We descended the spiral staircase until I thought I had easily gone down about three stories of a normal building, at which point we reached the second level.
However, at first glance, the second level did not differ much from the first.
It was a cave with walls of pale reddish clay that housed a dim light, extending without apparent changes.
“It is said that the view changes drastically upon reaching the fifth level. But as far as I’ve seen, the second and third levels look like this.”
“Do only the monsters change then?”
“That’s right. Of course, the map is also completely different from the first level.”
I decided to activate my mapping ability to test it.
The square map showed most of it as unknown territory, with only a small sector representing my current location.
Kazane led the way, and I followed in her footsteps.
As we advanced, Kazane gave me a brief explanation about the monsters found on the second level.
“On the second level, you will encounter kobolds and new monsters, goblins, and hobgoblins. Goblins are like kobolds but with some hair, while hobgoblins are quite strong. When I just descended from the first level, even fighting a single hobgoblin was difficult for me.”
“So, you also had your difficulties…”, I murmured.
“No, no, it was when I was at a lower level than now. I think the first one I faced was around level 5. They are still tough opponents even now, but if it’s only one, it’s manageable.”
“But I’m at level 3.”
“Hahaha. It’s okay. I’ve never seen hobgoblins appear in groups on the second level, and I’m with you too.”
“You are a reliable senpai. I’ll count on you.”
“Hehe. You can even call me ‘onee-san’ if you want. ──By the way, Rokuyari-san, how old are you?”
“I’m nineteen.”
“Oh, then I’m a year older after all. Please call me ‘Fuune Onee-chan’.”
“Alright, Fuune Onee-chan.”
“Sorry! I got too excited. Please forgive me,” Kazane blushed and breathed heavily.
What’s happening to her?
As the two joked around while walking through the cave, Kazane suddenly reacted.
She held me back with her hand and whispered softly:
“I sense the presence of a monster ahead, just one. There are no lone kobolds on the second level; it must be a goblin or a hobgoblin. If it’s a goblin, I’ll leave it to you, Rokuyari-san.”
After Kazane’s words, shortly after, a single monster appeared in front of them in the cave.
