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The level of [Light Weakness] skill has decreased.
You have received two new pieces of information.
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I logged in, feeling refreshed after a restful six-hour sleep. Surprisingly, even though my expectations were low, I managed to earn some experience points for my [Light Weakness] skill. It’s a pleasant surprise, and it just goes to show that every little bit counts.
Now, what’s this information from the management? Hmm… Event information? It seems there will be a martial arts tournament and an exhibition of player-created works next Sunday. Hmm, I see.
Human players were clearly enjoying themselves, but as a monster player, I had no choice but to ignore the event since entering the town was off-limits for me. Well, considering how I intended to play as a villain, I wasn’t particularly interested anyway.
More importantly, it was hunting time. The two skeleton minions I had could still prove useful, as they had proven their worth yesterday, so there was no need to summon any new allies. Let’s get going then.
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“Did I turn back around this area yesterday?”
As I kicked away a Lesser Ratman that was blocking the path, I made my way east through the sewers. Currently, I was six blocks east away from my base. Though I had encountered a few battles along the way, there was nothing noteworthy. In fact, due to my increased level, the Lesser Ratman monster no longer satisfied my needs. The experience points gained from them were meager. I wonder if there is a more suitable enemy around here.
“Wait,”
I commanded my minions as something emerged from a side passage in the sewers. The opponent seemed unaware of our presence. Judging by the silhouette, it appeared to be a Lesser Ratman, but there was something strange about it. The reason being that the figure seemed to be holding a weapon. I needed to use [Appraisal] first.
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Race: Ratman Lv??
Job: Apprentice Warrior Lv3
Skills:
- [Robust Digestion]
- [Sharp Fang]
- [Sword Mastery]
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What? No way! What is this guy!
I almost blurted out in a strange sound. As mentioned in the description, it didn’t have the “Lesser” attached to its race, which means this must be an evolved specimen, a higher-ranking species than the Lesser Ratman.
Evolution represented the transformative process in which particular species or groups underwent enhancements by meeting specific conditions. Evolved individuals attained heightened abilities, making them significantly stronger than their pre-evolved counterparts. Hence, the Ratman I encountered stood at an entirely different level of strength compared to the Lesser Ratmen I had faced thus far.
What surprised me the most was the fact that it possessed a job. None of the Lesser Ratmen I had encountered before had any jobs!
It was evident that the opponent was stronger, as I couldn’t determine its level with the [Appraisal] skill. Fortunately, it hadn’t noticed us. So, what should I do now?
“[Magic Boost] Set up a trap magic circle…”
Let’s give it a shot. It wouldn’t be fun to retreat here. A stronger opponent? Bring it on. It will undoubtedly provide me with valuable experience points!
“Activate the magic circle… Here we go! Dark Lance!”
“Dugya!?”
I unleashed the boosted Dark Lance, a spell strengthened to its limits through the application of [Enchantment] and [Magic Circle], towards the Ratman. The black spear shot straight towards him, benefiting from the effect of the [Ambush] skill, and managed to chip away approximately thirty percent of its health.
However, this also meant that even with the effect of the [Ambush] skill, my attack only had a thirty percent effect. If this were a Lesser Ratman, I could have instantly killed it with my Dark Lance, even without the effect of the [Ambush] skill. This Ratman monster possessed several times more health than the lesser Ratman. Although I couldn’t ascertain the exact numbers due to its increased resistance against magic.
“Duugaa!”
Regardless, one thing was certain—I couldn’t finish it off. The Ratman, taken by surprise, seemed to grow infuriated. It charged towards me, emitting a deep roar that was far from what one would expect from a rat. However, such a response was within my expectations.
“Stone Ball! Water Ball!”
I cast two consecutive spells in succession. If my [Magic Circle] level were higher, I would have been able to cast them simultaneously, but it was pointless to lament something I didn’t possess at the moment.
My magic attacks flew straight towards the Ratman, but as expected of an evolved monster. It easily dodged my spells with agile movements.
“Gotcha!”
“Du?”
I smirked with satisfaction as my plan worked smoothly. Even the lower-ranked creatures tried to avoid my magic. There was no way it couldn’t do the same. That’s why I used [Magic Control] to alter the trajectory of my spells, not forcing them to hit, but rather encouraging my opponent’s evasive actions to lead it into the [Trap Magic] I previously set up. This strategy was made possible because we were in this narrow sewer.
And the trap I set up with [Trap Magic] was the “Curse of Agility Reduction” of the [Curse] skill. Now, the Ratman’s legs suddenly became difficult to move, causing it to panic. This was my chance.
“Fire Ball! Wind Ball!”
“Gagaa…!”
This time, I employed [Magic Control]. The Ratman, who believed my magic wouldn’t hit him, seemed confident that it could dodge even with slower movements. However, the fireball suddenly altered its trajectory, striking and igniting upon impact, followed by the pursuing wind ball that tore through its body. With this, its remaining halth baar was reduced to fifty percent!
“Dark Lance!”
I plunged the Dark Lance into the frightened Ratman, fully aware of the power behind my current most formidable ability. True to its reputation, the strike effortlessly drained ten percent of the creature’s health in a single blow.
“Gyaaah!”
“Magic Ball, take this!”
The Ratman, disregarding any defensive maneuvers, seemed to have abandoned any thought of evading. It charged directly at me, even as the Magic Ball inflicted damage upon it. Was attacking truly the best form of defense? In this particular situation, it appeared to be the most advantageous move it could make, damn it.
“Go!”
“Clatter.”
Following my command, one of the minions I had kept on standby lunged at the monster’s waist. Due to the vast difference in strength, it did little to hinder the enemy’s movement. Undeterred and seemingly unfazed by the interruption, the Ratman pressed forward, fueled by determination and anger.
“You fool. Explode!”
“Eek!?”
With a deafening explosion, my minion was reduced to scattered pieces. This was a result of my utilization of [Necromancy], an ability that allowed me to control, strengthen, and create undead beings. The power also included the command of “self-destruction,” which proved effective even on the summoned minions from my Summoning Magic.
And the command “self-destruction” was a malicious order that inflicted damage equal to the remaining health of the minion and sometimes triggered additional effects depending on the detonating entity. It was a risky command, as it meant sacrificing one of my barriers, but it balanced out in the end.
Furthermore, the additional effects of the skeleton included slashing and piercing damage caused by the scattering bones, as well as a low probability of causing bleeding. Bleeding was a status ailment similar to poison, inflicting damage over time, but the difference was that the slip damage was less severe. However, if left untreated, it would result in penalties to the bearer’s stats. Now, let’s see: what happened?
“Shhh, shhh…”
The Ratman’s body was a pitiful sight, with bones protruding from all over, but according to the marker above its head, it didn’t seem to be bleeding. Well, it was a matter of probability, so there was nothing to be done.
However, it was on the verge of death, barely clinging to life. Okay, let’s finish it off… Oh no! This the brute strength of a desperate last stand! It’s too fast!
“Dzuaaaa!”
“Protect!”
“Clang…”
“Dzuuuuuu!”
Whoa! Did the enchanted skeleton just get cut in half? What power! If it were me, I would have been instantly killed!
“Djudjudju”
“Ugh!”
Now, without any barriers to protect me, I was in a desperate pinch. I didn’t have any means to overcome this situation. I was cornered.
“Dugaaa!”
“So, this is the end, huh.”
With a confident victory cry, the Ratman swung its sword high and charged towards me. The next thing I knew, I would be waking up on the bed back in the laboratory.
“Or, so yo thought?”
“Gah…?”
Hehehe, it seems you underestimated me. When my minion self-destructed and obstructed the enemy’s line of sight, I had already set up a new [Trap Magic] at my feet, prepared for the worst. And the spell I imbued was none other than the Dark Lance, the most powerful magic attack I held at the moment.
The moment the Ratman stepped into the trap, a black spear shot out from beneath it, piercing through its chest. It seemed to hit a vital spot as the monster’s already dwindling health was instantly obliterated. Victory was mine.
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You have won the battle.
Race level increased. Gained 1 SP.
Job level increased. Gained 1 SP.
The level of [Staff Mastery] skill has increased.
The level of [Magic Control] skill has increased.
The level of [Earth Magic] skill has increased.
Newly learned “Stone Lance” and “Stone Wall“ spells.
The level of [Water Magic] skill has increased.
Newly learned “Water Lance” and “Water Wall“ spells.
The level of [Fire Magic] skill has increased.
Newly learned “Fire Lance” and “Fire Wall“ spells.
The level of [Wind Magic] skill has increased.
Newly learned “Wind Lance” and “Wind Wall“ spells.
The level of [Dark Magic] skill has increased.
The level of [Non-Elemental Magic] skill has increased.
Newly learned “Magic Sword” and “Magic Shield“ spells.
The level of [Summoning Magic] skill has increased.
The level of [Enchatement] skill has increased.
The level of [Magic Circle] skill has increased.
The level of [Necromancy] skill has increased.
The level of [Curse] skill has increased.
The level of [Trap Magic] skill has increased.
The level of [Appraisal] skill has increased.
The level of [Stealth] skill has increased.
The level of [Sneak] skill has increased.
The level of [Ambush] skill has increased.
You have obtained the title “Underdog Unsurper”
You have obtained the title “Mastermind Strategist”
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“Fufufufu, kukukukuku, hahahahaha!”
I did it! I finally did it! The sense of accomplishment was so overwhelming that I couldn’t help but burst into an evil villain-like laughter. If I had been missing even a single card from my hand, I would have ended up back in my personal chamber, lying dead on the bed.
Well, to be honest, it was incredibly tough. But I had to give it a try. With almost no magic power left and my minions defeated, I couldn’t go on hunting anymore. However, there were definitely rewards beyond that. Not only did my skills increase in level across the board, but I also obtained numerous new spells and even two title achievements. Let me confirm them.
First, the spells. Even though I gained the Dark Lance and Dark Wave for the [Dark Magic] skill, for the four other elements, it seemed to be ◯ Lance and ◯ Wall instead. Indeed, as a mage, I couldn’t rely on armor for my defense. It was reassuring to have defensive magic available early on.
The problem lies with the [Non-Elemental Magic] skill. I won’t know until I test it, but could the Magic Sword spell be some type of close-quarters magic? Something to use as a last resort when the enemy gets too close? Let’s hope I never have to use it.
Now, let’s move on to the title achievements. Here are the details for each:
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“Underdog Unsurper”
Title awarded to those who achieve a solo victory against higher-ranking opponents. Enhances all abilities when engaging in combat with enemies of higher level.
Requirements: Defeat an enemy of at least double your level while being at level 5 or higher.
“Mastermind Strategist”
Title bestowed upon exceptionally skilled tacticians.Increases trap damage, reduces the probability of traps being detected, and slightly boosts the abilities of allies.
Requirements: Defeat an enemy of at least double your level using traps without receiving any damage.
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Hmm, it’s amazing. It’s truly amazing, but… calling me a mastermind strategist felt a bit embarrassing. The title of mastermind strategist was more befitting of Zhang Liang from the Former Han Dynasty or Zhuge Liang from the Three Kingdoms era. As an aspiring villain, it was satisfying to have a title that fit the image, but it felt exaggerated for someone like me who just got lucky.
They probably didn’t expect someone like me, a small fry, to meet the rather stringent acquisition conditions. Well, it’s not something I would reject, so I’ll graciously accept it. Now, let’s get the materials and head back.
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The level of [Stealth] skill has increased.
The level of [Sneak] skill has increased.
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Oh, that was terrifying. Turns out, the Ratman monster was quite an active presence in that area, making it far too deadly. I have no choice but to temporarily cease my exploration towards the east. I must exercise caution and wait until I possess the strength to effortlessly vanquish a single Ratman without encountering any difficulties.
Oh? Are you inquiring about the potential loot dropped by the formidable Ratman I just overcame? ..Please don’t ask. It just makes me sad. Understand my feelings.
Anyway, let’s regain our composure. What should I read until my magic power recovers? The research materials in the laboratory were fine, but, come to think of it, I haven’t finished reading the previous owner’s diary. I stopped reading it at the part about the library. Maybe I should read it until the end.
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Sigh… I shouldn’t have read it. As I delved further into this diary, I witnessed the author’s descent into madness. The aftertaste of reading it is utterly dreadful.
Apparently, the catalyst for this person’s obsession with [Necromancy] was the loss of their beloved family. Desperate to find a way to bring them back, they resorted to the dark arts of [Necromancy].
However, while [Necromancy] allowed them to turn their family into zombies, true resurrection remained elusive. Consequently, they ventured into other forms of magic, such as [Curse] magic in search of a more perfect revival.
Yet, their research stagnated, and mounting frustration gradually ate away at them. The diary’s midsection was filled with incoherent ramblings, leaving me honestly disheartened. However, as the end approached, it seemed there was some sort of progress. And the diary concludes with these words:
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□month△day
Finally, it has happened. Finally, my dream, the revival of my family, is within reach. I have discovered the method to summon the souls of the deceased to the mortal realm—the art of “Spirit Channeling” And now, the conditions for obtaining it have become clear. It requires offering the flesh and blood of one hundred pure maidens and a saintly woman to the underworld. Now that the requirements are known, all that remains is to gather these one hundred and one women.
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“Spirit Channeling,” huh? The art of summoning the souls of the deceased to the mortal realm. That’s something you’d associate with the domain of spiritual mediums in the Tohoku region, right?
It’s a perfect fit for my persona, but unfortunately, I have no intention of mercilessly slaughtering NPCs. Unlike players, they don’t respawn, and I’d rather avoid killing them. Let’s search for an alternative method. However, if it turns out that this is the only way… should I give up?
No, can I really give up? I won’t know until that moment arrives. It’s truly a struggle between my principles and desires… I can’t help but realize that I possess a personality that doesn’t quite fit the role of a protagonist!
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Name: Isam
Race: Skeleton Lv 6 up!
Job: Apprentice Mage Lv 6 up!
Titles:
- “Knowledge Seeker”
- “Title Earner”
- “Heretic”
- “Underdog Usurper” (New!)
- “Mastermind Strategist” (New!)
Remaining SP (skill points):108
Skills:
- [Staff Mastery] Lv 6 up!
- [Magic Control] Lv 6 up!
- [Earth Magic] Lv 5 up!
- [Water Magic] Lv 5 up!
- [Fire Magic] Lv 5 up!
- [Wind Magic] Lv 5 up!
- [Dark Magic] Lv 6 up!
- [Non-Elemental Magic] Lv 5 up!
- [Summoning Magic] Lv 5 up!
- [Enchantment] Lv 3 up!
- [Magic Circle] Lv 3 up!
- [Necromancy] Lv 2 up!
- [Curse] Lv 2 up!
- [Trap Magic] Lv 2 up!
- [Archaeology] Lv 6
- [Linguistics] Lv 4
- [Pharmacology] Lv 0
- [Alchemy] Lv 0
- [Appraisal] Lv 6 up!
- [Night Vision] Lv –
- [Stealth] Lv 7 up!
- [Sneak] Lv 6 up!
- [Ambush] Lv 4 up!
- [Status Resistance] Lv –
- [Light Weakness] Lv 7 down!
- [Physical Attack Weakness] Lv 10
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TN: I actually contemplated changing Trap magic to snare magic but snare is something else, also if the skill snare came later on the story that’ll be troublesome to fix.
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