NOTE:

Restarted, I honestly think I could have worked this story in a more dynamic and fitting way, and I feel that the "First" Kunihito in the prologue of the first five chapters is completely different from the Kunihito in the following chapters, probably because I wrote the first chapters two years ago and the rest this year, which caused some headaches regarding the main story at the point I had reached, and I was quite lost on the next step because the first Kunihito wanted to kill a lizard, and the second wanted to do something different, so it kind of didn't make much sense. So I preferred to revamp everything and advance things at the beginning, but also work with things that I introduced too early. Anyway, new beginning, new character, now he will be the character I love to write about since forever, and by God, the spelling will be better, now it won't be from someone in the third grade but from someone at the beginning of the fourth.


Somewhere in Orario, morning was slowly awakening, casting pale rays of light through the dusty curtains of an inn. Kunihito Xiloscient, with his imposing stature, gazed at the monotonous ceiling of his empty room. His greenish-blue eyes reflected a mixture of determination and resignation as he awaited the dawn, lost in thoughts about the challenges that lay ahead.

After a few hours of silent contemplation, the first rays of sunlight finally invaded the room, pulling him out of his thoughts. Kunihito rose with graceful agility, driven by an unwavering sense of purpose. He wore a distinctive attire, a peculiar fusion of Eastern and Western elements, making him an intriguing figure amidst the crowd of Orario.

His eyes fixed on the nearby mirror, capturing the image of a striking face. Perfectly combed blond hair framed a countenance that reflected the duality of his mixed heritage. Pointed ears, traces of his elven heritage, added a touch of mystery and fascination to his appearance, while his delicate features contrasted with the strength and determination that emanated from him.

Kunihito slid his hand over the silver blade resting beside the bed. The two-handed sword, adorned with a radiant blue jewel, seemed to radiate supernatural power. With reverence, he recited ancient words, a reminder of his impending mission, before sheathing the weapon and preparing to face another day of challenges and dangers.

The sound of knocks on the door interrupted his preparations, and Kunihito, with an air of resignation, answered the call. Upon opening the door, he was met by Syr Flova, a familiar figure who, despite her undeniable kindness, seemed to evoke a certain discomfort in Kunihito.

"Ah, it's you." he sighed, in a tired, almost disdainful tone, subtly expressing his displeasure.

The irritation soon appeared on the woman's face, but she chose to ignore it, maintaining her friendly composure "Kunihito, there's no need to be rude. I just came to wake you up in case you were still sleeping."

With a gesture of superiority, Kunihito shook his head, echoing his discontent "Honestly, it's difficult dealing with people. It seems to be at the core of human nature… so annoying."

Syr, though visibly affected by the sarcastic response, was interrupted by an unexpected display of affection when Kunihito placed his hand on her head and awkwardly stroked it. "Well, at least that's mildly pleasant behavior. You get a 20% pardon for your annoying ways," he added with a faint smile.

Syr's lighthearted thoughts were abruptly interrupted when Kunihito's mood suddenly changed, and she found herself a victim of his typical 'tsun-tsun' mode. A light tap on her head served as a reminder of her place in their peculiar hierarchy of interaction.

"Back to the tsun-tsun mode, I suppose." she thought, deciding to keep the thought to herself.

"Well, Kunihito-san, do you recognize how your name with Eastern honorifics sounds strange…" Syr tried to choose her words carefully, fearing triggering Kunihito's full-blown anger.

After a brief pause of reflection, Kunihito nodded in agreement. "Indeed, it doesn't make sense to have others perceive me as strange because of a foolish pronunciation."

Before the conversation could continue, another light tap resounded, interrupting the discussion and eliciting an indignant response from Syr. Kunihito, unperturbed, justified the gesture as punishment for not warning him about his own foolish mistake.

Syr, huffing like a petulant child, tried to return to the initial topic of conversation. "So… are you going to the dungeon today?"

Kunihito's sarcastic reply prompted another disapproving look from Syr, who couldn't help but notice the ironic smile on his face. "Don't you feel bad for being so rude to a lady?"

The blonde responded without hesitation, maintaining his characteristic tone of disdain. "You might think so, but I don't feel bad. By the way, you're keeping me here for quite some time. Could you simply say what you want? I'm getting tired of this pathetically eloquent dialogue."

After expressing his impatience in a rude manner, Kunihito went on his way, leaving Syr behind, exasperated as he descended the stairs, indifferent to her words.

(Downstairs)

Kunihito's grumbling mood echoed through the interior of the Fertility Hostess, drawing the attention of the staff working in the pub. This peculiar choice of residence was not a common inn but a notorious establishment known for its exotic drinks and nightly entertainment. Kunihito never missed an opportunity to remind everyone how he ended up there, a story involving a waitress he was certain was bipolar, but that was a matter for another occasion.

Anya Fromel, a waitress with feline characteristics, brown hair, feline eyes, and a tail of the same color, wasted no time in making innuendos about others' relationships. Apparently, she preferred to live alone, despite being remarkably beautiful, and this preference led her to speculate about the love lives of others.

"Trouble in paradise?" she teased, a touch of malice in her voice as she watched the half-elf.

Kunihito didn't hold back, retorting rudely, "No bigger than yours, kitty."

This exchange of words was characteristic of Kunihito, who had the habit of referring to people by their races. It was a strange manifestation of sarcasm that, in reality, didn't sound particularly offensive, although it always raised a few eyebrows.

Ryuu Lion, a beautiful elf with green hair, blue eyes, and skin as white as snow, which earned her the nickname "fairy," often wore the establishment's maid uniform.

She intervened to reprimand Anya. "Please, don't disturb our guest." she requested, maintaining her composure.

Kunihito, however, didn't miss the opportunity to be sarcastic and express his displeasure with the elf's presence "I appreciate your concerns, Your Majesty, but I find it refreshing that the kitty tries to be annoying. At least she acts according to her ridiculous nature, seeking attention from others. Can Your Majesty allow that for us poor mortals?"

These exchanges of words were not uncommon, and since Kunihito and Ryuu's first meeting, antipathy was evident. Ryuu had done nothing to provoke Kunihito's dislike, so everyone concluded that he simply hated pure-blooded elves. It was clear that something had happened in the past for him to label them this way. Ryuu chose not to retaliate, avoiding deepening the hostility.

Kunihito was a half-elf, something that was visibly evident when he lowered the hood of his cloak. He carried the pointed ears and features of his elven heritage but was not a pure-blooded elf. Many pure elves looked down on half-elves, considering them impure. This explained Kunihito's hatred of pure-blooded elves, leading him to label them by their race.

Ryuu chose not to take offense at Kunihito's acidic comments because she could try to understand the reasons behind his words. She chose not to deepen the conflict, as they were strangers to each other, and she didn't want to reinforce the stigma against elves. If Kunihito crossed the line, the situation would change.

This time, however, Kunihito surprised everyone by making a change in his attitude. When greeted by Ryuu, he didn't refer to her by her race but by her name. "Good morning, Xiloscient-sama."

Ryuu was surprised because it was the first time he seemed willing to overcome his hostility. However, what she didn't know was that her conclusions were completely wrong.

Kunihito, who was heading towards the pub's exit, whistled casually as Anya continued to tease Ryuu. "It seems our young heartthrob is captivated by your charms. Poor Syr."

Ryuu approached the waitress with small steps and squeezed her cheeks, eliciting screams of pain from the waitress. "NYAAAAAAA!!! RYU-SAMA PLEASE STOP!!!" She comically cried out.

Ryuu, on the other hand, ignored her cries and focused her thoughts on the half-elf. He seemed to be taking one step at a time in his evolution, and she was happy about that.

The other staff members of the Fertility Hostess had varying opinions about Kunihito Xiloscient. His peculiar presence and acerbic behavior made him a notable figure in the establishment, and each of them had a unique perspective on the half-elf.

Anya Fromel, the cat-like waitress, not only provoked Kunihito with her innuendos but also enjoyed their sarcastic exchanges. She seemed to find his behavior intriguing and even entertaining, and her teasing served to keep things lively in the pub.

Ryuu Lion, the elf who was often the target of Kunihito's provocations, took a more compassionate approach. She tried to understand the reason behind his hatred of pure-blooded elves and sought not to deepen the conflict. Ryuu hoped that over time, Kunihito could overcome his antipathies and prejudices.

Syr Flova, the woman who introduced the pub to Kunihito and made sure he stayed there, was like an older sister in an overall view.

Mama Mia and the half-elf had a good relationship; they often conversed about ancient battle stories.

Other staff members and patrons of the establishment had their own opinions about Kunihito. Some found him mysterious and intriguing due to his elven heritage, while others considered him an arrogant and unfriendly figure. Some, however, liked the energy he brought to the place, making it more interesting.

In general, Kunihito's presence in the Fertility Hostess generated a variety of reactions, ranging from curiosity to irritation. However, few knew the true reason behind his hostile attitudes towards pure-blooded elves, and his past remained shrouded in mystery. Only time would reveal more about the real Kunihito Xiloscient and the motivations behind his actions.

(With Kunihito)

Kunihito walked through the bustling streets of Orario, lost in his own thoughts as he distanced himself from the Hostess of Fertility. The chaos of Orario was a very different reality from what he had known in the Far East. The busy and hectic city starkly contrasted with the distant lands where he had grown up.

As he walked through the crowded streets, sporadic flashbacks of life in the Far East would surface in his mind. He would see himself dressed in a traditional battle uniform, surrounded by his fellow soldiers on a battlefield. The sound of clashing swords and cries echoed in his ears as the past invaded his present.

The vision of the battlefield, now covered with fallen bodies and wreckage, gave way to a crowd of people in the streets of Orario. Men, women, and children moved frantically, each with their own goals and concerns. Life in the city was a chaotic dance of intertwined destinies.

Kunihito couldn't help but compare his current life to what he had once known. His training in the Far East had turned him into a skilled warrior, but he was now far from the martial discipline of his past. Instead of fighting on battlefields, he now faced the challenges of the Orario dungeon, where rewards and dangers were equally unpredictable.

The half-elf wondered if his choices had distanced him from his roots, if the warrior he used to be still existed within him. He felt the duality of his mixed heritage more than ever, with a part of him linked to the Far East and another immersed in the complexities of Orario.

Kunihito shook his head to dispel the intrusive thoughts and focused on his path through the city.

Kunihito Xiloscient made his way through the streets of Orario, each step taking him away from the labyrinth of memories that had unfolded in his mind. As the half-elf followed his path, his attention turned to the events around him.

The streets were filled with a myriad of people, each with their own destinies and ambitions. Some were adventurers like him, with notable armor and weapons, ready to delve into the depths of the dungeon. Others were traders, selling their goods and haggling with adventurers for profit. And there were those who seemed lost and aimless, wandering the city's streets.

Kunihito observed the faces of the people, trying to decipher their stories and desires. He was, after all, a natural observer, a quality that life in the Far East had cultivated in him. In his heart, he still carried the determination to understand the world and his place in it.

As the images of the battlefield gradually faded from his mind, the half-elf couldn't help but feel a strange sense of nostalgia. Life in the Far East was harsh and unforgiving, but there was a simplicity to it that he couldn't find in Orario. Loyalties were clear, challenges were direct, and discipline was unwavering.

In Orario, lines were blurred, and uncertainty was a constant companion. He had made choices that had taken him away from his homeland, and he often questioned if he had made the right decision.

The half-elf finally reached his intended destination, the Guild.

Kunihito entered the Guild of Adventurers, a place that played a crucial role in the complex machinery of Orario. The half-elf couldn't help but compare this efficient system to the lack of such organization in his homeland in the Far East.

The Guild of Adventurers was a multifunctional institution. Its main mission was to manage and control the threats of monsters infesting the dungeon, but it also played vital roles in acquiring resources from the dungeon, counseling adventurers, and providing weapons and armor for those who were just starting their journeys.

Kunihito observed the efficiency with which the Guild operated, and couldn't help but think that if a similar organization existed in his homeland, many lives would have been spared, and bloodshed would have been avoided.

As his eyes explored the interior of the Guild, he soon identified his current counselor, Eina Tulle. She was engrossed in a book, oblivious to the movement around her. Kunihito couldn't help but find amusement in her lack of attention, considering that she was on duty, and the attention of Guild counselors was crucial for the safety of adventurers.

Kunihito's counselor was a woman of remarkable beauty, with pointed ears and emerald green eyes. Her brown hair cascaded to her shoulders, with a natural shine that made her attractive. Unlike pure-blooded elves, her beauty wasn't flawless but rather a charming mix of features. Dressed in the Guild's black uniform, she exuded captivating beauty. She was Eina Tulle, his guide in this complex world.

The half-elf approached quietly, waiting for the right moment to catch Eina's attention. When she finally raised her eyes from the book and noticed Kunihito's presence, her face displayed a mixture of surprise and delight.

"Kunihito-san, you here?" she exclaimed, smiling warmly. "How can I help you today?"

Kunihito removed his hood, revealing his striking face. "Eina, you seem so busy that I almost hesitated to interrupt," he said with a playful wink. "But I have some questions that I need you to answer."

Eina nodded, turning her attention to the adventurer. "Of course, I'm here to help. What do you need to know?"

Kunihito and Eina spent some time discussing his upcoming foray into the dungeon and the crucial information she could provide. She gave him advice on the proper depth and the dangers he might encounter, as well as providing some valuable tips on preparation.

As they worked together, Kunihito couldn't help but admire Eina's intelligence and dedication. She was a true professional in her role, and he felt grateful to have her as his counselor.

The conversation between Kunihito and Eina continued, with the half-elf absorbing every word of wisdom she shared. He not only admired her intelligence but also the care and concern she showed for him and other adventurers. The way she dedicated herself to her role in the Guild didn't go unnoticed by Kunihito, who recognized the value of having someone so reliable and experienced by his side.

As the conversation progressed, Kunihito couldn't help but notice the way Eina leaned in to explain something in more detail, her green eyes shining with enthusiasm as she shared her knowledge. He found himself captivated not only by her beauty but also by the passion she showed for her work. A sense of admiration blended with a subtle fascination, arousing even more interest in Eina.

Kunihito gave a charming smile, letting his eyes gleam with a touch of playfulness and charm. "Eina, I must admit that I'm impressed with your knowledge. You certainly know how to keep an adventurer like me safe and well-informed." he said, with a soft and confident tone.

Eina smiled, a subtle blush spreading across her cheeks. She leaned in a little closer, the gleam in her eyes intensifying. "I do my best, Kunihito-san. It's important to me to ensure that everyone has the most information and support for their journeys."

Kunihito nodded in appreciation, acknowledging her dedication. "It's certainly admirable. However, it must be exhausting dealing with so many adventurers seeking advice and guidance. Perhaps you need someone to provide you with a bit of rest and relaxation." he suggested, casting a meaningful look at her.

Eina blinked, catching Kunihito's implication. She brought her hand to her chin, pretending to consider his proposal "Well, I certainly wouldn't turn down a moment of tranquility and relief from stress, especially with a charming adventurer like you to keep me company."

The half-elf leaned in closer, allowing the warmth of flirtation to spread between them. "So, maybe we can schedule a time to relax together in a quiet place after work. It would be a great opportunity to share more stories and knowledge… and perhaps discover more about you, Eina."

Eina couldn't contain the growing smile on her lips. She admired Kunihito's careful approach and the way he balanced flirting with genuine respect. "That sounds like a tempting proposition, Kunihito-san. Perhaps I should consider your offer and see if I can find some time in my busy schedule."

Kunihito nodded with satisfaction, aware that he had piqued her interest. "I would be delighted if you did. I'm sure we'll have plenty to talk about and learn from each other."

After the lively exchange with Eina, Kunihito found himself eager to learn more about the powerful families of Orario. He knew that these clans played crucial roles in the city's life, each with its own influence and reputation within the dungeon and beyond. The half-elf decided to approach the subject delicately, considering that not everyone was willing to share details about their family's activities.

"Eina, there's something that has always intrigued me since I came to Orario. I've heard about the powerful families that rule the city, like the Freya Family, the Loki Family, the Hefesto Family, and the Ganesha Family. However, despite my curiosity, I haven't had much opportunity to witness their strength or influence here in the city. Could you tell me a bit more about them?" Kunihito asked, with a serious and curious look.

Eina nodded, understanding Kunihito's interest in the influential families. She took a deep breath before starting to share some details with him.

"The Freya Family is known for their unparalleled beauty and grace, but mainly because the family's captain is the only Level 7 in Orario. They have a striking presence in Orario and wield significant influence over many adventurers. Freya, the clan's leader, is admired for her ability to attract loyal followers who serve her devotedly."

"As for the Loki Family, they are famous for their cunning and versatility, primarily because there are 6 Level executives in the family. Loki, the matriarch of the clan, is known for her ability to plan and execute complex strategies. Her followers are trained to adapt to a variety of situations and challenges, and her influence is felt in many aspects of life in Orario."

"Hefesto and her family are known for their exceptional skills in forging and crafting weapons and armor. They are highly respected for their expertise and unmatched quality, and many adventurers seek their services to obtain superior equipment. Hefesto Family is admired for their dedication to perfecting their craft and is widely considered one of the best blacksmiths in Orario."

"Ganesha and his family are known for their generosity and compassion. They have a welcoming presence in Orario and are known for supporting the community in various ways. Ganesha, the clan leader, is respected for his devotion to justice and equality values, and many consider him an example to follow in terms of compassionate leadership."

Kunihito listened carefully to Eina's descriptions, absorbing every detail about Orario's powerful families. He recognized the importance of understanding the influence of these clans, especially considering the many facets of life in the city that they affected. With this information in mind, the half-elf began to formulate a plan to discover more about the activities of these influential families and how they impacted Orario's ever-evolving landscape.

Eina observed Kunihito's interest in the families and offered to provide more information whenever needed. She shared some intriguing stories about past events involving the families and how their actions had shaped the city's history over the years. Kunihito thanked her for her generosity in sharing her knowledge and promised to continue his quest for additional information about these influential clans.

With a clearer understanding of the importance of Orario's powerful families, Kunihito found himself determined to delve deeper into their activities and discover how he could play a significant role in the city's ever-changing landscape. He knew that his journey was just beginning, and there was much more to uncover about the complexities and challenges of Orario.

"Thank you, Eina, that was very enlightening. I also think I need to get to know them in my own way." Kunihito said as he stood up and prepared to leave.

Eina sighed. "Don't go doing anything reckless just because you have the Guild Leader's support. That doesn't mean you can do whatever you want." These words only elicited a silent laugh from Kunihito as he left.

Kunihito's eyes had a mysterious gleam. "Darn, this city is getting me more excited than I thought. I need to kill something." The half-elf thought.

(Meanwhile, on the 5th Floor of the Dungeon)

It was not a good day for Bell Cranel, a novice adventurer.

He had entered the dungeon with bright hopes. The boy dreamt of fame, romance, wealth, and glory, as was typical for a young man who had grown up yearning for heroic adventures. He longed to establish close relationships with beautiful girls and interact with the lovely ladies of various races. Although such thoughts might seem inappropriate or immature to some, it was a normal ambition for a boy his age.

"Can't I have a harem in the dungeon, right? Or am I wrong?" Bell questioned himself at that time.

Unfortunately, he was terribly mistaken.

"Wuaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!" the monster chasing him roared, interrupting his inappropriate thoughts.

The result for an adventurer like Bell, with inappropriate and immature thoughts, was near-death due to his own innocence and arrogance in considering himself special in the world. A quote from a famous hero could be applied to the current situation of the young white-haired boy "The path of the brave does not follow the footsteps of stupidity."

This proverb reflected the situation at hand. Currently, Bell was being pursued by a monster with a human body and a bull's head, a Minotaur. This monster was entirely immune to his attacks, limited to level 1. He was about to be defeated by it.

Bell had cornered himself in a dead-end alley, a fate befitting a fool. Although the Minotaur's hooves had not directly hit his back, every step of the monster made the ground tremble, and even the spot where Bell stood was affected by the impacts. The teenager couldn't stand and could only roll on the dungeon floor.

"Uwaaaaah!!!" the Minotaur roared again.

Bell was sitting on the ground, and death seemed inevitable. It seemed that from the beginning, the boy had no qualifications to become a hero of fairy tales. After all, as many said, "The most humiliating death for a hero is when he can't even stand against his enemy." A phrase uttered by a hero who faced ancient dragons.

The boy's back hit the wall; there was no place to retreat.

"I… I'm dead." these words echoed in his mind, his teeth chattering constantly, while tears streamed down. He could feel the Minotaur's deep and heavy breath on his skin.

Raising his head and facing the muscular body that was one or two times larger than his, Bell felt the crushing, suffocating force of overwhelming strength, making him feel like an insect in its path.

"In the end, I remain pathetic..." the thought ran through his mind.

The Minotaur, which was slowly attacking with its hooves, appeared in his field of vision. The next moment, a line cut through the monster's body.

"W-What!?" Bell exclaimed.

"Uaaaah!" A cry of pain echoed from the Minotaur. And so, the monster that couldn't move was instantly turned into pieces of flesh. The action was so fast that Bell could barely keep up with what happened.

As the pattern unfolded, the Minotaur's body fell into pieces, spewing dark red blood all over Bell as if he had taken a bath.

"It seems like you've seen better days, young lady." heard the swordsman say as he swung his sword to get rid of the blood.

Bell was completely frozen at the sight.

(With Kunihito)

It seemed like the world was conspiring against the half-elf at that moment. Descending through the dungeon floors with determination, he was abruptly interrupted by the desperate screams of a young girl fleeing from a terrible Minotaur.

While watching the frantic pursuit of the girl, the words often repeated by adventurers echoed in his mind, "What happens in the dungeon, stays in the dungeon." However, the presence of a Minotaur on the fifth floor was intriguing. The most plausible explanation was that someone had inadvertently lured it there, resulting in an unexpected chase for the helpless girl.

Kunihito couldn't ignore such injustice. With his sword ready, Balmung, he focused his gaze on the monster. With agile movements, he launched himself towards the beast and unleashed his technique, the "Muon no Tachi." In less than a second, the half-elf sliced the Minotaur horizontally, performing the cuts silently and incredibly quickly. The Sword God Style allowed his blade to move faster than the speed of sound, leaving no sound traces.

With the creature slain, Kunihito began to clean his sword from the monster's blood. His eyes turned to the blood-covered figure in front of him, but the girl didn't offer an immediate response.

Disappointed by the lack of gratitude, the half-elf expressed his discontent, "So, not going to say thank you? Western people don't even have the common sense to express gratitude to those who save them? Or maybe you're one of those spoiled girls ready to scream as if they have control over everything. By the way, if you try, I'll break your legs."

The young, red-faced boy mumbled, "Well… I'm a boy." However, his words were cut off before he could express his thanks.

Kunihito promptly responded, "The way you were screaming, it didn't seem like it. I imagine it must be embarrassing to call yourself a man from now on." He chuckled at the embarrassed young boy's expense.

While Kunihito began to move away, encouraging the boy not to be disheartened by the experience, Bell blushed with shame under the layer of blood covering him.

The half-elf wasn't a master of comforting words in such situations. Coming from a land where the strongest prevailed over the weak, emotional words sounded empty. He believed that laughter and resilience were the way to overcome adversity.

However, before he could take a few more steps, he spotted a blonde swordswoman, the famous Sword Princess, Ais Wallenstein. Despite being a newcomer to the city, he recognized her due to his family's frequent visits to the pub where he resided.

Observing the Sword Princess in action in the dungeon, a combat environment, was a unique experience. He scrutinized her with a trained eye, while Ais did the same to him.

Ais sported well-defined muscles, reflecting years of battles and remarkable experience. However, something made her uncomfortable: the obvious marks on the blade of her sword. Kunihito felt that this lack of respect for the weapon was out of place.

Despite the displeasure, the half-elf considered "However, she is still very young. With proper training, perhaps..." The thought of offering guidance arose because he saw a trace of himself in the young swordswoman, especially in her eager eyes for a purpose.

Returning to reality and setting aside these thoughts, Kunihito realized he was being closely analyzed by Ais. Ais, in turn, had the opportunity to observe his combat style and his swordsmanship school, something rare in those lands, as the teachings were more basic in the West.

Before the conversation could continue, a sharper cry than before echoed in the alley. The young man Kunihito had saved disappeared, running amid moans and screams.

The faces of Ais and Kunihito showed incredulity as they watched the bloodied boy disappear into the distance. It didn't take long for Bete, Ais's companion, a werewolf, to burst into uncontrollable laughter.

Kunihito, still amused by the situation, tried to control his laughter, "Wow, that was quite the first impression. You really scared him, young lady…"

Ais blushed with embarrassment and looked away, listening to Bete's laughter echoing loudly in the alley. The situation was embarrassing for the Sword Princess.

After catching her breath, Bete was still laughing when Ais asked him, "B-Bete! Did you see where that hooded elf went?"

Between laughs, Bete replied, "Elf? What elf?" He tried to catch his breath, ignoring the armored blonde.

Ais directed her gaze to the empty alley. The mysterious hooded elf had disappeared without her noticing, leaving her intrigued and eager to learn more about the remarkable technique she had witnessed.

"Come on, that was the last one. I'll go back and inform the captain first."Bete then, still trying to hold back his laughter, departed.

Ais looked at Bete, still perplexed by the hooded elf's swift departure. She then nodded her head, acknowledging the need to inform her captain about the events that had occurred in the dungeon.

Kunihito, realizing that Bete was about to leave, took the opportunity for a dramatic entrance. With impressive speed, he approached Ais surprisingly, landing next to her with a slight sword twirl to demonstrate his exceptional blade control.

Ais was surprised by Kunihito's sudden appearance at her side. She frowned, momentarily on guard due to the half-elf's impressive speed and agility. Their eyes met, and Kunihito examined hers curiously and intensely.

"You have something unique." Kunihito said, admiration in his voice. "And your eyes… They are pleasant to look at. The eyes of a true avenger, willing to do anything for her sword."

Ais's eyes, normally serious and determined, were now closely scrutinized by the half-elf. She was intrigued by Kunihito's comment and the unusual compliment he had offered.

Before she could respond, Kunihito shifted his gaze to his own sword, Balmung. His face took on a melancholic expression, and he reverently stroked the blade.

"It's a shame that your sword is so… clumsy. The lack of respect for your weapon is remarkable. A sword is an extension of your own body and should not be neglected or mistreated." he sighed, as if lamenting the state of Ais's sword.

Ais looked at her sword, Familiar, with a thoughtful expression. She had never considered her sword's condition in that way. Familiar had been a constant companion in all battles, but Kunihito's words made her realize that there might be more to learn about the connection between a swordsman and their weapon.

Before she could respond, Kunihito took a step back, looking at her with a mix of respect and curiosity. "Perhaps, one day, we can exchange blows. I would be honored to battle with such a skilled swordswoman as you, Ais Wallenstein."

With these words, Kunihito moved away, disappearing into the dungeon corridor, leaving Ais with a sense of intrigue and curiosity about the half-elf who had crossed her path. She knew that this would not be the last time they would meet, and she was eager to unravel the mysteries behind his skills and insight.

(Hostess of Fertility)

The night was about to end, and the cozy interior of the tavern was filled with a diverse mix of adventurers, local residents, and travelers seeking rest and entertainment. As the patrons finished their drinks and began to depart, a familiar figure entered the establishment.

Kunihito, the half-elf with a remarkable presence, pushed through the door, his cloak billowing behind him. His blue-green eyes scanned the surroundings, acknowledging everyone. It was as if he were a long-time resident, and though many curious looks turned in his direction, the presence of foreign adventurers in the city was not uncommon.

Kunihito chose to settle at one of the tables, drawing the attention of Anya, who approached him holding a clean cloth.

"Kuni-nya. What can I serve you today?" Anya asked with a twinkle in her eye, her friendly smile lighting up the room as she began to clean a glass with graceful movements.

"Kitty! A glass of your best wine, please." Kunihito replied politely, appearing comfortable in that environment.

Anya quickly filled a glass with the requested wine and slid it in Kunihito's direction. As he savored the drink and its flavors danced on his tongue, the two began to converse.

As the conversation flowed, something unusual began to happen, but nothing out of the ordinary. Anya began to subtly flirt with the half-elf. Her eyes sparkled suggestively, and she made slightly provocative comments, as if testing the waters.

Surprisingly, Kunihito responded to the flirtation with a cheerful and playful smile. He leaned a bit closer, played with a strand of Anya's hair, and replied with light-hearted jokes that made her lips curve into an amused smile.

The flirtation between them began to grow irresistibly, creating an atmosphere charged with sexual tension.

Anya, normally so confident and self-assured, was taken aback by Kunihito's change, which usually seemed reserved and serene. She nibbled on her lower lip and continued to flirt, feeling an excitement she hadn't experienced in a long time.

Eventually, amid laughter and suggestive glances, the hostess of fertility slipped a bold invitation into the middle of the conversation.

"What if you show me one of your special sword techniques, Kunihito? They say you're a master of martial arts, aren't you?"

Kunihito tilted his head to the side, a mischievous gleam in his eyes. "Only if you promise you'll be the only one to witness it, Anya-san."

The two exchanged suggestive looks before Anya stepped away from the table and indicated for Kunihito to wait until later.

After taking a sip of the wine served by Anya, Kunihito saw Mama Mia, the tavern's owner, approaching and sitting at his table. She greeted him warmly, expressing her delight at seeing him and, at the same time, teasing him not to take advantage of her girls.

Kunihito laughed at Mama Mia's observation and replied lightly, "Ah, Mama Mia, if I told you half of the troubles I get into with these women, you'd understand why I always end up in the line of fire."

Mama Mia laughed along with him, enjoying the relaxed conversation. However, she noticed that something was different with Kunihito today, a subtly altered energy that piqued her curiosity.

"You're strangely excited today, Kunihito. What's going on? Any mystery or surprise in the depths of the dungeon?" Mama Mia asked, with a playful smile on her lips.

Kunihito, looking at the wine in his glass, expressed thoughtfully, "Ah, you know how it is. An adventurer's life is always full of intriguing discoveries. Today, though, I saw something that piqued my interest in a special way. Orario is a city full of secrets and possibilities. It's as if every corner holds an untold story."

Kunihito's eyes lit up as he reflected on the city, but in his mind, an image of Ais appeared. He realized that the Sword Princess had piqued his curiosity from the moment he saw her in the dungeon.

"Saber, was there any specific reason for you to come to Orario? What are your goals here?"

Kunihito looked Mama Mia directly in the eyes and revealed, "I'm here to make a lasting mark, to be remembered as someone who made a difference. Orario is the perfect place to start a new journey and write my name in the depths of this city. Something grand is happening here, and I'm going to be part of it."

Mama Mia nodded, recognizing the passion and ambition that drove Kunihito. She knew he wasn't someone who settled for the ordinary but rather someone destined to seek the extraordinary.

"Coming here, a raccoon told me something that was really heartwarming to me and ignited something I hadn't felt since I was a child..." Kunihito said thoughtfully.

"A raccoon... What would that be?" Mama Mia asked, somewhat puzzled.

Kunihito smiled mischievously. "He told me how I could become a God." The half-elf leaned back and enjoyed his drink.

(To be continued...)