In the desolate Frostland, I trudged alone, bundled in my winter attire. The relentless snowfall and fierce wind battered my bones.
I felt like a homeless monster with a home. I had a place of origin, yet I lacked a sense of belonging. However, in this place, I experienced a wave of belonging that made me feel like I was losing my mind.
Soon, in my vision, a frost zone appeared. It was the ancient forest of Frostland, but with a difference. In these frost zones, the trees were made of ice, shaped by the nature energy. It was like organic ice that functioned as trees. Initially, it was confusing, but once you understood how it worked, you felt them as just another form of tree, an extension of nature.
Not long after I reached the frost zone, I encountered ices that were thin yet spread out like branches of a tree. These white icicles pulsed with blue light in their leaves, and a green light pulsed through them like a bloodstream.
(Note: chapter 1 and 3 were 3rd person perspective but I would like to try 1rd person perspective depending on story chapter is covering, about chapter 2 it was second person perspective so don't think too much)
Frost zone isn't a new concept to me, in my past life I've been to Frostland to ascend in rank since magic pressure is much more stronger than other continents, but my entire year of half-hearted effort only managed to achieve peak rank 3 stage. However, I did learn a lot from this land. It was the starting point for who I am now, so it holds significance to me.
I usually pass by ice trees without much thought, but it was pleasant to walk through my home-like place. It's been two hours since I arrived in Frostland, and I've been walking ever since.
Every step in frost zone was an excruciating ordeal, intensified by the intense magic pressure and the searing cold that felt like fire emanating from the outside. My body, formed by magic, trembled and struggled to maintain its cohesion.
However, these pains evoke a sense of familiarity from my previous life. I was extreme rank 2 stage, and I rarely meditated to ascend; I simply did it to sleep. Although I didn't ascend, I learned to meditate efficiently, which proves useful here.
In that life for months, I meditated relentlessly until I achieved the rank 3. Hehehe! Whenever I reflect on those times, I come across some profound sayings that resonate with me: life is abundant, and it has the power to transform anyone.
Suddenly, memories flood my mind, and my surroundings transform into the landscapes of my past. I find myself standing in a snow-blanketed forest, accompanied by other monsters, as my previous self walks beside them.
At this point, I had only reached the peak rank 2.
our group leader, after observing the persistent storm, suggested that we take a break and rest here. We all nodded in agreement and began to settle down. We had chosen a sturdy tree and constructed tents around it for shelter.
While other monster was easily building a tent, I saw my previous self was also attempting to construct one. However, due to my short stature and lack of experience in this area, I was unable to complete the tent.
Suddenly, the wind struck, causing my tent to collapse. I noticed my previous self giving a tired expression. Determined to salvage the situation, my previous self approached the broken tent and attempted to rebuild it. Then another monster came and helped my previous self
"So, Sans, why did you come here? I had thought Motherland Continent was the ideal abode for a monster like you." Another monster inquired, clearly intrigued by the reason behind my presence in Frostland.
I remained silent as I continued constructing a tent. Despite my short stature, I managed to build it because other monsters worked as a pillar.
"Are you not interested in conversing? I suppose you don't have to," the other monster decided to remain silent at that moment. It seemed he had decided to abandon the topic, but no, I was mistaken. He had simply chosen not to delve into the personal matters of my past self.
My previous self was preoccupied with finishing the tent, not long after my previous self had completed building it.
"Well, is there anything I can help you with, or…" the monster wanted to ensure my well-being, but my previous self simply stared at him, pleading him to leave. At that moment, I craved solitude.
The monster comprehended my feelings almost instantly and retreated to his tent, and I followed suit. In my tent, I attempted to sleep, but I couldn't as I felt a magic pressure on me, preventing me from resting at all. I decided it was better to try meditating for the entire night. I focused on meditating to sleep, but I didn't feel like it, so I decided to try ascending rank 3.
I began drawing magic energy from my soul, which felt like breathing. To draw magic energy, I simply needed to let something within me that was very similar to me exhale slowly, and the magic energy would flow out. Soon, the magic energy would start to fill my surroundings within a one-meter radius. The thing that is very similar to me could be exhaled endlessly. Soon, my magic energy started to get a little more distant, and I used my will of magic to increase its density, not its range. The will of magic is like the echo of my mind. When I say "increase density," I feel it echoing through the will of magic like the sea weaves. But I can tell the will of magic exactly what to do, and it follows, magic energy follows will of magic as will of magic has some level consciousness.
Before I realized it, I had increased the density of my magical energy to a point where it became visible to the naked eye. Blue weaves enveloped me, as the density of magical energy isn't confined to a specific range. However, that was my limit. The echoes of my new command couldn't be transmitted through all of them because they were filled with echoes of my previous command. This was the will of magic. The will of magic doesn't depend on rank or grade; it depends on the metal prowess of the monster and the capabilities of consciousness in the will of magic that follows will.
My previous self absorbed that magic energy to conceal the magic that formed my body. It cost my previous self an hour before all the magic that formed my body could be concealed in magic energy. My magic energy that gathered around me ran dry making my past self unable to conceal all magic. This is why I use the river technique. In process of ascending the river technique is best choice it requires less will of magic because its design itself facilitates the flow and containment of magic energy. And will of magic primarily focuses on increasing the density of the river of magic energy.
My previous self sigh as he realized he can't ascend, which ruined the entire purpose of meditating. This is why some monsters can't ascend much because they lack mental capability. Will of magic plays a crucial role in ascending, and so does casting magic. Soon, my previous self got up and tried to get air, although I feel no heat or cold. That doesn't mean magic made my body is safe, so my previous self went to a campfire beside tree setting there and not to think too much.
The only sound accompanying me was the gentle hum of the fire. As I tried to calm my chaotic mind, I couldn't help but be lost in thought. I had found a book at the tomb of Ashamar, which was about how to revive monsters. Initially, I was indifferent to it, believing it to be some kind of sick joke. However, I decided to give it a try and came to Frostland, as it required me to be a super monster. Frostland was the easiest way to ascend in rank. The magic pressure was dangerous to other continents monsters, but it was the easiest way to ascend now.
It's been two months since my group and I embarked on a quest to find the land of Kall, an ancient mountain shrouded in mystery and revelation. However, I've come to refer to it as the "forger of forests." If the land of Kall is merely an illusion, does that imply that the concept of reviving monsters is also a fabrication? This thought is utterly terrifying to my former self, the book that once provided me with hope and motivation to persevere. But if this notion is false, hope will wither away, and my past self would never want that. The realization that hope can be extinguished is truly terrifying. Yet, I can do nothing but accept.
I must admit, those were indeed my darkest moments. Although I managed to find the forger of forests half a year later, my hope had already vanished, and I returned to my city. To be fair, it was despair and grief that propelled me to rank 5 in just a few months. Those pains and sadness fueled my will of magic until it became incredibly powerful, enabling me to effortlessly ascend higher stages within rank and break through to higher ranks. Additionally, I engaged in meditation to prevent myself from succumbing to sadness. With my supercharged will of magic and unwavering dedication to escape my feelings, I ascended relentlessly, which actually made me… feel better. I pursued power as a means to escape the pain, but that pursuit was weakness. However, it ultimately led me to rank 5. So, I am not feeling disappointed or ashamed. At the end of the day, emotions are emotions; they are tools to use others and tools to use oneself. Emotions are not weakness; they are fire that can warm oneself or burn oneself until nothing is left.
As memories gradually fade, revealing me in a frost zone, I felt similar to those days when I was traveling, I now have a purpose to fulfill. Although I feel sorrowful, I refuse to let it consume me. Instead, I've learned to harness these emotions to grow stronger. My skull soon lights up with a smile as I continue walking, the snow intensifying its impact beyond my endurance. This realization prompts me to retreat to my built tent, to shelter till the snowstorm passes.
From my backpack, I retrieve my small, multi-folded tent. All I need to do is build it, which I've done so effortlessly. Unlike my previous self, I'm quite experienced in this field. I'm not short like dwarf-height but I'm like 1.9 meter tall. In just two minutes, I've already constructed my tent.
Inside my tent, I retrieve my five rings from my backpack. These rings were prepared before I planted a wall between my soul and body. Each ring possesses enough magic energy to perform the river technique. Since I have some free time, I shouldn't waste it. Therefore, I wear one ring on my finger, which begins to emit magic energy. This way, I won't waste any time and can immediately use my river technique.
Soon, a dark blue river of magic energy began to manifest. It was as if a river was floating in the air, flowing endlessly and thinly due to its density. This was my river technique; it requires less attention from my will of magic, allowing me to use magic energy more efficiently.
"Begin filling the gap," I whisper in my mind. Soon, it reached my will of magic, and the echoes of my words started resonating in my mind. My will of magic began to manipulate the magic energy from the river.
"Give me a second" those words echoes through my mind and I know exactly what is it, figure is talking to me although he is only 5% of my overlord-self mind he is very useful he used to get control of my body to stay with me till I create wall between my soul and body, but ever since it get to will of magic he lost his ability to manifest as me in my vision but now my will of magic no longer echoes of my will it is now conscious and self aware will of magic, this given me enough advantage that most monster can't have
Soon, the gap between magic is filled with magic energy. All that magic energy is used exactly as it should be, not going true stage magic only used on average. This is how monsters ascend in stages. First, when a monster reaches a higher rank, it stays on the original stage, which is the stage where the magic that makes the monster's body all has a gap and lacks strength of cohesion.
The monster can utilize their magic energy to fill the gap between magic by slowly and specifically commanding will of magic. Then magic energy that fills the gap between magic transforms into magic that makes the monster's body . However, it takes time to convert magic energy into magic. Therefore, monsters don't fill all the gaps in their stage. Instead, they focus on smaller areas of the gap and hold the magic energy in place until it becomes magic. This is why I chose Frostland because the magic pressure here can accelerate the process of converting magic energy into magic. As a result, monsters who are at the original stage can reach the peak stage much faster. Although I'm at average stage I'm still not finished filling gaps between magic
The original stage is about to filling the core magic of a monster's body, while average stage focus on the layers of magic on the core magic. For instance, the average stage is about filling a layer on the core magic, similar to how skin covers flesh. Of course, I can make the average stage layer more dense and deeper in size, making it more challenging for other stages to fill. Therefore, it should be balanced. Too much is sometimes too much. Ascending in stages is like creating a mountain from its peak. The peak of the mountain has less volume and size, while the belly of the mountain is far larger in both volume and size.
With the figure controlling my will of magic, the average stage is almost complete. I can cease meditating, but even then, the will of magic would still retain magic energy in the gap, even without my focus. However, at this moment, I'm meditating to observe my mind.
I begin to recall what happened after reaching the campfire. Memories can be quite amusing, don't you think? When I was weak, they were my only source of survival. Now, the very memories that once sustained me are causing me immense pain.
"Oh, I can't sleep," one monster approached my previous self. He was bundled up in warm coats and was the very monster who had helped me build the tent.
My previous self remained silent for a few moments. However, it seemed this other monster respected others' personal space and problems, which both me and my past self found quite admirable.
We sit around fire for few moments then past me sight as I asked, "Dude, why are you worried about me? We don't even know each other."
A seemingly chill monster looked at my past self with pity. He said, "Well, there's no particular reason. I just saw you alone, so I decided to accompany you."
"I see, thanks, but I'm very fine being alone."
"Dude, you're not okay. Nobody is willing to be alone if they're okay, and you're not."
My past self looked at the monster for a few moments, considering his words. Soon I said "… maybe you're right. I'm not okay. Maybe I'm not in the right mind right now… but… not being alone, can it change anything right now?"
He gazed at me for a few moments, seemingly contemplating his words. "Perhaps it will be help or maybe it will not. I'm uncertain, but at the very least, please talk to us. Since this squad was formed, you've been distant, and some of us are concerned about your well-being. I don't believe that solidarity is inherently negative. I've witnessed it heal others, so I won't try to convince you otherwise. However, please, at the very least, have a conversation with us. Only then can we find peace of mind."
In that moment, past me looked at him and felt a wave of gratitude for him and everyone else who had been worried about me. However, I couldn't help but feel like I was a burden to them, so I knew the least I could do was follow his advice.
"Hey, you know I've never known your name. What's your name?" I asked, even though it's been months. I rarely talk to them because of that, so I only know a handful of their names, actually.
He laughs little at first I don't know why but after conversation I understand why
"Well, my name is…" he stood up, raising his hands as if he was uttering something grand, which made me think he might be a noble monster, or his name was so meaningful, or he was simply famous. "…my name is LUCKY"
My past self blinked a few times and then laughed. "Haha, wait, haha! Your name is LUCKY, haha!"
At that moment, the sound of the wind and the gentle hum of the fire were all drowned out by my laughter.
My laughter was a little too loud, and not long after it ended, I heard my past self say, "Dude, I haven't laughed like this in a year. Thanks!"
He smiled as he nodded. Soon, the snowstorm began to intensify, and the fire we had made from our magic became less and less efficient. Consequently, we had to retreat to our tent until the snowstorm subsided.
So I head to my tent while Lucky goes to his tent
After that, my past self decided that it was better to use his time. However, this time, my past self's mentality was quite peaceful, which allowed my will of magic to focus more intensely. As a result, I was able to conceal all my magic within my body. This time, I decided to try to break through rank 3 until the snowstorm passed. I spent so much time yet I failed trying to break through rank 3, but I didn't care because after the snowstorm passed and we got moving, I decided to get along with the other monsters. I decided lucky was right and I shouldn't become burden
Soon, i had stop meditating, causing memories to vanish instantly. I recall those memories and beyond them, which is why I must stop remembering. It's not that memories are unpleasant to me that I don't want to remember; it's because they pose a danger to my present self, especially when the determination alternative system is broken, and it can break again.
So, I waited patiently for my will of magic to complete its task. However, it didn't take long before my bones started growing larger and whiter than before. Initially, they appeared ash gray to me, but as I ascended, my bones grew progressively larger and whiter until I reached the original state, which was when I turned ash gray again. Then, I ascended once more, becoming white as snow.
"Okay, we've reached the peak of the average stage. Now, we can focus on the true stage layer. Should we proceed, or should we wait until the average stage becomes stable? Ascending is easier when the stages are unstable, which is dangerous for others, but not for us." Suddenly figure talked reason with me as his words echo through my mind. Although he's right, I don't want to ascend when I'm not stable. It costs me something, even though with figure, I don't have to worry about them. Still, it's the only way I've reached the pinnacle of monsterkind. To me, it's a habit that's so important and hold deep meaning.
Well figure is basically my consciousness not will so of course he wouldn't care about that at all
Until the snowstorm passes, I decided to rest and let my average stage layer become stable. I fell asleep so quickly that I didn't even realize I was asleep.
For 5 hours I slept but it seems snowstorm will not be over soon which made me think this is quite unnatural
"Do you think this is 'it'? I mean, we are only six mountains away from The Asdarty Tree, so don't you think?" Those words echo through my mind. To be fair, it wasn't wrong. There was indeed a possibility that this snowstorm was 'it' doing, since it was a myriad beast, so it could potentially change the entire half of the continent. But I can't leave my tent right now. If I step outside, it will kill me.
With nothing to do, I decided to look at my soul. Well, you know, the other part of me, unlike figure, who wasn't part of me at all.
So, I meditated once again to get into a hyper state. Soon, I saw myself on a frozen sea with a sunny sky. The only difference from before was that the number of clouds in the sky had increased few other clouds that could be barely be cloud. This symbolized my body rank. If there were 10 clouds, that was my original rank 1 stage. But if there were 100 clouds, that meant my peak rank 1 stage. However, once the monster broke through to a higher rank, all the clouds disappeared instantly. Of course when monster reach rank 6 clouds change their clouds color and sky will change as well but to me it was white.
More clouds capacity signified a potential of rank that could reach a difference between the monster with 500 clouds capacity and 1000 clouds capacity. These differences were very significant. A monster with 1000 clouds would not just be twice as powerful; it would be five times as powerful. And the larger the clouds, the greater the difference between stages. And 100 clouds and 1000 clouds were not just different; they were in different dimensions. In order to increase the number of clouds, I needed to create magic that made my body but there is one limitation space between magic after breakthrough space between magic will not expand or if they expand too much during break through monster will turn into ash. Each cloud is essence of those magic.
Currently, my cloud capacity is approximately 3200 to 3800. However, if I push it to its limit correctly and have time, I can potentially reach 5000 cloud. My body's magic will become so dense that I could rival rank 5. Nevertheless, it will take an excessive amount of time, so I will strive to reach 4000 cloud which standard amount of cloud rank 4 peak have. Upon breakthrough I had 800 clouds but now I have 1200 clouds in my sky but they all centered in one place which dangerous I need to have distance between them
As I lie down on the frozen sea, beneath it lies my other half, my soul. Soon, I began to knock in a pattern, using a language that could be communicated through knocking.
Soon, my soul responded to me by knocking as well. I laughed little as my soul replied to me with joke that I own
After that, for hours, I engaged in profound introspection, and it seemed that I wasn't the one who was occupied. It appeared that my ego of soul was trying to improve grades, which proved remarkably effective. This was because my 95% overlord-self had made advancing in grades significantly easier. The tool my soul used was advanced technology, while to others, it seemed like primitive tools when compared to the tool my soul wielded. It was comforting to know that my 95% overlord-self had made every effort to repair the determination alternative system, but unfortunately, no successful attempts had been made, which is understandable.
To be fair, talking to my soul feels more comfortable than talking to a figure, even though he has a similar persona to me. It's just that… ahhh forget it.
I regained my composure and returned from my hyper state. I found myself in a tent, as if in a dream. It appears that only half an hour has passed in the real world, but the snowstorm has ended, which means my assumption that 'it' incorrect.
As I step out of my tent, I let out a sigh and decide to continue my journey. Not long after, I feel my average stage fully formed, so I think I should go for true stage. However, I could have tried to ascend to true stage, but I didn't feel like doing it because it was dangerous and impatient. So, I don't feel like it. Ascension might be crucial and important, but my life is more important since the ascension process is dangerous if I don't be careful I might lose my footing and fall from the rope I'm walking on.
"Ughh, finally I can talk!" Those words reverberated in my mind. Despite having occupied him with tasks and attempted to create obstacles that would silence him, he managed to find a way to bypass them. It's just wonderful!
I was frustrated, but I understand that figure isn't my adversary or a liability. It's simply that he possesses a completely different will than mine, which is why I devised a determination alternative system to safeguard my will. Otherwise, I might change just like figure is currently.
"What are you doing, dude? You've been too quiet." Figure's words echoed through my mind again, even though I wanted to ignore him. I decided it was better to talk to him, after all, he's me, just less sans.
"Can you just stop talking for a moment? I want to be in silence." Those words echoed through my mind, reaching figure.
"…"
"…"
That was surprisingly easy. I had assumed he wouldn't stop talking, but why did he obey my command so obediently? My will of magic can't control him completely, for sure…. You know what? It's better this way.
After he stopped speaking, I continued my journey, relentlessly walking towards the mountain that had appeared in my vision. As I walked, I found myself enjoying the silence. I don't know why, but silence has a healing effect on me, almost like medicine. Perhaps that's why I dislike people. I prefer to communicate when I want to and don't enjoy it when others talk to me without my consent. I know, I know this is a bad habit, but it's how I've been living in the previous timeline.
As I ascend the mountain, a profound sense of déjà vu washes over me. How could I not feel it when beasts gaze upon me, even though I can't see them? Their presence is undeniable. Perhaps it's because my sensory perception is heightened when I break through rank 3, or maybe it's just my instincts that detected those beasts. Regardless of the reason, I must remain cautious. Unlike the beasts on the motherland continent, these ones here are far more dangerous. They can ambush or attack in hordes, employing tactics that make them even more formidable. Therefore, I must remain vigilant and cautious.
Soon, night descended, enveloping everything in darkness. The moon rose to the sky, and well there is three moons it seems living in human regions. This truly changed my mind.
Snow is still falling, but this time, it's not violent. The winds are blowing everything, including my clothes. However, my instincts tell me that I'm not alone since I'm entered the mountains, and I understand what it means.
Thuck thuck
My step faltered as I heard those sounds. A sigh escaped my lips as I scanned the area. Initially, there was nothing, but soon, blue eyes began to appear. The blue flash wolf beasts I knew here will be wolf beast but blue flash wolf beast that's the problem
I've taken my battle stance, ready to block any attack at a moment's notice. However, since I can't see my back while looking forward like a bird, I have to frequently check my back. To my surprise, I realized I was surrounded. To be fair, I knew they would have surrounded me, but I thought there might be an escape route, but there wasn't. Unfortunately, my senses failed me, and I couldn't detect them before they surrounded me.
I summoned two long bones to my hand while simultaneously summoning my gaster blaster. Unlike before, they were floating directly above me. They were also larger, which aligns with my body size. For instance, when I was in rank 2, I was short, so my gaster blaster was small to match my size. So does gaster blasters also grew larger to accommodate my increased size.
But not long after, those wolf beasts charged at me it was like shadows that I can't see real body because of that i need to protect myself. Which left me with only 15 gaster blasters. I had to stop summoning them and block their attack instead.
Plick
Bone in my hand shattered the moment it defended me against the wolf beast's claw. I swung my other hand to strike the wolf beast in front of me, but it dodged my attack mid-air and repositioned itself to attack me again looking at me but to me it seems like shadows. However, that wasn't the end as two other wolves came right behind me. I instinctively summoned a wall of giant bones to block the attack, but it barely held. Before I could think again, a previous wolf beast dashed toward me, smashing me against the wall of bones that broke moments later, throwing me away for a meter away.
I rise from the ground instantly, my rank 3 body enabling me to recover swiftly. Soon, I spot over 34 wolf beasts, all positioned to attack. I swiftly activate my gaster blasters as they start to glow, aiming them at each wolf beast.
Snap
Tsiip tsiip tsiip
All gaster blasters emit beams of blue light, similar to lasers. However, the names of these wolf beasts carry significant meanings. The blue flash that was I could only perceive from the battleground. These wolf beasts can move at near the speed of sound, which allows them to appear as blue flashes. Now, my gaster blaster was able to take down two wolf beasts. as rank 3 my reaction speed improved, but it still wasn't enough to take down other wolf beasts. Soon, my gaster blaster got discharged.
This left me unable to use gaster blasters anymore but that is not important I foresaw this situation long before I planted wall between my soul and body which resulted in me severing my connection to my soul. Which also lead me to lose magic energy source, which severely restricted my ability to use the Gaster Blaster. But if I hadn't severed myself from my soul, even as a rank 2, I could have defeated them all.
As I turned around and sprinted, a sigh escaped my mouth. That was all I could do at that moment. Thanks to my gaster blaster attacks, which disrupted their formation, I managed to escape the ambush. But as soon as I glanced back, they were hot on my trail.
Fortunately, pushing my breakthrough to the limit allowed me to achieve a great physique. Even with my heavy backpack, I was able to outrun them, well temporarily. sooner or later, my body will become slower than them, and I need to take action.
I tried to observe my surroundings which I find it surprisingly challenging to observe my surroundings while running, this is quite harder than most think. Choosing my running path requires me to look ahead, while observing my surroundings demands my attention to my surroundings rather than my front.
Soon, I spotted partially frozen waterfalls on my left. I tried to change my direction, but my momentum didn't dissipate immediately because of that I couldn't turn left right away. However, this slowed me down enough for the wolf beast to get close to me.
Before my vision, the wolf beast's black head of a wolf was mere inches away.
A reflex from 169 years of combat propelled me to swiftly duck. The wolf beast soared above me. I immediately began running, oh Archios, I wish I could use my teleportation, but my magic energy is dwindling. It feels like dehydration when I deplete my magic energy.
"Dude, what the hell? I've been away for an hour, and what happened here" figure's voice echoing through my mind It seems like he's come back from his slumber or something.
"Could you please be quiet for a few moments so I can concentrate?"
Although I was both pleased and irritated with him at the time, those feelings are irrelevant now. My primary goal is to reach the waterfalls as quickly as possible while running at my full speed. I spotted rocky areas that led to the top of the waterfall, although they were wet and had unusual shapes that would make it challenging. However, I've faced worse situations, so this is nothing to be concerned about.
I slightly altered my running direction, but the wolf beast managed to close the distance once more. This time, however, I unleashed a powerful punch straight into its jaw, propelling it into the air. It seems that my rank 3 body is indeed that of a fighter monster, I suppose. But as a mage monster, I have no intention of altering that. I possess extensive experience in magic, but that doesn't imply that I'm incapable or unfit for combat. Therefore, it's advantageous for me to remain a mage monster, but having a stronger body is also not a disadvantage.
Right now, I need to go as a fighter monster combat material way, so I draw my sword from my back, even though it was almost breaking. That's not important. I also take out one of ring, my source of magic energy.
Tzeng
I swing my sword with precision, causing the wolf beast that lunged at me to lose its front two legs. I swiftly follow it with another swing, severing its head, and then resume running. My goal is to eliminate as many wolf beasts as possible, but fighting all of them simultaneously would be futile. However, the blue flash wolf beast's strategy is quite effective: they encircle their prey and relentlessly chase it until it exhausts itself. Unfortunately, this strategy is working, and my body is gradually slowing down. Therefore, I must kill as many as possible that give them the impression of hunting me will cost them more than they can afford to sacrifice. They are intelligent enough to learn this.
Since they're pursuing me, the healthiest and fastest wolf beast will catch me sooner than the others. I need to kill them in a few swift swings, and fortunately, I have the necessary skills and experience to do so every few random moments when I slow down to let one wolf beast reach me. I kill them in a few swings and then resume running. However, this strategy has made them more alert, as they start approaching in pairs. Truly intelligent, I can eliminate one wolf beast at a time while the others capitalize on my momentary weakness. I would describe them as natural hunters, but the fact remains that this tactic has also slowed them down, which ultimately benefits me. By the time I reach rocky place that lead to waterfall top I have killed 6 wolf beast
I threw my sword with all my might at one of the wolf beasts, instantly killing it. With my hands freee from sword, I began to climb at an incredible speed, leaping between rocks. Despite the wet and icy surface, which made everything slippery, I didn't need grip as I skillfully navigated the terrain, using my center of mass to ascend. While the wolf beasts tried their best to climb, they clearly lacked the skill to match my climbing abilities. Some of them fell, while others slowly ascended. I won't say they were bad climbers, but they certainly weren't as skilled as I was. As I reached the top of the waterfall, they were barely halfway there, which made me satisfied. I started running across the frozen waterfalls top, and as I reached the other side, the wolf beasts finally reached the top and started running toward me.
I placed my hand on the frozen waterfall and began to spread my magic energy beneath the deep ice, ensuring that it reached the half way across the waterfall, unlike ascension which I increased the density to shrink the volume, but I had reversed my actions this time. I lowered the density to increase the volume, and just as I thought, the wolf beasts finally reached the half way across the waterfall. I smiled to myself, thinking, "You know what to do."
"Just wait little longer," those words echo through my mind, ring on my finger. Gradually losing its colors until it becomes bone white.
Those wolf beasts are incredibly fast, I admit. In just 6 minutes, they've already come close to the other side, a distance that would take me 10 minutes to cross.
"NOW"
Thun thun thun
Explosions reverberated from deep beneath the ice. The ice trembled violently, eventually cracking on the surface at an extreme distance. Everything boiled, and the waters erupted upwards, hitting two wolf beasts. However, instead of killing them, the sudden shift on the ice's surface caught them off guard, causing them to plummet into the water.
Howls echoed in my ears as I witnessed them plummet into boiling water. Clearly, they were caught off guard. The ice they could stand on melted as they were forced into the water. The boiling water was clearly unpleasant as they descended deeper, where the cold water awaited them. However, the force of flow within the waterfall carried them away to the bottom waterfall.
I chuckle a bit as one wolf beast, still clinging to the melting ice, gazes intensely at me before leaping down and met same fate as other wolf beasts.
As I approached the edge of the waterfall cliff, I saw a wolf beast was intensely staring at me. It was now at the bottom of the waterfall, swimming quickly to the ground. It shook its body vigorously to shake off the water. Once again, it turned to me and howled angrily before running away with its companions.
Hehe, despite losing my sword and my ring filled with magic energy in this fight, it was an understandable loss. So, let's get going. I must get to the city, which must be near.
As I turned away leaving, I felt a gaze upon me. It was… familiar, almost too familiar. I glanced at the source of the gaze, which emanated from distant mountains. Although I couldn't discern who or where they were, I knew they were observing me from there.
I don't like it not even bit, so I quickly goes to a forest. Fortunately, it seems that they are no longer able to see me. But who are they
"From what I observe, they are undoubtedly at the peak rank 4 stage, on the verge of ascending to rank 5," the figure informed me. While he is indeed correct in stating that they are clearly rank 4, I couldn't determine their specific stages. Therefore, I'll have to rely on the figure's assessment. But… you know what it's okay that he can help me more than he can annoy me.
Not long after I reached the barren land, a snowstorm raged in the center. Amidst the snow, there stood an enormous city that reached beyond the clouds, a horizontally snow-covered city. It was the biggest city of monsterkind in Frostland, Moltier the storm city.
(I swear I won't lose my aura)
Author's note: the previous line was a joke.
As I trek towards Moltier, violent winds batter against me, making it arduous to take even a single step forward. The snow here is unlike anything monster ever seen in motherland; it's as hard as rock. And each snowflake hits me like a hammer, but I manage to endure it because I have a semi-magic shield protecting me.
Of course, to reach Moltier, I had to use another ring. However, but once I reach Moltier, I can recharge all the rings I've used so far, and even more. I also inheritance's teleportation devices activate. With a simple signal sent through my new device, I can teleport myself to my inheritance. So everything is…well…everything
"Dude, can you hurry up? I want to have some taste!"
"You don't have to eat food."
"I know, you onion. I want to have some taste. I haven't been able to experience taste for a whole day."
"I also haven't been able to experience taste, so stop acting like a spoiled child."
This has been the case ever since i got to forest. I swear, he even thought he is me. It doesn't feel like it at all. I take back my word; he can be more annoying than useful.
Soon, I reached the city. It had a massive magic lock around itself, separating the outer storm from the inner storm. It was quite interesting. You see, the storm I went through was like walking through a battlefield, and inside, it was a gentle snowstorm. And unlike magic lock in inheritance it is open and only let monsters in and out so I was able to just walk in magic lock barrier
"Well, hello there, mister…" I turn around to find the source of the sound and see a traditional Moltier robot. Its armor is a monochromatic palette of white and black, accented by glowing red technical details and a prominent red rectangular decal on its back. Warlock robes cover its body, keeping it warm in cold weather. The material of the robe also helps the robot accumulate heat during cold. On the other hand, its body is heavily armored to fight beasts when necessary. The gauntlets are adorned with glowing red effects, indicating its active state, and the chest piece reveals an extremely complex mechanical core. To other monsters this is quite developed, yet to me, who built the high-tier 22 Engine known as Titan Soul, it feels less impressive.
"Sir, you are not identified. Could you please tell me your name?" I find myself in a rather peculiar predicament. First, all the monsters in the city are accompanied by moltier robots, and this patrol robot is attempting to accompany me. I could either deceive the robot to make it appear as though I pose no threat or I could be honest, but the outcome would be the same. However, the monster who spotted me at the top of the waterfall is clearly rank 4, so it would be better to lie to avoid suspicion and present myself as a mere wanderer.
"Oh yes, my name is Olivka. I hail from the desertland, a vast and arid continent. I am a wanderer who has embarked on a journey to Frostland, driven by the desire to witness the magnificent Asdarty Tree. However, to reach this enchanting destination, I must first traverse Moltier city." Despite Olivka being a common name in the desertland continent, I must admit that the desertland lacks the presence of skeleton-type monsters. Therefore, my only hope lies in the assumption that these robots are unaware of this peculiarity.
The robot in front of me remained silent for a few moments, suggesting it was connecting to the server to determine its next move. Each robot's mind is an extension of great machine will, while servers are collections of knowledge and protocols.
"I see Olivka. Please let me guide you," the robot approached me and extended its robotic arm towards the city gate. I nodded and walked towards the gate of the city, while the robot followed me, not too far behind but not too close either.
As soon as I reached the gate, the permission panel greeted me. It was a square screen that prompted me to enter my DE. Naturally, I could use my real DE, but I had to be cautious. That's why I had chosen Olivka, as there was another reason to choose this name. Although I hadn't been in Desertland for long, I knew one monster with this name. It was known as the exoskeleton monster, and it bore a striking resemblance to me. If I could disguise myself effectively, I could imitate him and impersonate him. And to make matters even better, I happened to know his DE.
Truly, I'm a genius, hehehe. Wait, no, why is not working again?
Beep beep beep beep.
DE is incorrect. I don't know why, but I know DE can be used in every city. So, why isn't it working? Am I mistaken, or is there something wrong right now? Real Olivka is 14 years old, which means he was supposed to… oh, right, in 169 years into the past, Olivka is 13 years old and almost at the verge of becoming 14. So, he clearly didn't receive his DE. How could I forget this crucial detail? So, I suppose I need to use my real DE.
Embarrassment and confusion clouded my mind. How could I forget something so crucial? How did my near-perfectly organized memory fail me? I've been meditating to organize my mind and prevent forgetting or misremembering, just like organizing library books. Despite all this effort, I still failed to remember it correctly. It frustrated me, but it also left me with more questions.
"Hello there, Mr. Wing Ding. Is there anything you'd like to know?" I recently received a new robot, unlike the previous patrolling robot. This new robot is a bit different. While the previous robot looked ready to fight, this one looks like a cute, curious robot that poses no threat.
I sigh, knowing I have no choice but to use my real name. Of course, there's no serious problem, but I've already introduced myself as Olivka. It would contradict my identity in the future.
"Well, I want to know about…" Wait, that's wrong to ask it. Right now, I just need to find a few materials to keep going. Not to satisfy my hunger for answers from my previous life.
In my previous life, I had numerous questions about Moltier. For instance, I couldn't comprehend why the noble house of Laporde was so desperate to find land of Kall. I'm have been at land of Kall, yet I don't see any compelling reason for their pursuit.
I had been in this city for months in previous life, so I'm quite familiar with Moltier. However, I also know that telling this accompanying robot is a double-edged sword.
"Where is the Lawover marketplace? Can you take me there?" I asked my accompanying robot, which nodded and proceeded beyond the gate, walking through the streets. Upon reaching an area teeming with countless monsters, I noticed that these monsters had fur, unlike the other continent monsters. They had a more beast-like appearance, yet they also shared some similarities.
I couldn't help but chuckle because it was quite pleasant to be here. Soon, I arrived at Lawover Marketplace, which was the best place to gather resources in Moltier.
"Wait here, I need to buy something," I instructed my accompanying robot. It nodded and patiently waited for me as I stepped into the bustling marketplace, where numerous trade posts greeted me. I strolled past some of these posts, hoping to find something useful, but unfortunately, I haven't seen anything that catches my eye yet.
"Severiat metal, we are fortunate today to came across this metal." Those words reverberated in my mind as I felt a surge of excitement in the figure's voice. It was logical; Severiat metal is a type of metal that attracts magic energy like a magnet but doesn't absorb it. This is why other monsters are not interested in it. They use this metal to construct robots that harness the magic energy of monsters for combat. However, there is another way to utilize it and that is-
"Hello there, sir. Are you interested in buying them" monster that was selling Severiat metal items asked me an interrupted my thoughts.
I smile and said "Actually, yes, but is there impure Severiat metals if so it would be better if they are 40% impure? Do you have that kind of Severiat metal?"
Monster before though for moments then smiled "sorry we don't have 40% impure Severiat metal but there is 45% impure Severiat metal do you want to buy it"
45% is not a bad percentage, but I require exactly 40% impure Severiat metal. This is steel that has fused with deep-low metal. It will be more challenging to remove deep-low because it behaves like soap. Attempting to remove deep-low will also dissolve Severiat metal, making it an unsuitable option. However, I have a solution to this problem.
"Hmm… i will buy it how much is it for 4 kilograms"
"It will be 12.4 Tana"
I pull out my golden coin from my backpack and hand it to the monster. As I do, I can't help but chuckle at the ridiculous expression on the monster's face. Only noble house monsters and those of higher rank use silver coins, while golden coins are reserved for extraordinary monsters. So, he must be thinking I'm Rank 6 monster, hehehe! Poor monster if he knew I was regressed empowered monster he might die from shock
In the realm of monsterkind, our standing in the hierarchy is determined solely by our power than wealth. But equally powerful monsters can stand above others by their wealth. What's particularly amusing is that when this monster touches my coin with his trembling hands, he's clearly taken aback. He checks Tana, then his mouth opens, and he almost faints. Despite extracting half of the pure magic energy from the golden coins, their value still exceeds 74.2 Tana. This monster is undoubtedly shocked beyond his wildest imagination.
Poor monster, just selling valuable metals, only to be confronted by an extraordinary monster who is wealthier than some noble house. If I'm not careful, this lad is going to faint. Haha, inheritance truly made me rich as hell, but I'm not an extraordinary monster yet. Still, it was hilarious. Only if I had true ink to use on the seal of honor… no, I'll find it soon. It's not time to be distracted, and it has its purpose, and that is not entertain me.
…
"He-here, sir! 45% impure Severiat metal, hehehe. I'm very sorry for not recognizing you at all. I hope I didn't offend you. Ah, I'm sorry I wasted your time." The monster before me was nervous, but not scared. Unlike human society, to monsterkind, hierarchy is not important at all. Every monster has the chance to rise up if they want. Poor them! Well, that includes my past self as well, since right now, no monster knows that humanity will attack in the following years. But the hierarchy of monsterkind is very important. A monster that ranks above another shall be treated as a leader. Noble monsters have soul generation that can control other monsters regardless of rank, as long as it was below extraordinary monsters. Well, not until noble monsters reach rank 6, so that much is understandable.
"It is okay and I told you I'm not extraordinary monster nor noble monster"
"No no no even so I wasted your time too much I'm sorry"
I chuckled and rolled my eyes, saying, "Well, you did waste time by fainting, but that's not important. So, take good care of yourself and don't faint in front of customers. Goodbye." I turned around and left, but I could still feel him weaving at me in a farewell gesture.
Well, half an hour has passed since I arrived here. That lad fainted the moment I got closer to him to tell him that I'm not a rank 6 monster, but that was still hilarious. Haha. However, he did waste my time by fainting, but that's okay.
As I continued walking, I stopped by a few other trade posts this time. They didn't faint as I drew more magical energy from my coins until it became worth 20 Tana when I waiting for previous lad wake up.
For two hours of trading I got
Four kilograms of 45% impure Severiat metal, two potions of slowness from one of the alchemist monsters, and a few clothes that align with Moltier's culture are my current possessions. While I may not be an expert in cultural nuances, I refuse to be as cringeworthy as a dwarf. Besides these items, I also have a few other things. If I had the chance, I would have acquired more, but my backpack was already overflowing beyond its capacity. I do have bought hyper-reactive armor pieces, but not all of them since they are rare armor. I managed to find half of the chest armor, two leg pieces, and one arm piece.
"Hello there, sir. It's been a while since you left. What would you like to do right now?" As I returned to my accompanying robot, it inquired about my preferences. That's a great question. I could simply head to the Forger of Forest, also known as the Land of Kall, but I have five days to spare, at least, and at most, ten days. If I arrive too early, it would be disadvantageous for me. There will be beasts there that will gradually weaken me. As an average rank 3 stage monster, I can't afford to weaken myself. On the other hand, if I arrive too late, the benefits I will gain will be significantly reduced.
Well, I suppose I can spare seven days in Moltier. There are several things I'm curious about, primarily. Why is the noble house of Laporde interested in the Land of Kall, even though they've ceased showing interest after their initial visit? What did they anticipate finding there in the first place?
"I'll take care of it later. I have a seven-day mission to craft my armor and visit the noble house of Laporde. Although it won't be a long time, I'm confident that I'll find something valuable." I thought end as I sigh and turn to my accompanying robot. "Is there any hotel, noble house's domain, no where is Laporde's domain"
My companion robot remained motionless, presenting an opportune moment to act. I extended my hand towards the robot's head and commenced pouring my magic energy, or more specifically my will of magic.
Every server functions as a repository of knowledge. Every monster that enters or exits a place where monsters reside essentially serves as a record of everything. If I gain control over at least one server, my lack of information will be resolved. Furthermore, I can modify and alter records to my advantage.
…I almost felt guilty for cheating the system. I understand that my actions may be considered wrong, but I believe I'm doing it for a greater good. However, that's not entirely accurate. My motivation is simply to satisfy my insatiable curiosity. By doing this, I'm undermining the security of countless monsters and exposing them to feelings of insecurity or emotional paranoia.
I sigh as I realize, just now, that ever since I embarked on this unholy path, I've lost my monstrous nature. I've transformed into a human being who, if possible, exploits situations and causes harm to others, yet fails to recognize it within themselves. I convinced myself that this is for the greater good of the monster, but if I retreat, it would also endanger the entire monsterkind. Perhaps if I were unaware of the future, it might be acceptable, but I am not.
Why hadn't I ever considered this before? I never realized this until now. Could it be?
I'm right now at the my 20 years old self, and I find myself contemplating my monstrous nature. Could it be that my monstrous nature is currently overpowering, influencing my perception of the world? While I acknowledge my violent and cruel nature, I also recognize my role in this unholy path. I have sacrificed my monstrous nature along with my essence of Sans, losing my sense of self, my sense of being a monster, and my sense of being Sans. However, in this moment, I have them, and I cannot help but want to embrace it. With my accumulated knowledge and experience, I can navigate life without compromising my monstrous nature. Yes, this is my choice. I will choose this path to be Sans of course this time I will be little different but still sans.
Laughter escaped my mouth as I couldn't help but tremble from this realization. Perhaps I don't need to satisfy my hunger; instead, I should find more information to make better choices for the future. Let's just leave my question about the noble house of Laporde.
"Ugh, I suppose this is how I should move right," a sudden voice pulled me back into reality. I turned around to see the source of the sound, yet I didn't see anyone also that voice it sound exactly like me.
"Can you take off your arm?" I turned to my accompanying robot, laughing. Before me, right where my accompanying robot was, I saw a figure and he was looking exactly like me. Then I realized this was just an illusion, but what happened that was my question.
…
Is this real? After half an hour of explaining, I realize that the figure's consciousness has infiltrated the robot's core, which is filled with pure magic energy. As the will of magic, he didn't merely connect with the server; he overrode everything connected to magic energy, including this robot. Essentially, my initial goal was to allow the figure to enter the server. Since Moltier robots use pure magic energy, similar to coal, for their engines, they can absorb excess magic energy from the city and eliminate the will of magic from them, transforming it into pure magic energy.
This guy this guy joins a network based on fully controlled pure magic energy weaves. As the will of magic, he can access the server, which I know, but he effortlessly hacked every server in an instant. Not only that, but he overwrote the code in the robots and used them as his physical form. What the actual fuck? Was I this dominant individual, or is this figure simply different?
If I were this kind of monster, oh Archios, what I've been transformed into is unimaginable. In the previous timeline, I was compelled to become like this, but this is far beyond anything I could have ever imagined. The most unsettling aspect is that I only have six years of memory in the future. Of course, my will is 189 years old, but still, it's overwhelming. I'll deal with it later. Right now, I'm reaching the guild base to assemble a team, although I believe I can overcome the trails at the Forger of the Forest alone. I also think Asdarty Tree has more to offer. I still want to know the reason behind the noble house of Laporde's search, but that's if I have free time right now. I just need to focus. Too many things to do and too many questions to answer and self doubt to clear. Right now I just want to sleep
Soon, I arrived at the guild, and I felt a sense of belonging. In my previous life, I had joined a guild and participated in missions with my group. Lucky was also a member of our group. Another reason I felt at home was because Espresmory, the guild manager who I had taken her dust to survive and in that process I lived her life as if I was her.
Reflecting on that thought, I can't help but wonder what happened to Saratya. Although Espresmory passed away before she turned 14, there should have been something about her rumors or records yet I have never heard about her. Even more surprising was Rasgakla. Something was amiss with him—his power and skill. While they could be attributed to his talent, his mentality was like… Zam. He was too similar to Zam it was as if he was trapped in a cycle of losing hope for survival while simultaneously trying to cling to it. There was no fire, no purpose, just hope and promises. What happened to him?
I'll tackle it later since I'm pretty worn out right now, but I'll give them my attention in the future.