(With Bell Cranel: 1 Day Later)
Bell walked through the streets of Orario, lost in his melancholic thoughts and frustrated with himself. He felt a sense of disappointment for failing once again, not just in facing the Silverback, but also for being stopped by Kunihito.
The harsh words of the half-elf echoed in his mind, reinforcing his own insecurities.
As people hurried past him, Bell felt alone in his internal struggles. He wondered if he had what it took to be a true adventurer. His foolish and impulsive actions left him disheartened, and he questioned whether he would ever be able to overcome his limitations.
"After all, what's wrong with me?" Bell thought to himself. "Why do I always end up acting without thinking? I should be stronger, braver…" Lost in his thoughts, Bell continued walking aimlessly through the city streets. He remembered the disapproving and concerned looks from Hestia and Kunihito, which only heightened his frustration.
"I wanted to prove my worth, show everyone that I can be a great adventurer…" Bell murmured softly. "But I ended up putting myself in danger and putting others at risk too." The image of his family in danger during the Monster Festival came to his mind, and he felt a wave of guilt. He knew he had acted recklessly, and his impulsiveness had nearly caused a disaster.
"I should have thought more, planned better… but I was so focused on proving my worth that I became blind to the dangers around me." Bell thought, feeling a weight on his heart.
While wandering the city, Bell wondered if he was truly meant to be an adventurer. Perhaps he didn't have the courage and wisdom needed to face the challenges of being an adventurer. Maybe he was just a dreamy boy with unrealistic ambitions.
"I shouldn't be here… Maybe it's better if I give up on being an adventurer." Bell caught himself considering giving up on his dreams. He felt defeated and discouraged, unable to find a way to overcome his own weaknesses.
As Bell continued his path, absorbed in his thoughts, he accidentally bumped into someone, causing both of them to stumble. He quickly apologized and looked up to see who he had collided with. It was Syr, the waitress from the Hostess of Fertility.
"Oh, sorry, Syr! I wasn't paying attention…" Bell stammered, feeling even more embarrassed.
Syr smiled gently and shook her head. "Don't worry, Bell. I think it was my fault too, I was distracted. You seem a bit troubled. Is something wrong?"
Bell hesitated for a moment but ended up opening up to Syr. "Well, it's just that… I failed to face a Silverback during the Monster Festival. And worse, Kunihito stopped me from fighting and ended up having to deal with the monster alone."
Syr listened attentively and placed a comforting hand on Bell's shoulder. "I know you must be feeling down, Bell. Battling monsters isn't easy; we all face our own challenges. But what's important is that you're safe and have learned from the experience." Bell nodded, grateful for Syr's understanding.
"Yes, I know… it's just that I wanted to prove I'm strong, but I ended up showing how inexperienced and impulsive I am." Bell spoke with a disheartened tone.
Syr smiled encouragingly. "You are strong, Bell. Being an adventurer is about learning and growing, and nobody becomes powerful overnight. We all make mistakes, but that's how we learn and improve. I'm sure you'll become an amazing adventurer in time."
Syr's words brought a bit of comfort to Bell's heart. He appreciated her sincerity and kindness. "Thank you, Syr. Your words really help."
Syr smiled, but Bell could sense something more in her expression. "Also, you were with Kunihito, I didn't know you two had gotten close, I haven't seen him around in a while…" Syr spoke with a tired sigh.
"Actually, he recently joined my Familia, our Goddess dragged us into the Festival with her." Bell casually remarked.
…
…
It took Syr a few seconds to process before she grabbed Bell by the shoulders and said with total authority, "Bell-kun, give me all the details." The waitress demanded.
It would be a long and eventful conversation…
(With Kunihito)
"Ah-choo, someone must be talking about me," the blonde commented casually amidst his sneeze.
The half-elf was now in an equipment store, looking for a weapon that would be suitable for Bell.
As Kunihito examined the various weapons available in the store, he could feel an intense gaze on him. He looked around, trying to identify the source of the sensation, and his eyes met Ais Wallenstein's.
She was crouched behind one of the display mannequins, her eyes fixed on Kunihito. Her golden blonde hair fell over her face, and she was attempting, unsuccessfully, to hide. The situation was somewhat comical, but Ais remained serious and determined, as if on a secret mission.
Kunihito sighed, his patience already wearing thin with Ais's silent pursuit. He decided to ignore her and continued searching for the right weapon for Bell. However, no matter where he went in the store, Ais was always nearby, hiding behind shelves, mannequins, and even other customers.
"Annoying! Annoying!" Kunihito muttered again, realizing that his attempt to ignore Ais wasn't working. He scratched his head, growing increasingly irritated with the situation. Finally, as Kunihito approached the counter to inquire about the available options, he caught a glimpse of hearing the sound of a piece of armor colliding with the floor.
Kunihito turned to see innocent-looking Ais Wallenstein attempting to appear natural as she rearranged the piece…
"Okay, enough! What the hell are you doing here?" Kunihito finally exploded, his patience fully drained.
Ais looked at him with surprise, as if disturbed by her poorly disguised attempt being uncovered. "I'm just observing." she replied, her golden eyes fixed on his.
"Observing? Observing what?" Kunihito retorted, annoyed. "I can't even go peacefully to an equipment store without you following me around and spying on me! What the hell do you want? Revenge for your friend!?"
"I'm not spying on you, and I have no desire for vengeance over a fair fight." Ais said in a cold tone. "I just find it interesting how you are so… different."
"Different? What do you mean by different?" Kunihito asked, confused and even more irritated.
"Your power, your sword skill, your presence… none of it seems natural to me." explained Ais. "I've never seen anyone like you before, and it intrigues me." Kunihito frowned, not liking the way Ais was looking at him. He felt like he was being examined like a strange specimen.
"So, you're following me because I'm a rare species or something?" he asked sarcastically.
"Not exactly," replied Ais, maintaining her composure. "It's more than that. I get chills whenever I'm near you, as if there's something unnatural about you."
Ais's words hit Kunihito, leaving him puzzled and uncomfortable. He wasn't sure how to react to this observation "Unnatural? What are you talking about?"
"I don't know," admitted Ais. "It's hard to explain. But I think you're much more than you appear to be, and that intrigues me."
Kunihito scoffed, feeling even more annoyed "And what exactly do you hope to achieve by following me and spying on me? Do you want to know my secrets or something?"
Ais looked at him with absolute certainty. "Your sword technique is unique. I want to learn it, but I assumed you'd refuse, so I'll learn from a distance."
Kunihito raised an eyebrow, surprised by Ais's honesty. "You want to learn my sword technique? Why on earth would I teach you? And stop following me."
Ais crossed her arms and responded firmly "Because you have nothing to lose, and I'm not a novice in combat. Believe it or not, I can be an excellent student even just by observing from a distance."
Kunihito chuckled mockingly. "Excellent student? You can barely hide properly, and you think you can match my sword skills? That's hilarious!" Kunihito's words were a blow to Ais's pride, but she remained determined.
Despite her wounded pride, Ais didn't let Kunihito's words deter her. She stood firm in her determination to learn the half-elf's unique technique. In an impulsive move, she knelt before him, demonstrating her seriousness.
"Please, Kunihito, let me learn from you. I know I can be a great student, and I can learn even just by observing from a distance. I feel that this technique could be useful for me in my future battles, and I know you have much to teach me!" Ais pleaded.
Kunihito noticed that the people around them began to murmur things like, "Look, that's the sword princess, she's confessing to that half-elf!" "He's completely rejecting her, handsome but arrogant bastard."
Kunihito sighed. "You know, I had forgotten how annoying human women can be when they want to…" Ais's eyes sparkled with a glint that Kunihito caught onto right away. "Don't misunderstand, I have no intention of helping you in any way, go bother someone else, brat." Kunihito outright rejected her.
Ais felt defeated after Kunihito's words, but she wasn't willing to give up. "I… What!" Before Ais could even comprehend it, Kunihito had disappeared from her sight.
(Scene Transition)
"He got faster!" Ais's eyes couldn't keep up, so she impulsively dashed out of the store.
Ais wasn't willing to give up so easily. Determined to catch up to Kunihito, she ran through the bustling streets of Orario. Her heart raced, and she felt drawn to the mysterious half-elf more than ever.
Although he had rejected her, she couldn't ignore her desire to learn from him.
As she ran, Ais followed the subtle trail left by Kunihito's presence, a faint scent that only she could detect. She had noticed it before but hadn't given it much thought until now. The scent was pleasant and intriguing, now becoming a clue to find him.
Ais arrived at an empty square on the eastern side of Orario. The place was quiet, with only a few people passing by at that moment. In the distance, she spotted a familiar figure, Kunihito's blond hair shining in the sun.
She approached cautiously, making no noise, until she finally caught up to Kunihito.
"You can't escape from me that easily." she said, smiling.
Kunihito looked at her with a mix of surprise and exasperation "You really don't give up, do you?" The half-elf then seemed to take a good look at the girl from head to toe. "Hey girl, who taught you to wield that sword? I've never seen fencing like yours before."
Ais was puzzled because she had never fought near the half-elf for him to see her skills. "I learned on my own, got some tips from people who use swords, but I created my own style." the girl replied.
Kunihito removed his hood that protected him from the sun, and Ais could swear she saw the half-elf's eyes sparkle. "I see, do you really intend to ruin such a beautiful art?" The blond spoke enigmatically as he approached the girl. "Tell me, Wallenstein, why do your eyes look like mine, yet they are so much weaker?"
Ais didn't know what to respond, in fact, she was captivated by the azure-blue eyes of the half-elf.
The half-elf then smiled. "You don't need anyone to achieve what you desire. Still, you want to learn from me?" Kunihito asked as he got even closer to Ais, to the point that he bent down so their faces met.
"Yes," the blonde said with conviction.
Kunihito then stood up again, his height creating a noticeable difference between the two, but their experiences made them seem almost equal.
"I want you to know that to teach my sword techniques to someone, I can only do it for someone who dedicates themselves body and soul. Are you willing to abandon everything you believe to stay with me, Ais?" When the blonde heard her name, she felt shivers, and at the same time, Kunihito brought his left arm over her and brought it over her body. "And then? I guarantee you'll get everything you want by my side."
(Scene with Ais Wallenstein)
I couldn't believe what was happening. My heart was beating so fast it felt like it wanted to leap out of my chest. With each word Kunihito uttered, I felt embarrassed and yet exhilarated. His azure-green eyes pierced my soul, making me feel fragile and vulnerable.
As he got even closer, lowering himself so our faces met, my body instinctively reacted. I wanted to pull away, but something inside me was drawing me towards him. It was as if a magnetic force was pulling us together, an inexplicable connection that I couldn't ignore.
"Yes." I replied with a slightly trembling voice. I knew I couldn't abandon my companions and everything I had built for him, but the mere idea of learning from Kunihito excited and intrigued me. It was a unique opportunity, and I couldn't let it slip away.
He wrapped his other arm around me, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. He held me gently, and the warmth of his body melded with mine. His scent was so captivating that I couldn't help but get lost in the moment.
My eyes involuntarily closed as I embraced him back, allowing myself to relish the feeling of being in his arms. It was like being in paradise and in the eye of an emotional hurricane simultaneously.
But reality soon hit me like a wave. I couldn't abandon my path and beliefs for a fleeting attraction. My friends and my journey in Orario meant to me… My goal of killing that one-eyed lizard! I slowly pulled away from Kunihito, looking into his eyes with seriousness.
"Kunihito, I… I can't abandon my companions and everything I've built so far. They're my family, and our journey together is more important than anything else." I said sincerely, my voice catching in my throat.
Kunihito nodded then. "I understand your point, but the first step to walking the path of my sword techniques is a solitary journey for years. Apparently, you're not fit for it, Wallenstein." He then smiled. "But surely, you'll find another way to get what you're seeking." Kunihito spoke as he moved away, much to my dismay.
"Anyway, I need to continue my path, so until next time, Ais." When the half-elf said her name again, the girl blushed, remembering the embrace moments ago.
As Kunihito walked away, I stood there, feeling a mixture of emotions inside me. The disappointment of not being able to learn from him as I wanted was strong, but at the same time, I knew I had made the right decision. My companions were my support, and I couldn't simply abandon them.
My heart, still racing from the proximity to Kunihito, began to reflect on what I was feeling. That unique and intriguing sensation of being near him was something I had never experienced before. It was as if he was unveiling a side of me that even I didn't know.
Would I really have him teach me in one way or another someday?
(Scene with Kunihito)
"Jesus, since when did my life become this theater to deal with these problematic women to make them understand something simple?" Kunihito grumbled in his thoughts, clearly annoyed by the time he wasted with Ais and the unnecessary theatrics.
"Well, at least this chase brought me to my next destination." Kunihito looked around, observing the east street of Orario, not very busy at that moment. The day was sunny, and a gentle breeze blew, making the dry leaves dance around him. He pulled the hood of the white cloak tighter around him, further concealing his figure.
As he walked down the street, with the hood back in place, the half-elf spotted the two men he had been searching for. They were clearly demi-human adventurers of the cat race, wearing crimson badges on their shoulders resembling a lion. They chatted casually, unaware of Kunihito's approaching presence.
"Excuse me, could you deliver a message to your boss?" Kunihito said loudly and clearly, causing the two demi-humans to turn around in surprise to face him.
"Reita, did he just talk to us!?" One of them gestured, pointing to his companion.
"Seems like it, Bather?" The other muttered, frowning at the sight of the half-elf.
"God, you guys remind me of the delinquents from my hometown… I'll show you what happened to them." Kunihito said with a threatening tone, his eyes sparking.
"WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU SAYING, YOU…" Before Reita could finish his sentence, Kunihito's hand silenced him by gripping his jaw tightly, preventing any sound.
"No one likes bullies, you know?" Kunihito uttered with menacing words, muttering "Little Flower." And then, a golden energy enveloped his hand, giving way to a controlled explosion that hit the henchman's face, creating a mess and killing him on the spot.
The other man stood in disbelief, with a shocked look as he witnessed his friend's death. "This half-elf is dangerous" were the only thoughts that came to his mind as he stepped back a few paces, distancing himself from the impending confrontation.
With no room to escape, Kunihito grabbed him by the throat, holding him in a tight grip. "I want you to send a message to your boss, Alexander. Tell him I'm after him." Kunihito then released the henchman and let him run, his message clear and intimidating.
Looking at the pool of blood created by the other, the half-elf simply commented coldly "What a mess…" His mind was already focused on the next step, on the consequences of what he had just done.
(Later: Babel)
The sun was already setting, and Kunihito was returning from another day of dungeon exploring with Bell, which was quite boring for the half-elf, but he needed to show support for the Familia to maintain his influence with them strong.
The blonde had been looking for a suitable weapon for himself earlier, but nothing seemed to fit right. However, looking at his "student" from head to toe, he realized that Bell needed at least some armor.
"Mini-me, let's head up to Babel Tower and find something that fits you." Kunihito declared.
A worn-out Bell looked at him somewhat incredulously "But you said I needed to prove myself…"
"That was before I realized you're a suicidal idiot." the half-elf said with a shrug. "And also, if we're going to keep advancing in the dungeon, you need something to prevent your limbs from being sliced off."
Bell nervously chuckled at the half-elf's blunt comments.
Bell and Kunihito were on the fifth floor of Babel, searching for suitable armor for Bell. The half-elf continued to reprimand the young adventurer for his lack of knowledge about Babel Tower.
"You need to do better research, Mini-me. The Hestia Familia operates here, and this floor is famous for its high-quality armor. You should be careful when choosing the right armor for you." Kunihito said with a serious look.
Bell nodded, understanding the importance of Kunihito's words. "I'm sorry, I didn't know. I'll pay more attention next time." he replied humbly.
They continued their search, examining various armors and equipment available in the shops on the floor. Bell was fascinated by the variety of choices, but none of them seemed to fit him perfectly.
Until, among the shelves, Bell stumbled upon a box with the name "Welf Crozzo" written on it. His eyes lit up with curiosity and excitement as he saw the contents of the box. Kunihito noticed Bell's reaction, understanding what was happening.
"You seem excited, Mini-me. What's in that box?" Kunihito asked.
"It's a suitable armor. He made something amazing." Bell explained enthusiastically.
Kunihito opened the box and revealed Welf Crozzo's armor. It was a simple piece, expertly crafted with intricate details. Bell was awestruck by the beauty and quality of the armor.
"Bell, this is rubbish." With these words, Bell's excitement vanished instantly. "You're already strong enough to not use equipment that's not up to your abilities." the half-elf said with a small smile.
This seemed to ease the boy's mind as he wasn't being judged for a bad choice.
"Actually, I'm not pleased with this shop. Everything seems either too weak or too good. I don't want you to get something inadequate or become overly dependent…" The half-elf spoke thoughtfully.
He then dragged the boy to the next shop, where he saw something that particularly caught his attention through the window "Perfect!"
(Scene Change)
"Kunihito-san, isn't this a bit flashy? And it's a bit heavy." Bell complained.
"Don't be an idiot, Mini-me. It's perfect, and you'll get used to the weight soon enough." Kunihito replied with a yawn.
It was a lightweight leather armor, black with red details. The chest piece consisted of flexible overlapping leather plates, protecting the user's torso and chest. Adjustable straps and strategically placed buckles ensured the piece stayed securely in place without restricting movement. The shoulders were guarded by light, curved plates designed to deflect blows and ensure arm mobility. The arms were covered with pliable leather gauntlets, allowing the user to wield weapons and perform movements with ease. The elbow guards provided an extra layer of protection at the joints without compromising flexibility. The waist was encircled by a reinforced leather belt, safeguarding vital organs and the lower back. Adjustable and secure, it provided comfort even during long journeys. At the lower part of the torso, there was a leather covering protecting the upper thighs and hips, providing adequate coverage without hindering leg movement.
The overall appearance of the lightweight leather armor struck a balanced blend between resilience and grace. The various pieces of leather, richly textured and skillfully stitched, created a distinctive look that drew eyes and conveyed the sense of a skilled and experienced adventurer.
"Whoever made this armor has great taste. If I didn't already have suitable equipment, the person who made your new armor would be my choice." Kunihito proudly stated about the selection. "Hey, Mini-me, memorize the name of the person who made this armor."
Bell then looked at the emblem marked on the palm and read aloud, "Boudica-san?" As he innocently spoke this name, the half-elf's face made a clearly displeased expression.
"Even demons can create beautiful things, huh?" Kunihito casually commented.
"Apparently, he knows and doesn't like that person." Bell thought, with a sweat drop behind his head.
"Anyway, old man, how much is the complete set?" The half-elf yelled to the shop owner.
"Each piece is 50,000 varisus, so the total is 300,000 varisus!" The old man exclaimed.
"SO EXPENSIVE!?" Bell was taken aback, as he had never spent even close to 10% of that amount in his short history as an adventurer.
"That woman, why is she selling to beginners at such a high price… Whatever, let's take it." Kunihito said with a sigh.
"Uh-huh! Kunihito-san…" Bell was somewhat flustered by the fact that the half-elf wanted to pay so much for him.
"Don't annoy me, and next time, don't drag me along for shopping." Kunihito grumbled rudely.
Bell looked at him intrigued, but then smiled. That was just the way the half-elf was, after all.
Something then caught Bell's attention. It was displayed in a glass case, and from his perspective, it was beautiful.
"Do you like the blades?" Kunihito asked the boy, seeing the gleam in his eyes. Bell seemed mesmerized by the blades and didn't even respond. "Old man, include that!"
"Oh, you really like Boudica-sama's pieces." The old man commented out of the blue, much to the half-elf's chagrin.
"That annoying redhead made that too…" Kunihito said with a tired sigh. "At least now I don't have to worry about you going into the dungeon alone while I complete Olga's mission."
(With Hestia)
I made my way to Hestia Familia's forge with a heavy heart. I wanted to talk to my friend about the alliance, specifically about Kunihito. He was a mysterious, powerful, and dangerous half-elf, and I was worried about the consequences of this partnership. Deep down, I knew he had more than just a second intention in joining my Familia; I couldn't help but be concerned, and the only one with a slight association with him is Hefesto.
Entering the forge, I found Hefesto busy as usual, working on a new creation.
She looked up and smiled upon seeing me "Hestia, dear, what brings you here today? I won't
lend you a single varisus." Hefesto replied in an absolute tone.
"I'm not here for money!" Hestia said comically, making Hefesto laugh.
I hesitated for a moment but took a deep breath and decided to be honest with her. "Hefesto, what do you think about all of this?" The minor Goddess asked.
"This?" Hefesto seemed puzzled.
"The alliance between our Familias, even if we won't be close at first for obvious reasons, this will bring positive changes…" Hestia commented solemnly.
Hefesto looked at her friend with her good eye, perspicaciously. "I get the feeling you didn't come here to talk about that, after all, in that case, you'd bring him along." Hefesto commented, "Imagine my surprise when I found out that the Familia he boasted about climbing to the top was yours. I only learned that when he genuinely convinced me that it was a good alternative."
I took a deep breath. "Tell me, Hefesto, what do you think of Kunihito?"
Hefesto paused for a moment and blushed before averting her gaze. "Why!? Why should I think anything?" The redhead said nervously.
I found her reaction strange but decided to ignore it for a moment. "Hefesto, I'm worried about Kunihito. He's a very powerful and mysterious man, and I'm not sure of his true intentions." I started to say, carefully choosing my words.
Hefesto nodded, understanding my apprehension. "I understand. You've noticed too; he can definitely make someone suspicious of him." The redhead then sighed, "Don't worry about him, though. I doubt he intends any ill will towards you."
Hestia looked at her friend with uncertainty "Why are you so sure?"
"Because I'm on your side in this, and he wouldn't go against both you and me." Hefesto blushed a little while saying this, thinking about the half-elf.
I couldn't help but notice Hefesto's reaction; she was hiding something. That answer didn't completely put my mind at ease. "Hefesto, you seem to be hiding something from me. Please be honest," I requested with seriousness.
She looked at me for a moment before sighing, defeated. "Maybe I know a bit more about him than I'm willing to admit," she confessed hesitantly.
My heart clenched even tighter with her words. "Please, Hefesto, I need to know. Do you trust him?" I asked directly, needing the truth.
She looked down, seeming to struggle internally. Finally, she raised her gaze to meet mine with seriousness. "I can't say I fully trust him, Hestia. He's a complicated person with a cautious personality that he keeps tightly locked. However, I must admit there's something about him that intrigues me and piques my curiosity," Hefesto confessed.
These words only increased my apprehension. "Intrigues? Curiosity? What do you mean by that?" I inquired, seeking to better understand my friend's perspective.
Hefesto lightly bit her lip, her cheeks threatening to turn red. "That's something for me to know only, but I can tell you that Kunihito is a reliable person. That I can say honestly. And if he isn't, I'll curse him for eternity!"
"I see, then I guess I'll just have to keep observing…" Hestia murmured.
"Observing who?" The voice of the half-elf suddenly filled the room, taking me by surprise, and it seemed Hefesto had the same reaction.
Kunihito appeared suddenly behind the Goddess.
"Where did you come from? You almost gave me a heart attack!" Hestia playfully grumbled.
"Uh-huh! What do you mean? I told you earlier that Mini-me and I were coming to buy armor for him after the dungeon." Kunihito casually replied. "Hello, Hefesto-sama, it's been a while…" His words seemed to have something hidden within them.
Hefesto didn't look into his eyes but had a somewhat silly smile on her face in Hestia's opinion. "H-Hello, Kunihito." She awkwardly greeted back.
Hestia decided to disregard this. "By the way, where's Bell?"
"We're done here, so I sent him ahead. I saw you two chatting through the window, so I decided to drop in and say hello, Hefesto-sama." Kunihito said with a friendly smile.
Seeing Kunihito and Hefesto together made me uneasy. Even though they were trying to hide it, there was something odd about their behavior. Kunihito seemed to be implying something with his glances, and Hefesto couldn't meet his gaze directly, increasing my suspicions.
"Is everything alright between you two?" I asked, trying to sound casual, but my concern leaked into my voice.
Hefesto and Kunihito exchanged quick glances before the half-elf replied, "Of course, we're great! Just old friends catching up, right, Hefesto-sama?" He winked at her, but there was a mischievous glint in his eyes.
Hefesto coughed lightly and looked away. "Yes, of course. Old friends…" she responded, her voice sounding a bit forced.
I wasn't entirely convinced, but I also didn't want to press the issue at that moment. "I understand. Well, I think I should find Bell and catch up with him. Are you okay here, Hefesto?" I asked, trying to change the subject.
Hefesto seemed relieved with the change of topic. "Yes, of course. Don't worry, I'll finish up some orders, and we'll meet soon to discuss more about the alliance, alright?" She smiled kindly.
"Alright then. I'll see you both soon," I replied before leaving the forge, still worried about the situation.
As I walked out, my thoughts turned back to Kunihito. I was still uncertain about the half-elf's true character and what he was hiding from all of us, especially from me. I decided it was time to be more cautious and pay close attention to every move Kunihito made.
(With Hefesto)
"Yahahahaha! You truly are adorable!" Kunihito found it amusing how unique Hefesto was.
While Kunihito laughed at her reaction, Hefesto became even more embarrassed. She knew he was teasing her, but she couldn't prevent her cheeks from turning red.
"You really never change, Kunihito," she replied, trying to hide her shyness behind a mask of seriousness.
"Ah, but that's one of the things you like about me, isn't it?" Kunihito winked at her with a mischievous smile.
Hephaestus averted her gaze, pretending to be busy with her tools. "I don't know what you're talking about." she replied, even though she knew he was right.
Kunihito approached her, looking into her eyes. "You may try to hide it, but I know you have a special place for me in your heart," he teased.
"Don't be ridiculous." Hefesto tried to maintain her composure, but her voice came out a bit softer and lower than intended.
Kunihito smiled even more and lightly caressed her face with the back of his fingers. "I know I'm irresistible." he said confidently.
Hephaestus was momentarily speechless, but she quickly regained her composure. "You're too conceited, Kunihito. Don't think you can have any woman you want with that charm."
The half-elf laughed again and stepped back, but not before giving her a gentle kiss on the cheek. "Who said I want every woman? I only want one in particular." he said, leaving Hephaestus even more embarrassed.
She knew she needed to keep her distance and not let herself be swayed by Kunihito's playful charm. He was a dangerous man, and she couldn't allow herself to be influenced by his charms... again.
"Anyway, don't forget that we need to keep our alliance a secret—" Hefesto reminded, trying to change the subject, but before she could finish, her lips were sealed with Kunihito's.
Surprise washed over Hephaestus as Kunihito's lips met hers in an unexpected kiss. She was momentarily paralyzed, unable to react, as the half-elf gently embraced her.
When the realization finally hit her, Hephaestus abruptly pulled away, bringing her hands to her lips and looking at Kunihito with shock and confusion. "What do you think you're doing?" Her voice trembled, unable to hide the mix of emotions she was feeling.
Kunihito maintained a mischievous smile, but his eyes revealed a glint of sincerity. "I'm sorry, I couldn't resist," he said softly, attempting to approach her again.
Hephaestus recoiled, still unable to process what had just happened. "This isn't funny, Kunihito! What we had was just in that moment, and it doesn't include... this." She gestured uncomfortably, struggling to find the right words.
The half-elf seemed to sense the tension of the situation, and his expression also grew more serious. "I know, and I apologize for acting impulsively. But... I couldn't help it. There's something about you, Hefesto, something that attracts me in a way I can't explain." he said, trying to be sincere.
Hephaestus sighed, feeling her heart race at his words. She knew it was dangerous to get involved with Kunihito, but there was a part of her that also felt a strong attraction to him. However, she needed to be strong and resist these feelings.
"Don't worry, Hefesto. I'll soon completely steal your heart." The blonde spoke confidently.
Hefesto blushed at his words "I-idiot! We made a deal. I was going to acknowledge your family, and this was never going to happen again."
Kunihito shrugged. "It's not my fault your lips are so inviting, but don't worry, I won't make it official that you're mine. For now, I just want a favor." The half-elf said with a casual shrug.
Hephaestus crossed her arms. "Apparently, you only come to me when you want something..." The redhead grumbled.
Kunihito smiled charmingly. "Well, you're a very useful person, Hefesto-sama. And, for a family like yours, I imagine you have many resources and knowledge that might interest me." The half-elf then wrapped his arms around the woman's waist.
"Idiot! What do you want?" Hephaestus asked with a blush that made her hair seem darker.
(Dungeon: Floor 07)
It was another ordinary day in the dungeon, accompanying a group of "heroic" adventurers on their journeys. Oh, how I despise them! From the moment I agreed to become a support, I knew dealing with them wouldn't be easy. But honestly, I didn't expect to be mistreated and underestimated as much as I have been.
As we walked, with their heavy backpack on my back, I could feel the disdainful looks they gave me. "There goes the useless pack mule" their expressions seemed to say with superiority. But I endured silently, disguising the desire to respond in kind.
I can't understand how fearless and supposedly intelligent adventurers fail to see the importance of supports. We are the ones who keep them alive in battles, healing their wounds, providing potions and relief when they're on the brink of death. Yet, we're treated as if we're nothing more than insignificant shadows.
I wonder if they even think about what would happen without our presence. Can they visualize their journeys without someone to carry the weight of their belongings? Or who will take care of them when they're injured and need help?
But, of course, they don't reflect on any of this. To them, we're just disposable servants, existing only to serve their selfish needs. And the sad truth is that many supports accept this role without questioning it, but not me.
Every step I take, carrying their burden on my back, feels like a stab in my heart. With each disdainful look I receive, my determination to prove my worth grows stronger.
We continued to explore the depths of the dungeon, and the adventurers' contempt only grew as we ventured into more dangerous areas. I heard their whispers, their tasteless jokes, and my thoughts filled with sarcasm. "Foolish adventurers, they don't know what awaits them."
As we progressed, tension hung in the air. The adventurers seemed overly confident in their abilities and ignored the signs of danger around them. But I was used to this. They always underestimated the dangers and counted on me to rescue them when their recklessness landed them in tricky situations.
And that's exactly what happened. In a moment of carelessness, the group of adventurers was ambushed by powerful creatures. I, who was at the rear, wasn't hit. The same couldn't be said for the others. Screams echoed through the dungeon as they fought for their lives.
But instead of feeling fear or panic, a different feeling took hold of me. A cold and indifferent feeling. I watched the scene with disturbing calmness, seeing them struggle desperately for their lives.
"What idiots." I thought. "They believed they could faceanything without even looking back. Now they're paying the price for their arrogance."
Even more disturbing was the fact that, instead of feeling guilty for not being able to help them, I felt almost a dark pleasure in seeing them in trouble. Every cry of pain was like music to my ears. "Well done, foolish adventurers. Now you're seeing what happens when you underestimate dangers."
As I watched the carnage before me, I realized that it wasn't just contempt I harbored for the adventurers, but also a kind of resentment. They had always been the heroes, the ones who received all the glory, while I remained in the shadows, as if I were unimportant.
But now, with them in trouble, I felt more powerful than ever. They needed me, and I could choose whether to help them or let them face the consequences of their reckless choices.
In the end, I decided to remain indifferent. After all, they were all killed, and only their valuable items remained, which were all mine now. I just had to wait for the monsters to leave.
This was my life, my routine; this was who I was, Lilliruca Arde, someone who hated adventurers.
(To be continued...)
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