441-450
Alex and Noah, followed by ten men, reached an enormous mountain covered with dense vegetation.
A gigantic waterfall appeared before them. It let out a hazy mist all around the surroundings and poured out great streams of water into a pool on the ground.
It was a mysterious and majestic sight. While Alexs companions looked at the marvellous scene that was enough to make one breathless, Alex pointed directly at the waterfall and yelled with spirit.
Thats our destination.
Take a look at the scene.
In front of us, there is a hidden and unknown place which might have huge amounts of treasure in them.We are going to raid and squander it.
Follow me and prosper.
CoughCough
Hearing Alexs words, loud coughs resounded all around.
Noah looked at Alex with an embarrassed expression and saidArent you getting too deep into roleplaying.
I am already ashamed to wear a mask and black hooded robes and now you are speaking as if we are bandits raiding the unknown place without the other partys permission.
Alex shot him a glare and saidIsnt that what we are doing?
Noah choked and felt a deep headache.
His mask which makes him invisible uses loads of mana and is unsuitable when fighting.At the current moment he wished to hide himself from this situation using the mask.
Alex first observed the area using his map while looking for all signs of threat and dangers.
After analysing certain things, he took the lead.
To reach the back of the waterfall, Alex and his companion had to cross a narrow path on the cliffside connected to the area at the back of the waterfall.
The path was too narrow for them to pass easily. Moreover, they were taking a detour and moving in a roundabout way.
They could have also taken a shortcut which was to jump into the lake and swim across the waterfall but that would waste too much energy.
There were many boulders and protruding rocks on the narrow lane but Noah took charge to clear them.
Masses of boulders started to float up and stuck to the cliff side making new paths for them and as soon as Alex and others passed, they soon returned to their original position.
More rocks rose up and then returned to their place. They continued this way and finally reached back.
As Alex passed through, drops of water splattered on him. Alex let himself soak in the water and enjoyed the freshness of the water which lightened his nerves before the battle.
We are here.
Noah took a step back as soon as heard Alexs hoarse voice. He could feel the change in Alexs expression which means Alex is going to be serious now.
I can hear the hollow trickling sound but I cant see the cave, Noah muttered.
Its sealed from the outside, Alex spoke while running his finger across the thick sturdy and stony wall.
He unsheathed his sword and asked others to raise their guard.
Alex placed his left hand on the rock and twirled his finger.
The wall before him started to shake and a hole large enough for a human to enter appeared before them.
They walked inside the hall whose insides were damp and humid. It got worse as they walked further inside.
The dampness eventually subsided and the caves bumpy floor was soon replaced by stony slabs that made them easier to walk.
A large door appeared before them which was engraved with strange symbols giving it an ominous look.
Noah shuddered as he felt the eeriness behind the door.
Open it!Alex muttered.
Two knights who were dressed in black robs pushed the door slab. The door was quite heavy and it took a while for them to open.
Between the gaps of the open door, a huge pathway leading to many passages appeared before their right.
It looks like a maze, Noah said and ordered his man to stay close so that no one would be separated.
All of them had worn a bracelet which could help one to lead to the other in case any of them went missing.
Be on guard-.
Noah wasnt able to finish his speech when Alexs figure darted forward and swung his sword.
Swish!
Alex slashed the attack and he stepped forward with a smileWhat a warm welcome.
Stomp!Stomp!Stomp!
The ground started to shake and theylooked ahead as they heard the footsteps of many walking towards them.
What are they? It cant be human as their steps are too loud and heavy? One of the men behind them spoke while raising his bow.
Through the lightly lit passage, red dark glittering eyes shone. The thing didnt attempt to conceal itself and marched towards them heavily.
Golems! Noah spoke with a twisted expression.
I have never fought with a golem properly, Alex spoke with an amused expression.
Yvonne had many golems for Alex to toy around but Alex had only used them to spare and hadnt fought them seriously.
Instead of Golems and themselves, Alex was worried about the material,they were made up of as if they were made of some great material, Alex wasnt confident that he could cut through them.
The core seemed to be made of mithril and seemed to be protected by something, Noah said and observed the Golem.
These golems might be quite precious then.
I have only seen weapons made by Mythril in the hands of great warriors.
As they murmured, Alex looked at Wilford and saidIsnt your sword made of Mithil.
Willford nodded and raised his chin proudly wanting to show the magnanimity of his master.
Thats good then. If my sword breaks, I will ask for it.
Alex spoke and leaned his body forward.
Taking a deep breath, he channelized his mana and stomped the ground heavily to charge forward with great speed.
BANG!
Alex coated his sword with his aura and mutteredLets test them first.
Reaching close towards the first target, Alex aimed for the place where the core was located and stabbed his sword.
[Piercing Thrust]
BOOM!
SCREECH!
With a loud blast, Alex was thrown back due to the rebound of the collision.
While on the other side, the Golem Alex struck flew back for a few metres and struck the one at the back.
Alex waved his head to shake off the dust and saw that all he did was damage a little bit of the chest of the golem.
Alex attacks and manages to make a small crack in the chest.
Although Alex hadnt used full strength the damage he dealt was quite pathetic.
I think this is a good learning experience for you. So, try fighting them properly.Alex muttered and pushed the others to the front.
There were 8 Golems. Each one of them was twice the height of a human and possessed an overwhelming build. Their arms were as thick as long and had been made of mithril.
The other men staggered forward as they couldnt refuse Alexs commands.
THUD!THUD!THUD!
The golems began rushing and coming close to others, they swung their fist at them.
Swish!
The first one easily evaded the attacks and then swung his sword.
CRANG!
Ughhh!The man grunted in pain as his hands hurt and unlike when he usually wielded his sword, his blade felt heavy and dull.
The blade was struck in the Golems arms.
Whissh!
As the golem moved its arm, the mans body flew like a leaf in the storm and his body flew up in the air.
However, even though he was shaken, he didnt let go of his sword and stayed focused.
He put strength into his arms and pulled his body towards Golem.
The man rotated his body and landed on the Golems arm pouring out all his strength and he finally managed to pull out the sword, however.
Due to the momentum of the swing, he was sent flying and crashed onto the walls.
His body jerked and he felt his bones being cracked due to the collision.
Noah noticed his knights struggling to deal with them.
Alex, if this goes on they will be defeated. The space here is too cramped for them to fight freely.
Due to the narrow space which had already been covered by the Golem, the Knights movement was restricted.
Yeah, I have been observing this too.
Ask your archer to aim for the joints.
I will take on the killing blows of the golem while asking them to make space.
There is no need for you to do it. We have Sir Wilford for that.Noah replied.
No, he needs to conserve his strength for any unknown variable, Alex replied and ran towards the golem who was trying to crush one Knight.
Alex stepped forward and swung his sword.
CLANG!
His sword made a brittle noise as it struck the elbow joint of the Golem.
His sword vibrated yet it wasnt enough to shake him up.
Alex rotated his body while jumping back in the air and avoided the incoming fist.
Alex dodged the thick fist coming at him by bending his body at an unimaginable angle.
He is flexible.
Stop looking at him and shoot the arrow, Noah screamed as he saw his archer being surprised by Alexs movements.
Swish!Swish!Swish!
Four arrows loaded with a vast amount of mana crashed onto the gap of the joint and managed to get stuck there.
Thats enough.Alex jumped up and held his sword down vertically, he pierced the armoured handle.
With a long blast, it fell off from the impact but the Golem didnt stop moving.
It stretched out his empty arm trying to hit Alex with his cut arms.
But Alex struck his shoulder with the sword and propelled his body upwards with the force and then landed on the ceiling, he shot towards the Golem.
His sword shone exuding a dense aura and he pierce through the part containing the core.
Shit!
Alex curses as he senses an anomaly due to his sword striking the core.
Violent mana started to rampage and surge forth.
Alex used blink and teleported back along with those who were nearby him
The body of the golem glowed and Noah enacted a barrier around everyone.
BOOOM!
A gust of fire spread through the passage with a loud eruption.
Swish!Swish!
After the explosion dispersed, everyone heaved a sigh of relief.
Many struck in between in the Golem but Noah was able to cast a barrier that far.
The situation is more dangerous than it seems.Alex assessed again.
If he hadnt teleported four people who were quite close to the explosion, then they would have died from the impact even with the barrier.
Each one these 10 were elites of Arkham and were at Legendary rank and are enough to shake the empire but they were having a hard time against the Holmes of Superiors build.
This Golem seemed to be of a higher level. Every time we destroy their core, it would explode which would put us at great risk.Noah spoke with a frown.
Damn it! That means we cant take the cores.Alex cursed.
Noah was perplexed by Alexs words.
Bro, arent you focusing on the wrong thing?
Thats what Noah and others wanted to say but they couldnt.
Lets group up and take this Golem.
First break their joints. This would stop them from moving for now.
Although Alex said this, it wasnt as easy as it sounds.
The knights sneak in through the gaps of Golems and run forward to regroup.
Alex stepped forward and swung his sword with his momentum.
Aura blades emerged and crashed onto Golems like waves of the sea with a splitting explosion.
Boulders flew onto the Golems trying to crush them.
Noah chanted a spell and waved his staff.
Chilling winds blew and froze the armour into one place and Noah prepared to cast his next attack.
Red fire encompassed the frozen golems. It melted the frost in an instant.
CRICK!
The Frozen golems broke free and tried to move forward but their steps were sluggish and stiff.
Alex then cast another ice blast and tsunami of fire once again.
Noah and Alex alternate the attack which turns the Golems body brittle.
Now attack them with everything you got.
Yes!The Knights jumped forward hungrily toward their prey and as their sword struck the Golems body, they found it easier to break the Golems defences.
CRACK!CRACK!CRACK!
The metallic Golems didnt have as many joints as actual living beings but they were strong enough to bear the brunt normally.
However, after repeated cooling and heating, their upper layer becomes brittle.
POP! POP!
The joints were blown away by the sword strike.
CRASH!
With the knee joints broken, the Golem crashed onto the ground and started to roll.
Even after being beaten to this state, it began to drag its body with its arm.
The Knights decided to strike the arm joints and break them down.
However, as he was about to swing his swords, the golems red eyes glowed brighter.
The Knights were startled to see something unusual. The mana churned a bit before hi. and before the Golem could do something, the Knight felt a hold on the nape of the neck and he was pulled back abruptly by someone.
Swish!
A red beam of light was shot out from Golem and collided with the ceiling causing dust and debris to fall over the place.
Pay attention to the Golem. Once they are pushed back, they are shooting laser beams.Alex shouted and jumped up and pierced the eyes of the Golem.
It was about to shoot another laser but Alex stabbed forcefully which resulted in an explosion causing its head to blow into smithereens.
Alex put back his sword while jumping down and held the huge rocky body of the golem and lifted it.
Rumble.Rumble.
Though it was quite heavy Alex lifted it easily and then threw it to the other Golem.
BAAM!
It crashed into the other Golem and a large crack extended toward the core which lit up and exploded again.
The Knights ran back immediately and cowered behind Noahs back who cast another barrier.
Give me the bow.
Alex ran towards the archer and under everyones bewildering gaze, he snatched the bow from the archers hand.
Alex loaded the arrow and stretched the string as much as possible.
The arrow started to shine and mana swirled around it.
SLING!
Hurling its way the arrow tore through the air like a shot fired from a cannon.
The arrow crushed through the Golems chest and hit the core which resulted in a loud explosion.
But it didnt end with this.
An array of arrows were shot in rapid succession which crashed onto the Golems core filling the entire place with fire and explosion.
As the smoke and fire dispersed, everyone saw pieces of crushed Golems lying on the floor.
AmazingMilford expressed his admiration.
You even know how to wield a bow, Noah asked.
I am proficient in many weapons.
Alex spoke while shrugging his shoulders and returned the bow.
What are we going to do now? The sound might have alerted the enemy.Noah spoke with a frown.
Didnt you enact any sound barrier?
I have enacted but I wasnt able to keep it due to casting another spell.
Its okay. I have also enacted a soundbarrier.Alex spoke and moved forward while staring at the mithril.
Lets take this mithril. Its not something that should be left out here.
.
Alex walked forward without any hesitation. Even though the ruins were enormous, he didnt get lost which made everyone wonder as they followed Alexs lead with curiosity.
Their party had encountered quite a several Golems and as they started moving deeper, a large number of stone gates appeared. From a glance, it looked very grand and important but there were no detailed sculptures in it like the one at the entrance of the ruins.
He pushed his hands on the stone wall and pushed it harder.
CREAK!
The stone wall which had been closed for God who knew how long began to open slowly and from the crack of the door a room came into view and the scene startled many.
Everyone except Alex made a long exclamation at the sight in front of them.
Inside the dark room, there were many dark robbed figures engaged in something.
At that time they heard acreak and they saw a masked man appear before them.
Hey!The man muttered.
Are you part of the group that is involved in every shady business that is going on in the world? Also, are you the group that invented the darkness pill?
All the people in the room stopped their work and stared at Alex for a moment.
There was a slight reaction in the eyes of the leader this time.
Most people would feel frightened by this chilling gaze but of course, instead of fear, Alex was amused by their reactions.
Alex tilted his head and muttered while closing the door slowly, Sorry, it seems I have arrived at the wrong room.
It took everyone a moment to snap out of their thoughts. Since the man that entered here also dressed like them, they were taken by surprise.
Kill that bastard. But before that, bring him here. Let me see who this guy is.The leader ordered, which caused everyone to rush towards the door.
As they reached the closed door and tried to open it, a bright sparkle appeared before their eyes followed by an explosion that sent many flying.
Swish!
Many figures appeared through the door and saw a huge spacious wide hallway where many people were present.
Although their numbers were high, Alexs group was superior in quality.
Kill this bastard.
CLANG!
Alex blocked an attack that came straight from the leader while the other faced the underlying.
Alex still didnt let Wilford engage and asked him to oversee things.
CLANG!
Noahs magic exploded but it failed to have any meaningful effect as the leader cut the attack easily.
Alex pushed forward and clashed with the leader.
CLANG!CLANG!CLANG!
The leaders sword was heavy but surprisingly he moved his sword as if it was as light as a feather.
His skill seemed to be remarkable but Alex felt a little odd and as he inspected the man, his eyes fluttered.
This guy isnt a human. His body had experimented with a beast.
Alex exchanged blows with the man who seemed to be the leader of this group of men.
As Alex repeatedly struck his sword, his eyes could see the mans hands underneath the cloak.
It was not surprising for Alex to see such a scene as he expected a similar scene but still, it brought a disgusting aftertaste.
The mans height was close to Alex but his hands were quite thick and bulky with brown hair covering them like that of a gorilla.
Alex noticed the mans strange footwork and thought that he might also have the legs of the beast but he wasnt sure as he wasnt able to catch sight of it.
You have lost your humanity. You are neither human nor a beast.
What did say?The leader raised his voice and swung his sword, showing that he was enraged by Alexs comment.
If I am not human or beast then who am I?He shouted and struck Alexs sword fiercely pushing him a few steps.
A barrage of strikes struck Alex from all around.
Why dont you say that again?
Hmph!Alex snorted and a great amount of mana poured into his sword Alex swung it with all his might.
Even the leader seemed to be surprised by this attack and raised his sword to defend himself.
CLANG!
Two swords clashed against each other and the leaders movements became stiff.
BANG!
The leaders posture faltered and a crushing pain assaulted him, making his arms numb.
You are neither a human nor a beast. You are just an assahole.Alex shouted and as he forced more strength into his hands, the leader was forced to kneel down on the ground.
How!The leader roared in anger with bloodshot eyes.
After undergoing a nerve-wracking experiment and being reinforced with the hands of the beast, the strength of his arms had been raised to the point where he could kill a Legendary rank with just a simple punch but he was forced to kneel down by this masked figure.
Although he was thoroughly angered, he didnt lose his composure. He narrows his eyes toward one of his subordinates who was quite close to them.
While Alex focused on the leader, his back was exposed and the underlying dashed toward Alex and pierced his sword towards Alexs side.
Alex moved his waist to avoid the critical hit but the sword drew a long line across his side.
A small cut appeared causing blood to splatter.
However, it wasnt Alexs blood rather the sword passed through the leaders shoulder leaving a gash.
p The leaders eyes widened with horror and gritting in anger, he punched the man in the gut sending him flying in the air toward the wall.
Damn idiot.
Wow!
Come, you can do it. Kill all your men on our behalf.Alex cheered for the man, further angering him.
All of you focus on this man.The leader ordered and rushed towards Alex.
Many robed figures dashed toward Alex causing him to smile.
Wilford who looked at the scene just sighed thinking that the moths were heading toward the flame.
Alex stepped back and then spun his body around.
Whoosh!
Alexs blade drew a path. Light flashed from the sword and it looked like a star shining across the heavens.
The leader screamed in panic and raised his
sword loaded with aura to block the assault.
CLANG!
Another explosion rang out as Alexs energy stretched out and swept through the whole place.
The combined strength of Alexs aura and mana beheaded the one who rushed towards him and crashed into the leader pushing him onto the corner.
Ugh!
The leader ran back in fear while pushing his underlying before him towards the bright light.
The underlying who was made a scapegoat and thrown into a pit tried to evade the attack.
The battle happening all around suddenly came to a standstill.
After the light dispersed, Alex felt numerous stares at him which confused him.
What!
Noah swallowed his saliva and said, I didnt think you were going to be serious from the beginning .
Me too. I thought you were going to be playing around.Wilford said.
I just did it subconsciously. That mans presence riled me up.Alex spoke, pointing at the leader.
Tsk!The leader clicked his tongue and looked at the scene around him.
I dont think we can stop them here. I need to prepare for the backup plan.
If worse comes to worst, I just have to self-detonate this place and escape. I cant let our plans be leaked to an outsider.
The leader grumbled and attacked the ground causing smoke to appear before him and fled away.
Shit!
Stop looking at me and do something. Our prey is running away.Alex screamed.
Noah prepared to cast a spell while Alex tried to run after the leader but unfortunately Alex was blocked by the henchman.
Stop him. Meanwhile, I will commence the auxiliary plans.The leader screamed from afar as he ran away.
While running away, he pressed a button on the wall which rang the warning sign alerting everyone and slipped past the door.
Get the hell out of my way, you piece of shit.Alex roared and swung his sword blasting away anyone that appeared before him.
Slice!
Alexs sword cut through the peoples chests and stomach
SLING!SLING!SLING!
Bright crimson light flashed by the dark passageway multiple times, and every time a light lit up an underlying head fell off.
At that time, Alex who was cutting through the hoard of sheep felt his grip tighten as the enemy whom Alex cut didnt die rather faint crackling sounds were heard.
Crackle!
The sound of bones getting deformed was heard and Alex immediately withdrew knowing what was happening.
The mans chest where Alex cut quickly sealed and his physique expanded and his human figure changed into a monstrous one.
This place is full of discarded pieces of trash, Alex spoke while raising his sword to fight the monstrous figure before him.
Alexs blade struck the lower torso of the man whose body started to deform.
Seeing the man contorting expression, Alex twisted his sword and stepped back while clicking his tongue.
The man before him suddenly became stronger and was transforming at an astonishing rate.
A crackling sound due to the breaking and joining of bones was heard.
His body started to enlarge.
His arms started to bulge and claws extended from his hands. His face became hairy and a snout of a wolf appeared.
Kyaaaaaaaa!
It lets a loud bestial shriek which was akin to a beast.
Everyone flinched back a little on hearing the sharp cry.
Noah, who was taking on the others, shouted in panicWhat the hell is that thing?
Wilford stared at the monster calmly and appeared before Noah as he sensed that the transformed man was dangerous.
Its just a puppy who had lost his home, Alex spoke as he rushed towards the man.
CRANG!CRANG!CRANG!
It was hard to believe that this battle was between humans. They heard monstrous shrieks and then saw a red shining blade intercept the violently swinging fists.
Their collisions created strong ripples one after another. It was even amazing that the place was still holding itself instead of getting demolished.
The man relied on its brute physical state after transforming to take Alex down.
BANG!BANG!
Alex dodged the mans attack which drilled a hole in the back of the walls. While running around, Alex saw many people rushing to the place, and each of them felt quite bizarre.
Maybe each one of them can transform like this or maybe not. There is still a darkness pill that ought to be used by these scums which would surely increase their strength.
Alex after defending himself from the vicious attacks found that the man had many openings. Due to his large body and terrific strength, he aimed at pummeling his opponent.
Alex ran closer to the man who threw his claws straight at Alex.
It was quite fast but Alex evaded it by tilting his head though it brushed past his cheek with a small cut.
Seeing Alex drawing near with a sharp gaze, his bestial instinct screamed in panic, and he slashed its another claw at Alex.
Swish!
His other hand met empty air as Alex bent down on his knees avoiding the blow and then jumped up towards the man and stabbed his sword.
The bestial man wasnt able to escape from this close range and Alexs sword pierced its stomach.
Ughhhhh!He groaned in pain and his hand flew towards Alex but Alex evaded it by simply arching his back while pulling out his sword and then striking his sword into the monsters thigh.
kayak!
Blood spurted out from the monster but the monster endured and it tried to hit Alex as if it was its last resort.
CRUSH!
Alex increased his grip and the mana raged violently on his blade and he twisted his blade.
BANG!
The leg Alexs sword struck exploded abruptly.
Blood, skin, and bone fragments shoot out and Alex backs away to avoid them.
The man cried and groaned in pain while his body went back to normal.
As Alex walked closer, the wall which was a few metres away from him vibrated again and many robbed figures appeared.
Leave him and we will grant him easy death.One of them screamed and was about to lunge forward when he was hit by a frightening brush and was thrown away.
The newly arrived men were welcomed by arrows and spellsshowered by Noah who looked at Alex and shouted to carry on.
One of the figures was burnt to a crisp under Noahs barrage who stepped up while incantation spells one after another.
Damn it!
Someone cover for us. We need to transform to get rid of these people.
The men spoke among themselves and closed the door to take cover. Four of them already died due to Noahs frightening assault which angered them greatly.
Groan!
Each of them seemed to be similar to the man whom Alex was fighting inside. Their bodies started to convulse and pulsated while veins bulge.
Kukkkk!
The pain caused them to shriek.
Just wait, I will slaughter each of these bastards.One of them roared in anger as his body went through a terrific transformation, however before it could be complete, the door made of a material that could take a strike from legendary rank burst open suddenly with a loud blast throwing them into disarray.
Their eyes widened with horror as they noticed the rank of the human appearing before them.
It was Peak Mythic rank.
Even if all of them ganged up on him after transforming still there is no chance.
Wilford walked towards them coldly with a menacing gaze and mutteredMenace of the society.
Let me give you a choice.
Die peacefully after telling me about your leader or die shedding tears of blood under my sword.
The choice is yours, Wilford spoke with a vicious smirk that sent a chill down their spine.
Noah walked through the door and his body stiffened after hearing Wilfords words.
He wasnt surprised by his words but rather by that expression that Noah had seen many times recently.
It seems that he had been affected by Alex.He muttered inwardly and looked back at Alex who said similar words to the man who was rolling in pain.
Alex approaches the man rolling in a pathetic state who was murmuring something.
I am asking you for the last time. Do you have something you want to convey to me?
The man raised his head and spoke with a fearful toneYou will die and torture us by our hands.
Alex pierced his sword into the gash of his stomach created previously and as he pulled out his sword, the mans intestine spilled.
Before that, you are going to be tortured to death by me.
You will face the wrath of Omen.
Your death will be ominous.
What!Alex asked and held the mans neck and stared at it but the man finally lost consciousness.
Alex stared at the corpse which was breathing a moment ago with a baffled expression.
Witnessing Alexs expression, Noah walked back toward Alex and askedDid you get anything out of him?
Nothing sort of grand but he seemed to mutter the name of the organisation.
He said we will suffer the wrath of Omen.
Noah heard Alexs words and mutteredWhat an ominous name?
Alex got up and tilted his gaze towards the door.
Beyond it, loud shrieks and howls echoed in the place.
A bloody battle was ensuing beyond that wall.
Should weleave some people behind and ask them to search around for information?Noah asked.
No, Alex refuted and spoke.
We cannot do that. We know nothing about the opponents nor do we know their number. What if the knights are attacked and killed by a group after we leave?
We will stick together until we get rid of everyone and conduct our search after that.
Noah nodded at Alexs words and asked to regroup while Alex marched forward.
Passing the door, he saw another passage which had been dyed with blood.
Cut pieces of limbs and organs scattered through the path which was quite a nauseating sight for many and at the front, a man charged at the enemy like a butcher cutting the enemies before him into pieces.
He is enjoying himself.Alex chuckled and decided to join the party.
The monstrous men panicked after witnessing Wilford taking charge of them and some due to being afraid even threw weapons at him.
Wilford glanced at them casually as he could easily deal with them but Alex appeared before him and struck the weapons away.
Sir Wilford, these weapons are cursed so dont take this lightly, Alex warned with a serious tone.
Wilford frowned and looked at the weapon carefully and felt the sinister aura from it.
Noah along with other men appeared behind them while Alex and Wilford finished the front.
It didnt take too long for them to butcher the entire group of people.
Dyeing the place in blood, they walked ahead again.
Alex then took the lead and guided them following the leaders mana signature.
They were led to another narrow cave and as soon as they entered the cave, the things that Alex was concerned about the most finally appeared.
Whoosh!
Alex swung his sword. His mana infused sword sliced the target flying towards him.
POP!
The target was cut into two halves and it exploded in front of him.Dark energy floated in the air and disappeared when Alex waved his hand.
Did you feel it?Alex asked.
Their presence is quite faint.If one isnt experienced enough or is slightly negligent, he would be in trouble.Wilford spoke in a grim tone.
Since Alex was going to take charge, he had narrated in detail the things that they might encounter here.
Vermouth and Wilford knew about all of this but Noah and his brother kept hidden about the things as it was quite an important matter.
When Noah came to know about their existence, he was bewildered beyond his wildest dream.
This is where the real battle starts. These beings arent strong but they are surely deadly.We will soon reach the end so we might face a lot of sneak attacks from now on.Alex warned everyone and asked them to stay alert and raise their guard.
As they moved further, more dark beings like the one that Alex just exterminated began squirming towards him.
They looked gross and bizarre. It was as if a shadow rose from the ground and we were moving towards them trying to catch their route of retreat.
The beings that rose from the ground clearly didnt have any particular shape and looked like a moving clump of darkness. However, all of them roughly had an outline.
p There were some who had four prominent parts sticking out so they looked like humans.
Some were crawling on all four, some were walking like humans while their hands took the shape of various types of weapons while some were lumpy and small like animals running around.
Even if most of them were squirming around while not noticing the intruders presence, a couple of them were able to spot them and like wild voracious beasts, they screamed and pounced on them.
The knights attack them and burst the shadow of beings that were coming towards them.
Swoosh!Swoosh!
Its easy to take them out.The knight murmured with arrogance but at the next moment a whip shot out from the one which startled him and the sharp end of the whip pierced through his shoulder.
Arghhh!He groaned in pain but swung his sword and cut through it.
Alex noticed the grave injury of the man and casted a healing spell while giving an earfulAre you a small kid?
Didnt I say not to be careless around them? They may appear intangible and weak but can cause deadly damage.
BOOM!
A fireball crashed into them while throwing many at bay but at the same time, it also attracted many shadow creature attention.
They are just endless, Noah spoke and hit his staff on the ground after chanting the spell.
A huge magical circle appeared before him and spewed out flames like the wrath of dragons.
Thats also one of their strengths, Alex spoke while puffing his chest.
What the hell? Why are you being proud in this situation?Noah retorted, causing Alex to glare at him.
The cave squirming with shadow creatures from top to bottom was burnt by the flames into ashes.
Those bodies which caught fire started to burst one after another emanating a dark mist.
When the flames dispersed heavy and thick smoke lingered along with dark mist that seemed to be mixing with the smoke and dissolving in the air which made them suffocate.
Noah whipped his staff blew the air and pushed them away towards the entrance only to see more shadow creatures in that place.
Everyone scowled seeing the sight that greeted them. Shadows swarmed around the trenches.
Most of them seemed to be uninterested but Alex knew that once the fight started, everyone was going to swarm around.
As Alexs eyes scanned around, he caught sight of the massive door on the other side and felt the mana of the leader.
This place seemed to be a breeding ground of shadows,Noah said, which made everyone frown at his odd words.
Stop spouting bullshit and hit them hard before they make a move. The door that you are seeing on the other side is where that son of a bitch went. I cant feel anyones aura anymore. I still feel there are some dangerous things in there.Alex shouted to Noah.
Noah grimaced upon hearing Alexs words and felt as if he was his worker and this boss of his overworking him to death.
Move aside, Noah spoke angrily and raised her staff and cast a spell.
ZIP!ZIP!
Lightning started to bounce off from his staff and after he completed the spell, he swung the staff before him.
Rumble!Rumble!
A noise that sounded like thunder filled the trench that made everyone shudder a bit. But it had a clear effect
A flash of light shredded the trenchs inside and swept the shadows.
When the bright light disappeared, most of the shadows disappeared without a trace.
Noah breathed heavily as he cast a high tier spell which almost exhausted him making his face pale.
I will handle it from here, Alex muttered and pulled out his sword and slid his finger across it.
It started to sparkle with a burst of mana.
Alex stomped the ground and reached the centre of the trench with a leap.
Condensing the bright golden aura, he struck the sword on the ground heavily.
WHOOSH!
A dome-shaped bright golden sphere appeared that started to enlarge enormously and hit the remaining shadows which burst out and wiped into nothingness.
The darkish fumes emanating from their body also dispersed and was also cleared without leaving behind a trace.
Alex exerted a little bit in this move but thankfully, Wilford was still energised and seemingly would be the one who would take out the last card of whatever leader is preparing.
Others walked and crossed the trench and reached the door in the empty place.
What are they hiding in there?Noah asked curiously.
It feels weird. Why is there some sort of trench here? It looks more of a desolate place.Wilford murmured.
There were quite a few boulders at the side.
At far it looked like a useless boulder but on getting closer, one can notice that these were piles of motionless golems that were still unfinished.
As they inspected the door, Noah squatted down and inspected the small exposed section which wasnt covered with golem.
All of you should be careful. We dont know if this golem will attack us.Alex warned the Knights who looked around casually.
There is a magic mechanism here. It disperses the attack and seals the door. The mana around it is incredibly strong and there are several complicated magic spells on top of that. I think what lies inside must be quite significant to them.Noah muttered after close inspection.
Wilford stroked his chin and pushed the chains around the door. The door was tightly shot both physically and magically.
It piqued everyones interest and Alex wondered whether they had to decode the magical talisman or break through the strength.
Move out everything. I will open it.
Alex had been taught the universal spell to unlock everything. If it didnt work that means they have to move inside breaking it apart forcefully.
Alex kneeled one leg and placed his hand on the door and cast a spell.
Mana poured out of his hands and flowed to the door. The seal consisting of numerous magical circles started to glow.
A small clicking sound emerged from it and then
BOOM!
After Alexs mana made a great wave, the symbols on the door started to glow up and then a rumbling sound was heard.
I opened it, Alex muttered with a proud look in Noahs astonishing eyes.
How are you so adept in magic? Your magical knowledge is quite high when you are just a magical swordsman.
Dont compare me to others. My presence is beyond your small rains understanding.
You.Noah wanted to curse Alex who spoke as if it was nothing but stopped when he saw the movements on the door.
The door shone with a peculiar silvery light and the door started to slide up.
A wide entrance state appeared in their view. Alex entered it and followed by his companion slowly disappeared down the floor.
Each one of them was nervous after entering a tightly sealed place. All of them grabbed their weapons firmly while Alex sauntered around.
Alexs nose twitched a bit and he sniffed.
SniffSniff.
As they walked deeper, all of them tensed up. The number of golems remains and scattered weapons increased but what made their nerves tense was the air around them changed as if it was piercing them with hot humidity.
Something isdown there.
The scenery changed as soon as Alex spoke.
Alex increased his pace and moved forward followed by Noah who asked Wilford to take care of the knights.
Wilford whose senses were highly heightened felt a disgusting feeling creeping on him. It was quite ominous and chilling.
Something hideous covered the floor, walls and ceilings which let out a disgusting stench.
Noah walked towards the wall and felt something sticky at the very edge of the shoes.
He tried touching the felt lumps of meat with mucus on his finger.
It looks like a decomposing corpse.
DUM!DUM!DUM!DUM!
Alex heard a sound akin to the beating of a heart and the scene before them was immediately lit up.
So you are all finally here.
Welcome to the final masterpieces.
Alexs eyes narrowed as he looked at a huge humanoid figure of protein flesh and at the centre, the leader of the group stood who was soon engulfed by a huge mass of meat forming something akin to a bud.
Alex, who witnessed the ugly creatures, shouted with a deep frown.
Just why hell does everything with these organisations is so disgusting.
While stepping on the rotten pieces of meat, they moved forward. It seemed as if the whole floor was covered with it as the knights followed the trail of Alex and Noah, and like the surroundings, their expressions turned rotten.
Is that a part of the human body?One of them murmured as he saw something that popped out of the wall which looked like a figure but it was distinctly shaped like a persons finger.
And this looked like a piece of the limb.Another also discovered something like that.
Pieces of meat stuck on the ground were shaped like human body parts and after this, they found more pieces that resembled human body parts.
There were dried-up skulls, half-rotten eyes, ears and tongues.
The pieces were less rotten as they moved forward and looked at all the pieces before them.
The rotten smell also decreased along with the flow of mana.
At that time they heard a loud sound from afar and when they reached the place, some subconsciously gulped due to the nervousness building inside them.
Though they were knights who had encountered various kinds of situations, this sight was something that they saw for the first time. It looked like this place was used by a psychopath serial killer.
The Knight at the front cut the pieces off the meat covering his vision but no blood came out. The cut pieces twitched a little bit.
As they raised his brows, they saw lumps of meat like a wriggling worm moving forward and gathering at a place.
And when they reached, they saw an ominous presence occupying the floor.
Unlike the other floors, there was only room and in the centre of it, an enormous being shaped like a giant bud of meat came into view.
The knights looked at Alex and Noah staring at things with perplexed gazes.
Its colour faded like a fish that had lost its freshness. It was rotten and dull. However, it wasnt dead.
It made a big jolt every time they heard a strong mana pulse that seemed to be pumping mana.
What is that?Noah asked Alex with disgust. Almost everyone has the same thought.
Who will I ask if you ask me?
I think its better if we crush that shithead and bring him out to answer this, Alex muttered.
He was feeling quite stifled at the scene as he thought about the number of beings who were killed to make something like this.
Wilford almost shed tears and spoke with a sorrowful expressionOh Goddess, just what kind of crimes did I commit in my previous lifethat I have to fight this kind of thing in my old age?
Noah and Alex glared at him and both of them had the same thought
Isnt this man overreacting a bit.
Noah burn it. Just burn this disgusting trash. Its sin for my eyes to watch this.Alex spoke while stepping back.
He wasnt exaggerating a bit. It is a sin to fight this thing. It was so ugly to look at that one glance of it may make a man vegetarian and turn a wild man into a Saint who would never harbour any thought to kill anyone.
Why dont you do it?Noah asked but he still rushed forward.
Noah waved his staff which spewed flame and crashed onto the bloody lump trying to burn it.
However.
Twitch!
A strong mana pulse shook everyone and spreading everywhere it extinguished the sea of flames.
The clumps of meat made everyone tense up. The bud formed by meat, a phrase that came into everyones mind as soon as their eyes landed on it and it seemed more like it as it moved.
Swish!
Like a blooming flower bud, its petals started to move apart one by one. Petal after petal fell, the disgusting petal made of meat lowered down squinting onto the floor and after many layers of petals gall, an existence inside it came into view.
A monster appeared and its complete form was like a long human of meat and there was a reddish layer of skin over it.
That was already grotesque but between these meat pieces, there were many human parts stuck in them.
Many pairs of arms and legs struck out like needles.
Eyes, nose and ears appeared over the arms.
BLINK!
The monster opened its eyes and its bloodshot eyes rolled around and fixed on them.
Kyaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
The monster cried with various voices.
Wilford stood up before Alex and Noah.
Wilford could feel a sense of danger and soon an arm packed with frightening power was thrown towards them.
Wilfords sword struck it down resulting in a violent collision pushing Alex and Noah a bit.
The Knights who stood far away suddenly screamed as they felt a tickle and saw large ogling arms poking them.
The many mouths appeared that tried to bite them but they reacted quickly and moving out of the way stomped on those pieces of meat.
Alex swung his sword at the nose that appeared underneath him while Noah covered them with a barrier as many hands tried to strike them.
But none of these attacks was strong enough when compared to the attack of the main body faced by Wilford.
Wilford clashes with a pair of arms thrown toward him. If possible he wanted to dodge it but the pressure from these punches may injure those behind him.
Each of them was packed with incredible strength which greatly surprised him. The monster doesnt have a stable base or supporting foothold but still, it was generating a great strength enough to rival him.
The man who claimed to be the leader seemed to be inside that structure.
BANG!BANG!BANG!BANG!
Alex stabbed his sword at wriggling meats and felt as if hundreds of eyes were glaring at him.
He looked at Wilford and thought that bringing him here and saving his strength was worth it but his expression stiffened as he felt an odd amount of mana.
Alex, can you also feel it?Noah asked with a trembling voice.
He was finding it hard to maintain his expression as he observed the strong pulse of the heartbeat which pumped enormous amounts of mana all around.
Alex looked at it and his heart skipped a bit and he nodded his head.
Yeah, Noah I can feel it. This thing is using the heart of the dragon to keep it running and from falling apart.
People with tender hearts might collapse at this moment for real.
After stepping into his place, their mind was getting blown one after another.
Alex slashed through the pieces of meat and threw a spell towards it. A powerful fire shot out leaving behind a long red tail that shot right at the centre of the body of the monster.
Crash
The flames exploded. It was so powerful that the whole ruin shook.
Aaaaaahhhh!
All the mouths in the place screamed in agony. The monster also looked as if it was in great pain.
Wilford, who was quite close to the epicentre of the explosion, had to protect himself by coating himself from the aura.
After the explosion faded, the monsters main body came into view. The pieces of meat were brunt and all the arms and legs fell off.
By that time Alex lunged forward and cast another magic spell while clicking his tongue in annoyance.
It was another flame magic that caused flames shaped into pillars and erupted everywhere from the ground. It seemed as if the pillar of flames would finish things quickly and burn the e monster quite easily.
CRASH!
But Alex was surprised as his magic was blocked. The ferocious fire pillar was stopped by a semi-transparent wall.
Shockingly what stopped Alexs magic attack was another magic spell of a higher tier.
The first spell was able to hit him because it was preoccupied with attacking Wilford so he wasnt able to react immediately.
Alex expected it to try something when attacked for a second time but he hadnt expected it to use a magic spell
Alex watch out! The mouths seemed to be muttering spells.Noah cried out and warned Alex and others who quickly tried to distance themselves.
BAAM!
Two different types of the magic shot at them.
A combination of fire and wind bombarded everyone who was at the sight.
Wilford stepped forward and swung his sword towards the oncoming attack.
Terrifying gales emerged which clashed with deadly bombardment and pushed it back towards the monster which protected itself with a magic barrier again.
They made a shitty piece of art, Alex muttered and looked all around.
Just thinking about the number of people sacrificed to make something like this made his heart cold.
The people who were killed werent any ordinary individuals and might be some great warriors who might be crying and lamenting for being turned into his.
All the pieces of rotten meat seemed to be part of this monster and since it is wriggling around, Alex felt a bad premonition.
The monster had a dragon heart imbued in it which means, it had a great amount of mana which also means it can exert extraordinary control over the mana.
Alexs senses tingled and his back was drenched in a sweat thinking about the frightening revelation.
Alex turned to look at Noah who had already become as pale as a sheet of paper.
Noah, since this monsters main body can use magic, that means
It didnt take long enough for Noah to understand what Alex wanted to say and he gulped nervously.
The lips lying all around as if wanting to answer them started to cast.
And soon magic spells began to be completed one after another followed by projectiles flying from everyone onto them.
Magic attacks poured out with various properties like fire, water, wind, earth and lightning almost destroying the place. Each one of them was a high-level magic attack wielding a great amount of power as well as mana.
If a crazy maniac Magician witnesses this scene then he would have expressed his greatest admiration at the colour display of magic but with the point that they werent the target of these attacks.
Run!
No one knew who screamed first but as if it was an order from the commander, everyone started to run through the narrow tunnel to the outside.
Even Alex followed the order and tried to escape. The space was too cramped up here to fight properly and the numerous spells showered on them might hurt them.
Instead of risking your life here, it was better to fight in the wide trench outside.
BOOM!BOOM!
Magic spells poured out all around. In an instant, the ground they stood on became scorched.
The scene of the group of people fleeing in despair during the spell was similar to the situation where crackers are thrown in a crowded area making everyone run frantically.
Since the attacks were cast thoughtlessly, many attacks clashed against each other and cancelled one another.
However, still, it wasnt sufficient for everything to be neutralised and deal a significant impact on the group.
Wilford covered for others who fled as if they had seen hell.
Punches and kicks were thrown at him by the main body making it difficult for him to counter due to the cramped up place. It also made him worried whether the tunnel could last after going through the barrage of attacks.
Alex swung his sword surging with mana which sliced a magic attack flying in his way. However another magic attack arrived towards him and when he sliced it another appeared and then another after that.
The knights moved quickly through the tunnel which was filled with rotten meat firing at them.
Noah struggled to maintain the barrier which started to crack up due to the sheer amount of spells pouring all over them.
Wilford swung his sword and his attacks penetrated through the wall and blew away a significant portion of the wall through which he passed through.
However, the other mass of squirming meat started to take shape into arms and lips firing again.It seems as if they were trying to kill Alex and his companions at all costs.
Whoosh!
After he annihilated one magic attack and swung his sword through the short gap created in between. The attack from the sword flew like a flash slicing a couple of monster arms along with lips while stopping the casting of the spell to scream of despair.
While undergoing the barrage of attacks, Alex had only one thought in his mind. That was to nuke the entire place into ashes.
The situation really made him sick.
The archer shot arrows through the arms and lips making them scream in agony.
POP!POP!
The arrows cleanly cut off the arms and gave them short gaps which were used by other knights to push forward through the passage.
Alex, who was in the middle of the group, saw the entrance but his happiness didnt last for long as he saw the rotten corpses trying to cover their way of retreat while focusing their spells towards them.
Fortunately, there were no Golems otherwise they might have been in life-threatening situations for real.
With a frustrated expression, he shoutedMake way for me.
The Knights before him stood aside allowing him to step ahead.
Haaa.
Alexs breathing halted and his muscles tensed up.
Exploding mana wrapped his sword and against the magic that seemed to be coming towards him from everywhere, he released all his power.
Swoosh!
A strong shock wave burst forth and the flying magical attacks pouring on him flew away due to the shockwaves while the lumps of meat were ripped and torn into pieces.
Magic attacks that came from the entrance were blocked away and Noah didntmiss this chance.
Rumble!
The lightning in his staff rumbled and before another magic attack could fly towards him and interfere, he shot his spell accompanied by Alex who thrust his sword.
Instead of annihilating Noahs attack, Alexs attack increased its momentum and clashed against the one that came from the door and a blinding flash emitted.
Even though everyone was momentarily blinded, they didnt halt their steps and pushed forward.
BOOM!
Flames burst out from the entrance and a few moments after that a group of people jumped out.
As soon as they came out, they rolled on the ground and huffed the breath of fresh air around them as if they hadnt breathed for several centuries.
Alex grasped heavily while looking at the group of men. Even Noah had squatted down to take some rest.
He frowned and his lips twitched seeing their expression which made him wonder whether they had forgotten something.
It was a guess at first as he saw them looking around leisurely, he stomped his foot heavily shaking them.
Did all of you get hit in the head?
The fight is not over, this is where the real battle starts, Alex yelled.
His angered voice snapped them out of their happy thoughts.
Noah wiped off his sweat and turned his gaze around.
He frowned and spoke anxiouslyWhere did Sir Wilford go? I remembered, he was right behind us.
Alex didnt answer and stared at the entrance of the passage through which a blast rang and Wilfords figure shot through it.
He landed beside them with a pale expression as if he had witnessed a horrible scene.
Everyone in the area stared at the clumps of meat that came out of the door and started to take the shape of a giant.
The meat started to mould into a humanoid figure and took one step forward.
THUD!
Whenever the huge giant of incredible mass placed its feet down, the ground trembled slightly as the giant started walking.
Tremors reverberated all around the place. It looked as big as the castle or a legendary monster to the point that its upper body tore through the rocky ceiling causing rubble and debris to fall.
The place was too small for it. Even though they were in mountainous areas, it mostly consists of hills ranging from 100-150 meters and this monster might surpass that height.
The knights destroyed the pieces of scraps falling on them while stepping back from the humongous figure.
Is it the persons last struggle for revenge?A knight spoke with a stiff voice.
They had never felt dense mana like this. Moreover, they werent able to feel the level of the monsters which horrified them more.
All of them were at legendary rank and were subjected to respect and worship but before it, they looked like small ants that could be crushed.
The chilling and pure mana getting pumped out from the giant made Noah shudder and gave them an extreme sense of crisis. If this was the persons last struggle then he might want to drag down with them.
Alex, I think we should retreat!Noah muttered with a panicked expression.
We will ask for help and then come back to take it down.
Alex wanted to refute but seeing everyones ugly expression, he was also perplexed for a moment.
The situation still hadnt become that much life-threatening to retreat.
There is still a 90% chance for them to win but what about the remaining 10%? What if another unfortunate event occurred here?
Everyone came here after placing his hopes in him and he was the one who led him here. So, he cant let them die no matter what.
Even if they are missing a great opportunity to know about the organisation, even if they dont know if there would be an opportunity, they need to survive instead of rushing forward like a madman.
As Alex started to face a dilemma about what to do, everyone heard Wilfords voice.
This kind of thing is dangerous. Its unstable currently. I dont think it could maintain that power for too long. Even for a short amount of time, it is extremely dangerous.
Moreover, if we retreat and run away, what about the people around the place?
CRUUK!
At that time, the giant moved his hand and tore the ceiling and a change occurred on the giants face as something could be seen pushing through the face.
Is it the face of the leader, Noah muttered.
The face of the leader with two thick arms and legs made of some beast appeared making the situation quite grave.
Contrary to the grave situation, the leader smirked.
[Hehehe!]
[All of you are going to die here and you will be crushed by the debris of the mountain]
The words rang louder but the speech deteriorated for a bit making it harder for everyone to understand yet everyone could feel the joy from the tone at the moment.
Everyone leaves. I will deal with him.Wilford spoke and jumped up towards the collapsed ceiling.
Sir Wilford!Noah shouted, wanting to stop him.
Noah got out from the entrance and tried to come from around the hill. The base may collapse here.Alex advised.
Where are you going?Noah asked with widened eyes as he saw Alex was moving forward.
I am going to fight that guy? Alex spoke with a flat tone.
Are you out of your mind?
Maybe,
I cant leave Sir Wilford alone. I took responsibility for everyones safety.
A promise is a promise. Since I have said it, I will see this till the end if I end up dying.
What seriously?Noah screamed with a frown as his body shuddered to see the lex resolution.
Dont die, you idiot? We still need you.
Dont forget about the deal we have made, Noah spoke hurriedly with an embossed expression.
Did you seriously think I would die at the hands of this ugly creature?
Unlike certain people, I have some lovely ladies waiting to embrace me when I am back.
Alex spoke with a grin and jumped up.
Noahs jaw dropped wide and he swallowed his anger which was about to burst out from his heart.
Making his way through the falling dust and debris, Alex came out and landed on a rocky cliff.
The mountain wasnt erect straight but had a gradual slope with terraces making it easier to stand.
Alex looked around and found a pleasant view around him but he didnt have time to enjoy it as a series of clashes had already begun.
Whoosh!
The giant swings its arms and while coming down at Wilford, many magic spells come out from it.
POP!
The giant feet stammered down on the ground and it didnt look like the man had full control over his body yet it failed to maintain its balance which made it easy for Wilford to dodge the blow which went past him.
Huge shockwaves burst out along with dust and a huge part of the mountain was crushed forming a hole over the cliff.
[AhAh..Ah..]Seemingly irked, the giant shrieked out strange sounds from its thousand lips and swung his arm again.
His attacks missed again as both Alex and Wilford sneaked under it.
A huge torrent of fireball shot from the hands which split into many parts and sprinkled over the mountains resulting in a chain of mini explosions.
One of the attacks passes through the mountain and lands on the huge lake.
Another huge fire surged far away and like an exploding volcano, flames spit the sky and the remains of the earth scattered everywhere.
HuffHuff..
Alex breathed heavily as he saw the colossal display of powers. Instead of boasting a great size, if they had concentrated this into a small entity like a suit then the devastation caused by it would be unfathomable.
Just thinking about it makes Alexs hair stand up.
Fortunately, he didnt say it aloud. Otherwise, who knows if this bastard may implement this and make a suit giving it the name of Meat Man?
Without wasting more time, Alex pulled out the Deadweight Greatsword from his ring and prepared to deal blows with it.
The giant swung its arm again and didnt miss this time and crashed onto Wilford who swung his sword.
BOOOM!
A loud explosion rang out around the surrounding area causing a part of the mountain to collapse.
The leaders explosion collapsed as he saw the hands blocked and as he looked towards the place where his hands were blocked, a powerful blow struck from the side which made it stammer and fall to the side.
He spreads his hands to support himself while searching for the thing that hit him when he hears someone mocking him.
Where are you looking at shithead?