The closer we got to the boss area, the more the tension grew. No one really knew what to expect. Deep down, everyone was afraid, even though they weren't showing it. While the attack group was going in the front, the support group, including me, was going in the back.

"Are we going to be okay? My power is not made for fighting"

I asked.

"Why do we have to go? They know that our powers won't be useful in battle. They're only taking us to serve as shields"

Someone else complained. Conversations like this had been quite common since we left the camp by the lake. Everyone from the support group began to distrust the people from the attack group. This could lead to many problems in the future, but to be honest, I don't give a damn. My only goal is to complete my revenge.

As the scenery went by, we finally arrived at the boss area. Further ahead was the big red rock. Those who didn't know that this was the boss looked around carefully, while others looked at the rock, admiring its beautiful red color. As this was happening, Shinji turned and started to look at all of us.

"Guys, at this time, we will start our fight against the boss"

Shinji said, drawing everyone's attention. Some were afraid upon hearing Shinji's words, while others were anxious. There were also a few people like Baji who seemed excited about the idea.

"For this, we will make a simple but effective formation. The mages will be at the back, giving support and casting their attack spells, while the fighters will fight the boss from the front"

Shinji said. After that, I felt his gaze on me, even though there were other people in front of me. Yet, I was almost sure that his gaze was on me.

"Those who can't fight will hide. Besides, try not to get killed or get in our way"

Shinji said, turning to the boss shortly after.

"Our target is that red stone. Although it looks like a stone, it is scales. The boss on this floor is a giant lizard that releases fire from its mouth. Before the fire comes out, its belly will start to glow in a red light. Pay attention to that so you can dodge it"

Shinji explained.

"Remember our goal. We have been chosen by the gods. We have the power to fight evil. Our mission will be to rid this land"

Stolen novel; please report.

Shinji declared, pointing up his sword made with the power of Fujiwara. Then he turned and started to run towards the boss. The first to go with him was Baji, who was followed by the others. As this was happening, a voice came from my side.

"Makoto, if it gets too dangerous, please run away"

Said Aoi-sensei. For some reason, I feel that these days she started acting like an older sister, or maybe like an overprotective girlfriend. After that, due to the commotion, the boss woke up, scaring everyone who was seeing its true form for the first time. The lizard was really giant and had a frightening appearance. Within seconds, several spells were cast in the boss's direction, hitting it head-on. But even so, it only made it stagger to the side. Annoyed by this action, the boss turned to the mages, but soon his attention was taken away again by Baji, who punched him in the face.

"Roarrrrrrrrrrrr!"

Letting out a deafening roar that caused almost everyone to instinctively cover their ears, a mist suddenly emanated from the lizard's body. Caught off guard, several people became enveloped in the mist, leaving them paralyzed.

"That's bad"

I thought as I assessed the battle situation. The circumstances were far from favorable. As I pondered this, the boss's belly began to glow red, indicating an imminent fire attack.

(Saemi, get ready. He's going to use fire. Inform everyone to create a barrier and protect themselves. Although his primary targets are the paralyzed individuals, his attack has a wide range, so it might reach you too)

I telepathically communicated to Saemi, keeping a watchful eye on the unfolding events.

(Understood)

Saemi replied.

"Guys, be careful! The boss is about to unleash a fire attack. Those who can create shields, do so or position yourselves behind someone who can. Fujiwara, try to bring everyone who was paralyzed over here"

Saemi cautioned, receiving nods of acknowledgment from the group. As shields of various shapes and sizes started materializing, those unable to create shields joined forces with those who could. Meanwhile, Fujiwara utilized her abilities to rescue as many paralyzed individuals as possible. Unfortunately, she couldn't save them all. Within seconds, a blast of fire erupted from the boss's mouth, striking the helpless paralyzed victims, instantly claiming their lives without leaving a trace.

The expressions on the faces of those saved by Fujiwara were a mix of relief and fear. They realized it could have been them, lying lifeless in that moment. Confronted with such a brutal sight, the onslaught persisted. Everyone exercised greater caution than before. Although the boss's tough skin prevented most fatal blows, continuous damage gradually weakened the enemy, inching it closer to its demise.

Finally, with one last decisive blow to its head, Shinji managed to vanquish the boss. However, despite the boss's defeat, the mood among the others remained somber. Sadness was etched on their faces, and their thoughts were unmistakable.

"They are probably even more afraid now. After all, there are still 100 more floors with even stronger enemies"

I speculated as I observed the situation from the rear.

"It seems they made it through, albeit with some losses... I wonder if things could have turned out differently if everyone had chosen to help"

I mused. Lost in my thoughts, a voice from behind startled me. I turned around to find Fujiwara leaning against a tree, her gaze fixed on me.