Chapter 316
The 1st National Competition and Reinhardt's golem invasion.
Grid appeared in public and always used a greatsword. Nevertheless, the public perceived the best user of the greatsword to be Chris, not Grid. It was natural. Grid overwhelmed his enemies with skills and items, but his ability with the sword itself wasn't special. The ability he showed at the time of fighting the Red Knight was merely excellent.
On the other hand, Chris' greatsword technique caused the viewers to feel wonder.
"You're the one who knocked down Zibal? Those skills, show them to me!"
A greatsword covered in a blue light. It had a considerable weight to it at first glance and felt good in his hand. The speed wasn't fast. But a considerable pressure was felt from it.
This was the effect of the passive skill, Rule with Might's Path. All enemies in the path of the charge had their casting speed and agility slightly reduced.
'He's scared.'
Piaro stood still despite Chris' rush. The disappointed Chris mistook it for fear.
'This is the person who knocked down Zibal?'
No, his opponent's level wasn't low. It was just that his level was higher. The Rule with Might's Path skill had a greater effect depending on his strength. The effect of having 3,000 strength at level 314 was now being demonstrated.
Chris neared Piaro, who was standing like a stone, and wielded his greatsword.
Kwaang!
There was no superfluous movements in the slash. There was a violent explosion of wind and the target was pushed back.
'Perfect!'
Chris admired. The size and shape of the greatsword was very suitable, making the time it took to pull back the sword shorter than usual.
So far, he had used hundreds of greatswords, but this was the first time he had a greatsword that was perfect for his hands. It seemed to be a greatsword made exactly for him. He felt awe towards the maker, Grid.
'Dead?'
Chris was worried that he might've killed Piaro with this strike. NPCs had one life. No, it was because they only had one precious life that they were NPCs. He felt a little guilty about taking his life…
"Eh?"
Chris' gaze had been glued to Grid's Greatsword. He was confused as he looked towards Piaro. It was because Piaro was still alive and well. Piaro clicked his tongue.
“Looking away after one hit? Your arrogance has reached the extremes. It's important to believe in yourself, but that can be a poison."
Chris couldn't believe it.
'There was clearly the sensation of something being hit?'
Was he mistaken? Chris was feeling confused when he suddenly saw the cut up straw hat at Piaro's feet.
"Ninja…!"
Like most westerners, Chris, a Canadian, had fantasies about ninjas. He knew a little bit about ninjas, and learned that there was a ninja technique where the body was swapped with something else. Once he saw it, he was certain that Piaro was a ninja pretending to be a farmer.
'An assassin-type hidden class NPC! No wonder Zibal was killed!'
Chris was nervous. He guessed that now the ninja would throw knives at him, or aim a lightning punch at him.
'I must be prepared!'
Like other warriors, Chris' agility was only 200, because he focused his stat points on strength. It was virtually impossible for him to see and respond to the enemy's attacks.
'I won't give up!'
Chris got ready to fight back. He could overcome his lack of agility with thorough preparation and prediction. Piaro felt pleased at the sight.
'Excellent.'
His lord had many outstanding talents. In particular, Regas and Ibellin were amazing. And the man in front of him had their level of talent. It was a more refined talent. This was the first time since Kraugel.
"I acknowledge your skills."
Piaro acknowledged Chris. He pulled out a weapon with a serious expression.
Gulp!
Chris gulped. Would he pull out a recognizable ninja weapon? Or maybe a whip? A ball and chain?
'Is it a whip?'
Chris' head spun quickly. He would take different actions depending on what weapon Piaro pulled out. But the weapon Piaro held completely deviated from Chris' predictions.
"Hand plow!"
That's right. Piaro's weapon was a hand plow. It seemed to have just been used, as it was covered with moist soil. Chris failed to conceal his embarrassment as he shouted.
"It isn't a hand plow! You're deceiving me!"
"That isn't the case."
Was there a need for long words? It was better to show it with actions.
Teong!
Piaro moved. It was truly tremendous speed suitable for a ninja. The distance that Chris decided was ideal was instantly narrow, and the hand plow moved.
"You!”
The incensed Chris swung his greatsword. He was determined to blow away the hand plow and Piaro. However.
Dok.
“What?”
As he aimed for Piaro's chest, the hand plow struck the front of the greatsword. Chris' balance collapsed and his upper body leaned forward.
'What?'
The eyes of the captains watching widened. They couldn't understand why Chris looked like this. But Chris and Zirkan were different. They determined the situation in an instant.
'It was what he intended!'
Large weapons were much heavier and longer than one-handed weapons. The weight was great and had to be focused in order to exert more destructive power. Chris was faithful to the basics, and Piaro aimed for this. He accurately grasped the point where Chris focused the weight of the greatsword and struck it, causing Chris' center of gravity to shift.
'This is ridiculous!'
Wasn't this like the protagonists of the 20th century Hong Kong movies? The hand plow flew towards the stumbling Chris. It was an attack that used the recoil of hitting the greatsword to link the next strike. Chris felt a chill and raised his shoulders. The hand plow that should've pierced his neck struck his shoulder instead.
[You have suffered 12,300 damage.]
‘What is with this hand plow's damage…!?'
Even if this was a critical hit, it was an unbelievable amount of damage. Piaro was stronger than a named boss. Chris groaned and tilted his body forward. After limiting Piaro's movements by sticking close to his body, he recovered the greatsword.
At this time, the greatsword moved naturally to strike at Piaro's heart. Based on his hundreds of thousands of combat experience, Chris showed his dignity that threatened the enemy no matter what situation he was in.
“Sowing."
A smile appeared on Piaro's face after he was lightly wounded on the chest. He sprinkled several small seeds at Chris' feet.
'What?'
Why were seeds being sowed in a battle? Chris was confused, before suddenly realizing.
'This is a mere trick!'
The opponent was a ninja. Ninjas were people who used tricks to deceive the enemy. Chris glanced away from the seeds that fell at his feet. It was a fatal mistake to ignore this.
"What?"
Chris tried to swing his greatsword again. The seeds that Piaro sowed had sprouted and clasped tightly around Chris' ankles and thighs.
“What is this?"
Plants instantly grew from the seeds that were just sown? In addition, the pressure of the plants was very high. It wasn't something that could be understood with Chris' common sense.
It was natural. It was a legendary skill. Piaro who chose the path of a farmer after forsaking a sword saint! The 'Free Farming' method that he completed after becoming a farmer was at a level comparable to the legends in history.
In other words, today's Piaro was much stronger than the one who competed with Grid.
“You are the second strongest person I have ever met. You should be proud of your potential."
The second? Then who was the first?
'Is he talking about Zibal…!'
Chris' ego was shattered. The difference between them was just one level. He couldn't overcome that level difference, but he believed he was stronger. But he was weaker?
“Kuaaaak!”
Chris shouted and aimed his sword at the plants around his lower body. Then an energy blade aimed at Piaro. It was the Rule with Might Sword that made ranged attacks possible. As the powerful blade was about to penetrate Piaro's chest,
“Free Farming 4th Style, Plowing the Field."
Piaro pulled out a plow and started digging at the ground. As it struck the ground, the soil rose up and became a barrier that blocked the blade.
"This is ridiculous!"
Satisfy had started exactly two years and two months ago. He steadily trained with the goal of becoming number one. He was even equipped with the best items. Chris thought this person was a ninja who hid as a farmer, but he actually was overwhelmed by a real farmer?
He suffered defeat from farming methods such as sowing, plant growing and plowing.
'I can't accept it!'
Chris barely managed to restore his mental state. The opponent was someone who beat Zibal. It was naive to think he could win when his level was lower than Zibal's, but Chris couldn't tolerate this.
“Kuaaaah!”
Chris used Tyrant’s Strength which temporarily increased his strength by 20%, tearing apart the plants binding his lower body. It was done with pure strength. Piaro saw this and thought.
'I am lacking practice.'
Free Farming Style 1 'Sowing' and style 2 'Rapid Growth.' The durability of the plants grown was weaker than expected. It was proof that Rapid Growth hadn't reached the right level yet.
'I have to work harder in the fields.'
As Piaro vowed this, the energy blades covered Piaro. The hand plow defended against every strike, then Piaro tried to break Chris' center of gravity again.
'His enlightenment is fast.'
Piaro was surprised to see Chris' skill in recovering his greatsword every time the hand plow collided with it.
'It's higher than Kraugel when I first met him.'
Piaro acknowledged it and started to swing his hand plow. His skill with the farming equipment overwhelmed Chris. But Chris' momentum didn't go down. His chest was struck but he didn't retreat as he shouted.
"I am above Zibal!"
Kuwaaah!
It was like a lion's roar. There were farmers and users scattered throughout the vast fields. They were amazed and frightened, while the captains of the Giant Guild also blocked their ears. It was the power of Chris' second class, Tyrant.
'This is the time!'
There was no one who would be safe when facing Tyrant's Growl. Chris used the gap caused by Tyrant's Growl to attack the temporarily confused Piaro.
Kurururung.
There was an earthquake centered on Piaro. The only person able to withstand this earthquake was Chris, the one who caused it. Chris expected Piaro to be swept away by Tyrant's Advent.
"Wow."
Chris was at a loss after using the skill. He saw Piaro standing on a large number of rice plants growing out of cracks in the collapsing land.
“You have messed up the land. You will have more work to do."
"…?"
It was strange. It sounded like Piaro was trying to make Chris do something. Chris was feeling confused when rice rained down on him. He defended by swinging his greatsword.
[The durability of Grid's Greatsword has decreased by 10.]
[The durability of Grid's Greatsword has decreased by 11.]
Hollow rice. They were a weak plant that had no sense of weight. No, this was a concept higher than aura. Chris couldn't endure it, and became a rag along with Grid's Greatsword.
***
"Repair my greatsword."
"What?"
20 minutes after saying goodbye, Chris returned. He handed his greatsword to Grid. Grid frowned as he checked the greatsword, which was cracked.
"What is this? Did you meet a dragon?"
'You awful bastard!'
Chris believed that this incident was caused by Grid. The monster called Piaro was Grid's subordinate, so he was forced to think this way.
'Is it to let us know who is superior in our relationship?'
He couldn't believe the rumors. Grid was rumored to be stupid, but he was actually incredibly scary. Grid extended a hand to Chris.
“The cost of the repairs. It is 3 gold for every one point of durability."
"What…?"
It was 10 times more expensive than the normal repair price. It was an unreasonable price, but he couldn't refuse the transaction.
'This demon… I absolutely can't make him an enemy!'
Chris handed over 853 gold with trembling hands and returned to the fields. The five leaders of the Giant Guild had to work there.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 317
"Sigh… It is hard, hard."
“It is too hard to fill the quota. Does it make sense that there are only 400 people working in these vast fields? Looking at the scale, there should be at least 10 times more workers."
"Dammit! If this is an agricultural city, increase the number of farmers!"
“They want to save money on the labor costs. I heard that Grid is quite cheap."
"He's beyond the level of cheap. Cutting labor costs and kidnapping users to become farmers, is this something normal people would do?"
The 21 users caught by Piaro and forced to work. They complained about Grid every time they gathered. It was because they were convinced that Piaro, who kidnapped them and turned them into farmers, was doing it under Grid's orders.
However, the reason they didn't run away was due to the rewards of the hidden quest. Honestly, they were happy about getting a hidden quest and didn't hold any animosity towards Grid. The reason they came to Reidan was because they wanted to join Overgeared, and they basically liked Grid.
But the work was too hard, so it was hard to survive unless they complained. It was inevitable that Grid would be frequently mentioned.
"Are they new?"
The grumbling users working in the fields focused on one place. From far away, Piaro was leading five people over.
"This time it's a group of five."
"Tsk tsk, poor guys."
The average level of the 21 users was 270. They had to be at least that level to cross the desert to Reidan. The group of five people would also be high level users. Wasn't it too absurd that they were being dragged as dogs to become farmers? They felt a sense of compassion.
"Ah?"
“Eh?"
The users looking at the five newcomers sympathetically became confused. They were the master of the Giant Guild and the Five Captains!
"T-This is ridiculous!"
They were dealt a big blow in the golem invasion, but they were still very strong. The Giant Guild was one of the best guilds. In particular, the Five Captains were third advancement users and Chris was 3rd on the unified rankings, so they were a high sky for the users. But they weren't even Piaro's opponent?
'That crazy farmer is bigger than we thought!'
The users were astonished, while Piaro introduced Chris' group to them.
“They are new farmers. I hope you get along well with them in the future."
"Who is a farmer?"
"Damn bastard!"
Chris, the 3rd ranked user, leader of the Giant Guild and viscount of the Eternal Kingdom was being introduced as a new farmer! The captains trembled at Piaro's absurd attitude.
But Chris wasn't offended. The opponent was stronger than him. Despite being able to kill him, Chris was spared and given a hidden quest. He didn't intend to make a fuss.
"Let’s get along well.”
Chris greeted the senior farmers with respect. The Five Captains were forced to bow their heads.
“W-We will work hard."
On this day, Chris and the Five Captains joined the fun and exciting training.
A strange rumor started to circulate on the Internet. The master of the Giant Guild and the Five Captains became serfs of Grid. It was a rumor that couldn't be believed. No one believed the rumor.
"What is this nonsense?"
Grid was more disbelieving than anyone else.
***
Grid had obtained 27 pavranium for helping with Braham's resurrection. Originally, there were 28 pavranium. However, one of them became the Vessel of the Soul and entered Braham's possession.
'It is painful that I can't get one, but…'
Fortunately, all 27 out of 27 pavranium had the blessing of the four gods. As the master of the pavranium, Grid received a 15% buff on his attack power, defense, recovery and magic power. As a legendary class exclusive item, the pavranium was truly a scam.
'It was only because of Braham that I could receive the blessing of God Yatan, so let's not think too much about giving him one pavranium.'
Grid had become a very positive and generous person compared to the past. In fact, a little while ago, he had reduced Chris' repair price by 2 gold.
'2 gold is two ramyun.'
He could imagine how much Chris appreciated it. Grid didn't doubt that Chris would feel a great affection towards him. He thought about a future alliance with the Giant Guild, then wondered what he should do with the pavranium.
'I can't make Lifael's Spear.'
Lifael's Spear was the strongest weapon in existence. It was an undeniable truth. Unfortunately, it was an inefficient weapon for Grid. The spear wasn't influenced by Pagma's Swordsmanship and he was poisoned by its divine power when he used Blackening.
'It is enough to have Grid's Greatsword, Failure, and Yakult as weapons.'
Then would it be better to make armor?
Grid was equipped with the Holy Light armor, gloves and a crown that were made by Pagma, and they boasted an outstanding performance when worn as a set. He also efficiently swapped between Grid's Boots and Braham's Boots for the shoes.
On the other hand, he was lacking a shield. But Grid used a greatsword as a weapon, so there weren't many opportunities to use a shield.
'Is there anything special that isn't a weapon or armor?'
Pavranium was a mineral with its own will. It considered Grid's safety as the top priority and moved with its own judgment. It was far more efficient to give it freedom than to limit it to his body. What was the best type of item to utilize that freedom?
'A symbol of freedom…'
“Snack.”
“…It is a snack. Eh?"
Grid frowned. Snack? Who was the person who suddenly interfered with his deep thoughts by speaking nonsense? Grid shifted his gaze in that direction. The guy who had devoted himself to monster hunting since arriving in Reidan was now resting on the window sill.
“Give me a snack! Give it to me! Nyang!"
He had a very proud and arrogant attitude. It was almost a command.
“Have you lost your senses? No, in the first place, why are you after a snack? Don't you eat monster or human souls?"
"That is food! Snacks are snacks, nyang!"
“What jerk gave you the concept of snacks…?"
“Your wife! Nyang!"
“…"
Setting aside where he learnt the word 'wife,' he was talking about Irene.
'I heard that Irene has a hobby of baking cake these days.'
Irene was the daughter of an earl, so she never learned how to cook. Now after coming to Reidan, she wanted to learn how to cook and bake, so that she could give Grid a little joy. Thanks to her, the Overgeared members and the soldiers were able to enjoy sweet snacks. Noe seemed to have been added as well.
"Sigh, okay. Take a nap and don't interfere with my work.”
Grid decided to ignore Noe and started thinking again about what to make with the pavranium.
'An item that can highlight the advantage of moving on its own…'
“Teddy bear."
“…A teddy bear is good… Ah, you."
Grid frowned. Teddy bear? Who was interfering this time? The incensed Grid turned towards the owner of the voice. It was Randy, who was in the appearance of a little girl.
“I received a teddy bear from Irene!"
Randy was pure and cute as she extended the bear. Grid nodded roughly towards the child.
"Okay. Go and play with the teddy bear."
"Yes!"
Randy smiled and went next to Noe to play with the bear. But her playing didn't last long. Noe teased Randy by repeatedly batting at the teddy bear.
“…I’m going crazy.”
Randy started crying while Noe laughed, interrupting Grid's meditation time. So he kicked them out. Then he wondered again.
'The item I should make out of pavranium…'
“Please make farming equipment."
“…The answer is farming equipment… Hah."
Grid's face distorted like a demon. Farming equipment? This time, someone was pouring cold water on him! The owner of the voice was Piaro. Piaro was wearing dirt-stained clothing. Grid could no longer overlook it.
“Piaro, what is your job?"
"I am the leader of the Overgeared Knights Division, commander of Reidan, and a farmer."
“Isn't there something strange in there?"
“No."
Grid couldn't understand it at all.
“Why on earth do you keep clinging to being a farmer? Are you doing your duties as knight captain and commander of Reidan?"
"Yes."
Piaro answered without hesitation. He felt pride in his responsibilities.
“Then I’m glad. But what about your goal of becoming a sword saint? If you don't have time due to your duties, isn't it better to quit farming and practice your swordsmanship?"
[A legendary farmer has been born!]
The main character of the notification window that all users in Satisfy saw wasn't Piaro. Grid was certain, but he couldn't help feeling nervous. In this case, his uneasy feeling was proven correct.
"I realized that I am a farmer, not a sword saint."
“…"
Grid was no longer a fool. Piaro was faithful to his role as a farmer. It was rumored that the seven guilds' invasion of Reidan was repelled by farmers. The users doing field work, and so on. All of these things attested to the fact that Piaro was the legendary farmer.
Grid just didn't want to admit it.
Sword Saint Muller. Grid hoped that Piaro's strength would be recognized as the strongest among the legends.
“…Is it because your talent isn't enough to pursue the peak of swordsmanship? In the end, you gave up and became a farmer."
Grid couldn't hide his anger as he tried to provoke Piaro.
“…"
Piaro knew the role that Grid wanted for him. He knew the sense of loss that Grid would be feeling. Piaro was determined to prove himself to Grid. He would prove that he was superior compared to when he was a great swordsman.
“Farming is the foundation of our lives and it is more valuable than anything else in the world. I just chose a more valuable path."
"It is possible for women to harvest the crops. You aren't the only one who can do farming.”
“However, I'm the only one who can master it."
“Why do you need to master farming? Ah, to create a good harvest? It is very minor. If you have power, you can occupy more territory. Then there would be more people and we can secure a large amount of food using it. It is much more profitable to develop the armed forces to aim for more land."
"Mastering farming isn't merely raising crops. I can exert more power if I have an understanding of nature. I can confident that I am necessary for My Lord."
"Really? Then prove it. What type of power can a farmer exert?"
This was what Piaro wanted. He had been wanting this situation since he asked for farming equipment.
'I must be acknowledged by My Lord.'
He would let Grid know the greatness of a farmer. Piaro took out his hand plow and plow, while Grid armed himself with Failure and Grid's Greatsword.
"I will return you to your original form. Your hands are meant to hold a sword, not dirt-stained farming equipment!"
At present, Piaro wasn't sane. Grid had to return him to the right path. Grid put on the Slaughterer's Eye Patch and used Blacksmith's Rage to overpower Piaro. Piaro made a sad expression.
'His talent is weak compared to Kraugel and Chris.'
Grid made great strides after defeating Pagma's Doppelganger, but his lord was fundamentally unskilled. It was unlikely that his growth had continued since then.
'You might be poisoned with frustration after losing, but I believe that you can overcome this poison as usual.'
Piaro would first relieve his burden by proving his value. Piaro judged and blocked the blue greatsword Grid was swinging, then counterattacked while avoiding a dark blue greatsword. In his head, Grid had already collapsed.
But what was Grid's specialty? It was the power to overcome common sense and destroy predictions.
Chaaeng!
"…!"
As soon as the blue greatsword and hand plow collided, Piaro's eyes widened.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 318
As soon as the blue greatsword and hand plow collided, Piaro's eyes widened.
'Heavy!'
Grid's swordsmanship was rough. It wasn't outstanding. However, his high strength and agility wrecked considerable havoc.
'How far has he come?'
Piaro had experience teaching Grid. He knew more than anyone that Grid was dull-witted. Even though he inherited the legendary skills, Piaro was confident that a rapid growth wasn't possible for Grid.
But he was mistaken. Grid's growth rate was comparable to the geniuses that Piaro recognized, Regas and Ibellin.
'Now!'
The synergy between the Slaughterer's Eye Patch and his high insight exploded. As Piaro was feeling confused, Grid's eye flashed red and he shook the hand plow off Failure. At this point, Grid's greatsword moved horizontally.
Chaaeng!
"Uh…!"
Piaro groaned. A powerful shock was delivered despite the defense of the plow. Blacksmith's Rage and the buff on the pavranium meant that Grid's attack power currently surpassed Chris. In particular, Grid's high agility gave him wings.
Chaaeng! Jjang! Jjejeong!
In the time it took Chris to attack twice, Grid had attacked three times. Piaro was very surprised. It was surprising since Grid was predicted to be below Chris' level. But this surprise didn't last long.
Grid had one lacking point. It was his understanding of swordsmanship. Chris executed a trajectory that forced the enemy's movement to slow, while Grid was just fast.
First, defend and then pierce through the gap. Piaro turned to the left, aiming his hand plow at Grid's left shoulder. It was an attack that precisely aimed for the weak point, but something unexpected happened.
A golden blade flew and guarded Grid. Piaro blocked the attack and was amazed.
'Indeed!'
A legendary blacksmith. Grid made up for his lack of swordsmanship with tools. However, didn't the golden blade stiffen from one strike? Piaro didn't consider the pavranium to be a variable. This was a natural judgment. It was too early to express this as carelessness.
But who was Grid? Once again, he was a legendary blacksmith. He transcended predictions with his items.
Peeng!
"Heok?"
Piaro had been the strongest ever since he became a great swordsman. He was considered invincible and rarely experienced a fright. The golden blade went stiff after protecting Grid's shoulder. Then it launched Magic Missile!
"Ugh!"
It was a completely unexpected type of attack. He never imagined that magic would come from the blade. Then Grid leapt forward through that gap.
Chaaeng!
Once the attack was blocked, he took advantage of the rebound and swung Grid's Greatsword. It was an exciting linked combo.
Puok!
"…!"
Blood dripped down Piaro's chest. However, the damage didn't seem to be great and there was no shaking in his posture. Grid knew how robust he was and linked the attacks without hesitation.
Slashing and a descending cut. Landing and then a horizontal slash. The subsequent counterattack was defended by Failure and then countered with Grid's Greatsword. He succeeded in a total of five attacks with Grid's Greatsword. Then the option of Grid's Greatsword was activated, making the fifth attack a critical attack.
[Critical!]
[You have dealt 22,900 damage to the target.]
'Ridiculously durable.'
The person wounded was Piaro, but Grid was the one who felt surprised. It was because Piaro's defensive power exceeded Elfin Stone's, despite him only wearing simple clothes. His health must be at least 300,000.
Piaro was a legendary farmer, so he now had significantly higher stats than when he was a great swordsman. In addition, he raised his level through continuous training. Piaro's current level was 405, which was 38 levels higher than when Grid observed him with the Great Lord’s Sword.
Grid was only level 301, so his attacks couldn't deal proper damage. This was a judgment based on level that the system decided by default.
Piaro expressed his respect.
"I am proud of you."
Had he been working hard since the day he struggled with Pagma's doppelganger?
"I have to salute My Lord, who has done your best despite your lack of talent."
[Piaro's loyalty has soared to the peak.]
[The absolute trust in his lord has increased Piaro's willingness and opened up his potential. Piaro's stats will permanently increase by 10%.]
"Heok."
Grid would normally be glad about the notification windows. But now was an exception.
“W-Wait a minute!”
Piaro should become stronger after the battle! He didn't have time to put that thought in his mouth.
“Free Farming 1st Style, Sowing."
Pa pa pa pat!
Piaro sprinkled dozens of seeds.
The pavranium responded because it was aimed at Grid.
Out of the 27 pavranium, four of the pavranium turned into blades had been mixed with the Water Clan King's Tears. The remaining 23 were the basic form, showing a weak defense. They couldn't fully defend against all the seeds sowed around Grid and stiffened.
[You have suffered 9,320 damage.]
"This damn thing!"
Grid was hit by a rice seed that penetrated through the stiff pavranium and screamed. In the past, a low level user in Patrian was hit by a bone and died. Now Grid was in the same position.
“Free Farming 2nd Style, Rapid Growth."
Kwaduk! Kudududuk!
After hitting the pavranium or Grid, the seeds on the floor started growing rapidly.
'What is this?'
Grid freaked out as he saw the rice growing.
“This is a power that only a legendary farmer can exert."
Piaro's will was firm. As a legendary farmer, he wasn't incompetent. So he wanted to be acknowledged. But Grid couldn't accept it. No matter how strong a legendary farmer, he couldn't get rid of the idea that a sword saint was better.
"Pagma's Swordsmanship, Link!"
A sword dance was quickly unfolded.
Pit! Pipipipipit!
Dozens of attacks flew out and scattered the rice plants. Grid and Piaro's eyes met.
"Pagma's Swordsmanship…!"
“Free Farming!"
Kuooooh!
The air around Grid sank heavily. The intense aura around Grid was concentrated at the end of the greatsword, making the target feel an extreme threat. It was the manifestation of Pagma's Swordsmanship, Kill.
Piaro's skill was even more amazing.
"6th Style! Flailing!"
The plow was replaced by a flail. It ruthlessly struck Grid's Greatsword that was aiming for his chest.
Pepeok! Bam bam bam!
"Heok?"
Grid was surprised. It was because the energy of Kill was unable to bear the power of the flail and dissipated.
'This is crazy!'
Flailing! One of his strongest skills was disabled by a farming technique. The thing that made him even more irate was that the old flail Piaro was using was a rare rated farming tool that Grid made a few months ago. In contrast, his weapon was legendary rated!
‘Shit!’
It felt like he was grain hit by a flail. Piaro's skill wasn't just strong. It also had a tendency to break the enemy's self-esteem. It was very powerful.
'He might be a farmer, but a legend is a legend. This is pretty amazi… No, no.'
He couldn't acknowledge Piaro as a farmer. Piaro should only be a sword saint. Grid barely recovered from his confusion and gave orders to four pavranium blades that contained Magic Missile.
'Shoot from all directions!'
The pavranium only followed Grid's will. They immediately reacted by surrounding Piaro and firing Magic Missile all at once.
'This basic magic isn't a threat to me!'
Piaro was caught off guard before, but not now.
Piaro demonstrated the hidden technique of Free Farming, 'Natural State.' Then the earth, air, trees and everything in nature gave him strength, causing his stats to rise dramatically. It was natural that his magic resistance would also increase.
But it was useless.
Pepepepeng!
"Cough!"
The Magic Missile (Enhanced) Grid received from Braham completely ignored the target's magic resistance. Despite the use of Natural State, Piaro suffered a lot of damage.
‘What is with the strength of this magic?'
Piaro had fought with Earl Ashur, one of the 10 great magicians of the continent. But Earl Ashur didn't have magic that was this fast and powerful.
'The magic of an artifact transcends that of a great magician…!'
His lord was truly great. Piaro felt sincere respect.
On the other hand, Grid was cursing.
'Dammit.'
He was able to add magic to pavranium thanks to the Water Clan King's Tears sent by Euphemina, but there was a problem. In order to deploy the Magic Missile attributed to the pavranium, Grid's mana was consumed.
Malacus' Cloak and the Black Quartz Earrings increased Grid's intelligence, giving him mana close to 16,000. The mana cost of the legendary skills was very high, so it was too much to use both Pagma's Swordsmanship and Magic Missile (Enhanced).
But in this situation, Piaro became even stronger.
'Natural State…'
It amplified his stats, like Braham's Magic Drain. It was an excellent legendary buff skill.
'On the other hand, my Blacksmith's Rage…'
Blacksmith’s Rage was based on sympathizing with blacksmiths! It couldn't be denied that it was a great buff that increased attack damage and attack speed, but the disadvantage was that the duration was too short. The skill at level 5 only lasted for 35 seconds. Piaro's Natural State and Braham's Magic Drain were undeniably better.
Pepeok! Bam bam bam!
“Ugh!”
Would Blacksmith’s Rage one day be reborn to match a legendary skill? Grid's thinking was broken by Piaro's flail. Grid tried to defend, but it was difficult. The flail was light, its attack speed was fast and its trajectory was irregular.
'This is a joke…!'
Piaro was very fast after using Natural State. He avoided all the Magic Missiles fired by the pavranium again. Grid was distressed about the one-sided beating.
'If only I had two more hands…!'
He would be able to resist Piaro's flail and also reverse the situation by using Item Combination.
'Ah?'
Grid was struck with an epiphany.
'Yes, hands!'
The hands of a legendary blacksmith! What if he could reproduce these great hands with the pavranium? Just imagine it! The legendary blacksmith hands that moved according to his command.
During combat, he could use multiple items, maximizing the power of his items. In addition, they could be his substitute for the long activation time of Item Combination.
'I can make several items at the same time, so the efficiency of my work will increase!'
…Irene would also be pleased.
Grid smiled with satisfaction and called out.
"Time! Wait! Stop! I said stop!"
"…?"
Not admitting defeat in a battle, just stopping? Piaro stopped moving his flail. It was truly great loyalty. Grid shouted to him.
"Let's fight again tomorrow!"
Grid was too careless today. Even if Piaro was a farmer, he was still a legend. Tomorrow, if Grid lost again despite his full preparations…
'At that time, I will respect your choice.'
Grid's eyes were filled with confidence. The reason why he felt confident despite not reducing Piaro's health by one-tenth today was because he had absolute faith. He had faith in his items.
At this moment, a legend of the new era started to evolve. He was in the process of catching up to the legends of the previous generation and overcoming them.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 316
The 1st National Competition and Reinhardt's golem invasion.
Grid appeared in public and always used a greatsword. Nevertheless, the public perceived the best user of the greatsword to be Chris, not Grid. It was natural. Grid overwhelmed his enemies with skills and items, but his ability with the sword itself wasn't special. The ability he showed at the time of fighting the Red Knight was merely excellent.
On the other hand, Chris' greatsword technique caused the viewers to feel wonder.
"You're the one who knocked down Zibal? Those skills, show them to me!"
A greatsword covered in a blue light. It had a considerable weight to it at first glance and felt good in his hand. The speed wasn't fast. But a considerable pressure was felt from it.
This was the effect of the passive skill, Rule with Might's Path. All enemies in the path of the charge had their casting speed and agility slightly reduced.
'He's scared.'
Piaro stood still despite Chris' rush. The disappointed Chris mistook it for fear.
'This is the person who knocked down Zibal?'
No, his opponent's level wasn't low. It was just that his level was higher. The Rule with Might's Path skill had a greater effect depending on his strength. The effect of having 3,000 strength at level 314 was now being demonstrated.
Chris neared Piaro, who was standing like a stone, and wielded his greatsword.
Kwaang!
There was no superfluous movements in the slash. There was a violent explosion of wind and the target was pushed back.
'Perfect!'
Chris admired. The size and shape of the greatsword was very suitable, making the time it took to pull back the sword shorter than usual.
So far, he had used hundreds of greatswords, but this was the first time he had a greatsword that was perfect for his hands. It seemed to be a greatsword made exactly for him. He felt awe towards the maker, Grid.
'Dead?'
Chris was worried that he might've killed Piaro with this strike. NPCs had one life. No, it was because they only had one precious life that they were NPCs. He felt a little guilty about taking his life…
"Eh?"
Chris' gaze had been glued to Grid's Greatsword. He was confused as he looked towards Piaro. It was because Piaro was still alive and well. Piaro clicked his tongue.
“Looking away after one hit? Your arrogance has reached the extremes. It's important to believe in yourself, but that can be a poison."
Chris couldn't believe it.
'There was clearly the sensation of something being hit?'
Was he mistaken? Chris was feeling confused when he suddenly saw the cut up straw hat at Piaro's feet.
"Ninja…!"
Like most westerners, Chris, a Canadian, had fantasies about ninjas. He knew a little bit about ninjas, and learned that there was a ninja technique where the body was swapped with something else. Once he saw it, he was certain that Piaro was a ninja pretending to be a farmer.
'An assassin-type hidden class NPC! No wonder Zibal was killed!'
Chris was nervous. He guessed that now the ninja would throw knives at him, or aim a lightning punch at him.
'I must be prepared!'
Like other warriors, Chris' agility was only 200, because he focused his stat points on strength. It was virtually impossible for him to see and respond to the enemy's attacks.
'I won't give up!'
Chris got ready to fight back. He could overcome his lack of agility with thorough preparation and prediction. Piaro felt pleased at the sight.
'Excellent.'
His lord had many outstanding talents. In particular, Regas and Ibellin were amazing. And the man in front of him had their level of talent. It was a more refined talent. This was the first time since Kraugel.
"I acknowledge your skills."
Piaro acknowledged Chris. He pulled out a weapon with a serious expression.
Gulp!
Chris gulped. Would he pull out a recognizable ninja weapon? Or maybe a whip? A ball and chain?
'Is it a whip?'
Chris' head spun quickly. He would take different actions depending on what weapon Piaro pulled out. But the weapon Piaro held completely deviated from Chris' predictions.
"Hand plow!"
That's right. Piaro's weapon was a hand plow. It seemed to have just been used, as it was covered with moist soil. Chris failed to conceal his embarrassment as he shouted.
"It isn't a hand plow! You're deceiving me!"
"That isn't the case."
Was there a need for long words? It was better to show it with actions.
Teong!
Piaro moved. It was truly tremendous speed suitable for a ninja. The distance that Chris decided was ideal was instantly narrow, and the hand plow moved.
"You!”
The incensed Chris swung his greatsword. He was determined to blow away the hand plow and Piaro. However.
Dok.
“What?”
As he aimed for Piaro's chest, the hand plow struck the front of the greatsword. Chris' balance collapsed and his upper body leaned forward.
'What?'
The eyes of the captains watching widened. They couldn't understand why Chris looked like this. But Chris and Zirkan were different. They determined the situation in an instant.
'It was what he intended!'
Large weapons were much heavier and longer than one-handed weapons. The weight was great and had to be focused in order to exert more destructive power. Chris was faithful to the basics, and Piaro aimed for this. He accurately grasped the point where Chris focused the weight of the greatsword and struck it, causing Chris' center of gravity to shift.
'This is ridiculous!'
Wasn't this like the protagonists of the 20th century Hong Kong movies? The hand plow flew towards the stumbling Chris. It was an attack that used the recoil of hitting the greatsword to link the next strike. Chris felt a chill and raised his shoulders. The hand plow that should've pierced his neck struck his shoulder instead.
[You have suffered 12,300 damage.]
‘What is with this hand plow's damage…!?'
Even if this was a critical hit, it was an unbelievable amount of damage. Piaro was stronger than a named boss. Chris groaned and tilted his body forward. After limiting Piaro's movements by sticking close to his body, he recovered the greatsword.
At this time, the greatsword moved naturally to strike at Piaro's heart. Based on his hundreds of thousands of combat experience, Chris showed his dignity that threatened the enemy no matter what situation he was in.
“Sowing."
A smile appeared on Piaro's face after he was lightly wounded on the chest. He sprinkled several small seeds at Chris' feet.
'What?'
Why were seeds being sowed in a battle? Chris was confused, before suddenly realizing.
'This is a mere trick!'
The opponent was a ninja. Ninjas were people who used tricks to deceive the enemy. Chris glanced away from the seeds that fell at his feet. It was a fatal mistake to ignore this.
"What?"
Chris tried to swing his greatsword again. The seeds that Piaro sowed had sprouted and clasped tightly around Chris' ankles and thighs.
“What is this?"
Plants instantly grew from the seeds that were just sown? In addition, the pressure of the plants was very high. It wasn't something that could be understood with Chris' common sense.
It was natural. It was a legendary skill. Piaro who chose the path of a farmer after forsaking a sword saint! The 'Free Farming' method that he completed after becoming a farmer was at a level comparable to the legends in history.
In other words, today's Piaro was much stronger than the one who competed with Grid.
“You are the second strongest person I have ever met. You should be proud of your potential."
The second? Then who was the first?
'Is he talking about Zibal…!'
Chris' ego was shattered. The difference between them was just one level. He couldn't overcome that level difference, but he believed he was stronger. But he was weaker?
“Kuaaaak!”
Chris shouted and aimed his sword at the plants around his lower body. Then an energy blade aimed at Piaro. It was the Rule with Might Sword that made ranged attacks possible. As the powerful blade was about to penetrate Piaro's chest,
“Free Farming 4th Style, Plowing the Field."
Piaro pulled out a plow and started digging at the ground. As it struck the ground, the soil rose up and became a barrier that blocked the blade.
"This is ridiculous!"
Satisfy had started exactly two years and two months ago. He steadily trained with the goal of becoming number one. He was even equipped with the best items. Chris thought this person was a ninja who hid as a farmer, but he actually was overwhelmed by a real farmer?
He suffered defeat from farming methods such as sowing, plant growing and plowing.
'I can't accept it!'
Chris barely managed to restore his mental state. The opponent was someone who beat Zibal. It was naive to think he could win when his level was lower than Zibal's, but Chris couldn't tolerate this.
“Kuaaaah!”
Chris used Tyrant’s Strength which temporarily increased his strength by 20%, tearing apart the plants binding his lower body. It was done with pure strength. Piaro saw this and thought.
'I am lacking practice.'
Free Farming Style 1 'Sowing' and style 2 'Rapid Growth.' The durability of the plants grown was weaker than expected. It was proof that Rapid Growth hadn't reached the right level yet.
'I have to work harder in the fields.'
As Piaro vowed this, the energy blades covered Piaro. The hand plow defended against every strike, then Piaro tried to break Chris' center of gravity again.
'His enlightenment is fast.'
Piaro was surprised to see Chris' skill in recovering his greatsword every time the hand plow collided with it.
'It's higher than Kraugel when I first met him.'
Piaro acknowledged it and started to swing his hand plow. His skill with the farming equipment overwhelmed Chris. But Chris' momentum didn't go down. His chest was struck but he didn't retreat as he shouted.
"I am above Zibal!"
Kuwaaah!
It was like a lion's roar. There were farmers and users scattered throughout the vast fields. They were amazed and frightened, while the captains of the Giant Guild also blocked their ears. It was the power of Chris' second class, Tyrant.
'This is the time!'
There was no one who would be safe when facing Tyrant's Growl. Chris used the gap caused by Tyrant's Growl to attack the temporarily confused Piaro.
Kurururung.
There was an earthquake centered on Piaro. The only person able to withstand this earthquake was Chris, the one who caused it. Chris expected Piaro to be swept away by Tyrant's Advent.
"Wow."
Chris was at a loss after using the skill. He saw Piaro standing on a large number of rice plants growing out of cracks in the collapsing land.
“You have messed up the land. You will have more work to do."
"…?"
It was strange. It sounded like Piaro was trying to make Chris do something. Chris was feeling confused when rice rained down on him. He defended by swinging his greatsword.
[The durability of Grid's Greatsword has decreased by 10.]
[The durability of Grid's Greatsword has decreased by 11.]
Hollow rice. They were a weak plant that had no sense of weight. No, this was a concept higher than aura. Chris couldn't endure it, and became a rag along with Grid's Greatsword.
***
"Repair my greatsword."
"What?"
20 minutes after saying goodbye, Chris returned. He handed his greatsword to Grid. Grid frowned as he checked the greatsword, which was cracked.
"What is this? Did you meet a dragon?"
'You awful bastard!'
Chris believed that this incident was caused by Grid. The monster called Piaro was Grid's subordinate, so he was forced to think this way.
'Is it to let us know who is superior in our relationship?'
He couldn't believe the rumors. Grid was rumored to be stupid, but he was actually incredibly scary. Grid extended a hand to Chris.
“The cost of the repairs. It is 3 gold for every one point of durability."
"What…?"
It was 10 times more expensive than the normal repair price. It was an unreasonable price, but he couldn't refuse the transaction.
'This demon… I absolutely can't make him an enemy!'
Chris handed over 853 gold with trembling hands and returned to the fields. The five leaders of the Giant Guild had to work there.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 317
"Sigh… It is hard, hard."
“It is too hard to fill the quota. Does it make sense that there are only 400 people working in these vast fields? Looking at the scale, there should be at least 10 times more workers."
"Dammit! If this is an agricultural city, increase the number of farmers!"
“They want to save money on the labor costs. I heard that Grid is quite cheap."
"He's beyond the level of cheap. Cutting labor costs and kidnapping users to become farmers, is this something normal people would do?"
The 21 users caught by Piaro and forced to work. They complained about Grid every time they gathered. It was because they were convinced that Piaro, who kidnapped them and turned them into farmers, was doing it under Grid's orders.
However, the reason they didn't run away was due to the rewards of the hidden quest. Honestly, they were happy about getting a hidden quest and didn't hold any animosity towards Grid. The reason they came to Reidan was because they wanted to join Overgeared, and they basically liked Grid.
But the work was too hard, so it was hard to survive unless they complained. It was inevitable that Grid would be frequently mentioned.
"Are they new?"
The grumbling users working in the fields focused on one place. From far away, Piaro was leading five people over.
"This time it's a group of five."
"Tsk tsk, poor guys."
The average level of the 21 users was 270. They had to be at least that level to cross the desert to Reidan. The group of five people would also be high level users. Wasn't it too absurd that they were being dragged as dogs to become farmers? They felt a sense of compassion.
"Ah?"
“Eh?"
The users looking at the five newcomers sympathetically became confused. They were the master of the Giant Guild and the Five Captains!
"T-This is ridiculous!"
They were dealt a big blow in the golem invasion, but they were still very strong. The Giant Guild was one of the best guilds. In particular, the Five Captains were third advancement users and Chris was 3rd on the unified rankings, so they were a high sky for the users. But they weren't even Piaro's opponent?
'That crazy farmer is bigger than we thought!'
The users were astonished, while Piaro introduced Chris' group to them.
“They are new farmers. I hope you get along well with them in the future."
"Who is a farmer?"
"Damn bastard!"
Chris, the 3rd ranked user, leader of the Giant Guild and viscount of the Eternal Kingdom was being introduced as a new farmer! The captains trembled at Piaro's absurd attitude.
But Chris wasn't offended. The opponent was stronger than him. Despite being able to kill him, Chris was spared and given a hidden quest. He didn't intend to make a fuss.
"Let’s get along well.”
Chris greeted the senior farmers with respect. The Five Captains were forced to bow their heads.
“W-We will work hard."
On this day, Chris and the Five Captains joined the fun and exciting training.
A strange rumor started to circulate on the Internet. The master of the Giant Guild and the Five Captains became serfs of Grid. It was a rumor that couldn't be believed. No one believed the rumor.
"What is this nonsense?"
Grid was more disbelieving than anyone else.
***
Grid had obtained 27 pavranium for helping with Braham's resurrection. Originally, there were 28 pavranium. However, one of them became the Vessel of the Soul and entered Braham's possession.
'It is painful that I can't get one, but…'
Fortunately, all 27 out of 27 pavranium had the blessing of the four gods. As the master of the pavranium, Grid received a 15% buff on his attack power, defense, recovery and magic power. As a legendary class exclusive item, the pavranium was truly a scam.
'It was only because of Braham that I could receive the blessing of God Yatan, so let's not think too much about giving him one pavranium.'
Grid had become a very positive and generous person compared to the past. In fact, a little while ago, he had reduced Chris' repair price by 2 gold.
'2 gold is two ramyun.'
He could imagine how much Chris appreciated it. Grid didn't doubt that Chris would feel a great affection towards him. He thought about a future alliance with the Giant Guild, then wondered what he should do with the pavranium.
'I can't make Lifael's Spear.'
Lifael's Spear was the strongest weapon in existence. It was an undeniable truth. Unfortunately, it was an inefficient weapon for Grid. The spear wasn't influenced by Pagma's Swordsmanship and he was poisoned by its divine power when he used Blackening.
'It is enough to have Grid's Greatsword, Failure, and Yakult as weapons.'
Then would it be better to make armor?
Grid was equipped with the Holy Light armor, gloves and a crown that were made by Pagma, and they boasted an outstanding performance when worn as a set. He also efficiently swapped between Grid's Boots and Braham's Boots for the shoes.
On the other hand, he was lacking a shield. But Grid used a greatsword as a weapon, so there weren't many opportunities to use a shield.
'Is there anything special that isn't a weapon or armor?'
Pavranium was a mineral with its own will. It considered Grid's safety as the top priority and moved with its own judgment. It was far more efficient to give it freedom than to limit it to his body. What was the best type of item to utilize that freedom?
'A symbol of freedom…'
“Snack.”
“…It is a snack. Eh?"
Grid frowned. Snack? Who was the person who suddenly interfered with his deep thoughts by speaking nonsense? Grid shifted his gaze in that direction. The guy who had devoted himself to monster hunting since arriving in Reidan was now resting on the window sill.
“Give me a snack! Give it to me! Nyang!"
He had a very proud and arrogant attitude. It was almost a command.
“Have you lost your senses? No, in the first place, why are you after a snack? Don't you eat monster or human souls?"
"That is food! Snacks are snacks, nyang!"
“What jerk gave you the concept of snacks…?"
“Your wife! Nyang!"
“…"
Setting aside where he learnt the word 'wife,' he was talking about Irene.
'I heard that Irene has a hobby of baking cake these days.'
Irene was the daughter of an earl, so she never learned how to cook. Now after coming to Reidan, she wanted to learn how to cook and bake, so that she could give Grid a little joy. Thanks to her, the Overgeared members and the soldiers were able to enjoy sweet snacks. Noe seemed to have been added as well.
"Sigh, okay. Take a nap and don't interfere with my work.”
Grid decided to ignore Noe and started thinking again about what to make with the pavranium.
'An item that can highlight the advantage of moving on its own…'
“Teddy bear."
“…A teddy bear is good… Ah, you."
Grid frowned. Teddy bear? Who was interfering this time? The incensed Grid turned towards the owner of the voice. It was Randy, who was in the appearance of a little girl.
“I received a teddy bear from Irene!"
Randy was pure and cute as she extended the bear. Grid nodded roughly towards the child.
"Okay. Go and play with the teddy bear."
"Yes!"
Randy smiled and went next to Noe to play with the bear. But her playing didn't last long. Noe teased Randy by repeatedly batting at the teddy bear.
“…I’m going crazy.”
Randy started crying while Noe laughed, interrupting Grid's meditation time. So he kicked them out. Then he wondered again.
'The item I should make out of pavranium…'
“Please make farming equipment."
“…The answer is farming equipment… Hah."
Grid's face distorted like a demon. Farming equipment? This time, someone was pouring cold water on him! The owner of the voice was Piaro. Piaro was wearing dirt-stained clothing. Grid could no longer overlook it.
“Piaro, what is your job?"
"I am the leader of the Overgeared Knights Division, commander of Reidan, and a farmer."
“Isn't there something strange in there?"
“No."
Grid couldn't understand it at all.
“Why on earth do you keep clinging to being a farmer? Are you doing your duties as knight captain and commander of Reidan?"
"Yes."
Piaro answered without hesitation. He felt pride in his responsibilities.
“Then I’m glad. But what about your goal of becoming a sword saint? If you don't have time due to your duties, isn't it better to quit farming and practice your swordsmanship?"
[A legendary farmer has been born!]
The main character of the notification window that all users in Satisfy saw wasn't Piaro. Grid was certain, but he couldn't help feeling nervous. In this case, his uneasy feeling was proven correct.
"I realized that I am a farmer, not a sword saint."
“…"
Grid was no longer a fool. Piaro was faithful to his role as a farmer. It was rumored that the seven guilds' invasion of Reidan was repelled by farmers. The users doing field work, and so on. All of these things attested to the fact that Piaro was the legendary farmer.
Grid just didn't want to admit it.
Sword Saint Muller. Grid hoped that Piaro's strength would be recognized as the strongest among the legends.
“…Is it because your talent isn't enough to pursue the peak of swordsmanship? In the end, you gave up and became a farmer."
Grid couldn't hide his anger as he tried to provoke Piaro.
“…"
Piaro knew the role that Grid wanted for him. He knew the sense of loss that Grid would be feeling. Piaro was determined to prove himself to Grid. He would prove that he was superior compared to when he was a great swordsman.
“Farming is the foundation of our lives and it is more valuable than anything else in the world. I just chose a more valuable path."
"It is possible for women to harvest the crops. You aren't the only one who can do farming.”
“However, I'm the only one who can master it."
“Why do you need to master farming? Ah, to create a good harvest? It is very minor. If you have power, you can occupy more territory. Then there would be more people and we can secure a large amount of food using it. It is much more profitable to develop the armed forces to aim for more land."
"Mastering farming isn't merely raising crops. I can exert more power if I have an understanding of nature. I can confident that I am necessary for My Lord."
"Really? Then prove it. What type of power can a farmer exert?"
This was what Piaro wanted. He had been wanting this situation since he asked for farming equipment.
'I must be acknowledged by My Lord.'
He would let Grid know the greatness of a farmer. Piaro took out his hand plow and plow, while Grid armed himself with Failure and Grid's Greatsword.
"I will return you to your original form. Your hands are meant to hold a sword, not dirt-stained farming equipment!"
At present, Piaro wasn't sane. Grid had to return him to the right path. Grid put on the Slaughterer's Eye Patch and used Blacksmith's Rage to overpower Piaro. Piaro made a sad expression.
'His talent is weak compared to Kraugel and Chris.'
Grid made great strides after defeating Pagma's Doppelganger, but his lord was fundamentally unskilled. It was unlikely that his growth had continued since then.
'You might be poisoned with frustration after losing, but I believe that you can overcome this poison as usual.'
Piaro would first relieve his burden by proving his value. Piaro judged and blocked the blue greatsword Grid was swinging, then counterattacked while avoiding a dark blue greatsword. In his head, Grid had already collapsed.
But what was Grid's specialty? It was the power to overcome common sense and destroy predictions.
Chaaeng!
"…!"
As soon as the blue greatsword and hand plow collided, Piaro's eyes widened.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 318
As soon as the blue greatsword and hand plow collided, Piaro's eyes widened.
'Heavy!'
Grid's swordsmanship was rough. It wasn't outstanding. However, his high strength and agility wrecked considerable havoc.
'How far has he come?'
Piaro had experience teaching Grid. He knew more than anyone that Grid was dull-witted. Even though he inherited the legendary skills, Piaro was confident that a rapid growth wasn't possible for Grid.
But he was mistaken. Grid's growth rate was comparable to the geniuses that Piaro recognized, Regas and Ibellin.
'Now!'
The synergy between the Slaughterer's Eye Patch and his high insight exploded. As Piaro was feeling confused, Grid's eye flashed red and he shook the hand plow off Failure. At this point, Grid's greatsword moved horizontally.
Chaaeng!
"Uh…!"
Piaro groaned. A powerful shock was delivered despite the defense of the plow. Blacksmith's Rage and the buff on the pavranium meant that Grid's attack power currently surpassed Chris. In particular, Grid's high agility gave him wings.
Chaaeng! Jjang! Jjejeong!
In the time it took Chris to attack twice, Grid had attacked three times. Piaro was very surprised. It was surprising since Grid was predicted to be below Chris' level. But this surprise didn't last long.
Grid had one lacking point. It was his understanding of swordsmanship. Chris executed a trajectory that forced the enemy's movement to slow, while Grid was just fast.
First, defend and then pierce through the gap. Piaro turned to the left, aiming his hand plow at Grid's left shoulder. It was an attack that precisely aimed for the weak point, but something unexpected happened.
A golden blade flew and guarded Grid. Piaro blocked the attack and was amazed.
'Indeed!'
A legendary blacksmith. Grid made up for his lack of swordsmanship with tools. However, didn't the golden blade stiffen from one strike? Piaro didn't consider the pavranium to be a variable. This was a natural judgment. It was too early to express this as carelessness.
But who was Grid? Once again, he was a legendary blacksmith. He transcended predictions with his items.
Peeng!
"Heok?"
Piaro had been the strongest ever since he became a great swordsman. He was considered invincible and rarely experienced a fright. The golden blade went stiff after protecting Grid's shoulder. Then it launched Magic Missile!
"Ugh!"
It was a completely unexpected type of attack. He never imagined that magic would come from the blade. Then Grid leapt forward through that gap.
Chaaeng!
Once the attack was blocked, he took advantage of the rebound and swung Grid's Greatsword. It was an exciting linked combo.
Puok!
"…!"
Blood dripped down Piaro's chest. However, the damage didn't seem to be great and there was no shaking in his posture. Grid knew how robust he was and linked the attacks without hesitation.
Slashing and a descending cut. Landing and then a horizontal slash. The subsequent counterattack was defended by Failure and then countered with Grid's Greatsword. He succeeded in a total of five attacks with Grid's Greatsword. Then the option of Grid's Greatsword was activated, making the fifth attack a critical attack.
[Critical!]
[You have dealt 22,900 damage to the target.]
'Ridiculously durable.'
The person wounded was Piaro, but Grid was the one who felt surprised. It was because Piaro's defensive power exceeded Elfin Stone's, despite him only wearing simple clothes. His health must be at least 300,000.
Piaro was a legendary farmer, so he now had significantly higher stats than when he was a great swordsman. In addition, he raised his level through continuous training. Piaro's current level was 405, which was 38 levels higher than when Grid observed him with the Great Lord’s Sword.
Grid was only level 301, so his attacks couldn't deal proper damage. This was a judgment based on level that the system decided by default.
Piaro expressed his respect.
"I am proud of you."
Had he been working hard since the day he struggled with Pagma's doppelganger?
"I have to salute My Lord, who has done your best despite your lack of talent."
[Piaro's loyalty has soared to the peak.]
[The absolute trust in his lord has increased Piaro's willingness and opened up his potential. Piaro's stats will permanently increase by 10%.]
"Heok."
Grid would normally be glad about the notification windows. But now was an exception.
“W-Wait a minute!”
Piaro should become stronger after the battle! He didn't have time to put that thought in his mouth.
“Free Farming 1st Style, Sowing."
Pa pa pa pat!
Piaro sprinkled dozens of seeds.
The pavranium responded because it was aimed at Grid.
Out of the 27 pavranium, four of the pavranium turned into blades had been mixed with the Water Clan King's Tears. The remaining 23 were the basic form, showing a weak defense. They couldn't fully defend against all the seeds sowed around Grid and stiffened.
[You have suffered 9,320 damage.]
"This damn thing!"
Grid was hit by a rice seed that penetrated through the stiff pavranium and screamed. In the past, a low level user in Patrian was hit by a bone and died. Now Grid was in the same position.
“Free Farming 2nd Style, Rapid Growth."
Kwaduk! Kudududuk!
After hitting the pavranium or Grid, the seeds on the floor started growing rapidly.
'What is this?'
Grid freaked out as he saw the rice growing.
“This is a power that only a legendary farmer can exert."
Piaro's will was firm. As a legendary farmer, he wasn't incompetent. So he wanted to be acknowledged. But Grid couldn't accept it. No matter how strong a legendary farmer, he couldn't get rid of the idea that a sword saint was better.
"Pagma's Swordsmanship, Link!"
A sword dance was quickly unfolded.
Pit! Pipipipipit!
Dozens of attacks flew out and scattered the rice plants. Grid and Piaro's eyes met.
"Pagma's Swordsmanship…!"
“Free Farming!"
Kuooooh!
The air around Grid sank heavily. The intense aura around Grid was concentrated at the end of the greatsword, making the target feel an extreme threat. It was the manifestation of Pagma's Swordsmanship, Kill.
Piaro's skill was even more amazing.
"6th Style! Flailing!"
The plow was replaced by a flail. It ruthlessly struck Grid's Greatsword that was aiming for his chest.
Pepeok! Bam bam bam!
"Heok?"
Grid was surprised. It was because the energy of Kill was unable to bear the power of the flail and dissipated.
'This is crazy!'
Flailing! One of his strongest skills was disabled by a farming technique. The thing that made him even more irate was that the old flail Piaro was using was a rare rated farming tool that Grid made a few months ago. In contrast, his weapon was legendary rated!
‘Shit!’
It felt like he was grain hit by a flail. Piaro's skill wasn't just strong. It also had a tendency to break the enemy's self-esteem. It was very powerful.
'He might be a farmer, but a legend is a legend. This is pretty amazi… No, no.'
He couldn't acknowledge Piaro as a farmer. Piaro should only be a sword saint. Grid barely recovered from his confusion and gave orders to four pavranium blades that contained Magic Missile.
'Shoot from all directions!'
The pavranium only followed Grid's will. They immediately reacted by surrounding Piaro and firing Magic Missile all at once.
'This basic magic isn't a threat to me!'
Piaro was caught off guard before, but not now.
Piaro demonstrated the hidden technique of Free Farming, 'Natural State.' Then the earth, air, trees and everything in nature gave him strength, causing his stats to rise dramatically. It was natural that his magic resistance would also increase.
But it was useless.
Pepepepeng!
"Cough!"
The Magic Missile (Enhanced) Grid received from Braham completely ignored the target's magic resistance. Despite the use of Natural State, Piaro suffered a lot of damage.
‘What is with the strength of this magic?'
Piaro had fought with Earl Ashur, one of the 10 great magicians of the continent. But Earl Ashur didn't have magic that was this fast and powerful.
'The magic of an artifact transcends that of a great magician…!'
His lord was truly great. Piaro felt sincere respect.
On the other hand, Grid was cursing.
'Dammit.'
He was able to add magic to pavranium thanks to the Water Clan King's Tears sent by Euphemina, but there was a problem. In order to deploy the Magic Missile attributed to the pavranium, Grid's mana was consumed.
Malacus' Cloak and the Black Quartz Earrings increased Grid's intelligence, giving him mana close to 16,000. The mana cost of the legendary skills was very high, so it was too much to use both Pagma's Swordsmanship and Magic Missile (Enhanced).
But in this situation, Piaro became even stronger.
'Natural State…'
It amplified his stats, like Braham's Magic Drain. It was an excellent legendary buff skill.
'On the other hand, my Blacksmith's Rage…'
Blacksmith’s Rage was based on sympathizing with blacksmiths! It couldn't be denied that it was a great buff that increased attack damage and attack speed, but the disadvantage was that the duration was too short. The skill at level 5 only lasted for 35 seconds. Piaro's Natural State and Braham's Magic Drain were undeniably better.
Pepeok! Bam bam bam!
“Ugh!”
Would Blacksmith’s Rage one day be reborn to match a legendary skill? Grid's thinking was broken by Piaro's flail. Grid tried to defend, but it was difficult. The flail was light, its attack speed was fast and its trajectory was irregular.
'This is a joke…!'
Piaro was very fast after using Natural State. He avoided all the Magic Missiles fired by the pavranium again. Grid was distressed about the one-sided beating.
'If only I had two more hands…!'
He would be able to resist Piaro's flail and also reverse the situation by using Item Combination.
'Ah?'
Grid was struck with an epiphany.
'Yes, hands!'
The hands of a legendary blacksmith! What if he could reproduce these great hands with the pavranium? Just imagine it! The legendary blacksmith hands that moved according to his command.
During combat, he could use multiple items, maximizing the power of his items. In addition, they could be his substitute for the long activation time of Item Combination.
'I can make several items at the same time, so the efficiency of my work will increase!'
…Irene would also be pleased.
Grid smiled with satisfaction and called out.
"Time! Wait! Stop! I said stop!"
"…?"
Not admitting defeat in a battle, just stopping? Piaro stopped moving his flail. It was truly great loyalty. Grid shouted to him.
"Let's fight again tomorrow!"
Grid was too careless today. Even if Piaro was a farmer, he was still a legend. Tomorrow, if Grid lost again despite his full preparations…
'At that time, I will respect your choice.'
Grid's eyes were filled with confidence. The reason why he felt confident despite not reducing Piaro's health by one-tenth today was because he had absolute faith. He had faith in his items.
At this moment, a legend of the new era started to evolve. He was in the process of catching up to the legends of the previous generation and overcoming them.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
