Hestia received an unexpected message from the Guild, requesting a private meeting.

Intrigued by the Guild's actions, she agreed to go to the designated location.

Sitting face to face, in a tense atmosphere, Hestia looked at the two half-elves, one she had met the previous day and the other who seemed to be his advisor and the advisor to her only son, with curiosity and caution. The only words spoken were "I wish to join your Family" by the blond half-elf.

She knew he had ulterior motives in proposing to join her family, even though it was considered weak. Hestia was not stupid and could sense the motivations behind the actions of the other gods and adventurers, but when she looked at Kunihito, it was like facing a true enigma, which brought discomfort.

Hestia crossed her arms "Kunihito, I am willing to hear what you have to say, but I cannot help but feel that you have a hidden agenda behind this proposal." said Hestia, maintaining her serene expression but with a glint of cunning in her eyes.

Kunihito smiled subtly, acknowledging Hestia's shrewdness "You are a clever goddess, Hestia. I cannot deny that I have my own motivations in wanting to join a family considered weak like yours." Hestia tightened her arms, waiting for a more detailed explanation but still bothered by being labeled as weak.

"So, why are you interested in joining the Hestia Family? What is your true objective?" Kunihito took a deep breath before answering.

"My main objective is to have control and influence over Orario. I recognize that the Hestia Family may be considered weak at the moment, but I see potential in it. With my strength and strategy, I believe I can strengthen your family and, consequently, increase my own influence."

Hestia listened attentively, processing Kunihito's words. She admired the frankness with which he expressed his ambitions, but at the same time, she was suspicious of his intentions.

"And how exactly do you plan to recognize my Family? I doubt that a single lunch would make you think so highly of us." Hestia was not very comfortable. Honestly, she never imagined that someone asking to join her family could be a bad thing…

Kunihito seemed too good to be true, to be frank.

"Hestia-sama, I can say that Kunihito-san has a small history with Bell-kun, the recent incident in the dungeon with the minotaur where Kunihito saved him…" Eina entered the conversation between the two.

Hestia looked at the beautiful half-elf with a slight disdain. Why did she seem so familiar with her son? It annoyed her slightly, but she decided to put it aside for a moment.

"Kunihito-san believes that perseverance is something great for adventurers, and he believes that Bell-kun possesses that quality. So, he decided to contact you to analyze your family more thoroughly and reached the following conclusion." Eina explained.

Hestia looked taken aback but found it annoying that Eina answered instead of the blond half-elf. It was like a dog taking the lead for its owner. She couldn't help but remember a phrase that flame-haired board always said in situations like this "They're definitely banging!"

The goddess sighed "I understand your motivations, Kunihito, but why did you choose the Hestia Family specifically? There are other more powerful and influential families in Orario." Hestia inquired, making it clear that she was aware of the power discrepancy between the families.

Kunihito smiled enigmatically "There's no fun in starting from the top. Everyone is too keen when you start from the top and begin to stand out, and that generates intolerance. However, when you come from the bottom together with others, everyone admires you. I see genuine potential in your family. That's something rarely found in more powerful families. Besides, I believe that with my abilities, I can turn the Hestia Family into a respectable force." Hestia pondered over Kunihito's words, letting silence hang in the air.

The silence that followed was filled with tension as Hestia processed Kunihito's words. She couldn't deny that his words were persuasive and sparked her curiosity.

The idea of turning the Hestia Family into a respectable force appealed to her ambition, but she couldn't help but wonder about Kunihito's true motives and hidden secrets.

The presence of Eina, who seemed so familiar with Bell, also bothered her. Why was the half-elf so involved in this situation? Hestia knew she needed to investigate further before making any decisions, and that meeting only scratched the surface of Kunihito's intentions.

As the silence stretched on, Hestia watched the blond half-elf in front of her intently. Her thoughts intertwined in an internal battle, oscillating between distrust and opportunity. Kunihito's proposal was tempting, but she couldn't ignore the uncertainties hanging in the air.

"You claim to see potential in my family, Kunihito. But tell me, how do you intend to turn the Hestia Family into a respectable force? What are your skills and strategies that will lead us to achieve such a goal?" Hestia asked, her voice revealing a mixture of curiosity and caution.

Kunihito, maintaining his enigmatic smile, responded with confidence "Hestia, I understand your doubts and hesitations. However, it is in the shadows that the greatest fortresses are forged. I have acquired skills throughout my journey, I know the intricacies of Orario and the weaknesses of its powerful families. If you give me a chance, I will show you how we can overcome our limitations and rise to the top."

Kunihito's response was not enough to completely dissipate Hestia's concerns, but there was something about his posture and confidence that piqued her interest.

"Alright, Kunihito. I will consider your proposal, but I will do so cautiously. If you truly want to join the Hestia Family, you will have to prove your loyalty and commitment. I will accept nothing less than that," Hestia affirmed, her eyes shining with a mixture of challenge and expectation.

Feeling the need to impose her own conditions to accept Kunihito into her family, Hestia pondered for a moment before revealing her requirements. Her eyes sparkled with a blend of mischief and determination. She was determined to test Kunihito's devotion and commitment, wanting to make sure he was willing to face any challenge for her.

"Kunihito, to prove your loyalty to the Hestia Family, you must fulfill two conditions," Hestia declared with a shrewd smile.

Kunihito, curious and intrigued, eagerly awaited to hear what those conditions would be. He was delighted by Hestia's audacity, realizing that she was not a goddess to be underestimated.

"First, you must become my personal advisor and dedicate yourself entirely to assisting me in all important decisions related to the Hestia Family. It will be your responsibility to ensure our growth and prosperity while protecting our interests." Eina, who had been silently following the conversation, was surprised by the audacity of the first condition.

Eina couldn't hide her frustration, feeling that Hestia was letting her thirst for

power take over.

"Hestia-sama, this is somewhat excessive, it's a very heavy position," Eina interjected, her voice showing a slight tone of disapproval.

"If Kunihito-san wants to truly demonstrate his potential and dedication, requiring him to at least become my personal advisor is the least he could do." Hestia turned to Eina with a firm expression, making it clear that she was not willing to back down on her conditions.

Kunihito, on the other hand, was surprised and delighted by the demand. He knew that becoming a personal advisor to a goddess like Hestia would place him in a position of great influence within her Family. It was an opportunity he couldn't pass up.

Before Eina could say anything to express her frustrations, Kunihito took the lead in the conversation "I am honored, Hestia-sama. I accept your first condition willingly. Being your personal advisor is a responsibility I will take on with pride," Kunihito affirmed, bowing respectfully.

Hestia ignored Eina's plea and maintained her unwavering stance "The second condition is that you must convince one of the most influential gods in Orario to publicly acknowledge the Hestia Family. Attracting the attention and support of a powerful god will be the ultimate test of your persuasion and negotiation skills."

Kunihito contemplated the two conditions for a moment, weighing the risks and feasibility of fulfilling such demands. However, a satisfied expression appeared on his face, revealing his intriguing nature.

"Hestia-sama, I am delighted to see that you possess sharp claws behind your graceful appearance. Your conditions are truly challenging but also show how determined you are to strengthen your family. I accept these challenges and will do my best to overcome them."

Eina, still concerned, looked at Kunihito with disapproval but couldn't deny that his determination and confidence were admirable.

Hestia smiled with satisfaction, knowing that her extreme conditions were a test for both Kunihito and herself. She was willing to risk everything to elevate her family to a higher level in Orario, and seeing Kunihito's determination only increased her belief that together they could achieve this goal.

"Great, Kunihito. From now on, you are a probationary member of the Hestia Family. Prove your worth and bring honor to our name. I will be closely watching your progress." Hestia declared with a mix of challenge and expectation.

As they discussed the details of the agreement, Hestia couldn't resist making a playful comment about Kunihito's attire, which had intrigued her since the day before.

"Hmm, Kunihito, it seems like you're forgetting something today, just like yesterday… Ah, of course! Your clothes!" Hestia teased, with a mischievous smile.

Kunihito, confused by the comment, looked down and finally realized that he was only wearing pants. "Oh! I actually forgot my clothes and armor at the Pub!" he exclaimed, slapping his forehead in frustration.

Eina, who had been following the conversation, couldn't help but burst into laughter at the unexpected situation.

(After Kunihito)

After the meeting with Hestia, Kunihito decided to share his thoughts and impressions with Eina. The two of them sat in a quiet corner of the Guild where they could talk without interruptions.

"Eina, the meeting with Hestia was interesting, don't you think?" said Kunihito with an enigmatic smile "Hestia is a smarter and shrewder goddess than I thought, but I don't underestimate the power of persuasion that I possess." Eina looked at Kunihito, curious about what he was thinking.

"Kunihito-san, do you have a specific plan in mind? How do you intend to meet the conditions that Hestia imposed?" Kunihito nodded, showing confidence in his words.

"I have a strategy in mind, Eina. I believe Hestia will be instrumental in this plan. Hestia is not a foolish goddess, but her weaknesses are evident. I intend to use that to my advantage." Eina frowned, concerned about the direction the conversation was taking.

"Kunihito-san, I understand that you have your ambitions, but manipulating Hestia doesn't seem like the best approach. She is a kind-hearted goddess and deserves respect." Kunihito chuckled softly, seeming to enjoy Eina's uneasiness.

"Eina, you are mistaken. I don't intend to manipulate Hestia in a negative way. On the contrary, I will exploit her weaknesses to help her strengthen her family and achieve a new level of influence in Orario." Eina raised an eyebrow, still skeptical of Kunihito's plans.

"And how exactly do you plan to do that, Kunihito-san? I fail to see how your actions can lead to a positive outcome for everyone."

Kunihito looked into Eina's eyes, his gaze filled with determination "Eina, you know the Hestia Familia and its dynamics well. I am willing to work together with you and Hestia to overcome challenges and transform the family into a respectable force. Together, we can create a bright future for the Hestia Familia and, consequently, for Orario." Eina pondered Kunihito's words, realizing the intensity of his ambitions and how confident he was in his abilities.

"Kunihito-san, I… I really want to believe in you." Eina admitted, with an uncertain expression. "But I'm afraid that your tactics may end up harming Hestia-sama and Bell-kun, even if you believe you're acting in their best interest." Kunihito leaned a little closer to Eina, his seductive smile playing on his lips.

He gently placed one hand on hers, in a warm and gentle gesture. "Eina, I understand your concerns, and I appreciate your care for Hestia." Kunihito murmured in a soft voice.

"But I promise you that I will do everything in my power to protect her and help her thrive. I wouldn't do anything that could harm her, believe me." Eina felt her heart race as Kunihito looked at her intensely.

His words and the warm touch of his hand stirred up a whirlwind of conflicting emotions within her. She tried to pull away from the piercing gaze of the half-elf, but a part of her was drawn to his confidence and charm.

"Kunihito-san, I… I will consider your words," Eina replied, struggling to find her own words amidst the confusion.

Kunihito let out a soft laugh and withdrew his hand from hers, respecting her personal space. "By the way, Eina, didn't you mention that you had a lot of paperwork to do?" The half-elf asked casually.

!!!

"Oh! YOU! You made me focus so much on this… WHAT!?" Amidst a whirlwind of words, Eina practically ran out of the room to attend to her duties.

As Eina left, Kunihito laughed, but as she moved away, his laughter seemed to fade more and more.

"Gods, I had forgotten how difficult it really is to deal with people." With that thought in mind, Kunihito's expression returned to a serious demeanor.

The half-elf had the simple yet unique ability to have excellent communication skills and bring things to his favor. Today had yielded a positive outcome, but his risky approach had created many unpleasant details.

Eina questioning his intentions made him dangerous. He also didn't expect such a cold reception from Hestia, and now he was obliged to fulfill two tasks, one of which was already complicated enough, being the advisor to the Goddess…

It was ironic how easy it had been from the beginning, with the Goddess herself giving him so much influence in her Familia. Kunihito could barely maintain his serene expression when she said that, and now he had the upper hand. But that wouldn't change the fact that Hestia didn't trust him, and he hadn't given her any real reason to, maybe he had been too political in asking Eina to summon her… Well, what was done was done.

Kunihito realized that Hestia had her own ulterior motives for accepting him into her family. She saw in him an opportunity to strengthen her family, using his powerful abilities and charisma to attract more members and benefit everyone. Hestia was an ambitious goddess and dreamed of seeing her family immersed in Orario, reaching a new level of power and influence.

However, Kunihito knew that this seemingly perfect proposal had a dark side. He had hidden secrets and hidden intentions that could pose a long-term threat to the entire Hestia family. It was necessary to proceed with caution and not be swayed solely by the charm and allure of the half-elf.

"My first task will be to prove my loyalty and dedication to Hestia by becoming her personal advisor. For that, I can use the little rabbit and keep it by my side." Kunihito smiled, revealing a hint of confidence and mystery "I will earn Hestia's trust through actions. I will show that I am willing to sacrifice my time and effort to help her in any situation. Additionally, I can use that fight against Bete of the Loki Familia to attract adventurers to the Familia. If I can demonstrate my usefulness and be a reliable source of advice, Hestia will even ask for my approval for small things like what she should have for breakfast."

Now, facing the second condition, gaining the approval of a high-ranking god was complicated. Why? Because gods, for the most part, were jerks.

This would be a delicate task but not impossible. First, he would need to study and better understand the politics and relationships between the families and gods in Orario. He would have to identify the most suitable god to approach and find the best way to get closer to him. By understanding their needs and interests, he could present the Hestia Familia as an advantageous opportunity for them. But what did a small family like his have to offer?

"Gods, interacting with people is more complicated than I remembered!" Kunihito muttered aloud as he snapped his fingers. It was then that he remembered, "I better go get my things."

(Hostess of Fertility)

Several days had passed since the incident at the pub, and the activity in the establishment had returned to normal. Mia, the owner, was busy behind the counter, serving the customers who filled the place. She observed the movement with a vigilant gaze, hoping that nothing wrong would happen again.

Suddenly, the pub's door swung open, and Kunihito walked in. His expression was more serious than usual, and he appeared a bit tired. People around turned to look at the half-elf, some still recalling the previous incident.

Syr, who was helping Mia behind the counter, lifted her gaze, and her eyes met Kunihito's. A mix of emotions ran through her. She felt relief to see him safe and sound, but also a tinge of apprehension. She remembered Mia's words and the concerns raised about the half-elf.

Kunihito approached the counter and greeted Mia and Syr with a nod "Good afternoon, Mia, Syr. I apologize for the confusion last time. I was hot-headed, but things have been resolved since then." he said, his voice carrying a tone of sincerity.

Mia looked at Kunihito cautiously, but her gaze also held a hint of curiosity. She decided to give the half-elf a chance and asked, "So, how are things now? Are you still getting into fights?" He just shrugged.

"And since when does what I do with my life concern you?" He replied spontaneously.

Mia, however, watched Kunihito with a suspicious look. She approached him, crossing her arms, and said coldly "You're not welcome here, Kunihito. After what happened, I've decided it's better for you not to frequent this place anymore." the owner stated.

Kunihito was momentarily shocked by Mia's statement "Is there any specific reason?" The half-elf didn't recall doing anything that could offend any of the residents in this pub.

"You have your own flaws and qualities, as we all do, but it wasn't hard to notice that you lack emotional control. Those who don't have at least that are destined for death, and if they're not careful, they'll take everyone around them with them. If you were to stay here, could you guarantee that your actions wouldn't influence the lives of everyone here?" Mia questioned, crossing her arms "To be frank, people like you are failures as warriors!" she exclaimed.

Kunihito stood still for a moment, his fists trembling with anger and frustration. His chest rose and fell rapidly, his accelerated breath echoing in the tense silence that had settled in the pub. His eyes, once filled with determination, were now clouded with tears threatening to form.

A wave of panic overwhelmed him, his muscles as tense as bowstrings. He felt an overwhelming pressure in his chest, as if the air was being sucked out of him. Thoughts of indignation and injustice swirled in his mind, fueling his anguish.

Mia's voice seemed distant, muffled by the deafening sounds echoing in his head. Each word she uttered felt like an arrow piercing him, accentuating the sense of rejection and loneliness that had accompanied him for so long.

The room seemed to spin around him, and Kunihito felt an overwhelming dizziness. His legs weakened, and he stumbled a few steps back, seeking support from the nearest wall. His body trembled uncontrollably, as if under the control of an invisible force.

The feeling of being expelled again, of being rejected and unwanted, awakened painful memories of the past in Kunihito. He found himself back in childhood, being excluded and humiliated by others because of his appearance and origin. The anguish of those days resurfaced with full intensity, reigniting old wounds that had never fully healed.

!!!

Kunihito arched his eyebrows, surprised and indignant at Mia's statement. His facial expression hardened, and his demeanor showed growing irritation.

"Are you kidding me? After everything I've been through, now you want to kick me out again?" he replied in a tone charged with restrained anger.

"Again? What are you talking about?" Mia questioned herself.

The atmosphere in the pub quickly turned into an uncomfortable silence. The customers around observed the scene cautiously, waiting to see how the situation would unfold.

Mia didn't back down, sustaining her gaze on Kunihito "I'm not kidding. I said I would give you a chance, but I can't ignore your aggressive and explosive behavior. That's not welcome here."

Kunihito's frustration grew, and he took a step towards Mia, his neck veins pulsating. "Do you think you can kick me out? Do you think you can treat me like trash? I've had enough of that!" His voice echoed through the room, filled with latent anger.

Before Kunihito could take a rash action, Ryuu, who was sitting at a nearby table, intervened. She quickly stood up and positioned herself between Kunihito and Mia, blocking his path.

"Kunihito, stop!" Ryuu shouted in a firm yet calm tone. "Violence won't solve anything here. You need to calm down."

Kunihito looked at Ryuu, his eyes filled with fury and distrust. He hesitated for a moment, but his fists were still clenched.

"I won't let you stop me, elf," Kunihito said bitterly, his words imbued with deep antipathy.

Without hesitation, Kunihito delivered a powerful punch to Ryuu's stomach, sending her flying and crashing onto tables. The thud resonated through the pub, followed by the sound of splintering wood scattering across the floor.

Mia's gaze grew even colder, and her eyes narrowed with suspicion "What do you think you're doing?" she said in an icy tone. "You can't solve your problems by attacking my staff or destroying my property." Kunihito advanced towards Mia, his posture now aggressive.

The onlookers were shocked by Kunihito's aggression. The tense atmosphere reached its peak, and Syr rushed to help Ryuu while the customers moved away, fearful of what might happen next.

Mia, remaining calm in the face of imminent threat, raised her hand in a firm gesture, emanating an aura of power around her. The air seemed to grow heavy around her, and a pulsating energy enveloped her body.

"You want to fight, Kunihito? Then let's do it the way things used to be in my adventures. But know that if you continue with this attitude, I won't be as forgiving as I was before." Mia declared with a serious tone, her gaze fixed on Kunihito's enraged eyes.

Kunihito felt a shiver run down his spine as he perceived the determination in Mia's eyes. He had always sensed that she carried an air of someone with a past of adventures and battles, but he never imagined she could be so formidable. However, his anger and frustration clouded his judgment, and he decided to accept the challenge.

"You want to fight? So be it!" Kunihito shouted. His battle stance was fierce, with tense muscles and his eyes fixed on Mia.

The remaining customers stepped back, forming an improvised arena on the sides of the pub. The heavy silence hung in the air as everyone awaited the imminent confrontation with anticipation.

Mia and Kunihito positioned themselves at a safe distance from each other. The atmosphere was charged with electricity, each one ready to strike the first blow. Mia raised her right hand and focused her energy, while Kunihito assumed a defensive stance, ready to counterattack.

Then, in an instant, Mia launched herself into a fast and precise attack, leveraging her speed and agility. She seemed to move with supernatural grace, effortlessly dodging Kunihito's strikes while countering with precise and powerful blows.

Kunihito, although experienced in battles, was clearly at a disadvantage. He struggled to keep up with Mia's pace, his movements slower and heavier in comparison. Every attack he launched was blocked or evaded with mastery, while Mia advanced relentlessly.

Kunihito's anger turned into frustration as his attempts to attack were repeatedly repelled. He began losing control of his emotions, his strikes becoming wilder and more uncoordinated.

The energy around him intensified, but instead of helping him, it seemed to hinder his movements. Mia, on the other hand, maintained an impressive calmness. She seized every opening Kunihito left in his defense, delivering precise blows. Her fighting style was a perfect combination of agility, precision, and strength, showcasing all her acquired skills over the years.

The fight continued, with Mia controlling the pace and direction of the combat. Gradually, Kunihito's anger gave way to lucidity and the imminent realization of defeat. He realized he couldn't win that battle, not against someone as skilled and determined as Mia.

In a moment of clarity, Kunihito lowered his fists and took a few steps back. His facial expression was weary and defeated.

"I… give up." he admitted, his voice laden with despondency "I underestimated your strength and ability. I apologize for my impulsive actions and the words spoken earlier." Kunihito spoke.

He turned to Mia. "I'll gather my things, and you'll never have to deal with me again, I promise." Kunihito affirmed.

Mia watched Kunihito with a cautious gaze, analyzing his expression and words. She could sense the sincerity in his voice and realized he had learned a valuable lesson during that fight. The pub's owner sighed, dissipating the aura of energy around her and relaxing her shoulders.

"Kunihito, I hope you keep your promise." Mia said with a softer tone. "It's not my intention to make your life difficult, but as the owner of this place, I have a responsibility to ensure the safety and tranquility of my customers and staff. If you change your attitude and learn to control your emotions, perhaps one day you will be welcome here again."

He didn't say a word… He had nothing to say.

(Scene transition)

Syr quickly followed Kunihito as he left the pub, her heart filled with compassion and a genuine desire to help him. She caught up to him a few meters ahead and gently touched his arm, causing him to stop and look at her with weary eyes.

Syr felt a pang in her heart seeing the bitterness in Kunihito's eyes. She hadn't expected such a hostile reaction, and her hopes of bringing out the good and incredible side she had witnessed in him began to fade. However, she knew she couldn't simply let him walk away amidst so much pain and confusion.

With a choked voice, Syr replied sincerely "Kunihito, I understand that you're going through difficult times, and I can't imagine the pain you carry. But I've seen beyond the facade you show to the world. I've seen someone with extraordinary inner strength, someone capable of courage and compassion. I believe in you."

Kunihito sarcastically laughed and turned to face Syr, his eyes filled with bitterness "You don't understand. I'm a bad person, Syr. I always have been. I'm only good for war, and that's all that matters to me. I don't deserve your faith or trust." Syr approached him cautiously, remaining calm even in the face of his hostility.

"Kunihito, we all have flaws and make mistakes. But that doesn't define who we are. You have the capacity to change, to redeem yourself. I've seen glimpses of the incredible person you can be. If someone is in danger, you spare no effort to help them. If you see something morally wrong, you intervene. And you get upset when you feel someone has treated you unjustly. You're a good person like anyone else. You don't have to be defined by your past."

Kunihito clenched his fists and looked deep into Syr's eyes "YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND ANYTHING ABOUT ME! I'M A SURVIVOR, AND THAT MEANS DOING WHATEVER IT TAKES TO STAY ALIVE. CAN I BE THAT PERSON YOU SEE IN ME? I CAN'T ALLOW MYSELF!"

Syr took a deep breath, searching for the right words "Kunihito, I understand that life isn't always fair, and you've had to protect yourself from many things. But the fact that you've survived so many adversities shows how strong you are. You have the power to change your path and find a way that isn't solely about conflicts. You deserve that chance." Kunihito fell silent for a moment, battling internally with his conflicting emotions.

Syr could see the struggle unfolding in his eyes, the fight between holding onto his negative self-perception and the hope for a different life.

Finally, Kunihito let out a heavy sigh, and his eyes turned cold "Liar... You came to me in the first place because of others' actions, right?"

Syr felt her heart tighten at the cold determination in Kunihito's eyes. She knew her words had struck a sensitive nerve in him, but she also understood that everyone had their own time to deal with their emotions and accept change.

"In the same way... you're just like everyone else. When I let my guard down, you come and bite my throat! But not now... NEVER AGAIN!!!" Kunihito yelled in anger.

Kunihito's angry outburst echoed in the air, carrying the intensity of his conflicting emotions.

Syr remained still before him, facing his rage with courage and compassion. As Kunihito's words still lingered in the air, he quickly drew a sharp blade from his sheath and pressed it against Syr's throat.

His eyes were filled with a mixture of despair and fury, but Syr's gaze remained firm and serene...

And with the following words, he disappeared. "Mercurio." He vanished, leaving a purple aura as a trace.

"You fool... Don't say such cruel things to a lady and run away afterward." With those words spoken, it began to rain, as if the heavens themselves were weeping.

(Animusphere Mansion)

Kunihito entered the Animusphere mansion, carrying deep melancholy and palpable frustration regarding the events at the pub.

As he crossed paths with Olga Marie, he wasn't surprised to be greeted with her typical mockery, reminding him of the last time he was here, leaving her in one of the worst states she had probably ever been in, albeit with just a few bandages on her arm.

"Always the same story, Kunihito. You never change, do you? You show up here in a pitiful state." Olga Marie mocked with a malicious smile on her lips. She was known for her sarcasm and constant provocations.

Kunihito, in turn, fixed his gaze on Olga Marie, his eyes conveying a mix of weariness. He understood the complex personality of the Guild leader, someone who believed herself to be the pride of Animusphere and who took full responsibility for her role. She wouldn't antagonize him over a minor act such as his.

He knew that despite her unpleasant attitude and rigid manners, she was a professional and serious person who cared about her subordinates.

"I'm not here for your provocations, Olga," Kunihito replied, controlling his anger and adopting a firm tone "We have more important matters to discuss. We need to focus. What is my next mission?" Kunihito maintained his composure in the face of Olga Marie's mockery. He wouldn't let her provocations steer him away from their shared objective.

Olga Marie, in turn, smirked mockingly upon seeing the determination in Kunihito's eyes "Ah, Kunihito, always so serious and determined. But don't think I'll forget your recent actions so easily." she taunted, making it clear that she was aware of all his plans from the moment he joined the Hestia Familia to his recent gaining of access to the Guild through Eina Tuller.

Kunihito was momentarily taken aback. He had always been careful and discreet in his actions, but now he found himself confronted with the confirmation that Olga Marie had been one step ahead of him all along.

"You knew... from the beginning?" Kunihito asked, cautiously, but without revealing all his concerns.

Olga Marie gave him a piercing look and approached, bringing their faces close together. "Kunihito, my dear, did you really think you could hide anything from me? I'm the Guild leader, nothing escapes my attention." she stated with a mix of pride and superiority in her voice.

The revelation shook Kunihito, who began to realize the extent of the information web Olga Marie could weave. It was evident that he had underestimated her ability to investigate and oversee.

As Kunihito tried to absorb the magnitude of the situation, Olga Marie continued to provoke him. "But don't worry, my watchdog. Even though you bite sometimes, remember that's exactly what I expect from you." she said in a seductive and provocative tone.

Kunihito couldn't deny that, despite all the difficulties and antagonism, Olga Marie was the only person in Orario he fully trusted. She knew him like no one else, saw his weaknesses, and still believed in his potential.

Olga looked at Kunihito curiously; he

seemed melancholic. "Well, well, no need to be like that." She wrapped her arms around the half-elf's neck and brought him into a comforting embrace.

"Warm..." The feeling of comfort washed over him.

"Perhaps you've forgotten, but you already have me. You don't need anyone else." Olga's words resonated within Kunihito's thoughts as she gently stroked his blond hair.

Kunihito remained still in Olga Marie's embrace, grappling with a mixture of conflicting emotions. On one hand, he felt grateful to have someone he could fully trust, someone who knew him entirely and didn't reject him.

As Olga continued to stroke his hair, the following words escaped her lips "By the way, Kunihito, I need you to kill someone for me."

Kunihito simply hummed, savoring the moment of peace.

(To be continued...)


I know what I hate the most about Danmachi fanfics: Hestia is always portrayed as a complete "idiot," even though her character is meant to provide comedic relief by being clingy to Bell, which leaves much to be desired. However, if we take into consideration that she consistently shows herself as a wise Goddess most of the time when she's away from the Rabbit, it's a different story.

Kunihito in the Hestia Familia, huh? It's surreal how I initially intended to place him in the Loki Familia, but he worked so well, I mean, so well with the main cast of characters that I decided to keep it that way. However, I will address Sword Oratoria without any issues. In case you haven't noticed, the Loki Familia will have a more prominent role than in the original. Anyway, this half-elf is truly troublesome. I have to admit that writing the scene where he punches Ryuu left me slightly irritated with him. Will there be consequences for his actions? In the next chapter, we'll return to normal activities. Kunihito being in a good mood doesn't last for very long. He's more of an old grumbler who fits better playing the game of Orario than acting like... Arthur Lewin? No offense intended.

Leave reviews, suggestion, opinions, and so on, whether you like it or not, they encourage me to bring chapters faster.