61 Evolving! Part 2

The apes have been eradicated. Now, what next?

For now, the surroundings remain quiet.

Despite the commotion, no other monsters approached.

Perhaps the noise acted as a deterrent.

In any case, a brief respite seems likely.

Constructing another makeshift shelter near the ceiling would be risky, but weak monsters should not be able to approach.

Honestly, I believe this is the only opportunity to evolve.

The duration of unconsciousness during evolution is unknown. From prior experience, it does not appear to last long.

This is only a sensation, not a reliable metric.

Regardless, evolution always carries risk.

Given that, with an unexpected surplus of food now secured, there may be no better moment for evolution.

Evolve or not evolve? Clearly, evolve.

Moreover, even if evolution does not occur, the level cap might be fixed at ten.

Even after reaching level ten, he had dispatched a considerable number of apes.

Yet, in the end, the level did not increase.

If it were merely a matter of insufficient experience points, that would be acceptable. However, failure to evolve may mean no further growth is possible.

Considering that, I believe advancement, despite a certain degree of risk, is still warranted.

The issue is which path to evolve along.

Talatekt and Small Poison Talatekt.

Ugh.

I don’t understand.

Last time, there was a clear distinction between degraded and standard types, so the decision was immediate. This time, however, it is unclear which one to choose.

Talatekt likely represents the final stage of evolution in its current form.

The extent of change this brings remains uncertain.

I can't say the same for Poison.

If it's called Poison, its poison-based abilities should be enhanced, but what about the rest?

Uncertain.

It'd be nice if I could perform an鉴定 right now.

Could I... perform an鉴定?

Wait.

There's something like an alert appearing below the status鉴定 results?

Huh? Evolution possible?

What is this?

The text "Evolution Possible" is flashing.

Hmm?

Better double-check it.

『Evolution Possible: Talatect or Small Poison Talatect』

W-What...?!

鉴定, are you serious?!

You're amazing!

Yes!

Now I can even鉴定 the evolution path!

Man, the performance of this鉴定 lately has been extraordinary.

Quick, let's鉴定.

『Talatect: Standard adult form of the spider-type monster known as the Talatect species. Carnivorous. Possesses venom in its fangs.』

『Small Poison Talatect: Rare juvenile form of the Talatect species, a spider-type monster. Possesses highly potent venom.』

Decided.

Poison type.

It's rare, after all.

Rare. Very rare.

When you're choosing between a standard variant and a rare one, the rare option is the obvious choice.

Japanese people are weak to words like "rare" or "limited."

Once that's settled, begin constructing the basic home.

Ah, stamina is low.

Consume a nearby ape to restore stamina.

Phew, thank you for the meal.

Now, rebuild the basic home.

A barren rock face—well, look at that!

A proper spider's web is there!

No rock this time.

With apes swarming everywhere, whether rock is present or not, camouflage is nonexistent.

But... tired.

Physically. Mentally.

Of course. After that much combat, exhaustion is natural.

Evolution-induced unconsciousness differs from regular sleep, but feels like a brief rest.

[Individual Small Taratect evolves into Small Poison Taratect]

Yes.

Thus, good night.

[Evolution complete]

[Species changed to Small Poison Taratect]

[All base stats increased]

[Skill proficiency evolution bonus acquired]

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Poison Fang LV8' upgraded to 'Poison Fang LV9']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Spider Silk LV8' upgraded to 'Spider Silk LV9']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Web Manipulation LV7' upgraded to 'Web Manipulation LV8']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Concentration LV4' upgraded to 'Concentration LV5']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Inspection LV7' upgraded to 'Inspection LV8']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Heretic Magic LV2' upgraded to 'Heretic Magic LV3']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Shadow Magic LV1' upgraded to 'Shadow Magic LV2']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Poison Magic LV1' upgraded to 'Poison Magic LV2']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Poison Resistance LV7' upgraded to 'Poison Resistance LV8']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Petrification Resistance LV2' upgraded to 'Petrification Resistance LV3']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Stun Resistance LV1' upgraded to 'Stun Resistance LV2']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Heretic Resistance LV1' upgraded to 'Heretic Resistance LV2']

[Skill 'Poison Attack LV5' acquired via evolution]

[Skill 'Poison Fang LV9' merged into 'Poison Attack LV5']

[Proficiency reached threshold. Skill 'Poison Attack LV5' upgraded to 'Poison Attack LV9']

[Skill Points acquired]