The System

CH- 74: Infiltration (II).

    The squad navigated a predetermined path through the forest, making their way back toward their base. Simple traps dotted their route, manipulated by only one member, who expertly tampered with them before the group advanced to their next destination. Tetsu speculated that his proficiency with traps or hunting skills might explain his role. If captured, he'd likely be the easiest to eliminate.

In direct confrontations, the shield-bearing member posed a significant threat, while in prolonged battles, it was the archer. Their abilities seemed custom-made for their roles, prompting Tetsu to suspect all of them had a [Bond].

The squad's skills and equipment were nothing short of impressive, featuring flashy abilities and peculiar substances that outperformed his own mana or vitality-infused smoke orb by a significant margin.

While a part of him couldn't help but envy their capabilities, the predominant feeling within him was disdain for the opportunities they enjoyed.

Where is the thrill in following a predetermined path, when true adventure lies in the uncharted wilderness? Despite his disdain, frustration, and occasional curses directed at this world, the moment magic sparked within him—even if just a fraction—he dared defy the heavens to embark on the journey of the unknown.

Where is the fun if you can implant the destination without enjoying the journey?

He would never give up the process of discovering or creating a skill, even if it might end with a disastrous outcome.

Tetsu made a rough estimate and made a beeline to the squad's next stop.

"looking down on peasants has its advantages," Tetsu chuckles to himself as he notices an unusual mist enveloping the forest. "Squirming away like a worm, too." He recollects all the digs that helped him escape near-death fights.

It's a peculiar sensation, embracing the pride of an eagle alongside the cowardice of a worm. "I could establish two distinct Orders," he muses, concocting yet another ambitious project as he maneuvers around the mist, marking every fourth tree with the symbol of the Eye of Providence.

The mist formed a barrier, designed to divert attention away from the scouts. Tetsu flung himself above the treetops and over the mist wall. He first wanted to go through but discarded the idea as the caster might have connected with the mist and sensed his approach.

With enhanced vision, Tetsu honed in on three figures concealed among the tree canopies. The individual in the center wielded a single sword, two daggers, and carried a handful of reddish potions. Positioned between the two casters, one of whom manipulated the mist using unique spores on his hands, while the other wore a grin even more absurd than Tetsu's own.

"Simley," he decided to dub the latter. Simley sported a black cloak adorned with even more grinning faces. Both casters possessed blue vials, presumably mana potions.

"Where in the world did they acquire such equipment?" he muttered, the answer becoming apparent moments later. "Bloody cheaters," he grumbled, his attention shifting to the unsuspecting opponent being deceived by their tactics.

The trio stood their ground against a horde of bulls, each one surpassing level four. They did not engage in combat in a direct sense, yet Tetsu admired their courage.

The swordsman served as the group's muscle, complementing their strategic minds. His potions likely provided stamina or enhanced physical abilities, invaluable for stalling enemies or aiding in their escape. While the green vials contained health potions, they appeared to be scarce, none of them carrying more than one.

"Life force is hard even for you, ha!" Tetsu sighed as he landed on the top of the largest tree crown.

A rune glowed and propelled Tetsu away just in the nick of time as he touched down like a silent sugar glider. Despite the need for information, he refrained from using his Info skill, wary of disrupting their concentration. The swordsman maintained a vigilant stance, while Smiley and Mistguy teetered on the brink of exhaustion.