Earth Dungeon 38.2

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Chapter 38.2. Fields

"The insect monsters become mostly defenseless and attack less frequently when the grasslands and forests disappear, and even if we create fields, they rarely strike. These creatures have clearly defined habitats."

"Well, I understand what you're saying. But we can't just set the grasslands on fire, can we? It will trigger another stampede."

Burning them might be easy, but it's not hard to imagine the insects would go on a rampage. Trusting the judgment, Shingen frowned at the thought of the danger surpassing that of goblins.

I understand that too. I don't intend to burn them.

"So, here's the plan. Shingen, have all your subordinates move far away. I'll attack with full power, and anyone nearby will get caught up in it."

"Hmm? Your full power, huh?"

As the old man looked at me with a probing gaze, I shrugged my shoulders and waved my hand playfully, giving a warning.

"I acquired an interesting skill recently. You can stay nearby if you want, but don't complain if you die, alright?"

After seeing my confident expression, Shingen's mouth curved with an amused expression.

"You rarely say something like that. Alright, I'm curious to see what you've got. Hey, all of you, we're about to witness something interesting from Sakimori. Move away, move away!"

"Stay about 100 meters away."

Shingen called out to the subordinates gathered around and moved people away from me, distancing himself as well. As instructed, they moved about 100 meters away. It was a considerable distance. Shingen and the others were now so small that they looked like tiny dots.

Confirming that no one was around using my [Aura], everything seemed fine. The preparations were okay.

I picked up the Goblin King's sword that I had brought with me, lying on the ground. The blade, which seemed wet and reflected the sunlight, revealed its sharpness through its gleam.

The weight of the sword was so heavy that my shoulder almost dislocated. It's impressive how Shizuku can effortlessly wield such a heavy metal lump. I'm impressed.

Taking a deep breath to calm myself, I looked around once again. I paid attention to see if that cat girl was hiding nearby, but I couldn't see anything remarkable. Using my Aura, I sensed the presence of Lesser Mandragoras lurking in the grass, Worms, and a Mothman hidden on a tree a little further away. Apart from that, I saw rabbits making nests at the base of nearby trees and birds perched on branches preening their feathers.

"However... monsters' aura is on a different level compared to humans. It's foolish to compare them."

While Shingen and his men had some variation in their aura, it was negligible. At best, I could say their aura had slightly more power, but it was a weak level I could only notice when comparing. On the other hand, the monsters were different. Even the Worms had a burning aura within them, and compared to the Mothman, it was clear that the Mothman's aura was on a completely different level.

Allow me to click my tongue and say that humans are too weak. Truly.

[That's unavoidable, Sakimori-san. They're ordinary people. Their overall status would be lucky to reach 100. In contrast, even the Lesser Mandragoras' status is estimated to be around 300. There is a multiple-fold desperate gap.]

[So, it's a difference that we can only understand in units of 100... Humanity is a pitiful existence.]

I wonder if Shizuku's words are a consolation. Indeed, the disparity in status is severe.

[Currently, Sakimori-san, you're surrounded by a considerable amount of aura. That is if you're not concealing it deep within.]

[Just like me, there may be enemies who can perceive the opponent's fighting spirit. So, we must be cautious, Shizuku-san.]

It would be dangerous if they could gauge my strength just by appearances. Information is crucial.

There's no use lamenting. Even with such unfortunate conditions, I, who cannot defend against that logic, am weak. I have no choice but to play by the rules set by my opponents on this chessboard. It's a harsh world.

[It's heartbreaking to mow the grass in the middle of summer, isn't it? I miss the air conditioning.]

[You should go to that restaurant we went to the other day. I want to try all the cakes next time.]

[If I feel like it.]

Shizuku-san wants to make up for the missed cake she didn't eat the other day. Food grudges can be scary, so I'll have to fill that void sometime.

"Well then, it's time for mowing. Shall we get started?"

I summoned the mana dormant within me, focusing and gathering my magical power.

[Shadow Figure]

The shadow swayed and transformed into a robe-like shape, enveloping my body. The heat trapped inside was honestly unbearable. Generating cold air, I bring a slight coolness as I put on the hood and mask. Holding up Goblin King's sword, I murmured.

[I'm expecting a magnificent mowing performance, partner.]

[Please look forward to it. If you synchronize with me, Sakimori-san, I will show you an artistic sword dance.]

I nodded in response to the cute girl, who smiled softly and then grinned, converting my mana into an aura.

[Alter Ego]

It's a technique that creates an aura of alter ego through my martial arts skills. By overlaying an intangible illusion that looks exactly like me. I uttered magic.

[Change]

Thus, the appearance overlapped with the alter ego, and although it looked like Sakimori, the person inside changed to the genius of combat, Shizuku.

"I will begin mowing."

Her eyes sparkled with a fierce light, harboring a beast-like ferocity deep within them. Having switched places, Shizuku poised her sword.

Though we now looked completely clad in black attire in the middle of summer, those around us should no longer be concerned about such appearances. I'm counting on you, Shizuku.