Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest novel Chapter 87

Chapter 87 Chapter 20.5 - Dungeon

"This is the core of the first barrier and the first dungeon fragment."

As we acquired the dungeon fragment, we were ready to leave the first stage.

'The second stage will be a lot uncomfortable.' I thought.

With our steps taking us to the barrier, we saw it was already lifted. This was because the dungeon fragment that was supplying it with energy was already in our possession.

"From this moment on, we will encounter different types of monsters, and the environment will change. Stay alert and listen to my every command."

Different from the first stage, Anya's voice was a lot more serious this time. It was because she herself knew how dangerous arrogance could be in such an environment.

"Understood, captain," Ethan spoke first.

""" Understood, captain.""" And the others followed his words.

"Good."

As we ventured deeper into the dungeon, the environment began to change.

The air grew thick with an eerie, swirling fog that obscured our vision and made every step feel like a journey into the unknown.

'Now, this is the second stage, I know.'

Looking at the thick fog covering our vision, I recalled the contents of the second stage. This was where Fred escaped using the fog to his advantage after stealing the dungeon fragments while everyone was fighting with the boss.

However, this thick fog that enveloped us was not only disorienting but also uncomfortable.

'It has the property of nullifying one's senses.'

This fog was a fog that made the person inhaling sleepy. It would cling to your skin, leaving a damp, clammy feeling that was both unpleasant and itchy.

'Indeed, grabbing the anti-sleep pills and purifying potions was a good idea.' I thought, looking at our 'healer and priest.'

"Alright, guys," Anya's voice cut through the oppressive silence, "we're in the second stage now. This fog is going to be a challenge, but we can't afford to let it hinder us. Stay close, and keep your senses sharp."

Anya turned to me, her expression slightly showing expectation. "Astron, can you see anything through this fog?"

I squinted, trying to pierce through the thick haze. "Not much, Captain. It's like trying to see through a wall of cotton."

But, of course, this was a lie. I was able to see a lot better than others with my [Keen Eye], but I needed to make Fred feel safe. Thus, I didn't reveal much.

She nodded, her brows furrowed. "Then your marksmanship won't mean much."

"It won't mean as it used to, but I can find my own," I answered, looking at the thick fog. The normal range of sight was five meters, and it was not that ideal to use a bow.

"Astron, haven't you used daggers as your main weapon before?" At that moment, Ethan chimed in, saying the thing I was expecting him to say.

"Yes. I can also use daggers."

Hearing this, Anya nodded her head.

"Alright, everyone, listen up. We can't rely on our sight as much in this fog, so we'll have to trust our other senses. Astron, keep your ears sharp for any unusual sounds; you will use your dagger and protect Fred. Emily, Hari, be ready to react to anything you hear. Since your weapons are relatively short, you will need to stay on the rear back. Faye and Ethan, you will be the ones behind me. Since our range of movement is limited, we can't afford to move much and lose the group. You both will provide damage to my back. And, Fred. You will start using buffs from now on. Clear?"

The responses were unanimous, a chorus of "Yes" confirming our understanding of the formation and strategy. As instructed, everyone quickly assumed their positions, and our senses heightened as we braced ourselves for the challenges the foggy second stage would throw at us.

'This is similar to the game.'

In the game, Anya also did the same formation, but if one thing was different, then that would be rather than me being behind; it would be Emily who was covering Fred.

However, that was it. There was no point in comparing that anymore.

SCREECH

The eerie silence that followed was broken by an unexpected sound - a horrifying, piercing scream that echoed through the fog.

It sent shivers down my spine, and I instinctively gripped my daggers from my spatial ring, readying myself.

'Sylvans.'

Immediately remembering the contents and the names of the monsters, I readied myself.

"Ready for the confrontation," Anya's voice was a steadying presence as she warned us to prepare.

The fog, thick and oppressive, seemed to respond to her warning, swirling and shifting as if it held a sinister intelligence.

SWOOSH SCREECH!

Figures emerged from the dense mist, humanoid forms that moved with unnatural speed and agility.

They descended upon us like phantoms, leaping out from the fog, their intentions clear - they were here to attack.

SWOOSH

Without warning, one of these creatures lunged at me, seemingly materializing out of thin air.

Its clawed hands reached for my throat, and I barely had time to react.

CLANK

I deflected the attack, feeling the power behind it. Certainly, my weak body was showing its lacking from the start.

SWOOSH

However, that didn't mean anything.

'No need to cry for what I don't have.'

Imbuing my dagger with white-colored moon mana, I could feel my body getting lighter. My daggers skills with mana improved, especially thanks to Senior Maya's guidance.

SWOOSH

With a smooth step, I dashed to the monster with my other dagger, slashing it from its chest.

"KIEK!"

The monster screamed, but I couldn't afford to waste too much time.

SWOOSH

Dodging the following panicked claw attack, I took my stance.

'Internal Dagger Stance. Whispering Thorn.'

SLASH STAB SLASH

Using the art I have learned, I attacked with strong precision, targeting the weak points of the monster. In a second, I attacked three times.