[PP-PT-F9] Old Yeller 2 Electric Boogaloo <<Gatekeeper of Fire>>

[Omen 0]

"The plan is the same," Omen rumbled. 

They were back in front of Inferno Cavern, and their task was clear: they'd be clearing out Cerberus and its brood a second time. They'd carefully done the first part of Into the Fire a while back, when they were at a much lower level. It had taken them a while, but they had made it through. Now they were stronger... but so was the second part of the quest, Gatekeeper of Fire. 

"But it will be much more dangerous."

He handed Circe her share of consumables and worked his way through his own. Unfortunately, it wasn't as easy as clicking a button and "using" an item in SAO, so every time you wanted to go into a fight buffed, you had to sit there and chow down on a veritable feast of food, potions, and other items with varying degrees of edibility. Still, Omen made quick work of his -- it helped that most of it was liquor.  Not much to savor there. Just throw the glass back and move on to the next. 

"The heat effect is worse. The Hellhounds are stronger, more accurate, quicker, and more durable. That goes for Cerberus as well. Just one bite from them will inflict you with Burn, and any attack they sustain will likewise deal damage back to you." Omen finished his consumables and passed Circe the Water Canister. "But I am not concerned. This much, we can handle." 

***

Consuming: 

x1 yakult: Perfect T3 Probiotics 
x1 T3 Immolation Potion: +30 Thorns 
x1 Bubbling Bourbon: +15% Overhealth [232145]
x1 Congealing Ale: Perfect Antidote [232951]
x1 Armor Tempering Tequila: Perfect T3 MIT Potion [231352] 
x1 Liquor of Might: +3 DMG 
x1 creme brulee: +2 ACC 
x1 Water Canister: [2/3 Charges Remaining] 

Sending to Circe: 

x1 Liquor of Might: +3 DMG
x1 creme brulee: +2 ACC 
x1 Bubbling Bourbon: +15% Overhealth [232112-2]
x1 Water Canister [2/3 Charges Remaining] 
x1 Skewer Roll: +2 DMG, -10*Tier Mitigation 

Stats: 

[Omen | HP: 505/505 | EN: 64/64 | DMG: 15 | MIT:134 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:54 | REC: 3 | HM: 6]
[Omen | HP: 581/581 | EN: 64/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 3/3 | PROB:27]

Stats (Unbuffed): 

Spoiler

Level: 23
Health: 505 | Energy: 64
DMG: 15 | MIT: 134 | THORNS: 54 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 

Skills:

Combat Skills:
► Howl 
► Combat Mastery: Mitigation [13/13]

Weapon Skills:
► Axe [14/30] - Rank 3

Utility Skills:
► Empty

Extra Skills:
► Block [30/30] - Rank 5
► Forgotten King’s Authority 

Familiar Skill: 
► Empty

Armor Skills:
► Heavy Armor [30/30] - Rank 5
    Add-Ons: 
►Iron Skin 

Modifiers:
► Empty

Miscellaneous: 
► Empty

Inventory:
» [Equipped] [Perfect] Rune-Forged Axe: +9 DMG 
» [Equipped] [Perfect] Survival Armor: +2 Heavy Momentum, +1 Recovery
» [Equipped] [Perfect] Guardian Shield: +2 Thorns, Taunt

Battle Ready: 
» x5 Rumbling Rum Party Favor: Instant Mass HP Recovery (+10%)
» x5 Rumbling Rum Party Favor: Instant Mass HP Recovery (+10%) 
» x5 Soothing Spirits: Perfect Healing Potion (+15%)
» x4 Congealing Ale: Perfect Antidote 
» x3 Starter Healing Potions: +50 HP

 

Edited September 24 by Omen

[Circe 0]

Circe nodded, her gaze fixed on the dark, looming entrance of Inferno Cavern as she accepted the Water Canister from Omen. She knew this second part of the quest would be much tougher, but they’d come too far to back down now. Her heart pounded with anticipation, and despite Omen’s calm demeanor, she could feel the intensity of the challenge ahead. He was right—the enemies inside would be stronger, faster, and much deadlier. But so were they.

“More dangerous, huh?” she muttered, unscrewing the cap of the canister and taking a swig. The cool water helped ease the dry heat in her throat, but it wasn’t enough to dispel the tension that clung to her muscles.

Before diving into the food, she checked her inventory and noted the strange assortment of consumables—liquor, crème brûlée, and a skewer roll. It was an odd combination, but the buffs they provided were worth the weird taste. The crème brûlée was rich and sweet, leaving a creamy aftertaste that contrasted sharply with the savory skewer roll. But the liquor? That was a different beast entirely.

She took a deep breath and knocked back the liquor in one go, the burn of alcohol hitting her throat hard. “Ugh, always gotta end with that,” she grimaced, wiping her mouth and shaking her head. “It’s like drinking fire before going into an actual fire.”

Circe adjusted her gear, making sure everything was in place. She knew she couldn’t afford any slip-ups in this heat. The Burn debuff would drain their health faster than they could heal if they weren’t careful.

“I'v trusted you thus far, Omen, I wouldn't start to doubt you now,” she said, her voice firm as she looked at Omen. “We’re stronger now. We’ll hit them hard and fast, just like before.”

***
Received and Consuming:
x1 Liquor of Might: +3 DMG
x1 creme brulee: +2 ACC 
x1 Bubbling Bourbon: +15% Overhealth [232112-2]
x1 Water Canister [1/3 Charges Remaining] Increases out of combat healing by 5*tier per post. 
x1 Skewer Roll: +2 DMG, -10*Tier Mitigation 

Stats:
Circe | HP: 552/552 | EN: 81/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 |BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1
Circe | HP: 480/480 | EN: 81/81 | DMG: 17 | ACC:4 | EVA:2 | MIT:1 |BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Stats (unbuffed)

Spoiler

 

Circe | HP: 480/480 | EN: 81/81 | DMG: 17 | ACC:4 | EVA:2 | MIT:1 |BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

equipped

[T1 Perfect Light Armor] Initiate’s Draw: +2 EVA, +1 MIT

[T3 Perfect Throwing Knives] ID 232026  Paralyze 2 | Bleed 1

Wolf Pendant. | TIER 1 JEWELRY | +3 ACC

battle-ready inventory

// Starter Healing Potions x3

// T1 Rare Big Bertha Braciole

// Zackariah's Special Draught

[T1] Perfect Mass Grave Robber's Anthem (Monster's Favor 3)

 

skills

  Hide contents

• ►<<Throwing Knives>> Skill
  • Rank 5
  • Cost: 30 SP
    • Stamina
      • Cost: 4 SP
      • Passive
      • Effect: Reduces EN of all attacks by 2.
    •  Precision
      • Cost: 2 SP
      • Passive
      • Effect: Gain +1 ACC.
    • <<Throwing Knives>> Focus
      • Cost: 4 SP
      • Passive
      • Effect: Decreases minor critical threshold by 1. Also reduces DoT thresholds by 1. Players cannot use Focus and Ferocity at the same time for the same Weapon Type.
• ► Energist
  • Cost: 8 SP
• ►Barrier
  • Cost: 6 SP
  • Active: Post Action
  • Energy Cost: 15 EN
  • Cooldown: 2 turns
• ► Combat Mastery: Damage [R3]
  • Cost: 8 SP
• ►Searching [R1]
  • Cost: 4 SP

extra skills 3/3

  Hide contents

• ►First Aid [Requires two Extra Skill slots]
  • Rank 5
  • Active: Post Action
  • Energy cost: (3 * Rank in skill) EN
  • Effect: Heal 4% per rank of a target party member’s maximum HP (rounded down). Cannot target the user.
    • Field Medic
      • Cost: 6 SP
      • Active: Post Action
      • Energy Cost: 15 EN
      • Cooldown: 3 Turns
      • Effect: Heal your entire party (including yourself) for 25% of each party member’s maximum HP (rounded down).
• ►Photosynthesize
  • Effect: Improve the effects of any healing (not including passive HP regeneration) you do until the start of the next turn by 20%.  Cooldown: 5 turns, Active: Free Action, EN Cost: 5

[Omen 0]

"Then there's no need to delay." Omen's eyes turned to Inferno Cavern, and the challenges ahead of them. "Let's go." 

Inferno Cavern was somehow different, yet completely unchanged. The heat ticked away at their health bars, and everything in the cavern was dark and pulsing red. It would not be correct to say that they stumbled upon the Hellhounds -- no, the Hellhounds found them. They were bigger, and much meaner looking, much different than the wimpy little pups they had been in the last quest. He had no doubt that they would have a much easier time finding their marks, when it came to hitting him. And he had no doubt that it would be harder for him to strike them. Omen's shield spun out of its bracer, and he drew his axe. He felt the Howl rising in his throat before it even happened. 

The Inferno Cavern shook with his declaration of battle. 

***
{Omen takes 30 DMG from Inferno Cavern}
Action Taken: [HOWL] [-2 EN]

(H: 4,4,4) Omen | HP: 551/581 | EN: 62/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 3/3 | PROB:27
(H: 0,0,0) Circe | HP: 552/552 | EN: 81/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 | BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Infernal Hellhound 1: HP: 450/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2
Infernal Hellhound 2: HP: 450/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2
Infernal Hellhound 3: HP: 450/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Burning Bite | On successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against an Infernal Hell Hound, the player receives 25 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Infernal Hell Hounds increases damage received by the player to 40. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Soul |Deals additional damage. (+25 minor crit | +50 major crit)

Edited September 23 by Omen

[Circe 0]

Circe felt the rush of heat as Omen’s battle cry reverberated through the cavern, a primal call that sent the Hellhounds into a frenzy. The beasts were larger and far more menacing than before, their molten eyes fixed on the two intruders. The oppressive heat of the Inferno Cavern gnawed at her health, but there was no time to dwell on that. They were in it now.

She readied her throwing knives, feeling the familiar tension in her muscles as she prepared her Shifted AoE. This wasn't just a regular attack; it was designed to hit harder, fast and precise. In a single fluid motion, she leaped into the air, hurling the knives in a deadly arc. Each blade found its mark with a satisfying thunk.

The Hellhounds snarled as the blades tore through their flesh. All three of them were left heavily wounded, their health bars dropping sharply to 120 HP. But as the knives hit, Circe felt a jolt of pain. Thorns damage. Her health took a dip from the impact, the backlash from the Hellhounds biting into her, but the damage she dealt made it worth the cost.

"Got 'em," she muttered, catching her breath as she landed in a crouch, quickly eyeing the battlefield. The Hellhounds were still dangerous, but they were on the edge now, each one severely weakened.

“Push them, Omen! They’re almost done!”

****
{Circe takes 30 DMG from Inferno Cavern}
{Circe takes 75 thorns damage)
Action Taken: [x15] AOE-I (13 + [2 * 3] EN)= -19 EN

Infernal Hellhound 1: ID#233340  BD: 2+6-2= 6 HIT DMG: 15*22-50= 280
Infernal Hellhound 2: ID#233341  BD: 8+6-2= 12 HIT   DMG: 15*22-50= 280
Infernal Hellhound 3: ID#233342  BD: 3+6-2= 7 HIT     DMG: 15*22-50= 280

(H: 4,4,4) Omen | HP: 551/581 | EN: 62/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 3/3 | PROB:27
(H: 1,1,1) Circe | HP: 447/552 | EN: 62/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 | BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Infernal Hellhound 1: HP: 170/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2
Infernal Hellhound 2: HP: 170/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2
Infernal Hellhound 3: HP: 170/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Burning Bite | On successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against an Infernal Hell Hound, the player receives 25 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Infernal Hell Hounds increases damage received by the player to 40. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Soul |Deals additional damage. (+25 minor crit | +50 major crit)

Edited September 23 by Circe

[Omen 0]

Their attacks came one after the other, and without mercy. He could feel the heat emanating from their jagged maws as they lunged at him, a mess of fire and slobbering fangs. He blocked them, one after another. One hit. Another hit too hard. A third didn't hit at all. Omen cursed. This again? 

Urged on by Circe's call to push the offensive, Omen lashed out with his axe. One died, exploding into a cloud of azure fractals. Another he hit solid, dropping it to death's door. A third he missed. Omen cursed. This again. He was more shocked with how much his HP had dropped. But if Omen was worried, he certainly didn't show it. He simply adjusted his posture, preparing to defend, and set his jaw. The Hellhounds were almost dead. He trusted Circe would be able to deal with them. Their first obstacle was already nearly surmounted. 

****
{Omen takes 30 DMG from Inferno Cavern}
Action Taken: [AOE-I] [-11 EN] 
Hellhound 1: ID#233354 MD: 6+2 (Hit) BD: 9 (Crit) - 125-179= 1 DMG, Burn inflicted // Takes 84 Thorns || 19*7-50= 83 DMG // Takes 40 Thorns 
Hellhound 2: ID#233355 MD: 10 (Crit) BD: 5+2-2 (Miss) - 125+50-179= 1 DMG, Burn inflicted 
Hellhound 3: ID#233356 MD: 3+2 (Miss) BD: 10 (Crit) - 20*7-50= 90 DMG // Takes 40 Thorns

(H: 6,4,6) Omen | HP: 439/581 | EN: 53/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 1/3 | PROB:27
(H: 1,1,1) Circe | HP: 447/552 | EN: 62/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 | BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Infernal Hellhound 1: HP: 0/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2
Infernal Hellhound 2: HP: 120/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2
Infernal Hellhound 3: HP: 30/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Burning Bite | On successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against an Infernal Hell Hound, the player receives 25 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Infernal Hell Hounds increases damage received by the player to 40. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Soul |Deals additional damage. (+25 minor crit | +50 major crit)

Looting: 

Hellhound 1: ID: 233358 | LD: 11+0=11 | CD:11+0=11 | Col:2250, Mats:4, [233358a] T3 Rare Armor/Shield

Edited September 23 by Omen

[Circe 0]

Circe saw the Hellhounds closing in on Omen, their relentless attacks pressing him hard. His axe struck one down, sending it into a cascade of light, but they remained, still gnashing and snapping, though clearly on the brink of death. Her heart raced as she saw Omen's health bar dip more than she expected, but she didn't let it rattle her. They were close—so close to clearing this pack.

"I'll get them then," she muttered, feeling the burn of fatigue set into her limbs. With another burst of energy, she flung herself forward, knives whirling in her hands as she unleashed another AoE, sweeping through the Hellhounds. They yelped as the blades struck true, but Circe immediately felt the backlash of Thorns. The pain shot through her, dropping her health a good chunk, but the Hellhounds were no more. Both crumbled into shimmering fragments, the cavern once again filled with silence, save for the crackling of molten rock around them.

Breathing heavily, Circe straightened up, wincing as her health bar ticked away from the effects of the heat. "We need to pull back," she called to Omen, her voice steady despite the weariness in her body. "It's time to rest up."

She moved back toward the cavern’s entrance, where they could recover.

***
OOC NOTE: Forgot to calculate MIT on my intitial combat post, adjusting HP to the correct levels.  Hellhound 1 is still up at the beginning of this post.
{Circe takes 30 DMG from Inferno Cavern}
{Circe takes 75 thorns damage)
Action Taken: [x15] AOE-I (15 + [2 * 2] EN)= - 19EN

Infernal Hellhound 1: ID#233363 BD: 3+6-2=7 HIT   DMG:  15*22-50=280
Infernal Hellhound 2: ID#233359  BD: 5+6-2=9 HIT   DMG:  15*22-50=280
Infernal Hellhound 3: ID#233360  BD: 8+6-2=12 HIT   DMG:  15*22-50=280

(H: 6,4,6) Omen | HP: 551/581 | EN: 62/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 3/3 | PROB:27
(H: 2,2) Circe | HP: 338/552 | EN: 47/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 | BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Infernal Hellhound 1: HP: 0/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2
Infernal Hellhound 2: HP: 0/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2
Infernal Hellhound 3: HP: 0/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Burning Bite | On successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against an Infernal Hell Hound, the player receives 25 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Infernal Hell Hounds increases damage received by the player to 40. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Soul |Deals additional damage. (+25 minor crit | +50 major crit)
  
  LOOTING

Infernal Hellhound 1: ID#233364  LD: 1+1=2 CD: 8//  3150 Col
Infernal Hellhound 2: ID#233361  LD: 3+1=4 CD: 3//  1350 Col, 2 Materials
Infernal Hellhound 3: ID#233362  LD: 3+1=4 CD: 1//  1350 Col, 2 Materials

Edited September 23 by Circe

[Omen 0]

And so they retreated. 

"That went well," Omen began. This was usually the part where Omen went over what went well and what went wrong. He'd done it the last time they'd taken on Cerberus's pack, and it looked like he was planning on doing it again. "But I do not think that it will be wise for me to attack this time." 

Their thorns damage was too much. He needed to act as the shield. He didn't do enough damage to justify sacrificing his health. "The trade is not equal," Omen explained. "I take more than I deal. It will be better if I play defensively, and leave the offense solely to you." 

Omen opened his menus and retrieved one of the Starter Healing Potions that'd been sitting in his inventory all that time. He downed it now. The Water Canister boosts his out of combat HP recovery, but he wanted to be sure that he would have enough HP at the same time Circe was ready. He gestured to her. "I suggest you drink one as well." 

*** 

+45 HP 
Drinking Starter Healing Potion: +50 HP 
EN Recovery 1/3

[Circe 0]

Circe nodded, understanding Omen’s reasoning. The Thorns damage had been brutal, and his role as a tank was to absorb blows, not to trade hits that would slowly whittle him down. It made sense for him to hold the line while she dealt the damage—especially since her AoEs could quickly dispatch the Hellhounds.

"Yeah, you're right," she agreed, pulling a Starter Healing Potion from her own inventory. The bright liquid inside shimmered, and without hesitation, she popped the cork and downed it. Immediately, she felt a warm surge of energy as her health bar ticked up by 50 HP—not much, but it would make a difference.

She stretched her arms, feeling the tension start to ease. "I’ll keep the pressure on them," she assured Omen. "As long as you can keep them off me, I can deal the damage. Just keep playing defensively, and we’ll be fine."

"I'm guessing this Cerberus boss isn't going to be as easy as the other one either."
****
+45 HP 
Drinking Starter Healing Potion: +50 HP 
EN Recovery 1/3

 

[Omen 0]

"I can keep them off of you," he said. "But yes. Cerberus will not be as easy as the last time we faced it." 

Omen sorted through his inventory and produced another Congealing Ale. Speaking of Cerberus, he needed to make sure that his Antidote effect was up to its maximum effect. "Each one of its bites inflict a Tier Four Burn effect. I have gathered a stack of Antidotes to protect me from the Burn, and Probiotics to lessen the damage should it break through, or I run out." 

He grimaced as the ale went down. Nasty stuff. "Each head attacks on its own, and its Thorns effect is just as bad as the Hellhounds, if not worse. There is a Sword Art we could collect, should we meet a certain condition -- but as we are now, I do not think we can handle it. I would fall before we finished the fight, as it calls a fresh pack of Hellhounds to its aid." 

Omen shook his head. 

"No. We can come back another time, if anything. Today we simply fight for the experience of it." 

***

Consuming: 

Congealing Ale: Perfect Antidote 230534

+45 HP 
2/3 EN 

Edited September 24 by Omen

[Circe 0]

Circe listened carefully, her mind working through Omen’s strategy. The mention of a Sword Art was tempting, but she knew better than to push their luck. The Hellhounds had already taken more out of them than expected, and Cerberus was no small challenge. She wasn’t eager to face an even stronger Thorns effect alongside a fresh pack of hounds.

“I agree,” she said, nodding. “We’ll stick to what we can handle. It’s about surviving and gaining experience today—not chasing glory.”

She glanced at her remaining consumables, feeling more at ease with the plan now that Omen had laid it out. The mix of liquor and food would keep her going, but the looming threat of Cerberus was enough to keep her on edge. Still, they’d made it through before, and they’d do it again. She rolled her shoulders, loosening up.  "So, like, I've been meaning to ask, but you've seemed pretty sure of yourself since we were level 1, are you some sort of gaming guru in real life?"

***
+45 HP
2/3 EN

[Omen 0]

Omen nodded. They were in agreement. That was good. But it was to be expected. They wouldn't have traveled together so frequently had they not agreed on such important things. 

Circe seemed curious about his past. Omen listened carefully, and snorted when she asked him if he'd been a gaming guru in real life. "Hardly." Omen had barely played games in his later years, and had never played them growing up. He couldn't afford it, and even if he could, the idea of staring at a computer screen for hours when he could be out doing something hardly appealed to him. But his kids had been into it, and technology improved at such a rapid pace, it was hard to not get a little curious about them. 

He shook his head. "No, I rarely played games. I only bought this one as a way to reconnect with my children." Omen tilted his head. "As you already know." 

Memories came flooding back. The stranger, his smile, the ice, and the Crystal Heart. Omen's expression clouded over. He was quiet for a moment. He set his jaw. The words came out slowly. 

"I had almost joined the frontlines, once," Omen said. "A long time ago... but that's a story for another time. Come. We're nearly fresh. It is time to take on Cerberus." 

***

+45 HP 
3/3 EN 

Edited September 24 by Omen

[Circe 0]

Circe blinked in surprise at Omen’s admission about the frontlines. She had always assumed the players who joined those fights were the highest leveled, the elite of the game’s community. Hearing that Omen had once considered joining them didn’t quite match up with the image she’d had of him.

She couldn’t hide her curiosity, though she didn’t want to pry too deeply. “The frontlines?” she echoed, tilting her head slightly. “I thought you had to be... stronger to be of use there.” Her eyes lingered on Omen, not in judgment, but in genuine intrigue. She knew he was capable—he had proven that time and time again—but the frontlines were a different beast altogether.

Though they had fought side by side for a long time, there were still parts of Omen’s life that remained a mystery to her.  Whether he answered or not, did not matter much-she wasn't going to push it right now.  They had a dog to put down.
***
+45 HP
3/3 EN

[Omen 0]

Before they descended into the cavern, Omen responded to Circe. 

"Yes," he said. "I was." 

The darkness of the cavern consumed them. Cerberus was not far. The giant, snarling beast with three heads stared them down like his next chew toys. But Omen had a stare of equal grit. He marched up to the beast and planted his feet, axe and shield in hand. All three heads locked onto him. Its ears were at a point, its hackles were raised; it made no move, yet, but watched him, carefully. Omen glanced over his shoulder to make sure Circe was still there. The heat was overwhelming. The pressure was mounting. The situation was one of life and death. 

And that's where Omen excelled. He faced Cerberus and screamed, his voice amplified far beyond its normal means. The cavern shook, loosing pebbles, and it echoed off the rocky walls. Lava bubbled and spit. And Cerberus descended upon them.  

***

{Omen takes 30 damage from Inferno Cavern} 
Action Taken: [HOWL] [-2 EN] 

(H:4,4,4) Omen | HP: 551/581 | EN: 62/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 3/3 | PROB:27
(H: 0,0,0) Circe | HP: 552/552 | EN: 81/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 |BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #1) HP: 650/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #2) HP: 650/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #3) HP: 650/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Bloodless | This boss is immune to all status ailments.
• Bringing Hell | This boss can attack once per turn for each head active.
• Limited Availability | Players can only target one head at a time. This also extends to AoE attacks.
• Burning Bite | On Cerberus' successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.) This ailment is negatable by Fireproof.
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against Cerberus, the player receives 30 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Cerberus increases damage received by the player to 50. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Punishment | On a critical attack, heads of Cerberus that have not yet attacked for that turn will gain additional damage and 50% Phase for their attack that turn. (+25 on minor crit | +75 on major crit)
• Blazing Bite | If all three heads are reduced to 150 HP or less without any having been destroyed, <<Cerberus, Inferno’s Rage>> will howl with all three heads, summoning 3 <<Infernal Hell Hounds>> to come to its aid as a Free Action. They attack immediately, as part of the same post. Damage from new applications of Burning Bite is now doubled. (112 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)  
   

Edited September 24 by Omen

[Circe 0]

Circe felt the heat immediately as they descended deeper into the cavern, the oppressive air pressing down on her like a weight. She gripped the knives in her hands, eyeing Cerberus with a mixture of caution and determination. The beast was massive, all three heads trained on Omen, but she knew their plan well. He would take the brunt of the assault, and she would provide the damage.

As Omen let out his fearsome roar, Circe felt a surge of adrenaline course through her. Cerberus lunged forward, its growl shaking the very ground beneath them. Without hesitation, she took aim at the first head and hurled her throwing knives with precision. They struck true, embedding themselves into the creature's flesh with a sickening thud.

But the moment the blades connected, she felt the backlash. Pain shot through her body as the Thorns effect activated. Circe winced, gritting her teeth as 30 points of damage ticked off her health bar. "Damn thorns," she muttered, her hand instinctively brushing over the fresh wound.

The first head snarled in response, wounded but far from defeated. Circe quickly stepped back, assessing the situation.

***

{Circe takes 30 damage from Inferno Cavern} 
Action Taken: [x15] AOE-I (11 + [2 * 1] EN)= - 13EN

(H:4,4,4) Omen | HP: 551/581 | EN: 62/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 3/3 | PROB:27
(H: 1,0,0) Circe | HP: 522/552 | EN: 68/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 |BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #1) ID#233423  BD:4+6-2=8 HIT  DMG: 15*22-75=225

Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #1) HP: 425/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #2) HP: 650/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #3) HP: 650/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Bloodless | This boss is immune to all status ailments.
• Bringing Hell | This boss can attack once per turn for each head active.
• Limited Availability | Players can only target one head at a time. This also extends to AoE attacks.
• Burning Bite | On Cerberus' successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.) This ailment is negatable by Fireproof.
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against Cerberus, the player receives 30 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Cerberus increases damage received by the player to 50. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Punishment | On a critical attack, heads of Cerberus that have not yet attacked for that turn will gain additional damage and 50% Phase for their attack that turn. (+25 on minor crit | +75 on major crit)
• Blazing Bite | If all three heads are reduced to 150 HP or less without any having been destroyed, <<Cerberus, Inferno’s Rage>> will howl with all three heads, summoning 3 <<Infernal Hell Hounds>> to come to its aid as a Free Action. They attack immediately, as part of the same post. Damage from new applications of Burning Bite is now doubled. (112 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)  

Edited September 24 by Circe

[Omen 0]

Cerberus was not like the Hellhounds in any way that mattered. It was clear that the extreme heat emanating from Inferno Cavern wasn't just a passive effect -- it was clearly meant to come from it. With each bite, Omen knew he was blocking the Burn status effect. And not just because he saw the charges go down. The unbearable heat singed his skin, but Omen kept his shield raised. He would attack, but if it wasn't worth it for Omen to attack the Hellhounds, it wouldn't be worth it for Omen to attack Cerberus, either. No, it was better that he tanked for Circe, and played defensive. The offense could wait. With one hand raising his shield, Omen used the other to swipe through his menus and produce another Congealing Ale. He had to be quick, and he had to drink them in-between attacks, or else he wouldn't have the time at all. He drank it quick. He had three of them left. Omen crunched the numbers. He wasn't sure if three rounds would be enough time. 

***

{Omen takes 30 damage from Inferno Cavern} 
Action Taken: [Consuming x1 Congealing Ale] 
Head 1 Attacks: #233425 MD: 5+3 (Hit) - 175-179= 1 DMG, inflicts Burn // Takes 84 THORNS 
Head 2 Attacks: #233426 MD: 5+3 (Hit) - 175-179= 1 DMG, inflicts Burn // Takes 84 THORNS
Head 3 Attacks: #233427 MD: 7+3 (Hit) - 175-179= 1 DMG, inflicts Burn // Takes 84 THORNS

(H:4,4,4) Omen | HP: 521/581 | EN: 64/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 3/3 | PROB:27
(H: 1,0,0) Circe | HP: 522/552 | EN: 68/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 |BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #1) HP: 341/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #2) HP: 566/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #3) HP: 566/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Bloodless | This boss is immune to all status ailments.
• Bringing Hell | This boss can attack once per turn for each head active.
• Limited Availability | Players can only target one head at a time. This also extends to AoE attacks.
• Burning Bite | On Cerberus' successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.) This ailment is negatable by Fireproof.
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against Cerberus, the player receives 30 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Cerberus increases damage received by the player to 50. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Punishment | On a critical attack, heads of Cerberus that have not yet attacked for that turn will gain additional damage and 50% Phase for their attack that turn. (+25 on minor crit | +75 on major crit)
• Blazing Bite | If all three heads are reduced to 150 HP or less without any having been destroyed, <<Cerberus, Inferno’s Rage>> will howl with all three heads, summoning 3 <<Infernal Hell Hounds>> to come to its aid as a Free Action. They attack immediately, as part of the same post. Damage from new applications of Burning Bite is now doubled. (112 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)  

Edited September 24 by Omen

[Circe 0]

The beast was relentless, its jaws snapping against Omen’s shield with fiery intensity. The heat radiating from Cerberus was almost unbearable, each bite sending waves of scalding air through the cavern. Circe could feel her health ticking down, the constant pressure of the environment weighing on her like a vice.

But she couldn’t falter. Not now.

With a sharp breath, she focused on the first head again. Her fingers flexed around the hilt of her blade, and with precision born from practice, she slashed across Cerberus's exposed neck. Her strike landed hard, cutting deep. The beast roared in pain, its first head now hanging on by a thread, its health bar dropping to a mere 20 HP.

As satisfying as the hit was, Circe paid for it. The Thorns effect surged back at her, and she winced as another wave of damage hit her, cutting into her own health. “Damn it,” she hissed, clutching her side briefly, the pain sharp but manageable. She could feel her energy depleting, but they were getting close.

“Omen, the first head’s nearly done!” she called, stepping back to reposition herself.
****
OOC:  30 Thorns damage from previous post.

{Circe takes 30 damage from Inferno Cavern}
{Circe takes 30 Thorns}
Action Taken: AOE II on Head 1 [x18] AOE-II (14 + [2 * 1] EN)=17
Head 1: ID#233546 BD:7+6-2=11 HIT  DMG: 18*22-75=321

(H:4,4,4) Omen | HP: 521/581 | EN: 64/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 3/3 | PROB:27
(H: 2,0,0) Circe | HP: 462/552 | EN: 51/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 |BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #1) HP: 20/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #2) HP: 566/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #3) HP: 566/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Bloodless | This boss is immune to all status ailments.
• Bringing Hell | This boss can attack once per turn for each head active.
• Limited Availability | Players can only target one head at a time. This also extends to AoE attacks.
• Burning Bite | On Cerberus' successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.) This ailment is negatable by Fireproof.
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against Cerberus, the player receives 30 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Cerberus increases damage received by the player to 50. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Punishment | On a critical attack, heads of Cerberus that have not yet attacked for that turn will gain additional damage and 50% Phase for their attack that turn. (+25 on minor crit | +75 on major crit)
• Blazing Bite | If all three heads are reduced to 150 HP or less without any having been destroyed, <<Cerberus, Inferno’s Rage>> will howl with all three heads, summoning 3 <<Infernal Hell Hounds>> to come to its aid as a Free Action. They attack immediately, as part of the same post. Damage from new applications of Burning Bite is now doubled. (112 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)  

Edited September 25 by Circe

[Omen 0]

"On it," Omen shouted back. He raised his shield. Cerberus snapped down on him with all three heads. The first struck his shield and shattered. Cerberus only had two heads remaining. Omen grit his teeth. His health was lower than he'd ever remembered it being, even back before he'd been hit with the reset. He was still in the green, but -- he never wanted to fall out of it. And he certainly couldn't let Circe fall too low, ether. He pushed the beast back, swatting it away with his shield. It growled, the throaty sound reverberating in the air around them. He almost reached into his inventory for another Congealing Ale, but realized that he wouldn't need it. There were only two heads left, and he had two charges left on the antidote. No, now, he could buy some more time. "Don't worry about your health," Omen called to Circe. "I will heal you. Focus on the second head." 

****

{Omen takes 30 damage from Inferno Cavern}
Action Taken: [NONE]
Head 1 attacks: ID#233547 MD: 8 (Hit) - 175-179= 1 DMG, Burn applied // Takes 84 Thorns 
Head 2 attacks: ID#233548 MD: 1 (Miss) 
Head 3 attacks:  ID#233549 MD: 2+3 (Miss) 

(H:4,4,4) Omen | HP: 491/581 | EN: 64/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 2/3 | PROB:27
(H: 2,0,0) Circe | HP: 462/552 | EN: 51/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 | BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #1) HP: 0/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #2) HP: 566/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #3) HP: 566/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Bloodless | This boss is immune to all status ailments.
• Bringing Hell | This boss can attack once per turn for each head active.
• Limited Availability | Players can only target one head at a time. This also extends to AoE attacks.
• Burning Bite | On Cerberus' successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.) This ailment is negatable by Fireproof.
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against Cerberus, the player receives 30 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Cerberus increases damage received by the player to 50. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Punishment | On a critical attack, heads of Cerberus that have not yet attacked for that turn will gain additional damage and 50% Phase for their attack that turn. (+25 on minor crit | +75 on major crit)
• Blazing Bite | If all three heads are reduced to 150 HP or less without any having been destroyed, <<Cerberus, Inferno’s Rage>> will howl with all three heads, summoning 3 <<Infernal Hell Hounds>> to come to its aid as a Free Action. They attack immediately, as part of the same post. Damage from new applications of Burning Bite is now doubled. (112 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.) 

Looting: 

Head 1: ID: 233552 | LD: 13+0=13 | CD:1+0=1 | Col:1950, Mats:4, [233552a] T3 Rare Trinket   

Edited September 25 by Omen

[Circe 0]

Circe gritted her teeth, steeling herself against the heat and the relentless pressure of the fight. Omen’s voice cut through the chaos, grounding her as she shifted her focus to the second head of Cerberus. Her body ached from the Thorns damage, but they were making progress, and that was all that mattered.

She darted forward, her eyes locked on the beast’s remaining heads. The second head snarled at her, fire flickering in its maw, but she didn’t hesitate. With a swift, practiced motion, she slashed at its throat, her weapon cutting deep. Cerberus reeled from the hit, its health bar dropping noticeably.

The retaliation came swiftly. Thorns damage surged back through her, the familiar sting burning across her body. She winced, her health bar dipping even further, but she pushed the pain aside. They were too close to stop now. Omen had her back, and she trusted him to keep them both in the fight.

****

{Circe takes 30 damage from Inferno Cavern}
{Circe takes 30 thorns damage}
Action Taken:[x15] AOE-I (11 + [2 * 1] EN)= - 13EN

Head 2 attacks: ID#233553 BD: 6+6-2=10 HIT DMG: 15*22-75=255
 

(H:4,4) Omen | HP: 491/581 | EN: 64/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 2/3 | PROB:27
(H: 0,0) Circe | HP: 402/552 | EN: 38/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 | BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #1) HP: 0/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #2) HP: 311/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #3) HP: 566/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Bloodless | This boss is immune to all status ailments.
• Bringing Hell | This boss can attack once per turn for each head active.
• Limited Availability | Players can only target one head at a time. This also extends to AoE attacks.
• Burning Bite | On Cerberus' successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.) This ailment is negatable by Fireproof.
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against Cerberus, the player receives 30 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Cerberus increases damage received by the player to 50. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Punishment | On a critical attack, heads of Cerberus that have not yet attacked for that turn will gain additional damage and 50% Phase for their attack that turn. (+25 on minor crit | +75 on major crit)
• Blazing Bite | If all three heads are reduced to 150 HP or less without any having been destroyed, <<Cerberus, Inferno’s Rage>> will howl with all three heads, summoning 3 <<Infernal Hell Hounds>> to come to its aid as a Free Action. They attack immediately, as part of the same post. Damage from new applications of Burning Bite is now doubled. (112 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)  

Edited September 25 by Circe

[Omen 0]

Cerberus was unrelenting, even with one of its heads destroyed. Snap, snap! Each head chomped down on him in rapid succession. He was able to bear the brunt of the first's attack with his shield. A tick of the antidote, gone. But the other struck almost simultaneously, and it tore through Omen's armor as if it was nothing. A critical strike: the very thing Omen had feared. He had been right to fear it, too. It took a chunk out of his HP unlike anything had yet been able to... and Omen was buffed. His fingers moved quick. His axe was put away, replaced by another bottle of the Congealing Ale. The thick booze numbed his throat. He brought up a crystal and cracked that, too. As if the beer wasn't bad enough, his mouth was immediately filled with the taste of rum. He felt that if you could get drunk in Aincrad, Omen's head would be spinning by now. But that wasn't the case, luckily. He focused on the task at hand, and, in case Circe went to heal him: 

"Keep your focus on the heads! I am fine." 

***

{Omen takes 30 damage from Inferno Cavern}
Action Taken: [Consuming Congealing Ale]
Free Action: [Rumbling Rum Party Favor] - +10% HP to party 

Head 2 attacks: ID#233573 MD: 6+3(Hit) - 175-179 = 1 DMG, Burn applied // Takes 84 Thorns
Head 3 attacks: ID#233574 MD: 10 (Crit) - 175+75= 250-89= 161 DMG, Burn applied

(H:4,4) Omen | HP: 358/581 | EN: 64/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 3/3 | PROB:27
(H: 1,0) Circe | HP: 457/552 | EN: 38/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 | BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #1) HP: 0/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #2) HP: 227/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #3) HP: 566/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Bloodless | This boss is immune to all status ailments.
• Bringing Hell | This boss can attack once per turn for each head active.
• Limited Availability | Players can only target one head at a time. This also extends to AoE attacks.
• Burning Bite | On Cerberus' successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.) This ailment is negatable by Fireproof.
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against Cerberus, the player receives 30 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Cerberus increases damage received by the player to 50. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Punishment | On a critical attack, heads of Cerberus that have not yet attacked for that turn will gain additional damage and 50% Phase for their attack that turn. (+25 on minor crit | +75 on major crit)
• Blazing Bite | If all three heads are reduced to 150 HP or less without any having been destroyed, <<Cerberus, Inferno’s Rage>> will howl with all three heads, summoning 3 <<Infernal Hell Hounds>> to come to its aid as a Free Action. They attack immediately, as part of the same post. Damage from new applications of Burning Bite is now doubled. (112 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)  

Edited September 25 by Omen

[Circe 0]

Circe’s heart dropped when she saw Omen stagger under Cerberus’s relentless assault. The critical hit had been brutal, more devastating than anything she’d seen him take. His HP bar plummeted into dangerous territory, the green quickly giving way to yellow. He was strong, but even he had his limits.

For a brief moment, fear gripped her—Omen was more than just a tank, more than an expendable asset. He was her only companion, her only friend, the one constant in the chaos. Losing him.... It wasn’t an option.

She had to end this now.

With a fierce growl of her own, Circe darted toward the second head, her movements sharper, more precise than ever. Her anger, her worry for Omen fueled her strike. She swung her weapon with all the force she could muster, her muscles screaming in protest. The blade connected cleanly, cutting deep into Cerberus's neck. The second head let out a final, guttural snarl before it fell like the first.

One head left. Just one.

She panted, feeling the rush of adrenaline coursing through her veins. The Thorns damage from her last attack pulsed through her body, but it barely registered in her mind. She glanced quickly at Omen, still standing, good. Her heart was still racing, but they had a chance. One more head, and this would be over.

****
{Circe takes 30 damage from Inferno Cavern}
{Circe takes 50 thorns damage}
Action Taken:[x15] AOE-I (11 + [2 * 1] EN)= - 13EN

Head 2: ID#233604 BD: 10 MAJOR CRIT CD: 12  DMG: 17*22-75=299

(H:4,4) Omen | HP: 358/581 | EN: 64/64 | DMG: 18 | MIT:179 | ACC:2 | TAUNT | F-SPIRIT | THORNS:84 | REC: 3 | HM: 6 | DOTE: 3/3 | PROB:27
(H: 1,0) Circe | HP: 377/552 | EN: 28/81 | DMG: 22 | ACC:6 | EVA:2 | MIT:0 | BLD: 24 | PARA | LD:1

Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #1) HP: 0/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #2) HP: 0/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2
Cerberus, Inferno's Rage (Head #3) HP: 566/650 | DMG: 175 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Bloodless | This boss is immune to all status ailments.
• Bringing Hell | This boss can attack once per turn for each head active.
• Limited Availability | Players can only target one head at a time. This also extends to AoE attacks.
• Burning Bite | On Cerberus' successful attacks, the player is afflicted with T4 Burn. (56 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.) This ailment is negatable by Fireproof.
• Boiling Hide | On successful attacks against Cerberus, the player receives 30 thorns damage. Successful critical attacks against Cerberus increases damage received by the player to 50. This damage is negatable by Fireproof.
• Infernal Punishment | On a critical attack, heads of Cerberus that have not yet attacked for that turn will gain additional damage and 50% Phase for their attack that turn. (+25 on minor crit | +75 on major crit)
• Blazing Bite | If all three heads are reduced to 150 HP or less without any having been destroyed, <<Cerberus, Inferno’s Rage>> will howl with all three heads, summoning 3 <<Infernal Hell Hounds>> to come to its aid as a Free Action. They attack immediately, as part of the same post. Damage from new applications of Burning Bite is now doubled. (112 unmitigatable damage per turn for 2 turns.)  

  Looting: 

  Head 2: ID: 233605 | LD: 17+1=18 | CD:5 | Col:1950, 2 Mats, [233605a] Rare Consumable (1), [233605b] Rare Armor/Shield (1)

Edited September 26 by Circe