Chapter 17

As morning arrived, Shirou awoke with renewed energy, ready to test the results of his experiments in the Dungeon. However, as he prepared in front of his workshop, he encountered Loki, who seemed to have been waiting for him. Her eyes sparkled, though there was still a hint of a hangover from the previous night.

"Heh, you've been busy in that shed for a week, haven't you?" Loki said with a mischievous grin, as if she knew exactly what Shirou had been up to. "Don't worry, I won't interfere with your secret training. But I hope you have something interesting to show me later."

Shirou could only smile, trying to hide his surprise. He hadn't expected Loki to know about his activities, though he wasn't entirely sure how much she was aware of. "Just wait for the surprise, Loki," Shirou replied, his tone casual yet filled with determination.

Loki chuckled softly, giving Shirou a light pat on the shoulder. "I love surprises, especially from enthusiastic new members like you. Don't let me down, okay?"

After Loki left, Shirou felt relieved but even more motivated. It felt like he had received a direct challenge from the goddess. With stronger resolve than before, he prepared himself to descend into the Dungeon, ready to test the fruits of his hard work and intense training over the past week.

He gathered the equipment he had prepared, packing the modified magic sword projectiles into the storage pouch on his back. Today, he would test everything—his skills, his quick thinking, and his courage to face greater challenges. Shirou was sure this day would be unforgettable.

Shirou moved swiftly through the early floors of the Dungeon, once again donning the Assassin's mask and cloak to conceal his identity. With every step, he felt the adrenaline rush through his veins. Floors 4 to 6 no longer posed a challenge for him, thanks to his intensive training and strategic prowess. He relied on his black bow to eliminate enemies from a distance with unerring accuracy, while Kanshou and Bakuya remained at the ready for any enemies brave enough to approach.

As he entered the 7th floor, Shirou realized the threats had become more complex. The monsters were more aggressive and faster, as if they sensed an intruder in their territory. Nevertheless, Shirou stayed calm and vigilant. He dodged their attacks with fluid movements, turning the tide with deadly counterattacks.

When a group of War Shadows emerged from the darkness, Shirou quickly responded. He fired arrows from his black bow, striking their weak points with precision. However, as their numbers grew and the distance closed, Shirou summoned Kanshou and Bakuya. With both blades in hand, he danced through the battle, cutting through the shadows with lethal accuracy.

Within minutes, the 7th floor, once filled with danger, was now littered with defeated monsters. Shirou paused to catch his breath, satisfied that he had reached this floor without using any of his modified magic swords. "It looks like I'm truly ready to test them now," he thought, raising one of the magic arrows he had prepared earlier. His eyes gleamed with determination.

Thus, he continued his journey, seeking the opportunity to unleash the new power he had carefully prepared.

Shirou ventured deeper into the 8th and 9th floors, expecting a significant increase in difficulty. However, after a while, he realized his expectations were somewhat exaggerated. Instead of greater challenges, the main changes were in the environment, which became more expansive and varied. The rooms grew larger, the corridors shorter, and the ceilings rose to nearly ten meters, creating a more open and threatening atmosphere. Moss-covered walls and short patches of grass added an unexpected natural element to the dark Dungeon.

Bright phosphorescent light from the ceiling resembled sunlight, creating an odd sensation of being outdoors despite being deep underground. Monsters from the previous floors returned with greater strength, but their types remained the same. Stronger goblins, kobolds, and War Shadows attacked from all directions. Nevertheless, Shirou handled them with the same efficiency as before.

With his black bow and magical arrows, Shirou made accurate long-range shots, eliminating threats from afar. When monsters drew near, Kanshou and Bakuya danced in his hands, cutting down those that dared approach. His movements remained agile, quick, and calculated, taking every opportunity to reduce the number of enemies coming his way.

The 8th and 9th floors required extra effort, but they were not the grand challenge he had anticipated. "I overestimated this," Shirou thought as he ventured deeper. However, he knew it was better to be overly cautious than overly confident. While these floors were not the end of his quest, they offered the perfect training ground to further sharpen his skills.

With fewer monsters left, Shirou began feeling increasingly confident about facing the greater challenges ahead. "It seems like it's time to test these magic arrows," he whispered, gripping the modified arrow in his hand, ready to face the next level of difficulty.

As Shirou descended to the 10th floor, he immediately sensed a drastic change in atmosphere. The air around him felt heavier, and a thick fog enveloped the entire floor, significantly limiting his visibility. Shirou paused for a moment, realizing this fog could be a serious problem if he couldn't see the approaching enemies.

Quickly, Shirou activated the mantra "Trace On" and reinforced his vision using prana in both of his eyes. Immediately, the thick fog that cloaked the floor began to fade, allowing Shirou to see farther and more clearly. Every small detail of the floor became visible—the cracked walls, the soft sound of dripping water, and shadows moving in the distance.

The change in monster types became apparent as he noticed the presence of larger and stronger creatures. Monsters like orcs, with massive bodies and rough skin, lumbered toward him. They wielded large hammers and clubs, their faces twisted with hatred and aggression. Shirou fired a few arrows to take them down from a distance, but their thick hides absorbed some of the initial attacks. Undeterred, he chanted "Trace On" once more, summoning Kanshou and Bakuya, then quickly engaged them in melee, slashing and cutting through his foes with precision and efficiency.

However, just as Shirou felt the situation under control, an Infant Dragon emerged from the darkness of the fog, roaring loudly and releasing a small burst of fire that nearly struck him. Shirou leaped to the side, narrowly avoiding the flames. The dragon's yellow eyes glared at him with malice. Shirou knew this wasn't an ordinary enemy—despite being young, an Infant Dragon had significant strength and much stronger defenses than orcs.

Shirou decided it was time to test one of his modified magic arrows. With his black bow ready, he drew the string with full force, channeling prana into the arrow. He aimed directly at the dragon's head and released the shot. The arrow shot forward at high speed, leaving a trail of magical light that blazed through the thick fog.

As soon as the arrow struck the dragon's thick scales, the magic within it exploded, unleashing a powerful burst of energy. The Infant Dragon's roar echoed throughout the floor, and Shirou could clearly see the result of his attack—scales and blood scattered, marking the success of his strike in penetrating the dragon's defenses.

Seeing the effect of his magic arrow, Shirou smiled slightly. "It seems the modification worked," he muttered, feeling more confident as he prepared to continue his journey through the fog-filled floor, ready to face the new challenges ahead.

Shirou pressed on until he reached the 12th floor, with only one magic arrow—the strongest in his arsenal—left. This arrow was different from the others—heavier, more solid, and pulsing with intense magical energy. It was the result of a modification made to the Fire Blade forged by Tsubaki, the captain of Hephaestus Familia, who was a Level 5 adventurer. Shirou knew how difficult it had been to modify that weapon into an arrow, consuming a lot of his prana and focus during the process.

He recalled the time in the workshop when he had worked tirelessly to transform Tsubaki's fire magic sword into a projectile. The process had taken longer than he anticipated—merging the sword's structure and magical properties into an arrow was no easy task. Every attempt had ended in failure, with the arrow either exploding during the process or losing its magical properties. However, after many trials and errors, he had finally succeeded in creating a powerful arrow that retained the essence of the sword.

Now, holding his strongest arrow, Shirou knew he had to be cautious in its use. This arrow wasn't meant for ordinary situations—it was a last resort, reserved for the most dangerous encounters. He realized that one shot from this arrow could annihilate an entire group of enemies in a single strike, maybe even more. He just hoped he wouldn't need to use it unless absolutely necessary.

As he ventured deeper into the 12th floor, Shirou felt the pressure increase. The air around him grew heavier, and he sensed vibrations from the ground beneath his feet—signs that stronger monsters were near. In the distance, he heard the rumbling of footsteps, signaling the approach of a large group of monsters. When they emerged from the darkness, Shirou saw a sizable number of orcs and several Infant Dragons—far more than he had faced before.

Shirou took a deep breath, assessing the situation. "This isn't the time to use my last arrow," he thought. He decided to save the strongest magic arrow and rely on the other weapons in Unlimited Blade Works to defeat the monsters one by one, conserving his stamina and prana.

One by one, Shirou fired projected arrows, striking the enemies' weak points with deadly accuracy. As the monsters closed in, he summoned Kanshou and Bakuya into his hands, swiftly cutting them down with precision. Shirou continued moving, dodging the monsters' attacks while searching for opportunities to counterattack.

However, as the number of monsters grew and they closed in on him, Shirou realized he might have to use his last arrow. "I need to make sure this ends in one shot," he thought, tightening his grip on his black bow.

Shirou drew the bowstring, positioning the last and most powerful magic arrow. Prana flowed into the arrow, causing an intense heat to radiate from it, evaporating the mist around him. Shirou aimed at the center of the mass of monsters, calculating his shot for maximum damage.

With one final breath, Shirou released the arrow. It flew like a shooting star, glowing with fiery red light. Upon impact, a massive explosion erupted—flames engulfed the 12th floor, incinerating the orcs, Infant Dragons, and other monsters in a fiery inferno. The roar and screams echoed throughout the floor.

Shirou quickly gathered all the drop items scattered across the 12th floor after the massive explosion. Magic stones and other materials left behind by the destroyed monsters lay around him. Shirou moved efficiently, filling his pouch with the valuable items that he could later sell at the Guild.

After ensuring that nothing was left behind, Shirou decided not to take any further risks. He began ascending back to the higher floors, following the path he had previously marked. Upon reaching the 4th floor, Shirou carefully searched for the stone crevice where he had hidden his equipment. He glanced around to make sure no one or no monsters were watching, then quickly retrieved and swapped out the gear he had hidden.

Carefully, Shirou removed the Assassin's mask and cloak that had concealed his identity, letting them dissolve into magical particles. He donned the light armor and ordinary bow he used as a beginner in the Loki Familia.

After ensuring everything was back to normal, Shirou composed himself and prepared to return to the surface. "No traces left behind," he thought, feeling relieved. He knew his actions today had been bold—perhaps even reckless—but he had managed to get through them without being discovered or seriously injured.

Shirou then headed calmly toward the Dungeon's exit, as if nothing had happened. "Just a normal trip to the early floors," he reminded himself, keeping his guard up. As he stepped outside, Shirou felt a bit more confident. He knew he still had much to learn, but he also realized he had made significant progress in a short time.

Back at Twilight Manor, Shirou returned to his room and carefully stashed away all the drop items he had collected in the drawer under his bed. The drawer was now almost full of magic stones and other valuable materials from the deeper Dungeon floors.

As Shirou was organizing his belongings, there was a sudden knock on his door. It opened to reveal Loki, the goddess leading the Familia, standing at the threshold with a bored expression.

"Oi, Shirou! What are you up to? I'm bored. How about we update your status?" Loki asked with a wide grin, clearly hoping for some entertainment from Shirou's status results.

Shirou felt his heart skip a beat. He knew that if Loki saw a significant increase in his stats, it could raise suspicion, especially considering how much progress he had made over the past few days. Realizing he couldn't hide his secret if his status was checked now, Shirou quickly thought of an excuse.

"Umm, Loki-sama... how about we wait a bit? I feel like it would be better to update after the Familia's expedition is over. I want to make sure I've done my best before we check the results," Shirou replied calmly, trying not to show his nervousness.

Loki stared at him for a moment, her goddess eyes seeming to scrutinize every tiny movement Shirou made. But after a few seconds, she shrugged and sighed.

"Well, if that's what you want, I won't force you. But don't take too long to update! I'm curious to see how much you've progressed," Loki said with a meaningful smile before finally leaving Shirou's room.

Shirou sighed in relief after Loki left. He knew this was only a temporary reprieve, but it at least gave him some time to figure out his next steps. Sitting at the edge of his bed, Shirou reflected, realizing he needed to be more careful in the future.

Over the next few days, Shirou continued training and honing his skills, exploring the Dungeon up to the 12th floor without using his Magic Arrows. He focused on relying on his proficiency with Kanshou and Bakuya, the twin swords he had perfectly projected from Unlimited Blade Works, as well as his long-range archery technique with his black bow.

On the earlier floors, up to the 7th floor, Shirou easily defeated familiar monsters like War Shadows and Frog Shooters, using a combination of close combat attacks and arrow shots. On the 8th and 9th floors, which were more challenging with their larger rooms and corridors, Shirou began taking advantage of the terrain. He used Kanshou and Bakuya for quick close-range combat, while his bow allowed him to shoot down enemies from afar, keeping them in check.

When he reached the fog-covered 10th floor, Shirou activated Reinforcement to enhance his vision, allowing him to see clearly through the thick mist that blanketed the area. Battling Orcs and Infant Dragons required more strategy. Shirou used his speed and agility, reinforcing his body with magic to dodge attacks and target the blind spots of these larger foes.

As each battle passed, Shirou became more aware of how important it was to manage his stamina and prana during long fights. He developed a rhythm, adapting to each deeper and more dangerous floor. On the 11th and 12th floors, where the threats grew even stronger, Shirou relied on his reflexes and combat experience to overcome the hordes of Orcs and new monsters he had never encountered before.

Even without Magic Arrows, Shirou used a combination of Projection and Reinforcement techniques to ensure each strike was deadly. He learned to make better use of the Dungeon's environment, moving swiftly and cautiously to avoid attacks while steadily pushing forward.

At the end of each day, Shirou returned to Twilight Manor to rest, storing the drop items he had collected in his room and preparing for his next venture. He knew that each step he took in the Dungeon was preparation for even greater challenges ahead. With every journey, his skills matured, and he gradually understood how to survive and thrive in Orario's world.

Loki hadn't become suspicious of Shirou's rapid progress because he always returned to Twilight Manor unscathed. From Loki's perspective, Shirou seemed like a cautious adventurer who didn't take unnecessary risks.

However, the truth was that Shirou did suffer minor injuries during his Dungeon explorations. Whenever he got hurt, Shirou quickly used potions he bought from the Miach Familia. He made sure to restock these potions whenever his supply ran low, ensuring he was always ready for the next danger without raising any suspicions.

Shirou was disciplined in using these potions only for minor wounds, keeping his stamina and prana stable. He didn't want Loki to know how far and how deep he had really ventured. In this way, Shirou managed to keep his secret while continuing to improve his abilities and knowledge of the Dungeon, without attracting unwanted attention.

Shirou realized that his achievements had already far surpassed those of other beginner adventurers, who usually needed a party and higher stats to delve deeper into the Dungeon. However, his curiosity about the Dungeon and his desire to become stronger pushed him to keep challenging his limits.

He spent time in the Twilight Manor library, studying all the available information on the middle floors of the Dungeon, particularly floors 13 to 17. He learned that these floors were far more dangerous than the previous ones, inhabited by much stronger and more diverse monsters. Shirou read about new types of monsters like Hellhounds that could launch fire attacks, Minotaurs with immense physical strength, and Almiraj—fast, cunning white rabbits with sharp horns.

He also studied the best strategies for facing these monsters and recognized the other traps or dangers present on these floors, such as mist zones that reduced visibility and slippery floors that could spell disaster for unwary adventurers. Shirou carefully noted all these important details, thinking of ways to overcome these challenges with his skills and Magecraft.

Even though he knew venturing into the middle floors without higher status or a party was a high-risk decision, Shirou felt confident that a combination of Magecraft, projection, and his combat experience could help him survive. He decided to prepare himself even more thoroughly, develop new strategies, and ready himself to explore the middle floors as soon as possible.

Shirou carefully prepared for his next expedition. He reviewed the map of the middle floors that had been marked by the Loki Familia members, studying the fastest routes and understanding the dangerous locations he might encounter. With this knowledge, he planned strategies to face the monsters and challenges on each floor.

Before heading to the Dungeon the next day, Shirou checked his supply of potions and made sure all his equipment was in good condition. He also planned to use the magic swords he had modified earlier for emergency situations or against particularly difficult monsters.

Feeling ready and determined to penetrate the middle floors, Shirou hoped his preparation and skills would help him continue his progress without being detected.

That night, Shirou decided to visit the Hostess of Fertility. He dressed casually and walked through the darkening streets of Orario, heading toward the familiar restaurant. Upon arrival, he was greeted by the warm and lively atmosphere, filled with the sound of laughter and conversation from the patrons.

As Shirou entered, Syr, who was serving a nearby table, noticed him and greeted him with a warm smile. "Shirou! It's been a while. How have you been?" she asked as she set a tray down at a nearby table.

Shirou smiled and replied, "I'm doing well, just busy with a few things lately." He avoided mentioning his plans to breach the middle floors, not wanting to worry anyone or raise suspicion.

Mia Grand, the restaurant owner, glanced at Shirou from behind the bar and nodded at him with a half-friendly expression. "What brings you here tonight, kid? Need a good meal after a long day?" she asked in a friendly but slightly teasing tone.

Shirou nodded. "Yeah, I guess I could use a little pick-me-up before a busy day tomorrow."

Syr, overhearing this, looked at Shirou curiously. "A busy day, huh? Is something special happening?" she asked while continuing her work.

Shirou smiled and replied casually, "Nothing too special. Just some regular training."

Syr nodded, though there was a hint of curiosity in her eyes. Shirou then ordered a simple dinner and sat at one of the tables in the corner. As he enjoyed his meal, he chatted with the waitresses and other customers, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant, trying to calm his mind before the big challenge he would face the next day.

He kept his secret well, while still enjoying the night among the new friends he had made in this unfamiliar world.

With the restaurant quieter than usual, the staff at the Hostess of Fertility had a moment to relax. Shirou noticed Ryuu Lion, sitting quietly by the bar, sipping a cup of tea. He had heard stories about Ryuu, knowing that she was once a very powerful adventurer.

Taking the opportunity, Shirou approached Ryuu and said, "Excuse me, Ryuu-san. I've heard you were a really strong adventurer in the past… I was wondering if you had any tips for a beginner like me?"

Ryuu turned to look at him, her gaze sharp yet gentle. "Tips for a beginner?" she repeated, her voice calm and soft. "The Dungeon isn't something to take lightly, even for those with experience. But for a beginner, there are a few things you should keep in mind."

Shirou nodded seriously, paying close attention to every word Ryuu was about to say. Ryuu continued, "First, never underestimate your enemies, no matter how small they may seem. The Dungeon has its own way of punishing arrogance."

She paused, taking a sip of her tea before continuing, "Second, always be aware of your surroundings. Monsters can appear from the walls at any time, and natural traps can be anywhere. Developing a sense for danger will serve you well."

Shirou nodded, taking mental notes of these points. "And the third?" he asked.

Ryuu gave a faint smile. "Third, always have a backup plan. The Dungeon doesn't always go according to plan. Having an escape route or a fallback strategy can save your life."

Shirou felt that Ryuu's advice was invaluable. "Thank you very much, Ryuu-san. That's incredibly helpful," he said sincerely.

Ryuu simply nodded. "Be careful out there, Shirou. The Dungeon is not a place to take lightly, and you never know what you'll encounter."

Shirou felt more prepared and confident with Ryuu's advice. With gratitude, he returned to his table, reflecting on the tips she gave him as he finished his night at the restaurant. That night, Shirou knew he had gained valuable insight from someone with real Dungeon experience, and he felt more ready for the challenges ahead.

As Shirou began exploring the Middle Floors of the Dungeon, he absorbed every word of the advice Ryuu had given him the night before. His steps were cautious, his ears alert to any strange sound, and his eyes constantly scanned the surrounding walls, remembering that monsters could appear at any moment.

He decided not to underestimate his enemies, even when facing monsters that appeared weak like Lizardmen and Blue Papilio. With his black bow, he kept a safe distance and shot with precision, ensuring each attack hit a vital spot. Shirou knew that conserving stamina and energy was crucial in the deeper floors.

As he ventured further, Shirou heard a faint rumble in the distance. He immediately assumed a defensive stance, ready to face whatever might come. In an instant, a group of Hard Armored monsters emerged from the wall to his right. According to the map he had studied, these monsters typically appeared in groups and had high defense. He recalled Ryuu's tip: never underestimate your opponent and always have a backup plan.

Shirou grabbed one of his modified magic arrows and drew it in his bow. With a clear target, he aimed at the center of the group and released the arrow, which radiated with strong magical energy. When the arrow hit the ground in front of the Hard Armored group, a massive explosion occurred, burning and destroying them all in a single strike. Shirou smiled, satisfied with the result. "One arrow for many enemies. Not bad," he muttered.

After that, Shirou continued his journey more cautiously. While traversing narrow corridors, he maintained a position that always provided a clear escape route. He checked the walls and floors for signs of danger or natural traps. Whenever he sensed something unusual, he stopped and prepared himself, making sure not to walk into a dangerous situation without proper preparation.

Gradually, Shirou began to feel more comfortable. With Kanshou and Bakuya in hand, he cut down approaching enemies, and for distant foes, he used his black bow. Shirou also made sure to save his remaining magic arrows for more dire situations, just as Ryuu had suggested.

Shirou proceeded with more confidence, carefully planning each step and calculating each attack. On a few occasions, he even found some spots that appeared to be natural shelters, where he could rest briefly and recover his strength before moving on.

By applying all of Ryuu's tips, Shirou successfully navigated the Middle Floors with greater efficiency and safety. He felt increasingly confident and prepared for the bigger challenges awaiting him in the deeper levels of the Dungeon.

With the help of a map marked with the fastest routes by the Loki Familia members, Shirou moved with full confidence. He followed the paths indicated on the map, using every marker and sign as a guide. This map not only showed the quickest routes but also identified known trap locations and areas where monsters tended to appear.

To further heighten his awareness, Shirou used the "Trace On" spell and reinforced his eyes with magic. This spell sharpened his vision, allowing him to see details invisible to the naked eye. Every crack, crevice, or inconsistency in the floor and walls became clearly visible to him. With this ability, Shirou could detect hidden traps that would otherwise go unnoticed, like loose floor tiles that could trigger spike traps or cracked walls where monsters might hide.

Whenever Shirou found signs of a trap, he slowed his pace and chose a safer alternate route, always keeping the map's directions in mind. If there was no other option, he carefully stepped only on the stable parts of the floor and avoided suspicious areas. He also inspected the surrounding walls, looking for cracks or gaps that could indicate hidden arrow traps or monsters waiting to ambush.

On one occasion, Shirou noticed an almost invisible mark on the ground, like a footprint that didn't match the surrounding surface. With his reinforced vision, he saw a hidden mechanism beneath the floor. He avoided the area and marked it on the map, making sure to avoid it in the future if he had to pass through that route again.

As he continued deeper, Shirou became more skilled at reading signs of traps and other potential dangers. He found several other traps, such as concealed pitfall traps covered by moss and walls that showed signs of imminent collapse. Each time, his enhanced vision allowed him to avoid danger before he was caught in a difficult situation.

With the ability to see invisible threats, combined with a better understanding of the map, Shirou successfully navigated the Middle Floors more safely and quickly. He moved forward with high efficiency, steadily progressing toward his next goal deep within the Dungeon, always ready for whatever came his way.

When Shirou entered the 15th floor, he sensed a different atmosphere compared to the previous floors. The aura of greater power loomed closer. Without warning, a horde of Minotaurs emerged from the darkness, their eyes glowing red with seething rage. These large monsters, with muscular bodies and terrifying horns, charged forward, releasing roars that echoed through the corridor.

Shirou knew Minotaurs were not ordinary monsters. They had immense physical strength, and though he had honed his skills, their numbers made the situation even more dangerous. Without hesitation, Shirou drew the large black bow he had modified. He called forth two magic arrows he had prepared earlier—one imbued with fire and the other with ice.

"Trace On," Shirou whispered, and the two magic arrows appeared, glowing with powerful magical energy.

He aimed carefully, positioning the fire and ice arrows precisely. He knew that combining these two elements could generate an enormous explosion with enough destructive force to wipe out a group of monsters at once. Shirou pulled the bowstring with full strength, his focus sharp, and released both magic arrows.

The first arrow, made of fire, flew swiftly, igniting the air around it and illuminating the area with a blazing orange glow. The second arrow, made of ice, followed immediately, leaving a frosty trail behind it. When the two arrows collided in the middle of the Minotaur horde, their opposing elements caused a massive explosion that shook the entire floor.

The combined explosion of fire and ice created a devastating wave of energy. The intense heat from the fire quickly incinerated the front Minotaurs, while the sharp ice shards obliterated the monsters behind them. The opposing forces of fire and ice tore apart the Minotaurs' bodies, shrouding the area in thick steam.

As the smoke and steam cleared, Shirou could see the results of his attack. The Minotaurs' bodies lay scattered on the floor, shattered and frozen, with a few still smoldering from the remaining flames. Shirou sighed in relief, realizing he had successfully dealt with the major threat without sustaining serious injuries.

However, he also knew he had used two magic arrows at once, reducing his remaining supply. Shirou stowed his bow and decided to proceed more cautiously, aware that he needed to conserve his remaining magic arrows for potentially greater challenges ahead.

Shirou realized that the 15th floor was a completely different world from the previous levels. Here, the atmosphere was heavier and more tense, as if every corner and crevice hid a new threat. The monsters that appeared were no longer creatures that could be ignored; they were far stronger enemies, with greater speed, toughness, and intelligence. These were monsters that had evolved to Level 2, making them much more dangerous than anything Shirou had faced before.

Facing stronger foes, Shirou could no longer rely solely on physical strength or his basic abilities. Just like Archer in the past, who constantly fought against far stronger Servants, Shirou knew he had to use all the tactics, intelligence, and skills at his disposal. He kept moving, always maintaining distance, carefully observing each monster's movements.

He encountered a Silverback, a humanoid silver-coated gorilla with immense physical strength and terrifying speed. Using his black bow, Shirou fired a series of precise shots to cripple the Silverback's legs, reducing the monster's mobility. When the Silverback tried to charge at him in fury, Shirou summoned Kanshou and Bakuya and leaped toward the monster, delivering quick and accurate strikes at its weak points.

The next battle was even more challenging, as Shirou faced a group of Almiraj, white rabbits that seemed ordinary but possessed impressive speed and agility. With quick movements and zigzag attacks that were hard to follow, the Almiraj attacked in a pack, trying to outmaneuver Shirou from all directions. Shirou recalled Archer's lesson: never get caught in a blind attack. He waited patiently, observing their attack pattern. When one Almiraj jumped too close, Shirou spun and quickly fired an arrow from his bow, piercing the rabbit and stopping the group's assault.

During these battles, Shirou felt the growing strain of power and pressure on him. In a way, he was reminded of Archer, who always fought at the limits of his abilities against stronger and faster opponents. Archer relied on ingenuity, experience, and the ability to read situations quickly. Shirou decided to apply the same principles. He wouldn't fight with brute force against monsters stronger than him but with technique and strategy.

On the 15th floor, every step Shirou took was a test of endurance and courage. Even while facing stronger enemies, Shirou remained focused, keeping his breathing and movements calm. He knew he had to persevere, exploiting every small advantage he could find and adapting quickly to new challenges that might arise.

With this mindset, Shirou continued to move forward, cautious yet determined, navigating the dangers of this floor, ready to face any challenge that came his way, much like how Archer had always prepared for seemingly unwinnable battles.

Shirou stepped onto the 18th floor, his body beginning to feel weary, with a few bruises decorating his skin. The potions he carried were all used up, and though he could still stand tall, Shirou knew he had to replenish his stock soon. Given his condition, Shirou decided to head toward Rivira, a town of adventurers located on the 18th floor, where he could acquire the supplies he needed.

Aware that Rivira was filled with adventurers from various Familia, Shirou removed his Assassin mask and cloak. He wanted to avoid drawing unwanted attention and didn't want to arouse suspicion among the other adventurers. Although he had successfully reached the middle floors on his own, Shirou knew that maintaining his disguise could cause more trouble than it was worth in a place like this.

As he entered Rivira, Shirou immediately sensed a different atmosphere compared to the other Dungeon floors. Rivira was a relatively safe haven, known as "Paradise" or a "Temporary Home" for adventurers needing rest after exploring the middle floors. Shirou observed groups of adventurers chatting near a small tavern while others were busy trading goods with traveling merchants offering various supplies.

Shirou approached one of the experienced potion vendors and began negotiating to exchange the drop items he had collected from floors 13 to 17 for some healing potions and mana potions. The vendor, an older man with sharp eyes, stared at Shirou for a moment before agreeing to the trade, though he warned that the prices would be higher due to the deeper floor location.

"Potions are pricier here, kid," the vendor said with a smile, "but down here, your life is worth more than a few extra Valis."

Shirou nodded in agreement and accepted the potions he needed. Though he knew the prices were steep, he had little choice. He felt more at ease after replenishing his supplies and felt his body rejuvenate after drinking one of the potions.

With the transaction complete, Shirou decided to walk around Rivira for a while. He saw various shops selling equipment, weapons, and food, as well as adventurers from different Familia interacting with each other. There was a sense of camaraderie, but also tension, as Rivira was a place where adventurers with different goals often crossed paths.

Shirou chose to keep a low profile and not draw too much attention. He knew that while Rivira was a place of rest, it was still within the Dungeon, and danger could come from anywhere. After ensuring he had everything he needed, Shirou prepared to continue his journey. However, before leaving, he decided to observe more about Rivira, hoping to gather useful information that could help him in his exploration of the deeper floors.

As Shirou wandered around Rivira, he realized that despite being deep within the Dungeon, the town had its own charm and lively atmosphere. Known as a stopover for adventurers delving into the deeper floors, Rivira had a very different feel from the other parts of the Dungeon.

The town was situated in a relatively open area, with polished stone walls adorned with small lamps that provided a soft glow during the night. While not as bright as the cities on the surface, Rivira exuded a warmth and comfort for its visitors.

Shirou passed by various establishments lining the town's streets. There were food stalls offering dishes made from ingredients that couldn't be found on the surface, like monster meat and vegetables that only grew in the depths of the Dungeon. The tantalizing aromas made Shirou feel hungry as he noticed a few adventurers sitting at small tables, cheerfully enjoying their meals and drinks.

Nearby, there was a bustling market selling essential adventuring gear like weapons, armor, and other tools. The merchants selling these goods appeared friendly and experienced, with some offering discounts to regular customers or adventurers who bartered with Dungeon drop items.

Shirou also noticed several smaller shops selling a variety of goods, from medicinal potions and remedies to accessories and strange items that seemed unique to Rivira. Each shop had its own character, with some offering rare and exclusive items for the more daring adventurers willing to venture into the deeper floors.

There were also entertainment spots like bars and lounges where adventurers gathered to relax and share stories after a long day of hard work. The atmosphere in these places was filled with laughter and conversation, providing an opportunity for adventurers to form bonds and share their Dungeon experiences.

In another corner of the town, Shirou found a small shrine dedicated to gods and entities revered by adventurers. The shrine had a serene and peaceful appearance, offering a place for those who wished to pray or seek spiritual protection before returning to the Dungeon.

Meanwhile, along Rivira's streets, various groups of adventurers interacted with one another. Some appeared to be planning their expeditions to the deeper floors, while others seemed to be resting after returning from exploration. This diversity created a dynamic and colorful atmosphere in the town.

Shirou was impressed by how Rivira managed to function as an oasis for adventurers enduring the challenges of the Dungeon. Though it couldn't match the grandeur of the cities on the surface, Rivira had its own uniqueness and warmth, making it a special place for those venturing deep into the Dungeon.

As Shirou strolled through the streets of Rivira, he was captivated by the bustling yet comfortable atmosphere of the town. He observed the various shops and businesses that dotted the underground city, from the enticing food stalls to the busy marketplace filled with rare goods. Every corner of the town offered its own distinct charm, making Shirou feel as though he were in a world vastly different from the Dungeon he usually explored.

While he walked, a familiar voice suddenly caught his attention. It was Lefiya's voice, speaking with a few other adventurers who had just returned from an expedition. Her cheerful and energetic tone filled the air, a stark contrast to the quiet surroundings around Shirou.

Shirou immediately stopped and turned, trying to locate the source of the voice. When he saw Lefiya in the distance, chatting enthusiastically, he felt as if time slowed down for a moment. His well-trained instincts told him he should remain hidden. Quickly, Shirou pulled his hood down further to cover his red hair, trying not to stand out to Lefiya or anyone else around her.

Shirou quietly moved away, ensuring he didn't draw any attention. Although he wanted to greet her or give her an update, his presence in Rivira and what he had been doing there was not something he could easily explain. He decided to maintain his distance and continue his exploration, silently hoping that Lefiya wouldn't notice him in the town.

Shirou quickened his pace, moving away from the busy areas of Rivira toward a more secluded part of the town—a small forest that offered cover from prying eyes. Carefully, he moved between the trees, attempting to disappear completely from view.

However, as he ventured deeper into the forest, he heard the sound of footsteps following behind him. Whether it was his sharp adventurer's instincts or mere luck, he knew Lefiya had tracked him. In an instant, Shirou pulled out his Assassin mask from his bag and quickly put it on. He then used the Alteration technique to modify his voice, ensuring it sounded different and unrecognizable.

Shirou stopped for a moment among the trees, preparing himself to confront Lefiya. With his voice altered, he planned to speak with Lefiya, doing his best to disguise his identity. He waited attentively, listening to Lefiya's footsteps as they drew closer, ready for whatever might happen next.

Lefiya, moving quickly with the skill of an experienced adventurer, finally arrived at the spot where Shirou was hiding. When she saw the cloaked figure wearing a skull mask, suspicion and concern immediately filled her. Standing in the eerie forest, Lefiya approached the mysterious figure with a sharp, cautious gaze.

"Who are you?" she asked, her voice firm with suspicion. "What are you doing here? Don't think I'll let anyone cause trouble around here."

Shirou, with the skull mask concealing his face, tried to calm the situation. His voice, altered through magic, sounded as if it came from far away. "You shouldn't judge someone based on appearances," he replied in a calm tone. "Sometimes, appearances can be deceiving. I'm just a wanderer who doesn't want to attract attention."

Lefiya remained cautious, her eyes fixed on the figure before her. Although she couldn't see Shirou's real face, she stayed prepared for any potential confrontation. "So, what exactly are you doing here?" she asked, still unsure whether she could trust him.

Realizing Lefiya was still suspicious of him, Shirou tried to explain the situation logically and convincingly. "In truth," he said in his altered voice, "I'm an adventurer who's been trying to avoid some enemies chasing me. I stashed my belongings here temporarily to avoid drawing their attention."

Speaking in a tone that attempted to sound reassuring, Shirou continued, "I really don't want to get involved in any more trouble, and I chose to keep my distance from anyone who might make things worse. I hope you understand my position."

Lefiya, still not fully convinced but sensing some sincerity in Shirou's voice, furrowed her brow. "If that's true, then I won't hold you any longer. But if I find anything suspicious, I won't hesitate to act."

Shirou nodded in understanding, feeling relieved that he had managed to explain the situation without a fight or further complications. "Thank you for understanding," he replied. "I'll be on my way now. I wish you success in your expedition."

With that, Shirou resumed his steps, moving away from Lefiya, still alert to any possible developments.

As night began to fall in the city of Rivira, Shirou observed the camp set up by the Loki Familia on the outskirts of the town, close to the areas frequently visited by adventurers. Under the moonlight illuminating the surrounding forest, he noticed the large tents encircled by campfires. The faint sounds of laughter and conversations from the Loki Familia members could be heard from a safe distance. It seemed they had just finished a long day of their expedition.

Shirou decided to avoid any confrontation and head back to the surface. He knew that getting too close to the Loki Familia, especially while they were resting, could lead to him being recognized or raise unwanted questions. With the speed and caution that defined him, he moved through the forest, avoiding paths that might reveal his presence to the vigilant Familia members.

Under the quiet night sky, Shirou followed a route he knew well, carefully avoiding any light that could give away his position. He focused on each step, ensuring he left no trace, while the forest foliage provided a natural backdrop that offered additional cover.

After some time, Shirou reached the entrance of the Dungeon and began his journey back to the surface. When he finally emerged above ground, the nighttime atmosphere of Orario felt very different compared to the bustling Rivira. The clear and tranquil sky of Orario was far removed from the adventurers' activities and the vibrant lights of the crowded city.

Shirou took a deep breath, relieved that he had successfully avoided any encounters with the Loki Familia members. He checked his equipment again, ensuring all his items were secure, before continuing on his way to Twilight Manor. Though exhausted, his spirits remained high due to his significant accomplishments while exploring the Dungeon up to the 17th floor. He knew that before tackling further challenges, he needed to recover his strength and carefully plan his next steps.

Once at Twilight Manor, Shirou carefully stored all the drop items he had collected in the drawer beneath his bed and checked his potion supplies. With the day's activities extending late into the night, he finally decided to rest, ready to face the upcoming days and prepare himself for the challenges ahead in the Dungeon.

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