Everyone, I appreciate the feedback, including pointing out the errors, which I was able to correct.
I just wanted to establish something that I haven't mentioned yet: I'm not fluent in written English, and in fact, these stories are an attempt to improve my poor writing skills. So I hope you can have a bit of patience with spelling errors and other mistakes. Unfortunately, I write on a mobile phone, which sometimes leads to inconvenient errors. Anyway, enough complaining, let's move on to the next chapter.
"Six broken ribs, both arms, and that's not even the worst part. Several organs have been injured. I've never seen anything like this before," the doctor reported about Bete Logar's current condition.
The shocking diagnosis left the members of the Loki Family in complete shock. The outcome of that battle was much more serious than they had imagined. How was this possible? Bete wasn't injured by any weapon, yet… How did he end up in such a terrible state? These questions haunted the younger members of the Family.
Two hours had passed since the elf's fight
against Bete, and now they were in the office of Airmid Teasanare, the renowned physician of the Dian Cecht Family, known to be the best in Orario. The fact that Airmid was the one who had given the diagnosis only heightened the gravity of the situation.
"He is stable at the moment, but it will take a few days before he can leave the office without supervision," Airmid explained.
"Why don't you simply use healing potions to improve him?" Tiona, one of the Loki Family's Amazons, questioned.
Airmid shook her head somberly. "It's not appropriate. Logar-san not only had external injuries but also internal ones. The use of potions at this moment would only hinder his natural healing process, especially in the case of the bones. Whoever did this wanted to ensure it lasted…" Airmid explained with a concerned tone.
The words of the half-elf echoed in the minds of those present.
"You're still alive just because I'm leaving. Consider yourself lucky. That blow I dealt at the beginning of our fight is still affecting you, isn't it? I can see it on your face. You have three to five minutes before losing consciousness."
A mix of helplessness and anger overwhelmed Tiona as she looked at Bete lying unconscious in bed. Although she considered him an idiot most of the time, he was still a companion… A companion who could have died in vain. It infuriated her deeply.
SMASH!
The sound of Tione's fist hitting a surface startled everyone, including Tiona herself, who was surprised by her own action in front of her older sister.
The older Amazon displayed a threatening expression in her eyes. Tione started walking towards the door, turning her back to her family.
"Where are you going, Tione?" Finn, the leader of the Loki Family, asked.
"I'm going to end him. This pest needs to be exterminated before it starts infesting our home… It's clear to me what needs to be done. I'm going to finish off that bastard," she said, her tone filled with fury directed at the half-elf.
Finn looked at her for a moment before stating, "Tione, I appreciate your concern and enthusiasm for dealing with potential problems like this, but I see no reason for us to get involved in this fight."
Gareth, another member of the family, nodded in agreement and added, "Bete chose to confront an unknown opponent for insignificant reasons. He brought this upon himself."
"But Gareth-san, if that half-elf hadn't provoked Bete, this would have never happened…" Lefiya, one of the younger members of the family, tried to intervene but was interrupted by Riveria, her mentor.
"If we get involved in fights for every provocation, the Loki Family will become an enemy of all of Orario, regardless of the final outcome. The only person to blame for Bete's situation is himself," Riveria spoke sternly.
Tione tightly pressed her lips together, clenching her fists. "You speak as if you haven't seen…" She looked at everyone in the room and then at Bete. "That suffocating feeling we had when he fought against Bete… He truly wanted to kill him right there. I've seen it before, all too well… No, it was worse than the ordeal we went through as Amazons in our childhood. The only thing I can say about that guy is that the more blood he drew from Bete, the happier he seemed to become. Even knowing that, do you still intend to stop me, Captain?" the older twin questioned.
Finn pondered for a few seconds before giving his response. "As you can see, Kunihito Xiloscient seems to possess an indomitable strength and a difficult temperament. We shouldn't underestimate him, but there's also no reason for us to wear ourselves out over it. No matter what happens, as long as you walk with me, he won't stand a chance against us." He asserted with authority, surprising everyone with his attitude.
This managed to ease the tensions of Lefiya and Tione herself, but something struck the younger twin's mind.
"Captain… I don't doubt the strength of our Family when we fight together, and I know Bete's individual strength well. However, what if he fulfills that threat?" Tiona asked.
"Never forget my name, young adventurer, and you better pray to never hear it again, Kunihito Xiloscient, because the next time you hear my name, you'll be a dead man. I promise you that."
Finn stood up from the bed he was sitting on and looked at the members of the Family. "If that man becomes any kind of threat to our members, then I will personally deal with him," Finn proclaimed strongly.
Finn's words calmed everyone in the room. Riveria and Gareth, in turn, had memories of the war against Evilus. Finn had changed a lot since then, but apparently, that half-elf had stirred up a similar sense of threat… And that feeling resurfaced, the feeling of carrying the dreams and emotions of the Family members on his shoulders. That's what it means to be a leader, and that's exactly what Finn Deimne was.
Kunihito Xiloscient was someone who definitely demanded caution.
(With Loki)
Loki remained silent, analyzing all the possibilities and consequences that arose in her mind. She knew that making a hasty decision could result in irreparable damage to the Loki Family and to Orario as a whole. It was necessary to act with caution.
While observing her children arguing among themselves about how to handle the situation, Loki noticed something peculiar. Tione and the Sword Princess had a determined gleam in their eyes. They had a burning desire to confront Kunihito Xiloscient, but Loki knew that giving in to this impulse could bring undesirable consequences.
With a mischievous smile, Loki approached Tione and whispered in her ear, "My dear Tione, I understand your desire to face this half-elf. He may be a threat, but we must not let our emotions blind our judgment. We need to find a smart and strategic solution to deal with him."
Tione looked at Loki, surprised by her words but also with a hint of hope. She trusted Loki despite everything and knew that the goddess always had a plan. Loki continued, "Let's use our cunning and intelligence to unravel this Kunihito Xiloscient. Let's find out who he is, what his motivations are, and how we can neutralize him without putting our family at risk." Tione's expression softened, and a determined smile appeared on her lips. She finally understood Loki's plan and knew it was the most sensible approach.
Now Loki's thoughts were elsewhere.
For her, there was something extraordinary and unsettling about this moment, something that escaped the usual patterns of Orario's reality. A simple bar fight had turned into a deafening event, leaving the tricky Goddess Loki perplexed as she watched one of her children being treated for his injuries while the others debated what to do next.
"Kukukuku, it's been a while since Finn acted like this. It brings back memories of dark, yet amusing times." Loki thought playfully.
"However, this could be problematic for the younger ones." She directed her gaze at the werewolf, understanding the impact that the fall of a Family executive could have on their psyche.
The image of the half-elf emerged in her mind. So much strength and yet so unknown, except for… Loki looked directly at her favorite person in the room, the Sword Princess, who was in the corner with a somber and thoughtful expression.
The poor girl was immersed in her own thoughts. The situation was troublesome. It all seemed to have been orchestrated from the beginning. He provoked and made it seem like it would be cowardice to avoid a fight with an unknown and seemingly weak opponent.
However, the Loki Family would now be known not for avoiding a fight but for being defeated by anyone.
Moreover, any form of retaliation would be unfavorable. Addressing the problem politically would not make sense, as the individual in question had no roots in Orario. A physical approach would be dangerous as it could result in reprisals from alleged allies, using it as a pretext to attack the Family. And there was also the possibility of internal conflict…
The words echoed in Loki's mind "Never forget my name, Kunihito Xiloscient. And you better pray to never hear it again. The next time you hear my name, you'll be a dead man. I promise you that!"
These were words that transformed the unflappable expression of the Sword Princess into something entirely different.
It was evident that she desired to run and pursue the half-elf to prevent any future retaliation against Bete. Fortunately, Riveria managed to prevent her from taking reckless action. However, a fire had been ignited, and it would not be extinguished until they crossed paths again. Any confrontation with Kunihito Xiloscient could result in a catastrophe of even greater proportions.
It was a problematic and concerning situation. Loki knew that finding a solution to protect the Loki Family and avoid an escalation of violence was necessary. The goddess would have to use her cunning and resources to deal with this unpredictable threat and preserve the safety of her children.
Kunihito Xiloscient was certainly an intriguing enigma that needed to be unraveled.
(Hostess of fertility)
The tavern was now practically empty, with little activity outside of normal hours.
Mia, the owner of the establishment, watched Syr as she spoke with conviction. "There's no room for discussion. Despite giving him the benefit of the doubt, that man's actions today have made it clear that he is a true threat."
Syr tried to argue, "But Mia, Kunihito-san is just…" Before she could finish her sentence, she remembered that the young Bell had approached her earlier with a nervous and embarrassed expression, and they had a brief conversation.
It was evident that Bell was trying to explain the reason for the fight "Kunihito-san… He only fought him because they were…" Bell struggled to find the right words, but Syr quickly understood what he meant. Bell was the young adventurer who was chased by the minotaur, and everything unfolded from that situation.
"Kunihito-san is a kind person," Syr firmly affirmed. She chose not to go into embarrassing details involving Bell, as she knew how much it could affect the self-esteem of a young adventurer.
Mia was not intimidated and continued, "I don't care about the reason for that fight. In fact, the fight itself doesn't interest me as much. What concerns me are the feelings that arose from it."
Curious, Syr questioned "What do you mean by that, Mia?"
"From a certain point onwards, it became clear what matters to the half-elf, Syr! No matter how much you defend him, it's inevitable that those who get close to people like him are subjected to a dangerous path," explained Mia as she took a sip of beer, a gesture that showed her genuine concern.
"Honestly, this kind of person is the worst type of adventurer one can have. If he doesn't die in the dungeon, someone else will, and I doubt he cares. I think guys like him should…" Mia was interrupted before finishing her sentence.
"PLEASE, STOP!" Syr shouted, gritting her teeth in anguish.
Mia sighed, understanding the impact of her words "You truly are a kind-hearted person, and I appreciate that. But deep down, I'm sure you understand the reality of those who are connected to him."
Chloe, one of Syr's friends, decided to intervene. "Come on, Syr. Understand that Mama's concern is solely for your safety."
Anya, another friend, added playfully, "Kunihito is really hot, but he's a rough beast for you to get involved with… Sorry if that sounded weird-nyan tehehehehe," she said, scratching her head with an embarrassed expression.
The atmosphere in the tavern lightened up with the words of the friends, but Syr still felt a mix of injustice and curiosity.
She exchanged a brief glance with Ryuu, an experienced adventurer who understood the challenges of life in that world. Ryuu simply nodded, indicating that further discussion at that moment would not be productive.
"Tch…" Syr decided to leave the pub, determined to search for Kunihito. Ryuu quietly decided to accompany her, showing her support and willingness to help.
Mia watched their departure and sighed deeply. She knew that Kunihito Xiloscient posed a threat to those close to him, but her instincts also recognized that there was more to that complicated story than met the eye.
In the end, Kunihito Xiloscient was still a danger to everyone around him.
(Dungeon: Fifth Floor)
The words "I'm a complete idiot" echoed incessantly in Bell Cranel's mind for the past few hours. No matter how many monsters he defeated, that feeling of insignificance and shame persisted. He blamed himself for causing that situation and yet being protected.
The image of Ais, distant and unattainable, appeared in his mind. If he wanted to reach that person, how many challenges would he have to face? Foolish passion ignited, transforming into the burning determination in his heart, driving him to act recklessly.
The memories of Kunihito saving him, his escape from the blond duo, and then the scene at the bar, with the Werewolf laughing at his misfortune.
"CURSE IT!!! This is so infuriating! Someone should put a leash on that mongrel. His incessant barking is ruining the taste of my drink!"
Bell exploded in anger. The way Kunihito defended him, even though the situation wasn't directly related, was obvious to Bell. The half-elf had protected him once again.
Cut
Kick
Stab
"It's PATHETIC! RIDICULOUS! YOU CAN'T EVEN DEFEND YOURSELF AGAINST SOME TRIVIALITIES, BELL! YOU'RE A JOKE AS AN ADVENTURER!" Bell shouted at himself. In this moment.
Bell felt utterly frustrated. He couldn't even defend himself against the minotaur in the first place and was saved by the half-elf. Then, he was protected again for the same reason. And he couldn't do… do… ANYTHING!
The swarm of monsters dissipated. Had he defeated them all? Bell was panting and exhausted, his legs aching, but something propelled him to stay on his feet and move forward.
It was as if a golden silhouette stood before him, with its back turned. The strong and unwavering image of Kunihito.
Bell had a strong opinion about the half-elf. He was strong and kind, even in their brief interactions. Without hesitation, he had helped Bell, like a true friend. Bell admired that incredible person and wished… no, he would become someone like the half-elf who had protected him.
Bell saw the silhouette move, and the rabbit began to force his legs to walk.
Step
Step
"Can you keep up with me?" The words resonated in his mind like a shot. Bell then started to run, advancing beyond that blinding light. He wanted to become someone capable of walking alongside the half-elf as an equal.
Kunihito Xiloscient was undoubtedly the most incredible person Bell Cranel had ever known.
(Mansion Animusphere)
A figure in the midst of darkness patiently read a book until something caught her attention, and she looked forward.
"You're a mess and you reek of booze and blood." A female voice was heard in the dark library where all the guild's knowledge was archived, at least the ones that couldn't be made public without compromising.
"I happened to be bitten by a wild dog before coming here, but I can't complain." Kunihito laughed as he flexed his arms that had seen better days.
"I never cease to find it amusing how you tend to belittle others. Perhaps Bete Loga wasn't interesting enough for you." The person spoke indifferently.
"There's no man I bother remembering the name of, after all, what's the point of remembering the names of people I've killed or will kill later." The half-elf said as he sat on the table.
The figure gave a brief smile. "Honestly, if you weren't who you are, I would put all of Orario on the hunt for your head." She spoke, closing the book she was reading.
"That makes my heart skip a beat, but I'm surprised that you already know about such an event. After all, it happened not long ago." Kunihito said, running his fingers over his chin.
"Never underestimate the reach of my eyes and ears, Kunihito. As the leader of the Guild, it is my duty to be aware of the happenings in Orario." The figure then stood up to put the book back on the designated shelf.
Kunihito smiled. "As they say, even blind ants communicate quite well amongst themselves, am I right, Animusphere-san?" The half-elf looked at the woman with disdain.
This was Olga Marie Animusphere. This woman was a young lady with long white hair and golden amber eyes, with pointed ears that revealed her elven nature. Olga was one of the women who held one of the highest positions in all of Orario; she was the leader of the Guild and responsible for monitoring the movements of the Adventurer Families.
"As I suspected, you're looking for a way to die today!" Olga asserted.
"YAHAHAHAHA! Not at all, I was just drunk. I do crazy things in that state, why do you think I'm here?" Kunihito said amidst laughter.
Olga then noticed her cheeks were slightly flushed, probably due to alcohol.
"So you're not going to start attacking Families for no reason? I have no interest in seeing you die just yet or painting a target on your back." The guild leader said as she crossed her arms over her ample bosom.
"YAHAHAHAHA! Well, I have always been an endless source of entertainment for you, haven't I? But I believe I have something that might pique your interest!" Kunihito said with amusement.
"Interesting. Tell me, what do you have to offer that's worth my time?" Olga then moved her hands to her crossed back, and Kunihito's eyes gleamed at her action.
"I have witnessed extraordinary things since I arrived in this city. It made me reconsider my initial opinions. Orario is a place full of possibilities, a place where the weakest can become the strongest, but your mindset is your greatest weakness." Kunihito affirmed.
Olga became curious, "What exactly are you suggesting, Kunihito?"
Rising from the table, with his eyes shining, Kunihito said "Imagine if we used the influence of the Guild and the other Familias to direct all of Orario's resources towards military strength. A lawless land where the strongest survive. It would be a true paradise for power-hungry warriors who would be leashed in their pursuit of power," the half-elf affirmed.
"Adventurers like that would only bring disaster. The events of Evilus are a sign of that, and because of them, we have become stricter with these fools," Olga retorted.
Kunihito smiled "Since we would have control over all the resources they need, if they start barking, we can simply withhold food and discipline them."
"This is a bold and dangerous proposal. You are talking about radically changing the structure of Orario, turning it into a city governed by military force, where adventurers would be mere pawns in our power game. This could cause chaos and disaster, and bring unpredictable consequences. We cannot play with people's lives in this way." Olga had a pensive expression.
Olga Marie, with a penetrating gaze, said, "You are drunk, Kunihito. Your words may just be delusions of an alcohol-altered mind." she said firmly.
A palpable tension hung in the air as Kunihito raised his palm towards Olga, emanating intense golden energy. His eyes reflected a dark determination as he continued to speak, his voice filled with mystery and anticipation.
Light
Kunihito whispered with a chilling voice "There is someone at the top of this staircase, someone who remains hidden in the shadows of this world. Could it be one of the Gods who dwell among us? Or the adventurers, growing more powerful each day? Or perhaps the monsters that hide in the depths of the dungeon? No..."
He paused briefly, increasing the tension in the room, as Olga watched, feeling her heart race.
Kunihito with a penetrating gaze, "It is the most skilled warriors who have slowly conquered the world, the so-called heroes! There are certain individuals, Olga Marie, that you need to keep an eye on... the Familias of Adventurers." In the next moment, a blinding light erupted from Kunihito's palm, bathing the room in a dazzling and intense glow.
LIGHT!
Olga felt a suffocating pressure enveloping her neck, causing her to break into a cold sweat and struggle to breathe. Time seemed to freeze, and she found herself on the brink of death, trapped in a harrowing glimpse.
Kunihito shouted with a voice full of power "THE BLACK DRAGON OF A SINGLE EYE CONTINUES TO HIDE IN THE SHADOWS OF THIS WORLD! WHEN AND WHERE WILL IT EMERGE? WHO WILL ALIGN WITH IT? WHO WILL BETRAY WHOM? TELL THIS GOD WHO IMPRISONS BEASTS IN A CAGE... he shall fall!" The light intensified even further, engulfing the mansion and everything around it.
Olga fought to breathe, her thoughts racing as she tried to comprehend Kunihito's words and what they meant for Orario's fate.
Kunihito spoke in an enigmatic tone "It has been 15 years since Zeus and Hera were defeated when they faced the King of Monsters. Freya and Loki took their place but did not take control of the Era that followed. Now... unique adventurers are emerging in Orario, and there is a completely empty place. Do you understand what I'm saying?" Olga felt a shiver run down her spine, a sense of urgency and imminent danger.
As the bright light consumed the mansion, she realized that she was witnessing the beginning of something grand and sinister, a story of supremacy that would change the course of the world.
The scene ended with the mansion immersed in blinding light, leaving Olga Marie Animusphere and Kunihito Xiloscient submerged in a sea of mystery and uncertainty.
Kunihito Xiloscient was certainly just a slightly brighter stone... But he was only that among many.
(To be continued...)
END OF PROLOGUE!!! So, what did you think? Please leave your revisions as they encourage me to bring the next chapters faster! What are your assumptions about the future? Any complaints? Just to make it clear, I want the Canon to soar to the sky. And speaking of which, Kunihito is just one of many "special" characters who will appear. In fact, compared to most of them, he would be considered average. Here's a life tip: when creating an overpowered character, just introduce more overpowered characters, and that automatically brings balance back. LOL
