Chapter 061 – Rainforest Fever
......
Spirits of nature, formed by geographical environment and collective consciousness, often have their own temperaments.
For instance, the spirit of a snowy mountain tends to be fond of sleep, showing great lethargy in external communication. Even with Matthew's high affinity with nature, it might not be willing to interact with him.
The rainforest, however, is different. It appears youthful, lively, yet cruel and warlike.
This is related to environmental factors. The rainforest is rich in species and densely populated with ecological niches. All creatures find their path of evolution through constant strife.
The law of the jungle, survival of the fittest.
Therefore, the collective consciousness formed by these creatures is naturally violent and warlike.
Faced with the challenge of the spirit of the rainforest, Matthew had no choice but to accept!
If he chose to avoid the fight, he would not only lose an opportunity to improve himself, but also potentially cast a shadow over his future development in the realm of nature.
"Hold on."
After accepting the challenge, Matthew immediately stopped. He said to Old Gitch and Loran:
"I've run into a bit of trouble and won't be able to travel with you for a short while."
The challenge of the spirit of the rainforest was directed solely at Matthew. He didn't want to drag Old Gitch and Loran into it.
Under their puzzled gazes, Matthew explained:
"Just now, I had a bit of a clash with the spirit of this rainforest. It's not too happy with me. Before long, all sorts of beasts and monsters will come looking for me. I don't want to involve you."
Old Gitch looked at Matthew suspiciously:
"You can communicate with the spirit of the rainforest?"
Matthew didn't elaborate, only nodding and saying:
"It's a stroke of luck."
Upon hearing this, Loran immediately declared:
"How could we abandon a companion at a time like this? Matthew, no matter how many monsters come, I will fight alongside you. I am your strongest support in battle!"
"I was just lamenting how dull the journey was, with no material to draw from. Now, let me see what kind of monsters this rainforest has! It's a pity that no matter how powerful they are, they can't compare to the Sky Giant I caught with my own hands!"
Old Gitch gave Matthew a deep look.
The next moment, he picked up his short knife and started to walk back:
"I won't abandon my employer halfway. Moreover, you're unfamiliar with this area. If we part ways, your chances of winning will greatly decrease."
"But, can you be more specific about the attack of the jungle monsters?"
Matthew pondered:
"It will probably last for about ten days. During the day, they might just be ordinary harassments. Generally, around midnight, the possibility of the monsters going berserk and attacking is greater."
This wasn't a bluff from Matthew, but fragments of information revealed by the spirit of the rainforest during their communication, which he had caught.
However, Matthew wasn't sure if this was a smokescreen.
In any case, for the next ten days, he would have to be on high alert.
After hearing this, Old Gitch chose another path, signaling Matthew and Loran to follow:
"The terrain here is not suitable for us to fight. I'll take you to another place.
That's the outskirts of the Bitterwater Swamp. The terrain there is relatively open, and the landscape is not so complicated.
The monsters that appear nearby are only Blackback Gnolls and small mite monsters, most of which are not a concern.
There are only two things to note. Occasionally, there will be groups of bipedal flying dragons in that area, but the chances of us running into them are very low;
In addition, the west of the Bitterwater Swamp is the territory of a Scorpion-tailed Lion. It has lived for a very long time, at least two hundred years, so try not to go near there—
Just to be clear, if a Scorpion-tailed Lion or bipedal flying dragons appear, then I can only prioritize my own safety."
Loran laughed dismissively:
"No problem, I will protect you!
I'm getting a bit excited. How will the people of the future recount this experience—
The legendary journey of the great poet Loran begins?
Hmm, this title is a bit cliché. A bard should sing praises of others rather than boasting about himself.
Haha, I've thought of a title for my new work, it's called 'Brave Matthew/Part One: Jungle Heat'!
Maybe it could even be adapted into a stage play!
The poster for the play will use the rainforest as the background, with your portrait in the center, and two scantily clad, admiring Django women on the side. You can even strike a pose with a woman on each arm, how about that?"
Matthew patted his shoulder:
"Sounds good, but remember to pay me a portrait fee and authorization fee after the big success."
......
To the west of the Bitterwater Swamp, on a barren land scattered with sparse reeds and thorns, Old Gitch was using his short knife to cut away all the plants that might obstruct their view.
Matthew and Loran were also helping.
Matthew looked around and found that the place Old Gitch had chosen was indeed good.
Firstly, it was on higher ground with a relatively open view.
Secondly, it was a dry land, far from rivers and streams. There were fewer weeds and shrubs, making it easier to clear.
Lastly, there weren't many tall trees nearby, making it a small open space in the dense rainforest.
"Why is there a place like this?"
Matthew noticed that this highland was not naturally formed and asked.
Old Gitch was meticulously cutting the thorns:
"There used to be a mage living deep in the Bitterwater Swamp. He was a loner, didn't like to interact with people, and hated others approaching his territory.
So when the mage first arrived, he had several conflicts with the Django tribe and some monsters in the rainforest.
After several rounds of fierce battles, the mage emerged victorious.
After that, no one wanted to approach this place, especially the beasts in the rainforest that understood spirituality.
That mage disappeared about 3 years ago. Some guessed that he died, others guessed that he just left for a long time. But no matter what, the Bitterwater Swamp was left vacant.
However, due to the traps and deterrents left by the mage, there hasn't been a large monster settlement proliferating here.
The highland we're standing on was formed by the accumulation of the bodies of earth giants summoned by the mage in a battle.
"I chose this place not only for its terrain, but also for two other reasons. First, the deterrent effect of that mage on the rainforest creatures is still present, which may help filter out some enemies for you;
Second, if the situation becomes dire, I suggest you try to escape into the depths of the swamp. Of course, this is a path of seeking life from death."
Matthew instantly understood the hidden meaning in Old Gitch's words:
"So, that mage, is he also a Necromancer?"
Thud!
After chopping off the last thorn, Old Gitch dropped his knife, took out a dry pipe from the bundle on his back, took a couple of puffs, and then nodded and continued:
"Yes. That Necromancer is very powerful and extremely evil, once a nightmare for the nearby Jango tribes.
Half of his undead army was transformed from rainforest creatures, and the other half were Jango people. He even used the bodies of the Jango people to create two Abominations!
But the Jango people were helpless against him. In their several confrontations with the Necromancer, they prayed to the Feathered Serpent God, deployed jungle war beasts, and even sacrificed five or six shamans, but they still lost in the end.
If it weren't for the Necromancer's lack of ambition to expand his territory, I'm afraid this rainforest would have been taken over long ago.
In short, I suspect that the Necromancer has approached or even stepped into the realm of legends.
He has left many traps and undead in the swamp.
Even you, a Necromancer, may find it difficult to communicate with those undead.
So don't risk going deep into the swamp until the last moment!"
After listening to Old Gitch's warning.
Matthew sincerely said:
"Thank you."
Old Gitch just waved his hand:
"I'm just a guide, I can't help you much. If a fight breaks out, you'll have to fend for yourself."
At this point, Lolan interjected:
"Don't worry, I'll be there when the fight starts. Although I don't know magic and my martial skills are average, my flute will surprise you!"
As he spoke, he even shook the light green flute at his waist.
"Then we'll wait and see."
Matthew smiled and continued to prepare for the upcoming battle.
The sun was setting.
Birds were returning to their nests.
In the sporadic chirping.
Unbeknownst to anyone, some malicious figures had appeared in the jungle on the edge of the high ground.
"They're here."
Matthew reminded in a low voice.
Beside him, Old Gitch was on full alert.
Only Lolan was still engrossed in a book that looked like a children's book, occasionally chuckling.
It wasn't until he heard Matthew's reminder.
That he slowly closed the book, stretched lazily and looked around blankly:
"Where?"
"East."
Matthew calmly said: "It's a group of Blackback Gnolls, about 8 to 11 in number - are there dungeons nearby?"
Old Gitch quickly replied:
"There are a few, but not many, and the surface exits are far from here."
Matthew nodded:
"There are three jungle panthers to the west, all female, with an average level of around 10."
"There's also an 11th level Forest Giant Python lurking on the banyan tree to the north. It has camouflage color, I almost didn't recognize it."
Old Gitch looked at Matthew in surprise:
"Did you use a detection spell?"
With his many years of experience traversing the rainforest and his abilities suited to this environment, he hadn't noticed the Forest Giant Python, yet Matthew, a Necromancer, had spotted it with his naked eye. How could he not be surprised?
Matthew didn't explain.
In fact, it was Ella in his arms who had quietly reminded him. The spirit of nature was indeed unparalleled in sensing beasts. With Ella, no creature in the rainforest could escape Matthew's eyes.
"It's time to act."
Matthew noticed the Blackback Gnolls' movements.
"I'll go distract that Forest Giant Python."
Old Gitch quickly said:
"I have a lot of experience dealing with pythons, you don't have to worry about me."
With that, he headed alone towards the python.
On the other side.
The Blackback Gnolls seemed to realize that they had been exposed, they no longer hid and directly surrounded them.
Blackback Gnolls are close relatives of the Gnolls, but they are much larger in size than ordinary Gnolls. They have sparse black hair and are very muscular, almost catching up with half-orcs.
These creatures are usually active in dungeons and are very rare in the rainforest. However, their appearance in this encirclement proves that they are also a part of this rainforest, driven by the spirit of the rainforest.
Matthew didn't take it lightly, the level of this group of Blackback Gnolls was very high, averaging over level 7, with several at level 9. In addition, they were also inspired by the bloodlust of the spirit of the jungle, their strength was not to be underestimated.
He controlled the Skeleton Soldiers to confront the enemy, while Sodie's figure gradually disappeared into the air.
Just then.
It can be hard to make great work when its stolen from bit.ly/3iBfjkV.
A cheerful flute sound rang out, it was Lolan playing with a satisfied expression.
He played quickly and skillfully.
In just a few seconds, the short flute sound went from cheerful and intense to melodious and grand.
And with the change in the flute sound, one buff after another was hung on Matthew.
……
「Prompt: You have listened to Lolan's music excerpt "Mountain Crossing Tune", your movement speed has been increased;
You have listened to Lolan's music excerpt "Numb Heart", your resistance to charm has been increased;
You have listened to Lolan's music excerpt "Mermaid's Song", your casting speed has been increased」
……
In front, the Gnolls had already clashed with the undead, but the Blackback Gnolls were surprisingly strong. As soon as they touched, the Skeleton Soldiers were at a disadvantage and could only hold on.
At this time, Lolan's flute sound became ancient and high-pitched.
……
「Prompt: You have listened to Lolan's music excerpt "Ancient Battlefield", your spells have a slight chance of causing double casting.
You have listened to Lolan's music excerpt "Wind's Chant", you have gained a Wind Shield」
……The flute music continued, with a steady stream of buffs being applied to Matthew. At this moment, Matthew finally experienced the feeling of being strengthened!
Unfortunately, the Undead could only benefit from the "Wind Shield", all other buffs were ineffective.
Moreover, Matthew carefully checked and found that although the buffs given by Lorran lasted for a decent amount of time, their effects could only be described as "slight".
He wasn't sure if this was because he hadn't heard the complete music, or because Lorran's level was insufficient.
After all, the Bard was a late-game profession, so Matthew didn't place too much hope on him.
"Step back and find a safe place."
Seeing Lorran put down his flute, Matthew took the initiative to remind him.
He had thought that with the Bard's previously demonstrated boldness, he would insist on staying and fighting alongside him. He had even thought about how to persuade him.
However, this time Lorran was very obedient after hearing Matthew's words.
He seemed to have done everything he could, and ran off in a puff of smoke.
Matthew even saw him find a suitable viewing spot in the distance, cheering him on with body gestures.
"What a strange guy."
Matthew didn't mind.
He turned his attention back to the front.
At this moment, the Blackback Gnolls had gained the upper hand. However, when the figure of the Blade Dancer began to appear behind them, the battlefield situation instantly reversed!
With a swish, Sodie made his move. His daggers crossed, and a head fell to the ground!
The other Blackback Gnolls rushed towards Sodie in shock and anger.
However, Sodie only took half a step back and deeply retreated into the shadows, leaving the enemy with no trace to follow.
Seeing this, Matthew nodded in satisfaction.
But the next moment.
Nature's Affinity was acting up!
……
"Warning: The Spirit of the Rainforest is very dissatisfied with your use of summoned creatures to kill enemies!
A true warrior should be brave enough to fight on his own, not rely on others!"
……
"Not allowed to use summons?"
Matthew frowned.
That's fine.
Judging from the monsters that had appeared so far, even without the Undead, Matthew could handle it himself!
So he ordered the Undead to retreat to the side while taking out a charged staff from his Mysterious Spell Satchel—
Arcane Missiles!
Five consecutive magic energy balls hit the Gnoll at the front.
The spell didn't kill him instantly, but it knocked him down. The next second, Matthew skillfully shot a crossbow bolt at the fallen enemy.
Thud!
The crossbow bolt pierced the Gnoll's chin, and it let out a mournful cry before dying on the spot.
"Hmm, my aim is getting better."
Matthew was very satisfied with his performance.
However, at this moment.
A familiar feeling emerged again.
……
"Warning: The Spirit of the Rainforest is dissatisfied with your method of killing enemies using items!
A true warrior should be brave enough to charge into the enemy lines, not cunningly use ranged attacks."
……
This time, Matthew was not happy.
"Again and again, are you trying to PUA me?"
"Killing a person and still nagging, you're really pushing it!"
This time, Matthew completely ignored the warning from the Spirit of the Rainforest.
He not only ordered the Undead to return to the fight, but also took out a Fire Gel and a Burning Bottle from the Mysterious Spell Satchel.
Bang, bang.
The flames exploded.
Several Gnolls were hit, screaming and scattering in all directions.
Sodie, who had been lurking in the shadows, was already itching for action. He emerged from the shadows and began to reap the Gnolls one by one.
In front of the Blade Dancer's blade, the Blackback Gnolls quickly fell, and were eventually wiped out.
The three Jungle Panthers that had appeared before were more cautious. They only circled the edge of the battlefield twice. After finding no opportunity, they retreated and left.
A moment later.
Matthew began to clean up the bodies of the Gnolls.
At this time, Old Gith's figure emerged from the rainforest.
"Where's the giant anaconda?"
Matthew called out from a distance.
"It followed me for a while, then ran away."
Old Gith answered loudly.
However, at this moment.
His expression changed dramatically, and Matthew heard Ella's exclamation:
"Matthew, run! There's something wrong with the tree on the right!"
Before her words fell.
The seemingly dead tree that had been lying on the ground since the beginning suddenly sprang up!
The huge body of the Forest Anaconda cast a huge shadow over Matthew.
The moon was high in the sky, and the moonlight was bright.
The Anaconda pounced on Matthew, its slippery body wrapping around him, vowing to strangle him in an instant.
However, at the moment it pounced.
Matthew's body began to grow uncontrollably!
"Roar!"
Under the astonished gaze of the Anaconda and Old Gith, a bear that seemed to radiate moonlight appeared out of thin air!
Slap!
The Moon Bear grabbed the head of the Forest Anaconda and slammed it into the ground.
The soft moonlight sprinkled on the Moon Bear, adding a lot of attributes to him.
Bang!
Bang!
Bang!
Matthew held the Anaconda's head and smashed it to death!
The latter didn't even have a chance to resist, its head was smashed through, and it lost its life.
"The first round of enemies was relatively easy."
After looking around and seeing no other enemies, Matthew withdrew his transformation.
The next moment.
A furious voice rang out in Matthew's heart:
"How dare you ignore my warning?!"
Matthew knew that this was the externalization of the will of the Spirit of the Rainforest.
He thought for a moment, then decided to retort without hesitation:
"You can send whoever you want, but who I kill first and how I kill them is my business!"
The Spirit of the Rainforest said angrily:
"You have angered the soul of this jungle, I will not let you leave here alive!"
Matthew also abandoned his previous gentleness and humility, even trying to fill his tone with violent emotions:
"Suit yourself, I'll kill as many as you send!""Send out your strongest minions, let them come to me for their deaths. Even if they don't come to me, I'll hunt them down and kill them. It's a pity you don't have a physical form, otherwise I would slaughter you too!"
The Spirit of the Rainforest did not respond.
A moment later.
……
"Notification: Your toughness and brutality have earned the respect of the Spirit of the Rainforest. The time you will be besieged by beasts and monsters in the rainforest has been reduced to three days!"
……
As expected.
Matthew thought to himself that the Spirit of the Rainforest and the Demon were of the same kind.
He just felt that he couldn't always succumb to the other's coercion, but he didn't expect that his crude display of violence would earn the other's respect.
At this moment.
He finally understood some of Zeller's helplessness.
In some situations, it's quite difficult to be a good person.
But the next second.
The smile that had just appeared on Matthew's face froze again.
……
"Warning: The Spirit of the Rainforest has raised your danger rating. In the next three days, it will no longer hold back and will go all out. It will summon its most powerful minions to besiege you!
Be cautious!"
……
"It seems that imitating the character of the Spirit of the Rainforest is useful, but not entirely."
Matthew stroked his chin and shook his head with a bitter smile.
"Matthew, Matthew!"
"Go check it out, there seems to be something in the belly of that big snake!"
Ella flew over from the side and reminded him.
Matthew immediately went over.
He found that indeed, a part of the giant serpent's belly was bulging.
At this moment, Old G also came over. The two exchanged a glance, and Old G raised his knife and cut open the serpent's belly in a few swift strokes.
With a grunt.
A humanoid object filled with the stench of decay rolled out.
Matthew took a closer look.
It turned out to be a zombie.
Around the zombie's neck, there was a shiny nameplate.
……
(End of the chapter)