The boss room was an open space.
Inside, several tombstones stood haphazardly, and in the back, an undead creature awaited.
It was a skeletal monster wrapped in a black cloak, clutching an extravagant staff in both hands. It was about two meters tall, floating in the air.
No doubt about it. This was the dungeon boss.
"Status."
Upon chanting, information appeared before my eyes.
[Darkness-Shrouded Magic Spirit Dark Sorcerer]
Recommended Level: 35Dungeon Boss: [Mausoleum of the Underworld]An undead mage who, even after death, continued his research with an insatiable curiosity. Possesses high intelligence and skill to perform countless miracles.
The Dark Sorcerer. The recommended level for defeating it was 35, and it could use multiple types of magic. However, it lacked any close-range attack methods, making it a boss specialized in magic.
'Kikikikiki'
The enemy locked its gaze on me and Shuna, letting out an irritating laugh. Without hesitation, I kicked off the ground and accelerated. I intended to close the distance and deliver a slash.
However, even as I approached, the Dark Sorcerer showed no signs of panic. It raised its staff, and black magic flowed from the magic crystal at the tip, enveloping its body.
"—Haah!"
A few seconds later, my blade struck the Dark Sorcerer. However,
'Kikikikikikikikikiki'
The only sound was the mocking laughter of the Dark Sorcerer. My blade was completely blocked by the black magic.
(...Well, of course, it turned out like this.)
This was one of the skills the Dark Sorcerer used, [Dark Shroud]. It was a spell that enveloped the body with a barrier of dark magic. While protected by this barrier, the Dark Sorcerer was invincible and could not be harmed.
However, naturally, there was a way to break through it. Attacks with holy attributes could destroy this barrier. In other words, without someone with holy attribute skills, it was impossible to defeat the Dark Sorcerer. That's why possessing holy attribute skills was a prerequisite for entering this dungeon.
"Alright."
Seeing that my initial attack had failed, I took a backstep to distance myself from the Dark Sorcerer.
This was within expectations. I attacked knowing that my attacks wouldn't get through.
The reason was simple—
'Kiiiiiiii!'
The Dark Sorcerer let out a shrill scream. Two dark magic projectiles appeared on either side of it.
This was its attack skill, [Dark Chains]. This powerful magic would deal massive damage to the target it hit and temporarily bind them, rendering them immobile.
The Dark Sorcerer launched both magic projectiles at me.
(Yes, just as planned.)
That's right. This was why I attacked, knowing I couldn't deal damage. Although I couldn't harm it, I successfully drew the enemy's aggro.
Thanks to that, all the magic projectiles were aimed at me instead of Shuna. Given the nature of the skill, if even one hit me, our defeat would be inevitable.
But—as long as it doesn't hit, it's no problem!
"Parry!"
'Giiii!?'
I activated Parry, deflecting the two magic projectiles in different directions. With my current stats and the effect of the [Guardian's Relic Sword], it was enough to deflect [Dark Chains].
While keeping the puzzled Dark Sorcerer in my sight, I called out to Shuna.
"As I mentioned beforehand, that was [Dark Chains]! Not only does it deal massive damage, but it also temporarily binds you, rendering you immobile! I won't let it target you, but just in case, stay alert!"
"Got it, understood!"
Shuna nodded firmly. And in her hands, a holy attribute light ball was already floating.
While I was engaging the Dark Sorcerer, she had been preparing it.
"I'm ready anytime, Zeros!"
"Alright—Slash!"
'Kii!?'
I unleashed a slash, hitting the Dark Sorcerer in the head. Although it didn't deal damage, it managed to stagger the enemy slightly.
I shouted,
"Now, Shuna!"
"Sacred Missile!"
The holy magic projectile shot out, hitting the Dark Sorcerer directly. With a dazzling light and a loud explosion, the dark armor shattered in an instant.
'Giiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!'
However, the Dark Sorcerer quickly recovered. With an angry scream, it redeployed a magic barrier in less than a second. This time, the barrier was transparent.
(As expected.)
After the Dark Shroud is destroyed, the Dark Sorcerer cannot use the same skill for a few seconds. During that window, we must attack and defeat it, as was the strategy in 'Creon.' The newly deployed barrier was just a stopgap and had no resistance.
(In other words—this barrier can be destroyed with non-holy attacks!)
"Slash!"
I swiftly swung my sword, unleashing five consecutive slashes. The first hit only cracked the barrier, but the second destroyed it. The third and fourth hits landed directly on the Dark Sorcerer.
'Kaaaaaah!'
The Dark Sorcerer writhed in pain but managed to re-cast Dark Shroud. As a result, my fifth slash was blocked.
I grimaced slightly.
(The timing was a bit off. But next time, I should be able to land the fifth hit.)
With my current stats, each slash reduces the enemy's HP by about 15%. Two hits landed, so roughly 30% of its HP should be gone.
Assuming three hits land next time, I can deal 45% damage each time I break the Dark Shroud. I should be able to defeat it by repeating this twice more. Even if I fail, thanks to the pre-prepared potions, I have a fourth chance, so there's no need to worry.
"Alright! Let's keep this up, Shuna!"
"Yes, Zeros!"
Shuna responded energetically. She was handling herself well against a higher-level opponent. If we continue like this, our victory is certain.
Yes, it should be certain—
(...What's this strange feeling?)
Despite this, there was something nagging at me.
A small, unexplainable discomfort. Perhaps it was an ominous premonition. I couldn't imagine any significant issue waiting for us, so what could it be...
'Kikikikiki'
While I pondered, the Dark Sorcerer let out an eerie laugh and prepared another [Dark Chains].
(No, think about it later. For now, focus on defeating this thing!)
I steeled myself and prepared to parry the incoming magic again.