――――――――――
Race level increased. Gained 1 SP.
Job level increased. Gained 1 SP.
The level of [Earth Magic] skill has increased.
Newly learned “Stone Pillar” and “Stone Wave” spell attacks.
[Earth Magic] has reached its growth limit. Evolution is possible.
[Earth Magic] evolved into [Earthen Magic] by consuming 6 SP.
Newly learned “Earthquake” spell attack
You may acquire the [Lava Magic] skill based on your past actions and experiences.
You have acquired the [Lava Magic] skill by consuming 6 SP.
Newly learned “Lava Bread” spell attack.
The level of [Water Magic] skill has increased.
Newly learned “Water Pillar” and “Water Wave” spell attacks.
[Water Magic] has reached its growth limit. Evolution is possible.
[Water Magic] evolved into [Water and Ice Magic] by consuming 6 SP.
Newly learned “Ice Touch” spell attack.
You may acquire the [Forest Magic] skill based on your past actions and experiences.
You have acquired the [Forest Magic] skill by consuming 6 SP.
Newly learned “Thorn Whip” spell attack.
You may acquire the [Mist Magic] skill based on your past actions and experiences.
You have acquired the [Mist Magic] skill by consuming 6 SP.
Newly learned “Heat Mist” spell attack.
The level of [Flame Magic] skill has increased.
The level of [Wind Magic] skill has increased.
Newly learned “Wind Pillar” and “Wind Wave” spell attacks.
[Wind Magic] has reached its growth limit. Evolution is possible.
[Wind Magic] evolved into [Storm Magic] by consuming 6 SP.
Newly learned “Storm” spell attack.
You may acquire the [Sand Magic] skill based on your past actions and experiences.
You have acquired the [Sand Magic] skill by consuming 6 SP.
Newly learned “Sand Wind” spell attack.
You may acquire the [Lightning Magic] skill based on your past actions and experiences.
You have acquired the [Lightning Magic] skill by consuming 6 SP.
Newly learned “Thunder Arrow” spell attack.
You may acquire the [Explosion Magic] skill based on your past actions and experiences.
You have acquired the [Explosion Magic] skill by consuming 6 SP.
Newly learned “Magic Bomb” spell attack.
The level of [Black Magic] skill has increased.
The level of [Void Magic] skill has increased.
The level of [Summoning Magic] skill has increased.
The level of [Enchantment] skill has increased.
The level of [Magic Circle] skill has increased.
Newly learned “Crescent Magic Circle” and “Activation Standby” spell attacks.
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 [Spirit Channeling] skill has increased.
The level of [Witchcraft] skill has increased.
The level of [Linguistics] skill has increased.
The level of [Stealth] skill has increased.
The level of [Sneak] skill has increased.
The level of [Ambush] skill has increased.
――――――――――
Yes, this was the result of our relentless hunting of Ratmen. Oh boy, it was quite a mess, wasn’t it? It all stemmed from the growth of my magic skills as well as the long-awaited unlocking of compound attributes, which, naturally, I acquired in their entirety.
Let’s focus on explaining the spells that were particularly difficult to understand. The “◯Pillar” and “◯Wave” spells were self-explanatory, right? They were exactly what they sounded like.
Now, let’s talk about other spells that were, well, also self-explanatory—Earthquake and Storm. These spells truly lived up to their names. I never wanted to use them in the sewers again, though.
So, let’s delve into the explanation of other spells. First, there was the Ice Touch spell from [Water and Ice Magic]. Finally, I could harness the power of manipulating ice itself. It seemed to be a spell that induced freezing in anything it came into contact with. However, mastering its usage proved to be quite the challenge, though!
The [Forest Magic] acquired spell was the Thorn Whip, which allowed me to manipulate thorny vines as I pleased. It was like using Iris’s tentacles + thorns. Although it lacked in raw power.
The [Lava Magic] acquired spell was the Lava Bread, a spell that shot globs of molten lava. While it didn’t have much range or speed, it was interesting how the globs remained on the ground for a while after landing.
The [Sand Magic] acquired spell was the Sand Wind, a spell that unleashed winds carrying sand. It was mostly useful for blinding opponents. It didn’t exactly carry a dazzling effect, but it had a rather long-lasting impact. There must be some practical uses for it.
The [Mist Magic] acquired spell was the Heat Mist, a spell that generated scorching mist. This one was quite intense. It seemed that when one of the Ratmen inhaled it, their respiratory system got burned. The duration of the spell was quite long, so it was necessary to either disperse it immediately with the [Wind Magic] or escape from the affected area. Without knowing the proper countermeasures, severe burns were inevitable.
The [Thunder Magic] spell was the Thunder Arrow, a spell that released incredibly fast lightning arrows. While its power was low, it seemed to have a chance of paralyzing the target. Due to its speed, its accuracy was also quite high. One could say it had great versatility.
The [Explosion Magic] acquired spell was the Magic Bomb, a peculiar spell that detonated specified coordinates within its range. I wonder what would happen if I combined it with the [Trap Magic] skill. Hehe, I was looking forward to it.
Acquiring a large number of new spells was truly delightful. However, there was one piece of disappointing news mixed in. Despite having had a considerable amount of SP, it was almost depleted. Well, technically, I still had 8 points left, but having single digits remaining was a rare occurrence for me, and it made me feel unsettled. It seems my frugal nature has reached its extreme.
But returning to our original matter, after we made significant progress mapping the southern side, we stumbled upon a staircase that descended further underground. However, it appeared that this wasn’t the end yet.
I thought about going down, but it wasn’t going to be that simple. The reason being that the entrance of the staircase was heavily guarded by an overwhelming number of Ratmen, far surpassing what we had encountered before. Their numbers resembled that of an army, making it quite difficult for just the two of us to charge in, to say the least.
“Is that the boss, Isam?”
“Yeah, no doubt about it.”
There were already a considerable number of enemies, but now there seemed to be a boss-like creature along with its subordinates. Here were the appraisal results for them:
――――――――――
Race: Ratman General Lv30
Job: General Lv0
Skills:
- [Robust Digestion]
- [Sharp Fang]
- [Axe Mastery]
- [Earth Magic]
- [Dark Magic]
- [Strength Enhancement]
- [Defense Enhancement]
- [Agility Enhancement]
- [Command]
- [Subordinate Strengthening]
Race: Ratman Knight Lv20-25
Job: Knight Lv0-5
Skills:
- [Robust Digestion]
- [Sharp Fang]
- [Sword Mastery] or [Spear Mastery] or [Bow Mastery] or [Axe Mastery]
- [Earth Magic]
- [Dark Magic]
- [Strength Enhancement]
- [Agility Enhancement]
- [Command]
――――――――――
Well, even the boss’s subordinates alone were superior in level, numbering over ten. And the Ratman General itself, was even stronger than the “Trial of the Azure Moon”‘s field boss!
It was definitely impossible. Reckless and even foolish. Charging in would only result in certain death. Jigoro seemed to understand that too, and his face contorted in a grimace. While he enjoyed a good fight, he seemed to despise battles that were unwinnable.
“…Shall we go back?”
“…Yeah.”
We decided to return, but not without the resolve to grow stronger and gather our companions for a standoff. I swore to defeat them without fail. And so, following my vow to come back and triumph, we retreated.
◆◇◆◇◆◇
“I’m back.”
“Ah, welcome back!”
Upon returning to the laboratory, Iris interrupted her work and turned towards me. Simultaneously, Genjuro ceased spinning his thread, and Ruby closed her book. It seemed like each of them had been engrossed in their own tasks. They wre adapting quite fine.
“How did it go?” Iris asked.
“We thoroughly explored the southern side together. And then we found a staircase leading downward.”
“Wow! That’s amazing!”
“But there were monsters guarding the entrance, so we had to give up and come back.”
“Ehh!?”
Upon hearing my self-deprecating words, Iris was genuinely surprised.
“Isam, who managed to overcome the ‘Trial of the Azure Moon,’ gave up? What kind of enemies were there?”
“Well, I’ll explain everything to everyone right now. Please open the party chat, everyone.”
――――――――――
(Isam showed them the status of the monsters)
Isam: So these are the results of today’s exploration.
Genjuro: Hmmm, it’s tough, alright.
Ruby: It’s frustrating, but with our current abilities, we’ll only be a burden to you guys.
Iris: Oh no~~. I can’t believe such monsters exist… Is there any possibility of them moving from there towards us?
Jigoro: Who knows? They may be sitting tight at that location, but their lack of movement is not proof that they won’t move at all.
Isam: That’s right. I never imagined such monstrous beings would be lurking in our vicinity.
Jigoro: So, what do we do now? We’re not just going to continue hiding, are we?
Isam: Of course not. Still, with their large numbers, it would be impossible for just one or two of us to overcome them.
Isam: So, I want the three of you to come along.
Genjuro: Of course, I don’t mind. However, aren’t we lacking in power?
Ruby: Grandpa’s right. As I mentioned earlier, we’ll just be a hindrance.
Isam: That can’t be helped. That’s why I want the three of you to somehow level up.
Isam: Fortunately, the raiding team seems to have moved on to the next field, and thanks to the incident we caused yesterday, human players are now concentrated in the northern mountains, leaving the western forest, which is the easiest place to earn experience, available.
Isam: For now, our plan is to level up in the sewers and the western forest, and once you’re sufficiently strong, we’ll challenge that underground location. Does anyone have any objections or suggestions?
Jigoro: No objections here.
Genjuro: None from me either.
Iris: Um, may I ask something?
Isam: What is it?
Iris: It’s a bit of a hassle to do this every time, so I think we should also acquire the [Linguistics] skill. It’s bothersome to use the party chat for every discussion, and it’s not fair to rely solely on Isam for translation…
Jigoro: Ah, that’s true. I agree.
Ruby: Yeah, I agree. It’s not right to take advantage of Isam just because he can communicate normally.
Genjuro: Ho ho ho. I already acquired that skill, you know?
Jigoro: What!?
Ruby: Grandpa!?
Genjuro: Look, there are various books here, right? The old books have old expressions, but if you decipher them, you can acquire the skill.
Isam: Ehh… You can actually do that….
Iris: Isam, did you have a different method of acquiring the skill?
Isam: It was one of my ten starting choices…
Jigoro: Ah, bad luck.
Ruby: My condolences… Oh, by the way! I have something I want to say!
Isam: I’m all ears.
Ruby: It’s about our party name! Can’t we change it from this “Freak Brothers”? I mean, I may look and speak like this, but I’m actually a girl, you know?
Genjuro: Indeed, that’s true.
Jigoro: Yeah, it’s pretty lame.
Isam: Grr, I can’t argue with that…
Iris: But, it’s fine if Isam remains as the leader, right?
Jigoro: Well, yeah. I don’t take account of my surroundings, so it’s impossible for me.
Genjuro: No one has any complaints about that point, right? Isn’t that right, Ruby?
Ruby: Yeah, exactly. Isn’t it Isam who brought this group together in the first place? So it’s only natural.
Isam: Is that so? Then I’ll continue as the leader. So, what about the party name? I have to admit, I have no talent for naming things.
Jigoro: Are you still holding a grudge?
Isam: (。´Д⊂)
Genjuro: That’s enough of that. Well then, each of us can suggest a name we think is good. If it were up to me, it would be “Team monsters.”
Jigoro: …
Iris: …
Ruby: Grandpa, that’s a little…
Isam: (・∀・)人(・∀・)
Genjuro: Hmmm…
Jigoro: How about “Qliphoth”? I can’t remember exactly which myth it came from, but I believe it had something to do with the underworld or the like. Doesn’t it fit perfectly?
Ruby: I had a similar idea, how about “Tartaros”?
Iris: Um, what about “Night Parade of One Hundred Demons” (Hyakki Yagyo)?
Genjuro: Oh?
Iris: We were invited by Isam, right? He led us here. I believe he will continue to recruit players with monster avatars. Doesn’t it fit our party perfectly?
Jigoro: Isn’t that a good choice?
Ruby: It feels just right. I agree!
Genjuro: So, is that settled, then?
Isam: No, no, I can’t recruit a hundred people, that’s for sure. I’m not capable of leading such a large number of people.
Jigoro: Alright, how about “Night Parade of Ten Demons” (Juuma Yagyo)? Let’s stick to a fixed team with ten members, creating a small but elite team. What do you guys think?
Ruby: That sounds great! I’m getting fired up!
Genjuro: We’ll need to become strong enough to be called elite. Ho ho, I’m looking forward to it. However, since we’re currently five people, shouldn’t we adjust the number as well?
Ruby: I agree!
Jigoro: Yeah, you’re right. If the numbers don’t match, it won’t look cool.
Iris: Is it okay with you, Isam?
Isam: Alright. In that case, from now on, our party name will be “Night Parade of Five Demons” (Gouma Yagyo)… Well, what do you think about that?
Jigoro: Ah, yeah, you’re right. It’s a bit of a hassle. So let’s make it even shorter to just “Night Parade” That would work for now!
Isam: Hmmm… Is everyone okay with that?
Iris: Yes!
Jigoro: Yeah!
Genjuro: Let’s get passionate without worrying about our age.
Ruby: Let’s give it our all!
Isam: Now that we have decided on the party name, shall we decide on our free activities? I will focus on [Alchemy], but what about the rest of you?
Jigoro: I’m going back to rat hunting.
Iris: Once I finish my intermediate crafting, I’ll join you in hunting.
Ruby: I’ll go hunting after acquiring [Magic Control] and [Non-Elemental Magic]” from reading books.
Iris: Ruby, why don’t we go together?
Ruby: Sounds good! In fact, I’d rather ask you to join me!
Genjuro: Well then, I’ll accompany Jigoro. Is that alright?
Jigoro: Sure thing, old man.
Isam: Great! Our course of action is decided. Let’s disband!
◆◇◆◇◆◇
And so, our temporary party name changed to “Night Parade”. Henceforth, we will bear this banner proudly and embark on our gaming journey. As the leader, I knew I couldn’t afford to slack off.
Undoubtedly, having companions around was indeed enjoyable. While indulging in knowledge through books alone wasn’t bad, it lacked variety. It was through actively engaging with others like this that we could gain valuable experiences.
“Both of you, stay on guard while hunting.”
“Gyagya (Got it)!”
“Kachii (Yes)!”
Without delay, Jigoro and Genjuro set off for hunting, and it was only a matter of time before Iris and Ruby would join them.
Although our circumstances were different this time, it would be beneficial to train and fight together as a team as soon as possible. However, for now, let’s focus on [Alchemy]. While it might not be immediately feasible, I yearned to acquire new skills in the near future.
TN: Hyakki Yagyo, also known as the Night Parade of One Hundred Demons, is a concept from Japanese folklore and mythology. It refers to a phenomenon where various supernatural creatures, including yokai (classical Japanese monsters and spirits), come out and roam the streets during the night. (This is information searched from internet, I’m not sure how right it is)
――――――――――
Name: Isam
Race: Skeleton Lv10 (Max!)
→ Abyss Skeleton Mage Lv12 (Up!)
Job: Apprentice Mage Lv10 (Max!)
→ Apprentice Abyss Mage Lv2 (Up!)
Titles:
- Knowledge Seeker
- Title Earner
- Heretic → Connoisseur of the Abyss → Explorer of the Abyss.
- Underdog
- Mastermind Strategist
- Trial Survivor
Remaining SP: 8
Skills:
- [Staff Mastery] Lv14
- [Magic Control] Lv16
- [Earth Magic] Lv10 (Max!) → [Earthen Magic] Lv0 (New!)
- [Water Magic] Lv10 (Max!) → [Water and Ice Magic] Lv0 (New!)
- [Flame Magic] Lv1 (Up!)
- [Wind Magic] Lv10 (Max!) → [Storm Magic] Lv0 (New!)
- [Forest Magic] Lv0 (New!)
- [Lava Magic] Lv0 (New!)
- [Sand Magic] Lv0 (New!)
- [Mist Magic] Lv0 (New!)
- [Lightning Magic] Lv0 (New!)
- [Explosion Magic] Lv0 (New!)
- [Black Magic] Lv3 (Up!)
- [Void Magic] Lv2 (Up!)
- [Summoning Magic] Lv11 (Up!)
- [Enchantment] Lv8 (Up!)
- [Magic Circle] Lv10 (Up!)
- [Necromancy] Lv8 (Up!)
- [Curse] Lv7 (Up!)
- [Trap Magic] Lv8 (Up!)
- [Spirit Channeling] Lv3 (Up!)
- [Witchcraft] Lv3 (Up!)
- [Archeology] Lv7
- [Linguistics] Lv7 (Up!)
- [Pharmacology] Lv7
- [Alchemy] Lv7
- [Appraisal] Lv10
- [Night Vision] Lv-
- [Stealth] Lv10 (Max!)
- [Sneak] Lv10 (Max!)
- [Ambush] Lv8 (Up!)
- [Status Resistance] Lv-
- [Light Weakness] Lv6
- [Blunt Attack Weakness] Lv10
- [Undying Wisdom] Lv1
- [Abyss Dweller] Lv1
- [Abyssal Aura] Lv1
Unique Ability Skill:
- [Yifa’s Blessing]
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