AN: Kept you waiting, huh? Here's another chapter for you guys. Feel free to leave your thoughts in the reviews.

Edit: How about a little game?

Why don't you guys give me some of your reasoning for any pairing you support in this fic?

How it would be interesting? Could they have some great chemistry? Their relationship would have a deeper meaning with each of their origins and story, making it more fulfilling for them to be together?

Give me your thoughts on the matter.

I already have various ideas for any potential ship I might follow through, but It would be amusing to see the reader's take on it.

Without further ado, enjoy!

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Chapter 5 : Sorting Things Out.

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The appetizing aroma of his cooking met Luke's nostrils as he removed the lid of a large pot, checking its content. The chicken stew that he was preparing for dinner was almost ready to be served. He picked up a wooden spoon, using it to savor his dish and see if it met the strict standard he always set for himself whenever he was in charge of the kitchen.

Still not as good as Zald's culinary, but it's close enough… and that was a high standard in itself!

He put the lid back on with a curt nod of approval.

Old habits die hard, or so they say. And his eagerness to help around the kitchen was no exception.

''The stew is almost ready! Do you need a hand with anything, Maryuu?'' Luke asked, looking over his shoulder towards the girl on the counter, right behind him.

''Thanks, but it won't be necessary. The pasta is ready, and I'm already working on the vegetables and greens.'' Maryuu's sweet, tender voice reached his pointy ears, and he gave her a brief acknowledgement in return.

The elf focused back on the stove ahead of him, checking on the smaller pans containing the rest of the dishes under his care.

It has been almost a year and a half since hed joined the Astraea Familia.

With Ryuu's and his addition to their ranks, the familia was steadily growing out of the tight economic situation they found themselves in. Luke's level 3 status and abilities made him the perfect buffer for them to easily slay monsters on the upper floors, and sometimes even as far as in the middle floors. Alise, Kaguya - and surprisingly Ryuu as well - had reached level 2 and the rest of the girls would soon level up too at their current rate.

The heterochromatic elf's current abnormal prowess for a level 3 – thanks to his stacks of S's and SS's abilities before each level up – and their balanced party; paired with their good teamwork, allowed them to explore up to floor 20 with relative ease.

Celty and Ryana worked at the rearguard, specializing in fire support as mages. Maryuu also stayed further back, being the main healer in the group.

With a well organized party of twelve adventurers, the Astraea Familia was steadily grinding their way to the top.

And he was going step by step towards his end goals… Towards the reason he ran.

The girl that was currently assisting him with the task of ensuring that the whole Familia was well fed was a kind soul named Maryuu Reage. Although Luke was fond of all his fellow companions – even if he butted heads with some of them (namely Kaguya), he ended up having a soft spot for the healer. Not only for the fact that they always spent some time together daily, being in charge of the kitchen and all that.

But also…

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But also because she also reminded him of Bell's deceased mother, Meteria.

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Just like the frail young woman, Maryuu was always a compassionate and caring person, who always worried about her comrades and innocents alike. Luke couldn't help but see the resemblance in the girl's persona.

Although that was where the similarities ended.

Unlike Meteria who saw good in everyone, Maryuu harbored a great hatred in her heart. One that most likely originated from suffering, and also witnessing the barbaric acts around Orario.

And by default, her anger was directed at the main culprits– Evilus.

Gone was the sweet, angelical girl whenever they faced off against the evil fanatics. She showed no remorse when hurting them in the fights – on the contrary, she seemed to enjoy their suffering to some extent.

He wasn't one to judge. He also despised the vile cult, but it wasn't like he particularly enjoyed hurting them for their past and current actions. Luke simply did what was right and fought against their cruel schemes.

Yet… he could see where she was coming from.

Even though the elf knew the human girl for more than a year, he had little knowledge of her past and story. It may sound strange but he didn't like to pry into somebody's personal life, choosing instead to let them open themselves willingly. And judging by how her demeanor did a complete 180 whenever she stood against Evilus… It wasn't hard to picture that they brought back bad memories to her.

Perhaps she lost someone dear to her because of them.

Or maybe she just hated their evil motives that brought nothing but misery to the common folk.

Whatever it may be, the truth was that she hated their guts and it was more than probably justified as well. Perhaps in time the elf would get the whole view from Maryuu herself.

''Do you have any plans for our day off tomorrow, Luke?''

Speaking of her...

''Apart from my morning training, no, I don't have anything set up for the day. Why do you ask?'' He kept his focus on his task as he talked to her.

''I don't want to be a bother, but…would you kindly escort me to the orphanage then?''

The elf's eyebrows rose at the unexpected request.

Tomorrow will be the duos break from any familia related activities; which included dungeon delving and patrolling the city's streets. Even though any member of the familia on their day off was barred from entering the dungeon by Astraeas direct order, the heterochromatic elf became the only exception to that rule.

Hed been adamant to descend into the dungeon solo at least two or three days a week to hone his skills and keep his growth rate. That way he could balance his training with his duties at the surface and also delve into the dungeon alongside his Familia members.

At first, his goddess was hesitant to accept his request, fearful of his well-being, but once he explained his motives and dreams that he chased with all his heart , she forfeited in the end. Although on the strict condition that he wouldn't put himself in unnecessary danger and risk, giving his word that he would come back home in one piece every time.

He accepted the deal without thinking twice.

Luke knew how unforgiving and cruel the dungeon could be. The meanest break of concentration or the smallest mistake could end with you and your companions mauled to death and becoming some monster meal. He wouldn't let his guard down for even a second when down there.

Luke usually entered the dungeon a couple of hours before the sun peeked in the horizon. After he'd finished his training regime in the middle floors, he would usually be at the surface around noon - if nothing unexpected delayed him. So with that it wouldn't interfere with any of his other duties and activities for the rest of the day. As he didn't have anything planned for his rest day, he didn't have any reason not to help Maryuu.

Although he was curious as to why she'd wanted to go to an orphanage in the first place.

"Sure, I don't see why not. But if you don't mind me asking, why an orphanage?"

If he could see her face, he would be met with the girls tender smile.

''Ill be visiting the children and spending some time with them…and also meeting my mother.'' That last bit made him glance at her over his shoulder.

''I always pay them a visit whenever I have some spare time, lending them a helping hand and also to deliver some much needed funds that ive gathered… There are only a handful of people that are willing to help places like an orphanage in these troubled times.'' Her tone was somber as she finished explaining.

''That's what we are fighting for… in due time things will change for the better, youll see.'' Maryuu looked back at him, being greeted with a warm smile and a thumbs up. She returns it with a smile of her own, before both of their focus was directed back on work again.

"I'll be back from the dungeon around noon, if nothing problematic happens down there of course. Will that be ok with you?... I can take a break from my training if you want to go sooner."

And he really meant it. If she wanted to go visit the orphanage sooner rather than later, then he wouldn't be against taking a day off from training as well. One full day of rest would not kill him, would it?

''I appreciate the gesture, but it won't be necessary. Ill have to prepare some food for the us and the children, as long as you are here before lunch it shouldn't be a problem.''

''Gotcha. I'll do my best to be back on time!''

''I'm glad for your help, but don't put yourself in danger just to avoid being late. The dungeon is dangerous enough with a battle party, let alone going solo, so don't throw your carefulness to the wind for my sake!'' Maryuu warned with a serious tone, turning towards him.

''I see. That's how low you think my intelligence… you wound me, Maryuu.'' He said in a fake hurt tone, clutching his chest with his hand as he turned towards her as well.

''I'm serious… be careful down there.'' The worried look in her azure eyes took him back to the times Meteria showed concern for her twin sister, or for him when he had stood against the boaz, Ottar, 6 years ago.

''Dont worry, I will.'' He dropped the jesting, speaking seriously to soothe her worries.

The couple looked at each other for a few seconds, exchanging serene gazes.

''Oi,Oi. This smell is making my stomach rumble! This dinner will be ready today or next week!?'' Lyra in all her subtleness broke their staredown as she stormed in through the kitchens door.

''Aye, aye. It's almost ready, so hold your horses!'' He made the move to turn back towards the oven, but stopped midway. A sly smile adorned his face.

''Given that you are in such a hurry for dinner, why dont you start to set up the table for us, uh sweetie? That's a chefs direct order!''

The prum groaned loudly in annoyance, but moved towards her new assigned task nonetheless.

"You are lucky your food is delicious…" his pointy ears picked up her grumbling as she started to grab the plates and cutlery in the cabinet.

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''AGUOOOOOOOO!'' The bull-type monster roared as he charged towards his prey. His booming footsteps echoed loudly in the rocky passageway. The minotaur raised his landform cleaver for a devastating blow.

Testament to his great strength, small debris flew in the air and a cloud of dust filled his view as result of his attack.

The beast began to remove his improvised weapon from the ground that had become stuck with the force behind his raging downwards slice.

"UOOOOO!" The monster took his arm away from the dust mist, screaming in agony. Half of his forearm was missing as he tried to retreat away from the culprit.

A dark figure dashed from the cloud of dirt.

The minotaur tried to intercept the attacker with his remaining hand, when suddenly his world started to spin. He let out a strained whimper once he saw the rest of his body tumbling over as his vision was now on the ground.

The last sight his eyes registered were the boots of his killer, the blade of his black sword covered in his own blood and the glimpses of his brothers rushing at the robed adventurer.

The four remaining minotaurs roared in anger as they came down upon the lone adventurer. Two of the beasts charged at him from opposite directions like mad bulls as the adventurer drew another sword, holding it with his left hand.

As the monsters brought their fists down aimed at him, the cloaked adventurer jumped, evading both of their attacks. He twisted his body in the air, planting his feet on the ceiling before he came down like a lightning bolt towards his aggressors. The bull monsters barely had time to look up before he descended on them, each of his swords slicing them clean in two from the head down. Before both halves of the minotaurs could fall aside they turned into ash as their magic stones were destroyed.

One of the monsters wasn't deterred by his kindred demise as he charged towards their slayer with his cleaver in hand. His diagonal slash met only the air as the adventurer slid in between his legs, cutting both of them in the knee joints, tearing them off in the process. The beast fell down screaming in a mix of pain and rage. His howling was silenced as the adventurer stabbed him in the back of his head, putting him out of his misery.

The last standing minotaur took a half step back as the adventurer who decimated his kin removed his sword from his last victim's head. Fear was clear as the blue sky on his face as he dreaded sharing their same fate.

The adventurer started to walk in his direction.

In a last ditch effort, the beast let his killer instincts drown his fears as he dashed towards his foe screaming bloody murder. He let out a deadly haymaker aimed at his foes midsection, putting all his strength in hopes of defeating him.

He wasn't so lucky.

The robed adventurer nimbly evaded the blow and used the monsters momentum against him as he impaled him with his sword. The minotaur howled in pain and looked down at him with hatred in his red eyes as he tried to strike back with his fists. The attacker thrusted the sword deeper into him and twisted it, breaking his magic stone and making him share the same fate as the others, turning the beast into dust.

'That's enough for today.'

Luke thought as he flicked each sword to clear them of the beasts blood before sheathing the aqua colored one in scabbard at his hip.

He approached the nearest wall, unleashing a flurry of deep gashes with his father's blade, Nightingale, with the goal of forcing the dungeon to repair itself, and inhibiting any new monster from spawning nearby.

A common strategy used by many experienced adventurers to rest and recover or to safely collect magic stones and materials from the dungeon.

Satisfied with his work, the elf looked at the onyx blade with silver outlines in his hand. Both of his parents swords were first class weapons, blades of the highest quality one could only dream of possessing.

They were made of o Oricalchum, and were finessed to have the Durandal attribute, making them virtually unbreakable. But the cherry of the cake that really put them on a league on top of the others was the second material they were embedded with.

Mytril. A resistant material that is known for its highly magic conduction, making it the perfect metal for weapons that mages and magic swordsmans wielded.

The combined attributes of both metals made them truly unique from any other type of sword.

Hera had told him the story behind these invaluable smithing wonderworks over one of their many times working together in the kitchen a few years back.

Competition. Pure and simple competition.

According to her, Hephaestus and Goibniu were their main suppliers of weapons and equipment back in the golden days. As she told, the two smithing gods Familias created a rivalry of sort between them to see who could produce the best combat gear to Zeus and Hera Familias.

It grew so much that even the deities entered in the dispute, coming to a boiling point in one of the banquets held by Hera. In a mix of alcohol and Hera's own tempering on the matter, both gods agreed to a contest to see which one was the best smithing deity.

The end result?

A pair of swords that were the work of the best smithing gods in Orario. What baffled Luke the most was that these weren't even finished per say, as both Hephaestus and Goibniu caught up to Hera's scheme of trying to trick them into producing weapons that no mortal could hope to surpass in quality.

Zeus and Hera promised them a breathtaking amount of money so they actually finished what they had started. Although the smiths gods concluded both of their works, it was only half heartedly, doing the bare minimum out of pride for their abilities as a smith. As Hera said, if they hadn't discovered her true intentions, the works they would have produced would surely topple anything that was ever known as a first tier weapon.

It was no wonder why both of these blades turned out to be almost out of this world, even if they were basically prototypes of sorts at best.

Each sword had an unique ability that gave its wielder an edge in combat in exchange of his mind.

The aqua colored sword of his mother; Star Platinum, could become intangible or solid for a period of 2 minutes and thus allow the user to bypass an opponent's defense and catch him off guard as it could become tangible at the will of the wielder. The toll on his mind however was quite heavy. It would burn almost half of Luke's mind after a single use - and that's when his mind is at its full capacity. He needed to be cautious whenever he used the sword's ability.

Nightingale, on the other hand, could become sharp enough to cut through almost everything as if they were paper, and just like its twin blade, it burned a considerable amount of his mind reserves to activate it. It had its limits however, as the effect only lasted for the next five blows with the sword after it was on.

The only material that offered some resistance was Oricalchum and weapons with the Durandal trait - the former would give in after a couple of hits if the swordsman was strong enough, while the latter seemed to hold true to its renowned durability; although Nightingale could leave cracks and dull the Durandal blade with enough strikes. In theory this ability could eventually break even a Durandal weapon with repeated use.

At least according to Zeus as Luke never put it to the test.

These two abilities were extremely useful in duels or when facing an extremely durable opponent. They were a fine addition to Luke's collection of skills and techniques.

The elf scanned the bedrock path around him for any remaining monster lurking in the darkness ready to pounce at him. Neither seeing nor hearing anything, he sheathed his

blade as he moved towards the carcasses of the minotaurs that hadn't their magic stones destroyed.

He pulled out a knife from the back of his belt that he carried in case he was disarmed or for the current task of removing magic stones from the monster bodies.

Better hurry up and head back to the surface, I don't want to leave Maryuu hanging.

He thought as he carved the bull's chest open and started to retrieve his stone.

What he was doing wasn't a common thing amongst other level 3s. Going solo in the middle floors, facing level 2 monsters that could overwhelm you with any mistake you made. Most didn't take the risks he took to grow stronger, choosing the safety of a party or sticking to the upper levels to simply farm magic stones and drop items.

To be fair, the vast majority of adventurers saw their role as a simple job, a way to earn their bread or to get some quick cash by risking their lives venturing in the dungeon. With that, they almost never took unnecessary risks in the dungeon. That's one of the reasons why 50% of adventurers remained stagnated on level 1 until they either retired or met their end in the dungeon. Another 45% settled on the level 2, creating the small poll of 5% of adventurers that actually reached level 3 and even less in the higher levels.

''If one seeks to grow stronger, he must break out of his shell and push himself beyond his current limits.''

That's the lesson that Zald and Alfia ingrained into his mindset of training.

His stacked S's and SS's basic abilities as he leveled up also played a big role on why he could go solo in the middle floors fairly easily when compared to his peers of the same level, who wouldn't be as open to the idea as he was. While on the paper he was a high level 3, in practice he could face off against most level 4s with his accumulated stats, without taking into account skills and magic of course, who could turn the tide in a battle.

There was also the fact that he picked his fights, avoiding any monsters if possible until he reached the current floor he was on, floor 15. Only then would he seek monsters to hone his skills and gain excelia.

All in all, it was a great method to keep his growth rate high, even if it was a bit risky.

"All done." The last minotaur turned into dust as he retrieved his magic stone. The elf put his backpack on again after he'd finished collecting all the stones and drop items from the monsters he killed.

He started his drip back to the surface at a rather fast pace, seeking to get there as soon as possible without being careless on the way.

'I just hope there's no trouble on my trip back…'

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Overconfidence is a slow and insidious killer.

That was a harsh lesson Rodin learned the worst way possible.

"N-No… stay away!" The elf preyed his eyes open, hearing the frantic screams of his companion.

He lifted his bloodied head from the grass floor below, just in time to see through the thick mist as his last standing party member tried to crawl away from the creature that had ended his comrades' lives before his very eyes.

The monster got on top of the poor bastard, extending his large mouth towards his prey.

"I-I don't want to die! N-Not like thi–"

His pleas were silenced as the beast jaws closed at the elf's midsection, brutally bisecting him and putting an end to his torment.

The monster took his time chewing its victim, soon moving to his other half that had fallen off its mouth.

You poor bastard, Gyd…. I'm sorry.

Rodin grit his teeth in anger as tears stained his cheeks.

I wasn't supposed to end like this!

Everything was going so smoothly for the elven party. Rodin had reached level 2 and was the highest level amongst his peers, being the perfect vanguard for the group, as well as their leader. They were making such good progress, to the point that they were already probing the First Line, the name that was given to the entrance to the 13 floor, signaling a next step in their journey as adventurers.

The party of 5 was well balanced.

Lefay, the proud and rather strict elfess was the mage that served as their main means of firepower.

Gyd, the easygoing swordsman, worked alongside Rodin at the front of the party, fighting head on any monsters they found.

Verlen was their exceptional, and stoic archer, who gave them support from the back, wearing off the beasts and watching for any stragglers or lurking enemies, lifting some of the weight off the two swordsmans shoulders.

Then there was their healer, Hellen. The shy and reserved elfess had been the party's saving grace more times than he could remember since they first entered the dungeon a few years ago.

Together they had won against all the challenges and predicaments that this place threw at them. Always coming out on top with their combined effort.

That is until they didn't…

Eostre Familia was getting ready to head on towards the middle floors for the first time. They had bought and prepared everything in order to safely travel all the way to the 13th floor. Their satchels were replenished with potions, the weapons were repaired and sharpened and most importantly, they had revised all the important information regarding monsters and floor layouts.

They were confident that they could tackle this challenge and come back to their goddess.

Arriving at the 12th floor, one above their destination, they had been efficiently dispatching orcs, groups of imps and bad bats. Even the troublesome silverbacks and hard armoreds were swiftly dealt with by the party of adventurers.

Rodin though they were up to a good start…

He was wrong.

The beasts that were being picked off by the group were starting to press them, slowly wearing down the adventurers as more and more monsters were starting to appear. They tried to keep everything under control, maintaining their formation and group tactics. As they focused on the monsters ahead of them, the thick fog and their carelessness proved to be their downfall.

Just as they were overcoming the multiple monsters that attacked them, they were caught off guard as an infant dragon came rushing down at them from the rear, his sudden approach hidden by the mist.

Rodin, who was covering the rear, was the first to fall prey to the dragon as he bit into him, digging his dagger-like teeth into his flesh.

His companions hadn't frozen on the spot, as they immediately reacted and attacked the monster, forcing him to free the elf as he threw him away.

But the damage was already done. The only level 2 and strongest in the party was out of commission.

While they tried to maintain their cohesion, the surprise attack from the infant dragon proved to be fatal, as they were split between dealing with the monster that was known as a floor boss from the upper floors and the remaining monsters that were attacking.

They stood no chance against those odds.

One by one they were overwhelmed and mercilessly killed.

Their leader could only watch in horror as his party was torn apart. Hearing the desperate pleas for help followed by the sickening sounds of the damned monsters munching on their bodies while he laid there, bleeding from his mortal wounds.

Why?

Why did this happen to them?

They've done everything right… They had been prepared to the best of their abilities. Everything should have been fine… Then why?

Deep down Rodin knew why they had fallen.

The dungeon was unfair. It didn't matter the strength or how prepared one would be, it would find a way to bring him down and tear him apart.

After all, this place was the final resting place of countless adventurers before him, it shouldn't be a surprise that his party would end up sharing the same fate… He just hoped they wouldn't.

He wanted them to strive. He wanted everyone to accomplish their dreams… And it was all for nothing in the end.

It wasn't fair!

They could have lived up to their goddess expectations. They could have achieved their goals.

They could have lived…

Perhaps they shouldn't have become adventurers if they valued their lives that much, maybe they should have but it was a risk they were willing to take… and they paid the price for it.

There's no point in lamenting their path now…

The elf saw as the dragon finished savoring his friend, his red eyes landing on his bloodied form.

The monster started to head his way.

This is it then…

There was nothing he could do, he was barely holding onto life. He could only hope the dragon finished him off quickly or his wounds got to him first.

His saw black spots on his vision, his eyes becoming more and more heavy as he watched the monster approach him.

He was almost losing grasp of his consciousness as his life force was leaking out of his body.

At least I won't be alive as he devours me… I'm sorry everyone… Lady Eostre…

I failed you all.

Regret filled his thoughts as Rodin's life faded from his eyes.

Although, at his peripheral vision he saw a burst of light rapidly approaching him, before he finally closed them…. for the last time.

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"Meeeep... *Puff*.''

Luke sheathed his sword, letting the lighting of his enchantment spell around his form cease as the last orc had turned to dust with a strained squeal.

The onyx haired elf eyed the aftermath of the fight with a forlorn gaze.

A thick scent of iron filled his nostrils - signaling the onslaught that had occurred on the 12th floor.

A group of unfortunate adventurers were all torn apart. Limbs, pieces of flesh and pools of blood laid on the ground, the only remains of their bodies as most of them were already partially eaten by the monsters before he had arrived.

They were unrecognizable.

The only exception was a blond haired elf that had bled out from his injuries and was mostly intact - in most part because Luke had arrived before any monster could turn his body into their next meal.

The elf didn't hold back as he took care of all the damned monsters that had slayed the party of unlucky adventurers, even the infant dragon slicing the beast in half in hope of saving the person he was heading to.

Unfortunately the poor bastard was already dead when he arrived.

Having cleared the area of any lingering monsters, he destroyed their magic stones - seeing he couldn't carry anymore.

That was a rule amongst adventurers to avoid any monster from consuming said stones and eventually turning into an evolved species. Once that happens, that monster could grow strong enough to become a challenge even to some first class adventurers - let alone second or third class ones.

To avoid that everyone should destroy the stones they wouldn't take - and Luke was no exception.

He approached the only body that was whole.

He took a long look at it.

Perhaps he could have saved them. Perhaps if he had arrived a couple of minutes earlier everyone would be okay, thanking him and saying they owned him their lives and such.

But that wasn't the case.

Even as he tapped into the prowess of a level 5 with his enchantment to kill the monsters as fast as he could, it was already too late.

There where no survivors.

While it may seem a horrifying sight - as it was. It was a common occurrence in the dungeon. Not everyone triumphed against the trials and tribulations this place thrown their way. Not everyone was strong enough or well prepared for the unpredictable nature of the dungeon.

And so, seeing dead bodies of unfortunate groups wasn't a rare sight - far from it, it was a daily occurrence. Sometimes, even something close to a hundred adventurers could die in a single, unlucky day at the dungeon.

That was the harsh truth about being an adventurer.

You aren't expected to survive this.

The massive graveyard in Orario was proof of it. Even then, those were only the ones that were retrieved before the dungeon claimed their bodies.

That's the reason most never ventured deeper than the upper floors, and even then most avoided taking risks even there. Seeing such harrowing sights, Luke couldn't take the reason away from them.

Why risk your life in exchange for some quick bucks?

Why try to get stronger when you can make your living from honest work on safer floors?

Why even become an adventurer if you can live a fulfilling life on the surface, where you didn't face an early grave every single day?

All those questions passed not only through his mind as he saw the half eaten adventurers, but also through the head of any adventurer that survived long enough and saw this unfold more times than he can count.

'The hardest choices require the strongest of wills.'

Zald's voice echoed in his head.

Only those that were dead set on rising to the top had a clear answer to all those questions.

The unbreakable will of accomplishing a goal or chasing a dream, the tenacity to face danger head on. That was the driving force that made all those that had become first class adventurers and thrived in dungeon delving. No matter if one could actually reach that dream, if he didn't go on an adventure and pushed himself to it's limits, risking himself in the process he for sure wouldn't make it.

…

Even if the vast majority ended up like the poor souls before his mismatched eyes…

Yet, he wasn't shaken by any of it. He had his own ambitions and he would pursue them with all his might.

He would keep his companions safe and guarantee that they would not only reach their ambitions, but also have a warm dinner at the end of the day.

That he swore to himself the first time they step foot in the dungeon for together as a group…as a Familia.

He would do everything to make sure they wouldn't share the same fate as fallen adventurers in front of him.

Even if he lost himself to that same fate.

…

The heterochromatic elf unceremoniously picked up his deceased kin, putting him on his shoulder before he started to head up towards the surface again.

Gathering dead adventurers wasn't a common thing. Mainly because of the hard and cruel experience of exploring the dungeon, as most couldn't bother to carry a deceased back to the surface - sometimes even their own companions - as they fought against monsters, the extra weight would only hinder them and risk them falling prey to the beasts as well.

Some simply didn't give a damn about anyone that had the short end of the stick down here, leaving their bodies without a second thought - some even going as far as looting the deceased, even if it was a taboo amongst adventurers.

Another reason was because that most bodies were less than a mound of flesh at the time one would arrive, as the monsters didn't spare any of its victims from being devoured. Seeing there was no way to identify the body, he would simply be left behind to be consumed.

Within reason, Luke tried to bring back any fallen adventurer he'd found to have a proper burial… they deserve that much.

Even if they probably wouldn't do the same to him - especially because all of them seemed to be elves… the ones he could recognize as such, at least.

And so, the cloaked adventurer quietly - and quite hastily - made his way towards the surface, carrying the only remains of an ambitious party of 5 elven adventurers.

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She had chosen to pick up the sword.

She had chosen to kill the innocence inside her and fight.

She had decided to become her own hero.

She knew her hero wouldn't come. He didn't as the despicable dragon took the ones she loved from her, leaving her alone in this world. He hadn't saved them, he hadn't comforted her as she cried until she couldn't anymore… He wasn't there for her.

She'd lost all hope of him even existing in the first place.

…

That's why she needs to grow stronger; she had to. No one would save her, that much the girl knew. She chose then to pick up arms and fight.

If no one would come to her aid, then she would become the hero she needed. That's the only thing that made sense to her young mind…

That's all that ended up mattering for her…

To become strong for her wish… doing whatever it takes to accomplish it. This was Ais's sole reason for living, and why she was in the dungeon in the first place.

She joined the so-called Loki Familia, who had been sheltering her for the past months, for the sole purpose of becoming stronger and having access to this monster-breeding place.

Finn, Riveria and Gareth, were the ones that watched over her progress and one of them always accompanied her whenever she entered the dungeon.

They were strong… Not as strong as father, but they were undoubtedly stronger than most.

Ais saw and felt it whenever they practiced in their home's backyard. Whenever they intervened once they thought she was getting ahead of herself in the dungeon.

But most importantly, they knew how to fight. The three were experienced warriors who could teach her how to properly behave in combat, as well as sword techniques and overall battle awareness.

At first she was reluctant to accept their teachings. The girl saw it as a simple waste of her time - time that she could spend down there in the dungeon, slaying monsters. That seemed the most straightforward path to become stronger, and in a way she was right. Killing monsters would accelerate her sprint towards her goal.

But, once she was humbled in a spar against Finn who wielded only a broom stick as his weapon and managed to effortlessly defeat her using only basic combat techniques. Ais was forced to acknowledge that she had much to improve besides killing monsters and being reliant on her raw strength and on her rare skill, Avenger.

After that day, she started to religiously follow each of their teachings - even if she still hated studying with the strict elfess, Riveria.

She was getting progressively better in her fighting style since then, which only drove her to push herself even more.

And that's where a new problem arose.

While the golden haired girl was starting to value the three adventurers for everything they were doing for her… They were also hindering her progress.

Every time she wanted to go beyond, to push her limits against the dungeon… They held her back. No matter if she didn't feel worn out or did everything they told her to do, they would never let her descend further than they thought she should.

They were becoming hindrances in her path. Slowing her run towards her wish; and that she couldn't stand.

That's why today she decided to enter the dungeon alone.

That way she could push herself to her very limits and take one more step in her marathon to grow stronger.

Taking advantage of a ruckus in the city that was taking most of Loki's Familia attention, Ais snuck her way out of the Twilight Mansion and headed towards the same path she took every single day towards the Babel Tower; unnoticed by her caretakers.

A few adventurers gave her an odd look as she descended the staircase towards the first floor alone. Despite the oddness of the sight, none interfered as she strolled through the wide hallway, nicknamed as the Beginning Road.

This was the straight path towards the onslaught that would befall in the 1th floor and beyond, as she would finally be free to push herself to whatever extent she saw fit in her own eyes.

That's how Ais ended up at the 7th floor, amidst a swarm of at least a dozen killer ants who were being brutally slain by her sword.

The monsters screeched as their hard exoskeletons were blown to bits. Limbs and blood flew in the air, staining Ais form as she bulldozed through the creatures.

Unleashing the full force of her Status, she had become the grim reaper himself, mercilessly fetching their souls in a heartbeat.

The girl's stoic mask broke for a second as the corners of her lips twisted upwards slightly, feeling an exhilarating feeling bloom in her chest as her sword pierced the ant's flesh. She didn't even flinch as some of the monsters claws grazed her skin, drawing blood.

She would become stronger!

...

She would reach her mother!

…

She would kill that… thing...

…

Crack

.

Clink

...

Huh?

.

As she got carried away in the slaughter, the girl was caught off guard as her sword splintered in various pieces in her grasp, after cutting a killer ant clean in two.

Ais stepped back as the remaining monsters started to circle around her, cutting off any avenue of escape.

More ants were joining the swarm as they came out of the rock walls, like newborn demons with the sole intent of killing.

The golden haired girl clenched her hands in frustration.

That was her backup sword; the first one had already broken 2 floors prior.

Perhaps she should have been more careful…

.

It matters not!

What really mattered was that the enemy was right in front of her, right within her reach. She wouldn't back down, not until she was strong enough.

That's the promise she had made for herself when she chose to pick up a sword that day.

The girl stepped forwards.

"AAAAAH"

Letting out a fierce war cry, Ais charged towards the monsters. She would use her own hands, her teeth, whatever she could to overcome her foes.

"Gya-"

Right before her fist connected with the head of the nearest killer ant, the monster let out a pained screech before it turned into dust.

At the same moment a blinding flash of light filled her vision, disappearing in the blink of an eye as it came down at the swarm of ants in front of her.

Ais almost couldn't follow the lightning as it danced around her, leaving a trail of dust and blood as it massacred the monsters all around her.

As the whirlwind of death came to an end, a cloaked figure landed near Ais. Lightning zipped around his form as it scanned the vicinity.

Not finding any nearby monsters, the bolts of lightning that enveloped his form disappeared.

"Sigh… I'm going to be late at this rate…"

The person murmured as he swung his black sword to side, removing the blood that stained the blade with a swift movement.

As he turned towards Ais, she was able to get a better picture of him.

Pointy ears… so he's an elf, just like Riveria. Also that hair… she doesn't recall ever seeing an elf with black hair before.

His eyes were also odd to her. One iris was ruby red, like a scarlet fire. While the other one was sky blue, like a cloudless morning.

Ais never saw someone with different eye colors before.

This elf was… strange.

Judging by the swords he carried at his hip and the combat gear she could see below his robe, she deduced he was an adventurer - just like her.

"Would you enlighten me on your thought process that led you to charge against a swarm of killer ants… and unarmed as well?"

The stranger questioned her with a serious tone - at least in Ais… simple mind, as she didn't catch the veiled berating in his voice.

"... I was going to kill them. "

...

" Without a weapon? "

...

" Yes. "

...

"... And how were you planning to kill them? "

…

"...With my own hands."

…

…

"You have a screw loose."

He rested the flat off his blade on his shoulder as he got closer to her.

"Suicidal tendencies aside… What is a little girl doing on the 5th floor all by herself, hm?"

Isn't it obvious?

"... Slaying monsters."

The elf facepalmed, dragging a hand down his face.

"... Are you really an adventurer?"

"Yes."

"Then why are you alone on the 5th floor?"

…

…

"It doesn't concern you."

"Sigh… This isn't going anywhere… Okay then, you are heading back to the surface with me."

"No, I'm not."

"Ohhhhh… then tell me, what's your brilliant plan once you get cornered again without any weapon at your disposal - and injured on top of it, huh? " He probed her, looking at her worn out state.

Ais was starting to get annoyed with his attitude.

"I'll kill them as well, like I've done before."

"Wrong, you'll end up like him…"

He gestured with his thumb towards his back. The girl focused on the direction he pointed at, seeing a figure lying on the ground a few meters away from them.

"His party got wiped out on the 12th floor… He was the only corpse that wasn't a smear of blood in the grass once I got there." He said in a dry tone.

Ais's golden eyes widened slightly once she caught the word corpse, looking at the figure in a new light.

"The dungeon isn't a playground, you can die at any second down here… and I'm certain I won't forgive myself if I let a reckless child march on to her own grave."

"You don't know me… and you don't have any authority over me."

Ais stepped forwards, intending in leaving the adventurer's presence.

The elf placed a hand on his chin, taking a thinking pose.

"That may be true… However - "

Faster than she could react, he snatched her hand, catching her off guard.

"- I'll still drag you along if I need to." He gave her a sly smile as he began to drag her towards the body's direction.

Ais began to hit him with everything she had, even going as far as scratching his arm and even trying to bite his gloved hand - still, he wasn't even fazed by her frantic protests. His grip was tight but not enough to hurt her wrist.

"Let go of me!"

"No can do, I stand by my word. You are going back to Orario with me, and that's the end of it."

The girl grit her teeth in anger, intensifying her resistance. The elf didn't bat an eye as they approached the fallen adventurer.

As Ais tried to free herself from his grasp, the elf quickly sheathed his sword and lowered himself, picking up the body and throwing it over his shoulder - all while the girl squirmed and hit him as she tried to break free.

The elf didn't show an once of care as he dragged her towards the entrance back to the 4th floor. The girl's boots scrapped against the rocky ground as she refused to give in, hitting him all the way.

"You can hit me all you want, you are tagging along."

Ais began to struggle even more as the elf chuckled at her stubbornness.

"Let me go you elf freak!"

"Hey, that's not nice… little girls shouldn't be this mean." He said nonchalantly, infuriating Ais even further.

He glanced at her as his face and tone had taken a serious turn.

"I'm doing this for your sake, trust me, you'll thank me someday."

She pouted in annoyance as he forcibly took her back to the surface.

.

The golden haired girl had stopped struggling once they arrived at the 2th floor, yet she still refused to walk as he dragged her, her feet comically leaving a trail behind them as he walked.

"... Are you still mad I'm saving your life?" He looked back at the stubborn child.

She humphed at him, avoiding looking his way.

…

What's the deal with this girl? Who even let someone as immature and rash as her become an adventurer?... Screw it, I'm already going to be late as I still need to take this girl to her Familia, might as well try and break the tension.

"Oh, that's right. I never introduced myself, did I?" He stopped in his tracks, turning towards the girl who actually looked at him now.

"Luke Adria, justice enforcer from the Astraea Familia, at your service!" He said in a friendly voice as he bowed respectfully, presenting himself in a mannered way.

…

…

"Humph…"

She's giving me the cold shoulder again!

"... Normally you should present yourself back, you know?"

…

…

"Ais…"

…

"... Just Ais?"

"Ais… Wald–Wallenstein! " She stumbled upon her words as she hastily corrected herself.

" Ais Wald - Wallenstein… Interesting name."

"No! It's Wallenstein!" She raised her voice, almost desperate in a way. For the first time she showed an emotion that wasn't annoyance in her always blank face - concern.

Why is she nervous about her own name?

"Okay then, Miss Wallenstein. Once we exit the dungeon I'll take you to your home, the streets aren't safe for a lone child to simply stroll about." Luke resumed his walk, taking her along by the hand as she finally decided to use her legs.

…

"I'm sure your parents would be worried sick if anything happened to you, you know? You need to be careful not only here but in the city as well… Actually, I'll given then an earful on why they let a child—"

He felt Ais's grip on his hand tightening, making him stop again, he looked back at her with a questioning face.

The girl was expressionless.

No… That's not right.

Her eyes looked dead. The girl's features were like a shattered porcelain doll… She wasn't even looking at anything.

She was trapped deep in her own mind.

Yet, he could felt her hand clench his own harder and harder in a iron grip, desperately clinging on him.

Her breathing had quickened, taking short intakes of air as her body began to tremble, like a tree's branch in a tempest.

She was panicking.

That's when the elf took action, setting the dead adventurer on the ground.

"Ais…Ais, listen to my voice. " He crouched in front of the girl, trying to calm her down with a gentle voice.

"Everything is alright, you are safe. No one will hurt you, I'm here for you Ais." He placed a hand on her shoulder, his features full of concern for her distraught state.

"It's alright Ais, I'm here. "

He embraced her.

Ais quickly returned the gesture, clinging to him for dear life as tears started to dampen his dark robe.

"F-Father… ple-please don't leave me…" The girl hiccuped, lost in a dream about a time long past.

The elf could only stay by her side as he comforted the troubled child. At that moment, Luke gained a new understanding about the stubborn girl…

Ais slowly drifted out of her dream as Luke broke the embrace. He gave her a warm smile as he looked her in the eyes.

"You don't need to worry I'm here for you."

She looked confused, trying to regain her bearings as she touched the liquid that stained her cheeks.

"... What? " She eyed him in confusion as she uttered this word.

"It's alright… You don't need to talk about it." He gave her hand a gentle squeeze before standing back up.

Luke gave her a few moments so she recomposed herself as he used that time to scoope the corpse from the soil. And soon enough, her stoic mask was on again, clear of her tears and panicked expression.

"Here, take this." The elf pulled out a vial from the back pouch in his belt.

The blond girl simply starred at him in confusion. Luke lifted his gloved hand, showcasing the blood that stained it.

"You are bleeding... Come on, Ais, don't fight over this just drink it... Please."

She kept staring at the potion for a few seconds, before slowly reaching for it. Taking the cap of it, she gulped it's contents.

In the next moments her various slashes and cuts began to close, not even letting a mark on her white skin.

"Much better now... Shall we go then?" He inquired, gesturing to the sparsely lit tunnel up ahead that led to the 1th floor.

Ais gave him a curt nod in confirmation - although she avoided looking at him.

The girl didn't let go of his hand as they ascended towards the upper floor.

Luke eyed the now quiet girl at his side in a new light.

She seems to suffer from deep trauma… Most likely regarding her parents, given her reaction once he mentioned them.

Perhaps her reckless stance and insistence in keep fighting monsters despite being alone and unarmed where caused by that same trauma. Even the blank expression she wore most of the time might also be linked to that…

Of one thing he was certain though.

Ais was broken.

She wasn't normal by any stretch of the word and the cause seemed to be a difficult topic to approach.

He might need to have a talk with her Familia and their patron god about this… Even if they were already aware of it.

This path she was taking because of her troubled past might be her undoing.

It saddened him to see such a young child lose herself.

I know how you feel Ais…

He really did. That's the reason he dived head first into the middle floors every other day to get stronger. That's why he sought to become an adventurer. That's why he wants to get stronger.

From loss…

His journey until here had been fueled by loss and grief. The desire to never lose those he loved again, to be strong enough to protect them… To avenge them.

He wanted to kill that despicable Black Dragon and finish what they started.

But… he didn't lose himself in that path. He didn't gave in to anger and hatred.

He still had those close to him that supported him and shared pleasant times with. He still had other dreams he wanted to fulfill, like upholding Lady Astraea's justice and turning Orario into the bright city it once was. He wanted life a happy life alongside those he called family.

He still had his life to live.

Luke wouldn't let his past control him and take his present and future away from him. Not like Ais seems to be…

He wanted to help her improve and if he couldn't, he would make sure those closer to her would.

But how can he approach this…

"Ais, if you don't mind me asking… Why were you all alone in the dungeon?"

…

…

…

.

...Why I'm not surprised?

.

"Sigh… You see I was all the way down to the 15th floor, all on my own."

Now he appeared to have gained her attention as she looked at him in a mixture of curiosity and awe - probably because of how far deep and dangerous that was in comparison to the upper floors, especially for a reckless child.

" I go there regularly to train and gain stats."

The pair of footsteps echoed in the seemingly empty tunnel.

"I want to grow stronger." He said, glancing at the girl beside him.

"...You want the same thing don't you?"

While he barely saw any change in her expression, he felt the light tightening in her grip.

"So its true…"

He looked forwards as they scaled towards the top floor.

"It's not wrong to seek to grow stronger, you know?"

Even if he didn't saw her face he knew Ais was giving him her wholeheartedly attention.

"The problem lies when you get blinded by it."

…

…

"... What do you mean?"

"Value your life and those around it…I'm certain there's people in your Familia that look after you, aren't they?"

…

The girl got quiet, prompting Luke to steal a glance her way.

…

"There are… I guess."

"Then they look after you, Ais…. There's nothing wrong about chasing your goals, but you have to think about those close to you and yourself as well. You can't accomplish anything if you die, can you? ."

…

…

"... You came here under their nose didn't you?"

The slight change in her grip confirmed his theory.

"I guarantee you Ais, it's better to take it slow and steadily keep growing than facing certain death… Trust me, it's not worth it… and I'm sure this fella right here would agree as well." The elf glanced at the unfortunate adventurer over his shoulder.

…

…

"I'm not trying to scold you or anything, I just… I just don't want to see another one lost to the dungeon - especially a child."

…

…

"... Maybe I should have been more thoughtful."

.

She finally gave in a reply in the right direction, bringing a smile to his face.

.

"That's better! Dungeon delving requires a lot of study and preparation. You need to think this through before you head in." He looked at the girl who tried to avoid his gaze.

"You can get even stronger by having a helping hand, than you would be all alone… Especially down here."

"That's what you want, don't you? To become stronger than you are?"

…

…

"... Yes, more than anything."

"Then value those around you, they can help you reach even greater heights than you ever could alone - more than you can even imagine."

…

"You understand where I'm getting at, Ais? I go to the middle floors alone, but I know my own little limits… I know when to stop."

…

"Yes, I understand…"

"Then I'm more than grateful… Both of us got people we care about waiting for us when we get back… Don't you?"

As he looked at her, he saw the girl give him a subtle nod.

"Then it's settled!"

Luke stopped in his path, looking down at the troublesome girl.

"Can you promise you'll be more careful from now on? If you do, we can even explore the dungeon together sometime, so… What do you say?"

…

…

"... I see… I'll try. "

"No, you have to do it right." He held out his little finger towards her as he crouched to her level.

"You swear you'll be more careful in the dungeon?"

His pinky stayed put, eager for her to seal the promise.

…

…

…

"... You don't know what a pinky promise is, do you?"

…

…

"... No."

.

"Here, let me show you."

Luke grabbed her right hand, closing it into a fist with only her pinky stretched out.

Their fingers interlaced.

"You promise you'll be more careful from now on?"

…

"I promise."

A grin split the elf's face in two.

"That's more like it! I'm counting on you, Ais… I'm sure you'll become a great adventurer in due time, mark my words! "

He let go of her finger as he stood up.

"Come on, we are almost at the staircase." He offered her his free hand.

Ais stared at his outstretched hand with a blank face for a few seconds. The elf started to roll his hand as he awaited for her.

"You are weird."

She took his hand.

Luke chuckled at her words.

Says the expressionless doll that almost got herself killed by her own obsession and carelessness...

The two resumed their walk towards the base of Babel.

…

…

"Why do you care so much about me?... Are you like those people Riveria told me to stay away from?"

Where did that come from!?

"W-What, no! I'm just helping someone in need, t-that's all!" Luke sputtered as he looked indignantly at the girl beside him. Ais just stared back at him with a poker face.

"Look… I–"

A low guttural sound caught his attention as the elf cut himself off. Further ahead, 5 humanoid figures stepped out of the shadows ominously.

Kobolds.

Wolf-like monsters covered in fur that walked on their two feet, not unlike the regular person. The monsters snarled as their red eyed peered at the two adventurers, killing intent clear in their faces.

"Let's get this over with…" Luke muttered, annoyance clear in his voice.

The kobold pack charged in their direction, running in all fours to pounce in their prey. The elf extended his arm that was holding the corpse in his shoulder, his hand aiming directly at the incoming monsters.

"Shinra Tensei."

A high pitched peeew noise echoed in the tunnel, in the same instant the charging kobolds came to an abrupt halt, almost like they hit an invisible wall. Less than a second after, the monsters were violently launched in the opposite direction.

The creatures met the stone wall hard. The dungeon wall cracked as the kobolds were pressed against it by an invisible force. They barely had time to wail before their insides were squashed by the immense pressure.

The horrifying scene came to an end once their magic stones were crushed, finally ending their suffering.

The only evidence of what transpired was the caved in wall stained with the monster's blood as the bodies were nothing more than dust on the ground.

Luke placed his arm over the unknown adventurer over his shoulder, letting out a short breath.

He used more mind than he usually did, and as a result the spell came out stronger than its average casting power.

Shinra Tensei was extremely versatile and one of his trump cards, but it also had its drawbacks. For him to cast a stronger version of the spell, he had to use a considerable amount of his mind, but nothing drastic. Not only that, but it also had a cool down linked to the spell's power, or in other words, the stronger the spell was when cast the longer the cool down would be. It had a waiting time of five seconds when using its normal strength, but could be longer than a couple of minutes in stronger versions.

"What was that?"

Ais's question made his mismatched gaze fall on her. He was met with a curious and… astonished face? It was hard to tell as the only way he could try and read her was mostly through her eyes.

It was a little disturbing how little emotions this girl showed most of the time.

"Magic. It can be a game changer when you are in a pinch." He explained as they headed further in the stone path.

"How does it work?"

"I'm sorry but that's a secret. I can't just spill out my magic like that, not even to you." She looked dissatisfied with his answer, but pressed on.

"How can I get this power?"

"Don't you have any magic of your own?" She shook her head.

"Then there's not much you can do about it… Gaining a magic spell is related to one's affinity to it, so if you didn't develop any until now, you can only hope it will appear on its own in a status update."

"I see…" He heard the slight strain in her tone, bitter with her situation in regards to magic.

"Hey, there's no need to feel down. You can still get a spell someday, and even if you don't, that's not the end of the world…. Hummm, perhaps through a grimoire you can learn it, but that's too expensive."

Ais perked up hearing the elf mumble the last part out loud.

"A grimoire?"

"Oh, that's a single-use book that grant's a magic by reading it. That's the last or only alternative some adventurers have to obtain magic, but it's extremely expensive and only a few can afford it… Even then, there's no guarantee you'll get a good spell out of it, so its use is not common."

The girl's features seemed to brighten upon hearing about a possible solution to her problem.

"Then I just need to get one for myself."

"Like I said, they are not cheap. Last time I checked they were worth more than 100 million valis, I'm not sure your Familia can afford such a price."

The duo entered a big, straight hallway that was called the Beginning Road, at the end of it was the large staircase that led back to the surface.

A few groups of adventurers passed by them, giving mixed reactions from seeing a fallen colleague and also a young girl in the dungeon. Some looked intrigued or shocked at Ais. While others eyed the deceased with cold and indifferent eyes, already used to this scene. Others bowed slightly in respect of the dead or simply looked somberly at the elf.

.

The ones that stood out the most were the horrified expressions the rookies wore in their faces. They had yet to see how cruel and unforgiving the dungeon truly was. Many were stuck with idealistic views of glory and fame in their heads, oblivious to the harsh reality of the life of an adventurer.

Luke hoped this served as their wake up call, else they share the same fate as this guy.

.

"I guess they can… They have a lot of money from what I know." Ais's response brought him out of his thoughts.

"Do they? Perhaps if they have the spare budget for it…. Wait–" Luke came to a halt near the end of the Beginning Road as a realization dawned on him.

She mentioned someone named Riveria earlier didn't she?…. Her Familia is supposedly wealthy as well….

…

No… I must be overthinking.

"Ais… What Familia are you part of?" The girl brought a finger to her cheek as she made a thinking pose.

"Finn always said it was called Loki Familia… I'm pretty sure that's it."

…

…

…

"Haha… Hahahahahahahahaha!"

The blond girl looked confused at Luke's sudden laughing fit.

"What's the matter?"

The onyx haired elf tried to compose himself, giggling like a kid at the grocery store.

"It's just … chuckle … I'm just laughing at fate's tomfoolery, that's all…. Hihihi, hahahaha."

Ais tilted her head, looking at him as if he's gone mad. After a minute of nonsensical laughter, Luke got a hold of himself.

The heavens must be jesting with me, really what are the chances?

Luke would still take her to her home, nonetheless. He didn't hold Loki and her Familia in high regards, but he wasn't unreasonable; he still had his principles. He wouldn't let Ais wander in the streets alone because he had a grudge against her Familia.

Being honest with himself; he'd been lucky that he managed to avoid meeting any of them face to face until now, but Luke knew it would happen sooner or later - whether he liked it or not.

He just hoped they wouldn't try and throw him out again for his past associations. That would end up badly… and not only for him, that much he guaranteed.

"Ais!"

A scream resounded in the wide cavernous hallway further ahead, right where the Beginning Road started. The pair's attention was drawn at the new voice.

Ah, speaking of the devil…

There, across from them, were some of the culprits of his loved ones banishment 6 years ago. The compliances of the two goddesses greed and lust for power.

A sturdy and gruff dwarf warrior that was akin to a stonewall, sporting the characteristic dwarven thick beard.

The jade haired High Elf princess, know as the greatest spell caster currently residing in Orario. The individual other elves would skin Luke alive just for breathing the same air as her.

And finally - the ambitious pallum captain, who sought to become a beacon of bravery and shed a light over the dark clouds that suffocates his race's pride. The only known first class adventurer of the pallum race, a title he sought to expand into something greater and write his name in the pages of history.

They were the three executives of Loki Familia… and the targets of the current scowl that adorned Luke's face.

The ex-member of Zeus Familia closed his eyes and took a deep breath to calm his nerves.

'I have no enemies… and shouldn't seek one… it's not worth it - It will bring nothing but trouble to Lady Astraea and my friends if I start a quarrel with one of the biggest Familias in Orario out of my spite for them… '

Thinking about the consequences of letting his anger cloud his judgment, the elf released his breath. Now with a clearer mind, he opened them again.

He was greeted with the sight of Nine Hell running towards him; or more specifically; towards the girl that currently held his hand.

"What were you thinking, Ais!? You could have—" The High elf's gaze finally landed in the person right next to the girl she was losing her usual composure over.

Riveria's next words died in her throat as she eyed his face.

"Yo!"

Luke closed his eyes and plastered a friendly smile on his face as he greeted her with a casual wave from his hand that supported the dead body at his shoulder.

Perhaps they don't remember me… It costs nothing to dream, does it?

Luke awaited her response with bated breath as the corners of his fake, pleasant smile twitched. The elf grasped at the flimsy chance that they may not recognize him - that would really save a lot of headache.

…

…

His answer came in the form of Nine Hell swiftly grabbing Ais and jumping back, away from him.

"You!... The rumors were true then. What were you planning to do with her?" The elf princess demanded. Her jade eyes, sharper than a sword, were aimed right at Luke's face.

Here goes nothing it seems… Why can't things work in my favor for once?

"Now then, that's no way to respond to a friendly greeting, isn't it? Besides, I don't know what you are talking about."

One last try shall we?

"Don't insult my intelligence. I recognize your face from 6 years ago, so don't even try to fool me. Now, answer my question!" Riveria demanded as her allies approached her flanks.

…The cat is already out of the bag, screw it.

Luke snapped his fingers with his free hand, taking a surprised pose.

"Oh, I remember now! You lot were one of the backstabbers that threw me and my familia out of the city after we failed to kill the biggest threat to this world." The elf remarked in a flabbergasted voice.

He slapped his forehead, a dumbfounded expression plastering on his face.

"Oh heavens, how silly of me to forget something important like that… My apologies." As his hand slid down his face, the astonished mask he wore was replaced by the truthful, uncaring and blank persona underneath.

His heterochromatic eyes peeled the trio in front of him.

"I've hoped to never see your faces up close again, but I knew it would inevitably happen… and little Ais's reckless behavior is at fault for it." He spoke in an empty tone.

"What do you mean by it?" The mage probed him further.

"I was going to take her to the Twilight Manor, your highness."

The three executives wore varied expressions of shock at his claim. Luke gave them a sly smile as he let out a dry chuckle.

"What? You thought I was going to do something to her? Really?... I wouldn't stoop so low as to do anything like that, unlike certain folks."

"And what about the body you carry on your shoulder?" Riveria questioned further, reluctant to believe his words.

"Him? I just stumbled upon his butchered party on the 12th floor, he's the only one that wasn't ripped apart beyond recognition. I don't even know him, I was just going to grant him a proper burial with the due respects for him and his acquaintances. " Luke explained as he glanced at the deceased adventurer before setting his eyes on them again.

"If you are going to finish what you've started then do it already… But be aware that I won't stand idle." The onyx haired elf placed a hand in the sword's handgrip at this hip to make his message clear.

"Now, now - there's no need for that. Everyone calm down." The captain took charge as he tried to control the situation. "We seek no quarrel with you, so please, stand down." The pallum pleaded, trying to defuse the tension.

"The voice of reason stepped up, huh… Okay then, I had no intention of fighting in the first place." The heterochromatic elf spoke as he took his hand away from his weapon, letting it rest at his side.

"But I stand by my word, I meant her no harm - on the contrary, I saved her when she had the brilliant idea of going head first into a swarm of killer ants unarmed... What? It's the truth. You've brought this on yourself once you decided to run away, so don't give me that face!"

Ais sent him a sharp glare for telling her out, but honestly, he didn't care one bit. It was for her own good.

"Is it true, Ais?" Riveria glanced at the girl behind her with a stern look.

"..." Ais looked anywhere but towards the high elfess as she kept quiet.

Riveria had her answer.

"Really… What are we going to do with you?" The mage placed a hand in forehead, shaking her head from side to side in exasperation.

"Come on, don't be such a downer Riveria! Everything turned out right in the end, and I'm sure the little one will learn a lesson or two from this… probably." Gareth spoke up for the first time since they arrived.

"Gareth, can you take Ais back home for us? We'll deal with this… unexpected development."

"No problem, Finn." The dwarf gestured to the little troublemaker "Follow me girl, you should enjoy your time before the strict elfess gets her hands on you after what you just pulled off."

Ais silently obeyed as she followed Eingarn. The dwarf waved a hand in front of his face. "You also need a bath, geez… These monster entrails stinks."

The blond runaway sent him an annoyed glare, one that he responded with a hearty laugh.

"Remember your promise would you? Try and be less unruly and stiff-necked from now on, you bull headed girl…"

Luke's voice drew her golden eyes towards him as she walked besides Gareth. The elf was waving at her, his lips stretched in a warm smile.

Ais waved back awkwardly, confused about the strange words he called her - although she didn't question their meaning.

After the parting duo rounded the corner of the hallway and started to ascend the wide staircase, Luke had stopped waving. The inviting expression he wore was replaced by a poker face, one that showed his little interest in the matter at hand.

"So, let's get this over with... What exactly do you want to discuss here, Braver?"

"It has reached my ears that an elf with black hair and heterochromatic eyes had joined the rising Astraea Familia. Logically, I thought it was too much of a coincidence to let that information slide."

"So that's why that lousy captain of Hermes Familia was following my steps a while back, figures… She's as far from subtle as one can be. " The elf gave him an unimpressed look.

"Questionable methods aside… She confirmed your identity and erased any doubt of the rumors being false."

"Then why didn't you confront me sooner, rather than leave it to pure chance as of now?"

A serene expression appeared on the prum's face.

"That's because you didn't seem to have any ulterior motives. While I don't doubt you hold a grudge for our past deeds, you don't strike me as the type to act on some blind revenge for what's already done. Judging by the goddess you follow and your actions until now, my theory is that you have other goals in your mind… Otherwise you would have associated yourself with Evilus instead of the goddess of justice."

Finn massaged his thumb as he looked at the ex-member of Zeus Familia.

"Am I wrong on my assumption?"

"No, you are spot on. It's a displeasure to have an actual conversation with the people that sent a frail pregnant woman to certain death in the countryside… Yet, I know how to be professional and separate things."

The two culprits at least had the decency to look guilty of their sins as they averted his judging gaze.

"There's no point in embarking on a suicidal crusade of revenge against you and also the common folk that humiliated us… Not only would I endanger my friends but also end up leaving myself and Orario in worse shape, but nothing good would come out to f it. I can't let anger and hatred be the guide of my own path. " A somber look overtook his features.

"My parents didn't die at the jaws of the Apocalypse so I would throw my life away like that… I'm sure my mom would give me a beating just for daring to think about it."

Luke let out a weak chuckle as he imagined his angry mother before getting back on track.

"In short, I do not seek revenge or any kind of conflict with you or your familia. As long as you don't threaten my companions, we can tolerate each other, do we agree on that?"

Finn's poster boy smile stretched even further.

"Absolutely! I'm sure everyone will benefit from that in the long term. Now that this is out of the way, I'll be looking forward to having you by our side in the fight against Evilus, Tarnished." The prum captain extended a hand towards Luke.

"Please don't call me that. I swear, those gods chose this insult of an alias in bad faith… With how badly you guys are struggling to fill Zeus and Hera's shoes, you lot need all the help you can get. Though don't expect us to become buddy-buddy Braver, I still won't forgive you for what you have done."

Finn's smile strained a bit at the straight jab at their inefficiency in dealing with Evilus. Something that everyone knows that Zeus and Hera Familias would sort out in an instant.

The two antagonists shook hands for the first time. Marking the truce that was now in effect between them.

If you had told Luke in the morning he'd been shaking the hand of one of the people he despised the most in his life, he would laugh in your face and call you mad.

Even he didn't believe what was happening before his eyes as resentment burned inside his heart. The elf put that sentiment down with a single thought.

It was for the better.

He didn't need to forgive them for their dishonorable actions. He didn't need to forget what the regular citizens did on the night they were kicked out.

He just needed to tolerate them and be reasonable. Be pragmatic with the people that did him wrong. And above all, live his life free of the burden of bitter revenge.

He still had his dreams to chase. Dreams that would be lost in the wind if he pursued a revengeful path.

He was grateful for his loved ones ingraining that into his soul after that fateful day. The elf doubted he would even bear having a conversation with the Loki Familia executives if not for the teachings he received.

Now he had come clean with one of the familias that might want trouble with him for his past with the Zeus Familia. This would spare him and his current familia from future misunderstandings and possible unnecessary conflict - at least with Loki Familia.

After a firm handshake, the two ended the gesture of the agreement between them.

"One more thing. You have my utmost gratitude for protecting our Ais from her reckless actions, the Loki Familia is indebted to you, Luke Adria." Said familia captain proclaimed, getting a dismissive wave and a scoff from the elf.

"I don't want any favours or rewards from you lot, so cut that out."

"... Why though?" Riveria intervened in the conversation, getting the attention of both of them.

"You had no obligation to save her, she was even part of the familia that exiled you from Orario! Then why, why did you save her?"

"You know, for someone that said I shouldn't insult her intelligence… You seem pretty slow, your highness." Luke responded nonchalantly.

The caster gave him an angry glare.

"Please don't refer to me as that, we are not in a elven forest so drop the royalty treatment."

"Well sorry for addressing the well known princess from Alf forest with the due respect she deserves… But you are correct, we aren't in an elven forest. If we were, I'm certain I would be dead just for referring the word to you - no, scratch that. I don't doubt a zealot elf wouldn't want to have my head even here in the Dungeon City."

Riveria looked downcast at the veracity of his claim. She knew he was right, considering their race's attitude - especially regarding her status as royalty and his as an accursed.

A simple interaction between them was completely unacceptable by most of the elven race, even for the more liberal ones.

"To answer your question… Because it was the right thing to do. Simple as that."

That evoked a wide eyed reaction from Ais's main caretaker or mama as she's known inside her familia. Luke would have a field day if he knew about her nickname at that time.

"Whether or not she's from your familia It doesn't matter, I would have helped her regardless. My beef with you lot doesn't come before my morals and values… and speaking of Ais." His plain tone gained a serious edge to it. "I hope you are aware she's not normal… in more ways than one."

The two adventurers from the girl's familia shared a knowing look.

"Sigh… We are aware of it, but as I'm certain you know as well that this is a delicate subject with her. She's slowly getting out her single minded obsession with monsters and getting stronger, but it's still a long path until it becomes bearable for not only her, but us as well." The high elf clarified.

"Good to know, just make sure to keep a close eye on her from here on out. I made her promise that she would be more reasonable with her goal, but I'm not convinced she will keep her word on it… she will also probably bug you out about getting her a grimoire on top of it." Luke said the last bit as he scratched the back of his head awkwardly.

"I beg you pardon!?" Riveria eyed him with a mix of confusion and anger.

"I might have told her how a grimoire works… My bad."

After a brief recognition of his mistake, the elf straightened himself.

"Alright then! I've got places to be and still have to stop by the morgue on Babel's 1st floor to drop this poor fella…. Ah man, I'll probably be chewed out for being late already. Have a nice day you two." Luke passed by them, stopping besides the mage, whispering something to her.

"Thank you for saving me that day..."

And just like that Luke began to run towards the surface, feeling Riveria's gaze in the back of his head, torn between being surprised with his parting words and angered for him giving her more future headaches with the troublesome girl. Braver only eyed the scene in amusement, still surprised with the turn of events.

"That played out better than I anticipated... He even had the gratitude towards you, Riveria."

"He's a strange kid... " The elven princess uttered as she kept her jade eyes in the direction Luke had run off to - pondering about the unexpected meeting that just transpired.

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Meanwhile, the justice warrior was running full speed up the stairs of Babel.

"Excuse me! Sorry! Coming through!"

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"Hey! Watch where you are going!

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"Hey dumbass!"

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"What the hell!?"

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"Give him some space you morons, he's carrying a wounded ally!"

The heterochromatic elf dashed through adventurers that were in the staircase, nimbly moving in between them while quickly apologizing. Some novices had almost slipped and fallen from the sudden appearance of a running elf with a person over his shoulder.

They tried to stop him, until a gruff veteran grabbed and scolded them, pointing towards the body the elf carried.

He's mistaken, but at least that clears a path for me.

A gap surged through the oncoming adventurers as they made a clear path for him to quickly reach the base of Babel.

I just hope Maryuu can forgive my lateness…

Luke thought as he dashed through the opening, adamant on wasting as little time as he could. He was tardy enough as it is.

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AN: Sorry for the delay people. Between my new job and college, life is being rough - and that's not good to get in the right state of mind to write.

So, Luke finally met Loki Familia face to face after everything they've done. He also got to know everyone's favorite PTSD induced half-spirit and her caretakers.

Next chapter is the last before we enter in the events of Astraea record. In it, Luke will accompany Maryuu and meet a certain girl from the main cast as well.

There's a few things I'd like to clarify though.

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1: I won't throw canon out of the window - at least the most of it. My favorite way to develop a fanfic is by changing how canon events play out and their outcomes. Some things will run away from canon, while others will stay mostly the same. That's just a personal preference of mine.

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2: Bell doesn't know about his true origins. Our favorite bunny MC doesn't know of his grandparents godhood. In regards to his relatives, he simply thinks they were retired adventurers that were living in the countryside. To him, they were a simple family of farmers living a quiet life. He's oblivious to everything that transpired before his birth.

That's something that will be adressed after he comes to Orario, yearning to become Alfia's hero.

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3: Luke will not be overpowered, so don't worry about it. His real strength comes from his wide array of abilities and magic that can become a deadly combination in a fight.

But he has its limits.

He needs to be thoughtful of what he uses in a real combat as all his abilities have some sort of drawback and because of it he can't use most of then at once. He needs to be picky and smart in a fight.

I can see it will be really fun to write in the future fighting he will do.

His growth rate is not something out of this world like Bell is in Canon. Just like every one else, the higher he gets in regards to level, the longer it takes for him to be able to level up. His skill only makes him grinding all his basic abilities a feasible thing once he gets closer to S.

He'll become one of the heavy hitters in due time, but that's only in the future.

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PS: It's a sad day to the danmachi fanfic community as a whole, as unfortunately Suathloh quit writing. He's one of the biggest writers we had and he will be surely missed vy his amazing works.

That's an unfortunate example of how toxic comments can destroy an writer love for his work... That's a shame, really.

As always, thank you for reading my story and see you guy's next time!