WebNovels

Chapter 2 - Become stronger

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That's for later

Talking about it seems easy, but in reality, it's very difficult.

Don't look at how Rimuru acquires skills so effortlessly, like plucking leaves from the roadside. That's either part of the plot requirement, or perhaps Veldanava has already arranged or mapped out Rimuru's future path. Or maybe Rimuru is someone directly chosen by Veldanava to replace him.

The fact that a creator dies because of his own rules is quite absurd and strange.

Perhaps, in the past, Veldanava has already calculated countless futures—that one day, someone will appear, continue to evolve, grow incredibly strong, even surpass him, and ultimately perfect the flawed system of the world he created.

But that has nothing to do with me...

That's Rimuru's responsibility, and that's a story for later.

By the way, I feel myself growing stronger, my energy increasing—even if just by a small percentage.

"Answer: Intrinsic Skill: Energy Drain."

Does that mean I can absorb energy from around me and strengthen myself?

"Answer: Energy Drain passively absorbs magicule energy at a rate of 0.00002%."

That's very low?! Well, what can I do? If Energy Drain could absorb energy at a higher percentage, I might grow to be as strong as an unawakened Demon Lord in no time.

"Answer: Killing enemies with your own strength can absorb approximately up to 0.005% energy."

Wait?!

"Report: Unique Skill: Piercer."

Unique Skill: Piercer (Passive)

Effect: Penetrates defenses

Description:

This skill allows your attacks to pierce through enemy defenses with sharpness and precision. Each attack made with this skill can bypass defenses, dealing direct and effective damage.

Additional Effect:

When an enemy hit by this skill is defeated, you automatically absorb their energy, enhancing your strength and abilities. The stronger the creature you kill, the more energy you absorb.

"By combining this with your intrinsic skill: Energy Drain..."

That means I can get even stronger.

Maybe soon, I could become as powerful as a Demon Lord that hasn't yet awakened.

"Answer: It is estimated to take 250 years if the host kills one monster or creature per day to reach the strength of an unawakened Demon Lord."

What?! 250 years? That's way too long for someone who has lived less than 40 years!

What year is it now? Has Rimuru already reincarnated? If so, that would be very inconvenient.

"Report: Data error—no records found."

I know that already. You're just a program, after all, controlled and programmed.

*Calm down, calm down...*

*Taking a deep breath.

We'll find out later...

**A tremor.**

What's happening now?...

fading away

Suddenly, a monster resembling a lizard emerges from the ground, rushing toward the carcass of the recently slain dragon monster.

Damn, that startled me...

Based on the detected magicule energy, that lizard probably isn't as strong as me. Should I attack it, or not?

Hmm…

Hahaha…

Attack!!!

Quick!

I activate my **Spectral Howl** skill...

With confident steps, I open my (non-existent) mouth and unleash the Spectral Howl— a mental attack that deafens and radiates deadly energy. A loud, piercing scream reverberates across the battlefield, enveloping the area with an aura of terrifying power.

The lizard monster halts momentarily, its eyes wide with terror as waves of energy engulf its body. Its scales tremble violently, and a long, pained groan escapes its mouth. The destructive penetrative force touches its core, shattering its consciousness and leaving it immobilized in defeat.

In the tense silence, the monster begins to lose its strength, its body gradually weakening until it finally collapses to the ground, powerless under your assault.

Hah...

It's so weak...

A strand of energy flows into me, making me feel the pleasure of growing stronger.

Feeling my power increase is so satisfying...

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