A/N: I don't normally put these at the front, but I've gotten some questions; enough to put it here, and hopefully solve that confusion. The world itself will be based on a distinct AU Danmachi, items/characters/powers from other series may be included; ie DxD, Fate, Demon Slayer, or etc, I'd love to be more clear, it's just the tagging ability of FFnet is a bit lacking.

Clink! Tink!

The sounds of… fighting? She heard it, but she couldn't see it.

Thud!

Or, was it, she didn't want to see what was happening? Her body, her mind, everything told her to keep her senses closed and ignore the outside world.

Drip… Drip… Drip

Yet, despite which that had been screaming at her internally, she forced her mind and body to behest her will. Color and light filled her vision once more, and she felt her heart lurch. She should've trusted her instincts, for the sight ahead of her was not one she could forget.

The screams that filled the air as two men rushed forward to strike at each other echoed in her mind. The array of skill and devastation of their movements was not one she could follow without straining her eyes. This was a fight between a human and a demon. She knew it well, it had been her life's training to fight exactly what the human ahead of her was protecting her from. There even seemed to even be others that were watching in a similar awe and fear, but she couldn't make out their details. Watching the two beings clash with their blows, she couldn't help but feel her body ache subconsciously as she watched them disappear amongst the dust kicked up during the combat.

When that dust began to clear, she found she was already crying. She didn't know the result, so why… the man with gold and red-tipped hair certainly couldn't lose with all that he poured into those strikes, right? She swore she could feel her heart beating louder with each beat, a tension, a foreboding fear. Did he lose? She couldn't see through the smoke, but outlines were becoming visible.

A few beats passed, she felt her eyes widen and strain themselves at the sight now seared into her memory. It was then, without another thought, she felt her voice instinctively cry out despite knowing full well of its futility. A pained cry that wouldn't ever disappear from her memory.

"Aniki!"

A cold sweat dripped down her brow as she sprung up from the simple bed below her. As a draft ran over her body, she glanced around in an instinctual panic for a moment. "That's right… it's been a few days since I awoke in this strange place." she recalled.

The barkeep and waitress who had found her were kind enough to have offered her a room to stay in until she got back onto her feet. Apparently, she had been on the brink when she was found. Looking into the mirror at her side, she wiped a lone tear streaming from one of her eyes and took a breath. If she wanted to learn what happened to her, she would need to steel herself and press forward without convoluted judgment. She knew her brother would have approached the scenario the same way. Now wasn't the time for thinking of what had happened in the past.

She took note of the placement of her clothes on a nearby stand and got to work putting them on. Taking hold of the solid object within one of her pockets, she gave it a light squeeze and turned to the door of the modest room. She was without a blade now, and while it made her feel vulnerable, she wouldn't forget what she had been taught. "A blade was merely an extension of oneself." She was just as capable without it as she was with.

Swinging a white haori over her shoulders, its flame-like pattern draped towards the ground. Her limbs felt to be in full working order. It seems she had made a full recovery since she was found, and she wasn't one to waste anymore time. Stepping forward and turning the knob, the bustle of movement and chatter pelted her ears.

However, above all the noise, it was the smell that made her react most. A pleasant aroma of so many different foods, some she somewhat recognized and that many more that she didn't. Admittedly, she had a hard time taking her mind off the food considering she hadn't eaten these past few days. Her body must've been crying out considering her circumstances.

Headed down the staircase at the end of the loft, she heard a whistle beckon to her direction. Glancing over, her expression softened some. Even though she only vaguely remembered it, she hadn't forgotten the face of the aforementioned barkeep. Meandering through the tables, each seemed to mind their own, but some gave her an occasional once-over. This being the first time she had been fully aware of what was around her since she got into the establishment, she had to hold back from making faces as she took in the atmosphere.

She saw things she never thought a day in her life could be real. Whether it be those with long, pointed ears, or those with definitive anthropomorphic features, it seemed like a place straight out of a fantasy novel. And that was just considering the more "normal" people, she couldn't just ignore the legitimate monsters accompanying some of these people either. The stories of demons and learning of their existence was one thing for her due to her family's history, but this… was not something she could have ever anticipated.

At the least, she was certain none of the folk in here held any more malice or bloodlust than the average human. That alone was a relief to her, the last thing she wanted to deal with right now was a demon or anything similar. Frankly, she was at the whims of this new world. If dealing with these odd individuals was what she needed to do in order to survive, she would do so without question.

Approaching the barmaid's counter, she took a seat at one of the stools and looked up to the taller woman. She was certainly large, and quite strong from the look of it, but there was something more that was nagging her about the woman. She couldn't quite place a finger on it. While she was certain it wasn't her height; Gyomei still topped the cake on that, she would simply need to keep an eye out for the time being.

Pulling away from her silly comparisons, she gave a light but confident smile to the woman. A signature trait of her lineage if there was ever one to be described. "You have my thanks for letting me rest here while I was down and out."

The tanned woman let out a chuckle as she finished preparing a dish of some sort. "Well, I'd be pressed to deny a rare request from one of my girls here." She placed the dish in front of her and let out a light smirk. "That ain't to say it's not gonna cost ya' at some point though, but I haven't seen you come down to eat so I'm gonna assume it's been a few days. So, eat up now and we can talk repayment after."

"That sounds more than fair, although…" she eyed the lone plate and felt light blush come to her cheeks as her gut grumbled once more. "I may need more than just one plate… if it isn't too much to ask?"

"Hmm, alright, tell ya' what," she said, placing another large dish in front of her. "If you can finish three of my meals, I'll forget about the tab on your stay and the rest of your meals for tonight."

She cocked a brow. "And if I don't?"

The woman let out a grin and offered a hand forward. "Then you'll owe me double the tab. I'll offer ya' a way to work it off, of course." she said with a wink to one of the waitresses moving about.

She nodded and immediately returned the gesture. "Quite the generous challenge, I'd be a fool not to accept."

Their small wager appeared to be drawing the attention of the masses courtesy of a silver-haired waitress who giggled as she went from table to table gathering coin. She could only surmise this was not the first time this challenge had come around. Well, she would be sure to make sure this show contains an unexpected twist that ends in her favor.

As an even larger crowd of folk entered the building, their attention quickly found their way to her as well with the musings of this deal spreading. Now that she thought about it some, almost all of these people appear to have this similar aura she couldn't discern the nature of. Perhaps there is a commonality she was missing? Regardless, she would have to think on it later, for now, she had a challenge to win.

Three dishes. It seems as though this challenge has been notoriously difficult based on the customers expecting a loss here. That said, they likely haven't encountered one such as herself just yet. Pulling the utensils from the countertop, she began to work slowly at first, making sure to actually enjoy the food first and foremost, but once that point passed, it was a different story. As the minutes waned and repeated items were downed even quicker with an odd sense of grace and speed, the room's murmurs seemed to slow for a moment.

She had to give the cook credit, the food was simply divine. So much so, she could even go as far to say she hadn't had anything better in her time walking on Earth. But, she was already nearing the end of this challenge and she was even starting to feel bold enough to ask for more.

As she ate, she could only think fondly of a certain pink and lime-haired girl. Her longtime friend, Mitsuri Kanroji, would without a doubt be laughing off the result of the challenge. After all, they had bonded over the very same condition, and anyone that knew them knew very well how large their appetites were.

Giving a slight nod, she merely let off a grin and handed the final plate forward. "I'd like another if possible. The food is, after all, quite delicious."

The barkeep was a bit baffled for a second, but quickly let out a sigh and laughed off the defeat. "Well I'll be, I didn't expect that one now. Guess ya' really did just get yourself off the hook there." she offered another hand forward. "Well, a deal's a deal. If ya' want anything else, feel free to ask. Ya' can refer to me as Mama Mia, that's what everyone else calls me."

She returned the gesture once more as the crowds dispersed and went about their night. "Seeing as we're just now introducing ourselves then, my name is Kaida Rengoku, but feel free to just call me Kaida."

Mia nodded and pressed another plate of food forward. "I don't know where ya' keep it but after tonight ya' welcome to stick around if your plans don't fall through." She gave a wink. "For a price, of course."

She gave a light chuckle of her own and thanked the barkeep. "I'll keep that in mind. I do plan on venturing into the city some tomorrow, so you'll know by then."

"Noted. Well, consider tonight your last night before I give ya' another tab. Now, unless ya' gonna order some more, I got other orders to make."

She ended up ordering a few more dishes before she retired to the room she had left earlier. Of all that she had seen in the tavern alone, she could hardly imagine what things were like outside of it. Based on her experience within the pub thus far, she had some faith that the city would fare about the same. But, she would keep her guard up on the off chance she was wrong..

On the topic of staying on guard, she hadn't failed to notice a presence at her door. Amongst the many other thoughts, she took a final breath and pulled out of her meditative breathing. Perhaps now that she was awake and fully aware, some may have questions for her. From what she could make out, this person wasn't exactly trying to hide their presence, so it shouldn't pose any risk to see what they want.

Swinging her legs around the bedside, a knock soon came to the door alongside a fairly flat feminine voice. "If you are still awake, I'd like to speak with you, Miss Rengoku."

Popping open the door, she eyed the person asking and swiftly opened it the remainder of the way. It was one of the waitresses that found her; a woman with pointed ears and olive-colored hair. The woman stepped inside with a nod and waited for her to close the door before speaking once more. "It would seem you have livened up since I found you in the Hostess's back alley." Her eyes wandered over her and her monotone voice took a slightly more serious jab. "So, what exactly caused you to end up there in such a condition anyway?"

"Well firstly, please feel free to simply call me Kaida. And your name is?"

"Just Ryuu is fine." she said, raising a hand. "If you would, please answer my prior question."

She thought about it for a moment. To be honest, she didn't remember much, she only recalled her body hurting all over. As if she had strained herself to a point where her life would've been at risk if she tried anything further. She eventually let out a sigh and shook her head slightly. "I suppose I must appear quite suspicious so I can't say I blame you for coming to question me. I can say it was likely I was fighting someone to end up that way. As for who or what, I can't say I remember unfortunately."

Seeing as the elf was seemingly pondering a thought, Kaida merely gave a small smile and waved a hand. "I wouldn't think too hard about it. While you have my thanks for aiding me, I won't let myself be so easily taken down a second time."

The woman gave a solemn nod and tipped her head slightly. "I see. Well, that is all I wanted to ask then." She eyed her hand once more and gave a slight apology. "As for your thanks, there's no need, I was simply acting on my own accord."

"You have a kind heart then. You'd be surprised by how some would act given a similar scenario." she beamed.

The elf paused for a moment, her expression slightly darkening. "I can't say I agree. Nonetheless, I have a few things I need to deal with so I'll be on my way. Good night, Miss Rengoku."

She couldn't help herself from putting on a puzzled expression as the elf quickly left her room. Based on her demeanor, she must've struck a nerve or something. It wasn't as if she knew what had befallen the woman, but she had seen similar from others in the past. She'd have to keep an eye out for more information on her as well, it would seem. After all, if she found a way to help, it was the least she could offer to the woman. She was going to be searching for information anyway. Many birds, one stone.

She glanced at her bed and then to the window. As much as she wanted to get right to it, it was the dead of night in unknown territory. For better or worse, her only real option was to spend tonight focusing on herself over anything else. Whichever path she ends up on, tomorrow is going to be a long day.

She left what she learned to be called the "Hostess of Fertility" that morning. She had planned out what she could during the night, but there was truly little that could prepare her for an excursion through the massive city she found herself in. There were at least eight distinct districts she could find, but that many more nooks and alleyways that held their own shops and atmosphere away from the main streets. If it weren't for the abundance of map bulletins around the city, she had little faith she wouldn't get lost one way or another.

Still, while most of her morning had been taken up by this trip, she did want to make some progress on her current objective. Opting to head to the center of town where this "Guild" had its headquarters, she figured she could at least gleam something there. That is, if it weren't for the absurdly long queue… surely they would have some sort of pamphlet for newcomers, right? She had already felt a sigh coming as she pulled out of the line and towards the large section of bulletin boards.

To her pleasant surprise, there actually was; in fact, a column of pamphlets designated for traveler's along the edge of one of the boards. Wasting no time to snag one off the wall, she quickly took a seat by one of the windows. Despite how long the line was, the lounge was surprisingly empty. Then again, the city folk of her lands were hardly any different; always in a rush.

As she read over the pamphlet, she could already feel her mind burning with more questions. This "Orario" she wound up in is one of the largest cities in the world. It is the only known city that contains a massive "Dungeon'' that perpetually births monsters. Despite that, it acts more as a hobby, living, and source of economic power through those that become "Adventurers" here. And, certainly last, but not least, the "Divines" who have descended from Heaven to live amongst mortals, providing a blessing that makes all of this possible.

In summary, she has not a singular clue how to proceed. If not for her; albeit short, experience here already, she wouldn't believe it as it stands.

She felt the questions buzzing through her mind. For one, how did she get here? Two, why is she here? Three, how is she going to get back? Four, if she can't get back… well, she didn't know what to think about that. Simply put, there were too many questions and not enough answers.

Taking a deep breath, she calmed her reeling mind and refocused her goals. She needed a place to rest, a way to fund her eating habits, and a-

"Miss? Are you alright?" a female voice called from a now empty counter.

Letting off a light chuckle, she nodded and apologized. "Sorry if I worried anyone, I'm new here so some of this newfound information has been… overwhelming."

She spotted a few knowing nods from those silently tending to their work. Eyeing the woman who called out to her, a similarly dressed coworker appeared to whisper something into her pointed ears. After a moment, the guildswoman spoke with a hint of confusion in her voice. "Well… if that's the case, there's actually someone who wants to speak with you. You could say he's my supervisor. If you're willing, of course?"

She thought on it for a second. After all, she had hardly been in the town a week to her knowledge and hasn't met anyone officially since her stay at the Hostess. Who, or what, could this person want with her? She took another breath and stood up. There was only one way to find out, best deal with it sooner rather than later. "I believe I have the time to speak with this individual, so please lead the way."

The elf; no, likely half-elf if the size of her ears were to mean anything, led her past the counter and deeper into the Guildhall's chambers. For what it was worth, the hallway's nigh perfect architecture did well to keep her eyes busy while they walked. She had to admit though, this hallway seemed shorter when she first looked.

Eventually, they came upon a darkened stairway that led downwards. From that point, the half-elf relayed that she would await her return from here. While as suspicious as she was about the situation, the Guild was likely just as much so in their eyes, all things considered. For the time being, it would probably be best to merely keep her guard up and leave it at that.

As she descended, the light of flames filled the dark room with an eerie light. Almost immediately, she could feel a different aura from this person atop the throne. He appeared to simply be a large, older man, but it was almost as if she instinctively knew this person was some sort of higher being. Frankly, the aura was not too dissimilar to the folk that filled the tavern last night or even those that simply walked the town. While certainly more potent in this case, she could only surmise entities such as him are the beings who grant these blessings to these people.

Walking forward, she acknowledged an unusual shift in the shadows but paid it no more mind than that for the time being. Meeting the glare of the man undaunted, she waited for the man to speak. He summoned her, after all. Thankfully, before long, the staredown had halted and the man spoke.

"I am Ouranos. From this Room of Prayer, I watch the matters within Orario as Head of the Guild, and keep the monsters of the Dungeon below from leaking out. I've summoned you here because of the aura you have."

"The 'aura I have'? I'm assuming you don't expect me to understand what that means." she concluded.

The man shook his head. "And that is why I've called you here. The aura of your kind is distinct compared to most. Most gods won't notice it at a glance, but those who can see the soul or aura of someone, will." He then waved a hand at his side, the image of a humanoid appearing from the shadows. "Seeing as you've noticed him already, I'll have my attendant explain."

She eyed the being in black robes carefully as it emerged from the shadows. Her suspicions were rightfully placed, but that didn't change the fact that this thing gave off a confusing air. As it began to speak, its strange voice only added to her theories. "In the simplest terms, you are what we call here, an "Otherworlder". As the name implies, one who comes from a world not of our own."

"Eh…?" She tipped her head to the side, all other trains of thought halting at what this person had said. She had an idea, but to just bluntly say it as so was still jarring nonetheless.

"Your confusion is understandable. Often many remember their final moments in their prior life before arriving here and come to the conclusion of reincarnation." the hooded figure explained before suddenly pressing a metallic hand seemingly to its chin. "But…"

Following his words, Ouranos spoke up in his stead. "But, it would seem you are unaware of such a scenario. What do you remember of your arrival? I recommend choosing your words carefully." His voice was as stern as it was suspicious.

She let out a light sigh. She didn't exactly like to blabber information; no less to strangers, but she hardly had a choice with the current turn of events. They had influence, she did not. Shifting her gaze between the two, she eventually spoke. "I don't remember any of these supposed 'final moments'. I do remember aching across every fiber of my being, however. I've since recovered as the ladies at the Hostess were kind enough to watch over me for the time."

The hooded being turned to the god and he gave a light nod. "The gods have the ability to discern a lie in the speech of a mortal, and it would appear you tell no lie. Let us clear the air between us then."

Ouranos nodded and gave a brief apology for the tensions. "Not all who arrive are with good intent. So, hear me on this. Whatever the case may be, all occurrences with these Otherworlders suggest that arrival here is a one-way trip."

She felt a frown visibly form on her face. These words wouldn't stop her from trying to find a way, but… to say it wasn't disheartening would also be a lie. If she did truly die in her prior world, how would she explain her return anyway? She would be deemed a demon on the spot. This was a case where she had no choice but to bide her time given her new perspective on the topic. Granted, while their words could be a lie entirely, there seems to be a mutual aura of respect being shown on the information presented.

"That said, we won't stop you from living a life of your own here. You may do as you wish within the Laws of Orario." the white-haired man continued, his eyes narrowing at the ceiling above. "A recommendation, however. Otherworlders are known to have strange powers and skills befitting their origins, some will take notice more than others…"

She gave a grim nod as an image of a well-known demon her people dedicated their lives to fighting popped into her mind. Some wouldn't be so kind, rules and laws would only do so much to protect her in this world. That said, she did have a question now, one she had no qualms with muttering aloud. "So, what exactly stops the stronger gods from taking over the place?"

Who she now dubbed as "Black-Robes", replied with a knowing tone. "It seems you've grasped your situation some. But, you needn't worry like that. When those of divine blood come to the Lower World, they are no different to any other mortal, and the blessing of each god provides the same benefits. What you need to watch out for is their Familia; those who've joined that god via their blessing. While forcibly recruiting is outlawed, gods that can charm others naturally; like Goddesses of Beauty, can be… troublesome to deal with."

"I see." was all she could muster for a pause. This information was all useful, yes, but now she had to adjust her plans some. Better now than in the midst of some god trying to chase her down and supposedly charm her. After all she had learned thus far, there was at least one thing she was certain of, and it was that getting stronger would only help her situation.

Giving a light nod, she made her decision. The paths she had before her all contained similar options, so why not combine them all. She would live as best she could with the information she found. Whether or not that leads to her departure or permanent residence here, only time would tell. Given all of the potential possibilities, there was no right or wrong choice.

When that's all said and done however, she was still most amiss as to how to deal with Mitsuri. She was- is her best friend. She loathes to think of a life where the two of them cannot see each other again or interact in some form at least. Their line of work was a risk to both of their lives and thus friendships, but still, if there was a chance she could work something together, she would certainly try. Regardless of where they each call home now.

With nothing left said between them, she simply turned away from the two entities and called back to them as she walked. "I will likely seek to be an adventurer knowing what I now know. I can feel that my current strength is not anywhere near enough to accomplish my goals. You have my thanks for the information, as courtesy, I will keep this conversation confidential. And, if you must request something, consider it then, my repayment."

"Miss Tulle, was it?"

"E-eh, I don't recall-"

She gave the half-elf a light smile as they walked down the Guild hallway. "I overheard it from the other adventurers in the line earlier. Please just refer to me as Kaida."

"That makes sense…and just Eina will do."

She laughed nonchalantly as they walked. "Understood, though some of the male variety could do with keeping their thoughts personal."

Eina appeared to blush at her words and tried to shift the topic to something less awkward. "If I may, what did Lord Ouranos need to speak to you about?"

"Can't say. Though, I've been meaning to ask: What exactly does one need to do to register as an adventurer?"

"Oh… it's fairly simple to be honest. Once you find a god willing to take you into their Familia, you can just come to the counter and register with said god or one of their Familia's executives." Eina explained, appreciative of the change in topic.

She was somewhat taken aback, was it really so easy? Letting out a sigh, a small smile found its way onto her face. Of course it was simple, this entire city is based around these Adventurers and the Dungeon. "I suppose I'll have to find one of these gods sometime soon then."

The guildswoman shot a glance to her as she rounded around the counter. Setting aside her clipboard, she flicked through a stack of papers and motioned for her to sift through them. "I can start you off on that, at the least. These are adverts from gods that are looking for Familia members."

"You have my thanks in that case, Miss Eina."

The half-elf gave a light smile and nodded. "Not a problem." A moment later, she hazarded a glance to the clock pinned against the wall and gasped. "Oh dear! I have to leave for my shift at Monsterphilia… if you find one you like, just let the red-headed werewolf over there know; her name's Rose Fennett." she said while pointing to the woman reading some sort of book.

She could only laugh at the interaction, but she understood the hurry. Waving the half-elf off, she returned to the papers on the counter. She'd have to ask about this "Monsterphilia" thing another time. Based on what she could see here, it seems that there are a wide variety of positions to be had in a Familia. Some call for herbalists and potion-makers, while others call upon those that know magic. But, many were merely looking for simple fighters to bolster their ranks just the same.

While she couldn't say anything on the hand of magic besides the Blood-Demon Arts she's seen in her time, her status as an Otherworlder may grant her some in the future. Aside from that, she was certainly confident in her abilities around melee combat. How could she not, she's been trained in the art since she was a child. If she could just find a position within a small team or solo environment, she'd probably excel there.

But… then again, it seems a lot of what's here is looking for things she either has no knowledge of, or a position she'd be a poor choice on. She'd be hard pressed to call herself surprised, generally speaking, the average fighter was probably most abundant. What she was surprised about though, was the lack of smaller or newer Familias in the listing. They must charge for the advertising or something, that'd be the only sensible reason she hasn't seen any.

She glanced over to the redhead at the other counter. She'd probably have to look for these other gods the old-fashioned way, but it may be worth asking if there's any other flyers she hadn't seen yet. Giving a light nod to herself, she headed for the werewolf with a small smile. "Miss Fennett, was it?"

The woman didn't look away from her book and gave an uninterested nod. "Yep, that's me. You need something?"

She somewhat expected this type of demeanor from her, but tough nuts to crack were often some of the most interesting people. "I was wondering if there were any other flyers for Familia just starting out. And feel free to call me Kaida."

Rose appeared to let off a sigh and closed her book. Sifting through a few drawers at her station, she eventually turned up with an empty hand. As the woman tipped her head up to say something, her wolf-like ears twitched slightly and caused her to pause for a moment. Likewise, she had heard it as well.

Boom. Crash.

The sounds of explosions and destruction rang to the east of the city. Screams soon followed. The people of Orario were being attacked; the sounds of terror were no different no matter which world she heralded from. A tension building in her legs, she felt her eyes dilate and a heavy breath enter her lungs. Whipping around, the world blurred by as she bolted out of the building and into the streets of the Labyrinth City.

A/N: This was an idea stuck in my mind for some time, and I finally got around to building it up with my recent semester ending. That said, I hope you can come to enjoy the story despite me always second guessing things at the last minute before I post LOL. That said, I plan on releasing chapters within the first week of every month, maybe twice a month if I have a spurt of writing progress. Take it easy and be safe!

If you feel like supporting me and my motivation, check out my pa treon/lockhardt. If commissions are your thing, check out my Fiverr under lockhardt_.