After the brief assignment of tasks, the vanguard set out for home once more.
The group passed smoothly through the vast cavern at the deepest part of the seventeenth floor. Clearly, the floor boss Goliath had yet to respawn.
However, just as Ais and the others vanished through the far end of the cavern, heavy panting echoed from several tunnels, shattering the silence.
One Minotaur after another came charging in.
Their bloodshot red beast eyes were locked onto the group, and violent energy radiated from their bodies. They had clearly fallen into some kind of frenzied state.
Once Bete saw what the monsters were, a disdainful smirk spread across his lips. He was the first to turn and shout toward the rear.
"A huge pack of Minotaurs is blocking the way. Do we break through or wipe them all out?"
Riveria, stationed in the center of the formation, looked toward Raul, who seemed somewhat at a loss, and reminded him.
"Raul, what are you standing around for? Finn specifically told you to learn how to command. Give the order already!"
"Ah! Y-Yes!"
Raul abruptly straightened his back, took two deep breaths, and forced himself to remain calm as he shouted orders toward the front.
"Everyone, be on alert! Focus on defending against the Minotaurs' charge! Executives, please assist as well. Clear these obstacles as quickly as possible!"
Upon receiving the order, Ais and the others charged to the front without hesitation, slaughtering the monsters with overwhelming force.
Just as the first-class adventurers had efficiently taken down more than half the monsters, the Minotaurs, which should have been in a frenzy, suddenly came to their senses.
"Moooh—!!!"
They let out terrified cries one after another, turned around, and fled frantically through the tunnels they had come from, staging a mass escape.