Ashes of the Fallen

Without any real change to our previous strategy, the mini-boss fight was started with a [Chain Lightning] from me, along with a full chanted verse [Frost Bolt] from the mage directed at one of the two [Outcast Goblins]. Making quick work of the minor goblins and the regular goblins, all that was left was the [Goblin Guard].

The dwarf's shield actually shattered mid-fight, but it wasn't really an issue.

By all accounts, the mini-boss fight went smoothly.

Another [Old Dory], a [Cracked Aspis] to replace the dwarf's now defunct shield, and a [Worn Leather Vest] were the major spoils. Nothing too special really, but it was only the first boss. The fifth boss was the big guy, and I was sure he would drop something nice.

Now, it was time to finally start the second floor.

Something new, exciting, and hopefully fresh… well, the air was likely to be stale still, but one could dream!

Chapter 43: The Second Floor

(Wednesday, May 26th Game Day / Thursday, February 18th Real Day)

Heading down the narrow dark gray and black rock tunnel that was loosely supported by a random assortment of old and rotting lumber left a lot to be desired. At least, we figured it wouldn't collapse.

If it did, well, that would only add to the realism I suppose.

The ash that permeated the air had also suddenly become thicker. We were already well acquainted with the smoke that obscured our vision and made it difficult to breathe, but I never imagined it would get progressively worse.

What used to be a slight burning sensation in my eyes and nostrils was now a steady burn. My mind wandered at the thought of what the third, fourth, and fifth floors would be like. If the situation continued to deteriorate with each descent, there may come a point where a mask would become a necessity. The thought of choking on smoke for an hour wasn't exactly appealing, even if there weren't any negative health implications.

Eh, but that was neither here nor there.

The situation in front of us was at least bearable.

The lighting that was barely serviceable before at least did not disappoint, and remained a constant. To think that we would all be glad to see a few torches spread randomly throughout the cave interior. Well, what little light the torches provided was at least reassuring, even if the situation was excessively dreary.

I suppose a bright and cheerful dungeon would be a misnomer of sorts, anyways.

Walking forth, the priest actually slipped on some moss and fell to his ass, earning him a kick and a laugh from the dwarf. No words were said though. The situation was oddly serious, even if there were only trash groups ahead.

Exiting the tunnel pass and entering the large opening with its domed ceiling that curiously showcased our dancing shadows as the flames moved to and fro, we came to a halt as we stared on.  Before us squat a group of goblins, not unlike the previous goblins we had seen. But in the fashion of increasing difficulty, the group of goblins had made a substitution with their members.

The prior groups had been made up of two [Outcast Goblins] and three [Outcast Minor Goblins], and now that had been reversed. There were three [Outcast Goblins] now along with two [Minor Goblins]. Suffice to say, the difficulty ramped up rather quickly from only a moment before.

Also in consideration was the adjustment in level.

These goblins ranged from level 38-40 opposed to the level 35-37s on the first floor, while the minor goblins were now level 28-30 over the previous level 25-27. Yeah, they were now slightly more experienced, more skillful, did a bit more damage, could take a bit more damage, and probably moved slightly faster as well.

Hell, I was still only level 31.

For a beginner dungeon, they really upped the difficulty from the first floor.

At least, that's what I thought until we actually pulled.

Throwing out a [Chain Lightning] and following with our duo chain combo of alternating [Lightning Bolts] and [Frost Bolts], we made quick work of the goblins to the point where it was almost silly. In theory we were expecting some resistance, or at least I was, but in practice it only took another ten seconds per group.

The second floor wasn't that fresh after all.

Oh well.

It didn't take more than twenty-five minutes for us to reach the end of the second floor and to come face to face with the mini-boss and his entourage. Instead of the two [Goblins] and two [Minor Goblins] standing by the [Goblin Guard's] side, there were four [Outcast Goblins]. Going by the fact that the prior trash had upgraded in a similar fashion, it seemed rather inconsequential to me but the group wasn't as positive or anywhere near as confident as they were a minute ago.

"So this boss is actually kinda difficult," said the dwarf while stretching his arms out. "Basically, I can't tank all five at the same time, so it'll take some creative mixing."