Chapter 6

Ganesha-sama, Ganesha-sama! This is bad, big trouble!''

The hot sunlight shone down onto the corner of the coliseum, the performance was

still ongoing.

Monster Festival was still continuing. The audience's excitement had already

reached a climax as they watched the tamer perform a horse-riding show, and

gallantly rode behind the long head of the dragon.

'' What is so urgent, I am Ganesha.''

''''Ah, I know!? But this is not the time to introduce yourself right!?''

On the uppermost seats of the coliseum, Ganesha, who was standing in a location

that oversees the entire Philia, saw his own familia members rushed up. That

elephant mask seemed to expressed a strange posture.

To this god, who sometimes have a special behavior, his own familia member also

whispered in her own heart, but she still immediately reported the emergency

situation to him.

''The monsters we captured have escaped! The monster stables are completely

empty!?''

''...Uh, isn't this a lot of trouble?''

''Isn't that what I just told you?''

Facing Ganesha-sama, who had finally stopped his weird actions, his Familia

members quickly spoke and reported the general situation.

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An unknown person had knocked out the basement guards. Some members of the

guild were also affected. From this information, they predicted that someone

outside had deliberately caused the chaos.

With a strange expression, Ganesha listened. After he finished listening to their

words, he quietly asked a question.

''Escaped, no, it should be how many monsters were let out?''

''N...Nine. That includes a few monsters that would not lose against the strength of

high-class adventurers...''

Ganesha continued to maintain his elegance and did not act. However, the elephant

mask that he was wearing was trembling.

The resounding cheers on the central arena continued to echo. Standing in front of

the small dragon, the tamer issued off a command to stop, and at the same time,

placed his own hand towards the other. The monster quietly hmmphed then humbly

bowed its head down and used its tongue to lick the hand of the tamer.

WAAAAA~~!! The cheers exploded once again. This beautiful tamer, that managed

to tame the dragon, lifted his hand and waved at the audience. The audience

unreservedly continued to offer cheers and applauses.

''Okay, immediately chase after those monsters! Also, quickly seek the help of

other Familia! Find the God-sama that came to the venue and ask them for

assistance.''

''P...Please wait a minute!? No matter what reason it is, but letting the monsters

out is our mistake. If we request from help from other forces, then we may be

looked down upon in the future...''

''I am everybody's Ganesha! Do you want the civilians that we protect to be

injured! The greatest blessing should be the smiles of the child. Position and

reputation, these things can be just thrown aside.''

''Y...Yes!? I am really really sorry!''

''The Festival will continue! Do not let the coliseum audience out. Also, do not tell

them the truth that the monsters have escaped! This will only lead to unexpected

chaos.''

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''U...Understood! Also, about the matter of capturing the one that let the monsters

out...''

''Oh, we will temporarily ignore that. Because after all, they did not release all the

monsters out, so it should just be an overboard prank, and they should not have

wanted to cause destruction. I think they have another goal. If we mobilize our

entire forces, we will just mess each other up and that might be what they want. To

us, the civilian's safety is the MOST! IM-POR-TANT!''

Go now! After receiving Ganesha's orders, the familia member quickly ran out.

The monsters' escape was confirmed to be less than 5 minutes ago. According to

their god's command, the Ganesha Familia had quickly taken the appropriate

measures.

''Monsters, Escaped?''

This was when Ganesha had knew about this matter.

In front of the coliseum, Eina had also received this information.

''Ehhh,Ahh! Just when they ran out from the coliseum, they were seen by the team

on the west side. Ganesha Familia is also hurriedly taking the appropriate

measures...What should we do, Eina~''

In that moment, Eina felt stunned. However, she immediately switched her

thinking. Her eyebrows creased.

Afterwards, she immediately said to her friend that was about to cry.

''No matter what actions we do, it will still be good. Base on the distance from

shortest to furthest, quickly contact the surrounding Familias! Also any adventurers

too!''

''I...Is it really okay for us to do this? We do not know what the higher ups will

say...''

Currently the guild employees at the location only included Eina and a few low

ranked employees. When the West Entrance had problems, because they

needed reinforcements, even the managers were sent over there.

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The surrounding colleagues were all the same, to singly decide on their actions,

they could not conceal their inner anxiety and confusion.

''That is not important compared to people getting hurt! Also, Ganesha-sama will

also understand that we need to prioritize saving human lives. They do not have

any reason to object to us seeking help from other Familia! If something happens,

then it will already be too late!''

''T...That makes sense. If something regretful happens, then it will really be too

late.''

Eina combined the personality of Ganesha-sama, who managed the Monster

Festival, and the happy civilians who were actively participating, and slowly

persuaded her colleagues.

Perhaps her sincere thoughts were effectively, but the other guild employees

looked at each other and expressed in agreement towards Eina's views. Afterwards,

they immediately began to discuss about how to divide the tasks on how to deal

with this matter.

''...Excuse me. May I ask what has happened?''

Without any premonition, a voice sounded out beside Eina and the others.

When everybody turned to look at the voice of the owner, everybody seemed to be

stunned and frozen.

''A...Aizu Wallenstein...''

Hearing the stupefied voice of her colleagues, Eina also used a surprised gaze to

stare at the female in front of her.

The soft and elastic thighs were half-covered by the miniskirt, on the top half was a

short shirt. The rapier, that was usually placed on top of the armor, was also inside

its sheath, and hung onto the side of the body. The waist length blonde hair sparked

in the sunlight.

She was one of the strongest adventurers in the entire Orario. To Eina and the

others, she is an completely unattainable existence, and was standing right in front

of them.

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The nearest employee immediately flew off and explained the matter to Aizu.

She quietly listened and once she completely understood the situation, she turned

her head behind.

''Loki''

''I heard it. Seems like it is completely unsuitable for a date now. Then we should

also slightly help out Ganesha, that fellow.''

Listening to the answer of the slightly smiling Loki, the guild employees were

filled with joy.

The color on their face had eased down, even Eina felt a peace of mind;But she

felt her shoulders stiffen again when she heard the next question.

''Then, where are those monsters, do you know?''

''Y...Yes. Most of the monsters headed off in the direction of East Main Street.''

East Main Street, isn't that the place where Bell, who was looking for someone,

headed off to?

Since the matter was so huge, could that boy be involved in the center of things.

''Misha, what kind of monsters escaped?''

''Eh? Let me think, it should be...Sword Stag, Troll and also a Silverback''

Listening to her friend's answer, Eina's brows creased.

The floor that the Silverback appear is on 11th Floor. Sword Stag and Troll are

monsters that even appear further down on the 20th floor.

To an adventurer that barely survived on the 5th floor, these monsters

were an insurmountable existence.

''Please, you must obediently head to a shelter...''

Eina lifted her head and stared at the sky in the direction of East Main Street.

She could not do much, besides from praying for the safety of Bell-kun.''

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×××

The nervous atmosphere caused my ears to even feel some minor pain.

''Ruguguuu...''

In this bright and brilliant street that was decorated with flags everywhere, there

was a completely different existence that appeared.

Listening to the echoing cries from the surrounding, I was at a complete loss of

words.

That monster, with its long hair that seems like a tail, roared. The handcuffs and

chain on its wrist, which look like it was torn off from a wall with brute force,

let out a grinding noise as it dragged along on the floor.

That is, a Silverback?

I remembered the name because of Eina-san's guidance and her lessons about the

dungeon.

This was a monster that appeared in a floor far below the floor that I reached.

Although it's still weaker than a Minotaur, its strength is definitely greater than

mine.

''Kiiaa...!''

The Silverback began to move.

It's knees bent down slightly and it took a step towards Kami-sama and I.

It's coming over.

As my heart tightened up, the Silverback accelerated and sprinted over.

''!?''

''Waaaah!?''

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I must dodge to the side. I held onto Kami-sama and prepared to dodge the

enemy's body.

I completely did not gave her any time to react. I held that tiny body as she

screamed in terror. Our bodies rolled beautifully together with me on the stone

road.

After rolling two or three times, we stopped. I swiftly lifted my head and kneeled

on my knee.

Using a posture that covered Kami-sama and stood up.

''UUUuuu...!''

The Silverback that had its attack dodged turned around and rushed towards this

side.

It's ferocious eyes targeted us, and once again, rushed over to us.

(Why is it coming again!?)

Looking at the monster that had absolute no confusion about heading towards us, I

swiftly pulled Kami-sama and headed towards the right-hand direction. That was

the exact opposite direction of where the monster had headed to.

My action of wanting to allow Kami-sama to escape for danger did not even take a

single second. But my action was futile as the Silverback immediately fixed its

own direction.

(What!?)

I was shocked as I looked at the Silverback change it's direction.

This monster was not looking at me, it's locked target was Kami-sama!?

My legs trembled. I was too reckless when I dodged the enemy's attack

earlier, and I had sprained my body. To the fellow that seemed to be blocking the

monster's way, it did not give any excessive thoughts and simply acted.Its thick

right hand swung through the air.

'' Ha!?''

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''Gugooooooo~''

The violent punch exploded on my body.

My body was still tilted to the right a bit. The enemy's attack still hit my stomach.

Although it hit the armor on top, but it still created a massive impact and my

breathing nearly stopped.

I felt that my entire field of vision seemed to have frozen, and my body seemed to

have been shot away.

''Ah!?''

I struck a shop in the side of the street. The sound of the wood breaking made a

refreshing noise.

I endured the pain that surged through my entire body. Currently, I had been

knocked into a small shop. To be accurate, half of my body was stuck inside the

shop. The armor on my body had a fist imprint on it, and I clutched my stomach

trying to breathe.

''UWAHHHHHH''

The street had entered a state of complete chaos.

The surrounding people constantly screamed and fled in all directions.

Just like a spider larvae, everyone was scrambling and striving to be first. In

an instant, everyone was gone. There was no one that I could ask to help Kamisama.

''...!?''

''Fu...uu!''

In front of the approaching Silverback, stood a girl shivering.

My mind instantly flared up.

''Ughhh, NOOOO''

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Enduring the pain that was eroded my entire body, my body also had some strength.

With tears overflowing from my eyes, I rushed over.

I ran over to the chains that were attached to the monsters hands that created

the grinding sound on the floor.

''Waaaa!''

With a slamming sound, the chains were stretched, and the Silverback stopped

advancing.

To this small fellow that simply pulled onto the chain, the monster's gaze became

extremely sharp and impatiently pulled with all its strength.

My body was easily thrown aside.

''Ughhhh...''

''Gigyi!''

In terms of strength, there was no comparison. In front of the monster's power, I

was completely helpless.

Despite this, I still used my entire body's strength to pull onto the chain Then

without any warning, the chain slipped out from my hands.

''GIAAAA''

Suddenly releasing the chain had caused the Silverback to stumble back due to the

reverse momentum. The chain drew a big arc in the sky. For now, an opening had

formed.

I ran past the monster in one breathe and grabbed onto Kami-sama's hands.

''This way!''

If we walk on the Main Street, we'll be caught!

I grabbed onto Kami-sama's hand and ran towards the alley that divided the Main

Street.

Immediately, an angry, beast-like roar sounded from behind.

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The drama about escaping, where the ending was completely unknown, has just

begun.

''Why is it like this? Why is Kami-sama being targeted?''

''H...How would I know!? It is the first time for me to see that monster! I really

did not do anything!''

I held onto Kami-sama's tiny arms, and used a moaning sound to inquire about this

situation. Kami-sama's response also seemed to be asking me to figure out what

had happened. She seemed very uneasy and held onto my hand even more tightly.

The evil aura that was approaching from behind had not completely disappeared,

and it was still closely following.

The Silverback continued to chase after us, no, it should be chasing after Kamisama.

It looks like the monster was not trying to randomly attack others. It looked like

it was being controlled by someone and had a clear purpose.

(What on earth is happening!?)

Holding these unanswerable doubts, I led Kami-sama and tried to escape.

Although it was still daytime, the inside of the alley felt faint and gloomy. This

kind of situation contributed further to our unease. Looking above, the sky and the

terrain seemed to maintain the exact same shape, the sunlight was unable to shine

down here.

We ran down the path and headed to the south of the East Main Street. This means

that we are currently running in an area between East Main Street and South-East

Main Street.

We did not know where our destination was. We just ran aimlessly, because there

was no time for us to think about it.

I turned my head back, in front of my eyes was Kami-sama, who had a painful

expression because she was unable to breathe. Behind her was a dark shadow that

extended all the way to the end of the path. I completely could not see any signs of

the monsters.

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However, It was still there.

It was still closely following us, this is what my instincts told me.

I turned my line of sight back to the front, then I selflessly increased my leg's

running strength. What remained inside my head was to quickly escape from this

situation, no matter what, we should still run first. Just like that.

''...Bell-kun, I can't! It is already...!''

''Eh!?''

Listening to Kami-sama's voice panting for breath, I finally came to my senses.

Then after passing the big bend on the path, I finally understood the meaning of the

sentence.

'' ''

After running through this tiny alley, we were now in this messy space.

There were many bends in the alley;On the walls, a few rooms and dirty stairs

appeared unnaturally. The terrain was built according to whoever lived there, so it

was also arranged quite messily.

This complex structure, was similar to many floors in the dungeon.

This is ...?

It was a maze within Orario.

Because the area was rebuilt many times, so it had become a confusing residential

street.

This was a strange and complex area that was inhabited by the poor. It was said

that once you got lost there, you will never be able to leave from there. This

residential area was named after the designer who was responsible for

arranging this region;Because it caused others to become lost, it was more like a

dungeon than the actual dungeon.

This isn't good, if we're at this kind of place, the monster will easily catch up.

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It was obvious that if we continue walking down more of these alleys, we may end

up getting flanked.

I took a glance with Kami-sama, who was still gasping for air. Her quick-witted

eyes seemed to have completely seen through my fear and could only bitterly avoid

it.

''AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!''

''!?''

From the alley, the monster's figure could be clearly seen within our visions.

The only thing we could do was choose this route and move forward. I grabbed

onto the hand of Kami-sama and headed towards Daedalus Road.

After moving down from the stairs, we suddenly entered this dignified maze. The

air inside this dark, constructed residential area seemed to be sticky and wet.

The residential street, no, it should be called the Labyrinth Street, was composed of

many small huts made with stones. On the wall outside of the house was a few

Magic Stone Chandeliers letting out a faint glow. The residents that seemed to be

dressed up very neat seemed to understand completely the complex road and was

walking around.

Once they noticed us running, and the Silverback behind us, the color in their face

completely changed. Instantly, screams echoed throughout the entire street and the

entire area had become deserted.

''Guga~''

''...!''

We were still being chased. And Kami-sama's stamina, who has no difference

compared to a normal human, had already reached its limits.

In fact, she had already worked hard to endure it till here. The gradually

approaching Silverback seemed to be able to seize Kami-sama, who was gradually

slowing down, if it stretched out its hand.

''Kami-sama, turn there!''

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''Y...Yes...''

We swiftly turned into another path from our current road. After running up a few

uphills, we took a fork and entered another road. This way we have changed our

route many times.

(Did we escape from it?)

Relying on the complex structure of this labyrinth, we seemed to have created a

distance from the Silverback. I observed the rear.

Currently, I could not see the figure of the monster. Could it be that it gave up and

retreated? I suddenly felt at ease for a moment.

'' ''

My sense of hearing seemed to feel the abnormal movement first.

It feels like it was kicking something, and the sound of the stone creaking.

Once I thought that the disturbing sound was coming from somewhere that wasn't

that far away, a huge shadow appeared on the stone road below my feet.

(This is bad !?)

Directly above, from the gap between the houses where you could see the sky, it

was cut off by a white-object several times.

It was like an ape-like monster, it was completely moving like it was between trees,

and gently moved between the buildings. Completely ignoring the structure of this

labyrinth and approached us swiftly from the sky.

''GIAAAAAAAAAAAAA''

''!'' ''Ah!?''

It was a surprise attack from above. The monster that dropped right in between me

and Kami-sama caused us to separate our hands. Following the explosive sound of

the landing, Kami-sama and I were each standing separately at one side.

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And I was looking face to face with the Silverback. Just when I was about to

quickly run over to the other side where Kami-sama was, the monster that was

blocking me also made its move.

''OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!''

I, who was standing in front of it, completely received this massive roar.

'' Ha?''

There was no special effect, it could not even count as an attack, it was just an

intimidating roar.

It was a roar that could only come from the instincts of a wild beast, but it deeply

shook the very roots of my will to move, my actions was easily forcibly stopped.

I had completely entered a state of .

''Hiiiiii''

The pressure from the Silverback was the real deal.

Facing the fierce roar this close had woken up my repressed memories that I once

buried. What was awaken in my mind was the Minotaur.

The roars of that fierce cow suddenly arose, causing my ears to feel pain. My legs

also continued to tremble.

( )

Right now I was standing at a crossroad.

In front was a enemy. A monster that I could not shake off. Looking at it, I was

reminded of the symbol of despair, the Minotaur. I really wanted to escape far far

away.

Inside there was a person. An existence that I must protect. The hand that was

separated from me was still waiting for me to hold onto it.

(Scary )

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Fear and Obligations, Imagination and Mission. The completely contrasting

feelings and instincts constantly battled within my body.

(Scary )

Facing this rebellious impulse, my weak sense of responsibility seemed to be

simply conquered.

(Extremely scary, but )

Despite this.

( I am still a !?)

Because of the tiny will of being a man, I could not back away from this.

Go.

Go on.

Go Forward!

You must go on ahead right!?

You absolutely cannot leave a behind and escape by yourselfffffffffff!!

'' UWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!?''

This roar contained all the courage within myself.

It felt like as if I expelled all the fear away, and unexpectedly, strength surged

through my body.

I stomped towards the Silverback.

''GAAAAAAAAAAAAAA''

The Silverback also went on attack.

The thick arms that was still attached to a chain, pierced through the sky and

attacked. I could only rely on my body's instincts to move.

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Suddenly, I lowered my head and that exaggerated left fist passed through the top

of my head.

I equipped my dagger on me, this was a golden opportunity.

As the enemy's left chest approached my without any defenses, I also went headon

and used my strength to slash at it.

''Ha!?''

However.

What rang out was a metallic sound.

The dagger that I was swing on my left hand also felt a strong impact and

completely crushed my entire arm.

The weapon bounced off. The dagger did not even pierce through that white, rough

hair on its chest, and only leave a silverfish spot.

The dagger shattered?

A lightning-like impact surged through my body. Looking at the scattered

fragments of the blade, my cheeks unconsciously twitched.

My all-out attack did not even hurt the Silverback!!

I was completely stunned by the scene in front of my eyes, and could not speak.

Then I felt myself floating in the air.

''Gi!?''

The Silverback used its two big hands and held me tightly, then pressed me

directly to the wall.

I received an overwhelming impact as my back hit the wall. My breathing stopped

for a moment, as I tried to open both my eyes.

''Guruuaa''

What was in front of me right now, was a ugly monster face.

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How could this be? Just when I was thinking about this, the Silverback deliberately

showed me its razor-like fangs and opened its bloody mouth. My face became

completely distorted due to fear.

''Bell-kun!''

If this continues, then I will really be finished...!?

Listening to Kami-sama's cry, I tried hard to twist my body, wanting to escape

from the other's binds At this moment, my fingers seemed to have touched

something.

I lowered my gaze, it was a Magic Stone Lamp that was installed onto the wall.

There was no room for thinking. I reached out and took the Magic Stone

Chandelier from the wall. I single-handedly operated the fist-sized Magic Stone

product, and turned on the light to the maximum.

Pressing the Magic Stone Chandelier, that was so bright that you could not open

your eyes, directly to the monsters eyes from my hands.

''GIGEEEEEEEEEEEEE''

When it's eyes received such an attack, the Silverback screamed. It guarded its

eyes and took a few steps backwards.

The hand that was pressed onto my shoulder finally loosened up, and I fell onto the

ground.

I struggled with the pain in my body. With a expression where I was about to cry, I

ran over to Kami-sama. Before she could say what she wanted to say, I grabbed

onto her hand and immediately began our journey to escape once again.

''Bell-kun...?''

''...!''

A unspeakable remorse filled my heart.

No matter how much courage I have, I could not protect Kami-sama.

I am so weak, I completely failed to protect the person in front of me.

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Weak, Poor, Frail, Fragile, Delicate, Spineless, Flimsy, Powerless, Vulnerable and

Lame me!

It felt that I had completely accepted these ridicule phrases. It surged through my

mind, and caused a pain in my chest.

The voice of the beastman youth, even Wallenstein had heard of the phrases that

describe that trash, once again echoed through my mind.

Exactly the same, the same as that time.

The weak me could only regret constantly.

''UUUUUOOOOOOOOOO''

''!''

It was a beast-like roar from afar.

The angry monster's roar echoed through Daedalus Road.

The enemy will chase once again.

(If this continues on...!)

We will certainly be caught up, even if we were to be lucky, it will absolutely not

happen a third time. What can I do...What should I do?

In order to protect Kami-sama, In order to help her, what should I do...!

'' ''

As these thoughts flashed through my mind, a simple answer appeared.

It was the conclusion after finally thinking it over. It was a method that even the

weak me was capable of doing.

There was no need to protect her.

If it was to help Kami-sama, then it was enough.

''Hey, Bell-kun, What...?''

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Looks like I finally understood, the complicated feelings that were on my face also

disappeared, Kami-sama gasped while she asked me. It feels like she was worried

about what was going to happen.

I completely ignored Kami-sama's question and turned to the right in the crossroad.

In front, there was a long, but not a steep slope, after running through this dirty and

black stone road, was a tunnel A narrow sewer appeared, looking inside, you

could see the faint sunlight. If we pass through this place, it should reach the

residential area nearby.

I did not say anything to Kami-sama, and directly threw Kami-sama inside. Kamisama,

who was thrown inside, had a surprised expression and turned her head to

look at me.

Then, I slowly shut the iron fence that was located near the entrance.

''Bell-kun!?''

''...Sorry, Kami-sama''

After completely closing the iron fence, the atmosphere between Kami-sama and I

became cold.

My face had a painful expression, and I struggled to apologize using my own

mouth.

''Kami-sama, please continue to head on straight.''

''I...What are you planning to do!?''

''...I'll distract the monster and buy some time.''

To the weak me, who was unable to protect this person, it was the only method to

help her.

Being the bait.

While I divert the monster away, I can allow Kami-sama to run to a safe place and

hide.

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Perhaps she understood my real intentions, Kami-sama had a shocked face and

stood there stunned.

''Y...You...Why are you saying such stupid things!???''

''Please, Kami-sama. Be quiet and please listen to my words!''

''No! I disagree! I will absolutely not agree to such a thing! Immediately open this,

Bell-kun!''

''Kami-sama...''

Kami-sama shook her head intensely and completely denied my wish.

That small body clinged onto the unmovable iron fence, trying to push it forward,

and the same time yelled loudly to me.

Facing the feelings that had led me, I felt happy, but at the same time, I felt said.

There was no time. I kneel and looked at Kami-sama face to face, and sincerely

said.

''Kami-sama...I...do not want to lose my family again!''

''...!''

Persuading her, this difficult thing was impossible to me.

So I can only follow my own heart and say the words that laid deep in my heart.

That was something that happened before. Before I came to Orario, Before I met

Kami-sama.

I lost my grandfather, the only one relative in the world to me.

My grandfather was killed by a monster. Because he was attacked while he left the

village for business, at that time, I was not there, there was nothing I could do. I

could only hear the news about his death from the villager's mouth, nothing more.

At that time, the feeling of losing something was deeply engraved into my heart.

So, from the depths of my heart, the concept of family was precious.

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''I am extremely afraid about losing my family...I could not protect anyone, that

was what I was most scared of.''

Coming to Orario to have a fateful encounter was absolutely not a lie. As if it was

to confirm the bonds between my grandfather, in order to protect these bonds so it

would not be broken off, I listened to this person's words, and went to search for

that fateful encounter.

However, I believe that besides from that, somewhere in my heart, I was also

expecting something else. That is the warmth of a family.

The gods were able to give, that was the bonds of a family.

I...Wanted family members.

''So, Please, Allow me to protect Kami-sama, this family member!''

I knew that I could not protect her, yet I still said these words. No, it should be

because I could not protect her, so that's why I said this wish out loud.

While in this short period of time, she listened to me, Kami-sama opened her cute

eyes and stared at me, her face has also become increasingly bitter.

''...Please quickly leave here and go seek for help!''

''...Bell-kun!''

After I said this final sentence, I stood up.

Kami-sama's eyebrows creased, her face was filled with sadness. She raised her

head to look at me.

''...There's no problem. The speed of my , Kami-sama, you should

know about it!''

In the end, I still strongly smiled at Kami-sama.

Then I took a step back, turned around, and ran.

Hearing Kami-sama constantly calling me from behind, but I did not look back.

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This happened because of my own weakness of not being able to accomplish

anything. Sorry! I used my trembling voice and apologized once again.

''...!''

I ran while I kept using my hand to rub my face, then I followed back the road we

came from and returned to the crossroad.

The monster still had not come. While I paid attention to the movements above my

head, I put my hand into the pouch on my leg. The potion that had

Familia>'s emblem I took one of the tubes and drained the deep green liquid

that it contained.

My fatigue was reduced. My stamina has also recovered, it felt that my strength

surged upwards.

The pain in my entire body had completely become relieved.

The Silverback ran out from the end of the path.

This time I ran into the path directly opposite and turned my head around.

''Uuuu...?''

''Come, over here!''

The monster noticed Kami-sama was not around, and looked left and right. But I

loudly provoked it.

''GAAAAAAAAAAAAAA''

(Okay!)

After confirming that the monster was running over towards me, I also began to

run.

This happened because of my own weakness of not being able to accomplish

anything. Sorry! I used my trembling voice and apologized once again.

While I was escaping, my sight was attracted to the bright right lines on the wall. It

was a guidepost. The residents living here probably painted it. It looks like if you

236

head in the direction of the arrow, you can escape from the Labyrinth Street. If

Kami-sama saw these signs, then it should be easy for her to escape.

Thinking about it backwards, if I head in the opposite direction of the arrow, I

should be able to reach the depths of Daedalus Road. If I lead it over there, then it

will further ensure the safety of Kami-sama.

I, who found the directions, immediately headed to the opposite direction of the

guided signs.

(...)

Numerous gazes were looking at us.

From the shadows of the nearby streets, from the small windows in their houses,

many eyes were constantly gasping. In a variety of places, they were observing the

movements of me and the monster.

However, the residents were extremely fearful of the monster.

(Who, in the end, who was it?)

Most of the gazes were blameful gazes to me, who brought this trouble over here.

However, there was a completely different gaze that I could not ignore, a gaze with

a strong feeling.

It was completely different than the fearful gaze, it felt like a carefree and relaxed

gaze.

For awhile now, this person has been watching me. It was a feeling of déjà

vu, where it felt like it was licking my skin. Although the feeling was

uncomfortable, my consciousness was still attracted to it.

Targeted, no, it felt more like being completely observed...

Words cannot fully describe the faint chill that emerged in my throat. I used my

hand to cover my mouth.

''Gruuaa!''

''Kuuu!''

237

Just when I was about to run out from this path, I could not completely dodge the

attack above from the Silverback. I was thrown onto the stone road. I could only

roll around on the floor and finally rolled into a slightly wide, oval space.

Although it looked rather rough, a sprinkler that was spouting a water pillar was in

the center. Here, numerous roads connected to this space. The area had

an atmosphere that felt like it was for a resting area.

''GRAAAAAA''

''!?''

From nearby, you could tell that the Silverback was abnormally excited. Its attacks

on me gradually became more intense, and maybe it was because it could not find

Kami-sama.

I do not know how, but even the two chains on its wrist also began to swing around

like a whip.

The ground was shattered, the walls were cut apart, it was just like as if a tragic

storm had passed by.

Because of the irritating sound of the air, being pierced through by the monstrous

power, constantly attacked me. The unavoidable sounds made me unable to

concentrate.

And the chains that were controlled by the strong wrist continued to let off a

ferocious attack over and over again.

''~~~~~~~~~~~~!?''

Finally, I was caught.

It was an attack aimed at the head.

Accompanied by a sharp, high-pitched roar, the chains were also straighten up, and

tightly bounded me.

Although because I had placed my dagger to guard my head, I successfully

blocked the attack, but the massive impact still spread through my entire body.

Red sparks flashed through my eyes, followed by my body flying away.

238

''Ahh, kuuu...!?''

I used my trembling arm to support my upper body that was glued onto the ground

and desperately tried to stand up. I did not care about my body's reaction to resist it,

but it still failed.

As expected, I was completely unmatched. There was absolutely no way to win

this.

My line of sight froze at the stone street, and the pain and remorse intertwined

within my body.

I slowly raised my head. I saw the Silverback was spraying its saliva as it roared in

a deep voice, as if it wanted to end me in the next attack. The chain that my hand

was holding onto issued a metallic rattling sound.

I don't want to die. I really do not want to die within my heart. However, but it

seemed like my body and mind had already given up.

My body could not use any power, but my mind was still conscious. My mind was

still worried.

Kami-sama, did you escape safely? Right now my heart was also worried about

that one thing.

(If that's the case, then at that time...)

It was this feeling.

The moment that person ran over to help me.

The moment that Wallenstein lent me a helping hand.

However, this time there was no hope that she would run over here and help me

again. Because my heart still had this childish thinking of wanting to meet her once

again, but at the same time, it was also because of this thinking that caused me to

feel tangled.

This shameful posture, I do not want her to see it a second time.

I had already some confusion with the current and the past scene, and bowed my

head as if I accepted my fate.

239

''Bell-kun!''

'' ''

The time stopped for a moment.

That voice that called out to me brought my back from my blank consciousness,

but my heart was severely affected by it as well.

Lifting up my head, my vision had recovered. But the scene in front of my eyes, I

could not help but be stunned.

There was a person that came to help. It wasn't that person, but it was a person

very important to me.

I saw the gasping Kami-sama, Hestia-sama.

How? Why? Why are you here?

Complex emotions surged through my incomprehensible body, not even a single

sentence could be forced within my mind.

''Uggghhhhh...''

'' ''

If this continues, then the situation will develop in the worst possible direction.

The Silverback that finally found the presence of the existence it was searching for,

it feels like the color in its eyes had changed, and the target it locked onto changed

from me to Kami-sama.

It widened its eyes and stared.

The Silverback took a few steps towards Kami-sama, who was panting for breath,

in the next moment, it used all its strength and rushed towards her.

''Kami-sama!?''

I began to run.

I suddenly broke the limits of my body and ran.

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With this constant, moaning body that was filled with wounds, I instantly

shortened the distance

Just when the monster's wrist was about to touch Kami-sama, my hand hugged the

tiny body.

''!''

We passed by the huge body of the monster that was right in front of us. I and

Kami-sama had rushed into another path.

Just when I thought whether if I will fall down as I recklessly ran into another path,

this time, there was really a long downhill slope and I rolled down magnificently.

Following the sounds of the screams, the world in front of my eyes spun over a

dozen times.

''...K...Kami-sama, are you alright!?''

''A...Ah. Okay...''

After encountering such a strong impact, I who was thrown into the flat stone road,

endured the pain in my body and confirmed the safety of Kami-sama. At the same

time, Kami-sama who fell onto ground also felt dizzy and replied using a feeble

voice.

After I felt assured, I immediately raised my voice and asked.

''WHY? WHY ARE YOU HERE!? DIDN'T I TELL YOU TO HELD TO A

SHELTER! IF THAT'S THE CASE, THEN WHAT IS THE POINT OF ME

DOING EVERYTHING...!''

Kami-sama's clothes were completely drenched in sweat. Probably, after I

separated from her, she had continued to seek for me in Daedalus Road and ran

everywhere.

Probably she predicted my actions through the guidepost? Or perhaps relying on

the intelligence from the witnesses who observed my and the monster running

around in the Labyrinth Street and finally came over here?

241

Since the things have developed to this point, Kami-sama also spoke, and said to

me with complex feelings.

''...What a helpless child you are.''

Kami-sama, said this to me.

Her slightly dirty, yet cute face was lifted up, she used her hand to wipe her face,

and gently smiled.

''I will not throw you away and leave by myself!''

''...''

''Didn't you say you wanted to protect me? If that's the case, then I will return it

back to you!''

Just like this, Kami-sama continued to speak.

Her tiny mouth softly said.

Didn't we have an agreement?

'' !''

I remembered.

That promise that I absolutely cannot forget.

On that day, I swore, the promise that I decided to never let go of this hand.

'' Please, don't leave me alone''

I had given up, and irresponsibly broke the promise.

And left Kami-sama alone.

''...But, if this continues on, both of us will...!''

Frowning, I struggled to speak.

242

Then before I had finished speaking, Kami-sama was determined and interrupted

my words.

''It is too early to give up, Bell-kun''

''Eh?''

''I have an idea.''

After saying this, Kami-sama ruffled around her waist and took out a small box.

Under my gaze, Kami-sama had a prideful expression and opened the box.

''Ah''

''Eh?''

Suddenly, my hand's action completely stopped.

Kami-sama also had her mouth half open and looked above.

Following her line of sight, I also looked at the long staircase behind us, there was

an ape-like silhouette that was rapidly descending.

This strong sense of déjàvu made both of our faces turn purple.

''GAAAAAAAAAAAA''

''''HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!?''''

We immediately fled from the place.

The next second, the place that we were staying before was crushed by the

Silverback. Kami-sama and I did not stop and continued to accelerate.

H...How, Kami-sama So fast!? She was actually running in front of me!?

Then what were those touching lines from earlier!?

''Kuuuu!?''

''K...Kami-sama!?''

243

Seeing Kami-sama fall onto floor, I could not help but exclaim.

I did not hesitate to pick up Kami-sama who was still remaining at a posture of

bowing to the gods. At this moment, the Silverback was also quickly approaching

us.

''S...Sorry, Kami-sama!''

''WAAA!?''

It was not the time to say this.

I gently held onto Kami-sama and used my maximum speed to escape.

A princess carry Just like what the heroes would always do in those fairy tales.

Princess Which is Kami-sama, was lying onto my chest, blushing and

continued to mutter.

''Sorry, Bell-kun. Even in this situation, but I am still very happy from the bottom

of my heart...!''

''What did you just say, Kami-sama!?''

Kami-sama's words did not convey to myself.

Because of fear, I could only whole-heartedly think about running ahead, holding

tight to Kami-sama. I used all my strength and pushed off. Kami-sama was

surprisingly light. I slowly created a gap between us and the monster as I

concentrated on running around and escaping this endless labyrinth.

But.

Finally, at last, we were abandoned by the goddess of luck.

''The path had already reached its end...''

In front was a three floor tall building, completely blocking the path, and forming a

dead end. While heading here, it was also a straight path, meaning that there was

no way to head back. Out path to retreat was completely blocked.

244

Kami-sama looked around, the residents of Daedalus Road continued to secretly

watch us. However, once they noticed our gaze, they panicked and dodged to a

side.

To anyone, monsters are a terrifying existence, if they were to hide us, then it will

undoubtedly be asking for trouble. Such a reaction was to be expected and we

could not blame them.

Slowly, the monster will catch up.

Beside me, who was sadly bowing down, Kami-sama used her hand to support her

jaw, as if she was thinking of something.

''...No, this situation is also good.''

''EH!?''

Listening to the words that came out from Kami-sama's mouth, I was surprised

and lifted my head.

Kami-sama, who was a lot shorter than me, used piercing eyes to stare at me.

''Bell-kun, you will defeat that monster.''

''...!''

''I will update your status here once again. Afterwards, using your enhanced

abilities, it should be enough to defeat that monster.''

Indeed, if Kami-sama can update my status that was engraved on back again, then

my ability will also significantly increase.

But...Even so, I still could not stand up against it.

Silverback is a monster that appeared on the 11th floor. To me, who have not yet

reached the 6th floor, it was a figure that was double. It could be said that the

difference between the level which the adventurer had achieved and the level

which the monster appeared represents the difference in strength. My

abilities may became slightly stronger, but against the Silverback, the monster was

still an existence that was incomparable.

Even if I was to fight, I will still undoubtedly be unmatched. In that case...

245

''...It's impossible, Kami-sama. Kami-sama, you have already seen it? My

attack was completely useless against that guy. Even if my power increased a bit, I

will not be able to give it any fatal injuries.''

After entering Daedalus Road, I had already tried to use my deadliest attack that I

was capable of, but , as a result, I could not even break through its body hair.

Even if my Status was to be enhanced, and the strength of my weapon also

increased, I do not think that it was possible to break through the enemy's defense.

''I...absolutely cannot defeat that guy.''

I bowed my head sadly, and said in a dejected voice.

The insults that the beastman youth had said. The constant laughter of the

customers at the pub. The scene was revived in my mind. Those scenes was still

painful to the current me.

I could not hurt the Silverback, moreover defeat it. I, even I could not believe in it.

Right now, my self-confidence was completely gone.

''But, what if your attacks work?''

'' Eh?''

''If you could damage it, then you can defeat that monster, right?''

Kami-sama said this while using a hand to open the chest, and placing the item in

front of me.

What was taken out was a black dagger within its sheath.

I was completely stunned, and I slowly pulled out the dagger from its sheath. What

was astonishing about this dagger was that from the handle to its sheath, even the

body, without any exception, was completely pure black.

It was a straight dagger that was completely dyed black.

There were complex engravings around the blade.

246

Then, as if Kami-sama was encouraging me, that

out a faint red light in my hand.

A few seconds later, I was completely stunned by the god-like artistic sense and

the design of the weapon.

Lifting my head, Kami-sama used clear eyes to stare at me.

''Bell-kun, when did you become such a lowly fellow? Before, you were always

saying stupid things about having a fateful encounter, and calmly headed to the

depths of the dungeon, right? The you, who was carefree, at that time, found a goal

and swore that you would become stronger. Where did it go?''

Shrugging my shoulders, Kami-sama continued to use a gentle voice to speak.

''But I believe in you! You don't want to take this risk? If it was the adventurer,

Bell Cranel, who made that Wallen-whatever monster-like woman as a target, this

kind of monster should be a piece of cake.''

Finally, Kami-sama's face became solemn, and then continued to speak.

''I will make you win, so you must also show me your victory.''

''...''

''Right now, perhaps you may not believe in yourself. Then, in other words, can

you trust me, the me, who completely trust in you.''

I almost cried out. I felt slightly nauseous and tears began to fall from the depths of

my eyes.

Kami-sama smiled slightly, and used her cute wrist to wipe my eyes. Mingled with

the sound of crying, I nodded my head and replied ''Yes.''

×××

247

The sun gradually rose up to the sky.

Under the sunlight, the messy houses in Daedalus Road let off a small shadow. As

the sun gradually became bigger in the sky, the sun rays were also becoming

increasingly stronger.

Even the dead end of this long road had strong sunlight coming down.

(Hurry Hurry Hurry, Faster!)

Hestia used her small tongue to lick her lips, her cute and petite hands continued to

work nonstop. In front of her was Bell's back. He was currently in a kneeling

posture and was quietly being idle. Hestia was completely focused on updating his

status.

Bell had already removed the broken armor. Only the black colored

underwear remained on his upper body. Hestia constantly used her god's blood to

draw Sacred Text.

You do not need to use your eyes to update the Status. After all, it was the

experience inside the body of the Lower World people, using Status was an act of

bringing it out. Even if it was separated by underwear, as long as the body itself

holds the experience, then it will still be able to smoothly upgrade the Status.

'' Hey, Hestia? Listen to me.''

The fear of not knowing when the monster will attack them, constantly surrounded

them. Hestia remembered the words of Hephaestus.

''This dagger because of your engraved sacred text also has its own status. In other

words, this weapon could also be considered as alive.''

After Hephaestus had finished forging the mithril into the blade, Hephaestus added

Status to it. This was the current

What was engraved closely on the black blade was Sacred Text.

''Which also means that, just like the child that was granted God's Grace, it also

uses the user's experience as food. Once there is sufficient experience, this weapon

will also evolve.''

248

So, this dagger could only be used by the people who also have Hestia's Grace. As

a weapon, it could be considered as a fatally flawed and defective product.

Hephaetus had said this.

''As the user grows, this weapon also becomes stronger. As the user's level up, it

will also demonstrate an appropriate level of strength.''

So, it could be considered as the best weapon for adventurers who constantly grow.

Not too strong nor too weak, it was a weapon of growing.

''Currently, this weapon is weaker than all the other weapons. Your child...Once

you hand it to Bell Cranel, its growth will only just begun.''

It was an extreme case. When the user is weak, the dagger is also extremely weak.

Then as the user becomes the strongest, this dagger will also become the strongest

weapon.

''To Blacksmiths, this type of weapon that can reach the strongest level, is

absolutely tabooed. Then, definitely I will not forge this type of weapon.''

To her friend, who was filled with complaints, Hestia offered her sincere gratitude.

Right now, together with Bell, this

This weapon that will be effective against the Silverback was also maturing.

(The problem is...)

To Bell, who has the skill in his status, how much will it

be able to develop, and how much stronger will

point was questionable.

''Kami-sama, it's coming!''

''!''

The Silverback appeared from the corner of the straight and long path. Following,

Hestia's heartbeat also gradually accelerated, basically at the same time, the Status

was also completed.

249

Bell Cranel

Lv.1

Strength: G 221 - E 403

Endurance: H 101 - H 199

Dexterity: G 232 - E 412

Agility: F 313 - D 512

Magic: I 0

(...!?)

In total, the proficiency increased over 600 points!??

It was an rapid increase. Could it still increase? It was already growing at an

extraordinary speed.

The flames of jealousy to Aizu lit up in Hestia's chest, making her almost mad. But

at the same time, it will also confirm something else.

(If that's the case...!)

The weapon's strength must have increased rapidly.

Bell's hand was holding onto that black blade, and like a fetus beating around, the

purplish red light gradually increased.

(Next is all up to Bell-kun!)

Hestia patted the back with force as if she was sending the boy out.

''Okay, go!''

250

×××

''Okay, go!''

The moment after hearing this sound, Bell's bodily perception had reached its limit.

He was able to hear the sound of his heartbeat. His legs also felt that it surrounded

by a group of flames. However, his head was still clear and bright.

Hestia had already predicted before the update of the Status, it was an increasingly

growth.

Using all his strength to push off. The leg that was kneeling also stood up.

''GAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!''

At the end of the road, at the opposite end, a monster was roaring in excitement.

It was the Silverback. Even though I have been strengthened, it was a monster that

could defeat me.

There was a very slim chance of victory. Can I really defeat this monster, Bell was

still dubious about this point.

However, even if he could not believe it, he still could not continue to remind

himself.

If it was just like Hestia had said, no matter what, Bell will still believe in it.

To blindly follow the foolish ideas of his Goddess, Bell opened the curtain for the

fight against the monster.

'' ''

The Silverback stopped its roar.

Bell rush over in a straight line, his speed becoming even faster.

251

The increase of over 600 proficiency in his abilities gave Bell a completely

different speed. Even though there may still be a large gap between them, but the

Silverback also felt that the current Bell could possibly cause it to have fatal

injuries.

'' Hey Hey, Bell-kun? Listen to what I have to say as a reference. Absolutely

do not do any silly things that will risk your life!''

As Bell pierced through the space in front of him, he remembered the words that

Eina-san had said to him.

''No matter how powerful a monster is, no matter how strong its defenses are, the

monster must have the existence of an unavoidable weakness.''

Bell remembered Eina-san waving her fingers and passionately describing the

postures of numerous monsters.

''As long as you target this weak spot, even a dragon will be defeated. It is a weak

spot that will make even monsters cry.''

Remember. I remembered. Her voice and the words that she was about to say next.

''It only takes one attack. If you are able to penetrate through the enemy's skin,

then theoretically adventurers are able to defeat all the monsters.''

The reason behind why monsters are monsters was because they all carry the

existence of a unique monster core.

''The rest, even if I don't say it, you should understand it right? Yes, no matter

what monster it is, it will always hold something in its chest ''

Magic Stone. That is the absolute weak spot for defeating monsters.

The place that Bell was targeting, was a little above the opponent's chest.

The Silverback was also approaching. At that moment, the time seemed to be in

slow motion, looking at the enemy raising its hand, Bell's eyes froze.

from the purplish-red blade, and it drew an beautiful arc in the air.

252

The dagger did not leave any rooms for maneuvers. A powerful pierce. An instant

killing blow that he betted everything on.

His body seemed to have turned into a spear, Bell sprinted straight towards the

enemy's chest.

'' AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!''

A sudden attack.

''GRAAAAAAAAA!!''

The black blade pierced through the center of the monster's chest.

Following the sense of touch that came from the hand, that pierced the flesh, what

followed was the feeling of something hard being shattered.

The Silverback desperately widened its eyes and crashed onto the ground.

'' !?''

Suppressing the momentum of the sprint also made Bell blown away and flew into

the sky.

Restricting the speed and being hit by its recoil was something totally unexpected.

In the end, the body that only wished to pierce through its enemy seemed to be like

a human cannonball, and drew a parabola in the air.

Soon, he fell onto the ground.

''Gguuu!?''

After rolling on the ground a few turns, he finally stopped. Bell laid on the ground

on his back, and moaned a few times and then tried to open his eyes to look at the

enemy.

Lying on the road was a Silverback, a dagger was stuck in its chest, time seemed to

be stagnant. And finally, the body began to collapse.

253

254

The body that had the Magic Stone destroyed began to turn into ashes, and

following the wind, it had completely disappeared without leaving a trace.

*CRASH*

the purplish-red light continued to glow.

'' !!''

Immediately, sounds of cheers burst out from all directions.

It was the roars of excitement that burst out from the residents of Daedalus Road,

who had been watching the battle between Bell and Silverback. It was completely

different than before when they were trying to have low exposure and was hiding.

They stuck their bodies from the windows and kept cheering. In the corner of this

Labyrinth Street, it was filled with enthusiasm that would not lost the coliseum.

Facing the constant praises about himself, from all directions, Bell also revealed a

smile in his face.

At least they succeeded. In the depths of the road stood Hestia with a face filled

with a glorious smile Then she fell down onto the ground. Bell watched as the

body slumped to the ground.

''Kami-sama!?''

Bell, who was pale, immediately recovered

her side.

Then, Bell completely ignored the festive situation. He held her and quickly left

the scene under the sounds of applause.

×××

255

''Although I did something bad to Hestia...But, this really makes one jealous.''

From the top of a certain family's rooftop.

Freya stood in a high-up location where she could see Bell. She whispered.

Her silver eyes gazed at the figure of Bell gently holding Hestia.

Under the clear skies, the goddess seemed to be angry, then she immediately

smiled again.

''Congratulations. Although I was slightly unwilling...Fufu, Yes, you were

really cool.''

Looking at Bell's figure, who did not bother to look left and right and immediately

headed to the exit, Freya's eyes were filled with fiery and slightly squinted.

Underneath the sunlight, the silver hair was whipped around by the wind, she also

left that place.

''Then until next time Bell.''

×××

''GRAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!?''

The Troll was instantly killed in a single attack.

''Is it over?''

''Yes...''

Following the sound of the silver rapier piercing through the sky, Aizu used a

practiced action to place the blade back into its sheath. Looking at the monsters

sprawled on the floor, from all directions, the civilians gathered over.

Behind Aizu's back was a bored Loki. She used her hand to gently stroke her head

and sighed.

256

''These people really do not know how to behave. It is supposed to be a serious

situation ... but how should I put it, it seems like they were passionately

cheering.''

Indeed. Aizu also agreed with Loki's views within her heart.

Normally, they were running around trying to prevent the civilians from being

injured. But they saw that the monsters completely ignored the civilians. It seems

like the monsters were looking for something, and it looked like the monsters

were circling the chaotic coliseum.

From the beginning to the end, it felt that they were completely in the grasp of

someone.

''Is this all of it?''

''No...There is still one remaining.''

Of the 9 monsters that escaped, currently only one monster was left, which was the

Silverback.

To Aizu, these were enemies that she could effortlessly defeat. Loki, who was not

motivated, just wanted everything to end faster and began to move her feet. Aizu

also honestly followed.

According to the eye-witness information obtained from the civilians that escaped,

it headed in the direction of East Main Street.

''Ah? What, is it already over?''

On the main street, people were coming and going, it looks like they were never

scared by the monster, everybody seemed to be happy.

In the crowd that formed at the junction, Loki asked around for information.

''Uncle, where's the monster? What is the situation right now?''

''About that. It seemed that a boy defeated the monster! A friend from Daedalus

Road just told this to me. They were chased inside the labyrinth and he finally

defeated the monster in one strike.''

''Eh, wait a minute, uncle. That boy, who is it?''

257

''Eh, it is not a resident from here, I have never seen it before. It was a boy

adventurer, with red eyes and white hair...Oh, just like a rabbit!''

''Huh?''

Beside Loki, who was slightly confused, Aizu, who heard this news, trembled

slightly.

(White hair...?)

Her heart thought about that person.

In the morning, the figure that she seemed to have seen from above the shop.

Because of her own reasons, and made him get hurt, the white hair boy with a pair

of crimson red eyes.

''Excuse me, please let me go ahead.''

The group of people in front was still extremely excited. It seem that the

adventurer had already left.

The civilians cheerfully began pushing each other. Loki also felt interested and

said ''I'll also come'' and immediately ran off to participate in this lively event.

Aizu, who was alone, stood there slightly lonely.

She, who was slightly troubled, was determined to get to the end of the crowd and

participated in this event.

'' Sorry, please excuse me.''

''!''

At this moment, a boy, who was trying hard to break past the human wall, ran past

Aizu.

After passing by, Aizu's golden eyes followed the boy's figure.

(...Really)

Aizu watched as the figure, who did not notice her, slowly disappeared.

258

There was absolutely no mistake. It was the boy that she had rescued from the

Minotaur.

(Defeated, a Silverback...?)

Completely unqualified. Although what her Familia members had said was indeed

overboard, but in reality, he was still considered a innocent and novice adventurer.

If what Aizu remembered about this boy, to him, currently the Silverback should

be an insurmountable existence.

(...Congratulations.)

Once she noticed this, this sentence appeared from her mouth.

It was just a word of blessing to the growth of that boy, who was laughed at by

many and was crying tears filled with remorse.

(...)

Aizu was not interested in how he defeated the monster, but.

Aizu thought that no matter what, she stills needs to see him once and apologize.

×××

BANG, The large door rang as it closed.

Bell rushed over in a panic while looking at Seal, who just came out from the room.

''S...Seal-san, Kami-sama...?''

''Nothing is wrong, just a bit of fatigue.''

''F...Fatigue...Eh, Could this mean?''

''Yes, it will not endanger her life.''

259

The time was already evening.

Bell was currently inside . After what had happened, Bell

met up with Seal by chance, who was coming back from Monster Festival. Under

her persuasion, they transported the unconscious Hestia over here.

The commotion caused by the Monster Festival had completely calmed down. The

loss was minimized because of the rapid response of Ganesha's Familia and other

organizations including the guild. Not only that, but there seemed to be no

casualties or even injuries. So it can be said that the person who had the most

serious injury was Bell.

The person that caused the commotion had not been caught. They did not even

have the slightest lead on who it was. The Ganesha's Familia's and the guild

members that came into contact with the criminal, seemed to

have had magic casted on them by a magician because they could not remember

anything. Thus, they do not know what the criminal did and the matter ended this

way.

After allowing Hestia to sleep, Bell was talking with Seal on this wooden

corridor on the second floor of the bar.

''That's really great...She suddenly fell down, so I was extremely worried.''

''Fufu, it must be hard for you, Bell-kun.''

Facing Bell, who was almost out of strength, Seal smiled slightly and apologized

using a gentle voice.

''I am really sorry about today. Because I forgot to bring my purse, so that I caused

you to be involved in this disaster...''

''N...No, there is absolutely no such thing. It was absolutely not Seal-san's fault!''

Looking at the frantic Bell, Seal-san also began to feel extremely guilty, but then

her face slowly relaxed. Bell, seeing the change in her face, also felt at ease.

''But, in this commotion, there were rumors spreading amongst the people on the

street. A certain adventurer, isn't that the courageous Bell-kun.''

''Eh...''

260

''I also believe this, in fact, I saw the battle scene of Bell-kun against the

monster...''

''It was nothing courageous. I was constantly being hit so I fled everywhere. In

front of that monster, I did not have the courage to fight ...''

Bell seemed to be embarrassed while he explained the situation, his shoulders also

constantly shrugged.

Seal, seeing Bell like this, could not help but laugh, her dark gray hair also shook.

''Despite this, weren't you still cool?''

''Eh?''

''...Although it was somewhat sloppy and rough, but Bell-kun, who

courageously stood against the monster...completely captivated me.''

While she said this, she suddenly approached and used her hand to cover the ear,

and whispered these gentle words through my ears. Bell could not help but widen

his eyes.

Seal left the side of Bell, her face seemed to be dyed red due to the sunlight, and

following was a charming smile.

''The shop called for my help. So I'll leave first!''

''Yes, O...Okay...''

''You can go to the bed and relax for a while, that is okay. So Bell-kun, I'll see you

later.''

After witnessing Seal leaving from the corridor, Bell could only tilt his head to the

side with a expressionless expression.

''Was I being played...''

The mischievous expression and those fiery pair of eyes. Bell did not know

whether or not to believe in it, and tried to quell the heat on his face, then he

headed towards Hestia's room.

261

I should let her relax for a while longer, looking at the handle of the door, Bell was

silently in a dilemma.

*BANG* Hearing what seemed to be a blunt sound of falling to the ground, the

thing that he was thinking of happened.

''!?''

Bell rushed into the room, what greeted him was the figure of Hestia that seemed

to have rolled down from the bed.

Her cheeks was glued to the floor, and it was extremely disgraceful. Perhaps she

had fallen directly onto the floor in a bizarre position.

Bell could not help but cry out. He swiftly ran over to her location and kneeled

with both legs and held up the petite body.

''K...Kami-sama!? What is it? What had just happened!?''

''Ahhh, Bell-kun...No, I originally planned to stand up, but I could not use any

strength...''

''Could not use any strength...I did hear that you were fatigued. What have you

been doing the past few days?''

Fuuu, the tiny eyes of the goddess seemed to become hidden.

''Dogeza!''

''What is Dogeza?''

''I bowed down and did not move in front of a stubborn goddess, it lasted for 30

hours...''

''T...Thirty hours...!? Dogeza, could it be some sort of torture?''

''No, it is an ultimate technique. Dogeza is an final ultimate technique...''

Facing Hestia, who seemed to be talking nonsense and was constantly talking

about this ultimate technique, Bell could not help but feel cold sweat.

262

''But why do you have to do such a thing...Didn't Kami-sama head over to a

Banquet!?''

''...This''

''Eh?''

Hestia's awkward hands reached out to Bell's waist and took out the pitched-black

dagger. Ah, Bell finally understood. It was about this weapon, Bell had never heard

Kami-sama explain about it.

How did this dagger come into her hands, he was about to ask when He took a

deep breathe.

In the corner of the dagger's sheath, Bell noticed , a similar Sacred

Text that was engraved on it.

Hephaestus.

In this case, it was needless to ask and he would still understand.

This sign, it should be the same sign that appeared in Hephaestus's shop that he

should not have the opportunity to have in his entire life.

''K...Kami-sama, this is...''

''I'm sorry, I made you worry...But, I, felt that it was painful to just watch. I do

not want to feel that as I was dependent ... Just being helped out by someone, it

feels extremely uncomfortable.''

Bell's hand trembled as he held onto the handle of the dagger. Hestia placed the

dagger slowly back into its sheath.

When you look at it now, it was a completely black blade.

A dagger that did not have any curvature, compared to the dagger he was using, the

qualitative difference could be seen. What was engraved onto the body of the blade

was small text, but it was also genuine .

From the tip of the blade to the end, it was a dagger that had the same color as

Hestia's hair. It gave off a shining purplish-red light while it was in Bell's

hand, and looked like as if it was a baby breathing.

263

''I knew. You would always look at the showcase in Hephaestus's shop numerous

times. Although this is not the weapon you want, but this dagger is the only one in

this world, isn't it amazing?''

''This, but, this...Isn't Hephaestus's weapons extremely expensive...Money,

How...!?''

''Don't worry, I already discussed it with her.''

''Not only his voice, even Bell's eyes were slightly erratic.

Hestia still had a tired expression, but looking at Bell made her felt at ease and

smiled at him.

''Didn't you want to become stronger?''

''!''

''Didn't I say I will help you? At least this point, I can still help.''

''T...This...''

''Regardless of who, regardless of what, I am the person who wanted to become

your strength the most. After all...I really like you.''

''...!''

Bell's eyes began to spill large tears.

Hestia's face was also embarrassed to the extent where it turned pink, but it still

had an overflowing smile.

''No matter what, I will let you rely on me. It isn't a problem. No matter what they

say, I am still your Goddess, right?''

Bell already could not endure it.

He broke down in tears and hugged Hestia tightly.

''Kami-sama!!''

Like a child, Bell continued to hug the petite body.

264

''Hey Hey, the blade is pulled out, it is very dangerous right?''

Her chest felt very warm. As she was saying this, Hestia also placed her hands

behind Bell's back.

Accepting the hug that came from Bell, who was a lot larger than her, and buried

her fingers into his snow-like hair. Sounds of sobbing and crying rang in her ears.

To this boy, that was behaving badly and crying because he couldn't conceal his

own feelings, Hestia loved him dearly more than anyone else.

(Ahh, Very good...)

Although it was a little slow, but being slow doesn't mean it isn't smart. But to this

boy, she was still a goddess. Although it was because of his recklessness that he

became this strong.

However, if it was for this child, being slightly reckless isn't that bad right?

Just when Hestia, who was enjoying this happy occasion, thought about this.

(At least we are both mutual in our love.)

Finally, in the end, she gorgeously made a mistake again.