It is Wrong to be the Warrior Captain in the Dungeon?

by oblivon2991

Thank you for reading my fanfic!

My mother language is not English, so please be patient about the grammatical issues.

I don't own the Overlord(オーバーロードŌbārōdo?) novel or anime series created by Kugane Maruyama.

I don't own Dungeon ni Deai wo Motomeru no wa Machigatteiru Darou ka novel, and anime series, written by Fujino Ōmori.

Thank you!

Well, finished with the rambling, here is part 2! Enjoy!


Chapter 6: A Quartet of Goddesses and the Warrior (part 2)

The insides of the building were just like outside, dusty and old looking. Messily, many books laid around, forming towers made from literature, folded maps and Scrolls all around.

Behind the counter, hidden by many books. A small figure sat, her legs hidden in her sandals. On her lap, a massive book rested.

Her day started like any other, waking up, tidying things a little up — as much she was able, she was not really talented keeping things organized as one may surmise from the state of her shop — complete the few orders she receives, and wait for customers.

Yet, until now, no one came. Since a few days, no one visited her small shop. Not even the ones ordered the hand draw maps came to pick up their orders.

"I put so much work on them!" she bit her lip, visibly angry and somewhat bitter.

With barely two members, her only choice was to work, keep this shop going. The store she opened from the borrowed money of her friend. And being all her members delving the dungeon day and night to scrape together just as much to keep them going, they can't remain here to help.

All in all, her familia was the bottom of the food chain, only the gods without familia and members were lower than her. Said so, maybe even the Miach familia was better when it came to money.

"Hah! Not as anyone would be interested…" she mumbled, using the flat tone of a child, somewhat disappointed, no one remains here with her, no one wants to join.

She even put up many advertisements in the guild and all around the city just to advertise her shop and the open positions in her Familia, yet, no one wanted to join. She seriously considered the problem is with her, and not with her methods.

With the income of the three of them, barely, but they stayed afloat. This shop required not much maintenance, nor constant new stock after all. The books, scrolls, and map not so much go bad like food or drink, or any other perishable goods, thus, they managed somehow.

Her shop only needed to be kept nice and tidy — which, from the state of the environment, was deducible not her strong point. But she can't help it; she always found an old book lying around she was interested in, then started to read it, making all her days gone under a blink of an eye.

'Clang!'

In the next moment, the small bell above the door rang, signing someone entered her shop.

"Hello? Anyone there?" several hard steps approached the counter, audibly the steps belong of a man wearing leather boots.

"Ah! A customer?"

Her golden eyes lit up immediately, since days, this was the first time someone aside of her children entered her shop.

Jumping up, she pushed one of the stocks of books at the side, hastily, not even caring what kind of chain reaction she starts.

"Yes! How can I help you?"

'Thud!' and by simply pushing the books at the side, several scrolls just balanced on a hairbreadth on the bottom of the counter had fallen, followed by several more books and loose papers.

"Oh!"

"Dammit!"

"Let me help you."

"N-No! It's not necessary!" she wanted to stop the suddenly appeared stranger, but it was too late!

"Nonsense…"

The man right away stepped, picking up the papers and the books, dusting them off slightly and placing them back their place.

'Cough! Cough!' "Little bit dusty…"

"Ah, right…" embarrassed, the girl blushed and looked away. She surely should clean a little bit, but as said, her attention always distracted by something else, and her "children" too tired to take care of it all the time.

"Ah-ah!"

Just now, she looked at the man. He literally towered above her. Tanned skin, clad in armor, muscled, with a sexy side beard connected on his chin.

"Just my type!" her eyes shone in an eerie light, already imagining the man holding her in his strong arm.

"He, hehehe… No! Stupid! Not now! Cut it!" it was no time to wander, she chided herself immediately.

"He-Hello! How can I help you? Hand- I mean, dear customer. Did you come looking for an interesting book? A map? We even offer drawing and copy-editing services! And many more! If you looking for long lost knowledge, look no further!"

"Uhhh…"

"What's your favorite book type? Novels, educational, guide books? My favorites are historical works! We have all type of books! If you don't find it here, we will get it for you!"

And her rambling continued for long seconds, making the man before her just stand confused, trying to process all the things she said. It was honestly confusing how such a small girl can speak so fast and so long.

"Uhhh…"

"So? Which your poison?" she grinned for long moments before the man's next sentence made her mood change drastically.

"If you excuse me, is there any adult around?"

She heard the question clear, and her neck cracked. 'Crack!' suddenly tilting her head with a ticking eye.

"E-Excuse me?" her mouth trembled, definitely edging to burst. "What did you just said?"

"I would like to speak with an adult, if possible. I am looking for maps of a specific kind. Is there any around?"

"I AM AN ADULT!" she screamed, bursting out like a volcano, making even the towering man back — the air trembling around her feeling the rage of the goddess of knowledge and scribes.

"You are?" and the man just watched her filled with unbelief, looking down at the strange child.

"YES, I AM! "

"Then, the owner?"

"I am the owner! Toth!"

"Oh!" Just recognizing, the child was indeed strange, giving off the same aura as Hestia herself.

Her skin heavily tanned, caramel, eyes golden, hair deep black, bob cut mid-long, her ears pointy like of an elf.

Only wearing a short mini skirt and a loose top, most likely made from linen — covering her flat chest. She indeed looked strange, for first, Gazef would never say she was an adult at all, but a bratty child around the age of ten. A beautiful child, but still a child nonetheless.

"Ah! So you are Toth! Sorry. I expected someone else?" the man apologized, still watching her confused.

"Hmph! Understandable!" she smirked smug, pushing forward her chest. "But I will forgive you! From the tales you heard about me, you must be expected someone grander!"

"Never heard of you." admitted slightly sheepish the man, scratching his face.

"WHAT!? You never heard about the great Toth? The patron of all scribes, mages, and every wise being? The goddess of writing, magic, and wisdom?"

"Not really…" answered flat the man. "Great, another child who likes to play being a god." rolling his eyes, the man could only sight. Hoping he will meet not more people with such fetish.

"Aghhh! This is depressing!" and she just hung her arm, wholly defeated. "How fall I have fallen?" she crouched in the corner, giving away a depressing aura.

"There, there…" and the man patted her head, making her tick even more.

"Please stop… you make it even worse!"

"Ah! Sorry!" backing, gazef looked slightly apologetic. "Can you help me? I am looking maps in a certain nature."

'Sniff!' "Second floor… good luck. Try not to steal anything."

She looked utterly devastated, devastated not only by the fact someone thought her as a simple child, but by the point, she was not famous at all. But she should have expected this, she was never popular even up there, always being a weirdo even in her family, spending her time alone, reading and scribbling things.

"Why I even thought coming down there is a good idea…" She already regretted coming down there, leaving her comfortable place.

One of her reason coming down there was, of course, the fact, up there was boring, and no new books which she never read were around, but at least she lived in luxury, not in a garbage dump like this shop.

"Can you help me, please? I am not really familiar with maps." also, this man can't really read the text of this world.

"Do you really want my help?" she wiped her eye, on the verge to shed some more tears.

"Yes, I really." he nodded. "My name is Zeff, by the way."

"Toth." they introduced once again, smiling at each other.

"Then, Lady Toth, will you help me out? Of course, if there is nothing more important."

Looking around, the whole shop was empty — a depressive sight for the small goddess.

"Well, there are a few things I should take care, but I will help you."

"Many thanks." and thus, the two-headed up, looking through the maps the small goddess had in stock.


Scene Change: Twilight Manor: Loki Familia headquarters:

"Ugh!" Loki groaned, throwing herself on the couch, laying like a mass of melted cheese.

"So, what it was like, managed to know anything?" asked the pallum with blonde hair and a gentle smile, visibly sensing the concern of his goddess. Solving this, he and his companions already prepared some tea.

"Don't even ask!" Loki suddenly leaned forward, visibly angry, grabbing her head.

"Nothing! There was nothing new that girl told me! It was just a waste of time visiting that guild!"

"Girl?"

"His consultant…" Loki corrected herself. "She just said the same template. She doesn't know for sure where he is from. He tells no one about his god. Nor he wants to anyone know what level he is. He just appeared one day, make a deal with the guild, and registered as an adventurer. Nothing more! Not even where he lives. Just his damn name! Zeff! I already know that, dammit!" she hit the table with all her power, immediately regretting as her fist started to ache.

"Au! Dagnabit!"

"A deal?" hearing this, even Finn raised his brow, making his dwarf and elf companion look at each other inquired.

"Something like he lost a few items, looking for them! Unfortunately, the girl refused to give away any more information, citing privacy rights. PRIVACY RIGHTS!? Damn privacy rights! Who cares about them! I want my information!" like a child in a tantrum, Loki hit the table, and her fist starting to throb once more, tears gathering in her eyes.

"There, there, every people has their secrets." Finn chuckled amused.

"Tch!" And Loki just looked away, entirely unamused by her child lack of concern about the topic. "Who cares about that? I want to know who he is! I want his secrets!"

"You know… despite being the goddess of trickery, you are awfully against secrets."

"I am not!" she stuck her tongue for a moment. "I am just when they tell me nothing! I am just because they give me no mark where I can start my investigation! This is seriously concerning! Aren't you agree?"

"Why not ask this man then?" Finn folded his arms over his chest, facing Loki.

"And where should I find him?" she was honestly annoyed, not only she got no clear answer from her own child, but more question raised after meeting that stuttering consultant.

"You know…" Finn drank from his tea, prepared and placed by his elf friend. "You have connections, no? Use them."

"Ugh! But I want to solve this mystery alone! I don't want to call favors just for this!" Loki grabbed her head, elbowing her laps. "I WANT TO KNOW WHO HE IS!"

It was a somewhat rare seeing Loki like this, annoyed, and at once, concerned about something. She usually always uncaring about worldly things. Only want to listen to a few good stories and drink Soma wine – or if they lack that particular brand, any other booze she finds around – pranks a few people and boast with her familia and their accomplishment.

Her yawning about the topic started to resemble a child's tantrum — which, considering the goddess' general nature was not so unlikely from her. "One cannot deny it; she is like a big child… moody. If she can't get her hand on something, she willing to cry until she gets it."

Finn sweatdropped, Riveria just sighed tired, and Gareth just chuckled, shaking his head. They already accustomed how the goddess of mischief worked.

"Well, it is this or that. You need to choose: Something for something, as the saying goes. Or are you saying, you already giving up?"

"Of course I am not!" she snorted, opening her eyes slightly. "It is just annoying! For now, I should already have some clue who he is! Where he came from! Where his alignment lies! Yet, I have nothing!" she grabbed her head, facing the ground face down.

"The only thing I managed to know that he came from far, from a place called "the Kingdom," and his name is Zeff. Appearing around two days ago and registering in the guild. Who gives just that much info!? And what "kingdom"?! I never heard a country called just like that?"

"Isn't it possible he came from Rakia?" everyone looked at Lefiya – who in the meantime listened to the conversation, arriving not long ago to the meeting hall.

Everyone just stared the timid elf, clothed in a pinkish dress, and she looked around somewhat discouraged, fearing she spouted something silly, again.

"Di-did I said something wrong?" she asked afraid she said something stupid.

"I mean, he somewhat resembles the people coming here. Tanned skin, brownish hair." she tried to reason, saving what can be saved reciting how she remembered the man from last night.

"That may be possible…" snorted Loki, then right away discarded the idea. "But if that buffoon Ares would have such child under him, he would not send him away, but keeping him in reserve as a secret weapon — in case of his next invasion. No… he would most likely already started to boast with him, telling everyone about him. He was always a muscle brained idiot! Not a person who keeps such a thing in secret."

Just now, Loki spoke about the Kingdom of Rakia usual attempts to invade and possibly conquer Orario, sending a significant number of soldiers to storm the city and capture it in every few years.

Of course, the invasion always fails, and the Rakian army always retreats miserably beaten and discouraged. As she heard, Ares' still causes trouble to his generals with his stupid ideas. Still commanding them to invade Orario, even if his best generals trying to convince him it is meaningless with no high-level adventurer in their ranks.

"It is not surprising, though…" Loki was almost amused by the man constant attempts. "Sending a bunch of level 1 supported barely a few level 2 and at most one level 3 is a meager attempt to capture the city."

This city of Orario not only boasted with the highest concentration of adventurers, but many of them were level 2 and above. Even level 5 or 6 can be found here. Not speaking here alone can be found one of the two known level 7 adventurers of the entire world.

It was a well-known fact amongst adventurers; one level difference means the world between two. A bunch of level 1 teaming up might can beat a level 2 — stating, if they plan a raid, and caught the level 2 off guard — but alone, it is unlikely for a lower-level person to beat a level higher. And of course, as the level gap increases, this noticeable difference just becomes even more apparent. The skills and resistances one gain while leveling up also stack on this.

Basically, a level three or four enough to kill hundreds, if not thousands of level 1, and go on. A level 5 or 6 is even worse, they could also take the whole Rakian army, and in time possibly drive them out — stating, the military remains in one place, and the adventurer does not exhaust themselves.

Stating so, the only thing that prevents a high-level adventurer massacre the whole army of level 1 is exhaustion, and the fact, they can't cover that much area as an army.

One person obviously can't cover an area as big as Orario's surrounding; this was fact.

Stating, sending an army against such odds is mere stupidity, yet, Ares does so in every few years, sending his people in the meatgrinder despite his generals massively protest him doing so.

"But it is not surprising, Orario is the place where the highest concentration of high-level adventures station. And since the dungeon is here, their numbers constantly growing."

There were several ways to level up.

One is to take a job or profession — for example smithing, trading or fishing — and do it consistently. Many do it in the city, hell there were even whole familias doing one exact profession and earning great money with it.

"Like Hephaistus or Goibniu familia…" Loki remembered the redhead goddess with an eyepatch and the half nudist old man.

This method was obviously slower but safer to gain levels. One needed not to endanger their lives with meaningless adventuring, after all.

The second and obviously faster method was to train endlessly. This was a better method to gain excellia, and with it, levels, but still not the best practice for those who want to increase levels and become stronger fast.

The problem with this method was the fact; it was hard to reach the necessary "catalyst" to level up, the deed that made the gods recognize the adventurer's accomplishment and gain him/her levels. Thus, no matter how diligent one trained, they stuck on a certain level until they did some great deed, a deed even the gods recognized. A "catalyst" that pushed the adventurer through the level threshold.

It was an unfortunate fact — or not if you asked many. But being the dungeon can be only found in this city, delving the dungeon was the method many may choose who comes here, and also, the fastest method to level up and get strong fast.

Risking one's life, adventure and accomplish great deeds even the gods recognize, yes, this was the third method.

Thought, this may be the fastest method, but also, the most dangerous method to level up. Many died choosing this lifestyle, not even getting past level 1, or forever stuck on a certain level unable to accomplish any great deed before they died.

Naturally, Rakia lacks the dungeon wherefrom they could gain adventurers above level 1 fast. Thus, the only method available for them is to train endless, hoping one of the soldiers will gain enough merits to level up. It is a painfully long process, often taking long years even to level up one level — even using the dungeon and adventuring. Without it, most of the times it took longer to advance.

"Yet, he always fails, because he has nothing more but a few level two's and even fewer three. Always sending them in the meatgrinder before they could really start leveling." Loki said so, finally finishing her mental rambling, excluding Rakia from the possible places where the man could have came from.

"That muscle brained idiot is just too shortsighted and impatient to raise and keep such fighter. And it is not likely anyone of such caliber want to join him." obviously, she referred at Ares.

"Then, what do you think?"

Loki folded her arms over her flat chest, thinking.

"I never heard a high-level adventurer named "Zeff." So it is obvious, the name is fake, neither I know any place simply called "The kingdom". The guy is hiding something, and I want to know what."

"Then, we need to keep our eyes open." Finn still smiled, ticking his goddess even more.

"Aren't you a little bit curious?"

"Just a little bit…" smiled the pallum hero.

"You are unbearable!" and this made her even more depressed.

"I am…" and Finn just laughed on his goddess rage, watching her mumbling while turning her head away offended.

"B-By the way, how is Bete, I didn't see him since last night," asked Lefiya suddenly, seeking to divert the topic and bring back the good mood between the members.

"Haah! He is still dazed and nauseous that hit really struck him hard." Gareth sighed, shaking his head disapproving.

He saw Bete limbering around, the boy still vomited time to time, spending most of his days in his bed. The brain was a precise tool, even with healing potions, a concussion is not a thing that can be healed quickly. The after-effects linger with the victim for several days.

"All day he laid on the bed. When I asked what he is doing, he said he drank too much last night." Riveria gave her an honest answer, and her goddess can only laugh.

All know too well, that was not the case. The werewolf can bear much more drink than he drank last night, and still able to stand for a few rounds. The state he was in all thanks to the massive concussions he suffered and the vibration washed through his body from the strike.

"Fufufu! That's for him! Pick a quarrel with an unknown opponent."

"La-Lady Loki!? Aren't you concerned? He could be seriously hurt!"

"Pft! He may be, but it was his own fault, picking a fight with an obviously strong guy. This will make him consider twice picking a fight with everyone."

"Ah, how nice of you…" Finn tilted his head, smiling uneasily, and everyone sweatdropped around.

"But I still wonder what kind of technique he used. I never saw anything like that before. You, Gareth?"

"Hmm, it was definitely interesting." the dwarf caressed his well-kept beard, recalling the fight. "I as well was surprised. It was something entirely new. Like one moment to the other, he suddenly accelerated without any possible reason. Repelling attacks by simply raising his arm, not even reacting to the force behind the attack."

"Hmm, most likely, some kind of new skill…" hummed Finn. "Any idea Riveria?"

"The only thing I know, the energy his body emitted felt unnatural."

"Unnatural?" For this, even Loki raised her head. "What do you mean?"

"Did you recognized when his body glowed?"

"Glowed?" Lefiya blinked. "No, I didn't saw such a thing…"

"I saw it…" confirmed Finn, Gareth also released an approving snort.

"Huh? Guys! Tell me something!" and Loki only looked around confused, trying to understand the situation.

"It was most likely came with the activation of some skill. It felt like…" the elf royalty looked away, remaining silent, her face darkening. "It was like for a moment the rules of the world changed around him. Changed by an unknown force."

"You mean?"

"Using skill or magic always increases the amount of life force or magical energy, the person circulates and releases. Skills, usually using the first, magic the latter, high-level individuals can sense this."

"Ah!" Lefiya and Loki gasped, hearing out Riveria's explanation.

"Yet, when his body glowed, I felt the first, but also, something entirely different. It made me shiver in my boots…"

"Oi! What do you mean, shivered?" now, Loki started to suspect, Riveria most likely felt the same thing as her, reacting to Gazef's activation of technique.

"Exactly, like this person forced the world to behave as he willed it. Making him able to accelerate himself and block Bete's pulverizing kicks instantly."

"I see…" now Loki was sure, Riveria felt the same thing as her. But it was not that surprising, the sense of high-level individuals was always sharp, moreover if the person was an elf. Elves were still weird that way. The ones specialized in magic were more so, extremely sensitive the change of the aura of others.

"So, what do you intended to do now?"

"Hmm… I may need to call a few favors. I don't want to act boldly. But I also don't want to Freya get him first. Once she gets wind of this, she surely strikes. And after her, the rest will follow."

"Are you going to hunt then?"

"Going to hunt then." her thin eyes opened, revealing the two crimson orbs of hers.


Scene Change: Secrets of Thoth: Second Floor:

"Are you sure it is called Re-Estize?" the petite goddess sweatdropped, seriously doubting a kingdom named like that exist anywhere.

"I am sure." and Gazef nodded, starting to worry.

It is since hours they started to skim through the contents of the shop. Beginning with the maps, then going to the records.

Be it surprising or not, they found no trace of the Re-Estize Kingdom, neither the Baharuth Empire, Slane Theocracy, or any other nation Gazef was familiar with. The warrior captain seriously started to question just where the hell he dropped into.

"Gown-dono, just where the nine hells you transported me?"

Not one map, not one records contained the things Gazef sought. Not one country looked similar, even the continent shaped differently than Gazef remembered.

"Is it possible there is a world map somewhere in the shop?"

"World map?" tilted her head, Toth, blinking confusedly.

"World map." Gazef nodded. "You know, a map which contains multiple continents."

"I know what a world map is…" replied flat and unamused the small goddess, almost offended the man assumed she knows it not.

"Unfortunately, those things are pricy, and rare on top of that. I don't have one."

Not speaking about there are many fake ones out there. Only a really sophisticated, well informed and well versed in cartographer could make a difference between a phony map, and a correct copy —An individual like her.

"Ah, I see…" Gazef looked away, starting to lose hope he will ever find his way home.

"Hmm, in that case. Is there any way to get one?"

"Why is it so important for you?" Toth raised her brow, honestly curious why Zeff wants to find that place so desperate.

"I just want to know, that's it!"

"Geez!" the small goddess shrugged, feeling the tension coming from the man. "You don't have to be so rude, I understand! If you don't want to speak about it, then don't." she now honestly looked quite irritated.

"True, that makes my work much harder."

"Please forgive me!" for now; even Gazef realized he might went too far, bowing his head before her. "I may went too far. But please, understand, I need to find that place."

"Hmm, in that case. I have a few friends; I can pull a few strings. But it will be not easy, and it may cost a hefty coin. Maps containing not only this, but other lands are rare as said, and many of them fake. It is hard to find a good one. It may even take considerable time."

"Don't worry; I have a feeling I will stay here for a while…" back then, Gazef considered the chance he might find the kingdom's treasures and with them the way home soon. But with each day, this possibility started to slip farther and farther away, he may even need to come up with a long term plan, and furnish a permanent base in the city, or outside wherefrom he can conduct his search.

"Securing a constant income would also be a good thing to have. Being an adventurer seems steady enough in this city, but also dangerous. Who knows when I get crippled or raided by others."

Gazef feared not the battle, not even monsters, not even people. He faced them any day of the week and slept well afterward, what he feared being unable to act and reach his goals. Said goal was to find the treasures and return home. Yet, without a hefty amount of coin, it was impossible to reach, he needed a plan even in the case he gets injured, and can't go down there to collect crystals — which afterward he can trade for the coin.

"Good…" she hummed, watching the man for several long moments. "Say, can you read at all?"

"Why do you ask?" Zeff just blinked, somewhat embarrassed. Didn't expecting this child to point it out this easily.

"It was just strange; you didn't read the text on the map, only looking at the shape of the land and the country borders."

"And how do you exactly know that?" Gazef started to suspect; something was not right with this little girl.

"Simple observation. Your eyes moved differently than the ones reading the text; your face showed not the expression I used to see on those who understand what they read. Don't even deny!" pointing at him, she grinned, not even trying to hide her smug expression. The face as someone dismantled your every secret.

"Hmm, maybe I just didn't found what I am looking for, and that's why my expression was like that."

"Nope!" she crossed her arms palms out. "I watched many people read; I recognize the subtle signs! You can't read, at least not this text. The desperate expression you tried to decode unknown characters is undeniable. Don't even try to deny it. I am the goddess of knowledge and scribes. I know what I am speaking about." and once more, she boasted, she loved to brag with her titles.

"Is that so obvious?"

"Pretty much." and as such, Gazef had been defeated, exposed by a little girl.

"I also offer lecturing services; I am sure with a private tutor you will catch up in no time." she offered, smiling gently.

"Hmm, I will consider it." Misha already promised she would teach him the written language; it would be rude to ditch her just like that. But considering she is most likely a busy person, he rather not burdened her further. It is better to hire a private tutor to help him fix this deficiency of his.

"Compared to your age you are pretty knowledgable."

"Hehe! Thanks!" she stuck her tongue happy. Then realized, Gazef once more called her a child. "Ugh!"

"So, any other records we can skim?"

"Hmm, nothing around as I remember." starching her head, she looked around, seeing how messy everything become. "But I will dig around once more; maybe I can find something hidden in this mess. Also, I will pull a few strings, see what I can find."

"Ah, thank you." Gazef nodded, both happy and disappointed with the outcome. "How much I owe for your help?"

"Hmm, well, considering the work hours, the fact I left behind a good book. It will be ten thousand Valis."

Gazef just raised his brow, considering the value of money. But said nothing, after all, the girl worked hard. Helping him with knowledge others not likely to possess, and even for a man like him, knowledge was power, underestimating its price nothing more than foolishness.

"Very well…" Taking out his leather purse, he offered eleven coins with symbols depicting "1000 V".

"Fortunately, Lady Mia introduced different coins, stating their value."

"Ah! Ah!" the girl gaped, seeing the coins. "Yo-You really want to pay that much!?" she was honestly flabbergasted and scared. She just joked! She cannot possibly ask ten thousand only for this, and what the heck? The man handed her eleven such coins!

"Well, you asked this much. I can only oblige the request. Hard work needed to be paid after all."

Yes, he always thought so. Only stupid people await free and qualitative work. This is why his king always treated his people right. Not only because he was a good man, but because he was well aware, happy, and satisfied workforce works better than slaves ever be.

"Ugh…!?" and she can only fume with a red face, hearing the man.

"I-It was nothing. I really didn't mind it." on the other side, no one came while they worked. This was once good, as well as depressing. Good, because Zeff was charming to her and polite all along. A true gentleman. "Good looking, and also, a gentleman. Why fate beating me this hard!?"

Bad, because it really showed how under-visited her shop was, how few knew her shop was actually here and open.

"Maybe I should have opened my shop elsewhere." she should or would do it if she wasn't wholly broke back then. Even this hidden place cost a hefty sum, and this was after her friend sold it to her for a generous price.

"I still paying the debt…"

"Please, accept it, you deserve it for your hard work."

"Ugh! Fine!" she grabbed the coin with some reluctance. At least she and her children will eat well tonight.

The man just nodded humble and was on to leave. "Thank you for your help. I will visit you sometime, inquiring about your progress."

"May I ask?"

"Excuse me?"

"May I ask, do you have a familia?"

"Why do you ask?" Gazef stopped, just staring the girl for long moments.

"Well…" she looked away, pushing her indexes together, her face visibly blushing.

"If you don't mind. You can join my familia. I wouldn't mind. I-I mean, you can get first-hand information when I manage to get the map. As well, you could read all the books here, for free. Of course, after I tutor you how to read. Of course, that's also free."

Gazef smiled, brushing her hair, thinking. "This familia game again…" chuckling all along, he can't help but smile gently. "Kids in this town really like to play this. I wonder what these so-called "gods" think about this."

But maybe, they don't really mind it. As he heard from Lady Lakyus and several priests, gods adore when people worship them, children playing the role of a courageous knight, prophets who spread their name. In this case, this little one, and the one named Hestia just paid respect to these deities, nothing more, playing with fantasy.

Albeit, Gazef shuddered even to the tough, he encountered his fair share of false prophets, doing terrorist acts against the people just to prove their faith either to different gods, or even demons. He only hoped these children would not grow to be such people.

"He-Hey!?" the small goddess pouted, feeling the man takes her not seriously, messing up her hair with his big hand — A hand which literally covered the whole top of her head.

"Unfortunately, I can't stay; once my business conducted, I plan to return home. There are people who count on me."

"I-I see…" Toth sighed, filled with disappointment. She should have expected this. Why would Zeff want to join her? She has nothing to offer. Not a reputable familia, not standard beds to sleep. Only a couch and a few sleeping bags, and a messy shop filled with books, documents, and maps.

"But…"

"But?" her eyes shone once more, feeling there is a chance.

"I may take on your word, and use that tutoring you mentioned. Of course, for adequate compensation." the man added, filling her with some hope, and with it, happiness.

"You can bet on it!" she smirked, seeing the chance that one day she might gain another member of her small familia.

"See you later, Lady Toth. I may visit your shop once more in the meantime."

"Umu. Take care."

And with that, the two parted ways, Gazef leaving the shop with a satisfied expression on his face.

He may not found what he is looking for, but he at least found a person who he can rely on if the time comes.

"What a strange figure…" and thus, the small goddess muttered, looking around once more.

"Hmm, he is right. I need to clean this place. No wonder I don't have any constant visitors." Just a few orders each month. And just now she recognized the sad truth once more; she started to sulk. Yet, right away turned invigorated once more seeing the handful of coins in her small palm.

"Uuuu! So much money! We will eat like kings tonight!"


Scene Change: On the streets:

"Haaah! Now it is solved I can proceed." Gazef hummed satisfied, checking the book the girl gave him as a present before he left. "She was nice. Wonder where her parents are. Childs not supposed to the left by themselves at her age."

True, even in Re-Estize, there were many orphans, children losing their parents due to numerous circumstances — war, sickness, murder, crime — name one reason, and it happened.

Often they left without any relative to move to take care of them, or simply discarded as an unnecessary burden, left on the streets to live like rats. Many of them living in the slums, joining crime organizations to survive. Crime syndicates like the Eight Fingers.

These children later become the new generation of criminals, filling the ranks of Eight Fingers year after year.

This was sad, but it cannot be helped. This was the inherent bad came with every modern society of their age.

"There will always be those who discarded and forgotten. We can only pray they find a reason to live, and not fall to dark."

Even in the kingdom — despite his king, his and several more people's own best efforts — the crime was constant, a syndicate infesting not only his but other countries always present — called the Eight Fingers — and just looking around he recognized the signs of the same thing.

"All these people…"

No matter their coordinated raids on their bases, and the attack of the demon emperor Jaldabaoth, he was sure, in a few years — or months — the Eight Fingers will be back in the business like nothing happened. Even more, maybe becoming stronger than ever.

Just looking around, he made himself remember the capital's red-light district, the place also controlled by corrupted nobles and the executives of the said syndicate.

"Filled with whores and homeless children…" he muttered, seeing many dark-skinned amazons winking at him, several street rats — children — running through the muddy alleys, playing, seeking their prey to pickpocket.

"Hey handsome, want a good time?" asked one of busty Amazons sultry, already licking her lip. Her clothes are revealing, resembling of a belly dancer's outfit, in her hand, holding an opium pipe elegant.

"Sorry, not now. Have an important thing to do." and he replied just like that, making the girl chuckle uncaring.

"Fufufuf… Your loss." the whore just chuckled, chuckling down the refusal. Like she didn't even care. "Just say if you changed your mind, I will be here. I always have some time for handsome cutey face like you." she winked. These girls long ago accustomed to being rejected, not taking it personally.

Gazef knew these kinds of people too well, had to drag his man not once from different whorehouses — soldiers who became too enamored and drunk under celebration.

"Hmph!"

Ignoring the hungry gazes of the carnivorous females around, Gazef proceeded, slowly reaching the edge of the area just called red-light district of the town.

All along, he felt something peering his back, and he meant not the lustful gazes of the different prostitutes. No, someone followed him for some time. Not one, but several people trailing him.

Taking several more turns, he reached a dead-end, peering behind his back with a serious gaze.

"You can come out now," he called, yet, no one answered. Still, he heard the rustle behind the corner, and above him. Moving on the rooftops, their steps soft, but can't hide from his heightened senses. Even without the use of Martial Arts, he can judge their rough position.

"Don't hide; I know you are here."

"Wel, well, well…" in the next moment, a skinny figure stepped out from the shadows. His face full with piercings, several tattoos visible all across his body, head bald.

"A mighty adventurer passing our streets, and not even paying taxes. Tch! Tch! Tch! Tch!" the unknown man shook his head, looking quite ugly with a scar running through his eyes.

"I thought walking on the streets is free." and Gazef replied, his expression stern, not even faltering seeing the weird man.

"I am afraid, not in this part of the city…" continued the man, around, several shadows already appeared, eyes measuring the man from the shadows.

"You are new here, aren't you?" asked the bald with a chuckle, in his eyes a greedy light lighting.

"You can say that."

"In that case. I will need to inform you." the man started to grin, snapping his fingers. "You are passing Lady Phryne territory, who serves the great god of love, sex, and war, Lady Ishtar."

"Hmm, I see. In that case, let me on my way. And I will leave as soon as possible. You will not see me again."

"Tch! Tch! Tch! Tch! Tch!" "bald" shook his index, clicking his tongue mischevious. "You see, that's not that easy."

"Why so?"

"In the Lady's territory, everyone needs to pay, that's the rule. Everybody obliged to use the services of the girls, or boys. Yet, you all refuse the advancement of all who advance. Don't even deny; we watched you."

Gazef squinted his eyes angry. He already suspected, he can't get out without a fight. He knew this type of people too well.

They only need to find a reason, and they will try to bully you, take your money and possession, ransom you, and live on your work like parasites. Against such people, the only useful tool was violence, making them know who they can, or who's not mess with — beat some sense in them.

"That means, you refuse the goddess' love, and with it paying the taxes! You mocking her with your mere presence here."

"Please forgive me; I am not here to indulge myself."

Hearing this, the bandit raised his brow inquired. "Is that so? Then why are you here?"

"Personal reasons, not your business," Gazef confirmed, not allowing himself to fall the man's manipulation and attempt of robbery. Yet, he felt, it's all for notch, as he can't get away without fighting.

"In that case…" the mugger was on to call his "friends" when Gazef interrupted him.

"Is that really a rule here, or you just want to mug me? If it's the latter, simply call your friends, and get over with it."

"Don't interrupt me!" and the bandit right away shook his index, slightly angry he was interrupted.

"Huh! Why me…?" cracking his neck, the warrior captain was prepared. "I warn you only once. I have no mood to deal with you. If you come against me, you and the rest will know the world of pain."

"You think you can deal with us? Defeat the love of Lady Ishtar?!"

"Maybe not. But judging from your movement, and the noise your companion makes, I counted around twenty-five of them. From their moves, around ten will try to drop from above, eleven or so launching an all-out attack from the front. If everything fails, you send the rest serving your bodyguards."

"How!? You little!?"

"I warn you one last time!" Gazef's gaze turned hard as steel, radiating the cold aura of a warrior. "Leave, I do not want to fight."

"Ah!" the bald man with piercings backed, visibly frightened. "What is this feeling?" even facing this man, the fear of dread filled him. It was like he faced a chained beast, a mountain, only held back by the will of the one controlling it. He felt, despite being a level two, he has absolutely no chance to win!

"Dammit! Attack! Drop the net!" from above, a heavy iron net dropped on Gazef, burying him, yet, he cared not, stood motionless as it swallowed him.

"Hah! We got you! Not so mighty, aren't you?" snapping his finger, several more goon stepped out from the corner, carrying different weapons.

"Hmm, simple steel net…" Gazef brushed his hand against it. "Quite low quality."

"Don't try to play the mighty; you come with us now. I am sure; Lady Phryne will reward us handsomely. She prefer to break the handsome ones." even saying the name of the lady, the man shuddered, in his eyes some kind of primal fear present.

'Slice!'

"What was this sound?" it was like a flash, happened under a moment, but still, he can't believe what he saw in the next moment.

"What happened!? His sword? How did it appear in his hand?"

As Gazef held his metal sword, it was like the heavy metal fabric didn't even impede him to pull out the weapon from behind his back. It was just a blur, but it appeared in his hand under a moment.

"…"

In the next moment, slowly, lines started to appear on the metal net, slithering apart immediately. Its parts are falling to the ground with a clatter, freeing the warrior captain from the captivity of his "prison".

"H-he cut through metal!?"

"Hmph. Such low-quality metal, worse than this armor. If you try to hold someone, at least use better stuff."

"Eiii!"

"Now scram, while I allow you. My mood is awful, I don't want to kill you and the rest with a slip of a hand." and it was no exaggeration, Gazef was well aware, people of his caliber were able to seriously injure, or even right away kill simple people if they use more force than necessary. Even in his every day, he needed to pay attention how to handle fragile stuff.

"H-He…!?"

The sheer pressure the man emitted made the scrawny figure shiver, and his legs tremble, in the end, falling his bottom.

"A-A… Get him!?"

"What it is, boss?" asked one of the goon.

"Attack, idiots!"

"Wha-?"

"ATTACK!"

The goons needed not more; a few of them already approached the warrior captain, holding heavy-looking Warhammer. But strangely, Gazef moved not, only taking his sword at one hand.

'Thump!' and when the first bandit swung his hammer. 'Flash!' the warrior captain was already behind them, and after a few moments. 'Psssiiii!' several lines appearing on the bandit's massive body, with his companion, falling on the ground, their body sprouting blood from several parts.

The slices were not deep but sufficient enough to make them pass out under one moment.

"That speed?!"

"A high-level adventurer?!"

"Eiii!"

This one-act was enough to make the rest of the crew hesitate, look at each other questioning how to proceed. Attacking him in this stage seemed foolish.

"Boss. I think…"

"And what we will say to Phryne-sama? Do you know what she does with those who fail her?! Do you saw what happened with Dean?! Do you want to end up like him!?"

The bald man was nervous, scared, and at once, terrified considering the chance of failure. Even thinking about the "frog lady's" wrath, the bandit shuddered.

Not one spent a night with her, just to come back traumatized and broken. If they did not provide her a "victim" — who she is satisfied with — she will indulge her urges with them — ending them up in a reverse rape situation.

"But boss, this is just one Guy." one of the fat ones asked, scratching his head, still thinking they can win.

Of course, how they could think otherwise? Deep inside they were simple goons, muggers, bandits, nothing more.

The only thing they were suitable for is to sack people, take their belongings. Too weak and scared to really adventure in the dungeon and reach a higher level, the woman named Phryne only used such people like that. Cannon fodder and to indulge her earthly desires.

"I said attack! Attack at once! He can't take all of us at once! Think about what Phryne-sama will do with us if we don't bring her anyone today!?"

They didn't need to be said twice, the brigands on his side stepped forward, grabbing their swords, Warhammer and every other type of weapons in their possession. The ones on the roof dropped below, completely surrounded Gazef.

None of them wanted to risk the wrath of Phryne. None dared to go against the wishes of that massive woman.

"Try not to kill him." spat the leader. "Lady Phryne gives a great price for the handsome ones. She wants all for her own use!"

They didn't need to say twice, the light of greed and lust already lit in their eyes, licking their lips. The band consisting of both males and several females started to close on the target. Like carnivores, intending to "devour" him.

"Hmm, so be it." Gazef took a stance, raising his palm, making inviting motion. "Come. One by one, or at once. It makes little difference."

Already measuring their strength by [Possibility Sense], Gazef was sure he would manage, even against such numerical superiority, he doesn't even need to use Martial arts to suffice.

"Haaah!" and the goons needed nothing more, they attacked, all at once, charged against him. Their leader filled with the false hope they can still win. That, their numerical superiority overwhelm this mysterious high-level stranger.

None of them was aware of their true power difference; even the highest-ranked amongst these people were level 2. How should they know this? How should they measure the hopelessness of their situation!?

'Pang! Pang! Pang! Pang! Pang! Slice! Slice! Slice! Slice!' and all fell just as fast, Gazef disabled them with a combo of quick cuts. Even without using Martial Arts, his movements blurred, easily defeating all twenty under a few moments.

"Eiiii! What happened!?"

Once more, Gazef passed them under a blink of an eye, and all froze for a moment, just to fall forward with cuts on their bodies sprouting blood.

"Impossible, th-this…" bald now was terrified, urine started to gather on the ground as it scrolled off on his legs, drenching his badly made pants.

A few of his remained bodyguards were on to run away, horrified how this man took care of all their companions.

"I give you this one chance." Gazef raised his sword, visibly pissed off by the superfluous attempts of these people. "Tend their wounds and leave me alone. Or next time I will not use the blunt edge of my blade."

"Da-Damn you! You think you can do whatever you want!? Lady Phryne will…"

"I do what's necessary." and Gazef stated this firm, making the man right away get red-eye. His whole head basically swollen from the anger, turning red.

"You come here!? Thinking you can do whatever you want? If Lady Phryne… If Lady Ishtar hears about this, you are over! You hear me; you are screwed!"

"Then, in that case, I need to kill you, no?"

"Ugh!" the man stepped back, trembling even more than before, hearing the declaration which was firm like the cold iron of this stranger's weapon. "Please, spare me! I do anything!"

Gazef answered not, only walking towards the man. Menacing, his steps steady and firm, making him grow even more monstrous in the eyes of the few remained. He wasted too much time here, too much effort for these lowly bandits to spend any more time or stamina here.

"H-Hey! You can't just…" and the goon leader and his several remained lackeys trembled as he reached closer with each step, too paralyzed and frozen to do anything.

Unfortunately, they knew too much the consequences of failure. They either fall here or fell in the clutches of that terrible woman. All of them knew which was worse!

"Agh… agh…" but in the next moment, a strange stupor descended on the men around, starting to droll, their arm lowered. Their eyes filled with lust and love, even going that far too droll.

"What is this!? Another?" Gazef felt the same, recognizing it as some kind of charm spell or more like sweet scent.

"This fragrance… [Iron Will]! [Resist Poison]!" jumping back immediately, his muscles stiffened, increasing his poison resistance, his mind raised the mental fort immediately. He encountered with such cheap tactic before; he will not fall for mental manipulation that easily!

Once more, he raised his sword, aiming against the shadow where he felt a similar presence.

"Come out! Enough with your games!" his sword raised against the shadow, a robed figure stepped out from the dark corner. Their whole head covered by a hood, only the lower face visible. A lower face which definitely too feminine to belong to a man, perfectly shaped and cut.

"Please forgive, I just thought you need some help." the tone left the face of the appeared robed woman was melodic, even straining Gazef's mental fortress, continually banging on the door to take control. Yet, he was too trained to fall for such a cheap trick; he resisted it immediately.

"Hmm, as you see. I managed." he lowered his sword slightly, still ready to strike. He can't help but feel the same aura from her like from Hestia and Toth, and that strange drunkard woman in the Hostess of Fertility.

"Ah, I saw it." the cloaked one nodded, offering a gentle smile. The most beautiful smile Gazef ever saw. "You did well against them. Standing your ground against such force. Not many could do it this easy."

"I do my best." and Gazef just hummed, still watching the hooded woman vary. "May I know what are you doing here, my lady?"

"Oh, just taking a walk." she chuckled mischevious. "I like to tease my colleagues from time to time. And walking around here seems to earn that result."

"I see…" Gazef trusted not this woman; his mind screamed that she wants to control him, that she only wants to use him. Yet, at the same time, his less reasonable side urged him to fall on his knee, and admit his love. It was honestly a confusing feeling, only his use of Martial Arts and his knowledge about charm magic and airborne poisons protected him from falling in this trap right away.

"As you can see, we are no longer in a dangerous situation."

"I see it well…" walking near the goon leader, she whispered something in his ear, and the man fell asleep, on his face an orgasmic expression, drolling all along.

"Hmm…" this charm was quite strong; it proved how easily this person disabled people several sizes bigger than herself. Gazef even needed to use a mental strengthening Martial Art to altogether bypass the effects.

"If there is nothing more. I bid you farewell, my lady. Be careful, these streets full of such people."

The woman remained silent for long moments, the warrior captain passing her, seemingly unaffected by her charms. This left her stunned, and at once flabbergasted. Somewhat angry, but even more curious than before.

"Aren't you want to escort me?"

"I am sure you will manage." Gazef stopped for a moment but turned not his face, not against this person. "A person who can use such strong charm surely can handle herself. You need not my help."

"I see…" after a moment of surprise, her gentle smile returned. "But even so, I require your help. In such dangerous streets, two can proceed with more certainty than alone."

"Why come here alone then?" the question made the woman smile even brighter under her hood, feeling some defiance, some challenge from the direction of the man.

"I spotted something interesting, something bright, and followed. I can't help it; it is in my nature. I was drawn to it like a moth to the flame."

"In that case, I will escort you, my lady. But don't try anything funny. Or I will be forced to protect myself."

Gazef usually was not rude with people. With women, even less so. But a person who tries to control him moreover does so with such strong spell — or poison — was not an everyday individual. Such a person only deserves suspicion and distrust from his part. Or at least, until they prove themselves reliable.

"Don't worry, promise…" she made and "X" sign over her heart, swearing to her life, and Gazef reluctantly, but nodded, escorting the woman out from the dangerous part of the city.

"Shall we go then?"

"Umu…"

And thus, the two-headed out from the district, their way was strangely smooth all along, neither of them speaking a word, just proceeding with silence. Everywhere they went, lustful gazes followed them, all aimed against the robed woman.

And after walking a while, the duo finally reached the tower of Babel, towering above the whole city with all its majestic pomp.

"We are here." said the woman, beaming while looking up, adoring the tower that was her home.

"You live in the tower?" and Gazef inquired with a raised brow.

He heard from Misha the upper floors housed shops, meeting rooms, rich gods and people who could afford to live here. But he never dared to imagine a denizen with such wealth wanders in the slums just like that.

"Ah, yes…" she chuckled. "I live here." turning to Gazef; she offered her most honest grin. "Can I invite you to my apartment? I am sure we can find something in exchange for your service."

"Unfortunately, I still have things to attend today. Maybe next time."

"Yeah…" she said so, somewhat disappointed, still trying to realize why her charms work not on this man. Continuously, her brain rambled on the possible explanations.

"May I know your name at least? Just to know who I thank his valiant effort."

"You can call me Zeff…" Gazef smiled, making the hooded person beam back for a moment.

"And your name, my lady?"

"You can call me…" she left a small pause, taking another breath. "Freya."

And thus, the warrior captain and the goddess of love meet the first time, parted ways the first time.

The warrior captain heading down in the endless chasm called dungeon, the goddess up, in her heavenly residence, taking a seat on her throne, just to watch the mortals below with her all (Discerning Eyes).

Like always, searching bright souls all around the city. Urging to fill her ever-rising urge to collect, use, and store.

"Ahhh….!"

Wondering, who really the mysterious figure was. Who was the man who managed to accomplish the thing no other mortal, or god before, resisting her charms and deny her?

From many, she may even consider this a blasphemy. But this soul was too special to consider it that way. Moreover, it raised her urge to hunt once more.

"I wonder…" she bit her thumb, already excited, finding someone else who she can peer her gaze from above.

Naturally, it was not the last time they meet, neither the last time Gazef crossed path with the Ishtar familia and their goons.

What the future brings, no one knows.

Read further, and find out yourself!


A/N:

Well, that's for now. I hope it was an enjoyable chapter!

I know, it took a while, but I have other stories going on the side. (bear with me, right ;P) and other personal stuff to take care in the meantime.

If you ask how was Gazef able to do what he did? Well. Martial Arts! That's all I can say!

Basically, Martial Arts made to counter Tier Magic. It is reasonable it can counter techniques coming from other systems as well (if the Martial Art user strong enough of course) Being the gods and goddesses down there can't use their Arcana to curb stomp or control everyone, they are like every other people down there.

Freya charm is like an innate skill, affects the gods up there because she uses her arcana to make the effect stronger. Obviously, down there it will be weaker, but still affects the gods who descended as they not using their Arcana to resist.

Also, aside of specific skills (like Bell's Liaris Freese), the people of the Danmachi verse have no real defense against mental control like the people coming from the New World or transported from YGGDRASSILL game.

On the contrary to Danmachi, in YGGDRASIL and the New World, it is almost an everyday thing to have and use charms or positions which grants mind control or stronger effects. It is obvious the people come up with counter measurements against such things. And being Martial Arts created to give a fighting chance against tier-based, and other techniques, it is apparent methods exist that strengthens the mind or grants immunity against such effects.

Anyway…

The next chapter comes when it is ready, be patient! :P

Good day! Goodnight! Sail safe! Be good! Until next time!

In the next chapter: The warrior captain first adventure, what he will find down there?

RnR!

Read and Review!


Codex:

Discerning Eye (洞察眼): Freya has the innate ability to see the color and brilliance of souls. She often used this ability while in heaven to claim those she took a liking to before anyone else. Through her ability, the color of Bell's soul is transparent, while Ais' soul is gold. She is also able to use this to vaguely estimate the statuses of adventurers by looking at them. As for how she sees Gazef's soul, you will know from the upcoming chapters! :P

Charm (魅了): As a Goddess of Beauty, Freya can charm both Gods and children with her beauty.

[Iron Will]: Martial art helps to fight off mental control and confusion effects. After activating, it dramatically increases the mental resistance of the target. Like every other Martial Arts, it is stackable, usable with other Mental defense improving the effect.

[Resist Poison]: Increases the body poison and drug immunity and tolerance.