The Genius of Cloning in the Academy City

Chapter 136: The Girl Wandering in Her Imagination.

The next day, we went to visit Irene.

We were there to brainstorm a strategy using our numbers.

"Strategy?"

"Yeah! I want to use our numbers more wisely!"

The experience of fighting against medium and heavy tanks in my imagination was fun, but it also gave us something to think about.

The existing approach was no different from just rushing in and recklessly attacking.

However, in a world overflowing with advanced technology and powerful enemies, a more intelligent approach was needed.

"What if an A-grade or higher Hunter appears?"

"Or what if we face heavy machinery or high-level beasts? That would be a real pain."

I imagined a scene in my mind: brave little mouse Violets charging at an elephant.

The mouse Violets formed a line, raising their spears and swords as they charged toward the elephant.

"Squeak! Hit it—stab it!"

Unfortunately, contrary to the myth, elephants are not afraid of mice. The mouse Violets were quickly turned into dried fish.

"Rrgh—run! Run away!"

The simulation failed.

The more I thought about it, the more I realized that numbers alone weren’t enough. I shared this concern with Irene.

Irene listened, thought for a moment, and then spoke up.

"So, you’re curious about group tactics? Maybe the Helios Clan’s operational methods? Well... I’m not sure if it’ll help."

"What? Why not? Is it classified or something?"

"No, not at all! It’s a method that everyone already knows, so telling you isn’t a big deal. The thing is... what you’re asking for is military tactics, right? But the way Hunters in our clan operate is a bit different from the military."

Irene continued her explanation. According to her, Hunters’ battles, unlike real combat, are longer and more deliberate.

"For low-level and mid-level beasts, it doesn’t matter much. The problem comes when we face high-level beasts or dangerous awakened criminals. Why do you think we’re called ’Hunters’? We’re not fighters. We’re hunters."

In the end, from the perspective of the Hunters, it’s safer and more effective to slowly track and wear down the enemy, especially when making money is the goal. The less risk of injury, the more chances to survive and earn.

"Have you ever heard of the whale hunting tactic?"

"Oh! I think I have!"

I followed Irene as we entered the factory. Once the tables and chairs were moved to the side, a large open space appeared.

"First, I’ll explain the concept. I think it’s best to practice in an empty dungeon."

A squad of one Violet clone lined up in front of Irene, aligning in rows and columns.

"Actually, there’s nothing complex about the tactic. It’s really simple. First, the ranged attackers unload a barrage of fire, then immediately the close combat troops rush in to attack consecutively. When the enemy’s strength starts to falter? You deliver a powerful strike like stabbing a whale. The key is that there should be no delay between the roles of the ranged and close combat attackers. Got it?"

"Yeah! Got it!"

After hearing our response, Irene grinned.

"Violet should be able to pick this tactic up easily. You’re all good at exchanging ideas without delay, right? You’ll get the hang of it quickly. Now, let’s start by practicing the basic stances..."

The Violets spread out as Irene directed. Irene played the role of the enemy, while we were the ones surrounding her. We charged all at once, starting with learning how to form a pincer attack in close combat.

-Ku-kung!

A moment later, we were thrown to the floor.

"Ugh! So fast!"

"How is she so strong? How does she drain our strength?"

The attack reminded me of the last ambush. Thinking back, the tactics used by the attackers targeting Irene must have been similar. They must’ve been experienced, since they almost subdued her.

Suddenly, I thought of simulating the enemy’s actions.

"From now on, I’ll be Irene!"

A Violet, wearing a purple wig, appeared in the network. The Violet cosplaying as Irene held a spear and mimicked Irene’s movements in real-time.

The goal was simple. To imitate Irene’s actions and find a way to break through her defense.

"Not perfect, but... I think I’m starting to see an answer..."

While the real Violets were fighting Irene, a battle with the fake Irene continued in the virtual world.

"I’m not sure..."

After hours of training, we felt like we almost understood it, but still weren’t quite sure.

"Not sure? But you’ve got the basic idea of the movements, formations, and the importance of strategy, right?"

"But I still can’t beat Irene."

"Well, that’s because you don’t have support from ranged attackers. That’s obvious, right?"

She shrugged her shoulders.

During break time, the Violets chatted while drinking water. They talked about the state of the world, future plans, or what to have for lunch.

Violet No. 712 suddenly asked as if something had come to mind.

"Hey, guys. Does anyone else feel strange lately? Like, I suddenly feel like shooting a gun and then swinging a sword. Is it just me?"

The other Violets thought for a moment after hearing Violet No. 712’s words. Soon, their eyes widened as if they had figured something out.

"Yeah! I keep wanting to swing a sword!"

"Hah! Me too! Why is that?"

The Violets looked puzzled. Lately, whenever we saw an enemy, we’d want to shoot them with a gun, but then we’d want to charge in and cut their throats directly. Was it a growing sense of competitiveness?

"Something feels off!"

Perhaps it was because we had been winning every day. We were starting to enjoy the thrill of combat.

Since the re

Once she slept this time, when would she wake again?

A few hours? Maybe days?

Mini Violet curled up and closed her eyes.

The commotion outside continued unabated.

"Now, repeat after me. ’I am a real man!’"

"Skulls are great! Blood is awesome!"