Chapter 100: Ghost or Monster? or Both?
As we stepped onto the 31st floor, an overwhelming mental pressure washed over us. The atmosphere here was different—heavy, suffocating, as if unseen forces were pressing down on our minds. It was because the monsters on this floor were astral beings, transparent entities that specialized in mental attacks and troublesome debuffs.
"H-HIIIIKHH! These are ghosts!!" Marius screamed in terror.
Not long ago, he had been terrified of giant insects, and now he was cowering before spectral foes. His reaction sent waves of laughter through the team.
"Marius, you’re a tank! How can you be afraid of so many things?" Leopold teased. "That’s right, Milly would laugh at you if she saw this." I continued to teasing Marius.
Marius turned red, his pride wounded. "I—It’s not that I’m scared! I just don’t like the way they float! It’s unnatural!!"
"Marius oh c’mon bro!" Julius added with a smirk. "They’re just ghost-like dungeon monsters. There’s no need to be scared. Besides, ghosts aren’t even real!"
Marius, realizing the logic in Julius’ words, straightened up, though his expression was still uncertain. "Ugh, so they’re just dungeon monsters? Damn it! How dare they try to scare me!"
I suppressed a chuckle and turned serious. "Alright, everyone. Stay focused. Get into formation."
I ordered my team, Julius’ team, and the six other teams accompanying us to prepare for battle. This floor would not be easy, so we had to be cautious.
"Lyra, cast a mental protection buff on everyone."
Without hesitation, Lyra raised her staff and began chanting. A soft, golden light spread across the area as she cast [Support Magic: Area Mental Barrier]. It enveloped us, forming a protective layer that would shield our minds from the monsters’ mental attacks.