**Chapter 143: Epic Talents**
Dave's home was a three-story villa, surrounded by a large front lawn and a backyard pool. On the roof, he had placed flower pots filled with magical plants like the [Cabbage Pitcher] and [Corn Pitcher], a display that hinted at his eccentric personality.
As they strolled through the yard, Dave eagerly shared with Su Yu the story of how he accidentally acquired these magical plants, then explained the complex processes of planting, cultivating, and the unique abilities of each. Finally, he affectionately patted the round head of a [Wall of Nuts] plant and sighed, "Lord Su Yu, it's not that I don't want to move to your territory… it's just that I can't!"
"These magical plants were cultivated with years of effort, resources, and sleepless nights. I've invested so much into them that my neighbors call me 'Crazy Dave,' thinking I'm mad to be so attached to these plants," he said, smiling sadly. "Even if you offered me more money, I can't just leave them behind."
"Is that so?" Su Yu mused, also reaching out to touch the [Wall of Nuts].
While it had relaxed under Dave's touch, the [Wall of Nuts] suddenly scowled at Su Yu's approach, glaring angrily. Nearby, other plants like the [Pea Shooter] turned toward Su Yu, aiming their little muzzles in his direction as if to issue a warning.
Ignoring the plants' reactions, Su Yu looked back at Dave thoughtfully. "If you're unwilling to move because you can't bear to part with your plants, maybe there's a solution. Couldn't we transplant them to my territory?"
Dave shook his head. "That's difficult. These magical plants have roots that dig dozens of meters deep, and transplanting would severely damage them. They're also very sensitive to soil and water; without perfect conditions, nearly all of them would likely wither."
"Hmm…" Su Yu tapped his chin, thinking hard. Dave's attachment to the plants was strong, and transplanting them seemed impossible. Yet, an idea suddenly occurred to him, and he grinned. "Dave, after seeing all your magical plants, I've become quite interested in this field. I'd like to invest in your research."
Dave blinked, confused. "Invest… in me?"
"Right. Instead of relocating you, I'll fund your magical plant research right here. How does 200 psionic coins a day and a special monthly research fund of 5,000 coins sound? All you'd have to do is continue your work, focused on magical plant cultivation."
"Are you serious? This isn't a joke?" Dave's eyes widened, looking like he'd just stumbled upon a treasure chest.
"Of course," Su Yu replied smoothly. "But there's one condition."
"What's the condition?" Dave asked, still in disbelief.
"I'd want any seeds your plants produce to be planted in my territory. I'll establish a plantation specifically for them, so these plants can take root and flourish in my lands. How about that?"
Su Yu's plan was simple: although Dave was devoted to these plants, they had limited lifespans, often much shorter than ordinary plants. A plant like [Pea Shooter] could go from maturity to death in a couple of months. By planting seeds in his own territory, Su Yu anticipated that over time, as plants in Dave's garden withered and were replaced by a flourishing plantation in Su Yu's territory, Dave would naturally shift his focus to the new site.
Dave was clearly tempted. A steady salary and a substantial research fund meant he could devote himself fully to his work without financial concerns—a much better setup than his current life! But he worried about what might happen if Su Yu lost interest in his research later on, especially once the plantation was established in Su Yu's territory.
Su Yu noticed Dave's hesitation and produced a [Magic Contract] from his backpack with a smile. "If you're concerned, we can formalize our agreement with a contract."
The [Magic Contract] was a binding magical document created by the prestigious Silverpine Spire, allowing both parties to sign agreements that could be enforced with serious consequences for breach.
Dave stared at the contract in amazement. "This is… a 2,000-coin [Magic Contract]?"
"Indeed. You'd be well protected, as the Silverpine Spire enforces any breach of its contracts. We can set a term of 3 years, 5 years, 10 years, or even longer, up to 30 years," Su Yu offered.
"Then let's do 30 years!" Dave replied quickly, elated. The longer, the better, he thought—both for himself and his beloved plants.
"Excellent." Su Yu nodded in agreement. A long-term contract was precisely what he wanted too.
They carefully outlined their commitments on the [Magic Contract]: Su Yu would pay Dave 200 psionic coins daily, an additional 5,000 monthly for research, and provide him with rich land to cultivate a magical plant plantation in his territory.
After reviewing the terms several times, Dave, hands trembling with excitement, signed his name with pride.
As Su Yu finished the final signature, a notification appeared:
**"Ding! Your territory, [Apuhi Village], has gained an Epic talent: [Crazy Dave]."**
**[Crazy Dave]**
- *Epic*
- **Occupation:** Farmer
- **Trait 1: [Cultivation Expert]** – Increases farm yield by 50%.
- **Trait 2: [Plant Mutation]** – Gives plants a small chance to mutate, with a 70% chance of beneficial mutation and a 30% chance of harmful mutation.
- **Trait 3: [Magical Plant Cultivation]** – Enables the cultivation of unique magical plants, some with exceptional powers.
- **Trait 4: [Enchantment Aura]** – Boosts all magical plants within a 40-meter radius with +30% attack power, +50% health, and +40% attack speed.
(end of this chapter)