[Final Wave: Humanoid-Lion]
[Humanoid-Lion slain: 0/1]
As Zealot and his skeletal minion stood amidst the aftermath of their latest victory, a sense of foreboding filled the air. The colossal gates at the far end of the arena began to open once more, revealing a single, formidable monster: a 25-foot-tall Humanoid Lion. Towering over the remains of the fallen griffins, the creature exuded an aura of raw power and ferocity, its muscles rippling beneath its tawny fur.
[Name: Humanoid-Lion]
[Level: 75]
The colossal Humanoid Lion stepped forward, its golden mane flowing in the wind and its eyes blazing with an intense, predatory gleam. It wielded two massive, double-edged axes, their blades glinting menacingly in the sunlight. With each step, the ground seemed to tremble beneath its weight.
THUMP!
"Be cautious, Bony," Zealot warned, his voice calm but filled with urgency. "This opponent is unlike any we've faced so far. It will take all your skill and strength to defeat it."
The skeletal minion nodded, its empty eye sockets fixed on the imposing figure of the Humanoid Lion. Taking a defensive stance, it prepared itself for the final challenge of the Gladiator Arena.
The Humanoid Lion let out a thunderous roar, shaking the very foundations of the arena. Then, with a burst of speed that belied its size, it charged at the skeletal minion, its axes raised high.
ROAAAARRRR!!!
CLANG!!!
RUMBLE!!!
The initial clash of weapons sent shockwaves through the arena. The skeletal minion parried the powerful blow, its metal bones creaking under the strain. Despite the sheer force behind the lion's attack, the skeleton held its ground, its bony hands gripping its weapon tightly.
HORIZONTAL SLASH!
The skeletal minion counterattacked, aiming a swift horizontal slash at the lion's midsection. The Humanoid Lion, however, anticipated the move and deftly dodged to the side, retaliating with a vicious swipe of its claws.
CLAW SWIPE!!!
CRUNCH!!!
The skeleton staggered, a few bones splintering under the impact. But it quickly regained its balance, launching a flurry of attacks to keep the lion at bay.
VERTICAL SLASH! HORIZONTAL SLASH! DIAGONAL SLASH!
The battle was intense, each combatant matching the other blow for blow. The Humanoid Lion's raw power and agility were formidable, but the skeletal minion's precision and resilience were equally impressive.
Zealot watched intently, ready to intervene if necessary. He knew that his skeletal companion was capable, but the Humanoid Lion's strength was undeniable.
"Focus on its weak points, Bony!" Zealot called out. "Look for any openings and exploit them!"
The skeletal minion heeded Zealot's advice, its attacks becoming more calculated and deliberate. It aimed for the lion's joints and tendons, seeking to weaken its mobility.
CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!
ROAAAARRRR!!!
The sound of clashing weapons filled the arena, each strike echoing through the stone walls. The Humanoid Lion roared in frustration, its movements becoming more erratic as the battle wore on.
MINION BERSERK!
Seeing an opportunity to turn the tide, Zealot activated Minion Berserk. The skeletal minion's form twisted with rage energy, its attacks becoming even more ferocious and relentless.
THRUST!!!
With a powerful thrust, the skeletal minion pierced the Humanoid Lion's side, causing it to bellow in pain. The lion staggered, its movements slowing as blood flowed from the wound.
ROAAAARRRR!!!
CURSE OF DIARRHEA!
Zealot unleashed his Diarrhea skill, further debilitating the lion. The creature roared in agony, its strength waning as it struggled to maintain its footing.
"Now, Bony! Finish it!" Zealot commanded.
With a final, decisive strike, the skeletal minion aimed for the lion's heart. Its weapon pierced through the creature's chest, shattering its ribcage and silencing its roars once and for all.
THRUST!!!
ROAAAARRRR—!!!
THUD!!!
The Humanoid Lion collapsed to the ground, its massive form lying motionless in the dust. The arena fell silent, the echoes of battle fading away as Zealot and his skeletal minion stood victorious.
[Humanoid-Lion slain: 1/1]
[Leveled Up!]
[Level 70 >> 72]
[Skeleton’s Progression: 66% >> 73%]
Zealot approached his skeletal companion, a proud smile on his face. "Excellent job, Bony!”
The skeletal minion, still radiating with rage energy, nodded in acknowledgment. It had proven its mettle once again, standing tall amidst the aftermath of the battle.
As the gates of the arena began to open, signaling the end of the Gladiator Arena Challenge, Zealot knew that they had accomplished something remarkable. Together, they had faced formidable foes and emerged victorious.
[3rd Floor: Quest Completed!]
[Time Remaining: 34 minutes]
Following the defeat of the Humanoid Lion, a portal materialized directly above its fallen form, signaling the gateway to their next trial on the 4th floor.
As Zealot and his skeletal minion stepped through the newly revealed portal, they felt the familiar sensation of being transported to the next level of Bloodmoon Tower. Emerging on the 4th floor, they found themselves in a vast fortress specifically designed for a tower defense challenge.
Bathed in the bright sunlight of midday, Zealot and his skeletal minion were taken aback by an unexpected sight of the grand fortress. Not even a few seconds had passed when, suddenly, eight demon adventurers emerged from the shadows and ambushed them, swiftly forming a tight circle. Their weapons pointed menacingly at Zealot, their eyes glowing with malicious intent.
‘S-Spawn campers?!’ Zealot thought.
EYES OF TRUTH!
“Hahaha! Welcome, newcomer! Now drop everything you have if you want to live!” one of the demon adventurers sneered.
“That’s right! Hand over everything you’ve got and we might spare you,” another chimed in, a cruel grin spreading across her face.
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“And don’t even think about fighting back—we’re not in the mood for games!” a third demon added, brandishing his weapon threateningly.
As Zealot surveyed his surroundings, he was struck by the grim sight of countless adventurers scattered here. Their lifeless bodies stood as a stark testament to the brutal conflict. Some had recently succumbed to their fate, their expressions frozen in terror or agony. Others, having been here for much longer, had decomposed into skeletal remains, their once-ornate armor now rusted and broken.
As Zealot assessed the situation, he realized that the demon adventurers meant serious trouble. With eight of them surrounding him and Bony, their odds of survival seemed slim without a strategic approach.
"What's it gonna be, newcomer? Are you going to hand over your stuff, or do you prefer us to take it by force?" demanded Morgrim, the leader of the demon adventurers, his voice dripping with menace.
Zealot took a deep breath, his mind racing through possible options. Then, an idea struck him. If he could create a distraction, even for a brief moment, it might give him a chance to escape.
"Alright, alright," Zealot said, raising his hands in a gesture of surrender. "I'll give you what you want. Just don't hurt us."
The demons exchanged smug glances, their guard momentarily lowered by the prospect of easy loot.
Seeing their guard drop, Zealot seized the moment and shouted, "Now, Bony!"
MINION BERSERK!
CURSE OF DIARRHEA!
Having read their minds and gathering information about them, Zealot understood he stood no chance against Morgrim’s party. These demon adventurers were notorious criminals, renowned for their ruthlessness and cruelty, with each member at least Level 75. The only option Zealot had was to flee as far away as possible, while Bony would stay behind to distract them and buy time for his escape.
Zealot was fully aware that these criminals had no intention of keeping their promise, as they intended to kill him regardless of his compliance. They desired both his loot and his life.
As the skeletal minion was unleashed into berserk mode and Zealot's curse took effect, the demon adventurers were momentarily thrown into chaos. The intense, frenzied attacks of the skeletal minion disrupted their formation, creating the opening Zealot needed to make his escape.
HORIZONTAL SLASH! VERTICAL SLASH! DIAGONAL SLASH!
CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!
WHOOSH!
Zealot bolted away, his footsteps echoing off the stone floor of the fortress. He glanced over his shoulder, catching glimpses of the demons struggling to regain their composure. His heart pounded in his chest, each beat urging him to put as much distance as possible between himself and the bloodthirsty demon group.
"Fight with everything you’ve got, Bony! Buy me some time!" Zealot shouted, his voice filled with urgency.
The skeletal companion nodded, its form twisted with rage, powered by the berserk mode, continuing its relentless assault on the demon adventurers. With each strike, it pushed them back, forcing them to divert their attention and resources to fend off the skeletal minion onslaught.
"Get that bastard!" Morgrim roared, his voice booming over the chaos. "Don’t let him get away!"
"Yes, boss, right away!" one of the demon adventurers shouted, charging towards the direction Zealot had fled.
"On it!" another demon member yelled, unleashing a volley of dark energy aimed at Zealot.
CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!
HORIZONTAL SLASH! VERTICAL SLASH! DIAGONAL SLASH!
Under the influence of berserk mode, the skeletal warrior exhibited relentless determination, blocking their path with unyielding force and ferocity. Its aggressive stance and sheer power effectively thwarted their every attempt to pursue Zealot, buying its master precious time to escape.
“Ugh! This damn annoying skeleton minion!” one of the demon adventurers grumbled, struggling slightly to break through the relentless barrage.
10 minutes later…
By this point, Zealot had put considerable distance between himself and the demon adventurers.
HUFF! HUFF! HUFF!
Now, deep within an unfamiliar, breathtakingly beautiful forest—lush and vibrant—he found himself enveloped in the symphony of the wilderness. Pausing to catch his breath, he surveyed his surroundings, feeling the weight of his escape and the uncertainty of his next move settling heavily upon him. The dense foliage, adorned with a myriad of colors, swayed gracefully in the gentle breeze. Meanwhile, the distant calls of unknown monsters echoed through the trees, casting an eerie yet strangely tranquil atmosphere over his brief respite.
Despite the tranquility, Zealot couldn't shake the urgency of the moment. His heart pounded with adrenaline from his escape, and despite his efforts to move quietly, the sound of his footsteps echoed faintly through the trees.
The familiar weight of his journey seemed lighter now, and a profound sense of gratitude filled him, knowing that his skeletal companion remained at the grand fortress, fending off the demon adventurers.
Though he was safe for now, Zealot knew he couldn't stay still for long. The demon adventurers were relentless, and it was only a matter of time before they picked up his trail again. He needed to find a way to either lose them completely or find a place where he could safely plan his next move.
Ding!
[Your Skeleton Bronze Warrior has been slain by the Demon Adventurers!]
“Great job, Bony. You lasted longer than I expected,” Zealot muttered to himself.
‘Damn those criminals! They appear to be well-trained professional killers too—I wonder which dark guild they belong to. Even Belial doesn’t seem as powerful as them. It looks like I’ve encountered some truly formidable adversaries this time.’
Not long after, Zealot stumbled upon a dirt road that led him to a small, picturesque village. Its beauty and quaintness were undeniable, almost cute in their own way. The sight of the beautiful village didn’t startle him; he had already learned of its existence through reading the novel.
Meanwhile, in the fortress, Morgrim's party, having just defeated the Zealot’s skeletal minion, were astonished by the toughness of the skeletal warrior. They struggled to comprehend how a mere skeleton could be so powerful, as their knowledge suggested that skeleton warriors shouldn’t possess such strength and speed. However, Zealot’s minion proved to be as formidable as a golem.
"What kind of skeleton warrior is this?" Morgrim wondered aloud, his voice tinged with a mix of awe and disbelief. "It's far too powerful for a basic common necromancer summoning-skill. I can't fathom how a mere skeleton could exhibit such extraordinary strength and speed," he continued, clearly impressed by the formidable skeletal minion they had just defeated.
"I agree," remarked Ingrid, her brows furrowing in contemplation. "I've never encountered a necromancer summoning something so potent before. It's truly remarkable."
"I concur," added Thorne, nodding in agreement. "This skeleton warrior surpasses anything I've seen from necromancers of this level. We must tread cautiously in the face of such unexpected power."
"Boss, what should we do now? Should we continue to pursue that necromancer or leave him be?" one of Morgrim's comrades inquired.
"Hmm…" Morgrim gazed up at the beautiful blue sky, considering his options. He recognized the dangers lurking in the forest and the increasing threat as nightfall approached, knowing that monsters tended to be more active and aggressive after dark. "Change of plans. We'll continue our search tomorrow. For now, we must prepare for nightfall. The fortress will undoubtedly be besieged, so we must prepare ourselves and retreat to our underground base."
This was how Morgrim’s party had been surviving in this tower defense challenge this whole time. Every night, when darkness fell, hordes of monsters would launch relentless assaults on the fortress. The adventurers' task was to endure and safeguard the fortress until dawn. However, Morgrim’s party found a way to bypass the ordeal. Rather than facing the onslaught, they resorted to cheating by hiding underground and waiting until morning, as the monsters would have vanished by then.
Given these circumstances, Morgrim’s party saw no need to pursue Zealot, confident that Zealot wouldn’t survive the night. Hordes of monsters would relentlessly pursue Zealot until morning, akin to the world of zombies, where they are most hyper-aggressive at night. In essence, there was no urgency; they could retrieve and loot Zealot’s body at their convenience, when the time was right.
Having knowledge of the novel, Zealot obviously understood how the tower defense challenge worked. Without delay, he promptly resummoned his skeleton minion, and together they commenced digging a hole inside one of the cute village houses. Their strategy resembled that of many survival games, such as Minecraft, as they planned to construct an underground base to prepare for nightfall.
"Alright, Bony, we must dig fast. We only have a few hours left before sunset, so we must hurry," Zealot instructed.
The skeletal minion, ever dutiful, nodded solemnly in response, fully understanding the gravity of their mission.
DIG! DIG! DIG!
Zealot and his skeletal companion worked tirelessly, their hands clawing through the dirt and rock with impressive efficiency. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows over the village, they made steady progress on their underground shelter.
With each passing minute, the urgency of their task grew. The approaching darkness would bring not only the threat of the demon adventurers but also the relentless hordes of monsters that hunt for adventurers every night. While it was unlikely that Morgrim’s party would strike after dark, caution demanded they prepare regardless.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity of digging, they had carved out a sizable chamber beneath the village house. It was crude and rough-hewn, but it offered protection from the dangers lurking outside. Zealot understood it was only a temporary shelter, yet crucial to avoid detection from the roaming monsters and, potentially, the demon adventurers if they changed their minds.
"Excellent work, Bony," Zealot said, wiping sweat from his brow. "Now, let's reinforce the walls and ceiling. We need to make sure this shelter is sturdy enough to withstand any attacks."
The skeletal minion nodded, its empty eye sockets gleaming with determination. Together, they gathered stones and wooden beams, fortifying their underground refuge with makeshift walls and supports.
ROAAAARRRR!!!
As they worked, the distant roars of monsters echoed through the ancient forest, a grim reminder of the perils that awaited them outside. Zealot glanced anxiously at the entrance of their shelter, knowing that nightfall was fast approaching.
"We need to hurry," he muttered, his voice tense with urgency. "The monsters will be here soon."
With renewed determination, they redoubled their efforts, working feverishly to complete their makeshift small fortress before the sun disappeared entirely.
Finally, just as the last rays of sunlight vanished beyond the horizon, they put the finishing touches on their shelter. It was far from perfect, but adequate for the time being.
"Quick, Bony, get inside!" Zealot urged, ushering his skeletal companion into the safety of the underground chamber.
As they huddled together in the dim light of their shelter or base, Zealot couldn't shake the feeling of unease gnawing at him. The night ahead would be long and fraught with danger, but they were as prepared as they could be.