Hostess Of Fertility

Shiro possessed a unique trait, an innate ability known as the Anti-Skill. This spiritual constitution was unlike any other, a powerful force that set him apart from the rest of the world. The Anti-Skill was not a passive talent—it was something Shiro could activate or deactivate at will, granting him unparalleled control over the forces around him.

When activated, the Anti-Skill had the power to nullify, negate, suppress, or "seal off" any spiritual or magical force or phenomenon that came into contact with Shiro. Whether it was an aura, a magical spell, or a divine intervention, the Anti-Skill would neutralize it instantly, rendering it ineffective. But this ability did more than just negate. The Anti-Skill could harness the negated force, convert it into raw energy, and use it to counteract kinetic forces, empowering Shiro's attacks beyond their natural limits.

This wasn't just limited to minor spells or weak magical attacks. The Anti-Skill could shut down a vast array of powers—ultimate skills, ultimate gifts, ultimate enhancements, administrative authority, godly authority, and more. It could seal off these abilities completely, leaving their users powerless for a period of time.

This special trait was not exclusive to Shiro alone. Every single soul fragment, every identity that Shiro possessed across different worlds and lives, shared this ability without exception. It was a core part of his being, an inseparable aspect of his existence that followed him through every reincarnation, every world he lived in. No matter how his circumstances changed, the Anti-Skill remained a constant, a silent guardian that protected him from harm and ensured his survival.

As Shiro stood quietly, contemplating the events that had led him to this moment, the knowledge of his Anti-Skill gave him a sense of reassurance. He had learned to keep it hidden, to use it only when absolutely necessary, for the power it held was great, and the consequences of its use could be even greater.

He knew that in the city of Orario, where gods and adventurers mingled, the use of such an ability could attract unwanted attention. And so, he kept it buried deep within him, a secret weapon that he could call upon when the time was right.

With the Anti-Skill, Shiro could face any challenge that came his way, confident that no force, no matter how powerful, could overwhelm him. This was his ace, his shield, and his sword, and he would wield it with the utmost care.

---

As Ryuu led Shiro through the bustling streets of Orario, the lively sounds of the city gradually began to soften. They turned a corner, and the noise of the market faded, replaced by the quieter, more relaxed atmosphere of the residential area. The narrow alleyways of the city were now behind them, and Shiro could sense that they were approaching a different part of Orario, one less focused on commerce and more on the daily lives of its inhabitants.

The sun had set fully by now, and the street lamps flickered to life, casting a warm, golden light over the cobblestones. Shiro walked a few paces behind Ryuu, his mind racing with thoughts of their recent encounter. He was still trying to piece together the odd sense of familiarity he felt around Ryuu. She hadn't spoken much since the incident with the thugs, and her silence only added to the mystery surrounding her.

Finally, they arrived at their destination—a large, two-story building with a welcoming atmosphere that contrasted with the darkening streets outside. A wooden sign swung gently above the door, emblazoned with the name "Hostess of Fertility" in elegant, flowing script. The building was warm and inviting, with light spilling out of the windows and the faint sound of laughter and conversation drifting into the street.

Ryuu paused at the entrance, turning slightly to glance at Shiro. Her expression remained calm and composed, but there was a subtle tension in her posture, as if she were second-guessing her decision to bring him here. However, she said nothing, instead opening the door and gesturing for Shiro to enter.

Inside, the tavern was lively and bustling with activity. The main room was filled with adventurers and townsfolk alike, all enjoying hearty meals and good company. The air was thick with the smell of freshly cooked food, the warmth of the hearth, and the sound of clinking mugs and cheerful chatter. Shiro felt a sense of comfort wash over him as he stepped inside, the cozy atmosphere a stark contrast to the tense encounter in the alley.

A large, imposing woman with short brown hair and a broad, welcoming smile stood behind the bar, overseeing the activity with the practiced eye of someone who had run this establishment for many years. Shiro recognized her as Mama Mia, the owner of the Hostess of Fertility, and a former adventurer herself. She had a reputation for being strict but fair, and her presence seemed to command respect from everyone in the room.

As Ryuu and Shiro entered, Mama Mia's sharp eyes immediately locked onto them. She raised an eyebrow in curiosity, noting the unusual pair. Ryuu wasn't one to bring strangers to the tavern, especially not ones she had just met. But before she could say anything, one of the other waitresses noticed them and bounded over with a cheerful grin.

"Ryuu! Who's this?" Anya Fromel, a cat girl with a playful personality, asked as she bounced up to them. Her ears twitched with curiosity, and her golden eyes sparkled with mischief. "Did you pick up a stray?"

Ryuu, uncharacteristically, hesitated, her usual composed demeanor faltering slightly as she glanced at Shiro. She opened her mouth to respond, but before she could say anything, another voice chimed in.

"Oh? Ryuu brought someone?" Syr, a beautiful young woman with silver hair and a serene smile, approached them with a knowing look in her eyes. She was another waitress at the tavern, but Shiro knew her true identity as Goddess Freya in disguise. Despite her unassuming appearance, Syr had a way of seeing through people, her sharp instincts often catching others off guard.

"Now this is interesting," Syr continued, her voice teasing as she looked between Ryuu and Shiro. "You don't usually invite people here, Ryuu. What's special about this one?"

Ryuu's calm facade cracked slightly, a faint blush rising to her cheeks as she struggled to find the right words. Shiro, sensing her discomfort, stepped forward with a polite smile.

"Thank you for having me," he said, bowing his head slightly. "I'm Shiro. Ryuu was kind enough to help me out earlier, and I suppose she thought it best to bring me somewhere safe."

Anya's ears twitched again, and she leaned in closer to Shiro, her curiosity piqued. "Oho? So you were in trouble, nya? What happened?"

"Just a misunderstanding," Shiro replied smoothly, not wanting to delve into the details of the encounter. "But Ryuu handled it before it became a real problem."

Ryuu remained silent, her gaze averted as the teasing continued. Anya and Syr exchanged amused glances, clearly enjoying the rare sight of their usually stoic friend being so flustered.

"Well, if Ryuu brought you here, you must be someone special," Anya said with a wink. "Make yourself at home, Shiro. We'll take good care of you!"

With that, Anya grabbed Shiro's arm and led him further into the tavern, chattering away happily as she did. Ryuu followed quietly, her expression returning to its usual calm, though there was still a hint of unease in her eyes.

As they moved through the crowded room, Shiro noticed that the other patrons had taken an interest in him as well. Most were friendly, offering nods or smiles as they passed, but a few looked at him with curiosity, wondering what had brought him to the Hostess of Fertility.

They eventually reached a table near the back of the tavern, where another waitress was setting down a tray of drinks. Chloe Rollo, a cat girl with black hair and a mischievous grin, glanced up as they approached. "What's this, Anya? You found a new plaything?"

Anya giggled, giving Shiro a playful shove into a chair. "Maybe! Ryuu brought him in, so he's probably someone interesting, nya!"

Chloe's eyes narrowed with amusement as she looked Shiro over. "Well, he's certainly easy on the eyes. Maybe he'll bring in more customers."

Shiro chuckled, taking the teasing in stride. "I'll do my best," he said, his tone light and friendly.

Mama Mia, having watched the interaction from the bar, finally decided to intervene. She walked over to the table, her presence commanding as always, and gave Shiro a thorough once-over.

"So, you're the one who's got Ryuu all flustered," Mama Mia said, her voice gruff but not unkind. "What's your story, boy?"

Shiro met her gaze calmly, knowing better than to show any weakness in front of such a formidable woman. "Just a traveler, ma'am. I've only just arrived in Orario. Ryuu helped me out of a tight spot, and now I'm here."

Mama Mia studied him for a moment longer, her sharp eyes seeming to weigh every word he said. Then, with a curt nod, she crossed her arms over her chest. "Hmph. Well, if Ryuu trusts you, then that's good enough for me. But remember this, boy—this isn't some ordinary tavern. You cause trouble here, and you'll have more than just me to deal with."

Her tone left no room for doubt, and Shiro nodded in acknowledgment. "Understood. I'm just grateful for the hospitality."

Mama Mia grunted in response, but there was a glimmer of approval in her eyes. She turned her attention to Ryuu, who was still standing quietly by the table. "You're responsible for him tonight, Ryuu. Make sure he doesn't get into any trouble."

Ryuu nodded obediently. "Yes, Mama Mia."

Satisfied, Mama Mia turned on her heel and returned to the bar, barking orders at the other staff as she went. The atmosphere in the tavern quickly returned to its previous lively state, with patrons laughing and chatting over their drinks.

Anya and Chloe, still eager to tease, continued to pepper Shiro with questions. "So, Shiro," Anya began, leaning forward with a grin. "What brings you to Orario? Looking to become an adventurer, nya?"

Shiro considered his response carefully, aware that his true purpose was something he needed to keep hidden. "I'm not sure yet," he replied honestly. "I've heard a lot about Orario, so I decided to see it for myself. But I haven't made any concrete plans."

Chloe tilted her head, her cat-like eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "No plans? That's unusual. Most people who come here have some big dream they want to chase."

Shiro shrugged, keeping his expression neutral. "Maybe I'm still figuring out what that dream is."

Anya and Chloe exchanged glances, clearly intrigued by his vague answers.

For a while, he allowed himself to simply enjoy the moment, letting the comforts of the Hostess of Fertility soothe his weary soul.

Ryuu, who had been quiet for most of the evening, eventually took a seat beside him. She watched him eat in silence, her earlier hesitation now replaced by a more thoughtful expression. Shiro could sense that there was something on her mind, something she wanted to ask but was unsure how to broach.

When he had finished his meal, Shiro set down his spoon and glanced at Ryuu, offering her a small, reassuring smile. "Thank you, Ryuu," he said softly. "For everything."

Ryuu's eyes met his, and for a brief moment, the same unspoken connection from earlier flickered between them. She opened her mouth as if to say something, but then closed it again, shaking her head slightly. "It's nothing," she murmured, her voice almost too quiet to hear.

But Shiro wasn't fooled. He could see the conflict in her eyes, the questions she was holding back. He wanted to reach out, to reassure her that she could trust him, but he knew better than to push. Ryuu was a reserved person, and she would only speak when she was ready.

Instead, he changed the subject, hoping to ease the tension. "So, how long have you been working here?"

Ryuu blinked, caught off guard by the sudden question. "A few years now," she replied after a moment. "I… I came here after I left my Familia."

Shiro raised an eyebrow, genuinely curious. "You left your Familia?"

Ryuu hesitated, then nodded. "Yes. It's… a long story."

Sensing that this was a sensitive topic, Shiro didn't press further. "I understand. Thank you for sharing that much with me."

Ryuu offered him a small, appreciative nod. "You're welcome."

For the rest of the evening, they talked quietly, sharing small pieces of their pasts without delving too deeply into the more painful memories. Shiro found himself enjoying Ryuu's company more than he had expected. Despite her reserved nature, there was a quiet strength in her that resonated with him, a strength born from hardship and perseverance.

Eventually, the tavern began to wind down as the night grew late. The patrons gradually trickled out, leaving only the staff and a few stragglers behind. Mama Mia gave the signal for closing time, and the waitresses began tidying up the tables and chairs.

Ryuu stood up, gesturing for Shiro to follow her. "I'll show you to your room," she said softly.

Shiro nodded, standing as well. He followed Ryuu up the stairs and down a narrow hallway until they reached a small, cozy room at the end. Ryuu opened the door and stepped aside, allowing Shiro to enter.

The room was simple but comfortable, with a single bed, a small dresser, and a window that overlooked the quiet streets of Orario. Shiro set down his belongings, turning to Ryuu with a grateful smile. "Thank you, Ryuu. For everything."

Ryuu nodded, her expression softening slightly. "Goodnight, Shiro. Rest well."

With that, she turned and left the room, closing the door quietly behind her. Shiro stood for a moment, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the room before letting out a small sigh of contentment.

As he lay down on the bed, his thoughts began to drift. The events of the day had been overwhelming, but there was also a sense of hope that hadn't been there before. He was in a new world, with new opportunities and new challenges. And for the first time in a long while, he felt a sense of purpose.

But as he closed his eyes and let sleep overtake him, one thought lingered in his mind: Tomorrow would bring new challenges, and with them, new opportunities.