Chapter 14 of 26

CH 1

47 min read11,852 words

Chapter 1

After Meeting, A Supporter

Jiri, Jiri, the sound of scraping the soil was heard everywhere.

The brilliant lights from the ceiling illuminated the a square area that was

surrounded by light green walls. This was known as a <Room>. It is a cubic space

inside the dungeon.

Inside this place, I held my <Goddess’s Dagger> in a reversed grip and headed

towards that monster.

Four legs, two thin and sharp forearm, plus two huge eyeballs. Its entire body was

covered with a blood-red color. It cannot be helped that this figure reminds others

of ants.

However, what is different when compared to normal ants is that its body is

roughly the same size as me. Also it used its thin waist as support when it lifted its

upper body and straightened its back.

<Killer Ant>.

A Monster that appears after entering the 7th floor. Together with the 6th

Floor’s <War Shadow>, these two are usually known by Adventurers as the

<Rookie Killer>.

The name originates from the hard shell that wrapped around its whole body, as

well as its high attack power that leaves the Goblins and other Low-Level monsters

in the dust. The skin that was covering the body was as solid as a armor. You can

only constantly dodge against the the Killer Ant’s sporadic attack, otherwise it

really isn’t a joke if you were directly hit by its shelled attack.

The arm in front had four claws. The sheen from the faint reflection of the twisting

suddenly breaking out caused people to dread it.

Constant attacks, until the other’s defense completely shattered, then taking the

opportunity to use these sharp claws to land fatal injuries. This is the fixed attack

pattern of the Killer Ants.

Those Adventurers accustomed with the enemies up to the 5th floor have mostly

become their prey, because it was different than the monsters that could be easily

dealt with up till now.

“Gigiiii”

KichiKichiKichiiii, the Killer Ant moved its mouth and issued of a sharp sound of

grinding its teeth.

Actually this monster is currently calling for its companions. Although,

it doesn’t actually make a noise, it seems that it will secrete a hormone that we

don’t know whenever it is in danger.

This tactic matches very well with its hard shell. Although to us Adventurers, it is

the worst.

No matter what, to defeat it, you must rely on a swift attack. Of course, killing it in

one attack and causing it to stop breathing is the best.

Separated by a few steps away, the Killer Ant and I stared at each other.

“——Fuuuuu”

The one that moved first was me. No matter what, counterattacking and attack

second did not fit my personality.

So my side was the one that provoked the battle. I issued a cry and rushed and

swung my right arm towards the Killer Ant.

The enemy’s claw depicted a white arc in the air. It was approaching from the left

side of my sight——But it was cut off.

My side was faster. With an attack speed that was superior to the Killer Ant, I cut

the swinging claw off from the forearm.

“Giii!?”

I rotated around to the right side of the Killer Ant, which had lost its weapon.

While listening to its painful cries, I held the <Goddess’s Dagger> in order to

prepare for the next instant.

If I wanted to successfully defeat the Killer Ant, I must aim for the gap between

the hard shells. It was the normal method to attack the soft flesh inside the gap.

Although to a rookie adventurer, aiming for the tiny gap between the shell was

difficult, at least in theory it was.

However, I easily ignored this point.

Aiming at the head of the Killer Ant, that lost its arm, and revealed a defenseless

upper body, the black blade swept through like the word “一”.

“——“

I felt that the dagger’s blade pierce through the hard shell that protected its head.

At first, there was only the feeling. Then as the blade did not meet any resistance

and continued to enter, I naturally swung my arm as usual.

Sannnnn, accompanied by a nice sound,the dagger slid through the Killer Ant’s

head and the head flew up into the air. Purple fluid oozed up from the sliced off

neck. The Monster’s head that was spinning in the air, carried a expression as if it

did not know what happened as it headed towards the ground.

Following it, the body that seemed to notice that it lost its head, also fell to the

ground.

“……Ah, not bad!”

While swing the dagger and getting rid of the sticky fluid on top of it, I looked at

the <Goddess’s Dagger>

It feels like it was attracted to my hand. As if I had always been using it, it was

already familiar with my hand.

There was nothing to say much about the power. After all, it sliced through the

Killer Ant’s hard shell like it was butter.

Amazing, this is a Hephaestus Familia weapon!!

An item that Kami-sama gave me specifically.

“~♪”

While revealing an expression of a child receiving a new toy, I began to recover

the Magic Stone of the monsters I killed.

In reality, there isn’t much difference compared to the present me and my

childhood days. During all my previous birthdays, I would get a picture book about

Heroes. It feels like the current situation was the same as at that time. I remember

that, at that time, I would read the book very precariously. In the beginning, I did

not even dare to touch it, because I was afraid that it would get dirty.

But now when I was using this dagger, I would not be afraid and my heart

constantly had these thoughts.

(Thank you, Kami-sama……)

In my mind, I recalled the face of Kami-sama, who had recently become busy, and

I smiled cheerfully and thankfully.

I will definitely become stronger. In order to become a suitable owner for this

weapon, and also to not disappoint Kami-sama’s expectations.

I placed the dagger back into its sheath that was hanging on my waist, and I began

to continue my exploration of the 7th floor.

× × ×

“You really are courageous huh~?”

“U…Uwahhhh!?”

Bell could not help but let out a scream. In contrast to Eina’s

unsuspecting low voice, rage can be felt constantly leaking out from her, who was

now frowning in front of him.

Bell, who finished today’s 7th floor exploration, merrily headed back to the guild

headquarters while admiring the very existence of the dagger he obtained from

Hestia. After exchanging his battle rewards into gold, he went off to see his adviser

Eina and also triumphantly give off his recent report——That the floor he reached

had increased to the 7th floor. The instant he mentioned this, Bell felt that he

invited his end.

“I HAVE SAID TO YOU! WHY DO YOU STILL DO NOT UNDERSTAND

MY WORDS!! GOING BEYOND 5th WAS ENOUGH, BUT YOU

ACTUALLY RAN OFF TO THE 7th FLOOR!? EVEN IF YOU’RE AN

IDIOT, THERE MUST BE A LIMIT!”

“Soooorrrrryyyyy!?”

Thunk! Eina slammed her hands onto the table in front. Her jade colored eyes

stared at him and Bell was forced to enter a state where he was being stared at like

a frog.

The reason behind Eina’s anger was just as she had said, that Bell did not care

about his growth and constantly increased his floor levels. According to her, this

was the act of Adventurers going on an <Adventure>, she was currently blaming

him about this point.

“A week ago, who was the person who nearly died against a Minotaur!?”

“I…It is me!?”

“Then why do you still have this behavior of continuing to go down floors! You

have already fell once, why do you still not remember, Bell-kun!”

“S…Sorry…….!” Bell said this while holding back his tears. From Eina’s

perspective, it was a caring reprimand. Because she did not want Bell to die, so she

could only turn into a demon and shout at him.

As a rookie adventurer with half a month of progress, it was basically suicide to

enter the floors below the 5th floor.

Starting from the 5th floor, the dungeon will change overall. The degree of

difficulty will also increase. Using Bell entering the 7th floor as an example, the

moment the Killer Ant calls his companions, it represents the end. It is different

than the situation of meeting a group of Kobolds. A person would be completely

eaten by that swarm of ants.

“Your sense of danger is not enough! Absolutely not enough! Today you will fix

your happy attitude and deeply engrave the terror of the dungeon inside your

head!”

Huh, Bell issued off an unpromising sound.

After all, within this month, Eina’s Spartan guidance could have been said to have

already been engraved on every inch of his skin.

The information that she taught was undoubtedly useful. But towards her special

guidance, saying “Yes, please give it to me” and sincerely embracing it was

another story. Bell panicked and began to make excuses.

“P…Please wait a minute!? About that, I, from that time have also grown a lot

Eina-san!?”

“Your ability is obviously still at H, what kind of growth are you talking

about……!”

“R…Really! My <Status>, a few abilities inside have already gone over E!?”

“……E?”

Eina suddenly stopped her actions. Her eyes froze in a stiff manner.

She could not understand what Bell had just suddenly said. After understanding it,

her face quickly showed disbelief.

“E…Even if you say such a lie, how could you possible trick……”

“It’s true, It’s true! I don’t know if it was because of my recent good fortune or

what, anyways, my proficiency had increased immensely!”

“……Really?”

Yes yes yes, seeing Bell nod his head strongly, Eina revealed a puzzled look.

Although her time of becoming Bell’s adviser was still short, but she could still

clearly distinguish, to a certain extent, if he was lying or not.

According to Eina’s observation, Bell just now did not lie.

“……Is it really an E?”

“Y…Yes.”

After a while, Eina reached out a hand towards Bell.

The other hand was analyzing by counting the letters downwards 6 times: S, A, B,

C, D, E…… At the same time, she leaked out a “Wuahhhh” sound. She tried again.

S, A, B, C, D, E…… 6 times. The result did not change.

Eina was confused. Bell was not lying. Although he wasn’t lying, but his ability

suddenly raising to E was like a joke. It was impossible to believe it.

Eina’s disbelief about his abilities being E was not groundless. With a time span of

only two weeks, the proper ability range that an Adventurer will reach was not

deeply related to whether if that person was powerful or not. And generally most

Adventurers will only be at H. Even then, this was also limited to the people who

had good skills.

If it was G, then they have been overdoing it. And if it reached above F……No

matter what, that was too fast.

If it was a person who accumulated lots of fighting experience before becoming an

adventurer, then Eina may be persuaded, but the person in front of her was

originally a farmer. But Bell was not lying

“Wuahhhhh”, Eina, who continued to have a tangled expression. She was

thinking deeply while holding her fingers onto her chin.

Bell, who was being stared at on the other side, also did not say a word. It was as if

they were uncomfortably in a cold war.

“……About this, Bell-kun”

“Y…Yes?”

“The <Status> engraved on your back, can you show it to me?”

“……EH!?”

Eina, with a serious expression, said this. Bell could not help but raise his voice.

“Ah, it isn’t that I don’t believe in you? Only that……”

Eina hurriedly waved her hands to shake off the misunderstanding.

Yes, only that……Bell’s Goddess Hestia probably wouldn’t have given him

misleading information on her own initiative……She thought that.

Could it be that, there was any mistakes when conveying the information.

Even if she continues to think about it, her suspicions will not disappear. After all,

this sign, E, absolutely defies common knowledge for Eina.

Because of this, if there is no evidence about this status, she could not believe in

Bell’s words.

“B…But, Adventurer’s <Status> absolutely must not be revealed, isn’t it……”

The guild, which places the Adventurers under their jurisdiction, also developed

laws about the leakage of personal information. Adventurers have an obligations to

report their Lv and rankings since it acts as an indicator to judge their strength. But

besides that, there were no other requirements.

Among this, there are people who have rare <Skills> and Special <Magic>.

Because of the special characteristics of a <Familia>, today’s friend could easily

become tomorrow’s enemy. It was natural to not reveal your own weaknesses and

block off enemy intelligence information.

“I will make a promise with you. From now on, I will not mention it to

anyone what I see. If Bell-kun’s <Status> was officially leaked, I will also take

responsibility. I swear to you that I’ll absolutely obey this.”

“O…Obey…… A…Anyways, Eina-san can also read <Sacred Text>?”

“Yes, although only a little. The abilities within <Status> should still be capable.

Luckily, Eina also graduated from the school district. She was a Scholar that

specialized in comprehensive Theology.

If it was the simple <Sacred Text>, she will still be able to read it.

“If I can’t use these pair of eyes to confirm it, I, no matter how long, will not allow

Bell-kun to enter below the 5th floor”

“T…This really is…Please spare me……”

“I will not look at Magic and the Skill windows, okay? Please!”

“I still have not discovered any Skills or Magic, so even if you see it, it is

fine……I understand”

Towards Eina, who clapped her hands together and deeply bowed, Bell conceded.

Considering she had taken care of him in various cases, he placed absolute trust in

her to the same degree as Hestia. Bell did not doubt Eina’s words.

“About this, then……Do I begin to strip?”

“Having your face become red just because of such a thing, you should not have to

confirm it again! You’re also making me feel embarrassed!”

Both sides stood up with flushed faces, and headed towards the corner of a room

with sufficient space. Bell held back his embarrassment and quickly changed into

his half-naked state.

In that short amount of time, Eina stared at the black <Status> engraved on his

back. But what first entered her eyes was a surprisingly well-trained body, and she

quickly coughed a few times to fix her arrayed head.

Her pointy ears also became red, and she began to closely interpret the <Sacred

Text>.

Bell Cranel

Lv. 1

Strength: E 403

Endurance: H 199

Dexterity: E 412

Agility: D 521

Magic: I 0

(It can’t be……)

Although she had already accepted that there was a 50% chance that it was

true, she was still stunned when this was suddenly shown to her.

Aside from <Magic>, according to these abilities, it was more than enough to

singly fight against the 7th floor Monsters. Eina emphasizes defense, and although

<Endurance> was slightly lower, this clear lower gap for <Endurance> wasn’t a

surprise because of Bell’s fighting method. After all, Bell’s main attacking method

was to dodge and create confusion, and then find an opportunity to strike once and

retreat.

However, seeing that <Agility> had even entered D, she felt like she was about to

erupt with shock.

(Unbelievable……)

Eina’s throat issued a soundless groan. Instantly, it felt that her own common sense

inside her body has broken. Then gradually, a sudden chill blew through her back.

Because of her occupation and she knew in depth about the various information

concerning the Adventurers entering the dungeon. Eina finally understood how

incredible that the circumstances in front of her was.

Bell’s <Growth>, no matter what, it was simply too fast.

——Skill?

This possibility instantly flashed through her mind.

She actually found an adventurer with such an irregular and destructive growth

ability. If it was from a skill, Eina almost regretted while thinking about it……But,

it was only a bit, if she could confirm it……

(……If it was only a glance)

After recovering, her sight had already been stolen by the <Sacred Text> on the

side of the center of the back.

In front was the <Magic> and <Skill> window.

Since it had come to this, it was almost impossible to suppressed her surging

impulse. Not only Eina, if there was a treasure chest with the lid opened,

everyone will naturally want to take a peek. This was considered human nature.

Due to her curiosity, Eina looked at the Magic and Skill window.

(…Ah, no)

She can’t read it.

She could only see a dense arrangement of <Sacred Text>, Eina could not read the

contents of the Magic and Skill window.

——Actually, this was something that Hestia, who was like a doting parent, did

just in case. She played a trick in the area where it would not affect Bell’s abilities,

and added protection to the <Status>. Eina had not completely grasp the <Sacred

Text>’s system and essence. It was too difficult for her to understand these twisted,

complex and strange markings that was actually Hestia’s own handwriting, and

could be said that it was her unique method of writing.

She walked around Bell in turns, this time it was Hestia’s victory.

“About this, Eina-san……you’re not finished yet?”

“Ah……I…It’s already okay!”

Listening to Bell’s shy voice, Eina’s ears also beeped once, and she recovered. She

was also smiling shyly and turned her gaze up from the <Status>. She looked at

Bell, who was quickly wearing his clothes, and issued an apology inside her heart.

She did not expect it to be true, Eina groaned.

Looking at his status, she couldn’t stop Bell from enter the 7th floor. Although it

was not absolute, this level for an Adventurer should have no

trouble going alone as long as they are prepared.

——Even so, it also generated brand new problems.

“……”

“W…What is it?”

Examining carefully from head to toe of Bell, who had just finished wearing his

clothes, Eina impolitely glued her eyes and stared at him. Bell could not help but

raise his voice.

Actually, Eina did not stare at Bell’s body as if she wanted to lick his entire body.

She was not even staring at his body, but rather his equipment……those poor,

cheap, armor.

“Bell-kun”

“Ah, yes?”

“Tomorrow, are you free?”

“……Huh?”

× × ×

Then after a day.

I headed to the northern area of Orario’s plaza that was constructed in a semicircular

shape facing the Main Street. And stood there by myself.

In order to meet with Eina-san.

Yes, meet……

(C…Could this be a ……date?)

Even though he knew something like that couldn’t happen, he couldn’t help but

think about it.

Yesterday, Eina-san gave an invitation of buying my armor together.

She seems to think that my situation of raiding the dungeon does not match my

equipment, which is that my current armor is too unreliable. That person really

likes to help others, and this time she specifically came here for me.

Yes, that must be it. There is no other meaning. It is only the intimate kindness

from a caring person……

(……Although saying this, but to the bystanders, it may also……)

Based on the form, it may seem to match.

Just like that the two of them had made an appointment to meet together alone in

front of the plaza’s statue at 10 am.

Uwaaaa! Uwaaaa!

“Hey~, B~ell~kun~!”

“!”

Then the agreed upon time finally came.

The owner of the cute voice that was issued from time to time, her figure gradually

became bigger in my field of vision.

“Good morning, you’re really early. What now, are you really looking forward to

buy new armor?”

“Huh, that’s not it, I’m just……!”

——Towards being alone together with Eina-san, this matter somehow made me

feel restless.

This point cannot be clearly mentioned to her. This type of me, really is still

spineless.

I, with an expression of not being able to calm down, looked left and right.

“Mmm, actually I was also looking forward to it. Although it is only to buy things

together with Bell-kun, but somehow I felt very excited”

Eina-san clothes are different than what she normally wears. Normally, she would

always wear the guild uniform. However, today she was wearing a cute, white

blouse with laces and a miniskirt. It was a kind of light and lively feeling. She also

removed the glasses she usually wear for her eyes.

Maybe the problem was because I was used to seeing her figure in a guild uniform,

but now Eina-san felt like she suddenly had an adult-like atmosphere. How could I

say it——It was very bright.

Yes, very cute.

I excitedly stared at Eina-san and was captivated.

“We are going to buy equipment, this kind of unromantic stuff, later, but you are

actually so excited now, is it me that feels a bit strange?”

“H…How could it be!”

Seeing me denying it in a panic, Eina- san smiled. Uwahhhh, Uwahhhh……

Even among the numerous guild employees, Eina-san’s popularity amongst the

Adventurers was also very high.

Half-elf, this creature, are they all as cute as Eina-san……

“Cough, cough. Do you have anything you want to say, Bell-kun?”

“Huh, I…Is there anything?”

She looked down at me from above with a mischievous eyes that looks like they

like to play pranks on children.

Uwahhh, Uwaaaa

“……Ummm, well, you really …… look much younger than usual”

“Hey! I’m only 19 years old!”

“Ahhhhhh, ouchhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!?”

Eina used her slender white arms to mercilessly clasp down on my neck.

Just like that, I was being hugged by her tightly from the side…….squeezeeeed.

my cheeks were headed towards Eina-san’s chest……

“Quickly apologize to me!”

“N…no, please forgive meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!?”

Eina-san made a strange noise that continued to irritate my ears. I could not help

but cry out.

× × ×

“It’s been a really long time since I went shopping with others”

“Ah, really? I would have thought that Eina-san was quite popular……Especially

among the males.”

“Fufu, you’re such a sweet talker, Bell-kun. But it’s the truth. After all, ever since I

entered the guild, I’ve always been stuck working”

Today was a bright and clear sunny day.

It was the perfect day to have a date……Although I was not prepared to say it. But

really, the blue skies was almost dazzling clear. I followed Eina-san from the North

Main Street path and headed to the south. We were bathed by the breezes as we

walked, and I felt more relaxed physically and mentally.

As we passed through the street, we had just caught the liveliest time period. It was

filled with people everywhere. The shops, no matter how big or small, had

employees trying hard to attract the crowd. Around us, it sounded like the dwarves

were in high spirits.

Occasionally, some shop employees would try to talk with Eina-san

(while I was treated as a servant), but she would just wave graciously to counter it.

The beastman shop employee that talked with her would have a face filled with

happiness and entered a state where he felt like his entire body had lost its strength.

“About this, where are we going today? If we continue to go down this path, we

will reach the dungeon.”

“We are about to arrive, so you can look forward to it—— If I say this, does it feel

that I’m being mean? Ah, forget it, I’ll tell you”

From the center of the city of Orario, the 8 paths that headed in 8 directions were

known as the Main District’s Main Streets. They were: North, North-East, East,

South-East, South, South-West, West, and North-West. And each direction has one

oath. Overlooking the roads from the sky, it will look like four thick lines

gathering at the city’s center and then it would split into its respective direction.

Each Main Street intersects at the center area of the city, and the center area is right

above the dungeon.

The central square that intersects the Main Streets was just in front. I looked at the

overwhelming presence of the skyscraper facility while I quietly waited for Einasan

to reply.

“The place we are heading to…….is actually the dungeon.”

“E…Ehhhhh!?”

“To be more precise, it is the skyscraper above the dungeon.”

<Babel> is a high-rise tower that seems to act as a cover for the dungeon. It is the

skyscraper facility in front of my eyes.

Everyone knew that it’s role wasn’t to just cover the dungeon, but also Babel’s task

was to observe and manage the dungeon.

This guild-owned facility was one of the most familiar building to the Adventurers.

“Inside Babel……Doesn’t it only have Adventurer’s Public Facilities such as

showers?”

“You really don’t know anything……Forget it, you’ve only been an Adventurer

for less than a month. This is also something that can’t be helped, right? Well,

today, I’ll teach some useful information to you, okay?”

——I can’t help but remember her Spartan-like methods to

instill Dungeon knowledge into me from before. To be honest, looking at Einasan’s

proud expression, I felt afraid from the bottom of my heart.

I prayed that it would not develop into the situation back then, and I began to

concentrate on her teachings.

“First of all, the guild-owned Babel, is just like what Bell-kun just said. It has the

responsibility to provide Adventurers with public facilities. Aside from that, there

is also a simple canteen, treatment facility and even a gold exchange, you know?”

“Ah, isn’t it only for guild branches to have one?”

“Yes, Babel also has one. But because there are only a few appraisers, you will

probably wait a long time in line if you head there……Now, I’ll continue

okay? Where we’re headed to today is another one of it’s responsibilities. Babel

also rents out spaces, and many businessmen would rent these areas to sell their

goods.”

I can understand her intentions slightly. In other words, we’re heading to Babel in

order to go to the shops that sell weapons and armors.

“Because it was constructed directly above the dungeon, these shops are all

specialized for Adventurers. Most of them are business-type <Familia>.

<Hephaestus Familia> should be the representative for shop openings in Babel.

You’ve at least heard of the name right?”

“Y…Yes.”

I could not help feeling a bit scared. I involuntary confirmed that the dagger was

hanging from my waist.

“Bell-kun, how much do you know about the <Hephaestus Familia>?”

“Ah, it is a popular <Familia> that sells equipment. Their equipment qualities are

extremely high. As long as you’re an adventurer, you will want

one…but I only know that much……”

“Yes, that’s correct. Incidentally, where we are heading to today is probably the

leased out area of the <Hephaestus Familia>

“Yes…E…Ehhhhhhhh~~~~~~~~~”

Looking at me, who issued the most tragic cry today, Eina-san gave off a smile that

seemed to represent her mischievous prank had succeeded.

How did something like this happen? Just when I wanted to inquire further, she

seemed to dodge it like a capricious elf, and then swiftly headed to the wide area.

“W…We’re here……”

Central Plaza.

The white walls of the huge tower had a circular arrangement of houses that

surrounded Babel. One can see the green plants and the various forms of fountains

everywhere. There was absolutely no problems with it being called a park.

While they were heading here, there were many residents in the streets that were

unrelated to the dungeon mixed with the Adventurers. But in this Central Plaza,

almost all of them are Adventurers carrying large-sized swords, spears and other

weaponry. The most frightening thing is that, even though there was a dazzling

amount of people, this place did not give off a crowded feeling.

“Eina-san, what on earth is happening!? I can’t buy things from the <Hephaestus

Familia>. That’s only something for the rich!”

“We~ll~ Just look forward to it until then”

“Please don’t joke around. I’ve been sweating like mad now!?”

Even if Eina-san saw the tearful expression of mine, she still had a expression as if

she didn’t care. Her brisk pace shows no signs of slowing down.

Instead, she used her slender fingers to hold tightly to my feeble and falling hands.

“Okay, let’s go! If you’re a man, then don’t squirm around here trying to stop!”

Instantly, my mind became blank. Then my face slowly turned red. The only

thing I could do was let Eina-san pull me forward.

Those soft hands, compared to my stiff hands that were changed due to farm work

I did since I was small, was warm and gave off a slightly itchy feeling. My mind

was also groggy and I entered a state where I couldn’t think.

However, after getting mixed in the crowd, the active male Adventurers around

me were all giving off a <I’ll Kill You> gaze towards me.

This time, my face turned to blue, but thanks to that, it also helped me calm down.

“E…Eina-san, y…your hand, can you please let go? Pppppp…Please……!?”

Since we’re heading to the top-class Blacksmith <Familia> shops in Orario, I’ll

further explain about those Blacksmiths. Bell-kun, do you know about

<Development Ability>?

Towards me, who was a male, but still squirmed around telling her to stop, she

magnificently ignored me. Please don’t be like that, after all, I’ll die.

I determinedly gave up, and carried the determination of being killed, trembled and

tried to shrink my body.

“Errrr, I don’t know……”

“<Development Ability> is an ability that randomly appears after the <Status>

levels up. These abilities are more specialized than the <Basic Abilities>.”

<Development Ability> is similar to leveling up, it is a privilege gained from

<Level Up>, Eina concluded.

“When the time comes, it will be based automatically on the individual’s

<Experience Points> to decide which abilities to enhance. Among these abilities,

there also exist a <Blacksmith> ability”

<Blacksmith> from <Development Ability> huh……No matter what abilities there

are, it was still the first time I’ve heard about it.

According to Eina, the <Blacksmith> ability is necessary for the current

blacksmith generation. Most of the blacksmiths in <Hephaestus Familia> all have

this ability.

In other words, most of the members are Level 2 or above……According to

this, we also know that their faction’s fighting power should also be quite high.

“Of course, the Blacksmith career has existed for a long time. Although the

ancient works have all become antiques, there are still some that are being

used today. The current generation……those with the <Blacksmith> ability, can

add attributes to weapons since they have the power of the <Grace> given by the

gods.”

“Attributes……”

“Which is also a special ability. As long as they wish to,

they can place a skill from the Adventurer’s Status into the weapon as well. Just

like an unbreakable blade. A normal Blacksmith couldn’t create such a weapon.”

Indeed, I unconsciously nodded.

“Among them, there are also weapons that can create phenomenons like

magic. For example, they can swing a weapon down and flames gushes out.”

“EH!?”

“This is also basic knowledge……Anyways, weapons that can evoke a similar

effects to magic are called <Magic Sword>. There are only a handful of

Blacksmiths that can create Magic Swords.”

I couldn’t help but swallow. Although Eina-san was speaking casually, what she

said also meant that anyone who gets a <Magic Sword> will have the one power

that can defeat hundreds of veteran warriors——which is Magic.

“However, Magic Swords are consumable items, and they have the characteristic

of breaking apart once it reaches its limits. Although it doesn’t need

chants and can directly activate, it’s power is still notch below to Magic.”

It really is a costly weapon that is thrown away after being used, Eina-san gave off

a wry smile.

From her expression, I could tell that there are very few people that uses Magic

Sword. Although it is popular, it has a disadvantage of being broken. To an

Adventurer, who wants stability in order to fight in an ever-changing dungeon, a

weapon that can break will not be easily accepted.

No matter what, it is possible to encounter accidents anywhere and at any time.

“About that, Eina-san. Aside from <Blacksmith> in Development Abilities, what

else is there?”

I raised the issue that is to the utmost concern to the Adventurers.

I might have the opportunity to use this knowledge eventually, no, I absolutely will

use it.

“Ah~, to Adventurers, the typical abilities are <Abnormal Resistance> and

<Magic>. Aside from those, <Mystery> is also considered as one.”

“<Mystery>?”

“Yes. Speaking of this, it is to activate Gods’ 18 <Miracles>. This ability is also

known as <God’s Technique>. Do you know the story of the philosopher’s stone,

Bell-kun?”

Of course, I don’t know. I shook my head.

“It seems to be a very old story. A member of a certain faction with this <Mystery>

ability……Sage, successfully created this item called a <Philosopher’s Stone>. It’s

effect is to directly give eternal life.”

“……How should I say, the beginning is really old-fashioned.”

“Fufu, indeed. But the main point of this story is at the end……The Sage joyfully

reported to his own God about creating the Philosopher’s Stone…….And brought

the stone to the God. But in front of the Sage’s eyes, the god threw it to the floor

and it shattered……. Causing the eternal life to”

“……”

“The god used its finger to point at the empty shell of the Sage, who lost his

soul, and that God seemed to laugh continuously.”

This was one of the worst <Myths> I have heard about the Gods.

By the way, the myths that I mentioned here, refers to my Kami-sama who would

tell me about various stories about Heaven.

I, for the very first time, felt that I was lucky that my encounter with a God was

Hestia……

“The philosopher’s stone seemed to be something that was created accidentally. If

you wanted to create it again, it was impossible. After the Sage, no one appeared

again who was able to utilize the <Mystery> ability to its maximum limit. The

Philosopher’s Stone also gradually turned into an item of myth.”

“Maximum……? The Development Ability also have proficiencies just like the

Basic Ability?”

“Unnn, it doesn’t have proficiencies with numbers like Basic Abilities. It only has

letters and is divided into rack S to I. It is so extremely difficulty to get

to the next rank, that it can’t even be compared to a Basic Ability.”

That must be an incredible ability……this was what I thought about what Einasan

told me.

After all, it was an area that I have no experience with, so I could only have such

thoughts.

While we were talking, we had already reached the door in front of Babel.

Although I called it a door, it was more like a hole that pierced through the tower

walls and hole occurred in multiple areas circling the tower. It was a design that

allowed Adventurers to enter the inner part of the tower, no matter how many

people or where they were coming from. Passing through the door, the white and

light-blue colored lobby entered my eyes.

The entrance to the dungeon was underneath this place.

“After coming here……”

“Go up. After all, the vacant spaces that Babel provides starts at the 4th floor.”

Babel’s 1st floor was only the entrance. Its public facilities begin at the 2nd floor.

On the 3rd floor, I explored using my upper body to discover the location of the

gold exchange that was mentioned earlier. I attempted to find the stairs up, but was

suddenly cut off as Eina-san grabbed onto my hand and pulled me to the center

area of the floor.

We got on top of one of the several circular pedestals here. The wall was a

translucent material that was like glass, and leaning on this wall resulted in an

obvious feeling.

Just when I was wondering how Eina-san will operate the device on the

wall……The pedestal left the ground and began to float.

It gradually floated upwards, no it was rising up.

“!?”

“Ah, I also had that feeling when I first rode it”

Looks like this glass-like object was a elevator to move between floors…….It

should be a product made from Magic Stone.

Attached to the base of the pedestal was a large number of <Magic Stone>.

The stones looked like they were transforming the Magic Power inside

into a Floating Power. I was shocked it could even do something like this. Then I

was informed by Eina-san that these Magic Stones have to be replaced every once

in a while. It looks like the Magic Stones are not almighty.

After a while, we reached the 4th floor of Babel.

“Although the shop that I fancy is on a higher floor, we may as well look at the

others since it’s rare for us to come here. Bell-kun, you also want to look

around, right?”

After glancing around, there were shops that sell weapon and armor everywhere. I

also became somewhat excited and quickly nodded at Eina-san as she asked the

question.

I looked at the sign on the billboard, <Ήφαιστος>……Could it be that from here to

the end, every shops belongs to the <Hephaestus Familia>……?

“Ahah, from the 4th floor to the 8th floor, all of it was rented out by the

<Hephaestus Familia>……”

……Isn’t this just like reserving the entire place. In the end, how amazing is the

Incidentally, near where Kami-sama and I lived, there was also a branch on the

North-West Main Street.

The price of the dagger that I had often looked through the window in front of the

shop was …… 8 Million Varisu.

It was an amount that could purchase a few items from a respectable shop.

The store right next to me had a display window. I looked carefully at the price of

the red sword in the center……

(30 Milllion Varisu!?)

Kuraaaaa, I staggered while placing my palm on my forehead. Eina-san must be

looking at me with a wry smile.

Today I brought the dagger that was created by Hephaestus. Kami-sama also said it

was the only one in the world……In the end, how much did it cost?

“Welcome~! This customer, may I ask what you want to buy today?”

While I was staring at the goods in the display window, I was suddenly addressed

by an employee with a bright, cheerful voice.

Although that girl was slightly short, but her looks were dignified. Her face had a

well-trained and beautiful business smile. Her cute black twin tails would often

shake from time to time, and she smiled at me.

Underneath the red apron, that looks like the uniform, she had a petite figure with

mismatched boobs that constantly demonstrated its existence……

“……What are you doing, Kami-sama”

“……”

Kami-sama’s smile stiffened.

So that was it. I was wondering what she was busy with. It looks like she ran off to

this place to work……!

“Why are you here!? Are you working!? Didn’t I cleary say that since the floors I

can go to has increased, our Familia isn’t that short of money anymore”

“Okay, Bell-kun, just forget about everything you saw today. Act like an adult and

obediently go home……! You coming here is too early!”

“Isn’t it too early for Kami-sama as well!? When you only get paid 30 Varisu an

hour!?”

“I will not let you to mock those potato croquettes!”

“Okay, let’s go home together!? After all, Kami-sama is a God. I can’t let you

abandon your dignity and get shamed! What if other people begin to mock us!?”

“No, leave me alone, leave me alone Bell-kun! Sometimes Gods also have things

that they must do!”

“What exactly do you mean, that Kami-sama also have times when she has

something that they must do!? Please, listen to my words!”

I was using both my hands to grab onto her right wrist, but Kami-sama turned her

face away from me with a solemn expression of trying to escape.

In the end, what on earth happened that made Kami-sama so stubborn……!

Using the corner of my eyes, I looked at Eina-san to confirm if she’s shocked by

such a scene. However, it was not the time to worry about such things.

“Hey hey! Newcomer, don’t play around! Quickly, get back to work!!”

“Yes!?”

Pyu-nnn! Kama-sama seemed to have flew out from my grasp.

Watawata, she panicked and ran off into the store’s interior. The petite figure and

the twintails behind her disappeared from the shop’s entrance.

“Kami-sama~……”

“……Same as usual, completely different than the other gods?”

Facing me, who issued a resigned sigh, Eina-san did not know whether to give out

a dry laugh or not.

Then I remembered that I didn’t come alone today, so I cooled off slightly and

forced myself to calm down.

……Currently, I should temporarily forget about Kami-sama……

“Letting you see such an embarrassing scene, I’m really sorry……”

“No problem. Now then, shall we head up to the upper floors?”

I nodded while walking together with Eina-san, who had a wry smile. Our

destination was Babel’s 8th floor.

This time, we also rode on the Magic Stone Elevator, and slowly rose to the upper

floors.

“Okay, we’re here.”

“Can’t believe I really came……”

Opening the manual door of the elevator that stopped, I looked around. It was a

similar view like the 4th floor.

Sword, Spear, Axe, Hammer, Dagger, Bow, Shield, Armor and other defensive

equipment…….The specialized shops that sell all kinds of weaponry was spread

out like tiles in the wide space of the floor. Also, I don’t know why, but the

number of customers…… number of Adventurers was more than the 4th floor.

Thinking that all the people here must be first-class Adventurers, I suddenly

retreated midway.

“Like the high-class brand <Hephaestus Familia>, I shouldn’t ruin them. Bell-kun

must be thinking of such thoughts?”

To me, who was ill at ease, could not say anything right now. I could only admit it.

Eina-san saw my reaction and gave off a hearty smile.

“Actually there is no such thing. Forget it, it is best if you saw it instead! Follow

me”

Eina-san took me and entered the shop with the most customers. It was a shop that

sells spears.

Continuously moving into the interior of the shop, Eina-san stopped in front of the

spear case that was against the wall. The prestigious battle spears, with its

spearhead pointing at the ceiling, was lined up one by one.

Anyways, it must be terribly expensive. Thinking about this, I looked at the

price……12000 Varisu.

“H…Huh……?”

If this was the price, then I might be able to afford it……

“Fufu, shocked right?”

“Y…Yes. But, why?”

I, who was stunned, inquired this to Eina-san who had a good mood.

“The difference between <Hephaestus Familia> and the other specialized

Blacksmith <Familia> is that even their bottom ranked members have the

opportunity to continue creating their works. And those creations are also placed

inside the shop to sell”

“Ah……Is that alright? Comparing it with the top-class craftsmen, wouldn’t it be

completely……”

“Of course, they will still separate those items from the skilled Blacksmith

creations to sell. And those creations will have to first pass through a management

team to make an accurate assessment of its value. Afterwards, it must be selected

by an Adventurer where it can then be purchased. This way, the direct evaluation

will be precious to the immature Blacksmith, even if the assessment has the utmost

praise or the harshest assessment. To them, it is to propel and help motivate them

to continue to create more excellent equipment.”

Although it was a little surprising, I quickly understood. Instead of locking

the blacksmiths in a narrow workshop where they can only attempt to try and

practice, why not allow the wide world to stimulate them. This way,

their experience could easily become the fuel for their growth.

“Doing it like this causes no harm to the shop. By creating this system, it

lets Adventurers from the early floors to become customers.”

In the group of rookie Adventurers, there may be a top-class adventurer fledgling

waiting to become more mature. And when they become more mature, they may

become an honored customer that will purchase top-class equipment. So the key

was to create a pyramid-like layers for customers, Eina-san said.

Attract customers from the largest, bottom layer. From the middle layer, select a

few customers and wait for these individuals to mature and become the upper layer.

This was the characteristics of the labyrinth city. On the whole, how much interest

could an Adventurer produce, no one knows.

“The main point of this mechanism is to allow new Adventurers and Blacksmith

form a new bond. During this period, they will continue to build and deepen their

ties. It might be deep or shallow, but it does happen.”

What on earth does this mean? I used my eyes to inquire.

“The rookie Blacksmiths will engrave their own name onto their creations. And

after the rookie Adventurers purchases their products, they will remember the

name. If the two match well together, then they may even meet directly. Even if

these Blacksmiths weren’t discovered a management team or the Blacksmiths were

buried by the Blacksmith division, they may still be discovered by the wise eyes of

the Adventurers. Although the two won’t match perfectly, only the Adventurers

who directly used the Blacksmith creations are able to truly appreciate the feelings

that were poured into these creations.”

……After saying this much, I feel that perhaps that may really be true.

At least as far as I’m concerned, I still have some attachment to the dagger and

light equipment provided by the guild.

“And, if it was created specifically for someone, then it will contain more feelings,

and allow it to unleash more of its ability……These words was what someone else

had told me.”

Looking at Eina-san, who stuck out her tongue slightly, ba-dump, I was moved.

I would have never dreamed that this person would actually do such a childish act.

“Looks like I said too much. In conclusion, there exists items from the

<Hephaestus Familia> that even Bell-kun is able to purchase. Bell-kun, how much

money did you bring?”

“About that, exactly 10 000 Varisu.”

“Well then, if I had to say, it might be tricky to fit a whole set of armor with that

much money. Forget it, it might be just like what I said earlier. If we look carefully,

there might be something from a rookie Blacksmiths, and we may find an

unexpected reward. Now let’s go!”

Compared to me, it looks like Eina-san was more energetic. I, who had slightly

calmed down, could only give a wry smile.

Eina-san’s suggested that it might be more efficient if we split up to search,

so I temporarily split from her and was brought to a shop that had a signboard for

armor and shield.

Once I entered the shop, a view that I have never seen before entered my eyes.

(Wow……Although these were the creations from the lowest ranked Blacksmith,

the feeling of amazement didn’t change……)

It was most fitting to describe this as a Forest of Armor.

The pure white torso that was covered by a variety of armor, even if its body was

standing on the floor, manifested its dignity. Among those, there were also lifesized

dolls with armor on their body. It was possible to imagine how I would look

if I were to wear it.

On the wall’s support, there were numerous shields and helmets. It seemed very

simple, yet robust. It was also decorated with a gorgeous shine. There really is all

kinds of equipment here.

Whether it was male or female, everybody was selecting the armor that fits them.

Looks like this shop allows you to try it on.

(What should I do. It feels that I’m becoming quite excited……?)

Looks like I was affected by the atmosphere of the shop, because even my pace

sped up. I headed to the interior of the shop. Suddenly, I widened my eyes.

In the corner of the shop, there was something that wasn’t eye-catching. There

seemed to be a box of defensive gear that was stacked up like a small mountain.

It was a set of armor.

Although the other armors were displayed on the doll’s torsos, these were stacked

up like a mountain of garbage, but they also gave off a feeling. Besides this box,

there were also numerous similar boxes. Looks like these items are the creations

that the <Familia> have deemed to be low-valued.

Even after being used, the quality should not be a problem. Perhaps these sets are

already incomplete.

“Ah, they really are selling them……”

Close to the bottom of the box was a label: 5700, 6400, 3900……Although the

amount written in red was different, it still looked like a bargain.

The armor that I looked at before was already 15000 Varisu. Even the guild’s light

equipment that I was wearing now costs 5000 Varisu……Yes, my thoughts were

not wrong. This was a price level that I can buy.

But thinking about what Eina-san told me before, armor was used to protect my

body and I shouldn’t be stingy with it.

“……?”

Walking along the arranged boxes, I suddenly stopped.

Looking down into one of these boxes, I found a certain armor.

Silver white. It was not bright red nor was it a dull black. On the surface, it had a

metallic luster flashing. There was no paint, and it kept the original material’s

figure. However, it struck a chord with me.

I kneeled down to carefully look, and noticed that it was a light armor.

Although the knee guard and breastplate area was small, it feels like it will fit me.

Aside from that, the elbow, forearm , and waist had minimal protection. It

looked like a very disorderly armor.

I tried to pick up the piece of breastplate, and it was very light. The guild’s support

goods could not compare with this. Then I knocked on it. Although I don’t know

whether it sounded good or bad, it felt like it will be able to protect me.

The size looks just right as well.

“……”

I was very strongly attracted by it.

Of course it might be because it was the first time I saw such an item.

But when I noticed it, I had already been deeply fascinated by this armor.

Lifting up the breastplate, I carefully looked. Then I suddenly turned it around——

I have it now, <Welf Crosso>. it was the creator’s signature that was engraved on

the back of the breastplate.

Looks like it was not permitted to have the <Ήφαιστος> trademark on it.

(Welf Crosso……)

I’ll remember it.

I forcibly turned my consciousness away from the armor to the name of the creator.

What Eina-san said about Adventurers and Blacksmiths having a connection, it

was the first time I experienced it after hearing about it.

I had already been captivated by this light armor, so I’ll be sure to buy it.

Looking at the price recorded on the box……Eh, 9900 Varisu.

It was equivalent to the entire wealth that I brought……

“Hey—, Bell-kun! I saw something good! It was a leather armor! Although it is

slightly expensive, but I still think it is the best if we think of a way to purchase

it……Huh, Bell-kun also found something he likes?”

Eina-san, who had just returned, looked at the item from above since I was

crouched down……Unnnn Uhhhh, she revealed a expression as if she was

thinking of something.

Looking at the selling method of it being placed in boxes, it is easy to give off an

impression that it was the remainders of a defective product.

“……Did you decide to purchase that?”

“Yes. I want this.”

“Ha……Bell-kun really likes light armor. Since it was a chance to select armor,

you decided it so quickly”

“S…Sorry”

Looking at me, who had a apologetic expression, Eina-san could only say “Well,

don’t mind it”, and gave a wry smile.

“After all, Bell-kun will be the one that uses it. From my perspective, I can only

hope you put a lot of thought into it since it’s equipment that’s protecting your

body……but if you decided to purchase this, I won’t oppose it.”

“……Thank you”

I said a word of thanks while holding the box and stood up.

After reaching the cashier to pay, the remaining money I had was only 100 Varisu.

I really spent a considerable amount.

“Huh……?”

Eina-san had disappeared again. I carried my backpack that had the light armor

inside and looked around.

Where did she head off to/ I racked my head and searched. Suddenly, I found her.

Eina-san, who had a devilish smile, was standing behind me. Did she just come out

from the shop.

“Bell-kun, this is for you”

“……Eh?”

The item that was suddenly shoved over was a slender armor.

Its shape mimics the cover for the hands, its length was also from the wrist to the

elbow. From the metallic surface, it can be seen to have the functions of a shield.

The color was also the same as Eina-san’s jade-like eyes.

“T…This is……”

“My present that I’m giving to you. You have to remember to use it okay?”

“Ahhhh!? No, I can’t have it! P…Please return it immediately!”

“What? You’re not willing to accept the item that a female gave you?

“N…No, only……that I feel bad about it”

Although I hurriedly refused, I also said the truth. No matter what time or age, you

will simply feel ill at ease for receiving a precious item from a female.

I silently bowed my head, Eina-san revealed a smile.

“I hope you can accept it. This is not for me, but for you.”

“Ah……”

“To be honest, it is not surprising for an Adventurer to die at any time. No matter

how powerful a person is, a little inattention will easily cause them to lose their

lives. I have seen too many Adventurers not coming back”

“……”

“……I hope that you will not suddenly disappear, Bell-kun. Or are you still unable

to accept the thing that I gave you?”

Eina-san smiled shyly, and stared at me.

With quiet eyes.

“Is it not possible?”

I could only look at the ground.

And tried hard to use my bangs to cover my slightly reddened face.

That kind of speaking is too cunning, I was not even able to say this sentence out.

“……And, Bell-kun, didn’t you say that you love me?”

“Huh!?”

This time, my face really turned red. Lifting my head, our gaze met.

Eina-san’s cheeks were also slightly dyed red.

“About that matter, it was because Eina-san had encouraged me, so I was happy

and on a whim……”

“I was also very happy. Bell-kun said that he loved me. Although it was not that

meaning, I also understood?”

No matter which side it was, they both had reddened faces.

“Perhaps you do not understand. I also slightly wish to become your strength. I do

not wish to easily give Bell-kun, who has been working hard, to others. Okay, can

you accept it now?”

Chon, she squeezed my nose.

I touched my nose that was squeezed by Eina-san, then I nodded with my reddened

face.

“Thank you……”

“You’re welcome”

It feels that the chest that was holding the jade-colored armor also has something

warm overflowing from it.

× × ×

“Looks like it’s getting a bit late……”

The sky was gradually being dyed into a dark red color. The time should be

already evening.

After we finished buying our things, I walked Eina-san back home. Then I began

returning home.

I ran and left the West Main Street and entered an alley that was formed by

numerous tiny intersections.

(My heartbeat was actually becoming fast due to Eina-san……This is bad)

The Wallenstein in my head used a cold glare to stare at me. Of course this was

just wishful thinking.

I didn’t want to believe that I was faithless……Even though earlier before, I kept

saying Harem this. Ah ha ha ha, I issued a broken voice as if I was escaping reality.

I am devoted to Wallenstein whole-heartily, I am devoted to Wallenstein wholeheartily……

“……Footstep sounds?”

I stopped my footsteps.

From the depths of the alley, patapata, what came was the sound of someone else

running. One person……No, is it two.

One had a small body size. The other had a large body size. Because the sound

emitted from the shoes had a significant difference, it was easily to discover this.

“From where……?”

I had just left the Main Street area. From my current position, if I turn around back

to the road, I will be able to clearly look at the people coming from the Main Street.

And the sound of the footsteps were constantly approaching here.

Although they was still some distance away, if there was any trouble caused near

our home, I will still feel bad.

While I was still a little uneasy, I stuck out my head to the opposite corner of the

path that I usually use.

“Ah!”

“Eh?”

Surprisingly, a figure in front of my eyes fell down onto the floor. Looks like the

running figure had stumbled from my foot, while I had stuck it out in order to look

around.

I hurriedly approached the person that issued a tiny cry and took a closer look.

(……Hobbit?)

With a height that was even shorter than Kami-sama and had what seemed to be

slender hands and legs that would break if it was touched. No matter what body

part, it was extremely small if viewed from the outside. This characteristics quickly

allowed me to recall the name of this particular race.

It is the demi-race that loved to eat and dance, and is always noisy.

“Sorry, are you okay!?”

“Unnn……”

The tiny body quickly climbed up.

It was a girl. Her chestnut-colored, shoulder-length hair covered her neck.

From her appearance, she was very young. On her tiny face, her big round eyes

gave off a deep impression.

“I finally caught up to you, you damn Hobbit!!”

Just when I was about to reach out to her, another person appeared from the depths

of this small road. He issued off an angry roar that caused the Hobbit girl to

revealed a pitiful expression.

The male, that had his eyes flash constantly, seemed to be an Adventurer.

His age should be around 20 or so? On his back was a sword that was slightly

larger than average. But his body looked to be much stronger than mine.

“I will not let you escape anymore……!”

The youth revealed an evil-like expression that will cause others to stop breathing.

It even made me, who wasn’t confronting him, to instinctively step back. It was

really scary.

——That person, what did he want to do to that Hobbit child?

While I was thinking about this, my body instinctively moved.

As if I was protecting the girl’s body, I stood in front of the youth.

“……Ah? Brat, out of the way, scram”

The man’s gaze left the girl’s body for the very first time, as if he had just noticed

me.

My cheeks twitched. Even if I defeat more monsters, I will still not be able to get

used to such a thing.

Although I was completely pressured by the man, but I still had a determination to

stand still.

“T…That……May I ask you what you want from this child……?”

“You’re annoying, brat!! If you don’t scram quickly, I’l cut you together with her!”

——Ah, it doesn’t work, we are unable to communicate.

I shed a tear while I prepared my resolve.

Although I did not know what had happened, but there was no doubt that this

person wanted to do cruel things to the girl behind of me.

I removed my backpack and placed it on the ground at a corner. Seeing my actions,

not only did the male Adventurer was shocked, even the Hobbit girl behind me was

also surprised.

The male’s eyes widened, his face quickly turned red.

“Brat……! You really want to die……!?”

“T…That, W…Why don’t you temporarily calm down a bit……!?”

“Shut up, what do you plan to do!? Are you that chibi’s companion!”

“I…It is my first time meeting her”

“Then why do you want to protect that fellow!?”

“……B…Because she’s a girl?”

“What are you talking about……!”

Really now, what am I saying……

But there was no other way. The other reasons were unrelated, thus there was

really only one reason.

As long as you’re a male, then normally that is what you’ll do right? If a girl was

attacked, you would usually extend a helping hand right?

Forcing me to find a reason is only in vain……!?

“Forget it, I’ll first turn you into pieces…….!”

The male used his hand to pull out the sword behind his back.

Real murderous intent shook my body, and reflexively, I also put out a posture for

my <Goddess’s Dagger>

Ha, this was the sound of breathing. Looking back, I noticed that the Hobbit girl

was currently staring at me with wide eyes.

No, it should be staring at my……<Goddess’s Dagger>

Although the male was shocked for a moment when I took up a posture, but he

quickly place strength back into his eyes and stared at this side.

——This is bad.

It is my first time fighting against a human……My legs are trembling. Is combat

really like this?

The murderous intent, that was coming from the other side, caused me to enter a

state of extreme tension. Sweat constantly emerged, and I also swallowed a few

times. I was filled with anxiety and fear. In my posture, the male Adventurer

revealed a grim smile. He probably understood that the enemy in front of him

could be defeated effortlessly.

He went forward openly and shortened the distance between the two of us by a step.

I gritted hard and desperately suppressed my impulse to turn around and flee.

I could only imagine me belling killed. But, I did not retreat.

In the next instant, the male rushed over.

“Please do not continue to fight”

The male’s sword did not swing down at me.

A sharp voice broke the tension at the scene.

While puzzled, we looked toward the source of the sound. What entered our eyes

was a female elf carrying paper bags in one hand.

Similar to Eina-san, she had a perfect face. And what was different than a half-elf

compared to her, was that her two ears that stuck out was sharper.

Her bluish, almond-shaped eyes stared directly at the male Adventurer.

Ah, I remember that she was……indeed an employee at <Mistress of Abundance>,

Ryuu-san?

“One after another……!?What is the problem this time!?”

“The person that you want to harm……He is a companion of an irreplaceable

colleague. I will never allow others to attack him”

What is she saying.

“That fellow is your fellow is, stop saying words that I can’t understand……! You

all want to be turned into pieces by me, huh!?”

“Stop shouting”

——Shin, the air froze.

The male that yelled loudly also became speechless. Ryuu-san, who narrowed her

eyes, had quietly released an unparalleled sense of pressure. He had an troubled

expression.

“……Uh……!?”

“I do not wish to do any violent acts. Because I will unconsciously overdo it”

While having her back faced towards the sunset coming from the Main Street,

Ryuu-san said flatly.

What she said was mostly the truth.

Her powerful pressure that eroded the surroundings forced me to believe that it was

true.

The male Adventurer’s mouth continued to open and close. As if she was to issue

off an ultimatum, Ryuu-san’s empty hand, with a sound that seemed to pierce

through the air, was equipped with a Kodachi.

C…Could not see it clearly……

“D…Damn it!?”

The male had a pale face and he decided to give up.

“……”

“Are you alright?”

To the female in front of me, that did not fight and was able to scare off the

Adventurer, I was slightly afraid.

I wiped the sweat that was falling down to my chin. I do not know whether it was

due to the Adventurer or whether it was because I was too concerned about her, I

could not determine it.

Could Ryuu-san be an Adventurer……?

“Thank you, it was a great help……”

“You’re welcome, I should be the one apologizing for doing such a rash action. If

it was you, you would be able to solve it.”

“No, that’s not the case…….”

I was extremely afraid. Afraid to the extent that I could only desperately imagine

the worst circumstances

I scratched my cheek, then turned my gaze away.

“R…Ryuu-san, why are you here?”

“I had to buy things in order to prepare for the night business. It is different than

during the daytime. There will be many Adventurers that come at night. It’s not

acceptable if we don’t prepare in advance. On my way, I saw you so I

unconsciously came to look at the situation.”

I accepted it as if I understood the situation. <Mistress of Abundance> seemed to

be a popular bar. If they only simply prepare a few food and wine, then it will

quickly be emptied out.

But then again, unconsciously? I should not have seen her more than a few

times……Could it be that this person has a strong sense of justice?

“Then what are you doing here?”

“Ah, right, that child……Huh?”

Looking around, the Hobbit girl that was still here earlier had suddenly

disappeared.

“Was there someone else?”

“Ah, Yes. Although this was true……”

Was she afraid so she ran away.

If I really had to say, then it was unavoidable. After all, I had also felt fear.

Although I was still curious……

“Then I’ll go first.”

“Okay. I really appreciate for your help this time.”

After having a small talk with Ryuu-san, we split up from there.

× × ×

“Ah, good……”

Bell, who was equipped with his new armor, confirmed his own posture with the

mirror.

The silver white light armor that was purchased yesterday matched well with the

black shirt that was underneath it. Although it was called an armor, but it seemed

to be weightless and it will not affect my movements.

My left wrist was also equipped with the shining jade-colored armor.

Bell stared at the defensive gear, that had the special characteristics of a jade to

reflect, he obtained from Eina-san, and slightly smiled while touching it.

“Kami-sama, I’m heading out!”

“Yes~, Have a nice trip~……”

Bell headed to the entrance while giving a wry smile while glancing at his Goddess

who was still lazily sleeping due to fatigue. He had already given up on persuading

her about her work..

Before leaving, he still took a final glance at the mirror. From the temporary

support armor to the armor that he was currently wearing, he finally seemed to

look more like an Adventurer. While he thought like this, Bell also felt a little bit

more proud.

With his <Dagger> and <Hestia’s Dagger> inserted near his waist, he was fully

equipped. He left from the hidden room inside the church.

(The weather is really nice……)

Walking out from the church, a wide sky allowed his vision to expand forward.

I wonder if something good will happen today. Because there was such a good,

cloudless weather, Bell could not help but think about that.

He finally reached the central square after passing through many alleys to the Main

Street.

Following the flow of the Adventurers, Bell finally reached Babel.

(Today, I will also……)

Work hard, he could not help but remember the girl with the golden hair and

golden eyes while saying this phrase.

“Onii-san, Onii-san. White haired Onii-san.”

Hearing the unexpected call, my actions couldn’t be helped but be interrupted.

“Eh?”

I turned to the direction where the sound came from. However, the nearby

Adventurers continue to disappear from my eyes. I couldn’t find the person

speaking with me.

“Onii-san, B…Below”

Searching for the slightly angry female voice, I looked downwards, ah, found her.

Her height was about 100 centimeters. Her cream-colored long robe was draped

over her entire body. From the hood, you could see only a bit of her marooncolored

bangs. On her back was a big backpack that was several times bigger than

her petite body. That backpack was huge to the extent that it was scary.

Bell, who was feeling a strong sense of déjà vu, tried hard to dig through the

memories of yesterday night during the alley. Then he widened his eyes.

“Y…You are……”

“First time meeting you, Onii-san. Although it is a little abrupt, but are you looking

for a Supporter?”

This way, it covered Bell’s voice, the girl used her baby-like finger to point behind

Bell.

The direction of her finger was pointing at Bell’s backpack.

Only those that are solo Adventurers will equip a backpack. Anyone

can tell by simply connect those points together.

<If they have an Supporter, Adventurers will not have to carry their own

backpack>.

Thus, she used a half-sure tone to confirm it as if he needed a Supporter, or

something.

“A……Ahhhh?”

“Are you still confused? But isn’t the current situation very simple? A Supporter

that is very important to an Adventurers, but is limited in amount, came to you”

In contrast to Bell’s dazed expression, the girl revealed a sunshine-like smile.

“T…That’s not the case……You are yesterday’s……?”

“……? Onii-san, have you met with Lili before? Lili do not seem to remember

such a thing”

Towards the girl that tilted her head cutely, Bell also tilted his head.

The passing Adventurers around them all threw a what-are-they-doing type of

gaze to them.

“Huh?”

“Besides that, Onii-san, what about it? Do you need a Supporter?”

“About that……If it is possible, then I probably will want to……?”

“Really! Then, why don’t you take Lili away, Onii-san!”

The girl was extremely excited. Her round eyes that were covered by her hood and

bangs also shone brightly.

The large eyes gazed at the dagger inserted at Bell’s waist.

“That’s not it, but is it really okay, ah……?

“Ah, is it my name? I’m really sorry, Lili forgot to introduce herself”

The girl took a step back and revealed a hearty smile.

“Lili’s name is Liliruca Arde. Onii-san, what is your name”

The girl’s eyes that was looking up at Bell, seemed to be flashing strangely.

Cha