Absolute Cheater

The Metis race's illusions were impressive, but like all illusions, they had their limitations. "These sneaky bastards are such cowards," Asher muttered under his breath, his disdain clear. Emily glanced at him briefly but remained focused, knowing this was no time for distraction.

The Metis were by far shorter in stature than humans, and when compared to giants or beastmen, they seemed almost frail. However, their overinflated egos often made them underestimate their opponents—a mistake Asher planned to exploit.

"You arrogant bastards," he growled as one illusion dissolved, revealing six actual Metis soldiers. These were lower-ranked individuals, likely E or D-rank warriors. This was typical for an outermost outpost like this one. The real challenge lay in the deeper Myrian Outpost, known for housing higher-ranked Metis soldiers and their elite forces.

But for now, Asher's current position, referred to as the Periphery, was relatively manageable. The illusions these Metis relied on were overused and poorly executed, a common trait among the lower E and D-rank soldiers stationed here. Emily, being a legendary-ranked fighter, didn't even need to engage; these opponents were beneath her level.

"The outer layers are filled with weaklings like this," Asher muttered to himself as he dispatched another Metis soldier with a clean strike. "They're nothing but bullies, good for picking on even weaker beings in low-power areas."

Emily watched silently from the sidelines, knowing her intervention wasn't necessary. Her presence, however, was critical. In the event of a stronger opponent appearing—one from the inner circles—she was there to protect Asher and ensure his safety. Assassination attempts by higher-ranking enemies were always a risk, and Emily's legendary status made her the perfect guardian against such threats.

For now, the Metis forces in this outpost posed no significant threat to Asher.

Despite being an E-rank Awakened student, Asher's perfected awakening allowed him to fight effectively against D-rank opponents.

The ranking system for the Awakened is divided into E to SSS ranks, followed by an additional EX category. Each rank is further subdivided into four sub-levels: Lower, Middle, Advanced, and Peak. Currently, Asher was at the Lower level of E rank, having only recently advanced into the ranks of the Awakened.
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Because of his current level, he was assigned to the Periphery of the Myrian Outpost. The outpost itself was divided into four zones: Periphery, Outer, Inner, and Central. The Periphery, where Asher now found himself, was the least guarded and held lower-ranked Metis soldiers.

Asher led the charge against the Metis forces, his weapon forming effortlessly in his hand. It was a blood-red scythe, created through his unique ability, Sanguine Supremacy. While In front the world, his power was recognized as a Blood Ruler Ability—Magnus family linage ability.

With a swift motion, he sliced through the first Metis soldier who dared to approach him. His scythe cut through the enemy's illusionary defenses and dealt a fatal blow. The enemy collapsed, their weapon clattering to the ground.

[System Notification]

You have killed an E-rank Metis soldier.

You have plundered the innate ability: "Phantom Illusion" (Lesser rank).

Author's Note: Ability ranking system: Lesser < Greater < Grand < Unique < Ultimate < Absolute.

Satisfied with his growing strength, Asher moved forward, taking in the Lesser rank illusion ability.

He could easily gain more and better abilities, even if they were of lesser ranks. By accumulating multiple lesser-ranked abilities and utilizing his Infinite Fusion skill, he could evolve them into higher-ranked powers. That was the true greatness of his new cheat ability.

Asher smirked as the notification faded from his vision. His newfound ability, Cheat Plunder, paired with Infinite Fusion, was an unparalleled advantage. Every Metis soldier he defeated was another opportunity to strengthen himself, turning their powers into stepping stones toward his ultimate goal.

He scanned the battlefield, his blood scythe shimmering ominously in the dim light. "The more I fight, the stronger I become," he muttered under his breath, his crimson weapon dripping with the essence of his foes.

Emily stood at the periphery, observing him silently. Her Legendary rank far exceeded the enemies present, making her role more of a safeguard than an active participant. She was there to intervene only if Asher faced a threat beyond his current capabilities—a rarity given his rapid growth.

"You're getting reckless, Young Master," she finally said, her voice calm yet tinged with caution.

Asher turned briefly, a confident grin on his face. "Reckless? Or efficient?" Without waiting for her response, he lunged at another Metis soldier, his movements swift and precise.

[ You killed an E-rank Metis. ]

[ You can plunder the innate ability: Mirage Veil (Lesser) ]

He paused for a moment, evaluating the new ability. While it wasn't groundbreaking, its potential in combat was undeniable. The power to create subtle mirages could be a valuable tool when combined with his strategic mind.

'Plunder,' he commanded, absorbing the ability. A faint glow surrounded him as the new power integrated into his body. He could feel its presence, a subtle shift in his perception, like a veil overlaying reality.

"Another piece of the puzzle," he murmured, his eyes gleaming with determination.

Emily observed Asher and the others as they efficiently eliminated the Metis forces stationed at the outpost. The aftermath was a scene of victory and precision.

"You've done well on your first task," Emily said with a nod of approval. Asher returned the gesture, his expression calm and composed.

Their exchange was interrupted by a deep, guttural roar resonating from the heart of the outpost. The air grew dense, charged with an unfamiliar energy that made even the seasoned fighters pause momentarily.

"It seems they've called for reinforcements," Emily remarked, her sharp eyes scanning the horizon. Her tone carried a hint of seriousness, a rarity for someone of her rank. "This might get interesting."

Asher's lips curved into a confident smile, his grip tightening on his scythe. "Good. I was starting to feel like this was too easy."

The faint hum of distant movement reached their ears, signaling the arrival of the next wave. The team instinctively readied their weapons, forming a tight formation around Asher and Emily.