Boom Boom Crash
A noisy cacophony echoed proudly all throughout the fiery depths of the Labyrinth. It was a relentless pandemonium filled with noise, flames, and darkness as the blazing winds danced freely all over the place.
In the large corridors, a single monster could be seen. A humongous body which can easily pick up elephants, heavy braces which weigh tons upon tons, and angry red eyes glowing as ferociously as the flames before it. Equipped with a battleaxe of devastation, it walked proudly like a king.
⟨⟨Lightning Parade!⟩⟩ ［Julius］
⟨⟨Fire Trident!⟩⟩ ［Amelia］
But even when it was like a king, there were still some which dared to challenge it, lightning and flames crackling as they grazed its tough skin. Such attacks came from the puny humans standing in front of him, eyes fueled with determination.
CRASSHHHH
The Minotaur General swung its heavy battleaxe towards the ground, fissures and cracks forming one after another. Clouds of dust filled the surroundings as a heavy crash resounded in the air along the searing winds.
Fortunately, Julius and Amelia managed to dodge the attack. It may be humongous and powerful but its speed was on the slower side. Using their small and nimble size, they quickly evaded, empowering their strides as much they can.
"Ugh!" ［Julius］
"Your Highness, are you okay?!" ［Amelia］
Still, their evasion was not without any repercussions. While the Minotaur General was slow amongst those of the same rank, it was still S-rank. One could only imagine the strain in their legs as they evaded with all their might.
It wasn't the first time. In fact, they have been fighting the Minotaur General for more than half an hour already. They have already launched dozens upon dozens of spells and arts but there was not even a single scratch on the enemy's tough skin.
All they have been doing the whole time was launch attacks from its blind spot then evading when the enemy counterattacks. Such a repetitive cycle continued for a long time until their mana pools started to drain.
"No, I'm alright. Let's conー dodge!" ［Julius］
CRASHHHHH
There was no time to rest. As Julius and Amelia rested for a couple seconds, another attack came from above, splitting the ground once again, fountains of lava spurting all over the place as the flames danced around.
It did not just stop there. As soon as Julius dodged the battleaxe, the enemy's massive hand started heading towards him, the presence of death looming about it. The very moment Julius regained his foothold, he quickly darted to another direction, injuring his feet even more.
"Ugh! ⟨⟨Lightning Cascade⟩⟩ !" ［Julius］
A pained grunt echoing clearly, lightning crackled once again through the dust clouds and struck the Minotaur General's back. But as one would expect, it was futile. The gap in their strength was too big for him to do any damage.
Julius hadn't even landed when the Minotaur General turned around once again. Its gargantuan battleaxe was now off the ground ready to strike once again, and so it did. Another large downwards swing came towards Julius from above.
⟨⟨Silver Pythons!⟩⟩ ［Amelia］
CRASSHHHHH
Amelia tried to restrain the battleaxe, but the binds were quickly broken. The battleaxe struck the ground once again, blasting Julius from the gusts and shockwaves alone. He was blown away dozens of meters, his back colliding helplessly towards a wall.
"Your Highness!" ［Amelia］
Worry running thick in her veins, Amelia quickly rushed towards Julius' direction. He could no longer move his body freely nor could he see things clearly. He was almost unconscious, blood gushing out of his mouth like a fountain.
NNGGGAAAAA
But what Amelia did was a big mistake. The moment she focused her attention towards Julius, she had thrown away her own safety. Before she could notice, a deadly swing was now heading towards her way, one which could blow away mountains with relative ease.
"Agh!!" ［Amelia］
The ground quaked violently once again as Amelia was blasted meters away. If it wasn't for the barrier Grey casted earlier, she could have lost her life. Nevertheless, she still lost consciousness from the destructive impact.
Julius and Amelia both down for the count, the Minotaur General marched towards them with calmness on its face. Not showing even a little bit of mercy, it then raised its battleaxe to the air, preparing to land the finishing blow. It was a strike to end it all.
"Not so fast! ⟨⟨Swift Guillotine⟩⟩" ［Yuna］
Unfortunately for it, Julius and Amelia weren't alone on their own. A sudden flash of silver came down from out of nowhere, appearing in front of the Minotaur General without any form of warning.
The very next moment, a fountain of blood gushed out violently as the Minotaur General's right arm was cut off. A pained groan echoing soon after, accompanied by a loud thud as its arm and battleaxe fell towards the ground without any resistance.
NGGAAAAAAー Whoong Whoong Whoong
The Minotaur General couldn't even express the pain it felt. As soon as it opened its mouth, six beams came raining down towards it from the front, incinerating its limbs, torso, and head without any mercy. In just a few seconds, all that there was left was a pile of ashes and an enchanting battleaxe.
"Mistress, are you okay?" ［Vega］
"Un! Thank you for worrying! Ah! Oh, and Kentaurus! Please heal Julius and Amelia! Make sure they have no severe injuries!" ［Yuna］
"Yes, Mistress!" ［Kentaurus］
Even when both Julius and Amelia were hurt and lost consciousness, there were no traces of worry in Yuna's face. Rather, she was very calm as if they were just having their own picnic in the danger-filled Labyrinth.
Yuna was also very satisfied that the two managed to survive against the Minotuar General for more than half an hour. Though it was true that the latter was greatly weakened with Canopus' curse magic and the two wore tons of barriers and buffs all over their bodies, survival was still survival.
But even when Yuna and the familiars were there, there weren't any traces of Grey and Polaros to be seen. The two have already descended down the 10th floor and are doing their own training. It has only been less than an hour since they left yet she already misses him.
"Hmm... Since they're still unconscious, should we train by ourselves for the time being, everyone?" ［Yuna］
"We'll do as you wish, Mistress." ［Sirius］
"Let's catch some monsters, Mistress!" ［Vega］
"Fufufu! It's decided then!" ［Yuna］
Burying her longing with the use of training and leaving Julius and Amelia in a blue zone, Yuna, along with the familiars, headed deeper into the Labyrinth. Loud noises soon echoing as fierce battles started to unfold.
From Minotaur Generals, to Dullahan Commanders and Four-Armed Cyclops, even Vulcan Emperors who were strengthened all the way to the bottom of Calamity-Class. Yuna and the familiars faced a large number of enemies and all of them suffered the same cruel fate.
Collecting the drops was also quite easy with the Superior-Grade storage ring Grey recently crafted for Yuna. It was one which could store about 200 cubic meters of space and slow down the flow of time by about five times. A very useful item.
"Ugh... What happened...?" ［Julius］
More than an hour has passed and Julius finally regained consciousness. His head still ached like hell, pain running through his body as if all his bones were just crushed to paste just recently. Well, because it was... Almost...
Well, he wasn't the only one. Amelia, who was also beside him, suffered the same fate. She was still unconscious, snoring ever so peacefully as she rested herself.
"Hmm... Amelia... Hey! Amelia, wake up! Amelia!" ［Julius］
"Mmn...? Your Highness...?" ［Amelia］
"Ah! Thank God! Thank God you're safe!" ［Julius］
It was just all too sudden. Amelia hasn't even fully woken up when Julius suddenly hugged her tightly. It was an unusual alame which quickly woke up the young lady. A waking up accompanied by a lot of muscle pains.
"Y-Your Highness... It hurts..." ［Amelia］
"A-Ah... Sorry..." ［Julius］
A red tint was over Amelia and Julius' face as they separated from one another. It was one brought about by embarrassment as their hearts flutteredー or it may have just been because of the reddish hue emanated by the fiery Labyrinth... Which would make a lot more sense.
Now that they were back in their senses, Julius and Amelia then tried to recall what just happened before they got unconscious. But the only thing they recalled was a painful experience and more pain. It was a memory they wanted to forget.
"Oh? You're awake already? How are you feeling?" ［Yuna］
And just in time, the very reason for their pains returned to the blue zone with the familiars following behind her. Her face looked so pretty and innocent, but in the eyes of the two, she was only a demonic teacher who knew no mercy when teaching.
"Why are you still asking that? Of course, it hurts like hell! It felt like my whole body was crushed under a mountain! Why in hell are we even fighting S-rank monsters to begin with?" ［Julius］
"Eh? But Canopus already weakened it. It should only have the strength of an A-rank monster, you know?" ［Yuna］
"Big difference! They'll still kill us in a single hit!" ［Julius］
Julius' eyes burnt with deep and fierce rage as he made an outburst, his emotion erupting like a furious volcano. Amelia was with him, only much calmer.
Their reactions were only understandable. After all, even with the buffs towards them and curses towards the enemy, the gap in their strengths still lies in the thousands. If it wasn't for Grey, Yuna, and Arcturus' layered barriers, they would have died already.
"But you survived, didn't you? That's all that matters. In the first place, you also agreed to this. You should suffer at least this much." ［Yuna］
"Ugh... You're right... But dammit..." ［Julius］
"Now, now, stay still for a little bit. I'll cure your body pains." ［Yuna］
Unfortunately for them, the one who triumphed was Yuna. With such a logic behind her, they couldn't argue much in response. The method may be strict and brutal, but they were still doing their jobs properly and more efficiently than anyone else.
In the end, Julius and Amelia were forced to accept the harsh reality and shut their mouths. They stayed quiet whilst Yuna healed their pains with holy magic, bracing themselves for what's about to come.
"And now that you're healed... Let's discuss your mistakes, shall we?" ［Yuna］
And there it was. The harshest part of Yuna's lecture where she chews out all that there is left in the students' confidence, pointing out their mistakes one after another. A brutal way to engrave in the students' hearts how inexperienced they still are.
"First and foremost, the enemy's weakness. Grey and I had already told you about it when we were still at the Royal Academy, didn't we? The Minotaurs' skin may be tough but there's still the eyes, the joints, the moment when they open their mouths, and many more you can take advantage of.
Also, Julius, stop using spells all the time. Is your spear just for decorations? What's the use of bringing it if you won't use it? Do you think this is just a game? You should have utilized your speed and struck the back of its knees to lower its mobility. Don't just rely on ranged attacks because you're afraid to get hit.
Do you not know your own strengths? We've casted a number of barriers and buffs on both of you. You should have considered that as a part of your strategy. Don't just try to whittle it down slowly! Many monsters can regenerate!
Don't think you're off the hook either, Amelia! Just because Julius lost consciousness doesn't mean you can ignore your own safety and rush towards him! Who will save you if both of you are already down, huh?! You could worry but you should still keep your focus on the enemy!" ［Yuna］
It was a long lecture and neither Julius nor Amelia could retort against her. They knew full well their mistakes and could only accept Yuna's words. The lecture continued for the minutes to come, Yuna's voice resounding clearly all over the place.
Even with all the knowledge they've learnt, it was still hard for them to apply them into a practical scenario. Of course, Grey and Yuna also went through the same ordeals as they are currently undergoing. It was also why they are trying to instill the great importance of experience along with theory.
While Yuna knows it is practically impossible for the two of them to beat any of the monsters in the 9th floor even with all the help they get, it was still a good opportunity to learn about many monsters and how to deal with them.
"And that's all. Any questions?" ［Yuna］
""No..."" ［Julius and Amelia］
The lecture was finally over but there were no signs of life nor happiness in the eyes of the prince and the lady. Although it wasn't the first time they've been lectured by Yuna, it was still depressing. It was like their mother was scolding them.
"Well, even with all the mistakes you made, I still want to congratulate you. Surviving that long... that's not something everyone can do. You did well. I'm proud of you." ［Yuna］
Even then, Yuna was not one who only knew how to scold people. She also knows when to praise them and how to reward them. With just that little bit of words, Julius and Amelia's moods were quickly lifted back up.
"Ah, right! We found a treasure room nearby, do you want to see?" ［Yuna］
"A treasure room?! I want to see it!" ［Julius］
"I would also like to see it if possible." ［Amelia］
"Un! Of course!" ［Yuna］
Capella on the lead, everyone then headed towards the nearby treasure room. It was one Capella found with the use of vibrations through the ground and walls, finding out where there were large hollow spaces.
It was also worth noting that the familiars have decreased their sizes drastically to move easily in the Labyrinth. Though they retained their true forms, they were now only the size of a bear, much smaller by dozens upon dozens of times.
"'M-Mistress, we're here..." ［Capella］
"Fufufu! Thank you, Capella!" ［Yuna］
"Y-You're welcome...!" ［Capella］
It was just like any other walls in the Labyrinth, not a single difference to be seen. It was hot, it was rocky, and a lot of crystals were embedded into it. If it wasn't for Capella's mastery over earth magic, it would have been impossible otherwise.
Just like before, Yuna softly placed her hands on the Labyrinth walls and gently poured mana into it. A slow and weak rumble soon quaked throughout the corridor, light shining brighting as a hidden entrance was revealed and opened.
"Whoa... So this is a treasure room, huh..." ［Julius］
Commented Julius as he watched the entrance open before his eyes. Amelia was just as surprised, speechless even, as she tried to comprehend the mechanisms behind the hidden entrance. Both were curious and excited about the treasure room.
Unsurprisingly, the treasure room's hallways were also fiery and fire-themed. It was like an ancient civilizations with fountains by the side. The only difference was that rather than crystal-clear water, what flowed fiery-red lava. A truly intimidating room.
"What are we waiting for? Let's goー" ［Julius］
"Bzzt! Julius, that's a strike for you!" ［Yuna］
Julius couldn't even take a single step when Yuna quickly stopped him by grabbing him by the collar. It was all so sudden that Julius almost choked and coughed, his neck hurting a little bit. He was still as careless as ever.
"Seriously, you should pay attention to your surroundings. Don't you know what a treasure room is widely known for?" ［Yuna］
"Uhh... Isn't it for treasure...?" ［Julius］
"Bzzt! That's another strike. Another one and you won't be having dinner tonight. Are you sure you were listening in on Grey's discussions?" ［Yuna］
"Sorry, I just forgot...." ［Julius］
He truly was hopeless. Not only did he forget such an important lesson, he was also about to commit a common mistake made by beginners and veterans alike. It was to get carried away by excitement and let their guard down.
"Cadet Amelia, would you mind answering my question?" ［Yuna］
"Y-Yes! They're known for their high-risk, high-reward nature." ［Amelia］
"Correct! That's a point for you!" ［Yuna］
It was just like Amelia had said. Though many call it a mistake, it's not just as simple as what it implies. After all, such a mistake could cause great harm and loss towards those who fall for it. In the worst case scenario, it could even lead to death. They were mistakes one must avoid at all cost.
After all, Yuna had experienced it first hand with her almost opening a mimic. It was a relief that Grey was there at the time. She has always been cautious of the treasure rooms ever since that incident.
"In events when you see a treasure room like this one, you must always be cautious. If there aren't monsters then it would be traps instead. In such cases... It could get a little bit dangerous." ［Yuna］
With the use of earth magic, Yuna made a small pebble appear out of thin air. And without much effort, she easily tossed it towards the ground before them. Quite an unbelievable scene unfolded soon after.
The very moment the pebble touched the ground, countless magic mechanisms activated one after another, hundreds of runes glowing simultaneously. A quick second after, a barrage of magic lances peppered the room without mercy, loud booms echoing without stop.
When the barrage stopped, there was nothing left of the pebble Yuna threw, every single bit and piece was evaporated, erased from existence, never to be seen again. Such a thing would've happened to Julius if Yuna hadn't stopped him.
Both Julius and Amelia's eyes popped out of their sockets from surprise as they witnessed the violent torrent of magic spears. Fear was easily engraved in their hearts at that moment. Nevertheless, it was in now way just "a little bit dangerous" as Yuna had described it previously.
"See? Be careful next time, okay?" ［Yuna］
"Y-Yes..." ［Julius］
It was in that moment that Julius swore deep inside his heart to never traverse a Labyrinth recklessly once again. He quickly made it one of his life's mantras.
Luckily, there were only a couple traps in the treasure room which Yuna disarmed with ease. Yuna may not possess the "Divine Eye" like Grey does, but with the experiences she gained from the previous Labyrinth, she was able to compensate.
After a couple minutes of walking, they finally arrived at the main room where a single treasure chest could be found. There were no statues, decorations, or anything of the sort. Such an arrangement only accentuated the grandiose of the treasure chest.
"Julius, you can open the treasure chest." ［Yuna］
"Oh, really?! Thaー wait! This is another test, isn't it?" ［Julius］
"Fufufu! You passed!" ［Yuna］
It was a close call. Julius was about to head towards the treasure chest as per Yuna's request, but after remembering what just happened recently, he quickly stopped on his tracks and raised his guard. He was learning surprisingly quickly.
The little test cleared and over, Yuna made yet another pebble using earth magic. And just like before, she threw the pebble towards the chest, waiting for a reaction. But a couple moments had passed but there wasn't anything. It was safe.
"Phew... It seems like it's not a mimic. Julius, you can open it now." ［Yuna］
"Ohh! Alright!" ［Julius］
Excitement blooming on his face, Julius quickly headed to the treasure chest and opened it. A bright light shone upon the room as soon as he opened it, revealing the treasures stored inside. Treasures costing millions each piece.
"Oh! What a cool sword! There's also some armor!" ［Julius］
"Waah～! So beautiful..." ［Amelia］
"Are there any potions? Alchemy ingredients?" ［Yuna］
"No, but there are a lot of equipment and crystals," ［Julius］
"Uuu... How unlucky..." ［Yuna］
But just like usual, Yuna was only interested in items which can be used in alchemy. Her mood was quickly down as soon as she realized there was only equipment and money inside the treasure chest.
After distributing and storing the items inside the chest, the three quickly headed out the treasure room where the familiars greeted them. And just as they went out, in the corner of Yuna's eyes, was a monster in a nearby zone they were in, only waiting for them to step foot inside the zone.
"Julius, Amelia, about leaving you alone with that Minotaur General, I'm really sorry. How are your bodies now? Do they still ache? Are you feeling anything strange or traces of fatigue?" ［Yuna］
"Yuna... It's okay. We know you're only thinking for our sake. And don't worry, thanks to Kentaurus' healing magic, we're feeling very good!" ［Amelia］
"Hahaha! That's right, we're fit as fiddles!" ［Julius］
"Fufufu... I see... That's good to hear... Then let's fight another one, okay?" ［Yuna］
There was a bright smile on her face, but her words couldn't differ much more than it already does. It was a statement neither Julius and Amelia expected, their eyes now widened in shock.
""Ehhh?!"" ［Julius and Amelia］
"Don't worry, it will be much easier this time, I promise!" ［Yuna］
They were tricked, backstabbed, and quite possibly, bamboozled. Yuna has become more cunning with the passing of each day. They didn't expect Yuna would use sympathy to trick them into saying their bodies were ready to fight.
Julius and Amelia wanted to retort against the silver-haired elf before them, but there was nothing they could do. It was at that moment that they remembered that Yuna was a demonic teacher just like Grey. All hope was lost.
A bright smile was still blooming on Yuna's face.
CHAPTER 191 END