The dim labyrinth was completely silent. The only thing the group of four heard was their footsteps on the hard ground that echoed in the air. With walls on both sides, they walked down the path laid before them. A light from the middle of the ground would act as a beacon to show them the way and they would follow it like moths attracted to a flame. Unfortunately, this source of illumination wasn’t bright enough to chase away the darkness. Shadows were casted on the walls and they couldn’t see the ceiling above their heads.
As if the creepy air wasn’t enough, reptilian creatures were stealthily crawling around the place and eliminating any trespassers. These creatures latched onto the walls and ceilings and killed off anyone who intruded from their blind spots like silent assassins. Those who dared to go inside the maze would hurry from one source of light to the next as they tried to stay away from the darkness as much as possible. Moreover, they would bring a lot of lanterns to get rid of any shadows and light their surroundings.
The brave men and women would navigate through this underground labyrinth, make sure that they weren’t lost and stayed on their guard the whole time for attacks that could come from above their heads. The ruin attracted those who sought the Artifacts that slept within, but it was nonetheless a truly dangerous place, and it only got worse the farther one went in.
However…
“Do you need more light to read the map?” [Kirial]
“Nah, I’m fine, prince.” [Ryner]
“Then why are we stopping? We need to keep moving.” [Kirial]
“I’m just waiting for this guy to make a move.” [Ryner]
“What guy?” [Kirial]
“This guy.” [Ryner]
Ryner grabbed a slim tail that was slowly descending from above him to strangle him. Before it could wrap itself around his neck, without taking his eyes off the map, he yanked it down with his right hand and a Seeker fell down next to him. It tried to get back up, but the black-haired man kept pulling on its tail to make it lose its balance and fall flat again. As a result, it was wildly thrashing about like a fish out of water all while letting out screeching noises.
Standing behind him, Kirial, the prince of Ofauvra, jumped into action with his sword at the ready. He used body strengthening to increase his strength and speed and stabbed at the creature’s abdomen. The scales broke, but stopped the blade from piercing its body. Since his mana pool wasn’t huge, he couldn’t possess superhuman strength like Argos, the head of the Catallard clan. If he pumped too much mana into his spell, he would run out of gas and faint.
In the middle of this labyrinth, such a thing would mean his death. So, pulling his sword back, the lion-eared royalty hacked at its long and skinny arms to knock them away. Then, he brought his sword down in its open mouth. His weapon penetrated its flesh and spilled fresh blood, robbing it of its life. Seeing as how they handled the enemy, Evelyn and Maya, who were watching the rear, confirmed that they wouldn’t need to jump in.
“Alright, we’re done. Let’s go.” [Ryner]
Talking as if they swatted away a fly, Ryner resumed walking down the dim corridor.
“Your senses are really sharp.” [Kirial]
So far, this group of four was smoothly progressing through the maze, causing Kirial to wonder if it should be this easy. He knew that Argos and the head of the Terdims, who were both S rank, wouldn’t have a problem with opponents on the level of Seekers. However, looking at Ryner, he wasn’t sure if he should be this relaxed while treading through this deadly labyrinth.
“Hey, prince.” [Ryner]
“What?” [Kirial]
“Why don’t we just break down the walls and go in a straight line?” [Ryner]
“What?! Are you crazy?!” [Kirial]
“Guess that’s a no, huh…” [Ryner]
Kirial’s expression showed how shock he was to hear Ryner even suggest such a thing.
“We need to properly go through the labyrinth like everyone else did! This is a trial before you have the right to see the relic! Those who don’t won’t ever attain beastification even if they reach it!” [Kirial]
“Theeen… Did everyone who passed this trial get beastification?” [Ryner]
“…” [Kirial]
The lion-eared beastman froze in place and his expression grew stiff for a moment.
“… That only means that they didn’t have the qualifications to have it. Though they properly went through the labyrinth, they just couldn’t get beastification.” [Kirial]
“Then, what about us?” [Ryner]
“W-what about us?” [Kirial]
“We’re following the way to the exit with this map. Isn’t it cheating?” [Ryner]
“No, we’re still going through the labyrinth like we should. It’s not forbidden, but breaking down the walls is.” [Kirial]
Kirial looked away awkwardly and scratched his ear as he rambled on what sounded like excuses. The two women who were keeping watch behind him were also staring at him wordlessly. One of them was holding a sword that she seemingly pulled out of nowhere. It was an elegant weapon that had a thin blade and a golden hilt. At that moment, a Seeker was slowly crawling down the wall on Evelyn’s left side. Just as it opened its mouth full of crooked fangs, the vampire slashed it with her sword in her left hand, all while keeping her eyes on the beastman prince.
The attack was so fast that the ruin dweller remained immobile for a moment before its head detached from its body and fell to the ground. Right after, gravity took hold of the rest of its headless corpse and it fell from the wall. The sound of its carcass hitting the ground resounded in the otherwise silent atmosphere in the group.
“… You have no idea how that relic works, do ya?” [Ryner]
“Is that so surprising? We’re talking about some object that can grant power to us beastmen and it’s been inside this place for who knows how long. We still have no idea what the ruins were created for or how the Artifacts were made. You know that researchers from various countries who got ahold of a magic weapon to study all say it’s really old, but got no clue on how to build it. No one does. The blade of a magic sword that’s probably been around for hundreds or even thousands of years isn’t rusted or dull and the sharpness is first-class. And they also have some magical power to use an element like fire or light to make it deadlier.
If that wasn’t enough, just holding one will make you stronger, like the weapon itself is giving you some sort of protection. We’ve got object that use magic to work, like household items, but we can’t affix such magic on weapons like that. Maybe it was the gods or maybe it was a race with better knowledge in magic that came before us and existed a long time ago. Whoever or whatever created them was a genius. Researchers, blacksmiths, everyone would give anything to know the secret to forging an Artifact. It’s only normal that these things fetch a huge price and that some people became famous or obtained a noble rank.” [Kirial]
Towards the prince who was trying to change the subject by talking about Artifacts, Ryner said one, simple thing.
“… You still have no idea how that relic works, do ya, prince?” [Ryner]
“… Let’s just go.” [Kirial]
In the end, because of Kirial’s insistence, the four continued without breaking down a single wall and followed the path depicted on the map.
“Look, we may not really know how the relic works or the conditions to get beastification, but going through the labyrinth without cheating has become a rule.” [Kirial]
“Does it really matter? It’s not like you’re going there to get beastification. You’re just guiding us, right?” [Ryner]
“Actually, this was included in the deal to-.” [Kirial]
“You totally owe me one after this.” [Ryner]
“… If others find out that I, the prince, cheated my way through, it would also affect my family.” [Kirial]
“Yeah, yeah. We’ll do it like you want just this once. Then, what about using this map?” [Ryner]
“Like I said before, it’s not cheating.” [Kirial]
“What about those who have escorts who do all the work?” [Ryner]
“It’s not considered cheating either.” [Kirial]
“The rule sure is lenient. But, now I’m curious about that relic. I can’t wait to check it out.” [Ryner]
According to Kirial, in the past, some beastmen had broken through the walls of the maze to create a shortcut and it wasn’t look upon too kindly by others. To those who treaded through the corridors of the labyrinth, it was like an insult to them. Moreover, none of them received the ability to beastify when they reached the relic. So, a rumor started up, saying that those who copied them are ineligible to get beastification from the start. In the end, the rumor became a fact and was made as a rule to follow. As a side note, the maze could fix itself which was why any damage to it was repaired.
“If you think about it, this is a trial for us. I mean, why else would there be a labyrinth in here? The gods or the creators of this place wanted to test our mettle before granting us more power. As proof, the deeper we go in the ruin, the stronger the monsters become as if the next challenge is tougher to see our limits. The ruins around the world are some sort of tests for us. I don’t know why they’re there, but isn’t that how you’d normally see it if you think logically?” [Kirial]
“(No, I designed this place like this because of the game rules set up with Alice.)” [Ryner]
Ryner thought in his mind, but he couldn’t exactly say it and just stared at the lion-eared man from the corner of his eye. The group of four, who were simply too strong for the first floor, easily reached the exit and rested a bit inside the empty corridor that was brightly lit. It took nearly thirty minutes to reach the end of the maze using the map and it was quite fast considering they had to constantly stay alert for sneak attacks. Others who didn’t have individuals with S rank fighting force would take longer.
From what the prince said, the relic was at the end of the third floor and they had to go through two more mazes. He pulled out another map that showed the way for the second labyrinth. Taking it in his hands, Ryner walked at the front with Kirial behind him and Maya and Evelyn guarding the rear. Stepping on the glowing, blue circle, they were teleported to the second floor, crossed the corridor that was devoid of enemies and walked through the deadly maze.
Besides the Seekers, another foe was present: the Spiked Lizard. Resembling komodo dragons, they were one meter tall and latched onto the walls. Their mouths opened wide like a snake that was gobbling up a bigger prey and numerous, fifty-centimeters-long spikes filled them up. These creatures would then shoot them out as if they were machine guns and turn anyone into a pin cushion. Acting like turrets, the very weapons that Ryner created were now trying to kill him.
“Ooh, I saw this guy before.” [Ryner]
“It was in that other ruin, right, Master~?” [Maya]
“These creatures are rather interesting. Just how do they generate all these spikes?” [Evelyn]
“Is this really the time to be so carefree?” [Kirial]
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With Ryner at the head, the four of them were hiding at a corner of the corridor while a Spiked Lizard was firing its spikes from the other side, stopping their advance. Hearing the prince’s words who was appalled at how they acted during this deadly situation, Ryner looked over to Maya and motioned for her to take care of it. The dark blue-haired woman turned around the corridor and ignored the deluge of sharp spikes that hit her body.
They bounced off both her skin and clothes and did no damage. She charged straight ahead and eliminated the reptilian creature in a heartbeat. The same occurrence happened many times with either Maya or Evelyn who took them out. Whether it’d be the Seekers or the Spiked Lizards, neither of them could do any damage to this group. As such, Kirial was a bit confused with how easy and smooth their progress was.
“… My old man told me that the ruin was dangerous and it’d kill me right away. But, I wonder if he didn’t just lie to me.” [Kirial]
“Well, you’ve got us with you. At this level, wouldn’t it be really easy for people like Maya’s father?” [Ryner]
“That’s true. The heads of the Catallards and the Terdims probably had no trouble either. But, even if things are easy right now, I don’t think we can go too deep. There’re only four of us and we didn’t bring any supplies. You’re only interested in the relic, so we won’t go further than the third floor, right?” [Kirial]
“Well, pretty much.” [Ryner]
Ryner said as he shrugged his shoulders. Since it wasn’t a complete lie, there was no problem.
“Wait. You beat Argos who’s a powerful S rank. For a while now, those two did most of the work. Shouldn’t you participate in the fight more? If it’s about my protection, then you can ask one of them to switch with you.” [Kirial]
“I’m busy looking at the map. It’s hard work and I’m the best at navigating us through this place, so it can’t be helped.” [Ryner]
“(Since I built this maze.)” [Ryner]
“… Even though you’re stronger than Argos, you sound so lazy. Snow really wasn’t kidding.” [Kirial]
“That brat’s been spreading weird rumors about me. Wonder if I should sentence her to death…” [Ryner]
“What did you just say?!” [Kirial]
“I’ll tickle her to death.” [Ryner]
“You meant that?!” [Kirial]
After looking left and right for any Seekers, Kirial scratched his ear and blew out a big sigh. It hasn’t been long since he met this man and he lost count of how many times he lost his composure because of him. Although he told them not to mind it, everyone he met would act carefully around him since he was the prince. However, this man didn’t seem to mind his position and his rudeness could even cause him to be punished for disrespecting royalty. It was rather refreshing to interact like so with this sleepy-looking human.
Maya, who was beaten up a Seeker, showed him respect because she was born in Ofauvra, but that was it. The blonde woman, Evelyn, acted like a well-educated lady and showed the proper formality. Though, strangely, her red eyes felt like they were appraising him, which unsettled him a bit. Approaching the black-haired man who was checking the map in front of him, Kirial quietly talked to him. He forgot how strange it was that he was having such easygoing talks while walking through a death-infested maze.
“Ryner, are you going out with that human?” [Kirial]
“Human? You mean Evelyn?” [Ryner]
“Who else is human here?” [Kirial]
“We’re cousins. Why are you asking me that?” [Ryner]
“Just something I felt from how she sometimes stares at you.” [Kirial]
“Well, technically, we’re cousins that grew up together, so we’re pretty close. You probably saw familial affection.” [Ryner]
“Then she must like you a lot as a cousin.” [Kirial]
“(Or more like, I raised her since she was a kid.)” [Ryner]
“What about Maya? I don’t think it’s familial love. She’s your slave, but she’s not unwilling, or at least, that’s what I heard from Snow.” [Kirial]
“She, hold on.” [Ryner]
Ryner raised his hand and they stopped at a corner. He threw a rock in front of him and spikes instantly attacked the poor lump. When he gave another hand signal, Evelyn dashed out with her sword at the ready like a golden wind. Numerous spikes flew out, a death cry echoed in the maze and the blonde vampire came back with blood on her weapon’s blade. Meanwhile, Maya dealt with two Seekers who snuck up behind them. After resuming their march, Ryner began speaking again.
“She owes me one and she said that she liked me because I’m strong.” [Ryner]
“Pfft. I’ll say. You must be popular with women.” [Kirial]
“No, not really.” [Ryner]
“How come? Women are naturally attracted to strong men. It’s no wonder that those that have an S rank mana pool are surrounded by women. If I remember right, I think a famous adventurer has multiple wives.” [Kirial]
“Like your father? Snow told me the king has three queens.” [Ryner]
“Yeah. Most of the time, nobles and royalty have multiple spouses for the sake of having an heir to continue the bloodline and inherit the house name. Some commoners do too, but it’s mostly just us.” [Kirial]
“A real harem, huh.” [Ryner]
Kirial smiled wryly at the words that the sleepy-looking human muttered.
“Hey, some women have a harem full of men too.” [Kirial]
“Really? Then, I guess the formula doesn’t apply to them.” [Ryner]
“Formula?” [Kirial]
“Women equal time plus money. It’s a universal theory on why only nobles and kings can afford to have a harem.” [Ryner]
“… If the twins' mom heard you, she’d be furious.” [Kirial]
“That’s why we should keep it a secret.” [Ryner]
“What have you two been talking about for a while now?” [Evelyn]
“Nothing, Evie. And Maya, where did you get that bottle?” [Ryner]
“Oh my, do you want some, Master? It’s pretty good~.” [Maya]
With such light-hearted chatter and overwhelming violence on the ruin dwellers, the four made it to the end of the second labyrinth. Once again, after resting for a while, they teleported to the third floor and prepared themselves to tackle the last labyrinth before reaching the relic. With a new map in hand, Ryner lead the way as they walked through the dim corridors. This time, not only did they have to deal with the Seekers’ assassination attempts and the Spiked Lizards’ barrage of spikes, another type of creature appeared.
As they moved while keeping alert, they could see that the corridor was about to turn right. Then, the wall in front of them suddenly shattered as a figure barreled through it. Moreover, the same thing happened behind them as two more emerged from the walls on both sides. The three enemies looked reptilian, but had big and muscular bodies that slouched forward. Their thick arms were like those of a gorilla and their tail was rather short. On their wide back were three rows of spikes that laid flat, but moved upward slightly whenever they breathed.
“Bone Crushers!” [Kirial]
Kirial yelled as he got ready for a fight seeing as they were surrounded. It was the same for Maya and Evelyn who were facing the two behind them.
“(Yeah, I remember these War Puppets. Raptor class, Berserker type.)” [Ryner]
Ryner thought nonchalantly as he observed his creations that were hissing and growling. Then, his eyes widened slightly and he pointed at the single ruin dweller in front of him.
“They broke the walls! Isn’t that cheating?!” [Ryner]
“That’s what you’re worried about?!” [Kirial]
The prince couldn’t help but retort and as if that was the signal, the three Bone Crushers roared loudly, causing the spikes on their back to stand upright. They charged at them, fulfilling their role as the guardians of the maze. Kirial, using body strengthening, moved forward to take on his opponent with his sword at the ready.
“Watch out.” [Ryner]
However, something unexpected happened when he heard the warning spoken in a monotonous voice. Ryner got on one knee and grabbed his ankle with his right hand as he passed by him, causing the orange-haired beastman to trip and fall face first in the ground. At the same time, multiple rings of blue light appeared next to the black-haired man, right on the floor’s surface.
Ryner stuck his left hand in the blue circle they formed and it looked as if it went inside the ground. From his pocket dimension, he pulled out a white sword that had a blue gem embedded in the middle of its guard which was in the shape of two wings. It was the White Wing, one of his Heaven’s Blades. The enemy was fast approaching, so he wouldn’t have time to swing his sword, but he didn’t need to.
He pointed the tip of the blade at the big lizard that was about to crush him with its huge fists and a long blade of light instantly formed, skewing his foe in the chest. Lightly swinging his weapon upward, he effortlessly split its head in two before the light formed by the sword disappeared. His creation powerlessly fell on its back as blood gushed out. Behind him, Maya and Evelyn had easily dealt with their respective opponent as well, but the ambush wasn’t over yet. Two Seekers jumped from the top of the walls right after the three Bone Crushers died. One aimed at Ryner while the other went for Maya.
However, such an act was the same as jumping to their deaths. Without looking, Ryner pointed his sword at it and the blade of light pierced its head in mid-air. The second Seeker’s claws did no harm on the woman’s skin and a single punch ended its life in a gruesome way. Now that all of the immediate threats were gone, Ryner stored the White Wing in his pocket dimension, picked up the map next to him and looked at the prince who was still on the ground.
“It’s safe now. Are you ok, prince?” [Ryner]
Although he had a lazy expression, the black-haired man sounded concerned about his well-being. However, the exaggerated tone made it obvious that he was faking it.
“… You… I’ll get you for this.” [Kirial]
Kirial said in a muffled voice without raising his face.
“I was protecting you! Didn’t you see my gallant figure as I fought the Bone Crusher?” [Ryner]
“… No, I didn’t.” [Kirial]
“Oh, that’s great.” [Ryner]
Suddenly, the white-eyed human’s voice went back to sounding bored and relaxed.
“… You’re making fun of me right now, aren’t you?” [Kirial]
“Nope.” [Ryner]
Luckily, since Kirial was quite laidback, the situation didn’t escalate and they went back to exploring the labyrinth after a few, harmless complaints.
----------------------------------------
*Author note* FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER
It's been a long time, so I think I'll get to work on the side story of Chapter 56.
Also, this is a question that's not related to the story: Anyone know how to check how many days it's been since a fic was last updated? It used to appear nice and clear when you searched for something with the old search page.