Chapter: 4
[Just a warning that the vali conversion rate isn't technically canonically accurate. Feel free to correct me on any mistakes, all criticism is appreciated.]
pa/t reon details below if you're interested, hope you enjoy the chapter!
(Rewards)
"Stop moving." Hestia chided lightly as she sat on my back. Hestia was currently straddling my back to check over my Falna.
Ten minutes had passed since we woke up, entangled in each other's embrace. As I shifted, I couldn't help but feel the lingering sensation of pain from the cuts that had only recently been healed from the healing powder.
While the healing powder was much slower acting than a healing potion which essentially healed all wounds and diseases instantly, the healing powder had made sure no scars had formed.
A light gasp caught my attention, I felt Hestia's delicate fingers trace over my back.
"I'm guessing that's good news?" I asked.
Fighting and living through an army of monsters has to count for something right? I swear, I would find a way up into Tenkai and behead all those Gods if they weren't impressed by this.
"That would be putting it lightly," Hestia softly said with excitement evident in her voice.
"Your stats have taken a huge boost." Hestia replied with a hint of admiration in her voice.
I suppose the Gods shall get to keep their heads for now.
"I knew my first child would be impressive." She squealed and pulled me into a tight hug.
After a tight hug that tested the limits of my ability to hold back my slumbering dragon from awakening, Hestia updated my Falna and I felt a massive surge of power.
My body was filled with energy as a golden glow pulsed out and I clenched my fist. I felt energised.
My Demonic Energy also expanded noticeably. My Demonic reserves become larger and deeper. My perception became a tiny bit sharper and I felt fucking amazing.
Zephyrion Gremory Lv. 1 Strength: 187 (H) Endurance: 203 (G) Dexterity: 189 (H) Agility: 198 (H) Magic: 218 (G) Demonic Energy Manipulation
The ability to manipulate the chaotic energy of demonic beings otherwise known as demonic energy.
Imagination Magic
The ability to create magic via imagination, cost is dependent on magic conjured.
Power of destruction (Mutated) [SEALED]
All-Speak
The ability to communicate with any being regardless of language. Users can communicate via any language.
I checked my stats with a grin, I see. So that's how it works. For a brief explanation. In the Danmachi stat system, values range from zero to nine hundred and ninety-nine, with the rate of stat gain slowing as adventurers approach higher stats.
Each set of one hundred stats corresponded to a rank, starting from I ascending all the way up to S.
You had to defeat monsters or perform feats that would impress the Gods, to collect Excelia, which the Falna stored to enhance your attributes. Your stats could be further boosted by doing actions related to them.
For example, performing physical activities should increase your strength stat, with the speed of growth depending on the Excelia you earned.
An adventurer who used a sword and relied on speed would have much higher stats in both Strength and Dexterity. They would still get some extra boost in the other attributes but since they focused on performing acts with those two stats, the gains would be much weaker.
High-Quality Excellia meanwhile required an Adventurer to perform a feat worthy of impressing the gods which further allowed an Adventurer to level up, which I suppose I had somehow done by killing hundreds of monsters on my first dungeon dive.
I was still level one. I wanted to go back into the dungeon at some point because I felt like I had held myself back with my caution. I felt like I was far stronger than I was consciously allowing myself to be.
I also took some time to reflect on what had happened, turns out my suspicions had been correct. The massive increase in monsters hadn't just been a part of the norm within the dungeon.
According to Ais, an event called a dungeon flood had coincidentally taken place during my first time dungeon diving. A strange phenomenon that caused the dungeon monsters on certain floors to suddenly increase twenty-fold in number.
Hestia had filled me in when I had asked her about it, after all, if that had been the dungeon's norm I would have had to hold off on dungeon diving for a while and train instead.
Perhaps even staying on the first floor and training myself up until I couldn't handle it.
Thankfully, that wasn't the case. However, I would be more cautious moving forward. While dungeon floods were apparently rare, I didn't want to think about the thought of being trapped on a lower floor during one.
Now I understand that if a dungeon flood occurs, my best chance of survival is to head either higher or lower, depending on the location of the dungeon flood. Even if I have to descend to a lower level, facing two stronger monsters is preferable to battling an unending horde of weaker ones.
Unless I have some powerful AOE spells, I could do just that. Unfortunately, my magic cost me a lot at the moment even though I had been able to shoot quite a few large fireballs. I should probably get to work on controlling my demonic power so I could use it more.
I would also be on the lookout for any other magic that had less of a cost. Perhaps look for one of those grimoires. Since my magical training had been rudely interrupted by my accidental arrival into another world.
I would have been trained earlier if it wasn't for my demonic power being weird and having two overprotective sisters.
Anyways, that knowledge on escaping a dungeon flood in progress would have been a good piece of information that they should add to their little flyer next time. I smirked as I remembered the face of Rose.
The pure look of confusion on seeing me alive had been funny.
Compared to her normally cold and frigid mask it was pretty cute. Now, if only my body would stop experiencing phantom pains from all the damage I had received.
My wounds were healed but the pain persisted. At least it wasn't for nothing, I thought as I looked towards the small pile of small purple stones. I hadn't been able to get a lot of them since I was busy fighting for my life but the time building up to that had been profitable.
I would need to visit the guild and see how much I could get for monster crystals. Hestia had used up all the valis buying the healing powder to ensure I was healed. I smiled as I watched her concentrate intently, checking my naked torso for any visible scarring.
I also had time to think about my experience in the dungeon. Ignoring the dungeon flood there was the fact the monsters had acted strangely around me. I had confirmed with Hestia that if any normal adventurer had tried the stunt I had pulled with the Kobold, they would be found half-eaten and all dead.
A normal person would have been thrown off instantly, despite the pain the kobold felt and would have had their throats torn out. Despite some of my actions, I wasn't a dumbass who was going to ignore the fact it could be because of my devil blood.
That did leave a far more serious question. Did I start the dungeon flood? This had been the first one ever to happen on the starter floors. Then here I come in, the monsters act strange and even sometimes downright peaceful.
If I did somehow cause the dungeon flood then that would mean I was capable of causing a lot of deaths. This also begged the question, would a dungeon flood happen every time I entered the dungeon?
I wasn't sure how to feel about that. If it turned out to be true, I might get many adventurers killed. While I wouldn't feel much guilt from it, I would still prefer they live. Was it because I was a devil? I did know that they were different in the way they perceived things from the memories.
My musings were cut off by the gentle voice of Hestia.
"Ok, it seems like all your wounds have healed up," Hestia said, her voice laced with soft concern. "But do you still feel any pain?"
I briefly considered whether to tell her the truth. Telling her I'm in pain will make going out harder. Not to say that she could stop me, but the attempts and pouts I would receive would definitely demotivate me.
A look into her sapphire blue eyes filled with concern, made me pause. The fact that she could detect lies as a Goddess definitely extinguished my desire to lie.
For the sake of my self-image, I'll focus on the former thought and make it the reason.
"It still hurts a bit, but I should be able to move around," I replied with a smile.
Hestia frowned. "You need to rest and heal back up to a hundred per cent. I'll go see if I can take a loan for some anti-pain medicine. Sta-"
I effortlessly scooped her up in my arms from her place straddling my chest, her curvaceous frame moulding snugly against me. I hugged her gently like a teddy bear nearly slipping as one of my hands accidentally sunk into the expansive flesh of her divine ass from my attempts to keep her propped up with one hand.
Seriously I wasn't a virgin but that couldn't be natural. That was an ass worth worshipping if I had anything to say about it.
I quickly stopped myself from marvelling at the sensation and forced Zephyrion Junior back to sleep. I then proceeded to lay her down on the bed with a gentle complimentary pat on her head.
Turning around she looked a bit dazed and a small blush could barely be seen on her pale cheeks at the sudden turn of events. I hurriedly scooped the monster crystals into a pouch and made my way towards the exit of the abandoned church.
"Hey!" Hestia stuttered. Regaining her bearings and hopping up, sliding in between me and the exit.
I raised an eyebrow as she held her arms in front of her. I didn't stop my walk as she skidded back in her attempts, while I watched in slight amusement.
"Hestia, you do realise I need to go sell these crystals?" I asked her. Raising the pouch full of monster crystals and shaking it in an almost exasperated manner.
"You need to rest and heal. Let me take care of you, Zeph. It's the least I can do." Hestia replied sternly. Which was kind of cute.
"I've already healed, thanks to the healing powder. It's just some residual stinging, nothing serious. We need money and I refuse to let you degrade yourself by working at some fucking food stall." I replied, with a flat tone.
Hestia's stubborn expression remained unchanged, but I couldn't bring myself to feel irritated by the fact that my Goddess was so determined to take care of me.
In fact, being treated with such care and concern was something that had never really happened, not including my life as Zephyrion. It felt surprisingly nice.
While I may like it. It just wasn't very productive. I let out a sigh, this was going to take a while.
-Scene Break-
After almost ten minutes of consolation and promises, I was able to go out.
I strolled into the adventurers guild building, the pouch of monster crystals held firmly in my hand. Making my way to the counter, I greeted the receptionist with a nod receiving a bored rehearsed greeting in return.
I emptied the contents of the pouch onto the tray he provided. Thirty-three monster crystals in total. Most of them were the small dark monster crystals that belonged to goblins. A few of them were a bit bigger and clearer, these belonged to Kobolds.
The majority of the monster crystals I had been able to take out of the dungeon with me were from goblins since I had been actively picking them before the whole dungeon flood event. Only a few belonged to Kobolds.
From what I was able to deduce about the currency of Orario, 2 Dollars were worth 100 Valis. Meaning every thousand valis was worth twenty dollars.
"Thirty-three monster crystals," I stated, sliding them across the counter.
The receptionist quickly examined the crystals before consulting a chart behind the counter. After a moment, she looked back at me and replied,
"With a total of twenty-six goblin crystals and six kobolds crystals coming to thirty-three monster crystals. One thousand two hundred valis per goblin crystal and two thousand five hundred per Kobold crystal. That would be 46,200 valis in total" The receptionist muttered boredly.
I grinned.
"With the customary 3% guild tax from your earnings," The receptionist's monotone voice continued.
I frowned.
The fuck are they taxing me for? The receptionist opened a counter lazily and slowly without a care in the world counting the Vali and putting it on the counter.
"You end up with 44,814 Vali total. Here you go."
896.28 Dollars counting the conversion rate. Not bad.
Still…
"May I ask why I'm being taxed?" I questioned as politely as I could muster.
The receptionist didn't look surprised if only mildly annoyed. Maintaining his professional demeanour, he explained.
"The taxes are for the services provided by the guild, including management and administrative costs."
I nodded in response, and he looked slightly shocked that I didn't make a big fuss about it. How could I? My old government used to take way more for doing a whole lot of nothing.
Tucking the pouch away I made to leave, only to come face to face with a pair of slitted yellow eyes. I would never admit that I jumped a little bit. There stood the cold beauty that was Rose Fannett.
"Yo."
Rose took my hand in a firm grip and led me to the familiar small guild advisor room. I simply followed along, slightly curious. I glanced down at her hand pulling mine.
Oh, my. Such a lewd act of affection. Mother always told me hand-holding was meant for after marriage.
"Explain," Rose demanded.
"I'm not the father," I replied instantly, doing what anyone should do when they are faced with a vague question.
Rose looked baffled at my supreme art of mental warfare, but she recovered quickly. Sending a very cute glare my way.
"What are you talking about, Mr. Gremory?" she asked, her tone cold.
"Nothing important. What did you want to ask?" I replied casually.
Rose appeared ready to reply but suddenly fell silent.
"You were right in the middle of a dungeon flood as a complete novice adventurer. It was your first time dungeon diving. How did you manage to survive? I was sure you were dead." Rose questioned me.
I gave her a lopsided grin, only feeling a bit of satisfaction at her confusion. She had been so quick to write me off as another dead adventurer in the making. What a cold woman~
"I guess I just have a knack for surviving," I replied nonchalantly, my grin widening. "And hey, you shouldn't underestimate a level-one adventurer. We may not look like much, but we're full of surprises."
Rose narrowed her eyes at me, clearly sceptical.
"Surviving a dungeon flood as a level one adventurer dive? I've been here a long time, and I've seen many adventures that thought themselves special. Some even were special. What many people don't know is that the dungeon is alive. It watches, it waits and it'll wear you down." Rose said harshly, looking the most emotional I had seen her. A change from her normally apathetic mask.
My expression hardened as I kept silent, listening intently. The dungeon was alive? Was she being dramatic or was that the strange force making the monsters turn hostile?
"I don't insult or try to push you away from the horrid path of an adventurer due to some sort of jealousy. I do it because I've seen hundreds of you go in and only a few dozens still remain. That's not even including dungeon floods. Which is why it leads me to believe that maybe you're lying about being a level one adventurer." Rose said analytically.
Yeah, that's pretty much what I gathered from the brief moment I saw her expression shift to sadness. She's not a bad person; she just has her own idea of what she thinks is the right choice.
"You want the truth?" I questioned with an easygoing grin.
Rose nodded her head seriously.
"Well, the truth is I'm a devil prince from another world, I had accidentally triggered something that has forced me into this world." I clicked my tongue with a what-can-you-do shrug.
Rose sighed.
"I see you aren't willing to be serious," Rose said, her tone thinly laced with disappointment.
I shrugged once more.
"I feel the need to inform you that falsely identifying your level regardless of whether it's higher or lower is illegal," Rose commented.
"I have nothing to worry about then," I responded easily.
The cold yellow-slitted eyes of Rose bore into me before she nodded.
"Even if I can admit you're not like any ordinary rookie adventurer, you should still be cautious. There are plenty of other professions besides adventuring such as being a shop owner, guild employee, blacksmith." Rose advised.
I rolled my eyes.
"Yeah, I think I'll stick with being an adventurer," I replied simply.
"Then let me caution you, don't get too cocky about this victory. Whether it was luck or skill, you've barely scratched the surface of what the dungeon holds," Rose warned.
I waved her concerns off.
"Anyway, I wouldn't want to take up more of your valuable time. I'm sure with your beauty and responsibilities you have plenty of things to attend to. Until next time then~" I cheekily replied.
Rose didn't look amused by my jab at her beauty.
-Scene Break-
I thanked the man at the food stall as I began making my way back to the abandoned church, I had just brought a bunch of food to celebrate. Celebrate what? I don't know but I felt oddly jovial as I walked down the bustling streets full of people.
My body stiffened as I subtly glanced to an alleyway, two cloaked figures watching me intently. I frowned, I don't know how but I had somehow felt their gaze on my back for a single moment.
They seemed to notice my odd behaviour as I had slowed down, my shoulders tensed. A second later the two cloaked figures backed away into the darkness of the small alleyway.
I didn't bother chasing them. They were quick and probably knew their way around Orario much better than me. Chasing them would also alert them to the fact I saw them.
They were suspicious of my sudden change in demeanour but that could be written off.
I scowled. Why was I being watched? I had only been here for a few days. I sighed in annoyance. This was only more reason to become stronger.
While the blessing of the Falna was good it was only an enhancement.
I wanted to begin physical training to increase the gains from it. I doubted Hestia would let me into the dungeon for a day or two due to the dungeon flood incident anyway, so it's something I can focus on until I can go dungeon diving again.
After that, I'll have to make a schedule for it.
I caught sight of the abandoned church, glancing around to see if anyone was still watching. I made my way inside once I confirmed it was clear. Best to be extra cautious going out from now on.
"Hestia I'm back," I called out.
After I got no response in return I began looking around in confusion. A quick search around showed she was gone, huh?
She must have gone out, I guess I'll wait for her to come back before eating. I flopped down onto the couch. Drumming my fingers.
What to do in the meantime.
-{Hestia}-
Hestia sighed in relief as she sank into the hot water of the temple bath. She hadn't visited in a while, as Gods were naturally clean and didn't produce body fluids, but lately, she felt the need to indulge.
The baths always made Hestia's skin shine more, and she knew Zephyrion was busy exchanging the monster crystals. So, she had decided this was the perfect time to sneak out and freshen herself up, wanting to look her best for him.
She raised a finger to her cheek as the Goddess of the hearth thought about her special and only child, a small blush tinting her cheeks. A small giggle left her lips at his antics.
Zephyrion was a very chaotic person after all.
"Oh my, Hestia? I haven't seen you in here for a long time, what's the special occasion?" A melodious voice teased.
Hestia's beautiful smile dimmed as she gazed over to the form of Freya.
Hmph, it just so happens I do," Hestia replied, earning an amused eyebrow raise from Freya.
Freya smiled politely.
"Oh my, do tell," Freya replied teasingly.
Hestia crossed her arms under her substantial bust and smiled proudly.
"It just so happens I have a new familiar member," Hestia responded.
Freya came to sit beside her.
"Congratulations! He must be quite the special person to inspire such a reaction from you." Freya replied smoothly, her purplish eyes observing Hestia.
Hestia beamed and went to speak before pausing.
'How did she know Zephyrion was a he.' Hestia thought, starting to feel the familiar obsessiveness she had started feeling about Zephyrion.
"How did you know my new familiar member was a 'he'"
Hestia responded, trying to sound casual and hide the growing agitation in her stomach.
Freya paused, her lips thinning before she covered it up easily enough.
"Lucky guess, you've got me intrigued now, why don't you tell me a bit more about the man that's got you so worked up?" Freya smiled invitingly.
Hestia's eyes squinted, the feeling of dread growing stronger at the vague reply and attempt at fishing for information.
'Why does she seem interested in Zeph? Also, how does she know of him?' Hestia wondered suspiciously.
Freya and Hestia stared each other down.
"Did I hear that correctly, Hestia's trying to look good for a man?" A voice came from beside them as another goddess with beautiful orange hair spoke with a teasing tone.
"If even the virgin goddess is dressing to impress, I might have to meet this lucky man," another voice giggled.
The gossip started among the goddesses, causing Hestia to bury her face in her arms to hide her blush.
A shadow loomed over, revealing the form of a fat goddess. "A man you say? Better watch out ladies or I might snag him for myself."
The Titan jumped into the pool a moment later, creating a devastating tsunami that enveloped everyone. Amidst the chaos, Freya slipped away unnoticed.
Chapter: 5
pa/t reon details below if you're interested, hope you enjoy the chapter.
(Limits)
I inhaled deeply and exhaled as I found myself sitting in a lotus position, since Hestia had decided to leave and go off on her own somewhere, I had decided it was about time I started working on my Demonic Energy control.
It had taken some usage to get used to doing it physically instead of going off my secondary memories that showed me how it was done through magical tutoring. Copying it from memory just wasn't the same as actually trying it out. I should be able to be more adventurous with it.
I focused inside myself where I felt that raging ball of chaotic energy every time I used demonic energy. The red ball of chaotic swirling energy inside me became clear to me as I delved deeper into a weird trance.
The problem I was having with my spells was the demonic energy was wildly trying to escape along with the spell, this led to wasted demonic energy residue that flaked off uselessly. Luckily I had memories guiding me.
Sending a probe of intent at the orb it immediately responded and pushed back against it. My intent had been to make it move but the demonic energy rebelled like its creator.
Wait… did Lucifer even create demonic energy? Food for thought.
The brief lapse in concentration caused the demonic energy to snap back into its chaotic swirling state. With an aggravated sigh, I focused again, I kept prodding the ball of demonic energy with intent before using my will to command a small sliver of it to run through my body.
It was a slow process and I was fought by the Demonic Energy every step of the way. No wonder we use magic circles, seriously what the fuck is up with this energy. Even the little help they do with control should be appreciated.
The fact it also kept amplifying my emotions made it hard to concentrate. The unexplained hatred along with many other suppressed emotions suddenly getting out of control, forced me to take practised deep breaths.
"Zeph!" Hestia suddenly appeared.
"AAHHHHHH."
I cried out in surprise as I pathetically fell off the couch. I had been so focused on trying to gradually increase its speed that I hadn't noticed Hestia enter the room.
She giggled and I sent her a look of irritation.
"Sorry, you just looked so focused." She giggled out and I rolled my eyes.
Hopping back up easily, I dusted myself.
"So where did you go?" I questioned idly as I flopped back down onto the couch lazily and she blushed lightly.
"Just out," Hestia replied lamely.
I sent her a flat look before shrugging. If she didn't want to share I wouldn't pry.
She plopped herself right next to me.
"Did the transfer at the guild go okay?" She asked after a moment, I responded by taking out a pouch filled up with Vali. Giving it a tantalising shake and lightly handing it to her.
"Yup, 44,814 Vali in total," I responded cheerfully.
Hestia hummed happily.
"What were you doing? You looked like you were focusing on something. Are you okay?" Hestia asked.
"I was trying to improve my control over my demonic power," I replied, laying my head down.
"That chaotic energy I can feel within you?" Hestia affirmed.
I nodded lightly.
"Yeah, turns out there's a reason demonic circles were created to help with control. It's pretty hard." I replied with a tsk of faux annoyance.
We sat there and chatted about nothing special in particular. Hestia made for good company when she wasn't being a missile of energy. I noticed she seemed to be looking extra clean today, her silky hair having a healthy shine to it.
Her skin also looked extra smooth and shiny. I secretly checked her out and was satisfied with my observations. Wait, had she gone to the bathhouse all the gods go to?
That would make sense, why did she try to keep it a secret though?
"Zeph?" Hestia questioned and I was brought back to reality.
My eyes briefly glanced down to her soft lips as she had her head on my shoulder, extremely close to my face.
"Want to go grab some lunch?" I asked out of the blue after we stared at each other for a while.
She nodded with a small blush.
I grinned in response.
-Scene Break-
I wiped my forehead as I just finished the basic workout routine I had developed. My thoughts were along the lines of, If the falna boosted what was already there, why not add to that?
I had just completed my two thousandth press-up.
Turns out that having an insane physique meant working out required a lot more to tire me out. It had been a week since the dungeon incident, and Hestia had been quite firm on not letting me dungeon dive after that.
She had been acting like a warden, following me wherever I went. Not that I minded, her company was always welcome. I could have gone within the dungeon if I wanted to, but I genuinely didn't want to worry her.
The short busty Goddess had also been acting like my own personal cheerleader since I had come here, supporting me more than anyone had before at anything I tried. That thought brought an image of Hestia wearing a cheerleading outfit to the front of my mind.
Naturally Zephyrion junior arose like a trained soldier standing at attention in front of his general, ready to go to war. I pushed those thoughts down and started the last part of my daily routine.
Touching up on my martial arts training, I wouldn't claim to be a master or anything but I had been forced to learn martial arts in my old life since the place I had lived in wasn't exactly friendly.
It was useful for conserving stamina with breathing, it wasn't anything like total concentration breathing from Demon Slayer but it was useful. My fist struck out multitudes faster than my previous life.
I went through three jabs and a hook in a flash of movement. Keeping my footwork light and malleable. Ready to move around at a moment's notice, I sent another jab as I imagined an opponent.
Ducking to the side and narrowly avoiding a punch from the imaginary figure I sent a jab and kick, forcing it to stumble back. I took advantage of its lowered guard and sent a nasty hook.
Rattling my imaginary opponent's head and forcing it into a daze, I followed up with a nasty combo of rapid jabs and a spin kick.
My concentration was lost as I heard a cheer.
"Whooo go Zeph!" Hestia cheered from her place on the couch.
I merely shook my head in amusement at my cheerful Goddess. I really should look into that cheerleader outfit.
I let out a breath, slowing the hyperfocus I had been in and adrenaline. I performed a few stretches to relax my muscles.
"Alright, I'm heading out," I announced and Hestia pouted.
"Zephhhh, stay with me," Hestia asked, opening her arms invitingly. I paused as the tantalising view of my beautiful Goddess was taken into serious consideration.
"I'll be back later," I responded a moment later and the adorable pout magnified.
I rolled my eyes. Tossing her the money pouch with a sly wink as I left. I was now deemed safe by the almighty authority that was Hestia, (Ouranos who?) so I wasn't under constant surveillance.
This meant I could finally dungeon dive once again. Hopefully without the whole army of monster things. I didn't feel like spamming fireballs again. Despite Hestia's casual attitude, I could tell she was worried.
The slight tremble and biting of her perfect nails made it easy to see. Acting confident should put her mind slightly more at ease for now, though I think it'll take a few runs of nothing happening to calm her down.
I practically skipped my way down to the dungeon, I hadn't been able to test my magic out other than slowly getting a better grasp on manipulating demonic energy.
Other than spamming massive balls of fire, I wanted to experiment more. Perhaps even incorporate it into my martial arts? It takes a while to build up but I'm sure with my improvement in control it will become easier as I progress.
I made my way towards the large dungeon entrance, the foreboding aura of it and the eery way all noise seemed to die when entering. A grim silence of determination taking presidence among the adventurers.
Not including me.
I hummed a song from my old world, feeling particularly upbeat. Perhaps it's because I was a devil that the strange aura didn't seem to bother me as much. Some adventurers looked at me like I was already dead meat. Probably due to my lack of armour.
Unfortunately, the original sword I had gained from the guild was lost but with five thousand Vali I had bought a new if not a slightly worse replacement.
It was of no worry though, I was here to grind. I needed to start making more Vali for Hestia and me. She was still trying to convince me to allow her to work and that was an insult to my ability to provide.
A feral grin appeared on my face for a moment before I reigned it back. It seemed like my devil instincts were playing up again. I remember what had happened last time when I had given in to them and ended up slaughtering everything during the flood.
I'm pretty sure my sin was either pride or wrath but I wasn't too sure on which. I steadily broke away from the main stream of fellow adventurers entering the dreary-looking dungeon. Down the large spiralling staircase.
The haunting silence I had been subjected to last time returned. To be honest I felt more nervous than I acted. The brief thought that another dungeon flood could occur due to my presence wasn't exactly comforting.
If I even saw a hint of it starting I was bailing and reconsidering my stance on dungeon diving. A screech alerted me to the small green humanoid figure of a goblin making its presence known.
Pausing and doing the usual routine of being confused before screeching and rushing me, its sharp claws come for me. I side-stepped, kicking its leg. Which caused it to stumble and I sliced its head off.
Experience dealing with these clumsy little fuckers had made it even more effortless to kill them. I dug out its little crystal and watched its body dissolve into black smoke.
Yeah, not hard when I wasn't surrounded by hundreds of these fuckers. I put the monster crystal into a pouch I had bought especially to store them in. I swirled the blade a bit novishly.
Perhaps I should look into learning how to wield a sword properly. Two more goblins rounded the corner and charged me with reckless abandon. Gaining an idea I focused my intent.
Imagine, supply and will. A clear image of what I wanted appeared and I grinned when the sword suddenly lit up with flame. Raising the blade I imagined what I wanted to happen and sliced it down.
I used a big amount of my energy and proceeded to gawk as a massive crescent slash exploded out, consuming everything in front of me in a wave of fire and dissecting the two poor goblins.
Then after instantly burning up their corpses into ashes, only their monster crystals remained on the floor. The crescent slash of fire travelled all the way down the cave-like hallway and exploded when it impacted the end wall.
Which made the dungeon tremble slightly. No wonder it took a massive amount of demonic energy. Holy fuck. My face stretched into a massive grin, I glanced down at my sword only to abruptly frown.
The once straight blade was steadily, starting to glow red and warp.
Shit.
I dispelled the fire immediately and summoned a small amount of ice to coat the blade from my Imagination Magic. By the time the blade cooled down, it was slightly wonky and bent out of place.
Oh dear.
I probably should have foreseen this. At least it was still usable. Screeching announced the fact I had drawn quite a bit of attention. A group of four goblins started charging at me from behind.
Shrugging I got into a solid stance. Shooting off I carved through the group of goblins with a wild grin.
-Scene Break-
I made my way down to the third floor, somewhat carefully. I was still weary of a dungeon flood. There had been no signs so far but I kept the usage of magic nonexistent after my first test to save on energy.
Just in case.
Entering the third floor as I entered the archway leading into a new set of hallways. The wolf heads of the kobolds snarled after doing the basic confused action. I dodged a claw swipe and effortlessly cut the first kobolds arm off.
Elbowing the second in the throat, forcing it back as it stuttered to regain breath. I swung and decapitated the first and pierced the second through the heart. Ducking the thirds dive I slashed it through the head at an odd angle.
I winced. That didn't look right. I proceeded to loot their corpses for their monster crystals. I spent the next hour or so just hunting down the small groups of kobolds.
Taking a few breaks in between, which wasn't easy since the monsters came in constant waves. I could see how normal adventurers got tired and ultimately ended up dying.
I found that not being constantly fucked by an army of endless monsters on the third floor was actually pretty manageable, my devil genes were definitely showing their benefit.
I had seen some first-level adventures struggling against monsters on the first floor and it had given me a view of how overpowered my existence was. I still had no idea what my current strength was at. Since I hadn't exactly been going around picking fights with any level 2 adventurers.
My eyes travelled over to the archway leading to the stairway that would lead me down to the fourth floor. I didn't want to be an idiot like Rose had suggested and rush in recklessly.
Yet, I was cleaning through these kobolds with relative ease. Plus according to the leaflet, the only difference was it spawned both goblins and kobolds with a higher spawn rate.
Might as well.
It would be good to find where my limit was anyway.
-Scene Break-
I think I may have gone a bit overboard.
What had initially meant to be a trip down to the fourth maybe even the fifth floor to test how strong I was had ended up going much further than intended.
I jumped away as a massive torrent of flames tore through my previous position. The dense mist was not making it easy to keep a track of the small wannabe dragon. A thunderous roar of bestial rage rang out a moment later.
Two red glowing eyes were the only thing keeping its entire body in view as I jumped away easily. The dungeon space had become much larger the further I went down, I had found myself descending without much challenge.
The killer ants had only been mildly inconvenient with sheer numbers, they all kept letting out weird screams that kept attracting more of them. My pouch had long since been overflowing with monster crystals by this point.
Turns out I had been being too careful, stupid Rose had made me all cautious and the dungeon flood hadn't helped that belief. Now, here I was fighting what I believe is an infant dragon. On the eleventh floor.
Yup, I had gone all the way down to the eleventh floor. It turns out I had been massively underestimating my devil physique. Which in turn had made me subconsciously hold back. I don't really know how that worked but I had come to find that I was a lot stronger than I initially thought.
I jumped away from another blast and launched myself closer to the infant dragon. The infant dragon stood at a height of around 150 centimetres and was four metres long.
Its scaled tail whipped out and tried to hit me, I slid under it and landed a solid punch to his cheek.
Unfortunately, my cheap sword had long since stopped working at this point so I was forced to rely on my fists and magic. The infant dragon's scaled head snapped back as its entire body was sent rolling back.
A few scales fell off as a large amount of monster blood spurted out. It roared in pain and sent a massive wave of flame at me. Jumping I sent a beam of frost at its body, the ice immediately freezing its body to the ground.
Fire spewed erratically out of its mouth. Soon melting the ice away and getting up to face me. I simply grinned at its determination. I've discovered that I was a bit of a battle manic.
I couldn't help it, I just felt so alive.
I jumped back on a tree and watched as it charged me. A fireball shot at me and I jumped, allowing the tree to explode in flames. I smashed down on top of it sending more scales dislodging from its draconic face.
Honestly, I was pretty lucky to stumble upon the infant dragon. I had found it chewing on a corpse so I'm guessing an overly ambitious adventurer had tried to slay it. Probably risked it due to the fact infant dragons were meant to be rare I think.
There were a lot of new monsters on the floors above floor ten, I had run into a few orcs which were large creatures with pig heads that held a huge amount of strength. I had also encountered Imps. Tricky little fuckers that were basically smarter goblins that grouped up. Attacking in massive forces.
I think there were some more creatures on this floor but I hadn't run into them yet, I performed a spin kick to the dazed infant dragon and a series of powerful punches that repeatedly knocked scales off its body.
I let out a breath after my onslaught, the infant dragon barely standing.
"How's that for power you small wingless wannabe dragon." I taunted with a grin, crazily enough the dragon wingless infant dragon looked like it understood.
It unleashed one final torrent of flames from its gaping maw before I delivered the decisive blow. With a powerful strike, I brought it crashing down, the infant dragon's head collapsing moments later.
My arm glimmered with a faint red aura. Throughout the battle, I had been channelling the limited amount of demonic energy I possessed into my arm, bolstering its strength. While it required deliberate focus and wouldn't be practical in a life-or-death situation, I was steadily improving my control over it.
I let out a tired sigh, sweat glistening on my skin after all the exercise I got from killing monsters. It seemed like a good moment to call it quits and head back up to the surface. I had stayed down in the dungeon much longer than I initially planned.
My eyes trailed back to the dead corpse of the infant dragon, now. How the fuck was I going to remove this things monster crystal?
-{Rias Gremory}-
Rias Gremory sat with her legs brought up to her chest as she stared outside her window. The crystal blue eyes she possessed that normally held cheer looked dead, the edges of her eyes were red and puffy.
The younger daughter of the Gremory was a beautiful young woman with long crimson hair, soft blue-greenish eyes, and fair soft skin. With an hourglass, she was a woman many sought the hand of.
Currently, It had been a week since she had learnt of the disappearance of her precious younger brother, Zephyrion Gremory. To say she was shocked would be an understatement.
Rias had spoken to her younger brother just a few hours prior to the incident. Mainly when she was trying to cuddle him and convince him to watch anime with her.
Naturally, this had made her an emotional wreck as the underworld scrambled to search for him. Only to come up empty. This had made Rias even more distraught as no one decided it was worth the time to update her on what was happening.
Akeno Himejima stood behind her looking just as distraught as Rias. She and Zephyrion had been close ever since he would come in to calm her down when she awoke in a mess after experiencing nightmares of her mother dying.
Akeno was trying to keep strong but she had long since gained a bit of a dependence on Zephyrion's calming presence and his absence was bringing up her trauma once more.
The thought of losing someone else she held dear and being powerless to stop it hurt her on a spiritual level. Rias simply continued to stare outside the window with her fists clenched.
Rias knew Sona and the others were worried about her, after all, Sona had already attempted to contact her three times but Rias didn't have the energy. She had tried to go out and search with the rest of the underworld only to be rejected and placed on high security.
The only thing she knew of was that Serafall had felt a massive magical disturbance in Zephyrion's room which Ajuka's and his peerage were combing through for any information.
Serafall herself had looked terrible. The short-stacked Satan no longer found herself acting in her normally cheerful demeanour but instead, she was cold and serious.
To convey the seriousness of this matter, the shooting of her magical girl show has been cancelled for as long as Zeph isn't found.
Rias hadn't seen her elder sister but she knew it couldn't be good. Sirena had always had a certain obsession with Zephyrion and Rias could only imagine the state she was in.
Rias didn't know what to do, she was stuck in the gremory castle with an armada of guards surrounding her position. Normally she would binge-watch anime but even that didn't seem appealing.
The magical circle of the Sitri pulsed again as Sona attempted to call her, Rias simply stared at it apathetically. It continued to pulse for a few minutes before dissipating.
She let out a depressed sigh.
'Little brother, I wonder what you are doing now?' She mentally asked as she stared up into the purple sky.
-{Zephyrion}-
Whistling, I exited the dungeon, covered in monster blood with a giant monster crystal tucked in my right arm. My pouch was filled to the brim with monster crystals, I should look into maybe taking a bigger bag or finding someone to pick them up for me.
So many monster crystals had been left behind. To be fair I hadn't been planning on going so far down in the dungeon. I hadn't planned on spending so much time down there either. I had been forced to chuck all the goblin crystals away in favour of better monster crystals from lower floors.
I started making my way towards the guild, unbothered by the large number of adventurers entering and exiting the dungeon. I didn't want to worry Hestia too much by being out longer than I had already been so I made haste.
Only to pause as I came across something or rather someone. Sitting down slumped with dirt on his face was a familiar boy with pure white hair that also seemed to have dirt matted on it. The boy's expression was one of defeat and self-loathing.
Holy shit.
Bell Cranel?
-END-
Protagonist?)
I stared down at the severely depressed-looking white-haired protagonist of Danmachi. He didn't even notice that I had stopped and looked at him, he had his knees up to his chest that was covered by a worn-down leather chest piece and his eyes were downcast as he sat down on the dirty cold stone floor.
He had messy white hair that fell down to his shoulders and bright, expressive blue eyes. His body was a bit thin but not in overall bad shape. There were others sitting like him at the side of one of the main streets of Orario but they all looked to be homeless beggars.
Bell Cranel.
I took note of his scruffy clothing and the dirt on his face that suggested he hadn't been able to bathe for quite a while. Just what had happened? I had been expecting him to show up at some point but certainly not in this state.
Perhaps my time recovering or well being forced to rest with Hestia had affected the timeline in a way he didn't have a chance to find Hestia. The white-haired boy suddenly noticed my shadow and looked up at me.
"I-I don't have any money." He suddenly spoke. Looking ready to run.
I frowned, just what had happened?
"Chill, I'm not here to hurt you or anything." I quickly assured him, raising my hands in mock surrender.
To my surprise he relaxed, fully believing my words. I felt just a tad bit bad. I'm pretty sure this happened because of me in some sort of way. Orario wasn't as great as it seemed, there were many places that were rough and full of thugs.
I sat down next to him. Uncaring of the dirty stone floor I found myself sitting on.
"You seem to be in rough shape, what's up?" I asked.
Bell looked confused at first, but then his expression turned to one of deep sadness.
"I- just haven't had as good of a time as I thought I would when coming to Orario," he admitted, his voice wavering slightly.
"Really, how so?" I inquired, wanting to understand what was troubling him.
"I wanted to become an adventurer, but no Familia will accept me a-and I can't go without a falna. Everyone knows that's suicide. Then my money was stolen by some guys and here I am, without anything. I guess I'm just not cut out to be an adventurer. I'm too weak," Bell replied, tears streaming down his cheeks.
I briefly considered something. Ah, why not?
"You know I just happen to be in a Familia." I started and his eyes widened, finally noticing the large monster crystal I was carrying.
"O-oh I'm sorry I meant no disrespect." He stuttered out with an embarrassed flush.
I rolled my eyes.
"Calm down, I could give less of a shit since most of the adventurers around here are assholes." I casually remarked much to Bell's shock.
"My Familia is relatively new and as I said a lot of people are assholes. You say you can't find a Familia? Why not come join mine? I'm technically the captain." I suggested.
Having Bell Cranel as my right-hand man could work well, he was extremely loyal and had a massive amount of potential. Of course, he would have to sleep on the couch since only one man could enjoy the insanely soft body of Hestia.
It couldn't be natural, divine flesh perhaps? The way that ass sunk into my hands. Oh right, back to the hand at present. Bell looked shocked.
"R-really?" He shouted, drawing attention to us. I ignored the people looking at us and grinned.
"Sure why not?"
"But I'm worthless and weak?" Bell retorted, looking self-deprecatingly at his delicately thin arms.
Seriously his eyes were beyond easy to read, it was like he was physically manifesting his emotions.
"Says who? Power can be earned later. So, as long as you're loyal to me then there's no need to worry about what you currently don't have. It can be obtained later" I offered, giving him a friendly grin.
I could be friendly when I wanted, I just enjoy acting dickish most of the time.
He looked hesitant before his face turned into one of determination. With his red eyes burning with a fire, he prostrated.
"Thank you so much! I'll make sure to live up to your expectations." Bell shouted, tears of joy coming out of his eyes.
I chuckled awkwardly.
"I need to go make a run over at the guild first, then we can see about getting you blessed by my Goddess," I said and Bell nodded seriously.
After saying this, I stood up from there and then continued to dust off my pants. I then lent my hand to Bell, as he looked pretty roughed up and I was feeling pretty generous. He looked a little embarrassed but reciprocated and I pulled him up from the ground.
I then helped him dust off his clothes, but he gave out a surprised squeak. Was Bell always this scared?
"Oh right, mind giving me your name?" I asked.
I had nearly forgotten that I shouldn't technically know his name.
He blushed deeply.
"Oh uh right sorry, I'm Bell, Bell Cranel." He replied.
I gave him a relaxed smile.
"I'm Zephyrion, but just call me Zephyr," I replied. I felt that only Hestia could call me 'Zeph' since that felt a little more personal for some reason.
A brief memory surfaced of a short-stacked female with her hair in twin tails and beautiful purple eyes staring at me in adoration. My head lay down on her lap as she stroked my hair.
"Yes Zephyr Sir!" Bell replied dutifully.
I shook my head to clear my thoughts and focused back on Bell.
"Drop the 'sir'" I responded and Bell nodded with a bright grin.
No wonder women were smitten with him, he was adorable in a little brother kind of way. I patted his head and he blinked at me in confusion.
"Let's go."
-Scene Break-
We both entered the guild's main entrance and I quickly told him to stand by while I cashed in all the monster crystals. I took out the large pouch filled to the absolute brim with different shapes and shades of monster crystals.
I handed the overflowing pouch to the receptionist and he looked at me with a raised eyebrow. Probably due to the fact I was registered as a level-one adventurer. He expertly counted and examined each crystal.
"3 Orc crystals, 2 Silverbacks, 8 Killer Ants and 10 War Shadows. With the standard guild price, 3 Orc crystals will come to 450,000, 2 Silverbacks would be 340,000, 8 Killer Ants would amount to 39,200, and 10 War Shadows are worth 50,000." He idly listed off.
"So, how's your day going?" I tried initiating small talk as I stood there waiting.
He stared at me flatly and I gave him a shameless grin.
"All this sums up to 939,200. And after the tax reduction, you have earned 911,024 vali." He finally announced.
18,220 dollars.
That had been from one dive with a pouch that wasn't even able to hold all the monster crystals.
"Oh yeah," I remembered the big monster crystal I was holding.
Silly me.
I dropped it on the counter and his eyes widened just a tiny amount. A level 1 killing an infant dragon? The suspicion that filled his eyes a moment later was predictable.
Nevertheless, he didn't question me.
Carefully taking the large monster crystal and putting it behind the desk.
"One infant dragon crystal, standard guild pricing puts them at 330,000 vali. Total amount 1,231,124 vali."
25,384 dollars in that case.
A massive pouch was given to me and I grinned. Now this was what I was talking about. Letting Hestia work at some food stall? Absolutely not. That divine ass wasn't going to be on display for anyone other than me.
I saw Bell who was looking at me like a lost puppy looking at its leader with a thumbs up. I went to talk back only for the red-headed demon that was Rose Fennett to try to intercept me.
"Shit," I muttered as the view of a very angry hot crimson-haired woman in the standard guild staff uniform came marching out. A piece of paper in her hand and her narrowed cold yellow eyes snapping to my location.
I speed-walked over to Bell as she practically marched past everyone. Luckily it was busy so the bustling crowd of adventurers held her off a little bit. I dragged Bell and aimed for the exit.
"What's going on?" Bell innocently asked with a bit of hesitation in his voice.
"Angry Sexy Red-Haired Wolf," I replied.
Bell looked confused. As soon as we were out of the door and a look back showed Rose now in the process of sprinting towards me. I grabbed Bell, lugging him over my shoulder and making a mad dash away.
"Not today Satan!" I roared as I made my escape.
-Scene Change-
I ran all the way back to the church with a poor Bell confusedly shouting. Hestia came out just as we made it back to the abandoned church. In all her sexy glory. My divine-assed goddess blinked in confusion.
"Uh, Zeph? Why are you running and why do you have a poor rabbit boy lugged over your shoulder? You're not kidnapping him are you?" Hestia questioned me.
I lowered Bell who looked a bit dizzy. Giving him a pat on the shoulder.
"Hestia, meet Bell Cranel. I would like for him to join our familia." I announced and Bell straightened up.
In the next moment, he bowed so low that his head was practically touching the floor. "It's an honour to meet you, Lady Hestia."
Hestia looked down at him in amusement.
"So you want him to join us?" She questioned.
I nodded in response, giving her body a once-over.
"You know we don't exactly have the room to house him right?" She asked, a hand on her wide hips.
"He will sleep on the couch for the time being. Plus I made quite a bit of money today, turns out I was stronger than expected" I replied, holding up a massive pouch filled to the brim with vali.
Poor Bell was sweating nervously as we both casually chatted. I think Hestia was just as amused as me.
"Oh? On the couch will he? Want me all for yourself perhaps?" She asked teasingly and I grinned.
"Familia Captain privileges." I shrugged as if it was out of my hands.
He would have to take it up with HR if he had a problem with it.
She gained a small blush and she giggled.
I should probably start looking for a house, one with a private bedroom and maybe a pool. I'll have to start looking into it later.
"Well if the Captain of the Hestia Familia had decided he wants someone to join, who am I to deny his request?" She asked in a teasing voice. A large happy smile on her face.
Bell sagged in relief and nearly fell over. I held him by the scruff like a rabbit and pulled him up to his feet. Giving him another pat on the shoulder and a friendly smile.
"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" He rambled looking at me as if I was Jesus.
Quite the opposite actually but I'll accept the worship.
"Let's get you your Falna shall we?" I said and Hestia giggled as she took my arm.
Bell followed behind us without hesitation down into the shady entrance of the abandoned church. He was too trusting for his own good.
Bell was lying face-first down on the couch as Hestia performed her blessing on him, kneeling beside him. Bell shuddered as a golden energy spread through him and his physique noticeably improved.
He got up and marvelled at his new six-pack. Poking his abs experimentally. He had a massive smile on his face. I noticed his eyes seemed sharper and his movement more agile.
"Lookin good Bell, the ladies won't be able to get enough of you," I said with a laugh.
Bell blushed and stuttered.
"So, I made quite a bit of money lately. Wanna go shopping?" I idly proposed and Hestia glomped on me a moment later, her soft body melting into mine.
"I'll take that as a yes?" I further asked and she pouted.
I effortlessly picked her up, setting her down and giving her head pats. I swear for a second she purred like a cat but when I looked down the sound was gone and she was still looking up at me with a cute smile.
I looked over to Bell.
"You'll need to get some new clothes too." I mused aloud.
Bell perked up before quickly shaking his head.
"I'm fine w-wearing these! I ju-ust need to wash them." He replied with a wave of his hands.
I internally patted myself on the back for so easily gaining the protagonist's loyalty. I could corrupt him later.
"Nonsense, you can pay it off in the dungeon if you really feel bad." I waved off his concerns.
Bell thought about it before nodding.
"I'll make sure to work hard!." He said enthusiastically.
I gave him a devilish smirk.
-Scene Break-
Hestia had a twirl as she left the small changing room, wearing a casual dress. A dress that hugged her curves a bit too well. Two large mounds stretching the dress. I gave her a whistle of appreciation.
She blushed.
We were currently in one of Orario's most popular clothing stores. It was a quaint little building nestled between two cobblestone buildings, it possessed a wooden sign adorned with intricate carved lettering showing its name: "Orario's Finest Clothing."
The clothing shop was much larger inside than it was outside, with a few random people browsing around.
I admired Hestia. The dress she wore was a simple yet chic design, with a sensible scooped neckline that accentuated her perfect collarbone. Delicate cap sleeves that provide just the right amount of coverage while still allowing for ease of movement. The dress was a beautiful white colour that made Hestia stand out with flower patterns emblazoned on it.
This was the tenth dress I had watched her wear. She gave a curtsy. The bashful blush on her face as she kept averting her eyes made her seem like the epitome of innocence. She quickly stepped back into the changing room and closed the curtain.
The curtain next to her's opened a moment later and Bell came out wearing a basic top and pants.
"How do they feel?" I asked.
He stretched.
"They feel really good," Bell replied, a happy smile on his face. He was trying on much less expensive clothing since my Goddess was the only one who was allowed to be spoiled.
"Oh does it now?" An unfamiliar voice called out. A thuggish-looking man wearing armour that was more expensive than appropriate for such a man strolled out.
A bunch of other men followed behind him. Bell froze and I looked on in curiosity. The man looked to be in his thirties with a scar around his neck, which admittedly did look pretty badass. The man possessed dark brown hair and dark eyes. A chained pendant was wrapped around his neck.
"Spending so much money on clothes Ay, must have some cash on ya." He said with a nudge.
Ah, so that's what was happening. I looked toward the guard who immediately looked away. Was this common around here? Everyone browsing for clothing seemed to ignore the thugs and even seemed to gravitate away from us.
Bell backed away from him and over to me. He finally acknowledged my presence.
"You two friends or sumth?" He grinned.
"I'm going to let you piss off as an act of mercy since It doesn't feel right to pick a fight with a couple of retards." I replied.
"It would leave a bad taste in my mouth," I added with an infuriating grin.
I was used to scenes like this, rough childhood and all. I had been in many fights due to my uncontrollable need to piss people I didn't like off. I had won quite a few but also lost my fair share.
"The fuck you say?" He growled.
I strolled over to Bell.
"Alright Bell, you've got this," I said, giving him an encouraging pat on the shoulder.
Bell's eyes widened as he looked between me and the adventurers who had picked a fight.
"W-what?" Bell replied.
"Time to go show me that courage and beat their asses." I elaborated. He paled.
"Mr Zephyr I can't, I-I'm too weak." He stuttered, looking genuinely afraid.
"Then give it all you got, I'll have your back if you fail. Don't worry." I replied with an easygoing smile.
Giving him a little push he raised his fists hesitantly.
Taking a calming breath and the fire I had seen earlier reignited. Letting out a cry he ran forward and swung.
I cheered.
Only for him to be bitch-slapped and being sent away, rolling on the ground.
Ok, so the leader was a Level two adventurer. The rest were probably level one judging by the less-expensive-looking armour. I looked down at Bell groaning on the hard wooden floor.
It'll heal.
One of the guys from behind the level two adventurer stepped out. A grin on his face. "Let's see what ya go-"
I didn't let him finish. Sending a well-practised kick into his sternum, causing him to bend over and fly back. Through several rows of clothing, I may add.
The next guy who had been beside him swung and I sent two quick jabs making him fold over completely unconscious. The level two adventurer growled and much faster than anyone else sent an armoured-clad gauntlet towards my face.
I swivelled out of the way, sending a powerful punch into his ribs. Denting the armour and sending him skidding back. The other three attempted to close in but they found themselves all disabled as I practised my masterful level of martial arts on them.
The adventurer wearing the expensive fully covered shiny silver armour glared at me, taking his sword out of its sheath. I nodded despite myself, if the others had used their swords they would have been a lot more dangerous.
He swirled it with some proficiency. Giving me a nasty sneer.
"I'm going to carve that pretty face up, perhaps your eyes will go for some money on the black market." He chuckled darkly.
Behind him, many customers left. The staff looked worriedly between us. I glanced back at the changing room, luckily Hestia hadn't exited yet. The thought of her getting hurt nearly sent me into a rage.
Let's see what a level-two adventurer is made out of.
-{Hestia}-
Softly she admired herself in the mirror, she couldn't remember the last time she had changed from her usual set of clothes. Divine bodies didn't produce any scum or sweat so she usually didn't need to clean them. She curled a strand of her hair as she looked at the new dress on her.
She had felt bad for spending so much money but Zeph had been insistent on spoiling her.
'Zeph is such a good boy.' She thought.
Many times she had thoughts of how she was unworthy of him. The dress she wore was a lot more form-hugging than the others. She felt a bit embarrassed but she would admit she loved the way Zeph looked at her.
'Hopefully, he will like this' she thought with a smile.
Ignoring the massive fight going on outside.
-{Zephyrion}-
I dodged the rapid sword swipe, sending a kick he barely avoided. Only to fall prey to an even faster punch sent at his chest. The armour dented and he growled, another sword swipe that I deftly bypassed. Sending three rapid jabs at his body.
He coughed out a glob of spit and jabbed his sword a moment later, recovering masterfully. I suppose being in the dungeon will force you to develop that.
I bent my body to the side and allowed the sword to pass. Giving him an elbow to the face for his efforts, a crack could be heard as his nose broke and blood started gushing out.
He winced, though I noticed a change in his eyes. They focused and he seemed to assess me properly. He backed away before sheathing his words and quickly exited the building.
I dropped my fighting stance.
Well, okay then. I looked down to Bell who was looking up at me in awe. The side of his face was only a little bit red.
Hestia chose that moment to exit the changing room. Her dazzling smile faded as she spotted the unconscious men and the disarray of the once-tidy clothing shop.
My satisfaction at defeating these thugs disappeared.
I am going to kill that bastard if I ever see him again.
-{Keeth}-
Keeth scowled as he chugged down a potion to heal his broken nose, snapping it back with a small crack. He sat on an alleyway floor as he fixed himself up. Cleaning up the copious amount of blood that had been coming out of his nose.
A cloaked figure came from out of the shadows. Keeth glanced at him and snorted. Only to wince as his freshly healed nose sent him a surge of pain for his action.
"Interesting, I'm guessing you got your assessment of him?" The cloaked figure asked. Leaning on the wall. A large pouch filled with vali being tossed in the figure's hands casually.
Keeth's eyes snapped to the pouch. Letting out a huff of annoyance as a cold breeze passed through the desolate alleyway.
"You could have warned me ya'know," Keeth replied gruffly. Gently rubbing his red nose with his calloused hand. "Fucker packed a punch."
The figure turned to him. "I can see that, I must admit I'm surprised."
Keeth scowled.
"Surprised that you sent me to get my ass kicked by a skilled adventurer?" Keeth gritted his teeth.
The figure let out an amused chuckle. "No, the fact that a supposed level one was able to defeat you so easily."
Keeth's eyes widened.
"Bullshit, the pure strength on that fucker suggested he was at the peak of level two perhaps even level three." Keeth instantly responded in indigenous fury.
Keeth would never allow himself to be beaten by a level-one adventurer. The mere thought was absurd to him and an extreme hit to his pride.
The shadowy figure didn't respond, tossing the pouch which Keeth caught. Turning around and disappearing within the shadows. Keeth looked at the dead-end of the alleyway uncertainty.
Getting up and dusting himself off, Keeth left.