Bell's Eternal Odyssey: The Last Tale of the Infinite Regressor

by ZdaTTy

Fate can go to hell. After countless failed attempts to save everyone, Bell decides to do the one thing he's never done all the times he's gone back to the beginning: enjoy life to the full, regardless of the chaos his actions may cause.

6. Chapter 6

Chapter 6 - Justice in the Shadows

Blood Debt

Lefiya Viridis, a Second-Class adventurer and member of the Loki Familia.

She is a mage training to succeed Riveria Ljos Alf. She possesses magic that allows her to use any Elven Magic, hence the nickname Thousand Elf.

At some point in the past, Lefiya was an honor student in the School District.

The Hringhorni, also known as the Special District of Maritime Academic Institutions and more commonly referred to as the School District, is an educational institution.

The School District is dedicated to training its students in various disciplines. The initial reason for its foundation was to gather many talented people from around the world in Orario.

Lefiya is considered the greatest achievement in the school's history, leveling up after three years at just eleven years old. After remaining in school for one more year, she joined the Loki Familia at Level 2 and leveled up again one year later.

Since she had already been with the Loki Familia for some time, it was natural for her to know almost all its members. However, just because she knew them didn't mean she liked them all. There were some people in the Loki Familia she didn't get along with, such as Bete Loga.

She really didn't like thinking about him; he was frightening, so she quickly shook her head to clear him from her mind. There were a few others, but nothing too troubling. Most people in the Loki Familia were good.

For example, there were Tione and Tiona, two people Lefiya was quite fond of because they often gave her advice and helped her in various situations.

However, the person Lefiya liked most was none other than Ais Wallenstein.

Lefiya has a deep admiration for Ais. She often fantasizes about her, particularly about receiving her praise. Ais saving Lefiya seems to have turned her into an object of Lefiya's obsession. Lefiya is prone to jealousy regarding Ais. For example, when Tiona informs Lefiya that hugging Ais is a special privilege of hers, just to tease her, Lefiya feels a bit upset.

Other members of the Loki Familia, like Aki and Raul, tell Lefiya that Ais didn't smile much until she, Tione, and Tiona joined the Loki Familia.

In short, although things weren't entirely perfect, it was still a very good environment. Lefiya was determined that, as time went on, Ais would start to notice her more and more. That was how things were supposed to be.

However, everything changed because of him.

Bell Cranel, the supposed Level 1 adventurer who was able to kill a Minotaur and reached Level 2.

Initially, she was very surprised and curious about him. But as soon as she met him, all hopes of them getting along went out the window.

He kissed Riveria. Even though he explained it was all a misunderstanding, thinking he was dead and seeing a beautiful girl in front of him, claiming he might not have another chance… of course, Riveria was very beautiful, but that was still no excuse to kiss her.

However, what irritated her the most was that he deceived Ais and got close to her. At the pub the other day, Ais said he claimed he would teach her some wind-based technique if she played along with his "joke." Not only had Ais agreed to this "joke" to learn such a "technique," which he certainly couldn't actually teach her, but it also led to several rumors that the Sword Princess was dating him.

These rumors not only irritated her but also the goddess Loki, as well as a few other members of the Loki Familia. Ais herself didn't seem particularly bothered by the rumors, though she did appear to be in a bad mood over being "fooled" by Bell.

Lefiya, however, was intensely jealous.

...

She walked through the streets of Orario, her thoughts swirling in her mind. The days were passing quickly, and the Monsterphilia event was drawing closer. The streets were already starting to display decorations and ornaments for the grand festival. Colorful banners, small stands being set up to accommodate future visitors—everything was preparing Orario for an event that promised fun, excitement, and, of course, the main attraction: the taming of captured monsters for public display.

She sighed, distracted, thinking about how nice it would be to attend the event with Ais. She wanted to spend time with her hero and have fun together. But amidst her dreams, she knew that Loki would probably also want to accompany Ais. And with Loki, everything became much more... complicated.

As she walked, her eyes drifted over the crowd, with no particular hurry, until something unusual caught her attention.

Bright white hair shining in the sunlight.

A few meters ahead, she saw Bell Cranel, the peculiar-looking adventurer. Lefiya's mood darkened slightly at the sight of the boy who had kissed Riveria and deceived Ais. The memory of the incident made her chest tighten with irritation and discomfort, reliving the shock and troubling rumors that had followed this strange adventurer.

She watched him, intrigued, and noticed that Bell seemed to be moving away from the busier, more familiar areas of Orario.

He walked at a quick pace, almost as if he had a specific purpose in mind. Lefiya's eyes narrowed as she watched him heading to an unknown area, and she bit her lip, undecided. She knew much of the city well, but as a member of the Loki Familia, she spent a lot of time on missions or exploring the Dungeon, leaving some parts of the city less familiar to her.

'Where is he going?' she wondered, without really expecting an answer.

Before she could think too much about it, Lefiya found herself following Bell from a distance, her steps quick but quiet. He seemed determined to reach some destination, and although she didn't understand her own impulse to follow him, she thought it might be useful to at least discover what he was doing in that area. For some reason, it seemed interesting to know more about him, this adventurer who had reached Level 2 in just two weeks and was causing such a stir.

They passed through narrow alleyways, by lesser-known shops and quieter areas of Orario. Lefiya realized that they were in a part of the city that was vaguely familiar yet new enough to put her on alert. She observed the path and the buildings around, trying to stay as hidden as possible.

'Why am I doing this?' she thought, feeling silly. 'I don't even know him well. And… he's Bell Cranel! I don't have to follow him like he's someone important.'

And yet, she continued. Something within her urged her on, a strange feeling she couldn't quite define. Maybe it was curiosity, or maybe the frustration over the recent issues involving him and Ais. And so, after a few minutes of careful pursuit, Lefiya saw Bell turn a corner and disappear. She hurried, trying not to lose sight of him, and as she turned the same corner, she found herself in front of a large but unassuming building, its facade easy to overlook.

At the top of the building, a sign displayed the name "Silver Star."

The sign also indicated it was open 24 hours.

Bell entered the place, and Lefiya hesitated at the entrance, looking around as if hoping to find a reason to turn back. But her curiosity was too strong. She took a few hesitant steps, holding her breath as she opened the door and entered quietly.

As soon as she crossed the threshold, surprise took over.

She quickly realized it was a casino.

The atmosphere, while not as lavish as the famous El Dorado, was charming in its own way. The main hall was spacious, full of tables and people, with games spread out in various areas. It was lit by chandeliers and torches on the walls, casting a warm and inviting glow throughout the space.

Lefiya looked around as she walked slowly, taking in the details. Dice tables were set up in one corner, where players watched eagerly with each roll. In another corner, a wooden roulette wheel spun, while people around it placed bets on numbers or colors, cheering or groaning with each spin.

She knew casinos like this existed in Orario, though she'd never entered one before. And certainly, El Dorado, known for its exclusivity and luxurious atmosphere, was the most talked about. But here, at the Silver Star, she felt something more lively and less formal, where the bets seemed less extravagant and the patrons were ordinary people and adventurers just looking for a thrill.

Lefiya moved among the tables, observing the focused expressions of the players and the occasional laughs from winners and losers. The atmosphere was captivating. She was so distracted that she almost didn't notice when someone appeared at her side, startling her with a voice.

"It's an interesting sight, isn't it?"

She jumped, her heart racing as she recognized the voice. Bell Cranel was right beside her, his face so close that, for a moment, she froze. He smiled, and his playful expression seemed genuinely pleased to see her there.

'How did he get so close without me noticing!?'

"B-Bell Cranel!" she stammered, taking a quick step back, her face flushing with embarrassment and frustration.

He kept smiling, his red eyes shining in the torchlight, as if the situation were a simple game. Lefiya tried to compose herself, taking a deep breath, but her heart still raced from the scare and the frustration he always seemed to cause her.

"I thought you were following me. Something interesting about me?" he asked in a teasing tone, clearly amused by the situation.

'...He noticed...?'

Lefiya opened her mouth to respond, but the words failed her, and she felt her face grow even hotter. She hated how he seemed so calm, as if her following him had been expected. Worse still, his sudden closeness had made her jump like a frightened child.

"I... I was just...," she began, trying to come up with a convincing answer, but Bell's gaze seemed to pierce right through her, leaving her even more flustered. "I was just curious, that's all."

He laughed softly, the sound echoing through the space around them, drawing a few glances. Lefiya glanced around, realizing how embarrassing the situation was, and immediately looked at the ground, feeling she had completely lost control of the situation.

"So, you were curious, is that it?" he asked.

Lefiya stepped back, clearly embarrassed and unsure how to proceed, but Bell quickly filled the silence between them.

"If you're really interested, why not try playing?" he suggested, a mischievous glint in his eye, as if the whole situation was one big joke.

"I... I don't gamble," she said immediately, not very convincingly. "And I didn't bring any money."

She made a move to turn and leave, feeling embarrassed by the entire situation. However, before she could take a step, Bell took her hand. His grip was firm, but not uncomfortable, and even though Lefiya usually disliked physical contact, something made her hesitate and not immediately pull her hand away.

"No problem," he said, with a casual tone that left her even more disconcerted. "I'll cover you."

And before she could respond or pull back, Bell was leading her across the hall, holding her hand as if it were the most natural thing in the world. Lefiya felt like a puppet being guided by a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty. She then noticed something that hadn't caught her attention before: most of the people there were men. Many of them were adventurers in simple attire, but there were also much older and more sophisticated men, clearly wealthy.

Some of them cast glances her way, and Lefiya felt something she could only describe as a subtle, unfamiliar discomfort. Although she was aware of the attention her appearance and reputation could attract, the interest she sensed here was different.

After a few moments, Bell led her to a table surrounding a wooden wheel, where a small group was making enthusiastic bets. It was a simple game, with numbers and colors distributed in sections around the wheel—a quick and straightforward type of bet that seemed to captivate everyone. When they arrived, Bell called the dealer by name, almost as if he knew him.

"Hey, Marl," he said with a casual wave.

The man—apparently named Marl—looked at Bell in surprise.

"Do I know you?" he asked, his gaze slightly suspicious.

Bell gave a carefree smile, his eyes gleaming.

"I've just heard about you around."

The dealer then turned to Lefiya, clearly recognizing her. He nodded in greeting, his eyes cautious.

"So, the 'Thousand Elf' has come to have some fun today."

Lefiya was taken aback and opened her mouth to reply, but Bell spoke first.

"She's just here to enjoy a bit of the game," he said, pulling out a large bag of Valis and setting it in front of her. "I'll cover her bets."

Lefiya looked at him, surprised and a little uncomfortable, but Bell only gave her an encouraging smile. She couldn't bring herself to leave after all this. So, the wheel began to spin, and he made his first guess: red, number eight.

The wheel spun, the bets around it adding to the table's anticipation, and the murmurs of the room filled the air. Lefiya watched everything around her, still absorbing the atmosphere, as the ball finally stopped on the exact number Bell had chosen, drawing gasps of surprise from those around.

Lefiya was still somewhat stunned by Bell's unexpected success at guessing the number on his first try. "Did he really get it right on the first try?" she thought, surprised.

Marl announced the result loudly, collecting the losers' chips and handing over the winnings to Bell, who accepted the coins with a calm smile. He glanced at Lefiya again and, with a slight nod, suggested she place a bet too.

"Go ahead," he encouraged. "Pick a number and a color."

She hesitated, still doubtful, and looked around, noticing once again the watchful gazes. The men around seemed to be following her movements, not with disdain, but with a kind of caution she couldn't quite understand. Even so, she gave in to the impulse and placed a chip on black, choosing the number fifteen.

"Black and fifteen?" Bell asked, as if the number had some significance to him.

She nodded, saying nothing. The dealer spun the wheel again, and they both watched as the ball bounced from space to space. When the ball finally settled on a number, stopping precisely on black fifteen, Lefiya was momentarily speechless, feeling a wave of surprise and disbelief.

"You got it right," Bell said, smiling slightly.

Lefiya, in a mix of relief and amazement, let out a small sigh, still trying to process what had just happened. Marl handed her the winnings, and she accepted the chips hesitantly, unsure what to do with them. Around her, a murmur of interest began to grow, with some people watching the two of them more closely.

"So, do you have any other bets in mind?" Bell asked, leaning casually against the table. He seemed genuinely entertained.

She looked at him with some reserve, hesitant to continue, but ended up giving in. What did she have to lose? This time, she chose red and the number five. The wheel spun again, and to her surprise, Bell also placed a bet, but on black, number twenty-two. The ball whirled around once more until it finally stopped.

It was black, number twenty-two.

Bell smiled as he collected his winnings, and Lefiya observed him carefully, trying to determine if there was some hidden strategy or trick in his betting style. But nothing in his expression gave away any clear intention, just the relaxed demeanor of someone who seemed to be there to have fun.

As they prepared for another round, one of the men nearby approached with a casual tone. "This boy here is lucky," he said, casting an appraising look at Bell.

Bell merely shrugged, letting out a carefree laugh.

"Sometimes luck favors the best-looking person at the table," he replied.

The man snorted at Bell's sarcastic response.

Meanwhile, as time went on, Lefiya felt increasingly uncomfortable. The interest around the table was growing, and she noticed that the presence of an elf seemed to be drawing more attention than she would have liked.

'Why are they looking at me like that?' she thought, feeling her face flush slightly. She didn't want to come across as naïve, but something was unsettling her.

After a few bets, which Bell always seemed to win, Lefiya began to question the reason behind his unusual luck.

"How... how do you manage to win so often?" she asked quietly so no one else would hear. Her curiosity was genuine, and her discomfort with his skill was growing.

Bell just replied casually, giving her an enigmatic look. "Let's just say I have a good feeling about certain numbers."

She scoffed. He was joking, or at least he wanted her to think so. By this point, Marl gave Lefiya a sidelong glance, as if he were studying her interest in the bets.

"And you, miss, care to try something higher?" he suggested, his tone polite but slightly cautious.

Bell looked at Lefiya, smiling as if the idea were exciting. "Come on, it could be fun," he encouraged, "and if you lose, I'll cover your bet again."

Was it really right to do this? After all, it wasn't even her money, but he was encouraging her to bet with his.

She hesitated but gave in, placing a slightly higher bet, choosing red, number thirty-three. Bell joined her, putting a chip on the same color and number.

The wheel spun once again. People gathered around, eagerly watching the outcome of the bet. The ball bounced a few times and finally landed on red thirty-three.

This time, Lefiya's gaze met Marl's, who smiled with a controlled expression, though she had the feeling there was something strange in his demeanor. The chips were handed to them, and Lefiya almost felt a weight upon receiving the larger stack of chips. She wondered if there was more to understand here than just a simple game of luck.

'Why does he seem so tense?'

Bell was watching her closely, with a slight smile indicating he too had noticed the reactions around them. However, he seemed to ignore any unease and continued betting as if nothing bothered him.

With each of Bell's wins, the atmosphere grew a little more tense. The looks from the other gamblers and even from the dealer were subtle, but carried a palpable caution. Their presence seemed to provoke conflicting reactions, and while Bell kept a relaxed air, there was something in his movements that conveyed a careful confidence.

Finally, after a few more rounds, Bell turned to her and gave a relaxed smile.

"I think that's enough of that game, right?"

Lefiya felt slightly relieved, though there was still a lingering sense of suspicion in the air. She stood up and started to leave, but Marl caught her attention once more.

"Will you be visiting us again, miss?" he asked, with a controlled smile.

However, before she could respond with a polite smile, Bell spoke for her once again.

"What do you mean, Marl? The day has just begun; we're not leaving anytime soon."

The man turned to Bell with a small smile. However, his smile seemed a bit tense.

"Is that so? In that case, I wish you luck."

"I don't need anyone's luck."

...

...

As they left the previous game behind, Bell and Lefiya walked deeper into the casino, where the laughter and conversations began to be muffled by the music and the noise of betting. Lefiya followed him closely, hesitant, before speaking in a low voice:

"Cranel-san, did you notice how... everyone was watching us?" She glanced around, noticing the same uncomfortable attention. "I mean, they were especially cautious... with me."

Bell looked at her with a casual smile, though something in his gaze shone with amusement.

"Oh, so you're finally stopping with the 'you' thing, huh? As for your question, that's because you're very beautiful."

The answer took her by surprise, and Lefiya's face immediately flushed.

"What are you saying, you p-pervert!?"

Bell let out a small laugh but then looked around and leaned in closer, speaking with more seriousness than she expected.

"Well, the real perverts are everywhere here, especially among the older crowd. So, don't leave my side, darling."

Lefiya almost replied with sarcasm, but when she looked at him, she stopped. For the first time since they'd entered, Bell's playful expression had vanished, and he was watching a group of older men in a corner of the hall who seemed to be sharing laughter and discreet conversations while occasionally glancing in their direction. Although his face returned to its usual lighthearted smile, that sudden seriousness left her intrigued.

"Have you ever played poker before?" he asked, resuming his casual tone.

She stared at him, still absorbing what he had said. "I've heard of it, but... I've never played."

Bell smiled and began to lead her to a nearby table. "Perfect. Then, the next game will be poker," he said as they walked. "I'll teach you the basics while we play, but there's something you'll need to practice: the so-called 'Poker Face.' It's essential!"

When Lefiya merely looked at him strangely because of his excitement, Bell gave her a determined look. "Poker is a game where an impassive expression can be worth more than good cards. The advantage always goes to those who can deceive best."

As she processed what he was saying, Lefiya couldn't help but ask, "You seem pretty experienced... Do you come here often?"

Bell shrugged, giving her a mysterious smile. "First time at this casino... in this lifetime." His tone was casual, but there was a hint of irony that left her puzzled.

'In this lifetime?' she thought, intrigued, but soon Bell was leading her to the table, redirecting her attention to the next game.

As they approached the poker table, an elderly man with short white hair, responsible for shuffling and dealing the cards, looked up upon seeing Bell. A moment of recognition passed across his face, followed by a cautious expression.

"Hello, Zark! How are you?"

"Do we know each other?" asked the man, Zark, in a deep voice with a hint of respect, as if he knew something more about Bell.

Lefiya quickly took note of this as well. When they had gone to the previous table, Bell had called the dealer there by name, Marl. Here he also seemed to know this man's name. However, neither of them seemed to know Bell, while he knew their names. It was very strange.

"No, I just heard your name around," replied Bell with a smile, as if it were all just a big coincidence.

'But... I didn't hear anything…?' Lefiya thought, confused.

It was practically the same excuse he had used with Marl.

The old man seemed to study Bell for a moment before nodding with a slight, sideways smile. Then, he cast a look at Lefiya and greeted her.

"So, Miss Elf," he said, respectful but enigmatic, "ready to join the game?"

Bell sat down and indicated a seat beside him for Lefiya. She felt slightly apprehensive but sat down and tried to focus, determined to understand the dynamics of poker. While the man dealt the cards, Bell kept his calm expression, but he seemed to be analyzing every movement with a keen eye, as if he could anticipate what each player was about to do.

When she received her cards, Lefiya tried to remember what Bell had said about the "Poker Face" and kept her gaze steady, serious.

The atmosphere around them seemed to narrow in on the table, with all eyes fixed on the game. The other seven players ranged from older men with deep wrinkles and calculating looks to some younger ones who seemed out of place or tense.

As the noise and movement of the casino faded into the background, Lefiya began to feel the weight of each gaze, each muffled laugh, and each whisper. Bell, however, seemed completely at ease, with a carefree smile. He watched the players around him attentively, and with each new round, he won with an impressive calmness, as if he had expected the outcome all along.

...

First Hand.

The first cards were dealt, and Lefiya watched the game carefully, trying to memorize the combinations and understand the flow of the bets. Bell, beside her, kept a casual expression, but behind his eyes, there was a constant vigilance. He played with one of the chips, spinning it between his fingers as he observed the other players.

"Are you ready to learn how to win your first round?" he whispered to Lefiya in a tone that made her smile.

"If you help me understand what I'm doing…" she replied, trying to keep her focus.

One of the older players in front of her, a man with graying hair and a severe face, gave a short laugh.

"Learning from him? Not exactly the best idea to trust a rookie," he said with a tone of disdain, throwing a mocking glance at Bell.

Bell laughed, ignoring the comment. He made a bold bet, and Lefiya noticed that the other players began to hesitate. The tension grew, but Bell remained impassive, and they won that hand, leaving one of the players looking frustrated.

...

Second Hand.

With each new round, Lefiya felt more confident. She began to understand the combinations and even tried to hide her reactions, keeping a neutral expression as Bell had instructed. Bell watched her approvingly as he easily won another hand, causing the small pile of chips in front of them to grow considerably.

One of the players, a man with scars on his face and sharp eyes, glanced sideways at Bell. "You're having too much luck for a beginner. Any hints on your strategy?"

Bell looked up with a challenging smile. "The strategy is not to let others guess your next move," he said, keeping his tone casual. "What you see as luck might just be… practice."

The man scoffed and leaned over the table, visibly annoyed by the response. Lefiya sensed a rising tension in the room, but Bell remained relaxed, as if he were entirely in control of the situation.

...

Third Hand.

As the hours passed, Lefiya felt more at ease with the game. Throughout the rounds, Bell began explaining small nuances of poker strategy, pointing out how the other players' expressions changed subtly and how they betrayed themselves with their reactions. She started to pick up on the subtle hints and understand the moves.

At a certain moment, Bell made a bold bet, winning again. The pile of chips in front of him was now considerable, catching the attention of the others. The players around them cast suspicious looks, and one of them, visibly irritated, muttered:

"He must be cheating. How else could someone win so often?"

Bell looked at him with a calm smile. "Can you prove it?" he replied in a firm but polite tone.

The dealer, Zark, interrupted with a firm tone: "There has been no cheating. Unless you have proof, I suggest you calm down."

The man leaned back in his chair, his face flushed with anger, but remained silent. Lefiya felt a hint of apprehension. Around her, the more experienced players' eyes continued to fixate on her and Bell, as if trying to decipher them. Yet Bell seemed immune to all the pressure, continuing to win successive rounds with an untroubled smile.

...

Fourth Hand.

As time passed and night was nearly upon them, Lefiya began to feel the fatigue settling in. She had focused so intensely on the game that she had lost track of time. Bell, however, remained steady, his carefree smile unchanged. With each hand, Lefiya learned more, and although Bell was mainly responsible for their victories, she felt that she was absorbing the rhythm of the game.

At a certain point, a casino staff member appeared beside Zark and whispered something in his ear. Lefiya, with her heightened adventurer's hearing, managed to catch part of the conversation.

"The goods are getting noisy," murmured the staff member.

Zark cast a tense look at the man, as if his presence was an unwelcome interruption.

"Watch what you say," he replied in a low but direct tone. Then he turned back to the table with a smile and excused himself, calling for a substitute to continue the game. Lefiya noticed the discreet glances exchanged between some of the players, as if that comment held some hidden meaning.

This reaction left Lefiya intrigued. Something about the place seemed slightly off, as if there was a tension in the air that everyone pretended not to notice. The glances from the men around her were cautious and at times almost furtive, especially directed at her. Most of the players were older men, and few seemed to be there solely for the fun of the game. Furthermore, although the casino was luxurious, it had a heavy atmosphere, as if secrets were hidden behind every golden wall and each dimly lit corner.

...

It was now night, and Bell continued to win hand after hand. Lefiya noticed that some players began to withdraw, perhaps irritated or suspicious. One of the more persistent players, a burly man with a thick beard, grunted with each lost hand.

"Kid, you must be either really lucky or hiding a card up your sleeve," he said, visibly annoyed.

Bell looked at him with an enigmatic smile. "Maybe it's just good observation skills. Poker is more than just luck, you know that," he replied.

"The same crap answers, huh."

Lefiya began to feel that the attention and tension people here had towards them wasn't just because of the game.

There was something more, something that made the men around them suspicious and irritated. Perhaps it was her presence there—a young elf among so many older men in such a reserved setting. And, though she wanted to believe it was just the irritation over Bell's streak of wins, she couldn't shake the feeling that this casino hid something darker.

After several rounds, Bell decided it was time to end the game. He looked at Lefiya, and she nodded, relieved. As they gathered their chips and prepared to leave, one of the men at the table, one of the few who hadn't lost his composure, leaned toward Bell with a condescending smile.

"You play well, kid. But be careful… Luck can be a treacherous ally sometimes," he said, in a warning tone.

Bell returned the smile, seemingly unfazed. "Thank you for the warning. But, as I see it, luck was on my side today. Besides, I think it'd be better if you also left earlier since you've lost a lot and it wouldn't be wise to lose more."

Lefiya followed Bell, casting one last look back at the hall. The discreet conversations, the furtive glances, and the presence of older men made the atmosphere unsettling. She felt that something about that place wasn't as it seemed, but she couldn't put her finger on exactly what was wrong.

---

When Bell and Lefiya left the casino, the cool night air of Orario welcomed them with a refreshing breeze. The soft glow of the street lamps illuminated the path ahead, and the muffled sounds of the casino were soon replaced by the distant noises of the city at night. Bell kept a calm smile as he held the coin purse, now heavier than when they had entered. Lefiya walked beside him in silence, a mix of relief and fatigue on her face.

As they walked, Bell gave a small smile when he noticed Lefiya's slightly dazed expression as she held the bag with the Valis she had "won" from betting, feeling a bit uneasy.

"It was a fun night, wasn't it?" Bell commented.

Lefiya nodded, a little awkwardly. Although she hadn't won as many rounds as he did, the wins she managed still earned her a considerable amount. Looking at the coins in the small bag she was holding, she hesitated for a moment before offering them to Bell.

"Here... the money I won. Really, it was you who loaned it to me for betting, so it would be fair to give it all back."

Bell looked at her in surprise before shaking his head, refusing to accept the coins.

"Keep it, Lefiya. No need to worry about that. After all, money is going to become something trivial for me… sooner or later."

Lefiya looked at him, confused and slightly taken aback.

There was something in Bell's tone, as if money truly held no value to him. It was a strange feeling for Lefiya, an adventurer who, despite being part of the powerful Loki Familia, knew how necessary resources were. The Loki Familia was the second strongest in Orario, which meant, of course, enormous prestige and many members. But at the same time, it also meant a great demand for funds for the upkeep of weapons, armor, and supplies. For that reason, money was never "trivial" for the Loki Familia.

Besides, he was the first adventurer in his goddess's Familia, wasn't he? Money should be very important to him.

So why did he seem not to care about money at all?

"But… are you sure?" she insisted, with a slight tone of reluctance.

"Yes, I'm sure. That's your reward for today. You played well, after all." Bell smiled encouragingly, and Lefiya, though still hesitant, eventually nodded and put the coins away. Part of her felt uncomfortable keeping the money, but something in Bell's gaze made her feel that refusing again would be pointless.

They continued walking for a few minutes until Bell suddenly stopped. He glanced back in the direction of the casino, with an enigmatic look.

"Oh, I forgot something in the casino."

Lefiya frowned, puzzled.

"Forgot? But… what?"

He shrugged casually, brushing off the question.

"Nothing of much importance. But I think I need to retrieve it all the same."

Bell turned to Lefiya, smiling, but this time his smile was a bit more serene, almost gentle.

"Well, I think it's getting late. You should go back. Your Familia is probably worried by now, don't you think?"

His gaze unsettled her, but there was something more in his words. She watched him closely, picking up on an undertone of something deeper in his seemingly casual suggestion.

"After all, tonight promises to be a bit... turbulent," he added, with a calmness that contrasted with the meaning of his words.

As Bell walked away, his words echoed in Lefiya's mind. She had been with him since the morning, and despite the time spent playing, the sense that they had spent the entire day in the casino made her wonder why she had so much energy for it. And why had she stayed with him for so long, to the point of completely losing track of time?

'…Why did I spend so much time with him?' she asked herself, her expression now thoughtful. 'It's as if… I lost control of time. The Loki Familia is probably wondering where I am by now…'

Uneasy, she shook her head, trying to dispel the confusing thoughts. But as she thought over the situation, she realized something troubling: from the beginning, something had unsettled her, yet she had followed Bell anyway.

'…But why? I should... hate him, shouldn't I? After everything that happened…' She sighed, bringing a hand to her head in a frustrated gesture.

After all, Bell Cranel was the one who had caused a great upheaval in her feelings for Ais and the kiss with Riveria, who was of noble status. And yet, here she was, walking through the city streets, haunted by a strange sense of confusion.

Even as she tried to shake off these conflicting emotions, Bell continued to occupy her thoughts, and she couldn't push them aside. The more she tried, the stronger they seemed to press in, as if there was an invisible connection that wouldn't allow her to let go of him.

'Why can't I stop thinking about him?' she asked herself, clenching her fists.

This strange feeling seemed bigger than herself, a force that made her question more than she wanted. But… it wasn't just that. Bell's words came back to her mind: he mentioned that he forgot something inside the casino. Yet, she had been with him the entire time. There was nothing with him besides the money he had, as well as the money he won. But aside from the money, there was nothing else.

'Then… what could he have forgotten?' she wondered, frowning as the weight of the mystery deepened.

Something about that night stopped making sense, and the question settled in her mind like a seed taking root in soil.

Furthermore, she remembered the strange figures inside the casino. There was something dark about the place, and she noticed that nearly everyone there was an older man with watchful, assessing eyes. From the moment she entered, she was the target of cautious glances, as if she were an intruder in a place where she didn't belong. Initially, this caution seemed restricted to her, but as the hours passed, it also turned toward Bell, who, despite her growing discomfort, seemed to remain calm.

Then, Bell's last words before he said goodbye to her became almost deafening in her mind.

Lefiya stopped walking, a mix of confusion and worry taking over her. She felt her heart race as she looked back in the direction of the casino, now distant.

Suddenly, the world seemed dark and unsettling.

---

Beneath the bustling, glittering exterior of the Silver Star Casino, there was a hidden world, so well-concealed that few even suspected its existence. When night's curtain fell over Orario, the casino buzzed with the presence of wealthy aristocrats, bored nobles, and adventurers seeking more than the usual rewards from the dungeons. They came drawn by something only the most privileged knew: the true purpose of that place, hidden beneath the betting tables and the glamour of its main hall.

The doors to the casino's hidden area weren't for just anyone. Concealed behind false walls at the end of a discreet hallway, they led to a set of narrow, dusty stairways that descended deeper and deeper, eventually reaching a subterranean complex.

There, the air grew thick, saturated with the damp smell of stone and an oppressive darkness. The low ceilings and oil lamps only added to the sense of decay that permeated the space. And as one ventured further in, cells and cages lined the cold, shadowed walls.

The cages, carved from thick iron and locked with heavy chains, stood in perfect rows, as if they were displays in a grotesque gallery. Inside, the captives huddled, defeated, their eyes devoid of any spark. There were pale-skinned elf girls with slender ears, their long, tangled hair covering their faces; there were also human girls with frightened eyes, their bodies marked by exhaustion and dirt, and even young women of other races, each with a distant gaze, each coping in her own way with the despair of her situation.

Some of them clutched the bars of their cages, trying to breathe steadily, while others remained motionless, resigned. Low murmurs of voices intertwined, whispering words of fear or comfort, as they waited for the fate that would be decided by men who saw them as nothing more than objects.

They were orphans, young girls and women brought from distant towns, captured in the outskirts of remote villages, where disappearing simply meant another empty place in an already impoverished family. The organization behind it all was meticulous and well-funded. They had an army of intermediaries — hunters and spies — who scoured the outskirts of Orario and distant cities in search of new "merchandise." In merchant caravans and cargo transports, the girls were hidden under tarps and blankets, drugged and discreetly transported to the casino.

The Ganesha Familia, responsible for Orario's security, always posed a risk, but the carefully established network of informants and bribes allowed the traffickers to evade their patrols. They knew the surveillance patterns, the patrol schedules, and even the guards most susceptible to turning a blind eye when some extra coins came their way.

As the clock marked the latest hours of the night, the underground activities intensified. The men who ran this black market gathered around tables and prepared for the "auction" that would take place shortly. They were individuals of varied appearances, some dressed in elegant clothes with gold rings on their fat fingers, while others wore simple attire, though the glint in their eyes betrayed a sick interest in what was about to happen.

In a nearby room, some employees made final checks, noting numbers and characteristics of the captives. Each one was listed with a brief description that included details such as race, approximate age, and physical traits or "attributes" that might attract certain buyers. To them, the captives were merely "merchandise," numbered and cataloged.

"Mr. Merius made a special request for an elf," one of the administrators said, examining a list in his hands. "Preferably young, fair-skinned, bright green eyes. We don't have many tonight, but I believe number fifteen might interest him."

"The old man's getting pickier," murmured a second man, frowning. "I imagine he'll pay the price."

"Of course. He never cares about the cost. As long as the 'merchandise' meets the requirements. And speaking of which, Mr. Varden expressed interest in number eight, a human. Seems he prefers them more... submissive."

"Will we need to give her some extra training? Heh."

Another administrator nodded, with a discreet smile of approval. Glancing at the list, he continued organizing the papers, preparing for the main auction, where the best girls would be presented to the bidders.

...

With their notes in hand, the administrators continued reviewing the details of the captives, exchanging observations and specific instructions with the staff. Each man there seemed enveloped in a calculated coldness, treating each girl as an item in his inventory, without any trace of empathy.

Along the narrow corridor, a group of heavily armed guards with swords, axes, and spears stood vigilant and aligned, ensuring that nothing got out of hand. Although most of them weren't adventurers, they were all well-trained and disciplined.

One of the farthest doors led to a room designated for the "preparation" of the captives. There, some of the younger girls sat, with either vacant or anxious expressions, while a female staff member moved between them, checking appearance details, adjusting the torn clothes they'd been given, or even retouching the makeup of some. The staff member seemed indifferent, as if she had grown accustomed to the process, becoming a sort of maternal figure, though her only interest was in ensuring the "quality" of the product offered to clients.

Outside, in the administration room, murmurs of conversation continued.

"We need to hurry. It's almost time for the main auction," remarked one of the men, checking a pocket watch.

Another employee, thin and with sharp eyes, looked up, closing a thick ledger.

"The main merchandise is ready. I believe today's arrivals include some... promising pieces."

"That's what I hope. Our job is hard enough without dealing with dissatisfied clients. Let's make sure all are up to standard. We've had enough problems with incidents…"

A third man, with a more confident air and a scar above his lip, interrupted.

"What about security? Any slip-up could compromise us. I heard the Ganesha Familia has been more active. We don't want any more complications," he said, looking intently at his colleagues.

He was one of the key figures in charge of logistics, ensuring operations ran smoothly.

The man with the ledger made a dismissive gesture.

"The Ganesha Familia? They have no idea what's happening down here. Our caravans follow routes they'd never think to patrol. Besides, our informants are always updated on operations. Zark-sama has guaranteed that. We won't have any surprises. Either way, we have people outside keeping watch."

The first man nodded, relaxing his shoulders upon hearing the response.

Meanwhile, in the adjoining room, some of the captives listened to the muffled voices from the other side. They exchanged glances, too afraid to speak aloud, some with tears in their eyes. Each felt the weight of the uncertain fate awaiting them.

...

...

At the entrance to the underground room where the auction would take place, wealthy-looking old men, adorned with jewelry and expensive clothing, began descending the stairs in a line, led by an attendant who greeted them with rehearsed smiles and a formal, but subtly condescending, tone.

"This way, gentlemen, and welcome to our exclusive event. Have you prepared your reservations?" he asked each one, confirming the guests' identities and discreetly checking the origin of each pre-payment.

Access to the auction was a costly privilege, and these men knew they were paying for the right to be there, far from the gaze of the rest of the city.

In the reserved seats, the first buyers settled in, exchanging greetings and whispering conversations about their expectations for the evening. Some discussed the qualities of merchandise they had acquired on previous nights, talking about the "characteristics" of girls from other auctions, while others made bored remarks about the casino bets upstairs.

"You lost to a boy at poker?"

"Yes, that boy was damn lucky. And I tell you, he didn't look a day over sixteen."

"Hm, curious. Could he have cheated?"

"Unlikely."

The conversations continued.

"Do you think they'll have anything new tonight?" asked a gray-bearded man with severe eyes, speaking to a colleague beside him.

"They say they brought a half-elf this time, straight from a village in the north. Supposedly young, she'll likely be one of the first presented," replied the colleague, with a sly smile.

The exchange of information and expectations was a spectacle in itself, with the buyers assessing what would be offered, as if they were at a social event rather than a trade of lives.

Finally, one of the administrators stepped onto the makeshift stage, holding a small metal rod that he used to tap lightly on the floor, drawing the attention of everyone in the room. He smiled, fully aware of the value these "goods" held and of the business's success.

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. We thank you all for attending this very special night," he began in a polished tone.

There were also a few women present, though the number was small enough to count on one hand. There are strange people with all kinds of tastes everywhere.

"This evening, as you know, we have some exclusive selections, including a young half-elf and a variety of options to suit all preferences."

Before he could continue, the absolute silence in the room was broken by a distinct sound — footsteps approaching casually, yet audibly, from the dark entrance of the hallway. The staff standing there looked at each other, puzzled. No movement had been expected at that moment.

All eyes turned toward the figure emerging from the shadows.

A young man with short white hair walked down the dark corridor.

He advanced with a light smile on his lips, and his red eyes glowed in the dim light, a stark contrast to the grim surroundings.

But most impressive was the apparent age of the approaching figure.

He looked like a teenager.

One of the guards stepped forward, instinctively placing his hand on the hilt of his weapon.

"Who are you?" demanded the guard, his voice firm but wavering as he faced the stranger with the innocent appearance.

The boy raised a finger to his lips in a playful shushing gesture, while those around hesitated, uncertain how to react. The sharp gaze of the boy scanned the room as if inspecting every detail.

Finally, he broke the silence.

"Might I join your little party?"

Zark, who was standing in a corner, sighed and muttered to himself, recognizing the boy who had played poker at the table where he had been the dealer.

---

'Why?'

The question echoed in Bell Cranel's mind as his steps resounded down the damp, dark corridors leading to the basement of the Silver Star Casino.

In all his past lives, he remembered vividly the pain, the horror, and the deep sense of helplessness he felt upon discovering this place for the first time. The innocence that had once defined him began to shatter there. The image of the women, trapped in cages, their eyes empty and their bodies marked by exhaustion and abuse, was something Bell could never forget.

There he was again, his footsteps echoing, a cold feeling of déjà vu tightening his chest.

How many times had he tried?

In every regression since discovering what went on in this casino, Bell had launched himself into the mission of destroying this place. In the beginning, he acted on impulse, driven by the pure, youthful indignation that accompanied him in each restart. In those first times, he still held the hope that liberating them would bring some peace, some form of redemption for both them and himself.

But reality struck him with cruelty.

Even after rescuing those women once, he quickly realized it wasn't enough. The marks of pain and suffering didn't disappear. The trauma lingered in their hearts, and the scars, both physical and emotional, never faded. He could interrupt that specific night, but he couldn't erase what these people had endured. And when he returned upon his death and came back to this point, it was as if they were reborn into that same suffering, imprisoned once more, as if time itself were a cycle trapping them eternally.

And only he remembered it.

For a long time, he acted recklessly, desperate to destroy this place, to end it as quickly as possible. But whenever he thought he'd achieved some victory, a mistake forced him back, or a death made him start over. The empty stares, the clinking of chains, the smell of oil and damp stone became almost a symbol of his own powerlessness, his failure to protect those in need.

In the previous regression, he returned even earlier, when he was only twelve years old. He saw it as a chance to better prepare himself, to grow stronger before attempting anything again. During that life, the casino almost disappeared from his thoughts, buried in a corner of his mind as he focused on training and becoming stronger. But, upon stumbling upon it by accident, he realized his mistake: he was late, once again.

Once again, he had failed to make any difference. Though he knew he wasn't to blame, it only reinforced a decision Bell made at the start of his current life.

In this regression, Bell promised himself he would do things differently. He decided he would enjoy life as much as he could. Instead of chasing that relentless feeling of failure, he wanted to savor each moment beside Hestia, to live with his goddess, with his Familia, and embrace this chance to live a lighter life. The world, he thought, would eventually take care of the casino. After all, the organization would be exposed and destroyed in due time.

So yes, he had decided not to interfere this time. He had promised himself he would ignore that place. Even if it was cruel, Bell justified the choice: he could help more people in the next regression.

In this regression, he wanted to be happier with Hestia, and one day, if fate allowed, that place would be destroyed for good. And, if it wasn't, he would come back, someday, and then he would save those women again and again, continually.

But then, why on earth was he there again?

Why, after leaving the casino alongside Lefiya, had he told her he forgot something important and turned back? He had felt an unexpected tension in his chest, a pull he couldn't explain.

There were so many voices, so many thoughts, trying to justify, trying to make sense of it. However, a laugh escaped his lips, surprising him, as his feet led him through those familiar corridors.

"So, even after all this... there's still a little of my 'true self' left, huh?" he whispered to himself, as the tension in his chest gradually faded, giving way to a feeling he barely recognized anymore: hope.

The decision to return there held a meaning he might have been refusing to accept. And, even if the cost were high, even knowing it might be pointless, he would choose to be himself. Yes, if being himself meant acting against that place, he would say damn the consequences and not think twice. Maybe, this time, there would be no more excuses, because this was the only choice he could make without regret.

And then, after infiltrating, he walked down the dark corridor until he suddenly found himself at the entrance to the room where the auction was beginning. Everything was exactly as he remembered, as if those scenes repeated themselves like a twisted play, over and over again.

A guard, surprised, stepped forward upon seeing him, his hand firm on his sword.

"Who are you?" the man demanded, his voice wavering.

Bell raised a finger to his lips, a light smile spreading across his face. His crimson gaze swept the room with an almost sharp precision, as if he were observing and cataloging every detail. Then, meeting the man's eyes, he spoke in a low but firm voice:

"Might I join your little party?"

The words came out as a challenge, almost as though they were a taunt.

---

Silence fell heavily in the auction hall as Bell finished his sentence. The provocation, despite the light smile on his face, was enough to spark curiosity and astonishment among those present. The audience, made up of old, well-dressed men and other mysterious figures, observed uncomfortably the unexpected presence of a boy in such an environment.

Zark, the old man with short white hair who was one of the leaders of this underworld with an iron fist, stared at Bell for a few moments, his eyes narrowed with a mix of irritation and disbelief.

"This is no place for children, Bell Cranel," Zark said, his voice carrying a cold tone, clearly calculated to intimidate.

Bell, however, held his gaze, dismissing the implied danger. His expression remained calm, as though everything were a game.

"Oh, but why isn't it a place for children, Zark?" Bell asked, a hint of false innocence in his voice.

The provocation drew even more confused looks from the audience. Many whispered to each other, uneasy, while others shot harsh glances, clearly impatient. Who was this boy, after all, to question Zark like that?

Zark let out a short sigh, keeping his gaze fixed on Bell.

"You like to play with words, don't you? But from where I stand, it seems like you already know the answer to that question."

"Maybe I do," Bell replied, keeping his casual tone. "But I'm curious to hear it from your mouth."

The elderly crowd murmured around them, bothered and intrigued by the situation. It wasn't every day that they saw someone, let alone a teenager, in this place, let alone speaking to Zark like that.

In the casino, Zark was just a croupier managing one of the poker tables, but in this underworld, he held a power not to be underestimated.

Zark shook his head, impatient, and stepped forward, his hands resting on the table in front of him as if trying to suppress a growing exasperation.

"Let's get to the point, Bell Cranel. I could let you join the… 'party,' as you put it," he muttered with disdain. "But first, you'd have to accept a deal with me."

Bell raised an eyebrow, a flash of interest passing through his gaze.

"A deal?" he questioned, maintaining a relaxed tone. "And what if I refuse?"

The coldness in Zark's gaze intensified. He raised his hand and made a discreet gesture; the guards around them began to advance, each one resting a hand on their weapons, whether swords or axes, ready to act.

"Very simple, kid," Zark said, his tone growing harsher. "If you refuse, you won't be leaving here. And frankly, I'm being quite generous by giving you the chance to choose."

Bell glanced at the approaching guards, then calmly met Zark's eyes, not showing a single sign of fear. Bell's calm reaction did not go unnoticed, and some of the guards hesitated, exchanging glances with one another.

Zark leaned in a little further, trying to detect any crack in Bell's composure.

"Accept the deal. You're getting a chance that many here would love to have," Zark suggested, his voice carrying a touch of cynical persuasion. "I could very well order them to take care of you right here and now, but if you accept the deal and have a preference for any woman here, I can give you a pretty friendly discount. How about that? Consider yourself lucky, kid."

He saw Bell as just a teenager, so he thought he could persuade him by speaking this way.

Bell remained silent for a brief moment, as if pondering, but when he spoke, his voice was firm.

"I see."

He let out a light sigh, his eyes still gleaming with that hint of provocation. Then, after a brief pause, Bell asked another question, so casual that it made an immediate impact:

"And what would happen if I had already informed the Ganesha Familia about this place?"

The hall froze. Zark and the guards stopped at the same moment, their eyes wide with a mix of surprise and fear. A tense atmosphere filled the space, and everyone awaited the next move, as if the world could collapse at any moment.

Bell chuckled softly, breaking the absolute silence.

"I'm just kidding," he said, carefree. "Relax. If I really had spoken to the Ganesha Familia, do you think I would have come here alone?"

A few relieved sighs passed through the crowd, and the guards relaxed their stances, partly convinced. Zark, however, remained distrustful, his eyes fixed on Bell as if trying to read him.

"Very well," Zark said finally, forcing a calmer tone. "So, will you accept the deal?"

Bell pretended to ponder, murmuring to himself, as if his internal debate were more important than the situation around him. He then moved toward one of the guards who still had his eyes on him, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. The guard seemed to relax for a brief moment, thinking the boy would yield.

But Bell acted fast.

In a movement as sudden as it was powerful, he landed a punch in the guard's stomach with enough force to send him flying several meters away. The man crashed into the chairs set up in the hall, falling with a loud thud, causing screams of surprise and panic to rise from the audience.

Zark narrowed his eyes, a threatening gleam appearing on his face.

"So that's a 'no,' then?"

Bell, still with a light smile, replied, his voice dripping with provocation:

"My answer is: Go fuck yourself."

A frantic murmur erupted across the hall, and Zark, his face now flushed with rage, raised his hand in a signal for the remaining guards to advance.

"Grab him. And be careful, because this boy is not just an ordinary adventurer. He's the rookie who reached level 2 in just two weeks… by killing a Minotaur. He's still a rookie, so it shouldn't be a problem if you all attack together, but don't be fools."

Bell clapped his hands sarcastically as the guards surrounded him, forming a circle.

"Very well, Zark," he mocked, his tone laced with disdain. "I see you're as well-informed as ever. But before we continue… where's that coward Marl?"

The mention of the name made Zark scowl, irritated. That kid had called him by name so casually in the casino, approaching every player as if he already knew everything about them. Even when Bell justified it by saying he overheard the names in other people's conversations, Zark knew there was more to it.

'How long has this kid known about all of this?' Zark thought as he glared at Bell.

This casino had been operating in total secrecy for four years alongside its underworld dealings. Even the Ganesha Familia had never detected any evidence of this place. So, how had this boy found out? Despite all his theories, nothing seemed to make sense.

As the confusion and unease grew, Bell watched the advancing guards. His expression showed no tension. He remained still, as though nothing in the room was worth worrying about.

Finally, Bell broke the silence, his voice calm but as sharp as a blade.

"Do you know why I didn't say anything to Shakti or the Ganesha Familia? It's quite simple…"

At that moment, the first guard lunged forward, raising his sword with a murderous gleam in his eyes, aiming for Bell's shoulder.

The blade cut through the air with a menacing whistle, but Bell took a subtle step to the side, narrowly avoiding the attack.

With the same agility, he grabbed the guard's wrist, twisting it forcefully and yanking the sword from his hand in one fluid motion. The guard screamed, surprised and feeling the impact in his bones, before being kicked back by Bell's swift strike, sending him crashing to the ground.

Another guard charged without hesitation, wielding a long, sharp spear, trying to pierce Bell's torso. This time, Bell jumped backward just enough to avoid the spear's point. As he landed, he extended one hand and, with a gleam in his eyes, murmured:

"Ah, so you want to play for real."

Bell moved in the blink of an eye, closing the distance between him and the spear-wielding guard. Before the man could adjust his stance, Bell grabbed the shaft of the spear and spun, using the guard's own weight against him. In an instant, the man was on the ground, the spear out of his reach. Bell stood over him and, in a calculated move, struck with the spear, piercing the guard who spat out a large amount of blood before collapsing.

Around them, the audience watched in shock and fear. Zark, however, maintained his composure, though his narrowed eyes betrayed a hint of growing irritation.

"I told you he wasn't just some ordinary adventurer!" Zark shouted to the remaining guards, who were now hesitating. "Stop underestimating him and attack all at once!"

The order worked; four guards advanced at the same time, surrounding Bell from all sides. They were more cautious now, trying to coordinate their attacks. The first one attacked from the right, aiming a direct thrust, while the other three prepared their strikes, blocking any chance for Bell to escape.

Bell, however, seemed to have anticipated every move. He crouched, dodging the blow from the right, and delivered a lateral kick that hit the attacker's knee, causing him to drop immediately. Without losing momentum, Bell spun his body and, in the blink of an eye, dodged the second guard's attack, shoving him with his shoulder before he could react. The man staggered backward, colliding with the third guard coming up behind him, and the two fell in a tangled heap of arms and legs.

Bell turned to the fourth guard, who hesitated when he saw the other three incapacitated. Taking advantage of the distraction, Bell moved forward, immobilizing him with a quick and forceful strike to the side of his neck, which caused a loud crack, and the man's body collapsed lifeless to the floor.

The audience could hardly believe what they were seeing. What was supposed to be a display of power by Zark had turned into a true showcase of Bell's skills.

...

The battle continued like a violent choreography, with Bell and the guards exchanging attacks, the sound of steel echoing through the hall. The clients, who had been watching from afar, now backed away, their eyes fixed on the confrontation between the boy and Zark's hulking brutes.

A tall, muscular guard with an expression of intense rage charged toward Bell, a gleaming axe in hand. His determination seemed doubled; it was as if he couldn't accept that a teenager, even an adventurer, had dominated the other guards so easily. He advanced with force, swinging the axe in a wide arc, aiming directly at Bell's torso.

Bell dodged the initial attack with a quick spin, his expression unchanged, as if none of this was worth his concern. The guard snarled, pressing on with the attack. Bell continued to dodge, retreating just enough for the blade to slice the air mere centimeters from him.

With a serious and focused expression, Bell waited for the man to raise the axe again for another strike, and then, with precise movement, he launched forward. Before the man could react, Bell gripped the axe handle firmly, twisting the guard's arm in a swift motion that made him lose his balance. Seizing the opportunity, Bell swept the man's legs out from under him, sending him to his knees. With a final pull, the axe slipped from the guard's hand, now in Bell's grasp.

Bell spun the axe in his hands, studying it with an almost curious look. The guard, still trying to rise, glared at him with hatred, but also with a slight hesitation.

It was the chance Bell needed. With a slight smile, he threw the axe back at the guard, who, though his eyes widened in surprise, barely managed to dodge. The axe passed just beside his head, crashing into the empty chairs with a loud bang.

"Shitty aim!" the guard shouted, mocking Bell as he tried to rise.

Bell didn't react to the sarcasm, simply observing. The guard was adjusting himself, feeling victorious, thinking he had escaped by luck.

However, the silence in the hall became strange when the sound of the axe striking any surface was absent. Turning around, the guard saw the object return in an arc, as if guided by an invisible force.

With no time to react, he only had a moment to widen his eyes before the axe made an improbable curve and embedded itself in his head with a loud crack. His body fell lifeless to the ground, and a muffled scream erupted from the clients.

Zark, watching from his position, was stunned, unable to understand how that had happened.

'How…? How did the axe come back like that?' he wondered, sweat forming on his brow as he stared at Bell with a mixture of fear and fascination.

Amid the massacre unfolding, one of the clients—a well-dressed elderly man who had been watching everything with increasing dread—couldn't take the pressure any longer.

With a desperate scream, he tried to flee toward the exit of the hall. Bell, seeing the man running, wasted no time. He stretched out his leg, and with a smooth motion, grabbed a fallen sword from the floor, lifting it with a quick and fluid movement.

Before the man could take another step, Bell threw the sword with precision, impaling the client's head as he tried to escape. The body fell, and the blade remained lodged in the wall, while the entire hall fell silent, absorbing the brutal scene.

"Who gave permission to leave here?" Bell asked, his voice cold and threatening. "No one leaves unless I allow it. So it's better if you stay quiet."

The terrified gazes of the remaining clients turned to Bell, and fear was evident on their faces. Their hands trembled, sweat dripped from their faces, and some began to murmur prayers to any god who might save them from this seemingly relentless young man.

However, Bell maintained an almost supernatural calm, his face showing a serene and even… innocent expression. But the innocence he exuded was a mask, an illusion. His actions revealed the opposite—an unrelenting warrior, indifferent to the horror of those present.

Zark, for his part, struggled to control the growing fear that threatened to overwhelm him. He recalled Bell's words about the Ganesha Familia, about what they would do if they were here.

'They would imprison some, but everyone would be free after a while…' He glanced briefly into Bell's eyes and felt a chill run down his spine. That expression… that boy was determined to kill them all right here.

Desperate, Zark raised his voice.

"All the guards, attack at once! Don't be idiots!" he ordered, not hiding his desperation. "And all of you," he pointed to the clients who seemed like adventurers, "help! Or we'll die here!"

The guards hesitated, but the order was clear. They advanced, and the clients who had some experience in combat, though reluctant, prepared for battle. The tension was palpable, and Bell, surrounded, looked at everyone with a calm but deadly smile.

One guard attacked from the right with a heavy sword, trying to hit Bell's shoulder. In response, Bell took a step to the side, allowing the blade to pass by him, and delivered a direct strike to the guard's face, sending him to the ground. Another guard, holding an axe, tried to approach from behind, but Bell quickly spun, hitting him with a kick to the ribs that sent him flying several meters backward.

The remaining guards tried to act as a group, surrounding Bell and attempting to coordinate their attacks. One of them struck with a spear, aiming for Bell's abdomen. He jumped backward and, before the guard could pull the spear for another thrust, Bell grabbed it by the shaft and, in a quick movement, snapped it in half, leaving the man stunned by Bell's strength.

The fight continued, and one by one, the guards fell, the floor now covered in bodies and pools of blood. The remaining clients watched the massacre, their terror growing with each guard defeated.

When Zark ordered another attack, Bell, with slow and calculated steps, walked toward the group of hesitant adventurers. The group exchanged glances, but Bell's gaze was unshakable, penetrating, and something in them seemed to recognize the seriousness of the moment.

"I told you, didn't I?" Bell murmured, his voice carrying an air of absolute coldness.

Zark, now without any more defenders, stared at Bell, and the truth finally solidified in his mind. 'He… he's going to kill us all'. Desperation consumed him, but he knew he had no choice.

However, a large man, with visibly sculpted muscles and a grim expression, who had been discreetly positioned to the left of the hall, decided to join the fray.

...

...

This was Liet, a level 2 adventurer who liked to frequent this auction. Although level 2 adventurers didn't make as much money, he still had a lot of it and was somewhat privileged, after all, he was one of the main people responsible for finding the girls to put up for auction.

Because of this, one could say he could choose one that pleased him every month without needing to pay anything. The feeling of being with more than one girl at once, of breaking their minds, was something he loved. He planned to wait until the auction ended to choose another girl that was available, but then something like this happened.

Liet walked slowly towards Bell, the sound of his footsteps echoing across the marble floor. He wore a sturdy leather armor, with several visible scars on his arms and a long dagger strapped to his belt.

Upon seeing him, Zark's eyes filled with a bit of hope.

"Impressive," Liet said, his voice low. "You've made quite a mess, kid. But now, the fun's over."

Even in such a scenario, Liet didn't look scared or hesitate like the others.

Bell observed the man closely, his posture relaxed but his eyes alert. He knew that this opponent was different from the guards he had faced before. Liet's very stance, firm and calculated, suggested he was an experienced fighter, and the smile on his lips indicated a dangerous confidence.

Liet slowly drew his dagger, the metal gleaming under the lights of the hall. He gave a crooked smile, revealing a golden tooth.

"I'll give you a chance for a painless death," Liet said. "Drop your weapon and accept your fate, then you won't suffer. I don't want to stain the floor any more than it already is."

Bell chuckled softly, shrugging.

"I appreciate the offer, but I'd prefer to make it a bit messier. You look like the kind who doesn't mind blood."

Liet raised an eyebrow, amused by Bell's bold response. Then, without another word, he lunged forward, his speed surprising for someone of his stature. The dagger sliced through the air, and Bell was forced to dodge several times, retreating as Liet pressed forward with quick and precise strikes.

Each dagger thrust was aimed at vital points—throat, abdomen, between the ribs. Liet fought with precision and coldness, and Bell realized this fight would require the best of him. One careless blow could mean his defeat, or something worse.

However, Bell was not intimidated. He had dealt with Liet in other regressions. He waited for the right moment, until he finally saw an opening. The instant Liet moved in for another stab, Bell dodged with agility and, taking advantage of the moment of imbalance, landed a direct punch to the man's face.

Liet stumbled back, the impact causing him to stagger, but his smile remained, intact. He wiped the corner of his lips, where a small drop of blood began to form.

"Not bad, kid. Looks like you can take a real fight."

"I think I'm pretty used to 'real fights.'"

Bell realized that the man was now ready to use all his strength, and he braced himself, bending his knees and clenching his fists.

The next moment, they both lunged at each other, an inevitable clash. Bell dodged the first blow, but Liet immediately counterattacked with a heavy punch, which Bell partially blocked with his forearm. The impact made his skin burn, but he didn't hesitate; spinning his body, Bell found an opening and landed a quick kick to Liet's side, forcing him to step back.

Liet growled, more annoyed than hurt. He lunged again, and this time Bell had no choice but to duck and roll to escape the blade. Rising quickly, he noticed a pillar nearby and formulated a plan.

Liet advanced once more, but Bell ran toward the pillar, using it for cover. Liet followed, his dagger ready to strike, but Bell was prepared. The moment Liet rounded the pillar, Bell was waiting, delivering a powerful kick to the opponent's arm. The force of the impact made Liet's dagger slip from his hand, and he stumbled back, surprised.

Seizing the opportunity, Bell spun his body and landed a direct punch to Liet's face, sending him staggering backward, dazed.

Liet struggled to recover.

'This is ridiculous,' Liet thought angrily.'This kid's body doesn't even seem that muscular, in fact, he's pretty slim, but every punch of his feels like an uncontrollable force of nature.'

He stared into Bell's eyes, who now held his dagger while playfully twirling the blade in his hands as if he were putting on a show.

"Alright, kid. You've really pissed me off. Forget about having a painless death. I'm going to torture you in a way you'll wish you were never born and beg for a quick death."

Bell smiled slightly, showing no sign of concern.

"That's what we'll see."

---

Lefiya felt the weight of an unease that she couldn't fully understand.

Every time she thought about that place filled with gamblers, mostly older men with cold and cautious gazes, her discomfort returned.

'It was just a casino,' she thought, trying to calm her heart, which was beating fast. 'They were probably just surprised because I'm the only young woman here…' But no matter how much she tried to convince herself, a persistent feeling that there was something beyond simple suspicion kept bothering her.

Soon after, Bell Cranel appeared, with the excuse that he had forgotten something. That had affected her, but she tried not to give it much importance, heading back to the Loki Family mansion on her own. The walk should have been a good opportunity to clear her mind, but instead, she couldn't stop thinking about him.

It was frustrating.

The more she tried to push his image and what she had seen at the casino out of her mind, the more something pulled her back, like a strange force that compelled her to remember that place and that young man.

When she finally reached the mansion gates, however, Lefiya stopped.

For some reason she couldn't explain, she saw it.

A vision flashed in her mind.

It was blurry, but she could make it out.

A gigantic monster she had never seen before, with a body made of corpses.

A destroyed landscape.

And in the midst of this scene, facing that colossal beast, stood a young man with white hair.

Sweat trickled down her face.

There was a weight in her heart, a growing sense of urgency that made her turn on her heels without hesitation. In an instant, she was running back down the street, driven by an almost desperate need to clarify what she was feeling.

On her way to the casino, a woman with blue hair and eyes, someone who seemed vaguely familiar, called her name. Lefiya, however, ignored her, too focused on that unsettling urgency to pay attention. The air felt heavy, and each step she took led her in a single direction. Her mind questioned her actions, but her body simply didn't stop.

When she reached the casino, she stopped, breathing deeply and immediately noticing something strange.

The hall was practically empty.

'Is it just the time?' she thought. 'But it's still night… and this place shouldn't close all the time, right?' Feeling even more uncomfortable, Lefiya let her gaze sweep across the hall until her eyes landed on someone familiar: Marl, the man who ran that number and color betting game she had played with Bell.

Marl seemed tense as soon as he saw her, his expression freezing for a moment in a mix of surprise and apprehension that Lefiya immediately noticed. Determined, she approached him, ignoring the racing of her heart with a strange anxiety.

"Mr. Marl, where is everyone else? Have they already left?" she asked, studying him closely.

He hesitated, averting his gaze as if he were thinking of a response.

"Oh, yes... they've already gone," he replied, trying to keep his voice casual. "It's late, and... well, the place always gets quieter at this hour."

The answer didn't sound natural, and Lefiya realized that, despite his casual tone, Marl seemed anxious for her to leave.

"It's alright. But... maybe it's better if you go now, miss. There's nothing interesting to see here," he said, almost insistently, as though trying to disguise a suspicion that even Lefiya, who was a bit awkward at picking up on hidden intentions, was beginning to sense.

The unease grew, and without realizing it, her instincts began to sharpen, especially her hearing, which was naturally more sensitive than a human's and enhanced by her level three. She heard a muffled, distant sound, one that seemed to come from beneath the casino. A sound that made her hold her breath.

Something was wrong.

"Mr. Marl!" she exclaimed, her voice firmer than she had expected. "What's going on here?"

"Going on?" Marl seemed caught off guard, and his attempt to hide his apprehension only heightened her suspicions. He gave a tense smile, as if trying to convince himself that there was no danger.

"There's nothing, just a casino…"

But she wouldn't be easily convinced. Watching him carefully, Lefiya took a step forward.

"I'm asking what's going on here," she insisted, more determined, her heart pounding with a mix of anger and apprehension. "Where is he?"

"'He'?"

"The one who was with me. Cranel... Bell, where is Bell Cranel?"

She didn't know what the hell was happening to her. But one thing was certain—she was acting very differently from how she normally would.

It felt completely strange.

The mention of Bell's name made him hesitate even more, a flash of confusion appearing on his face.

"He?" Marl shook his head. "I... haven't seen him since you two left. Didn't you leave?"

Despite the apparent sincerity, Lefiya felt that something was wrong. There was something about the place that made her tense, and the sound she had heard earlier seemed to scream in her ears, like a silent alarm urging her to continue.

She moved closer to Marl, letting her voice take on a firmness that wasn't typical of her but surprised even herself.

"I know something's wrong here, Mr. Marl," she said, her words coming out in a low but threatening tone. "And I'm sure that sound came from below. So, I suggest you tell me now what's down there before I lose my patience. I don't have my staff, but I'm more than capable of defending myself. Or would you prefer I make a scene right here?"

The threat, though simple, was delivered so coldly and incisively that it made Marl step back at the tone of her voice. His eyes widened, the tension on his face turning to fear.

He knew the Thousand Elf, level 3 adventurer of the Loki Family. However, according to the information about her, something was definitely off. There was nothing in the information that said she was threatening like this. In fact, it was the opposite.

What should he do? She clearly knows something... If she finds out, things will go to hell. But after thinking for a long time while feeling her intense gaze, he finally gave in.

"Alright, fuck it."

He led her to a wall next to the hall, where, with a slight pressure on a stone, a hidden door opened silently, revealing a narrow passage that led to the underground.

...

...

The hidden passage revealed a narrow, damp corridor where the smell of mold and something else— a metallic, disturbing odor— permeated the air. Lefiya felt a growing nausea, but she had no choice; if what this casino was hiding was as serious as her instincts told her, then she had to continue.

Marl followed her silently, visibly uncomfortable, his face pale as he closed the door behind them.

As they descended, the muffled sound she'd heard earlier became clearer. Footsteps echoed in the empty hallway, and with each step, Lefiya felt the air growing heavier, a dark, palpable weight that seemed to smother any hope that might have existed there.

At the end of the corridor, they reached a rusted door, and Marl hesitated as he turned the handle. He avoided Lefiya's gaze, clearly torn between his fear of her and his fear of what she might find inside.

"Open it," she ordered, firmer than ever.

With trembling hands, Marl obeyed. The door creaked open, revealing a spacious, dark room with sparse lighting. As her eyes adjusted, the sight in front of her made her instinctively take a step back, her hand covering her mouth as her stomach churned.

Cages.

Countless cages, scattered throughout the room. Inside each one, there was a woman—young, old, elves, humans, and other races. All were trapped, their faces weary and their gazes empty, as though something had consumed them in a way Lefiya could barely imagine.

Her heart clenched as she saw the condition of the prisoners: dirty, torn clothes, skin marked by bruises, and lifeless eyes, as if any trace of hope had been ripped from them long ago.

Tears welled up in Lefiya's eyes as she felt an unbearable pain at the sight. Her breath grew heavy, and nausea rose in her throat as she tried to process what she was seeing. How was this possible? How could something like this exist under the city of Orario? Every lost face, every lifeless gaze... all pointed to a reality she had never imagined witnessing.

Unable to stop herself, she began to walk through the space, taking slow, cautious steps, stopping in front of one of the cages where a pale woman with blonde hair huddled in a corner. The woman's expression was pure terror, her eyes fixed on the ground, and Lefiya felt her heart tighten even more.

She hesitated for a moment before speaking, her voice low and concerned.

"Are you... okay?" The question came out almost like a whisper, a desperate attempt to break the heavy silence of the room.

The response was a bitter, cutting laugh from another prisoner in the cage next door. A woman with messy hair, of an undetermined age, looked at Lefiya with a dark sarcasm in her eyes, her pale face illuminated only by the weak light of the room.

"Do we look okay to you, elf?" Her voice was rough and tired, laden with irony that made Lefiya shudder.

The woman's words hit Lefiya like a slap. She turned her gaze away, unsure of how to respond, feeling the weight of guilt and helplessness grow inside her. Further down, another woman began to quietly cry, while others watched with dead eyes, not showing any emotion, as if they had already resigned themselves to their fate.

Lefiya finally forced herself to face the woman with the sarcastic gaze, intending to explain who she was and why she was there.

"I... I'm not one of them. My name is Lefiya Viridis," she said, in a hesitant whisper, her voice choked with emotion. "I'm from the Loki Familia. I... didn't know something like this was happening here."

The mere mention of her name and affiliation caused a faint murmur among some of the prisoners in the farthest cages, and a spark of hope flickered in some of their once-lifeless eyes. Some began to mumble words, their eyes finally showing a reaction to the elf they were starting to recognize as an ally.

"Please, help us!" begged a woman from one of the closer cages, extending her hand through the rusted bars. "You have to get us out of here!"

Other voices quickly joined the plea, and Lefiya felt a bit lost, unable to form a clear response amidst the desperate requests, the crowd of voices pressing in from all sides.

"Shut up!" shouted the same sarcastic prisoner from before, who seemed already accustomed to this hell. Her scream echoed through the room, and the others, frightened, fell silent immediately.

The woman fixed Lefiya with a steady gaze, appraising her for a moment before continuing, her voice colder and harder than before.

"So, you're an adventurer..." she murmured, almost mockingly. "An adventurer in a place like this. Do you even know where you are, elf?"

Lefiya swallowed hard, unsure whether to respond, but the woman continued without waiting for an answer.

"You think you found us by accident?" she asked, not expecting a reply. "Don't kid yourself. This place isn't just a casino... it's a cage for commodities like us."

Lefiya felt the ground disappear beneath her feet at hearing that word. 'Commodities?' Something terrible was being revealed behind that term, and her mind refused to process what it meant, the repulsion growing as she finally found the strength to react.

However, Lefiya remembered earlier in the casino the words the man had said to that croupier at the poker table, Zark.

"The commodities are getting noisy."

So, he was talking about this? But...

"What do you mean... commodities?" she whispered, her voice almost a thread of desperation.

Were they really being treated as commodities?

The imprisoned woman looked at her with a cutting coldness before continuing, her voice somewhat indifferent but still tinged with bitter sarcasm.

"You're really asking? An auction. They display us, choose the 'best' ones, and sell us to old perverts," she said, the word "best" spoken with icy disdain. "Some of us have already been auctioned... others are waiting their turn. Those of us who aren't so interesting are treated any way they like, they don't even give us warm clothes or a bath. That's how it works. Got it now, adventurer?"

Lefiya felt her body tremble as she processed the words, horror taking over her. How could something like this happen here, in Orario, right under the feet of the adventurers, without anyone knowing? The reality was far crueler than she could have ever imagined.

"I..." Her voice faltered for a moment, but she found the strength to continue. "I promise I'll help you. I... I'll get you out of here. I don't know how yet, but I won't let you stay trapped."

The women around her listened in silence, some with the same apathy, but others showing expressions of relief and hope. The sarcastic prisoner watched her for a long moment before nodding slowly, as if accepting the promise with bitter resignation.

"If you want to help, go to the room where the auction happens. It should be in the middle of the 'exhibitions'," the woman gestured toward a corridor on the right. "But, if you're really an adventurer, be prepared... what you'll find there probably won't be pretty."

"Auction room?" Lefiya repeated, almost without realizing.

The prisoner gave a brief nod, confirming.

"They call us commodities, remember? The auction is for the 'most valuable.' Be quick, or you won't find anyone else to save. Actually, something else might be happening there."

"What do you mean?"

"I heard some murmurs," she replied. This woman was from the werewolf race. "It was stronger before, but it seems to have stopped. I don't know if the auction's over or if something else happened, but you need to hurry."

Lefiya tried to remain steady, but fear and repulsion consumed her mind as she understood the situation more clearly. The image of Bell Cranel appeared again in her thoughts, and for the first time, she felt a strange pang of regret for not bringing her staff.

She took a few steps back, gazing at the women around her. The silence was heavy, but at the same time, the promise she had made was now an anchor that kept her there.

"I'll come back... and I'll set you free. Don't worry," she said, more to herself than to the prisoners.

Determined, Lefiya took a deep breath and followed the path indicated by the prisoner, each step feeling heavier than the last.

As for Marl...? Well, he had already run. If he was fast enough, he might be able to leave Orario before the shit hit the fan.

That was his moment of hope.

He was a fucking coward.

...

...

...

Lefiya moved down the corridor indicated, her footsteps echoing through the cold and damp passage. Each step seemed to resonate in sync with the rapid beating of her heart. The silence around her was oppressive, broken only by the muffled sounds coming from the direction where, she feared, the so-called "auction" was taking place.

She walked a few more meters until the corridor widened, revealing a large room ahead.

The sight that awaited her would be hard to forget: dark stains covered the floor and walls, and the sharp, metallic stench of blood filled the air. Several bodies lay on the ground, some clearly dead, others grotesquely wounded. The faces of the fallen displayed expressions of frozen terror.

Lefiya stopped at the entrance, her body rigid and her eyes wide. She had never seen so much violence gathered in one place. The sight of the bloodied bodies made her stomach churn, and for a moment, she had to fight the urge to vomit. She held herself together, clenching her fists tightly while trying to control her breathing.

Above a double door, a sword was impaled, and a man lay fallen just beneath it, his head grotesquely pierced by the blade. It took her a moment to realize that the weapon had been driven with precise and lethal accuracy — a death planned with chilling precision. Shock and revulsion overtook her, and she barely noticed the figure moving like a white shadow among the fallen.

There he was.

Bell Cranel, his white, immaculate hair standing out against the darkness and chaos around him. He was holding a burly man by the head, his hand gripping tightly while the man struggled, unable to break free from the merciless hold. Nearby, a small audience of older men — faces she recognized from the casino — watched, their eyes wide with fear.

Before she could react, Bell turned his head toward her, his dark eyes locking onto hers, as if he wasn't surprised by her arrival.

"Lefiya Viridis," he murmured, his voice so cold and distant that a shiver ran down her spine.

She froze in place. She had never heard such an icy tone from him; it was as if she were hearing someone completely different. Still holding the man firmly, Bell continued, his voice steady and strangely calm:

"Looks like you decided to come back, huh."

She opened her mouth to respond, but no sound came out. The words seemed stuck in her throat as she looked around, absorbing the horror of the scene. Bell then squeezed the man in his hand even harder, and the man let out a muffled, desperate scream. Then, with a slight raise of his eyebrows, Bell continued:

"I imagine you saw the women."

She nodded slowly, her heart tightening, unable to shake the image of the prisoners from her mind.

Bell watched her for a long moment, then asked, with a hint of challenge in his voice:

"Now that you've seen how rotten this world is… and what's been right under our noses… what do you have to say?"

The words hit her hard, sparking a rage she didn't know existed within her. Bell Cranel, the one she knew with a warm and playful smile, was now immersed in this bloodstained atmosphere. She felt a stab of anger and desperation; seeing the state of the women, the chaos around her, it all mixed into a whirlwind of emotions.

Gathering her courage, Lefiya lifted her head, her voice trembling but determined:

"This… this cannot be allowed, Cranel-san. These women… they cannot be left behind. We have to help them!"

Bell stared at her for a moment, then slowly loosened his grip on the man he was holding, throwing him to the ground with no regard. He fully turned toward Lefiya, his expression unshakable.

However, before he could respond, a voice stopped them both.

"What the hell is going on here!?"

Everyone turned to look at the woman who had appeared.

Both Bell and Lefiya recognized her. Lefiya immediately started thinking of the woman with blue hair and eyes who had called out to Lefiya while she was running.

It was her.

Shakti Varma.

---

Under the streets of Orario, where the glow of the moon was searing, Shakti Varma - captain of the Ganesha Family - walked with determined steps, following the echo of her boots against the damp, dark ground. Her mind was alert and focused, as always, but at that moment there was an unusual restlessness, for she had never imagined that she would be following a member of the Loki Family to a place like this.

The Ganesha Familia was known and respected as the vigilant force of Orario, always keeping an eye on the order and ready to suppress crime with severity, no matter how dark or secretive it was. Ganesha, her leader, was charismatic and dedicated, delegating each of his members the duty of protecting peace, and Shakti embodied that ideal with almost unshakable rigor. Discipline and justice were her guides, and she applied both without hesitation, even if it made her seem cold in the eyes of some. However, beneath this unbreakable façade, Shakti possessed a silent compassion that, in extreme situations, made her reach out to those who needed help the most — even when the rules demanded the opposite.

It was with this firm stance that, when one of the Loki Familia members approached her asking about Lefiya, the young elven mage, Shakti immediately felt a warning go off inside her. Even though the request didn't sound urgent, something about the situation didn't seem right. The Loki member mentioned that Lefiya was taking longer than usual to return and that no one seemed to know where she had gone after saying she was just going for a walk. She had never taken this long before, according to what was said.

'It looks like I'll have to handle this personally,' Shakti thought, realizing she still had some free time to check on the situation.

It didn't take long for Shakti to spot Lefiya. The young elf was running hurriedly, seemingly oblivious to the world around her. Shakti raised her voice, calling out to her.

"Lefiya!" Shakti's voice echoed firmly and clearly, but to her surprise, the mage didn't hesitate or stop, as if she hadn't heard her at all. Shakti frowned, perplexed by the reaction, and paused for a moment, watching Lefiya disappear around the corner.

'What's going on with her? This doesn't seem normal.'

Determined, Shakti followed Lefiya. She was a level 5 warrior and easily kept up with the elf's fast pace, who, as a mage, didn't have the physical abilities to run as fast. The path led her to an old, uninviting building: a casino.

Upon arriving, she noticed a young man, tense and nervous, rushing out of the door. As soon as he saw Shakti, he paled, as if he had just crossed paths with a living nightmare. He didn't hesitate; as soon as their eyes met, he turned to run, but Shakti caught up to him in just a few steps, blocking his escape.

She grabbed him firmly, locking eyes with him intensely. "You're going to tell me right now what's going on in this place," she ordered, her voice cold and authoritative.

The young man, who introduced himself as Marl, tried to mask his panic.

"I-I… I don't know what you're talking about, ma'am… I was just leaving, I don't know anything."

"Don't lie," Shakti tightened her grip on his arm. "You're hiding something. Besides, your clothes. You look like you work here."

Marl averted his gaze, stammering, but it was enough for Shakti to realize he wouldn't say anything useful. She glanced around the area and noticed a discreet corner leading to a hidden passage, probably where Lefiya had gone. Marl followed her gaze and paled even more.

'This place is hiding something,' Shakti thought. With no other choice, she landed a precise blow to Marl's head, enough to knock him unconscious. Then, she turned to the secret entrance and descended.

...

...

The environment below was dim, damp, and fetid. With cautious steps, Shakti descended the underground corridor, feeling the heavy air, impregnated with a metallic and putrid smell. With each step, a sense of disgust and mistrust grew, and she mentally prepared herself for whatever she might find. It didn't take long before she saw a large hall with bars and cages on either side.

She froze.

In her line of work, Shakti had dealt with criminals and smugglers, but what she found there hit her like a punch to the stomach. Caged as if they were mere animals, dozens of women occupied the cells — humans, elves, amazons, and other races. Their faces displayed despair, resignation, and suffering. Some cried silently, while others were so immersed in pain that they seemed unaware of Shakti's presence.

With wide eyes, she approached the cages, feeling the heat of anger rising within her.

"What... what is going on here?" Her voice came out firm, though heavy with indignation. She looked at the women, searching for an answer, until one of them, a woman with a worn appearance and a grim look, spoke with disdain:

"Who are you, anyway?" Her voice sounded harsh and bitter, as if pain had shaped her over the years.

"I'm Shakti Varma, captain of the Ganesha Familia. I'm here to fix this situation." The response was dry, as if Shakti's controlled rage solidified in her words.

The woman laughed, a bitter, sarcastic laugh. "Ah, yes, the Ganesha Familia… the great protector of Orario. Doing an excellent job, I must say."

Shakti felt fury rising stronger, but she remained firm, her gaze burning into the slave who, evidently, had suffered so much that she no longer cared about the consequences.

"Can you explain, in short, what's going on here?" The question came almost in a whisper, but the seriousness in Shakti's voice was unmistakable.

The woman, still with sarcasm in her eyes, explained that Lefiya had passed through here and continued on to the auction. Shakti didn't need more information to understand what that meant. With her jaw clenched, she tightened her fists and took a deep breath, trying to control her anger.

"I will end this. Wait here; I won't let you continue to suffer." Shakti knew that her promise, at that moment, was all she could offer, but she intended to fulfill every word.

...

...

Quickening her pace, Shakti continued down the path toward the auction hall. With a heavy heart and emotions running high, she tried to keep calm while absorbing everything around her. Each step took her deeper into the darkness, and the muffled sounds of voices and noises grew louder and more intense.

When she finally crossed the door leading into the hall, she froze. The scene before her was brutal: blood covered the floor and walls, a testament to recent violence. The bodies of men, some still breathing and others already dead, lay scattered, while the air felt dense and almost suffocating.

Her eyes scanned the room, and she soon spotted Lefiya, pale, near a young man with white hair.

She recognized him; after all, he had become quite famous in Orario recently. The adventurer who leveled up in just 2 weeks by killing a Minotaur on level 1 while still a novice.

He was covered in blood, and near him, there was a large man lying on the ground, with Bell's foot pressing the fallen man's face with indifference.

Indignation and rage exploded inside Shakti. She took a step forward, her voice reverberating through the room.

"What the hell is going on here!?"

The young man with white hair lifted his head and looked at her with a slight sarcastic smile, a cold and calculating gleam in his eyes.

"What do you think is going on here, Captain Shakti? Can't you see for yourself?" His voice was dry, almost mocking. "Don't you think you're a little late?"

She took a deep breath, trying to control the rising anger as she stared directly at Bell.

"Did you do this?" Shakti's words cut through the air with coldness and determination.

Bell stared at her for a moment, the intensity of his gaze revealing little about his thoughts. Then, with a calmness that seemed completely out of place in such a violent scene, he simply replied:

"Yes."

The young man kept his foot on the fallen man's head, a burly figure with a face marked by fear, now silent and helpless.

Shakti clenched her fists, her nails nearly digging into her own skin. 'How can he speak with such indifference after all this?'

"Why?" Her voice came out sharp, almost a muffled growl.

He raised an eyebrow, a gesture that mixed sarcasm with incredulity.

"Are you serious?" he said, shaking his head slightly. But after a deliberate pause, he added, "Because I wanted to. It's that simple. You saw the girls, didn't you?"

The memory of the women caged, their expressions filled with suffering and hopelessness, came rushing back to Shakti, reigniting her fury. Still, she persisted:

"You could have avoided all this bloodshed. Some of these lives didn't have to be taken."

"These lives," he pointed to the bodies scattered around, "were nothing but monsters. They're the ones who took those women's freedom. I don't see why they should deserve any compassion."

His tone was cold and direct, as if every word carried a sharp weight, deliberately provocative.

Shakti took a deep breath, controlling the urge to retort. 'There's something wrong… He's not just a reckless kid, but an uncontrollable force.' Even as the weight of conflicting emotions pressed down on her, she knew it wasn't the time for a direct confrontation.

Shakti turned to Lefiya, seeking some relief as she looked at the young elf, clearly shaken. "Lefiya, your Familia is looking for you. I'll take you both with me. But first, let's deal with what's going on here."

Throwing a look that combined coldness and indignation, Shakti turned her attention to the other clients still present in the hall. Some men remained, shocked, watching the situation while shrinking in the shadows, their faces pale and fearful as they stared at the warrior from the Ganesha Familia.

Shakti raised her voice, full of undeniable authority:

"No one leaves here." Her tone promised imminent vengeance. "You will be detained and interrogated for every atrocity committed in this place. If you try to resist…" She didn't finish the sentence, but the murderous look she gave them was enough to provoke shivers and fearful whispers.

Turning back to Bell and Lefiya, she motioned toward the door with a gesture. "Come on. I'll make sure everything is investigated, and that you both are safe."

Bell nodded silently, without resistance, but before following her, he stared at the fallen man's body at his feet. Without hesitation, he lifted his foot and brutally stomped on Liet's face. The dry crack of the skull crushing echoed in the room.

Shakti's eyes widened, a mix of disbelief and rage, while Lefiya gasped, stunned. But before Shakti could utter a word of protest, Bell interrupted her, as if he had anticipated her reaction.

"Most of the girls here were brought in by him," Bell said, looking at Shakti with a gaze that challenged any retaliation. "You protect Orario, right? If you'd done your job right, none of this would have happened."

His words were like poison, and Shakti felt them sink deep. The indignation tried to break through the cold mask she kept, but she held it in, fixing her gaze on Bell. The internal struggle between her anger and her duty was visible in the rigidity of her posture.

It wasn't long before Shakti spoke to other members of the Ganesha Familia about the place, though she didn't provide many details. Soon after, more members of the Ganesha Familia started entering the room. They cast wary looks at Bell, who was covered in blood, but upon seeing Shakti, they took positions around the room, forming a barrier and beginning to organize what remained of the hall. The private war between protecting Orario's honor and dealing with the reality of this dark underworld was palpable for everyone.

Shakti addressed the group of guards with a firm voice:

"Free all the prisoners and treat those who are injured. Arrest the survivors from this place, and no detail of what you see here should leave this room. We will keep everything confidential — Orario doesn't need the insecurity that such a truth would cause."

One of Shakti's subordinates, a hard-faced warrior named Ganesh, nodded, understanding the need for silence. "Captain, we are under orders. Nothing about this place will be revealed to the public."

Shakti nodded, satisfied. "Keep everything under control. Take the prisoners to a safe place and provide care. The stability of the city depends on how we handle this."

"Eh, of course, you'll want to keep this hidden," Bell murmured, earning a look from the others, but he didn't seem to care.

Shakti then motioned for Bell and Lefiya to follow her. They both complied, though Lefiya avoided looking at her directly, which Shakti understood as the lingering shock in the elf's eyes. Bell, on the other hand, maintained a sharp gaze, showing no fear or regret for what he had just done.

---

Already in an interrogation room at the Ganesha Familia's headquarters, Shakti, Lefiya, and Bell were alone, waiting for the next step. The tension was palpable, filling the space with a heavy silence.

Shakti broke the silence, her voice firm and determined. "Bell Cranel. You understand that you can't just go around taking lives indiscriminately, no matter the reason. There are laws in Orario."

Bell stared at her and simply replied.

"And what do you say about the laws that allow a place like that to exist right under your nose? About laws that turn a blind eye to those who take away the freedom of others?"

She pressed her lips together, her face showing frustration. "We don't allow that. But it's impossible to be everywhere, in every shadow."

Bell merely raised an eyebrow, as if doubtful. "I disagree. You can, and you should, be." He left the words hanging in the air, carrying a veiled challenge.

"You say that, but it's a simplistic view for someone who's never faced the difficulties of protecting a city," Shakti retorted, her gaze cold.

He really had to hold back from laughing like a maniac after her words.

'I don't know the difficulties of protecting a city?'

What a joke.

"The Ganesha Familia works day and night, but even we can't see everything."

Bell stayed silent, but the slight contempt on his face was clear.

She sighed, realizing that the conversation was going nowhere. "Lefiya, go. I will speak with you at another time. Let your Familia know you're safe. They're worried. However, please don't say anything about what happened tonight to anyone, except for your goddess. Can you do that?"

Lefiya quickly nodded after a moment of hesitation and shot a nervous glance at Bell before leaving, leaving Shakti and Bell alone.

After a brief moment of silence, Shakti crossed her arms and, with a penetrating gaze, said, "I should arrest you for what you've done. This is against the law, even if your reason was just."

Bell gave a slight, ironic smile. "Would you do that, Captain? Arrest me and explain to the public that a place like that existed? That you allowed it to happen?"

She ground her teeth, realizing the implicit trap. She knew Bell was right; she couldn't reveal the existence of a criminal underworld without putting Orario's peace at risk. If that secret spread, chaos would take over the city.

Staying firm, she simply said:

"This won't go without consequences. But for now, I'll ensure you get home safely. I'll discuss what happened here with my superiors and determine the next step."

She leaned in towards him, her eyes intense.

"But know that I will be watching."

He shrugged.

"Fine, Captain."

With that, Bell stood up and left.

Shakti remained alone in the interrogation room, her gaze fixed on the door Bell had just exited.

In an ideal world, he wouldn't have left the Ganesha Familia's headquarters so easily. The inner voice that always guided her in the principles of justice screamed that, if she let her emotions take control, she would need to detain Bell Cranel right then and there. However, after the conversation, she knew it wouldn't be possible to take that action without something deep inside her questioning her own ethics.

Why had she let Bell go?

Of course, one reason was obvious: there was much more at stake. The secret of that casino couldn't reach the public without consequences for the peace and stability of Orario. Exposing the truth to justify the arrest of a single adventurer would mean sacrificing the order the Ganesha Familia had sworn to protect. But still, Shakti knew there was something deeper. From the moment she started speaking with Bell, his posture and gaze disarmed her in an unusual way.

Bell's contained frustration, expressed in words laced with contempt, still echoed in her mind. He had reasons to hate everything that night revealed, but instead of volatile hatred, there was in him a solid indignation directed at the injustice and suffering of others, even though his expression seemed indifferent.

He couldn't have been more than 15 years old, so she was truly surprised at how he was able to do everything without hesitation.

For Shakti, the paradox lay in the fact that Bell, at his core, wasn't a cruel person. His actions at the casino had a purpose. He seemed to see each death as a sacrifice he made for the victims, not as an act of force or superiority.

Sighing, Shakti let herself fall into the chair and closed her eyes, her mind searching for some comfort in logic. But she knew the facts would lead her to the same dilemma. The boy was young, yes, but he had a visceral experience with pain and the weight of death — in a way that, although brutal, seemed to have not completely corrupted him yet.

He looked at the darkness, but he didn't seem to fully absorb it.

She would never admit this to Bell, but there was something about him that made her believe that, even though he acted in the shadows, he didn't belong to them.

The image of Bell leaving the room, so controlled and certain that he wasn't fleeing but instead returning to a greater mission, weighed even more on her decision to let him go. If someone like him were suppressed by the system, which refused to accept the darker corners of the city, there would be no room in Orario for those who sought true justice — even if it was on the fringes of what was considered acceptable.

Still, there was a strangeness to the certainty she felt. Bell wasn't just an exception among adventurers or citizens; he was, in some way, unique. Even after committing what anyone would call atrocities, Shakti saw that he carried a genuine hope in his spirit, something so firm that she wouldn't dare call it mere innocence. And maybe that was what bothered her the most.

She lifted her gaze and stared at the mirror on the wall of the room, knowing there would be no one to hear what she was about to confess to herself.

"You're not a monster, Bell Cranel," she murmured, unconsciously. "But I should have made you stay."

The thought troubled her, but she knew that not even her god, Ganesha, could offer an answer that would ease what she felt now. As the banquet continued and she waited to report the events, Shakti knew, deep down, that the choice to let Bell leave wasn't a decision of weakness but of trust, a trust she almost refused to admit.

After all, she had just met him, so how the hell could she trust him that much?

The very nature of her Familia, which promised to protect everyone in Orario, left her with the duty of questioning her actions.

However, the only certainty was that Bell Cranel seemed to carry within him a type of justice that didn't always fit the letter of the law.

---

Well, we finally reached the end of this chapter, huh. I think it was the most turbulent chapter I've ever written in all of my fanfictions.

I'd like to know what you think of this. Did the "battle" please you? I believe it was the first time I wrote a long action scene like this, although not that long. I'd appreciate your feedback, if there's anything to improve or if it was to everyone's liking. :)

In this chapter, we can see a bit more of Bell's darker side. You really didn't expect his head to be normal after all of his regressions, did you? The way he killed that "client" who tried to escape was pretty brutal, huh? However, don't forget. Bell knows each of those people who were in the casino and at the auction due to his various regressions.

A large part of the chapter was written from Lefiya's perspective, let me know what you thought of it. Personally, I really like the character, so I have things planned for her. The same goes for Tiona, though I don't think she'll have much of a focus anytime soon.

Some may say that the way Lefiya acted toward the end isn't typical for her character. I agree, but there's a reason for everything. So, enjoy. :)

Not only the brutal scene at the auction but also there's a small mystery in the chapter. Do you think you can guess what I'm cooking up? Though I don't think it's that difficult...

Also, what did you think of the conversation with Shakti? I intended to write one more small part at the end back with Bell, but I felt it would be better to end where it did, especially since I've already written so much. This chapter ended up being about 19,000 words, the longest in the series so far.

Well, I'll avoid writing too much because I might end up giving spoilers if I get carried away here. Let me know what you thought of the chapter and if it was to your liking. Also, feel free to leave some theories if you have any.

See you in the next chapter.

(There are many mysteries in this chapter...)