NOVEL NEXT Chapter 11: Chapter 11
Old John's Weapon Shop is a family-run blacksmith establishment dedicated to crafting swords, so it's a shop that handles both production and sales.
On this particular day, Ron was under the tutelage of Old John, learning the art of blacksmithing. Ron knew his aptitude was far from remarkable, so after half a month of diligent study, he had finally reached the entry-level in blacksmithing.
"Ron, you may not be the quickest learner, but your determination makes you able to ignore that obstacle!" Old John cast an approving glance at Ron. Over the past half a month, he had observed Ron's earnest efforts and despite his limited learning aptitude, Ron had shown unwavering dedication. Day by day, he toiled hard both in learning the intricacies of forging and doing practical hands-on work. And now, after the challenging half-month period of learning and practicing, he had finally achieved a beginner-level proficiency in blacksmithing.
"Thank you master John for your guidance," Ron said with a smile.
"Hmm," Old John responded with a slight smile as he inspected a sword, he continued, "But remember, entry-level is just the beginning. The craft of blacksmithing is very intricate and profound, it took you half a month to reach this stage, so it will be a challenging task for you to truly excel in it"
Ron maintained a calm and polite demeanor, he saw no need to inform Old John of his true capabilities. Why reveal that he could become a god-like figure, surpassing even the most skilled blacksmiths, with a mere touch?
"I have a keen interest in mastering the basics of blacksmithing, and now that I've reached that stage, it's almost time for me to depart," Ron replied. He explained that he intended to set out to sea, soon to find Nami, kaya, and the others. A grand voyage still awaited him, and of course, the beautiful women aboard the vessel were eager for his attention.
"Are you content with only just reaching the entry-level?" Old John paused, his brow furrowing as he placed the sword aside. He regarded Ron thoughtfully, then shook his head inwardly. He had initially thought this young man might be genuinely passionate about blacksmithing, but it appeared that Ron was merely dabbling.
"Well, if that's your decision, I won't hold you any longer. It's about time my rascal of a son returns. He's been away at sea for quite a while now purchasing materials and It has taken longer than expected. When he gets back, there won't be any shortage of helping hands around the shop," Old John remarked, noting that his son should return soon. Once he was back, there would be no shortage of assistance, as the other apprentices who had accompanied his son on the journey would also be returning.
"Thank you, Master John, for your guidance during this time," Ron said, offering a respectful salute to Old John.
For Ron, the knowledge of blacksmithing was a valuable asset, just like the sword drawing and two-sword style techniques from Grace had been. Similarly, his gratitude extended to the Evil Wolf Pirate for teaching him the Evil Wolf Fist, Marksmanship, and other skills. Ron firmly believed in repaying kindness, avenging wrongs, finding happiness, and preserving freedom - these principles were unwavering, regardless of his immense power.
With his belongings packed and ready to go, Ron was preparing to leave. But at this moment, a short and stout middle-aged man suddenly rushed to the blacksmith's shop's door, shouting, "Old John, something terrible has happened!"
"Hmm?" Ron halted in his tracks, noticing the sweat-soaked and anxious appearance of the stout middle-aged man. Clearly, a significant matter had arisen, causing distress to the weapons store manager.
This stocky middle-aged man was the guy responsible for assisting Old John's family in managing the weapons shop. Old John handled the blacksmithing, while Dorlo was in charge of sales, and Old John's son handled the procurement of raw materials.
"What's going on, Dorlo?" Ron inquired
"Young Master Clinton has returned!" Dorlo gasped and conveyed the news urgently.
"The boy is back?" Old John questioned, puzzled by Dorlo's worried expression. His son's return should be a reason for celebration. "Is there a problem with Clinton?"
"Yes, Old John, please come with me. The owner of the Iron Furnace Weapon Shop organized a group to intercept Young Master Clinton!" Dorlo reported with anxiety. "We must hurry to intervene."
"What?" Old John's expression shifted dramatically. He stood up and asked indignantly, "What does that old scoundrel from the Iron Furnace shop want to achieve?"
"It seems that Young Master Clinton purchased valuable casting materials this time, and the owner of the Iron Furnace Weapons Shop is trying to rob him!" Dorlo explained hastily. "We need to act swiftly."
"Alright, let's go," Old John replied, and together with Dorlo, he hurried outside.
Ron observed the two departing figures and followed along. Old John may have been aging, but he still carried the air of his youth. Years of forging had maintained his physical strength, and he was far from feeble.
As Ron calmly made his way outside the weapons store, he noticed that a large crowd had gathered at the shop's entrance, causing a commotion. Amidst the noise and bustle, people had gathered to witness the unfolding situation.
With a serene expression, Ron stood by and observed the scene. After listening for a bit, he realized the urgency of the situation. Swiftly, he tapped on his data panel, rapidly upgrading his blacksmithing skills. In just a few moments, his newly acquired skill reached its maximum level. Ron had finally become a top-class blacksmith in the entire pirate world, surpassing masters, grandmasters, and great grandmasters in the craft of blacksmithing. Whether there was a blacksmith at his level in the entire pirate world would remain a mystery, and Ron had achieved this astonishing feat in just half a month.