I Need Money to Level Up

Chapter 23: Types of Spears

"No, there is no rule like that; I was just recalling something else," Harth said after he shook his head. "Anyway, there is this old guy that I know of that makes some decent equipment. I used his creations when I was young and wanted to build my strength. His creations are a bit rough, but they are durable and heavy enough to be a challenge for you all to wield. I don't recommend using them during spars, though. Only when you do some strength training."

"I suppose even without blades, a heavy weapon could cause a lot of damage," Raiden said.

"He is training with a spear; wouldn't a lighter weapon be better for him?" Lenore asked. "It will be better if he grows to become the type that never gets hit. For that to happen, he should train to become as nimble as possible."

"The nimble ones are never taken seriously; Raiden will be more imposing with a big spear that he can move and attack with enough speed and enough power to break even shields," Harth said. "I believe he has the potential for that."

Lenore and Harth argued for a while about the type of spear that Raiden should use. Now that he thought about it, it was time for him to choose a proper type and try to master it as soon as possible.

"You know the types, right?" Iri asked. "You really like thrust attacks for some odd reason, so I would recommend the Hastas. Some of them have some nasty designs; even if you miss the direct hit, they have side blades that can cut flesh insanely easy."

Raiden recalled the types of spears that he had seen so far. The first had been javelins. Javelins are light spears designed for throwing. They have a pointed tip. Javelins can vary in length and design depending on the specific throwing technique.

A pike is a long spear-like weapon that typically has a long shaft, often measuring several meters, with a narrow and pointed metal head. Infantry formations commonly use Pikes, particularly in massed formations known as pike squares or pike formations.

Boar spears are designed specifically for hunting boars or other large animals and beasts. They usually have a broad, flat blade with crossbars or wings near the tip to prevent the animal from running up the spear shaft and attacking the user.

The yari is a traditional spear from a certain distant tribe. It typically has a straight blade with a sharp point and a long shaft. The yari was a versatile weapon used for thrusting and slashing.

The assegai is also another traditional spear used by various tribes. It has a narrow, leaf-shaped blade and a wooden shaft. Assegais were used for both hunting and warfare and were known for their effectiveness and versatility.

Boomerang spears, also known as woomera spears, are a type of throwing spear used by some small and recluse tribes. They feature a hooked or curved throwing arm at the end of the spear shaft, which helps increase throwing distance and accuracy.

The hasta was a spear commonly used by ancient soldiers. It typically had a long iron head with a leaf-shaped or triangular blade and a shaft made of wood. The hasta was a versatile weapon used for thrusting, and it could be used both in close combat and in formation.

"I guess I will accept the suggestion; I like to attack fast, after all," Raiden said.

"That is fine and all, but you should have some countermeasures to defend yourself when you are surprised," Harth said.

"The enemies won't have the chance to attack if I knock them first," Raiden smiled.

"That sounds like something Harth would have said in his youth," Lenore sighed.

"I can take you to the shop in two days on my day off," Iri said.

"The other two will come as well. Is that fine with you?" Raiden asked.

"No problem," Iri replied while smiling.

That was weird; Raiden thought that Iri liked kids so much that she was a bit shy while approaching them. Still, two days later, they reunited in front of the house and then left to buy the weapons. If anything, Javier and Ruth were the ones being a bit too shy or stiff since they didn't interact that much with other people aside from the ones in their family and Raiden.

"Raiden will get an hasta; what about you two?" Iri asked. "I saw you all training, but it isn't too late to change your weapon of choice if you feel like you should too."

"I am getting better at using two swords, but I think that I should get some smaller but heavier ones," Javier replied.

"I don't think that I am suited for fighting, so a spear to keep the enemies away will be the best option for me," Ruth added. "Still, I am starting to think that it will be hard to change from bow to spear fast enough in a battle."

"As I said, it is a bit too early to determine that things will change completely once you reach the next level, so you should focus on using a weapon that you feel the most comfortable with," Iri explained. "I also only use a single knife for melee combat, and Raiden had yet to hit me even once."

Raiden wanted to sigh... she was boosting already. He could knock her down if he used his fortune to level up, but his pride didn't allow him to do so. Winning against someone in a mock battle didn't mean anything, after all.

"That sure sounds impressive; maybe I should try using knives as well," Ruth said.

The blacksmith shop wasn't far from home. Loto's blacksmith shop was a place filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of metalworking. Located in a modest building, it boasted a heavy wooden door that creaks when opened. The interior was organized and cluttered, showcasing Loto's expertise and dedication to his craft. The shop is illuminated by the warm glow of a large forge, where the intense heat radiates throughout the space.

An anvil sits prominently in the center of the shop, scarred from countless hammer strikes. Shelves and racks hold an array of hammers, tongs, and other forging tools meticulously arranged for easy access. The walls are adorned with worn leather aprons hanging on hooks alongside heavy gloves and protective goggles, testaments to the hazards of the trade.

A coal bin, filled with the fuel for the forge, stands nearby, its contents giving off a faint but distinct aroma that permeates the air. A sturdy workbench sits against the wall, cluttered with stacks of metal sheets, ingots, and unfinished projects. Various molds, chisels, and grinding wheels are arranged in an orderly manner, ready to be utilized.

It was really a fantastic place, but Raiden wondered where the weapons were. The blacksmith and clerk of the shop was an old man. His face bore the marks of his age and experience. Loto has a strong and square jawline, adorned with a short, grizzled beard that covers his lower face and chin. His eyes are sharp and keen, displaying a depth of knowledge and wisdom gained over his long years of blacksmithing.

One of Loto's most recognizable features was his bald head, devoid of any hair. The smoothness of his scalp contrasts with his rugged appearance, adding to his imposing presence.

Godot wore a traditional blacksmith's apron made of thick, durable leather. The apron is heavily worn and marked with soot and smudges from the forge. Underneath, he wore just some simple and sturdy trousers, providing comfort and protection during his work.

"I am busy; come back later," Loto said.