Ark Vol 3 Chapter 6
Lord of Darkness, Valderas
Move the cannon, aim, and FIRE!
When the black fireball hits its mark, it crushes the annoying monsters crawling around in an instant as it scatters them. Since it has a long range as well, even the monsters that looked like specks, far into the distance, were no problem.
Should he say that it felt like he was playing an FPS (First Person Shooter) game? His stress and fatigue flew away in an instant.
When he saw the message that 5 contribution points and EXP were added per monster, he had thought it was trifling, but he could fire the scorch cannon ten times in 30 minutes. The monsters destroyed in just one shot would range from a minimum of dozens to over a hundred, so his contribution points and experience went up like crazy. With 2 from killing Narak and 1 from the the sub-quest, Ark had gone up 3 levels and was now level 75. Shambala also leveled up similarly, while the low-leveled JusticeMan, Roco, and the other Militia went up by at least 5 levels.
Had the level 30 players ever leveled up this astonishingly fast? The Militia were touched so deeply that they couldnt get over it for awhile. Arks contribution points also went up from 9,000 to 18,000 in the blink of an eye.
- Arks current contribution is 18,560. You are in 21st place.
My ranking went up by 40 in an instant!
He had finally started catching up to the players in Platoon 1. Alan was still leading the contribution ranking, however, the difference that had been 4 times as great had shrunken to 2 times. It felt like the fog had cleared, allowing him to glimpse the summit of the mountain at last.
I dont know if I can beat Alan, but I might be able to get into the top 10.
"Youve worked hard. Rest a while."
Having reached the castle, Ark dismissed Group B and was heading to the Lords Castle to report the result. However, while pa.s.sing the square, he heard a ruckus off to the side. Turning his head, he saw the players from Group A, who had failed the operation and returned to gather there. Unlike when they had confidently departed, everyone was surrounding and glaring at Alan, Andel, and the rest of Platoon 1. He happened to meet them just as he was curiously thinking about what happened to Group A. Ark pushed through the crowd to survey the situation.
"If youve got a mouth, say something," snapped a Warrior.
"Just how are you going to take responsibility for this?"
"How is this my responsibility?"
"What?"
"I never carried out the operation arbitrarily. I always went forward while discussing it with the leaders of Platoons 2 and 3. Dont you think youre forcing it a bit by putting the blame for failure only on me?"
Alan held his head high and answered with an arrogant expression. The gathered users argued as though they couldnt believe their ears.
"Were not acting this way because we failed the quest!"
"Thats right, because of the magic bomb that you threw, 6 people from our raid died!"
"Ours lost 7. Even our raid leader died!"
If you pieced together their words, it came down to this. As everyone had expected, Group A had easily reached the scorch cannon. Then they attacked the 300 monsters head-on. Their fighting forces were nearly equal, but as soon as the totally unexpected mini boss Gun Captain Najak showed up, Group A was pushed back.
Alan was forced to call a retreat. The enemy was stronger than he thought, so he was going to raise their stats with food and individual buffs before attempting an all-out attack again. And as Alan planned, at first Group A unleashed a fierce a.s.sault as they pressed back the enemy. The problem was 5 minutes later...
Players suddenly began to go on a rampage. Hexed with Confusion, they went around casting their skills everywhere.
The Howling Seasoned Chilies Ark had subst.i.tuted in were showing their colors. But there was no one in Group A who knew they would fall into Confusion. It was because they had never heard of getting a hexed from eating normal food. In any case, thanks to everyone going crazy, Group A took an enormous blow. Truthfully, up to this point, it wasnt Alans fault.
However, before the Confusion wore off, the magic bombs time reached its limit. Finally breaking free from Confusion, Alan had two options. To embrace the bomb like some kind of heroic trooper and die alone. Or, he could ensure his own survival no matter who else died.
The choice Alan made is obvious even without seeing it.
The Health of the players were already reaching rock bottom because of the Confusion. Since a bomb exploded in their midst, the result was obvious. 15 killed, with dozens more hurled into critical condition. The shocked Group A immediately retreated and the sub-quest ended in failure.
"We understand that it was an unexpected situation. But there was a lot of damage from you, the so-called Commander, throwing the magic bomb. Thats definitely your responsibility!"
"Then what was I supposed to do? Was I supposed to embrace the magic bomb and die or something?"
"What?"
"The people who died just didnt have any luck."
Alan was smart. This may be a game, but he wasnt able to lead this many people simply with his high level. He needed wit, leadership, and charisma for it to be possible. Alan was equipped with all of it. As though that wasnt enough, he got one extra, unnecessary thing. The greatest disadvantage of those who think themselves clever; pride. Truthfully, no matter who looked at it, Alan was in the wrong. However, he didnt apologize. It was because of his pride that stuck with him to the end. It was the reason the players were angry. And, once the rage burst through the floodgates, it swelled uncontrollably.
Those of merit attract undue attention and envy. In order to command others, one cannot help but gain an egotistic side.
Alan has lived this way until now; there had been small complaints, but nothing had become too great of a problem. However, Alans recent, rapid rise to fame had started drawing much jealousy. And, now that there was an excuse, people were attacking Alan left and right.
This is why I dont like players.
Of course, he disliked Alan even more. At first place in contribution, Alan was also firmly seated at first place in the players that Ark disliked. Thus, Alans plight was Arks joy. A wicked smile spread over Arks lips.
I worked so hard for this, it would be a shame to let it pa.s.s with just an argument. Now, shall we properly kindle this fire?
"Dedric, this is a special task."
Ark summoned Dedric and whispered into his ear. Dedrics eyes sparkled as he p.r.i.c.ked his ears.
"Oooh, as expected of Master! What a truly underhanded— I mean, awesome, idea."
"Think you can do it?"
"Just leave it to me, something like this is welcome any time."
Dedric smiled with a strange expression as he crawled low along the ground. Crawling between the feet of the noisily arguing players, Dedric was as nimble as a c.o.c.kroach. In such a manner, Dedric crept past the players and leapt to attach himself to the rear of Alans white horse. That was when a rough holler exploded out.
"Shut the f.u.c.k up, you b.a.s.t.a.r.ds! Do you know who youre f.u.c.king with? You think Im some pushover because I stayed quiet? You guys should just move as youre told! Dammit, do you think that I, Alan, would deal with b.a.s.t.a.r.ds like you if not for the experience and contribution?"
The clamoring players suddenly quieted. Alan shook his head with a flummoxed expression. "N-no. I didnt..."
"This b.a.s.t.a.r.d, is that how he thought of us?"
"I cant believe my ears, seems like hes under the delusion that he can do anything he wants after being on TV once?"
"On TV, he said this and that about other peoples help... so his true self was like this."
Players muttered in dejected voices. Even the women, who had always blindly taken Alans side, whispered as they glanced at him disappointedly. Just then, another shout burst from Alan.
"I told you to shut up, you d.a.m.n wenches shut up too! You wretched b.i.t.c.hes, I put up with your annoying squawking and chasing after me, but youre betraying me now? Go to h.e.l.l!"
"Wh-what? Bi-b.i.t.c.hes?"
"Alan, thats too much!"
As the girls started to boil, the boys sprang up to shout insults at Alan. With a shaken expression, Alan backed up while shaking his head.
"N-no, it wasnt me who said that!"
"Are you thinking of treating us like idiots til the end? Who else is there but you, huh?"
Alan whipped his head around to see, but Dedric had already been unsummoned and had returned to the Netherworld. He was stuck between a rock and a hard place. Alan was suddenly stamped as someone with a dual personality.
"He has revealed his true colors at last."
"Sheesh, theres even guys like him?"
"What an unsociable jerk. I wont take your f.u.c.king orders anymore."
"Such a disappointment. I didnt know he was such a person. Lets go."
The players quickly scattered, as if they didnt even want to talk about it anymore. As though he didnt quite understand the situation, Alan was left with a dumb look. 100 people had been gathered around him, but now there were only fifteen players left.
So pitiful. Well, he did do something worth becoming that pitiful... After leaving the square with the others, the corners of Arks lips rose slightly. Thats why you have to mess with people secretly.
Its not like he didnt think he went too far, but he hadnt made Dedric tell untruths. The Alan Ark knew, at least, was a two-faced b.a.s.t.a.r.d for sure. There was no need to feel something like shame when telling people about the truth, right? Granted, he didnt expect Alan would fall to the ground with something like this. But the players had abandoned him, so his contribution points that had been endlessly soaring up would inevitably falter.
This is the start. Alan, youve made an enemy of me. Dont think thatll end with just this. Someday Ill expose your true ident.i.ty in front of Lariette.
Ark was growing more wicked day by day.
"Ark, I heard the news from Sir Cross. You did it!"
The young Lord rejoiced as he ran over and took Arks hand.
"Not only did you stop the scorch cannon, you actually seized it! You have done us a great deed indeed. No words of praise are enough. We must immediately inform the residents of your heroic accomplishment. Raymond, write up a notice to put onto the message board."
"Yes, sir." Raymond beamed as he raised his pen.
"N-not at all. This mission was not something I did on my own. If not for the help of the Guard, Militia, and the crewmen of the Silver Arrow, I wouldnt have been able to do anything. Thats why they are essentially the ones who completed the mission. If you are putting up a notice, please put their names rather than mine." Ark spoke humbly as refused the honor.
Just a few minutes ago, he had witnessed the fall of Alan, whose popularity had been flying sky high. Granted, half of it was Arks work, but regardless, it had happened. Someone who sticks out draws attention. It didnt just apply to Alan. The object of envy soon becomes the object of bitter jealousy. Alan had the level and organizational power to deal with such attention, but the interest of other players was a considerably uneasy element for Ark. He could easily become the target of a Chaotic player, and it was obvious that many limitations on his actions would follow him. He wanted to avoid at least that at all costs.
Ill just take the profit without sticking out. That was the goal Ark had made while partic.i.p.ating in this quest.
Having no way to know such inner thoughts, the young Lord nodded, deeply touched.
"I believe the fact that I have been of help, is a sufficient reward in itself."
"As expected of Ark! No need for a price on a good deed? You are truly a person who is like the crystal of chivalry. To be sure, thats why Father was able to trust you and entrust the keepsake to you. I understand, if you truly mean it, theres no helping it. Raymond, list on the notice that this operation was succeeded by the actions of the Guard, Militia, and the crew of the Silver Arrow, as Ark requested. Is that fine?"
"Yes, thank you." Ark grinned as he brought up the main subject. "Actually, I came to show you this, my Lord."
Ark held out the parchment he had obtained after killing Gun Captain Narak.
- You have checked the contents of Written Instructions Stamped with Master of Darkness Valderas Approval.
It told of the Gun Captains of the scorch cannons, Narak and Najak.
You idiots, what the h.e.l.l are you doing thats taking over a week?!
Due to your incompetence, our Great Master Valderas has decided to personally lead the Demonic Army towards the front line. And, by demonstrating the Great Power of Darkness in person, He will annihilate each and every one of the weak Humans.
You two, move the scorch cannons to the location marked in the enclosed map before the full moon rises. As soon as Great Master Valderas arrives, we will a.s.sault Jackson Castle along with the scorch cannons.
"Valderas!" Exclaimed the young Lord in astonishment.
"Is it a name youve heard of?"
"Yeah..." The young Lord put a hand to his forehead as he rambled on with his inner musings. "I have seen the name in an old doc.u.ment kept inside the castle. I heard that Valderas was the one who ruled the current Jackson territory before the Dark Ages as a warrior of the legendary Draconians. It it said that he was an excellent Lord, but once the Dark Ages began, he suddenly transformed into a vanguard of the darkness and terrorized the continent. Then the 7 Heroes soon appeared, and I heard Valderas disappeared along with the Power of Darkness."
"How did someone who disappeared hundreds of years ago—?"
"Theres no way to tell. Perhaps..." The young Lord continued speaking in a severe voice. "I am only saying this because it is you, but truthfully, ever since the unidentified Army of Darkness attacked Jackson, there has been much a lot of uneasy talk going around. The alarm that the darkness of the Dark Ages may be awakening is spreading dramatically. The Dark Fog covering Jackson shares many similarities with the Power of Darkness that can be found in the records of that time. It is part of the reason why the 3 Great Guilds sent volunteer troops so swiftly. Because if this matter is truly related to the Army of Darkness, then it is no ordinary problem."
"Then?"
"Of course, its still too early to conclude that the Dark Ages have come again. As I said, Valderas was a descendant of Draconians who originally ruled Jackson. Theres the possibility he was hiding somewhere and attacked Jackson to reclaim it again. However, there is no doubt the situation is more severe than expected."
Cross and Raymond also exchanged words with grave faces.
"According to the records of our doc.u.ments, Valderas is said to have strength that rivals the force of a single army division. The renowned Heroes who acted in the Dark Ages lost their lives at his hands."
"I didnt think it would end like this..."
"We have no time. The full moon is rising tomorrow."
"There are still two days before the Kingdoms reinforcements are expected to arrive, but the castle walls are already too weakened to resist due to the continuous daily monster attacks. If they come in to attack the castle, Jackson will take irrecoverable damage, even if we are victorious in the battle."
"We must stop them from reaching the castle at all costs."
There was no doubt that the parchment heralding Valderas appearance was set to announce the final battle. In other words, that meant Valderas was the C++ quests final boss!
He would surely be stronger than any boss that Ark had faced before!
"My thoughts exactly, we simply must stop Valderas from arriving here, at all costs. There are two days until the reinforcements arrive, if we can hold him for two days, it will be our victory."
"Of course. It wont be an easy battle if the opponent is Valderas, but, thankfully, we have the written instructions brought by Ark, so we know the enemys route. Also, one of the scorch cannons has even fallen into our hands. If we mobilize the scorch cannon and all our forces to ambush the route theyre taking, we have a good chance of success."
The young Lord nodded his head as he grabbed Arks hand.
"As you heard, all of this is your accomplishment."
- By supplying decisive information that will influence the result of the war, your contribution has risen by 3,000.
A very welcome message popped up with cheerful sound effects.
"The upcoming fight will be longer and more dangerous than any of the battles before. However, we can win this fight if we hold on for just two more days. Furthermore, the accursed darkness that has covered Jackson will be lifted as well." The young Lord spoke with a voice of resolve. "Sir Cross, prepare the necessary supplies at once and discuss the details of the operation."
"Yes, sir!"
Cross ran out hastily. Then, after about an hour has pa.s.sed, Raymond announced the Lords mobilization order in the square. At the same time, a quest window popped up before every player in Jackson.
Heroes a.s.sembly!
*Sub-quest : The Final Battle
The Lord of Darkness, Valderas, is leading the Demonic Army towards Jackson Castle. If Valderas reaches Jackson, it will receive an irreparable blow. Therefore, the Lord has decided to concentrate all his forces to ambush their movement route in order to stop their advance.
This operation is a general mobilization issued by the Lords command; all garrisoned players must partic.i.p.ate. There are 2 days until the Kingdoms reinforcements arrive—if Valderas advance is stopped or if he is defeated before then, Jacksons garrison will win. The final battle with Jacksons life on the line is starting now. Raise your swords and defeat the darkness!
(All players partic.i.p.ating in this operation will get 50 additional contribution for every monster they kill. All players who partic.i.p.ate in damaging or slaying Valderas will get an increase in contribution points. In addition, all players who successfully complete the quest will get a calculated increase in contribution points.)
Difficulty: C++
It was decided that the operation area would be a valley several kilometers from Jackson Castle. It was good terrain for performing a pincer attack after pushing back the monster army.
The players who had accepted the quest and gathered at the operation area were the combined Platoons 1, 2, and 3, but barely numbering 100. There had been a little over 140 people in the beginning, but while constantly fighting and undertaking Operation Bomb the Scorch Cannons, some 40 people had perished.
In addition, they werent grouped as one, as they had been before. With their trust towards the central point Alan broken, the players had all split into parties.
It wasnt all Alans fault that the raid had broken up. This quest gave more contribution points than any before. Also, this was the final battle that marked the finale of the quest. It was now time to get more points than anyone else, rather then stay alive. It was inevitable that they would challenge the operation in parties rather than a raid.
"Each monster gives 50 additional contribution."
"At best, even we might make it into the best 10."
"This is our last chance to turn the tables. No need to pay attention to the others. Since this is the last anyways, take care of the people in our party only."
"Cleric-nim, do not use recovery magic on other parties and save your Mana."
The players were busily whispering amongst themselves in groups of twos and threes.
Ark was busy in his own way because there were more people he had to tend. "Once the battle starts, there wont be time to survey the situation. The ones in the most danger will be the low-level Militia. You earned quite a lot of contribution from the scorch cannon, so you absolutely mustnt be too greedy for contribution. Do you understand? Surviving is most important."
"Yes, understood."
Roco also nodded with a totally nervous expression. With Platoons 1, 2, 3, the Militia, the Jackson Guard, and even the Sylphid Knights, the headcount was nearly 179. In addition, the young Lord was mapping the details of the operation and conveying it to the players. However, it was certain that once the battle broke out, the players would act on their own, blinded by the experience and contribution.
In the end, only you can take responsibility for your own life.
Of course, it was the same for Ark. The only thing he could do for the Militia was to give them food that raised their maximum Health by 300. Once the battle started, he wouldnt have the time or the inclination to help others.
A battle where you have to improve your results with your ability alone!
It was actually the situation Ark had hoped for.
"What are you going to do?"
Ark looked at Shambala, who was sitting with a relaxed face.
The promise with Shambala was that he would help until the end of the event quest. But Ark had given him the item he wanted after Operation Bomb the Scorch Cannons had ended. Snake had already thrown up everything within its belly. It was a shame to let the item take up a s.p.a.ce in his bag, and Ark had judged that he had done as much work as promised. And also, if he really had to say it, he didnt want to keep Shambala tied down with such terms because he, personally, really liked Shambala. Of course, no matter how much Ark liked him, he hadnt shaved off even 1 Gold from the 300.
"Im not all that interested in the contribution, but... Ill do it with you. Cause its fun to fight alongside you."
It appeared that Shambala also liked Ark quite a bit.
"Its the Demonic Army!"
Just then, the Magician who had been on watch with Night Vision shouted from one side.
Ark also used Eyes of the Cat as he turned his gaze. A thick swarm of monsters were coming into the valley. Shadows, Avengers, Hiptons... but they were on a completely different level from the monsters they had faced before. Players and NPCs, alike, saw that, while the monsters looked the same, their levels and equipment were all different. The monsters coming into the valley were all draped in durable armor, and they were also twice as large in size.
The faces of the players hardened like stone.
Level 100 monsters are mixed in too.
The levels above the monsters heads were a whopping 90~100!
The players were mostly level 70~80. Only Platoon 1, commanded by Alan, maintained an average level of 80, but even then, they couldnt display 100% of their ability due to the influence of the Dark Fog. On the other hand, the monsters received the darkness attribute bonus, and, considering the levels alone, the difference between the two groups was enormous.
However, Arks drive was surging up instead. Arks level had finally reached 75, but calculating in the darkness attribute bonus, his stats were at level 97. There was no difficulty in hunting them even if he didnt make a party.
Alright, its worth doing at this level. There isnt even a penalty for not being in the raid. The higher the level, the higher the base contribution points should be. No, lets not worry about other people. My goal is Alan alone. My contribution is still nearly 20,000 away from his. What will determine how much I can reduce that difference in this battle is currently my skill.
Like a predator watching his prey, Ark gripped his sword as he readied his body. A short while pa.s.sed, and the Demonic Army had approached until they were right in front. Suddenly, a resonant hoofbeats rang throughout the valley as a group charged towards the Demonic Army. The group shooting forward with their spears erect was Jacksons elite force, the Sylphid Knights.
"Its the decisive moment. FOR JACKSONS PEACE!"
"WOOAAH, FOR JACKSONS PEACE!"
"Kekeke? A-ambush!"
"Humans are here, stop them!"
The Shadows at the forefront burst out in shock as they raised their shields. Metallic sounds rang out as spears and shields collided. Taking hits from the accelerated spears, the Shadows went flying everywhere.
They were indeed Jackson Provinces ultimate corps, the Sylphid Knights! They fully paraded the skills that had cut off the monster supply route as they went around the province separately during the quests progression. Once the Sylphid Knights charged, the Demonic Armys formation broke instantaneously.
Cross sprang up as he raised his sword. "Nows the time, attack the flanks!"
"WOOAAH!"
The players hiding in ambush along the flanks of the valley poured out. As players cast their top skills simultaneously, the dark field brightened like daylight. The skills used by the players were mostly offensive skills, but buffs or a.s.sisting magic casted by Magicians or Priests were numerous as well. With the effect of the AOE curse skill used by the Demonic Army overlapping on top of that, colorful message windows popped up like crazy before Arks eyes. There were so many that it was impossible to tell who had used what skill, whether it had applied to him, or if that was a buff or a curse.
But Ark didnt pay any attention to the messages. The effect will disappear since the curses and buffs will mostly cancel out anyways. No need to pay attention to other things. No matter how many enemies there are, my opponent is only the one in front of me anyways!
He didnt even summon Dedric. With countless players around, he had to restrict his skills — there was a great danger of taking an attack from a player who mistook Dedric for a monster. He broke away from the Militia and the Guard too. He had come this far receiving their help out of necessity, but, right now, everyone was a teammate and also compet.i.tion. In the end, you could only ensure your life with your own skills.
Im definitely more comfortable alone. Whether I die or live, its my responsibility.
Thats right, this was originally Arks fighting style.
Ark concentrated all his attention on just his sword and the monster before his eyes.
"Kekeke, Human! Die!"
"Shut up and die, DARK BLADE!"
Ark narrowed the gap between them in an instant and struck the throat of the charging Shadow. Unleashing continuous roundhouse kicks at the staggering Shadow, its Health fell by 70% as it collapsed limply. When he loosed another Dark Blade on top of that, the Shadow shrieked as it disappeared.
Ive gotta defeat as many enemies as possible from the start.
If a drawn-out war began, only the strong monsters would be left. If the players swarmed in then, of course it would become difficult to get points. So he had to secure his contribution by killing even one more monster at the very beginning, even if he had to abuse his Mana.
Riposte!
Ark parried the attack flying in at him as he immediately chained with Counter Attack. As the chain skill activated, the Shadow went flying. Thanks to that, three to four monsters all fell over. Ark immediately ran at them and swung his sword left and right.
Po-po-po-pow!
The continuously bursting critical hits!
The Shadows who were wearing plate armor posed no problem for Ark. The weak points revealed by Eyes of the Cat were the joints of the armor, where defense didnt apply! Having reached the peak of accuracy, Arks sword furrowed into the joints as if being sucked in and dealt critical hits. Wearing the heavy plate armor, the monsters reaction speed was slow. Also, other status abnormalities registered frequently from his kicks. Moreover, the Dark Blade that occasionally shot out ignored defense altogether. The armor meant nothing to Ark.
His counter attacking strengthened as he blocked the attacks rushing in from all directions. The fighting instinct that he had repressed for a while due to watching out for the Guard and Militia revived. His entire bodys senses sharpened as vigor surged forth.
"So you crawled out to die, Human!"
The lizard-riding Avengers breastplate sparkled as it thrust its sword. Ark twisted to slide past the sword, then stepped onto the lizard to spring up. Soaring into the sky, Arks heel kick plummeted straight down and slammed into the top of the Avengers head. Reeling with a stun hex, the Avenger lost its balance and rolled off. The finisher was the Double Critical Chance made possible by its defenseless state!
Ark wasnt one to miss that chance. His sword slid in between the armor with a metallic hiss, cutting the Avengers throat.
Shambalas skill was so compatible with Ark that it was surprising. When Shambala attracted the enemys attention with Blink, the rate of hexes with Arks kicks increased greatly. Also, since both of them had professions that could use the Backstab effect, monsters fell into critical condition in just three to four hits if they attacked from the back and front.
Even while unleashing a combo attack like that, the two didnt need words. If Ark moved first, Shambala naturally fell into step with him, and vice versa. That special "something" only two people trained in martial arts could share was between them. They bore down upon the monsters like fish in their element.
However, the overall battle situation was inching towards the Demonic Army, bit by bit. The power balance had tipped because supporting fire from the Mana-depleted Magicians and Archers died down after several minutes of battle, and the Warriors were also collapsing one after another. But there was a greater reason.
That b.a.s.t.a.r.d Alan...!
Alans party, which was in fact the strongest in the garrison, did not go forward aggressively. Since the beginning of the fight, they posed at the outskirts and were a.s.suming a wait-and-see approach. Even when the party right next to them was annihilated, they simply sat back and watched. Since he wasnt the commander anymore, his att.i.tude was totally unconcerned.
That att.i.tude of Alans suddenly changed when flames filled the valley.
Shhriiieek! BOOOOM!
The black fireball crossed the valley and fell onto the valley. Enormous flames flared as monsters were instantly melted down.
"ITS THE SCORCH CANNON!"
The tiring players burst out in cheers as they turned their heads.
The scorch cannon stood high on a faraway hill. The scorch cannon had positioned itself and was beginning to let loose supporting fire at last. Finishing its recharging, the scorch cannon spewed flames again. Every time that happened, the Health of the monsters, who were packed in like sardines, plummeted.
Alans party ran into battle right after that.
"Nows the time, attack! Judgement of the Sacred Earth!"
Charging down the valley, a flashy halo swept out with Alan at the center. AOE magic that dealt Holy damage to all monsters of the darkness attribute!
In a single blow, the scores of monsters with their Health at nearly rock bottom could not endure the ceaseless damage and exploded. It wasnt just Alan. The party members who leapt into battle with him cast AOE skills like crazy with the Mana they had been saving up. Arrow Shower, which poured forth countless arrows like a rain from the Archer, the Magicians Inferno that enveloped a s.p.a.ce of 10 meters in flames, the Warriors Shock that struck a maximum of 8 monsters with the shield in one blow!
All of them were skills that sucked an enormous amount of Mana — their Mana already depleted, the other players could only look on dumbly.
Alan, you b.a.s.t.a.r.d, so you were aiming for this after all.
Ark ground his teeth with an enraged expression.
The majority of the monsters had lost at least 70% Health from the scorch cannon and the players attacks. With AOE magic piled onto them layer by layer, there was no way the monsters could withstand it. One AOE magic brought down scores; Alans party was acc.u.mulating an outrageous amount of contribution.
Even after that, the battlefield was dominated by Alan.
So theres a reason why people followed Alan even while cursing him.
His first sight of the Holy Knight Alans fighting really took the cake.
"Immortal Aura!"
As Alan used a Holy Knight exclusive skill, his surroundings were enveloped in white light. It was an aura that reduced the damage his party members took from darkness attribute monsters by 30%. Moreover, though normal Paladins could only use one aura, the Holy Knight could stack them. Afterwards, Alan used an aura called Celestial Light and Mana recovery speed increased by 30%. As a result, the Mana of Alans party didnt decrease by much even as they cast skills. Simply being in Alans party gave you this much of an additional effect. The fact that Platoon 1 players had held the best 10 in contribution all this time was a completely inevitable result. That was why Alan had been able to command the volunteer troops despite the mishaps.
Was that all? Astride a horse, Alan even had mobility. He ran faster than anyone to the place where the scorch cannon had fired and cast his AOE skill. Capable of taking down five Shadows in 2~3 minutes, Ark and Shambala also had an extremely fast hunting speed, but they couldnt compare to Alan, who melted down scores in a single blow.
Are these the Holy Knight skills Ive only heard of? It felt like a wet blanket was being thrown over his motivation. So there was a secret to his 40,000 contribution points. Dammit. If its like this, its obvious I cant catch up with him even if I fight to the death. Im p.i.s.sed, but only Alan can hunt like that.
If the Dark Walker was a profession that specialized in soloing and PVP, then the Holy Knight was one that specialized in group battle. With their profession characteristics, there was no way Ark could win against him in a group battle. Moreover, Alan had now broken up the raid and had parted from other players. There was really no reason for him to play the hypocrite and let them secure contribution. Because of that, he indiscriminately strutted around the battlefield as he indifferently fired skills on monsters that another player had reduced to half Health. Even the Shadow that Ark had beaten into critical condition collapsed from one of his AOE skills.
Dammit, my fighting drive is really being put out.
"d.a.m.n IT, thats too much!"
"The cheap b.a.s.t.a.r.d, coming out like this! Lets go before Alan takes it all!"
The players raged at Alans outrageousness, but there was no way to stop him. Also, a chance to win the losing battle appeared as a result of Alans actions, so there was no use cursing him either.
Still, for Alan to be the one getting the most contribution...
Right when Ark was bursting in anger—
GRRRR, ROAAAR!
A roar exploded from the rear of the Demonic Army. At the vibrations that shook the area, everyones attention turned to the direction from whence the sound had come. The monsters that had been pressing in ceaselessly parted to the sides as an enormous monster appeared. A monster, 20 meters in height, with its entire body covered in black flames! The demon was a dragon from the waist down and had the appearance of a human from the torso, which was covered with red armor.
"GRRRRR, LAUGHABLE Sc.u.m. YOU DARE TO BLOCK MY WAY..."
Tongues of black flames flickered out every time he opened his mouth.
A red message popped up before Arks eyes.
- The boss monster Lord of Darkness Valderas has emerged!
Valderas! That guy is...!
Every player halted and stared at Valderas.
"I WILL RECLAIM MY TERRITORY AND DRINK OF YOUR FLESH AND BLOOD!"
An terrible energy befitting of his size poured from his flashing eyes. An overwhelming existence that silenced the battlefield instantaneously! But the emotion that flared into the players eyes was not just horror. Their happiness was greater instead. A certain number of enemies had to be defeated for Valderas to appear. It meant the quest was entering its final stage.
Now, if they just took down Valderas, the quest that had gone on for 3 days would end. Regardless of their ranking, the people who survived until the final battle had acc.u.mulated a lot of contribution points if they just defeated Valderas, they would be rewarded for their 3 days of effort.
"You get contribution points just from hitting Valderas!"
"Lets defeat Valderas and finish the quest!"
"Concentrated attack!"
People pressed forward like a swarm of bees.
"That b.a.s.t.a.r.d is the evil that threw Jackson Castle into despair!"
The Sylphid Knights and the Guard also raised their long swords high as they charged. Countless magic strikes and arrows bombarded him and Warriors surrounded Valderas, swinging their swords.
But Valderas was ridiculously strong. Even after taking countless attacks, there wasnt even a sign that his Health had dropped at all. Enveloped in black flames, even curse magic didnt work on Valderas.
"FLIES!"
Valderas swung an enormous iron mace. The durability of steel shields became 0 in an instant and broke. The Warriors who lost their shields were hit by the iron mace and were flung away. Ark used that chance to approach Valderas rear and thrust with his sword. Contribution would be awarded if he just dealt damage. He couldnt just sit around and watch.
"Dark Blade!"
A Backstab and a critical hit ignoring defense! But Valderas didnt even turn his head. It wasnt even an attack worth his attention. Rather, the black flames encircling Valderas dealt Ark damage when he successfully attacked.
- You have taken 100 damage from Valderas Bastion of Corrupt Flames.
- You have caught a Burn and will take 10 damage every 10 seconds for 1 minute.
"Holy s.h.i.t!"
It meant he would take 160 damage every time he unleashed an attack. To say that contribution points would be given every time you damaged Valderas, it seemed there was no such thing as free in the world after all.
"GRRRR, DID YOU BLOCK MY WAY WITH SKILLS AMOUNTING TO JUST THIS?"
Valderas swung his iron mace like a windmill.
A gale was swept up as Valderas dealt enormous damage to the all the players surrounding him. But, the attack did not end there. Then Valderas opened his maw wide and black flames spewed out. The special skill of the Draconics, Breath!
Four Warriors who were reduced to just 50% Health from the horrible AOE attack fell over without even a chance to pull out recovery potions. If they were level 70~80 Warriors, their Health should be at least 1,000 at 50%. Moreover, they were wrapped up in plate armor so their defense should be over 200. Even so, they couldnt take two hits and collapsed. Ark had rapidly unleashed evasive maneuvers but he also took considerable damage. When the Warriors fell over limply, the morale of the players plummeted.
"d.a.m.n, how the f.u.c.k are we supposed to win against a demon like this?"
"Recovery magic cant even keep up with the damage were getting while attacking!"
"But the Magicians and Warriors have it better! Our arrows arent even hitting him altogether!"
But there was one, sole exception.
"Holy Sword!"
Alan ran in as he swung his flashing sword. As he struck the demon with the sparkling sword, Valderas seemed to take quite a shock as his Health decreased noticeably. Alan cast Holy Sword onto all of his party members and lashed out at Valderas.
Once Holy Sword was used, Valderas auto counter skill was nulled, too.
"A Holy Knight indeed!"
"Dammit, I shouldve joined Alans party after all."
"But theres a way to block that auto counter!"
The Magicians cast Water magic all at once. If Water offensive spells were used against the flame shielded Valderas, he took damage, as slight as it was. And if Water magic was cast onto a sword, they found out that the flame counter was nulled. But most of the Magicians were out of Mana and couldnt grant that magic effect to more than a few people.
Dammit, to think that I have to sit and watch, leaving that lump of experience and contribution...
Having to watch Alan excitedly attack Valderas, Arks insides burned. Moreover, he even had to watch Platoon 1 and Andel raise their contribution, so his innards were about to turn to ashes. But, there was no other way.
A formation where Alans party and the few high-leveled players with the magic effect besieged Valderas and the rest of the players blocked the minions pressing in from their surroundings was naturally formed. Like it or not, they could only help Alan since the quest had to be defeated first.
"Anyways, theres a chance to win!"
"If we have Alan and the scorch cannon, we might even be able to win!"
After several minutes pa.s.sed, Valderass Health fell to about 50%. No matter how impressive a boss he was, he couldnt withstand more than 30 players gulping down recovery potions like water as they attacked like crazy.
At last, the scorch cannons recharging was finished as well. A laser-like light extended from the scorch cannon and took aim on Valderas, the players backed away like an ebbing tide. Simultaneously, the fireball flew through the air and landed a direct hit on Valderas.
BOOOOM!
"Good shot!"
"It may be a boss monster, but it shouldve taken a lot of damage!"
The players shouted with excited voices. But the sight of Valderas that emerged afterwards made their faces pale.
"H-how could this be—!"
"Didnt he recover Health instead?!"
Surprisingly enough, Valderas Health had recovered to 70% again.
"N-no way, can he even absorb flame damage?"
They realize too late. The black flames enveloping his body even stronger than before, Valderas smiled faintly.
"GRRR, YOU ROTTEN HUMANS! AURA OF BLACK FLAME!"
- Valderas has used Aura of Black Flame.
All monsters within 100 meters of Valderas will receive the Bastion of Black Flame.
All the monsters pressing in around them were wrapped in black flames, like Valderas.
"Dammit, f.u.c.king ridiculous! All the monsters have the Bastion of Black Flame?!"
"Now we cant even use the scorch cannon!"
Even though it was useless against Valderas, the scorch cannon had been protecting the players from the Demonic Army onward. It was thanks to the scorch cannon that Alans party was able to focus on Valderas. But if all the monsters received the protection of flames, the scorch cannon would really be rendered useless. There was no way the players could block the Demonic Army since they took damage with every attack.
"BURN IN THE FIRES OF h.e.l.l, HUMANS! FLAME RAGE!"
Valderas jeered at the shocked people yet again as he used a skill. The entire valley shook as if there was an earthquake as the ground split right open. Then, hundreds of flames surged from the rift and exploded when they collided with players. The flames flying around were the size of tennis b.a.l.l.s. They werent so fast that body motions polished in the heat of battle couldnt avoid them, but it was almost impossible for ordinary players to avoid flames of this speed. There was nothing more to be said about the Warriors wearing heavy plate armor. The low-leveled Militia group took even more severe damage. Roco took a hit from the flames right off the bat, and JusticeMan was helping another person when he collapsed from a hit to his back. Players at level 80 lost 30% of their Health in a single blow. Of course the level 30~40 Militia would perish with one hit.
There was nothing Ark could do, even as he watched them fall.
Dammit, something like this—!
The defensive formation collapsed in an instant. The Demonic Army or Valderas were no longer the problem anymore.
"RETREAT, ALL HANDS RETREAT!"
They heard Cross scream from afar. He had ultimately judged that the damage would only worsen in their current state. But even retreat was already impossible. They had made a circular formation in order to pour concentrated fire onto Valderas and were buried within hundreds of Demonic Army monsters. As they watched their teammates falling over one by one, the same message popped up before every player.
Annihilation and quest failure!
No f.u.c.king way. Theres no way to win with Valderas having 100% resistance to fire!
Ark dodged the successive b.a.l.l.s of flame as he clenched his teeth.
That 100% fire resistance, its an option attached to a Legendary item. If its not an item, then that resistance can only be defeated in the underwater world. Flames would be no good there, but here...
It was then. Ark recalled the map that had been attached to the written instructions.
Thats right. Up this valley, there is...!"
Ark summoned Dedric as he rolled on the ground.
"Dedric, fly! Raymond is controlling the scorch cannon. Go to Raymond and tell him to smash a fireball into the river bank!"
"What? What the h.e.l.l?"
"Shut up and just do as I say! Theres no time!"
As Ark screamed, Dedric floundered as he flew to the scorch cannon.
And then several minutes later, when half of the forces had fallen from Valderas and the Demonic Armys flaming attacks, the scorch cannon suddenly rotated towards the North. Then a roar sounded as a fireball shot out.
Watching the fireball disappear into the darkness, Arks eyes flashed.
Its a success. Now we just have to hold on!
And, a short while afterwards, he felt a vibration at the bottom his feet. At first it was a barely noticeable, small vibration, but it soon became violent enough to make his body shake. Ark dodged the flying flames as he opened his bag.
"Sharkmans Shackles!" Ark rapidly changed his shoes and shouted at Shambala. "Shambala, grab onto me!"
"What?"
Slipping past flames with qigong, Shambala spoke incredulously. The vibrations seemed to grow stronger, then suddenly, a roar burst from up the valley with a rumble.
ROOOAAR, CRAASH!
"Water? How?"
Players, NPCs, and even Valderas and the monsters all halted and burst out in astonishment. An enormous amount of water shook the earth as it rushed in. Located up the valley was the river where the steel-armored merchant ship sent by the Merchant Guild had sank. Having confirmed on the map that came with the written instructions, Ark had blown up the bank between the valley and the riverside with a fireball. Of course, the overflowing river water followed the slope and rushed down into the valley at an enormous speed.
If this isnt underwater, than all I have to do is make it underwater!
The enormous water attack rushed in, uprooting rocks and trees!
Naturally, you would take enormous damage if hit head on. Players paled immediately as they fled in every direction. Then Ark spotted Andel among the panicked players. For a moment, a wicked gleam flashed from Arks eyes.
Andel! It seems your fate is to die at my hands after all!
"Snake, I have a request. Do you think you can move?"
The limp Snake raised its head high and nodded.
"Even if its hard, suffer just this once. That b.a.s.t.a.r.d is an enemy who messed with me many times. No matter what you have to do, tie up his legs so he cant run away!"
Hiss, hiss!
At the mention that he was Arks enemy, Snake hissed sharply as it dropped from Arks waist. Then it nimbly crawled on the ground and wrapped itself around Andels legs. At this totally unexpected attack, Andel fell flat on his face. Then he stared at Snake with flummoxed eyes and discovered Ark too late.
"Y-you b.a.s.t.a.r.d, what have you done...!"
"Whos the one who said wait and see?"
"Youre gonna try to do something to me with a snake like this?"
Andel scowled as he raised his sword.
"Too late."
Then as Ark murmured with an evil smile, the torrent filled the valley with a fierce roar. The torrent alone didnt damage the players, but the rocks and trees dragged in with the wave were different. The writhing Andel took a hit to the head from a large boulder and lost 70% of his Health. Snake took damage at the same time and was forcefully recalled, but Snakes Health was just 50, and thus, Ark only received 25 damage.
"Arghhh, d-d.a.m.n it!! YOU, ILL KILL YOU!"
Andel screamed as he was carried down with the torrent.
"Dont make me laugh. I wouldnt have even messed with you if I was gonna end it here."
Thanks to wearing the Sharkmans Shackles, the torrent didnt affect Ark at all. And, if he wasnt affected by the torrent, simply avoiding the rocks and trees rushing in was no problem. But Ark ran towards a boulder that was quickly approaching.
Riposte!
Ark parried the rock with his chain skill. In that moment, the rock was flung away with a heavy clang.
"AGH! W-what...!"
Andels face drained of color. The rock Ark had pushed away with his chain skill, was shooting straight towards him like an arrow. Andel urgently raised his shield, but there was no way he could make proper defensive movements while being tossed around by the torrent.
CRUNCH!
With the sound of something being crushed, Andels face crumpled in. And then he dropped the sword he was holding as he disappeared, swept up by the rapids. Ark had killed him, but there was no reason for him to become Chaotic since he hadnt attacked Andel directly.
"Ill let you off this time with this. But the next time you show up in front of me, Ill definitely make your stats 0."
Ark grinned as he picked up the sword.
While Ark was taking his petty revenge, the deluge had completely engulfed the valley.
Encircled in flames, Valderas and the monsters that had gained the fire attribute were swept away by the rapids; steam whooshed out with the clamorous sound of water meeting hot metal. As a result, the valley was shrouded in fog made from the steam.
Water. It was Arks world once again.