Chapter 122

Continuing my exploration of the 26th floor for several more hours, I searched for any hidden paths or secret areas, but to my disappointment, I found nothing else besides the great waterfall area. Determined to push forward, I made my way to the 27th floor, fully aware that I wouldn't be able to make it back to the surface today given my slow progress.

Regret lingered in my mind as I realized I hadn't informed my familia members about my extended absence, which might cause unnecessary worry.

As I navigated through the treacherous terrain, I encountered hordes of monsters that seemed to multiply at an alarming rate.

Constantly battling these creatures, it became evident that I needed to consume potions more frequently to replenish both my mind and stamina. Luckily, I had come prepared with an ample supply.

Prior to venturing into the dungeon, I had taken the time to check the guild notice board to learn more about the spawn time of the monster, Rex.

Nonetheless, I soon realized that there were several other formidable foes to be wary of in the lower floors.

The crystaroth urchin, a menacing entity resembling a spherical blue ball adorned with sharp spikes, proved to be one of my greatest adversary.

Its ability to spin at high velocities, obliterating anything in its path with its needle-like appendages, sent shivers down my spine.

Additionally, its round, fang-filled mouth made it a ferocious predator that consumed its unsuspecting prey with ease.

Another nuisance I encountered was the relentless iguazu, a suicidal bird like monster that dwelled behind the great waterfall. These creatures soared through the air at incredible speeds, showing no mercy and will keep charging even at the cost of death, until their target was vanquished.

It was an enemy that I learned quickly to avoid, relying on my exceptional reaction time and versatile spells to survive their relentless pursuit.

However, I couldn't help but think that an average level 3 adventurer would perish within seconds against such a fearsome foe.

Beyond these adversaries, a host of other menacing creatures lurked between the 25th and 27th floor, ramping up the challenge and further testing my mettle.

Suddenly, the sound of a charging kelpie disrupted my thoughts. Reacting swiftly, I conjured a protective wall of ice to temporarily detain the creature while I confronted a group of mermen.

Armed with sharp claws, I engaged in fierce combat, swiftly dispatching several mermen in front of me. These humanoid fish-like monsters wielded weapons and operated in coordinated groups, making them formidable opponents difficult to overcome alone.

Meanwhile, the kelpie, a horse monster boasting a vibrant blue mane, proved to be one of the mightiest adversaries on the 27th floor, further intensifying the battle.

Feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, I couldn't help but grumble inwardly about my dwindling stamina. Alternating between melee and magic attacks, as well as employing various defensive maneuvers, proved to be physically and mentally taxing.

With the relentless onslaught of monsters leaving me with little opportunity to catch my breath, I found solace in the knowledge that the next floor I would reach would serve as a much-needed rest zone. Encouraged by this thought, I summoned the willpower to press onward.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I reached the 28th floor. Overwhelmed with relief, I couldn't contain my joy at no longer having to contend with the ferocious fish monsters that had plagued the previous floors.

As I looked ahead, I knew that the 28th floor housed an adventurer city, serving as the only safe haven in the lower floors.

However, the exorbitant prices for basic necessities, aside from local goods and water, deterred me from staying long.

Instead, my plan was to rest briefly, replenish myself with a meal, and then catch a glimpse of what the 29th floor had in store—an enchanting forest teeming with ancient dinosaurs.

Once I had satisfied my curiosity, I would then make my way back to the surface, bringing an end to my perilous mini expedition.

Outside the city, I came across a group of peddlers, offering a welcome opportunity to take a break and socialize.

"What are you selling?" I asked one of the peddlers in a friendly tone, trying to engage in conversation. The man, a rather shady-looking individual, welcomed me with a nod.

His wares consisted of worn-out weapons, armour and Miscallinous items, but the price tags attached to them were utterly ridiculous.

Noticing my naive demeanor, the peddler began fishing for information, "This your first time here, I can tell." His intentions seemed questionable, and I started to feel wary of his motives.

I replied absentmindedly, "Yeah," but now I regretted revealing too much.

Realizing that I was alone, the peddler probed further, "Did you make it down here on your own?" Alarm bells rang in my head, indicating that danger might be looming.

Carefully choosing my words, I answered, "No, I came with my familia earlier." I decided it was best to stay cautious and not divulge any specific details.

However, the peddler persisted, asking, "What familia are you from?" Irritation crept into my voice as I told him to mind his own business.

"You've been asking a lot of shady questions. You should mind your business," I warned, instinctively sensing something amiss.

Clearly displeased with my response, the peddler muttered, "Tsk, kids these days have no respect." Undeterred, I approached him directly, stating my purpose.

"I need a map of the next few floors." I believed buying one from the locals, who were familiar with the dungeon's intricacies in the lower floors, would provide more detailed information compared to the maps sold at the guild.

"I have that, but it will cost you," the peddler replied, instantly trying to profit from my request. Curiosity got the better of me, and I inquired about the price.

"Like how much?" I asked hesitantly, preparing myself for an inflated amount.

"Nothing much, just 300,000 Valis," he exclaimed, revealing an exorbitant price. The absurdity of the sum made up my mind.

"I will be leaving now," I said firmly, deciding that obtaining a piece of paper at such an outrageous cost was simply not worth it. The guild would likely offer a more reasonably priced alternative.

Thus, I moved on to another peddler, hoping to find a better deal. However, he called out, attempting to entice me, "Wait, lad! I can sell it to you at a cheaper price.".

Suspicion tinged my voice as I questioned him, "How much?" It was clear that I was not willing to entertain any dishonest negotiation tactics.

"How about 250,000 Valis? That's the best I can do," he suggested, attempting to make a compromise. However, I saw through his ploy and simply responded, "Don't bother." Determined not to be swayed by this deception, I continued my search, encountering vendors who proposed even higher prices.

It became apparent that the exorbitant cost for a map was the norm among the peddlers.

Feeling disheartened by this revelation, I decided to give up on obtaining a map. It dawned on me that it wasn't an essential item anyway.

I had my wind tracking spell, which, although not as precise, would suffice in guiding me through the dungeon without the need for an overpriced piece of paper.

Before venturing into the 29th floor, I purchased some local food to replenish my energy. Exiting the 28th floor, I couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that several individuals were following me.

Cursing internally, I suspected the peddler had marked me as a potential target for a robbery. He had eyed my dungeon bag and bombarded me with invasive questions during our conversation.

Muttering to myself, I acknowledged the reality of the situation, "It's been a while since I killed people." Determined to protect myself, I quickened my pace and set my sights on the nearest monster, intending to gauge their strength and plan my course of action accordingly.