―36― More Human-Like Than Expected
How many times have I died up until now?
Honestly, I haven't been keeping an exact count, so I don't remember, but based on vague recollections, I think the total number of deaths before starting the battle against the Golden Living Armors is around 540.
Since I began tackling the Golden Living Armors alongside the Parasitic Sword Puppeteer, I've died another 9 times.
Therefore, the cumulative death count is approximately 549.
In other words, this attempt marks the 550th trial.
"Puppeteer, lend me your strength."
It's a negotiation I've had countless times before.
"Oh, sure thing, Master."
The puppeteer responds cheerfully.
"Hmm? Is something the matter, Master?"
Suddenly, I become curious about something and start pondering, catching the puppeteer's puzzled gaze.
"Hmm... Well, I didn't expect you to look so human-like."
When I first saw the puppeteer, it didn't resemble a human at all, but now, things are different. The silhouette seems to mimic that of a person.
Indeed, each time I meet the puppeteer, it seems to become more human-like.
"Hmm, I wasn't originally like this. My appearance started changing suddenly."
The puppeteer also seems to have noticed this change and looks puzzled.
What could this mean?
"Save & Reset" is a skill that resets time, essentially rewinding everything. However, the puppeteer's gradual transformation toward human-like appearance contradicts this.
Could it be that the puppeteer's growth is somehow escaping the rewind effect of "Save & Reset"...?
It's probably futile to think about it any further.
"Your goal is to become more human, right? Well, then, that's a good thing."
"Master! How did you know about my dream!?"
"Just by looking at you, I can understand your aspirations."
"Wow, I don't really get it, but you're amazing!"
Honestly, I just heard about it before.
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"Master, it's quite a coincidence that you knew about this hidden room."
"It's almost like you knew about it too."
"Well, yeah. Despite how I look, I'm quite knowledgeable, you know."
"That's reassuring."
"And while I'm at it, let me give you a piece of advice. Your current self will die as soon as you enter this room."
"Unfortunately, I'm already aware of that."
"Hmm, having a death wish, Master? You're quite different."
Exchanging light banter with the puppeteer, I enter the hidden room.
In an instant, twenty golden-armored Golden Living Armors appear.
"Black Blade."
Immediately, a black blade materializes in my right hand.
Upon calm consideration, I realize that facing ten Armored Bear Bugbears was a tougher battle.
Back then, I had no weapons and no decent skills.
Having overcome that difficult situation, it would be strange if I couldn't handle the enemies before me.
"Hey, you small fry, come at me!"
I use "Provocation" on all the Golden Living Armors.
Without hesitation, they all rush to attack.
I've seen this sight many times already.
Three seconds later, if I sidestep to the right, I can avoid the attack. Then, with a twist of my body, I bring the sword down from above.
This results in the attacking Golden Living Armor inadvertently striking another, causing friendly fire.
Yes, everything is going as predicted.
▽▽▽▽▽▽▽▽▽▽▽▽▽▽▽
Confirmed the defeat of monsters.
Acquired skill points.
△△△△△△△△△△△△△△△
First, let's take down one.
"Wow, Master, that was amazing! It's like you know the enemy's movements in advance!"
"I really do know."
"Could it be, Master, that you possess the power of foresight!?"
Amidst a conversation with the puppeteer, I start moving to defeat the monsters.
"Hey, you guys, why are you trembling? The target is right here."
The battle has only just begun.
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