Cherreads

Chapter 57 - Chapter 57.

After dispatching the barbarian, Pacs left the body behind. As he proceeded towards the kingdom, the female companion interjected, "Wait, don't you want the meat from this monster? It would provide a substantial amount if butchered." Pacs politely declined, explaining that he lacked the means to transport it. He suggested that the three adventurers take the monster and retrieve what they could from it. Although initially grateful for the offer, the adventurers ultimately declined, concerned that it would draw undue attention and potential complications they might not be able to manage.

The butler stated they would transport the item for Pacs. Upon arrival at the kingdom, the butler and the woman will butcher it at the Adventurer's butchering facility. Subsequently, they will return the meat along with the profits generated from the sale of useful parts from the butchered barbarian. Pacs appears to be in a hurry, as he has commitments in other locations and is only present to acquire his daily necessities and supplies. He intends to depart as swiftly as possible once these are secured. Pacs indicated that they could retain the profit and, provide the meat to the three adventurers if they need it.

The three adventurers affirmed their desire for the meat, recognizing food as a fundamental necessity. Upon arriving at the kingdom of Valorion, Pacs separated from the female, her butler, and the three adventurers. The female, exhibiting a degree of self-interest, intended to compensate Pacs for his assistance.

However, Pacs did not accompany them, nor could she persuade him to do so. Pacs proceeded to that unknown vendor to acquire necessary items. After obtaining few healing item, several recovery potions, and provisions, he headed directly towards the dungeon. His decision to postpone dungeon exploration, despite earlier detection, stemmed from a previous defeat by the Demon Lord. This experience instilled in Pacs the importance of thorough preparation, leading him to acquire essential supplies before venturing into the dungeon.

Pacs entered the dungeon, an area currently being explored by "the Blades," a renowned hero party. The Blades had earned their distinguished reputation by successfully completing 100 consecutive dungeons without a single failure. This extraordinary feat had led both the King of the Valorion Kingdom and its populace to hold exceptionally high expectations for them. Having preceded Pacs into the dungeon, the Blades were making consistent progress. They soon encountered a group of skeletons, formidable in their armament of swords and maces. The ensuing confrontation proved exceptionally difficult; the Blades found it challenging to land effective blows, while the skeletons' attacks were unexpectedly potent.

The blades ultimately vanquished the skeletons, revealing loot that conspicuously consisted of the weapons the skeletons had wielded. These were promptly stored in their small magic pouches, now filled to 40% capacity, leaving 60% of space available. As they advanced, an unforeseen event occurred, causing the four members to suddenly find themselves isolated in separate rooms. Despite their extensive experience in completing numerous dungeons, they realized they would have to navigate this challenge independently. The two males remained composed, devising a plan to reunite as swiftly as possible. Of the two females, the one capable of offensive magic strove to maintain her composure, while the other, limited to support magic, comprehended the gravity of her predicament.

Three members, having successfully advanced, had already begun their journey forward, aiming to reunite and avoid any casualties. However, the sole female member, equipped only with support magic, remained stationary, like a statue. She was unwilling to move, fearing certain death if she encountered any monsters. For approximately 30 minutes, she stood in the same spot, hoping her companions would soon find her.

Unfortunately, the three other members did manage to regroup, but they found themselves at the dungeon's exit. This left their support member isolated. They are now faced with a difficult decision: either complete the dungeon without their support, which would be extremely challenging, or prioritize searching for her.

The three members of Blades are unable to complete this dungeon due to their current formation. It consists of two fighters supported by a single female, whose role is purely supportive, precluding the use of offensive spells. Given the dungeon's high difficulty, they require one of their female mages to employ offensive magic alongside the two male fighters, while another female mage provides support to the trio. Consequently, they decided to locate their female support, who had remained stationary since their separation. Upon attempting to retrace their steps, they discovered that the path leading to the final room had vanished completely. Suddenly, a monster emerged. This creature resembled a giant human with a reptilian head, equine legs similar to a bull's hooves, human-like arms, and two massive wings on its back. Behind this monster, a giant treasure chest was visible, identifying the creature as the dungeon's final boss.

The Blades' support mage stood poised, anticipating. A demon materialized within the same chamber, instantly triggering her panic. She began casting support spells on the demon. It was Pacs, who, after battling formidable monsters, was utterly exhausted and deeply appreciated the healing. As Pacs advanced toward the female support mage, she stammered, "Stay away! Don't come closer!" Pacs gently tapped her head, reassuring her, "It's alright; I'm not a monster." She fearfully responded, "You are a demon."

The female mage, inwardly distressed, contemplated her predicament: "What should I do? I am currently with a demon, and he will undoubtedly inflict various misfortunes upon me. As a mere support mage, my options are limited." She desperately hoped for her party members to locate her swiftly. Pacs then addressed her, inquiring, "Are you also exploring this dungeon? It seems rather perilous for a support mage to venture into such an environment alone." He continued, "I can discern that you possess no offensive spells, otherwise you would not have exclusively employed support magic earlier." Pacs concluded by stating, "Let us depart from this dungeon; if you wish to exit, accompany me."

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