Dungeon: To Reach You(1)

"So this is the sensation of stepping into the Dungeon..."

It was Ren's inaugural venture into the depths of the Dungeon, and a flicker of curiosity ignited within him, although he knew that comprehending its intricate workings would prove to be an arduous task.

Suddenly, a grotesque creature brandishing a feeble weapon confronted him, bellowing furiously as if it were a ferocious beast.

"...Ah, it's almost like being a protagonist in a manhwa when mysterious gates suddenly materialize in the world! The encounter with the goblin first is a must."

Amidst his musings, Ren's instincts kicked in, effortlessly executing a swift kick that struck the pitiful goblin. Astonishingly, the impact was so overwhelming that the creature detonated in a burst of raw force, reducing it to mere fragments in the blink of an eye.

After all, the training I underwent was no laughing matter. Every second of that grueling ordeal is etched vividly in my memory, for it was far from a joyous experience. Being a member of my unique race, we share similarities with humans while possessing distinctive traits...

[ Asura Race:

The predominant race in 5T9B.

Lifespan: Intricately tied to the level of the mana core

Host's Lifespan: 5000-6000 years.

Traits:

- Formidable physical strength

- Well-adapted constitution for harnessing mana

- From the age of 5, gifted Asuras exhibit a unique characteristic—an emergence of small horns atop their heads. These horns can be retracted at will. They serve as reservoirs for mana, bestowing the individual with the capacity to tap into reserves of energy, lending them temporary bursts of strength during critical moments.

General Talent: Among the vast numbers of the Asura race, only a select few possess the rare aptitude to master the Harmonic Convergence technique. This convergence of energies unlocks a realm of possibilities, fusing physical and magical prowess into a harmonious whole. Host is among this exceptional minority

In essence, the Asura race can be considered an evolved form of humans from a bygone era. However, further research is required, particularly in obtaining human DNA for conclusive analysis. ]

Although I had limited time for research, I possess comprehensive knowledge of my own race, which has undoubtedly amplified my capabilities.

After all, my goals were simple. To grow stronger and acquire knowledge that would aid Ais Wallenstein.

Yet, this cascade of thoughts abruptly ceased as I unwittingly arrived at the threshold of the 18th floor.

'It's time to gather some information. Hopefully, some fool would be willing to assist me.'

With each step drawing me closer to encountering her, my emotions surged with unparalleled intensity. I have yearned for this moment for centuries, and it feels as though I could pinpoint her exact location the instant she draws near, even though I have no such ability.

'Lucy, you extracted data from that party. Can you estimate my strength based on this world's evaluations?'

In essence, I simply desired the gratification of understanding my own "level," despite such a concept eluding me.

[Analyzing...]

[...]

[...]

[Results: Unquantifiable.

I apologize, Host. Insufficient data hampers my ability to process your request. Not enough information on higher 'levels'.

Note: Your strength is speculated to surpass level 8, based solely on the contents of the original novels, thus serving as a mere conjecture to satisfy the Host's curiosity about his "level."]

How many times must I remind you that such notes are unnecessary...?

I sighed, my gaze finally alighting upon the illusory expanse of the "sky," a simulated construct devoid of genuine substance, akin to pixels on a screen.

"...Disgusting."

My eyes flickered briefly with a dimness I dismissed in a heartbeat, my aspirations too grand to be hindered by matters of the distant past.

---

The Loki Familia had earned its reputation as one of the strongest Familia in Orario for a reason. After a night of rest on the 18th floor, they embarked on an expedition to the 28th floor, targeting resources found on the 30th floor.

Given the higher leveled floors involved in this expedition, only adventurers of level 2 and above were allowed to participate.

The level 2 adventurers, however, took on the role of supporters instead of active participants. This arrangement served as a valuable learning opportunity for the rookies, exposing them to the terrifying challenges of lower floors and reminding them not to overestimate themselves or rely solely on the prestige of their Familia.

Such cautionary measures were necessary, as few adventurers possessed the earnest determination of someone like Bell Cranel.

Most adventurers learned the importance of vigilance through their own experiences, especially those from lesser-known Familia with lower levels who risked their lives daily, venturing into unknown territories with little knowledge or even none at all.

...Even in the smallest details, the Loki Familia carried this sense of pride. However, this knowledge was largely confined to the higher ranks.

Many adventurers, as previously mentioned, were not particularly renowned for their intelligence.

Tiona Hiryute served as an example of this, often voicing her boredom with the lower levels and unintentionally dampening the expedition's spirits.

This led Finn Deimne, the current captain of the Familia, to deliver several lectures and inject motivation to lift the mood.

'...So exhausting.'

Once they reached the safety point on the 28th floor, Finn finally settled down in the commander's tent. Although such moments were not uncommon, they always left him feeling drained. However, before he could find a moment of respite, his attention was once again demanded, interrupted by a melodic voice that broke through his thoughts.

"...Commander, may I make a request?"

It was Riveria, the vice-commander of the Loki Familia. Familiar with such occurrences, Finn had a hunch about the nature of her request.

"Please, come in."

His voice carried the weight of a commander, even though just moments before, it held no such authority.

As Riveria entered, accompanied by a beautiful girl with blonde hair and eyes, Finn sighed inwardly.

"...You wish to venture down alone?"

In response to his question, Ais Wallenstein remained silent, her expression unchanged.

"This would be the fifth time in a row this month, Ais. I cannot keep sending you alone to explore the deeper floors. It dampens the morale of our Familia... Can you understand?"

His words held a plea rather than a firm denial of her request. After all, the Loki Familia had more than enough members to complete the expedition. The primary concern lay in the fragile morale that would persistently wane, diminishing the expedition's impact and true purpose.

While Finn recognized the clear drawbacks of allowing Ais to proceed to the deeper floors alone, he also held a deep respect for her goals and past. This created an inner conflict within him—to kindly request her not to go, while also being willing to support her if she insisted...

Ais stared at Finn in silence for a few seconds before nodding.

"I... will stay... after you depart. Is that... acceptable?"

Her mind swiftly sought the most viable solution. Since abandoning the expedition was not an option, remaining behind seemed like a reasonable compromise, right?

Indeed, this solution proved more feasible, prompting a small smile to form on Finn's lips as he thanked her for understanding and dismissed her.

"...I will stay as well. Just in case she does something reckless."

Throughout the interaction between the two, Riveria remained silent. However, once Ais departed, she felt compelled to express her concerns.

After all, it had not been long since Ais had attempted to face a Monster Boss alone—a perilous endeavor that greatly accelerated her growth but carried immense danger even for her.

"I understand. Your presence will put me at ease. Thank you, Riveria."

Finn concurred with her sentiment. While Ais Wallenstein had always displayed a reckless nature, her bond with Bell Cranel seemed to have kindled a flame that burned even brighter, causing endless troubles for the Loki Familia. Yet, no one complained. They only wished to offer their unwavering support as she, too, was a member of their Familia.

---

Author's Note:

I want to share more about Ren's life in 5T9B, but right now, my main focus is on moving the plot forward. So, please bear with me for a few chapters before you get a full glimpse into Ren's experiences and power. There's so much to tell, and it won't all fit in one chapter. I promise to reveal the details gradually, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Ren's journey. So, hang in there, and let's uncover the mysteries of Ren's life together in the upcoming chapters.

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