This Necromancer Just Wants to Plant Trees - Chapter 62

The natural spirits formed by the geographical environment and collective consciousness often have their own personalities.

For example, the natural spirit of the snowy mountains is quite fond of sleep and appears very lazy in external interactions. Even if someone as nature-friendly as Matthew were to approach, it might not be willing to engage.

The rainforest, on the other hand, is different. It seems young, lively, and cruelly aggressive.

This is related to environmental factors. The rainforest is home to a wide variety of species, and the ecological niches are densely packed. All creatures find their evolutionary path through continuous battles.

The law of the rainforest is "survival of the fittest."

As a result, the collective consciousness of these creatures is naturally violent and combative.

Faced with the challenge of the rainforest spirit, Matthew had no choice but to accept it!

If he were to avoid the challenge, he would not only miss an opportunity to improve himself but also cast a shadow over his future development in the realm of nature.

"Wait."

After accepting the challenge, Matthew immediately halted and said to Old Gito and Lysanna:

"I've run into a bit of trouble, and I won't be able to accompany you in the short term."

The challenge from the rainforest spirit was aimed solely at Matthew, and he didn't want to drag Old Gito and Lysanna into it.

In the puzzled eyes of the two.

Matthew explained:

"Just a moment ago, I had a spark with the natural spirit of this rainforest, and it has strong opinions about me now. It won't be long before various beasts and monsters come looking for me, and I don't want to involve you."

Old Gito looked at Matthew with suspicion:

"You can communicate with the spirit of the rainforest?"

Matthew didn't go into details but nodded:

"It was a fortunate encounter."

Upon hearing this, Lysanna immediately declared with determination:

"In times like this, how could I abandon a companion? Matthew, no matter how many monsters come, I'll stand by your side in battle. I am your strongest support in combat!"

"I was just worried that the journey would be too dull, and I wouldn't have any material to work with. But now, it's perfect. Let me see what kind of creatures are in this rainforest! Unfortunately, no matter how powerful they are, they can't compare to the sky giants I captured with my own hands!"

Old Gito looked at Matthew deeply.

In the next moment, he picked up his short knife and headed back:

"I won't abandon my employer halfway, and this area is unfamiliar to you. If we split up, your chances of success will be greatly reduced."

"However, about the attacks from the jungle monsters, can you provide more details?"

Matthew pondered and said:

"It will last for about ten days. During the day, they might just be minor annoyances, but as it approaches midnight, the likelihood of the monsters going berserk and launching full-scale attacks increases."

This wasn't something Matthew made up on the spot but a fragment of information he had captured during his communication with the rainforest spirit.

But Matthew wasn't sure if it was a smoke screen.

In any case, for the next ten days, he had to be on high alert.

After hearing this, Old Gito chose another path and signaled for Matthew and Lysanna to follow:

"This terrain here is not suitable for our battle. I will take you to another place.

That's the outskirts of the Bitterwater Marsh. The terrain there is relatively open, and it's not as complex.

The monsters that occasionally appear in the vicinity are mostly Blackback Jackalmen and Little Mite Beasts, which are not much of a concern.

Just two things to watch out for: there may be flocks of Bipedal Sky Dragons around, but the chances of us encountering them are low;

Furthermore, to the west of the Bitterwater Marsh is the territory of a Scorpion-Tailed Lion. It has been around for a very long time, at least two hundred years. Try to stay away from that area."

In advance, if Scorpion-Tailed Lions or Bipedal Sky Dragons appear, I can only prioritize my own safety."

Lysanna laughed dismissively:

"No problem, I'll protect you! I'm suddenly getting excited. How will future generations tell this story?"

"The Legendary Journey of the Great Poet Lysanna begins here? Oh, that title sounds a bit cliché. Bards should sing the praises of others rather than self-aggrandizing."

"Haha, I've got the title for a new work: 'The Brave Matthew - Part One: Rainforest Heat'! Maybe it can even be adapted into a stage play!"

Matthew patted his shoulder:

"That sounds good, but remember to compensate me with a portrait fee and royalties after the big hit."

...

To the west of the Bitterwater Marsh, on a desolate piece of land covered in sparse reeds and thorns, Old Gito was busy cutting down any plants that might obstruct their view with a short knife.

Matthew and Lysanna were also assisting.

Matthew surveyed the surroundings and found that Old Gito had chosen a good spot.

First, the terrain here was relatively high, providing a relatively open field of vision.

Second, it was a dry area, far from small rivers and streams, with fewer weeds and bushes, making it easy to clear.

Finally, there weren't many tall trees nearby, creating a small open space within the dense rainforest.

"Why is there such a place?"

Matthew noticed that this high ground wasn't naturally formed, so he asked.

Old Gito, meticulously cutting the thorns, explained:

"Previously, a mage lived deep in the Bitterwater Marsh. He was a loner, didn't like to interact with people, and detested others coming near his territory.

So, when the mage first arrived, he had several conflicts with the Jango tribe and some monsters from the rainforest.

After several rounds of battles, the mage emerged victorious."

Later, no one wanted to approach this place, especially the wild creatures in the rainforest who had a deep connection with the spirits.

The mage vanished approximately three years ago. Some speculated that he died, while others believed he had gone on an extended leave, but regardless, the Bitterwater Marsh was left empty.

It's just that, due to the traps and intimidation left behind by the mage, no significant population of monsters had formed here yet.

The high ground before us was formed from the pile of earth giants that the mage summoned during a battle.

I chose this place not only for its terrain but also for two main reasons. First, the mage's intimidation of rainforest creatures might still be in effect, which might help filter out some enemies for you;

Second, if the situation becomes critical, I suggest you try fleeing deeper into the marsh. Of course, that would be a last-resort option."

Matthew immediately sensed the hidden meaning in Old Gito's words:

"So, that mage was also a necromancer?"

Crack!

With the last thorn cut, Old Gito threw down his short knife, took out a dry tobacco leaf from his pouch, took a couple of puffs, and then nodded to continue:

"Yes. That necromancer was extremely powerful and exceptionally wicked. He was a nightmare for the nearby Jango tribe.

Half of his undead army was converted from rainforest creatures, and the other half was made up of Jango people. He even made two abominations from the bodies of Jango folks!

But the Jango tribe couldn't do anything about him. In several clashes with the necromancer, they prayed to the Feathered Serpent God, deployed jungle war beasts, and sacrificed five or six shamans, but they still couldn't defeat him.

If it weren't for the fact that the necromancer had no ambition to expand his territory, this rainforest would have probably changed its name long ago.

In any case, I suspect that the necromancer has become a legend, perhaps even transcending it.

He left many traps and the undead in the marsh.

Even as a necromancer like you, it would be difficult to communicate with those undead.

So, don't venture into the depths of the marsh unless it's a last resort!"

After listening to Old Gito's warning, Matthew sincerely said:

"Thank you."

However, Old Gito waved his hand:

"I'm just a guide; I can't help you too much. If it comes to a fight, you'll have to rely on yourself."

At this moment, Lysanna chimed in:

"No worries, I'll be here in case of a fight. While I can't use magic and my combat skills are average, my flute will surprise you all!"

As she spoke, she waved the pale green flute hanging at her waist.

"Let's wait and see."

Matthew smiled and continued to prepare for the impending battle.

The sun gradually sank in the west.

Tired birds returned to their nests.

In the sparse chirping of birds.

At the edge of the high ground in the forest, there were imperceptible figures with ill intentions.

"They're here."

Matthew whispered.

Old Gito, standing beside him, was on high alert.

Only Lysanna was engrossed in a little book, occasionally giggling.

It wasn't until she heard Matthew's warning that she slowly closed the book and looked around in confusion:

"Where are they?"

"To the east."

Matthew spoke calmly:

"It's a group of Blackback Jackalmen, numbering roughly between 8 to 11. Are there any dungeons around here?"

Old Gito quickly responded:

"There are some, but not many, and the surface entrances are quite far from here."

Matthew nodded:

"To the west, there are three jungle leopards, all appearing to be females, with an average level of around 10."

"Also, there's an 11th-level Forest Python lurking on a banyan tree to the north. It has camouflage colors, and I almost didn't spot it."

Old Gito looked at Matthew in amazement:

"You used detection magic?"

With his years of experience traversing the rainforest and his abilities suitable for this place, he couldn't even find the Forest Python, but Matthew, a necromancer, spotted it with his naked eye. How could he not be surprised?

Matthew didn't explain.

In fact, this was quietly reminded by Ella in his arms. The natural spirit was indeed a master of perceiving beasts, and with Ella, there was nothing in the rainforest that could escape Matthew's gaze.

"It's time to take action."

Matthew sensed the movements of the Blackback Jackalmen.

"I'll go and draw away the Forest Python."

Old Gito quickly said:

"I have a lot of experience dealing with pythons. You don't have to worry about me."

With that, he walked alone towards the direction of the python.

On the other side.

The Blackback Jackalmen seemed to realize they had been exposed, and they didn't bother hiding anymore; they charged right at us.

Blackback Jackalmen were close relatives of the regular Jackalmen, but they were much taller, with sparse black fur. They were robust and nearly as large as half-orcs.

These creatures were usually active in dungeons and were extremely rare in the rainforest. However, their presence in this ambush meant that they were also part of this rainforest and were driven by the Rainforest Spirit.

Matthew didn't underestimate them; this group of Blackback Jackalmen had high levels, with an average of over level 7 per individual. There were a few at level 9. Furthermore, they were encouraged by the Bloodlust of the Jungle Spirit, making them a force to be reckoned with.

He ordered the skeletal soldiers to move forward to engage the enemies while Ah Bing's figure gradually vanished into thin air.

Just then, a cheerful tune played on a flute, and it was Lysanna playing it with an expression of contentment.

She played rapidly and skillfully.

In just a dozen seconds, the short and lively melody transitioned into a mellower, more majestic tune.

During the changes in the melody, one buff after another was applied to Matthew.

...

"Tip: You have listened to Lysanna's excerpt of 'Crossing the Mountains,' granting you increased movement speed;

You have listened to Lysanna's excerpt of 'Numb Heart,' increasing your resistance to charm;

You have listened to Lysanna's excerpt of 'Song of the Mermaids,' improving your casting speed."

...

In the front, the Jackalmen were already engaged with the undead. However, the Blackback Jackalmen's combat strength was astonishing, and as soon as they made contact, the skeletal soldiers found themselves at a disadvantage and could only hold their ground desperately.

But then, Lysanna's flute melody became ancient and vigorous.

...

"Tip: You have listened to Lysanna's excerpt of 'Ancient Battlefield,' granting your spells a slight chance of double casting.

You have listened to Lysanna's excerpt of 'Song of the Wind,' and you've gained a gale shield."

...

The flute melody continued, and a continuous stream of buffs was applied to Matthew. For the first time, Matthew felt what it was like to be strengthened!

Unfortunately, the undead could only gain the "Gale Shield" from Lysanna; the other buffs were ineffective.

Moreover, when Matthew examined it closely, the effects of Lysanna's buffs were actually quite mild, which could only be described as "slight."

He wasn't sure if this was because he hadn't heard the complete tune or if Lysanna's level was insufficient.

After all, the bard was a high-level profession, and Matthew didn't have too many expectations for her.

"You should step back to a safe place."

Seeing Lysanna put down her flute, Matthew proactively suggested.

He thought that with Lysanna's previously displayed heroic spirit, she would strongly insist on staying and fighting side by side with him. He had even thought about how to persuade her.

However, this time, Lysanna appeared unusually compliant.

It was as if she had done everything she could and then swiftly ran away.

Matthew even saw her finding a suitable vantage point in the distance, giving herself encouragement with hand gestures.

"What a strange fellow."

Matthew didn't mind.

He shifted his focus back to the front.

At this moment, the Blackback Jackalmen had the upper hand, but when the figure of the Dancing Blade appeared behind them, the situation on the battlefield instantly turned around!

Swoosh.

Ah Bing struck, crossing his short blades and beheading a Blackback Jackalman!

The other Blackback Jackalmen, enraged and shocked, rushed toward Ah Bing.

However, Ah Bing just took a step back, vanishing deeply into the shadows, leaving the enemy clueless.

Satisfied, Matthew nodded as he witnessed the scene.

But in the next moment, the Natural Affinity had a new reaction!

...

"Warning: The Rainforest Spirit is extremely displeased with your use of summoned creatures to kill. True warriors should be courageous and engage in melee combat, not use sneaky long-range methods!"

...

"You won't let me use summoned creatures either?" Matthew furrowed his brow.

Fine.

From the monsters that had appeared so far, even without the undead, Matthew could handle them himself.

So, while he ordered the undead to come back and fight, he also took out a charged staff from his magical pouch –

Arcane Missile!

Five consecutive magical energy orbs struck the leading Jackalman. Although this spell didn't kill him immediately, it knocked him to the ground. In the next second, Matthew, with expert precision, shot a crossbow bolt into the Jackalman's jaw.

Thud!

The bolt pierced through the Jackalman's jaw, and he died a miserable death on the spot.

"Well, I'm getting better at my shots."

Matthew was quite pleased with his performance.

However, at that moment, a sense of déjà vu crept in.

...

"Warning: The Rainforest Spirit is once again displeased with your method of using items to kill. True warriors should be brave in close combat, not resort to cunning long-range tactics!"

...

This time, Matthew was not pleased.

"Again and again? Are you trying to play mind games with me?" he grumbled. "Killing a person and you keep nagging about it – give me a break!"

This time, Matthew ignored the Rainforest Spirit's warning completely. He not only ordered the undead to come back into battle but also took out Alchemist's Fire and Molotov cocktails from his Mage's Bag.

Bang, bang!

Fire exploded.

Several Jackalmen were caught in the flames, yelping in pain and scattering.

Ah Bing, who had been lurking in the shadows, was already eager to join the fray. He emerged from the darkness and entered a harvesting mode, one Jackalman after another.

In front of the Dance of the Blade, the Blackback Jackalmen quickly found themselves outmatched and were ultimately wiped out.

The three jungle leopards that had appeared earlier seemed more cunning. They only prowled around the battlefield's edges and retreated when they saw no opportunities.

A moment later, Matthew began to collect the Jackalmen's corpses.

At that moment, Old Gito's figure emerged from the rainforest.

"Where's that giant python?" Matthew greeted from a distance.

"He followed me for a while, then ran off," Old Gito shouted back.

However, at that moment, the expression on his face changed rapidly, and Matthew also heard Ella's exclamation:

"Matthew, run! There's something wrong with that tree on the right!"

Before she could finish her sentence...

The tree that seemed to be lying on the ground suddenly sprang to life!

The colossal body of the forest giant snake cast a gigantic shadow over Matthew.

By this time, the moon had risen high, illuminating the area brightly.

The giant snake lunged viciously at Matthew, its slippery body coiling around him, determined to strangle him in an instant.

However, just as it pounced on him, Matthew's body began to involuntarily grow!

"Roar!"

To the shock of the giant snake and Old Gito, a bear that seemed to emanate moonlight suddenly materialized out of thin air!

Smack!

The moon bear seized the forest giant snake's head and ruthlessly slammed it into the ground.

The gentle moonlight bathed the moon bear, enhancing its attributes.

Bang!

Bang!

Bang!

Matthew held the giant snake's head and brutally crushed it, denying it any chance to fight back, and causing it to lose its life.

"The enemies in the first round were relatively easy."

After looking around and seeing no other enemies, Matthew reverted from his transformed state.

At the next moment, a furious voice resounded in Matthew's mind:

"How dare you ignore my warning?!"

Matthew knew this was the manifestation of the Rainforest Spirit's will.

After pondering for a moment, he decided to respond with a no-nonsense attitude:

"You can send whomever you want, but who I kill and how I kill them is my business!"

The Rainforest Spirit responded angrily:

"You have angered the soul of this jungle, and I won't let you leave here alive!"

Matthew also abandoned his previous gentleness, even striving to fill his tone with a fierce emotion:

"Whatever you want. Send your strongest underlings. If they don't come for me, I'll go find and kill them myself. It's a pity you don't have a physical form; otherwise, I'd butcher you too!"

The Rainforest Spirit fell silent and didn't reply.

A moment later...

...

"Tip: Your strength and ruthlessness have gained the respect of the Rainforest Spirit, reducing the time you'll be besieged by wild beasts and monsters in the rainforest to three days!"

...

Indeed.

Matthew felt that this Rainforest Spirit and the demons were of the same ilk. He thought he couldn't blindly yield to their demands, and surprisingly, his crude display of brutality had earned the Rainforest Spirit's respect.

At this moment, he finally began to understand Zeller's helplessness.

In certain situations, it was quite challenging to be a good person.

But in the next moment, Matthew's smile, which had just appeared on his face, stiffened.

...

"Warning: The Rainforest Spirit has raised your danger rating. In the following three days, it will no longer hold back and will muster its most formidable forces to besiege you! Be cautious!"

...

"So, imitating the personality of the Rainforest Spirit works, but not entirely," Matthew said, rubbing his chin, and then he shook his head with a wry smile. "Matthew! You must go and see. There seems to be something in the belly of that big snake!"

Ella flew over from the side, reminding him.

Matthew immediately went to check and found that the belly of the giant snake was distinctly swollen.

Old Gito arrived at this moment too, and the two of them exchanged glances. Old Gito raised his knife and chopped; in no time, they had cut open the belly of the giant snake.

Gurgle.

A human-like, decaying body rolled out.

Matthew squinted at it and found that it was a zombie.

On the zombie's neck, a shiny medallion was hanging.

Chapter 63 >>

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