A/N: Uhhh long time no see lol.
Late upload ik, but oh well. I will probably start posting more consistently, or at least that's what I tell myself. Let's see...
Nevertheless, enjoy the chap!
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The sun burned brightly above Bayam, as Marcus Shaw sat in a small public park, feeling the blazing heat on his skin. His eyes were shut, and he was leaning back on a wooden bench, his hands laying in his lap with his fingers intertwined.
While appearing serene on the outside, his emotions were on a high internally. Happiness, excitement, curiosity, and impatience were the most prominent of emotions occupying his mind.
For the past hour, he had been sitting still, replaying the events in the Swordfish Bar from earlier in his mind over and over again. [Great Sage] was running a deep analysis, covering everything from the techniques used by the two adventurers named Alan and Clive, their body language, possible supernatural elements, to the wind displacement caused by their movements, transfer of energy during their exchange of blows, etc.
Appropriate countermeasures and strategies were also immediately devised to deal with all the analyzed abilities. [Great Sage] didn't do anything haphazardly.
The information he was gaining was extremely useful. It had been a fortuitous encounter for him—being present during the fight—one that he was extremely grateful for.
Getting to witness a Beyonder battle first hand is so much better than hearing a half-assed account from non-Beyonders. [Great Sage] is just perfect for situations like this. He mused.
After a few more minutes of replay and analysis, Rimuru and [Great Sage] were finally done extracting all possible information from the memory of the event.
[Great Sage], summarize the abilities of both the Beyonders for me, will you?
«Received. Summarizing. First, the adventurer Alan:
Enhanced Physical Attributes; mainly strength, durability and endurance.
Illusory Scale Creation, possessing considerable durability and mobility.
Strength Amplification through accumulation and stockpiling of damage.
Second, the adventurer Clive:
Enhanced Physical Attributes; mainly strength, speed and agility.
Enhanced Senses and Instincts.
Adeptness at Martial Arts and killing techniques through the use of weapons.
Provocation and Trap-based Attributes.»
Hmmm… both of them are beyond the limits of what a normal human is capable of, and both of them seem to have a unique set of abilities that fit a particular category. If I had to describe them using the 'Class System' from the RPGs of my first world, I would put Alan in the 'Berserker' or 'Tank' Class, while Clive would belong to the 'Assassin' or 'Spy' Class.
Putting that aside, all of their superhuman abilities seem to draw from the same mysterious energy that I possess. Since I analyzed it more thoroughly in their fight, I have a greater awareness and understanding of it, and can detect the same energy within everyone, although in very minute quantities. These Beyonders have a much larger amount of this energy, and so do I.
So to conclude, this supernatural energy, which is intrinsically tied to the soul and the metaphysical parts of a being, seems to be the source and fuel for the supernatural elements in this world. Additionally, it is also connected to the mysterious realm connected to me in some way. Perhaps it's the energy's place of origin, or maybe the realm was created from the energy. Whatever the case, I have a clear path forward now. I have to uncover its secrets.
Increasing my knowledge of this energy will be vital, along with gaining control over it. Finding ways to increase the amount of it within me is also quite important. It is likely that the special 'Potions' that Beyonders are said to get their powers from increase the amount of energy within the consumer. But I'll have to wait a while before I can research it further…
Rimuru contemplated as he sat on the bench, looking up at the sunny sky. Then, as if snapping out of a trance, he pushed his hands against the bench and stood up, dusting off his pants. "Now then… Time for some preparations," he said softly.
He didn't have any solid destination in mind to head towards; rather, his goal for the rest of the day was to collect information and familiarize himself with Bayam further. He did want to return to the Swordfish Bar again eventually, but he wouldn't until he was sure the official investigations regarding the fight were over; until then, he would visit some other places to spend time.
His first stop was in a tiny alleyway, where he used [Mimicry] to transform into the most decent-looking guy out of all the ones he had consumed—at least in terms of physical appearance, after which he outfitted himself with a combination of clothes he had in his [Stomach]. A simple semi-formal white shirt paired with a dark gray vest. His pants matched his vest while his boots were leathery black. A pocket-watch sat in his vest and and a pair of glasses adorned his face.
He looked like an ordinary man, with no features that stood out in particular. Decent, but unremarkable—Perfect.
Following that, he made his way to a small cafe, a few minutes from the alley on foot. He entered—accompanied by a chime from the door, found a seat, and ordered some food and refreshments, waiting patiently while taking in the scenery around. It was one of the relatively high-end establishments in that particular area of Bayam, and while Rimuru didn't have much money to spare, he had enough to treat himself for now, especially considering how much he would soon start earning.
In actuality, Rimuru had no need for food, just like he didn't rely on any other human life-systems. Ingestion, Digestion, Respiration, Excretion, and even Sleep were all optional for him; luxuries he could choose to indulge in rather than biological requirements. But even so, he still possessed an innate desire to taste and enjoy food, which was expected, considering his very normal, human past.
After a peaceful hour of relaxation, munching and sipping, Rimuru departed from the cafe, buying a bunch of newspapers, including the Sonia Morning Post and News Report from a nearby vendor, and then boarding a carriage. His next destination was quite far away, located in the lower-class areas of Bayam. It was one of the criminal dens he had found out about through Old Tony's memories; a gathering and trading spot for those wanting to hide their identities and conduct unlawful business.
His ride lasted for half an hour, which he spent reading the newspapers and absorbing all the new information he was gaining. As he stepped out of the carriage, handing the driver the required money, he noticed the vast difference between different areas within Bayam itself. The neighborhood he was in now felt like a completely separate world compared to where he was earlier. Ragtag buildings, uneven roads, tramps roaming the street, etc.
The disparity was all too clear for anyone to see. It's a pity… Classism truly goes hand-in-hand with civilization, no matter what form it takes. I shouldn't have expected this world to be any different… He sighed.
Rimuru then began moving through the tightly packed buildings, navigating the messy architecture and engineering with stolen memories. It didn't take him long to reach a junkyard-like area, filled with towers of waste of all types; broken furniture, heaps of rocks, organic waste, etc.
From what the memories have shown me, I can't be surprised even if I find a corpse among the piles of trash here.
His expression grim, he ignored the putrid smell and bleak sight as he walked toward a particular tower that was leaning on the boundary wall. Behind it, was a small gap in the wall that was just enough for a single person to fit through, and past the gap was a small corridor ending with a thick wooden door.
There was no light to guide him, but Rimuru gracefully made his way to the door without hesitation, and knocked on it in a unique pattern, pausing and tapping in certain intervals a specific number of times.
After waiting a few seconds, a slider bar opened in the door and a pair of eyes peered out. Narrowed and bloodshot, they scrutinized Rimuru for a few seconds before the slider bar shut again, and the door finally opened, making way for him to enter.
As soon as he stepped inside, he felt the atmosphere around him shift. The dilapidated scene from outside was replaced by a gloomy and dangerous bar, the occupants glancing at him with cold and curious gazes.
The door creaked shut behind him, sealing him in, and the doorman sat back down on his stool, returning to the newspaper in his hands. Silence reigned.
He realized immediately that his appearance was not entirely suitable for this type of establishment—his boots a bit too clean and his coat a bit too soft. The carnivorous gazes eyeing him made it clear that he was being perceived as fresh prey—one which had willingly stepped into a den of wolves.
The bar was dimly lit, not by piped gas, but rather lanterns and candles. The ceiling was low and the whole place was filled with tables and seats of varying sizes. On the wall opposing the door, there were several passageways veiled by curtains, likely leading to private rooms for gambling and dealing.
Rimuru slowly walked toward the bar counter, stationed toward the right, while avoiding any tables. The silence soon ceased and the crowd resumed their activities, but he knew a part of their attention lingered on him. The subtle side-eyes and half-turned torsos were indicative of the changed mood in the bar.
He moved without any hesitation in his step, unflinching under their scrutiny. Fucking lowlifes will definitely pounce at the first sign of weakness I show… He realized.
He reached the counter and slid onto a tall, weathered stool without a sound. The bartender, a burly man with a gray beard and a scar that cut across his nose, didn't speak immediately. He was polishing a cloudy glass with a rag that looked dirtier than the counter itself, eyeing Rimuru with interest—or greed. Most likely both.
"Don't think I've seen you here before," the bartender finally said, his voice gruff and low, like he hadn't missed a day of smoking for decades.
"Just passing by," Rimuru replied, "Thought I should taste the local flavor. A little birdie flying by was kind enough to tell me 'bout this place."
Following that he pulled out a 5 soli coin and slid it on the table. The bartender merely stared at him for a few seconds, before palming the coin and smirking. "One Black Rand coming up."
As the man behind the counter began preparing his drink, Rimuru took the opportunity to further survey his surroundings, and more specifically, the people. He could recognize several among them.
A middle-aged man wearing a gray hooded cloak, fidgeting with a cigarette while seemingly waiting for someone—that was Guile, a hired gun just like Marcus Shaw.
An older woman with heavy makeup, twiddling her pointed hat while talking—that was Miss Kelly, a contact for a high-profile drug manufacturer.
A younger guy sitting close to the door, wearing ragtag clothing and spectacles and sipping on some cheap Zarhar—that was Jonathan, an information merchant with suspected ties to pirate circles.
And many others… Rimuru kept an eye on all of them, even though none were of any immediate significance, since anyone could turn out to be useful down the line.
Soon the bartender returned with the drink, setting it in front of Rimuru with a clink. The glass was surprisingly clean, the dark amber liquid inside shimmering in the low light.
"Here. One Black Rand," the bartender muttered, then leaned an elbow on the counter and gave Rimuru a long, appraising look. "You don't sound like the usual crowd... Too polished."
Rimuru gave a soft grin and raised the drink to his lips. He took a sip—just enough to wet his tongue and let the burning trail slide down his throat. "Mmm. Not bad," he said softly, setting the glass down. "And well, the fancy fuckers on their high horses up in their manors treat you better when you dress and speak like 'em." Then he gave a small smirk, "It's good for business."
The bartender stared for a moment, before scoffing with humor in his eyes and returning to his duties. Rimuru continued to observe his surroundings and sip on his drink, feeling his [Predator] skill take effect and immediately detoxify his body from the effects of alcohol.
A few minutes passed, and one person had caught his attention in particular. Jonathan, who had finished his Zarhar a while back, was now just sitting in his spot, eyes darting to the door every few seconds. His feet were tapping the ground and he kept biting his nails.
He seems very nervous… He keeps looking at the door which means he's waiting for someone, and presumably they're late. Should I go talk to him?
As Rimuru was wondering whether or not to approach him, Jonathan got up from his chair and walked to the door, stumbling into the uneven chairs more than once on his way.
The doorman simply stared at him as he came, his face impassive. His gaze seemed to make Jonathan even more skittish than he already was.
"The fuck you want?" The doorman said gruffly.
"Umm the door—I mean I want to go outside," Jonathan blurted out.
"The exit is in the back, first corridor on the left," came the reply.
Jonathan nodded stiffly and turned around, walking to the back of the room and into the corridor.
Rimuru stood up from his stool, nodded to the burly bartender, and followed.
Old Tony didn't have much information about this guy, but if he really has ties to pirates like the rumors say, he could be helpful.
He walked through the long, dark corridor, which twisted and turned thrice before reaching its end before a small wooden door. He waited until Jonathan walked through and closed the door before following.
The exit opened up into a junkyard, not unlike the one at the entrance, but much emptier. He saw Jonathan taking a narrow path out and stalked behind, keeping enough distance to remain undetected.
Over the next few minutes, Rimuru tailed the young man through slums, alleyways and even an industrial area.
He's deliberately taking longer routes… Does he know he's being followed? Nah, that's unlikely. He keeps looking around nervously and avoiding every person he sees, so he's probably scared of being tracked or recognized.
Rimuru kept his distance, his steps unnaturally quiet and senses focused on not only Jonathan but his surroundings as well.
I miss having Magic Sense…
Entering another new neighborhood, this one significantly more dilapidated than the last few, Rimuru sighed as he followed. Where is this guy going?
Then, just as he was about to exit an alley and turn left onto the main street—
"Finally found you, you fucking rat!"
Rimuru paused, hiding behind a building at the exit of the alleyway. He extended his hand out, activating [Mimicry]. The skin on the tip of his index finger warped as an eye formed, giving him immediate feedback as his vision expanded. [Great Sage] took care of processing the new information and integrating it into his default perception.
He stuck his finger out slightly, peeking onto the main street with his new eye while remaining fully hidden.
The street was relatively busy, with half-dressed children playing with rocks and a dozen or so people walking about. Jonathan was surrounded by three men, one of them grabbing his collar.
"Did you think you could run? That's what that bastard Watson thought too, but we got him, just like we got you now," the man raised his voice, drawing attention from onlookers.
Jonathan looked petrified, his hands half raised in surrender. "W—what happened to Watson?"
A wicked grin formed on the man's face as he leaned closer to Jonathan's face, "We killed him."
The man beside him then spoke, "You fucked up, Jonny. You should have never listened to Watson, what made you think you could ever get away from Boss?"
Was this Watson the person Jonathan was waiting for at the bar?
"Can we do this somewhere else?" Jonathan said weakly, looking around him. People were staring, and even the children had stopped their games to look.
The man grabbing his collar shook him angrily, "You think you can demand shit from us?"
The third man spoke, "Boss said he wanted to see him—we should go."
The man seemed too angry for reason, but after a few seconds relented and let go of Jonathan's collar with a scoff. "C'mon, Boss will decide what to do with you. And don't try anything funny."
The three men then led him towards the very alleyway Rimuru was hiding in.
Alright, let's do this fast…
Rimuru retracted his hand as the eye on his fingers disappeared, and then quickly uses [Mimicry] to temporarily morph his face into one of Old Tony's other lackeys.
He didn't have to wait for long as in just a few seconds, Jonathan, along with his three escorts turned into the alley.
In a single burst of speed, Rimuru dashed toward them and knocked them out with a single hit to the head.
"W—what!?" Jonathan sputtered, confused.
Appearing in front of him, Rimuru said, "Let's go," grabbing his arm.
Panicking, Jonathan exclaimed, "Wait! Who are you? What is going on?"
Rimuru calmly replied, "I'm your best chance at surviving whatever mess you've gotten into," as he started into the young man's eyes. "Now are you coming or not?"
Jonathan paused, heart beating fast and hands trembling slightly. He silently weighed his choices.
"Alright… Yeah, alright, I'll come with you," he said, mustering all the courage he had.
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A/N: Lemme know your thoughts.