Chapter 264: Epic!
Chapter 264: Epic!
Having just mastered two new secret arts, Rain would have loved to practice them if not for the lack of a training area in his villa. For now, he could only temporarily suppress the eagerness to test them.
"My Legendary Weapon Master profession, combined with the Talent Spell 'Metal Transformation,' is naturally suited for adapting to various combat scenarios."
"In other words, with the nearly instantaneous 'Metal Transformation,' my Legendary profession—Weapon Master, has been significantly enhanced!"
"First, I won't need to carry six or seven different weapons in every battle to adapt to various combat scenarios, which greatly reduces my burden."
"In future battles, I only need to carry an appropriate amount of special metal to achieve the effect of having multiple weapons."
"Secondly, the sudden transformation of my weapons during combat, and the resulting drastic change in my combat style, will undoubtedly catch the enemy off guard."
Rain's furrowed brows relaxed, and a smile appeared on his face as he thought of this.
"This is also the most compatible aspect of 'Metal Transformation' and my Legendary Weapon Master profession!"
"It has a one plus one greater than two effect!"
"Imagine in a battle where my weapon suddenly transforms from a pair of warhammers into a spear throw. The enemy, caught by surprise, might very well be thrown into disarray, allowing me to seize the opportunity."
"Of course, the blacksmith must also be strong."
"Lastly, and most importantly, I should strive to master each weapon transformed through 'Metal Transformation' to the level of secret arts!"
"That would be incredible!"
Rain sighed inwardly.
"However, with limited points, it's impossible to increase them all, so I still need to think carefully."
For a Knight or Elite Knight to use multiple weapons is not difficult, and mastering one or two weapons is not too challenging! But to master many weapons, that's incredibly difficult! This process requires a person to dedicate a significant amount of time and energy to rigorous practice, and even then, it's contingent on having decent talent.
As for achieving Rain's level, where nearly every extraordinary combat technique in various weapon categories has reached the level of secret arts, that's incredibly, incredibly difficult!
"The hammer secret art is the only one that has reached the advanced secret art level, suitable for dealing with powerful individuals or large, ferocious beasts."
"The sonic secret art is suitable for dealing with groups of enemies who aren't particularly strong."
"It's just a bit of a shame that if I had another group attack secret art, even if the enemy's strength was a notch higher, I could wipe them out! Group attack methods are still lacking."
Rain muttered to himself.
"The one-handed axe and shield secret art is also suitable for defensive counterattacks or when there's no opportunity to attack in a short time."
"I still don't have a long-range attack secret art!"
"If I transform hardened fine gold into a bow, the bow's arms will be too stiff, and the power will be inferior to throwing weapons. Just like today, when I counterattacked, the first thing I used was the short spear created with Metal Transformation."
"It seems the next step is to try and find a throwing-type extraordinary combat technique!"
"Of course, it would be even better if there was an offensive Metal-type spell, but that's more of a wishful thinking. It's better to start by finding a throwing-type extraordinary combat technique, which should be relatively easier."
After contemplating for a while, Rain summarized his insights on when to use various weapons.
Having figured it out, Rain immediately checked the skills under the Battle Master (Legendary) profession panel.
After a few minutes, his gaze fell on 'Kadarr Fist Technique.'
Rain had no more skill points left, but the Kadarr Fist Technique had already been raised from level 10 when he first switched to the Weapon Master profession to level 12 through multiple battles.
In other words, the subsequent allocation of points would only require Golden Skill Points.
The reason for choosing to raise the 'Kadarr Fist Technique' was that Rain had just concluded after some thought that when fighting against wizards, sometimes closing the distance and attacking with extreme speed and frequency could yield excellent results.
From the perspective of an enemy skilled in spells or long-range attacks, facing close-quarters combat would likely cause some panic.
Additionally, in a narrow environment, the Kadarr Fist Technique could achieve remarkable results, which was evident in Rain's previous battle against the Sea God Cult messenger, Myarkol, in the cave.
Therefore, Rain decided to raise the Kadarr Fist Technique.
Of course, he also wanted to see what secret arts the Kadarr Fist Technique would unlock.
Don't forget that the Kadarr Fist Technique had two secret techniques.
As Golden Skill Points were invested, the Kadarr Fist Technique instantly rose to level 13, and Rain seemed to enter a mysterious space, experiencing years of arduous training in the Kadarr Fist Technique.
When Rain came back to his senses, the system prompt arrived as promised:
[Congratulations, you have comprehended the Kadarr Fist Technique's Primary Secret Art: Heavy Punch Combo!]
[Congratulations, you have comprehended the Kadarr Fist Technique's Primary Secret Art: Rapid Slash!]
"As expected, just as I predicted! Two secret techniques, deriving two secret arts!" Rain's face lit up with joy.
At the same time, Rain quickly noticed two new icons on the Weapon Master (Legendary) panel, positioned right above the 'Kadarr Fist Technique.'
The descriptions were as follows:
Heavy Punch Combo (Primary Secret Art) Effect: Unleash a rapid series of powerful punches with immense destructive force in a very short time.
Rapid Slash (Primary Secret Art) Effect: Wield a blade and finger tiger with incredible speed, delivering rapid and devastating slashes.
(To raise Rapid Slash to the Intermediate Secret Art level, the following conditions must be met: 1. Kadarr Fist Technique level 14 or higher; 2. Bear King Breath Technique level 14 or higher; 3. Strength 38 points, Agility 35 points, Constitution 35 points or higher; 4. Consumes 1 Golden Skill Point.)
At this moment, Rain's face turned thoughtful again, and he began pacing in the room with his arms folded across his chest.
"I just used 2 points, and now I have 6 Golden Skill Points left."
"If I raise all four newly comprehended Primary Secret Arts to the Intermediate Secret Art level, it will only require 4 points!"
Rain's eyes lit up with determination. He decided to enhance all four newly comprehended Primary Secret Arts, and the Golden Skill Points would be just enough.
The next moment, as the Golden Skill Points were allocated, the system prompt flashed across the panel:
[Congratulations, you have comprehended the Locke En Axe Shield Technique's Intermediate Secret Art: Flash Slash!]
[Congratulations, you have understood.]
With this, the four basic ultimate techniques 'Flash Slash', 'Iron Wall', 'Heavy Punch Combo', and 'Rapid Slash' were all promoted by Rain to intermediate levels.
Looking at the four newly mastered intermediate techniques, Rain's face showed satisfaction.
The next morning.
After bidding farewell to his family and the beautiful lady Jennifer, Rain set off towards the Horizon Inn where Kraya was staying.
At this moment, Rain carried a warhammer with a miniature skull at its tip, the 'Skull Warhammer', on his waist, and a long rectangular wooden box containing a replica of the Imperial Staff on his back.
As for the Radiant Greatsword and other weapons, Rain had them hung on both sides of his Swift Warhorse, 'Little Black'.
Initially, Rain didn't plan to bring the Radiant Greatsword because its surface had undergone tempering and polishing, and using Metal Transformation Technique to change it would ruin this hardened effect.
In other words, if Rain fought while holding the Radiant Greatsword, it would be slightly sharper, but he couldn't transform it.
However, Rain changed his mind. He could now place the weapon on his already-feral warhorse, 'Little Black', without increasing his own burden or affecting his speed during combat. Instead, it served as a tactical misdirection.
So, Rain decided to bring the weapon along.
Riding the tall Swift Warhorse 'Little Black', Rain was followed by a ferocious war dog the size of a small pony, 'Little Black'.
At this time, a luxurious carriage marked with the Calibird Emblem and two teams totaling twenty-four elite cavalrymen were already waiting at the Horizon Inn. Young war dogs the size of small ponies, 'Little Black', followed behind Rain.
At this time, a luxurious carriage marked with the Calibird Emblem and two teams totaling twenty-four elite cavalrymen were already waiting at the Horizon Inn, while Kraya and her maid had just exited the inn.
The timing was perfect.
Naturally, Kraya noticed Rain riding a tall horse.
"Two ferocious pets?" Kraya's eyes lit up, and she immediately recognized the exceptional qualities of Rain's warhorse and the war dog behind him.
However, the inn's entrance was crowded and noisy, not suitable for conversation. Kraya nodded to Rain and then boarded the carriage.
"Rain, sir, Miss Kraya invites you to join her in the carriage." Just as Rain was about to ride his Swift Warhorse 'Little Black' and follow Kraya's carriage with the cavalry, the head maid, Shadiya, approached with a smile.
"Hmm? Should I get in the carriage too? What about my warhorse..."
"Please leave the care of Rain's warhorse to me, sir," said the butler, Jordel, with a smile.
"Thank you."
Rain was eager to catch up with Kraya, whom he hadn't seen in a long time.
Upon entering the carriage, Rain was surprised to find that the interior was spacious and luxurious, with two rows of seats and a brown center table.
"By the way, Rain, do you remember that I taught you the Giant Bear Sword Technique? However, in terms of level and power, it's not considered very strong as an Extraordinary Combat Technique. Here, I have a scroll of Arcadia Sword Technique, which I'd like to offer as a gift to you, my Guardian Knight."
Kraya smiled and took a pale yellow, ancient-looking scroll from Shadiya's hand and passed it to Rain.
"Arcadia Sword Technique?"
"Yes, Arcadia, full name Arcadia Paison, is a renowned Sword Saint. This scroll is a gift for you, my Guardian Knight, and it should be of some help."
Rain's heart stirred as he accepted the scroll from Kraya.
Rain was grateful for Kraya's offer of the Arcadia Sword Technique, a gift from a Sword Saint.
Especially since it was a legendary combat technique!
The ultimate technique he had previously learned from the Giant Bear Sword Technique was a sound-based technique, not to say it was bad, but it differed significantly from traditional two-handed sword techniques.
Rain was curious to see what kind of ultimate technique he would gain from mastering this Arcadia Sword Technique.
"You might recall that you once asked if I practiced the Giant Bear Sword Technique. Actually, I've been training in this two-handed sword technique since I was young. It's a family heirloom, but its entry difficulty is quite high. However, with your talent, I believe you'll master it within a month or two."
Rain listened attentively while examining the Arcadia Sword Technique, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
"Although I'm no longer your match, if you wish to spar using only the Arcadia Sword Technique, I'm at your disposal," Kraya offered.
Rain's heart skipped a beat at the suggestion of a sword sparring session.
This immediately brought back memories of his past sparring sessions with Kraya.
Back then, it wasn't entirely accurate to call it sparring, as it was more of Kraya's one-sided instruction.
"Thank you, Miss Kraya, I look forward to your guidance."
"You're welcome, Rain. Don't forget that you're my Guardian Knight now."
Kraya's luxurious carriage, pulled by four horses, matched the speed of the cavalry.
The entire group galloped swiftly, and by noon, they had reached the borders of Wales County, about two hours away from their destination.
However, at noon, they were still about two hours away from their agreed-upon location.
Around noon, the group stopped and set up multiple bonfires in an open area.
Jordel and Shadiya efficiently organized the gathering of firewood and cooking, leaving Rain and Kraya free to chat.
Rain approached Kraya and said, "Miss Kraya, if possible, I'd like to seek your guidance on the Arcadia Sword Technique."
"Hmm? Do you mean you've already grasped the basics? In such a short time in the carriage?" Kraya's beautiful eyes looked at Rain with doubt.
"I've gained some understanding, and with your guidance, I believe I'll master it quickly."
Although Kraya was skeptical, she immediately nodded in agreement.
"Of course."
The two of them moved to an empty space in the nearby woods.
"Rain, remember, only the Arcadia Sword Technique is allowed. Otherwise, I won't be your match." Kraya said with a smile.
"Naturally," Rain replied with a smile.
Soon, two figures moved swiftly in the open area, their clashing sounds echoing frequently.
Although it was just a friendly match, the elite cavalrymen sitting nearby watched with great interest.
Action: Arcadia Sword Technique was a flashy attack, and although Kraya, who was the weaker of the two, possessed the strength of a Peak Knight, she was still an unreachable existence in the eyes of the cavalry.
After several minutes, the rapidly moving figure suddenly came to a halt.
Kraya's heaving chest and beautiful eyes stared at Rain in disbelief.
Although Rain's display of the Arcadia Sword Technique was still rudimentary and clearly inferior, Kraya could sense Rain's growing mastery over the technique during the fight.
This level of comprehension of Extraordinary Combat Techniques was truly terrifying!
Kraya began to understand why Rain had become so powerful in just half a year.
At the same time, Kraya quickly thought of another matter. She glanced at the Skull Warhammer hanging on Rain's waist and asked, "Rain, are you proficient in several Extraordinary Combat Techniques?"
The day before, she had witnessed Rain killing Grant, the Frost Messenger, using a short spear.
"Yes, Miss Kraya," Rain replied after a moment's thought, nodding slightly.
"In addition to the two-handed greatsword, you should also be skilled in hammer techniques, right? Are there any others?"
"Mmm, shield, single-handed axe..."
For a moment, Kraya was speechless.
This innate talent for quickly grasping Extraordinary Combat Techniques was truly...
"Rain, you've already mastered so many weapons. Even in the Imperial Capital, I've rarely seen anyone with such talent or ability."
"It's truly rare."
However, Kraya's expression turned pensive, as if she had thought of something. She continued, "But your talent reminds me of an ancient race that resembles you."
"An ancient race?" Rain's eyebrows rose, indicating his curiosity about Kraya's reference.
"Yes, have you heard of the ancient race of giants?"
Rain's eyes lit up with recognition.
He had not only heard of them but had also researched several ancient books related to this race.
Kraya nodded and explained, "The ancient race of giants once lived in the primeval forests, where numerous ferocious beasts, giant creatures, and even more terrifying ancient beings roamed. The environment was harsh, but they established a powerful empire."
"This was closely related to the ancient giants' prowess in battle."
"Most adult giants were proficient in using various weapons, just like you. They wielded two-handed greatswords, heavy hammers, long spears, and various throwing weapons in combat."
"They built ancient and magnificent arenas to showcase their bravery. They not only fought against giant beasts but also engaged in battles among themselves."
"Among the most valiant warriors, the one who excelled in using the most weapons was crowned the 'King of a Thousand Blades' and held a revered position within the tribe."
Suddenly, Rain stiffened as he received a system prompt:
[Ding! Host detected listening to ancient secrets, triggering the Weapon Master (Legendary) advanced class transition - King of a Thousand Blades (Epic)!]
[Promotion to King of a Thousand Blades (Epic) prerequisites: 1. Weapon Master level 9 or above; 2. Mastery of nine different secret techniques; 3. Physical second-order limit value of 90% or above; 4. Any breath technique level 18 or above; 5. Strength, agility, and constitution of 50 points or above. Current conditions do not meet the requirements! To transfer to King of a Thousand Blades (Epic), the following conditions must be met: 1. Weapon Master level 9 or above; 2. Mastery of nine different secret techniques; 3. Physical second-order limit value of 90% or above; 4. Any breath technique level 18 or above; 5. Strength, agility, and constitution of 50 points or above.]
Hmm?
An epic-level profession!
King of a Thousand Blades?
A master of a thousand weapons, that's an exaggeration!
Rain's thoughts raced as he considered the implications.
Meyster, Wolfhill Ridge.
On a main road, several burly men wearing the Earthshaker emblem of the Imperial Capital's Special Department lay sprawled with injuries and signs of heavy blood loss.
A man in a black robe with a black flame design on his collar approached and flattered, "These fools dared to cause trouble for the Bloodburner, seeking their own demise."
"Enough flattery. What about that matter?" Laksur waved his hand.
"Sir, I was about to report on that matter," the black-robed man said, his expression odd as if he had remembered something.
"Sir, I have news from the Hubert Duke Manor. The Countess's daughter won't be arriving by military airship but by carriage from Minster to Wales County, then to Meyster."
"Hmm? Is this information confirmed?" Laksur was surprised.
According to his previous plans with his subordinates, they believed the Countess's daughter would choose to travel by military airship to Meyster, as it was faster and safer than a carriage.
They had planned to ambush her at the airship landing point in Meyster, which was located on the main road surrounded by patrol teams.
Additionally, considering the presence of her escorts, they needed skilled individuals to ensure a swift capture within two to three minutes and her transfer within ten minutes. If the time exceeded ten minutes, the Imperial Swordsmen in Meyster would be alerted and swiftly respond.
Laksur had intended to handle this personally.
However, the Countess's daughter's choice to travel by carriage from Minster to Wales County, then to Meyster, was amusing to Laksur and his men.
"It seems I won't need to take action. This young lady of the Habsburg family doesn't realize who she's up against."
"Since she's going to Wales County, I'll wait here for Galina's good news."
Galina, who succeeded Laksur as the High Priestess of Wales County, was ruthless and skilled in illusions.
"Contact Galina. Tell her to find an appropriate opportunity to handle this. I don't care about the others, but I want that Countess's daughter alive."
"Yes, sir."
(End of Chapter)
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