17 A Debt Waiting To Be Paid
[Warning Long Chapter Ahead]
Odr Pov
While taking a nice stroll from the dungeon to the guild. I look up at the sky to see the sun is closer to the west, meaning it will be sunset soon. 'means I've been in the dungeon almost for 5 to 6 hours. I really need to invest in a watch. If I'm not careful, I might lose track of time down there.'
With my hands still behind my head, I look left and right, taking in the stores, homes, and residents of Orario. Finally taking notice of the great diversity of different races. Letting it truly sink in seeing all of them just walk around mingling.
While walking by a couple shops, I take notice in case I want to visit later. I pass a couple of Hephaestus Familia shops on the north-west side before the guild. I made a quick detour just to catch a glimpse of the fancy weapons and armor I saw in the anime. I took one look at the first shop I saw and turned around just as quickly after seeing the high prices. 'Yeah, I don't have money for that. I probably feel depressed if I keep looking at all the cool stuff without the money to pay for it.'
After a bit more walking down the road, I finally reached the guild. After passing the double doors, I see it's more crowded than it was in the morning, since a lot of people are coming back from the dungeon.
I checked the guild reception lines and saw they were long. Seeing the usual cast of Guild members behind the service counter, helping and answering people's questions. I even see my very own advisor and what looks like another attempt by a bold adventurer to ask her out. 'Good luck with that pal; you have a better shot with literally anyone else'
Looking to my left, I see the teller line to trade the magic stones for Valis, which also has a big line. I look between it and Rosey's line, contemplating if I should go say hi to my besto friendo. 'I mean, it's only right. I have to make sure she knows I'm alive and well. With my wonderful personality, I think it will brighten up her day to see my face.' I nodded to myself. Just as I'm about to get into her line, I finally remember the side of my shirt and coat that has claw marks.
'That's right. I actually got hurt a bit in the dungeon. Even after her long session of not underestimating the low-class monsters, if she sees it, she'll probably question what's happened and probably give me another lecture while giving me the classic I told you so look' I shudder at the thought. Making a quick decision to go to the teller line instead: 'You know what? She probably had a hard day dealing with a lot of people. I'm just going to quickly trade in my stones and get my valis. Go home. Maybe I'll shout out a quick goodbye, telling her I'm still alive before she can actually see my attire and question me.' I nod to myself for a well-thought-out plan.
I did not notice, however, a pink-haired Guild employee looking at me after walking back from the green couches after a private talk with one of her adventurers. Who in fact saw my quick decision to switch lines, after seeing me look at my side, which had tears. She thought to herself, why not do a little kindness to her fellow coworker and tell her what she saw? Misha nods to herself and tells Rose when she gets the chance. 'I'm such a good person'
I, however, not realizing that a pink hair menace is about to ruin my plan. Finally, step in line at the quickest teller. While I wait, I start to speculate on how much I can get for my three goblins and one kobold magic stones. 'I remember from the first episode that Bell got like about 1200 valis for three small chipped magic stones. I probably get something more since mine is more intact'
Thinking about my first payday, I can't help but think and grimace about yesterday. 'Even a day later, I still can't get over how much the debt is. I mean, I knew it was big, but not that big.' Inwardly cursing that prick, Dian Cecht. I think back to yesterday's dinner when I learned how much in debt my new familia actually is and the long climb I have to go through to pull us out of this hole we're in.
Conveniently Placed Flashback to pass the time waiting in line (Yesterday Familia Dinner)
After helping my new god and captain put away the supplies, Naaza took me to a basic kitchen with all that I need to cook tonight's dinner. Before taking her leave to join Miach in the other room. She makes sure to leave one snarky comment, telling me not to mess up and waste their food, or she'll charge me.
'Ohhhh, its on now' I make extra sure to make tonight's dinner with the limited amount of ingredients I have extra good. 'Curse my competitive nature' After making a simple meat stew, I bring the meal to a small dining table that Miach and Naaza set up.
After placing the meal to the table, we start to eat, and we just start to talk about small familial businesses and the responsibilities I have as a member. Since I'm not interested in potion making as of right now, while I'm still obligated to occasionally help out at the pharmacy, I'm allowed to go to the dungeon to not only increase my stats but also collect magic stones or any excess ingredients that the pharmacy ever needs for its products, like potions.
After a half hour of eating and just family talk, we are all almost done with all meals. Looking at them both, I asked them just out of curiosity about the meal. 'It's totally not because I thrive on the praise of my cooking. No sirree. I am not that shallow..... OK, maybe I am, but cooking is one of the skills I take pride in. I also want to hear Naaza say it was good after her smack talk about my skills behind an apron. If Miach praises a job well done, that's just an added bonus' frowning slightly while pausing at the last thought, 'Huh, do I have daddy issues?'
Mental shrugging at my thoughts 'yeah probably. Also, maybe mommy issues as well. I mean, I am an orphan; I had neither of those.' Nodding to myself, I get weird looks from my table companions. After having this grand self-discovery about myself, I do what any other functioning adult does. Put it in a box and deal with it later. I'm not ready to deal with a potential issue that may affect my interaction with the female population.
Finally putting it out of sight. Out of mind. I get back to my previous inquiry I wanted to ask them. While looking at them both, like I wasn't silently sitting there making weird faces while having a weird epiphany. I finally asked them how the meal was.
"So what did you guys think? How was dinner? I tried my best with what we were working with. It wasn't much with the meat we had and the vegetables. So I have to make something simple. I hope the beef stew was to your taste." Turning to each of them and gauging their reaction "Well, what do you think?"
"Well, I have to say it was quite delicious. It's been a while since I had something quite nice to eat. I'm honestly surprised you were able to make something this profound with what we had. If this is just you with basic ingredients, I cannot wait to see what you can do with a wider variety to choose from. So again, thank you for the meal, my child." Miach says with a beaming smile, that causes me to look away before I'm blinded. Awkwardly scratching my cheek while happy about the praise, I turn back to him.
"Thanks for the praise, Bossman. It makes me happy to hear it. If you think this is great, just wait. I promise I'll show you both so many other types of food that blow your mind."
"Then I'll eagerly await such a time. However, don't push yourself too hard. I may be looking forward to it, but I don't want you to stress yourself out trying to impress us. You're part of this familia now, so take your time wowing us with your cooking skills. I would also still like to cook as well because I also take joy in seeing my children eat my meals. So don't think you have to have to handle every meal, okay?"
"You got it, boss!" I give him a thumbs up. Afterwards, I look to the right of him at my newly titled puppy captain, who's looking down at a plate and refusing to look me in the eye. Smirking "So I heard from boss Miach here how he likes my cooking. I'm still waiting to hear from you, captain. I clearly remember you being skeptical about my ability to cook. So I'm waiting. How did I do?" Sending her a smug look, waiting to hear what she has to say.
She grumbles under her breath, which I couldn't hear.
"I'm sorry, what was that? I can't clearly hear you with your mumbling." Put one hand on my ear. I turn in her direction. "Please speak up, my dear puppy captain. I eagerly want to hear what you have to say." I casually point to our shared God, who's smiling while watching his old and new child interact. "Do note, though, that I have myself a lie detector right next to you. So please save us both the trouble and answer honestly."
"....It...as...ood," she says, a little bit louder than before but still not there. 'I can already guess what she said, but I just want to hear her say it.'
"One more time, please. With feeling this time," after that, I finally got a reaction from her other than lazy sass. She snaps her head upwards, glaring at me.
"It was good, ok! Is that what you wanted to hear? Are you happy now?" She says with all the self-control not to throw her glass of water in my face. 'Calm, Naaza, be calm. Don't make a scene in front of Miach-sama. You will have your revenge. Just let him have this. He'll get what's coming to him later,' Naaza thought to herself, quelling her anger.
I lean back in my chair in satisfaction. Sighing contently, "See, was that so hard? I told you I could cook. And you thought I was going to waste the ingredients. It shows you, huh, never judge a book by its cover or whatever the saying is." All I got from her was a scoff.
"So you can cook adequately, big deal. It still doesn't make up for your annoying personality. I fear for whoever you end up with, and I pray she has the sanity of a saint to deal with you." She says this, huffing while folding her arms and looking away from me. I just got a tick mark on my forehead.
"At least I don't have a permanent sleepy expression that screams lazy. Do you have any other facial expressions, or is perpetual sleepiness the only one?" I said back, challenging her, which drew her attention back to me, while giving her a tick mark as well. "Let's not even include your smart mouth and sass. I fear for whatever guy you end up with." The last comment made her get up, pointing a finger across the table at me.
"Smart Mouth. SASS. Have you ever looked in the mirror before? Because I'm pretty sure you're talking about yourself. At least I don't have random moments that paint me like a fool. I mean, did you forget hours ago the scene you made in front of the Blue Pharmacy? I thought we finally got ourselves a new familia member, not a clown." She finishes with a smirk, which she thought was a good burn. 'Oh hell, naw.' I get up as well and begin to trade insults with her.
Small Third Pov Change
Miach is just sitting on the side, sipping on his glass, watching. Seeing both of his children throw petty insults back and forth. Instead of intervening, he just lets out a sigh of relief. 'I know I should stop this, but it has been so long since I saw Naaza this emotional. It's been a long time since I saw her act like this, when my familia was still whole, before even the dark age.'
He looks over at his new problem child, seeing him blow a raspberry that pissed Naaza off. 'As for you, Odr Friggs, even with all the problems you theoretically bring to my doorstep, I'm grateful. I guess Young Rudra was right. It hasn't even been a day yet, and you're already breaking Naaza out of her shell. Maybe not the way I would have wanted, but still. I'm quite glad you decided to join my familia.' He looks fondly at the once-lonely home with just him and Naaza, become so lively now.
Thinking back to how it used to be when his familia was full, scenes like this used to happen often. However, his trip down memory lane was quickly cut off. Naaza and Odr turned to him simultaneously, speaking at the same time.
""MIACH-SAMA/BOSS."" While pointing at the other, ""Tell him/her to stop it.""
Realizing they're speaking at the same time, they glare at each other. Once again, they were talking word for word: ""Hey, quit it. Stop copying me.""
Seeing they're still doing it, they both pause, smirk at each other, and once again spoke at the same time. ""You're an idiot."" Then pointing to the other in premature victory, they called out.
""Ha, I got you. You called yourself an idiot,"" both of them basking in their self-proclaimed victory. Until a couple seconds later, they realize neither fell for it. Gritting their teeth they cursed. ""DAMMIT!""
Miach hums to himself, 'I probably should put a stop to this before they keep going. Even if I'm curious to see how long they could do this'
""Dammit, I was so close to winning."" Once again, glaring at each other, ""You! You mean me."" Before they can keep going, they suddenly hear a fake cough.
"Eh Hem!" They look over to see Miach with his fist close to his face. Seeing that he has their attention. He speaks before they can continue with their unplanned comedic routine.
"Firstly, I just want to say it brings me so much joy to see you guys getting along." Before he could continue, he was interrupted when they once again spoke simultaneously.
""We are not getting along!"" Realizing they once again spoke at the same time, they just went back to glaring with figurative lightning shooting between their eyes. Miach just continues, like they haven't spoke.
"However, I think this went long enough. So I'm going to put my foot down, and I want you both to shake hands and apologize." Raising a hand, silencing them both before they can say anything. "I honestly think you both didn't truly mean what you said and were just acting like any other family. So please, for me, can you guys make up?" He finishes with a signature smile that you just can't say no to.
Naaza and Odr cringed at seeing his smile, knowing what they had to do. Looking at each other. Odr was the first to go. Raising his left hand for a shake. While scratching the back of his head with his other hand awkwardly.
"Yeah, I'm sorry about that. I don't know what came over me. I hope we can be cool puppy captain." In the end, Odr couldn't help himself and threw in one more shot with his new nickname for Naaza. Making her right eye twitch. She reaches out, gripping Odr's hand with more force than necessary with her level 2 strength, making him grimace under the pressure. She gives him a strained smile.
"I'm sorry as well. I should have had more self-control as your captain. I think we can put this behind us and move on." Putting a little more grip on their handshake, "Don't you agree, Idiot Vice-Captain?" she says, smirking while somehow still having a sleeping expression.
Odr just gritted his teeth while shaking her hand. With a twitching smile, he looks her in the eye. "I couldn't agree more."
Miach just claps his hands with a happy expression. "There. Was that so hard? I'll even let go of the new nicknames you have for each other. How about we all just sit down and have a nice conversation, shall we, and finish our meal?"
They both let go. Naaza had a content smile after trying to crush Odr's hand. While he waves his hand back and forth to get rid of the throbbing.
"Ok, Miach-Sama"
"Whatever you say, boss,"
They both went back to their chairs and sat down. One was oddly satisfied, while the other was still working on his hand.
Odr Pov
After all that, we all sat down again while shaking my still-sore hand. 'I never thought I would actually be a part of a comedic bit like that.' Cross that off my bucket list, I guess. Now it leads us to the main thing I always wanted to talk about. The debt. One of the greatest mysteries of Danmachi. The Miach Familia debt.
'Honestly, I want to see how big of a hole we're in'. After getting my hand to stop hurting, I finish my food and push my plate to the side. I coughed into my fist to get their attention.
"So I know I should have asked this at the beginning, but I think it's no better time than now." I put my elbows on the table, interlocking my hands. I tilted them forward, pointing both index fingers at the Rizz Lord himself. "So, bossman, tell me how big of a hole we are in. I know there's a huge debt this familia has, but I honestly do not know how big it is. So lay it on me. Let's rip off the Bandaid. Tell me how bad it is. I'm a big boy, I can handle it." I brace myself mentally for the big reveal.
Yet instead of hearing an outrageous number, I met with silence. I just look at both of them, confused. Noticing the sudden mood change. I see Miach looking at Naaza with concern. As for Naaza, she just looks down at the table, gritting her teeth. Suddenly, while banging both hands on the table, she gets up, looking at Miach while ignoring me.
"Miach-Sama, if you will excuse me, I'll wash the dishes; you don't need me to be here to explain this part, do you?" Naaza says it with a troubled look. Without hearing his reply, she starts collecting all the empty plates and her cup, taking them to the kitchen.
I watched her go with a slight frown, pointing to her after she left. I turned to my new boss and asked, "What's with her? Was it something I said?"
"No, young Friggs, it isn't you. It is just that Naaza always has trouble when the debt is mentioned. Not the debt itself, but more on its history and how it came to be." Miach sighs while shaking his head. "And here, I thought we could have a nice conversation." I couldn't help but chuckle awkwardly after that.
"Yeah, sorry about that. It's just that I've been hearing a lot about this debt. And I know it's huge, seeing how badly it affected you and your familia. Honestly, it's just been killing me to know how much it is and what I'm working with." He just waves me off, saying it's fine and understandable.
"I knew it was going to come out sooner or later. And you have a right to know, just like any other member of this familia." He looks over at me with a look of slight pity and worry. "You know it was probably better if you asked before you joined instead of learning about it afterwards. Because now you have to wait a year before you can switch familias if you ever change your mind."
"First off, you're totally right; I should have at least asked beforehand, but let's be honest, I was so excited to finally get a falna that I honestly forgot about the debt. And then I forgot to ask after I joined, with you know, the whole messed up status sheet and all." The first part was easy to say since it was an honest mistake on my part, not asking beforehand. It wasn't like it was going to change my mind.
"Secondly, I'll tell you again, just like I told you before. I'm committed. I told you I would help, so that's what I'm going to do. I don't want to join another familia. I'm quite content with the one I already have. You're so accepting and willing to fight for me. With all the trouble my unexpected falna brought us. Why would I ever give that up?" Pausing for a sec, "Even if I have a captain that I'm probably going to keep trading verbal blows with, I'm not willing to trade it for anything else."
Miach just looks at me for a moment, judging me, but I have nothing to worry about since everything I said was the honest truth. He has a small smile after seeing what he wanted.
"I'm glad to hear that, young Friggs. I think even without my innate ability to tell lies as a God. I would believe you just from your conviction alone. It's more of a feeling than anything," he said, dropping his smile and putting on a serious look. "Now, since you're so eager about our debt, I'll tell you. However, are you ready? I know you're expecting something big, but it's quite shocking. Are you mentally prepared?"
Waving him off, I grab my glass of water, preparing to take a sip. "Yeah, yeah, I'm ready. I'm ready. Honestly, all this anticipation is killing me. Come on, tell me what it is—25 million. 50 million. Hell, is it 75 million?"I threw a couple guesses while taking a sip of my water: 'I know it has to be huge to make his familia bankrupt and lose all its members. It shouldn't be more than 100 million, probably less. I know it was stated his debt was less than Hestias 200 million'
Miach just looks at my nonchalant attitude and shakes his head. He looks up, revealing the debt that makes me open my eyes wide and makes me regret what I did next.
"Young Friggs, unfortunately, your guesses were wrong. The debt we owe," I pay special attention, while still drinking my water, "is 155 million valis." Miach will soon regret looking me in the eye when he told me.
"Pfffffft," my eyes blown wide open, I spit out all the water in front of me, almost choking after hearing the huge ass number.
"Cough, cough, cough" while banging on my chest since the water went down the wrong pipe. After taking a couple moments to regain my ability to breathe, I look up at my God in sheer disbelief. "How much!?"
Instead of answering me, I finally noticed his face was wet. With him giving me one of those smiles, that's not an actual smile. I awkwardly scratched my head, and realizing what I had done, I grabbed one of the spare napkins on the table and gave it to him. "Sorry, boss. I didn't mean for that to happen. I just realized I shouldn't have drank anything waiting for something revealing like that." Looking at me holding a napkin out to him, he waits a second before sighing, grabbing it, and starting to wipe his face.
"In honest hindsight, young Friggs, I'm also at fault. I should have taken into account how you would have reacted, like any normal person hearing it. I either shouldn't have been in your direct line of fire or at least wait until you finished drinking." He finishes after drying his face.
"Yeah, sorry again. It was totally not my attention to do a spit take, you know." But leading back in my chair, looking up at the roof, "But oh my god....oh my Miach." He gives me a deadpan for using his name like that: "155 freaking million. I knew it was huge, but I didn't think it would be that big. Shitty old man, Rudra, you could've at least given me a heads up." Looking at the now dry Miach, "How is it so big? I honestly thought it would be less than 100 million. It's a price I would expect from a high-quality, custom-made weapon from either the Hephaestus or the Goibniu familia."
Looking away for a second, he sighs and looks back. "Before I get to that, how much do you actually know? Like, what do you know of the details behind the debt?"
"Well, what I personally know from what I have seen and heard. Is that about 5 years ago, a big group of your familia went into the dungeon to not only gain Excelia but also ingredients for your products, such as potions and antidotes" While drumming my fingers on the table, "I heard from Rudra that that group experienced a horrible encounter with a monster party. A lot of them were injured. One in particular received the worst of it." Looking in the direction where Naaza went and then back to Miach.
"Rudra told me it was mainly this person who caused a big part of the debt. He didn't give me a name, but I already guessed who it was. He said that you guys use a whole bunch of your supplies of potions for all your injured members." I paused before I went to the next part.
"I was told that the puppy captain in particular lost all four of her limbs in the dungeon. You guys were able to save three of them except for her right arm. However, her injuries were worse, and you didn't have the potions available to heal her arms to reattach them." Seeing that he's still paying attention, I tried to finish this up.
"So in your child's hour of need, you threw away your pride and went to your rival familia in the medical field, asking for their help,the Dian Cecht familia. Who runs one of the most successful hospitals in Orario. I know that their captain has magic that helps greatly with healing, so I figured you went for them to help heal Naaza. So that probably was the first thing that they charged you, which I figured you used your savings as a mid-rank familia to pay for." Taking a breath, I tried to finish the last of my thoughts on the topic.
"And seeing how they were able to save three of her limbs but one, you probably saw how traumatized she was and asked for a prosthetic. You're ready to pay for the treatment, and probably for some potions, I'm guessing. But for your child, who I think was 12 at the time, you knew you needed to get that prosthetic so she could at least not live a life with only one arm. That's why you took a loan from Dian Cecht to have a custom arm built to function no different than a regular one." There done. 'Honestly, there was more I wanted to say. I could probably keep going, but that would be too long. So I try to make it quick a summary instead.'
Miach lets out a whistle on my summary of the debt. "I'm honestly impressed. You're quite well informed. I mean, there were bits and pieces you missed, but yes, that was the gist of it."
Looking at the same hallway that I just looked at, "Seeing as how you already know it was Naaza, there's no point in hiding it. But yes, about 5 years ago, after the incident, I not only used most of my savings from my familia to pay for treatment. I also took out a loan to make sure that a bright-eyed little girl, who lost something important that day, has a shot at a normal life instead of being crippled. I know she still has trauma and hasn't been in the dungeon since then. But as her God, her parent, shouldn't I do that much, at least for my child, despite the consequences?" Facing me again with a look of someone who doesn't regret what he's done.
"I know it caused my familia to be nearly destroyed, just leaving me and Naaza. But like I said to you before, if it were any other child of mine, I would have done the same. And I will never regret my actions that day." He finishes with a sense of conviction that he wasn't wrong.
I just sigh, looking him in the eye. "And again, I respect you for it even more than ever. But how is it so high? Exactly how much did the arm cost? I figured it was big because you were literally mid-rank. Hearing the number now, I can somewhat guess why all your other familia members left." I asked him, wanting to know the breakdown of the debt.
'I mean, there were other reasons why his previous children left. I think the one OVA about hot springs or something actually showed that Dian Cecht bribed some of Miach's former familia to leave him. It's been a while since I saw it, and I don't remember the exact details. But it's another reason to hate that douche, Dian Cecht'
"To keep it simple, you have to understand that back then, Dian Cecht and I were the biggest sellers of medical supplies and potions. We had a monopoly on the goods that adventurers needed for an everyday adventure. No different than Hephaestus and Goibniu selling weapons. However, his familia was more focused on the healing aspect with their hospital, while I focused more on actual goods. When it comes to healing and treatment, I couldn't contend with it. I was already dealing with the loss of a couple of my children in the Dark Ages. And with us trying to recover our finances in the following year after that, I wasn't prepared for the monster incident." Pausing to catch his breath, he continues.
"I already had to use a whole bunch of my stock of healing potions for my other children, but Naaza case was different. I needed help with reattaching her limbs, and the only way was magic with the Dian Cecht's captain, Airmid Teasanare. A sweet girl, honestly, despite her god, she is always trying to help. She truly does care for all her patients." Miach thinks back to the girl who helped save Naaza's other limbs.
"So before the debt, I had to use a big chunk of my familia's income to pay for the treatment that drove me even further into the red. Then it was the prosthetic that I needed to get for Naaza, which I didn't have the Valis for."
Leaning into his chair "Another thing you have to understand is that at the time, Dian Cecht and I were rivals. He especially disliked me for even coming close to rivaling his familia in medical goods with my skills in potion making. But regardless of that, I threw away my dignity as a fellow God, begging him for his help. And being the only other high-quality medical familia that is capable of helping me, he had the monopoly on what I needed. And with his attitude towards me, he probably took advantage of my situation, charging me more for the arm and healing treatment."
"So the arm cost what exactly?"
"The arm itself, at the time, five years ago, cost 110 million. I didn't know if it was truly the amount or if Dian Cecht was doing it to spite me; I had no choice with the situation at hand. I wanted to get the arm before Naaza woke up. With his familia being the only ones with access to the ability to make high-quality prosthetics, I really have no other option."
"110 million? Why is it 155 million now?"
"It wasn't at first. But with everyone leaving and just leaving me and Naaza, we had no way to repay the debt as quickly, even after selling my old familia home and other assets to lower it to 95 million. And seeing as how I couldn't make payments on time, Dian Cecht thought to include interest every time I missed a payment." 'What an asshole' " So the debt just kept getting bigger. I also had to pay guild taxes and supplies to make products for the blue pharmacy since I had no one to go to the dungeon anymore to get me ingredients. I was barely able to keep us afloat. Since it was since it was 95 million in the beginning after use all i had, the next 5 years, it just kept getting bigger with every missed payment. Which led us to 155 million." Looking me in the eye after finishing recapping the breakdown of the debt
"So once again, now that you know how much we owe to Dian Cecht. Do you still think you want to be part of this familia?"
I lean back in my chair, closing my eyes, just to think for a moment. Miach gives me the time I need to get my thoughts in order. 'So that's how big the debt is. 155 million. I figured there was interest at play, but not this much. And now, thinking about it, I remember something from Volume 14: when Bell got his arm shattered by the juggernaut, he also received help from the Dian Cecht familia'.
Frowning, I concentrate, trying to remember the exact details. 'In volume 14, after the fight with the juggernaut, Bell had one of his arms shattered, and he needed a magic item brace to fix it, and it cost about eight zeros. I got the price, honestly. A magical brace that not only helps fix his shattered arm but also speeds up the healing process. If not for that, he probably would have lost it.'
'The question was: which cost more—the treatment/creation of the brace for Bell's arm or a new, high-class prosthetic for Naaza? I would think creating a new workable prosthetic that's no different than a regular arm would probably cost more. Bell had help from the guild because of the juggernaut incident and from Hermes familia getting the materials needed to lower it. Compare to Miach, who probably didn't have that and had to pay the full price. This was the price five years ago; I don't even want to think about how much it would cost now. Freaking fantasy business economy and its prices.' I see Miach just idlely tapping the table, waiting for me to speak.
'Also taking into account that Dian Cecht was a prick and probably charged more.' I look back at my God, getting ready to answer him, having one last thought about that asshole: 'Fucking Dian Cecht, I never met you, and you're ready on my shit list'
"I just want you to know that I'm at least somewhat glad that you're able to tell lies from the truth." Making him raise an eyebrow, wondering where I'm going with this. "It makes it so much simpler for me, you knowing what I say next is not a lie." After closing my eyes for one second and taking a deep breath, I opened them and put on a face that showed my sincerity.
"I will not lie since you know I can't. The debt is way bigger than I expected. And probably make some of my plans more difficult. Even I, feel pressure just learning about it," he just gives me a sad smile in understanding, thinking I'm about to say I want to leave. However, I'm always prepared to shatter a lot of people's expectations, especially this one.
"But it doesn't matter." His eyes opened wide in surprise, and before he could say anything, I kept going. "I don't care if that was 100 million, 200 million, hell, even 300 million. I told you, and I'm tired of saying it over and over again. I joined knowing that I was going to be working with a big debt. The exact amount doesn't matter. I already have plenty of thoughts on ways to lower it. I don't care if it will take us a year or more. I'm sticking with you guys regardless." I stand up to look down at Miach, who is still shocked that I'm not leaving.
"You're willing to risk a lot just to have me in your familia with my status. If I can't even meet you halfway, what kind of man will I be? So I'll say it as many times as you need to hear it, even if it's tiresome. I'm not going to abandon you or Naaza like everyone else did. Despite some of their reasons being legitimate, like that shitty old man, I'm here to stay." I take a small break, noticing Miach standing as well, now smiling a true smile, which I return.
"I've been told on multiple occasions that I'm a stubborn bastard who doesn't know when to give up. And this debt is no different. You guys are already falling behind with your lack of members and limited access to the dungeon since you have to pay other people to get your ingredients. With me now, I'll take care of that. I know the day will come when we'll find more members who will join us, not because of our rank or financial situation, but just because we have a God like you backing them." I was thinking about the two girls from the Apollo familia especially. Who joined Miach after Apollo's was disbanded after his war game with Hestia.
"So please let me be the first bossman....no Lord Miach. Let me be the first of many others who will rally behind you and see you for you, not the debt. Those who choose to join this one-of-a-kind family with a god like no other. I don't need a god with fame, money, or over 100 members. I only need a God who has my back 100%. Everything else can come afterwards."
I couldn't help but cringe internally with what I'm about to say next, but outside, I have a look of pure confidence.
"I wish the puppy Captain was here so I don't have to say this again, but I'll talk to her later. I want you both to truly know that you guys have nothing to worry about anymore. Do you want to know why?" I put my hands on my hips with my chest puffed out in pride. I recite a quote from one of the greatest heroes in anime, "Because I Am Here." Inwardly, I'm half fanboying saying that line but also cringing at the chunni moment. "You guys don't need to carry this burden alone anymore; I'll help carry it with you." Looking at the teary-eyed god, "So, bossman, was that good for you? Was I lying?"
Wiping his face with his sleeve, he looks at me and says, "No, young Friggs. I heard you loud and clear. Every single word was earnest and true. I am truly touched to have a kind child like you as a part of this family. If Naaza were here, she would feel the same." He says while walking around the table, so he's in front of me.
"I'm truly blessed to have both you and Naaza as part of my familia. And if we can find more people like that who want a place to belong, I will do my best to make sure they feel welcomed. As my first new child over many years, I once again welcome you and am truly happy that you're here now." He opens up his arms for a hug. I take a step backwards, waving my hands in front of me.
"Woah, woah, wait a second. I know I said some mushy stuff, but do we really need to hug? How about a hearty handshake or manly fist bump instead?" I tried to convince him to do something else. Two grown men hugging while one of them is crying is just a little bit awkward for me.
Shaking his head, "Nope, as your father now, I have my right to request hugs. After your whole display, there's no other option but a hug to show you how much you mean to me. I wish Naaza was here, but we can always do another one later all together."
"...Do we really have to?" One last attempt before I cave.
"Yes," he says, like there was no other answer.
".....Finnnnnnnnnne" I open my arms as well when he pulls me in for a hug. I notice I'm a couple inches taller than him.
"Once again, Odr Friggs. Welcome home." He says it with a fatherly voice while patting me on the back.
I don't really say anything. But after hearing that, I actually returned the hug. 'Sometimes I forget how much both he and Naaza have been through in the past 5 years. It must have been so hard.' It might seem fast since we just met literally today, but no one should underestimate how much another person's kindness in your hardest times can do to you.
'And he's been dealing with this for the past six years, all the way since the Dark Age. Even I will feel the same if I am able to tell lies from the truth and seeing someone so willing to help me.'
Signing, I give him a small smile over his shoulder. "Thanks for having me, Miach-Sama. I really mean it." For occasions like these, I will address him with a proper title, even if it's not my style.
Unknown to both of us. Naaza was around the corner, just looking at the wall. If you look hard enough, you can see her eyes glistening. She looks to her God and new Vice Captain one more time and then walks away. She can't help but have a smile as well, not only hearing how much she means to Miach but finally having another person to rely on. She heads back to the kitchen and can't help but chuckle, remembering the idiot's grand bravado. She starts to talk mostly to herself while no one's listening.
"Huh, just because you're here now, we have nothing to worry about. Is that right? Well, Idiot Vice Captain, I hope you can actually follow through with your promise. I'm still skeptical about your claims. So I'll be watching." Looking back one more time, seeing them done hugging with Miach giving Odr a finally pat on the shoulder,
"And as your captain, it's only right that I support you as well. I'll make sure to take care of your foolish tendencies as my right as your senior in this familia. I hope you are prepared."
Present Time
After finally coming back from my trip down memory lane and what was probably another cheesy emotional speech that makes two back-to back in a single day, one too many in my opinion. I focus on the important part.
'155 million. A day later, it was still hard to digest. I'm going to have to work even harder and think of different ways to tackle this. I don't want to remain in debt forever. At least now I can understand what Kazuma (A true man of gender equality) must have felt when he got into debt. I'm so sorry, bro, for laughing at you and your situation, even if it was funny'. Watching the last guy leave, it's my turn to trade my magic stones.
"Next," the guild's evaluator, who handles expectations for magic stones and trades, calls out. I walk up, reaching to my side, pulling my bag of magic stones.
I dump the four monster stones into the tray under the criss-cross window. I watched it get pulled to the other side. While I wait, I start to think to myself about how the evaluator will do his job and how much Valis I will get.
'If I remember correctly, in the first 5 minutes of the first episode, Bell turned in three tiny magic stones, two of which look like they broke off from the original. I honestly don't know if they were all separate monsters or are all from one stone. It was hard to tell since it was never stated. If anything, the big one probably was a kobold, and the two little ones were from goblins each. Regardless, he got around like 1200 valis. Since mine are more intact than his and from four different monsters, I probably get more than him.'
The trays were suddenly pushed out with a couple of coins. "2,800," he said. Nodding my head 'sounds about right' Since it was said that a group 5 level 1 can make about 25,000 a day on the same floors, 5,000 per person.
"Thank you," I say, grabbing my valis, not forgetting to say a quick thanks to the guy for doing his job. I walk to the side, letting the next guy go. I looked down at the coins in my hand.
"2,800 huh." For my first day, I don't think it's that bad. I mean, it's practically nothing in the grand scheme of things compared to the debt, but it's a start. Knowing that I'm just going to get stronger from here on out and probably make even more.
"Oh well, I got to start somewhere." I made sure to put my money in the same bag as my drop item and tie it to my side. I stretch my arms, getting ready to leave. "As the saying goes, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." I nodded my head at my quote, which oddly fits. I smile, heading to the entrance of the guild.
Just as I was about to walk away confidently and head home, I heard a familiar voice behind me, sending a shiver down my back.
"Eh-hem." I know who it is, but I refuse to turn around. "Ohhh, not even going to face me, are you? Well, that's fine." I can feel an ice-cold stare on my back. "However, where do you think you're going? I clearly remember earlier today that we would meet up after your first dungeon dive to go over what happened."
'Shitttttt. I honestly forgot about that when I zoned out on her lecture and just kept saying, Uh-huh. Focus Odr acted like everything is normal' turning around with a winning smile like I wasn't about to dip and leave.
"Oh, Rosey, there you are. I was clearly just about to get into your line so we could have a wonderful conversation on my first adventure. I was totally not about to leave." When in doubt, just bullshit your way out. 'Thank Omori, she is not a deity and can't tell a lie from the truth'
"Oh really. You were not about to leave without checking with me. Is that right?"
"Yes Ma'am. Totally wasn't. Honestly, I'm quite offended that you think I would. Being my advisor and my besto friendo, shouldn't you have a little faith in me? I mean, I know it's only been a day, but who's counting? It's like I knew you for countless years already."
'Technically, not a lie since I watched the series a long time ago and knew her because of it.'
Folding her arms again, which does wonders for her bust. It just has to be intentional, has too. 'I refuse to believe otherwise. It's clearly a trap to lower my guard. Sorry for you, Rosey. I am not a simp. I won't fall that easily.' Using my willpower to look her in the eye, which is hard since she's a couple inches shorter than me, I have to look down.
"Righttttt. Is that why Misha told me she saw you get into my line, then change your mind after looking at what I presume are claw marks on your coat and shirt." She glanced at my side, which I tried to cover up with my hand."
'Misha? Pinky' I look over to the counter at who I thought was my comrade, giving me a cheeky wave. 'Pinky, how could you? I thought we were allies in the art of laziness. How could you betray me like this? Mark my words, Pinky, you will rue the day you cross me' giving her a glare that promises retribution. She just gives me a smug look in return.
I suddenly go cross-eyed when I notice a hand in my face snapping its fingers. I follow the hand to Rosey's frowning face. She's not happy that I wasn't paying attention.
"If you're done glaring at Misha for ratting you out. Did you honestly think that after getting your Valis, you were just going to walk away without speaking to me?"
Waving my hand and pushing the idea away like I wasn't about to do that exactly "Of course not. I was clearly going to say goodbye before I left. If I happened to do it when I was speed-walking away, not running. Definitely not running. It doesn't change the fact that I would have informed you that I survived my dungeon dive and you have nothing to worry about."
"Hmmm, I see, and the claw marks?." She questions me with a look that tells me she's not believing anything I'm saying.
"This?" I gestured to my side, where there were claw marks on my coat and shirt. Using a fake British accent for the next from a famous quote "Tis but a scratch." Nailed it: "nothing you have to worry about. It was a tiny scratch on my side that's gone now after a health potion."
"Since I have nothing to worry about and nothing happened, why were you trying to run away?" She counters.
"I was totally not about to run away." I defend said counter.
"Oh, good then. If you're not planning to leave, how about you join me over by the couches so we can go over what happened in the dungeon today. Since you totally weren't running away, right?" She says it with a raised eyebrow, daring me to refute her statement.
".....Rightttttt." I clearly miscalculated. 'Come on, brain, think, think quickly. Get me out of this' I try one more attempt to pull it in my favor.
"However, I, in good conscience, cannot take more of your time than needed. I clearly saw a huge line of adventures waiting for your advice. As an upstanding citizen and a responsible adult, I think your time is better spent helping them. We can always talk another day." Come to work.
"Oh, you don't have to worry about that. For some unknown reason, Misha volunteered to cover for me, which is odd for her, I admit. Which gives me plenty of time to talk to you." My final attempt has been denied once again, thanks to a certain pink menace.
'Goddammit Pinky! That is fucking strike 2, you bitch.' As if sensing my thoughts, she looks over happily, thinking she is doing me a favor by covering for Rose. Giving me a thumbs up.
"Since I'm not busy now, I have time for a quick recap, and you're clearly not running away. Would you care to join me over by the couches if you would?" She starts to head over, not even waiting for my answer.
I look at her walking away, then at the door longingly. I'm wondering how much trouble I'll get into if I just leave and deal with it later. However, my choice is already made when she calls out again with a stern voice that promises consequences if I choose to flee.
"Well, Mr.Friggs, I'm waiting." Her voice somehow still sounds so cold.
Sighing I walk after her, just to get this over with, "Yeah, I'm coming. I'm coming." I reluctantly take a seat across from her. 'I am so freaking tired. I just want to go home. And I'm probably going to have to do this again with the bossman and the puppy captain.'
Nodding her head, she sees me complain. She crosses her legs, one over the other, and folds her hands, resting them on her knees.
"Well then, why don't you tell me everything that happened in the dungeon that led to your so-called scratch. Make sure not to leave anything out."
Signing once again, I straighten my back up, getting ready to regale her on my first adventure. 'Sorry, Rosey, unfortunately for you. I'm totally going to leave a lot of crap out' if she's making me tell her what happened. I'm going to do it my way. The fun way: 'If I have to listen to another lecture, you're going to have to listen to me bullshit the details of what happened'
"So, my dear advisor, it went like this: after reaching the entrance to the dungeon, I faced my first enemy."
"You already ran into a monster the minute you walked into the dungeon." She says it skeptically since there would be other adventures walking at the same time.
"No, it was before that." Seeing her confused look, I shock her with the greatest challenge yet. "You see, my first enemy was obviously the almighty stairs and the long journey down. Truly one of the dungeons greatest obstacles I had to face."
Slapping a hand on her face "Oh, for love of," however, before she can complete the sentence, I interrupted her, annoying her.
"Shush now. I'm telling the story just like you wanted. Where was I?" After dramatically snapping my fingers, "Right the stairs, first boss. After facing this great adversary, I made it to the bottom" and from there, I start.ed to talk about the events that happened from my point of view, with a little embellishment for the next 20 minutes. 'Maybe this lecture won't be so bad after all.
A/n
[9,150 word count]
Dun dun dun, the debt, has finally been revealed at a whopping 155 million. Odr finally recalls yesterday's discussion and the big reveal of Miach Familia's Debt. Even despite the huge number, he sticks to his guns and reassures the Rizz lord that he's not going anywhere. Not only that he makes another emotional cringe-worthy speech, touching both Miach and Naaza hearts.
He finally gets his first payday, which wasn't much, but it is something. Instead of making a quick getaway, he was ratted out by a former comrade. By her need to get into other people's business for her own amusement.
Odr tries to outwit Rose; however, she's not having any of it. So he's been dragged along for another lecture about his recent exploits in the dungeon. If he has to sit there and listen, he's going to do it his own way by telling a realistic (to him) tale of what happened.
You all wish to know what happens next; stay tuned and find out.
Side-Note
Once again, I want to say sorry for the long delay. I had a case of writer's block. And also, I had to do a lot of extensive research for this chapter, especially since there's a little information regarding Miach Familia Debt. I had to pull together a lot of valuable information from different sources to make it as real as possible. After I got through the writer's block I had a whole bunch of things to put down in this chapter that's why it was especially long and I needed more time to finish it and proof read it. I know I could have split it into two but it just didn't feel right cutting it mid chapter. I know some of you guys complain reading very long chapters but I hope you can forgive me.
For those who think the debt is too big, I just want to point out that in a previous thing in the chapter, I mentioned how, in Volume 14, Bell received a medical brace from the Dian Cecht familia to fix his arm. It wasn't mentioned the exact price, but it was stated it had eight zeros, so above 100 million. If the brace cost that much, I wonder how much a custom-made prosthetic that's supposed to be as real as possible to a regular arm is worth. Especially with Dian Cecht's attitude toward Miach. That's why I said the price of the debt initially was 110 million rather than 95 million after Miach sold all his assets, and in the next five years, with a cumulative interest rate, it reached a grand total of 155 million.
So not only from the episode and information from Volume 14, I also used Hestia's debt as an example. It was stated that Miach's debt didn't come close to Hestia's $200 million. It had to be less than that. Also, I use the reaction of the whole bunch of people that wish to join her familiar after the war games and promptly ran away after hearing about the debt. I figured the debt had to be big enough to cause a mid-ranking family to lose all its members.
In regards to all of that, major thanks to a group of people that helped me with this chapter by helping me talk about a realistic view of the Miach Familia Debt. I know everyone has a different take on it. I was able to come up with my own view on it thanks to all their help. A mix between a couple of Discord servers I'm on and webnovel comments.
Special thanks to (usernames):
vulkizaro_zoromi
nephelont
rtanjj
SugmaMaleGamer
atlas2942
lincoln859
setras_
popchip
bluwuh
tdon
mr.visionary
buggybuggedout
P.S
In regards to Discord, my fellow Danmachi author (vulkizaro_zoromi) has a Discord of his own that I'm a part of. And he was kind enough to give me my very own section for my story. I also have another Danmachi author (Nephelont) who has plans to make a Discord of their own. So you should check it out when it's ready.
So if you guys are interested; why don't you join so I can hear your ideas and suggestions? If we have something big to discuss, we can do it over Discord instead of using the comments. Just know that my invite link below only lasts a week until I post a new chapter with a new one. If it expires, you can always go to vulkizaro_zoromi's since he posts a discord code in every chapter.
https://discord.com/invite/n9PrcKud
Once again a couple questions if you guys are interested in commenting on.
1. What do you about the character interaction this chapter?
2. What do you think about my take on the debt? Do you think I at least got it accurately with all the information that I have?
3. How about the price I put on the magic stones? Since there were no true list of prices per Stone. I try to make my own. With the picture I showed earlier of bell turning in his stones. If it was actually three separate monsters, the two small ones from goblins and the one from Kobold. Priced his at 300 valis per goblin and 600 per kobold for a total of 1200 valis. His look more broken, so for mine I just doubled the price for the goblins and made the kobold 1000 valis, since Odr's was more intact. Simple terms 600 per goblin and 1000 for kobold. (3×600+1000=2800 valis). That's the problem with no real system of prices. I have to make my own. Tell me what you guys think.
All that's left to say is that your power stone is the motivation for my creation. Give me more motivation!
Creation is hard; cheer me up! Vote for me!
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