Chapter 2: An Unexpected Alliance

Despite my newfound powers and divine status, the world of Danmachi proved to be challenging in ways I hadn't anticipated. No one seemed particularly interested in joining the familia of Shoofy, a god with an unusual divine trait. My rotund appearance became the subject of whispers and chuckles in the bustling streets.

Each day, I made attempts to showcase my powers, offer blessings, and even tried to perform some minor miracles, hoping to win over the adventurers. But all to no avail. The ridicule and isolation were hard to bear. It seemed that my corporate prowess and legacy as Kim Hyunwoo meant little in this realm.

One evening, as the city lights began to illuminate the streets, I sat at the edge of a public fountain, pondering my next move. My attention was drawn to a ragged figure rummaging through the nearby garbage bins. The man, with salt-and-pepper hair, thin beard, and a deep-set gaze, moved from one bin to another, searching for food and discarded treasures.

Our eyes met, and he hesitated for a moment before approaching me. "You're that new god, aren't you? The one they call Shoofy?" His voice was weary, but there was an unmistakable spark of curiosity.

"Yes, I am," I replied cautiously.

He offered a small bow. "Yoshimoto. A pleasure."

"Why are you out here like this?" I inquired, gesturing towards the bins.

He sighed. "Life has its twists and turns. Once a merchant with a thriving business, now reduced to this." He paused, glancing at the bins. "The gods have their games, and we mortals are but pawns."

Feeling a connection to Yoshimoto, I shared my predicament. "It's strange, in a world filled with gods and their familias, I find myself alone. No one wishes to join me."

Yoshimoto considered this. "Perhaps we can help each other. You offer protection and blessings, and in return, I can offer my loyalty and service. Maybe, just maybe, together we can change the perception of those around us."

Grateful for the unexpected offer, I agreed. Thus, Yoshimoto became the first and only member of my familia.

Despite our alliance, challenges persisted. Yoshimoto's past as a homeless man made our familia the target of even more ridicule. "The god with one follower, and he's a beggar," they'd jeer. But we pressed on, focusing on our strengths. Yoshimoto's merchant skills became instrumental in setting up a small shop selling unique artifacts and trinkets, with each item carrying my blessings.

But it wasn't about the money or the goods; it was about the message. We wanted to show that every individual, no matter their background, had value and potential. We became a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Yet, the world of Danmachi was hard to sway. Despite our best efforts, no other adventurers came forward to join us. But Yoshimoto and I found solace in our partnership, knowing that the strength of a familia wasn't in its numbers, but in its unity and purpose.

And while the world might have seen a rotund god and his homeless follower as an odd pair, we knew better. We were Shoofy and Yoshimoto, an unlikely duo determined to leave their mark on Danmachi.