Chereads / SHADOW BUSINESS / Chapter 42 - The group's first points.

Chapter 42 - The group's first points.

LucLucca, confidently stated, "Let's head in that direction," pointing with determination.

Everyone promptly followed his instructions. After some time, they encountered the imposing presence of a Minotaur. In accordance with the protocol, they crouched down and took cover behind a dense bush, preparing for the imminent challenge.

---Information---

Minotauro (level-44)

Hp:12000

The Minotauro towered at least 2.50 meters (8'2) high, displaying an imposing physique that seamlessly blended human and bovine features. Its massive, muscular body was adorned with resilient, gray-toned fur. Powerful hooves graced its legs, providing remarkable stability. The head, distinguished by curved and sharp horns, showcased distinctive bovine traits, including piercing eyes and pointed ears. The facial expression often mirrored the duality of its nature, amplified by the presence of a large axe clutched in its hands.

"What level is it?" inquired Alice.

Lucca, locking eyes with the Minotaur, replied, "Level 44."

"Alright, do you all remember the attack patterns the hunting instructor taught us for Minotaurs?" asked Alice, hopeful to avoid having to explain the intricacies of the attack pattern.

It seemed luck was on her side that day, as some nodded in agreement while others verbally confirmed their familiarity with the Minotaur's attack patterns. Observing this, she continued speaking, "Let's employ the usual tactic! Are you all prepared?" She spoke in hushed tones, ensuring the Minotaur remained unaware, preserving the element of surprise for their attack.

"Let's go!" commanded Alice, leading the charge towards the Minotaur, accompanied by Ivy, as they were the only ones capable of facing it head-on. Meanwhile, Nolan advanced towards the Minotaur's rear, seeking an opportunity to strike. Lucca and Ana positioned themselves at elevated points for a strategic vantage.

As Lucca reached his destination, he unleashed his "Fire Pillar" spell, creating a red circle beneath the Minotaur. Witnessing the fiery circle, Ivy and Alice quickly distanced themselves.

-210

As the flames subsided, Ana swiftly released two arrows toward the Minotaur's legs, causing it to stagger momentarily. Seizing the opportunity, the Minotaur charged towards Ivy, swinging its axe vigorously from side to side.

"Why me?" Ivy exclaimed indignantly as the Minotaur singled her out as the target. In response, she began weaving in circular patterns, providing an excellent opportunity for Ana and Lucca to unleash attacks freely, as the Minotaur's focus remained fixated on Ivy for a substantial duration.

After a continuous period of evasion, Ivy's speed began to wane, and the Minotaur closed in. In a moment of desperation, she cried out, "Someone help me! When does this end?"

"It's almost over, hold on a bit longer!" Alice shouted, attempting to boost Ivy's morale. At that critical juncture, Alice directed her efforts towards attacking the Minotaur's legs, aiming to impede its advance. Simultaneously, Lucca unleashed lightning bolts toward the creature's legs, while Ana activated her new skill, "Quick Shots," releasing a flurry of arrows in mere seconds, all targeted at the Minotaur's legs. Amidst this coordinated assault, Nolan, seizing the opportunity, joined the offensive against the Minotaur's legs, delivering strikes to further weaken the creature. As Ivy persisted in her evasive maneuvers, each member contributed to the strategic onslaught, subjecting the Minotaur.

Amidst the chaos, the Minotaur finally managed to land a blow on Ivy, but with luck, she successfully blocked the attack using her two axes. However, she was hurled away, colliding with a tree in the distance. "Ivy! Are you okay?" shouted Alice to assess her condition.

Despite the setback, the Minotaur was relentless in its pursuit, closing in on Ivy. Sensing the urgency, Lucca knew he had to intervene and began casting numerous fireballs. The challenge, however, was that he was relatively close to the Minotaur.

Midway to Ivy, the Minotaur abruptly halted, and as it stopped, it was met with a barrage of fireballs from Lucca. Immediately after, the creature turned its attention to Lucca. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Lucca thought to himself, 'Oh, shit.'

He merely swung his axe to reach Lucca, who, upon witnessing the imminent threat, had only one option left: "Shadow Retreat." In a swift move, Lucca vanished into the nearest shadow, successfully evading the Minotaur's attack.

To divert the Minotaur's focus from Lucca, Alice activated her skill by running her fingers along her sword, "Blade's Wrath," causing it to glow red. She swiftly struck, slashing across the creature's chest and gaining its attention.

Amidst the chaos, a voice echoed in Lucca's mind, (Lucca, check the map!) conveyed Ori with a hint of concern.

Lucca retorted, 'I already checked, Ori. The Minotaur is down to only 10% health; I need to stay focused here!' His tone carried a sense of authority.

(but...)Ori attempted to persist, but Lucca cut her off. 'I'll handle it!' he declared firmly. Hearing this, Ori simply acquiesced.

Ivy rises, her eyes ablaze with vengeance for all she endured. She advances towards the Minotaur, leaps into the air, and activates her new skill, "Relentless Blade." Pulling her arms back, she then thrusts forward, delivering two powerful slashes to the Minotaur's torso.

Witnessing the creature's vulnerability, Nolan descends from the tree branch he had previously climbed. He thrusts both daggers into the Minotaur's neck, leveraging his new passive skill, "Silent Daggers," which amplifies damage when unseen or unfelt by the enemy.

Nolan delivers the final blow to the Minotaur, marking the end of their first adversary and earning valuable points to climb the camp's rankings.

{You defeated a Level 44 Minotaur}

{Rewards: Stamina +3, Vitality +2}

{You earned 250 Soul Tokens}

Amidst the relief of having just slain the Minotaur, the group was startled by a sound that sent shivers down their spines.

"Awooooo." A wolf's howl echoed, and a lone wolf repeated its haunting call from the darkness of the trees.