Some information before we begin.
I recently received a good point about the nature of the duelling law in my story that could be used to destroy small companies, and I would like to correct that before we begin.
The Duelling Law:
The duelling law allows people to challenge others for property, positions and land. Those challenged must fight, and if they refuse, it would be considered a defeat.
The rules one must follow to make the duel valid:
1) The challenger must face their opponents themselves, and the use of champions are forbidden.
2) An official must witness the duels. This could be an officer in the Town Guard, a Guild staff member or the town Mayor or Village Chief.
3) The witness must have a justified reason to challenge their opponent.
The rules should stop people from taking advantage of the system. The first rule should stop merchants from abusing this rule because they would have to fight themselves, and I think few merchants would be up to that task. The second rule should also help prevent that situation because I doubt any official will be willing to let someone grow too much power under their noise. When I was writing, I meant for this rule mainly to be used by soldiers who start to doubt their commanders competent enough to continue to lead them.
I should also mention how this applied to Katarina because I also considered her situation when challenged to a duel when writing these rules. The first rule applies because both Katarina and her challenger fought themselves, the second rule because a Guild staff member oversaw the duel and finally the last reason was more circumstantial evidence but just meant the third rule. Unfortunately, Katarina's inability to carry stuff on her own at the start of the story and relying on Maria carry their stuff was enough for her challenger to claim she was taking advantage of Maria and forcing her to carry everything.
I will end this by saying that no one will be able to challenge Katarina for her dagger because they can't justify it. For someone to be able to challenger her for the Dark Dagger, they will have to prove Katarina either stole it or obtained it by some shady means which will be impossible because an official saw she obtained the dagger from opening a chest.
World Master POV
"Another newcomer," It has been so long since I had a visitor and now I have had two visits so soon after the first, and this one was a cute puppy looking for its mistress. The little guy left as quickly as he appeared so desperate to find his owner that I could barely assign him a class and who would have fought that he would get a class that matches Katarina Claes's so perfectly. It's a shame I had to take the letter attached to his collar away from him. But, I can't have him ruining my fun before I had my fill. It is almost a shame to burn this letter. "Whoever wrote it must have a brilliant mind," I never thought someone would have been able to figure out how to get those two home so soon. "I will have to be mindful of whoever they send next," I make a mental note as I watch the letter burn in front of me. "I can't let those two go home just yet."
Katarina Claes POV
"Rations check… canteens filled and packed check… potions check…" Everything is ready for Maria and I's first long stay in the labyrinth. It surprised me that Maria would bring up the idea, but it makes sense if we want to get home. Looking across at Maria, I can't help but think how smart she is coming up with a plan that will allow us to explore more of the labyrinth and level up ourselves and our skills. "She's cute too!" Maria looks my way and notices me staring only to quickly look back at her backpack with a light blush on her face. "Maria really is the perfect video game protagonists that it is surprising that she ended up with the friendship ending."
"Lady Katarina," Maria looks back up at me as she pulls her backpack over her shoulder. "Are you ready to go?"
"Yeap," I nod, and together we leave our room.
The streets are surprisingly empty as we walk towards the labyrinth, it may be early in the morning I wasn't expecting to see the shops open yet. Still, I was at least expecting to see other adventures heading for the labyrinth as well. "Please don't tell me they woke up even earlier than us," I don't think I can wake up any earlier than this and I know my cheeks won't survive Maria pulling on them every morning to get me out of bed. I hope they just have a later start to the day then us and Maria won't bring up the idea of waking up even earlier.
"It sure is quiet today don't you think Lady Katarina?" Maria asks as we walk down the street with only a few merchant insight as they sweep the front of their shops before they open.
"Yeah," I nod looking around at the creepy, nearly empty street feeling surprised by how much safer a street can be when it is filled with people. "I don't think I have seen this town so empty before."
"It's nice in a way," Maria softly says, moving slightly closer to me. "It's almost like we are the only people in the world."
I have no idea how Maria is still single, and I didn't get a bad end while at the academy with her ability to say things like that. If I were a boy, I would definitely think she had feelings for me after hearing something like that. Feeling Maria so close to me is enough to make me smile despite the nerves I feel about going deep into a labyrinth. "This could have easily have been an event in Fortune Lover if we were still in the world of that game," Maria walking by the side of one of the love interests back from work or the academy I could see it now. If it was early in the game, I could see Maria being saved her love interest from some kind of danger, and if it was a later event, maybe they would even share a kiss just before they part ways. "I hope Maria gets to experience a moment like that with the person she loves," It is selfish of me to wish her to stay single all her life even if it means I might meet a bad end at the hands of her love interest.
"It's kind of a moment you want to share with the person you love," I point out causing Maria to step back away from me.
"Ye… yes it is Lady Katarina…" Maria stutters as a light blush, covers her cheeks. "She must be thinking of the person she loves right now."
"Is there anyone you want to spend a moment like this with Maria?" I ask curiously as to who is on her mind. Gerald is my prime suspect, but maybe it is one of the new characters from the ministry. "There are too many people, and I can't rule any of them out". I can feel a headache forming just thinking about this.
"On… only you… Lady Katarina…" Maria continues to stutter, looking down at the floor as her blush deepens.
"She's so cute!" Maria must be too embarrassed to tell me, so she's trying to tell me she would rather be with a friend than the person she loves in a moment like this. Maybe one day she will tell me who the person she loves is and hopefully I can be at their ready instead of dead, exiled or met some horrid fate at the hands of Maria's husband. "That's weird…" I felt suddenly empty picturing Maria's wedding. "It's probably nothing," I tell myself. "I just didn't eat enough this morning." The early morning has managed to get even worse since nowhere is open for me to buy a quick snack. "Hopefully I can hold out until lunchtime," The ration packs we brought don't look that appetising but its better than nothing.
The labyrinth is just as empty as usual as once we pass by all the guards, we once again see nothing but the dark, cold cave tunnel that has greeted us before. The tunnel is just as quiet, but I find myself minding that less and less the more times we venture into the labyrinth as the silence allows us to hear any enemies that approach us. "But it feels lonely down here," It not like Maria is bad company or anything, but I miss our large group of friends back home. If they were here, maybe we could feel safe enough to talk instead of keeping our ears open, and voices down like Maria and I are currently doing.
We reach the first T-junction and take a right like we did the first time only this time we head down the tunnel where we meant that injured party instead of heading the other way. It doesn't take us long to find our self entering another large cavern that is starting to feel familiar. I'm starting to see that this floor at least is a maze of tunnels linking large caverns like the one we just entered together. I don't know if that applies to other floors, but I can say I am almost certain I am starting to grasp the first-floor layout.
Unfortunately, I still have no idea how big this floor is or how to reach the second floor. "I wish I could talk to Atsuko," She always knows what to do when it comes to games and probably would have figured out how we could get back home already. She was the one who helped me beat Fortune Lover, and I just know she would have helped me beat this game too. Atsuko could have even found a way to defeat the group of monsters approaching us right now without breaking a sweat. "I really could use your advice Atsuko," I think as I watch the five goblins approach.
"Warrior Goblin A Level 2,"
"Warrior Goblin B Level 2,"
"Warrior Goblin C Level 2,"
"Armoured Goblin A Level 2,"
"Armoured Goblin B Level 2,"
"Level 2," I feel a shiver run down my spine as not only are their levels higher than before, but their bodies look stronger. "We must be getting closer to the second floor." That's the only expiration I can think of to explain why they have increased in level.
"Warrior Goblin B uses Wolf Summoning Whistle,"
"Tamed Wolf Level 3 Appears,"
"Another one," I bite my lip as another enemy appears. "And its level three as well." Things are just getting worse by the second.
"Please stay behind me, Lady Katarina," Maria sounds so confident as she steps forward drawing her sword and shielding me from harm.
"I'll do my best to watch your back," I reply, drawing my dagger. "I have worked too hard to avoid my doom flags to die here."
Scanning the battlefield, I see the Warrior Goblin's spread out as the Armoured Goblin's group together while the Tamed Wolf sands in front of them looking like its ready to charge. "That Tamed Wolf is the biggest threat." I raise my hand towards it. "If I take that out first, then the goblins should be easy."
"Restrain!" In an instant, the Tamed Wolf is trapped by my shadowy tentacles holding it down. "Maria, I will try and take out the Armoured Goblins can you handle the rest?"
"I'll do my best," Maria nods as she rushes forward.
I quickly follower just as Maria slices a Warrior Goblins head off in a fast slash that catches him off guard followed up by a slash to the monsters back.
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Critical Hit +5 Damage,"
"Warrior Goblin B Defence Bypassed Because Of Critical Hit,"
"Warrior Goblin B Losses Eleven Health Points,"
"Warrior Goblin B Becomes Enraged,"
"Warrior Goblin B Attack Increased By +1 Damage,"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Warrior Goblin B Defence Subtracts One From The Attack,"
"Warrior Goblin B Losses Five Health Points,"
"Warrior Goblin B Defeated,"
"Good job Maria," I wish I could hug her after defeating a foe so easily, but I can't with so many monsters within arms reach. "I can't let myself fall behind her," I run into the first Armoured Goblin tackling it to the ground as I drive my knife through its trash can like armoured suit.
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Armoured Goblin A Defence Bypassed,"
"Armoured Goblin A Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Armoured Goblin A Status: Poisoned,"
"Armoured Goblin A Losses One Health Point Due To Poisoned Status,"
"If we keep this up we will make it through this," I smile as I see Maria dodge one attack from a Warrior Goblin then one from the other before slicing at one of their stomachs.
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Warrior Goblin A Defence Subtracts One From The Attack,"
"Warrior Goblin A Losses Five Health Points,"
"Warrior Goblin A Becomes Enraged,"
"Warrior Goblin A Attack Increased By +1 Damage,"
"Armoured Goblin A Losses One Health Point Due To Poisoned Status,"
The Armoured Goblin beneath me is struggling to get up, but I am too strong for him to break free and the other Armoured Goblin is still too far away to help despite his best efforts to hobble towards me. Raising my dagger, I stab him once again.
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Armoured Goblin A Defence Bypassed,"
"Armoured Goblin A Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Armoured Goblin A Losses One Health Point Due To Poisoned Status,"
"Armoured Goblin A Defeated,"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Warrior Goblin C Defence Subtracts One From The Attack,"
"Warrior Goblin C Losses Five Health Points,"
"Warrior Goblin C Becomes Enraged,"
"Warrior Goblin C Attack Increased By +1 Damage,"
Maria must have landed another hit when my back was turned as I saw one of the Warrior Goblins staggering away from her as I got to my feet. "We can do this," I tell myself with a smile seeing how while the battle is going for us so far. Maria has killed one and injured both of her remaining targets while I only have one of mine left to deal with and the Tamed Wolf is still struggling to break free from its bonds. "Hopefully it will stay there until we finish dealing with the goblins."
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Warrior Goblin C Defence Subtracts One From The Attack,"
"Warrior Goblin C Losses Five Health Points,"
Maria isn't giving her opponents a chance to recover quickly landing a second hit, but unfortunately, it wasn't enough to finish it off, so she strikes again nearly cutting the Warrior Goblin in half with a single swing of her sword. I can barely see what happens as I dodge my opponent's pointy stick, but I still feel proud of her for dispatching another threat.
"Armoured Goblin B Attack Missed,"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Warrior Goblin C Defence Subtracts One From The Attack,"
"Warrior Goblin C Losses Five Health Points,"
"Warrior Goblin C Defeated,"
"Maria is really on fire today," I catch a glimpse of her turning to face the last Warrior Goblin as the Armoured Goblin I am facing recovers its balance.
"Armoured Goblin B Attack Missed,"
I rush the Armoured Goblin as it is off-balance after its last attack stabbing it as I knock it to the ground as I did with the other one then I stab it again as we fall and then a final time as we land.
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Armoured Goblin B Defence Bypassed,"
"Armoured Goblin B Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Armoured Goblin B Status: Poisoned,"
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Armoured Goblin B Defence Bypassed,"
"Armoured Goblin B Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Armoured Goblin B Defence Bypassed,"
"Armoured Goblin B Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Armoured Goblin B Defeated,"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Warrior Goblin A Defence Subtracts One From The Attack,"
"Warrior Goblin A Losses Five Health Points,"
"I did it!" I almost jump and let out a cheer at my victory. "We did it," I correct myself as Maria in control of her fight with the Warrior Goblin. Even outnumbered, we are still performing well and effectively in combat.
"Tamed Wolf Broke free from Restrains,"
"Maria…" I barely get out her name before I am knocked to the ground by the now free Tamed Wolf.
"Tamed Wolf Attack Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Katarina Claes Defence Subtracts Zero From The Attack,"
"Katarina Claes Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Katarina Claes Status: Bleeding,"
"Lady Katarina!" I hear Maria's voice call out to me, followed by a cry of pain as I struggle to breathe and feel something warm drip down my arm.
"Warrior Goblin A Attack Hit For +5 Damage,"
"Maria Campbell Defence Subtracts Five From the Attack,"
"Maria Campbell Losses Zero Health Points,"
Maria Campbell POV
"Lady… Katarina…" I crawl forward trying to drag myself closer to her feeling my body burn with feelings I hate.
Rage builds within that started when I noticed that wolf knock, Lady Katarina, down and now burns brightly within me now that I can see the blood starting to pool beside Lady Katarina. "I can't lose her!" Fear is another feeling I feel, fear of losing Lady Katarina and losing a place where I wanted to remain forever. Never once since my father walked out on my mother have, I felt like I belonged the way I did whenever I was standing beside Lady Katarina. "I can't lose her!" I grit my teeth. "I won't lose her!" pushing myself back up I got to my feet and was about to charge the wolf only to see the Warrior Goblins next attack. I jump back just in time to avoid the goblins mace which slams into the ground where I once stood.
"Warrior Goblin A Attack Missed,"
"Get out of my way!" I yell, charging forward in a stupid move, but I don't care as my blade pieces the goblin's chest. Lady Katarina is in danger and needs my help.
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Warrior Goblin A Defence Subtracts One From The Attack,"
"Warrior Goblin A Losses Five Health Points,"
"Warrior Goblin A Defeated,"
"Katarina Claes Losses One Health Point Due To Bleeding Status,"
"I'm not going to lose her!" I pull my sword out of the goblin and charge forward, seeing the wolf about to bit Lady Katarina. My heart sinks and my blood runs cold when I realise I won't make it in time. "It's going to kill her!" I run harder, forcing my feet to move faster, but it is still not enough as the wolf's razor sharp teeth move closer to Lady Katarina's neck as she lays limp on the ground. "There has to be something I can do!" All of a sudden, it comes to me and a certain memory flashes before my eyes. "That's it!" I feel the slightest glimmer of hope and desperately cling to it as I raise my hand towards the wolf.
"Fire Ball!" I cry out getting the wolf's attention as a small ball of fire shoots out of my pal striking the wolf's side.
"Fire Ball Hit For +5 Damage,"
"Tamed Wolf Defence Subtracts Three From The Attack,"
"Tame Wolf Losses Two Health Points,"
"I still go more spells up my sleeve!" I succeeded in getting the wolf to leave Lady Katarina alone but I did so little damage to the Tamed Wolf that I probably scratched it. "Water Dart!"
"Water Dart Hit For +5 Damage,"
"Tamed Wolf Defence Subtracts Three From The Attack,"
"Tame Wolf Losses Two Health Points,"
"I am not finished yet!" I cry out preparing another spell. "Lightning Bolt!"
"Lightning Bolt Hit For +5 Damage,"
"Tamed Wolf Defence Subtracts Three From The Attack,"
"Tame Wolf Losses Two Health Points,"
"Tamed Wolf Resisted Stun Effect,"
"Katarina Claes Losses One Health Point Due To Bleeding Status,"
The wolf flinches under my last attack, but it starts to charge towards me never the less with rage in its eyes and the scent of death on its face. "I have to do this," I push down my fear so deep inside me. "I will save Lady Katarina!"
"Blessed Weapon!" I cry out as the distance between the wolf and I quickly shrinks. "This is it," The wolf jumps, and I duck slicing the sword down its belly from the monsters neck all the way down to between its legs.
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Blessed Weapon Deals An Additional +5 Damage,"
"Tamed Wolf Defence Subtracts Three From The Attack,"
"Tame Wolf Losses Eight Health Points,"
"It isn't down," I bite my lip hard enough to taste the iron of my blood in my mouth seeing the wolf stumble but still land safely on its feet. "One more attack," I know I can beat it after my next attack so I once again recklessly charge forward. "I won't let Lady Katarina die!"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Blessed Weapon Deals An Additional +5 Damage,"
"Tamed Wolf Defence Subtracts Three From The Attack,"
"Tame Wolf Losses Eight Health Points,"
"Katarina Claes Losses One Health Point Due To Bleeding Status,"
"It still isn't enough," I moan seeing that I am getting nowhere. The Tamed Wolf is still standing, and once again it is in between myself and Lady Katarina.
"Tamed Wolf Entered Last Stand,"
"Tamed Wolf Attack Increased By five,"
"Tamed Wolf Speed Increased,"
"Tamed Wolf Defence Lowered by five,"
"This is it," This has to be it. I tell myself starting to feel tired and that my sword is getting everyone. I move forward determined to get past this wolf and aid Lady Katarina, who still hasn't moved an inch.
"I won't lose her!" I cry as the wolf rushes me rapidly closing the distance until we finally meet and my blade cuts the Tamed Wolf clean in half right down the middle of the monster's body.
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Blessed Weapon Deals An Additional +5 Damage,"
"Critical Hit +5 Damage,"
"Tamed Wolf Defence Bypassed Because Of Critical Hit,"
"Tame Wolf Losses sixteen Health Points,"
"Tamed Wolf Defeated,"
"Katarina Claes Losses One Health Point Due To Bleeding Status,"
I should be happy at defeating such a strong foe, but I can't smile now. "Not when Lady Katarina is on the ground hurt." I rush to her side without delay and look her over quickly wishing I hadn't looked as I find a small rock embedded in her right shoulder. "She must have got unlucky and landed on one," I don't care whatever reason she may tell me to explain away her wound as just a scratch as I desperately try to save her pulling out the stone and quickly activating my healing spell.
"Healing Touch!" I hold my hand over Lady Katarina's wound until it closes up and all that remains is a small tear in her dress, but Lady Katarina doesn't wake up.
"Katarina Claes Bleeding Status Cured,"
"Lady Katarina, can you hear me?" I gently shake her shoulder, but I don't get a response. "Please say something, Lady Katarina!"
"This can't be happening!" I feel the tears well up in my eyes and see the first one to fall lands on Lady Katarina's soft cheeks. "My magic should have worked!" I closed up her wound and treated her the same way I treated everyone else, but it wasn't enough for her. "Why did it have to fail now?" I cry, holding Lady Katarina closer. "Why with Lady Katarina?"
"Don't do this to me!" I hug her as I beg Lady Katarina to live. "Please don't leave me, I can't go back to the life I lived before I met you, Lady Katarina so please open your eyes!"
"My magic wasn't enough," I realise with a heavy heart as I feel Lady Katarina slip away from me. "I can't lose her." I pull a potion from my backpack. "I won't let her die," Undoing the lid I open up the bottle smelling a fruity scent exit the bottle. Looking down at Lady Katarina, I know what I must do. "It is only to save her life," I tell myself as I feel my face burn up. "I'm only treating her wounds." I pour the contents of the potion into my mouth, resisting the urge to spit out the bitter taste of the healing liquid. "I'm only doing this to save her life!" I mentally yell at my self as I lower my head and capture Lady Katarina's lips with my own.
"It's only medical treatment," I constantly remind myself but the warmth and softness of Lady Katarina's lips make it all too easy to forget that fact. It only becomes all the more challenging when all of the potion's liquid has been transferred to Lady Katarina's mouth and its time to pull away. It's a struggle, but I manage to do so and just in time to see Lady Katarina's eyes flutter open and a small smile form on her lips as the excess liquid from the potion spills down her chin.
"I'm alive," Lady Katarina smiles as she sees me with tears, leaving her eyes at the same time.
"You are going to be okay," I assure her earning a hug from Lady Katarina in return.
"Thank you, Maria," Lady Katarina pulls me in closer. "You saved me."
"You saved me first," I wanted to tell her that, but instead I babble out. "It was the potion, not me."
"But you still helped," Lady Katarina points out as we break apart before getting to our feet. "By the way that potion was nice," Lady Katarina smiles happily. "It made my lips feel all warm and tingly, making me want to drink another one."
"It must have been a good potion," I mutter unable to look at Lady Katarina after hearing those words.
"Experience Points Earned:"
"Katarina Claes: 150 EXP,"
"Katarina Claes Level Increased To Level 4,"
"Restrain Level 2 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Maria Campbell: 150 EXP,"
" Maria Campbell Level Increased To Level 4,"
"Healing Touch Level 3 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Blessed Weapon Level 1 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Fire Ball Level 1 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Water Dart Level 1 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Lightning Bolt Level 1 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Fast Learner Doubles The Experience Points Gained,"
"Healing Touch Level 3 Gains: 20 EXP,"
"Blessed Weapon Level 1 Gains: 20 EXP,"
"Fire Ball Level 1 Gains: 20 EXP,"
"Water Dart Level 1 Gains: 20 EXP,"
"Lightning Bolt Level 1 Gains: 20 EXP,"
"Monster Drop:"
"Goblin Meat x10,"
"Goblin Bone x10,"
"Iron Ingot x2,"
"Tamed Wolf Pelt x1,"
"Tamed Wolf Meat x2,"
"Tamed Wolf Bone x2,"
"Lucky Drop Ability Doubles The Items Dropped,"
"Goblin Meat x20,"
"Goblin Bone x20,"
"Iron Ingot x4,"
"Tamed Wolf Pelt x2,"
"Tamed Wolf Meat x4,"
"Tamed Wolf Bone x4,"
"Floor Boss Goblin Lord Appears,"
Katarina Claes POV
"Floor Boss: Goblin Lord Appears,"
I freeze seeing his name suddenly appear. "This isn't right…" We can both feel his footprints shaking the ground. "Why is a Floor Boss showing up now after everything we just went through?" A Large green goblin walks into the cavern barely fitting in the room with his head nearly bumping the ceiling wearing a suit of armour of fair better make then from what we have seen before on other goblins and dragging a large sword behind him that scraps the floor and leave a grove behind him. It doesn't take long for the Goblin Lord to spot us, and when it does the Floor Boss lets out a mighty roar that has me wondering. "Can we really beat him?"
"Katarina Claes Successfully Resisted Fear Roar,"
"Maria Campbell Successfully Resisted Fear Roar,"
"It had the same ability as the champion," I am feeling lucky that levelling up restored both our Health Points and Magical Points as we are going to need them if we want to live. The Goblin Lord swings its sword around in front of its body, letting out another roar as its body glows for a split second.
"Goblin Lord Uses Increase Strength,"
"Goblin Lords Next Attack Will Deal An Additional +10 Damage,"
"We can't let him hit us," I don't know what his original attack is but that plus ten additional damage is dangerous on its own. "We can't hold back," That much is clear as if we hesitate for a split second we could die.
"Restrain!" I cry out hopping to trap the Floor Boss, but my shadowy tentacles snap the moment the Goblin Lord takes a step forward.
"Goblin Lord Is Immune To Mobility Related Effects,"
"Immune…" This can't be happening. The moment I need my restrain spell the most, and it fails me, allowing the Goblin Lord to come closer. Maira and I share a look, and I can see she is just as surprised and concerned as I am. We both realise just how much danger we are in fighting a powerful monster while still moving and fighting to its full. "We are going to need to come up with another plan and fast as the Floor Boss is nearly within striking distance."
"Fire Ball!" Maria begins her own plan by rapidly firing off spells as fast as she can. "Water Dart! Lightning Bolt!"
Three spells shot towards their target looking oddly beautiful from when they are fired to the moment they explode on contact with the Goblin Lords chest.
"Fire Ball Hit For +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lord Defence Subtracts Seven From The Attack,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Zero Health Points,"
"Water Dart Hit For +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lord Defence Subtracts Seven From The Attack,"
"Go blin Lord Losses Zero Health Points,"
"Lightning Bolt Hit For +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lord Defence Subtracts Seven From The Attack,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Zero Health Points,"
"Tamed Wolf Resisted Stun Effect,"
"Nothing," All those spells didn't even scratch it. Maria and I both take a step back as the Floor Boss takes one forward. "We are no match for this thing!" We need to run by the only exits to the room are now either behind him, or we will have to run within reach of his sword to get to them. "We need to distract it somehow," I bite my lip and try to think of something but nothing comes to mind as the pain in my lip makes it… "That's it!"
"Inflict Pain!" The Goblin Lord instantly flinches as my spell takes hold.
"Goblin Lord Status: In Pain,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Finally we managed to deal some damage," But we can't celebrate yet until e managed to escape this Floor Boss. Unfortunately for us though the Goblin Lord doesn't take its eyes off us for a single second. "This thing is just as tough as I imagined a floor boss would be." I don't think Maria can even damage it with her sword so I may be the only one of us who can fight it.
"Maria, can you use that Blessed Weapon spell again?" I ask because looking at the notifications Maria can only damage this Floor Boss if she uses that spell.
"Not for another minute," Maria grimly replies after a brief pause where she checks her spells status.
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"I'll take the lead this time," I tell Maria as I step forward.
"But Lady Katarina I can…" Maria tries to object, but I cut her off.
"You can join me when you can use your Blessed Weapon spell," I assure her with a weak smile. "Until then I am the only one who can deal any damage to the Goblin Lord so please keep hidden until you are able to…"
"Shadow Ball Hit For +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lord Defence Subtracts Seven From The Attack,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Zero Health Points,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
A large ball of darkness strikes the Floor Boss not doing any damage, but the attack manages to get the Goblin Lords attention.
"Pochi Uses Enlarge,"
"Pochi's Bite And Scratch Attacks Deal An Additional +10 Damage,"
"Pochi's Defence Increased By Five,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Pochi!" I quickly look in the direction where that Shadow Ball Came from as see my good little puppy grow to half the size of the Goblin Lord and rush the Floor Boss barking and growling at him as he charges. "Pochi!"
I would have run to him right here and now if Maria hadn't held me back.
"It's not safe Lady Katarina," Maria reminds me as we stand there and watch the Goblin Lord swinging his sword towards my dog making my heart stop as I notice he can't dodge the strike in time.
"Goblin Lord Uses Powerful Blow,"
"Goblin Lords Next Attack Will Now deal an additional +5 Damage and knock targets back five meters,"
"Pochi!"I cry out only for the Goblin Lords sword to pass straight through him.
"Goblin Lord Attack Does Not Effect Pochi Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses The Increase Strength Effect,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Pochi Uses Bite Attack,"
"Pochi's Bite Attack Hits For +12 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defences Bypassed D Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Point,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
I sigh in relief seeing Pochi is okay, better than okay, as he took no damage from that attack. Instead, Pochi knocked the Floor Boss down, releasing the bite of his teeth to swipe at the Goblin Lord with his claws.
"Pochi Uses Scratch Attack,"
"Pochi's Scratch Attack Hits For +12 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defences Bypassed D Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Point,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Maria as soon as you can use your Blessed Weapon spell we are going to help Pochi," I tell her not taking my eyes off of the battle as Pochi lands another strike with his claws before being forced to jump back.
"Pochi Uses Scratch Attack,"
"Pochi's Scratch Attack Hits For +12 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defences Bypassed D Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Point,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"I can use it in a few seconds," Maria reports, so I ready myself to charge. "I can use it now, Lady Katarina. Blessed Weapon!"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
We both charge the Goblin Lords Back while Pochi has it distracted reading another swipe of his paw.
"Goblin Lord Uses Increase Defence,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Increased By Ten For Next Hit,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
I reach the Floor Boss first driving my Dark Dagger into the Goblin Lords right leg while Maria slashing at the Floor Bosses left leg, and Pochi swipes at his chest.
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Bypassed,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Goblin Lord Status: Poisoned,"
"Goblin Lord Losses The Increase Defence Effect,"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Blessed Weapon Deals An Additional +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Subtracts Seven From The Attack,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Four Health Points,"
"Pochi Uses Scratch Attack,"
"Pochi's Scratch Attack Hits For +12 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defences Bypassed D Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Point,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
"Goblin Lord Uses Shockwave,"
All of a sudden, a powerful invisible wave strikes me without warning and sent flying backwards.
"Pochi Hit By Shockwave Suffered Five Damage And Was Knocked Back,"
"Pochi Defence Subtracted Ten From The Attack,"
"Pochi Losses Zero Health Points,"
"Maria Campbell Hit By Shockwave Suffered Five Damage And Was Knocked Back,"
"Maria Campbell Defence Subtracted Five From The Attack,"
"Maria Campbell Losses Zero Health Points,"
"Katarina Claes Hit By Shockwave Suffered Five Damage And Was Knocked Back,"
"Katarina Claes Defence Subtracted Zero From The Attack,"
"Katarina Claes Losses Five Health Points,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
We all hit the ground and roll back to our feet quickly, ready to continue fighting with Pochi kicking things off by biting the Goblin Lords hand.
"Pochi Uses Bite Attack,"
"Pochi's Bite Attack Hits For +12 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defences Bypassed D Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Point,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
Maria and I quickly follow him lunching are own attack as Pochi scratches the Floor Boss.
"Pochi Uses Scratch Attack,"
"Pochi's Scratch Attack Hits For +12 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defences Bypassed D Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Point,"
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Bypassed,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Blessed Weapon Deals An Additional +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Subtracts Seven From The Attack,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Four Health Points,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
We hit him again as the Goblin Lord losses his balance and falls over.
"Pochi Uses Scratch Attack,"
"Pochi's Scratch Attack Hits For +12 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defences Bypassed D Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Point,"
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Bypassed,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Blessed Weapon Deals An Additional +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Subtracts Seven From The Attack,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Four Health Points,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
And we hit him a third time as his body hit the ground.
"Pochi Uses Scratch Attack,"
"Pochi's Scratch Attack Hits For +12 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defences Bypassed D Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Point,"
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Bypassed,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Blessed Weapon Deals An Additional +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Subtracts Seven From The Attack,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Four Health Points,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
Maria and I are both forced to take a step back as the Goblin Lord starts to lash out with his sword in every direction he can.
"Pochi Uses Scratch Attack,"
"Pochi's Scratch Attack Hits For +12 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defences Bypassed D Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Point,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
Thankfully Pochi has no problem landing on more attack before jump back as the Goblin Lord forces his way back to his feet. Letting out a roar, I can see the Goblin Lord feels just as tired as I am as we both pant struggling to catch our breaths. I don't think I have ever felt this tired while fighting a monster and the battle doesn't look like it is close to being beaten yet. "Just how much more can this guy take?" If this keeps up, we might all die from exhaustion before landing a finishing blow on him.
"Goblin Lord Uses Increase Strength,"
"Goblin Lords Next Attack Will Deal An Additional +10 Damage,"
"Goblin Lord Uses Increase Defence,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Increased By Ten For Next Hit,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
The Floor Boss rushes Maria and me ignoring Pochi after many of his attacks passed right through my little guy finally learning he can't harm him. Now Maria and I brace for his attack as the Goblin Lord picks up speed letting out another roar.
"Katarina Claes Successfully Resisted Fear Roar,"
"Maria Campbell Successfully Resisted Fear Roar,"
The Goblin Lord raises hi sword causing pieces of rock to fall from the ceiling, but during his charge, he made a mistake by taking his eyes off of Pochi. Jumping on his back, Pochi brings the Floor Boss back crashing down to the floor as his teeth sink into the Goblin Lords shoulder.
"Pochi Uses Bite Attack,"
"Pochi's Bite Attack Hits For +12 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defences Bypassed D Due To Pochi's Shadow Body Ability,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Point,"
"Goblin Lord Losses The Increase Defence Effect,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
Maria and I don't miss a beat and rush forward to support Pochi. My Dark Dagger slices into the Goblin Lords other shoulder while Maria attacks his head as Pochi holds the Floor Boss down to give us both an easy target.
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Bypassed,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Seven Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Blessed Weapon Deals An Additional +5 Damage,"
"Critical Hit +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Bypassed Because Of Critical Hit,"
"Goblin Lord Losses sixteen Health Points,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
"Aim for its head!" Maria calls out, and we both strike the finishing blow together.
"Dark Dagger Hit For +7 Damage,"
"Critical Hit +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Bypassed,"
"Goblin Lord Losses Twelve Health Points,"
"Dark Dagger Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Iron Short Sword Hit For +6 Damage,"
"Blessed Weapon Deals An Additional +5 Damage,"
"Critical Hit +5 Damage,"
"Goblin Lords Defence Bypassed Because Of Critical Hit,"
"Goblin Lord Losses sixteen Health Points,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Pain Status,"
"Goblin Lord Losses One Health Point Due To Inflict Poison Status,"
"Floor Boss: Goblin Lord Defeated,"
"We won," Part of me can't believe as those words slip through my lips, and Pochi returns to his normal size and jumps into my arms. "You're such a good boy Pochi defeating that big bad monster without taking a scratch." I spend a moment petting him before he settles down to sleep in my shadow clearly even more tired then I am after that battle, so I let him rest for now and turn my attention towards Maria. "You did well too, Maria."
"Thank you," Maria lightly blushes as she approaches me. "You fought well too Lady Katarina but can you stay still for just a second?"
"Sure," I ask complying with her demand. "But what are you…"
"Healing Touch," Maria answer my question by casting her spell. "I forgot I got hurt back there."
"Experience Points Earned:"
"Katarina Claes: 500 EXP,"
"Katarina Claes Level Increased To Level 5,"
"Dark Dagger Level increased To Dark Dagger Level 3,"
"Dark Dagger Damage Increased By One,"
"Spells Learned: Shadow Blades Level 1,"
"Skills Learned: Trap Setting Level 1,"
"Abilities Learned: Subtlety,"
"Maria Campbell: 500 EXP,"
"Maria Campbell Level Increased To Level 5,"
"Spells Learned: Holy Shield Level 1,"
"Skills Learned: Charm Leve 1,"
"Abilities Learned: Swiftness,"
"Healing Touch Level 3 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Blessed Weapon Level 1 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Fire Ball Level 1 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Water Dart Level 1 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Lightning Bolt Level 1 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Fast Learner Doubles The Experience Points Gained,"
"Healing Touch Level 3 Gains: 20 EXP,"
"Blessed Weapon Level 1 Gains: 20 EXP,"
"Fire Ball Level 1 Gains: 20 EXP,"
"Water Dart Level 1 Gains: 20 EXP,"
"Lightning Bolt Level 1 Gains: 20 EXP,"
"Blessed Weapon Level increased To Blessed Weapon Level 2,"
"Pochi: 500 EXP,"
"Pochi Level Increased To Level 2,"
"Pochi Level Increased To Level 3,"
"Skills Learned: Stealth Level 1 and Tracking Level 1,"
"Shadow Ball Level 1 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Enlarge Level 1 Gains: 10 EXP,"
"Monster Drop:"
"Gold Coin x5."
"Silver Coin x8."
"Goblin Meat x5."
"Goblin Bone x5."
"Iron Ingot x2."
"Treasure Chest x1."
"Random Rune x1."
"Random Stone x1."
"Monster Core x1."
"Lucky Drop Ability Doubles The Items Dropped,"
"Gold Coin x10,"
"Silver Coin x16,"
"Goblin Meat x10,"
"Goblin Bone x10,"
"Iron Ingot x4,"
"Treasure Chest x2,"
"Random Rune x2,"
"Random Stone x2,"
"Monster Core x2,"