'There's not as much as I thought, huh?'
I grabbed the pirate ship, which had been cut in half, and shook it, as if shaking off the remaining snacks in the bag. The pirates remaining inside poured out into the weightless space. Regardless of whether they were alive or dead, they all entered my three-parted mouth.
'Tsk.'
Perhaps because of its size, dozens of pirates can't even get through it. The heads on the left and right also licked the corners of their mouths with their tongues, as if they were not satisfied.
｢Big Adult｣｢Glutton｣｢Glutton｣
Aadhai, who was in a good mood after catching and eating a pirate, walked around near me and made fun of me.
｢You can't make fun of a big baby.｣ ｢Gorgeous｣｢Fact｣
Number 26, who was being held in the small arms near his chest, seemed to not like Aadhai's attitude, so he created tentacles from his body. And then he hit the little Gallagon on the head.
No, I tried to hit him. Adhani moved nimbly and avoided the tentacles, so the attack was ineffective.
｢Little Adult｣｢Attack｣｢Prediction｣｢Easy｣｢Now｣｢Not right｣ ｢Really?｣ ｢?｣ ｢Really? really? really? really? Really?" "Wait a minute" "That" "A bit" "It's a lot" "It's okay because small babies avoid it well." "That" "That's disgusting"
Number 26, now in battle mode, slipped out of my arms and started chasing after Aadhai.
I left the two of them playing together and robbed the ship to see if there were any pirates left.
At that time, the Mother of Heaven emerged from another wreckage. In her griffon form, she flew towards me with her agate-colored wings spread.
｢I found something strange while organizing.｣ [Zuzuzuz (strange thing?)]
She showed me what she was holding in her beak.
Between 60cm and 70cm in length, a thin and elongated design in a rectangular shape, a green rail on the front, a small terminal pad mounted on the top, and finally a small trigger and shoulder rest.
They all matched the characteristics of the objects I had seen so many times while playing games.
'Plasma rifle?'
By definition, the history of plasma weapons is the history of lightweighting and stabilization.
Plasma weapons, developed for the purpose of space warfare between ships, had tremendous firepower, but also had many drawbacks. Because of its large size and high energy consumption, it was difficult to handle unless it was a military spacecraft.
Afterwards, after continuous research, the size of plasma weapons gradually decreased.
The results of successful size improvements were the plasma launcher, plasma bolter, and pistol.
However, if we consider them to be a complete success, there are some subtle aspects.
First of all, bolters are difficult to use without wearing reinforced clothing due to their weight and recoil. Plasma pistols have poor safety and their production cost is extremely high. In the case of the launcher, it is out of the question since it was originally developed as a squad support weapon.
However, there is one plasma weapon that completely improves these shortcomings.
That is the weapon that the Heavenly Mother showed me, the plasma rifle.
It is a perfect weapon that receives passing marks in terms of weight, firepower, and safety.
The firepower is greater than that of a bolter, and there is almost no recoil. It is also light enough that a trained soldier can carry it for a long period of time. It is also safe and is made of rare metal, so it is not easily damaged even after long-term use.
However, due to the high production costs and the high level of technology required for production, only the top megacorp players can make them in the game. This is not particularly strange since it is a weapon classified as the highest tech in the system.
Also, in the game, the plasma rifle was set as a weapon used only on Earth and Mars. This is because the seven families, concerned about leakage of manufacturing technology, strictly control its use only on designated planets.
'But why is it here?' [Zuzuzu zuzuzzu zuzuzzu zuzzuzu (pirates have plasma rifles?)] ｢Yes. "Not all, but one person was holding it."
Of course, thanks to the game's ability to trade between players, it was easy to see mercenaries armed with plasma rifles everywhere.
But that's a story in the game. If I were a high-ranking member of Megacorp, I would somehow try to prevent the shipment of the plasma rifle.
[Zuzuzzu zuzuzu zuzu zuzu (These guys robbed the ship of the solar system?)] ｢No way. You wouldn't know it if they had thousands of battleships, but it's absolutely impossible at their level." [Zuzuzuz zuzu zuzu zuzuzuzuzu (but they don't even look like they're from Earth)] "Maybe they're pirates related to the player."
As she inferred, in fact, in the current situation, it is rather unnatural to think that these pirates have no relationship with the player.
However, there are some ambiguous parts.
'For those holding precious weapons, they are too weak.'
Among the rankers who have fought so far, none have issued plasma rifles to their subordinates. Looking at that, it probably means that it is not as easy to use a rifle as it is in the game.
It was clearly suspicious that these low-level pirates were carrying weapons that even rankers could not easily obtain.
'Besides, this isn't a particularly important star system.'
There are no particularly rare resources here, and it does not have any significant military value. The reason we stopped while traveling at faster than light speed was to grab snacks. Considering that we didn't meet any other ships on the way here, it was hard to believe that it was a star system controlled by pirates.
'I'll have to ask the kids too.'
While I was attacking the pirate ship, a few pirates crossed over to the mining ship. There might be one among them with a plasma rifle.
I bit into the outer wall of the mining ship with my three mouths. He tore off the solid outer wall and stuck his head inside.
The moment I was about to scatter the waves with the monster's tentacles, with my head down in the hallway.
A long figure appeared from the other side of the hallway lit with red emergency lights. It was Isabel, a being with a long snake-like body and dozens of arms.
The guy had the pirate in his mouth and was about to swallow it when his eyes met mine. One of several hands was seen holding a plasma rifle.
[Zuzuz, zuzuzu, zuzuzu, zuzuzu (there was a plasma rifle here too)]
The guy who heard me spit out the cyborg pirate he was holding. The unconscious man was in a state of complete disrepair even though he was wearing a reinforced suit. The guy who picked up the food he had spit out approached me.
"I took it just in case. "I guess there was a pirate ship over there too." [Zuzuzuzu (Are you okay?)] "I got hit once or twice, but I'm okay."
The guy floating in the air rotated his body gracefully. There were scorch marks on the chrome scales covering its body, but they were not seriously damaged.
'Is it because they used the Ring of Anguish as a material? It's pretty sturdy.'
I was hit by a plasma rifle, but the damage was only moderate, so I don't think you need to worry too much.
[Zuz zuzu zuzuzu (Is there anything else besides this?)]
In response to my question, the guy shook his head to the side. Then he lifted the pirate in his hand.
"This guy was holding a rifle. "I think he's the boss." [Zuzu (really?)]
That's good news.
With my head out, I inserted my fighting arm into the hole I had drilled in the mining ship. A strengthened parasite emerged from a hole in the arm and moved toward its new home. After a while, the parasite that had completed its move sent a wave to me.
[Zuzzuzu zuzu zuzu zuzuzuzu (I'm sorry, but please interrogate me for me)]
Since I am quite large, it is not easy to interrogate pirates in outer space. After leaving it to Mother Heaven, I looked again at the wreckage of the pirate ship floating here and there.
'I wonder if there's anything unusual about it.'
We had already confirmed before the attack that the pirate ship was poorly armed. As expected, nothing unusual was found.
'Wait, there's nothing?'
At that moment, the characteristics of Space Dog came to mind. Pirates usually paint their ships with the cartel's unique mark. This is because it is necessary to avoid fights between pirates.
However, there was no cartel mark visible on this ship.
'Did it get erased when I broke it?'
Even small debris was checked, but there was no trace of paint on the exterior wall.
'They have plasma rifles and don't even have pirate marks.'
I don't know what they're doing, but I think we need to get out of here quickly.
At that moment, the parasite on the head of the pirate leader sent me a signal. After finishing the interrogation, Mother of Heaven, Isabel, and PS-111 escaped through the hole I made.
[Zuzu Zuzu (What happened?)] ｢…I think it has something to do with the players.｣ [Zuzu Zuzuzu Zuzuzu Zuzu Zuzuzu Zuzu Zuzuzuzu (It probably has something to do with where we are going, right?)] "They say there are no Space Dog rankers in the Returned Sect, so that's probably not true. Oh, and look at this."
When she nodded, Isabel came up to my head and held out a small piece of cloth she was holding in her hand. The piece of cloth that looked like an insignia had the pirate cartel mark I was looking for drawn on it.
But there's something strange about Mark's appearance. Their mark was not a picture but letters.
[Zuzu Zuzu Zuzu (Isn't this Japanese?)] "That's right. Japanese on the front, Chinese on the back. The leader said he was the leader of the Shinoroku (しの六) cartel."
Speaking of Japanese, there is a player that comes to mind. This is Akira Eugene, a Megacorp ranker with an arrogant and vicious personality.
'Is it related to 3rd place?' "The composition of their cartel is a bit unusual. Unlike regular pirates, they formed an alliance. When I asked, a total of six cartels were united." [Zuzuz, Zuzuzu, Zuzuzuzu, Zuzuzu, Zuzuzuzuzuzu (Is that why the number six is in the name?)] "Yes. The leader said he received this weapon from Cartel No. 1."
According to the information I heard from Jason before, the third person is the head of the Eugene family. He may have used the power of the head of the family to organize pirates and provide them with weapons.
'The person who organized the cartel must also be a ranker.'
In order to control pirates who love betrayal, there must be a ranker. Space Dog Ranker, who cooperates with Akira, is leading them.
[Zuzuzu zuzuzu zuzu (What is their purpose?)] ｢I asked, but there is no special purpose. Steadily looting a designated area using weapons. That's it." [Zuzzuzuzu (What about other cartels?)] "They say they move independently and don't know what they do on a daily basis. "There is almost no interaction other than regular contact."
The pirate leader, whose weapons were only better than his skills, did not know much. Because of this, it was not revealed what their true purpose was.
'Still, I'm glad we found it before we got hit.'
Just knowing in advance that the ruling faction is plotting something is a blessing in disguise.
[Zuzuzu Zuzuzu Zuzuzuzu Zuzuzu Zuzu (We can't get caught that we met with them)] ｢We already destroyed the ship, what are we going to do?｣ [Zuzuz Zuzuzu Zuzuzu Zuzuzuzu Zuzu (There's a new ship over there, too. You can just move it to)]
The most important person, the leader, is still alive, and the two plasma rifles are also intact.
Additionally, there are still crew members remaining inside the mining ship. That's because I called PS-111 and Isabelle while they were organizing the personnel.
If you plant parasites on the crew of a mining ship and disguise them as pirates, you will be able to avoid their pursuit.
Once you have decided on your thoughts, the next step is action.
My kids and I worked together to find the crew members inside the mining ship and infect them with parasites. Among the survivors, there were some who were not infected, but were left alone. Since their numbers are small and all escape ships have been destroyed, there is nothing they can do.
After finishing everything, I instructed the parasites to follow their designated route and move as they had done before. Even if I go far away, the parasites follow my orders to the end.
"Humans go far."
The pirate ship became smaller and smaller, leaving No. 26 innocently waving its tentacles behind.
'good.'
When I encounter pirates in the future, I will ask them if they know anything about the cartel alliance. Since pirate alliances aren't common, there must be someone who knows.
After sending the pirates away, I set off on a faster-than-light voyage with the kids on board.
My body, wrapped in blue energy, transcends light and even space. The stars and darkness in my field of vision are mixed together like different paints.
It's an amazingly beautiful sight, but if you look at it in vain, you'll be in trouble. Every second my body passes through the stars. You must continue to pay attention to your jumping route in order to arrive at your target location safely.
How much time has passed?
The swirl of brilliant stars subsided and a red glow filled its place. An aging star was emitting its last light in the darkness of space.
The name of the red giant star, which boasts an overwhelming size compared to the Sun, is 'Olga'.
The Returned Sect's weapons management ranker is hiding on one of the planets under the light of that old sun.
-x-X-x-
'Once we arrived at Doran's star system.'
Before I came here, PS-111 told me: The fourth closest planet to the red giant star 'Olga' is Asuka 44.
"When we arrive, will you let me out?"
Just as he was about to search, the monster's tentacles detected a thought wave.
The Heavenly Mother in the mouth of the central head spoke to me.
Currently, the children are in my mouth, which is divided into three parts. It was to move with everyone. Aadhai and the Mother of Heaven, capable of faster-than-light navigation, are likewise within my elongated snout.
[Zuzuzu zuzuzuzu (when you arrive at the planet)]
｢…Ha, okay.｣
She has previously been covered in spit by the left side of her head, which was torn apart by self-immolation. The reason why she, who was disgusted and disliked her at that time, did not come separately was because of her physical strength.
After obtaining the agate-colored wings, you can use faster-than-light navigation even in Griffon form, but it consumes a considerable amount of stamina.
To cross dozens or hundreds of star systems, you have to stop at every stop and eat a lot of food. I've had this happen a few times before, but this is the first time it's been stuck in my mouth for this long.
That's why it seems to be harder to bear.
'Before I left, I said I would transform into another phantom beast.'
She can transform into a total of 4 types of phantom beasts excluding Griffon by using her unique perk, 'Hunting God's Transformation Shell'.
Currently, there are three types of transformations she can unlock. 'Chimera', a phantom beast with the greatest fighting power, was acquired thanks to the help of my deceased husband 'Father of the Earth' before I met him.
Other than that, the wendigo and the last phantom beast were obtained while he was with me.
The most recently unlocked Hwansoo is a Hwansoo that specializes in flight and movement, so it is possible to travel at faster than light speeds for long periods of time with little energy.
'But the combat power is not that good.'
In addition, once you use the Hunting God's Transformation Shell, you will not be able to transform into any other phantom beast except Gryphon for 30 days. Now we are on our way to meet Ranker.
You can't waste perks when it's not important. Because she knew that, she had no choice but to quietly enter my mouth.
｢Middle baby doesn't like it here?｣
｢Ugly friend｣｢Wet things｣｢Hates it｣
｢Do you want me to wipe it with water?｣
｢No. It's okay, just a little tentacle.」
I can feel their movements on my gums and tongue. This is in contrast to PS-111 and Isabel on the right and left sides of the head, who cannot even move.
Those two are so big that they can barely fit in your mouth.
'Then should we hurry?'
I activated the psychic ability-related fusion trait 'Dark Shroud'.
A thick black mist spewed out from biological pipes attached to various parts of the back, arms, and legs. This fog is composed of special substances that disable various detection systems.
If you move under the protection of fog, you can avoid enemy surveillance. If you arrive and see that no one shows up, you might not need to use it, but you never know. I moved in search of my destination with only my head slightly sticking out of the curtain that was darker than outer space.
An old celestial body boasting an overwhelming size is constantly showing its presence by burning itself. The bonfire that illuminates all things that appears in mythology is probably an expression referring to that old sun. The stars of life that have been burning for nearly eternity are now about to burn out, and the end of countless stars that have enjoyed their light is also approaching.
Some stars became a source of nourishment for dying stars, while others will continue to live until the final day approaches. Birth, life and death were the same as living things or stars. Of course, the difference in scale is enormous.
'I never thought I would be able to see such a wonderful scenery in person.'
I moved forward, feeling the wonders of nature that I could never see in a human body. As I flapped my wings across space, I saw planets orbiting around Olga.
'Is it there?'
Planets are so small compared to stars that they look like dust at first glance. Among them, you can see a star shining softly in dark red. I approached the target, making sure there were no other ships or satellites nearby.
'There are only faster-than-light communication satellites, no surveillance satellites.'
I gradually increased my speed and approached the planet presumed to be Asuka 44.
As we approached the planet, we saw a number of cult warships. Seeing it moving along the planet's orbit, it appeared to be a defense fleet.
Protected by a veil of darkness, I bypassed the fleet and entered the planet's atmosphere. As we reached the atmosphere, the auxiliary organ under my chin tingled. I didn't do this to warn me of a crisis.
This is because the toxicity of sulfur dioxide, which makes up the atmosphere, and the volcanic ash generated by constant volcanic activity stimulated the auxiliary organs.
Immediately, intense heat and pressure assaulted my body. It seems like a volcano erupted at the point I was going down.
'I guess it worked out better.'
If I hide in the volcanic eruptions and go down to the surface, they won't be able to detect me. I lifted the veil of darkness and flew into the volcanic ash that covered the atmosphere.
A volcanic bomb measuring more than tens of meters collided with me and shattered. As a result, the surface of the carapace was partially damaged, but it was not a serious injury. Because it was so mild that there was no pain relief.
｢What is that pounding outside?｣ ｢Scales｣｢Hot｣
｢Wait. This smell, are you really inside an exploding volcano?」
[zuzuzu zuzu zuzuzu zuzuzuzuzu (If you do this, the enemies won't even notice)]
｢…Ugh.」
The guys riding in the spout also felt the change outside. I muttered.
As we descended through a barrage of pitch-black volcanic ash and volcanic bombs, we soon got closer to the surface. As with all volcanic planets, Asuka 44 also had an environment that could easily be described as hell.
No matter where you looked, it was full of boiling lava, and the ground was pitch black due to volcanic ash and hardened lava.
'It's amazing that there are creatures living in a place like this.'
As you can see, the volcanic planet has a very harsh environment, so the characteristics of the creatures that inhabit it are also considerable. It is very different from an ice planet where weak and strong creatures are evenly mixed.
At that time, a creature running away from the volcanic eruption caught my eye.
The name of the beast that tramples without heeding the flowing lava is Vulkarox. It is a bull-like carnivore with three horns and skin that shines like hot bronze.
Although it does not occupy a very high position in the planet's ecosystem, it is not an easy enemy. Its charge is powerful enough to easily surpass the firepower of a plasma launcher.
'It doesn't mean anything to me right now.'
With my wings spread wide, I flew over Vulkarox, who was furiously rushing through the river of lava.
The guy noticed the shadow covering him and increased his speed even further. Just as I was about to pounce on my prey, my auxiliary organs detected another creature. A mysterious attacker emerged from a river of lava that was so long that the end could not be seen and attacked Volkarox.
An ugly creature with two legs, a long bifurcated tail, and a five-pronged mouth like a starfish quickly climbed onto Vulkarox's back. He then decapitated the Bronze Bull Monster with a single scythe-shaped bone attached to the end of its tail.
"….!! "
Vulkarox fell to the lava floor, blood pouring out from his wound as thick as lava.
"Kiak! "Kiaak!"
The one who successfully hunted skillfully raised his neck and howled. Its name is Lava Raptor.
They are creatures that hide in the lava and suddenly jump out to hunt prey. Their average size is between 4m and 5m, so they look insignificant, but that's not what makes them scary.
"Kyaak!" "Kiaak!" "Kyaak!"
Nearby, hundreds of Lavalaptors howl in response to the cries of a successfully hunted individual. The true value of Lavalaptor is that it hunts in large groups. Unlike Gallagons, which only gather in the tens at most, Lavalaptor groups number at least a hundred or more.
Hundreds of Lavalaptors bursting out of the lava growl as they watch over me floating in the sky. I paid no heed to their reactions and landed on the black ground. The impact of my huge body hitting the ground caused volcanic gas and debris to fly around.
"Keaaaaaaa!"
When the one who had hunted Vulkarox roared again, the small hunters began to move. They may have been wary of seeing me for the first time today, but they slowly approached with a siege camp in place.
'Are you very hungry?'
Lavalaptor is intelligent, although not as intelligent as Gallagon. They do not carelessly attack enemies they cannot hunt.
My current body is dozens of times larger than that of the Lavalaptor leader. Still, it's quite surprising that it doesn't run away.
'Has something changed in the environment?'
I don't know why, but the increase in food is a welcome thing. I opened my three mouths wide.
Aadhai, the Mother of Heaven in her beast form, jumped out of the central mouth and spread her wings wide.
Number 26 grabbed my tusks with its tentacles and landed right on top of my head.
｢You will be the only one hiding while the volcano is erupting.｣
｢Hot｣｢Hot｣
｢There are a lot of bangs here!｣
Then, PS-111 and Isabel crawled out from the left and right heads. PS-111 jumped onto the lava and straightened its legs, which had been bent.
As soon as Isabelle, who was wrapped in a coil, came out of my muzzle, she immediately rose in the air. "It's a refreshing experience to come to a volcanic planet on the back of Aimorph's mouth."
"The creatures currently visible are believed to be 'Vulkarox' and 'Lavaraptor.' "It is confirmed that they have gone through a highly advanced process of evolution to adapt to extreme environments."
I thought there was only one enemy, but the number suddenly increased, causing the Lava Raptors to become agitated.
"Kyaak!"
Then the leader cries and encourages the agitated group. Those who were moving cautiously leap towards us all at once.
"Seeing that there are over 200, it's quite a large group."
"It is a creature worth studying."
｢…a fight as soon as we arrive.｣
｢Hunting｣｢Fun｣
｢It's food! rice!」
About 200 Lavalaptors would be enough to satisfy hunger during the long journey. It didn't take long to sort out the snacks that were rushing around without knowing what to do.
-x-X-x-
Asuka 44, with its active volcanic activity, had a very unique history as well as the planet's unique environment.
80 years ago, the emperor of a cult empire suddenly went crazy and began committing tyranny. The emperor purged the capable councilors and priests and insulted the providence served by the cults. Meanwhile, the empire was almost divided as a new faction that worshiped the emperor took over the parliament.
The empire, which was already dying due to corruption, suffered a major decline due to the crazy emperor. Many cults left their disappointing homelands and migrated to Megacorp, and vast amounts of wealth flowed to other powers.
The mad emperor's rule lasted for five years and then ended. The emperor, who had daily orgies with dozens of slaves in his villa, was assassinated by the last loyalists of the empire.
Unusually, among the assassins at the time, there was also a Space Dog from a cult. It is not known what role he played in the assassination, but it was enough to arouse the curiosity of many.
The cult fairy tale, 'The Legend of the Pirate King Who Assassinated a Tyrant', was created based on this incident.
So what does Asuka 44, with its story of a mad emperor and its extreme environment, have to do with it?
That is, Asuka 44 is the place where the emperor kept the slush funds to support his worshipers. Treasures in the imperial palace and part of the wealth accumulated by the emperor himself are hidden there.
After the emperor was assassinated, the imperial faction completely disintegrated and Asuka 44 was left alone for a long time. Until decades later, a young cult came to visit.
A room decorated more luxuriously than the imperial palace.
Wolff with the head of a mastiff is looking out the window.
The building he was in was equipped with a gravity control system, so it floated on lava. The outer wall was protected by layered shields.
Wolf looking out from the legacy left by the cult emperor, he was the administrator of this planet.
"Salman. "The new cargo is ready."
When the servant standing at the door called, the mastiff-headed Wolff and Salman turned their heads.
"Are all the transporters ready?" "yes. "We have prepared people who will not be surprised if they disappear at any time." "good."
Salman left the room with his servant.
After passing through a hallway decorated with expensive famous paintings, they arrived at a very spacious space.
Unlike other facilities that gave off a feeling of extravagance and extravagance, there was no decoration whatsoever. The only mechanical devices were lights on the walls and a dome-shaped gate that replaced the ceiling.
Just looking at the scenery, it looks like a place where a spaceship docks. But what was in the center of space was far from a spaceship. A huge rocky mountain that looked as if it had been moved by a volcano filled the place.
And in front of that rock block, a creature had fallen.
The name of the creature that resembles a hedgehog and spits out lava instead of blood is Elemental Porcupine. It is one of the Apex creatures that inhabit this planet.
Salman approached the elemental porcupine holding the long spear given to him by his attendant. The huge carnivorous hedgehog, which was 13 meters in size, opened its eyes wide and glared at Wolff, who was much smaller than himself.
Salman approached the elemental porcupine and lightly stabbed it with his spear without saying a word.
"Guuuuu."
A small growling monster. Salman didn't care and went closer and placed his hand on the guy's head.
Then something strange happened.
The elemental porcupine, which had been showing hostility just now, suddenly laid down on its side and exposed its belly to Salman. Not only that, he started making cute crying sounds. It was reminiscent of a pet dog that saw its owner return from an outing.
But no one here was surprised by that fact.
"Okay. Just treat the major injuries and send them to the 'Empress.'" "I will prepare right away." "Has Magmasaur been found?" "Five volcanoes that are currently active are believed to be the result of magmasaur movements." "good. Put all your manpower into tracking Magmasaur." "All right."
Salman, who had left the elemental porcupine to his servant, glanced at the rocky mountain.
"ah. And don't forget to feed him too." "yep."
With those words, Salman left from there.
Even while other servants came in and moved the elemental porcupine, the rocky mountain did not move.
–
｢Delicious!｣ ｢Taste｣｢Stimulating｣
A banquet was held for the first time in a long time on a planet with unfamiliar scenery.
Number 26, which had grown larger, pulled out its tentacles and swept up the Lavalaptor, and Aadhai stuck a bunch of tentacles in place of its mouth into the prey and sucked out the blood.
Perhaps because they had not had a satisfying meal since leaving Aadhai's hometown, everyone focused on feasting.
Even Mother Sky, who is passive about preying on wild animals, was enjoying Lavalaptor meat.
She first cut the Lavaraptor into pieces and then stuck the pieces of meat into the priest's golden spear. Then, they placed it on the flowing lava and used the heat to grill meat.
When the surface of the meat was crispy and the fat between the pieces had melted and flowed out, she removed the spear and ate the meat.
"what? Why?｣ [zuzuzuzu zuzuzu (it's nothing)]
She noticed my gaze and neatly wiped her grease-covered beak. I tried to look good by eating well, but I quit.
'Because it's the same for me.'
After sailing at faster than light speeds for a long time without stopping, I was quite hungry. Although they stole a pirate ship, it was not enough to fill their stomachs. Even if there was a dragon's heart, hunger could not be solved.
'You don't have to worry about this in games.' "Middle baby, is that delicious?" "Huh? "Would you like one?" "Yes!" "Here."
The Mother of Heaven took out a piece of meat and handed it to No. 26's tentacle. It pulled the tentacle towards its body and stuffed it with the meat. And her body glowed brightly.
｢It tastes better!｣ ｢That｣｢Tasty?｣ ｢Yes!｣ ｢Friend｣｢Me too｣ ｢At some point, you said I was an ugly friend.｣ ｢Negative｣｢Pretty friend｣ ｢I don't get fooled anymore. "Go away." "It's a shame." "It's a shame." "It's a shame."
Watching everyone happily eating, I also threw the Lavalaptor corpse into my mouth. The hot heat and blood with its unique flavor wet my tongue. Even though it is raw meat without seasoning, it has a spicy spicy taste. To compare it, it tastes like lamb grilled over an open fire with a moderate amount of cumin powder added.
'What should I say about the feeling of chewing? It's much softer than lamb.'
The texture was closer to rare-cooked beef than lamb, so there was actually quite a difference. Of course, the fact that the taste itself is good remains the same.
'I also gained additional characteristics.'
After eating dozens of Lavalaptors, I was able to acquire one trait.
One of their biological characteristics is their well-developed hind legs. One of Lavalaptor's strengths was absorbed into my body.
'Reinforced hind legs.'
As the name suggests, it is a feature that improves the performance of the hind legs.
With the application of 'reinforced hind legs', the muscle mass in my legs increased significantly compared to before. And inside the leg, a new biological tube was added instead of a blood vessel. Every time you run or jump up, a special fluid flows through these tubes, reducing the strain on your leg muscles.
As the internal structure changed, the thickness of the leg itself became thicker than before. Originally, it was a body type that could stand on two feet, but now it can stand more stably.
'It's not a very necessary trait, but it's better to have it than not have it.'
In fact, the traits I want to acquire on this planet can be obtained from other people.
The strongest Apex creature that can be found on a volcanic planet, 'Magmasaur'.
It is a super-giant monster that constantly spews magma and fire from its body and is classified as a top tier among Apex.
What's interesting is that despite its immense strength, it doesn't eat meat. To be precise, it eats the energy emitted from lava and volcanoes. There are not many Apex creatures that do not eat meat, and the gnome is one of them.
'Of course, just because you don't eat meat doesn't mean you're weak.'
Magmasaur lives only in the depths of volcanoes, so hunting difficulty is quite high. Additionally, it is very difficult to deal with because it has unique abilities. I had a hard time catching it on my own in the game.
'Well, that's just a story in the game. It's different here.'
Currently I am in much better condition than the game. My own qualifications are quite high and I have many friends who can help me.
'The problem is that it's not easy to find him.'
Due to the nature of it rarely coming out from the depths of the volcano, you have to go there in person.
And there are a lot of volcanoes here. It would take quite a bit of time to go in and out one by one to catch the Magmasaur.
'We can't waste time looking for him.'
There is a lot of work to be done on this planet. Catching Wolf Ranker, raiding the equipment storage of the Returned Sect guarded by him, and obtaining materials for equipment to be made to the Mother of Heaven, etc. There are more than just one or two things to worry about.
'First of all, catching Wolf Ranker and obtaining the necessary characteristics is the top goal.'
It would probably be faster to find Wolf Ranker and other Apex creatures than Magmasaur. As I was reorganizing which target to aim for first, PS-111 approached me.
"It has been confirmed that the structure of the hind legs has changed to a shape similar to that of 'Lavaraptor.' "I request a dissection experiment to confirm the internal structure." [Zuzu (no)]
The guy had been looking closely at my legs through the red camera lens from earlier. I refused because I didn't want to cut off my healthy leg, even if I was injured.
"I'm sorry." "If you ask me to cut off a healthy leg, of course I will be against it."
Aside from saying it's disappointing, PS-111 looks at my legs with narrowed eyes. Isabelle, seeing that, shook her head.
[Zuzu Zuzu (How does it taste?)] "To be honest, it tastes better than any food I've ever eaten in my life."
The guy stretched out his arm near his head and wiped his mouth, as if it was amazing to even think about it. Then, he stabbed the Lavalaptor on the floor with Gallagon's clawed tail. In that state, the meat was placed close to the lava and grilled.
｢Pretty little child｣｢Me｣｢Hana｣｢Give me｣ "Ask for it? "I need to bake it, so just wait a moment." ｢Pretty little child｣｢Good｣｢Ugly friend｣｢Bad｣ ｢… Look at that nasty snake lizard. Oh my. ' I'm glad you seem to be eating well.'
I also stretched out my fighting arms to eat another Lavalaptor. Just as I was about to eat, my accessory organ felt a slight vibration in the air.
'what?'
I stopped eating and looked up. A small light is visible in the dark sky due to volcanic ash.
That's not a star.
"Aimov?" "Why all of a sudden…huh? Is that really possible?」 [Zuzuzuzuzzuzuzuzu zuzuzuz (It's an airship. It's coming this way)]
A mysterious airship is approaching this direction.
'It's an airship.'
There were no other naval aircraft or patrol ships visible nearby. It only takes a few minutes to organize that one thing.
'no. Rather than that…'
This planet, which has not been terraformed at all, is not easy for humans to inhabit. So it is highly likely that the airship came from one of the few artificial habitats on this planet.
'And in that residence, there will be the Wolf Ranker and equipment storage I'm looking for.'
If I follow that airship, I don't have to fly around and look for a place to live.
After making up my mind, I hit the ground hard with my wing arm. The ground split open and a large hole formed where I hit.
[Zuzzuzu (everyone hides)]
They put the kids in it and simply covered it up by sweeping up dirt and rock fragments with the membranes of their wings. Then I jumped into the lava nearby.
The depth of the stagnant lava is not that great and cannot cover my entire large body, but I have a characteristic.
A 'dark curtain' that allows you to avoid detection by electronic devices, and a 'protective color' that activates when you remain stationary in one place for more than a few minutes. If you use both cloaking characteristics together, you can avoid getting caught by that airship.
While we were hiding, an airship passed over our heads. The place they were heading to was the volcano I used to enter the planet.
'Do you have anything to do at the volcano?'
I thought it was just passing by, but it suddenly took a detour and landed near where we were. Then, two people wearing thick reinforced suits resembling space suits got off the airship.
"Why did Lavalaptors die in droves?" "Weren't you caught in a volcanic eruption?" "This is not their territory. "There is no reason to come all the way here and die." "First, take a sample."
Looking at the conversation, their identity seemed to be researchers. One person took tools from the kit attached to the abdomen and sampled the body, while the other held a lantern and examined the surrounding footprints.
Meanwhile, the researcher who was following the footprints with a lantern shouted in a loud voice.
"hey! "Look at the footprints here!" "Why again…huh?! What's this?" "…Isn't this Dradsong's territory?" "of course. "No one can go in there." "Miss, then what is this? "Are there creatures we don't know about?" "Are these not traces of Magmasaur?"
At that time, the name of a familiar creature was heard in the conversation between the two.
'Dradsong and Magmasaur?' "Nonsense. Would you say Lavalaptor is crazy and attack that guy? "They'll just run away." "Then what are these footprints?" "If I knew that, I would be here…huh?" "why? "Did you find out what it was?" "No, that's not it. These footprints, why did they end here?" "huh?"
The researchers who were following the footprints I made stopped in front of the lava where I was hiding. I can feel their eyes looking at me.
'It just worked out.'
I was only thinking of secretly following the airship, but I had a better idea.
I just got up from my seat.
"Huh? "Is that thing moving?" "earthquake…."
As soon as I got up, their conversation stopped.
I asked them, licking the lava flowing down the snout with my tongue.
"Magmasaur and Dreadsong. "How much do you know?"
I think these will be a useful guide.
-x-X-x-
A word from the author (author review)
Lava Raptor was set as an Apex creature in the previous episode, but was changed to a normal creature. Lava Raptor is not classified as Apex.
-x-X-x-
The researchers outside and the pilot of the airship answered my questions faithfully.
As expected, they were Wolf Ranker and Salman's subordinates on this planet. It is said that they are traveling around to investigate volcanic activity that has suddenly become more active under orders from Ranker. They're probably trying to find Magmasaur, which only stays in the depths of volcanoes.
'Because magmasaur affects volcanic activity.'
I can guess why he ordered his subordinates to find Magmasaur.
[Jzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz (What did Salman's special say?)] "'Beast God's Lasso'. "It's the ability to control wild animals."
Isabel came out from hiding and answered my question.
Isabel had the power to read information from those she saw with her own eyes. He knows very well what perks, skills, and equipment the rankers he has met so far have. Among them, Wolf Ranker Salman of the Returned Party received a privilege related to timing.
'There was a lot of talk in the game about giving Wolff training-related skills or preferential treatment.'
There were quite a few people who wanted the fantasy of a wolf beast with a jetpack on its back roaming the battlefield with a rhino monster wearing a reinforced exoskeleton all over its body.
It's possible to somehow replicate it in games, but I don't think it's particularly efficient. This is because it is impossible to establish emotional interactions with NPCs like real-life pets.
"It's a dream-like ability."
Sky's mother, who was also a Wolff player in real life, inadvertently revealed her feelings.
[Zuzu zuzu zuzu zuzu zu zuzuzu zuzuzu zuzuzu zuzu zuzu (Non-playable animals, only the ones you fight and defeat dominate. Right?)] "Yes."
Playable monsters such as Amorph or Outspacer cannot be dominated. And only animals that Salman fights and wins can be ruled.
"And from what I saw before, it seemed like you could only dominate by winning and then using your abilities directly."
In addition, after winning, the special is activated only when the body is in contact.
Unfortunately, that was all Isabelle knew. This is because the time he spent face-to-face with Salman was not long, so he was unable to read the details.
'Still, this is a sufficient harvest.'
It is unclear how many creatures can be dominated, but it seems that the highest level Apex, such as Vortex One, is impossible to dominate. It would have been possible to catch Vortex One if he had gotten help from other members, especially 4th place, but seeing as he didn't.
'But finding Magmasaur is strange.'
Excluding special abilities and comparing simple combat power, it is one level below the 'complete ring of agony'. It is true that it is weaker than Vortex One, but it is by no means an easy opponent.
In the game, Magmasaur is treated as a semi-raid boss like the Sea Demon. Even rankers feel quite burdened about going out hunting alone.
'If it was 1v1, it would be difficult even to use Wolff's incarnation technique, Strong God.'
Judging from the information we have received so far, Salman is not that strong.
In summary, the enemy ranker is preparing to attack a semi-raid boss-level creature alone without the cooperation of other players.
Then there is only one answer.
'I plan to take on the challenge with the help of the animals I control.'
Just like when I fought Gallagon or Vortex One with the help of kids.
'Then the key is how strong the animal he commands is.'
Or maybe the number of animals under his control is quite large.
Whatever it is, it should be considered at least at a level that can fight Magmasaur.
'We can only find out more than this by gathering more information.'
I should summarize the part about Wolf Ranker here.
I looked down at the humans trembling in their reinforced suits.
These guys are useful because they are looking for Magmasaur. If we use them, we will be able to find out the location of Apex before Salman does.
As I was about to inject parasites into my enemies, something suddenly occurred to me and I stopped.
"You said earlier that it was Dradsong's territory, right?" "yes? Yeah yeah. Yes, that's right." "Where is that place?" "Uh, that's…"
The researcher is confused by my question. I thought there was no way I would know the coordinates just because they were mentioned.
I snapped my fingers as I pulled the parasite out of my fighting arm. PS-111 from behind approached me.
[Zuzuzu Zuzu Zuzuzu Zuzuzuzu Zuzu Zuzuzu Zuzuzuzu (Go inside the airship and check where Dradsong is)] "Please leave it to me." [Zuzzu zuzuzu (and these too)]
I also handed PS-111 three parasites.
The three humans' trembling became more intense as they saw the wriggling parasite. It's probably because those bugs know where they're going.
Of course, I have no intention of seeing it that way.
｢To catch Dradsong?｣ [Zuzuzuzu zuzuzuzu (Yes, because we need it)]
I need Dradsong's genetic essence, and the Mother of Heaven needs his body.
Among the equipment that Wolf can use, there is equipment that can be made from Vortex One's body and Dradsong's body. I plan to use this opportunity to obtain all the equipment materials.
Ten minutes later, PS-111, which confirmed the coordinates, came out of the airship.
"I will guide you to the corresponding coordinates." [Zuz zuzu zu (then shall we leave)]
I bent down and lifted the kids up and kicked the ground hard with my strengthened legs. As I spread my wings wide, my body soared upward.
A sky full of volcanic ash is a good hiding place. Because even a huge creature like me can move around without being monitored.
PS-111, held in a small arm near the chest, pointed in a specific direction with its claws.
'I have to go to the right place and then go down.'
I straightened my neck and tail and stretched out the flaps of my wings. Thanks to the air currents, it was able to maintain a gliding state without flapping its wings.
｢This｣｢Sound｣｢No｣｣Good｣｢Surprise｣｢Useful｣ [Z (Right)] ｢Me too｣｢Can｣
Aadhai, who was riding on the head of the center like No. 26, opened his folded wings and began to fly.
Its flight was quiet yet agile, like a futuristic fighter jet often seen in science fiction movies. The guy who once learned fighting and flying skills from me and the Mother of Heaven is now much more skilled than me. Even though we have fought together many times, I get a strange feeling every time I see that little Gallagon grow.
[Zuzu Zuzuzu (Beware of Lightning)] ｢I｣｢It's Okay｣｢Big Adult｣｢More｣｢Danger｣
So I flew with him to a place covered in black clouds. As it is a volcanic planet, there were quite a few active volcanoes here and there. Thanks to this, the flight time became considerably longer than expected.
Approximately 6 hours have passed. The cloud of volcanic ash quickly diminished. I adjusted my wings slightly to lower my altitude.
The wasteland, where lava has hardened and turned black, stretches out endlessly. The atmosphere was very different from where we were six hours ago.
This was a hell where instead of fire and magma, ash and sulfuric acid rain fell.
We landed in a place that didn't seem to have any life at all. As soon as my feet touched the floor, the hardened surface of the lava caved, and red liquid and flames leaked out.
I moved by stepping on slightly hardened lava as if I were walking on mud.
Sulfuric acid rain pouring overhead, the ground covered in lava, and huge lightning strikes without stopping in the black clouds. If hell were real, it would have an atmosphere like this.
'What's surprising is that there are living monsters even in places like this.'
In the distance, a monster resembling a bull can be seen rolling on hardened lava. It was Vulkarox, the monster I first encountered upon arriving at Asuka 44.
They make their metal shells harder by repeatedly dousing themselves in lava and sulfuric acid rain and cooling them down. They do this to survive against the terrifying monsters that inhabit this hellish planet.
The red-hot metal bull looked at me and ran away. Since I was aiming for a different goal, I didn't bother pursuing it.
"This is Dradsong's territory."
After hearing those words, I focused my senses on the auxiliary organ under my chin. The heads on the left and right also bent their necks down to bring their auxiliary organs close to the lava.
The Mother of Sky, transformed into a griffon form, also kept a sharp look ahead with a spear in her beak.
Dradsongs are very territorial. No matter how strong an enemy is, it will never tolerate anyone who steps into its territory.
'They would have already recognized us by now.'
With the sound of thunder softly ringing, I entered a space filled with poisonous gas. There was a fog of death everywhere, so much so that I couldn't see an inch in front of me.
"…just 150m away at 2 o'clock. I saw something moving." [Zuzuzu (Okay)]
My Heavenly Mother, who has much better eyesight than me, warned me. I focused my auxiliary senses in the direction she said.
Long, thin auxiliary organs writhe and absorb all the surrounding information. Just as she said, I can definitely feel movement over there.
At first glance, it seemed similar to the phenomenon of gas leaking through hardened lava. Because similar natural phenomena are continuing to occur right under my feet.
But you shouldn't believe it. This is because dragons camouflage themselves in this way when preparing for a surprise attack while targeting their prey.
'First from here….'
I was preparing to attack, but he was one step faster. Something that looked like a long pole came out of the lava and flew towards me.
｢!｣
It flew at extremely high speed and tried to pierce the gryphon riding on my back. The Mother of Heaven also belatedly moved her body to avoid it.
However, Dradsong's attacks are slightly faster. It was clear that if left like this, she would get injured.
I quickly raised my wings and blocked her path. The pole pierced my wing arm, but it allowed me to slow down the enemy's attack. While I was blocking, the Heavenly Mother quickly jumped down onto the hard black ground.
｢Amorph!｣ [Zuzu zuzuzu (Everyone be careful)]
The right side of my head bent down to bite the pole that had punctured my arm. Then the long pole bent to the side and avoided being bitten on the right side of the head. 'It', which was like a hard spear when it pierced my arm, bent flexibly and returned to the place it came from.
The black ground split and the being that attacked me slowly stuck its head out.
The wide, flat head, reminiscent of a toad, glowed red because of the magma. It opened its mouth and collected the long pole that it had shot earlier, i.e. its long tongue.
I pulled out the erosion tentacle hidden on its back and attacked its head. The six appendages dug through the lava and tried to tear off the monster's ugly head, but it was no longer there.
A few tens of meters away, the guy popped his head out again. Four eyes are watching me from the blazing flames.
When I moved to attack the guy, he quickly disappeared from the spot.
'As expected, it's fast.'
Dradsong, a carnivorous toad that lives in an environment full of magma and sulfuric acid gas.
They are so infamous that it is said that if ice planets have 'Glacier Fiends', volcanic planets have Dreadsongs. They are quite similar in that they have a cunning personality that kills their prey by slowly tricking them, and they have a very strong sense of territory.
'but….'
I too am called an excellent hunter.
I hunted that cunning predator more than a dozen times in the game.
This world is no different. The only difference is the hunting time and process.
It doesn't change the fact that he will be my prey.
-x-X-x-
｢Bad girl hiding in the soft stuff.｣ ｢Black Earth｣｢Danger｣ "It is difficult to detect vibrations due to the continuous gas eruption." "Sister, be careful. Because Dradsong is good at trickery."
Everyone came down from above me because I didn't know when the Dreadsongs would surprise me again.
Number 26 entered battle mode, enlarged its body, and launched itself into the air. Above him, Adhai and Isabelle soared out of the range of the poisonous sulfuric acid fog.
PS-111 was armed with arms equipped with claws and blades, ready to strike down the creature as soon as it appeared. The Demolisher attached to its tail was also ready to fire at any time.
While everyone was preparing for battle, Heavenly Mother approached me. She apologized to me when she saw my wing arm with a hole the size of a human head.
"I'm sorry." [Zuzuzu (It's okay)]
The tongue that Dradsong just threw at me was a very basic attack. Because you are stabbing the opponent with your spit-covered tongue.
The problem is that the strength of its tongue is very high, and the tongue itself is very hard. Even a simple thrust with the tongue produces tremendous destructive power. It's a bonus that it's covered in highly acidic saliva similar to that of a 'corpse catfish'.
I wonder if there was a hole in my carapace that can withstand faster-than-light travel.
'But this isn't a serious injury.'
Considering my size, having a hole the size of a human head is nothing. This is because it is closer to the feeling of being pricked by a thumbtack and bleeding. To be honest, it's not that it's not painful, but it's bearable.
I paid attention to the wound and looked around.
'They're keeping us in check.'
Dradsongs look similar to giant frogs that lived in prehistoric times. The fact that it has multiple eyes and that its body is protected by a rock shell gives it the feel of a monster.
The point is that his body type is not very suitable for hand-to-hand combat. That giant toad's close combat power is clearly inferior to that of the White Gallagon. It can be said that Dradsong's cunning stems from this physical weakness.
'Besides, this guy has a weapon more powerful than his tongue.' [Zuzuzuzu zuzzuzu (Can you see something from above?)] ｢I can't see｣ "It's hard to see because of the thick gas."
Adhai and Isabel, who had scouted from above, came down again. I looked at the poisonous gas that was so cloudy that it was difficult to see even an inch ahead.
'It's no coincidence that he targeted the Mother of Heaven.'
He knew who the enemy was that discovered him first and attacked him first.
Since the surprise attack failed, one of two things happens next. Either attack Heavenly Mother again, or…
'Aim for the target that looks the weakest.'
At that moment, its tongue stuck out from the lava. The monster's tongue flies as fast as a bullet that has just left the barrel of a gun. At the end was a griffon with golden fur.
'No, that's a trick.'
Dradsong does not repeat the same attack. Except when you want to deceive the enemy.
I raised my wings and tried to hit the tongue of the one flying at high speed. Then the tongue naturally changed direction as if it had already been expected. And instead, the target was none other than the pink giant jellyfish, No. 26.
Number 26 is the next largest in size, but its outer shell is not as hard as mine. He must have realized that fact and revised his goal.
'That's stupid.'
Sea demons and dragonsongs have completely different habitats and never meet each other. However, no player puts the two in the same stage. This is because the Sea Demon is far more dangerous.
'Moreover, No. 26 is not an ordinary Mr. Demon.'
Just as Dradsong's blunt tongue was about to touch its skin, a purple stalk grew from its pink surface. The stem, composed of unknown power, was completed into a geometric pattern in the blink of an eye.
Perhaps because it was made in a short period of time, its size was unremarkable, but it was enough to defend against enemy attacks. The tongue that collided with the protective shield created by No. 26 ruptured like an egg thrown on a rock.
Blood splatters in the air and the tongue twitches in pain. When Draddsong stopped in pain, PS-111 rushed at him.
"Defending for the main controller."
The guy's claws flashed. The gas in the air split, and Dradsong's tongue was cut off and fell to the floor.
"Keeeeek!"
A monster's painful groan is heard from afar. Its tongue quickly disappears into the sulfuric acid fog.
PS-111 aimed the Demolisher on its tail in the direction of the sound and fired immediately. It resembled a scorpion's tail, but instead of venom, what was fired from the tip was a dark blue energy bullet.
I heard the sound of an energy bullet exploding, but seeing as I couldn't hear the creature crying, it seemed like I missed it.
"I'm going to scold you, bad girl!"
Enraged, No. 26 released the shield and began using psychic power.
The psychic chains sown by the demon of the deep sea burrowed into the black earth spewing out gas. The surface cracked, and the red lava boiling beneath it spewed out like a fountain of blood. The plan is to turn the entire neighborhood upside down with psychic power.
As if the enemy hadn't expected this, I felt something large moving about in the ground. Adhai, who was watching this from the air, caught the ground shaking and immediately fired a psychic breath.
Unlike regular Gallagon, its unique psychic breath, which took the form of a small sphere, hit the spot where Dradsong was hiding. The ground caved in and lava and liquid of different colors flowed out, but the thing didn't stop.
His presence quickly disappeared. They are trying to get out of this situation and look for an opportunity to attack again. Just like in the game, he is still a nuisance.
'In the game, you catch them by luring them with food or going directly into the lava.'
In my case, I caught the latter by going into the lava and continuing to chase it. This is because if you chase after it without resting for about a day in real time, its stamina will be exhausted and it will not be able to escape.
'If you think about it, it was crazy.'
I have no intention of catching it that way here either. Why would I do such a thing when I have kids to help me?
I looked at Dradsong's realm, which had taken on an otherworld-like atmosphere. Sulfuric acid gas and lava continued to erupt from the surface that No. 26 overturned. It was as if I had to use this opportunity to vomit hard.
'for a moment.'
As I was looking at it, a good idea suddenly occurred to me. I first called on my heavenly mother.
[Zuzzu zuzuzu zuzu zuzu zuzuzuzu (particles that control pressure, we can use them now, right?)] ｢Of course. Why is that?" [Zuzzuzuzuzuzuzuzuzu (Can you send that under the ground?)]
She nodded slightly with subtle eyes at my words.
"It would be impossible to catch him with particles that control pressure. "I'm sure they'll notice it right away and try to avoid it."
She said it as if she was sorry, but it didn't matter. I asked this question to see if it was possible to control the pressure inside the ground.
'This is done.'
The next person to ask about is number 26.
When I asked a question, its body blinked with a pink light.
｢I'll do it because my eldest asked me to!｣ [Z (Okay)]
I raised two tentacles and lightly patted the guy in a fighting stance. He then explained to Heavenly Mother and No. 26 what to do.
"…It's definitely not a bad method. I don't know if it's possible just by looking at the scale." "Can I just press it softly?" [Z(Yes)]
After hearing my explanation, the guys immediately took action.
First, the Mother of Heaven spread out her brilliant agate-colored wings. Particles reminiscent of jewels are mixed into the foul-smelling fog. Some of those particles penetrated beneath the broken ground.
While she worked underneath, I grabbed PS-111 with my fighting arms.
[Zuzzu zuzu zuzu zuzu (don't put your feet on the floor)] "Is that so?"
The Heavenly Mother continued to scatter particles onto the black earth.
Is it because I was treated harshly once? The Dradsong that was sure to be nearby did not attack us.
'It's about time.'
The moment I thought that, I suddenly heard a whistle coming from somewhere. My auxiliary organs and the monster's tentacles also shook. It wasn't because I sensed something. It shakes because there is a very strong air flow around us.
"Aimoff!"
The sulfuric acid fog was swept by the wind and gathered in one place. Isabel saw this and urgently warned.
There was a place where air and gas were concentrated. The dragon song was strongly sucking in gas with its large, flat head and relatively short, rough front paws on the ground. The gill-like parts behind the four eyes trembled and made a whistling sound.
Finally, Dradsong also pulled out his secret move. A terrifying technique worthy of its name, Song of Fear.
[Zuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu zzz zuz zuz (Adhai, Isabel. Avoid upward)]
He warned the kids above and quickly spread his wings to protect the members on the ground.
Almost at the same time, it exhaled what it had inhaled. Sulfuric acid gas, volcanic ash, lava, and magma compressed within the body were released at once, transforming into a force as terrifying as an orbital weapon. Its destructive power is greater than that of multiple Thunder Gods attacking at the same time. Even an adult Amorph will suffer great damage if hit.
The song of flames sung by Dradsong overtook me. My carapace, which was still intact when I came down through the volcanic ash, cracked and split. The membranes on the wing arms had holes or tears here and there.
｢Pain reduction activated!｣
I had experienced the pain of my whole body burning before, but it was still something I wasn't used to. The good news is that the monster toad's song isn't that long.
Dradsong, who attacked me with a powerful fire attack, went back into the ground.
[Zuzzuzu (now)]
After confirming that he was hiding, I immediately sent a message to No. 26. The guy who was protected inside the wing immediately spread psychic power.
"Bad girl! "I'll scold you!"
The enraged Sea Demon unleashes its psychic power with all its might. The land covering a radius of hundreds of meters, or even more than several kilometers, instantly turned purple.
While No. 26 was spreading psychic power, the Mother of Heaven also took action. The power to control pressure was exercised through agate-colored particles that seeped into the ground below.
The gas that had been spewing out like crazy before stopped immediately, and the liquefied ground rapidly hardened.
At first glance, it appears that the entire environment has been stabilized, but that is not the case. This is because while the surface is tightly held by a high concentration of psychic power, the pressure is rampant below due to the power of that sacred griffon.
｢Ugh!｣ ｢Amorph! It's hard to hold on any longer!" [Zuzuz zuzuzu (wait a little bit)]
After a few minutes, the ground shook as if there had been an earthquake. The auxiliary organ detected the faint movement of Dradsong.
He is unable to move due to the psychic power pressing down from above and the particles running wild in the ground.
[Zuzu (Okay)]
As soon as I released the wave, No. 26 immediately unleashed its psychic power.
Then a black wall appeared in front of us.
It was the foundation of this planet. The ground, which was broken as it crashed back and forth from below, was instantly liberated and bounced upward.
"Enemy in sight!"
And among the flying debris was a dragon song. The guy, whose entire body was covered in blood, was unable to respond and was flying away.
Adhai saw this and moved to intercept the guy. However, there was a guy who hit faster than him.
Isabel, with her long body, walked in a straight line toward the target floating in the sky. The guy who hit and destroyed all the targets in his path grabbed a dragon song bigger than himself with many hands.
'it's okay.'
Once Isabel caught the guy, the operation was a success.
Now I was trying to calm down, but Heavenly Mother tapped me with her front paw.
｢Those flying fragments.｣
[Zu(Huh?)]
｢…I think they'll fall soon.」
Pieces of the ground flew up to tens of kilometers high. They soon became a rain of rocks and began free falling.
-x-X-x-
"Salman, the cargo has departed. Estimated arrival date is in 7 days." "okay."
Salman nodded after hearing what the chamberlain said during the meal.
"If there is a problem in the middle, it will be difficult, so please keep in touch." "All right."
At the master's command, the chamberlain bowed respectfully and stepped down.
Salman cut the meat on the plate again with a knife. It was a steak made from the meat of Vulkarox, the beast he ruled. Even if you slaughtered a large bronze bull, the edible portion was only about the size of a plate.
I took a piece of the precious meat with my fork and put it in my mouth. The downside was that the meat was a bit tough, but the flavor itself wasn't bad. There was a lot of very expensive spices added, so it couldn't have been tasteless.
However, it was not enough to satisfy his tongue, which grew up eating all kinds of precious foods while living in reality.
'Tsk.'
There is no ice cream filled with saffron and vanilla here, nor is there any Iberico jamon from the farm he owns. That fact made it difficult for him.
'Everyone is so amazing. It's been this hard for me, even though I've only been there for a few years. How did I survive for such a long time?'
The time he spent in this world was only three years. Even though it is this painful, I can't even imagine how difficult it must have been for the members who lived longer than him.
Salman took a sip of the cult wine with renewed admiration. The meat was so-so, but the wine had a raspberry-like flavor, so it was edible.
Just as he was about to finish his meal, a strange sensation struck him. A feeling of chilliness, as if you were in a warm place and then suddenly felt a cold breeze on the back of your neck. He knows very well what that feeling means.
It was a signal sent when one of the animals controlled by Salman sensed danger.
'Vulkarox?'
Asuka 44 has a different type of surveillance system than other planets. This is because there is Salman who rules over all kinds of animals.
He scattered the animals under his control all over the planet. Surveillance cameras are alive and moving around, watching for intruders.
And when the animals spot an intruder, a signal goes out to Salman.
Like now.
'Who is it?'
According to a signal sent by Vulkarox, a gigantic creature that had never been seen before was wandering near Dradsong's territory. Since Salman had previously ordered him not to fight a strong enemy, he ran away from the mysterious monster.
'Tch, I intentionally didn't link my vision because I was tired.'
Salman's special privilege, 'Beast God's Lasso', can link body functions with the monster he dominates. However, because there were many restrictions when connected, it was not a function I used often.
However, there have been several instances in the past where the creatures he controlled gave false reports. This is because even if you dominate and give orders, you cannot improve the low intelligence of wild animals.
This happened because Vulkarox, who was now on his plate, also sent a wrong signal.
'But I guess I'll have to check just in case.'
Salman called the chamberlain with a gesture.
"Send a ship to check Dradsong's territory." "All right."
He finished the rest of the wine, thinking it was a mistake made by stupid Vulkarox, as usual.
–
[Zuzu Zuzuzu (Are you all okay?)] "Whew, I thought I was going to get crushed to death." "I'm fine!" "There's no problem except that 11% of the tail is damaged."
I used my three heads and six erosion tentacles to clear the rocks on my back.
The fragments of the ground that had risen high into the sky fell intact on my head. As soon as I saw the rain of falling rocks, I grabbed the kids with multiple arms and ran.
The scope of the explosion created by No. 26 and the Mother of Sky together was truly enormous. If it didn't have the 'reinforced hind legs' feature, it would have been crushed by the falling rocks.
I won't be harmed by a blow of that magnitude, but the kids won't be. If we had been even a little late, Heavenly Mother or PS-111 would have been injured.
'Actually PS-111 was injured.'
While running, its tail was slightly damaged by falling rocks and lava. Fortunately, the demolisher at the end of the tail was not damaged.
[Zuzuzu zuzuzu (Can you cure it?)] "If you have the right organic matter, you can repair it."
The guy who said that turned his head upward.
Isabel, who had caught her prey, was descending. It was sticking dozens of arms attached to its body into the body of a large toad monster.
Every time Dradsong struggled, his arms moved slightly. Probably tearing the insides of the guy's body with sharp nails.
｢Me｣｢First｣｢Discovery｣｢Cutting in line｣｢Disgraceful｣ "Cutting in line. "It's more important to get your hands on something first than to discover it first." ｢Negative｣｢Pretty Child｣｢Disappointment｣｢Disappointment!｣ "If you let your guard down on anything, it will be taken away like now."
Aadhai followed behind, pouring out his dissatisfied thoughts. Of course, Isabel didn't care at all.
By the time the two came down, Dradsong was barely breathing. Isabelle approached me holding a monster.
"You have to kill to get the trait, right? Is that the case here too?"
I nodded and the guy handed over the loot to me without saying anything.
In the case of Cold Blood, you must complete several objectives to unlock advanced contracts. Among them is Apex hunting.
'You don't have to catch the dance song.'
It is also an Apex, but it is not included in Coldblood's objectives.
'Or does it not matter now that your body has changed?'
Either way, Dradsong's body is unnecessary for him.
I prepared to feast on the new genetic essence. It is a 'symbol of hunting' that increases the probability of acquiring characteristics when predating.
The characteristic effect is activated and my body changes.
As the carapace covered the eyes on the central head, vision became dark. Instead, the auxiliary organs were much strengthened, and the changes occurring in the body were vividly felt. A second jaw, the pharyngeal jaw, protruded from each head, and the carapace and horns covering the head became thicker.
It wasn't just the head whose structure changed completely. The body size also doubled compared to before, and new bone sickle arms protruded from around the waist.
"This…?" "Oh, by the way, is this your first time seeing Isabelle?"
When my appearance suddenly changed, his eyes widened. Next to me, Heavenly Mother nodded in understanding.
"They say that if you change into that form, the probability of acquiring the genetic essence increases." "…What? "Then it's not a scam?" "Well, it's not like you can transform at any time. There are also many restrictions."
Isabelle mutters blankly. Hearing that he was an Amorph but was being called a fraud, it felt like an unprecedented situation.
After completing my transformation, I picked up the dance song Isabelle gave me. As its body grew well over 100 meters, this very large carnivorous toad almost looked like a hamburger.
'You should eat carefully.'
Its corpse has many uses. It would be difficult if you accidentally ate all parts other than the head. I stuck out my double chin and bit down on its broad head. Its skull was crushed, and thick liquid, flesh, and brains oozed out from inside.
'This tastes unique again, doesn't it?'
His brain tasted like the curry I had eaten at an Indian restaurant before. The spicy taste that pleasantly stimulated the tongue struck my mind first, followed by the greasy flesh that neutralized the taste.
When I ate Lavalaptor, it tasted slightly spicy, but I think it was a mixture of lava and various acidic substances that created this flavor.
'I want to eat more, but…'
That can't be done because there are kids waiting.
I placed Apex, whose head was missing, on the ground. The Mother of Heaven, who returned to her form as a beast, went first. She began to peel off Dradsong's outer skin with the priest's golden spear.
"If it's about skinning you, I'll help you." "thank you. "Please take care of the tail area." "I understand."
While they were working on the body, I shoved what I was chewing down my throat. And then I waited for the expected text box to pop up.
'huh?'
Thanks to Aimorph's unique digestive power, Dredsong's meat quickly turned into energy and disappeared. However, the text box notifying successful predation did not appear.
'what? no way?'
A similar thing happened before. When catching a couple of Crystal Wings on a frozen planet, the predation effect only appeared on one of them.
The symbol of hunting only greatly increases the probability of successful predation, but does not necessarily allow you to obtain the trait. I liked it because it was easier to catch than I expected, but I never thought the result would be like this.
"huh? Amorph, didn't it show up again?"
She had almost completely removed the skin and was embarrassed to see me still like that.
[Zuzuzzu zuzuzu zuzu (I guess so)] "I thought it was a scam, but it's not necessarily true."
Isabel's regretful reaction became even more painful.
"Do you want to find a new one right now?" [Zuzuzuzu (It must be difficult)]
Moreover, I was quite disappointed that I had lost the symbol of hunting even though I had transformed at best. You may think that all you have to do is find new dance songs, as Heavenly Mother said, but it is not easy. Because it's almost impossible to find the guy hiding underground within the time limit.
Just as I was about to give up, PS-111, who had been quietly peeling off his skin, opened his mouth.
"From the airship, we obtained all the ecological information about the dragonsongs that inhabit this planet. "A total of three individuals, including this individual, are under surveillance." [Z(What?)] "If you want, I will also tell you the locations of the remaining two."
PS-111 speaks stiffly as usual.
But at this moment, it sounded extremely warm. It's like the voice of an angel.
[Zuzzuzu zuzu zuzuzu zuzu zuzuzu zuzuzu (Tell me the location of the closest guy from here)]
19 minutes after an unexpected savior appeared.
With exactly two seconds left until the end of the hunting symbol, I succeeded in feasting on the dragon.