The Greatest Estate Designer

Chapter 18: All Roads Lead to Rome (1)

Ppo-dong!

Ppodong jumped and landed on his plump belly. An object that was caught between his fat belly and the floor was badly squashed.

Crack!

The walnuts shell got crushed. Ppodong smiled brightly as he took out the kernels between the crushed shell.

Ppo-dong? Ppo-do-dong. Ppo-dong.

Delicious?

Ppo-dong!

At the speed of light, Ppodong inserted walnut kernels inside his cheek pockets. Lloyd laughed at the sight.

Do you want some more?

Ppo-dong!

Should I break the shell and give it to you?

Ppo-dong? Ppo-do-dong!

Yeah. Wait a minute.

Lloyd gripped the walnut with his right hand and stretched out his left hand. After that, he tried to do the Asrahan Core Technique.

Phew.

His heart beat as he took a breath. Each beat produced a tiny suction force that flowed to his left hand. The surrounding energywhich consisted of natural mana that spread throughout the airwas drawn through his open palm.

Oh, its working.

Of course, the force wasnt that big. The mana in the air just got slightly dragged in. Moreover, right now he was a beginner who only had a single circle of Asrahan Core Technique. However, that was enough.

Whirr!

He controlled the mana he had drawn with his left hand to the outside of his heart. Then he rotated it alongside the single circle around his heart. With this, the mana in the circle was amplified.

He sent the amplified mana to his right hand. After that, he gripped the walnut in his right hand using his original grip strength plus the additional power he just got.

Uuughh!

Crack!

The walnuts hard shell was crushed.

Whoa, there we go.

Curshing walnuts with bare hands. In the past, I wouldnt even dare to think about it.

Feeling satisfied about the success, I gave Ppodong a walnut kernel.

Now, here.

Ppo-dong!

Do you like it?

Ppo-do-dong!

Yeah, I like it too.

Now, I actually felt that I have a body beyond the level of an ordinary persons physical strength. It made me feel a bit relieved.

This is a world where everyone carries a sword.

This is not South Korea. This is a place where there are Ma Dong Sik-like¹I think the author here was referring to Ma Dong Seok, a South Korean born American actor, known for his tough guy persona roles. Before becoming an actor, he was the personal trainer of mixed martial artists Mark Coleman and Kevin Randleman.bandits who would engrave friendly marks on your body with a sword right when you leave the mansion.

But, what if you live without even the slightest ability to protect yourself?

Youll never know when youd get killed accidentally by a stray sword. I absolutely dont want that. Thats a no-no.

I was thinking that it was good for me to learn the Asrahan Core Technique from Javier.

It was then.

Knock Knock.

Someone knocked on the bedroom door.

Lloyd-nim? Are you there?

The voice had a peculiar and cynical tone to it. It was Javier.

Lloyd grinned. He stood up and opened the bedroom door. As expected, Javier was standing in front of the door.

Youre not that good and gentle either. Come in.

What do you mean?

Nothing. Did you do what I told you to do?

Im on my way back from reporting to the Lord.

Is that so?

Yes.

The baron didnt say anything?

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Are you asking if he mentioned something in particular?

Uh-huh.

He did.

What did he say?

Sir Neumann wished me luck.

Well, you do need to be lucky. The same also applies to Sir Neumann from now on.

Sir Neumann. When I thought of him, mocking laughs continued to pour out. At the same time, I remembered what had happened a few days ago, on the day I dueled him and exposed his betrayal.

Hes lucky, too.

No, in this case, should I say that he was extremely unlucky?

To begin with, Sir Neumann didnt die. He showed off his strong vitality that could withstand being crushed by giant Ppodongs belly.

However, the price of saving his life was huge. He suffered massive fractures on dozens of bones all over his body.

The scene looked so terrible. He looked like a half-dried squid from the dried fish section that got thrown and stuck on the floor. Even the territorys doctor, who examined his condition, shook his head.

Oh my, this is not what living is. Even if youre lucky enough to be cured by heaven, you will never be able to live as a human being like others. Walking and standing will be impossible. And, you can only barely swallow the porridge others feed you until you die.

. That was the doctors diagnosis. Thus, Sir Neumann was banished out of the territory today after days of treatment, barely surviving the crisis.

Well, at least hes been banished with his family altogether, so he wont die right away.

Probably.

That wasnt all. Sir Ulrich and Sir Conte, who usually followed Sir Neumann, were also banished together like a set menu. As their punishment, the tendons on their one hand and one foot each got cut off.

They wont be able to wield a sword for the rest of their life. Its a little unfortunate, but establishing discipline within the territory is thus a success.

In the novel, they were the ones who would turn their backs on this territory anyway. Not only would they distract me if I forgive them, but they would also be harmful if left alone.

So, I wanted to get rid of them early. And today, that goal was achieved. This made me feel relieved.

Thanks to that, youre now the deputy commander. Now, Sir Asrahan? How do you feel?

I dont feel anything in particular.

Is that so?

Yes.

Why is that?

Because there are only two knights left in this territory, me and Sir Bayern.

Um, do you feel lonely?

.

Tsk. I see. Our Javier is bored because he doesnt have any friends. I see.

Of course not.

I know. I understand. Thats life, I guess.

Lloyd-nim.

What? Why? What? What are you going to do with that serious face?

.

Do you have anything to say to me?

From what I noticed, it seemed that indeed I was right. As expected, Javier nodded.

Yes. I do have something I want to ask you.

What is it?

That hamster. Javier pointed his hand to Ppodong, who was hovering over the walnut kernels on the desk. His expression became serious and his eyes became cautious. This made Lloyd feel a little nervous.

What the hell is he trying to ask with such stern and serious demeanor?

What? Are you doubting my summon?

That possibility occurred to me. It was a fairly likely story.

I mean, I have been intentionally carrying a basic summoning magic book on my side for a month. But, seems like that alone is not enough to avoid suspicion.

Summoning magic is also magic. So, if Im not considered a prodigy, it wont make any sense for me to be able to use summoning techniques with just a month of self-study.

Well, what can I do? Tell him honestly about the RP system or the Random Summon of Phantom Species? He wouldnt believe me even more. Thats why Id have to insist.

I succeeded in learning it by myself is the truth. This is how I have to insist. Lloyd thought so while waiting for Javiers question.

Javier, who had been taking his time and looking serious all the while, opened his mouth, What should I call him?

. Huh?

I want to know his name.

No way. His name?

Yes.

Thats what youre curious about?

Thats right. Because Lloyd-nim summoned him, after all.

Aha, youre going to see him often, so you want to know his name?

Thats right.

Then, why did you set the atmosphere like that for no reason?

Pardon?

. Sigh. Its Ppodong. His name. There you go.

Did you say Ppodong?

Uh-huh.

Hmm. Its a shabby name compared to its giant grandeur.

But Im the one who gave him a name?

. Creating a humble name is a camouflage basic that can catch the enemy off-guard. Its a good name.

For real?

.

Blah-blah. Never mind. Im not the one who named him. But Ppodong is indeed his name.

Then, Ill.

Call him yourself.

I understand. Sir Ppodong?

Javier made eye contact with Ppodong. Ppodong, who was hovering over the walnut kernels, raised his head.

Ppo-dong?

My name is Javier Asrahan. Im a knight who escorts Lloyd-nim. Im looking forward to working with you.

Ppo-dong!

Javiers long finger and Ppodongs small paws met to shake hands.

Lloyd yawned.

Have you finished your conversation?

Yes.

Then, shall we get out of here? Ive been waiting for you so we can leave together because I had some business to do.

Does that mean Im going together with you?

Uh-huh. Youre my escort anyway. One who is much stronger than me.

Thats.

Okay. Everyones hiding their skills to some extent, isnt that right?

.

Javier was surprised. Lloyd grinned.

Javier had already reached the level of High-Level Sword Expert. At first, I thought he wasnt fully aware of his level. I had no choice but to think so. Because that was how it was portrayed in the [Iron-Blooded Knight] novel.

But, when I actually saw him from the sidelines, it was a little different. It felt different from just reading novels.

Javier and I quarreled every day. As I learned swordsmanship from Javier, I could observe him closely. I realized that Javier has an accurate understanding of his own level. Hes just been hiding his skills.

Why? I didnt know the reason yet. I could only take a guess.

The youngest knight is on the verge of becoming a Sword Master. The mere discovery of his existence will cause chaos.

For instance, getting scolded by superiors such as Sir Neumann because of jealousy is a small consequence. As for the big consequence, it could be in the form of endless and constant recruitment attempts by nearby lords. Because of such disturbances, Baron Frontera certainly would have to put up with it.

He didnt want to cause trouble like that. Its also one of his effort on keeping his loyalty to the baron.

He is a typical great man. Hes talented and his personality is impeccable.

Anyway, lets go out. The sun will set at this rate.

I stood up from my seat. As expected, Javier looked a little bit relieved. He didnt want to continue this topic right now. In fact, It was the same for me.

Im keeping your secrets. So dont ever mention your questions about my shoveling.

I repeat, hes a genius in swordsmanship. Theres no way such a man could fail to grasp the true nature of the bayonet technique which has a long history.

At least, you shouldve noticed that for a beginner like me, that technique wasnt something that could be created by fooling around.

Martial arts and sports can be comprehended as deep as your knowledge about them. Im certain of this fact when I think about boxing mixed with martial arts. When I didnt know about boxing, watching boxing matches felt so boring. Even though throughout the match, mixed martial arts were also applied.

Nevertheless, what about after I actually learned boxing in high school? And after I learned jujitsu in a club at university? Everything changed.

The boxing match, which was like a sleeping pill for me, became so much fun.

The ground fight in a martial art scene, which was previously seen only as a public battle on the floor, became an exciting jackpot.

All of this was because what I can perceive increased as much as my knowledge.

Then, what about Javier, the genius and the greatest swordsman of all time in history? Naturally, he would understand most of the bayonets characteristics that I used.

Yes, I cant avoid that. Nonetheless, Im still trying to figure him out. Ill keep his secret if he keeps his mouth shut.

I looked at Javier meaningfully.

Did he realize my intentions? Javier gently stood up alongside me.

Lets go. Ill escort you.

So, I left the bedroom with Javier.

Outside of the mansion, I encountered the fief residents as I walked quite often. However, their reactions were quite different from before. In the past, they used to rush to the side of the road as soon as we ran into each other. All the while bowing their heads in fear of making eye contact.

However, not anymore.

A woman greeted me with a friendly smile. It was the same woman as the one who got terrified until her hands were trembling on the first day I possessed Lloyds body.

It wasnt just her. A farmer openly smiled and inquired, Excuse me, Young Master? When will the construction of my ondol room be possible?

Huh?

Lloyd could clearly remember. This farmer, who was in front of him, had his complexion turned pale when I encountered him on the first day of the possession.

While touching his chin, Lloyd asked back.

Oh, umm. I cant remember very well, but where is your house located?

On the left of the rock which is located at the entrance of Oak Forest Valley.

Oh, its there. Lets see. In terms of the sale contracts order, its going to be the next one.

Then, when will the construction begin?

Given the circumstances, in about 15 days? So wait a little longer. Its still spring anyway.

But, the wind is still cold.

Then, should I give you a hug? Itll be completely warm?

Tha, thats not it.

No? Thank God. I dont like it either. It gives me goosebumps.

Anyway, um, please take good care of me, Young Master.

Okay. Dont forget to pay the construction fee.

Will you be there?

Yes. Alright, I understand. Ill go first for now.

Lloyd managed to barely separate himself and took a few steps away from the farmer who stuck to him.

Sigh. I feel like I abruptly became a part of them.

Since a few days ago, the residents gaze and attitude had changed completely.

The look in their eyes when they look at me is so bright. Just like when I was playing a game and welcoming a knight boss wholl carry the team.

A bitter smile abruptly bloomed on my lips. I got an idea on why they were doing that. Still, I wanted to check at least once.

Hey. I asked Javier who stood by my side. Whats wrong with everybody? Didnt they openly hate me before?

Well, they used to.

Used to?

Yes.

Then, what about now?

As if it was natural, Javier answered, Now, youre seen as the birth of a talented man.

A talented man?

You defeated a senior knight of the territory with just a month of training. Of course they didnt know about the existence of Asrahan Core Technique, so it looked even more amazing. Then you exposed a senior knights treachery and showed a shocking summoning magic in front of everyone.

. Um, its kind of embarrassing when you list all of them together. In short, do they think of me as a gifted man in both swordsmanship and summoning?

Thats right. Javier, who nodded, continued, Of course it must be very welcome from the residents perspective. The irredeemable human being, who only drank alcohol every day and caused trouble, became so capable that they wondered if youre still the same person.

.

The future lord has transformed from a grim human scum who cannot be rehabilitated into a talented man out of the blue. The fief residents obviously will cheer and rejoice.

Oh, that one, thats a compliment, right?

Yes. Youre correct.

But, isnt it rather weighty for a compliment?

What do you mean by weighty?

Im afraid it jabbed me in my solar plexus with a speed thats enough to reach 170 kmph.

What do you mean by 170 kmph?

Oh, it broke my bone. You bone-breaker expert.

..

Javier stared at me with a look that screamed what the hell are you talking about?. However, even that expression looked as cool and elegant as a painting.

Yeah, that must be nice. To be so handsome.

Good at fighting, great personality, perfect-looking.

Lloyd grumbled at the real-life version of his mums friends son, whose rumors were lush, but had no substance²I think this is a dig at Asian culture where your mom usually compares you to her friends child who is better than you in many aspects. However, sometimes the moms exaggerated their own childrens abilities because actually, they are the ones who are competing..

Have you looked at everything? Then get out of my way. Let me do my business.

What do you mean by your business?

Surveying the place from here to there.

Lloyd pointed at the ground with his hand. From the entrance of the mansion to the other side, through the territory to the foot of the eastern mountain.

While looking around the place, Lloyd already activated his survey and design skills.

Examine the terrain; grasp all of the information in detail; and overlay it with the blueprint of the desired design he wanted to build using the information that had been identified. Thanks to these, some future images of this place, which were yet to be built, were slightly visible to him.

All roads lead to Rome. Youve never heard of it, have you?

Lloyd smiled and looked back at Javier. Of course, Javier didnt know the meaning of his smile and the fact that paved roads, which would be the aorta³Aorta: is the main and largest artery in the human body, originating from the left ventricle of the heart and extending down to the abdomen, where it splits into two smaller arteries. of territorys development, was going to be built in this place. As a result of this construction, the Barony of Frontera would become one of the most influential territories in the kingdom.

To Javier at this point of time, it was unimaginable. That was certainly the case until Lloyd continued his words.

tl/n: Sorry Im a little behind the schedule :)

And, this chapters illustration is too cute!

Id greatly appreciate it if you would buy me a coffee!

• 1

  I think the author here was referring to Ma Dong Seok, a South Korean born American actor, known for his tough guy persona roles. Before becoming an actor, he was the personal trainer of mixed martial artists Mark Coleman and Kevin Randleman.

• 2

  I think this is a dig at Asian culture where your mom usually compares you to her friends child who is better than you in many aspects. However, sometimes the moms exaggerated their own childrens abilities because actually, they are the ones who are competing.

• 3

  Aorta: is the main and largest artery in the human body, originating from the left ventricle of the heart and extending down to the abdomen, where it splits into two smaller arteries.