Mushoku Tensei: Reincarnated as a Beast Race

It's been a few months since I turned 4 years old. Here, they don't celebrate birthdays annually like they do on Earth. Verdia said it's because of the high death rate before the age of 5, which is a bit morbid to think about. In the tribe, it seems they only celebrate some kind of coming-of-age ceremony, but my mother wants to have a small celebration for my 5th, 10th, and 15th birthdays. Apparently, she saw a lot of this in human society and thought there was no reason not to celebrate.

That morning, I decided it would be a day of achievement. I had just returned from a successful hunt and, for the first time, I wanted to prepare my meal without help. The idea seemed simple: roast the meat over the fire I summoned with magic. However, the result was... disastrous.

The meat was burnt on the outside and raw on the inside, and the smell was so strong that even the birds flew away. I chewed a small piece, trying to ignore the bitter taste, but gave up shortly after.

"Maybe cooking isn't my calling," I muttered as I tried to erase the evidence of my failure before anyone saw.

I sighed and added the experience to my list of lessons learned. At least in magic and combat, the progress was undeniable.

Deciding to head home, I started running and jumping through the trees, leaping between roots and branches with the agility of a true Doldia. My father had already told me that if it was purely about physical strength, I had surpassed many of the warriors in the tribe, which made me curious about how much stronger I would become once I learned to use Battle Aura, a technique I had been making some progress with in my training recently.

Wherever I passed, tribe members waved or gave curious glances. My name was already known by almost everyone. Not only because of my magical and physical training, but also because of my constant habit of running through the forest.

I had already become publicly known as the little genius of the Adoldia Clan. Praised for my strength and my ability to perform magic at such a young age.

These comments made me proud, but I didn't let them go to my head. There was still so much to learn, and with the guidance of my father, Verdia, and Garu, each day was a new opportunity.

I performed magic with a natural ease that even impressed Verdia, my patient and demanding teacher. She said she had seen many things, but never a child so young capable of understanding so many spells at such an age.

Not that my life was limited to spells and magic words. In addition to my training with my father, I began learning the art of sword fighting from Garu, one of the best warriors in the tribe. There were two main fighting styles among the Doldia: one that used swords and various weapons, which I liked to call the Doldia Style, and the other that used only the body, with natural weapons like claws, fangs, and fists being the focus.

-

My father didn't usually use a sword, but he explained that the Doldia techniques were a natural variation of the Northern God Style. Many techniques of the Northern God Style were actually attempts to copy the Doldia style. The fundamentals of the Doldia style focused more on enhanced senses, instincts, reflexes, and quick movements, making full use of the environment.

"Use the environment to your advantage, Rygar," Garu would always say. "A fight is never just about strength or technique. It's perception, reflex, and adaptation."

"Rygar, a sword isn't just steel in your hand; it's an extension of your senses," my father once said while watching my training.

I still felt more comfortable using my claws and body to fight; it just felt more natural to me. I simply had to follow my instincts blindly, and something good would come from it.

That's how I spent most of my time. Running through the forest with other children, training with Garu and my father, and casting spells creatively became my routine—a routine that made my name known throughout the village.

Current Status:

Fire Magic: Advanced

Earth Magic: Advanced

Water Magic: Intermediate

Wind Magic: Intermediate

Healing Magic: Intermediate

Detoxification Magic: Beginner

Howling Magic: Basic

Northern God Style: Beginner

Combat with Natural Weapons (Claws, Instincts, etc.): Intermediate

Intellectual Skills: Reading and Writing in Beast-God Language and Human Language

Mathematics (University Level)

Practical Skills: Excellent Hunter

Horrible Cook

-

My mana reserves were steadily growing. I didn't know if I was capable of casting a Saint-tier spell yet, but I had to use several Advanced-tier spells to exhaust my mana. Even keeping my magic eye active all day wasn't enough anymore, though I didn't do that because it would be strange to constantly see magical power everywhere. Still, I always made sure to deplete my reserves, ensuring constant growth.

After finishing another detoxification magic lesson, I sat next to Verdia under the shade of a tree. She was resting, but her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she watched me. I took the opportunity to ask something that had been bothering me.

She was resting, but her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she watched me. I seized the opportunity to ask something that had been bothering me.

"Teacher, can I ask you something?"

She gave me an amused look.

"As long as it doesn't involve spells to make soup..."

I blushed. I often asked her about all kinds of random magic. But it really didn't make sense—there's magic to create a devastating tornado, but none for making soup?! This world has evolved in constant war, so why only think about destructive magic?

"It's about how I use magic. When I learned Howling Magic, I realized it doesn't use incantations. Why do the other spells need them?"

Her expression grew serious.

"You noticed that on your own?" she asked, looking surprised.

"Yeah. It just... feels natural. But why can't I do the same with fire or water magic, for example?"

I rarely questioned her teaching methods because she seemed to know what she was doing, but I decided to ask just in case.

Verdia thought for a moment before answering.

"Incantations help shape and direct mana. Think of them as instructions for your power. However, instinctive magic, like Howling Magic, is different. It comes from the spirit and the body, without needing words."

"So, does that mean I can use other magic without incantations?"

She smiled slightly.

"It's possible, but there are only records of very experienced people managing it. I've only met three such people in my entire life—they're rare. However, there's only one way to find out. Let's go to the clearing."

-

The place was surrounded by tall trees and bathed in the soft sunlight. Verdia gestured for me to position myself.

"Let's start with something simple. Focus on a water spell, but without incantations. I don't have much to teach you about this since I don't have this ability, but try to replicate the feeling and say the incantation in your mind—it might help."

I closed my eyes, feeling the mana flow like a current inside me. Normally, I say the words, but this time I kept silent. I visualized a sphere of water forming in my hand while thinking about the incantation.

To my surprise, it appeared almost immediately.

"I did it!" I exclaimed, looking at Verdia.

"Impressive! That's a rare skill, little Rygar. I was planning to have you try this when you were older, but it seems I underestimated your talent," she looked genuinely surprised this time—it was hard to get that expression from her.

I nodded, taking a deep breath. I imagined a flame floating before me, dancing in the air. Once again, without saying a word, the mana responded. A small flicker of fire sparked, vibrant and warm.

Verdia laughed, clearly impressed.

"Rygar, this is a truly special skill. You have a natural talent, so remember, how much you develop this ability depends on your effort. Keep in mind what I've taught you about magic, and just follow your own path."

She hesitated for a moment, then said, "Little Rygar, do you want to be my disciple? It would still be the same, but we would be bound by something greater than just teaching." I noticed a hint of melancholy, but I was excited.

"Of course, Master! I would love to!"

She smiled.

That's when a chill ran down my spine.

"What was that..." I murmured, instinctively activating my senses.

Verdia noticed it too.

"Something's wrong. Stay alert."

We decided to investigate the surroundings and found strange footprints marking the ground. Boot prints, as if they had been made in haste.

"This isn't good..." Verdia said, her tone serious.

"Is this what my father is investigating?" I asked. Over the past few days, a subtle tension had begun to build among the warriors, and my father seemed to be in the middle of an investigation.

"Yes..." She nodded, but her eyes were filled with concern.

Although I was excited, there was something in her voice that hinted at worry. Now that I thought about it, she'd been like this all day. I wondered if this was what had been bothering her.

—

When we returned home, we found my father, Hontar, with his arms crossed, his expression stern. He looked at me for a moment before speaking.

"Rygar, Verdia. Something is happening in the forest. Gyes came to find me. He says there's strange movement to the north."

Soon, Gyes Dedoldia appeared, his imposing figure filling the doorway.

"Hontar, we need to investigate. These movements aren't natural, and I fear they might signal bigger problems."

"Understood," my father replied, turning to me. "Rygar, stay home. Don't go out for anything."

"But father-" I tried to protest, but he interrupted me.

"This is non-negotiable. Stay and protect your mother if necessary." He said, looking at my mother.

As I was still processing his words, Verdia stepped closer, her face bearing the same seriousness.

"I've also received news. The elves have called me back to the village. It seems that if anything happens here, they might be affected as well."

My father sighed deeply.

"Then go," my father said, nodding. "They will need you as much as we need our defenses here."

With those words, the atmosphere grew heavy with concern. My father and Gyes left for the north, and my mother and Verdia began to pack their bags for the journey.

As they spoke, an uneasy feeling grew inside me. Something was wrong, and I knew my peace was running out of time.

—

Night had fallen, and the village was silent. The wind passing through the trees brought with it an uncomfortable chill, but it wasn't the cold that made me uneasy. It was the moment of farewell.

Verdia was standing outside our house, going over her belongings as my mother, Selene, watched in silence. I approached slowly, trying to find the right words to say.

"Are you sure you need to go?" I asked, trying to hide the worry in my voice.

Verdia looked up, a gentle smile appearing on her face.

"Yes, little Rygar. The elves need me now, just as you and your mother need Hontar and Gyes to protect the forest. I can't ignore their call."

My mother, who had been quiet until then, stepped forward and held Verdia's arm.

"Take care out there, Verdia. We know how dangerous the situation can get, but don't forget, the tribe will always be here for you."

"Thank you, Selene," Verdia replied, gently touching her hand. "I'll return as soon as I can."

Verdia turned to me, and her eyes seemed to shine, as if she was trying to capture every detail of the moment.

"Rygar, listen to your mother. And, more importantly, keep practicing. You have everything you need to become someone incredible."

I hesitated for a moment, but then spoke up.

"I'll train. I'll protect everyone here while you're gone. Just... come back as soon as you can."

I really liked her, I truly did. She had taught me so much since I arrived in this world, and there was this gentleness and elegance about her, an aura that was truly hypnotic.

She smiled, but there was something melancholic in her expression.

"Don't worry. I'll come back. And when I do, I want to hear all about your progress."

Suddenly, she knelt down, holding my face with both hands.

"Remember, Rygar: even when you're alone, you're never truly alone. Your strength lies in the people you love, and they are always with you, in some way."

My words caught in my throat, and all I could do was nod. My mother placed a hand on my shoulder, squeezing gently as if to offer comfort.

"Verdia, you are already part of our family. Go in peace, but know we'll always be here if you need us," my mother said firmly.

Verdia stood up, adjusting the quiver on her back, and gave one last look at both of us.

"You're my family too. I'll come back."

Without another word, she turned and disappeared into the trees, her silhouette swallowed by the darkness of the forest.

We stood there, my mother and I, in silence, staring at where Verdia had gone. Finally, my mother broke the silence.

"She's strong, Rygar. But we are strong too. Whatever comes, we'll face it together."

I nodded, but something inside me still weighed heavily. The night felt darker than ever.

(If danger is waiting, how can I stand still?) I thought, feeling the unease take over me.

—

As I walked back home after another training session, I spotted a group of children playing near one of the smaller clearings. They were laughing and running, lost in their games. One of the kids, a boy named Kilian, saw me and ran toward me.

"Rygar! Did you see how I climbed that tree?"

"Yeah, Kilian. You're getting really good at that," I replied with a smile.

As he looked at me, proud of himself, an idea came to mind. With dangers looming, maybe it was time to prepare the younger ones for whatever might come. I approached Kilian, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"Kilian, I need you to gather our group. Call everyone, I want to talk to you all."

He blinked, confused, but didn't question me.

"Okay, Rygar. I'll gather everyone."

Shortly after, around 30 children, ranging from 3 to 7 years old, were gathered around me. I looked at them, feeling the weight of responsibility.

"Listen up, all of you," I began, my voice firm. "There are dangers in the forest. My father and the other adults are investigating, but in the meantime, we need to be ready. You're all weak, and I want to teach you how to defend yourselves."

There were murmurs among the group, some curious, others frightened.

"This means we're going to train," I continued. "You'll learn to run faster, climb better, and use your senses like true members of the tribe. And who knows, I might even teach you a little magic."

The murmurs stopped, replaced by excited looks. Kilian was the first to raise his hand.

"When do we start?"

I smiled.

"Tomorrow morning. Get ready, because I'm going to make you sweat."

The children laughed, some clapping, and the group's energy shifted to excitement. In the back of my mind, I knew it was more than just a game. Preparing them was my way of keeping an eye on things, even if it was just to buy time until the adults resolved the issue.

At that moment, another child arrived, panting.

"Rygar, there's a group of adventurers coming! They're approaching from the west trail. The warriors of the tribe are there now."

My mind went into overdrive. I didn't know what this meant, but I knew it wasn't something to be ignored.

Without hesitation, I turned and began to run toward the village entrance. My heart raced as I wondered what these strangers wanted from us.