Anime: Fight Sukuna at the beginning?.

Chapter 462 [Module: Monster Eliteization] and [Fog of Deception]

The creature lying outside the area illuminated by the torches was enormous.

The [Pigman Slaughterer] appears to be acting strangely.

And the torch in his hand, whose light had become much dimmer after the battle.

Fang Yi, preparing to try to avoid the 'magic loss' caused by the firelight to obtain equipment, lowered his body.

He handed the torch to Miss Kanroji, who was standing nearby.

Kanroji Mitsuri, who was holding the "Gentle Touch" in her right wrist, was taken aback at first.

Then, he caught a glimpse of Vaughn still in shock ahead.

They clearly have no time to attend to the situation here.

She was arranged by the man to join the team as a 'newcomer' by chance, and there were no flaws in her identity.

Kanroji Mitsuri took advantage of the opportunity to accept the torch handed to her by the man.

She then playfully flicked the man's wrist.

Then, he displayed the [Secret Silver Hand] on his right hand as if it were a coating, like a precious treasure.

She added a sentence in a low voice, as if it were a secret.

"The [Collaborative Muscle Mimicry] feature of this equipment is very useful; it can do more than just synchronize."

"It can also assist in exerting force, increase explosive power, and save a lot of energy."

The female swordsman, who was speaking, moved forward a few steps.

"Is it really okay for me to use something this good?"

Even if it's only temporary?

Fang Yi patted the female swordsman.

"I am a lazy person."

"Killing simple monsters won't give me any upgrades, and it will also consume energy that is very slow to regenerate in the 'dungeon'."

"So in this battle, I'm just a 'gunner,' you and Shinobu will have to work harder."

When Kanroji Mitsuri heard that she had room to perform, her eyes lit up instantly.

She showed the man the soft knife in her hand.

The soft knife has changed back from its tentacle form.

"I haven't fully gotten used to that equipment yet, but I've already gained an extra whip using the [Soft Touch] technique."

"This knife is also growing."

Fang Yi glanced at the soft knife in the female swordsman's hand.

[The forensic expert] has already told him something.

This weapon was produced as a byproduct of the blood sacrifice to the Demon King.

The soft blade, which can be upgraded once by devouring monster flesh, is transforming into a higher quality weapon.

The meaning of the subtext was captured and directly assigned.

"You'll be responsible for the monster's flesh and blood."

"But after I finished collecting the spoils and dividing the evidence..."

Kanroji Mitsuri took the torch and obediently took a few steps back.
-
It wasn't until Fang Yi approached the monster called the "Pigman Slayer" that things got interesting.

The notification sound from the space rang in my ears.

Your squad has killed several mutated monsters and completely wiped out a monster squad.

Squad members who participate in the battle will receive additional [Sharpness Points].

You survived two battles against mutated monster squads, defeating them all without suffering any losses.

You have unlocked some information about the [Mod: Monster Elite Upgrade].
-
[Module: Monster Elite Upgrade]

The number of monsters in the dungeon and around the town has been greatly reduced.

However, overall strength, intelligence, and teamwork ability have been greatly improved.

The rewards for kills have been greatly increased.

There is also a chance to encounter [Boss] type monsters that carry and use special equipment and produce rare materials.

[The following content is yet to be unlocked]
-
I recalled the monster squad that had mingled with [elite] pig-man hookers who had mastered [stealth] when I headed to the town.

And under the [Scout] effect, some 'dungeons' are empty and have an incorrect monster density.

Fang Yicai realized that his earlier casual speculation had come true.

He glanced at Vaughn, who was still in shock and somewhat dazed.

After recalling the monster's strength, he shook his head helplessly.

Normally speaking, this swordsman's combat strength is roughly equivalent to a Rank 2 reincarnated person who has experienced two mission worlds.

They can handle even the elite-level dungeons without any problems.

As a result, in the beginner level [Apprentice Level] dungeon, I almost died in the first battle if it weren't for my teammates' help.

He could already foresee the tragic fate of both the reincarnated beings and the newborn natives.

This beginner's 'dungeon' will probably be another 'stress erosion' like the one at the beginning.

It is a selective first encounter kill.

The space has become increasingly difficult to navigate.

However, the decrease in the number of battles and the improvement in their quality are good things for me.

At the very least, it can save a lot of time.
-
Fang Yi reached out and touched the waist of the [Pigman Slaughterer].

They quickly found two black gems that shone brightly even in the darkness.

It was in this small town that the purchase price for each agate was as high as 400 [old gold coins].

It can also be used as 'fuel' for [Gem Magic] and for exchanging [Rare Items] and [Imperial Golden Goblet] for drinks.

But Fang Yi did not stop searching.

Instead, he took out a short knife and removed the iron plate that resembled armor on the monster's chest.

The [Identification] skill has already told him that there are still untreatable rewards to be gained from this monster.

He quickly picked out another blue gem.

【sapphire】

The purchase price is 1000 [old gold coins] per coin.

"That's right, fewer battles mean better results."

Without counting the evidence of the monster's limbs, only one monster was captured.

It directly opened 1800 [Old Gold Coins], which are equivalent to 3600 points.

It's clear that the [Module - Monster Elite] feature has made a significant impact.

[Apprentice Level] A token from a monster can be exchanged for 20 [Old Gold Coins].

A group of monsters consists of four 'people'.

Normally, he would need to defeat nearly 20 teams of [Apprentice Level] monsters to achieve this level of reward.

After opening all the drop rewards.

Fang Yi rubbed his hands together and reached for the gray bottle at the monster's waist.

A notification sound from the space also rang in my ears.

Your followers have killed the Pigman Slayer (Elite Boss), an Ascended level boss capable of wielding equipment.

This type of monster carries special equipment; defeating it increases the chance of obtaining equipment that has not suffered 'mana loss'.

You have obtained the special equipment, "Fog of Deception."
-
【The Fog of Deception】

Category: Special equipment

Available uses: 2/3
Origin: A pioneering town in ruins

Conditions of use: None
Equipment effect:

【The Fog of Deception】

After injecting magic and consuming one available use, it can create a mist within a three-meter radius around the user for a period of time.

Creatures within the fog will gain the [Fog of Deception] status for a certain period of time.

Their sense of self-worth has significantly decreased.

It is difficult for others to perceive or detect it before an attack is launched.

Summary:
When used in darkness or in complex terrain, it will provide a certain boost.

It can be used to easily conceal a person's tracks.

However, concealing the presence of elephants would be somewhat difficult.

Evaluation:

[Essential for ambushes]
-
It's clear that this monster squad used the fog to ambush the unsuspecting Vaughn.

He played with the gray bottle in his hand for a while.

Fang Yi gained a new understanding of the phrase "Please always remain vigilant and calm" regarding space.

At the same time, a notification for the "Five Emperors Coins" also appeared.

You and your followers have killed the Pigman Slayer (Elite Boss), the Pigman Vomiter (Apprentice), and the Pigman Meat Hooker (Apprentice).

You have been granted 10 years of spare lifespan. Continuing to kill lower-strength monsters of this type will prevent you from gaining any more spare lifespan.

It's clear that the evolved [Five Emperors Coins] can only exploit a limited number of weaker monsters.

After dismembering the monster and taking away the tokens that could be redeemed for rewards.

Fang Yi nodded to Miss Ganlu Temple, indicating that she should let the long sword eat.

At the same time, he walked towards the swordsman who was still in a daze.

It interrupted the other person's thoughts.

"You found something? You seemed to have been staring at that monster's iron hook for quite a while?"
-
Upon hearing the man's voice, Vaughn raised his head as if a robot had been powered on.

Pointing to the unsightly scratch on his armor caused by the iron hook, he gave a somewhat hesitant response.

I started to reflect on my actions.

"Captain, I just made a lot of mistakes."

"Firstly, the manual was not followed when removing the trap."

"The use of [Reconnaissance] during combat was also inadequate; it wasn't used in the correct way when needed."

He talked on and on for a long time, until the butterfly beside him couldn't help but yawn impatiently.

That's how the swordsman came to this conclusion.

"Without you, I..."

The message in my ear reads: "[Due to your talent 'Diligent Study', character 'Vorn's' skill 'Scout' has been upgraded from 'lv1' to 'lv2'."

[Vorn's] combat awareness and analytical skills in battle have been improved.

The notification sound reads: "Your skill [Reconnaissance] has been upgraded from [lv2] to [lv3]."

Their perception of the 'dungeon' was enhanced again, and they sensed that there was still a battle ahead.

Fang Yi didn't pull or tug at him, but instead took out a bottle of "holy water" and handed it to the other party.

"That's an [elite-level boss] that can use sensory-blocking equipment."

"At the same time, a new, unrecorded dungeon artifact has appeared that is [capable of attracting attention] and is tentatively named [Mysterious Painting], requiring [Holy Water] to deal with."

"After you get back, you need to report to the guild."

"Therefore, the battle is the kind that is somewhat difficult."

"You can still clear the way and fight, right? Looks like the extra [Holy Water] you bought has come in handy."

Vaughn looked at the holy water in the man's hand and asked a question.

Without a moment's hesitation, he immediately took the [holy water] and stood up.

"no problem!"

Fang Yi smiled.

"Then take [food] and rest."

"Continue to clear the way for the team. Next, we'll challenge the more rewarding [Lightless] in battle."

Vaughn straightened up.

"Yes, Captain." Then, somewhat embarrassed, he handed over the iron hook.

"Captain, this is the voucher for exchanging [Old Gold Coins], it belongs to you."

“Keep it as a souvenir!”

"what?"

Fang Yi looked at the somewhat excited Vaughn and gave a response.

"Consider it a commemoration of the first battle."

"To remind myself to always remain calm and vigilant."

"The battles to come will only be more difficult."

"The next two rooms are empty; only the last 'room' has a battle."

Vaughn looked at the iron hook in his hand.

He pondered the man's words for a while, and recalled the previous battle.

I was subtly touched.

He took out his [identity badge].

He carefully placed the filthy weapon that had almost taken his life inside.

Stroking the scratched [identity badge], which looked as if it had been 'polished', I felt its surface.

Looking at the man's figure beside her.

Vaughn, holding the [Identity Badge], felt...

Having gone through this battle, I feel like I'm growing at an incredible speed.

If only we could experience a few more battles.

He will become stronger.
-
A few minutes later, in front of a 'room'.

"Pata".

After clearing away the obstacles of rubble and bones blocking the way, they glimpsed a dilapidated wooden door leading to a larger space.

I heard the sound of the shovel in my hand malfunctioning.

Vaughn threw down the shovel.

He made a gesture toward Fang Yi that said, "Although I haven't sensed any enemies, there's a high probability of a battle ahead. Keep your distance and extinguish your torches to maintain 'no light'."

The torch behind him went out in an instant.

"boom!"

Vaughn kicked open the dilapidated wooden door.

The swordsman spotted two enormous, blackened hams hanging in the empty room.

And a treasure chest placed in the center of the room that requires a master key to unlock.

And then there's the knife rack, which requires special bandages to interact with.

Despite not sensing the presence of the enemy.

But he had already reflexively dodged to the side.

At the same time, it conveyed a message.

"enemy!"

The words just fell.

The next moment, a gray cannonball the size of a human head suddenly flew out of the darkness.

It flew towards the group with terrifying force, clearing away the rubble and bones in the tunnel.

Kanroji Mitsuri slightly moved the soft sword in her hand, about to transform the long sword into tentacles to intercept the cannonballs, just as she was about to do.

I glimpsed a person in the room who was about three people tall, with an unusually large frame.

It has two black, gem-like eyeballs that almost bulge out of their sockets.

His flesh and blood were unusually thin.

Only a thin layer clinging to the skeleton, gleaming with an odd oily sheen, like rubbery muscles.

Behind the monster with two giant claws shrouded in a foul aura.

Fang Yi, having identified the type of monster, immediately gave instructions.

"Hold your breath!"
"The Elite Monster, the Filthy Ghoul, throws its Bone Throw."

"The ashes are poisonous; inhaling them will cause illness, and contact with them will add a curse that increases stress!"

The words had barely left his lips when the shell, which had been relatively intact, was destroyed.

It exploded with a loud bang.

First, it turned into a cloud of white ash in mid-air, and then into a cloud of white mist, which devoured the crowd.

Fang Yi, not to be outdone, threw a bottle of [Holy Water] forward.

The Prometheus drum in his hand instantly disappeared.

It quickly switched to the [Exorcising Bullet Type I - Armor-Piercing] drum magazine.

A muffled gunshot rang out instantly.

boom!
"Wow!"

With a crisp sound, the glass bottle containing the holy water, which had been thrown forward, exploded.

The liquid, imbued with a sacred aura, had not yet fallen to the ground.

Under the effect of [Frozen Cloud], it spread rapidly, much like the batter used in cooking pancakes.

It transformed into a thin wall that blocked the mist of ashes from dissipating.

Accompanied by the sound of strong acid corroding flesh, the thin wall vanished into nothingness.

A very strong, fishy stench filled the air, but was quickly swept away by the [Frozen Cloud].

boom!boom!
As the two bullets streaked through the air, leaving two trails of light, they flew toward the [Filthy Ghoul].

Fang Yi reported the information again.

"There is only one monster, [Elite Boss]."

"It's not a team-based monster like the pigmen."

"It's not about fighting alone, but about having extremely strong individual strength!"

As soon as the words were spoken, the [Filthy Ghoul], which had been standing on two legs, collapsed instantly.

It made a digging motion.

The next second, the bullet that was about to hit the ghoul lost its target.

A sudden gust of wind swept through the passage, causing people to stagger and lose their balance, a testament to the monster's charge.

The monster exuded a foul aura from both sides.

As two giant claws, like scythes, approached Vaughn, ready to reap the swordsman's life.

The filthy ghoul revealed a row of gleaming white teeth.

He gave a terrifying smile that was both incredibly human-like.

The next moment, a sharp, whistling sound rang out in the air.

The foul magic within the dungeon surged instantly, slamming towards the group.

[Terrifying howls]

Even at the back of the team, Fang Yi possesses several unique qualities.

Upon hearing this howl...

I also felt a chill in my hands and feet, and my [pressure value] jumped up by one level (10 points).

Knowing that his team had no worries, Vaughn watched the [Filthy Ghoul] wielding its giant claws.

Feeling my hands and feet grow cold and feeling the pressure spike by 30 points in an instant.

Vaughn, however, felt his heart begin to burn.

Want a head-on clash? Then let's go!

He swung his longsword fiercely, unleashing a surge of battle aura.

It brought with it a tremendous roar that tore through the atmosphere.

His entire body instantly transformed into a silver streak, launching a charge that seemed to retreat rather than advance.

The ghouls were closing in.

[Sky-Piercing Slash]

boom!
The black and white energy waves, symbolizing a human and a monster, suddenly collided.

It swept away the rubble and bones in the passage as if autumn winds were sweeping away fallen leaves.

The giant claws and the longsword in their hands clashed fiercely, neither giving way to the other.

A deep, muffled rumble of thunder echoed through the air.

Vaughn felt a sweet taste in his throat and involuntarily staggered back three steps.

The internal organs also felt a dull ache, as if they had been battered and thrown, and were out of control.

But as the ghoul charged like a wild beast, its giant claws touched the longsword.

Its massive body bent instantly like a railing after being hit.

It instantly lost control, accompanied by a clearly visible cracking sound indicating a fracture.

Visible deformation occurred.

It began to fall backward in an odd posture.

Behind her, Mitsuri Kanroji's tentacles had already touched the monster's limbs, and Shinobu Kocho's poisoned longsword was about to strike the monster's chest.

The swordsman, who had temporarily lost his ability to fight, felt a surge of joy.

【it's over?】

But their joy didn't last long.

As the dark and filthy magic surged within the dungeon.

The ghoul's somewhat shattered limbs began to heal at a visible speed, like crops that have been parched and then given a timely rain.

It began to struggle with the tentacles that had entangled its limbs with Kanroji Mitsuri, trying to break free from their restraints.

The long sword that Shinobu Kocho plunged into the monster's chest only left a small patch of ink on the ghoul's chest before stopping its spread.

Having realized the terrifying boost that the [Lightless] difficulty level provides to monsters in 'solo teams', Vaughn subconsciously looked at Fang Yi.

"Should we light a torch?"
"I'm afraid we can't go without light!"

The only response he received was a nonchalant remark from the man.

"You should have some patience and let the bullets fly for a while."

No sooner had the words been spoken than the two bullets that the ghoul had easily dodged were about to hit the wall.

It started turning around in a very unusual manner.

Then, against the backdrop of the [filthy ghoul]'s incredulous and furious howl.

It drilled into the monster's eye sockets, shattering its eyes, smashing its nose, and destroying its brain at the same time.

This also caused the monster's taut limbs to hang limply.

Ms. Kanroji easily tore off his limbs.

Then, with perfect precision, he splashed an entire bottle of [holy water] onto the monster that only had a head and a body.

A cloud of white mist was stirred up.

Looking at the monster that wasn't quite dead yet.

With lightning-fast reflexes, Shinobu Kocho had already replenished the monster's supply with another bottle of [Holy Water].

After two bottles of holy water were used, the ghoul's body finally stopped convulsing.

Fang Yi also heard a notification sound indicating the success of the harvest.

Looking at the treasure chest in the room, the smoked ham hanging high in the air, and the knife rack that produces knife rack iron.

Fang Yi showed a satisfied smile.

The rewards that this 'solo team' monster can drop.

It must be a much better reward than the one for the previous 'four-person team'.

(End of this chapter)