Sweat travelled down Bell's spine. A hesitant smile on his face. No matter how much time passes, he cannot help but feel like he did something wrong when subjected to his guild advisor's glare.

Eina Tulle, a beautiful half elf with a slim body, pointy ears, shoulder length brown hair, and emerald colored eyes. A graduate from the school district at 14. She was a scholar that specialized in comprehensive Theology. Reliable to the point that even her superiors rely on her. A very friendly woman that cares about the adventurers under her. The reason why she is quite popular with both male and female adventurers.

"You really are brave huh~?" Eina said in a low voice. Rage can be felt leaking out of her, and was now frowning at him. She was not amused.

"U…Uwahhhh!?" Bell could not help but let out a scream.

Though he went lower, Bell reported the successful exploration of the 7th floor. The event lost to memory, he merrily exchanged the magic stones he collected and went to see his advisor. A very common occurrence even when he became a level six in the previous timeline. The instant he mentioned this, Bell felt that he invited his end.

"I'VE TOLD YOU BEFORE! DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND!? GOING BEYOND 5TH WAS ENOUGH, BUT YOU ACTUALLY RAN OFF TO THE 7TH FLOOR!? EVEN IF YOU'RE AN IDIOT, THERE MUST BE A LIMIT!" Eina scolded mercilessly.

"Soooorrrrryyyyy!?" Bell apologized. Unconsciously assuming the dogeza position.

Thunk!

Eina slammed her hands onto the table. Her eyes fixed onto the young time traveller. Making him feel as if he was Phryne Jamil.

'She does have a point,' Bell thought with an internal sigh. Still, it cannot be helped. In order for an adventurer to become stronger, he or she must go on adventures. 'I'm sorry Eina-san. Thank you for always caring.'

"A week ago, who was the person who nearly died against a Minotaur!?" Eina asked sharply.

"M...me," Bell answered hesitantly.

"Then why do you still behave like this!?" Eina scolded. "Continuing to go down floors! You almost died last time! Did you forget about that already, Bell-kun!?"

"S…Sorry….!" Bell said. Actually reflecting. 'It can't be helped. I'm supposed to be a rookie adventurer afterall. A rookie adventurer with half a month of progress, it was basically suicide to enter the floors below the 5th. Starting from the 5th floor, the dungeon changes overall. The degree of difficulty increases as well as the volume of enemies. Eina-san is being strict because she doesn't want me to die.'

"Your sense of danger is not enough! Absolutely not enough! Today you will fix your happy go lucky attitude and deeply engrave the terror of the dungeon inside your head!" Eina stated. "Maybe it will help you gain some sense of self-preservation."

"Huh?" Bell uttered. Unable to stop the words before they came out. 'Oh no!'

Prior to becoming an adventurer, Bell had to go through Eina's guidance. Spartan was the only word that could be used to describe it. Excessively drilling dungeon knowledge into his skull. The information that she taught was undoubtedly useful; however, the method was not for the faint of heart.

"P…Please wait a minute!?" Bell panicked and tried to reason. "I… I've grown a lot since that time!"

"Excuses!" Eina retorted. "No matter how much you've grown, it wouldn't be enough. At most, it would be an H."

"Honest!" Bell said. Clapping his hands over his head. "My status has really gone up. Some of my abilities have even gone above E."

Eina went stiff. Taking a moment to process what her charge said. A sigh escaped her lips as she looked at Bell in an unimpressed manner. "Bell, You shouldn't lie. There's no way…"

"It's true, It's true!" Bell asserted. "I don't know if it was because of my recent good fortune or what, anyways, my status has increased immensely!"

"…Really?" Eina asked doubtfully.

Seeing him nod, Eina paused. A puzzled look on her face. Reciting the status rankings from highest to lowest. Repeating it again and again for good measure. After the sixth time, her eyes widened. No doubt having a hard time comprehending the situation.

'Who wouldn't be,' Bell thought. 'I'm supposed to have only been an adventurer for a short time. Normally, it would be impossible. My abilities being E was groundless. With a time span of only two weeks, the proper ability range that an adventurer will reach was not deeply related to whether that person was powerful or not. Generally, most adventurers will only be at H. Even then, this was also limited to the people who were skilled. If it was G, then they have been overdoing it and if it reached above F… no matter how you look at it, that was too fast. If it was a person who accumulated lots of fighting experience before becoming an adventurer, then Eina-san may be persuaded, but I was originally a farmer. My abilities suddenly jumping to E was unbelievable. She can tell I'm not lying so she's having a hard time taking this in.'

"Wuahhhhh", Eina sounded. Expression changing from shock to disbelief to confusion.

Bell remained silent as she scrutinized him again. Uncomfortable but understanding. He was afterall, not a normal adventurer. Never was and never will be.

"…About this, Bell-kun," Eina said after taking a deep breath. Unsure on how to approach the topic.

"Yes, you can see it," Bell answered the question she was about to ask.

"Huh?" Eina uttered in confusion.

"You wanted to see my status," Bell said. "Right?"

"I… um… ah, it isn't that I don't believe in you? Only that…," Eina stuttered. Waving her hands in an attempt to minimize what misunderstanding she might have caused. Perplexed at how calm he was being about this whole thing. There was also the fact that someone's status should remain strictly in one's familia. For him to be so nonchalant about showing her… "Are you really going to show me?"

"Hestia wouldn't give me misleading information on her own initiative. I don't believe she made a mistake either. I know it's hard to believe. This would be the best way to prove it," Bell answered.

"But…" Eina said.

"Besides," Bell interrupted and smiled. "I trust you."

Eina froze. A hint of red beginning to adorn her cheeks. A timid smile appeared on her face.

"Bell," Eina whispered under her breath.

"You can read sacred text right?" Bell asked. Knowing full well that she can.

"Huh? Oh right, yes I can! Although only a little," Eina said. Although she was genuinely curious, she was unable to believe how much faith he had in her. "Are you sure about this?"

"As long as you promise to just look at the status field and that you will keep it to yourself," Bell said.

"I promise!" Eina vowed.

"Is there someplace private?" Bell asked. Scratching the back of his head. "I'd rather not have others see my status."

"Follow me," Eina answered with a gesture.

He followed her into one of the back rooms. In the midst of taking off his clothes, he noticed her staring at him. His face became flushed.

"Um… Eina-san, is there something wrong?" Bell asked. Bringing his adviser back to reality.

"Huh? Oh! No… n-nothings wrong!" Eina replied. Wiping the drool off of her face. Her ears matched the color of his cheeks. "Um… if you can please turn around."

Holding back his embarrassment, he complied. After a few minutes, she gasped. Turning around, he found her stunned.

"It can't be…" Eina uttered. "Although I already accepted that you were telling the truth, this is… this is unbelievable. Aside from magic, according to these abilities, it's more than enough to singly fight against the 7th floor monsters."

"So I can go down to the 7th floor?" Bell asked cheerfully.

"If you're abilities really increased by this much, I have no reason not to give you clearance," Eina groaned.

Putting his shirt on, he could not help the blush that came to his cheek or the feeling of embarrassment when he caught her ogling him. It changed into flattered when a shy smile appeared; however, it did not last long. Her expression became troubled when he began putting his armor on.

"Are you alright Eina-san?" Bell asked. "You seem troubled."

"Hmm… um… yes," Eina answered. "But…"

"W…What is it?" Bell asked worriedly.

Again, her eyes examined his body from head to toe. Going around him as if she was appraising him. Sounds of disapproval coming out of her every now and then.

"Bell-kun," she finally said.

"Ah, yes?" Bell responded.

"Tomorrow, are you free?" Eina asked.

"…Huh?" Bell said in confusion.

"It's about your armor," Eina said. Cringing as she looked between the boy's face and his armor.

'Oh right!' Bell thought. Remembering how it went the first time. 'So this is what this is about.'

"I don't think it would be able to protect you down on the 7th floor," Eina explained. Gesturing towards the exit.

"I see," Bell said. "So, we would be looking for a better replacement tomorrow."

"Yes," Eina said.

He held the door open for his advisor and followed her outside. Walking towards the front of the guild, the two were oblivious to the stares they were receiving. They continued to talk and make plans merrily until they reached the entrance.

"I'll see tomorrow then," Bell said energetically before sprinting off.

"See you tomorrow," Eina returned. Smiling as she watched him disappear into the crowd. "Well, I guess it's time to go back to work."

Turning around, she was surprised to see a group of people led by her co-worker, Misha Flott. Looking at her expectantly. This cannot be good.

"Well, well, Eina," Misha began. "I didn't know you could be so bold."

"What are you talking about?" Eina asked.

"Don't give me that!" Misha exclaimed as she threw one arm over her friend's shoulder. "So, tell me?"

"Tell you what?" Eina asked. Her breath was getting heavy. A bead of sweat travelling down from her forehead.

"Did it hurt?" Misha whispered the question into her ear.

Tilting her head, she looked at her pink haired friend. A large question mark above her head. A few moments later, her eyes widened. She had been with Bell in a room for a long period of time. Alone! Coming back while making plans to spend time the next day.

"You've… You've got it all wrong!" Eina sputtered. Flailing. "Nothing happened! We were just talking!"

"Uh-huh," Misha retorted. A mischievous smirk on her face. "And prums are ten feet tall."

For the rest of the day, she was bombarded with questions from gossip mongers while the others were calling for the white rabbit's head.


At the plaza in the northern part of Orario, a popular meeting place facing Main Street. Bell stood patiently. Waiting for his half elf advisor.

'I never did figure out whether this was a date or not last time. No, don't think about this too much. There's no way someone like Eina-san would like you that way. She's just helping you find good equipment. Not like I need any. I'm just going to go for Welf's anyway," Bell thought. His lips forming a fond smile. 'She really likes to help people doesn't she?'

Memories of the previous timeline played in his mind. Reminiscing his time with Eina, his mind wandered. He had gotten better at handling them; however, there were still times that he could not. Unfortunately, with his thoughts straying, came the inevitable memory of her demise. The image of her body sticking out from the debris. Buried under the rubble that was formerly the guild. The wails of the survivors before a wave of fire engulfed them.

'I'm sorry,' Bell thought as feelings of guilt and grief overwhelmed him. 'If only I was faster, if only I was stronger, if only I was better, I could have…'

"Hey~, B~ell~kun~!" A cute voice called. Pulling him away from his dark thoughts.

'It's time,' Bell thought. Turning towards the source of the cute voice. Her figure gradually became bigger in his field of vision.

"Good morning, you're really early. Were you looking forward to shopping with me that much?"

"Yes," Bell answered. Schooling his features so as to not worry her. Though he saw this before, the moment his eyes landed on her, he paused. Feeling timid all of a sudden.

Her clothes were different than what he was used to. Her normal guild uniform was replaced by a cute, white blouse with laces and a miniskirt. The glasses she usually wears were nowhere to be found. It gave off a light and lively feeling. Something that was more fitting to her age rather than the serious and adult-like nature of her uniform. It was captivating.

A hint of red appeared on the guild advisor's cheeks. The implication of what Misha and the others had taken root in her mind. Consuming valuable resources. Resources to which would have been better spent elsewhere.

"Mmm, actually I was also looking forward to it. Although it is only to buy things together with Bell-kun, somehow I felt very excited," Eina said cheerfully. Attempting to take back control of her mind. Seeing him look so shy, her expression turned mischievous. "Bell-kun, don't you have anything to say?

"You look nice," Bell said.

"That's it?" Eina asked in disbelief. "Nothing? Nothing at all?"

"I…Is there anything?" Bell stuttered his question in confusion.

"Nevermind," Eina sighed. 'He's a bit dense afterall.'

"Sorry if I sound unappreciative," Bell apologized sheepishly. "But I'm not really the best person to ask about how you look."

"Huh?" Eina uttered curiously. 'Ok, maybe not so dense.'

"And why is that?" She asked.

"Because I think you're beautiful no matter what you wear," Bell answered with a sheepish smile while scratching the back of his head.

Thud! Her heart felt like it was going to break out of her chest. Stunned. For what felt like an eternity, she stood there. Speechless. Looking at the boy like he had just grown a second head.

'Is that how he sees me? Was Misha and the others right about us?' Eina thought. "I… um… thank you, Bell-kun."

"Eina-san?" Bell called.

"Anyways!" Eina said in half shriek and half whisper. Trying to calm down. "It's been a really long time since I went shopping with others"

"Really?" Bell asked. "With how popular you are, I would have thought that people would love to spend time with you."

"Fufu, you're such a sweet talker, Bell-kun," Eina said in an attempt to hide how flustered she was. "But it's the truth. Afterall, ever since I entered the guild, I've always been stuck working"

Bell chuckled. A bead of sweat travelled down the back of his head. Remembering the conversation he had in the guild after the Xenos incident.


Flashback:

In one of the meeting rooms of the guild, Bell sat. Surrounding him were the guild workers. From the lowest of workers to the infamous Guild Pig were there. Oddly enough his own guild advisor was the only one not present. They were all looking at him angrily. To be honest, it felt more like a trial rather than a talk.

"Do you know what you've done?" Royman asked sharply.

"Um…" Bell said. Unable to think about what he could have done warranted an inquisition. "No?"

"Eina-chan was so worried that she couldn't work!" Misha said with a chiding finger.

"I'm sorry," Bell apologized. Unable to look the pink haired guild worker in the eye.

"Do you know what would happen if she doesn't work?" The supervisor asked. Pointing an accusing finger towards him.

"Eina-san would get in trouble?" Bell answered meekly.

"The guild would stop functioning without her!" Misha answered him while making exaggerated gestures. Behind her the other guild workers had their arms crossed while nodding. "So Bell-kun."

"Yes?" Bell responded meekly.

"Don't ever do anything like this ever again!" They shouted at him unanimously.

"EEP!"

End Flashback


Today was a bright and clear sunny day. The blue sky was dazzlingly clear. A nice breeze blowing every now and then. A perfect day to have… a date?

Following Eina, Bell walked south from Main Street. Feeling more relaxed both physically and mentally. Their path taking them through a crowded street. Clerks calling people into their shops. Advertising whatever it was that they were selling. The dwarves cheering in high spirits. They stopped a few times, either to peruse the wares or decline an offer.

"Are we going to the shops at Babel, Eina-san?" Bell inquired.

"Yes," she answered. "I'm surprised you knew about them."

"You told me about it before," Bell said. 'In another timeline that is.'

"Huh, you would think I would remember teaching you that," Eina said. Her finger on her cheek as she looked up slightly. Trying to recall when she had taught him the current topic.

From the center of the city of Orario, the 8 paths that headed in 8 directions were known as the Main District's Main Streets. They were: North, North-East, East, South-East, South, South-West, West, and North-West. Each direction has one path. Overlooking the roads from the sky, it looks like thick lines gathering at the city's center and then it would split into its respective direction. Each Main Street intersects at the center area of the city, and the center area is right above the dungeon.

Babel, a high-rise tower that seems to act as a cover for the dungeon. Everyone knew that it's role wasn't to just cover the dungeon, but also Babel's task was to observe and manage the dungeon. This guild-owned facility was one of the most familiar buildings to the adventurers.

"Babel doesn't just act as an entrance to the dungeons. It has the responsibility to provide adventurers with public facilities. Aside from that, there is also a simple canteen, treatment facility and even a gold exchange," Bell repeated the information from last time. Hoping that it would be enough for her not to subject him to another of her Spartan-like lectures. "Though I would not recommend going there because of the long lines."

"Wow!" Eina exclaimed. Impressed by Bell's summary of the building. "Did I really teach you all that before?"

"Yep!" Bell said with a victorious smile on his face. "So we're going to one of the shops that specializes in adventurer wares."

"Correct!" Eina said. A feeling of pride welling up inside her from how much Bell has learned in such a small amount of time.

"Bell-kun, how much do you know about the Hephaestus Familia?" Eina asked.

"Well, I know that Hestia and Hephaestus-sama are very close friends. Close enough for her to make me my new knife," Bell said with a pondering expression. "Her familia is quite popular. One that sells equipment. Their equipment qualities are extremely high."

"Yes, that's correct," Eina said then she stopped dead in her tracks. "Wait a second! Why do you call Hestia-sama Hestia!? Hephaestus-sama herself made your knife!?"

"Shh," Bell shushed. Covering her mouth. "I'd prefer to keep that a secret."

"Right," Eina complied. Only now did she realize the repercussions of that fact becoming public knowledge. "Sorry."

"It's all right," Bell said. "I was surprised too when I first found out."

They continued their trek towards the tall tower. Talking about everything under the sun. Enjoying the company of the other.

"We're here," Bell said.

Central Plaza, a park that surrounded the white walls of the huge tower. Serving as the border between the tower and the array of buildings. One can see the green plants and the various forms of fountains everywhere.

The difference could be seen immediately. While they were heading here, there were many residents in the streets that were unrelated to the dungeon mixed with the adventurers. But in this plaza, almost all of them are adventurers carrying large-sized swords, spears and other weaponry. The most frightening thing is that, even though there was a dazzling amount of people, this place did not give off a crowded feeling.

"You know Bell," Eina said.

"Hmm?" Bell responded. Turning towards her to let her know that she had his undivided attention.

"You seem calmer than I expected," Eina admitted.

"What did you expect?" Bell asked. Although, he knew the answer.

"Well," Eina began. A small giggle at the image her imagination gave her. "I would've expected you to be screaming at the top of your lungs. Saying: 'Eina-san, what on earth is happening!? I can't buy things from the Hephaestus Familia. That's only something for the rich!'"

"Well, initially you would think that; however, that cannot be the case," Bell said.

"How so?" Eina asked. Testing if Bell would give the right answer.

"If the high class items were made by master smiths, then what about those that are low level," Bell answered. "It's not like we can live forever. Even with the blessing of the gods. Meaning that Hephaestus-sama needs to accept new members into her familia. Those new members don't really have the same experience in smithing as the master smiths. In order to gain experience, those new smiths are required to forge items. Those items, in turn, will not have the same qualities as the ones made by the smithing veterans. What would happen to those? The answer is simple. They would sell them at cheaper prices to lower level adventurers. If an adventurer likes the equipment they used, they become a regular client of the smith who created them. With that, those newer smiths can gain contracts as well."

"That's completely right!" Eina exclaimed proudly. "Since you know so much about them, there's no point standing here."

She slipped her slender fingers into his hand. Pulling Bell along as she took a brisk pace into the crowd. Clearly more excited than she was before.

His mind was groggy. Only able to focus on the point of contact. His cheeks flushed. Despite his strength, Bell was unable to free his hand from the half elf's grip. Allowing her to pull him forward. After a while, a tingling sensation brought Bell back to reality. Looking around, he noticed that all the males and some of the females around them were glaring at him. A murderous aura leaking off of them. Though he was stronger than a lot of them, it still made him anxious.

"E…Eina-san, y…your hand, can you please let go? Pppppp…Please…!?" Bell requested nervously. It was magnificently ignored. Seeing that she was not going to let go anytime soon, he resigned himself to death.

"Bell," Eina called.

"Yes?" Bell responded.

"Do you know what a development ability is?" She asked.

"Er… no," Bell answered. 'Might as well indulge her.'

The moment he replied, her face lit up. Happy that she was able to teach him something useful that day. Beginning her lecture happily.

"Development Abilities are abilities that randomly appear in a status once the adventurer levels up. These abilities are more specialized than the ones. You can look at Development Ability as a reward for levelling up," Eina concluded. "When the time comes, it will be based automatically on the individual's experience to decide which abilities to enhance. Among these abilities, there also exists a Blacksmith ability"

"In other words, most of the members are Level 2 or above," Bell said. "According to this, we also know that their faction's fighting power should also be quite high."

"That's right!" Eina praised. Seeing him in deep thought. "Something wrong Bell?"

"Oh no just wondering," Bell replied. Seeing her lean in, showed that he needed to sate her curiosity. "Wasn't blacksmithing a profession since ancient times?"

"Of course, the Blacksmith career has existed for a long time. Although the ancient works have all become antiques, there are still some that are being used today," Eina explained. Happy that her charge was being so inquisitive. "The current generation…those with the Blacksmith ability can add attributes to weapons since they have the power of the blessing given by the gods."

"I see. That's good to know for when I work with one," Bell said. "About that, Eina-san. Aside from Blacksmith, what else is there?"

"Ah~, to adventurers, the typical abilities are Abnormal Resistance and Magic," Eina answered. "Aside from those, Mystery is also considered as one."

"Mystery?" Bell said.

"Yes. Speaking of this, it is to activate Gods' Miracles. This ability is also known as God's Technique," Eina replied. "Do you know the story of the Philosopher's Stone, Bell-kun?"

"Yes, it's the story about Fels, also known as the Sage (or the Fool). He created a magic item that gave him eternal life. He presented the item to his own god. The god was angered and in front of him, destroyed the stone, " Bell answered. Unknowingly giving out more information than he let on.

"Fels?" Eina asked.

"I-it was the name of The Sage when my grandpa told me the story," Bell said nervously. Pulling on his shirt collar. Avoiding eye contact.

"Why don't I believe you?" Eina said. Hands on her hips, a teasing smile on her face.

"Anyways!" Bell said. Hoping the half elf would drop it. "The Philosopher's Stone seemed to be something that was created accidentally. It would be almost impossible to recreate. Besides, no one has appeared that can use the Mystery ability to the extent that he did."

"Why does it sound like you know him personally," Eina said. A mischievous look on her face.

"Huh!?" Bell said in alarm.

"Is there something you should tell me, Bell?" Eina asked. Leaning back in.

"N-no!" Bell sputtered.

"Very well, I'll believe you," Eina said. "For now."

In the midst of their conversation, they had reached one of the entrances of Babel. Passing through, a white and light-blue colored lobby entered their eyes. Eina grabbed onto his hand and pulled him to the center area of the floor. Moving atop of a circular pedestal inside a glass like tube. The pedestal left the ground and began to float. Rising towards their destination. Eina explained that the lift used magic stones. That they needed to be replaced every once in a while. After a while, the pedestal stopped on the 4th floor of Babel.

"Although the shop that I fancy is on a higher floor, we may as well look at the others since it's rare for us to come here," Eina said excitedly. "Bell-kun, you also want to look around, right?"

Glancing around, there were shops that sell weapons and armor everywhere. He also became somewhat excited and quickly nodded at Eina. Looking around from shop to shop of the Hephaestus Familia. Stopping at a certain one.

"Welcome~! Is there anything that you would like to buy today?" A lively voice came.

Recognizing the voice, Bell stiffened. The door opened, and out came a girl. She was slightly short but she looked dignified. Her face had a well-trained and beautiful business smile. Her cute black twin tails would often shake from time to time, and she smiled at him. Underneath the red apron, that looks like the uniform, she had a petite figure with mismatched boobs that constantly demonstrated its existence. They stood there staring at each other for a few seconds.

'I totally forgot that Hestia works here now!' Bell screamed in his head.

"Why are you here!?" Hestia screeched her question while pointing at him.

"Uh…" Bell sounded as he looked away. Scratching his cheek.

Hestia badgered him for an answer but froze the moment her eyes landed on his half elf companion. Her gaze then travelled from her face to their intertwined hands. Anger leaking out of her more and more with each second.

"What's the meaning of this!?" Hestia screeched. Jumping on him. Her face was so close to his that they were nose to nose.

Everyone in the vicinity stopped to watch the scene. Some taking entertainment, others either condemning the white rabbit or giving him looks ranging from jealousy to murderous.

"I… uh…" Bell tried. Feeling all the eyes on them.

"Answer me!" Hestia shouted.

"Hestia, I… please calm down!" Bell said in a panic.

"BELL!" Hestia roared.

"Hey hey! Newcomer, don't play around! Quickly, get back to work!" Came from inside the store.

'Safe!' Bell thought in relief.

"Yes!?" Hestia said stiffly. Jumping off of him. Glaring at him one more time. "Don't think for a second that this conversation is finished."

Bell swallowed. He watched as she ran back into the store's interior. The petite figure and the twintails behind her disappeared from the shop's entrance.

'I'm dead,' Bell thought in resignation. Knowing full well what would be waiting for him at home.

"Tsk! I thought she was going to kill him," a male roguish adventurer said. "Too bad."

"Scum!" Said a female elf with golden hair and emerald eyes.

"Go die! Stupid playboy! Think about the rest of us!" A perverted looking warrior said. His purple hair covering his eyes. Tears of blood dripping from them. Hunched over his diaper like armor. His friend patting him in the back while also glaring at Bell. "Damn harem protagonist! Why couldn't it have been me!?"

'Why me!?' Bell thought. Wishing the ground would open up and swallow him whole.

"…Same as usual, completely different than the other gods?" Eina said with a sigh. Looking nervous and unsure.

Remembering that he was not alone, Bell forced himself to calm down. Prioritizing who he was with currently. Turning back to her, he gave her an apologetic look.

"Sorry about that," Bell apologized. "She can be quite intense sometimes."

"No problem," Eina said. "Now then, shall we head up to the upper floors?"

Bell nodded while walking together with Eina-san, who had a wry smile. Their destination, Babel's 8th floor. Going back to the magic stone elevator. The mood slowly returned as it lifted them to their destination.

"Okay, we're here," Eina announced.

Opening the manual door of the elevator that stopped, Bell looked around. It was a similar view to the one on the 4th floor. Sword, Spear, Axe, Hammer, Dagger, Bow, Shield, Armor and other defensive equipment. The specialized shops that sell all kinds of weaponry were spread out like tiles in the wide space of the floor. The only difference was that there were more people here than there were on the previous floor.

"Let's go to that shop that you were talking about," Bell said.

He looked back to his advisor and smiled. Hoping that it would ease her even in the slightest. Unfortunately, it seemed to have the opposite effect. She was still feeling a bit awkward from the encounter with Hestia. That much was obvious. Their roles seemed to have been reversed this time.

Since the day before, something about her seemed off. He just could not put his finger on it. The normal Eina before the Xenos incident was quite different. She was more mature and calm. Well, most of the times when she has not found out how much risk he took… yet. This persona was disorienting but not in a bad way.

They entered the shop with the most customers. Like many of the shops, this one sold all manner of equipment. Continuously moving into the interior of the shop, they stopped in front of the spear case that was against the wall. The prestigious battle spears, with their spearheads pointing at the ceiling, were lined up one by one.

"Like you said earlier. The Hephaestus Familia and the other blacksmithing familias give even their newest members the opportunity to create their own works. Those creations are then sold in their shops. Of course, they will still separate the items from the skilled Blacksmiths' creations. Not to mention those creations will have to first pass through a management team to make an accurate assessment of its value. Afterwards, it must be selected by an adventurer where it can then be purchased. This way, the direct evaluation will be precious to the immature blacksmiths, even if the assessment has the utmost praise or the harshest assessment. It is to propel and help motivate them to continue to create more excellent equipment," Eina said. "Doing it like this causes no harm to the shop. By creating this system, it lets adventurers from the early floors to become customers."

"I see," Bell said. "A system that will allow new adventurers and blacksmiths to form bonds. During this period, they will continue to build and deepen their ties."

"That's right," Eina lauded. "The rookie blacksmiths will engrave their own name onto their creations. After the rookie adventurers purchase their products, they will remember the name. If the two matches well together, then they may even meet directly. Even if these Blacksmiths weren't discovered by a management team or the blacksmiths were buried by division, they may still be discovered by the wise eyes of the adventurers. Although the two won't match perfectly, only the adventurers who directly used the blacksmith creations are able to truly appreciate the feelings that were poured into these creations."

'Yeah,' Bell agreed. 'Welf said as much when he was making Ushiwakamaru.'

"If it was created specifically for someone, then it will contain more feelings and allow it to unleash more of its ability," Eina continued. Sticking out her tongue. "That's what I was told, anyway."

Bell could never have dreamed that this person would actually do such a childish act. She looked really cute when she acted like the 19 year old girl that she was. It was a whole different side of her and he wanted to see it more.

"Looks like I said too much," Eina said. "Bell-kun, how much money did you bring?"

"Though I had a pretty big haul recently, I had to use it for something," Bell said. A pang of fear came over him. Taking out his money pouch and counting the contents. Relieved when he found that he had enough. "Exactly 10 000 Valis."

"Well then, if I had to say, it might be tricky to fit a whole set of armor with that much money. Forget it, it might be just like what I said earlier. If we look carefully, there might be something from a rookie blacksmith, and we may find an unexpected reward," Eina said excitedly. "Now let's go!"

Compared to him, it looked like Eina became more energetic. Bell could only smile. Eina suggested that it might be more efficient if they split up to search, so temporarily, he was brought to a familiar shop that had a signboard for armor and shield. The Forest of Armor, a fitting name. The shop was filled with mannequins. Dressed from top to bottom with a variety of armor. It was done in such a way that the customers would imagine themselves wearing the equipment. On the walls, one could find numerous shields and helmets. They looked simple, yet robust. Moving towards the interior of the shop, Bell came across his quarry. In the corner of the shop, there was something that was not eye-catching. Boxes upon boxes stacked on each other like a small mountain. Inside were sets of armor. Although the other armors were displayed on the mannequins, these were stacked up like a mountain of garbage, but they also gave off a feeling. It was odd. These were creations deemed to be of low value; however, Bell knew that at least one of the smiths was quite talented.

"Here you are!" Bell exclaimed. Stopping in front of a certain box before a bead of sweat dripped from the back of his head. "Welf, I'm sorry, but you have terrible naming sense."

Pyonkichi Mk-II, a silvery-white armor that had lines that were not bright red nor was it a dull black. On the surface, it had a metallic luster flashing. There was no paint, and it kept the original material's figure. A bit plain by normal standards; however, it struck a chord with him. Kneeling down to get a careful look, he could not help but smile. This was the armor that brought him to Welf, his friend and big brother figure. Although the knee guard and breastplate area was small, it fitted him quite well. Aside from that, the elbow, forearm, and waist had minimal protection. It looked like a very disorderly armor. He picked up the piece of the breastplate. It was lighter than he remembered. It was like the armor was made with him in mind.

'The guild's support goods could not compare with this,' Bell thought. Knocking on it. 'I still can't tell whether it's good or bad but I trust Welf. I know that it will protect me."

Turning the breastplate over, to make sure. As expected, it was there. Engraved on the back, was his signature. Not yet worthy of the Ήφαιστος trademark; but at the moment, it was perfect.

"Hey—, Bell-kun! I saw something good! It was leather armor! Although it is slightly expensive, I still think it's best if we think of a way to purchase it…Huh, Bell-kun also found something he likes?" Eina, who had just returned, asked. Seeing the item, her expression became thoughtful. He could not blame her. Looking at how it was being sold, more specifically the fact that the equipment was placed in boxes. It easily gave off the impression that it was the remainders of a defective product. "…Did you decide to purchase that?"

"Yes," Bell answered resolutely.

"Ha…Bell-kun really likes light armor. Since it was a chance to select armor, you decided it so quickly," Eina said hesitantly.

"Sorry about that," Bell apologized.

"Don't mind it," Eina responded with a wry smile. "After all, Bell-kun will be the one that uses it. From my perspective, I can only hope you put a lot of thought into it since it's equipment that's protecting your body…but if you decided to purchase this, I won't oppose it."

"Thank you," Bell said. Standing up while holding the box. He walked up to the cashier and paid for the armor.

Eina disappeared again a few minutes later. Knowing what it was she was doing, Bell waited for her at the corner. When she came back, a devilish smile was on her face. Clearly, coming back from one of the shops.

"Bell-kun, this is for you," Eina said. Shoving a slender piece of armor into his hands. "My present to you. You have to remember to use it okay?"

The item in question was the Green Supporter. A type of gauntlet that acts as a shield, exchanging durability for ease of use and its lightweight protection. Its shape mimics the cover for the hands, its length was also from the wrist to the elbow. The color was also the same as Eina-san's jade-like eyes.

"Thank you," Bell said gratefully. Placing the item into the box with the other armor. "Oh right! I got something for you too."

Eina gasped at the object Bell pulled out from his pocket. Pinched in between his fingers was a silver ring. Simple yet ornate. Resting on top was a small emerald. Looking between the boy and the object in his hand, her heart began racing in her chest. Blood rapidly travelled to her head. He looked so serious and intense. As if he was...

"T…This is…" Eina said. Taking a step back. Unable to believe the boy's obliviousness to what giving her a ring could imply. "I... Is this t...the reason why you didn't h...have that much for your a...armor? No, I can't have it! P…Please return it immediately!"

"You don't like it?" Bell asked. Completely ignoring the question. Disheartened by the rejection.

"N…No, only…that I feel bad," Eina stuttered.

'Why did I say that!?' She screamed in her mind. That was a bit too honest.

"It's alright," Bell said in a nonchalant manner. "If it's for Eina-san, then it would have been worth it."

'What the heck can I say after that!?' Eina thought. Her mind was taken over by hysteria. No matter what time or age, you will simply feel ill at ease for receiving a precious item from someone.

"I hope you can accept it," Bell said. "This is not for me, but for you."

"Huh?" Eina uttered. Momentarily forgetting her raging emotions and tilting her head.

The memory of their confrontation had been at the back of his mind since it happened. It was back near the end of that fiasco with the Xenos. Eina had been angry with him and ditched work just to find him. He had never seen her look more ferocious than she did that time.

"You're not just a convenient woman to me Eina-san. I am very grateful to have you in my life and would never take you for granted," Bell said as he cupped her cheek with his free hand. Looking her directly in the eye."With this ring, I hope that I could put your mind at ease."

It had taken all Eina's willpower but she managed to look up a bit. Questions clear on her face. Unable to voice them due to the fact that he had thrown her back into the anarchy known as her emotions.

"I hope you don't mind, but I've taken the liberty of asking the people who knew you best before we met," Bell said apologetically. "I've heard that you used to have another adventurer assigned to you. Maris Hackard if I remember correctly."

"!?"

"To be honest, it is not surprising for an adventurer to die at any time. No matter how powerful a person is, a little inattention will easily cause them to lose their lives," Bell continued. "I'm pretty sure that you have seen too many adventurers not coming back"

"…"

"I want you to know that I will not suddenly disappear," Bell said determinedly. 'Thanks, Lenoa-san.'

"This ring, it's enchanted to monitor me," he continued. "If ever my life is at risk of being extinguished, the emerald would turn red. So please, accept it."

It was silent for a moment. Bell stood there patiently. Waiting for his half elf advisor to respond.

Lowering her head, she could only look at the ground. Trying hard to use her bangs to cover her scarlet face. Trying and failing to process the events that had happened throughout the day.

'This is not fair, Bell,' Eina thought in distraught. "How can I refuse it now? After all that! This is too cunning! Too underhanded! Too… whatever!"

"Is it not possible?" Bell asked.

Tears fell from her face as she nodded. Her lips formed a shy smile. Raising her hand, allowing him to place the ring on her finger.

"Thank you," Eina said emotionally.

"I will always come back to you."


Author's Notes:

Hello everyone,

Hope you all are staying well. With all these Covid cases going up and down, makes one wonder what would happen to society. Anyways, I hope you enjoyed the chapter and the story so far. I do want to continue this as much as I can. If you have any ideas, comments (Please don't roast me. I prefer to be emotionally alive. Besides, extra crispy is not a good look for me.), or find mistakes feel free to just pm me or write it in the reviews. Every little thing will help improve the quality and continuation of the fic.

Bell needs to realize what he's doing to these women. Note that even I wanted to kill him after reading the chapter. In his defence, he knew these women far longer than he should at the current time. Though he isn't doing most of this on purpose, he is hitting the right strings. It is not helping the fact that the skill Maximan Naga manifested from Freya's falna. I leave the other side effects and possible subsets of the skill to your imagination.

Thank you for the continued support!

Best regards,

afreask


Now for the reviews:

Aisune:

Thank you! I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well.

togaxdeku1:

Good question. I'm not really a fast writer. I usually do these when I actually have free time. Sorry.

AizBell:

Good question. I'm not really a fast writer. I usually do these when I actually have free time. Sorry.

Marshall Cross Marian:

Thank you! I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. I'll try to update as much as I can.

Shin Hyo Joon:

Thank you! I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. Keep safe and healthy as well. I don't think he'll bless me though, I'm too sinful.

mairsarmy321:

Thank you! I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. Bell and Aiz will interact more but might not get together for a bit. The reason for this is because Bell needs to sort through his guilt and find himself again in a sense. Aiz, on the other hand, needs to grow more as a person. She also needs more of this thing people call emotions. He will be with Aiz; however, I can't really say if she will be the first or last. Not really sure how this story will flow yet. Right now, I only have the start and a concept of how it will end if the story even goes that far. So I can't make any promises, sorry.

Uros Milosevic:

Lol, that's pretty sad and funny at the same time. I'll give you due credit in the author's notes if I decide to use that. I'll do my best. Can't really make any promises though. As long as people are interested and I have free time, I guess.

0208:

You're correct. Fixed it. Thanks for telling me. No problems, I know how it is to be short on time.

A:

Thank you! I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well.

C:

I will update it as much as I can. Hopefully, until the end of the story. Thank you! I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well.

1995hzq:

Yes, he is. Not on purpose but quite effective. Thank you! Ok that's a 1 for each of them so far.

He is helping Naaza and Miach. You'll find out a few chapters down the line if the story continues.

It does help. I'll do my best.

webweasel:

Thank you! Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. I'll do my best.

Cainabel202:

Thank you! Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. I'll do my best.

Peepeeepoopoo:

Thank you! Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well.

Chaz:

Good question. I'm not really a fast writer. I usually do these when I actually have free time. Sorry.

Guest:

Good question. I'm not really a fast writer. I usually do these when I actually have free time. Sorry.

Dr. Maou-Senpai:

Thank you! Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. I'll do my best.

I know right. A lot of them do. Quite understandable but still, at the moment, she was not really portrayed as evil. Jealous, yes, obsessive, definitely but not evil. At worst, I would place her as a yandere. Technically she's someone with OLD. I think Hestia would fit in this category too. Though she doesn't have the resources to do so on the same scale Freya does. Besides she has helped Bell quite a few times. Went to war for him too. So, I'll give her an ok in my book until she does something heinous.

Starcofan09:

Thank you. Most of my stories tend to be time travel fics. Hehe, for the first one was to knock Freya out. She needed to KO'd for the Filvis incident or she'll never let Bell out of her sight. Not really smitten. Like I said zubhanwc3 in the previous chapter, smitten would imply that they are already in love with him. At the moment, they are just initial sparks. Except for Hestia and Freya who have a vested interest in Bell since the start of the series. Actually, Ryuu is like that. It does show from time to time like when Bell held her hand that was holding his knife, to Syr's chagrin. Though the best evidence of this is in the last few pages of volume 14 of the light novel. I blame Alise, lol.

Oh, he will be OP. Just not immediately. It will take some time to showcase all of his abilities. Not to mention it has to be done discretely because of the uproar it would cause to Orario. Sorry didn't really get the last part of that sentence. I'll count that as 2 for Cassandra and Daphne and 1 for Aisha. I guess this chapter granted half of that wish. Lefiya does have a moment with Bell later on. There will also be the jealousy scene because of Aiz's training. Just not in this one. If the story continues anyway.

Ouroboros Dracoi:

Thank you! Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. I'll do my best.

ThePheonixKing:

Thank you! I hope you enjoyed this chapter too. That's good to know. I don't want to change the story so drastically at the start. I'll do my best. Can't make any promises though. I'm a slow writer who usually does his writing on free time. Ex: when I'm on a bus and don't have anything else better to do. I do have the start and a concept of the ending. If the story even goes that far. It's usually the content along the way that eludes me. So that's nice to know. I'm glad you found that funny. I do feel sorry for Ottar or the housekeeper if they have one. With a goddess like Freya, cleaning, changing sheets and laundry must be more than a regular occurrence.

ethan lukkar:

Sorry for removing the period in your username. It was causing the entire line not to show up. Thank you! Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. I'll do my best.

Chaotix Aposynthesis:

Thank you! Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. I'll do my best.

BellAis1:

Finally managed to finish it. Hope you enjoyed it.

Guest:

Thank you! Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well.