AN: Hey guys, it's good to see you all like my Amazons and Kabuto reboot idea. I might consider making those actual stories one day. But now I have to tend to my older stories and given my updating rotation, the next one is…a Garo story! But which one? It would have to be Wolf's Den, which is one of my favorites. So without any delays, it's Showtime!

Disclaimer: I do not own DanMachi or Garo.


Chapter 9: Welf Crozzo

In the dungeon, the hooded male was sleeping while his female partner wrapped her arms around his in her sleep. As they were sleeping, the hooded male moved a little as his dreams only consisted of horrible memories. Voices echoed through his head as his body squirmed a little in his sleep.

"This is madness!"

"We must seal away the Dragon's Inga before it spreads!"

"You will not be forgotten, brother…"

"What have you done!?"

The man soon awoke as he had enough of the voices that plagued his mind. He soon slid his arm out of his companion's embrace before he wandered to the front of Kallig's sealed gate. He touched it and felt its rough texture course through his fingertips.

"Soon…soon, I'll have the power I need to take my revenge." The man said before taking his hood off, revealing his face which had pale skin with one normal eye being blue on the left side and the other dark with only a purple iris on the right. He also had dark blue hair with a young looking face.

The female soon stirred and woke up before looking at her lover.

"What's wrong…Soran?" She asked while Soran looked back at her.

"Nothing, I just needed to stretch." He lied as he didn't want her to worry about him. They had much more important things to do. Too important to let personal things get in the way.


When there is light, shadows lurk and fear reigns. Yet by the blade of knights, mankind was given hope.

(Play Savior In The Dark by JAM Project)

[Yuke kaze no gotoku. Sadame no kenshi yo, yami ni magirete.] The song starts with the camera zooming in a dark background before Garo slashed the screen. The scene soon changed to a silhouetted Bell in a combat position.

[Nani yue tatakau no ka? Sore wa ken ni kike.] Garo spends some time doing poses before the camera changes to Bell, without his coat, practicing with two giant pendulums in a training room underneath the church that he lives in.

[Seigi da to ka ai nado ore wa oi-kakenai] The camera soon changes to a white background where Garo and the axe-wielding Makai Knight, Giga, were fighting together.

[Yami ni umare…Yami ni shinobi…Yami wo kiri-saku.] Several demonic hands reach for the light but only to see Garo get in between them and cutting down the hands.

[Haruka na inishie kara uketsuida simei da kara.] The camera sees the wicked smile of a hooded figure before seeing Horrors and Dungeon monsters. The camera soon changes to Garo doing various things such as writing a rune with his sword and fighting a Horror.

[Yuke kaze no gotoku. Makai no kenshi yo] A Horror blasts a dark fire ball but Garo shook off the attack before using his Blazing Armament mode. The camera soon changes to Garo riding Goten and Bell transforming into Garo.

[Tamashoo we kometa. Ikari no yaiba tataki-tsukete. Jidai ni kagayake!] The camera switches between Bell and Garo. Garo was dealing with Horrors while Bell was dealing with Dungeon monsters. The two soon did the same poses, switching in and out.

[GARO!] The camera soon changes view to see the title of the story.


(The next day at Hestia Familia HQ)

Bell was practicing in the training room, doing his best to dodge the arrows and giant pendulums swinging at him. Bell stayed concentrated as he soon saw a pendulum rushing directly at him. He blocked it with his sword before looking behind him to see an oncoming arrow.

Bell soon took out his dagger and blocked the arrow with it. He then turned his attention to the pendulum his sword that was pressed against the pendulum. Bell then used both Garoken and Garo Dagger to push the pendulum back a bit before slashing it, making it fly all the way back to the wall.

"Bell, behind you!" Zaruba warned and Bell saw three pendulums coming at him. He braced himself before he noticed the pendulums stopping and retracting. Bell was a little confused before looking at Hestia who was revealed to be the one who stopped them with a push of the button nearby.

"Bell, you just recovered and already you start training." Hestia said with a smile as she knows this was definitely a thing for Bell to do. It's been a few days since his fight with Ragnar and one day after he checked in with his grandfather Zeus. Sure he only faced one Horror during that timeframe but Hestia was still a bit worried, but granted this is something of a minor worry and nothing serious.

"I didn't have a problem fighting that Centaur Horror." Bell pointed out.

"You had Goten's help." Hestia pointed out and Bell looked like he was about to respond to that statement before noticing Hestia in her formal wear.

"Pardon me for changing the subject, but why are you dressed like that?" Bell asked as he was wondering if anything special today.

"Today is the day when the gods meet. Denatus, held once every three months. There we choose titles for Adventurers who've leveled up." Hestia explained as she and the rest of the gods involved with the Makai Order have to fulfill their normal obligations to avoid suspicion. "I'll be back later so you be careful then. With any luck, I could clear up your rumors with the other gods within the Makai Order backing me."

Bell nodded as Hestia left the church. After spending a little more time training, Bell then placed his coat on as he then decided to go out for lunch.


(In the Dungeon)

A Party was running away in panic as Horrors were chasing them. They obviously tried fighting them at first but upon seeing that their attacks were doing nothing, running was the best option. But their option soon proved to be fruitless as they were soon met with a dead end.

They turned slowly and saw a Horror in front of its kin, all of them looking ready to feast on the three Adventurers. Before the three can do anything, a blade emerged the front Horror's chest. The Horror screeched in pain before exploding, confusing the Party and rest of Horrors. There was no time to react as a silver blur emerged from where the destroyed Horror was before it passed through all the other Horrors.

When it was at the end, all of the Horrors exploded and have left the Party in awe and shock. They have never seen movement like that or someone/something kill at that inhuman speed. The Adventurers were going to thank the blur but it was already gone.

They didn't know what just happened, but they didn't care. They were alive and they had that blur to thank for. They didn't know who or what it was but it long gone now. They had to tell the others in Orario what just happened.


(Later at the Hostess of Fertility)

"So how many people approached you regarding the rumors on your way here?" Lili asked as she, Bell, Lana, and Dalton were drinking at a table.

"Ugh…" Bell sighed. While there were rumors of a golden knight saving the Loki Familia from a special Minotaur, there were other versions of said rumors. One of which being that a certain white-haired boy was one that saved them…and he had no Level. This annoyed Bell as he was pelted with questions like, "Are you the kid that saved the Loki Familia?", "How can someone as weak looking as you save an elite Familia like Loki's?", or "How come you don't have a level?".

"Let's just say, he had to stick to the shadows to avoid them." Zaruba explained.

"Ouch." Dalton remarked as he drank his ale. "At least, it's just a rumor and not something confirmed. Otherwise, the gods are going to have a field day with this."

If the word of someone with no Level, performing a major feat such as slaying a major Dungeon Monster, the gods would've had immediate talk about this. Such as arguing which Familia to join if he's not in one already or the use of illegal methods for such strength. Luckily, Bell had the power to confirm or deny that while Aiz made sure no one would speak of this. Another matter would be Titles and a public one is the last thing that Bell wanted, given his occupation as a Makai Knight. Even if he publicly denies it, it's only going to cause even more suspicion as to why he's defensive about it.

"Thank goodness for that." Bell sighed in relief.

"I think you deserve something of a title." A female voice said and the four turned to see Syr and Ryuu with food and drinks.

"Trust me, the last thing I would want is attention." Bell replied and as if on cue, he and the others overheard everyone in the tavern talking about him.

"Hey, is that him?

"The guy who defeated a Minotaur without a Level?"

"Nah man, you shouldn't believe every rumor you hear?"

"Says the guy who thinks the golden knight rumor is true."

Bell just sighed as he couldn't do anything about this but hope that this rumor would just die away soon.

"When will they stop talking about me?" Bell wondered while the only solace he can find that no one has approached him to confirm to rumor so far.

"As soon as you stop being famous. True or not." Syr joked while Bell just groaned at that. He soon looked at the gray-haired waitress.

"Shouldn't you be working?" Bell asked, wondering why those two are here and not doing their jobs as waitresses. He then thought of one reason and just sighed at that, they wanted to know the truth. "You guys want to know whether the rumor is true or not, don't you?"

"Syr does more. I, however, do not really care." Ryuu said but she knows it was true since the mention of a golden knight was a reference to Garo. She, like the other Makai members, have a role to play and must play dumb for the sake of secrecy.

"Oh come on, Bell! You have no Level and defeated a Minotaur that could've killed you! Not to mention that it could've been trouble for the entire Loki Familia!" Syr said as she and Ryuu took seats. "At least, that's what I heard from people."

"Yeah? People also say that mice are born from straw or that Dungeon Monsters can be good mating partners." Bell pointed out, making the statement that anyone can tell a fib and people will automatically believe it. It wasn't the point at this case, but it was best that Syr or any Makai outsider doesn't know that.

"Still, you should set the record straight." Syr pointed out.

"I do that and people won't leave me alone for a long time." Bell pointed out while he hoped that someone can change the subject of the conversation. Luckily, the dwarven Makai Knight did when he finished his ale and gave it to Syr.

"Hey, you mind fetching me a refill?" Dalton asked and Syr nodded before leaving the table. He then turned to Bell. "Say Bell, is it true that Eina is assigning you work in the middle levels of the Dungeon?"

Bell nodded and Ryuu looked at the white-haired young man.

"I hate to sound like I'm meddling, but it would be best if you avoid going past the 13th Floor for now." Ryuu said and Lili looked at her a bit offended.

"You don't think Bell and I can't handle the middle floors?" Lili asked while Lana raised an eyebrow.

"Oh? Because from what I learned from our previous lessons, you still haven't properly controlled a spell." Lana said as she then told everyone what happened.


(A couple days ago)

"You have to focus in painting the rune in perfect detail compared to the books and scrolls to maximize its effectiveness. Allow me to demonstrate." Lana said as she then painted a Makai Rune and tapped it before it fired lightning. She then looked at her apprentice. "Now it's your turn."

Lili nodded as she gripped her Madou Brush.

"Right." She said as she tried paining the Makai Rune as best as she can before tapping it. It didn't fired lightning but rather…bubbles. "Uh…"

"Okay, try using a summoning rune." Lana instructed as she placed her head in her hand. She didn't really have an apprentice but it looks like it's going to be a while before Lili knows half the spells that she does.

Lili painted the summoning rune before tapping it and it summoned an armored wolf.

"Oh, a Makai Beast. That's an impressive summon, especially if he's going to be your Familiar." Lana complimented as she didn't expect Lili to do something like that.

Soon the door opened, revealing Dalton with some steaks and a victorious grin on his face.

"Who's hungry!?" He said before the Makai Beast noticed them and charged at the dwarf before tackling him and eating the steaks. It was clear that this beast wasn't trained.

Lana looked at her apprentice as she realized that this is going to be a long morning.


(Present)

"Did you really have to bring that up?" Lili asked as she sweatdropped a little as she resumed drinking.

"I'm just letting everyone know the status of your training." Lana said as she took a sip of her tankard and then looked at her fellow elf. "Didn't mean to interrupt. Keep talking."

Ryuu then nodded before looking at Bell.

"Anyways, that's not what I meant. What I meant is that those Floors are completely different to what you usually face." Ryuu explained as Bell decided to stay quiet and learn more. "Not only do you have Horrors to worry about but you also have to deal with stronger monsters, their numbers, and their encounter rate change. The problem isn't your abilities especially given your status, but the problem is that two people can't handle them all alone."

Bell nodded at this information as Syr returned with Dalton's refilled ale before noticing a table needing her aid. The Golden Knights of the past have never received victory alone. They all received help from fellow Makai Knights or Priests. Bell has to start thinking the same and reach out to the rest of the Order especially since he and Lili are not invincible.

"Ryuu does make a good point. You need to expand your party more." Zaruba quietly advised and Bell started thinking before looking at Lana and Dalton who were pretty much the obvious choices.

"So what about you guys? Are you in?" Bell asked while the two soon-to-be-married couple thought about it and looked at each other.

"Of course you have our aid!" Dalton said as he happily drank his ale, making Bell and Lili smile at that.

"But, we have our own duties though. We aren't always Adventurers." Lana pointed out. Being a soon-to-be-married couple, they have to plan their wedding. Another problem is that being two older members, they're obligated to do more dangerous tasks. Lana was assigned to archiving and experimentation while Dalton had trained younger members.

"Then we need more people…" Bell remarked before Syr came to him.

"Sorry but a person from that table wanted me to give you this." Syr presented a red envelope to the group, immediately catching their attention.

"Excuse me for asking but, who asked you to give this to me?" Bell asked.

"That hooded person over there-." Syr then pointed at the table but to her surprise, there was no one there anymore but the money paid for the food he had eaten earlier ago.


(Later at the Watchdog Center)

The letter personally asked for Bell and Dalton to meet with Shiroishi and that's what they did as the Watchdog greeted them with a smile.

"I am glad you two were able to meet with me, Golden Knight Garo and Beast Knight Giga." She said and the two Makai Knights bowed in respect.

"It is always our privilege to make your acquaintance, Madam Watchdog." Bell said while Dalton only looked at her in curiosity.

"If I may ask, why summon the two of us here? Is it a Horror?" The dwarf asked and to their surprise, Shiroishi shook her head.

"I'm sorry but this is something of an internal matter." She explained before summoning a crystal orb and showing it to the two Makai Knights. In it, they saw the silver blur saving the Party from earlier today. "Hours ago, these three Adventurers claimed to have been saved from a group of Horrors by a silver blur."

The two then widened their eyes as they know that something like that which can also seal Horrors has to mean one thing only; it was a Makai Knight.

"So these three were saved by a Makai Knight?" Dalton asked as he didn't see why this would be a big deal since it was a Makai Knight's duty to protect the innocents from Horrors. "I still don't see why you summoned me or Bell here."

"There is no record of any Silver Makai Knight regarding those that live in this city." She explained while Zaruba decided to speak up.

"It could be a Makai Knight that lives in the Dungeon." Zaruba pointed out but that didn't help ease the Watchdog.

"Even if it was, they would've communicated with the rest of the Order." She pointed out as members of the Makai Order were required to check in with Shiroishi for leads on Horrors or Makai Artifact retrievals.

"Are you implying that this is a Makai Knight operating outside of the Order?" Bell asked and Shiroishi nodded at that.

"It is important to determine whether this Knight is a friend or Fallen." Shiroishi explained. "If he is indeed a Fallen Knight, you two know what to do."

A Fallen Knight is a Makai Knight who lost his way and follows the path of darkness. Someone that dangerous is usually hunted by Makai Knights and Priests alike. If this person was a Fallen Knight, then bell and Dalton had to give it their all.

Bell and Dalton nodded as they understood the importance of their mission. Bell then thought about his Party dilemma and looked at Shiroishi.

"Madam Watchdog, I do not mean to change the subject but…would you happen to know any Makai Knights willing to join my Party?" Bell asked and Shiroishi shook her head.

"I apologize Bell but I don't know of any Makai Knight or Priestess that are open to join your Party." Shiroishi responded, much to Bell's disappointment. "I'll continue to look for any Makai members who aren't too busy but for now, I would suggest that you and Dalton started getting to work on who this Knight is and determining what his intentions are."

The two Makai Knights nodded and bowed, seeing that there was nothing left to talk about. As they were leaving, the two looked at each other.

"So what do you think about this whole ordeal?" Bell asked, curious about what his older friend thinks.

"Truth be told lad, I wouldn't know what to make of this whole mess." Dalton said as he rubbed his beard in thought. "I have not heard of something like this. I've faced Fallen Knights a couple of times but a Knight operating outside of the Order is something truly bizarre for me."

Bell nodded in agreement. This was Bell's first time being assigned something regarding the Order's internal matters. He looked back at Shiroishi who was leaving her place and wondered why would she assign him something like this? Dalton was old enough and just said that he has experience with dealing with Fallen Knights.

Zaruba sensed Bell's thoughts and vibrated to have his partner look at him.

"Zaruba?"

"Hey, I wouldn't worry too much about it if I were you. If the Watchdog thinks you can handle it, then you can handle it." Zaruba assured Bell and the white-haired teen smiled at that assurance. The Madou Ring was right, he shouldn't be worried about why Shiroishi would send him on a mission like this, it would be something for him to figure out later.

"So should we meet up inside Babel tomorrow? I have to resupply on a few things inside." Dalton said as the two exited the Watchdog Center and onto the streets of Orario. It was late afternoon but Adventurers and Supporters were already leaving the Dungeon, having met their quota.

"Yeah, early morning should be fine. I'll meet you, Lana, and Lili there." Bell responded as he too was short on a few supplies.

"Aye, see you there then." Dalton said as he went off to train younglings while Bell looked at where the Dungeon was. He was actually curious about what kind of man this Makai Knight is and wondered why he would operate outside of the Order. And while Bell had all these questions, he knew one thing for certain; he'd be looking forward to tomorrow.


(In the Dungeon)

A young man was panting as he sat against the wall and took deep breaths. He had short, spiky red hair and blue eyes. He was also wearing a dark blue undershirt with a black kimono over it tied with a belt, along with a blue scarf, tan pants, and long brown boots. His face wore an exhausted look and sweat was beading down his forehead.

"This is something that's going to take me a while to get used to." He remarked as he then looked at the sword in his hand. The man knew that this was a magic sword and he hated swords like that as he believed that they can rot the users to the core with greed. It was ironic for him to hate magic swords and yet use one.

The only reason being is that he felt that it was important in a way. He just couldn't shake this feeling off and couldn't quite explain it.

"Why would my father have this?" He wondered as he gathered his strength back. His strength was enough for him to stand and put the sword back in the sheath carried over his back. But to emphasize that he hated magic sword and only used his when needed, he had another regular sword stored underneath the sheathed magic sword.

Like the magic sword, the regular sword didn't look flashy or anything. It was a large-sized sword with a broad blade.

"I just hope I learn how to control this properly." He said as he then made his way for the exit. "Until then, I need a Party."


(The next day)

Bell was in Babel and was looking around for Dalton and the others.

"Think we're too early, Zaruba?" Bell asked.

"I highly doubt it. Lana probably pressed him into doing something." Zaruba said as he and Bell knew how the couple worked together. "Check a little bit ahead of you. Maybe he's at one of the shops."

Bell did as he passed by the notice board and a few of the vendors. He soon passed by the armor store and noticed Dalton inside. He soon approached the dwarven Makai Knight.

"Hey Dalton, what are you doing?" Bell asked as the dwarf held an armor piece.

"Lana is pressing me into buying some armor pieces for a spell she's been working on." He explained, bringing his curiosity.

"What kind of spell?"

"She wouldn't tell me except that the armor had to be something light with good defense." Dalton explained. "She needs it for a test dummy."

"Need my help?" Bell asked and Dalton thought about it. He didn't see any harm in this. Plus, an extra set of eyes is always help.

"Well, I suppose there's no harm to it." The dwarf decided as he and Bell looked around. He has been here once for a new armguard but now he's here for armor.

"Are you sure Lana asked for something light with good defense?" Bell asked as he examined a mannequin wearing heavy armor.

"Not exactly but I want to get something really good for Lana, even if it is for something as trivial as spell testing." Dalton explained while he looked through boxes. Bell just looked at him with a cheeky smile as he rarely sees Dalton's romantic side.

"Aw, you're such a sweetie." Bell joked and Dalton just scoffed at that.

"She's my damn bride. Of course, I have to get the best for her." Dalton replied as he didn't have to be embarrassed about anything. Soon, he and Bell soon went to the counter to get the cashier's opinion but he sees him preoccupied with someone else. It appeared to be a guy with red hair and two swords on his back. It was obvious that this guy was an Adventurer.

"I said, why do you keep putting them in the corner?" The red head guy said with an annoyed look. "I'm risking my life to do this! Would it hurt to treat me with a little bit of respect?"

The cashier didn't want to continue this conversation and hoped he had an excuse to move on. Luckily he found one when he saw Dalton and Bell approached the counter.

"Welcome!" The cashier greeted as Bell and Dalton appeared up directly in front of the counter with the Adventurer next to them. "Are you looking for something?"

"Yeah, I'm looking for lightweight armor with some great defense. What do you have?" The dwarf asked and it looked like the redhead Adventurer wanted to speak but the cashier was already looking through the back.

As the cashier was looking and Dalton was being patient, Bell noticed the redhead Adventurer's disgruntled look before he noticed an open box next to him. He looked into the box to see the contents to consist of white armor pieces with red parts and outlining. They looked pristine and good as new. It also seemed light and looked like they can take a good hit.

"Hey Dalton." Bell called and the dwarf looked at him. "What do you think of this?" The young Makai Knight asked as he pointed at the box. Dalton then took the box and looked at the contents since he wasn't tall enough. The cashier and redhead Adventurer noticed Dalton looking through the armor pieces with interest.

"Sir?" The cashier asked before Dalton was finally snapped out of his thoughts.

"Yes, this looks good. Alright, I'll buy this. How much?" Dalton asked and redhead Adventurer laughed while the cashier was speechless.

"Well now, it looks like my merchandise can bring customers after all!" The redhead Adventurer cheered to himself as he then looked at the two men. "Come on, let's talk about the price outside."

He then took the two guys and the armor outside before going to a more scenic floor on Babel. The three sat on a bench before Welf presented the crate of armor.

"So how much is it going to be? We don't have much of a problem with price, uh…" Dalton started.

"The name's Welf Crozzo but just call me Welf." The man, now introduced as Welf, said.

'Crozzo? Where have I heard that before?' Zaruba thought but decided to keep quiet.

"So Welf, what kind of price are we talking here?" Bell asked before Welf's eyes widened as he examined Bell.

"Wait a minute…white hair and red eyes…you're the one who is rumored to be without a Level." Welf remarked as Bell groaned a bit. Just how long were people going to remember this?

"Yes, it's me and I don't want to confirm nor deny the rumor." Bell said instinctively as he lost count of how many people recognized him from the rumor. Meanwhile Dalton decided to steer this conversation back to its original subject, much to Bell's relief.

"So Welf, how much is this armor going to be?" Dalton asked while Welf rubbed his chin and then looked at Bell. He then smiled inwardly as he thought of a bargain.

"Tell you guys what, I'll give this armor free of charge…on a couple conditions." Welf said and the two stared at the redhead before deciding to hear him out.

"Alright, you have our attention." Bell said, being courteous.

"I want a direct contract with you, Bell Cranel." Welf proposed and Dalton seemed a little troubled by the mention of that while Bell seemed a bit confused considering he never heard of something like that.

"Direct contract?"

"I'll only work for you, and make weapons, armor…Whatever you want." Welf said before being stopped by Bell.

"Sorry Welf, but I don't really need something like that." Bell said. Being a Makai Knight, he only uses his Soul Metal Sword, small arsenal of smaller weapons, his outfit which can protect him better than most armor that Adventurers wear, and his Garo armor.

Welf seemed a little disappointed but still kept his confident look.

"Well then, how about you let me join your Party? That's my only other condition." Welf said and the two Makai Knights looked at each other as they were unsure of what to think of this. As far as they know, this is an outsider who doesn't know what he's asking for. They don't want to drag him into the Makai and bring him unwanted trouble.

Bell soon felt Zaruba vibrate, wanting his attention.

"Excuse us for a second." Bell said as he and Dalton soon turned to face each other, having their own private conversation. They soon looked at Zaruba.

"What is it, Zaruba?" Bell whispered.

"I say we let him in." Zaruba said, surprising the two Makai Knights as this isn't something that the Madou Ring would usually say.

"Why is that?" Bell asked.

"I heard the name Crozzo before and I think it was regarding the Makai." Zaruba explained, having the sense of familiarity with the name. "I say we take him in and just keep a close eye on him."

"But we're trying to find the rogue Makai Knight and he could just get in the way." Dalton pointed out. They were on a mission and an outsider would not only get in the way but he would also be in danger. There is a reason why the Makai Order doesn't like to have outsiders involved.

"Plus, what if we find him in his armor or if we fight Horrors in our armor?" Bell asked.

"Then you can have Lana erase or rearrange his memories." Zaruba said, trying hard to remember where he heard the name Crozzo before.

Bell then looked at his dwarven friend/fellow Makai Knight.

"What do you think?"

"I don't like it but if your partner is positive about this…then, fine." Dalton said before him and Bell looked at Welf.

"Well…it's not our first choice, but you're welcome to join our Party." Bell said, making Welf smile.

"Alright, you won't regret this!" Welf cheerfully said as he gave Dalton the crate.

The dwarf sighed as he looked at the contents.

"Lana better be appreciative of this." He stated before looking at Bell. "I'm going to drop this off at my place. You better go to Lili and Lana at the Dungeon entrance. I'll meet up with you guys there." Dalton said as he was leaving with the armor.

Bell soon looked at Welf as he got up from the bench.

"Well, might as well introduce you to the others." Bell said as he and Welf started going down the tower. As they were walking, Zaruba couldn't help but turned his gaze over one of Welf's swords. Particularly, the one that has its blade sheathed.


(Inside the Dungeon)

Soran was wandering the halls of the Dungeon while thinking about what the keys to Kallig's gate was. He needed the two swords used to seal the gate. The redhead had a good idea what one of the swords would be but he doesn't know for sure it was the right one. He needed a way to confirm it.

"Maybe I should introduce myself…" The man said himself as he remembered seeing Bell's fight with Ragnar. The fight did look pleasing to watch and Bell's resolve was certainly strong. As far as he could see, Bell might be worthy to wield Garoken which means this could be an interesting confrontation. "But first, just to make sure he hasn't gone soft during his recovery…"

Soran then took out another purple glowing crystal. He soon noticed an Infant Dragon nearby looking for food.

'Perfect.' The young man thought as he found a suitable vessel. He soon started to approach the small dragon. "Come here boy, I have a treat for you…"


(Later at the 11th floor of the Dungeon)

Welf took a whiff of fresh air as he stretched his arms out.

"I'm finally on the 11th Floor!" He rejoiced while Lana looked at Dalton. While this wasn't an ideal place to look for the rogue Makai Knight, but Shiroishi's instructions did mention that the Makai Knight saved the other Party of Adventurers around the 10th floor. Even if this wasn't exactly the 10th floor, he could've moved up here as he was last seen heading this way.

"Care to explain why you brought a stray along with us?" She asked with an annoyed expression. While she is appreciative for the armor, she did not approve of this outsider interfering with their mission. Lili felt the same thing but not only did she felt that Welf would be a burden but it's that the redhead Adventurer would here for his own selfish reasons. Like she did when she first met Bell.

"Yeah, I don't think you even told us why he couldn't go adventuring with his own Familia." Lili pointed out and she did have a point. All Adventurers belong to a Familia and most of them party up with fellow Familia members.

"Well the most likely reason for that would be that he doesn't get along with his Familia, right?" Lana asked Welf who was scratching the back of his head with a sweatdrop.

"I still think you two should've talked to us." Lili said in a somewhat bitter tone as she didn't want history to repeat. To her, she couldn't help but feel history repeating itself. First, a guy shows up and offers a bunch of good stuff. And in return, asks for a couple of favors that'll most likely benefit him more than the rest of the Party.

Welf then looked at Lili and approached her with an irritated expression.

"Am I that much of a problem, Lil' Shrimp?" Welf asked and this immediately annoyed the young Makai Priestess-in-training. If it's one thing she hates about being insulted about, it's her height.

"My name isn't Lil' Shrimp, its Liliruca Arde!" She snapped and Welf decided to have a little bit of fun out of this.

"Oh! Nice to meet you then, Lil' Lili!" Welf greeted before holding out his hand to shake. Lili, for obvious reasons, just looked away as she was already annoyed with this man.

"Forget it!" Lili snapped while Dalton chuckled a bit.

"At least you made me feel a little bit better about my height." Dalton joked while Lili just looked really annoyed. She really did not like him.

"Sorry if all of this really seems sudden." Bell apologized while Dalton looked at Welf.

"We should probably scout out ahead." Dalton said and Welf looked at the rest of the group before looking at the dwarf and nodding.

The two males went out and Bell looked at the two girls so he can properly give them an explanation.

"Okay, the reason he's even here is because of Zaruba." Bell explained, getting their attention before pointing the Madou Ring at them.

"I'm sorry guys, but it's just that…I heard the name 'Crozzo' before and I-."

"Wait, 'Crozzo'?" Lili asked to make sure she heard right. "As in, the cursed magic weapon blacksmiths? The fallen blacksmith nobles?"

This caught Bell's attention while Lana felt that she heard the name as well.

"What are you talking about?" Bell asked as he genuinely had no idea what she's talking about.

"You mean you've never heard about it?" Lili asked before looking at Bell's expression to confirm her question. "The Crozzo family was a clan of blacksmiths famous for their ability to make powerful magical items. But one day they lost all their abilities, and because of that, they're not completely destitute."

Bell then looked at Zaruba.

"Does any of this ring a bell, Zaruba?" Bell asked.

"I honestly think so…" Zaruba said as he started to remember something but just then, the ground started shaking a bit. "Guys, looks like we're about to have company."

With Dalton and Welf, the two guys were making their way back to the Party before they started getting surrounded by Imps.

"Damn and here I was thinking that this would be easy." Dalton said as he pulled out his axe. Welf just smirked as he pulled out his bigger sword while the dwarf noticed this. "You don't dual wield?"

"It's a personal preference." Welf explained before looking at the Imps practically closing in on them. "Now, let's go!"

Dalton and Welf charged at the Imps while Bell and the girls were dealing with a few Orcs. Bell was using Garoken to keep the Orcs at bay while Lana was using ranged spells and Lili using her crossbow attachment since she has yet mastered any Makai spells properly.

On a nearby cliff, Soran was watching along with an armored figure. It had dark skin with dark purple glowing parts. It wore gray armor with three purple glowing crystals in the chest. It had draconic wings, claws, and feet but its limbs were humanoid. It head was a dragon's but it looked young and outfitted with a gray helmet. It was a Horrified Infant Dragon with extensive changes but Soran liked to call this pet Salke.

"Hmm…let's call this an appetizer. Wouldn't you agree?" Soran asked, making Salke just growl as the Horror eyed Bell.

Meanwhile at the fight, Dalton headbutted an Imp before cutting him from the waist while Welf bisected another before it exploded into ash. Dalton soon noticed Bell and the girls fighting Orcs before he also noticed a large yellow armadillo with a very hard shell not too far behind them. It noticed them before rolling up into a razor-sharp ball and revving itself up before charging at the girls from behind.

"A Hard Armor!" Dalton recognized.

Dalton ran as fast as he can before running up to a rock, jumped off it and landing his axe into the side of the armadillo's side before it exploded. Lana soon noticed it as Dalton rested his axe on his shoulder.

"You owe me one." Dalton said before Lana playfully sighed.

"Day's still young. By the end of it, we'll see how much YOU owe me." Lana emphasized while her fiancé just chuckled, accepting the challenge.

Soon Welf managed to catch up to them as he sheathed his bigger sword.

"I have to admit you guys do short work." Welf admitted as he saw a bit of the action as he was catching up to them.

"I'll go get our loot." Lili said as she started collecting Magic Stones dropped from the Monsters. Despite her status as a Makai Priestess-in-training, she still had to feign the role of a Supporter like Bell does as an Adventurer especially in front of Welf.

Bell and Soran noticed other Parties appearing on the Floor. While Bell didn't mind and just focused on his own Party, Soran looked at Salke.

"Get some." Soran calmly commanded before Salke jumped down from the cliff they were standing on. It noticed a Party not too far from the Makai's and got ready to lunge and attack. After all, it couldn't attack the Makai Party on an empty stomach.

"So how about we take a little break after Lil' Lili gets the Magic Stones?" Welf asked, feeling a little bit tired from the fight. Unfortunately for him, the others didn't really feel tired due to their Makai training. But before they can respond, they heard screams of terror not too far away from them.

"What is that?" Bell wondered before they saw an Adventurer running at them from the fog that surrounded the area. He stopped in front of the Makai group as Lana checked up on him.

"He's unharmed but he's obviously traumatized." Lana analyzed as the man was sweating and his expression was one of extreme disbelief. Dalton then looked at Bell and Welf.

"You two should find Lili. This could start escalating into something very dangerous." Dalton instructed and the two nodded before going in the direction that Lili went off to. Meanwhile Dalton looked at the scarred Adventurer. "Tell me what happened."

The man looked at the dwarf with his terrified expression still fresh. Whatever he saw, surely left a good impression on his mind.

"I-It wasn't a normal Dungeon Monster…No...I-It was something more." The man said as it was only a blur that killed them followed by screaming, demonic groans, and the sound of something eaten. "It just killed everyone in my Party! Please, you have to get out! Get help before-!"

Just then Salke, at inhuman speeds, picked up the Adventurer and flew into the fog.

"HELP ME! NO-AGGHHH!" The Adventurer got out before his voice became a mixture of screams and pain.

Dalton looked at his fiancé with a serious look as they both knew what this creature was; a Horror and from the look of things, it was heading into the others' direction.

"We have to go!" Dalton said and Lana nodded before she took out her brush, painted it, and casted it in the air.

"All aboard!" Lana said as Dalton got on before giving her a thumb's up. Lana nodded back before tapping the rune and it propelled the dwarf into the air.

Meanwhile, Bell and Welf saw Lili, who was picking up the Magic Stones, noticing them.

"Lili, get away from there!" Bell warned and Lili looked a bit confused before a wall of purple fire descended from the sky and was heading towards her. Lili's eyes widened before survival instinct kicked in and she started running for her life.

Meanwhile Dalton flew and caught Salke's leg but he was barely hanging on especially when the Horrified Infant Dragon noticed him. It tired shaking him off while Dalton climbed up the leg and started making his way up to the back. This caused Salke to stop breathing fire and try to get Dalton off his back. Lili used the opportunity to run back to the guys before Lana caught up with them.

They soon looked up and saw the scuffle before Dalton held his axe out.

"Let's see how you like this!" Dalton said before he plunged his axe into the Horror's back. Salke screamed in pain before Dalton pulled his axe out and noticed the Horror's wings. "Alright you overgrown lizard, time to take this fight to the ground!"

Dalton then cut off one of the wings and Salke screamed in agony. Without one of his wings to keep him balance, Salke flew a little before crashing into the ground with Dalton.

"Dalton!" Bell called as he and the others ran up to the crash site to see if Dalton was okay. They soon saw Salke emerge from the newly formed crater. The group also noticed a knocked out Dalton not too far from the crater with his axe not that far from him.

"Dalton!" Lana called before she ran out to him while Bell only adopted a combat stance with Garoken. Welf looked at Bell with a worried expression as Salke turned his attention towards him, Bell, and Lili.

"Oi Bell, are you sure about this?" Welf asked as Bell would have to be insane to try and fight a creature of this scale without additional support from a Party.

Bell just looked at Welf with an adamant expression on his face.

"There's one rule in this Party; no one gets left behind." Bell explained as he charged at it. He roared as he ran before jumping with his sword ready. But Salke blocked it with his gauntlet and punching Bell with his free hand, propelling him into the air.

Bell skidded against the ground before struggling to land on his feet, which he barely succeeded in doing. Salke then looked at Welf and Lili before roaring at them. Lili took out her Madou Brush and seemed a bit unsure of attempting a spell due to her never fully mastering a spell and the fact that Welf was nearby. Speaking of who, he charged and tried attacking with his bigger sword but it didn't do much damage.

Welf looked at his blade and then at the monster.

"This beast…"

Welf was then grabbed by Salke by both hands. He struggled a bit while Lili looked at her brush as she was contemplating what to do before the three heard the sound of Bell charging. As he was running, Bell raised his sword and summoned his armor before he merged with it and became Garo.

"Wow…" Welf got out before Garo jumped high in the air and punched Salke in the face with his free hand, making the Horror stumble back and dropping Welf. Garo landed next to Welf who looked at him with a look of disbelief. "Bell…"

Garo looked at him before looking back at the recovering Salke.

"I'll explain all this later. Right now, I have a job to do!" Garo said as he then started charging at Salke. While running, Garo noticed Lana and the recovering Dalton behind Salke. "Dalton, I could use your help!" Garo said as he jumped up as he gripped his sword with both hands. He jumped up and tried to slash at Salke but the draconic Horror blocked the attack with its armored gloves.

It soon breathed fired on Garo and the force from it pushed him back away. Garo soon flew into the wall of a nearby cliff. Garo groaned a bit before Salke started to approach him with his fiery breath still being sprayed at him. Garo tried blocking the flames with his sword but the closer Salke got, the stronger the flames were and harder it was to escape.

Dalton fully recovered and noticed this.

"Hang on, lad! I'm coming!" Dalton said as he ran towards the fight while also picking up his axe. He raised his axe and spun a green circle of light in a diagonal direction. It straightened itself out before it opened up. It dropped down armor and merged with him, becoming an armored Makai Knight.

His height was the same but he was wearing a green bodysuit with a green helmet based on a wolf. It had a small gold accessory with a small red gem on his forehead and the eyes were orange. He had big green bulky armored shoulder pads that are pointed up and each had a silver spike on them. The torso was a green piece of armor with a gold V-shape symbol and one his forearms, he had green bracers with his left arm having two bladed claws. He wore greed armored greaves with gold marks and matching boots. And his axe size also increased with the blade being bigger and sharper and it was as tall as him. This was the Beast Knight Giga.

"Lana! Gonna need some help here!" Giga said as Lana then summoned another rune for him to get on. Giga got on and Lana aimed it at Salke's back. "Ready!"

"Fire!" Lana then launched the green Makai Knight onto Salke's back. He got a good grip and readied his axe.

"Don't worry, Bell! The cavalry is here!" Giga said as he plunged his axe into Salke's back. However, Salke tried to bear with the pain because this could his only chance to try to kill Garo. So the Horror kept doing it while Giga tried stabbing the back multiple times with no effect.

"Guys, it's starting to get hot here!" Garo said as he still was having trouble trying to move and the flames was slowly starting to hurt him. Giga then looked at Lana and Lili who caught up with them. Lana then gave Lili enchanted crossbow bolts since she knows she can't fire a proper spell yet.

"Use these." Lana instructed and Lili nodded before loading them into her crossbow. Lana then fired lightning bolts while Lili started firing the crossbow bolts. That and the constant stabbing by Giga, it should've been enough to stop Salke from attacking but it only gave the Horror more reason to keep going.

Welf just watched all of this happening with a look of disbelief. Not only is this creature is something abnormal according to Dungeon's standards, but that Bell and Dalton can summon armors that are on par with the beast along with Lana and Lili who seem to be doing a good amount of damage too.

"Damn, it looks like I don't really have much of a choice here…" Welf then reached for his other sword, the one he hated using.

Meanwhile, Garo felt himself getting a bit weaker from holding defense for too long. The others' attacks were doing a lot but Salke was deadest on finishing off Garo. But when Salke finally saw Garo weighing down, a silver blur appeared and went past through Salke's legs. As a result, the legs were cut off. Salke screamed in pain as he fell with Giga getting off in time.

Garo breathed heavily before he reverted back to Bell, due to exhaustion. He and the rest of the group then looked at the downed Salke before the silver blur came back before jumping onto the Horror and stabbing it in the head.

Salke screamed and groaned as he dissipated into darkness.

"That was close." Giga said as he reverted back to Dalton.

They soon saw the silver blur, revealing to be a Makai Knight. He was wearing a black bodysuit with a wolf-based silver helmet which included a blue accessory on the forehead on the forehead and some gold above the dark red eyes. He had silver armored pauldrons with black, blue, and red spaulders with a gold outline. He had silver upper body armor that had two gold straps that went down to the legs. Around his waist armor, there was a red gem in the center and matching silver armor in the legs and boots. He also had armor in his arms, including the forearms and hands. And in his hand was a large looking silver demonic kata with a big blade. This was the Silver Knight Zanga.

Zanga actually looked at the others to see that they were really surprised. This must've been the rogue Knight since it was reported that it was a silver blur that saved the Party from the other day.

"What?" Zanga asked before looking at himself. "Oh, sorry I thought you guys were used to seeing someone like this."

Zanga soon reverted back…into Welf, much to everyone's surprise. In hindsight though, they should've suspected something like this when the man carries two swords but only uses one of them at a time. Welf then sheathed his Makaiken while Bell approached him.

"Welf…you're the rogue Makai Knight?" Bell asked and to his surprise, Welf looked really confused at that statement.

"A Makai what? Is that supposed to be a title or something?" Welf asked and Dalton approached him.

"You're a Makai Knight like Bell and I here. Dedicated to preserving peaceful sentient life from the demons known as the Horrors." Dalton said, trying to remind Welf of what he stood for but…

"I'm sorry but I literally have no idea what you two talking about." Welf said in a genuine tone of voice which really surprised the rest of the Party as this was something unorthodox. There were cases that involved Makai Knights attempting to leave the Order or become Priests while there were cases of them becoming Fallen Knights. But now, this was the first time that they are dealing with someone trained to handle Soul Metal armor and blade while absolutely having no idea what they were meant for.

Bell then looked at Zaruba for any information especially when Zaruba said that he might've remembered something before the fight broke out.

"So Zaruba, now do you remember the Crozzos?" Bell asked, confusing Welf a little since he was talking to a ring.

"Yeah, I remember them being close to the Makai Order. They were once great smiths regarding Soul Metal but ended up being greedy with their power and focused on outsiders." Zaruba explained, immediately shocking Welf.

"Woah, a talking ring!" Welf remarked while Zaruba looked a bit offended.

"I'm not just a ring! I'm a Madou Ring!" Zaruba barked before turning back to the original subject. "Looks like this is the first pure-hearted Crozzo that came to be in a long time."

Lili then looked at Welf.

"Something still doesn't add up. If he is the first Crozzo Makai Knight in a while then where did he get his armor from? I mean, I understand it's a family heirloom like Bell's but if the family was corrupted, who did he get the armor from to begin with." Lili pointed out as she did brought out a very good point. If the Crozzo family was as corrupt as they heard and lost their way from the Makai, then where did Welf get his armor? Was it from a very distant relative who refused to die? Or was it from pure circumstance?

Before they can ask, they heard clapping. The five of them turned and saw Soran clapping on a nearby cliff with a smile on his face.

"Wow, Salke almost had you guys there. I was starting to doubt myself, whether or not your guys would be entertaining. And sure enough, it turns out you are." Soran remarked while the others looked surprised that someone would be connected to the Horror that Welf sealed a little while ago.

"And who the hell are you?" Dalton asked as he and the others got the feeling that Soran isn't human especially just by the appearance of his dark purple eye.

"Ah, that eager for names, huh? You've kept me entertained long enough, I suppose you've earned that." Soran said as he shrugged. "My name is Soran and I hope you can provide more entertainment than Priest Dumar did."

Most of the Party, save for Welf, had their eyes widened at the mention of the name.

"Then that means…you're the one who killed Priest Dumar!" Lana accused and Soran didn't look that guilty about it.

"Guilty as charged."

"Then that means you're the one who's attempting to free Kallig!" Bell also accused of since the notes of Kallig were the only ones missing.

"Man, you people are on a hot streak today. But yes, I do aim to free Kallig from his prison in this Dungeon and after that, great changes will come." Soran explained, slightly confusing the others but it was best to assume that this man was a Horror.

"And releasing an ancient destructive Horror will bring great change?" Bell asked while Soran laughed at that.

"I forget how youth can lack vision. Though I remember being like that when I was still a Makai Knight." Soran said, revealing himself to be a Fallen Knight. Looks like Shiroishi was right, there was a Fallen Knight in the Dungeon. And her orders stand that this is someone that they would have to eliminate.

"If you're really a Makai Knight, you know what we're going to do to you…" Dalton said as he and Bell readied their weapons but Soran didn't looked fazed at all.

"I wouldn't expect anything less." Soran said before noticing Dalton running up to him.

"Good, then don't take this personal!" Dalton jumped high in the air with his axe swung. At the last second, Soran took out a claymore that looked deteriorated, rusted in a few spots, and a part of the crossguard missing. He easily blocked Dalton's attack before Soran easily counterattacked by swinging his sword and the force threw Dalton back into the ground in front of the Party.

"Dalton!"

"Ow…" Dalton got out while Lana checked on him. Bell took out Garoken and looked like he was ready to fight.

"Sorry, but I already had my fill of entertainment for today." Soran said as he rested his sword on his shoulder. Bell still looked defiant and Soran laughed at that. "Ha, he used to give me that look too!" Soran remarked but the others were not in the mood to play games.

"Enough play time!" Bell said as he charged next with Garoken ready. He soon jumped up and Soran tried swinging at him but Bell dodged and landed next to him. As soon as Bell got up, he tried attacking but Soran dodged every single one of his attacks easily.

"I think that's considered play time." Soran replied before taking his claymore and performing heavy swings. Bell tried dodging and despite them being heavy swings, they were surprisingly fast on the follow-up attacks.

Lili then looked at Lana as Bell and Soran were having their swordfight.

"Shouldn't we help them?" Lili asked while Lana shook her head.

"It's too risky. One shot could hurt Bell instead of Soran." Lana explained with her eyes not off the fight.

Meanwhile, Bell and Soran's swords clashed and sparks were practically flying off their blades.

"Is that all you can do?" Soran taunted as the two pushed each other back. Bell growled while Soran just smiled as he was ready to go another round. Soran started walking up to Bell as the white-haired Makai Knight braced himself before Soran readied his claymore and swung.

The two clashed again and again with the others watching in anticipation. Bell then kicked Soran away and charged for the kill while Soran stood still smiling. Before Bell can drive Garoken in Soran, the Fallen Knight stepped aside and dodged the attack before kicking Bell in the back of the head which resulted in him thrown into the grass.

"And here I thought you were the Golden Knight for a reason." Soran taunted while Bell got up.

"You haven't seen anything yet!" Bell then took out his sheath and placed his sword into it, getting the shuriken ready. He removed his sword and swung the sheath, sending the six shuriken out. Soran easily deflected them off his blade before he noticed Bell in the air and about to summon his armor but…

"Oh no you don't!" Soran tossed a firebomb at Bell and the explosion upon contact threw Bell back into the ground.

Bell groaned as he got up and looked at Soran with an angry look while Soran still had that cheeky smile.

"Sorry…but I don't want to kick things up just yet. Maybe the next time we meet, we won't hold back." Soran said as he took out a yellow bright stone. "See you soon, Garo."

Soran tossed the stone high in the air before it shined a bright light in everyone's eyes. When the light faded, Soran was gone and Bell looked at Zaruba.

"Zaruba, were you able to cast a mark on him?" Bell asked, hoping to hear some good news.

"Sorry, couldn't give a proper mark on him." Zaruba said and Bell groaned before jumping down from the cliff and rejoining his Party.

"Looks, like we have a lot to tell Lady Shiroishi." Lili said before looking at Welf.

"A lot more, by the looks of it." Dalton added as he recovered while Welf only looked a bit confused.

"Can someone tell me what's going on here?" He asked as he had no clue of what to make what just happened.


(With Aiz and the Loki Familia)

The Loki Familia was continuing their expedition to the 59th Floor and were currently on the 44th Floor. Right now Aiz, Finn, Gareth, and Riveria were on a cliff and watching Bete, Tione, Tiona, and bunch of Loki Adventurers were fighting a group of stone golems that had fire eyes, red marks, and a red glowing mouth in the center.

"Bete, don't get in my way!" Tiona warned as she, Tiona, and Bete were charging at one Flame Rock. The Amazoness twins soon charged with their weapons ahead of Bete. "Don't blame me if I slice you in half!" She warned as she and her sister dodged a blow.

"Like your slow-ass weapon could hit me!" Bete said as he charged in and kicked the Flame Rock with his mithril boots, smashing through a limp.

Meanwhile, Gareth wondered why those three were so pumped to fight.

"What's got them so worked up?" The dwarven warrior asked, looking at Finn. "The others won't learn anything if those three are giving all they got."

Finn was silent as he was still thinking about Bell, starting with his similar look to Alison. Could those two be related somehow? They definitely had the same white hair. And that armor…how could be so well-made and not have been created by Hephaestus or her Familia? Finn had to make a mental note of asking Bell if he sees him again.

"It seems that an Unleveled Adventurer they saw on the way down got under their skin." Riveria explained, immediately surprising Gareth. An unmarked Adventurer was something new to him since without a Stats Tattoo, an Adventurer couldn't Level Up and become stronger.

"Oh, they met someone like that before our groups met up?" Gareth said as the image of an Unleveled Adventurer just peaked his curiosity. He must've been strong to even survive the 1st Floor.

"Yes." Riveria said as she looked at Aiz, remembering her and the others' promise. They wouldn't speak of the armor that Bell was using in return for learning a bit more about him. "He was the one that saved Aiz a long time ago. His name is Bell Cranel."

At the sound of that name, Aiz felt riled up as well. She was inspired by Bell's fight with Ragnar to keep fighting even when being pushed down. In her eyes, Bell was strong and keeps doing so while being humble and friendly at the same time. She wanted to be strong like that as well and to do that, she must keep fighting.

"I'm going." Aiz announced as she jumped off the cliff.

"Aiz?"

"Looks like she's also fired up." Riveria stated as Aiz took out her sword and slashed a Flame Rock. When she landed, the Dungeon Monster exploded before Aiz proceeded to fight the rest.

Meanwhile the hooded female was watching all of this, specifically Aiz.

"Oh I like her." She stated before she took her hood down. She had pale skin, dark gray hair, a blue eye, and a dark and purple eye like Soran but it was on her left side. The strangest part of her face is that she looked like young Alison.

Soon Soran appeared behind her and wrapped his arms around her neck.

"How are things, Amber?" Soran asked as he kissed her cheek while Amber just smiled.

"These Adventurers are making me want to fight them. Just to show how sloppy they are." Amber said as she looked back at the fight. She then pointed at Aiz. "Her…she is different."

Soran let go of Amber to watch this fight more closely.

"I suppose…but this isn't as fun as fighting the Golden Knight himself."

Amber looked pleasantly surprised.

"Oh? And was the fight everything you hoped for?" She asked as she too watched.

Soran looked back at her with a wicked smile.

"Oh, it was and I learned a bunch of new things." Soran said as he still remembered that fight. "Bell not only has one of the Keys…but he also has a fragment of Kallig. The best part is that he doesn't know that."

"If he does have a fragment of Kallig, are you going to use it against him?"

"Not now, he doesn't understand its full power. I'll do it when he does." Soran said as he then sat on the cliff and just kept watching.


(At Watchdog Center)

"And that's what the Makai Order stands for." Shiroishi finished as she was explaining to Welf what is the Makai Order, Makai Knights, Makai Priests, Horrors, and the Order's purpose.

She has been told by the others what has happened in the Dungeon today including the encounter of Welf as Zanga and the Fallen Makai Knight Soran. Like the others, she found it stranger that Welf can wear the armor but had no information of the Order prior to donning it.

"We are to safeguard the Makai and this world. To protect peaceful sentient life from the demons known as Horrors. But in doing so, we must keep ourselves a secret." She finished.

This confused Welf as he was surprised that the Makai Order possible saved the world countless times and they don't get credit for it.

"Why? Shouldn't people know more about this? He asked while Shiroishi only looked at him. That was practically the first question that every outsider asks.

'There are a few reasons why we must work in the shadows." Bell explained as he and Dalton were watching this whole confrontation while Lana and Lili already left for training. "One of the reasons being is the mass paranoia the Horrors could cause. Creatures that can take the forms of their victims and hold their memories of them. Say we tell everyone, what would convince them that their next door neighbor isn't a Horror?"

He did have a point. With such creatures out and roaming like a friendly person, that is a just reason to be paranoid because a Horror could literally be right around the corner.

"And with Horrors only roaming through the nighttime, people would fear the night and this world. We cannot allow society live on fear and fear alone. This is their world, they have the right to live their lives as they see fit. Not as prey in a feeding ground for Horrors." Dalton explained as he thought on how Horrors can be merciless and vicious. He even remembered that one mission he and Lana had regarding a deserted village, didn't take long to discover what happened.

Shiroishi then turned her attention towards Welf, who took out his Makaiken and looked at it.

"I believe we told you our story. I believe it's time you tell us yours." Shiroishi said before Welf sighed and looked at her.

"I was born and raised in Rakia, a nation type Familia ruled by Ares. Reason being is that the Crozzo Family was blessed by a Spirit to create magic swords. They've been selling them to Rakia as corruption from greed started to set in." Welf said as he felt shame from his family history. "As you can tell, the Spirit was not happy about how we were using its gift for greed. It cursed us and now most of the Crozzos can no longer make magic swords…until I was born."

"You can forge magic swords?" Bell asked and Welf nodded.

"Yes, I can and my family rejoiced at that. They wanted me to continue the 'tradition' of making magic weapons to earn back their lost fortune." Welf said as he clenched his fists. "I did at first. I had plenty of customers with good income. But they all request magic weapons since the only reason they would come to my shop is that I am a Crozzo. I got sick of them, turned down orders, and left Rakia."

"Strange how you got sick of magic weapons." Dalton remarked.

"They wanted a tool to make them stronger. To make them famous…but that's not what a weapon should be." Welf stated. "It's not a tool or the golden ticket to fame and fortune but an extension of the user. No matter how hard things can get, your weapon will never betray you. Magic weapons will only corrupt and leave the user behind as they are misused. It only wastes talent." He proclaimed as he remembered the greedy faces he had to deal with back in Rakia.

Bell then took out Garoken and looked at it before he approached Welf.

"I understand where you're coming from." Bell said, surprising Welf. "Most would look at my sword and armor as items that can make them great and powerful. Power that can be used to rival even the toughest of Adventurers…but that isn't what it's supposed to be for. My father and his fathers before him have used this sword to protect peaceful sentient life for no reward but duty instead. Garo was a part of them and me too. My blade wants to protect and that's what I'm going to do."

Welf was surprised that he heard something like that and just smiled. Maybe the Makai Knights are the only group of magic weapon users that Welf can easily get along with. At least they would know how to use their weapons properly and not take advantage of them.

"This doesn't explain how you got your armor." Shiroishi pointed out as Welf still didn't say anything about the armor. She does know that it also came from his family, at least according to the records.

"Shortly after I left Rakia, I was approached by my grandfather. He supported my decision to leave, saying that we Crozzos lost our way. He believed that I can be the only Crozzo that can still make it though. So he trained me to fight and how to use it to summon the armor. Originally I was against using it, but my grandfather said that this sword isn't just a power container. He never told me what it was for or at least, never had the chance." Welf explained as he remembered his grandfather's training.

"Did he pass away?" Shiroishi asked, earning a nod from Welf.

"He gave me his sword and this box when he passed away." Welf explained as he took out a small wooden box. "He told me to open the box when I feel that I'm ready and that I should always use the sword to protect, not for greed. Didn't exactly understood what that meant before I meet you guys."

"And now that you have?" Bell asked, curious to see what Welf thinks of him and the whole Makai ordeal.

Welf stood there, rubbing his chin as he was thinking about everything he heard and seen today. The others stood there as they seemed anxious regarding Welf's decision. Welf soon finished thinking as he then looked at Shiroishi with his answer.

"Before, I always thought there was more to me than just a blacksmithing. I always used the armor to defend Parties that couldn't defend themselves against Horrors. It felt right and made me feel that I had a purpose. And just hearing it from you guys, made that feeling even better." Welf said as he looked his box and sword. "What I'm trying to say is that…I like what I'm hearing about the Order and the Knights. And I want to be part of that."

They all smiled at that before Welf looked at the small box.

"I wonder if this is what he meant." Welf wondered before he opened the box. Dalton and Bell looked into it as well to see that it was a bracelet with a side view of a face. It blinked at them before Bell and Dalton recognized this.

"A Madou bracelet." Bell recognized while he pointed Zaruba at it.

"What do you know? It's an old man." Zaruba recognized as the bracelet stared at him specifically.

"Has anyone ever taught you to respect your elders?" The bracelet asked, slightly surprising Welf.

"My grandfather had something like this the whole time?" Welf asked, being surprised while the bracelet stared at Welf and looked around his surroundings.

"A Watchdog Center? The first sensible thing you've done since getting here." The bracelet said, surprising Welf.

"I've used the armor to protect others!" Welf said defensively.

"Only in the name of yourself! Protecting others is well and good but you spent most of your time so far as a blacksmith and Adventurer but not as a Makai Knight." The bracelet barked at while grumbling a bit before sighing. "I'm sorry, I know you're the right inheritor for the Zanga armor, you're just…rough around the edges."

"Okay, that's why I'm going to be a Makai Knight now, er…" Welf started before the bracelet sighed again.

"My name is Goruba. Surprised your grandfather hasn't said anything about me." Goruba said as Bell then looked at Welf.

"Madou like him and Zaruba are there as our partners. They're used to be Horrors with no hatred towards humans. Sealed within these items, they are used to give us power. Not only that but they also track Horrors as well as other useful abilities." Dalton explained.

"The only catch is that we're partners/advisors, not your slaves." Goruba explained, looking Welf in the eye as he was paying attention. "And you'd have to accept my Contract, in order for us to be partners."

"Then give me one! If you don't think I can be a proper Makai Knight, then give me the chance to be one. Guide me." Welf said as Goruba then chuckled, much to his confusion.

"Normally, I would've rejected something like this but after seeing what your family degraded to…well, I suppose one shot wouldn't hurt." Goruba said as he then cleared his figurative throat. "Welf Crozzo, in exchange for my power and assistance, you must offer your life to me every new moon. Do you accept?"

"Yes!"

"Then place me on." Goruba said as Welf took out the bracelet and placed it on his left wrist before feeling a brief sting. It soon faded after a few seconds. "And there, you and I are partners."

Welf smiled before Bell patted him on the back.

"Good job." He said with a smile.

"Welf Crozzo." The Watchdog called as Welf and the others Knights looked at her. "While you maybe an official Makai Knight, but like Goruba, I believe you still need to be taught what I means to be a Makai Knight."

"But you heard Goruba, he said that he'll help me." Welf pointed out but Shiroishi didn't seemed convinced.

"That help may be adequate help but I believe you need some insight from someone who's an actual Makai Knight." Shiroishi pointed out. While a wise Madou Tool would be useful in helping, experience from an actual Knight is invaluable in teaching to be one.

"Don't worry lad, I'll be sure to teach you everything you need to know-." Dalton started, assuming he'll be the one teaching since he already trains young Knights but Shiroishi stopped him right there.

"I'm sorry Dalton, but I believe this matter is best left assigned to Bell." Shiroishi said, immediately surprising Bell and Dalton.

"Pardon?" Both Makai Knights asked at the same time.

"You heard me, Zanga will be an apprentice to Garo." Shiroishi repeated as Bell and Dalton looked at each other. It wasn't uncommon for a Makai Knight to be apprenticed to a fellow Makai Knight of a different armor. What was uncommon in this case was that the teacher is much younger than the student.

"It's a big responsibility. Are you sure Bell is up to the task?" Dalton asked as he know from experience that it's never easy to be a teacher.

"I do not expect it to be an easy task but I trust that Bell is up to it especially since they have a 'direct contract'." Shiroishi explained, showing her faith placed in the young Golden Knight. She then looked at him. "Are you?"

Bell looked at Welf for a few seconds before looking at the Watchdog.

"I know what it's like for family having an effect while carrying out a name at the same time." Bell said, knowing how long he spent time being in his father's shadow and trying to live up to his father's expectations as Garo without even knowing it. Only recently in his fight against Ragnar that Bell realized what was wrong with him and decided to live up to the mantle of Garo without being in his father's shadow. "I don't know if I earned the right to be a teacher/master but I'll do my best to show how you can be a Makai Knight without the burden of family shadows slowing you down."

Welf had a cheeky grin as he then patted Bell on the back.

"Then it is decided. You shall be Bell's apprentice. You two are dismissed." Shiroishi said before Bell and Welf bowed before leaving.

"I look forward to learning from you, Master." Welf said and it felt weird to Bell since he's only 14 years old while Welf was 17.

"Please don't call me that. Just call me by my name. After all, we're Party members so treat me like a companion." Bell said while Welf looked surprised before smiling again. Things could be looking up for him.

"Alright, as long as you do the same for me." Welf replied back, earning a chuckle from Bell before they were gone.

Now Dalton was left and looked at the Watchdog again with a serious look.

"So, what are you going to do about the Fallen Knight Soran?" Dalton said while Shiroishi thought about it.

"For now, our only objective is to hunt him down and confront any known associates he has. We cannot allow him to unseal Kallig or else the Dungeon will used as a weapon against us and every innocent person in this city." Shiroishi said, glad that there is at least a name and person behind it as well. The Makai Order can now know who killed Dumar and trying to unseal Kallig but the thought of a Fallen Makai Knight being behind it is troubling.

"Do you know any Makai Knight by the name of Soran?" Dalton asked. If Soran was a Makai Knight then Shiroishi would've known him closely like the rest of the Order here in Orario.

"It does ring a bell. I'll look into it and let the others know when I've found enough information." Shiroishi said as she then got up. "I'll look into the archives now."

She soon left before Dalton finally left himself.


(Later at Hestia Familia HQ)

Bell and Hestia were eating dinner and while doing so, Bell has been explaining what has happened including the events regarding Welf and Soran.

"So you finally found the one who's behind all this?" Hestia asked as she was eating her fried potato.

"Yeah, I've faced him on a 1v1 duel and he was powerful. I can tell he was holding back and it looked like he was toying with me." Bell explained as he remembered the fight.

"They may be Horrors but Fallen Knights are just as cunning and dangerous as regular Knights." Hestia explained while taking a sip of her drink.

"She's right, Bell. You're a dangerous Makai Knight yourself as you've proven through multiple hunts and the way you use your armor. But Soran is everything like that but seasoned and imbued with the power of darkness. No doubt he is just as powerful, if not more." Zaruba explained as he remembered the encounters with Fallen Knights with previous Golden Knights.

"But don't let that stop you, Bell." Hestia reminded him. "We're assigned to stopping Soran from unsealing Kallig and we're going to do just that, got it?"

Bell looked at her and smiled. He was going to stop Kallig's rise and whatever Soran has planned, he made a vow to protect this world and its inhabitants.

"Yeah, I got it." Bell said before remembering something. "By the way, you never did tell me how Denatus went yesterday."

Hestia stopped eating.

"Eh?"

"You never told me what happened in Denatus yesterday especially regarding whether the rumors about me are cleared up." Bell pointed out as he remembered what Hestia told him the other day.

"Well…things went smooth for the most part." Hestia explained, getting Bell's attention.

"Most part?"

"Loki did try to press me into confirming but I was backed up." Hestia explained but Bell was a bit confused why Hestia seemed anxious to say anything.

"Well, did something went wrong?"

"No, it went great actually. The gods don't know about what you can really do or the Order's existence." Hestia said as she twirled her finger around one of her twin tails. "But I didn't exactly get support from the gods within the Order…"

"Pardon?" Bell asked with an eyebrow raised as he sensed something suspicious coming.

"It was from Freya. She managed to seduce all the male deities into forgetting the rumors and debunking them." Hestia explained as she remembered Loki's warning regarding Freya.

"You're acting like you're not grateful." Bell said as he was surprised a non-Makai affiliated deity defended him.

"No, I'm not." Hestia explained with a serious look on her face. "If there's one thing I know about Freya is that she always looks after her own agenda. She most likely defended me because either you or the Makai Order are part of said agenda."

Bell then looked troubled as he didn't expect to get another goddess's attention. It was weird enough when Hestia is practically in love with him.

"So should we do something about Freya?"

Hestia shook her head.

"We're in no power to actively question her, especially given the number differences between our Familias. Plus, we already have enough to worry about regarding Soran, Kallig, and your apprentice Crozzo." Hestia said, remembering that there's a lot of bigger things at stake. "For now, we just have to ignore her and confront the issue when time presents it."

"Alright." Bell said as he doesn't like anything about what he just heard. He still felt a bit uneasy about the possibility of Freya being interested in him.

"Oi Bell, looked like you can add another to the list." Zaruba joked while Bell just groaned as he just wanted to do his job in peace. He was too busy already to deal with this.

"Bell, you should probably eat your food before it gets cold." Hestia reminded as Bell looked at the food in front of him to see that most of it was untouched.

"…Right." Bell got out as he just decided to eat before night patrol comes.


(Meanwhile in the Dungeon)

Soran was roaming icy parts of the Dungeon before finding a cave nearby. He wandered its dark depths and jumped down into a hole. When he landed on his feet, he looked around to see that room he was in resembled something of altar room.

He roomed around and noticed in the center of the room was a figure. Soran walked up to it and saw that it was someone resembling a European Knight with his armor worn down. He was on his knees with a coiled sword through his abdomen.

Soran inspected the blade and notice blood still dripping from the sword.

"So this is one of Kallig's most feared lieutenants? Cinder, am I correct?"

"…" Cinder was silent and still like a statue.

"I don't know if you can hear me but a lot of time has passed since the Zeus Familia has trapped you here." Soran said, knowing from Kallig that the Zeus Familia couldn't handle Cinder with their diminished strength. In order for them to face Kallig without losing strength, they had to seal and trap Cinder here in order to prevent him slowing them down.

"…" Cinder still remained silent with little to no signs of life.

"I don't know if you can hear me but good amount of time has passed since that pathetic band of Makai Priests and Knights had confronted your master. But do not worry, he still draws breath and has called me as faithful champion." Soran explained as he then gripped the handle of the coiled sword. "He calls to you now. To aid me as you did him many years ago."

Soran pulled the sword out and tossed it away. Cinder's wound soon healed and purple eyes glowed past the helmet's visor.

"If what you say is true…" Cinder started as he started moving for the first time in years. He looked at Soran and got up before purple flames started to surround the area. Soran didn't seemed affected by this while Cinder picked up the coiled sword.

Purple flames started to engulf the blade, making it look more dangerous and powerful. Cinder then pointed the sword at Soran.

"Show me the strength my master would've granted you…" He said while Soran smiled and pulled out his claymore.

"You asked for it." Soran smiled as he then raised his sword and used it to cute a circle of light before armor emerged from it and fused with Soran.

He had a black bodysuit with silver armor atop but some parts were missing while cracks resided which were seeping darkness. The armor may look elegant but it was dirty and worn down. Like all Makai Knights, he sported a wolfish helmet but it was covered by a blue hood and cape with the ears sticking out of the hood. His helmet had one yellow eye and another purple one. This was the corrupted armor of Holy Silver Knight Arcoxia.

His claymore also changed to a much longer, heavier, and elegant looking but the sword was still cracked, worn down, and missing a crossguard piece.

"Bring it." Arcoxia taunted as he rested his sword on his shoulder while Cinder charged.


(The next day at the Dungeon)

Bell and Lili were waiting for Welf while Lana and Dalton had their own personal matters to take care of.

"Yo!" A voice called while Bell and Lili turned to see Welf in entirely new clothing.

He was wearing a dark gray duster while his dark blue undershirt was still there. He also wore a baggy black pants and black boots with his two swords still being carried at the back.

"You're still going to use two swords?" Bell asked as he was caught a little offguard by that.

"Sorry, but it's a fighting style I'm more comfortable with. Steel for Dungeon Monsters and anyone that's trying to pick a fight with us while Soul Metal goes to Horrors." Welf explained as he gently rubbed his back. "That tattoo removal process really hurts thought." He said as he winced a little with memories of Lana's ritual from last night filling his head.

"I know you feel." Lili remarked as she rubbed her back a bit as well, remembering the first thing that happened when she joined the Order.

"Looks like I'm the odd one out then." Bell said as he then looked at Welf. "Alright, for your first Horror Hunt, I managed to get us assigned to Floor 10. There is a big area in that place where Adventurers and Supporters go 'missing'. So I think you two know what that means."

The two nodded while Lili took out the crossbow bolts that Lana gave her.

"I may not be a skillful as my Master but I still have these and I'm getting better at a few spells." Lili pointed out as she was starting to enjoy being a Makai Priestess, even though she is still an apprentice.

Bell smiled.

"I don't doubt it." He said as he playfully messed with her head. "But don't be afraid to get behind me or Welf for cover if things don't go your way."

Lili nodded as a sign of understanding while Bell looked at Welf.

"When we arrive at the 10th Floor, I'll let you lead the Horror Hunt but I'll still help you out. Especially in combat." Bell said while his student smiled.

"I gotta admit, this is kind of exciting." Welf said, already looking forward to his first Horror Hunt.

"I can relate to something like that." Bell said with an amused look as he remembered his first Horror Hunt.

"I can't say I can." Lili brought up before she smiled. "But I can understand the feeling."

"What a bunch of adrenaline junkies." Goruba remarked with a groan.

"I can relate." Zaruba brought up.

The entire Party laughed at that before Bell looked at the Dungeon.

"Come on, we have a long ways to go today!" Bell said as he started going inside.

"Right!" The two said while Bell was happy thinking. Despite Soran and his attempts to unseal Kallig, Bell was happy that the situation manage to get him companions. Even if they aren't from his Familia, he was happy to not to go alone with Zaruba.


AN: Well there's my latest Wolf's Den chapter which was very long! I want to thank SonicHeroXD and Kamen Rider Super-Fan for the edits and descriptions. I also took some inspiration from the Dark Souls franchise to come up with a couple things in this chapter. Feel free to guess what they are. And I apologize for getting this chapter way past my birthday but well, life can be surprising.

So, you guys know the drill. Be sure to review or message me with questions or comments regarding the story. And don't be afraid to check out my other stories as well. Alright, I'm done, goodnight.