Chapter 30

That night had arrived, and Shirou stood on the balcony of Twilight Manor, gazing at the softly glowing moon in the night sky. The moonlight lent a serene atmosphere, but his mind was still filled with thoughts after a long day where he had finally revealed his past to the Loki Familia.

Suddenly, he sensed someone behind him. When he turned, he saw Aiz approaching. She looked stunning in a simple white pajama dress, her beauty like a living doll full of elegance. For a moment, Shirou was captivated by the sight of Aiz under the moonlight, which added a mysterious aura to her.

"Shirou," Aiz called softly, stopping beside him. "I wanted to thank you... for opening up about your past this morning. That must not have been easy for you. And now... I want to share my past with you as well."

Shirou looked at Aiz intently, sensing how important this moment was. In her heart, Aiz knew that by revealing her past, she would start relying on Shirou. It could make her feel vulnerable, and she hated feeling weak. But Shirou was an exception. To Aiz, Shirou was a hero—someone she believed would save her, just like the hero from her past.

Aiz began her story, her voice soft but laced with hidden sadness. "I was born 1,000 years ago... before the gods descended to the mortal world."

Shirou recalled their conversation on the 50th floor, when Aiz mentioned that she was over 1,000 years old. At that time, Shirou thought Aiz was joking, but now he knew she was serious.

"My father was Albert Waldstein, a hero of that era," Aiz continued, glancing at Shirou, knowing he likely wouldn't recognize the name. Aiz smiled slightly, understanding. "Of course, you wouldn't know him, since you're from another world."

Shirou returned her smile with a nod of understanding. Aiz then spoke about her mother.

"My mother was Aria, a wind spirit who aided my father in his struggles."

Hearing the name Aria, Shirou immediately recalled the Corrupted Spirit they had fought on the 59th floor, who had screamed out Aria's name. Now it all began to make sense to Shirou.

"My birth was something... unusual," Aiz said, her voice growing quieter. "Spirits can't have children. But somehow, I was born... and I spent wonderful times with both my parents."

Shirou smiled as he saw Aiz's face light up, recalling those precious moments of happiness with her parents.

But Aiz's happiness didn't last long. "Until one day, we were attacked by the Black Dragon. My father managed to wound it, turning it into the One-Eyed Black Dragon, but he couldn't defeat it completely. My mother, Aria, sealed me in a safe place... while they both met their fate."

Aiz fell silent for a moment, staring at the night sky, her eyes full of sorrow. "I was sealed in that place for 1,000 years before finally being found by the Loki Familia... eight years ago."

Shirou now fully understood why Aiz had once said she had lived for more than 1,000 years. While the world changed, Aiz remained in darkness, waiting for that moment.

"Since joining the Loki Familia, I've had only one goal. I've worked hard to become stronger... so I can defeat the One-Eyed Black Dragon, the creature that took my parents." Her voice was filled with determination, but also a deep loneliness.

Without hesitation, Shirou stepped closer and gently embraced Aiz. "Aiz, you don't have to bear this burden alone. I promise, we'll do this together. I'll help you defeat the One-Eyed Black Dragon."

Aiz initially wanted to refuse, feeling that this was a task she had to face alone. But she knew Shirou wasn't someone who just spoke without action. Time and again, Shirou had shown that he was willing to face enemies far stronger than himself to save others.

In her heart, Aiz spoke to her long-lost father. "Father... I've found that hero. The hero who will save me."

The two of them sat together, enjoying the quiet night on the balcony, under the soft glow of the moon. Shirou and Aiz, two souls weighed down by their pasts, were now sharing their burdens. They knew that together, they could face whatever was to come.

After sitting in the moonlit silence for a while, Shirou and Aiz found comfort in the peacefulness. No words needed to be spoken; their presence next to one another was enough to soothe their hearts, filled with memories of the past.

Aiz, who rarely allowed herself to feel comfortable near others, felt different this time. She glanced at Shirou out of the corner of her eye, noticing his face illuminated by the moonlight. Shirou's face was calm, but there was a steadfast resolve that always amazed her. Despite his own secrets and heavy past, Shirou remained strong, someone who would always protect others—just like her father once had.

A strange feeling stirred within Aiz. "Is this what they call... comfort?" she wondered. She had rarely felt anything like this before. Shirou was different from anyone she had ever met. There was sincerity and strength in him that made Aiz feel... connected.

Unconsciously, Aiz stared at Shirou longer, noticing every detail of his face. "He always fights selflessly," she thought, her heart starting to beat a little faster. He wasn't just a strong adventurer. There was something deeper about Shirou, something that made her feel... safer around him.

Sensing Aiz's gaze, Shirou turned to her with a gentle smile. "Are you okay, Aiz?" he asked, his voice full of concern.

Aiz flinched slightly, embarrassed to have been caught staring. Her face reddened slightly, though she tried to hide it. "I-I'm fine. Just... thinking," she replied quietly.

Shirou nodded, unaware of Aiz's nervousness. "If something's bothering you, you know I'm always here, right?" Shirou said, extending his hand as if to assure her that he would always be by her side.

Aiz looked at Shirou's hand for a moment, feeling more at peace. "Yes, I know," she answered, her voice softer than before.

They sat together for a little longer until Aiz realized it was getting late. She stood up slowly, brushing back her blonde hair that had been caught by the evening breeze. "I... should go back to my room. We have a lot to do tomorrow."

Shirou smiled, standing up and nodding. "Of course, I'll head back too. Good night, Aiz."

Aiz looked at Shirou for a moment, a warm feeling spreading through her heart. "Good night, Shirou," she replied softly.

As Aiz walked away from the balcony, she couldn't resist looking back once more at Shirou, who was still standing there. A new feeling had begun to grow in her heart, a feeling that had slowly blossomed.

"Shirou... you really are the hero I've been looking for," Aiz thought before finally returning to her room, her heart gently racing as she thought of Shirou.

The next morning, Shirou was in the kitchen of Twilight Manor, preparing breakfast for the members of the Loki Familia as usual. He had become accustomed to this routine since joining and enjoyed how cooking could be a peaceful moment before a day full of adventure began. Once everything was ready, he began serving breakfast to the Familia members, including Loki, who was already seated at the table with a face full of anticipation.

As Shirou placed a plate in front of Loki, the goddess grinned widely. "Hey, Shirou! I'm curious, there's a Loki in your world too, right? So, how is he? He must be as awesome as I am, right?"

Shirou, who had been busy preparing other dishes, paused for a moment. He scratched his head, looking slightly confused by the question. "Uh... I don't know much about the Loki from my mythology, but what I do know is... he's known as the god of trickery. And, well... he's also responsible for starting Ragnarok—the great destruction of the world."

Upon hearing that, Loki, who had been sipping water from her glass, immediately spat out her drink. "WHAT?!" she exclaimed, still coughing from the shock.

Shirou looked at Loki a bit awkwardly, feeling like he might have answered wrong. But Loki, upon hearing this, quickly recalled her past in Tenkai—the world of the gods. "Hmm... That actually sounds a lot like what I used to do before I descended to Genkai (the mortal world)," she thought, trying to stifle a laugh at the memory of her mischievous deeds in the divine realm.

After calming down, Loki looked at Shirou with a mischievous grin. "Okay, but... at least the Loki in your world is as beautiful as me, right? Come on, Shirou, tell me that the god Loki in your world is just as dazzling!"

Shirou fell silent for a moment, unsure how to respond. After thinking for a few seconds, he finally replied hesitantly, "Um... I've never met the god Loki in my world. But according to mythology... Loki is depicted as... a man."

Once again, Loki, who had just recovered from her coughing fit, nearly choked upon hearing the answer. "WHAT?! A man?!" she shouted in a raspy voice.

The atmosphere at the dining table erupted in laughter as the members of Loki Familia couldn't hold back after hearing the conversation. Tiona, Tione, and Bete burst out laughing, while Finn and Riveria smiled more politely, trying to suppress their amusement.

"Loki as a man?! I can't even imagine that!" Tiona exclaimed, laughing so hard that tears came out of her eyes.

"This is hilarious! Just imagine Loki with a mustache!" Bete added, holding his stomach from laughing too hard.

Loki, feeling her pride a little shaken, sat there with a slightly irritated look, rubbing her throat. "Tsk, a man, huh? Your world's mythology is strange, Shirou. Really strange!" Despite her annoyance, a small smile crept onto the corner of her lips.

Shirou, although feeling a bit guilty for causing Loki to choke earlier, couldn't help but smile slightly too. That morning, the atmosphere at the dining table was filled with laughter and joy thanks to the unexpected conversation.

After breakfast, the mood in the dining hall slowly calmed down. However, before everyone dispersed, Loki and Finn stood up, grabbing the attention of the remaining members at the table. Loki, with her mischievous grin, was clearly about to announce something important.

"Okay, okay, listen up, everyone!" Loki said cheerfully. "We have an important announcement for all of you!"

Finn continued with his usual calm but serious demeanor. "I received information from Hermes that there's a new rumor about the Dungeon. It's said there's another entrance to the Dungeon that has been hidden all this time."

The members of Loki Familia began murmuring amongst themselves, intrigued by the new information. Shirou, sitting in the corner, listened carefully.

Loki continued. "This news is really exciting, and after further investigation, the Guild has confirmed the information. There's an entrance to the Dungeon connected to the city of Melen, a coastal city near the sea."

"An entrance to the Dungeon under the sea," Finn added, casting his gaze around at the now-excited members. "We will head there to investigate whether that path is still sealed as history claims."

Hearing the words "beach" and "city of Melen," the atmosphere shifted instantly. Many members of Loki Familia seemed enthusiastic, already imagining the new adventure awaiting them in the beautiful seaside city.

"Wow, we're going to the beach!" Tiona shouted, her eyes shining with excitement. "I've wanted to visit a place like that for a long time!"

Tione smiled and said casually, "Looks like this will be a fun mission."

However, before everyone got too carried away, Loki burst out laughing and waved her hand to calm them down. "Wait, wait! The Guild is worried that if the entire Loki Familia leaves Orario, the city might fall into chaos. So...," Loki paused, giving everyone a sly grin, "only the female members will be going to Melen this time!"

The room once again filled with cheers and laughter from the female adventurers of Loki Familia, especially Tiona, Tione, and Lefiya, who were laughing joyfully.

"Yesss! The beach!" Tiona shouted, jumping for joy.

"I think we'll have a great time in Melen," Tione added with a sly smile, seeing this as a perfect opportunity to relax by the sea.

On the other hand, the male members, like Bete and Gareth, could only sigh in disappointment, feeling left out.

"Tch, so we're just staying here?" Bete grumbled, feeling a bit jealous of the beach opportunity given only to the female members.

Shirou, listening from the corner, could only smile slightly. Although he wasn't part of the group going, he was happy to see his female companions so enthusiastic about the trip.

Loki laughed in satisfaction at everyone's reactions. "Alright, get ready! We're heading to Melen tomorrow morning. And for those of you staying in Orario, make sure to keep the city in check!"

The next morning, Shirou was busy helping the female members of Loki Familia prepare for their trip to Melen. He assisted in packing supplies, ensuring the equipment was in order, and double-checking that nothing was left behind. Even though he wasn't going, Shirou was happy to help his comrades get ready for the journey.

While he was checking Aiz's supplies, Aiz suddenly approached, looking hesitant before finally asking, "Shirou...," she said softly, "I'm going to miss your cooking during the trip. Could... you come with us to Melen?"

Shirou was surprised by the request, but before he could answer, Loki, who had been listening nearby, grinned widely. "Hoh, Aiz! So you want Shirou to join us at the beach? In that case, make sure you're ready to deal with all the guys who'll be jealous of Shirou vacationing surrounded by girls!"

Shirou smiled awkwardly, feeling caught in an uncomfortable situation. He could already imagine the male members being quite envious if he got to go with the girls. "I don't want to cause any trouble," Shirou finally said. "But don't worry, Aiz. I promise, when you get back from Melen, I'll cook anything you want."

Aiz's eyes sparkled brightly, clearly happy with Shirou's promise. She was already imagining the delicious dishes he'd prepare for her. "I'll hold you to that, Shirou," she said with a small smile.

Loki, still watching them with a mischievous grin, turned to Shirou. "Oh yeah, Shirou, while we're in Melen, don't get too bold and explore the Dungeon by yourself. That's an order! You better spend your time relaxing in Orario, doing something less dangerous."

Shirou nodded, obediently accepting Loki's command. "I understand. I'll follow your advice, Loki."

With the promise to Aiz still in his mind and the responsibility to keep things calm in Orario, Shirou smiled as he watched the female members of Loki Familia prepare for their new adventure in the city of Melen.

Shirou stood at the gate of Twilight Manor, saying goodbye to the female members of Loki Familia as they readied to depart for Melen. A cheerful and excited Loki was also joining them, ready to lead the investigation mission in the coastal city.

"Take care of yourselves," Shirou said with a smile. "And don't forget to have fun while you're there!"

Aiz, Tiona, Tione, and Lefiya all smiled back, waving at him. "We'll miss your cooking, Shirou!" Tiona shouted, followed by laughter from the others. Meanwhile, Aiz simply nodded, still thinking about Shirou's promise to cook when they returned.

Jokingly, Loki added, "And remember, Shirou, don't get too busy causing trouble in the Dungeon. Take it easy for once—you need some rest too!"

Shirou chuckled and nodded. "Alright, Loki. Safe travels."

After the female members of Loki Familia had left, Shirou decided to take a walk around Orario, pondering how he should spend his time during this break. Normally, he preferred being involved in adventures or helping others, but this time, he planned to try relaxing as Loki had suggested.

As he walked through the bustling market, Shirou unexpectedly ran into Syr, who was busy shopping. As soon as he saw her, the familiar scent that always accompanied Syr—like winter flowers with a divine touch—wafted toward Shirou. Although he still harbored suspicions about Syr's true identity, he couldn't ignore the strong sense that there was more to this seemingly ordinary waitress.

"Shirou! It's been a while," Syr said with her usual warm smile. Without hesitation, she handed him her shopping basket, as if it had become a routine. "You can help me carry this, right?"

Shirou smiled, taking the basket obediently. "Sorry, Syr. I haven't been around much lately. I've been busy helping my Familia."

Syr nodded, her smile growing warmer. "That's alright, Shirou. I understand. But you're on break now, right? How about spending the day with me?"

Shirou was a little surprised by the sudden invitation, but he couldn't refuse Syr's kindness. With a small smile, he said, "Sure, I can help with whatever you need today."

With that, Shirou accompanied Syr around the market, carrying her groceries while trying to hide his curiosity about who this girl really was, always surrounded by an aura of divinity.

After finishing their shopping, Shirou and Syr walked toward the Hostess of Fertility, carrying bags full of fresh ingredients they had bought at the market. The streets of Orario were bustling, filled with the activity of both locals and adventurers, but Shirou felt at peace, enjoying the calm moments—something that was rare for him.

As soon as they arrived at the Hostess of Fertility, the heavy wooden doors of the restaurant swung open, inviting them into the warmth of the always-lively place, filled with laughter and the chatter of customers. As Shirou stepped inside with Syr, he was immediately greeted by Anya, Chloe, and Ryuu, who seemed happy to see him after his long absence.

"Hey, look who's here!" Anya called out with a big grin on her face. "Shirou! Long time no see! Where have you been?"

Chloe, with her usual sly smile, added, "Yeah, we almost thought you'd forgotten about this place, Shirou. Busy with your adventures, huh?"

Ryuu, typically more composed and wise, greeted him with a polite nod. "Welcome back, Shirou. It's been a while."

Slightly embarrassed by the warm welcome, Shirou quickly explained. "I'm sorry, everyone. I haven't been here much lately. I've been busy helping my Familia with a lot of tasks."

Ryuu frowned slightly, curious. "So, why do you have free time now? You're usually always busy."

Shirou smiled, relieved to share the news. "Actually, I'm on break now. I won't be going into the Dungeon for a while, so I have some time to relax and do other things."

Hearing this, Syr smiled softly, happy that Shirou could finally rest. But then, an idea popped into Shirou's head—something he had missed for a long time.

"By the way, since I'm on break... I was thinking, how about I help with cooking here for a while? It's been a long time since I last cooked at the Hostess of Fertility."

Chloe raised an eyebrow and looked at Shirou with a playful expression. "So, on your break, you choose to work again? Don't you know how to relax?"

Shirou laughed and shook his head. "It's not like that. I really enjoy cooking, and it's been a while since I've seen you all here. Spending my break cooking with you sounds like a great way to enjoy it."

Anya, always full of energy, laughed heartily. "Haha! I'm sure Mama Mia would be thrilled if you came back to work here, Shirou! Besides, the customers love the food you make."

Hearing that, Ryuu smiled softly, agreeing with Shirou's idea. "That's true. Your presence in the kitchen always adds a special touch. I think Mama Mia would be very happy to have your help again, especially when the restaurant gets busy."

Syr, who had been quietly listening to the conversation with a gentle smile, nodded in agreement. "I agree. Shirou, your cooking is always special. And we'd all be happy to see you back in the kitchen."

Feeling his passion reignited, even though this was supposed to be a vacation, Shirou couldn't help but look forward to it. Working in the kitchen of the Hostess of Fertility had always been something he enjoyed, and being able to cook alongside his old friends made his break feel even more meaningful.

"In that case, I'll talk to Mama Mia later," Shirou said, smiling enthusiastically. "I'm ready to help anytime."

With the warm and friendly atmosphere between them, Shirou felt at ease. This break might not involve dangerous adventures or Dungeon exploration, but returning to a familiar place and doing something he loved, like cooking with the people he cherished, was the perfect way to enjoy his time off.

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