Chapter 8: Shadow Optimization
Riven stood atop the fallen goblin archers, surveying the battlefield. The 13th floor was proving to be far deadlier than the ones before, not because of sheer strength, but because of the enemy's coordination. The goblins here fought with strategy—they set ambushes, used elevation to their advantage, and struck from a distance before engaging in close combat.
He clenched his dagger, exhaling as his new Goblin Archer Shadow took its place beside his existing minions. Having a ranged unit at his disposal would change how he approached combat. But he needed more.
He motioned for his shadows to remain still as he knelt beside one of the fallen goblins. A Goblin Shaman lay among the corpses, its staff still crackling with residual energy. Unlike the warriors and archers he had faced so far, this one had robes of deep crimson, inscribed with runes that seemed to pulse faintly even in death.
Riven narrowed his eyes. "Magic users…"
The goblin had been dangerous, even in its final moments. The spell it unleashed before falling had nearly scorched his forces. If he could understand how it worked—how magic functioned within this world—he might have a significant advantage moving forward.
He took the staff from its cold grip, turning it over in his hands. The craftsmanship was crude, but the enchantments embedded in it were undeniably effective. Riven frowned. If goblins could use magic, what kind of monsters would he face in the deeper floors?
The thought sent a thrill through him. This world held more than just physical might—it had powers he could claim.
A flicker of movement in the dim light caught his attention. His Dire Rat Shadow sniffed at the shaman's robes, sensing something Riven couldn't yet see. He leaned closer, peeling away a layer of fabric to reveal an engraved bone talisman. Strange symbols decorated its surface, but even without understanding them, he felt an unnatural energy radiating from it.
"A catalyst?" he murmured. If the staff was used for casting, then this talisman might be the core that fueled the goblin's magic.
He tucked the talisman away. He would study it later.
For now, he had a more pressing task.
Riven stood, raising his hand over the shaman's body. Dark mist curled from his fingertips, swirling hungrily around the fallen creature. Unlike raising mere warriors, he could feel the resistance in this one—something deeper, something powerful, struggling to remain bound to death.
His lips curled into a smirk. You're mine now.
Arise.
The mist consumed the corpse, seeping into its very essence. The goblin's body convulsed before going still. Then, slowly, its eyes flickered open—now glowing with the same violet hue as the rest of his minions.
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◆◆ SYSTEM NOTIFICATION ◆◆
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◆ Shadow Extraction Successful!
◆ 75 MP Consumed
◆ New Shadow Soldier Added: Goblin Shaman (C-Rank)
◆ Shadow Soldier Count: 25
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Riven let out a breath, steadying himself. This was a turning point. The more he understood magic, the more unstoppable he would become.
He turned to the shaman's shadow, watching it kneel before him, waiting for its first command.
A magic caster under his control. The possibilities were endless.