.”

The elf's eyes widened at Crockta's words. At the same time, the wrinkles on his brow disappeared. His face was like a pure and bright elf youth. He looked at Crockta quietly before the lines reappeared. But there was a slight smile on his face.

"I see. Yes, that is your greeting." He muttered.

Crockta's group started moving again. Now Crockta knew the terrain. Orcrox was around the corner.

***

Anail's king of the underworld. No one could go against him. It didn't mean he terrorized the citizens. However, he penetrated into people's psychology and deliberately seduced them into a contract. If they cheated and broke the contract, a pain worse than death waited.

That was his way. As such, he also kept his promises.

“Thompson.” Then he slowly called the opponent's name. The opponent's face was distorted with pain. "Your answer?"

"……"

“It will just get worse…" Anail's king teased. A pained moan emerged from Thompson's mouth.

"Ugh..!"

The man grinned, “It would be easier if you listened to me."

Thompson gritted his teeth and replied, "Don't make me…laugh."

“You don't seem to know your situation." 

The man's laughter rang out in the sealed room. Thompson's body shook as he closed his eyes. He didn't expect this man to be like this. He had been silent, only to suddenly push the blade towards Thompson. Thompson tried to resist as much as possible, but it couldn't be helped.

He visualized many scenes in his head as the man's hand moved again.

Then he cried out, "Stop."

“Now give up.”

"Stop. I understand."

The man laughed, “People are fun. You know the result yet still want to challenge it. Continue and continue. In the vain belief that one day you will win."

"……"

"It is human weakness. Thompson.”

Thompson couldn't resist anymore and shouted, “Ah, don't imitate that bastard's tone!"

The man was surprised at the sudden shout, "W-Why are you shouting all of a sudden, Brother?"

"That's it. You cheated! That's right!" Thompson pointed at the chessboard located between them. “You were a novice before the bet, yet your skills suddenly improved? Isn't this cheating in chess?"

“Oh, I didn't study. Brother, there is no need to be angry. I don't study but my mind is good. I got better after a few matches. Brother's mind is too stiff!"

"Eek…!" Thompson took deep breaths from where he was sitting. "Pant, pant. Ah, shit."

The man laughed at Thompson's voice and said, “The game is over. Then, I will enforce the contract…"

"Don't follow Derek!"

“What’s wrong with that?" The man whistled. “He has already died."

Jeremy grinned. “Isn't that right, Kids?"

The big men in black outfits, watching the chess match, bowed their heads and shouted.

"That's right! Brother!"

"That's correct!"

"Dead!"

“Brother killed him!"

Jeremy shrugged. “Right.”

Thompson shook his head at the scene. “Derek didn't do this but…"

“This fits my taste. By the way…" Jeremy coughed. “Doesn't the expedition want you to sell supplies to them?"

“Ah, there was something like that."

“Are you going to sell it?"

"What?"

“Sell goods…"

“You bastard, are you disregarding me? Eh!" Thompson jumped up and overturned the chessboard. "I am Thompson. I'm not a man who will break faith. Crockta and Hoyt are my friends! I absolutely won't sell to them!"

“Ah, no! Uh!" Jeremy's face distorted. “Why is the chessboard overturned!"

"Eh? My mistake. Why did you say something like that? It is your fault."

"This is completely cheating!"

“Aren't you trying to swindle a merchant living on one credit?"

The two big shots of Anail. Thompson of the Thompson Company and Jeremy, king of Anail's underworld, hollered at each other.

Praise the Orc: 

Current schedule: There will now be 14 chapters a week, meaning two chapters every day.

Chapter 199 – Like a Slave, Like a King (3)

The spires of Orcrox appeared in the distance. 

The unidentified elf spoke, "Crockta."

It was rare for him to speak first.  Crockta stared at him. 

"I have one question."

“Ask me."

The elf stopped. Crockta's party stopped walking. At that moment, the party felt that this elf would leave soon. It was an unknown feeling. This would probably be the elf's final question.

“What does this look like?"

The elf raised his hand and a strange thing happened. The dense tree above them started to bow down. The branches of the trees slowly lowered towards them in a courteous gesture, like the trees were living creatures. The mouths of Crockta's group dropped open.

“Crockta. What do you think of this?"

A sparrow on the branch moved onto the elf's finger. The trees and sparrow both moved for him.

"That…" Crockta looked at it. It was just a plain sparrow. "A sparrow."

"That's right. A sparrow." The elf raised his hand. The sparrow flew off. However, it didn't fly away and landed on the elf's shoulders. "It looks and sounds like a sparrow. Maybe it has a yellow beak. The important thing is that at least it isn't a crow."

“That’s right. It certainly isn't a crow."

"Then…” The elf stared straight at Crockta. “If everyone calls this bird a crow, what will you do?"

Crockta looked confused because he didn't understand the question, "What does that mean…?"

“This bird is clearly not a crow. It doesn't look like one. But everyone calls this bird a crow. Everyone in the world is saying so except for you."

The sparrow once again landed on the elf's finger. The sparrow turned his head and gazed at Crockta. This elf didn't have a malicious mentality. Crockta could feel it. Otherwise, this little bird wouldn't be able to be in the elf's hands with a calm face.

The elf continued speaking, “The whole world except for you is calling it a crow. If you say this is a sparrow instead of a crow, everyone will turn away from you. Maybe they will tease you for being blind, or call you a liar. No matter how you shout, no one will listen. You will be labeled a maniac."

"Ahh…"

“Crockta. Will you still call this bird a sparrow? Or will you turn away and say it is a crow?"

Crockta smiled. It was an easy question.

“Well, if everyone is calling a sparrow a crow… It is a big deal."

“I see…"

"But that is it." Crockta touched the handle of his greatsword. “Unless a sparrow tells me that it is a crow, I will call a sparrow a sparrow."

"……"

“If people were to paint the feathers black and call a sparrow a crow, I will do my utmost to stop them and say that it is a sparrow."

Crockta looked at Tiyo, Anor and Zankus. They shrugged. Crockta smiled at the elf.

“A sparrow is a sparrow."

The elf shook his head, “Then you will be alone. Nobody will want to be with you. Rather, you will become a strange being."

It was a soft voice. Crockta burst out laughing. His laugh rang through the silent forest.

“You are a slave dressed like a king."

“……!”

The elf's eyes widened. No one had ever called him a slave. It was the opposite. He had a power that no one could understand, dressed in gorgeous clothing and was elegant. Now this orc had called him a slave.

“You put on very nice clothes. But rather than your own beliefs, you think about the surroundings and other people. It is the mindset of a slave. If it is so scary, you can call the sparrow a crow-like everybody else. If they say something green is red, they are red. The night will become the day and the earth will be called the sea. If you give yourself up, everything will flow smoothly."

"I…"

“However, if you want to be the master of your own mind, pay attention to this."

Crockta reached out his hand.  The sparrow stared at Crockta and jumped towards his fingers. Crockta gently cradled the sparrow.

“Even if the world is pointing at me in ridicule, I will say that this bird is just a sparrow."

The elf looked at Crockta, whose eyes were filled with conviction and an unshakable integrity.

"I see." The lines on the elf's face disappeared as his distressed face gradually softened. He flashed a faint, yet beautiful smile. He declared, “I dressed like a king but thought like a slave."

"Yes."

“Now that I know, I should dress like a king and act like a king."

“Yes."

"Thank you for letting me know."

The elf stared at Crockta. Then he looked at Zankus, Tiyo, and Anor. He spread open his arms. Then the forest changed.

“……!”

A straight path to Orcrox opened up. The trees shook their bodies and twisted their roots, giving way to Crockta. It was an incredible sight.

"You…" Anor suddenly spoke. There was a look of realization on his face. The elf reached for Anor. Then a branch came down over their heads. As the elf moved his hand, the branch touched Anor's cheek, as if it was an extension of the elf's hand.

"You've had a hard time coming here. Child." The elf looked at each party member one by one. “I saw you and tried to get an answer. An answer that I couldn't find. However, it wasn't that I didn't know the answer. In fact, I was ignoring the answer all along."

He looked at Crockta. “Like a slave."

Crockta grinned. "Now you seem like a king."

“Thank you.” The elf stepped back. It was time to leave. “I came here as a slave dressed like a king, and will be leaving a king."

His body blurred. The vegetation of the forest leaned towards him. The wind bowed to him. The trees leaned down and worshipped him.

“I hope to see you again. The boy in the north wanted to say thank you. Crockta."

Then the elf whispered. There was no sound. His whisper wasn't towards them. Anor's eyes widened. Crockta, Zankus, and Tiyo didn't hear it. All elves in the world heard the whisper.

***

“The elves' world tree has withdrawn from the war."

"What?"

"I don't know why. The elves have started to leave."

"What is going on?"

“Those who came of their own will are still left, but the elves who came because of the divine message are returning home. More than half the elves are gone."

"……"

Adandator frowned before starting to laugh. "How interesting."

Aklan sighed. The elves heard the whisper of the world tree.

'The orcs aren't colluding with the grey god, and they aren't evil. Crockta is a hero.'

However, the other gods were different. Another divine message came down, encouraging the followers to believe them. They even blamed the world tree for poor judgment. This wasn't the behaviour of the gods he knew. It was remarkably like a human's behaviour.

“Arnin won’t turn out well."

“I guess so."

They reached the city of elves, Arnin. After receiving this news, Arnin was unlikely to give support.

“Try it once."

But the result was as they expected. No, it was worse than that.

Aklan sat in Mayor Ennis' office and felt a strange mood again.

"Do you see this vest?"

"Yes."

“An orc used to wear it, also known as the first captain of the Plains Rescue Team, which is a landmark and the pride of Arnin. He created the rescue team."

There was no need to ask who he was.

"Crockta."

“That’s right. He because an honorary citizen of Arnin and revealed the killers and mayor who used a false mask to mock the citizens."

Crockta's story was told in the textbooks at Arnin's schools. He was an honorary citizen who represents Arnin.

"Above all, the world tree is stopping the elves from participating."

"……"

“It will be useless to propose the agenda to Congress."

"I understand. Thank you."

Eggs might be thrown at them, like Chesswood.

“I don't know how the situation with the gods turned out like this, but I will tell you as a person who met Crockta, not the mayor. Crockta isn't such an orc."

"……"

“I didn’t even know who he was then. He was just a plains officer. However, he helped the humans and elves with the triters on the plains. Despite being an orc, he is a light in the darkness."

"Light…"

“He illuminates the surroundings. I wouldn't be the mayor if it wasn't for him. The travelers would still be losing their lives. They would die from the triters and that wicked girl."

Aklan nodded. "I understand."

“You can stay for a day to recruit volunteers. But please think about what I said."

"Yes."

He left without any results. Arnin was a beautiful city. Aklan was heading to the expedition's camp when he suddenly stopped at Arnin's square. A monument stood there. It was a monument to honor the day when Elsanad, Elwina and Ilya, the demons of Arnin, were expelled. It wrote about the honorary citizen Crockta, who came as a traveler but left as Arnin's hero.

“I am an honorary citizen!”

“I am the best citizen!”

“You just threw trash on the floor! I will accuse you!"

Children played around, pretending to be honorary citizens. Aklan stared up at the sky and muttered, "I don’t know."

He shook his head and returned to the expedition's camp. The expedition was camping outside Arnin.

"There was no result. I'm sorry."

"It was expected."

“Thanks for the hard work.”

He came back with nothing, but Adandator and the expedition leaders nodded because it was already expected. Now they didn't have any great expectations towards the elves. Some elves volunteered but there weren't many due to the world tree.

“How about stopping by Quantes?"

"Gnomes don't believe in the gods…"

“Let’s just give it a try. Anyway, the elves are gone so we need to fill up the numbers. Quantes is on the way to Orcrox."

"Okay."

Aklan was silent during the meeting of leaders.

***

The next day, they headed towards Quantes. Shortly before leaving Arnin, they could see the famous Arnin Plains Rescue Team and the triters.

In the midst of it was a rock.

"This?"

Aklan stopped. Letters were carved onto the rock.

[A warrior doesn't attack unarmed people.]

It was a rock written by Crockta. Aklan never met him before, but he couldn't help feeling familiar with Crockta. He knew that Crockta was a great warrior.

"What are you doing? Let's go quickly."

People shouted from behind Aklan. 

"Ah, I'm sorry."

Aklan held the reins. The march continued. Aklan turned and squinted at the rock, but he could no longer see it due to the army. Aklan looked at Adandator beside him. He saw the leaders, nobles and numerous expedition forces. Their faces was stiff. It might be because Orcrox was getting closer.

Aklan closed his eyes. He couldn't stop here. They had already come so far. It didn't matter what type of person Crockta was anymore. All the gods called him a villain. It was enough. The people had gathered here for the extermination of Crockta and the orcs. They were overflowing with willpower.

The decision wasn't made by him, but the enormous crowd. He erased Maillard, Chesswood and Arnin from his head. The vacancy was filled with the divine message, expedition army and the hatred of the random crowd.

Aklan opened his eyes. It was a short moment of worry. He returned to being Aklan, a pious warrior of the war god.

'War God… Please bless our way.'

The horses, who started running the race, couldn't stop.

Praise the Orc: 

Current schedule: There will now be 14 chapters a week, meaning two chapters every day.

Chapter 200 – Dragon and Tiger Cave (TL: i.e. a very dangerous place)

As they approached the entrance to Orcrox, they saw two orcs in chain armor standing like stone statues. Their blades flashed in the sun. The guards found Crockta and laughed. They were laughing but due to the tusks and heinous appearance, their faces seemed evil.

“Hey. Are you alive?"

They hadn't changed. Crockta stood in front of them. He was no longer an apprentice warrior. He returned to Orcrox as a great warrior.

“At that time, it didn't seem likely…"

"The warrior who shook the continent has returned to Orcrox."

The guards laughed and Crockta laughed with them.

"You are alive."

"Of course. I'm not weaker than you."

Crockta bumped fists with the two guards. It wasn't enough for Crockta so he hugged them. The orc guards burst out laughing.

“Crockta has been doing great things!"

“It was great to hear."

"How embarrassing."

Crockta remembered when he first came here. At that time, he really hadn't known anything. He thought they were just well-formed NPCs. But that wasn’t it. The orcs and the orcs of Orcrox lived in the world of Elder Lord, as well as all the warriors who died that day.

Grom, Kim Hyunchul who was now in jail, Lenox, Gulda and all the orcs he met crossed his mind.

"Anyway, I am glad to see you again."

The guards laughed with their arms around Crockta's shoulder. Then they looked at Zankus.

"If it isn't Zankus."

"It has been a while."

There were no orcs who didn't know Zankus, the hunter who penetrated the sun. The guards bumped fists with Zankus.

“You are unchanged." Zankus explained to Crockta's group. "These guards have been protecting this place longer than Lenox. They were standing here when I first arrived."

“Really?”

They were very old veterans.

Crockta introduced Tiyo and Anor. “They are my colleagues.”

"I've heard the story. Very brave friends."

Tiyo nodded.

“Huhu, my reputation has spread dot!"

Tiyo was several times smaller than an orc, but he was the epitome of a man. Tiyo imitated the orcs with the fist bumps, before entering Orcrox. There was a stir in Orcrox as soon as Crockta's group appeared.

Orcs passing by discovered them and opened their mouths, "Crockta and Zankus are together!"

"It is an honor to meet you. I am alive!"

“Welcome back!"

Crockta first came to Orcrox as a stupid newcomer. Now he became a great warrior who people respected.

“It feels like home."

Crockta headed towards the training ground where Hoyt was. As he came closer, he could hear the orcs. He remembered the old days when he ran around the training ground under Lenox's command.

"First hit! First one! Focus every time you swing! Wield it like it is your life!"

"Uwaaaaah!"

“Is that lousy swing the best you can do? Is it? Burochwi!"

“Nooooooooo!"

"Then swing again! Don't be afraid to die!"

"Bul'tarrrrrrrrrr──────!"

It was a familiar voice. Hoyt, who was standing in the middle of the training grounds, shouted like Lenox.  Crockta breathed in deeply and shouted.

"Are you alive, Hoyt?!"

Everyone stopped for a moment as Crockta's group appeared at the camp. Orcs were sparring, swinging their weapons in the air and building strength through push-ups.

Hoyt, Orcrox's instructor, just laughed. “You came back."

"Yes."

It was Hoyt. It was the first time since the battle where Lenox died.

"You are alive. Bul'tar!"

"Bul'tar!"

Crockta and Hoyt bumped fists and embraced each other. It was a meeting of two great warriors.

"Is that Crockta?"

“Just like the rumors, he has a fierce face and a menacing greatsword."

Even orcs felt fear at his appearance! In addition, his representative greatsword was much bigger than the rumors. The orcs nodded at the sight of Crockta.

"Indeed, the warrior who fought the north and the empire."

After Crockta finished his greeting with Hoyt, Zankus also extended his fist. They were familiar with each other.

“Stop running around and stop by Orcrox often." Hoyt scolded.

“Kulkul, a hunter doesn't settle down."

Then it was Tiyo and Anor's turn. Hoyt welcomed Crockta's companions.

'Magic Bullets Berserker' Tiyo and 'Death’s Ruler' Anor were already famous as Crockta's companion.

“We haven't met in a long time, so let's have a drink…"

"Good. Let's go quickly!"

“But I don't want these guys to relax."

Hoyt looked around. This was the orc's training ground. A place where men were created. He was no less harsh than Lenox. Hoyt scanned the area like he was uncomfortable.

Crockta went forward, "Leave it to me."

"You?"

“I was once one of them, so I know their minds very well."

All orcs focused on him as Crockta placed the greatsword on his shoulder. He was 'Northern Conqueror' and 'Empire's Deficit' Crockta. He was already a legend. Countless orcs who wanted to be like him flocked to this area. In addition, it wasn't just the orcs here.

"That Crockta…"

"Awesome…"

There were many users who became orcs because of Crockta. Ever since the legendary broadcast of Crockta's fight against the empire, the influx of orc users greatly increased. Those who selected the warrior class were present on the training ground. Crockta's fans willingly came to the training ground where no one wanted to train before.

Crockta threw away their expectations.

“Your eyes are cloudy!"

Crockta yelled loudly. The sudden rant made everyone's eyes go blank.

“The eyes of the weak!"

Crockta grinned as he looked over at Hoyt. There was a time when he wielded the sword like these people. Crockta looked at every one of them.

“Can you be a warrior with such weak eyes? It is better to pull such rotten eyes out!"

The orcs in training looked at Crockta with a face filled with complaints. Their pride as an orc was hit.

“Is there a problem? Then let's make a bet! If you win the bet, there will be no more training for today! You can go to the pub for a beer and Instructor Hoyt will forgive you!" Crockta shouted. 

The orcs were shaken. It was an opportunity to take a day off from harsh training and drink a cold beer.

"But! If you lose, you will have to sleep here. Train until the sun rises tomorrow!"

"L-Late night training?"

"That's right."

"Ugh..!"

A harsh bet!

“Then what is the bet?"

Crockta grinned. He placed the greatsword on the ground. Crockta raised a hand towards the orcs and gestured.

“Come at me all at once. Do whatever it takes. You will win if I fall to the ground once."

"That…!"

In the end, it was a fight. The orcs looked at each other. They could win based on numbers, but the opponent was Crockta. There was no chance of winning, even with so many people.

"You can't do it? All of you are cowards!"

“……!”

“I am standing alone without a weapon! Look at you now!" Crockta moved forward and pointed to the nearest orc. “Carrying a blade! Carrying an axe! You are acting like this despite holding a hammer! You aren't orcs. Humans! Elves! Not even dwarves!"

"Don't insult us!"

“Insult? Do you feel insulted?" Crockta grinned. "Then come."

“……!”

The nearest orc snorted. His axe shook before he aimed at Crockta. As expected from someone who trained under Hoyt, it was a great blow despite him being an apprentice.

"Bul'tarrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!"

However, the opponent was Crockta. The axe didn't reach him. Instead, Crockta's fist hit his abdomen.

"Keheok!"

This was just the beginning. All the orcs on the training ground ran towards Crockta. A huge cloud of dust rose up as a massive number of orcs ran towards one person, concealing their appearance.

"It is hot." Hoyt muttered as he watched the scene.

“Hehet, I remember when I fought 17 people in Quantes dot!"

"This is more like 40-50 than 17…"

There were punching and moaning sounds from all over the place. Orcs flew through the air. Then after some time had passed, Crockta stood alone. He raised his fist and declared, “You are lacking. Very lacking. Insufficient!"

But there were no longer any orcs who could challenge him. They moaned while clutching their wounds in pain.

"Is it hard? Painful? Nobody cares! Train! Get up and swing your weapon!” Crockta kicked the orcs to hurry them up off the ground. The orcs rose to their feet after Crockta's kicks. "Stand up!"

“Keok, so painful…!"

"Training is practical! Will you stop fighting due to pain when going against enemies on the battlefield! Rise! Everything is hard! Nobody cares!"

"Ugh!"

“I will go to drink a cold beer with Instructor Hoyt. You keep training! Kuhahahahat!"

The orcs trembled at Crockta's vicious appearance.

"This is the real Northern Conqueror!"

“I'm glad that Hoyt is the instructor…" 

Zankus shook his head and said, “If that guy were the instructor, he would be an unparalleled demonic teacher compared to Lenox and Hoyt."

“That’s right."

Crockta finished arranging the training grounds and returned to Hoyt with an innocent expression.

“Now it is resolved. Kulkulkul!"

"……"

Anyway, thanks to Crockta's work, Hoyt could leave his position with a relaxed mind. Crockta suddenly stopped before he was about to leave the training ground. There was a stick in a corner of the training ground.

All orcs knew what it was. The stick where Lenox's helmet had been. After he died, the steel helmet had always been watching the training ground.

“Hoyt. I should put the helmet back."

"No. You should continue to use it."

Immediately before the battle against the empire, he had received Lenox's helmet from Simba and Kumarak. Crockta had continued carrying Lenox's helmet.

“There is more work to do in the future." Crockta nodded.

The military expedition was on the verge of arriving.  At that time, Lenox's helmet would cover Crockta's head again.

"Where is Kumarak?"

“He went out for a walk with Simba, and they will be back soon. Not just that, Anya, Wallachwi and other promising orcs have come."

"Promising orcs?"

Zankus said with a smile, "I've met them. They will be your competitors. They are still immature, but I am looking forward to them."

The orcs like Zankus had already built their achievements and became legendary, but there would be a new generation like Crockta.

“Tiyo and Anor, you are their targets as well, so be ready."

Anor jolted with surprise. "M-Me?"

“There are high-level shooters and necromancers who want to prove they are better than you."

Tiyo burst out laughing. “Stupid bastards dot! They won't be able to think such a cheeky thing after they taste General dot! I want to see it!"

“Kulkul, you are a very spirited gnome friend."

They chatted while entering the pub.

Crockta's eyes became distant. This was the place where he met Gulda and asked for advice about how to become qualified to be a warrior. The cheerful warrior Gulda who laughed and talked a lot. Even when he was about to die in the dungeon, he didn't lose his sense of humor as he laughed.

At that moment.

“Kuhalhalhalhalhal!"

Suddenly, Crockta heard familiar laughter. He doubted his eyes. There was an orc warrior resembling Gulda, who had the same laugh.

"That is Gurokchwi, Gulda's son."

“Gulda's son…!"

Crockta grinned. His appearance seemed to awaken Crockta.  He was an orc warrior. Orc warriors didn't look at the past. He would enjoy this moment, like Gulda's son.

“Drink!"

They started drinking beer with the orcs. Others soon appeared.

"What? The Crockta from that time has become so big? You've become a pretty big guy."

“Everybody is gathered! Drinking beer without me! Drink! Grrung!"

"Kuaang!"

Within a short time, Anya, Kumarak, Simba and other orcs in Orcrox were gathered.

“I’ll drink a beer as well…kuhul…hul!"

Wallachwi appeared in front of them and smiled while drinking a beer. Anyone who saw this sight would doubt their eyes. Here, in a pub in Orcrox, was a gathering of those lauded as legends.

Praise the Orc: 

Current schedule: There will now be 14 chapters a week, meaning two chapters every day.

Chapter end