"As expected of the world-renowned master smith, Vice Admiral Hammer, who knew even a simple one-handed sword could differ so drastically in quality."
King Riku genuinely praised Hammer's craftsmanship.
The blacksmiths nearby froze at the name Hammer, staring in disbelief at the three-meter-tall man.
Hammer, the comet of the forging world.
"It's really Master Hammer!"
"Master! Please accept my kneeling respects!"
"Master Hammer has come to Dressrosa! Long live!"
"Uh… isn't Master Hammer a Marine? Why is he here?"
The entire forge erupted in excitement.
"Hahahaha, I'm just a free man right now, wandering around for fun."
"King Riku, let's go. There's something I'd like to ask you."
Though Hammer was clearly enjoying himself, a sudden thought had popped into his mind, prompting a new plan.
Though confused, King Riku agreed.
The two left under the fervent stares of the blacksmiths.
Outside the Colosseum
"King Riku, the one who saved me that day wasn't you, right? I was unconscious, but I've got a feeling someone else rescued me."
Hammer walked calmly through the streets of Dressrosa, his tone soft.
King Riku flinched slightly, a bit surprised.
"Why would you think that, Vice Admiral?"
Hammer replied casually:
"There's a legend about fairies in Dressrosa. King Riku, you know anything about that?"
Without waiting for an answer, he continued:
"They say they're mysterious beings, appearing and disappearing at will."
"But from what I can tell, those 'fairies' are likely just a cover for something. A fabrication to hide the truth, right?"
King Riku was stunned. 'How did Hammer know all this?'
Good thing he was a Marine officer. If the wrong people heard it.
"I don't know how you've learned so much, Vice Admiral, but I'm sorry. That's a royal secret. I can't tell you."
Hammer wasn't surprised by the reply.
He was just asking out of curiosity. After all, the Tontatta tribe was naturally skilled. Fast and strong, they were ideal for delicate work.
"Haha, since it's a secret, I won't pry. But I like the forge behind the Colosseum, it suits me."
"I'll stay there for the time being. If you need me, just call."
King Riku nodded at Hammer's hearty laugh.
He didn't refuse, after all, it was just a forge. What else could happen besides smithing?
But... was smithing all Hammer would do?
"Hey, you! Your hammer angle's all wrong! Adjust it!"
"You! There are still impurities in that steel blank, redo it!"
"What the heck is that? You call that a longsword?! It's a butter knife!"
Hammer had now fully assumed the role of a master instructor, ruthlessly critiquing the other blacksmiths.
But no one complained. After all, this was Hammer, the world-famous forging master. A single tip from him was worth more than gold.
All the blacksmiths became laser-focused.
Hammer himself was far from idle. He discovered that the wrought iron in Dressrosa was top-tier, far better than what he used back at Marine HQ.
No way he'd pass up the chance to forge with it.
Hammer after hammer, he began forging single-handed swords nonstop.
Each one came out with special attributes, every sword a deadly weapon.
His efficiency and quality completely won over the entire forge.
"Whoa, Master Hammer, you forge so fast!"
A voice called from nearby.
Princess Scarlet stood there, eyes sparkling as she watched him work.
Shirtless and glistening with sweat, Hammer's chiseled physique was a sight to behold.
"Hm? Princess Scarlet? What are you doing here?"
He didn't look up, continuing his forging.
"Hmph, he can't stop me. Master Hammer, can you forge a sword for me? I want one too!"
Hammer finally stopped, puzzled.
In his memories, this princess was a pacifist like her father. Why would she want a sword?
"A sword forged by Master Hammer must be amazing! I want to collect it!"
Hammer: '...Okay, she's definitely a fangirl.'
"Alright then. What kind of sword do you want?"
"Hmm… I don't know, but I don't like the ones in the Colosseum."
Hammer fell into deep thought.
A sword suited for a woman…
After some consideration, he stole a rapier.
Rapier came in three types:
Foil (Floret): Also called "light sword," max length 110 cm, under 500 g. Lightest and fastest, only for thrusting.
Épée (Heavy sword): Max length 90 cm, under 770 g. Heaviest, also only for thrusting.
Sabre (Cut-and-thrust): Max length 105 cm, under 500 g. Middle weight. Can thrust and slash.
Hammer chose to forge a sabre.
He grabbed high-purity wrought iron and began heating it.
With powerful strikes, the shape of a rapier quickly formed.
He used bright brass with a bit of gold for the ornate handguard.
The hilt was wrapped in golden paracord, with a tassel at the pommel for a lavish look.
Next came the scabbard, made from a light iron plate and leather for elegance and practicality.
"Here you go. A custom-forged rapier by Hammer himself. For ladies only. Hope you like it, Princess."
[Ding! Exclusive Trait Activated!]
[As the first custom sword forged for a woman, Special attribute granted:]
+1000% Damage to its creator
Max Charisma (Leadership Boost)
+500% Attraction toward its creator
Hammer: '…What kind of cursed effects are these?!'
Princess Scarlet took the rapier, eyes gleaming.
The golden hilt. The ornate guard. The beautiful tassel, it was stunning.
"WAAH! I finally have a custom weapon from Master Hammer!"
She raised the sword high, eyes sparkling like stars.
"EHEHEHE! As the Princess of Dressrosa, I declare, Master Hammer shall be my future husband!"
"All of Dressrosa will be my dowry!"
Princess Scarlet hugged the sword tightly, eyes locked on Hammer with a radiant smile.
All the blacksmiths: ???
Just-arrived King Riku:???
If you enjoy the story, my p@treon is 30 chapters ahead.
[email protected]/DaoistJinzu