Chapter 5: 5. Combat training
"True progress only happens when we face our greatest difficulties head on."
- Unknown
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The "Post-Outcall History" class was in session, and the teacher was questioning the students about recent events: "So, what was the name of the tower conquered by the Apostle of Saints Guild on August 17, 2023, and what was its reward?"
"Questions like these don't come up often, but you should still be familiar with tower and dungeon achievements," the teacher added, adjusting his round glasses.
Oreki found the class fascinating, especially compared to history classes from his old world. His "Observation and Reading" talent made learning more efficient, allowing him to grasp information quickly without the traditional effort.
Students would kill for a gift like that.
"This..."
Meanwhile, Chae Nayun seemed to be in complete despair. Her frustration was evident, and her dejected expression was clear. Studying was not something she enjoyed, and this aversion to books and exams was clearly affecting her academic performance. This distaste for the subject was one of the reasons she had left the rank 3 position in Cubo.
Oreki, noticing her discomfort, decided to focus on his notes. He avoided looking at her to avoid creating an uncomfortable situation.
As the final bell rang, the gray-haired professor with round glasses gave one last warning: "Make sure to review today's notes. If you don't, the exam will be a real tear-fest."
The professor left, leaving behind a wave of murmurs of discontent.
"Argh, so annoying! Why do I have to learn all this? Written exams are a pain," grumbled one student.
"Finally over," exclaimed another.
"I was getting tired," added Chae Nayun, clearly exasperated.
The next class was "Anti-Monster Combat Training."
"I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a bit scared." Oreki couldn't deny that he was a bit apprehensive.
A loud voice cut through the noise of the room: "We'll meet at the field in 20 minutes!" It was Yi Yeonghan, Kim Suho's Support, known for his muscular build and gentle face. The instructor, aware of the conflict between Kim Suho and Shin Jonghak, chose him to be the class president.
"But I'd also be lying if I said I wasn't excited about this class."
As the students stood up and prepared for the next class, Oreki noticed Chae Nayun, still seated, rubbing her temples as if trying to ward off a headache. He hesitated for a moment, then decided to approach her.
"You really seem to hate this," he said casually, watching her organize her materials.
Chae Nayun looked up, annoyed at his proximity. "What do you want now?"
"Last time we talked, you seemed stressed," Oreki began, a faint smile on his lips. "I remember you were bothered by some things I said. Are you still having trouble with that?"
"I don't need your help," she replied coldly, "And you're still trying to give me advice on something you clearly don't understand."
"I understand more than you think," he retorted, his tone growing firmer. "In that conversation, you seemed to be searching for something, maybe even feeling insecure. Now, tell me: why is it so hard for you to accept help? What do you have to lose?"
Chae Nayun stiffened, her hatred palpable in her expression. "You're meddling in things that aren't your business."
"I'm not here to point out mistakes, just to offer an alternative," Oreki said, his tone now more intense. "And contrary to what you might think, I see a lot of untapped potential in you. And since we're discussing your resistance, maybe it's time to reconsider some things."
"Do you really think you can teach me lessons?" Chae Nayun yelled, her face turning red with anger. "You don't know anything about me!"
Oreki kept his gaze steady and challenging. "Maybe I don't know everything about you, but I can clearly see when someone is struggling against their own limitations. Sometimes, accepting help and changing can be the key to overcoming obstacles."
Chae Nayun clenched her fists, the tension in the air almost visible. "Don't expect me to accept your advice. I choose my own path, and I don't need a 'mentor' who barely knows my reality."
"Your pride is admirable," Oreki replied, his tone hardening. "You think you can do everything on your own, but even the strongest need support."
Chae Nayun stood up abruptly. "Don't count on it," she said, anger and frustration mingling in her voice.
Chae Nayun glared at him intensely for a moment before taking a step back. "You don't know anything about me. Stay out of my business."
"Let's see," Oreki responded, beginning to walk away. "The offer stands, but the choice is yours."
As he left, Chae Nayun remained where she was, taking deep breaths to calm herself. The interaction had left her more disturbed than she would have liked to admit.
Oreki started to move away, but Chae Nayun watched him with a determined gaze. The tension still lingered in the air as he departed, his thoughts tumultuous. Finally, she murmured to herself, a trembling smile on her lips. "This crazy guy really thinks I'm going to accept such nonsense."
***
After a 20-minute break, we went to the beginner's field. In the training area, some of the 100 students appeared nervous, while others were excited, exchanging jokes and conversations with their friends.
Kim Soohyuk, the instructor, made his entrance.
The cadets immediately lined up in ten columns in front of him.
"I'm sure you all know what this lesson is about, so I'll announce the teams without further explanation. Unless something special happens, this team will be the same until after the exams," Kim Soohyuk announced with an authoritative voice.
The team formation process was about to begin. The cadets were restless, anxious, and even a bit stressed about the exciting yet stressful selection process.
A team usually consisted of five members—two warriors, one sniper, one support, and one utilitarian. The warriors were typically close-range fighters like lancers or swordsmen, the snipers were long-range attackers, and the supports were people like Yoo Yeonha and Yi Yeonghan who either attacked others or supported the main attackers.
Finally, the support role was usually that of the mage. We would only train with them starting in the 2nd year. When a mage was added, the support would have an additional role in protecting the mage. After all, mages were important.
My role, if it doesn't change from the original novel, will be that of a sniper. I looked at the team table and came across the following ranking:
[Sniper (long-range) – Rank 4: Chae Nayun. Rank 9: Im Yeongjin … Rank 934: Oreki Houtarou, Rank 945: Oh Jiyun]
"That's not going to change, is it?" I thought with a hint of irony.
Kim Soohyuk announced.
"The team members will be selected fairly. Lower-ranked cadets will be paired with higher-ranked cadets."
Cubo's training classes were managed by the artificial intelligence developed by the Great Sage. As a result, there was no room for corruption or persuasion.
I could see the lamentable result with my own eyes.
[Team 1]
[Kim Suho / Kim Lang]
[Sung Seung-Un / Paine]
[Team 2]
[Demian / Rosen]
[Chun Lee / Chae Nayun]
…
…
[Team 5]
[Jin Hoseung / Hazuki]
[Oreki Houtarou / Yoo Yeonha]
"Damn, now that I see there's a Chun Lee here," I thought, with an internal laugh. "As if that wasn't enough, now I'll have to stand out more than Kim Hajin and catch the attention of the beloved 'sugar mommy'."
I looked towards Yoo Yeonha. Her eyes, which shone like jewels, briefly expressed deep disdain before the expression dissolved into a facade of perfect cordiality.
"What a great perfect girl facade," I thought, remembering that part of the readers' dislike for her was precisely this attitude. "I guess some readers really had reasons to dislike her at the beginning of the novel."
Yoo Yeonha approached with an elegant smile, her long hair swaying gently with each step. Her lips moved with almost theatrical precision.
"Nice to meet you," she said with a formal smile.
I took three steps to the side and moved a little away from Jin Hoseung.
"Hoseung-ssi."
He, a tall guy with dark skin and grayish hair, seemed to have a nearly pale expression.
"Oh, hello," he replied, his polite tone contrasting with his visible discomfort.
"Weren't we on the same team before?"
His way of speaking was very polite.
After exchanging only two sentences, Jin Hoseung began to sweat. Yoo Yeonha was a difficult person to talk to, and it wasn't just because of her past and insane personality. Yoo Yeonha and Shin Jonghak were a couple, but not officially. At this point, it's more like Yoo Yeonha's idiotic one-sided crush.
Observing Yoo Yeonha, I noticed that despite her unchanged expression towards others, her eyes revealed a slight disdain for having me on the team. "The subtle art of showing disdain," I thought.
"Oh, Hazuki-ssi is coming too," Hoseung mentioned, pointing to the girl I had met on the first day.
"Hello..." Hazuki, the Japanese cadet, approached with an expression that almost seemed on the verge of tears. The way Yoo Yeonha looked at her with disdain and then addressed her with a slightly impersonal tone made me think, "Tsk tsk, started off on the wrong foot, my dear Japanese companion."
"Who's the other person?" Yoo Yeonha asked, clearly uninterested.
"Me here," I replied casually.
Yoo Yeonha didn't seem to like people who lacked confidence and self-esteem, and I was the embodiment of the opposite. With a confidence that could be considered exaggerated, I approached them. Hazuki and Jin Hoseung turned to me, confused.
"Uh..." Hazuki tilted her head, as if trying to remember where she had seen me before.
"Ah, the guy who chose a gun," Jin Hoseung commented, his gaze nervous.
I observed Yoo Yeonha's expression. To an inattentive observer, she seemed unshakable, but I could perceive the slight tension she was trying to hide. "It's not every day someone puts her in an uncomfortable position," I thought with a hint of humor.
As we awaited instructions, my eyes wandered across the field and met Chae Nayun's. It was only for a moment, but it felt as though time had stopped. She quickly looked away, but not before I caught a mix of anger and confusion in her gaze.
"That was a bit embarrassing. It seemed like the author didn't know how to write a dialogue. Talking with Chae Nayun was a spontaneous yet calculated move. She has great potential and could be an important ally in the future. By strategically manipulating her and understanding her emotions, I can influence her when needed. Additionally, provoking her relieves boredom and makes things more interesting."
"I can't deny that I admire her strength and determination, even if they're misdirected. She has a hidden talent for the sword, something she's unaware of herself. Preparing her for the future isn't just a favor for her, but also for me. A powerful ally can be the difference between life and death in critical moments."
At that moment, Kim Soohyuk shouted loudly.
"There's no time for chit-chat. You should have received the coordinates and monster information you need to kill on your Smart Watch. Move out!"
Including the other classes participating, there were a total of 100 teams.
Our mission was simple: proceed to the given coordinates and eliminate the monster there. The ranking would be based on the speed and safety with which we completed the task.
Wiing—
As soon as the instructor's voice sounded, Yoo Yeonha projected her Smart Watch into the air.
[Stone Wolf 37° 31' 32"N]
The name and coordinates of the monster were displayed.
I looked at the name with a growing sense of surprise and unease. "Stone Wolf? That's something new," I thought, feeling a pang of frustration. "I was expecting it to be the same monster from the novel, but it seems the first significant change that wasn't caused by me has arrived."
"Considering the name, it's probably a monster with robust defense," I reflected. "My bullets might not be effective against it. I'll need to adjust my strategy and find a weakness."
Yoo Yeonha spoke curtly.
"Let's go. We can talk while we move."
***
In the next moment, we were running across a vast plain covered in rock fragments and small uneven mounds. The rough and unstable terrain made each step a challenge, even for the most experienced. Keeping pace with the others was difficult for me, but my corporeality skill helped me adjust my movements with precision. Still, the irregular terrain and maximum speed for 25 minutes were pushing me to my limits.
Despite this, all the physical effort caused me to slip on a loose rock and fall, forcing the group to stop.
"It's fine. What matters is whether we can kill the monster," Jin Hoseung said, offering me a bottle of water.
"He's right. Apparently, this is common when working with mages," Hazuki added, her Korean a bit hesitant as she tried to console me.
"I just need 40 seconds to recover, alright?" I asked, looking directly at Yoo Yeonha.
Jin Hoseung and Hazuki looked at Yoo Yeonha for confirmation, but she remained absorbed in the information about the Stone Wolf. Since she didn't seem to care, they eventually accepted and waited.
I decided to control my breathing and heart rate to recover. Meanwhile, I examined the Stone Wolf's information with my skill.
===
[Stone Wolf]
- Intermediate Rank Monster
- Special Traits:
The Stone Wolf has rock-like skin that resists physical attacks and can emit a roar that creates shockwaves, making enemy movement difficult. It also launches rock fragments as projectiles.
- Strategy:
Use fast and highly precise attacks to overcome the Stone Wolf's resistance. Maintain distance to avoid the impact of shockwaves and rock fragments. Focus on wearing down the monster and taking advantage of moments when it's vulnerable.
- Weakness:
The Stone Wolf is more vulnerable to magical and high-speed attacks. Some areas on its body are more fragile, and the neck has significantly less rock protection.
- Strength:
Resistance due to rock skin and the ability to launch rock fragments as projectiles.
===
As I recovered, I observed the group. Even with superior physiques, they were clearly struggling to run on the uneven terrain and with the shockwaves from the monster's roar. Every step was a battle against the unstable ground, and the loose rocks seemed to hinder their movement.
The additional difficulty made the mission more complex than it initially appeared.
"We can continue." I stood up, now somewhat recovered.
"Are you sure?" Hazuki asked with a worried expression on her face.
"Ah, Hazuki, how sweet of you to worry about me," I thought, flashing a wry smile.
"Yes, I'm fine now."
"You're holding up better than I expected," Yoo Yeonha commented, her voice mixing with a hint of genuine surprise.
"Did you expect me not to hold up?" I asked, unable to hide a mischievous smile.
"Honestly, I thought you would be a burden. But it seems I was wrong," she said, her expression blending disdain with a touch of recognition.
"I'm still a Cube cadet, and I intend to secure a good position," I retorted, trying to connect with the future 'sugar mommy.'
"Understood. You and I will keep our distance and launch quick attacks to wear down the Stone Wolf. Hazuki and Jin Hoseung will focus on absorbing the attacks and attacking the monster directly when it's vulnerable," Yoo Yeonha ordered confidently.
"Alright," I agreed.
Hazuki and Jin Hoseung also nodded, ready for the next stage.
"Well, we better hurry up. We've already wasted too much time here," Yoo Yeonha said, her gaze revealing a hint of competitiveness. "Apparently, she's trying to surpass Chae Nayun," I thought, noting the determination in her eyes.
As Yoo Yeonha spoke, I used my corporeality skill to optimize my running. I adjusted my posture and movement, increasing my speed and endurance. With improved coordination and reduced fatigue, the group resumed running toward the given coordinates, ready to face the challenge that awaited us.
***
"There it is."
After 6 minutes of running, we finally reached the provided coordinates. There was the Stone Wolf, a colossal beast with gray rock skin and a deep roar that made the ground tremble. The Stone Wolf was a much more intimidating challenge. Its thick rocks gleamed under the sunlight, and its presence commanded immediate respect.
"I'm ready. And you, Houtarou-ssi?" Yoo Yeonha asked as she hid behind a large rock. Jin Hoseung and Hazuki unsheathed their weapons, an axe and a katana, ready for battle.
I let out a sigh, feeling the tension of the moment, before touching my pistol with my right hand. The revolver was my trump card, and I was determined to use it to the best of my ability.
"Yes, I'm ready."
"When the Stone Wolf roars, rock fragments will be launched, and the terrain will be even more dangerous. Hazuki and Jin Hoseung, you will take on the wolf. I will handle the defense and ensure the Stone Wolf is distracted so you can attack safely…" Yoo Yeonha said, her tone demonstrating confidence.
I had an advantage with my revolver to deal with the fragments and secondary attacks. The priority now was to prepare the attack plan.
Although Yoo Yeonha wasn't ignoring my presence at this moment, it would only last until the end of the exam. I had to make a lasting impression on her, something that would make it difficult for her to forget me easily.
"Yoo Yeonha," I called out softly to get the attention of the other two as well. "We need to be quick and precise."
"Speak quickly," she replied, looking at me with a mildly skeptical expression.
"Time to make the most of Perseverance."
I channeled as much Perseverance as I could and also used my corporeality to adjust my posture, now giving off an air of greater seriousness and confidence.
"I'll handle clearing the rock fragments that the Wolf throws. Trust me." My voice was firm and filled with determination.
Yoo Yeonha's expression quickly showed disbelief at what I said.
She was about to respond, but I interrupted her.
"A revolver has high base power, which means it could easily eliminate the rock fragments thrown." I maintained a firm tone.
Yoo Yeonha scrutinized me closely, evaluating my words and expression. She seemed to ponder for a moment, then nodded.
Hazuki and Jin Hoseung watched us, not even thinking about intervening in this conversation.
"Alright, change of plans. Hazuki and Jin Hoseung will face the Stone Wolf, while you will handle the fragments and support the defense," Yoo Yeonha decided, her voice laden with authority.
Hazuki and Jin Hoseung accepted without hesitation, knowing the decision was Yoo Yeonha's.
I received curious looks from Hazuki and Jin Hoseung, but I didn't mind. I had a task to accomplish, and I was ready to make my mark on this mission.
"Then let's get started."
As soon as her words echoed, Jin Hoseung and Hazuki advanced toward the Stone Wolf. Jin Hoseung, with a powerful roar, drew the monster's attention.
"Kueeeeek!"
The Wolf lowered its head and launched rock fragments in our direction.
BOOM!!
A muffled explosion filled the air, and dozens of rock fragments flew toward us. Jin Hoseung and Hazuki moved away to avoid the fragments, while Yoo Yeonha prepared to use her magical whip.
"I'll rely on you," she said before moving to a defensive position.
"When I tell you to go, you will act with Hazuki and the others." Quickly, I pulled two pistols from the holsters I was carrying.
"This will tire me out."
I activated my Corporeality and entered an enhanced flow state. The moment the skill took effect, the world around me slowed down. The rock fragments moved in slow motion, their trajectories and paths becoming extremely visible.
Each fragment seemed to float in the air, and my mind, now perfectly synchronized with the slowed rhythm of time, analyzed their paths with meticulous precision. The rocks moved slowly enough for me to accurately calculate the impact positions and the speed at which they approached.
I observed the trajectory of each fragment in detail, noting how each was projected toward us. With refined precision, I determined the exact point where each fragment would intersect with my group, as well as the most critical areas needing immediate protection.
Having identified which fragments posed a real threat, I began calculating the exact positions for my shots. The bullets needed to hit the fragments with perfect timing to prevent any from causing harm.
Time resumed its normal speed. With the vision and calculations still fresh in my mind, I began firing. Each bullet was carefully aligned with the exact positions of the dangerous fragments. The bullets traveled with clock-like precision, hitting the critical fragments at the exact points I had predicted.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5... 39.
The bullets eliminated the fragments with lethal precision, each one struck at the exact moment to ensure the group's safety.
The battlefield cleared, with no more threatening fragments, and the dust from the broken fragments still lingering in the air, as Yoo Yeonha and the others looked on in surprise.
"Go." My voice came out hoarse, the effort visible.
"… Huh?"
Among the broken rock fragments and the light dust in the air, Hazuki and Jin Hoseung were momentarily stunned.
"Hey!"
"… Huh?"
"It's your turn."
"Ah, yes, let's go, Jin Hoseung!"
Quickly and surprisingly shaking off their daze, Hazuki shouted at the top of her lungs, snapping Jin Hoseung and Yoo Yeonha out of their stupor. They charged at the now exposed and vulnerable Stone Wolf.
Each magazine holds 20 bullets. But that was irrelevant as I began to reload my weapons and kept my attention on the surroundings.
Yoo Yeonha's long whip lashed out and grabbed the Stone Wolf's front hump.
Kieek—
With a sharp cry, a small and sturdy Stone Cricket leapt out from behind the rocks. The cricket, covered in rocky armor, advanced toward Yoo Yeonha. I fired a precise shot. The magical bullet hit the Stone Cricket, shattering its armor and scattering rock fragments and dirt everywhere.
Yoo Yeonha tried to activate her magical power to shield herself but couldn't completely avoid the cloud of dust and small debris that spread around.
"Ugh…"
She tried to quickly clean the grime while returning to the fight.
A laugh escaped my lips at the sight. I noticed the murderous look Yoo Yeonha shot in my direction but she ignored the irritation, focusing on the battle.
A whip-like appendage joined the sword and axe, all working together as they 'danced' with the tentacles of the giant octopus.
Although I wanted to grab some popcorn and watch the show, I stayed in my support role.
The Stone Wolf roared with immense force, shaking the ground with shockwaves and launching rock fragments with destructive precision. The environment was saturated with tension and chaos. The group struggled to stay upright on the rugged terrain as the wolf continued to bombard the area with brutal attacks.
"Let's see how you handle this," I whispered to myself, preparing my pistols.
The wolf advanced with crushing force, its rock fragment attacks destroying the ground and forcing the group to move constantly. Jin Hoseung and Hazuki were struggling to get closer to the creature, while Yoo Yeonha tried to keep the wolf under control with her magically charged whip.
Suddenly, the wolf roared with tremendous force, releasing a shockwave that knocked Jin Hoseung and Hazuki down. The ground around us trembled, and large rocks began rolling toward us. "Watch out!" I yelled, pointing at the approaching rocks.
Jin Hoseung and Hazuki quickly got up and moved to dodge the rocks.
Meanwhile, Yoo Yeonha used her whip to strike at the wolf's front legs, trying to create an opening for a more effective attack. Each whip strike glowed with magical power, cutting through the wolf's rocky hide, but the creature showed no signs of weakness and continued to hurl rock fragments with ferocity.
"He's throwing rock fragments too frequently. We need to create an opening for a more effective attack," I thought, watching the wolf's movements. "I need to find a way to neutralize these shockwaves and fragments."
The wolf roared again, and a new shockwave hit the group, knocking Hazuki down and sending rocks that forced Jin Hoseung to retreat. The group was struggling to hold their ground, and the pressure was mounting.
"Hazuki, Jin Hoseung, focus on distracting him when he's about to roar!" I shouted, my voice filled with urgency. "Yoo Yeonha and I will attack during the pause!"
Hazuki and Jin Hoseung, with visible effort, began attacking more intensely, delivering powerful blows and trying to divert the wolf's attention. Yoo Yeonha continued creating distractions with her whip while I prepared for a more precise strike.
"Yoo Yeonha, use your whip to distract the wolf. I'll try to find a weak spot in its rocky hide," I suggested.
"Be careful not to expose yourself too much," Yoo Yeonha replied with her usual commanding tone.
As I attacked, I began firing at the less protected areas of the wolf's rocky hide, focusing on spots where the rock fragments seemed less dense. However, the wolf was becoming increasingly aggressive, and its shockwaves were becoming more frequent.
Suddenly, a particularly strong shockwave hit directly at my position. The impact hit me hard, and I was thrown away, the world spinning around me. The pain was intense, and my vision began to blur, but nothing I couldn't recover from. I could see the wolf attacking me harder as I tried to recover, almost knocking myself out.
Pain enveloped me as I lay on the ground, stunned by the devastating force of the Stone Wolf's attack. The world around me spun uncontrollably, and I struggled to regain consciousness.
My field of vision was blurry, but I could see fragments of battle all around me: Yoo Yeonha, Hazuki, and Jin Hoseung were struggling to stay on their feet, fighting against the waves of the rocky monstrosity.
The view of the battle was hazy, but I could clearly hear Yoo Yeonha's voice cutting through the air with determination. "Hazuki, Jin Hoseung, let's quickly devise a strategy!" The sound of her voice, even through the haze of pain, seemed to weigh on my shoulders like an anchor of guilt.
"What was I doing here? I was an essential part of the group, but I'm just a hindrance," I thought, my anguish growing by the second.
The wolf continued to attack with immense force, and I, lying on the ground, was helpless. The frustration and despair were almost unbearable. "How could I be so weak? I was given a talent, but now, when I needed it most, I couldn't do anything to stop the attack."
Hazuki and Jin Hoseung, still recovering from the shockwaves, approached, their faces clearly showing their exhaustion. "What do we have in mind?" Hazuki asked, her voice tense but distant.
Yoo Yeonha shouted orders, but her words reached me muffled and distant. The chaos of the battle seemed to consume me, and my mind was in a whirlwind of dark thoughts. The anger inside burned, not against the wolf, but against myself, for my failure to be useful.
"Why am I so weak? Why do I always get in the way when I get excited?"
The feeling of helplessness and frustration intertwined with a new, strange and unfamiliar feeling.
"I am a burden. While they fight, I'm just here watching without being able to do anything." The thought seemed to echo in my mind, intensifying the feeling of inadequacy.
Then, this strange feeling inside me began to intensify, and something began to change. The connection with the environment became clearer.
I felt the earth around me, as if I could see through it. Each fragment of rock vibrated with its own energy, and this energy was becoming clearer and clearer to me.
"What is this? I'm feeling… the environment, the earth around me?"
The connection with the earth deepened, and a new sense of power began to emerge within me.
"I can sense... where everyone is," I thought, my mind clearing as the connection with the earth deepened. "Jin Hoseung is to the left, drawing the wolf's attention, trying to fend off the fragments. Hazuki is dodging the fragments and closing in on the wolf. Yoo Yeonha is behind, using her whip to attack the wolf's vulnerable area."
The invisible map unfolding in my mind showed the precise locations of each of them, and the wolf was in constant motion, its shockwaves vibrating through the ground as a constant threat. Each roar and movement of the creature was transmitted through the vibrations in the ground, allowing me to understand its position and attack patterns.
Feeling the frustration and anger dissolve, a new energy began to emerge within me. Unknowingly, a warm energy flowed from my hand and infused into a bullet from my pistol with a reddish glow. The heat emanated from it, and I realized something was different.
"I don't know what the hell this is, but I'm going to use it," I thought as I struggled to focus. The scope was shaking in my hands, and the wolf was moving erratically. I needed a vulnerable spot to hit, and the only visible area was a faint hole in the wolf's rocky hide where previous attacks had caused damage.
My fingers sweated as I adjusted the aim, trying to align the gun with the weak point. The wolf was spinning and roaring, and each movement caused my vision to blur. I took a deep breath, trying to concentrate the rising energy into the bullet. Each time the creature moved, the aim shifted, forcing me to correct the target.
Finally, with a monumental effort, I managed to align the aim with the hole in the wolf's hide.
"Go to hell." My voice came out hoarse and strained from my throat.
I squeezed the trigger, and the bullet fired with a small but powerful explosion. The bullet struck the weak point with precision, and a small explosion erupted upon impact.
The wolf roared in pain, rock fragments loosening with the force of the impact. The explosion disrupted the creature's movements, causing significant pain and allowing my allies to capitalize on the opening.
With the wolf weakened and its movements disturbed by the bullet's explosion, the group saw a crucial opportunity. Hazuki, seizing the moment of vulnerability, advanced with her katana in hand.
She made a swift move, dodging more rock fragments heading her way. Her eyes were fixed on the now dazed and staggering wolf. With a swift draw of her sword, Hazuki delivered a decisive blow, cutting deeply into the creature's rocky hide. The impact was violent, and the katana tore a large wound, creating a clean cut.
The wolf roared in agony, its strength seemingly diminishing as blood and rock fragments spread. It began to falter, its movements becoming erratic and uncontrollable.
Yoo Yeonha, recognizing the opening created by Hazuki, didn't hesitate. She swung her whip with intense magical brilliance, her eyes fixed on the weak point she had previously identified. The wolf's neck, covered by a thinner layer of rock and apparently vulnerable, was her target.
With lethal precision, Yoo Yeonha struck. The whip gleamed with a bluish light, charged with powerful magical energy. She launched it with precision, the whip cutting through the air with a sharp sound. When the whip hit the wolf's neck, it penetrated deeply, the magical energy intensifying the damage and exploding in a wave of force that delivered a devastating blow.
The wolf let out a final roar of pain and collapsed on the ground, its massive form trembling before finally crumbling. The surrounding area was covered in dust and rock fragments, signaling the end of the battle.
Yoo Yeonha took a deep breath, her shoulders relaxing as she pulled in the whip. She looked at the battlefield, sweat trickling from her forehead as she wiped away a drop of effort and relief.
Hazuki and Jin Hoseung approached, both panting but victorious. Hazuki quickly scanned the area, while Jin Hoseung let out a sigh of relief, his exhausted expression mixed with a satisfied smile.
"Good job, everyone," Yoo Yeonha said, her voice firm and full of respect.
Still lying on the ground, I felt a mix of exhaustion and relief. The newly discovered power within me was a new source of hope. I was finally starting to understand my place in the battle.
[Training complete. Elapsed time: 5 minutes and 33 seconds.]
Oreki merely nodded, holstering his pistols. He knew he had made an impression for now. It was time to recover.
"…"
Now that the battle was over, Yoo Yeonha closed her eyes.
The lower part of her body, near her feet, was dirty with dust and rock fragments. After a sigh, she pulled out a handkerchief from her pocket and cleaned them.
Then she turned to me and approached.
"Excuse me."
Her eyes were smiling, but they didn't seem very friendly. While I sat on the ground, sweating and catching my breath, I met her gaze, struggling not to laugh. The hidden anger in her eyes was almost palpable.
When it was said she hated having her body and clothes get dirty, it wasn't a joke.
"You didn't need to worry. I can handle monsters of that level just fine. In fact, quite cleanly."
"It's not my fault; blame my reflexes."
"Because of you, my clothes ended up dirty." Yoo Yeonha's bloodlust and anger were becoming more apparent.
"Well, if it's any consolation, maybe this dust and rock fragments are the new fashion. I mean, who needs a stylist when you can have an exclusive collection of 'post-battle disaster'?"
"Do you find that funny?" She raised an eyebrow, the anger clear in her voice.
"I find many things funny. Like seeing you try to clean dirt while we're in the middle of a battle. As Albert Einstein said, priorities are relative."
"Houtarou…" Yoo Yeonha said in a warning tone, her patience clearly wearing thin.
"Okay, okay, sorry. Next time, I'll try to explode the enemies in a way that also helps preserve your visual integrity. I promise."
She narrowed her eyes at me, but before she could respond, an energetic warrior ran toward me.
"Houtarou-san, you were amazing," Hazuki said, admiring my shooting speed, not even realizing she was speaking in Japanese.
Another warrior came over, more relaxed.
"Man, you were dazzling," he said with the same tone of admiration.
"I didn't do anything special, just hindered the monster. You guys did the heavy lifting."
"But without your help, especially at the end of the fight, it would have been much harder to defeat the Wolf." Despite my response, their admiration didn't wane.
They continued to praise me until I started to accept it.
"It looks like it's time to head back. You were still incredible." Jin Hoseung bid farewell with that final statement. Hazuki went along with him.
I simply raised my hand in farewell.
I looked back, finding Yoo Yeonha examining the wolf's remains. As she sighed, she turned and looked at me.
"Hmmm, sorry?"
Her face showed a smile, but her eyes showed the complete opposite. I looked into her eyes.
"Could you not look at me with that smile while your eyes show extreme anger?"
"I'm not angry."
"Your eyes show the complete opposite."
We stared at each other firmly for a while.
Until I gave up and got up.
"If it's going to be like this, I'm leaving. It was nice being on your team, bye-bye."
Without looking back, I walked in the same direction as the warriors. Whether she said something or not, I didn't know.
***
[Total time: 39 minutes and 29 seconds. Position: 8/100.]
"At least it's above 10."
"Look, Houtarou-san, we made it into the top 10."
I was with Hazuki, who was very excited about our position, while Yoo Yeonha didn't seem too happy, as she ranked below Chae Nayun.
"Yes, with Yoo Yeonha as the leader, and you and Jin Hoseung as warriors, you make a great combination." I wasn't entirely satisfied with the position, but it was better than being lower.
"But you did a great job too. You managed to hit a weak spot on the wolf that made it explode. That was incredible."
Just from the few interactions I had with Hazuki, it was clear she was someone very enthusiastic. What's my problem with people like her? I always seem to attract someone like that.
"Forget it, it wasn't that impressive. It was tiring to do that. Besides, my chest hurts."
We continued talking with each other for a while.
"Drones filmed everything. The footage will be sent to your smartwatches. It will include how fast or slow you were in hunting your monster, your team's compatibility with the monster, and how you could improve for next time. This will be part of your score."
Kim Soohyuk made a lengthy statement. Yoo Yeonha slightly turned her head and looked back. A man with green eyes yawned casually, resting his hand on his cheek.
"Hm?" I noticed Yoo Yeonha's gaze on me: "I'll at least give a wave."
She frowned slightly and looked ahead. After a moment, she got up and walked over to the chair where Chae Nayun was. I shifted my attention away from them, already knowing what they would discuss.
Oreki wasn't paying attention to the two, focused on his own thoughts and recovering from the training.
"Hey, Houtarou-san," Hazuki interrupted my thoughts, "don't you really think it was impressive? Because I thought it was amazing!"
"If impressive means tiring and dirty, then yes, it was impressive."
Hazuki laughed, but didn't seem discouraged. "You really can't accept a compliment, can you?"
"I accept compliments. I just prefer those accompanied by coffee. You know, to help deal with reality."
"They should give an award for best sarcastic humor," she replied, still smiling.
"Oh, but then I'd win every day. And where would be the fun in that?"
Hazuki laughed again, her energy infectious. I looked at Yoo Yeonha once more, now engaged in conversation with Chae Nayun, and shrugged. Even if she was frustrated with the dirt and the position, I knew I'd keep doing my best—and maybe provoke a few more laughs along the way.
***
Late at night, returning from training and dragging myself to my room, feeling like my muscles were about to make their way to Heaven. "Damn, my muscles are going on a tour of paradise." They were so sore I couldn't tell if it was because of my new body or because I'd never practiced weightlifting, but it didn't matter. I was dragging myself to my room to rest.
"Ugh"
Arriving in my room, I opened the door and went straight to sit on the couch. I paused for a few minutes, then "implanted" my phone in my mind to check my gains.
[Your brain and body are synchronizing even more, you gain 15% in your corporeality.]
[Perception increases by 0.06.]
Nice perception gain.
[Through training, your strength increases by 0.08.]
[Through training, your endurance increases by 0.08.]
[Through exercise, your vitality increases by 0.1.]
[Mana mysteriously merges your torn muscle fibers! Your strength, endurance, and vitality increase by 0.02!]
[Congratulations!!!! You have awakened your gift.]
[Your connection with the elements increases, granting you 19% in your Arcanolement.]
Perseverance is as broken an attribute as luck. There's no way I could have endured a 2-hour-and-30-minute training session with maximum concentration before.
I close all the messages without reading them to the end and take the fatigue recovery drink from my bag.
[Fatigue Recovery Drink]
– Restores the body from fatigue. Contains a small amount of tempered mana.
===
As I drank it, I felt its cool, minty freshness. Good.
At this moment, Yoo Yeonha must be analyzing the combat from the training and talking with Shin Jonghak.
I need to prepare for the events that will occur in the near and distant future.
I'll do some meditation to enhance the effects of the drink with my corporeality and then think about everything I can do.
=====
I thank AshlesSmiley for identifying the writing errors.
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
Nilloen
Nilloen I honestly don’t really remember how this chapter turned out. But while writing it, I realized that there’s still a lot to improve when it comes to writing dialogues and fight scenes.
If you’re up for it, I’d love to hear what you think about the story so far. But if you’d rather not comment, that’s totally okay.
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