A/N: The day is bright (and windy for me), the planets are aligned, it is time for yet another chapter. Thunderwolf, theawesomess1, Azure? Your faithful reviews have been such a blessing :D

To Azure: what can I say? Garr needs to go and "break a leg"! *Awaits incoming fruit*

If anyone has anything to say about this story lemmie know!

Enjoy!

The town darkened, the sun setting below the mountain walls. Lisbeth fidgeted with her feet, circling her toes along the ground. Her eyes dilated as she looked up at me.

"Hi," Lisbeth replied, her voice soft.

She kept her gaze on me, her stance rigid. I might as well have been in a car, with some deer staring at the damn headlights.

"I wanted to say," bowing my head lightly, "I'm sorry."

She blinked, brushing back her hair a bit as she listened.

"I... wasn't considering how you felt. I was being selfish."

Lisbeth remained silent, my gaze lowering to the floor. The quiet felt colder than any winter I've felt, the chill running down my back like a rolling ice cube. Judging from the lack of a response, I could only assume what that meant. I was such an idiot, I should've listened.

Opening my menu, I presented the iron ore. The red colored stones felt heavy as they materialized in my arms.

"Got these for you," I admitted, "figured maybe you'd have a use for them. I hope I'm not interfering."

"Garr," Lis whispered, raising a hand to stop me.

I ceased, holding the dense minerals in my arms. It was one word, yet it held me back. What the hell's the matter with me? That simple word stopped me faster than any weapon put against me. This ninety, no eighty pound woman had become my weakness.

"I was actually gonna say."

Lisbeth started giggling, her hair bobbing slightly. Whatever made her laugh, I had no clue, but it made me feel better. She smiled softly, her body relaxing.

"I was actually closing shop to look for you."

That statement punched through me like Leopon's rapier this afternoon. I felt my heart beating harder as the words went through my thick skull. People didn't look for me, unless it's here...in which it's because I kicked a puppy...or ate someone's baby...or something along those lines.

"What?" I leaned my head to one side, my face feeling very warm all of a sudden.

"I'm sorry too," she crossed her arms, "I got a bit carried away."

I paused, unsure how to respond.

"I was just," she lowered her head, "I didn't want you to get hurt again. What I saw yesterday's still fresh on my mind. That guy, that 'Teth' was a jerk."

"Lis," I coaxed, "Look at me please?"

She rose her head, her ebony eyes wavering.

"You did what you did because you cared," I endeared.

"Still," Lis shrugged.

"in the end, it makes me happier."

"Why would fighting make you happier?" Lis' eyes flared, "cooperation is everything."

"Because it shows that I matter to you," I laid my hands on my hips, "If you didn't care so much, you would've simply complied."

"Yea, but..." Lis frowned, "I just...wish it didn't end that way."

"In my world," I confessed, "honesty is much more important than agreement.

"If you simply agreed," I shrugged, "I would've never known how strongly you felt. I love how straight forward you are, Lis."

"Most don't have the courage to do that," I grinned, "so really, I appreciate that."

"Ha," Lis rubbed her cheek, "Most find it annoying. Back home, I was told all the time that I'm too eager to fight, that I'm out of line."

"Don't worry about it with me," I smiled, "you're passionate, that comes with the territory. Besides, only a fool plays with fire!"

"Truuuue," Lis nodded, smiling brighter, "thanks Garr. I guess it's part of being a halfer."

"What's a halfer?"

"I'll tell you later," she waved, "you looked like you wanted to say something."

"Was told I'm too eager to fight least a couple of times too."

"Really?" Lis looked up, "what's home like for you? If you don't mind."

I looked up at the moon, smiling.

"Home? It's honestly a wonderful place. Mom and Dad've treated me pretty well honestly. Sure there'd be rough spots, but that's life."

"That's great," Lis cheered, "wait...are they still together?"

"Twenty six years," I answered, "still going strong."

"Wow. Mine've been together for only seventeen!"

She sighed, looking calmer.

"School was where I was told I was out of line," I explained, "it was glorious."

"Glorious?" she tilted her head, "not exactly the word I'd use."

"Well," I shrugged, "teachers there tended to be a bit...forceful with opinion. It's important to stand up for yourself, you know?"

"True," Lis admitted, "you never told me about your parents."

"Well you'll like this," I admitted, "Father? Geek, much smarter than me. Guy's been working with computers for longer than I've lived. He's a friggin nerd, like you."

Lisbeth laughed, narrowing her eyes on me like a hawk.

"You got a problem with that?"

Wasn't sure what was going to earn points there, me or her mace.

"Oh totally," I exclaimed sarcastically, "I totally don't find a smart woman attractive."

Lisbeth stopped, looking a bit uncomfortable. I halted, realizing what I just said. Crap, why am I so open about everything?!

"Anyway," I detracted, "so how's it going?"

"Been having an issue with my business," she said abruptly.

That statement grabbed my attention, faster than an angry bull.

"What's wrong?" I asked firmly, my voice high with enthusiasm

She blinked, looking surprised.

"It's...complicated," Lis confessed, "if I tell you, promise you won't tell anyone?"

"My lips are sealed," I asserted, "first off...it's getting late. Have anywhere to stay? I don't want you freezing."

"I do," Lis nodded, "I've rented a cottage near the walls."

"Let's go there then," I asserted, "it'd be harder for wandering ears."

Lisbeth nodded, turning to lead me. Lanterns and torches lit, filling the town with a pleasant amber glow. The pavement turned a uniform, pale shade, our shadows flowing with the passing of lights. A cottage of straw stood along the edge of town.

Stepping towards the door, I was suddenly knocked back! Falling bum first on the grass, I froze, eyes wide with surprise. A notice appeared, shining a bright yellow.

[Occupied Space. Requires permission to enter.]

Well, wasn't that a warm welcome? Not even the game's system respected me, shoving me down like a domino! Stumbling back to my feet, Lis had her menu open.

"One sec," she searched, "just gotta invite you."

After a few seconds, Lis nodded. I turned back, slipping one foot forward. The invisible bouncer of a barrier was gone, my toes landing in front of the door. Well, least I didn't have to worry about anyone barging in at night! Lisbeth led me inside, the wooden plank door squeaking open.

The room was of basic design. With some wooden log beams as support, the straw above glowed a sunny yellow. A stone oven stood on one side, lighting the structure with a warm flame. We took a seat on some basic wooden chairs, their bodies creaking with our presence.

"So here's the issue," Lis looked, "business has been great for me. Sadly, I've gotten buried in the number of weapon orders. Top it off, the leader of the Illumiknights has made a special request."

I nodded, listening intently.

"The guy wants Mithril," she brushed her hair, "not for him. His horse...said it was for some armor."

An armored horse? Sounded badass on its own. Made me wonder how much such a beast would cost.

"I've asked Argo for any possible leads," Lis rubbed her head, "and that's where I'm having trouble."

"How may I help?" I asked softly, eyes locked with focus.

Lis smiled.

"It's embarrassing...you see there's a cave to the west of town. Problem is, it's said to be full of slimes."

The second she mentioned slimes, I knew I'd take care of it. I didn't care what's in there, her interests warranted a raid in my book.

"Where again?" I asked, holding my chin slightly higher.

"West," she repeated, her voice filled with discomfort, "it's been bugging me. Just one detail's holding me back. I can't stand it."

I bowed my head slightly, rising from my chair.

"Where are you going," Lis questioned, her delicate face lit by the nearby flame.

I smiled, saying nothing as I stretched my arms.

"It's late though," argued Lisbeth, "don't you wanna sleep first?"

"This is important for you," I addressed, "I'll be back in a bit."

Turning to the door, I smiled at the opportunity. This was my chance to really make things up. I could prove my competence, you know...not look so useless? My feet felt lighter, anxious to proceed.

Just as I reached the knob, I felt Lis grab my arm. I felt my heart leap, looking back at her.

"Thank you," she whispered.

Without warning, she wrapped her arms around me, nestling her head against my chest.

"Come back safe, please?"

"As Schwarzenegger once said. I'll be back."

Lis choked, cupping her hands over her mouth as she shook her head.

"God," she chuckled, "of all the one liners..."

I hugged back, releasing her a few moments later. Unlike the progenitor of the quote, I couldn't keep a straight face to save my soul...or bench polar bears...yet.

"Alright then," Lis brushed her bangs, "I'll trust you with this...but not with movie quotes. That's borderline criminal."

I laughed, nodding in agreement.

"Before you go," she opened her menu.

Lisbeth drew a sturdy looking chisel and hammer. The tools of a miner, hardened material of iron and will.

"You'll need these,"

Ha, she thinks I couldn't punch through rocks? I'd have her know I graduated at the top of my class in the class of stone punching! Including free tickets to the ER! Taking the tools, I quickly stashed them away. If my strength's gotten any better, then the mining trip should be even easier!

"I'll get that Mithril as soon as possible," I assured, "anything else you'd like?"

"No," she nodded softly, cupping her hands together, "Good luck."

"Thank you," I smiled, heading out.

Closing the door behind me, I grinned with enthusiasm. The moon hung high above the sky, its pale blue light casting on my face. West, better not waste any time. Whatever the hell's in those caves, I'd crush them like insects. I marched for the gate, considering my enemy. Slimes, aren't those supposed to be beginner level threats?

Heading straight for the exit, I ran across another player.

Standing at full height, the man easily dwarfed me. Decked in some fancy looking red plate mail, his white cape danced with the breeze. His hair was a shining steel gray, his facial features scholarly and calm. He seemed completely focused on me, greeting me with a smile.

"Evening," he addressed, "got time?"

I stopped, looking towards the red knight. His voice practically dripped with authority, a very welcome sound for a military nut like myself. Judging by his politeness too, I already felt a little comfortable.

"Hey!" I answered merrily, "was just on my way to do a bit of a quest."

"Gotta say," I glances at the big pauldrons, "that's some badass armor you've got there."

"Thank you," he bowed lightly, "Took quite a bit of time to collect all this. Mind if I tag along? Feeling the need to stretch my legs."

"Fine by me," I nodded as I extended a hand, "I'm Garr by the way."

"Heathcliff," the red knight shook.

That name struck me like lightning. Oh my God, this wasn't just another guy...this was the strongest man in Aincrad! Here, stood the kind of man I wanted to speak to, one who could show me how to get stronger! His frame looked oddly lean for that...more of a 'big muscle' fan myself.

"You're Heathcliff?!" I gasped, "oh wow! I've seen your name!"

"You have?" He looked with mild curiosity.

"Hell ya," I thumbed up, "you're the strongest man in Aincrad! Man, can you teach me a few things? I wanna get strong too! Wait, wait, what's your max bench?"

"I don't like to brag," he smiled lightly, "I see you're a fan of the Strength Training game?"

"Yep," I beamed, "was a hobby I enjoyed for six years outside here. What's your max bench? I must know!"

"Uh," he rubbed his chin, "last I checked it was...four hundred?"

Oh lord, he really was strong. Four hundred pounds...and with such a compact frame. The challenge, having such a herculean figure standing before me. I didn't wanna match that, I wanted beat that.

"Jeez," I exclaimed, "and with a body like that?" glancing down for a moment, "damn impressive. You said you wanted to quest with me?"

"Indeed," he nodded.

"I'd love to!"

His voice was strong and firm, his body language practically gushing with confidence. Shaking his hand, his grip felt as strong as steel!

"Anyway," I smiled, "gonna be heading west once we're clear of the gate."

"Sounds like you've got a set course. What's the quest? Maybe I can get some good XP."

I hesitated on my answer. What if this guy tried to steal that Mithril? I will not risk her business interests for this superman.

"Personal," I answered, "hope you don't mind."

"No, no," Heathcliff assured, "I get it. Just clearing it up."

Leaving town, the sky was filled with thousands of stars. The savannah grass swayed, stroking my knees as we moved through. Marching alongside the strongest man of Aincrad, I kept thinking...how could I beat him one day. Would I need to train more than twice a day?

"So how's life for you out here?" Heathcliff asked, "you seem pretty enthusiastic."

"Pretty sweet," I grinned, "I mean, sure there's all the monsters, death, and a criminally short supply of bacon...but, I've seen some truly beautiful things too. You?"

"I've grown to liking this place," the knight admitted, "it's encouraged great social interaction in everyone I've met. Refreshing."

"I'll say!" I cheered, "back in the real world, everyone was staring at their phones."

"And what were you doing?" Heathcliff asked, smiling softly.

"...listening to music," I said sheepishly, "okay fine, maybe I'm guilty of it too. You get my point though, right?"

"Course," he chuckled, "it surprises me, seeing how calm everyone's become. Would've expected much worse. I mean, being raised in the twenty first century, then being dropped in basically the sixteenth."

"True that," I nodded, "comes to show how adaptive people really are."

Sun Dancer

We went on talking for an hour. I couldn't help but feel that his voice sounded...oddly familiar. He was very courteous and patient, listening to me ramble on about strength training and patterns of exercise.

Travelling the landscape, we stumbled upon a cave. The mouth opened in the ground, its entranced blocked by a wooden doorway. Abandoned tools and a lantern rested nearby, rusted beyond repair.

The ground around the entrance was lifeless, covered with layers of gravel. Treading towards the door, I gazed through a gap in the planks. Beyond the door, darkness reigned. A warm sensation emitted from the mine, contrasting from cool air of the surface. I hoped this was it.

The silence and dark behind the door sent me into an array of questions. I grimaced, uncomfortable with what may lie in store for me below the surface. It couldn't be that bad, It's just slimes after all. For Lis' sake, would I just move forward? I glanced back to my comrade.

Heathcliff remained absolutely calm, not an iota of concern on his face. He smiled, nodding for me to open the door. Gripping the rusted handle, I felt the door jerk, easing aside pieces of gravel as it squeaked open.

The chasm opened before us, sound echoing along the walls of stone. Stepping forward, I listened to the rustle of the loose rock beneath me. The light of the moon barely lasted us a couple of feet...submerging us in a new world.

The darkness was suffocating, the air thick with dust. Holding up a glow rock, it revealed mere snapshots of the world around us. Wooden rafters held up the ceiling, parts of it rotten to the core. Tracks were laid out, the metal tarnished with decay. The sounds of the grasslands above vanished, replaced with the crunch of our boots.

Bugs crawled around the walls and floor, some resembling centipedes, others far less pleasant. One insect in particular looked like a giant wingless fly. Its red eyes looked as big as marbles, unblinking as it waddled on hairy black limbs. Unsure what the creature was, I did what any person would, and squished it.

The splat of the fly under my boot felt satisfying, bringing brief relief to the otherwise brooding place. I smiled a little, scraping the cretin off my soles like mud. Turning back, we continued our way, not a single chunk of ore was found along the rocks.

The silence was deafening, the sounds we made kept bouncing back, tricking me. The stone was stained with strange green sludge, odorless and clear like Jello. Patting the substance, the mass simply jiggled, like water. Air rushed past us, a soft moan coming from deeper within.

Further along the path, a gap was revealed. The area expanded, the railed track beneath us altered. Looking down, a steep drop awaited. Lurching back, I felt my heart pound. There was no bottom to be seen, wooden beams held up the rail. My fear of heights returned to bite me.

"Let me," Heathcliff ordered, stepping forward.

"No," I snapped, "I must do this. I have to get over this fear somehow."

Heathcliff stopped, looking back at me. Why was his gaze so deep? It was like he's observing my every move. Nodding, the knight stood down. I gulped, nervously stepping forward.

The wooden piers groaned, wobbling slightly with every step. I jerked back, fearful of falling! My heart raced, panic flowing, my legs buckling with uncertainty. I had to cross this bridge. If I didn't...this knight would surely take the Mithril inside!

Biting my cheek, I tried again. Despite their rotten appearance, the rail held up my weight. With every foot fall, my body wobbled, the urge to retreat blasting in my head. Would I stop wussing out and move forward?!

"You're looking pretty uncomfortable," Heathcliff objected, "wanna head back?"

I turned, realizing that out of the minutes passed, I've only moved ten feet at most. While I was definitely no tight rope walker, I was doing alright. I detested the question though, it implied weakness.

"With the amount of time it took us to get here," I shook my head, "falling back now would be cowardly."

"If you say so," Heathcliff sighed, "just be careful."

I sighed, struck with fear. Treading further, the wooden beams continued to bob, shaking softly with my every move. Further expanding, the stone walls of the cavern vanished, leaving me in a capsule of shadow, crouched on a rickety rail...held up by what I could only describe as a bottomless abyss.

Left with only a curtain of black, I followed along the steadily descending path. I stayed crouched, keeping my mass low to the ground, softening my steps. As we moved further, it suddenly occurred to me. What if that thief showed up? If he wanted to finish me off in whatever hellish form he chose, I'd be done for! I'd get owned by a demonically possessed squirrel at that rate!

Minutes passed, I've long lost track of how far down this mine track went. Every step Heathcliff and I made echoed, bouncing off unseen walls. I moved faster, fearing the attack of such dark beings. Finally after what felt like hours of walking, we returned to solid ground. I jumped down, eager to leave the poorly aged bridge.

Stepping upon the soil, the first thing I heard was a soft squish. Looking down, the ground was glistening, muddy. The thick, syrupy surface stuck to my boots, sloshing with every step.

Lisbeth would've gotten pissed by this alone, I could imagine her complaining about it. To be frank? I was already annoyed, it's like I was lifting chunks of Earth with me! Slopping noises, that was all I could hear. The ground was green and sickly, almost like snot under my shoes.

Despite his heavier gear, Heathcliff traversed the soggy surface behind me with little struggle. All throughout the ground, random objects jutted from the surface. From misplaced twigs, clumps of moss, to sharp chunks of stone. The place, it was a storm drain for the world, an asylum of rot. I made another step, the ground bubbling.

"Garr," alerted Heathcliff, drawing a sword from his waist!

All around us, the floor began to bubble. I flicked my arm, summoning the Zweihander. With the large weapon, however, came a problem, where to put my glow rock. I glanced around, finding no crevice to lodge it. Small mounds formed around us, a pus-like green, covered in random debris.

Sun Dancer

Red icons burst from the ground, [Deprived Slimes] emerging from the depths! Yawning mouths opened, revealing toothless maws. Sliding towards us like snails, their gelatinous frames slicked across the mud. Their color mimicked the soggy surface, leaving only movement to be seen.

I dropped the rock, my vision reduced by the dimming of light. The slimes moaned in raspy tones, sluggishly lurching forward. I swung low and wide, sending a [Cleave]! The blue glow shined through the cave, carving their lowly bodies with a loud swish.

The rending strike sent chunks of green in all directions! Spraying all over me, I groaned, chunky remains dripping off. My fingers turned sticky, my limbs coated, it already felt irritating. Just as I turned to face more, I felt something sharp jam against my shins!

I yelled loudly, feeling a large wooden stake piercing into my leg! Rubbing against bone, I clenched my jaw, biting down to ease the pain. Looking back, the slimes I previously chopped were still active!

Half their original size, the formerly slain creature dug into my calves with their mouths. Upon closer inspection, I realized it. Their mouths, they were filled with the rotted remains of wood and stone...even other monsters! With each chomp, I felt serrated edges carve! I yelled, kicking one off with a hard thrust. My HP meter flashed, I've been poisoned!

The air whirred, Heathcliff's sword dispatching slimes from his side. With every chop of my sword, these eyeless beasts would return in smaller sizes! My stomach churned, reacting poorly to the toxins flowing through. My boots squished in mud, planting with every step. I swung and chopped, watching the disgusting blobs converge...all around me.

With every cut I made, more would approach, relentless in their hunger. I grew frustrated, the poison dragging my health further down. My stomach seized, forcing me to my knees! I lost control, spilling profusely. My body shook, weakened by the losses. My hands turned a murky brown, swallowed by mud.

I yelled weakly, coughing in rage, there was no way I'm dying in here! Screaming, I threw myself back to my feet. I swung wildly, chopping through anything green and murky! My stomach clenched, nausea creating more grief. With one swing, I lost balance, falling into the swampy floor.

Gasping, the cold mud gripped my cloak, slowing my efforts to climb! The light from the fallen glow rock faded, the darkness of the mine creeping upon us. Gritting my teeth, I scrambled for the stone, prying it from the mud absorbing it. The viscous material made disgusting pops as my arms punched through.

Tossing it to a new patch, I struggled back to my feet. Hungry mouths awaited, my only company. It was late at night. I was cold, hungry, and tired. On this night, I was nobody. Just another soul out of thousands, covered in mud, fighting for every second of my life.

Just as I rose, a swarm descended upon me. Packs of slimes, each the size of a dinner plate, leaped! Feeling their disgusting, snot colored frames grip, I flailed wildly, trying to shake them off. I felt bites, gnaws, and chomps all over, the fragments of wood, rock, and rot piercing!

My HP dipped lower, flashing yellow as they consumed. Panicked, I drew the hatchet from my belt. There was no way I was hitting any of them with my sword...it was too big, and they were too close!

Swinging, I frantically swatted anywhere I could reach. The combined poison of the swarm nauseated me, gripping my stomach like a vice. Sharp twigs and rocks dug through flesh, burning against my skin as the [Deprived Slimes] bore away at their meal.

My swings grew reckless, the axe digging through their porous bodies as I thrashed! One slime rested on my arm. I swung down, chopping it off my arm. My attack proved too strong, the hatchet digging through the slime...and into my arm!

I screamed, feeling the head of the axe dig through my own elbow! My arm pulsed wildly, my HP dropping faster. The limb was gouged, hanging lifelessly to my side. Not good, really not good! God did it hurt!

Gritting my teeth, I hollered out in anguish, gripping the arm! Hanging limp, the partially severed limb dangled, suspended by strained fibers. Tears bursted through, how stupid of me! Rip and tear them all!

The slimes continued pecking away, careless to my grief. My HP hit red, I was running out of options. I swerved back and forth, looking for any escape to this doom. Looking to a nearby wall, I charged!

I slammed my back against stone! A loud squish was heard, the soulless excrement falling off. Their deaths brought me the kiss of life, HP flowing back with the life-ending wounds. Slamming my one good arm, I groaned with the feeling of cold rocks as I crushed more. My bones ached, recoiling from the abuse as I pried others from my less fortunate arm.

I growled, gripping my slime encrusted hatchet. Flying into a frenzy, I kicked, stomped, and slashed all that stood in my way. Seeing the light fade again, I kicked the stone! How dare it all try and take me, I would bleed them dry, all of them!

Moments melted into a blur, time passing in a mixture of seconds. The sweeping of my tomahawk filled the air with whistles and zooms. Sparks flew, steel scraping against stone! I kept swinging, living in the sound of clashes, bangs, and clangs, breathing for the crushing of life! In all my anger, time was passing, I was getting fatigued.

The cave went quiet, emptying of the sound of battle. Looking around tiredly, not a single red icon was seen. I chuckled, my mud covered body sweating and shaking. I was filthy, but I killed them...serves them right.

Turning back, I found Heathcliff still standing. Barely scratched, his longsword and shield were covered in the disgusting gunk.

"Well," I laughed softly, my arms shaking with exhaustion, "you're pretty damn tough, you know that?"

"I'm not that tough," he argued softly, wiping the sweat from his high brow. "If anything, I'm a bit- your arm..."

Looking back down, my nearly severed arm twitched with pain. While fully healed, the burn from the forceful cut lurked, reminding me of my error. God, it felt like the muscles of the arm were clamping shut...like I snapped their very bindings.

"I'm...fine," I groaned, "I'm gonna keep going. If you wanna leave, it's up to you."

I turned, plucking the sinking glow rock and tainted Zweihander from mud. the slushy dirt stained my hands, turning them slick with brown. I couldn't wipe my face, the pestilence all over me. My body ached, recovering from numerous bites.

"I'm good," Heathcliff confirmed, "might as well see what's at the end."

The mud floors of the cave ended, replaced with stone and wooden rafters. Inspecting the walls, I looked for even the slightest glint on the smooth gray surfaces. Would've loved it if I could find her any other nice pieces, gifting handsomely was traditional! I flicked my arm, sending the sword back to storage, shifting the hatchet back to my belt.

"I know this is out of line," Heathcliff noted, "but...why do you scream when you take damage?"

"Long story," I grunted, "I just don't give a damn right now. Pain Absorber or not, I've got a job to do."

"That's fine," Heathcliff shrugged.

All along the path, random patches of glittering rock were found. Digging through my pockets, I quickly pulled the hammer and chisel. This material could've been useful, no way I was passing that up. Planting the hardened metal tip, I crashed around the unknown ore with my hammer.

With every slam, the stone around me cracked, rupturing from my strength. Chunks of ore fell to my feet, gathering into a small pile. Thankfully, the game engine made the effort of holding up the chisel painless, otherwise I'd be pretty useless.

"So you're a miner," Heathcliff asked, "kinda figured you'd be a front liner."

Looking up at the darkened cave ceiling, I considered his answer. I guess it was correct, I mean it wasn't a bad idea. I could see myself doing this for Lisbeth much more when I'm done with that thief business. The appeal to venturing into dungeons to gather minerals was definitely there.

"A miner of sorts," I replied, "it's a pretty exciting trade if you think about it."

"Was gonna ask," Heathcliff reckoned, "why isn't someone like you in the front lines?"

"That's complicated," I admitted, "frankly, I think the front lines need braver souls than me. You've seen me, can barely stand heights without flinching."

"I understand, sorry for asking."

"It's fine," I shrugged, picking away at the remaining ore cluster, "I'm sure I'll come around to it sometime. Just not now."

That too appealed to me...we needed all the help we could get.

I picked up the sharp broken fragments. The edges were warm from friction, the mineral gleaming a silver color. Upon further inspection, however, the mineral proved to be nickel, not Mithril. That stuff must be further down, I collected what remained before moving on.

Gathering the rest, I dropped all the pieces into my inventory.

"So how much do you make selling this stuff?" Heathcliff asked, following me along.

"I...don't really sell it," I answered.

"So you use it?" his plate boots clacking against the stone floor.

"Not myself. I just," I paused, "know someone who needs it."

"Sounds hardly practical for you," he counseled, "why bother? There's no monetary gain for you, you gotta eat too."

"That someone is special to me," I replied sternly, "I make plenty of money off monster slaying, so I'm not starving. I do this because I want to."

Heathcliff said nothing. Encountering various [Deprived Slimes] on the way, we organized a much better defense. Repelling the beasts, we reached what appeared to be the end of the mine. A lone mining cart rested, random rocks spilled out of its hold. Digging through the pile, I searched for the mineral.

I heard Heathcliff move to the right, his armor rustling as he explored. Iron, Copper, and Tin resided in the spilled pile. Ugh, where's the Mithril? This was all C-Class stuff! I sighed, scrounging up these pieces. Emptying the cart of materials, I searched the walls for any ore pockets.

Not a single glint in sight. Taking the chisel, I picked a random spot and hammered away. There was no way I'm going back without something meaningful, that's ridiculous! I nearly chopped my arm off for this! Stone chunks scattered, the space behind it empty of minerals.

"Looking for something?" Heathcliff asked, his question suspiciously loaded.

I turned, noticing a hunk of silver material in his hands.

"Hey," I questioned, "what's that you've got there?"

"Oh, just a handful of...Mithril."

My eyes widened, reaching out for the material. Heathcliff, however, pulled his arm back.

"So this is what you're after?" His blue eyes piercing into mine.

"Yes," I nodded, stopping myself, "I need that!"

"Hm," Heathcliff inspected the material, "B-Class mineral...apparently its at a low concentration. What if I don't wanna give it?"

I scowled, my blood running cold at the notion. Strongest man or not...he's standing between me and my promise.

"Then you're stealing what I've worked for."

"Now, now," he stepped back, "I think we can arrange a deal. You see, I have my own...quest to complete. I could use someone of your abilities to assist me."

I groaned, my worn body shaking softly. As much as I hated what he's doing, he had Lisbeth's material...therefore he had me. Maybe I could try dueling him, strength isn't everything in a fight!

"I'll fight you for it," I growled, "hope you know how to duel."

Heathcliff was unfazed by my threat, as if I was an infant to him. His steel colored eyes remained absolutely focused on me, seeming unaware of my call. His gentleness unnerved me, why the hell was he so smug?

"Fair enough," he drew his longsword, "if I win? You have to help me with this quest...then I'll give you the ore."

"And if I win," I grinned, "you give me that Mithril."

"I accept," he calmly spoke, "Half Loss?"

"Definitely," I nodded, "no pulling shots, that'll piss me off."

"Funny, coming from a man who nearly lost his arm."

We raised weapons, stepping back. As he brandished his, I suddenly noticed the shield. It looked...just like Leopon's. With his strength, I prayed to God that he's not as skilled as the lioness...there would be no overpowering this one.

A/N: Slimes are fun, aren't they? :D I mean they just wanna cuddle! Them and whatever else they scooped off the floor...

Guys, do not ship me slimes, they're not fun, they're mean...and leave a mess. Instead, send me reviews, follows, favorites, or extort me with said cretins. How? Oh like this!

Ex: Make us more chapters, or I'll send ya a bucket of slimes! - PLEASE NO!