Chapter 2: Decision

Anos was organizing his library. İt's been about a year since he first came to Orario. After something that was told out of nowhere at a certain dinner, Dylan, his father, actually thought about what his son said and spent the next year preparing and investing to work in the city of adventurers. After said preparations were over, they moved to the city, welcoming their new life. For the last three days they worked to finish unpacking and organizing the place so that it could be called a home. And when no one needed any help anymore, he went to his room spending time with his books. Until a certain someone appeared at his door. "Really, you're finally free and this is what you do? Swarming around paper like an old man." Arin was feisty as always. Same could be said for you. Aren't you supposed to run around the town drinking yourself to death just to find which of the taverns has the best alcohols? He replied without looking at her. "You think a town's supply could fill me enough to death. It would only be an opening act at best." Might be true, Anos thought to himself as she smirked proudly. Arin was a heavy drinker. Since neither Dylan nor Layla were drinking, or at least theirs wouldn't be considered drinking; and Anos hated to see her with beer in her hand all the time it wasn't that obvious to them. She tried not to be seen around so she usually drank early in the morning, while putting him in training-or torture-, when no one was at home, out at taverns in the night… thinking again, they didn't even make her drink less. Anos sighed. "So, what do you suggest I do, get in a drinking contest with a dwarf?" Don't mess with me kid, she gave him a playful look as she threatened him, or I will arrange it. Considering the time when she outdrank a company of dwarves that once passed through their town, and the fact she became a sort of goddess to them after defeating them, Anos shuddered. "What was it you wanted again?" You skipped your training for the last three days. There it was. Ever since he grew up a bit, as all the kids of his age normally do, Arin declared herself as his personal instructor, or torturer for that matter. And since wearing him down meant less job for Layla, she happily accepted. As for Dylan he said "A man should exercise, move, jump. What better time than childhood. Besides you are already running around all day." Not to make a mistake, he was excited about it. The concept of training was super cool for him. the stretching moves, the jumping, crawling, sparring. He thought she could be his master and teach him all about war. He thought he could be like one of the heroes in legends. But that was the mistake. Calling it training was only to made it sound cool. Anos learned it from the hard way that he wasn't being trained. İn fact he was her personal slave. He made him carry her unnecessary belongings from one place to another for no reason. He made him run in mountains. Made him swim upwards in a river. Once he said she was heavy when she forced him to do push-ups while sitting on him. He couldn't even lift her in that position and got stuck under her. Then she hanged him to a tree after coating him with honey. İt was only after the bees had their way with him and the bears came, she returned with beer at her hand. She complained all the way back home as he cried. She could push new routines for any kind of grudges. There was no beer at home. Two more rounds. He didn't hear her at the first time, run until sundown. And he wasn't being taught how to fight or to survive. Quite the win-win. So, when he heard her say that he unconsciously trembled. "Soooo, what to do right?". She looked at him with a wicked smile and head to the door. Anos sighed and followed quietly. While they were walking the streets Anos looked at her and started to talk again. "Arin, it's not like you don't know how to use a sword, and since I'm not a kid- No. she cutted in. She was adamant about this. In a way not even Anos could bring himself to accept. Her expressions never changed, and her tone was normal, but her words were clear. They talked about this before. He asked his father if he could learn about the use of swords, weapons, Dylan said of course he could but left the decision to Arin. On the other hand, his mother opposed the idea. He told them about how it wasn't a tool to harm but to master. That it was good to be good at wielding a sword, just like the adventurers or the heroes; basically, when he was spouting nonsense like a child would dream, his words didn't have any real weight. Arin, with a deep and sad look in her eyes put an end to discussion. I will never, teach you how to wield a weapon. He was so angry and sad, but he willingly accepted their decision. No matter what the situation it was hard for him to discard others' feelings, even much harder when it came to his family. And usually, he wouldn't open the subject again. But today he did. He wanted to learn. Why couldn't he? He just looked at her with wondering and determined eyes. Why? A genuinely asked question. What was it that made her so angry about it. She just continued to walk and stopped by a tavern. Hey master, how is it going? Before them was an old man with grey hair and beard. "What about you?". You know it's fine. Anos was astounded at the speed which she made acquaintances. İt's been three days since they arrived. Or maybe, she knew him from before? A mysterious woman that's for sure. And who might you be? The old man turned to him. He smiled and answered while offering his hand to the man. Anos. Anos Valdir. The man looked at him with surprised eyes while shaking his hand. So are they ready? Arin asked the man, pulling him back to their conversation. Yes, sure here, these are the ones. He showed two barrels standing behind him. She shouldered one of them. While leaving the other behind. He looked at the barrel and saw that it was equipped with straps. After wearing the straps and put it on his back he looked at Arin waiting for a signal. She thanked the man and they started to walk again. "Beer?". Yes. They continued to walk without talking any further. They were heading toward the closest part of the great wall that was surrounding the city. As they got closer, the smaller he felt. They were at least 200 meters tall. Once they reached, without saying a word, Arin started to climb the stairs that lead to the top. The barrel was 10 kg while he was 45. They were walking for about two hours. So when they got to the top he was waiting for Arin to relieve him. After putting hers down she crossed her legs and sat down. Her coat was at her back. It was swinging along with its empty arm sleeves. You can put it down now. He freed the straps and put the barrel down. He took a deep breath and started to do some stretching moves he learned from an elf friend of his parents about three years ago. While he did those, he checked Arin. But she wasn't facing him. İnstead, she was looking at horizon, lost in thought as the wind stroke her hair. She is beautiful, he thought. At moments like this he saw the woman he hugged every night after his torture was over. They hugged each other as she listened to his fantasies until he or both fell asleep. As he was thinking how good it would be if she was always like that, she started talking. Anos, the reason I'm against teaching you is… She took a deep breath, and calmly continued to talk. I know you wouldn't want to hurt, don't want to hurt people. Though I have no doubt you would do what is necessary when it comes to that, if you choose such a lifepath. But again, I also know your big, pure, stupid heart of yours. But even you can't stay a child, or especially you can't. You're no longer a kid, a child yes but no longer a kid. Oh, you are growing. She laughed a bit. I would want nothing else to see how you will live upon this world, and if possible, for you to have that little light inside you, as long as you live, no matter what you do. Whether an adventurer or a businessman or whatever you want. She chuckled. Then she continued. She never saw him like that, it surprisingly saddened him. Holding a sword here is asking others to attack you. She smiled. To converse, to defeat, to surpass, to grow. And whether it's necessary, right or wrong, it is the culture of Orario. It's not bad believe me. There are many scumbags that lie, trick, fool but they are nothing compared to the real thing. And they can never reach to the summit. İf you want you can even live it for yourself one day. After a pause, she continued. Remember when I asked you what you think about adventurers. You told me that they were the ones that lived the most. They were venturing about all life. Always close to death, yet never afraid of it. They weren't bragging warriors about power but theirs were shining during those challenges. It was their heart that was strong. It was them that drew that strength and painted to reality. 6-year-old snotty brat. Spouting nonsense from a few books and a few bedtime stories. She continued with the same expression and tone, smiling. But Anos, I am not one of them. I was a soldier. Fighting against people we did not know because our rulers said so. And when they got a lazy uncaring god to bestow his falna on us, we followed blindly because we wanted to trust them, trust our cause. That little pathetic cause in this vast world. Us, whose mission was to protect our people, forced to kill people like us. Her voice was trembling with anger with a hint of sadness. What was right or wrong, I do not know. All I know that our war wasn't one we should have joined. And we paid the price, some more than the others. For it is the way of life. Her eyes filled with despair and regret. Much more than it should be according to what she was saying. Anos realized that what he was told about her, a survivor of a war-torn country, were just petty lies covering a whole different truth. She calmed down and continued to talk slowly. I only know how to kill now. That's what I remember anyway. She got a little livelier. So, Anos, you can always learn how to wield a sword. When you want to. Maybe if you join a familia, Hera's maybe. Since the "little lady" is also there. Or maybe zeus if you're saying you would be too embarrassed to face her. She was chuckling while saying these with a weak voice that tried to cover for what she has just said. And she turned her face little downwards while looking someplace that wasn't there and continued with a little shame spicing her voice. But I can never teach you. They stood like that for a while. She still had a faint smile at her. Anos spoke first. You're right. Even though she said all that, the words came out of his mouth took an unexpected toll on her. But it was for the better she thought. He continued with a kind and firm tone. After all, you're not my friend nor my master, right? You're my family, Arin. His voice became even livelier. I must do it on my own right? His voice was filled with strength. Soft, dense, full of life. His voice made Arin turn towards him. He was smiling. A gentle smile. Like the how the sun at Fall. It wasn't burning hot; it wasn't dancing with its ray. It was just there. İts light illuminating the world but not oppressing it. Just giving them light enough to be seen. To be the best version of themselves. "When I join a familia and went on an adventure, overcoming many trials, exchanging blows with both friends and enemies, defeating monsters. And after all that, I would come back and tell you all that I've learned. With my blade. To communicate. To hear your voice. And you could hear mine. What do you say Arin, you would dance with me then right? Now he was shining brightly, though all he was saying were things he heard from stories, she could hear the voice of his heart. The will beyond words, trying to make her smile. She looked at him. İt was just a former soldier to listening a child who hasn't lived yet, who knew all what he just said from stories. You dare ask me to dance even though you're trembling like that, come hear you bastard. She locked him in her arms and started to tickle him in a flash. Though it was just pinching. After some struggle he was resting in her lap crossing his arm around her knee. İt must've been hard to defeat his sadness she thought. After she hugged him, a tear ran down on his cheeks. He didn't like to see her like that. Arin stroke his hair as he held her a little stronger. When you join a familia huh. Arin looked at him. I said if but you said when. Tell me do you have some plans? "Maybe. I was thinking to try and join a familia in a year or two. After all, I can be an adventurer too. Though I haven't decided anything" His voice mixed with a little excitement. "And who knows maybe I'll see her again if I do." Arin rolled her eyes. There it was again. İt was like a sacred word, her name. They talked about her a few times in the past year. Mostly when she and his parents teasing him. His eyes were brimming with light each time they talked about it, or even thinking about it. They even begged him for forgiveness when he locked himself in his room because they spouted her name a lot. After that it was always her or little lady. Except for daphne, the name of the great hero was off-limits. She sighed as the situation was worse than she could imagine. So, do you have one in mind? "Freya maybe" the answer took her by surprise. Where in the world did you hear that name? Arin was surprised. "When we came here a year ago, mom took me and daphne out for a walk in the city remember?" the day you got beaten by a girl? "That was at the night" after pouting he continued. "So, we were walking, I saw a woman. A goddess. Silver hair, white skin. -Now he was just talking, without a care in the world. It was like he was reliving that day- When I told my mom she just shushed me, and we continued to walk. She then told me about her own opinion when we stopped to eat something. You know how mom is so, I was impressed. His eyes sparkled. Of course, she knew. Layla was a woman filled with love. Anyone who saw her would be affected. And she was like a compass of universal truths. Her principles of life were so right that no one could say otherwise. And she acted that way. Loving, caring, energetic, smart, funny. She always saw the good in people and she could see the deepest corner of one's heart. But instead of being seen to the core making you feel naked, it made you feel like you weren't alone. So, it was very important not to get her bad side. When one day she and Dylan were talking about her supposed training to Anos, she joked about molding him to her perfect man. The look Layla gave her. Just remembering it made her tremble. I shouldn't mention making him walk all the way with that barrel. Arin decided. "And just yesterday I learned that her name was lady Freya. Mom told me. Guess she saw her again, I don't know. So, if in two or three years if she still has her familia, I might try to join it. It might be fun. Aaand she is the only goddess I know right now." He smiled faintly. Already lost in thought. Arin was afraid. She knew about that goddess' plays. The consequences of her actions. First a hero from Hera and now Freya herself. Just what was he, a bad omen magnet? It was just empty talk. But she couldn't help but wonder why. What did you say to your mother anyway? "I asked her why she looked so ugly." Arin couldn't believe her ears. "When she could be so beautiful." His voice became softer. "It was like she stopped wishing to be free, but still longing for freedom itself. Or it just seemed to me anyway." I doubt that, Arin thougt. This kid was theirs. Definitely. Both Dylan's and Layla's best parts merged into one. But his instincts, his mother's no doubt. What did Layla say after that? "That I shouldn't say such things in front of people, there might even be those might harm me, and I needed to learn how to phrase things. As well as when to and whom to." He giggled. Well, all that is true but what did she say about her that made you left speechless? "I don't remember" There they go again. It was always like this. He could remember the most insignificant things, yet not these. Well even if he did remember would he tell her? Probably not. The most he could get out from him would be you should ask mom. And Layla wouldn't remember because that was in the moment. In the past. She sighed and lifted him with one hand. Okay, go take a lap. "What? Around the city!" İf you're not here once these barrels are empty you will take another one. Anos couldn't believe his ears. "I don't know how to teleport" I'll take that as a compliment. She smirked. Go now. While he sighed and prepared to run, she called out to him with a soft voice. Anos. He returned and looked at her. Don't rush. She looked so kind and happy. He smiled back at her." You too." They both laughed softly. And he started to run. Arin fell silent as his back could no longer be seen. He has grown and yet still a child he seemed in her eyes. One day he was going to run like that. Away from them. To his own future. His own life. She thought out loud. That day might be even sooner than we think. The wind changed course and danced swiftly. As it heard what she said. As it was answering the sad voice of the woman that wanted to stay by his side. He already started; the wind declared. He's already running.

"I'm coming too." This time the voice was angrier. Anos sighed as he turned around. For the past then minutes the siblings were bickering with each other. Both parents were out, and Arin was sleeping soundly, probably she went to bed like an hour ago. Usually, Daphne would go with their mother to her pottery atelier. But today she was at home and as soon as she saw Anos heading to door, she threw herself at him. She had difficulties expressing herself and it made communicating with her hard. Once she decided something it was impossible to change her mind. He looked at her pouting face, sighed again and nod his head. "Fine. Get ready." Without changing her expression, she went her room to prepare. Once they were out, she clinged to his side as they walked. The destination was set. The tower of Babel shadowing the great city. They passed the market area and continued to walk. As Anos was feeling nostalgic in a way he didn't understand, his eyes caught a glimpse of a church. After a momentary stop he found himself at the door, looking inside. Only after his arm was pulled by Daphne he came back to Earth. She was looking at him with eyes not understanding what they were doing. After smiling at her they went back on their path. Not knowing that the moment they left, a fragile girl accompanied by three people entered the building. As the girl started coughing blood the woman held her in her arms. After her blood-spitting seizure was over she asked: Are you okay Meteria? The girl smiled as her eyes shined and her voice filled with life. As if she wasn't sick, fragile or weak whatsoever." Yes, I'm fine."

Once they got to the tower, the siblings were amazed. Daphne let go of his arm and started to run as she yelled laughingly. "Catch me. Catch me." After waiting a little he went after the little girl. He caught up and let her go, they repeated. Once she was exhausted, he realized they circled around the babel. He spent more time than he thought. They took a break at the grand square. There were many people, most of them adventurers. The parties were joining up there and then went into the dungeon. He was looking at them with exciting eyes. He returned to Daphne. "There must be a lot of stores around here. We should get something and head to the guild." His plan for today was to visit his best friend from his hometown. Ren was two years older than him. He was an orphan, adopted by one of the five warring clans' head that protected their country. They always played together, talked about various things. And six months ago, he visited them and told him that he was going to Orario. İt was only after he left, Anos learned that he was an actual warrior. Survived a battlefield by age eleven, wrestled a tiger at twelve. He was considered an equal to clan heads in strength by the time he left. But Ren probably wouldn't care. Since both were raised by stories of slashes that made earth tremble and magics that could create sea of flames. And the fact he was the most relax person he ever knew. After learning where his familia is from the guild he was going to surprise him since they moved to Orario. His reminiscence and thoughts were interrupted by a whining. No. He looked at his sister. She wasn't looking at him. "What?" No. "Why?" There was no answer. She was shifting from one foot to another. There they go again. "Look Daph, we will go. If you're tired, we can rest a bit more. Then we are still going." She wasn't answering. Just holding his sleeve. Such moments he hated the most. He loved his sister so when he was deliberately ignored, it pissed him off. He sighed as he calmed down. "Fine, I will go around the stores. Once I bought what we need, I'll come. You rest a bit more." She wasn't answering still but let his sleeve go. İt should be fine I guess, Anos said out loud as if to reassure himself. He moved hastily towards the closest shop.

Anos got out of the shop and went back to where his sister was. But she wasn't there. He started to look around. She couldn't have gone anywhere. Not without him. No way. He jumped over the stone around the fountain they were sitting. İt was fifteen minutes at best. He looked around him. Only then he realized a little girl behind him, staring at him. Probably his unease was easy for one to see. He jumped down and faced the girl. She looked like Daphne, probably older a year or two. "Sorry. How long have you been here? My sister was here. I was wondering if you saw her." The girl replied with an unease voice. "I came here five minutes ago. I was supposed to meet with a group of adventurers, but I got a little late. I am a supporter. I think they're late too. But I didn't see anyone else. What did she look like again?" A far-fetched idea born in his mind. "This group of adventurers, have you known them before?" Only one of them. Girl replied. We made the deal. We were going to meet with the rest of the party here. Why? No, he thought. No. But what if? What if something ridiculous as… He turned to the girl as calmly as one can be. "Please head to the guild and ask for an adventurer's help. My sister might be in the dungeon with those people." What? But we already made a deal. Did your sister steal my job? She was giving him a mean look. And she didn't understand why they would need help from an adventurer. He answered her without changing his tone. "My sister is just a little girl. A normal girl. Not an adventurer. Not a warrior. Just a little girl. İf my hunch is right, right now she is in the dungeon with them." But why would she go? She could just refuse right? The girl was looking at him with unbelieving eyes. She was still upset over her lost job. "Please just do it." His voice was firm and clear. Just as she was about to ask what he was going to do he sprinted explosively toward the tower. Hey wait. Her voice didn't reach him. He ran. Among the adventurers. He ran past them and dived to the dungeon as a guild lady screamed at him.

Martin turned at the girl for the fifth time. Hey Vera, the stones. Girl kneeled and took the stone that was left by the goblin they just defeated. Her hands shaking. They were a party of four consisted of teenagers, all Level 1. Michael, their fifth member arranged a supporter for their time in the dungeon. He was the only one who was over twenty. So when he couldn't got up this morning because how much he drank. He described the girl and told them where to meet half-asleep. They found her standing there alone. Hey, are you Vera? She looked at them and took a step back. I'm Martin. Michael couldn't come. That idiot. So where is your bag? I don't have a bag. She replied with a weak voice as she looked down. What kind of supporter are you? First Michael, and now this girl.

İt's all right, you can use mine. After all you'll just help us collecting. Sydney, a blonde-haired blue-eyed girl gave a bag to her. She was holding it fearfully. Come on let's go. When he realized she wasn't coming his voice became louder. Hey, I said let's go. After shaking by his voice, she unwillingly followed them.

They were at the seventh floor. They were aiming to go as far as the tenth floor today. They were supposed to. But Vera was too afraid of the monsters. She could only move when they defeated them all. She had a fearful face all the time. They were doing her job for her. She was only following them when they were moving forward. A scammer he thought. He wanted to become stronger so days like this were the worst. After giving her cut from today they were never going to work with her again, he decided. He turned to his team. Let's go, we are going right. Vera was standing still. Hey, with a soft voice this time. We need to go. Come on. He felt bad yelling at her even if she was a scammer. She didn't even say a word during all this time. Only fear was seen from her every move. But she wasn't even looking at them. Her eyes were locked on the corridor before them, frightened. Much more than they saw until now. Just as the others tried to approach her, something entered their sight from the corner. Something big, bulked, black and tall. Towering them. Before the over two-meter monster roared, Sydney whispered: Minotaur.

Anos was running through the unfamiliar hallways. Forward and forward. He didn't even know where he was going. When a goblin spawned from the walls, they bumped to each other. After stumbling a little he started to run again without looking back. The monster tried to follow him. He continued to move. As he moved forward the structures started to change. The walls had light green color. He jumped over a killer ant that just spawned. The monsters he passed by were tailing him and they were closing in then suddenly, a roar filled the place. The monsters stopped in their tracks as they heard the intimidation display of the monster that did not belong their floors. Anos paced up even more. Please, be safe Daphne.

The sound of battle echoing through the walls. Roars and screams. He was getting closer, he could tell. As he turned another corner, he froze up in the scenery that was painted with brutality. A girl's body, head flew, was lying in manner like it was tossed away. A pair of frozen eyes looking at him with fear. İt was from a crawling corpse. His torso was smashed. The third was smashed to the wall, facing it. Neck broken and looking up. Her lower half was right beside it. Twisted and torn. The fourth was lying there in a pool of blood. Right half of his upper body was in pieces. İt was stomped. A little further ahead was blonde haired head. Eyes closed and at peace. As if she accepted her fate in her last moments. The weapons of the fallen decorated their grave as their blood. And there it was. Standing. The painter. The beast's leg was still at the place where it desecrated the body of his last victim. Drops of blood were dripping from the club he held. He was looking at his next prey. Anos followed its eyes. Daphne, holding a bag in her hand was covered in blood. From the slaughtered. And she was looking at the monster in a shock. It was laughing. In its victory. In the fear it installed. İt turned his head toward him. Anos could clearly see the eyes of the giant. It looked at him. Then it started to move toward Daphne. As if the order didn't mean anything. Like he wasn't even there. With reckless courage or the desperate idiocy, Anos charged at the monster. He jumped the beast's right shoulder and held its horn. The monster roared and rotated 180 degrees with a momentum that threw him 7 meters away. After hitting his back to the wall and tumbling on the floor he faced the monster again. İt changed his focus and came at him. Anos picked up a short sword that belonged to the fallen party. He held it with two hands and started running towards the monster. Right before it lifted the club in his right hand and swung it down Anos jumped to the wall and propelled himself forward as its attack went right below him. With the boost he got from the wall he tried to pierce its skin. As the sword touched its muscled body it bounced back and flew from his hand. The minotaur attacked again by rotating and swinging its club. But Anos was too close because of his so-called attack. He was lifted by its elbow and thrown a little further from the beast. Even though he took the least impact possible from the attack, the monster was too close. It turned and smashed toward him. he pushed himself back with his left hand and both legs. His right wrist was sprained because of backlash. It smashed the ground before him. He turned and started to run. As the monster made a vertical slash, he got goosebumps. The club missed his hair with the tiniest gap. The monster roared and chased after him. His wrist was hurting, and his body was in pain. İf he were to think even for a second he would lose to fear. There was nothing on his mind. His instincts were telling him only one thing. Don't stop. Either running or figting. No matter which one was chosen. As the monster closed in on him, he suddenly stopped, turned and rolled toward between the wall and the monster's foot. It's left hand nearly hit his head but since it took the monster by surprise, it tried to follow him by turning back, the monster got disorientated because of his speed. İt took a few steps back stumbling. As it was trying get his balance back, he lowered his stance. Anos no longer knew what he was doing. He was already running towards it after his roll. He clenched his fingers and as it was standing up, he shoved his fingers in the monster's eye. He stepped on its leg while pulling himself up with his left arm pushing up by its horns. As he shoved his hand even more and trying to climb to the minotaur that was at least half-a-meter taller, it tried to hold him and then it tossed him with all his might right back to where they were at the start. He spun in air and fell to the ground. Right side first and then he tumbled further ahead rolling continuously. His every bone ached, and his muscles cried in pain. The back of his left foot was grazed by its horns at the toss and the wound was bleeding. The right side of his head was also bleeding, his body was covered in bruises. He was always falling and rolling since childhood. But this wasn't a game. This wasn't heart-filled "torture". İt was an enemy. The threat this monster posed. He maybe recognized the monster as for what it was for the first time. He forcefully got up. Even breathing was painful. He focused on the monster that was standing on the other side. İt was holding his left eye. Looking at him with the other one filled with rage. Anos couldn't feel his thumb or his wrist but could steel move his other four fingers. His opponent was looking strong, powerful, dangerous. İt threw his club and got on all fours. Hitting the floor with powerful blows. Anos didn't even think about victory. He was just running away. Survival. That's what he was trying to fight for. Maybe because his sister was in danger, or because the monster ignored him at the beginning or the combination of the two. He knew he wasn't going to die. He was going to get killed. He was going to do all he could or die even before he could try. As if doing that would make any difference. He wasn't even getting the meaning of the situation. Or what was going on. As agonizing pain neutralized the adrenaline rush, he got a foul taste in his mouth, and he started to feel the blood in his hand. Started to realize what has transpired. Before he would process the rest, he focused on the monster again. İf he didn't he probably would throw up or froze and die. İf he relaxed. But this wasn't such a time. He wasn't at home. And he wasn't safe. So, he focused on the beast. The only thing he could do. His mind clear unlike a few minutes ago. His soul resurfaced guided by his instincts with an open mind. The one-eyed monster started charging at him. He leaned against the wall, right at the corner. Lining himself with the edge. The monster got faster and looked even stronger. Charging, roaring and drooling. Just as it closed the last space between them roaring, Anos turned from the edge to the hallway and threw himself forward. The beast's left eye was blind, so it probably thought that the wall was continuing. When Anos got out of his line of sight with the tiniest movement possible it turned to the way he disappeared. A cracking sound. And the monster fell right toward Anos crawling in the floor. He looked back and saw the horn that was stabbed on the wall. The blow was strong enough to make cracks on the wall. A painful howl. Anos went to the wall and grabbed the horn with all his strength. The moment he held it in his hands he turned to the monster that was getting up. As it prepared to roar whilst getting up, Anos grabbed the horn with both hands with all the strength that was left in them. He jumped lifting the horn and stabbed the monster's throat with all his might. The fur was in the way, but the meat and the muscles were weak compared to the rest of its armor-like body. İt only got in a little. An insignificant cut. That's all he needed. He pushed again. Trying to push it even deeper, to twist it even more. He wasn't even screaming. All his energy was focused on his last desperate move. As the monster rose, his weight also helped him to shove the horn. The monster grabbed him with its left hand and threw him to the wall with rage. Anos couldn't breathe. His palms were ravaged. He held the horn as the monster threw him. İt only slipped from his hands after it was pulled out thanks to the monster's strength. But he didn't let go. He lost all his strength and senses, on the brink of collapse. As the horn teared its throat monster started to quickly lose blood. Anos was laying on the floor head down. Trying to lift his head. The monster took a few steps while howling weakly and fell on his knees. İt was stumbling, trying to get to him. İt fell on the floor crying with a shrill voice. It crawled toward him. Desperately. Furiously. As he lifted his head his blurry vision had a clear sight before him. A minotaur's head. Right horn was broken nearly from the root. Left eye was bloodied. The trail of blood marked its orbit and flowed down a little. The mouth that belonged to the right-tilted head was drooling with saliva. And its eye. The blood red eye that was filled with hate was intensely staring at him. He could smell the monster's foul-breath. Anos stared back. Unyielding, merciless, star-cold eyes. Just before its lifted hand could be brought down and smash his head, the monster dissipated with a last attempt-of-roar. İt was over. Anos' whole body was itching with pain. He tried to crawl to no available end. For how long they were fighting? To him it was an eternity. İn reality it hadn't even been five minutes. He tried to look forward but all he had was a bloodied and blurred vision. A few moments later, he saw something. Feet. Monsters. Ones that were tailing him as he was searching for Daphne. The brutal visitor was no longer in their territory, so they closed in on their prey. Anos couldn't even hear them. He saw them getting closer. As he tried to reach out, his consciousness started to fade. Slowly. As he was getting in a deep slumber, he closed his eyes. A sound of bell rang. And the wind roared. A girl gazed upon the siblings. Then she turned back and left as a group of adventurers arrived.

İt was looking at him. Blood-red eyed head, floating in air. He could hear the monster, growling. It looked at him even angrier and roared as it tried to gobble him up. Anos opened his eye, trembling. His right eye was bandaged along with his head. He tried to get up a bit. His whole body ached at the motion. He was on a hospital bed. Checking his arms, he saw that his hands were also bandaged. There was an air splint at his right wrist. He held his chest while sitting up. He could hear some people arguing behind the door. Arin opened the door and got inside saying "Then you guys handle it yourselves." After closing the door, she sighed and turned to him only to find that he was awake. "Anos!" she rushed his side and hugged him as she spoke: Ohh you made us worried kid. You made us worried.

Her voice was soft, and her embrace was warm. İt filled his heart and awaked him, pulled him back to the real world, after he regained his conscious. Ouch. Sorry. She released him as he groaned and gently held his shoulders while sitting on the bed. How are you feeling buddy? Her eyes were clear as day and shined as she smiled. "I'm good, I guess. But, what, what happened?" That's what I wanted to ask you. Why were you guys in the dungeon? Why did you go there? She was asking like she still wasn't believing he would do something stupid, but there wasn't any anger or disappointment in her voice. Just pure curiosity. "Daphne." He said. "Arin, where is she? Where is…" She's fine, she's fine. Arin cut in. She's terrified and doesn't speak to anyone but she doesn't have any injuries. "What about mom and dad?" They're fine as well, they're here. Shocked, yes but, at least you guys are alive. "İs that so?" he answered whispering as he looked down with a faint smile. You really messed things up a lot this time. Arin chuckled. There are a lot of people saying a lot of things about what happened, will you tell me what truly occurred? Anos remembered. He remembered everything. Him delving to the dungeon without fear. The scenery that was displayed to him by a monster. Being played by it. Bidding it farewell as its life burned out before his, as compensation for underestimating its prey. He held Arin's shirt before lifting his head with thousands voices in it. Can I get out of here first? Besides I don't want to say the same things over and over. And mom must be out of her mind. Let's go where they are. Arin took a deep breath before giving her answer. Fine you might be right. And I think we can use you. She didn't say any further even when he gave him a curious look. Here, you must be parched. After finishing the bottle of water she offered him, they got out of the room. There were a bunch of people standing in the hallway. An old man with grey hair and beard who looked like an old warrior gave off the aura that was special to gods. Surrounding him were five people who had serious looks on their faces. They emitted a wild presence. One among them especially stood out. Like how both lions and cat were felines. And he wasn't the cat. The red-haired colossal man in jet-black armor was grinning a little while looking at the god. The other four were irritated but they didn't seem angry. A guild lady who looked troubled were standing between them and his parents.

Layla was standing straight. Her posture was like a statue's. Her beauty and charm that was exuded was overwhelmed by the ice-cold aura she focused on the god and his companions. Her eyes didn't waver in the slightest. Dylan on the other hand was standing beside his wife, arms crossed. His eyes were closed and had a calm face. İt seemed like his mother was the one who led the conversations, but his presence was telling everyone present that he would be an even bigger problem than his wife if it ever came to that. No one should try to find the answer, Anos thought to himself as he saw Daphne hugging Layla's leg. As he smiled at her, she pulled her mother's leg with excitement. His mother turned around as he was looking at Arin for an explanation. "Anos!" The ice-cold mood melted in an instant. Layla ran over and hugged him with a skill that belonged to mothers. His wounded body wasn't itching at all in the face of his mother's overwhelming embrace. She asked how he was feeling and whether he should get up as his father came over. He gave his father a look not understanding what was going on. "Uhhm… can I ask a few things please?" the young guild lady asked with a weak voice. His mother, in a manner and speed he couldn't believe, used the coldest tone he ever heard to declare the answer: No. Teenage girl took a few steps back and try to ask again even shyer. We're going home. Layla spoke again. After my children heals, you can talk. One of the adventurers joined to the conversation with a mocking tone. "He could be better if you let one of our healers look at him. Even then he should fully recover in three days at most. Why don't we get this out of the way then we can all go back, right? Although he softened his tone during his talk and laughed a bit to make the mood better, Anos trembled with fear. Layla just turned and walked over him, as calmly possible then suddenly grabbed him by the collar and slammed him to the wall. He was a Level 4 adventurer, a member of Zeus, nonetheless. Maybe because it was too unexpected for anyone, she managed to do such a thing. "Now you listen to me boy." Everyone was shocked. Her voice was too calm and yet too strong. The man's companions didn't or couldn't move to help him. She continued, with rage filling her voice and getting firmer and louder. "You and your friends made a mistake. İt is natural, yes and maybe normal for you. But it nearly cost my children's lives. So, if you EVER try to order me around about their life nonetheless, you'll wish to never leave that hole and run to hide the deepest floor you can find, offer yourself up to those monsters rather than to face me again. And when you die, your god will ask for MY permission, to take your soul back to heaven." Her voice quited down. "So, don't. Ever. Talk. About my children." She wasn't an adventurer, she didn't have a falna, she didn't even know how to throw a punch let alone how to fight. But no one in the room doubted her words. As Anos wondered what was going to happen Dylan softly put his hand on her arm, slowly freeing the man. "That's enough Layla. The dungeon, journeys. We might not know their lives as they do but it is unpredictable as is life. Stella is uninjured and Anos will make a quick recovery. They wouldn't want people to be harmed either right? No one would. İf he can, let's let Anos talk. This young lady can get her job done, these men can get their answers, then we can go home. Besides, seeing you like this affects them more." Her husband perfectly calmed her down and she looked at their children again, realizing the truth in his words. They were proud as they were being owned by her and yet surprised to see their mother like that. She bit her lips as she agreed. Everyone relaxed a bit and he found himself sitting on a table with everyone answering the guild lady's question. "I am told that you do not belong to a familia Anos-kun, someone without blessing of gods. And it is both dangerous and forbidden to enter the dungeon without these qualities. You're lucky enough to be alive." How did you get till the seventh floor anyway? One of Zeus' adventurers asked but Anos didn't pay any attention. He just wanted this to be over. "I just went in because I thought Daphne was in there. And she was." He was answering monotonously. The lady got a little bit considerate and asked again. "There were other people where these adventurers found you. Can you tell us what happened?" -"It will really help us if you do, kid. We want to know, and their god might also want to hear." The god spoke. He was smiling, sadly and had a deep voice. "I'm sorry." Anos continued calmly while looking at the center of the table. He wasn't drowning in sadness but what he was about to say was a sad thing. So, he buried his own feelings and tried to answer as calmly as possible. "They were already…gone, when I got there." He was searching for the right words. "I do not know how. But I know what. A monster with the bull head. What was its name again? I normally know it but..." Minotaur. Arin answered while looking at the four adventurers as their face changed to a mix expression of shame, sadness and regret. Even his mom looked heartbroken by their sudden change. Then they started talking. We couldn't find any while coming back. Yes, but we checked everywhere. İs it still out there? Their conversation ended by their god. Well, it is a good thing that at least you two are all right. İt is unfortunate what happened to them but still. We've learned from the guild as to why you two were in the dungeon and yet, it was our fault that there was a minotaur on that floor. So, I guess we owe you an apology. Just as Anos was about to protest his eyes matched with his father's. To let the god continue. So, he just asked: How could it be, your fault? Well- İt doesn't matter. His mother cutted in as the adventurers were about to explain their role in this situation. What's happened already happened. No use in dwelling on it. The god and his followers relaxed and looked with gratitude to the woman that was handing them an olive branch. "Still, you're lucky you didn't get killed boy. İf you want to go to the dungeon again We'll accompany you, free of charge. Though it will be one time only" Or you can try to join us. Another joined to conversation. The mood was getting better and everyone was smiling a little. We better check again. İf that monster is still there- "You don't need to". Anos' answer took them by surprise. "I killed it." While everyone else laughed at the supposed joke and was about go on their way, the three people who knew he never lied stood still. "You did… what?" Arin's tone picked everyone's attention again. "I killed it." He still wasn't looking at them like he was caught doing something bad. Then he turned toward the adventurers. "İf it is only about that monster, he's already dead. You don't need to look for it." Now even the armored man was interested in the conversation. The child's words were devoid of any emotion, but therefore devoid of any deception. You defeated, a level 2 monster. And without a falna. The surprise on his voice was for all to hear. The giant man started to laugh. The god joined him. Then with a curious look he asked: Tell me kid, how did you do it? As the elder god believed his words the guild lady forced herself accept the kid's declaration. Before he could answer the question, Anos was dragged by his mother. Enough for today. This time her voice was concerned but playful. Since no one wanted otherwise they didn't push the matter further, though they groaned as they wanted to hear more. You can talk about that once he gets better.

After saying their goodbyes Anos was walking with his father to their home. He decided to talk first. "Dad. Were you afraid today?" Only when it is about you, yes, I am afraid. He was referring to his family. Seeing his father' relaxed expression that was slowly consuming the trauma his children caused, Anos started to smile too. "Would you be sad if you were to see me like this again?" His father slowed down and gave him a look for him to say what was truly on his mind. "Today, we were just lucky, just lucky." Emotions he didn't know he had started to affect his voice. "And you know, I always want you to be happy but, I also want… I want…" He stopped in his track and his father turned to him. "I don't know if it is because of what happened, but I don't want this to cloud my life. And even if today was pure coincidence and I was lucky, I don't want to feel, no that's wrong. I want to be capable. I want to be strong. And if possible…" He stopped for a moment. Dreaming about a possibility further than the stars. His pure and calm smile slowly faded away and with unwavering strength he spoke. "I want to become an adventurer." The boy declared to the world as his father witnessed. As if there was a much deeper reason to this oath taken late, his eyes shined as the stars in the dark night. But Dylan could see that if he were to refuse, he would sacrifice the hidden wish in his heart and his unknown future, for them. His father started to talk with a soft voice. "You know you can do, whatever you want Anos. You have that talent believe me. And the truth is it doesn't matter what we think." He continued as his son loudly protested him, without words. "İt is your life and it makes us happy how you care about us. This just means you will start your life much earlier than we thought." A hint of sadness in his voice but he was still smiling. "So, leave your mother to me. You just live your life as we always have. Smart, honest, relax you know the drill." He caressed his hair as Anos was giggling. "But" his voice became firm and serious. "That path you choose is more dangerous than the others. So, you better do it right. Live strong and never let it go. İf you say that you will then you have my full support." Yes. A quick answer was given. One day he might regret it. One day he may realize that wish he held in his heart is too big for him to shoulder, too far for him to reach. But right now, for the first time in his short life, Anos has resolved himself to charge towards a goal. One that was far too precious for him to tell even to his parents. By today's events, that child-like wish, that meaningless dream. He decided to face the world and to challenge was smiling happily that his father accepted his decision. Seeing him like that Dylan couldn't help but be proud. With a smile in his face, he encouraged his son. "Besides the adventurers from today looked like they could give you a chance, right?" You really think so? Anos' face changed from curiosity to wonder, then to resolve. The wounded boy looked at his father firmly, and they returned.

Who thought that a kid without falna could defeat a minotaur? Zeus talked to himself. Now only the giant warrior was accompanying him. "I dragged you down here, but it was worth it. What do you say Zald? The man grinned as he answered. With a mother like that, it might be the least we should have expected. The woman was not one to be challenged. After that little joke he continued. Kid didn't seem to be lying that's for sure. And if it is true… His heart rekindled. The man who could go toe-to-toe with the Supreme Maxim-the strongest adventurer, and their familia captain- hungered for new challenges. Even when they were the top, the world was still vast. As they were talking, the same kid along his father, stood before them. He was looking at his god. "So, you've returned?" Zeus spoke as to guess why he was there with a naughty grin. Old geezer wants to welcome him in his familia huh, Zald thought. İt could be interesting. "You have said that you owed us, right? God…" he was humming as he didn't know who he was. Zeus. İts Zeus young man. Tell me, do you have something on your mind? "Was it that big of a deal, what I did?" His voice was low, like he was embarrassed. "Even if it was just by pure luck, that victory was achieved?" Zeus frowned and with a curious look on his face, started talking. Tell me, was it someone else who defeated it? No. Was it wounded? Probably not. Then it really is a big deal kid. He started to laugh. I know many gods who would recruit you for that feat. – Like you aren't one, geezer-. Zald thought smiling as Anos said it out loud: Would you?

When he learned Alfia's name Arin told him about her being an executive of Hera, one of the strongest familias in the whole world, since the beginning of the age of gods. And the other faction that ruled with them. Zeus familia. "Would a god such as you who is known as the strongest, would want me?" Zeus responded with a laugh. So, this was what it was all about. But you shouldn't cloud your will by saying things like repayment boy. One should be strong, scream their wish, move forward, be true to themselves. That's how the coolest heroes are born, and the greatest adventures are lived. So, tell me again. What is it that you want! Anos smiled. One even might say that it was a wicked smile. "That's right." After that, he let all flow. "I want to be an adventurer; I want to be a hero. And I want you to repay your debt." As Zald and Zeus looked at him, surprised by his last statement, Anos lifted his face and spoke as the wind slowly blew. "I want you to recommend me…" He smiled with a determined face. "To Hera Familia."

His parents were talking in the bedroom as he was biting his lips with excitement in the living room. Daphne was already asleep, and Arin had a bottle of alcohol in her hand. After declaring his intentions to Zeus, the god' eyes became empty, and he just murmured as he couldn't believe what he has just heard. He was frozen, in shock. (Zald) was laughing so hard that a tear ran down his cheek. Meanwhile Zeus was asking questions one after another. Though it was more like he was just questioning the world. After sayin why would you want to suffer? He half-heartedly agreed while asking Zald why he wasn't good enough and continued his blabbering. Anos didn't understand what was going on. Choosing to dive not only to dungeon, but to hell as well, who are you kid? AAAHAHAHAHAHA. the armored man took the god and went still laughing and comforting his god. Now Anos was waiting for Layla and Dylan to come out. "Don't stop Anos." He turned to face Arin. She wasn't looking at him. then continued to speak. "No matter how dire it is, no matter what happens, don't ever stop. You tend to overthink. Don't. the world is vast. Vast enough to match your ridiculous imagination. So run and live it all, then a little more. Be brave to live life to the fullest. That's the kind of life you chose. One that could lead you to amazing places and people. So live, always." She was smiling at him, shining in the dark room as the only ray of moonlight enlighten her eyes. Anos gave an even bigger smile, then calmed and went to his bed. Waiting for the new dawn to arrive and wondering, what the tomorrow would bring.