Chapter 322
Grid was shaken when Transcend was blocked.
'I can't believe it was defeated!'
The number of times he had fired the energy blades in 30 seconds was well over 50 times. But Piaro stood in place and blocked it with a hand plow? He recognized Piaro's skill from the beginning, but his agility seemed higher than yesterday.
'Truly amazing.'
Grid felt a thrill. He realized that he was blessed to have such a great subordinate. But Grid didn't like that Piaro was a farmer. His subordinate would become much stronger if he was a sword saint!
‘Now I will make you a sword saint!'
Grid rushed forward towards Piaro while avoiding the dozens of seeds. He used Pagma's Swordsmanship, Pinnacle that could only be performed once an hour. But the result fell short of expectations.
[You have dealt 10,500 damage to the target.]
'Ah! Damn level system!'
Piaro's stats were high and the level difference of 100 was too much. His attack power wasn't properly applied, catching Grid's ankles. But he didn't feel despair. He had the power of items!
'It is impossible to win with skills alone!'
Grid faced the incoming hand plow and finally summoned a God Hand, defending by equipping the Divine Shield.
Chaaeng!
"…!"
Piaro was greatly surprised by the sight. Grid smiled at the sight.
"Let me show you the power of items."
[God Hand]
Rating: Unique (Growth)
Durability: Infinite
Dexterity: 814 Strength: 813
A hand made by the legendary blacksmith Grid, using the material pavranium that was made by the former legends Pagma and Braham. Since it reproduces Grid's hands, all items can be worn without restrictions.
An item born from the intervention of three legends, it has the ability to transcend a divine item.
However, steady learning is essential in order to open up its potential.
* The unique rated 'God Hand' only receives 30% of its master's strength and dexterity.
* The unique rated 'God Hand' isn't yet able to reproduce its master's skills.
However, the skills possessed by items can be fully used. Buff skills will influence the master.
* 'God Hand' can learn blacksmithing, swordsmanship and shield techniques.
Currently, the Blacksmith skill of God Hand is advanced level 1, while Sword Mastery and Shield Mastery are beginner level 2. Once the mastery reaches a certain level, the rating of God Hand will increase.
* Magic Missile (Enhanced) is attached. Due to the effect of the Water Clan King's Tears, this spell is reproduced with 100% of its power.
* Depending on the usage, it is easy to obtain the favor of the opposite sex.
Conditions of Use: Grid.
Weight: 21
The conditions of use was Grid rather than Pagma’s Descendant. As a dedicated item exclusively for Grid, its performance and role fulfilled his expectations. There was a high likelihood of growth. It might be comparable or exceed a myth rated item, so he was full of expectations for the future.
But there was one regrettable thing.
'I was only able to make four.'
He was able to make five if he only reproduced the shape, but the pavranium consumption rate was too high once he had to make all the structures.
'Well, I still like it.'
Wasn't it still four hands more than other people? Grid threw Failure and Grid's Greatsword into the air.
'Why?'
Forsaking a weapon during battle? Piaro couldn't understand Grid's intentions and was confused.
'Perhaps…! There isn't only one golden hand!'
Piaro's gaze hurriedly turned towards the sky. Two golden hands appeared and grabbed the greatswords. Piaro paled.
"Is it the time to look away?"
Grid replaced the Divine Shield with the Ideal Dagger, then he shouted.
"Cut!"
Papat! Papapat!
The speed of the pavranium was comparable to hell's best demonic beast, a memphis. An ordinary person wouldn't be able to react. Three God Hands approached and wielded their greatswords and daggers at Piaro. The golden hands were moving and wielding their weapons by themselves. They might be fast and amazing, but their sword skills were terrible. It was like child's play to Piaro.
"This isn't the end!"
Chaaeng! Chaaeng!
Piaro blocked all the hand attacks with just one hand plow! He tried to aim the hoe at Grid.
Chaaeng!
'There was one more hand!'
A chill went down Piaro's spine. A golden hand holding a jade greatsword aimed at his back! Grid realized it the moment he saw Piaro sense and defend against the attack.
'The current God Hands can't go against Piaro.'
He was a monster who blocked all attacks, even if they struck simultaneously from all four directions.
'But it is okay.'
The presence of the God Hands alone were a great help to him. The swordsmanship and strength were low, but all the items were top rated weapons. Piaro was forced to be conscious of them, and Grid would aim for that gap.
‘I will do my best.'
Kuwaaaang!
Grid was covered in black energy. It was the manifestation of Blackening that belonged to Dark Bus' Earrings.
[Your black magic power has increased.]
[You don't have any black magic power. It will be replaced with demonic power.]
[While Blackening is activated, your species will change to half-demon.]
[As a half demon, your maximum health is reduced by 50%. Your attack power, magic power and agility will increased by 20% each.]
[All attacks will be converted to the black magic attribute.]
Piaro's eyes widened.
'Demonic energy!'
His lord wasn't a human? He suspected for a moment. Then he noticed that the cause of Grid's demonic energy was the earrings he was wearing. Piaro frowned despite feeling relieved.
“This doesn't look good!"
Grid's skin was whitened and his eyes turned black, making his appearance unbearable. Piaro didn't like that his lord was borrowing the power of a demon. But Grid wouldn't hear of it.
"Don't give it any big meaning. This is just an extension of the items system."
Grid's nature was more aggressive in the Blackening state. How far would this power go against Piaro? Grid felt pleasure as he gave an order to the hands.
After deploying Wind Blast attached to the Ideal Dagger, while Failure and the Doppelganger's Greatsword simultaneously hit the left and right sides of Piaro. At this time, Grid's Greatsword was falling from the air.
“Where are you going?"
The attacks towards Piaro weren't threatening at all. They were easy to beat. However, he couldn't help taking action towards them.
“Iyarugt."
Grid summoned the demonic sword that he got from the Elfin Stone raid. The demonic energy left an afterimage and a red line was painted.
Chaaeng!
'Unbelievable!'
Piaro was astonished. Grid's damage and speed was incomparable after he used Blackening. The speed wasn't much different from Piaro. Moreover, Grid's swordsmanship suddenly increased greatly. It was thanks to Iyarugt.
[Due to the option effect of Iyarugt, Sword Mastery has increased by 5 levels.]
[You don't have the Sword Mastery skill. Beginner Sword Mastery level 5 is created while wearing Iyarugt.]
It didn't seem to be that much. What was the effect of beginner Sword Mastery level 5? It increased attack power and attack speed by 3% when a sword was worn. However, Grid's basic stats were unusually high. He was in a state where his stats were enhanced by Blackening. This 3% was forced to become a large number.
Moreover, there was Iyarugt's real strength.
[The strongest enemy I have met in centuries! Go and fight! Fight without stopping! Let me grow!]
Iyarugt. The strongest demonkin when alive. His spirit dwelled in Iyarugt, transmitting his excitement to Grid. In Grid's field of view, dozens of red lines were created and cleared. Grid followed the most brilliant line and swung his sword. This became the best trajectory that put pressure on Piaro.
'My Lord…!'
Piaro was thrilled as he confronted it. Since acquiring the title of great swordsman, how long had it been since he was pushed on the defensive by someone? It was the first time. Thus, he was glad. He was even more delighted that the opponent was his lord!
"Free Farming 4th Style!"
The demonic sword was too sharp. Once the hand plow's durability fell to the limit, he was forced to pull out a plow.
"Plow the Field!"
Kwa kwa kwa kwang!
As the plow swept through the ground, the earth shook like there was an earthquake and pillars of earth rose.
"Kuk!"
Grid reflexively moved backwards and barely avoided the pillars. But the crisis was still continuing. Piaro sprinkled seeds on the land that was cleared. The seeds quickly grew into thorny vines that surrounded Grid's body. It was the linkage of Plowing, Sowing and then Rapid Growth.
"God Hands!"
Grid quickly cried out as he was about to be overtaken by the front vines. Then four golden hands flow and swung their weapons, cutting through the thorns. However, there was a limit. The thorns grew faster than the hands could act.
In the end, Grid was forced to use Link in order to avoid the crisis. It was the moment he wasted an important skill for defensive purposes. Piaro leapt quickly and wielded his sickle.
“Free Farming 5th Style, Harvest!"
Seokeok! Seokekeok!
The huge thorns were separated from the roots by the sickle. At the same time, they moved like a wave towards Grid's body.
[You have suffered 9,100 damage.]
[You have suffered 8,700 damage.]
[You have suffered 8,930 damage.]
"Kuak!"
It made him feel very bad. The problem was the skill name of 'Harvest.' He didn't want to die from a farmer's sickle.
[Now!]
Iyarugt had been waiting for this opportunity and presented a new sword trajectory to Grid. It was a sword trajectory that aimed perfectly for when Piaro landed. However, Grid's speed wasn't fast enough to catch it. The distance to Piaro was too far. He did the next best thing and fired off four Magic Missiles, but he was interrupted by the thorns.
[What are you doing, incompetent bastard!]
Iyarugt urged him as he felt frustration.
'Why?'
Grid was baffled. Then he came up with an idea. It was the skill belonging to the Ideal Dagger that he forgot about for a while.
"God Hands!"
Grid shouted and the hand with the Ideal Dagger used the skill. Quick Movements was used.
[Your evasion rate is increased by 30% and your agility doubled for 1 minute.]
This was why Grid kept the level 180 Ideal Dagger. Double his agility! The Ideal Dagger's abilities were low, but the skill attached to it was great.
“Ohhhhhh!”
Grid rushed along the sword path. This speed overturned common sense, so there was no way for the confused Piaro to avoid it.
Puok!
A red flash was launched in a straight line towards Piaro's shoulders. Originally, it was aimed at the heart. However, the orbit was twisted because of Piaro's flail. But Grid wasn't shaken. It was because he knew his present speed far exceeded Piaro's.
Seokeok!
[You have dealt 3,900 damage to the target.]
[You have dealt 3,790 damage to the target.]
[You have succeeded in the 3rd combo!]
[The amount of damage the target will receive will increase by 200% for 1 second!]
'Now!'
Kuooooh!
A skill was launched with Iyarugt. It was Pagma's Swordsmanship, Kill. Grid had the legendary skills so there was no sense not using them.
[Critical!]
[You have dealt 125,600 damage to the target.]
Piaro's health fell by half in an instant.
[Piaro has realized what he is lacking. The level of his farming techniques have risen from this enlightenment!]
[A hidden quest has been created.]
A quest window appeared to increase the value of this match.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 323
Piaro allowed Grid to deal a deadly attack.
He realized it.
'My use of the farming equipment is wrong!'
He had already mastered swordsmanship. Therefore, he used it as the base for his farming techniques. He was following its principles.
'This is an obvious mistake!'
Farming and swordsmanship were completely different. Wasn't farming equipment a tool for life, while a sword was a tool for death? The farming equipment could be enhanced by the sword techniques, but they were fundamentally different. It was right to change his approach.
'Discard swordsmanship!'
There was no reason to use swordsmanship with farming techniques. It was poison from the beginning, since he should use swordsmanship with a sword. Piaro's awareness drastically changed. He seemed to be another person.
The hands gripping the farming equipment loosened, and he now had a free and relaxed attitude. He stood like a farmer.
Flash!
Piaro's body was surrounded by light. A quest window appeared in front of the confused Grid.
[Lord's Confidence]
Hidden Quest
Piaro has gained new enlightenment and awakened as a true farmer.
He has completely forsaken the sword.
At this moment, he wants to be acknowledged by you.
Spar with Piaro!
Please experience Piaro's skills and acknowledge him!
Depending on the results, Piaro will grow even more!
Quest Clear Conditions: Win or lose in a spar with Piaro.
Defeat in a spar with Piaro: Piaro will gain great pride as a farmer. Piaro's stats and skills will significantly rise.
Victory in a spar with Piaro: Piaro will feel skeptical and once again walk on the path of the sword again. The stats that rose as a result of Piaro becoming a legend will be destroyed.
[Hidden Quest 'Lord's Confidence' will proceed.]
[Now you and Piaro have entered sparring mode.]
[The spar will continue until the health of one person reaches the minimum.]
[You won't die in sparring mode.]
Lord's Confidence. This was a type of bonus quest. Grid was the lord, so being defeated by Piaro would raise Piaro's morale and allow him to grow. It would be a huge benefit and Piaro would be able to become even stronger.
If Grid was a conventional lord, he would be happy and dancing while thanking the heavens. However, Grid was hoping that Piaro would become a sword saint. Grid was paying attention to the result of his victory, not his defeat.
'Walk the path of the sword again?'
It was confusing. He would either make Piaro definitely stronger as a farmer, or make him walk the path of the sword again.
'If he walks the path of the sword, he can develop into a sword saint.'
Of course, he couldn't be certain of this. No matter how great Piaro was, it wasn't certain that he would become a sword saint. It was also disconcerting that Piaro's current abilities would fall.
'Is it right to lose?'
No, no.
Kkuok!
Grid strongly grasped Iyarugt.
'I will do my best.'
Lose on purpose? Piaro wouldn't want such a method.
'If you want to prove the value of a farmer, beat me.'
If he couldn't beat Grid, take up the sword again. Pioneer your path with your own strength!
Teong!
Grid jumped forward at that thought. There was still 30 seconds left of Quick Movements. Grid meant to win during that time.
"Blacksmith's Rage!"
[Attack power will increase by 25% and attack speed will increase by 40%.] This effect will last for 35 seconds.]
Grid's strength reached the peak. He approached Piaro and excitedly attacked him. He wasn't just fast. The trajectory was the best because he attacked along the path that Iyarugt was telling him.
However, Piaro avoided it. It was an unexpected move. He bent over and squatted down?
[This guy's talent suddenly became low!]
Iyarugt was disappointed. It meant he didn't understand Piaro's intention, and was proof that Piaro was far beyond Iyarugt.
Puok!
Piaro squatted and hit the ground hard with the hand plow. Water shot up in an instant.
"What…?"
The problem was that the gushing water interrupted his field of view. Grid was confused and in this gap, Piaro quickly sprinkled seeds all over the land. At the same time, something incredible happened.
The whole area was quickly transformed into a field. Numerous wheat tinged with gold grew around Grid.
'This is nonsense!'
A wheat field just before harvest was created in just an instant? It was just as spectacular as the magic that Braham showed. No, in a sense, it was more amazing. Piaro started doing PR to the disbelieving Grid.
“Imagine it. What if a legendary farmer is marching with an army and circumstances lead to a food shortage? I can immediately clear a field and feed the soldiers!"
“Heok!"
It was amazing to hear. There would be no food shortages with an army led by Piaro. Grid was about to be persuaded when he asked a question.
“What if there is no water?"
“Use the water from nearby rivers or have magicians summon water."
“What if there are no rivers or magicians?"
“…It will rain."
“If it doesn't rain?"
“Free Farming 5th Style, Harvest!"
The time for questions was over. At this moment, Piaro gained a new enlightenment again and wielded the sickle. A sharp qi was projected and the wheat was cut.
"Ack!"
Grid immediately bowed to avoid it and cried out. There were thousands, tens of thousands of wheat scattered everywhere. It was a dizzying sight.
'This is too unnecessary!'
It happened when Grid was nervously brushing away the wheat in front of him.
Pepeng! Pepepepeok!
The many wheat exploded without notice.
“Kuaaaaak!”
Grid screamed as the entire field was engulfed in an explosion. If it hadn't been for the God Hand covering him, Grid would've suffered so much damage it wouldn't be strange for his health to fall to the minimum.
"Kuk…! Ugh! Cough! Cough!"
The harvested wheat exploded?
“How is there such a process in farming!?"
Grid shouted as he was covered with scorched flour. Piaro bluntly replied.
"It is polishing."
"What polishing!?"
Polishing referred to the process of removing the surface of the grain to make it clean and white, not turning it into ashes. Grid was about to reply when he suddenly realized.
‘I lost my composure. I was too shaken because of the wheat field.’
Grid barely managed to focus his mind. In order to gain the momentum again, he decided to use Pagma's Swordsmanship, Transcended Link.
Kwa kwa kwa kwa kwa kwa kwa kwa!
Dozens of dark energy blades overpowered Piaro. It contained a fierce momentum worthy of one of the best skills.
Grid didn't stay still either.
He moved forward, planning to attack when Piaro was distracted defending against the energy blades. It was an excellent plan. But the opponent was too strong. Piaro used Natural State and overwhelmed Grid's speed.
Teteteteng!
The flail flew forward. Like a feather duster, it moved without hesitation towards Grid. It scattered something with every move, reminiscent of dust.
"Ugh! Kkuk! Keok! Kek!"
This dust. Grid kept moaning. His health gauge fell in an instant. Iyarugt was astonished.
[I can't read the trajectory!]
'Useless!'
In fact, he wasn't in a position to blame others. Grid felt helpless. Piaro was really strong. He used all types of items and skills to win, but he couldn't narrow the gap. Yes, it felt like he was facing a wall that couldn't be overcome.
However, Grid didn't give up. He still had a trump card remaining!
"Piaro…! I'm not backing down yet!"
What were the God Hands doing now while Grid was being beaten by the flail? Why didn't they come and protect their master? Piaro saw Grid's confident face and suddenly found the four hands hammering at an anvil behind Grid.
'What is going on?'
Piaro was alert.
[You have succeeded in combining Failure and Grid's Greatsword!]
Grid smiled. The God Hands flew quickly and handed the greatsword to Grid. The combination of Grid's Greatsword and Failure was truly transcendent. This wasn't the end. In the center of the merged greatsword, the Darkness Rune was installed. Then an explosion demonic energy was emitted from the greatsword, making it a perfect match with the blackened Grid.
But it didn't work against Piaro.
Peok!
"Ugh."
So what if he had the strongest weapon in hand? He couldn't even swing it! The duration of Quick Movements was over, so Grid could overcome Piaro's speed in the Natural State. He allowed attacks and in the end, he was forced to admit it.
“You as a farmer…! Farmer! Ugh! I will recognize your path as a farmer!"
At the same time.
[Your health has fallen to a minimum, so sparring mode is finished!]
[The hidden quest 'Lord's Confidence' has been completed.]
[Piaro's stats and skills will significantly rise.]
As a result of today, Piaro was able to be reborn as a true legend. His level was still low compared to the previous legends, but all other aspects were comparable. Then Grid…
"Damn! I'm also a legend, but why am I in this shape?"
The great demons, Braham, Marie Rose and now Piaro. There were too many mountains to overcome. Grid was eager to become stronger. He didn't want to feel this helpless again, or experience failure.
'In order to become stronger.'
Increasing his control and agility was a top priority. The means that could help both grow at the same time was naturally hunting.
'Level up!'
But before that, there was something Grid had to do. It was to create a set of farming equipment.
Ttang! Ttang!
As the best weapons (?) used by his top subordinate, Grid devoted a few days to making it. Thanks to that, even Piaro was equipped with the power of items. In short, a monstrous scam was born.
“Okay."
Grid was barely satisfied with his work and headed towards the vampire cities. He joined the Pavranium Expedition and hunted until the experience and item acquisition buff was over. By the time he reached level 305 and returned, there was less than a month left before Irene gave birth.
***
Epilogue
"Huh?"
Chris and the Five Captains were bewildered as they plowed the fields. It was because Piaro had six sheaths hanging at his waist. He normally wore farming equipment there, so why were there sheaths?
'No, is he holding a knife?'
'There are six of them…'
Were they going crazy?
Piaro cleared his throat as he approached Chris and the Five Captains. Then he proudly straightened and pulled out the knife from the sheath… No, it was farming equipment. That's right. The luxurious sheaths at Piaro's waist were actually for farming equipment. It was the work that Grid had carefully made for Piaro.
"Wow."
Chris was filled with a strong desire to possess them. He also wanted to have such nice storage places for farming equipment. Chris was third on the unified rankings.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 324
"Pagma's Swordsmanship, Transcended Link!"
Kwa kwa kwa kwang!
Dozens of blue-black energy blades covered the vampires. The vampires cursed as they suffered damage.
"Damn human!"
“How ludicrous!"
"Hiik!"
50 vampires rushed over in unison, so Grid had no choice but to run away.
"Hohohohut!"
"He's intimidated!"
The vampires enjoyed hunting humans. They herded Grid like a bunny and surrounded him.
Flop!
Grid's legs loosed with fear as he saw their sharp fangs and he sank to the ground. The trembling and tearful Grid was reminiscent of a frail girl. It was a sad sight that stimulated protective instincts. But the vampires didn't have any mercy.
"Eat!"
The moment that the hungry vampires were going to pounce on Grid.
"Nyang!"
A black cat fell on a vampire's head. The vampire screamed as the front paws hit his forehead.
"Kuaaaaak!"
"What is it? Heok?"
He was in pain from a cat? The vampires freaked out when they discovered the identity of the cat.
"Memphis…!"
Noe puffed up his plump belly and laughed.
"Nyahahat! That's right! This is the best demonic beast of hell! Nyang!"
“Why is a great demon's pet cat here?"
“I'm not a cat! Kyang!"
“Get rid of him!"
The vampires were also demonkin. However, they were expelled from hell and became hostile towards other demonkin. They no longer aimed for Grid and started attacking Noe, when four white flashes penetrated their chests.
Magic Missile.
"Cough!"
"Keook! How can Magic Missile deal so much damage?"
The astonished vampires turned their gazes in the direction that the magic came from. There were four golden hands holding greatswords and a dagger.
"What is that?"
Hands that could move on their own and fire magic? The vampires couldn't understand the golden hands. The golden hands flew towards the confused vampires and wielded their swords.
Chaaeng! Chaeng!
The swordsmanship wasn't great, but it was fast. Moreover, the weapons were so powerful that they couldn't avoid a deadly blow when hit.
"Kyaak!"
The vampires screamed due to the demonic beast of hell and the unknown hands! It happened when they were feeling extreme confusion and fear.
"Pagma's Swordsmanship, Wave."
Kwaang!
After the waves of energy, a person appeared wielding a demonic sword. The vampires weren't able to cope and turned to a grey light.
“I'm still scared."
The demonic Grid looked at the Grid who was crying on one side. To be precise, it was Randy who copied him. Randy kept crying as she returned to the appearance of a young girl.
"I won't cry next time!"
"You are admirable."
"You should praise me! Nyang!"
As Grid, Randy and Noe were having a conversation, the God Hands were struggling with the vampires.
[The Sword Mastery of 'God Hand' has increased to beginner level 6.]
'Okay.'
A grin appeared on Grid's face as he confirmed the notification window. The mastery level of God Hand grew steadily in proportion to the number of times it was used. It was quite powerful compared to when he fought with Piaro. Indeed, it was encouraging.
On the other hand, the Overgeared members were speechless.
'This is a scam.'
'It is outrageous.'
They met Grid again a week after the Elfin Stone raid. He had become an incomparable monster in just a few days. It wasn't just the concept of increased control.
Four golden hands, Noe and Randy. They moved in all directions around Grid, so Grid's hunting rate was unmatched. Grid hunted at least 10 vampires in the time it took Pon and Regas to hunt two or three. This was an average figure, and he hunted up to 100 vampires at a time.
It was a combination of being overgeared and his pets. This hunting speed was much faster than the top ranked necromancer. Thanks to that Grid was able to gain four levels in 42 days. It wasn't just due to his speed of hunting. There was the power of the buffs from the Elfin Stone raid and the experience potion from the Reputation Store.
That's right. After being defeated by Piaro, Grid was filled with a desire to become stronger and tried his hand at gambling again. The result was that he exhausted all his reputation, but could gain three experience potions.
Grid thought positively.
'In the first place, the high value products have a limited number of purchases per account.'
Assuming that they were purchased only when absolutely necessary, it wasn't a bad choice to invest his reputation into experience potions. But due to the nature of the drawing, there was a possibility of not giving a single item he wanted if his luck was bad.
***
Grid reached level 305 and returning from the vampire cities, deciding to stay in Reidan for a while. Irene was going to give birth in less than a month, so he wanted to always stay beside her.
He planned to use this time to fulfill his duties as a lord and blacksmith.
[Minerals Strengthening]
Increase the hardness and strength of specified minerals, while lowering the brittleness.
Hardness meant the hardness of the mineral's surface, strength meant the degree to which the mineral could withstand force and brittleness was how fragile it was. Generally, hardness and strength were directly proportional to each other, but brittleness tended to increase from impacts. After completing the third class quest, Grid obtained Minerals Strengthening. If he used this skill, he could make the ideal mineral.
'It doesn't seem useful right away.'
Minerals Strengthening wasn't an immediate skill. If he put 30 grams of a mineral in the strengthening frame, he needed to wait 30 days. An average of 4kg worth of minerals was needed for a one-handed sword, so it didn't seem that useful. Grid was honestly disappointed at first.
But after thinking about it more, he wondered if Minerals Strengthening was the foundation for Minerals Creation.
'Just like Pagma and Braham created the pavranium, one day I will be able to create my own mineral.'
Grid thought positively about it and placed a small amount of blue orichalcum in the strengthening frame. He wanted to strengthen the pavranium, but that meant having to disassemble one of his hands.
It was something Grid wanted to avoid if he was going to quickly raise the rating of the hands.
[30 grams of blue orichalcum have entered the strengthening frame. There are 30 days until the strengthening is complete.]
"There is no time acceleration function."
Grid pulled out the 30 grams of enhanced blue orichalcum that he had put in the frame before going to the vampire cities. It was certainly a bit harder than the normal blue orichalcum.
"Um… I have to steadily use this function."
Grid was experimenting in a corner of the smithy with a notification window appeared.
[Congratulations! The level of the alchemy facilities in Reidan have risen to intermediate level 4!]
At the same time, Administrator Rabbit ran in.
"Duke Grid! The level of the alchemy facilities finally reached intermediate level 4! If we can keep up this speed of development, it can become an advanced facility in one year and one month!"
Once the alchemy facilities reached an advanced level, they would be able to fully utilize the yellow mithril. After that, they would be able to randomly assign special options to items and the value of the items would skyrocket.
However, Grid's expression wasn't good.
"One year and one month? I invested 30 million, but we still need to wait one year and one month?"
“As you know, alchemy is a discipline that is neglected in all kingdoms. The field isn't systematically developed and it's hard to find experts, so the development itself is bound to be delayed. The work has been progressing faster than planned thanks to your investment, so I hope that you will wait for me."
Administrator Rabbit was capable. He was the great man who made the ghost city of Reidan turn a profit, so Grid absolutely trusted him. Grid nodded and had a question after he confirmed the status of the estate.
"But look at this. Why is agricultural our most profitable area? It is ridiculously high compared to the investment amount. Is this all thanks to Piaro?"
"…That's right. Sir Piaro's ability as a farmer is wonderful enough to be written in the history books. It was truly a wise decision when you allowed him to remain a farmer."
Lauel, who was with Grid all the time, also agreed.
“I think it was a good decision as well. The person who was hoping Piaro would become a sword saint is now appreciating him as a farmer, I never dreamt this day would come. It was a wise and charitable choice."
Charitable? Wise?
'Bullshit.'
There was no deep meaning behind Grid acknowledging Piaro as a farmer. He just lost. However, he couldn't bear to tell the truth to his subordinates, so he remained silent.
***
Shin Youngwoo's current total account balance was 5,013,009,281 won. Youngwoo's day started by accessing his Internet banking. 5 billion won! Every time he checked the account balance, he still couldn't help thinking this was a dream, causing him to cry.
"One year ago, I was debt-ridden…! Sob!"
Why did he get tears every time he checked in the morning?
Blow!
Youngwoo pulled the tissue away from his nose and prayed again.
“God, Buddha, gods of heaven and earth. Please take care of me…"
Youngwoo requested every time despite never making a donation to a church or temple. He wandered into the kitchen and made an espresso with the coffee machine he bought a while ago. He took a sip and handed it to his sister Sehee, who emerged from her room.
“Drink. This is called a morning coffee."
“…Can I not drink?"
"No? Didn't you want to drink from the beginning?"
Youngwoo earnestly mixed the coffee. Sehee sat in front of the TV and asked him.
"Are you coming to my school festival?"
It was the autumn festival held at the Young Ladies High School in three days. There were many pretty girls and the scale was big, so it was a fairly famous festival. Many ordinary people came to visit. Youngwoo recalled the text he received from Yerim a few days ago and shook his head.
“Yerim invited me, but I'm not going."
Braham's actions might've caused him to get millions of anti-fans. He was still afraid to search up his name on the Internet, so he couldn't go outside. Recently, he had to cover his face with a mask when going jogging.
'Maybe someone will be aiming to kidnap me.'
Usually ordinary people enjoyed themselves when they became rich, but Youngwoo was different. He cherished his body even more. A wide smile appeared on Sehee's face.
"Good."
Sehee hummed as she headed towards the bathroom and Grid sighed.
"She is ashamed of her brother…"
It couldn't be helped if he was hated by his younger sister. He was now helping his family, but he had been acting pathetically for decades. Youngwoo rose from his spot and headed towards the capsule. He would soothe his heart by spending time with his lovely Irene and concentrating on work.
On the other hand, in the empty living room, news was flowing out of the TV about the Young Ladies High School's festival.
[It's said that actor Kim Doohyun will participate in the autumn festival of the Young Ladies High School…]
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 322
Grid was shaken when Transcend was blocked.
'I can't believe it was defeated!'
The number of times he had fired the energy blades in 30 seconds was well over 50 times. But Piaro stood in place and blocked it with a hand plow? He recognized Piaro's skill from the beginning, but his agility seemed higher than yesterday.
'Truly amazing.'
Grid felt a thrill. He realized that he was blessed to have such a great subordinate. But Grid didn't like that Piaro was a farmer. His subordinate would become much stronger if he was a sword saint!
‘Now I will make you a sword saint!'
Grid rushed forward towards Piaro while avoiding the dozens of seeds. He used Pagma's Swordsmanship, Pinnacle that could only be performed once an hour. But the result fell short of expectations.
[You have dealt 10,500 damage to the target.]
'Ah! Damn level system!'
Piaro's stats were high and the level difference of 100 was too much. His attack power wasn't properly applied, catching Grid's ankles. But he didn't feel despair. He had the power of items!
'It is impossible to win with skills alone!'
Grid faced the incoming hand plow and finally summoned a God Hand, defending by equipping the Divine Shield.
Chaaeng!
"…!"
Piaro was greatly surprised by the sight. Grid smiled at the sight.
"Let me show you the power of items."
[God Hand]
Rating: Unique (Growth)
Durability: Infinite
Dexterity: 814 Strength: 813
A hand made by the legendary blacksmith Grid, using the material pavranium that was made by the former legends Pagma and Braham. Since it reproduces Grid's hands, all items can be worn without restrictions.
An item born from the intervention of three legends, it has the ability to transcend a divine item.
However, steady learning is essential in order to open up its potential.
* The unique rated 'God Hand' only receives 30% of its master's strength and dexterity.
* The unique rated 'God Hand' isn't yet able to reproduce its master's skills.
However, the skills possessed by items can be fully used. Buff skills will influence the master.
* 'God Hand' can learn blacksmithing, swordsmanship and shield techniques.
Currently, the Blacksmith skill of God Hand is advanced level 1, while Sword Mastery and Shield Mastery are beginner level 2. Once the mastery reaches a certain level, the rating of God Hand will increase.
* Magic Missile (Enhanced) is attached. Due to the effect of the Water Clan King's Tears, this spell is reproduced with 100% of its power.
* Depending on the usage, it is easy to obtain the favor of the opposite sex.
Conditions of Use: Grid.
Weight: 21
The conditions of use was Grid rather than Pagma’s Descendant. As a dedicated item exclusively for Grid, its performance and role fulfilled his expectations. There was a high likelihood of growth. It might be comparable or exceed a myth rated item, so he was full of expectations for the future.
But there was one regrettable thing.
'I was only able to make four.'
He was able to make five if he only reproduced the shape, but the pavranium consumption rate was too high once he had to make all the structures.
'Well, I still like it.'
Wasn't it still four hands more than other people? Grid threw Failure and Grid's Greatsword into the air.
'Why?'
Forsaking a weapon during battle? Piaro couldn't understand Grid's intentions and was confused.
'Perhaps…! There isn't only one golden hand!'
Piaro's gaze hurriedly turned towards the sky. Two golden hands appeared and grabbed the greatswords. Piaro paled.
"Is it the time to look away?"
Grid replaced the Divine Shield with the Ideal Dagger, then he shouted.
"Cut!"
Papat! Papapat!
The speed of the pavranium was comparable to hell's best demonic beast, a memphis. An ordinary person wouldn't be able to react. Three God Hands approached and wielded their greatswords and daggers at Piaro. The golden hands were moving and wielding their weapons by themselves. They might be fast and amazing, but their sword skills were terrible. It was like child's play to Piaro.
"This isn't the end!"
Chaaeng! Chaaeng!
Piaro blocked all the hand attacks with just one hand plow! He tried to aim the hoe at Grid.
Chaaeng!
'There was one more hand!'
A chill went down Piaro's spine. A golden hand holding a jade greatsword aimed at his back! Grid realized it the moment he saw Piaro sense and defend against the attack.
'The current God Hands can't go against Piaro.'
He was a monster who blocked all attacks, even if they struck simultaneously from all four directions.
'But it is okay.'
The presence of the God Hands alone were a great help to him. The swordsmanship and strength were low, but all the items were top rated weapons. Piaro was forced to be conscious of them, and Grid would aim for that gap.
‘I will do my best.'
Kuwaaaang!
Grid was covered in black energy. It was the manifestation of Blackening that belonged to Dark Bus' Earrings.
[Your black magic power has increased.]
[You don't have any black magic power. It will be replaced with demonic power.]
[While Blackening is activated, your species will change to half-demon.]
[As a half demon, your maximum health is reduced by 50%. Your attack power, magic power and agility will increased by 20% each.]
[All attacks will be converted to the black magic attribute.]
Piaro's eyes widened.
'Demonic energy!'
His lord wasn't a human? He suspected for a moment. Then he noticed that the cause of Grid's demonic energy was the earrings he was wearing. Piaro frowned despite feeling relieved.
“This doesn't look good!"
Grid's skin was whitened and his eyes turned black, making his appearance unbearable. Piaro didn't like that his lord was borrowing the power of a demon. But Grid wouldn't hear of it.
"Don't give it any big meaning. This is just an extension of the items system."
Grid's nature was more aggressive in the Blackening state. How far would this power go against Piaro? Grid felt pleasure as he gave an order to the hands.
After deploying Wind Blast attached to the Ideal Dagger, while Failure and the Doppelganger's Greatsword simultaneously hit the left and right sides of Piaro. At this time, Grid's Greatsword was falling from the air.
“Where are you going?"
The attacks towards Piaro weren't threatening at all. They were easy to beat. However, he couldn't help taking action towards them.
“Iyarugt."
Grid summoned the demonic sword that he got from the Elfin Stone raid. The demonic energy left an afterimage and a red line was painted.
Chaaeng!
'Unbelievable!'
Piaro was astonished. Grid's damage and speed was incomparable after he used Blackening. The speed wasn't much different from Piaro. Moreover, Grid's swordsmanship suddenly increased greatly. It was thanks to Iyarugt.
[Due to the option effect of Iyarugt, Sword Mastery has increased by 5 levels.]
[You don't have the Sword Mastery skill. Beginner Sword Mastery level 5 is created while wearing Iyarugt.]
It didn't seem to be that much. What was the effect of beginner Sword Mastery level 5? It increased attack power and attack speed by 3% when a sword was worn. However, Grid's basic stats were unusually high. He was in a state where his stats were enhanced by Blackening. This 3% was forced to become a large number.
Moreover, there was Iyarugt's real strength.
[The strongest enemy I have met in centuries! Go and fight! Fight without stopping! Let me grow!]
Iyarugt. The strongest demonkin when alive. His spirit dwelled in Iyarugt, transmitting his excitement to Grid. In Grid's field of view, dozens of red lines were created and cleared. Grid followed the most brilliant line and swung his sword. This became the best trajectory that put pressure on Piaro.
'My Lord…!'
Piaro was thrilled as he confronted it. Since acquiring the title of great swordsman, how long had it been since he was pushed on the defensive by someone? It was the first time. Thus, he was glad. He was even more delighted that the opponent was his lord!
"Free Farming 4th Style!"
The demonic sword was too sharp. Once the hand plow's durability fell to the limit, he was forced to pull out a plow.
"Plow the Field!"
Kwa kwa kwa kwang!
As the plow swept through the ground, the earth shook like there was an earthquake and pillars of earth rose.
"Kuk!"
Grid reflexively moved backwards and barely avoided the pillars. But the crisis was still continuing. Piaro sprinkled seeds on the land that was cleared. The seeds quickly grew into thorny vines that surrounded Grid's body. It was the linkage of Plowing, Sowing and then Rapid Growth.
"God Hands!"
Grid quickly cried out as he was about to be overtaken by the front vines. Then four golden hands flow and swung their weapons, cutting through the thorns. However, there was a limit. The thorns grew faster than the hands could act.
In the end, Grid was forced to use Link in order to avoid the crisis. It was the moment he wasted an important skill for defensive purposes. Piaro leapt quickly and wielded his sickle.
“Free Farming 5th Style, Harvest!"
Seokeok! Seokekeok!
The huge thorns were separated from the roots by the sickle. At the same time, they moved like a wave towards Grid's body.
[You have suffered 9,100 damage.]
[You have suffered 8,700 damage.]
[You have suffered 8,930 damage.]
"Kuak!"
It made him feel very bad. The problem was the skill name of 'Harvest.' He didn't want to die from a farmer's sickle.
[Now!]
Iyarugt had been waiting for this opportunity and presented a new sword trajectory to Grid. It was a sword trajectory that aimed perfectly for when Piaro landed. However, Grid's speed wasn't fast enough to catch it. The distance to Piaro was too far. He did the next best thing and fired off four Magic Missiles, but he was interrupted by the thorns.
[What are you doing, incompetent bastard!]
Iyarugt urged him as he felt frustration.
'Why?'
Grid was baffled. Then he came up with an idea. It was the skill belonging to the Ideal Dagger that he forgot about for a while.
"God Hands!"
Grid shouted and the hand with the Ideal Dagger used the skill. Quick Movements was used.
[Your evasion rate is increased by 30% and your agility doubled for 1 minute.]
This was why Grid kept the level 180 Ideal Dagger. Double his agility! The Ideal Dagger's abilities were low, but the skill attached to it was great.
“Ohhhhhh!”
Grid rushed along the sword path. This speed overturned common sense, so there was no way for the confused Piaro to avoid it.
Puok!
A red flash was launched in a straight line towards Piaro's shoulders. Originally, it was aimed at the heart. However, the orbit was twisted because of Piaro's flail. But Grid wasn't shaken. It was because he knew his present speed far exceeded Piaro's.
Seokeok!
[You have dealt 3,900 damage to the target.]
[You have dealt 3,790 damage to the target.]
[You have succeeded in the 3rd combo!]
[The amount of damage the target will receive will increase by 200% for 1 second!]
'Now!'
Kuooooh!
A skill was launched with Iyarugt. It was Pagma's Swordsmanship, Kill. Grid had the legendary skills so there was no sense not using them.
[Critical!]
[You have dealt 125,600 damage to the target.]
Piaro's health fell by half in an instant.
[Piaro has realized what he is lacking. The level of his farming techniques have risen from this enlightenment!]
[A hidden quest has been created.]
A quest window appeared to increase the value of this match.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 323
Piaro allowed Grid to deal a deadly attack.
He realized it.
'My use of the farming equipment is wrong!'
He had already mastered swordsmanship. Therefore, he used it as the base for his farming techniques. He was following its principles.
'This is an obvious mistake!'
Farming and swordsmanship were completely different. Wasn't farming equipment a tool for life, while a sword was a tool for death? The farming equipment could be enhanced by the sword techniques, but they were fundamentally different. It was right to change his approach.
'Discard swordsmanship!'
There was no reason to use swordsmanship with farming techniques. It was poison from the beginning, since he should use swordsmanship with a sword. Piaro's awareness drastically changed. He seemed to be another person.
The hands gripping the farming equipment loosened, and he now had a free and relaxed attitude. He stood like a farmer.
Flash!
Piaro's body was surrounded by light. A quest window appeared in front of the confused Grid.
[Lord's Confidence]
Hidden Quest
Piaro has gained new enlightenment and awakened as a true farmer.
He has completely forsaken the sword.
At this moment, he wants to be acknowledged by you.
Spar with Piaro!
Please experience Piaro's skills and acknowledge him!
Depending on the results, Piaro will grow even more!
Quest Clear Conditions: Win or lose in a spar with Piaro.
Defeat in a spar with Piaro: Piaro will gain great pride as a farmer. Piaro's stats and skills will significantly rise.
Victory in a spar with Piaro: Piaro will feel skeptical and once again walk on the path of the sword again. The stats that rose as a result of Piaro becoming a legend will be destroyed.
[Hidden Quest 'Lord's Confidence' will proceed.]
[Now you and Piaro have entered sparring mode.]
[The spar will continue until the health of one person reaches the minimum.]
[You won't die in sparring mode.]
Lord's Confidence. This was a type of bonus quest. Grid was the lord, so being defeated by Piaro would raise Piaro's morale and allow him to grow. It would be a huge benefit and Piaro would be able to become even stronger.
If Grid was a conventional lord, he would be happy and dancing while thanking the heavens. However, Grid was hoping that Piaro would become a sword saint. Grid was paying attention to the result of his victory, not his defeat.
'Walk the path of the sword again?'
It was confusing. He would either make Piaro definitely stronger as a farmer, or make him walk the path of the sword again.
'If he walks the path of the sword, he can develop into a sword saint.'
Of course, he couldn't be certain of this. No matter how great Piaro was, it wasn't certain that he would become a sword saint. It was also disconcerting that Piaro's current abilities would fall.
'Is it right to lose?'
No, no.
Kkuok!
Grid strongly grasped Iyarugt.
'I will do my best.'
Lose on purpose? Piaro wouldn't want such a method.
'If you want to prove the value of a farmer, beat me.'
If he couldn't beat Grid, take up the sword again. Pioneer your path with your own strength!
Teong!
Grid jumped forward at that thought. There was still 30 seconds left of Quick Movements. Grid meant to win during that time.
"Blacksmith's Rage!"
[Attack power will increase by 25% and attack speed will increase by 40%.] This effect will last for 35 seconds.]
Grid's strength reached the peak. He approached Piaro and excitedly attacked him. He wasn't just fast. The trajectory was the best because he attacked along the path that Iyarugt was telling him.
However, Piaro avoided it. It was an unexpected move. He bent over and squatted down?
[This guy's talent suddenly became low!]
Iyarugt was disappointed. It meant he didn't understand Piaro's intention, and was proof that Piaro was far beyond Iyarugt.
Puok!
Piaro squatted and hit the ground hard with the hand plow. Water shot up in an instant.
"What…?"
The problem was that the gushing water interrupted his field of view. Grid was confused and in this gap, Piaro quickly sprinkled seeds all over the land. At the same time, something incredible happened.
The whole area was quickly transformed into a field. Numerous wheat tinged with gold grew around Grid.
'This is nonsense!'
A wheat field just before harvest was created in just an instant? It was just as spectacular as the magic that Braham showed. No, in a sense, it was more amazing. Piaro started doing PR to the disbelieving Grid.
“Imagine it. What if a legendary farmer is marching with an army and circumstances lead to a food shortage? I can immediately clear a field and feed the soldiers!"
“Heok!"
It was amazing to hear. There would be no food shortages with an army led by Piaro. Grid was about to be persuaded when he asked a question.
“What if there is no water?"
“Use the water from nearby rivers or have magicians summon water."
“What if there are no rivers or magicians?"
“…It will rain."
“If it doesn't rain?"
“Free Farming 5th Style, Harvest!"
The time for questions was over. At this moment, Piaro gained a new enlightenment again and wielded the sickle. A sharp qi was projected and the wheat was cut.
"Ack!"
Grid immediately bowed to avoid it and cried out. There were thousands, tens of thousands of wheat scattered everywhere. It was a dizzying sight.
'This is too unnecessary!'
It happened when Grid was nervously brushing away the wheat in front of him.
Pepeng! Pepepepeok!
The many wheat exploded without notice.
“Kuaaaaak!”
Grid screamed as the entire field was engulfed in an explosion. If it hadn't been for the God Hand covering him, Grid would've suffered so much damage it wouldn't be strange for his health to fall to the minimum.
"Kuk…! Ugh! Cough! Cough!"
The harvested wheat exploded?
“How is there such a process in farming!?"
Grid shouted as he was covered with scorched flour. Piaro bluntly replied.
"It is polishing."
"What polishing!?"
Polishing referred to the process of removing the surface of the grain to make it clean and white, not turning it into ashes. Grid was about to reply when he suddenly realized.
‘I lost my composure. I was too shaken because of the wheat field.’
Grid barely managed to focus his mind. In order to gain the momentum again, he decided to use Pagma's Swordsmanship, Transcended Link.
Kwa kwa kwa kwa kwa kwa kwa kwa!
Dozens of dark energy blades overpowered Piaro. It contained a fierce momentum worthy of one of the best skills.
Grid didn't stay still either.
He moved forward, planning to attack when Piaro was distracted defending against the energy blades. It was an excellent plan. But the opponent was too strong. Piaro used Natural State and overwhelmed Grid's speed.
Teteteteng!
The flail flew forward. Like a feather duster, it moved without hesitation towards Grid. It scattered something with every move, reminiscent of dust.
"Ugh! Kkuk! Keok! Kek!"
This dust. Grid kept moaning. His health gauge fell in an instant. Iyarugt was astonished.
[I can't read the trajectory!]
'Useless!'
In fact, he wasn't in a position to blame others. Grid felt helpless. Piaro was really strong. He used all types of items and skills to win, but he couldn't narrow the gap. Yes, it felt like he was facing a wall that couldn't be overcome.
However, Grid didn't give up. He still had a trump card remaining!
"Piaro…! I'm not backing down yet!"
What were the God Hands doing now while Grid was being beaten by the flail? Why didn't they come and protect their master? Piaro saw Grid's confident face and suddenly found the four hands hammering at an anvil behind Grid.
'What is going on?'
Piaro was alert.
[You have succeeded in combining Failure and Grid's Greatsword!]
Grid smiled. The God Hands flew quickly and handed the greatsword to Grid. The combination of Grid's Greatsword and Failure was truly transcendent. This wasn't the end. In the center of the merged greatsword, the Darkness Rune was installed. Then an explosion demonic energy was emitted from the greatsword, making it a perfect match with the blackened Grid.
But it didn't work against Piaro.
Peok!
"Ugh."
So what if he had the strongest weapon in hand? He couldn't even swing it! The duration of Quick Movements was over, so Grid could overcome Piaro's speed in the Natural State. He allowed attacks and in the end, he was forced to admit it.
“You as a farmer…! Farmer! Ugh! I will recognize your path as a farmer!"
At the same time.
[Your health has fallen to a minimum, so sparring mode is finished!]
[The hidden quest 'Lord's Confidence' has been completed.]
[Piaro's stats and skills will significantly rise.]
As a result of today, Piaro was able to be reborn as a true legend. His level was still low compared to the previous legends, but all other aspects were comparable. Then Grid…
"Damn! I'm also a legend, but why am I in this shape?"
The great demons, Braham, Marie Rose and now Piaro. There were too many mountains to overcome. Grid was eager to become stronger. He didn't want to feel this helpless again, or experience failure.
'In order to become stronger.'
Increasing his control and agility was a top priority. The means that could help both grow at the same time was naturally hunting.
'Level up!'
But before that, there was something Grid had to do. It was to create a set of farming equipment.
Ttang! Ttang!
As the best weapons (?) used by his top subordinate, Grid devoted a few days to making it. Thanks to that, even Piaro was equipped with the power of items. In short, a monstrous scam was born.
“Okay."
Grid was barely satisfied with his work and headed towards the vampire cities. He joined the Pavranium Expedition and hunted until the experience and item acquisition buff was over. By the time he reached level 305 and returned, there was less than a month left before Irene gave birth.
***
Epilogue
"Huh?"
Chris and the Five Captains were bewildered as they plowed the fields. It was because Piaro had six sheaths hanging at his waist. He normally wore farming equipment there, so why were there sheaths?
'No, is he holding a knife?'
'There are six of them…'
Were they going crazy?
Piaro cleared his throat as he approached Chris and the Five Captains. Then he proudly straightened and pulled out the knife from the sheath… No, it was farming equipment. That's right. The luxurious sheaths at Piaro's waist were actually for farming equipment. It was the work that Grid had carefully made for Piaro.
"Wow."
Chris was filled with a strong desire to possess them. He also wanted to have such nice storage places for farming equipment. Chris was third on the unified rankings.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 324
"Pagma's Swordsmanship, Transcended Link!"
Kwa kwa kwa kwang!
Dozens of blue-black energy blades covered the vampires. The vampires cursed as they suffered damage.
"Damn human!"
“How ludicrous!"
"Hiik!"
50 vampires rushed over in unison, so Grid had no choice but to run away.
"Hohohohut!"
"He's intimidated!"
The vampires enjoyed hunting humans. They herded Grid like a bunny and surrounded him.
Flop!
Grid's legs loosed with fear as he saw their sharp fangs and he sank to the ground. The trembling and tearful Grid was reminiscent of a frail girl. It was a sad sight that stimulated protective instincts. But the vampires didn't have any mercy.
"Eat!"
The moment that the hungry vampires were going to pounce on Grid.
"Nyang!"
A black cat fell on a vampire's head. The vampire screamed as the front paws hit his forehead.
"Kuaaaaak!"
"What is it? Heok?"
He was in pain from a cat? The vampires freaked out when they discovered the identity of the cat.
"Memphis…!"
Noe puffed up his plump belly and laughed.
"Nyahahat! That's right! This is the best demonic beast of hell! Nyang!"
“Why is a great demon's pet cat here?"
“I'm not a cat! Kyang!"
“Get rid of him!"
The vampires were also demonkin. However, they were expelled from hell and became hostile towards other demonkin. They no longer aimed for Grid and started attacking Noe, when four white flashes penetrated their chests.
Magic Missile.
"Cough!"
"Keook! How can Magic Missile deal so much damage?"
The astonished vampires turned their gazes in the direction that the magic came from. There were four golden hands holding greatswords and a dagger.
"What is that?"
Hands that could move on their own and fire magic? The vampires couldn't understand the golden hands. The golden hands flew towards the confused vampires and wielded their swords.
Chaaeng! Chaeng!
The swordsmanship wasn't great, but it was fast. Moreover, the weapons were so powerful that they couldn't avoid a deadly blow when hit.
"Kyaak!"
The vampires screamed due to the demonic beast of hell and the unknown hands! It happened when they were feeling extreme confusion and fear.
"Pagma's Swordsmanship, Wave."
Kwaang!
After the waves of energy, a person appeared wielding a demonic sword. The vampires weren't able to cope and turned to a grey light.
“I'm still scared."
The demonic Grid looked at the Grid who was crying on one side. To be precise, it was Randy who copied him. Randy kept crying as she returned to the appearance of a young girl.
"I won't cry next time!"
"You are admirable."
"You should praise me! Nyang!"
As Grid, Randy and Noe were having a conversation, the God Hands were struggling with the vampires.
[The Sword Mastery of 'God Hand' has increased to beginner level 6.]
'Okay.'
A grin appeared on Grid's face as he confirmed the notification window. The mastery level of God Hand grew steadily in proportion to the number of times it was used. It was quite powerful compared to when he fought with Piaro. Indeed, it was encouraging.
On the other hand, the Overgeared members were speechless.
'This is a scam.'
'It is outrageous.'
They met Grid again a week after the Elfin Stone raid. He had become an incomparable monster in just a few days. It wasn't just the concept of increased control.
Four golden hands, Noe and Randy. They moved in all directions around Grid, so Grid's hunting rate was unmatched. Grid hunted at least 10 vampires in the time it took Pon and Regas to hunt two or three. This was an average figure, and he hunted up to 100 vampires at a time.
It was a combination of being overgeared and his pets. This hunting speed was much faster than the top ranked necromancer. Thanks to that Grid was able to gain four levels in 42 days. It wasn't just due to his speed of hunting. There was the power of the buffs from the Elfin Stone raid and the experience potion from the Reputation Store.
That's right. After being defeated by Piaro, Grid was filled with a desire to become stronger and tried his hand at gambling again. The result was that he exhausted all his reputation, but could gain three experience potions.
Grid thought positively.
'In the first place, the high value products have a limited number of purchases per account.'
Assuming that they were purchased only when absolutely necessary, it wasn't a bad choice to invest his reputation into experience potions. But due to the nature of the drawing, there was a possibility of not giving a single item he wanted if his luck was bad.
***
Grid reached level 305 and returning from the vampire cities, deciding to stay in Reidan for a while. Irene was going to give birth in less than a month, so he wanted to always stay beside her.
He planned to use this time to fulfill his duties as a lord and blacksmith.
[Minerals Strengthening]
Increase the hardness and strength of specified minerals, while lowering the brittleness.
Hardness meant the hardness of the mineral's surface, strength meant the degree to which the mineral could withstand force and brittleness was how fragile it was. Generally, hardness and strength were directly proportional to each other, but brittleness tended to increase from impacts. After completing the third class quest, Grid obtained Minerals Strengthening. If he used this skill, he could make the ideal mineral.
'It doesn't seem useful right away.'
Minerals Strengthening wasn't an immediate skill. If he put 30 grams of a mineral in the strengthening frame, he needed to wait 30 days. An average of 4kg worth of minerals was needed for a one-handed sword, so it didn't seem that useful. Grid was honestly disappointed at first.
But after thinking about it more, he wondered if Minerals Strengthening was the foundation for Minerals Creation.
'Just like Pagma and Braham created the pavranium, one day I will be able to create my own mineral.'
Grid thought positively about it and placed a small amount of blue orichalcum in the strengthening frame. He wanted to strengthen the pavranium, but that meant having to disassemble one of his hands.
It was something Grid wanted to avoid if he was going to quickly raise the rating of the hands.
[30 grams of blue orichalcum have entered the strengthening frame. There are 30 days until the strengthening is complete.]
"There is no time acceleration function."
Grid pulled out the 30 grams of enhanced blue orichalcum that he had put in the frame before going to the vampire cities. It was certainly a bit harder than the normal blue orichalcum.
"Um… I have to steadily use this function."
Grid was experimenting in a corner of the smithy with a notification window appeared.
[Congratulations! The level of the alchemy facilities in Reidan have risen to intermediate level 4!]
At the same time, Administrator Rabbit ran in.
"Duke Grid! The level of the alchemy facilities finally reached intermediate level 4! If we can keep up this speed of development, it can become an advanced facility in one year and one month!"
Once the alchemy facilities reached an advanced level, they would be able to fully utilize the yellow mithril. After that, they would be able to randomly assign special options to items and the value of the items would skyrocket.
However, Grid's expression wasn't good.
"One year and one month? I invested 30 million, but we still need to wait one year and one month?"
“As you know, alchemy is a discipline that is neglected in all kingdoms. The field isn't systematically developed and it's hard to find experts, so the development itself is bound to be delayed. The work has been progressing faster than planned thanks to your investment, so I hope that you will wait for me."
Administrator Rabbit was capable. He was the great man who made the ghost city of Reidan turn a profit, so Grid absolutely trusted him. Grid nodded and had a question after he confirmed the status of the estate.
"But look at this. Why is agricultural our most profitable area? It is ridiculously high compared to the investment amount. Is this all thanks to Piaro?"
"…That's right. Sir Piaro's ability as a farmer is wonderful enough to be written in the history books. It was truly a wise decision when you allowed him to remain a farmer."
Lauel, who was with Grid all the time, also agreed.
“I think it was a good decision as well. The person who was hoping Piaro would become a sword saint is now appreciating him as a farmer, I never dreamt this day would come. It was a wise and charitable choice."
Charitable? Wise?
'Bullshit.'
There was no deep meaning behind Grid acknowledging Piaro as a farmer. He just lost. However, he couldn't bear to tell the truth to his subordinates, so he remained silent.
***
Shin Youngwoo's current total account balance was 5,013,009,281 won. Youngwoo's day started by accessing his Internet banking. 5 billion won! Every time he checked the account balance, he still couldn't help thinking this was a dream, causing him to cry.
"One year ago, I was debt-ridden…! Sob!"
Why did he get tears every time he checked in the morning?
Blow!
Youngwoo pulled the tissue away from his nose and prayed again.
“God, Buddha, gods of heaven and earth. Please take care of me…"
Youngwoo requested every time despite never making a donation to a church or temple. He wandered into the kitchen and made an espresso with the coffee machine he bought a while ago. He took a sip and handed it to his sister Sehee, who emerged from her room.
“Drink. This is called a morning coffee."
“…Can I not drink?"
"No? Didn't you want to drink from the beginning?"
Youngwoo earnestly mixed the coffee. Sehee sat in front of the TV and asked him.
"Are you coming to my school festival?"
It was the autumn festival held at the Young Ladies High School in three days. There were many pretty girls and the scale was big, so it was a fairly famous festival. Many ordinary people came to visit. Youngwoo recalled the text he received from Yerim a few days ago and shook his head.
“Yerim invited me, but I'm not going."
Braham's actions might've caused him to get millions of anti-fans. He was still afraid to search up his name on the Internet, so he couldn't go outside. Recently, he had to cover his face with a mask when going jogging.
'Maybe someone will be aiming to kidnap me.'
Usually ordinary people enjoyed themselves when they became rich, but Youngwoo was different. He cherished his body even more. A wide smile appeared on Sehee's face.
"Good."
Sehee hummed as she headed towards the bathroom and Grid sighed.
"She is ashamed of her brother…"
It couldn't be helped if he was hated by his younger sister. He was now helping his family, but he had been acting pathetically for decades. Youngwoo rose from his spot and headed towards the capsule. He would soothe his heart by spending time with his lovely Irene and concentrating on work.
On the other hand, in the empty living room, news was flowing out of the TV about the Young Ladies High School's festival.
[It's said that actor Kim Doohyun will participate in the autumn festival of the Young Ladies High School…]
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
