As Bell and Caster emerged from the dungeon, the sight of Orario greeted them with the setting sun casting a warm glow on the bustling city. Many adventurers were returning from their expeditions, and the air buzzed with a mix of satisfaction and weariness.
Impressed by Caster's magical display during the battle, Bell couldn't help but voice his admiration. "Caster, are you a mage? That was incredible! You just took out that Minotaur with a wave of your hand!"
Caster, however, wore a sour expression. "While I am a user of Magecraft, I am barely a subpar magus."
Bell's eyes widened in shock and thought to himself. 'Subpar? If you're subpar, then what does that make me?'
Caster sighed, as he saw the look of his Master."Your potential lies in a different realm, Master. Magecraft is a complex system of magical arts, and my proficiency is, at best, mediocre."
Bell, feeling a mix of confusion and curiosity, shook his head. "Magecraft? I haven't heard of that spell before. What exactly is it?"
Caster, with a hint of surprise at Bell's lack of knowledge, began to explain the intricacies of Magecraft, but then realised that in this world Magecraft probably hadn't been made yet or probably wouldn't be made.
As they strolled through the streets of Orario, Caster began to enlighten Bell about the intricacies of Magecraft. "Magic," Caster explained, "is a general term for activities that seek to artificially reproduce mysteries and miracles. Magecraft delves into the manipulation of magical energy to achieve various effects."
Bell, eager to absorb this newfound knowledge, found himself practically jumping with excitement as he focused on Caster's lecture. The bustling city around them faded into the background as Bell absorbed the secrets of Magecraft.
Unable to contain his enthusiasm, Bell finally asked, "Can I learn Magecraft too? I mean, is it something anyone can pick up?"
Caster, with a reassuring smile, replied, "Don't worry, Bell. While not everyone can master Magecraft, I would be more than happy to train you. You are my Master, after all."
Bell's eyes lit up with excitement as he imagined himself conjuring magical beams and unleashing powerful spells. He couldn't help but jump at the prospect of learning such mystical arts.
However, Caster gently interrupted his daydreams, "But, Master, I must be honest. You, as a human, cannot learn Magecraft. It is a complex and innate skill that requires it to be born with magic circuits. I'm sorry."
Bell's excitement deflated, replaced by a hint of disappointment. "Oh... I see. I wanted to use a strong magic power bomb or something."
Caster chuckled, patting Bell on the shoulder. "While you may not wield Magecraft, you have your own unique strengths, Master. Embrace them, and you'll become a formidable adventurer." And with those words, they continued their journey towards the guild, the city's lights flickering to life as night descended on Orario.
After a Minute or two they reached the guild building, Pantheon, it was a two Story wide building that could house a number of adventures and many other rooms.
Without a Second thought bell entered the building with Caster behind him. As they entered a number of eyes turned to them but mostly to Caster as he was wearing what probably many would consider Rich people Clothes and that one wouldn't wear to the dungeon.
It is a wide space with counters for adventurers to talk with their advisors and also has an exchange area. There are also small meeting boxes where adventurers can talk one on one with their advisor without anyone else hearing them. Aside from that, there is a library area. Most employees work on the first floor of the building while the high-ranking officials work on the second floor.
Looking around Bell immediately found the person he was looking for. Miss Eina his adviser. Miss Eina was a Half elf with pointy ears although shorter then an Elf but still longer than a human, shoulder-length brown hair, and emerald colored eyes. Like always she wore the standard uniform of the Guild. A set of black vest and pants with a white collared long sleeve shirt underneath and a grey bow tie and black boots.
"Miss Eina, I'm back!" He said as she looked up.
"Welcome back, Bell," Eina said with a rather surprised look. "Your back early today. It's good that you are taking a break as those are also important."
"I just had an incident of sorts is all." Bell replied
"Huh? What happened?"
Then bell told the story of how he was exploring the fifth floor when he was attacked by the minatour and how Caster saved him by using a really cool spell. Although he omitted the fact about how Caster was whatever a servant is.
Eina sighed as she rubbed her forehead. "How many times do I have to tell you that before going to the lower floors you have to be properly prepared."
"Ye-yes…" Bell said, feeling a bit ashamed. He did try diving deeper into the dungeon with the hopes of meeting a cute girl he could save after all.
Remembering the spell caster used to instantly turn the minatour into ash. It was what bell wanted a spell that could instantly turn a battle in his favour as he faced a hundred monsters with nothing but that spell.
Bell wanted to be someone like that too.
The word Adventurer didn't really fit that kind of feeling though. More like… a Commander.
After recounting his adventure to Eina, she sighed with a mixture of relief and concern. "Bell, I've told you time and again to be properly prepared before venturing into lower floors. But I'm glad you're safe. And who is this... spell caster?"
Bell, realizing he had kept a crucial detail under wraps, hesitated for a moment. "Ah, well, he's just a really powerful adventurer I met down there. Saved my skin, you know?"
Eina eyed Bell suspiciously, but before she could press further, Caster stepped forward, offering a courteous bow. "My apologies for any concern caused, Miss Eina. I am Zhuge Liang, an adventurer who happened to be in the right place at the right time."
Eina, still wary but appreciative of the introduction, nodded. "Thank you for saving Bell. We're fortunate to have skilled adventurers like you in our ranks."
Caster waved off her gratitude with a casual smile. "No need for thanks. I'm just here to assist my Master."
Eina, however, couldn't help but be intrigued. "Zhuge Liang, was it? I don't think I've seen you around. Which Familia are you affiliated with?"
Caster hesitated for a moment, choosing his words carefully. "I am currently unaffiliated, merely wandering and offering my assistance where needed."
Eina raised an eyebrow but decided not to press further. "Well, we're always grateful for capable adventurers. If you have any questions about the guild, feel free to ask."
As Eina and Caster engaged in conversation about guild affairs, Bell took the opportunity to turn in the magic stones he had gathered during his expedition. The person handling the exchange congratulated him, "Bell Cranel, you've finally paid off your loan to the guild. Well done!"
Bell's eyes widened in surprise and then lit up with a sense of accomplishment. "Really? I... I did it!"
Eina, overhearing the exchange, joined in the congratulations. "That's excellent news, Bell! You've come a long way. Keep up the good work."
...
With exchanging the magic stones bell made his way back to the church.
As Bell approached the small church, he notice its dilapidated state. The once white-painted walls are now a faded shade of gray, covered in patches of peeling paint. The roof tiles are old and cracked, with some missing or visibly displaced, allowing for rainwater to seep through. The church's steeple is missing its spire, leaving behind a gaping hole that exposes the interior of the tower.
As he entered the church, the smell of dampness and mustiness filled his nostrils. The pews are worn, with some missing or broken, and covered in a layer of dust. The stained glass windows are cracked, and many of the panes have fallen out, leaving behind empty spaces in the frames. The altar is chipped and stained, with a faded cloth covering it. The few candles that still stand on the altar are melted and blackened.
The walls are adorned with old paintings and icons, many of which have faded with time and are barely recognizable. The wooden beams that support the ceiling are visibly warped and damaged, some even showing signs of rot.
Despite its current state, the church holds a certain charm and history that is palpable. He could imagine the devout worshippers that once filled the pews, the harmonious melodies that echoed through the halls, and the sense of community that was fostered within its walls.
The two of them descended the stairs where Bell opened up the door at the bottom and announced himself.
"Goddess, I'm home!"
"Welcome home, Bell!" A Short girl exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with genuine joy. "And who might this be?" She looked curiously at Caster.
"Goddess this is Caster he says that he is my Uh..." Bell tried to introduce Caster but was unable to find the Correct words to describe it.
"I am his Servant, Goddess Hestia." Caster replied in turn with a Neutral expression.
"SERVANT!!!!! Bell Cranel don't tell me your are into Slavery????" The Goddess Hestia screamed in a loud tone as if she was shocked.
Caster, maintaining his calm demeanor, began to explain, "In my world, a Servant is a heroic spirit summoned to participate in the Holy Grail War—a ritual where mages and their summoned Servants compete for the Holy Grail, a powerful artifact capable of granting wishes."
Hestia and Bell shared a puzzled look, prompting Caster to continue his explanation. "The Holy Grail War is a complex competition held in secret, and the Servants are legendary figures from history and mythology. I, Zhuge Liang, was summoned to fulfill the role of Caster, a class specializing in magecraft and strategy."
Hestia furrowed her brow, "So, you're saying you're a magical warrior summoned to fight in some hidden war for a wish-granting artifact?"
Caster nodded, "Exactly. However, our current situation appears to be a deviation from the norm. I was summoned by Bell in a dungeon, not through the traditional Holy Grail War ritual."
Bell, still processing the information, asked, "So, what does being a Servant mean for you here, with us?"
Caster sighed, "It seems my summoning in this world is unconventional. I'm here to assist and protect Bell as his Servant. The dynamics of our relationship may differ from the traditional Holy Grail War, but the essence remains."
Hestia, still grappling with the concept, mused, "So, we have our own unique little Holy Grail War happening right here in our familia?"
Caster nodded, "In a manner of speaking, yes".
Hestia, after absorbing the explanation of Caster's unique circumstances, thoughtfully considered the situation. "Well, if Caster is here to assist and protect Bell, then it only makes sense for him to be part of our familia. What do you think, Zhuge Liang?"
Caster, recognizing the merit in Hestia's suggestion, nodded. "Indeed, joining the familia would provide a structured environment for our endeavors. I accept your offer, Goddess Hestia."
Hestia's eyes lit up with delight. "Great! Welcome to the Hestia Familia, Zhuge Liang. Now, let's make it official."
Hestia proceeded to prick her finger with the knife and then traced her blood onto Caster's back. Once that was done, Hestia placed a piece of parchment onto Caster's back where she traced her finger and pulled it back, leaving several words and numbers on it.
Hestia turned the parchment toward herself and let out a Suprised sound.
"Oh, wow Uh Caster you have so many Skills." Hestia began as she hopped off Caster's back and held the parchment to his face
--
Waver velvet\Zhug liang
Level 1
Strength: I0
Defense: I0
Dexterity: I0
Agility: I0
Magic: I0
Magic:
Skills:
1) Discerning Eye :
Allows User to knowledge on how to maximise Potential of Target. Gives a boost on Excellia when Training with Target.
2) Magecraft :
Recreation of Miracles and Beliefs. Increases user's magic and mind usage. Grants Developmental Ability Mystery
3) Ultimate Tactics :
Increase in Boost in Allies when fighting together. Increase in Success of endeavour of working in a Group.
--
"That's amazing, Caster!" Bell said as he looked over Hestia's shoulder at the stat sheet while Caster was getting redressed "So that is what Magecraft is."
"Hmmmm this Falna is quite potent. With this I feel like I would be probably be better then I was when I was alive." Caster said as he was thinking to himself.
"Hey Caster you said you were a Spirit right? Then how come you are helping Bell I thought spirits were more difficult to deal with." Hestia asked Caster as she was a bit suspicious.
Caster, now officially a member of the Hestia Familia, took a moment to further clarify his connection with Bell. "Bell is not just a fellow adventurer, but my Master. In this world, he serves as my anchor, allowing me to exist here. His efforts, such as paying upkeep to the familia, sustain my presence."
Bell, still absorbing the intricacies of their relationship, looked at Caster with a mix of curiosity and understanding. "So, I'm like your connection to this world?"
Caster nodded, "Precisely. Your actions in this world directly influence my ability to remain here. It is a symbiotic relationship, one that transcends the conventional norms of our respective roles."
How exactly is this upkeep paid for?" Hestia asked, wiping the tears from her eyes.
"Well, with the Master's magic power."
Hestia and Bell shared a look before Hestia shooed Caster off the bed and Bell took off his shirt before scrambling onto it. Hestia got on top of Bell's back and pricked her finger with her knife again before repeating the same process on Bell's back like she did for Caster
"…It's there…" Hestia said before placing some parchment onto Bell's back and pulling it off.
--
Bell Cranel
Level 1
Strength: I77 - I82
Defense: I13
Dexterity: I-93 - I96
Agility: H148 - H172
Magic: I50- H100
Magic:
Record : After seeing a Skill/Spell he can try and record it. Can only Record Up to 5 Skill/Spell. Each Recorded power can only be used once before having to be Recorded again.
"I came, I saw, I record."
Skill:
Hsnhdksjrhjnwjdb
--
A.N : Ah, Thank for Readers for pointing out the Errors but i don't know where i got the name Wrong?