"I think the fact that I defeated an Executive of the so-called second-strongest Family in Orario says a lot about me." The calm and passionate voice spoke respectfully, being careful not to sound arrogant.

At this moment, the half-elf was in a rather unusual place, to say the least, within his peculiar home. The house was known as a giant statue of its own God, right in front of him at that moment. This family was the largest in all of Orario and also had the highest number of first-class adventurers, with a total of eleven Level 5s. They also had at least thirty adventurers of Level 3 or higher. They were the military police of Orario, responsible for the city's security. They were the Ganesha Familia itself.

As Ganesha attentively listened to Kunihito's proposal, his expression revealed a certain restlessness. He was a vain God, and even if he didn't admit it, he didn't like the idea of joining a family that had just begun their journey in Orario. After all, his own family was large and respected, and he didn't want to get involved with just anyone.

"Kunihito, your family may have potential, but they are still too young to form an alliance with us!" said Ganesha with a tone of authority. "I can't just join forces with anyone who comes along and asks for an alliance."

However, Kunihito was not discouraged by the God's words. He raised his chin confidently and replied in the same assured and vain tone as Ganesha, "With all due respect, Ganesha-sama, I understand your concerns. But you see, the Hestia Familia may be young, but we have already proven our worth in battles, like against the Loki Familia. That is a testament to our ability to overcome challenges. And with your wisdom and guidance, I have no doubt that we will reach unimaginable heights."

The God's eyes narrowed, impressed by Kunihito's audacity. Shakti, the captain of the Ganesha Familia, observed the scene with curiosity and a somewhat suspicious expression. She admired the half-elf's courage and how he expressed himself with such confidence, but at the same time, the tone he used with her God was almost an insult. Did he think they were on equal footing?

Ganesha raised an eyebrow, surprised by Kunihito's frank response. He was used to being flattered and receiving humble requests from other adventurers seeking alliances or favors, but this half-elf was far from common. His penetrating gaze evaluated the young man with a mixture of curiosity and admiration. "You are brave, I'll give you that." said Ganesha, smiling enigmatically. "But there's a difference between being brave and being reckless. You say your family proved their worth by defeating an Executive of the Loki Familia, but that's not enough to form an alliance with the Ganesha Familia."

Kunihito didn't waver. He was determined to secure an alliance with the Ganesha Familia, no matter how difficult it might be. He knew he had to be convincing, so he continued with his bravado.

"I understand your reservations, Ganesha-sama, but I believe the Hestia Familia is capable of facing any challenge thrown our way. We have ambition, strength, and solid leadership. I am an example of that. I've shown that I can defeat powerful opponents and achieve impressive victories." said Kunihito, maintaining his unwavering gaze on the God.

Ganesha let out a friendly laugh "You certainly are confident, Kunihito. But being a skilled adventurer doesn't automatically make you a leader, as you like to call yourself. A true leader needs to understand that it's not just about strength but also about speaking louder when necessary, having more compassion than anyone else, even more hatred than those around you, and even more cruelty than all." rebuked Ganesha.

Kunihito wasn't intimidated by Ganesha's words. He smiled provocatively and replied "I understand perfectly, Ganesha-sama. A leader must be able to inspire their followers and make wise decisions. And I believe I possess all these qualities."

Ganesha looked at Kunihito with a serious expression "You think you are superior to everyone else, don't you? But true greatness doesn't come solely from strength; it also comes from humility and the ability to learn from others. So tell me, Kunihito, who do you think you are to lead or be followed by others?"

Kunihito maintained his haughty posture and wasn't swayed by Ganesha's words. Inside, however, he felt a burning flame of anger starting to rise. He didn't like being confronted in this manner, let alone being belittled by a God.

"I'm not superior to everyone, but I'm not inferior to anyone either. I'm a man who has learned to value his abilities and believe in his potential. If life has taught me anything, it's that we can only rely on ourselves to achieve our goals and not depend solely on others." Kunihito replied, with a hint of irritation in his voice.

Ganesha let out a mocking laugh "I see… You truly have an inflated ego, don't you? You think you can face everything alone and that your victories are solely your merit. But let me tell you a truth, half-elf, your ego is your greatest enemy. It blinds you to the lessons you can learn from others, preventing you from truly growing as a leader." Ganesha reproached.

Kunihito clenched his fists, feeling the anger intensify. He was not used to being challenged in this way, and Ganesha's presence only fueled his irritation.

"It's a popular belief that half-elves are superior, but in reality, they are worse than regular elves in their arrogance. It's a pity that your journey in Orario started with so much confidence and so little wisdom." Ganesha continued, his words piercing through Kunihito's armor.

Shakti, who had been observing silently, intervened with a calm yet firm voice. "Ganesha-sama, perhaps you're being too harsh on him. Youth brings impulsiveness and the desire to prove oneself to the world."

Kunihito felt the blood boiling with Shakti's criticism, but he kept his composure "Your point of view is valid, Shakti-sama, but I don't see myself as superior to other beings. I am simply aware of my potential and the abilities I have developed over time. And I have the ambition to lead a prominent familia in Orario, just as you lead the Ganesha Familia."

Shakti shook her head disapprovingly "Ambition is one thing, arrogance is another. You need to learn to control your ego, Kunihito Xiloscient, or it could be your downfall. Remember, there can't be two alphas in the same pack. If you want to form an alliance with the Ganesha Familia, you have to understand that here, you won't be the sole center of attention."

Kunihito felt his anger grow even more upon hearing his full name pronounced by Shakti. He clenched his teeth and replied with a defiant tone "If the Ganesha Familia can't handle

more than one strong leader, then maybe they're not as powerful as they claim to be. I have no interest in joining a family that feels threatened by those with potential."

Ganesha looked at Kunihito with a mixture of surprise and disdain. He had never been confronted like this by an adventurer seeking an alliance. His vanity was wounded, and he wasn't willing to let the half-elf get away with his defiant words.

"You are a fool, Kunihito. Your ego is your downfall. It's no wonder your family is young and inexperienced. You may have achieved some victories, but you still have much to learn." reprimanded Ganesha with a cold gaze.

Kunihito took a deep breath, trying to control his rising anger "Perhaps I am inexperienced, at least here in Orario, but I know what it takes to be a powerful leader. And I will prove it through my actions, not empty words."

Shakti looked at the half-elf with a thoughtful expression. She recognized the courage and determination in his words, but she also saw the recklessness and lack of humility. She approached Kunihito and said calmly "You may be a skilled adventurer, but you still have much to learn about leadership and the true meaning of teamwork. If you want to form an alliance with our family, you'll have to show that you can work in harmony with us, without letting your ego inflate too much."

Kunihito clenched his fists tightly, feeling the tension between him and the members of the Ganesha Familia. He wasn't willing to back down or be subdued by the vanity of others. He knew the road to achieving his goal would be arduous, but he was determined to face any challenge that came his way.

"You don't understand. I don't want to join you to be just another allied adventurer in your familia. I want to be a leader, and leading means making difficult decisions, being strong, and determined. I will prove that I can be a prominent figure in Orario, with or without the alliance of the Ganesha Familia." Kunihito asserted, his voice filled with determination and audacity as he stood up and turned his back to both of them.

Ganesha sighed, recognizing the half-elf's stubbornness. He knew he couldn't convince Kunihito to change his mind, and perhaps that was the proof that the young man had something more. The God turned to Shakti and said in a low voice, "Keep an eye on him. If he truly wants to prove his worth, let him show what he's capable of. But don't underestimate him; he can be a powerful ally or a formidable adversary." Shakti nodded and gave Kunihito a serious look.

"You will have your chance to prove yourself, Kunihito Xiloscient. But remember, the Ganesha Familia doesn't tolerate arrogance and recklessness. If you want to be a part of our group, you'll need to learn to work in a team and respect the hierarchy."

Kunihito looked back at Shakti and Ganesha, his emotions still boiling within him. He knew he wouldn't find understanding with them, but he was willing to face the challenge.

He left the peculiar house, determined to show everyone that his potential and ambition wouldn't be ignored, no matter what the Ganesha Familia thought. The rivalry between him and the Ganesha Familia was established, and the half-elf was ready to face all the challenges that lay ahead.

(Outside)

Inhale

Exhale

Inhale

Exhale

Kunihito wasn't ashamed to admit that he easily got irritated, especially when his mixed heritage was mentioned. Apparently, Hestia's insistence on getting a powerful God to recognize his family wasn't going as well as he had imagined; this was already the sixth rejection in just two days… No, this was the worst for Kunihito, as he already hated this half-elf from the bottom of his heart.

While walking the streets of Orario, Kunihito's heart was still pounding from the intense discussion with Ganesha and Shakti. He knew that earning the Ganesha Familia's alliance wouldn't be easy, but he was also unwilling to settle for anything less than what he believed was rightfully his.

Lost in his thoughts about his encounter with the Ganesha Familia members, Kunihito didn't notice he was being followed. He only realized it when he heard a soft, feminine voice calling his name.

"Kunihito… wait." He turned around and was surprised to see Shakti standing there, a short distance away. She was alone, without Ganesha's presence. Kunihito was curious about why she was following him and if she was willing to try to convince him again to consider the alliance.

Shakti approached cautiously, her eyes fixed on Kunihito's. "I… wanted to apologize." she said, with a sincerity that Kunihito didn't expect "If my words were too harsh, I'm sorry. I recognize your courage and determination, and maybe my own vanity got in the way of our conversation."

Kunihito arched an eyebrow, surprised by Shakti's attitude. He never expected such a sincere apology from the captain of the Ganesha Familia. Nevertheless, he wasn't willing to let his guard down easily.

"If you don't take back your words, then your apology doesn't mean much." he replied, with a hint of mistrust in his voice "I'm not interested in being allied with a family that doesn't recognize the potential of others, especially because of some silly prejudice about my origins." Shakti nodded, understanding Kunihito's words.

"I understand. And believe me, it's not easy for me to admit when I've made a mistake. But I can't deny what I believe. Ganesha is a self-centered God, and sometimes, his pride leads him. It's one of the reasons our family is so powerful, but it can also be our weakness." Shakti said.

"If you recognize that, then why not try to change it?" Kunihito asked, standing firm in his convictions.

Shakti sighed and looked down for a moment before responding "Ganesha is the God who leads our family, and his pride is part of what makes him so powerful. I'm just the captain, and even if I try to suggest changes, I can't impose my will on him. He's not a God who easily listens to advice." Kunihito considered Shakti's words and realized there were more nuances to the situation than he had imagined. He felt a mix of anger and sympathy for her. Anger that she didn't have the courage to challenge Ganesha, but sympathy for being stuck in a position where her opinions might not be heard.

"I understand your position, Shakti-sama," he finally said, using the title respectfully "But that doesn't change the fact that Ganesha's attitude is detrimental for those seeking an alliance with your family. I can't simply ignore his words and accept being subjugated because of a whim of a proud God." Shakti nodded again, respecting Kunihito's stance.

"I understand and respect your determination. But still, I truly wish you success in your endeavors, whether it's with our family or not. You are brave and ambitious, and that's something I admire." Kunihito looked at Shakti, feeling surprised by her words. He never imagined he would receive compliments from someone in the Ganesha Familia after the confrontation they had.

Even so, he couldn't ignore the fact that, despite the harsh words, Shakti recognized his courage and potential. "I thank you for your words, Shakti-sama." he said, with sincerity in his voice. "If our paths cross again someday, I hope it's as allies, not adversaries." Shakti smiled gently.

"I hope the same, Kunihito Xiloscient. Perhaps one day, Ganesha will realize the potential you bring for an alliance, but until then, I wish you success in your journey." With these words, Shakti walked away, leaving Kunihito with his thoughts.

He was still annoyed with Ganesha's attitude, but he also recognized that Shakti was different from the God. She might not fully agree with his ideas, but she still admired and wished him success.

Kunihito felt some of the heat of his anger dissipate. He was still determined to prove his worth and his family's potential, but now he was also willing to do it without needing an alliance with the Ganesha Familia.

As Kunihito moved forward, thinking about which other families he could seek an alliance with, he didn't notice that he was about to bump into someone. Before he could avoid it, he collided with a beautiful red-haired woman, causing her to fall to the ground.

Before Kunihito could recover from the shock, the red-haired woman drew her sword and challenged him with a furious expression on her face. Kunihito was utterly confused and quickly stood up, raising his hands in surrender.

"Wait, I didn't mean to knock you down! It was an accident, I'm sorry!" he said, trying to defuse the situation.

But the woman was on high alert and didn't seem willing to listen to apologies. She pointed her sword at Kunihito and said seriously, "I am Boudica, a member of the Hestia Familia, and I don't accept cheap apologies! If you want to face a warrior like me, get ready for a fight!" Kunihito was becoming more and more confused by the situation.

He had no intention of challenging anyone, and he didn't understand why this woman was attacking him. Nevertheless, he didn't want to create more unnecessary enemies, and he was about to try explaining again that it was an accident when Boudica lunged at him with her sword.

Instinctively, Kunihito used his adventurer skills to dodge Boudica's attacks. He was agile and fast, managing to evade the redhead warrior's strikes. But Boudica wasn't giving up easily and kept on attacking him with fierce determination.

Realizing he wouldn't be able to evade her indefinitely, Kunihito decided to defend himself. He used his combat skills and agility to block Boudica's attacks and counterattack in a controlled manner, avoiding seriously injuring her.

Even as he fought seriously, Kunihito couldn't help but notice the admiration in Boudica's eyes as she faced her opponent. She was indeed a skilled and powerful warrior.

After a few minutes of intense fighting, Kunihito managed to disarm Boudica and easily immobilized her. He was about to ask again why she had attacked him when she surprised him by saying, "You defeated me, now take responsibility for me!"

Kunihito became even more puzzled by this statement "Take responsibility? What do you mean?"

Boudica laughed comically and pointed to their current position. Because of the fight, Kunihito ended up on top of her, and the scene was a bit embarrassing for anyone who saw it.

"You knocked me down, and now you're on top of me, so you have to take responsibility and take care of me!" she explained with complete seriousness in her voice.

Kunihito finally realized the awkward situation they were in and quickly moved away from Boudica "It wasn't intentional! I didn't mean to knock you down or hurt you! It was all an accident!" Boudica got up, laughing at the embarrassing situation.

"It's alright, I'm not hurt. It was just a little joke. You're really agile and skillful; maybe I should have taken you more seriously." Irritated, Kunihito sighed at her lack of annoyance towards him. He didn't want to attract more unwanted attention.

"Thank you… Boudica, right? My name is Kunihito Xiloscient."

Boudica nodded with a friendly smile that quickly turned into absolute happiness. Kunihito swore he saw the redhead's eyes sparkle.

"YOU! IT'S YOU! THE GUY WHO PUT ONE OF THOSE IDIOTS FROM THE LOKI FAMILIA IN THE GROUND!!! They think they're so special." Boudica said quickly, getting even closer to the moody half-elf, who was already feeling uncomfortable with her presence.

"It seems I've become quite famous around here…" Kunihito commented eloquently.

"Huh!? Huh!? Kunihito, what's your level? Everyone is curious about it! Come on, tell me!" Boudica asked enthusiastically.

Kunihito was already considering cutting her in half if she continued with the incessant approach and the unwanted attention she started attracting with their fight and now this.

Kunihito sighed and replied "My current level? Why does that even matter? I'm not just a number, and I'm not here to show off or receive praise."

Boudica seemed a bit disappointed that Kunihito didn't want to join in her excitement. She looked at him curiously and questioned, "Why are you so grumpy? I was just trying to be friendly and compliment your skills."

"You could say that… but it was more complicated than I'd like to admit. Anyway, I'm not here to boast about my accomplishments. And you, Boudica, are a skilled warrior. Your fight was impressive too," replied Kunihito, trying to divert the attention away.

Boudica smiled, seeming satisfied with the compliment "Thank you! I dedicate myself a lot to my training and battles. It's what I love to do and also how I honor my Goddess, Hefesto."

Kunihito noticed the admiration and devotion in Boudica's eyes as she mentioned Hefesto, and that gave him an idea. Perhaps he could use this situation to his advantage. He needed the approval of a deity, and Boudica, as a devoted follower of Hefesto, could be his ally in this endeavor.

Carefully, Kunihito casually mentioned "It's admirable to see how dedicated you are to Hefesto. It must be wonderful to have the approval of such a powerful deity. Actually, I'm seeking something similar. I'm looking for the approval of my Goddess, Hestia."

Boudica seemed surprised for a moment. "Hestia-sama!? She's your Goddess! That's amazing." The redhead contemplated.

Kunihito felt intrigued at this moment "That seemed like a familiar reaction. Do you, by any chance, know my Goddess?"

"Of course! Hestia-sama spent quite some time with our family until Hefesto-sama decided to kick her out!" Boudica said, laughing.

"What a wonderful scenario is forming." Kunihito thought. "I understand, and I confess I'd like to hear more, but I fear I can't take too much of your time." The half-elf stated.

Boudica immediately took his hands and placed them over hers "Don't worry; I was heading to meet my Goddess anyway. What do you think about joining me? We can all eat, drink, and talk about stories from the past." Boudica took the bait in a straightforward manner.

"Well, I can't disregard the invitation from the Family that helped my Goddess before, so I'll accompany them," the half-elf said.

Boudica quickly grabbed Kunihito by the arm and pulled him between her ample assets. "Excellent, let's go, blondie," the redhead said spontaneously.

Kunihito had to take a deep breath because of her detestable behavior and her darn new nickname.

(With Boudica)

While we walked towards the meeting with the Hefesto Family, I couldn't help but notice how Kunihito seemed irritated with my approach. It was funny to see this half-elf, so skilled in battle, become uncomfortable with a simple display of affection. He could be agile and astute in combat, but he seemed naive when it came to personal interactions.

"You really fell into my trap, Kunihito." I thought, smiling discreetly. I knew he was trying to use my devotion to Hefesto family to get closer to his Goddess, Hestia. But, for some reason, I didn't mind. After all, he was handsome and had that grumpy demeanor that attracted me.

I couldn't believe I was thinking that way. Me, Boudica, the fierce and fearless warrior of the Hefesto Family, was thinking of flirting with a half-elf who didn't seem interested in my advances "Why on earth is he so resistant to my charms?" I wondered, feeling a mix of frustration and amusement.

As we walked side by side, I made sure to tease him occasionally, cracking a few jokes or making bold comments. Kunihito seemed uncomfortable, but he didn't seem as bothered as I expected. Perhaps he was used to this kind of approach from people. Or maybe it was just his way of hiding his feelings.

Medea, my best friend and confidante, used to tell me that I didn't handle my emotions well. She called me a "tough cookie," saying that I hid my vulnerability behind a facade of bravery. At the time, I vehemently denied her words, but now, with these confusing thoughts about Kunihito, I began to wonder if she might be right.

"After all, what am I doing? Why am I so interested in this half-elf? He's just another adventurer seeking approval from his Goddess. Nothing more than that." I tried to convince myself, but the truth was that my feelings kept confusing me.

While I wrestled with my emotions internally, we arrived at the location of the meeting with the Hestia Family. It was a cozy place where we could eat, drink, and share stories from the past. Everyone seemed excited about Kunihito's presence and the fame of defeating a member of the Loki Family, which I made a point of spreading.

During the event, I tried to focus on conversations and interactions with other members of the family, but my mind kept returning to Kunihito. I couldn't get him out of my head. He was there, by my side, but at the same time, he seemed so distant. The way he treated me, sometimes cold and distant, left me a little confused.

I decided to try one last approach to get his attention. With an extra dose of boldness, I approached him and whispered provocatively in his ear "I think you're not giving me the proper attention, Kunihito. Am I intimidating you?"

He backed away a little, surprised by my approach, but soon retorted with a half-smile, "Intimidating isn't quite the right word, Boudica. I'm just not used to so much attention."

I decided to up the ante and challenged him, "Ah, not used to it? Then I guess you can't handle a woman like me." Kunihito seemed to be enjoying the situation, but he still maintained his composed posture.

He leaned in, looking into my eyes, and replied softly, "The question you should ask, Boudica, is if you could handle me." I was a little disconcerted by his response. I had already thought that he wasn't interested in my advances, or maybe he was just playfully teasing me back.

The mix of frustration and attraction continued to swirl in my heart. While we had fun with our flirtations, I noticed that a figure I adored was constantly nearby, and I wished she were far away now…

"So, you are the life of our party, correct, Kunihito?" Those were the words of the Goddess Hefesto herself.

The sudden presence of Hefesto made my heart race, and a blush crept up to my face. I didn't expect her to be there, let alone watching us. Kunihito, on the other hand, seemed calm and respectful in front of the Goddess.

Next to me, Kunihito, always so composed, made a brief bow as a sign of respect before replying politely, "Yes, I am Kunihito Xiloscient. It is an honor to meet you, Goddess Hefesto."

While Hefesto smiled gently, I felt my emotions conflicting. On one hand, the thrill of being close to my powerful and admirable Goddess, Hefesto, warmed my heart. On the other hand, jealousy bubbled within me as I saw Kunihito being so calm and respectful in her presence.

Hestia's keen eyes seemed to penetrate through our masks, as if she could see beyond what we showed. This perception only added to my restlessness.

"Kunihito, I've heard about your skills as a courageous warrior. Your victory against a member of the Loki Family caught my attention," said Hefesto "And, Boudica, my faithful follower, you must be proud to have such a talented adventurer by your side."

I tried to disguise my jealousy, forcing a smile as I replied, "Yes, Goddess Hestia, I am grateful for your attention and for having Kunihito with us."

Kunihito, always modest, replied respectfully, "It is an honor to be recognized by such a powerful deity as you, Goddess Hestia. I am grateful to be here and to know Boudica." Hestia's eyes briefly sparkled, as if there was something more behind her words and glances.

She then suggested that we sit down to share a meal and talk about our journeys. I wanted to stay by Kunihito's side, but Hestia kindly called me to sit next to her, leaving him at the end of the table.

As I conversed with the Goddess, I could see that she was attentive and interested in our stories. She asked Kunihito various questions about his adventures and goals, and he humbly spoke of some of his battles before arriving in Orario and his recent desire to become an adventurer.

While I took pride in Kunihito's skills and eloquent expressions, I also felt bothered by the genuine interest Hestia showed in him. The jealousy grew inside me, and I wanted to be the only one to attract her attention in that way.

But in a moment of desperation and lack of control, I couldn't contain my feelings. I grabbed Kunihito by the arm and pulled him towards me, creating an embarrassing scene for everyone present. "He is mine!" I exclaimed, not thinking about the consequences of my words and actions.

Surprise overtook Kunihito, while Hestia seemed intrigued by the situation. My cheeks were burning with shame, but I couldn't contain myself. "He's my friend!" I repeated, trying to justify my behavior.

Understandingly, Hestia smiled and reassured everyone, "Boudica, my dear, there's no need to worry. I'm not here to take your friend. I just thought Kunihito was an admirable warrior and wanted to get to know him better." My breathing slowly calmed, and the shame was replaced

by gratitude.

After all, my Goddess had been understanding and kind. With a gentle smile, she suggested we continue with the meal and conversations, dissipating the tension of the moment—I would surely thank my Goddess later.

(With Hefesto)

As the event continued, my mind was in turmoil. Seeing Kunihito interacting with Boudica sparked an unusual curiosity in me. My strict and work-focused nature prevented me from allowing distractions, especially those related to men.

Watching them from afar, I tried to understand the nature of this half-elf who seemed to intrigue me. Could he truly be a threat? While pondering these questions, I noticed that the two of them began to distance themselves a bit from the rest of the group, and I decided to discreetly intervene to better understand the situation.

I approached quietly, taking advantage of a moment of relaxation during the event, and I could overhear part of their conversation. It was indeed something private that I, as a Goddess, couldn't let one of my followers pursue without acknowledging this man as worthy.

Now, he should seek my knowledge. With every word that came out of his mouth, my curiosity about him grew.

It was noticeable that Kunihito not only had exceptional combat skills but also admirable cunning and strategic vision. He even mentioned seeking alliances with other families and making good friendships to support his own Family in the future. His determination to seek alliances to strengthen his Family revealed potential leadership qualities. At the same time, he showed humility and respect, traits that I deeply valued, but there was something about him that left me uneasy, as if… he were pretending.

As he continued to speak, my analysis continued. I observed his expressions, his posture, his choice of words. Every detail mattered in my evaluation. Gradually, my unease and uncertainty about his presence beside Boudica gained more and more grounds.

Despite my restlessness, I couldn't deny that Kunihito had something special that attracted me. The light he carried with him seemed to penetrate even the most rigid layers of my being. That light was the flame of idealism, something I had long forgotten.

After the event, I invited Kunihito for a private conversation. It pained me a little to dismiss Boudica, but I was determined to better understand that half-elf who had aroused my curiosity.

(Hefesto's Office)

Kunihito entered my office, and I observed him cautiously. Despite my curiosity about him, the suspicion still lingered. He seemed confident, but I knew his words could be just a facade to hide his true intentions.

"Goddess Hefesto, I am grateful for the opportunity to discuss a possible alliance between our families. I understand your concerns, but I believe this partnership can be extremely advantageous for both parties. I assure you that today and always, my family will support you, and I hope for the same from your side," Kunihito began.

As he spoke about his objectives and the quest for alliances, I carefully analyzed him.

Hefesto maintained a rigid posture. "Kunihito, it's true that your fame as an adventurer is remarkable, but I can't simply ignore my concerns about you. After all, what guarantees me that this partnership isn't a facade to get closer to my family and obtain information for other purposes?" His logical words and his fame didn't entirely convince me. I sought something more, something that would show me his true nature.

"I understand your concerns, Goddess Hefesto, but I can assure you that my intention is genuine. Our family seeks to establish meaningful and strong bonds with other families to strengthen Orario as a whole. An alliance with the Hefesto Family would be an honor and an important step towards ensuring the safety and prosperity of all," Kunihito continued.

That was when I noticed something unusual. While he spoke, I noticed that occasionally his gaze shifted to my deformed eye, and I saw signs of insecurity in his eyes. Somehow, he had noticed my vulnerability regarding people. It intrigued me. How could someone perceive something so subtle and profound in the midst of a conversation?

While Kunihito spoke, my mind was torn between suspicion and growing curiosity about this intriguing half-elf. His occasional glance at my deformed eye left me a little disconcerted because few people were capable of noticing that insecurity in me. He had a perceptiveness that I didn't expect.

"You noticed, didn't you? That my deformed eye makes me insecure about people?" I asked, intrigued.

Kunihito nodded sincerely, "Yes, Hefesto, I noticed. I couldn't help but notice that you become a little uneasy when the subject involves interacting with people you're not familiar with."

"That's something that few people perceive," I admitted, lowering my gaze slightly.

"Hefesto, as much as my words may sound like an attempt at persuasion, I am not someone who only seeks personal advantages." he said earnestly. "By getting to know you, I see the strength and dedication you possess. I admire your skill as a blacksmith and your courage as a Goddess. But I also perceive that behind this facade of bravery, there's a person who can feel vulnerable and insecure, just like anyone else."

I stared at him, surprised by his candor, "And what do you expect by telling me this? To convince me that you're worthy of our alliance?" Kunihito shook his head gently.

"No, Hestia. I just want you to know that I see your human side, your insecurities, and fears. And I also want you to know that I am here to respect and support you, regardless of our future decisions. I don't want you to feel like you need to hide that part of yourself." Kunihito spoke sincerely.

"You are astute, half-elf. Your words are skillful." I commented, maintaining my firm posture, but I couldn't help feeling a slight blush on my cheeks.

(With Kunihito)

While Hestia spoke, I noticed that my words were starting to have an effect. She was intrigued, and somehow touched by my approach. My instincts told me it was time to act more boldly.

"Hefesto, your words encourage me to be even more sincere." I said, slowly approaching her "I'll be honest with you – since I laid eyes on you, I've been fascinated by your strength and your unique beauty. Your presence illuminates this office." She looked at me with a mix of surprise and caution. It was a risk, but I was determined to proceed with my plan.

"I know that our families can benefit greatly from this alliance, but I also believe that we both can share something beyond that. Something special and genuine." I continued, seeking to connect our gazes. Hefesto seemed hesitant, but there was something in her eyes that showed a slight inclination to my seduction. It was as if she wanted to believe in my words, but her suspicion held her back from fully surrendering.

"Kunihito, you can't just…" she began to say, but I didn't give her the opportunity to finish.

Drawing even closer, I carefully caressed her face, tracing the contour of the side where her deformed eye was covered by an eye patch. She tensed up, but I didn't pull away.

"Don't be afraid to be vulnerable, Hefesto. True strength lies in being authentic with ourselves and with others." I whispered, allowing my voice to take on a seductive tone.

She tried to resist, but I saw the barrier of distrust slowly weakening. My plan was working. Hefesto was yielding, even if only for a brief moment.

"I… I don't know if I can fully trust you." she admitted, her voice trembling.

I smiled, seizing the moment. Drawing even closer, our faces were just inches apart. I could feel her breath quickening.

"Then let me prove to you that I'm worthy of your trust." I whispered, and without waiting for a response, I leaned in and kissed her gently.

It was a daring kiss, but one filled with genuine desire. I blamed the wine I had consumed moments before for my boldness, as if it were an impulsive act.

As I pulled back, I saw the surprised look in her eyes. She was speechless, processing what had just happened.

"I'm sorry, Goddess Hefesto. I… I don't know what came over me." I said, trying to appear embarrassed.

She tried to speak, but her words seemed to have been stolen by the unexpected moment. I was aware that I had risked too much, but at the same time, I knew it was necessary to open a path in her heart.

"I understand if you're angry or suspicious now. I was reckless, and I have no excuses for my behavior." I continued, feigning apparent remorse.

She still looked stunned, unable to find words to respond. I knew I needed to be cautious and skillful to navigate this situation. I had taken a bold step, and now I needed to be patient to reap the rewards of what I had sown.

(With Hefesto)

That unexpected kiss left me stunned. Kunihito had been bold, and his skillful words ensnared me in a mixture of charm and suspicion. My mind was in turmoil, torn between the attraction he stirred in me and the caution that my rigid nature imposed.

My heart raced, and my mind struggled to process what had just happened. How could I let him get so close? He was using his seduction to persuade me, and I fell into his trap. I knew I couldn't fully trust him, but at the same time, something about his sincerity and audacity intrigued me.

"Kunihito, you… you can't just…" I tried to say, but my words failed.

He smiled, keeping his gaze fixed on me. "Goddess Hefesto, I apologize if I was impulsive. The wine made me a little out of control. I know I must be cautious in my actions, but I couldn't resist the temptation to express my feelings." His words were carefully chosen, and I knew he was manipulating the situation to his advantage. However, at the same time, his confession that he had genuine feelings for me struck a fragile chord in my heart.

"Kunihito, you must understand that we are from different families, with distinct interests." I tried to argue, but my words were more a way to convince myself than to convince him.

He approached again, looking deeply into my eyes "I know that, Hestia. But I believe our alliance can transcend family interests. Together, we can be stronger and achieve goals that would be unattainable alone." The logic in his words was undeniable, but there was still fear in my heart. He was challenging me, making me question my own barriers. Could I allow myself to be vulnerable? Could I open my heart to someone?

"Kunihito, I… I can't just…" I began to say, but this time he didn't let me finish.

This time, he kissed me with more intensity, showing determination in his pursuit. For a moment, I was speechless, but then I let myself be carried away by the moment. His kiss was passionate and fervent, and I was drawn to him, setting aside my concerns.

As our lips parted, he looked into my eyes again, seeking a response in my gaze. I knew he was using his skills to seduce me, but I also knew there was a genuine connection between us.

"Kunihito, I… I don't know what to do." I confessed, feeling my confidence shaken.

He gently caressed my face "You don't have to decide anything now, Hefesto. Let's take things slowly, and I promise to respect your choices. I just want you to know that I am here for you, whether as an ally or… something more." His words touched my heart, and I felt tempted to lower my defenses. But I knew I needed to be cautious, that I couldn't let myself be swayed solely by his charm… At least, that's what I wanted to say.

"Kunihito…" my voice came out almost like a whisper, but he heard me. He stopped what he was doing and looked at me, concerned by my surprised expression.

"Hefesto, are you okay?" He asked, but before I could answer, my feelings overflowed.

"I feel warm… around you." I admitted, embarrassed but not looking away. In that moment, I decided it was time to surrender to what I was feeling.

He smiled seductively, yet with a touch of tenderness, and I felt an even deeper connection between us. Without saying a word, he approached and embraced me gently, enveloping me in his protective arms. It was as if the heat of the forge I feel within was transforming into human warmth between us.

Our hearts beat in sync as our bodies drew even closer. Without reservation, he caressed my hair, and I allowed myself to sink into his presence, desiring him more than ever.

Gradually, our lips met in a passionate and fervent kiss. The force of desire we felt for each other was undeniable. That moment was a blend of intensity and gentleness, of surrender and connection.

Our embrace grew stronger, and I allowed myself to explore the touch of his hands on my skin, as passion flowed between us.

(A Few Hours Later)

Kunihito walked alone through the busy streets of Orario until he reached the old abandoned church that Hestia had transformed into her residence. The place had a mysterious and somewhat somber aura, but Hestia had made it her home, and now, it was also Kunihito's home.

"Maybe I should have gone to Hefesto first, well, now there's no use crying." the half-elf regretted at that moment for having refused to spend the rest of the night with the enchanting red-haired Goddess.

As they entered, Kunihito observed the details of the church with curiosity. The lit candles created a welcoming and sacred atmosphere at the same time. The simple yet well-kept furniture gave a touch of coziness to the place.

"This place is impressive," Kunihito commented aloud as he saw a startled Hestia, who had been facing away from him, approach silently.

Hestia smiled, a bit annoyed "Thank you. I did my best to make this place cozy and functional." They sat on benches near the altar, and Kunihito approached Hestia tenderly.

"Hefesto, you have done so much for me and for our family. The alliances have been established, and everything is in order now. I feel it is time to make this partnership official and our connection even deeper." Kunihito commented, surprising Hestia.

Hestia looked at him, her eyes shining with affection and trust "You did your homework, Kunihito. I imagine Hefesto must have been the first on your list when I gave you that challenge. So our families are now united by strong bonds, and it's your time to seal this alliance definitively," Hestia affirmed proudly.

Kunihito smiled with a calculated charm in response to Hestia's comment, gently holding her hand "I know you are a Goddess, and your Falna is something very important to you. But at the same time, I know that you will give me your Falna in a meaningful way, something beyond just a formality." the half-elf stated.

Hestia nodded, understanding the depth of what he was suggesting "Yes, Kunihito. When it comes to our alliance and our feelings for each other, I want it to be a true and meaningful connection." They looked at each other with complicity, and an exchange of emotions passed between them, something that didn't need to be said in words but was present in their gazes.

"Then, I officially give you my Falna," Hestia said with conviction "May our alliance be strengthened, and may we walk together towards a future of prosperity."

Kunihito held his blade that he carried on his back, representing his life, for sure "I accept it with all my heart. May this be the symbol of our union, and may our ties grow stronger with each passing day." With this solemn gesture, Hestia asked Kunihito to sit facing away from her and remove his clothes. His Falna would be placed there on Kunihito's back, and in an instant, a soft and bright light enveloped them both, as if a divine connection was being sealed in that moment.

With the process complete, Hestia looked at the result, and her mind seemed to bubble with shock.

Kunihito Xiloscient

[Level 7]

Strength: G 207

Endurance: S 999

Dexterity: C 615

Agility: D 554

Magic: A 898

Skills:

Mercury Aura Potential: Through a purple aura, the user experiences an instant 10% increase in all attributes, boosting their abilities to the maximum. This powerful skill, known as "Potential Aura," unlocks the true inner power of the individual, allowing them to reach their momentary peak. However, the extra strength comes with a price. After the skill is used, instinctive fatigue takes over the user, requiring them to recover their energy.

Instant Reflex: The user achieves a state of perfect synchronization with their body and mind. This extraordinary ability allows them to intuitively sense their opponents' movements, triggering an automatic and precise response in fractions of a second.

Development Abilities:

Charisma (A): The user has a magnetic and captivating presence that radiates warm and welcoming brightness. Like a shining light in the darkness, they can attract and engage everyone around them. Their personality exudes confidence, empathy, and positivity, creating an immediate connection with others, even those who are skeptical or suspicious.

Spirit Collection (C): The user is blessed with a special connection to spirits, resulting in a majestic and engaging aura that radiates from their presence, even with the simple act of breathing. Their harmony with the spirit world is so profound that they are embraced and loved by these entities, who are drawn to their bright aura.

Hunter (D): Enhances abilities against monsters that the user has fought and gained experience from.

Abnormal Resistance (G): Nullifies the effects of abnormalities like poison.

Magic Resistance (I): Increases resistance against magical attacks.

Swordsman (i): Increases proficiency with blades.

Magic:

Little Flower: The user has the ability to create small yet deadly detonations on their palms.

Ripper Cyclotron: When the user rotates their arm clockwise, energy forms and increases in their fist with each rotation.

Hestia seemed to freeze for a mere second, and then it seemed like she was drooling, and a few seconds later, she collapsed to the ground, the shock was too great.

(To be continued...)

Hellooooo, ORARIO HAS A NEW LEVEL 7 IN TOWN! Anyway, I still don't think I'd put him in the top 5 strongest in Orario unless it's a 1x1 battle; he's still a beast. I admit I'm not a big fan of long chapters, but the Hestia Familia's interaction with our beloved half-elf turned out longer than I imagined it would be. I think you guys managed to get a great glimpse through the eyes of other characters of how someone like Kunihito is perceived, even though he's a total jerk – that's called charisma XD.

Personally, I'm not a big fan of writing 18 scenes; they tend to take a lot of time to write, so in most cases, I'll leave things implied about what happened, of course always making it clear that the MC is not some crazy virgin Yupppppp. Seriously, I have no problem with the character having companions throughout the story, but it should all fit within the context of the character.

Leave reviews, critiques, and everything else. Whether you like it or not, they motivate me to keep updating this story.