Chapter 22: Boss Chamber

Chapter 22: Boss Chamber

---

The ascent to Floor 4 marked another step in Vaelrith and his companions' journey through the Supreme Dungeon. The corridors continued to twist and turn, each corner revealing more common-tier monsters. While these floors were intended to weed out the unprepared, Vaelrith and his friends found them relatively easy to traverse.

"These floors are too easy," Aric said, dispatching a group of goblins with a single swing of his sword. "We need a real challenge."

Vaelrith nodded, agreeing. "The bosses on Floors 10 and 20 will provide more of a fight. For now, let's focus on making quick progress."

As they moved through Floor 4, the group encountered a few other adventurers. Some were students from the academy, while others were seasoned explorers seeking the treasures and knowledge hidden within the dungeon. Greetings were exchanged, and information was shared, adding a sense of camaraderie to their journey.

"I heard the boss on Floor 10 is a stone golem," one adventurer mentioned as they paused to rest. "It's tough but slow. You should be able to handle it."

"Thanks for the tip," Elysia replied with a smile. "Good luck with your journey."

The group continued onward, their pace steady but swift. The map they had acquired proved invaluable, guiding them through the maze-like structure and helping them avoid unnecessary conflicts and traps. The space inside the Supreme Dungeon was vast, far larger than its exterior suggested, as if it existed in its own different dimension.

---

Far above Eldoria, in a floating castle powered by a magic stone obtained from a calamity-class monster, the World Council convened. The grand hall of the castle, adorned with intricate carvings and glowing runes, was filled with the most powerful and wise leaders from all realms. The air was thick with tension as they debated the implications of Vaelrith's transformation.

The Human King, a tall man with a regal bearing, spoke first. "A Hero who is also a monster? This could either be our greatest asset or our greatest threat."

The Elf King, a dignified figure with sharp, calculating eyes, stood up. "Vaelrith is no ordinary monster. He has proven his loyalty and strength. I fully support him. His heart is pure, and he possesses the strength we need."

A murmur of surprise rippled through the hall. The Dwarf King, his voice gruff but thoughtful, spoke next. "Of course, you support him," he said, suspicion in his tone. "I've heard that Vaelrith is closely connected to your daughter. Is this why you're so eager to defend him?"

The Elf King's eyes narrowed slightly, but he remained composed. "My support for Vaelrith is not born of personal bias but of genuine belief in his potential to be a force for good in Eldoria."

The Fishman King, his expression grave, spoke next. "We should not act hastily. We must gather more information and consider all possible outcomes."

The representative of the Holy Church, an elderly woman with a serene yet stern demeanor, finally spoke. "The Hero is chosen by our goddess Eldoria, and as such, he commands the authority of the Holy Church. Yet, Vaelrith is a monster, and our doctrine has always deemed monsters and demons as enemies of our world. This conflict cannot be ignored."

The tension in the room escalated as the council members considered the implications. The Holy Church was the strongest force in Eldoria, dedicated to protecting the world and upholding justice. Their hatred for the monster and demon races was deeply ingrained, making this situation particularly complex.

----

Back in the Supreme Dungeon, Vaelrith and his companions continued their ascent, encountering only minor resistance as they moved through the next few floors. The corridors twisted and turned, each corner revealing more common-tier monsters. Despite their numbers, the monsters were no match for Vaelrith's strength and the coordination of his team. Each battle served as both practice and a reminder of their growing power.

As they moved through the dimly lit halls, Aric voiced his thoughts during one of their brief rests. "These monsters are hardly a challenge. How far are we until we get to the boss chamber?"

Seraphina replied, "We're are already on floor 10, so we're not far from it."

Elysia added, "Speed is important, but we can't afford to get reckless. Even the weaker monsters can catch us off guard if we lose focus."

Aric nodded, his confidence undiminished. "I get it. Just eager to face something that actually tests us."

They resumed their cautious advance, The air was damp and cold, the silence broken only by the occasional distant growl or the drip of water echoing through the corridors.

Suddenly, a low rumble reverberated through the walls, and the ground beneath their feet trembled. "What was that?" Aric asked, his voice tense.

Seraphina raised a hand, signaling for silence. She closed her eyes, focusing on the vibrations in the air. "It came from ahead. We must be close to the boss chamber."

Elysia stepped forward, her eyes scanning the darkness. "Stay alert. There might be a trap."

They moved forward cautiously, weapons drawn and senses heightened. As they rounded a corner, the corridor opened into a vast chamber, the ceiling lost in shadow. In the center of the room stood a massive stone door, engraved with ancient runes that glowed with an eerie blue light.

Vaelrith stepped forward, his eyes narrowing as he examined the door. "This must be it," he said quietly. "The boss chamber."

Aric cracked his knuckles, a grin spreading across his face. "Finally, a real fight."

"We'll face the boss soon," Lyra said, her voice steady. "Let's give it everything we've got."

The team prepared themselves for the challenge ahead, their hearts pounding with anticipation. The real tests of their strength and unity were yet to come, and they were ready to face whatever the Supreme Dungeon had in store.

---