Zealot and Bony stood in awe of the surreal beauty surrounding them, their senses heightened by the anticipation of what lay ahead in the Event Dungeon. The floating island seemed to exist in a serene world of its own, untouched by the chaos they had just left behind in the grand throne room.
"Quite the sight, isn't it, Bony?" Zealot remarked, his voice filled with wonder as he surveyed their new surroundings. "Looks like we've stumbled upon something truly extraordinary."
Bony, despite being a skeletal minion devoid of emotions, seemed to share Zealot's fascination, its empty eye sockets gazing out across the picturesque landscape. The silence between them was punctuated only by the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant calls of unseen birds.
"We should proceed cautiously," Zealot advised, breaking the silence. "Who knows what challenges or dangers await us here."
With a nod of agreement from Bony, Zealot took the lead, his senses sharp and alert. As they ventured deeper into the lush island terrain, they soon encountered a shimmering pathway that seemed to lead towards the heart of the floating island. The pathway was adorned with mystical stones that glowed softly beneath their feet, guiding them forward with an otherworldly allure.
"It seems we've stumbled upon a pathway," Zealot observed, stepping confidently along the glowing stones. "Let's see where it takes us."
As they progressed, the island's atmosphere seemed to thicken with a palpable energy, tingling with anticipation. Zealot remained vigilant, his eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of potential threats. Bony followed closely behind, its skeletal form moving with an eerie grace that belied its undead nature.
Soon, they arrived at a vast crater adorned with lush green grass, vibrant rainbow flowers, and a scattering of sparse trees. At the center of the crater loomed a colossal Minotaur Castle. Outside the towering castle gate entrance, approximately 99 demon adventurers had gathered, eagerly awaiting the start of the Hidden Event Dungeon.
Additionally, the average level of these demon adventurers ranged from Level 95 - 99 (C-Class). In other words, Zealot, who had barely reached Level 80, was considered the weakest adventurer here.
Ding!
[The Hidden Event Quest will commence in 15 minutes.]
[Hidden Event Quest: Raid the Minotaur Castle]
[Time Limit: 24 hours]
To conserve his mana, Zealot temporarily dismissed his skeletal minion as he ventured toward the center of the massive crater, which spanned 350 kilometers in diameter. Soon, he arrived at the enormous castle gate entrance, blending in with the other waiting adventurers.
The maximum number of adventurers allowed to enter the Minotaur Castle was 100. With Zealot's arrival, the total number of adventurers finally reached 100.
None of the demon adventurers here were familiar with each other; they were all strangers thrown together by the Hidden Event Quest. Despite this, raiding the Minotaur Castle demanded unwavering cooperation. Each adventurer must work together seamlessly to navigate the treacherous depths of the castle, where survival was far from guaranteed. The vast labyrinthine corridors and formidable challenges within made the raid exceptionally perilous. Only through mutual trust and collaboration could they hope to overcome the daunting obstacles that awaited them.
In summary, Zealot doesn't have to concern himself with betrayal or backstabbing from his fellow demon adventurers. The nature of this event dungeon demands hardcore teamwork, as a single mistake from any adventurer could jeopardize the entire group.
Furthermore, this event raid imposes a time limit. Should adventurers fail to clear the dungeon within the designated time, the consequences escalate dramatically. The monsters within the dungeon will enter a berserk state, doubling their strength and speed, and vastly increasing the challenge of the raid. This heightened difficulty level not only tests the adventurers' skills but also intensifies the urgency of completing the dungeon before the monsters become uncontrollably powerful.
Ding!
[Hidden Event Quest starting in 2 minutes.]
As the countdown to the Hidden Event Quest continued, Zealot stood among the assembled adventurers outside the Minotaur Castle gate. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation and nervous energy as everyone prepared for the upcoming raid.
"So, who's leading this raid?" a gruff voice called out from the crowd, breaking the tense silence.
"I guess we're all in this together," another voice replied uncertainly. "No designated leader, huh?"
A strikingly beautiful demon lady with flowing blue-haired and a seductive figure stood at the edge of the group, her sharp eyes keenly observing the adventurers. Sensing the unease among them, she stepped forward with grace, her presence commanding attention. Clearing her throat softly, she spoke up in a voice that carried authority and reassurance, “I'll take the lead if no one objects.”
The adventurers exchanged glances, then someone in the crowd recognized the stunning blue-haired demon woman. “Wait! I-Isn’t that Viviana Scarlet?!”
“Now that you mention it! That’s indeed Viviana Scarlet!”
“V-Viviana Scarlet?! Hold on, Isn’t she a noble demon from the Scarlet Family?”
‘Viviana Scarlet? Who the hell is that? I've never heard of such a character in the novel,’ Zealot wondered, stroking his chin thoughtfully.
Viviana Scarlet, a noble demon from one of the neighboring kingdoms of Zealot Kingdom, was renowned for her opulent gear. Noble demons were often distinguished by their luxurious gear, a testament to their substantial resources, which made them exceptionally powerful among peers of similar standing.
Initially, there was widespread opposition, but once they learned that Viviana was a noble demon, attitudes shifted, and they became accepting of her as their leader. The realization that she held such status made them reluctant to oppose her authority.
As the countdown to the Hidden Event Quest reached its final seconds, the tension among the demon adventurers outside the Minotaur Castle gate was palpable. Viviana Scarlet, now recognized as a noble demon from the Scarlet Family, stepped forward to take charge, her authoritative presence calming the uneasy murmurs among the group.
"Alright, everyone, listen up!" Viviana's voice rang out with clarity and confidence. "We have no time to waste. Our goal is to raid the Minotaur Castle and complete the event quest within the time limit. Cooperation and coordination are key. Follow my lead, and let's show these Minotaurs what we're made of!"
Her words resonated with determination, and the demon adventurers nodded in agreement, reassured by her leadership. Zealot, blending into the crowd with his own intentions, observed the scene with keen interest. He knew that Viviana's leadership could potentially affect the outcome of their raid significantly.
‘Viviana Scarlet, huh? A noble demon? Interesting. Looks like she’s going to be quite useful for this raid,’ mused Zealot, who had no objections; he believed Viviana Scarlet was well-suited to lead the group.
Ding!
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[Hidden Event Quest starting in 10 seconds!]
[Hidden Event Quest: Raid the Minotaur Castle]
The massive royal castle entrance gate loomed before them, its ancient stone walls adorned with intricate carvings depicting fearsome Minotaur Warriors. As the adventurers gathered closer, a magical sigil materialized on the gate, shimmering with arcane energy. With a resolute gesture from Viviana, the sigil glowed brightly before dissipating, revealing the grand entrance to the castle's expansive and opulent garden.
Viviana, standing at the forefront, surveyed the group with a determined gaze.
“Alright, everyone, brace yourselves!” Viviana’s voice rang out with authority. “We’re on a tight schedule. Let’s raid the Minotaur Castle, complete the quest, and prove ourselves. Now, stick together and follow my lead!”
Her words resonated with the gathered demon adventurers once more, instilling a sense of unity and purpose among them. Zealot, observing from within the group, noted the determination in their eyes.
In response, the demon adventurers erupted with spirited enthusiasm:
"Hurrah! To the Minotaur Castle! Let’s crush them!” exclaimed one of the adventurers, his voice filled with fiery resolve.
"We're with you, Viviana! Let’s do this!” declared another, eyes gleaming with anticipation.
"Viviana, lead the charge!" exclaimed a third adventurer, his voice ringing out with unwavering determination under the brilliance of the midday sun. He brandished his sword, its blade gleaming in the bright sunlight as he pledged, "We'll follow your lead to victory!"
Viviana nodded in acknowledgment, her blue hair flowing gracefully as she turned towards the open colossal gate. "Very well, then let’s do this. We'll move in formation. Frontline fighters, take your positions at the front. Assassins, stay in the shadows. Mages, Healers, and Archers, support from behind. Let’s move!"
The adventurers organized themselves quickly, forming a cohesive unit under Viviana's guidance. Zealot, blending seamlessly into the ranks, kept a close eye on their surroundings. The grandeur of the Minotaur Castle's garden was a stark contrast to the foreboding atmosphere, with lush greenery, colossal fountains, and vibrant flowers lining the pathways. However, the beauty of the garden did little to ease the tension in the air.
As they ventured deeper into the vast garden, the tranquility was abruptly shattered by the ground trembling beneath their feet. The adventurers braced themselves, weapons drawn and ready. From the shadows of the towering hedges, a group of Giant Minotaur Warriors emerged, their eyes burning with hostility. Adding to the peril, another group of Minotaurs descended from the sky with the aid of wyverns, landing and surrounding them.
[Name: Minotaur]
[Level: 80]
These Minotaurs were monstrous beings, their colossal frames towering at 25 feet in height, every sinewy muscle beneath their fur exuding raw power. The sheer enormity of their presence alone sent shivers down the spines of even the most seasoned adventurers, a testament to their daunting strength and imposing stature.
ROAAAARRRR!!!
RUMBLE! RUMBLE! RUMBLE!
Viviana raised her hand, signaling the demon adventurers to hold their ground. "Frontliners, engage! Assassins, stay hidden and be ready! Support, prepare your spells, heals and arrows!"
The battle erupted with a ferocious intensity. The frontliners clashed with the Minotaurs, their weapons ringing out with each powerful strike.
CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!
Amidst the chaos, Zealot, fighting alongside the adventurers, unleashed his formidable skills, strategically targeting and hindering the Minotaurs’ movements to support his fellow demons. To ensure not to overspend his mana, he only summoned one skeletal minion for now to battle.
COME FORTH, SKELETON WARRIOR!
CURSE OF DIARRHEA!
CURSE OF PEE!
Meanwhile, Viviana's voice cut through the din of battle, directing the adventurers with strategic commands. "Mages, focus your fire on the left flank! Archers, take down the ranged Minotaurs in the back! Assassins, strike from the shadows where you can! Healers, maintain buffs and healing for the frontliners!"
Following her orders, the Mages unleashed torrents of elemental magic, their spells lighting up the battlefield with explosive force. The Archers, with their deadly accuracy, picked off the Minotaurs from a distance, thinning their ranks. The Assassins, slipping through the chaos, struck key targets from the shadows, sowing confusion among the enemy. Meanwhile, the Healers diligently applied buffs and healing spells to the frontliners, ensuring they remained resilient against the relentless assaults.
Despite the overwhelming odds, the adventurers fought valiantly, their teamwork and coordination a testament to their resolve. Zealot, his mana reserves carefully managed, continued to wreak havoc among the enemy ranks. The curses he had placed on the Minotaurs caused them to falter, their movements becoming sluggish and disoriented.
After battling for a few minutes, Zealot realized he didn’t need to participate further, as the demon adventurers were managing quite capably on their own. Deciding to further conserve his mana, he stepped back, mindful that the true tests lay ahead: confronting the dungeon's Mini-Bosses and the ultimate challenge, the formidable Minotaur King. Zealot prioritized reserving his mana reserves for the critical final battle.
HORIZONTAL SLASH! VERTICAL SLASH! DIAGONAL SLASH!
CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!
RAINY ICE ARROWS! HEALING BUFF! INFERNO BALL FLAMES!
As the battle against the initial wave of Minotaurs raged on, Viviana Scarlet's strategic leadership shone brightly. She directed the adventurers with precise commands, leveraging their strengths to counter the Minotaurs' relentless assaults. The frontline fighters held their ground admirably, their weapons clashing against the Minotaurs' formidable defenses. Mages unleashed torrents of elemental magic, while archers maintained a steady barrage of arrows. Assassins, moving through the chaos, struck at key targets from the shadows. Healers ensured the party's health remained high amidst the chaos.
[Your group has slain a Minotaur!]
[Your group has slain a Minotaur!]
[Your group has slain a Minotaur!]
…
…
[Leveled Up!]
[Level: 80 >> 81]
[Skeleton Progression: 81% >> 83%]
After a grueling battle that seemed to stretch on for approximately 45 minutes, the last of the initial wave of Minotaurs fell to the ground. The demon adventurers, though weary and battered, stood victorious in the lush grand garden of the Minotaur Castle. Their collective breaths came in ragged gasps, chests heaving with exertion, yet their spirits were high with the thrill of triumph.
Viviana Scarlet, her blue hair tousled but her eyes ablaze with determination, addressed the group with a voice filled with pride and gratitude. "Great job, everyone! We've overcome the first wave. But our journey is far from over. Stay vigilant, and let's press onward!"
The demon adventurers, spurred on by Viviana's words, rallied together once more, their resolve renewed as they prepared to enter the colossal doorway leading into the interior of the Minotaur Castle. Each step brought them closer to their ultimate goal: facing the Mini-Bosses and ultimately challenging the fearsome Minotaur King.
As the adventurers regrouped at the gigantic entrance door to the Minotaur Castle, Viviana's leadership continued to guide them forward with determination. The enormous 125 foot door loomed ahead, its ancient stone surfaces etched with ominous symbols that hinted at the challenges awaiting within.
"Prepare yourselves," Viviana called out, her voice steady despite the lingering echoes of battle still resonating through the garden. "We're about to enter the Minotaur Castle’s interior. Stay alert and follow closely. Our next opponents won't be any less formidable."
The demon adventurers nodded in unison, their fatigue momentarily overshadowed by renewed focus.
As they pushed open the massive door, it emitted a resounding sound:
CREAK!
Stepping cautiously into the castle's grand foyer, they were met by an eerie stillness, the air thick and oppressive. The silence enveloped them, broken only by the faint echoes of their footsteps on the polished marble floor, each step echoing through the vast space.
"Keep your guard up!" Viviana reminded them, her eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of movement or danger. "We don't know what defenses or traps might lie ahead."
As they proceeded deeper into the royal grand castle, the architecture grew more imposing, with towering columns and intricate tapestries adorning the walls. Every corner seemed to conceal potential threats, and the group moved in tight formation, weapons at the ready.
RUMBLE!
Suddenly, the ground beneath their feet trembled, this time accompanied by the distant, guttural growls of unseen beasts. From the shadows emerged a pair of towering 35-foot Minotaur Guardians, each wielding massive axes that gleamed menacingly in the bright light streaming from the colossal windows.
"Well, well, well, what do we have here? Demon adventurers this time, huh?" remarked one of the Minotaur Guardians.
"Ha! It seems we've stumbled upon easy opponents this time. Thank the gods we're not dealing with human adventurers; that would have been far more challenging," another Minotaur Guardian added with a chuckle.
In this world, Minotaurs are widely feared as evil monsters, renowned for their innate high resistance against dark magic. This makes them formidable adversaries for demon adventurers. As a result, demons who heavily rely on dark magic face significant disadvantages when confronting Minotaurs, often finding their spells less effective and their confrontations more perilous.
On the other hand, some human adventurers who depend heavily on holy magic benefit the most. Their spells are particularly effective against Minotaurs, exploiting the Minotaurs' vulnerability to divine energies. Because of this, most Minotaurs prefer to battle demons rather than humans.
[Name: Minotaur Guardian]
[Level: 85 - 90]