Leo's eyes fluttered open, and the world around him came into focus. The dim light of a lantern hanging above cast soft shadows across the fabric of the tent he found himself in. His body ached with a dull, unrelenting throb, his muscles screaming in protest with every breath. His head pounded, a sharp headache pulsing at his temples, but none of that mattered.

"Bell? Welf? Lili?" Leo rasped, his voice hoarse.

He tried to sit up, but the effort sent a wave of pain crashing through his body. His right shoulder throbbed the worst, and when he glanced down, he saw fresh blood staining the bandages wrapped tightly around it. Still, he couldn't rest. Not when he didn't know where his friends were.

Ignoring the protests of his battered body, Leo swung his legs over the side of the cot. His breath came in short gasps as he pushed himself up, his knees wobbling beneath him. Just as he stumbled toward the curtain door, a figure stepped inside.

Riveria.

The high elf moved gracefully, carrying a tray with several small vials and bandages. She was murmuring softly to herself, her sharp emerald eyes scanning a piece of parchment in her hand. When she looked up and saw Leo standing, her lips parted in surprise.

"Leo," she said, her calm voice tinged with shock. "What are you doing? You should be resting."

Leo's frantic gaze met hers, his breathing labored. "Where are they?" he asked urgently, his voice trembling. "Bell… Welf… Lili. Are they okay?"

Riveria's eyes softened, and she set the tray down on a nearby table. "They're fine," she said gently. "They're resting in another tent. You all were in terrible condition when we found you. But they're safe now."

As the words sank in, Leo felt the tension drain from his body. His legs buckled slightly, and he leaned against the cot for support. A deep sigh of relief escaped his lips, and for the first time since the escape from the Goliath, he allowed himself to breathe.

"Thank the gods," he murmured, closing his eyes briefly.

When he opened them again, he looked at Riveria with a mix of gratitude and desperation. "Can I see them? Especially Bell? Please."

Riveria hesitated, her brow furrowing. "You're in no condition to move.

"I need to see them," Leo insisted, his voice filled with quiet determination. "I just… I have to."

She sighed, knowing there was no point in arguing. "Very well," she said softly. "But I'm staying close. If you collapse, I'll have to carry you back."

Leo nodded, grateful, and with Riveria's help, he staggered toward the tent's exit. Every step sent a jolt of pain through his shoulder, but he gritted his teeth and kept moving. Riveria stayed by his side, her hand hovering near his back in case he faltered.

They reached the adjacent tent, and Riveria pulled the curtain aside for him. Leo stepped forward, using his uninjured hand to part the fabric. His breath caught in his throat as he peered inside.

Bell lay on one of the cots, his face pale but peaceful, the bandages around his arms and chest standing out starkly against his skin. Welf and Lili were nearby, similarly bandaged and resting quietly. The soft rise and fall of their breathing was the only sound in the stillness of the tent.

Leo's lips curved into a small, tired smile. Despite the chaos, despite everything they'd been through, they were alive. They were safe.

He stepped back, letting the curtain fall closed, and turned to Riveria. His amber eyes glistened as he bowed his head deeply. "Thank you," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "You saved them. You saved my brother. I can't even begin to repay you."

Riveria blinked, startled by the sincerity in his voice and the weight of his gratitude. A faint warmth crept up her cheeks, but she quickly composed herself, shaking her head. "There's no debt, Leo. Helping people in need is what we do. I'd be ashamed if we had ignored you."

Leo straightened, his tired smile growing as he met her gaze. "Still… thank you. Bell is everything to me. Without him, I…" He paused, his voice catching. "I wouldn't be the same."

Riveria's expression softened, and for a moment, the composed, stoic high elf allowed herself a small, genuine smile. "You care deeply for him. That's admirable."

Leo nodded, leaning slightly against the tent's frame for support. "He's my brother. My best friend. I'll do whatever it takes to protect him."

The silence that followed was heavy with unspoken understanding. Riveria studied Leo for a moment, her sharp gaze taking in the raw determination and sincerity in his expression. She had seen countless adventurers, but something about Leo's unwavering devotion to his brother and his friends struck a chord.

"I imagine Bell feels the same about you," she said finally.

Leo chuckled softly, though the motion made him wince. "Maybe. He's always been the hopeful one."

Riveria hesitated, then placed a hand lightly on his good shoulder. "Hope is a strength, Leo. And so is the bond you share. It's why you're still standing, despite everything."

Leo glanced at her, his smile growing. "I guess I'm lucky to have people like him. And people like you."

Riveria's cheeks flushed slightly, but she quickly turned her gaze away, clearing her throat. "You should rest more. You'll need your strength. The captain of our Familia wants to speak with you."

Leo raised an eyebrow. "Finn?"

Riveria nodded. "Yes. But only after you've rested."

Leo sighed, the weight of exhaustion finally settling over him. "Alright. But… one more thing?"

Riveria tilted her head. "What is it?"

Leo's smile turned sheepish. "If you could… keep an eye on Bell for me while I rest?"

Riveria's lips curved into a small, understanding smile. "Of course."

Satisfied, Leo allowed Riveria to guide him back to his cot. As he lay down, the tension in his body eased, and his eyes began to flutter closed. The last thing he saw was Riveria's calm, steady presence beside him, and for the first time in what felt like forever, he felt a sense of peace.

Leo adjusted the makeshift sling around his injured arm, wincing slightly as the movement tugged at his bandaged shoulder. The ache in his body was a constant reminder of the ordeal he and his party had endured. But now wasn't the time to dwell on his pain. He had been summoned to meet with the leadership of the Loki Familia, and after all they had done for him and his friends, he wasn't going to keep them waiting.

He pushed the flap of the tent aside and stepped out into the safe zone of the 18th floor. The glowing crystals above bathed the area in soft, ethereal light, making it feel almost like a dream. Several Loki Familia members moved about the camp, tending to supplies, keeping watch, or caring for the injured. Despite his exhaustion, Leo couldn't help but marvel at the efficiency of their operation.

Ahead of him stood a large central tent, its entrance flanked by two familiar figures: Finn Deimne, the Captain of the Loki Familia, and Gareth Landrock, one of the Familia's top executives. Beside them was Riveria, who had been by Leo's side earlier. The three of them were deep in discussion, but when Finn noticed Leo approaching, he smiled warmly and motioned for him to come closer.

"Leo Cranel," Finn greeted, his voice calm and kind. "It's good to see you up and moving."

Leo gave a small bow of respect. "Finn, Riveria, Gareth. Thank you—for helping us, for saving my brother and my friends. I don't know how to repay you."

Finn waved off the thanks with a soft chuckle. "No repayment is necessary. You and your party are our guests. Rest, recover, and take your time."

"Guests!" Gareth boomed, his hearty laugh ringing out across the camp. The dwarf's broad shoulders shook as he clapped Leo on his good arm, almost knocking him over. "Aye, lad, and what better guests than the ones who come crawling in all banged up, eh? Keeps things lively, I say."

Leo managed a weak laugh, rubbing his sore shoulder. "I think we've brought enough excitement for one day."

Riveria stepped forward, her calm gaze scanning him for any signs that he was pushing himself too hard. "Are you sure you're well enough to be walking around? You should still be resting."

"I'll rest later," Leo assured her. "I wanted to thank all of you first. Without your help… I don't know what would've happened."

Riveria inclined her head, though there was a flicker of something unreadable in her expression. "You're fortunate to have made it here."

Finn studied Leo for a moment, his sharp eyes seeming to take in every detail of the young adventurer's injuries. "You're quite resilient, Leo. But I must admit, I'm curious—how did you and your party end up in such a state? The 18th floor isn't exactly easy to stumble upon."

Leo sighed, glancing at the ground before meeting Finn's gaze. "We were on the 15th floor when it happened. A pass parade. Monsters swarming us from all sides. We didn't stand a chance."

Gareth let out a low whistle, crossing his arms. "Pass parade, eh? That's no joke, lad. And lookin' at the state of ya, I'd say you were right in the thick of it."

Leo nodded grimly. "It was chaos. We tried to fight them off, but there were too many. I… took most of the hits to keep everyone else safe. The burns, the cuts, the bite on my shoulder—those were the price I paid to get us here."

Finn's expression softened, a hint of admiration in his eyes. "You're a brave one, Leo. Putting yourself in harm's way to protect your party isn't something every adventurer would do."

Riveria nodded, her tone carrying the weight of her experience. "It speaks to your character. But you should remember that even the strongest shields can break if they take too much damage."

Leo smiled faintly, appreciating her concern. "I'll keep that in mind."

Gareth stroked his beard, a twinkle of amusement in his eye. "Aye, lad, but you've got the right spirit. Protectin' your kin and your comrades—that's what makes a proper adventurer. Just don't go gettin' yourself killed doin' it, eh?"

"I'll do my best," Leo said with a wry grin.

Curiosity flickered across Leo's face as he glanced around the camp. "What about you? I thought the Loki Familia was on an expedition. What brings you here to the 18th floor?"

Finn's smile dimmed slightly, his tone turning serious. "We were. But a few of our members were poisoned by a particularly nasty venom during the expedition. We've sent our swiftest runners to the surface to retrieve the antidotes, but until they return, we have no choice but to wait here."

Leo frowned, concern etched across his face. "Poisoned? Are they going to be okay?"

"They'll survive," Riveria assured him. "The antidotes should arrive soon. In the meantime, we're keeping them stable."

Gareth let out a huff. "Not the first time the Dungeon's thrown somethin' nasty at us, and it won't be the last."

Finn nodded, his sharp gaze returning to Leo. "Now that you're here, you're welcome to stay until you and your party are ready to move. The 18th floor is a sanctuary, after all. Use this time to recover."

Leo's gratitude was evident as he bowed his head again. "Thank you, truly. I don't know how we would've made it without your help."

"You're welcome," Finn said with a warm smile. "Now, focus on getting better. The Dungeon won't be any kinder to you next time."

As the conversation wound down, Leo felt a wave of exhaustion creep over him again, but he also felt a renewed sense of resolve. The Loki Familia had shown him kindness and strength, and he wouldn't let their help go to waste.

The soft glow of a lantern cast warm light around the inside of the tent, illuminating the still forms of Welf, Lili, and Bell as they rested on makeshift cots. The silence was broken only by the occasional rustle of fabric or the faint hum of activity outside. Leo sat cross-legged near the center, his eyes closed in quiet meditation, though his body bore the unmistakable signs of exhaustion. Bandages wrapped tightly around his shoulder, arms, and torso, and faint streaks of dried blood stained parts of the fabric.

He wasn't sleeping—he couldn't, not until he knew his friends were okay.

A faint groan broke the silence, and Leo's eyes opened slightly. Welf stirred, his brow furrowed as he slowly blinked awake. "What the…" he muttered, his voice groggy. His eyes darted around, taking in the unfamiliar tent roof above him. He tried to sit up, but a sharp jolt from his injured ankle made him wince, forcing him to stay down.

Before Welf could speak again, another voice joined him.

"Bell…? Leo…?" Lili mumbled, her small frame shifting under the blanket as her eyes fluttered open. She looked around, her expression drowsy and confused. "Where… where are we?"

Leo stayed silent, watching as they slowly regained their bearings. He wanted to let them adjust on their own, but his sharp eyes flicked toward Bell as he stirred, his body twitching before he bolted upright. Bell's wide, frantic eyes scanned the tent, his breath coming in short gasps as if he were still running from the monsters of the Dungeon.

"Leo?" Bell's voice cracked, panic lacing his tone. "Leo! Welf! Lili!"

Finally, Leo spoke, his voice calm but firm. "I'm here."

Three pairs of eyes snapped to him at once, each of their expressions a mix of relief and surprise. Leo unfolded his legs and leaned forward slightly, offering them a tired but genuine smile.

"Welcome back," he said softly.

For a moment, none of them spoke. Their gazes traveled over Leo's figure, their expressions shifting as they took in the sheer number of bandages covering him. His left arm was secured in a makeshift sling, and despite his relaxed posture, there was no mistaking the toll the journey had taken on him.

Welf was the first to break the silence. He let out a low curse, guilt flashing in his eyes. "Leo… I… I'm sorry. We must've really slowed you down."

Before Leo could respond, Lili sat up, clutching the blanket tightly around her. "It's my fault too," she said quietly, her voice trembling. "I passed out and made everything harder for you and Bell."

Bell lowered his gaze, his fists clenching at his sides. Memories of the battle on the 15th floor, the endless waves of monsters, and his own failure to stay conscious surged back into his mind. He swallowed hard, his voice barely above a whisper. "I… I couldn't even stay awake to help you."

Leo watched them, their guilt written across their faces, and let out a low chuckle. He reached over, wincing slightly as his sore muscles protested, and ruffled Bell's snowy hair. "You've got nothing to apologize for," he said, his tone light but reassuring. "None of you do."

Bell looked up, his crimson eyes glistening with unshed tears. "But Leo—"

"No buts," Leo interrupted gently, his gaze shifting between the three of them. "You all did your best. We wouldn't have made it this far without each other. I carried you, sure, but that's what we do for one another. When one of us is down, the others step up. That's how we survive."

Welf's jaw tightened, his hands balling into fists. "Still… seeing you like this… after everything you've done for us. It doesn't feel right."

Leo gave him a lopsided grin, the kind that was equal parts exhaustion and humor. "Well, if it makes you feel better, Welf, you and Lili owe me a drink once we're out of here."

Lili sniffled, managing a small, grateful smile. "You'll get more than a drink, Leo."

Bell stared at his brother, his voice trembling. "You're always looking out for us… for me. Even when you're hurt…"

Leo's smile softened, and he placed a hand on Bell's shoulder. "And I always will. You're my brother, Bell. That's not going to change."

For a moment, the weight of their shared struggles hung in the air, but Leo's words seemed to lift some of the burden from their hearts. One by one, the tension in their shoulders eased, and the guilt in their expressions gave way to gratitude.

Lili wiped at her eyes, her voice steadier now. "Thank you, Leo."

Welf nodded, a determined glint in his eye. "We'll make it up to you. Just wait."

Bell leaned into Leo's touch, his lips curling into a small, shaky smile. "Thanks, big brother."

Leo leaned back, letting out a long breath. "Alright, enough of this serious talk. You're all awake, and that's what matters. Now get up, there's some people you need to thank."

The golden glow of the 18th floor's safe zone offered a stark contrast to the oppressive darkness of the dungeon's deeper levels. Leo's ears twitched at a sound—a faint, distant rumbling from the direction of the slide.

His body tensed as he turned toward it. "Did you hear that?" he asked, his voice low but alert.

Bell, standing beside him, nodded, his sharp eyes narrowing toward the noise. "Yeah… It's coming from the slide."

Without hesitation, Leo began running toward the sound, his steps quick but measured. Bell followed close behind, his Hestia Knife drawn just in case. Welf and Lili, despite their exhaustion, exchanged worried glances before trailing after the twins.

The rumble grew louder, and soon the slide came into view.

"What is—" Leo started, but his words caught in his throat as a figure tumbled out of the slide. A small, hooded body rolled haphazardly down the incline before coming to an unceremonious stop at the bottom, landing flat on their back with a muffled oof.

Bell blinked, stunned. "No way…"

The hood fell back to reveal Hestia's familiar face, her expression a mix of determination and dizziness as she tried to sit up. "Ow… That was not as smooth as I thought it'd be…"

"G-Goddess?!" Bell stammered, rushing forward.

Hestia, what are you doing here?!" Leo exclaimed, his voice rising in shock. "You're not supposed to be here! The dungeon hates gods and goddesses!"

Hestia groaned as she adjusted her cloak, brushing off dirt and grime from her fall. "You think I'd just sit up there while my Familia is fighting for their lives? I came to save you, obviously!" She huffed, glaring at Leo as if daring him to argue.

Before he could respond, a familiar voice called out softly behind them.

"Leo."

He turned sharply to see Ryuu stepping forward, her old adventurer garb instantly recognizable. She pressed a finger to her lips, signaling for him to stay quiet about her identity.

Leo's tense posture softened, and he gave her a small, knowing nod. A sly grin tugged at the corner of his lips as he winked, a brief moment of levity amid the chaos.

Before anything more could be said, another voice broke the quiet.

"Well, well, the infamous Leo Cranel," Hermes called out cheerfully, stepping into view with his usual flair. His golden eyes sparkled with interest as he tilted his head, taking in the young man before him.

Leo straightened, his sharp gaze meeting the unfamiliar god's. "And you are?"

Hermes' smile widened as he stepped closer, extending a hand. "I see. So you're it, huh? I've been looking forward to meeting you and your brother. My name is Hermes. Nice to meet you."

Leo regarded the god cautiously for a moment before nodding and accepting the handshake. His grip was firm but respectful, his exhaustion evident but his posture steady. "Thank you for coming all the way down here for us."

Hermes shook his head lightly, motioning to the group standing behind him. "If you want to thank someone, thank these children for coming, not me. It's thanks to them that we made it here."

Leo followed Hermes' gesture, his eyes landing on the group behind him. Relief flickered through him as he spotted familiar faces—Mikoto, Chigusa, Ouka. But as his gaze lingered, his relief twisted into something darker.

His jaw clenched as his gaze hardened, his blood beginning to boil.

Standing before him were the three adventurers who had pass paraded them—almost killing Bell, Lili, and Welf in the process.

Mikoto and Chigusa avoided his piercing stare, their postures heavy with guilt. Chigusa fidgeted nervously, her hands clasped tightly in front of her, while Mikoto's usual confidence seemed muted, her eyes downcast.

But Ouka stood tall, his broad shoulders squared as he met Leo's glare head-on. There wasn't a shred of regret in his expression, his defiant stance like a challenge.

Behind Leo, Welf and Lili came to a stop, their own eyes narrowing as they recognized the three.

"They're the ones," Welf growled under his breath, his fists clenching at his sides. His voice was low but dripping with anger.

Lili's small hands balled into fists as she glared at the group, her sharp eyes flicking between them. "They're the ones who pass paraded us," she said bitterly, her voice trembling with both fury and exhaustion. "The reason we almost didn't make it."

Leo stepped forward, his gaze fixed on Ouka. Every muscle in his body was taut, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten as adrenaline surged through him.

Hermes, sensing the tension, stepped between them with his usual calm. "Now, now," he said lightly, raising his hands. "Let's not get carried away. These children have come to help, haven't they?"

Leo's eyes didn't waver, locked on Ouka as if daring him to speak. Finally, he took a slow breath, forcing himself to step back.

"Fine," he muttered, his voice tight. "But we're not done here."

Ouka raised an eyebrow but said nothing, his stoic expression unchanging.

Behind him, Mikoto finally found her voice, her tone quiet but sincere. "We… We didn't mean for it to go that far," she said softly. "We made a mistake. A terrible mistake."

Chigusa nodded quickly, her voice trembling. "We're so sorry… We were desperate, but that doesn't excuse what we did."

Leo's gaze shifted to them, his hardened expression softening slightly. "You're right," he said, his voice calm but firm. "It doesn't."

Bell, sensing the tension, stepped forward and placed a hand on Leo's shoulder. "We can deal with this later," he said softly. "Right now, we're just glad you're here."

Leo exhaled slowly, nodding as he stepped back. For now, the relief of rescue outweighed his anger.

Hermes clapped his hands together, breaking the tense silence. "Well! Now that we've reunited, let's get moving, shall we? The safe zone isn't going to stay safe forever!"

The group began to move, though the weight of the unresolved tension lingered in the air. Leo cast one last glance at Ouka before turning to follow his brother, his mind already racing with what came next.

15 Minutes later...

The warm glow of the lanterns inside the tent did little to ease the tension as the group settled in. The Hestia Familia members were still battered, their exhaustion evident, but the presence of their rescuers kept them on edge.

Before anyone could fully relax, Mikoto stepped forward, her knees buckling as she fell to the floor. She bowed low, her forehead touching the ground, her voice trembling with regret.

"I'm sorry," Mikoto said, her words heavy with emotion. "I'm so sorry for what we did to you. For what I did to you. I…" Her voice cracked, and she pressed her hands harder into the ground. "There's no excuse for what happened. Please, forgive me."

Bell moved instinctively, his kind nature compelling him to act. "You don't have to —"

"No," Chigusa interrupted, stepping forward to join Mikoto. She bowed deeply, her soft voice quivering as she spoke. "She's right. What we did was unforgivable. We almost got you all killed. I can't—no, we won't—ask for forgiveness. But… we are sorry. Truly."

Lili, standing at the back of the tent, folded her arms and lowered her gaze. Her voice was quiet, but there was no mistaking the edge in her tone. "Saying sorry doesn't change the fact that we almost died because of you."

Her sharp words cut through the air like a dagger.

Welf, sitting beside her, nodded in agreement. His expression was grim, his voice steady but firm. "She's right. You can apologize all you want, but you don't just get to walk away from this. Not after what we went through."

Mikoto lifted her head, her eyes brimming with remorse. "You have every right to be angry," she said earnestly. Her gaze shifted to Leo, who stood off to the side, his arms crossed and his jaw clenched. "If you need to take it out—"

"Enough," Ouka interrupted, stepping forward. His towering frame and deep voice commanded the room's attention.

Leo's gaze snapped to him, and the tension in the air thickened.

Ouka's tone was calm but resolute, his confidence unshaken. "If you want someone to blame, blame me. It was my order. I stand by it. I still think it was the right thing to do."

The room fell deathly silent.

Leo's gaze darkened, his anger bubbling to the surface. Without a word, he tore off the makeshift sling binding his injured arm, letting it drop to the ground. He rolled his shoulder experimentally, his movements slow and deliberate.

When he finally spoke, his voice was low and laced with a venomous edge that sent a chill down everyone's spine.

"I'm amazed you can say that," he growled, his crimson eyes boring into Ouka's. "Right in front of us. After everything we went through, you still think you're in the right?"

Ouka didn't flinch, meeting Leo's glare with an unyielding stare of his own.

The two men stood face to face, their tension radiating through the room like an impending storm. Mikoto and Chigusa exchanged worried glances, while Lili and Welf clenched their fists, their anger simmering just below the surface.

Sensing the tension escalating, Bell quickly stepped between them, his hands raised in a placating gesture. "Leo, please," he said, his voice steady but pleading. "This isn't the time for this. We've been through enough already."

Hermes, ever the opportunist, stepped forward with a disarming grin. "As much as I'd love to watch a heated debate unfold, we have more important things to discuss, don't we?"

He glanced at Asfi, motioning for her to speak.

Asfi stepped up, her calm demeanor helping to ease the tension. "It's best if we remain on the 18th floor for the next few days," she explained. "The Loki Familia should handle the Goliath soon. Until then, this is the safest place to regroup."

Hermes nodded in agreement, his tone light and cheerful as he addressed the group. "So, what that means is… you all have the day off tomorrow. Why not rest and recover? You've earned it."

The weight of his words seemed to diffuse some of the tension. Bell nodded slowly, his shoulders relaxing slightly.

But Leo remained still, his gaze lingering on Ouka for a long moment before he finally turned away. His voice was steady but cold as he addressed his party. "I need some air."

He didn't wait for a response, striding out of the tent with deliberate calm. The others watched him go, his retreat a clear sign that he was holding himself together by a thread.

Leo stepped into the cool air of the 18th floor, his fists clenched tightly at his sides. His breath came in shallow bursts as he fought to rein in his emotions, his mind replaying Ouka's words over and over.

He looked down at his hands, scarred and bloodied from the past battles, and felt the anger burning in his chest. But beneath it all, a deeper frustration simmered—a feeling of helplessness that he hated.

As his breathing slowed, Leo leaned against a nearby tree, closing his eyes. "Get it together," he muttered to himself. "You're the leader. Act like it."

The faint rustling of leaves drew his attention. He opened his eyes to see Ryuu watching him from a distance, her expression unreadable. For a moment, the two shared a quiet understanding, her silent presence grounding him in a way words couldn't.

With a small nod, Leo straightened and pushed his anger aside. He wasn't going to let it control him. Not here. Not now.

The adventurer village was bustling with life as Ais, Tione, and Tiona led the group through the quaint pathways. The small settlement, nestled in the heart of the 18th floor's safe zone, had a rustic charm, but the outrageous prices quickly became the topic of conversation.

"This is ridiculous!" Lili muttered, clutching her bag of valis tightly. "How do they expect anyone to afford this?"

Welf sighed, shaking his head. "Welcome to adventurer price gouging. Supply and demand at its worst."

As the group lamented their wallets, the females among them decided it was time to unwind.

"We're going to take a bath," Tione declared with a grin.

The announcement brought nods of agreement from the others, and soon the women split off, leaving the brothers and Welf behind. The group was left standing awkwardly near the camp, where they were quickly approached by Hermes.

The suave god threw an arm around both brothers, pulling them close in a conspiratorial whisper.

"What's up, Hermes?" Leo asked, raising an eyebrow. "You're kinda close…"

Bell, nodding in agreement, added, "Do you need something?"

Hermes chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I need a moment of your time. Can you follow me?"

Leo exchanged a skeptical glance with Bell but shrugged. "Alright, but this better not be weird."

They followed Hermes as he led them into the surrounding forest. The god moved with purpose, his carefree smile never leaving his face. After a few minutes of walking, Bell broke the silence.

"Um, Hermes… why are we climbing trees?" Bell asked as they scaled the first trunk.

Hermes perched himself on a branch, his hat tilted back slightly. "You'll understand soon enough. Just follow me."

Reluctantly, Leo and Bell climbed after him, hopping from branch to branch until Hermes suddenly stopped and held a finger to his lips.

"Shh. Look down, you two," he whispered, his grin widening.

Curious, both brothers leaned forward, parting the leaves to peer below. Their eyes widened, and their faces turned crimson as they were greeted with a breathtaking sight: their female companions bathing in a crystal-clear pool.

The water shimmered as sunlight filtered through the canopy above, casting an ethereal glow over the scene. Ais stood under a small waterfall, her golden hair glistening as she rinsed herself. Tiona and Tione splashed playfully in the water, their laughter ringing out like bells. Mikoto and Chigusa sat by the edge, modestly washing, while Asfi waded near the center with her usual calm composure.

Leo's gaze lingered for a moment, drawn to Tiona, Mikoto, and Asfi's beauty, but he quickly snapped out of it when Hermes ruffled his hair.

"Hermes!" Leo stuttered, his voice low but panicked. "What the hell are you doing?"

Bell's flustered noises grew louder as he waved his hands frantically. "This is wrong, Hermes! This wasn't obvious at all!"

Hermes put a finger to his lips, chuckling. "Quiet down, boys. The girls are bathing. Obviously, we're going to peek."

Leo's jaw dropped, and Bell's protests grew louder. "We can't do this! Let's go back!"

Without warning, Hermes spun around, lightly tapping Bell's shoulder. The younger Cranel wobbled before losing his balance, slipping off the branch with a yelp.

"Bell!" Leo whisper-shouted, grabbing his brother's foot to stop him from falling.

Hermes grinned mischievously and lightly tapped Leo on the back, sending both brothers tumbling into the pool below with a loud splash.

Water cascaded around them as they surfaced, sputtering for air. Leo groaned, brushing wet hair from his eyes. "I swear, I'm gonna—"

Before he could finish, a familiar voice called out.

"Hey, it's Argonaut and the Twin Guardian!" Tiona said cheerfully, wading toward them. "Did you come to bathe too?"

Leo froze as he turned to face the Amazoness twins, both wearing wide grins. Bell's face turned an impossible shade of red, steam practically rising from his head as he stammered incoherently.

Tione giggled, giving Leo a flirtatious look. "I didn't think you were the type, Leo. I'm impressed."

Leo scratched the back of his neck, looking anywhere but at them. "Uh, you… you all look… really beautiful."

Asfi, standing nearby, sank slightly into the water, her blue hair clinging to her face as she shot a pointed glance at the trees above. Her calm demeanor betrayed no embarrassment, but the slight narrowing of her eyes suggested she knew exactly how the brothers had ended up there.

Before Leo could apologize, Hestia appeared in front of him, beaming unashamedly. "Bell! Leo! Did you come to see me?"

Bell turned around, only to freeze as his gaze landed on Ais, standing under the waterfall. She had turned to face him, her hands covering herself bashfully.

"Um… Um…" was all Bell could manage before he bolted out of the pool, running with steam practically rising from his head.

Leo sighed, muttering a quiet apology to Mikoto and Chigusa, who were hiding near the edge.

As he turned to leave, Tiona called after him with a teasing grin. "Come back anytime, Leo! You're welcome to join us!"

His face flushed, and he quickened his pace, refusing to look back as the sound of Tione's laughter followed him.

15 Minutes later...

Leo trudged through the forest, his footsteps heavy as he tried to process what had just happened. Hermes had shoved him and Bell into a situation so mortifying that he was sure it would haunt him forever. His face was still burning as he muttered curses under his breath.

"Stupid Hermes," he grumbled, weaving through the trees. "Can't believe I—"

The soft, melodic sound of water caught his attention. His steps slowed as he followed the sound, parting a cluster of bushes to reveal a small, secluded clearing. A gentle stream flowed into a clear, calm pool, its surface shimmering under the filtered sunlight.

And bathing in that pool was Ryuu.

Leo froze, his breath catching in his throat as his eyes locked onto the beautiful elven woman. Her pale, flawless skin seemed to glow in the sunlight, her green hair cascading down her upper back. Every movement she made was graceful, her hands running through her hair as the watter rippled around her.

Leo's face turned a shade of red he didn't think was possible. What am I doing?! His mind screamed at him to look away, but he was rooted in place, utterly mesmerized by the sight before him.

In his daze, his foot pressed down on a dry branch.

Snap.

The sharp sound echoed through the clearing. Ryuu's head whipped around, her blue eyes narrowing in an instant. She moved with alarming speed, grabbing a nearby rock and infusing it with a faint green glow of wind magic. Without hesitation, she threw it at the intruder.

The rock struck Leo squarely in the forehead.

"Gah!" Leo yelped as he stumbled backward, falling unceremoniously onto his backside. Blood trickled down from the small cut on his forehead, but the pain was fleeting compared to the sheer embarrassment flooding him.

Ryuu's posture shifted immediately as she recognized him. Her battle-ready expression softened, and a flicker of guilt crossed her face.

"Leo?" she asked, stepping toward him cautiously. When she saw the blood on his forehead, her calm demeanor gave way to worry. "You're hurt. I… I didn't realize it was you."

Leo waved her off, sitting up and rubbing the back of his neck. "It's fine! I'm fine! I shouldn't have been… uh…" He trailed off, his face burning as he turned his back to her. "I shouldn't have been staring."

Ryuu's cheeks flushed a faint pink as she realized her state of undress. For a moment, she looked down at herself, her usual composure faltering. He saw me… like this… The thought sent heat rising to her face, and she quickly moved to grab her adventurer gear.

A few moments later, Ryuu's calm voice cut through the awkward silence. "You may turn around now."

Leo hesitated before slowly glancing back. Ryuu was fully dressed in her familiar green and white adventuring attire, though her cheeks still held a faint tint of pink.

"Sorry," Leo muttered, his eyes avoiding hers. "I wasn't trying to… you know…"

"There's no need to apologize," Ryuu said softly, though her voice carried a tinge of embarrassment. "I understand the situation. It was an accident."

The tension between them eased slightly as Ryuu began walking toward a nearby patch of flowers, kneeling down to carefully pluck a few. Leo watched her, his heartbeat slowly returning to normal. After a moment, he decided to speak.

"You're not mad at me?" he asked hesitantly. "You don't think I'm lying?"

Ryuu paused, her back still to him. When she spoke, her voice was calm and warm. "Leo, humility is a virtue. But do not insult yourself. It's a bad habit of yours."

Leo blinked, taken aback by her words. He opened his mouth to respond but could only manage a quiet, "Sorry."

Ryuu glanced over her shoulder with a small, amused smile before returning to her task. Once she had gathered a handful of flowers, she stood and began walking down a narrow path through the forest.

Leo followed her in silence, his thoughts racing. After a few minutes, he finally broke the quiet.

"I know it's late for this," he began, his voice sincere. "But… I wanted to thank you for coming all the way down here. To help me and Bell, I mean."

Ryuu didn't stop walking, but a small smile graced her lips. "Don't worry about it. I was planning on coming down here sometime soon, anyway." Her voice carried a hint of somberness, though her gaze softened as she glanced at Leo.

Curious but hesitant to press further, Leo continued walking beside her until the trees opened into a small clearing. His eyes were immediately drawn to the sight before him: a handful of weapons stood upright, stabbed into the earth, surrounding a tattered white flag. The makeshift memorial exuded a quiet sense of loss and reverence, reminding Leo painfully of the grave he and Bell had built for their grandfather.

"Mama Mia gives me this time off every so often," Ryuu said quietly, her voice steady but laced with sorrow. "To give them flowers."

Leo's throat tightened as he looked at her, kneeling with such reverence and care. Her normally stoic expression was tinged with sadness, her hands delicate as they placed the flowers down as if they might shatter under too much force.

"Ryuu, is this…" He trailed off, hesitating, not wanting to cause her more pain.

She turned to him briefly, her blue eyes meeting his with a somber glint before she nodded and faced the graves again.

"It's the grave of the Familia I used to belong to," she said softly. "An enemy Familia set a trap for us in the Dungeon, and everyone but me was killed."

Her words hung in the air, the finality of them sending a pang through Leo's chest. He didn't know what to say—what could he say to ease that kind of pain?

Ryuu closed her eyes, folding her hands as she gave a silent prayer to her fallen comrades. Leo watched her for a moment, his gaze drifting to the vibrant clearing around them. His eyes landed on a lone flower, its rich purple petals standing out against the green. Without a word, he knelt and gently plucked it, then placed it at the center of the memorial.

Ryuu opened her eyes, noticing the flower. A soft, genuine smile crossed her face, and she turned to Leo, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Leo, would you listen to my story?"

Leo nodded, his amber eyes steady as they met hers. "Always."

For a moment, Ryuu hesitated, as if gathering the strength to speak. Then, her voice returned, calm and deliberate, yet tinged with an unmistakable undercurrent of pain.

"I'm blacklisted from the Guild," she began. "I wiped out an enemy Familia. Night attacks. Surprise attacks. Traps. Driven by rage, I avenged my comrades, doing whatever was necessary."

She paused, her gaze distant, as though she were staring into the past.

"And when I'd had my revenge," she continued, her voice quieter now, "I collapsed in a dark, abandoned alleyway. It would have been a fitting end for one who behaved so recklessly, but…" A small, bittersweet smile touched her lips.

"But?" Leo prompted gently.

Ryuu glanced at him, her expression softening slightly. "Mama Mia found me. She knew everything, and yet she still took me in. She gave me a place to stay, a chance to live again."

She met his gaze fully, her blue eyes glimmering with a mix of sadness and uncertainty. "I'm sorry to tell you such an awful tale. You must think terribly of me now."

Leo opened his mouth to respond, but Ryuu continued, her voice trembling slightly as though she were bracing herself for rejection.

"As for my point… I'm a shameless, violent elf," she said, her tone barely above a whisper. "Enough so that I might betray your trust."

The self-loathing in her words made Leo's heart ache. Without a second thought, he stepped forward and pulled her into his arms, wrapping her in a firm but gentle embrace.

Ryuu froze, her body stiff against his, her eyes wide in surprise. "L-Leo?"

"Don't," Leo said, his voice low and filled with emotion. "Don't talk about yourself like that."

Her protests faltered as she felt the steady beat of his heart against her, his warmth enveloping her like a shield against the cold.

"You're not shameless or violent," Leo continued, his tone firm but gentle. "You're strong. You're kind. You're someone who's been through hell and is still standing. You survived, Ryuu. That doesn't make you a bad person—it makes you incredible."

Ryuu's breath hitched, her hands trembling slightly as she slowly returned the embrace. "But… I've done terrible things. Things I can't take back."

Leo pulled back just enough to look into her eyes, his amber gaze intense. "You did what you had to do. You're here now, helping people, protecting them. That's what matters. And if anyone says otherwise, they'll have to go through me."

The faintest laugh escaped her lips, a sound so rare and soft that Leo almost missed it. Her cheeks flushed as she looked away, her voice quieter now. "You're… a strange man, Leo."

"And you're an amazing person, Ryuu," he replied, smiling.

She stared at him for a moment, her expression unreadable, before finally nodding. "Thank you," she said softly.

They stood there for a while longer, the silence between them no longer heavy but comforting. When Ryuu finally stepped back, her cheeks were still faintly pink, but there was a newfound warmth in her gaze.

"Shall we return to the others?" she asked, her voice steadier now.

Leo nodded, motioning for her to lead the way. "Yeah. Let's go."

As they walked side by side back through the forest, Leo couldn't help but glance at her, his heart swelling with quiet admiration. And though Ryuu didn't say it aloud, the faint smile on her lips spoke volumes—she was grateful to have someone like Leo by her side.

Leo and Ryuu walked into camp, their eyes scanning the tents and surrounding area for any sign of Bell or Hestia. The unease in Leo's chest grew heavier with each second, his breath tight as he barked a question to Welf and Lili, who were standing near the campfire.

"Have you seen Bell or Hestia?"

Welf shook his head, concern flashing across his face. "No, I thought they were with you."

"Same here," Lili added, her sharp eyes narrowing as she stepped closer. "What's going on?"

Leo pushed past them into the main tent. His heart sank the moment his eyes locked onto the scrap of paper lying on the small wooden table. He snatched it up, the jagged handwriting on it making his blood run cold.

"We have your goddess. If you want her back, come alone. No tricks."

Leo's crimson eyes began to glow faintly as rage surged through him. The beast within—the Nemean Lion—growled to be unleashed, demanding vengeance for the audacity of these adventurers. His hands trembled as he passed the note to the others.

Welf read it aloud, his voice grim. "They've got Hestia. And they want Bell to come alone."

"What do we do?" Lili asked, her voice uncharacteristically shaky.

Before anyone could respond, Mikoto stepped forward, dropping to one knee in a warrior's bow. "I offer my blade to help rescue her."

Chigusa followed suit, nodding solemnly. "We owe you and your Familia. Please allow us to aid you."

Leo's burning gaze locked onto Ouka, who stood tall, his spear resting against his shoulder. The stoic warrior met Leo's eyes without hesitation. "I'll come too. You can count on me."

For a long moment, Leo stared at him, the tension thick. Then, finally, he gave a curt nod and clapped Ouka on the shoulder. "I'll owe you guys one after this," he said, his voice steady but filled with restrained fury. "And I'll watch your backs. If anything happens, you won't be alone."

Ouka nodded in respect, and the group set off together.

The small hill overlooking the adventurer-run town gave them a full view of the chaos below. A crowd of 30 to 50 adventurers stood in a makeshift ring, surrounding two figures locked in a fierce duel at the center. The roars and jeers of the crowd filled the air, making it impossible to hear what was being said.

Mikoto wasted no time. She notched three arrows in quick succession and let them fly toward the crowd, her precision flawless.

One of the adventurers raised his shield with practiced ease, deflecting the arrows. He turned with a smug grin, his gaze scanning the hill until he spotted the group. "Who's brave enough to challenge us?"

Leo didn't answer. His blood boiled as he drew on his monstrous strength, charging down the hill like a force of nature.

"Get out of my way!" he bellowed, his voice a thunderous roar.

The first adventurer to stand in his path barely had time to raise his weapon before Leo grabbed him by the throat, hoisting him into the air. The man struggled, his hands clawing at Leo's grip, but it was futile.

"Where's my goddess?" Leo demanded, his voice low and menacing.

The man choked out a laugh, defiance glinting in his eyes. "Go ahead… hit me… you'll never—"

Before he could finish, Leo slammed him into the ground with bone-jarring force, knocking him unconscious.

Behind him, the rest of the group joined the fray.

Ouka moved with precision, his spear spinning in controlled arcs as he disabled adventurers without killing them. Mikoto flowed like water, using her martial arts to disarm and restrain her opponents with graceful efficiency.

Welf relied on his fists, each punch a knockout blow as he fought his way through the mob. Ryuu moved like a shadow, her wooden sword striking with the speed and precision of a viper, leaving her opponents gasping for air.

Lili broke away from the group, darting through the chaos as she searched for any sign of Hestia.

Despite their efforts, the crowd of adventurers seemed endless. Leo's frustration grew as more enemies stepped in to block his path.

"Out of my way!" he roared, his attacks becoming more brutal. His gauntleted fists struck like hammers, sending opponents sprawling with each blow.

Finally, Leo broke through the circle, his eyes locking onto Bell in the center of the ring. His brother was locked in a fierce sword clash with an adventurer who shimmered faintly, his invisibility spell flickering in and out.

Leo's growl deepened as he tried to push forward, but more adventurers blocked his path.

The sound of rapid footsteps caught Leo's attention. He glanced over his shoulder to see Hestia and Lili running up the hill, the goddess's cloak flapping behind her as she shouted, "Stop! That's enough!"

Her voice, high-pitched and desperate, was lost in the chaos as Leo turned back to the fight. His focus remained on Bell, who was locked in a deadly sword clash.

The invisible man's blade inched closer to Bell's cheek, the sharp steel cutting a shallow line across his face. The sight sent Hestia over the edge.

"No more!" she cried, her voice trembling with fury.

A radiant rainbow light erupted from her small form, her divine power washing over the battlefield in a wave of overwhelming energy. The very air seemed to hum with her presence.

The adventurers froze, their jeering turning to gasps of fear as they scrambled back, falling to their knees or fleeing entirely.

Ouka, Mikoto, and Chigusa dropped to their knees instinctively, bowing their heads in reverence. Even Welf and Lili stared in shock, unable to comprehend the sight of their goddess breaking the rules of the mortal world.

Leo, mid-slam as he suplexed another adventurer, felt the wave of divinity roll over him. He turned to see Hestia glowing like a star, her small form commanding the respect of all around her.

The invisible man's spell shattered, his face pale as he stumbled back. "Wait! Don't leave me here!" he shouted to the fleeing adventurers.

Hestia approached Bell, the aura fading as she dropped to her knees beside him. "Bell! Are you okay?" she cried, her hands cradling his face.

The young adventurer nodded weakly, his eyes fluttering open. "Goddess..."

Before anyone could celebrate, the ground shook violently beneath their feet.

Welf caught Lili as she stumbled, his voice rising in alarm. "What the hell is going on?!"

Ryuu's sharp eyes scanned the area, her voice calm but tense. "This isn't natural. The dungeon… it's reacting."

Leo's gaze shot upward, his eyes widening as he saw the glowing crystals in the ceiling crack and dim.

Asfi, standing beside Hermes, gasped. "Something's coming through the ceiling!"

Hermes' usually carefree demeanor turned grim. "The dungeon hates us. And it's reminding us of its wrath."

With a deafening crash, the ceiling gave way, and a massive shadow descended amidst falling crystals. The roar that followed was unmistakable.

The Goliath had returned.

Leo's blood-red eyes narrowed as he stepped forward, his fists clenched. "Round two," he muttered, his voice steady but filled with resolve.

The Goliath's deafening roar filled the air, shaking the very ground as it vented its rage. Its long white hair whipped wildly, partially obscuring the vibrant, rage-filled glow of its eyes. The oppressive aura it exuded seemed to ripple across the forest, infecting the normally placid monsters below.

In the distance, the roars of enraged creatures echoed, each one more feral than the last. Glowing red eyes appeared in the shadows of the forest, and the sounds of desperate screams from the fleeing adventurers were punctuated by flashes of fire through the trees.

The Goliath turned slowly toward the commotion, its guttural growl vibrating through the air as it began to move. Each heavy step shook the ground, its focus drawn toward the chaos in the woods.

"Bell!" Leo barked, his red eyes glowing faintly as the Nemean Lion stirred within him. His fists clenched as he watched the Goliath's massive form looming over the battlefield.

Bell took a step forward, determination blazing in his eyes. "We have to save them!" he said, his voice steady.

Ryuu's voice rang out, stopping him in his tracks. "Wait!" she called sharply. Her expression was calm but firm as she asked, "Are you really going to save them? The same party that tried to humiliate and endanger you?"

Bell hesitated, turning to look at the others. None of them had moved. Welf, Lili, Mikoto, and even Ouka stood rooted in place, their attention focused on the Goliath. But Leo's gaze didn't waver. His glowing eyes were locked onto the behemoth, his body radiating controlled intensity as the power of the Nemean Lion coursed through him.

Before Bell could respond, Leo spoke, his tone calm and commanding. "Bell," he began, his voice cutting through the chaos. "You take Lili and Welf and go save them. Ouka and Mikoto will back you up."

Bell's brows furrowed. "But—"

"No buts," Leo interrupted, his gaze never leaving the Goliath. "This is your dream, isn't it? To help people and become a hero? Then do it. I'll take care of the rest."

He turned briefly, locking eyes with Chigusa. "Chigusa, can you stay and protect our goddess?"

Chigusa nodded quickly, her expression resolute. "Yes!"

Bell gave a small smile, his hesitation fading. "You got it. Be careful, brother," he said, his voice filled with trust.

Leo nodded, his focus sharpening as he turned back to the Goliath. Ryuu stepped up beside him, her calm yet fierce presence steadying him.

As Bell and his group ran off toward the forest, Ryuu glanced at Leo. "Was that a wise decision? Sending him to save the people who wanted to humiliate him?"

Leo smirked, his crimson eyes flicking to her briefly. "That's Bell for you. His dream is to help people and become a hero. If it's to further his dream, who am I to stop him?"

Ryuu's lips curved into a small smile. "You're an interesting leader, Leo Cranel," she said, turning her gaze back to the Goliath. "But… you didn't make the wrong choice."

Ryuu raised her hand, calling upon her wind magic. A surge of air lifted her gracefully off the ledge, her cloak billowing as she descended into the fray.

Leo didn't wait. With a grunt of effort, he leapt from the ledge, his powerful legs propelling him high into the air. He landed heavily in the woods below, the ground cracking beneath him as he took off toward the battle.

As he burst through the clearing, Leo caught sight of Bell and his group cutting through the horde of enraged monsters. They moved like a cohesive unit, destroying creatures and pulling adventurers to safety.

Before he could join them, a shadow fell over the battlefield. The Goliath loomed above, its massive fist descending toward the group.

"Not today!" Leo roared, launching himself into the air. He intercepted the punch, gripping the Goliath's massive hand with all his strength. With a guttural yell, he wrenched its fist away from Bell's group, throwing its momentum off just enough to redirect the attack.

Ryuu followed his lead, her wind magic coalescing into a powerful blast that struck the Goliath in the chest. The beast stumbled backward, its growl turning into an enraged roar.

Ouka and Mikoto took advantage of the momentary distraction. Charging forward, they struck at its legs, their weapons biting into its flesh. But the damage was minimal, and their blades became stuck in the beast's thick skin.

The Goliath inhaled deeply, its chest glowing ominously as it prepared to unleash its devastating breath attack.

"Withdraw!" Ryuu shouted, her voice cutting through the chaos. "Get out of the way!"

But Ouka and Mikoto struggled to pull their weapons free, their movements too slow to escape in time.

The Goliath exhaled, a torrent of fiery destruction surging toward them.

Just as the blast was about to hit, Welf appeared in front of them, his hands glowing with magical energy. "Not on my watch!" he bellowed.

He thrust his hands forward, casting Will O' Wisp. A brilliant orb of flame erupted, colliding with the Goliath's breath attack and forcing it back toward the beast. The explosion sent shockwaves through the battlefield, the Goliath stumbling as smoke and embers filled the air.

Ouka quickly pulled Mikoto to her feet, nodding his thanks to Welf.

Leo landed beside them, his eyes blazing. "Good timing, Welf," he said, his voice sharp but grateful.

Welf grinned, though his breath was labored. "Wouldn't want to miss the fun."

Ryuu joined them, her wooden sword at the ready. "The Goliath isn't finished yet," she warned. "We'll need to work together if we're going to bring it down."

Leo nodded, his mind already racing with strategies. He clenched his fists, the Nemean Lion's power surging through him. "Then let's end this."

The Goliath's rage-filled roar echoed across the battlefield, its long white hair thrashing as it unleashed its fury. The roar seemed to ripple through the forest, igniting a primal fear in the hearts of all who heard it. The other monsters, already driven mad by Hestia's earlier release of divinity, grew more frenzied. Their glowing red eyes cut through the haze as their combined howls melded with the Goliath's.

Leo's eyes flickered with the red glow of the Nemean Lion's power. His blood burned as the beast within stirred restlessly, eager to be unleashed. Despite the chaos, a smirk tugged at his lips as Welf passed him.

"I'll leave the big guy to you and Ryuu," Welf called over his shoulder, his voice light despite the tension. "Try not to get yourselves killed!"

Leo let out a dry chuckle. "No promises."

As Welf disappeared into the fray to rescue another group of adventurers, Ryuu stood poised, her sharp eyes locked onto the Goliath. Something about the massive creature felt different, unnatural.

"This version of the Goliath," Ryuu said, her voice cutting through the din of battle, "is stronger than the one from its floor."

Leo glanced at her, trying to ease the tension with a quip. "Stronger, huh? Guess that just means we'll have to try a little harder."

But as he caught the serious look in her eyes, his grin faded.

"It's Level 5," Ryuu said firmly, her tone leaving no room for doubt. "Maybe higher. I need to engage it directly to be certain.

Leo's smirk returned, though more subdued. "Level 5 or not, it's still gotta go down."

Ryuu nodded, the faintest smile gracing her lips before she shot forward, her wind magic propelling her toward the Goliath.

As Ryuu darted past the beast, Asfi appeared beside her, moving with the precision of a shadow. Her voice entered Ryuu's mind through telepathy, calm and commanding.

"Lion," Asfi said, "reinforcements have arrived. The city mages are preparing their incantations. Keep the Goliath distracted until their spells are ready."

"Understood," Ryuu replied, her mental voice sharp and focused. "We'll buy them time."

To Asfi's surprise, Ryuu suddenly shot off with a burst of wind magic, directly engaging the Goliath. Asfi hesitated, frowning. I came to deliver information, not fight this monstrosity...

Leo, meanwhile, glanced up at the mountainside where the mages stood. Glowing circles of fire, lightning, ice, and wind magic were forming, their energy growing stronger with each passing second. Around them, ballistae and catapults rained down projectiles, their operators desperately trying to weaken the beast.

A smirk spread across Leo's face. "About time," he muttered, before charging toward the Goliath.

The Goliath inhaled sharply, preparing to unleash another devastating breath attack. Leo saw the glow in its chest and leapt high into the air, his gauntleted fist glowing faintly with the Nemean Lion's power.

"Not this time!" he roared, his punch slamming into the Goliath's lower jaw. The impact made its massive head snap back, forcing the breath attack to dissipate harmlessly into the air.

The beast growled in fury, its movements becoming more erratic. It swung its fists in rapid succession, leveling trees and sending debris flying. Leo dodged nimbly, vaulting over fallen trunks and leaping between broken branches as the Goliath focused its attacks on him.

From above, Ryuu unleashed a barrage of wind blades, each one slashing into the Goliath's thick hide. Though the attacks barely broke the surface, they distracted the beast long enough for Leo to regroup.

"Keep it busy!" Asfi shouted from the sidelines.

Arrows from archers and bolts from ballistae rained down, while catapults launched volleys of heavy rocks. The Goliath roared in pain and irritation as the attacks pelted its massive body, but its rage only grew.

With a guttural snarl, the behemoth turned its gaze toward a cluster of ballistae operators. Its chest glowed ominously as it inhaled deeply.

"No!" Leo shouted, sprinting forward as fast as his legs could carry him.

The Goliath unleashed a concentrated breath attack, obliterating the siege weapons and injuring the adventurers operating them. Flames consumed the area as screams rang out.

Amid the chaos, Leo spotted a lone adventurer who had broken his weapon against the Goliath's hide. The man stumbled, narrowly avoiding the beast's massive fist.

Leo dashed toward him, tackling the adventurer out of harm's way.

"Get up!" Leo barked, lifting the man over his shoulder and running toward Welf.

Spotting his friend nearby, Leo shouted, "Welf! Catch!"

Welf turned just in time to see Leo toss the adventurer toward him. He caught the man with a grunt of effort before turning to finish off a nearby monster.

Through the smoke and chaos, Bell appeared, his face set in grim determination. His twin daggers gleamed as he charged at the Goliath's leg, his smaller frame moving too fast for the beast to target.

With a sharp yell, Bell stabbed into the Goliath's calf, his blade carving a spiraling wound downward as blood gushed from the creature's hide.

The Goliath roared in pain, its massive fist swinging toward Bell. Before it could connect, Leo leapt in, grabbing Bell and pulling him out of harm's way.

"We're not dying today, little brother," Leo said, his tone light despite the situation.

Before Bell could respond, a booming voice echoed across the battlefield.

"OKAY, EVERYONE FALL BACK!"

The command rang out like a lifeline. Leo wasted no time, hoisting Bell onto his shoulder and sprinting away from the Goliath. His muscles burned, but he pushed through, leaping over debris and weaving through the chaos.

The mages' spells reached their peak, glowing with blinding intensity. Elemental attacks rained down on the Goliath in a coordinated strike—fire, ice, lightning, and wind magic tearing into its body.

The beast roared in pain as blood sprayed from its wounds, its black hide riddled with gashes and burns. Finally, it collapsed to its knees, its massive form trembling as its lower jaw fell slack.

A wave of relief swept through the adventurers as war cries erupted. They charged toward the wounded beast, their weapons raised to finish the job.

But Leo, Bell, and Ryuu stood frozen, their eyes locked onto the Goliath.

A sinister red aura began to envelope the beast, its trembling form growing eerily still.

Ryuu's voice was barely a whisper. "It can't be…"

The Goliath roared once more, its wounds knitting themselves together as it regenerated before their eyes. The crystals above, once glowing faintly, turned blood red, casting the battlefield in an ominous light.

With a deafening crash, the Goliath slammed its fists into the ground, sending a shockwave that hurled adventurers through the air.

Leo and Bell were caught in the blast, debris and dirt raining down as they were sent flying. Ryuu barely managed to evade the attack, her wind magic carrying her to safety.

Leo groaned as he pulled himself to his feet, his head pounding. He scanned the battlefield, his eyes landing on Bell, who was shakily rising to his feet amidst the carnage.

Their gazes met briefly before the Goliath's guttural growl drew their attention. Fully healed and glowing with malevolent energy, the behemoth loomed over them, its rage palpable.

"This isn't over," Leo muttered, his fists clenching as he prepared for the next phase of the battle.

The battlefield was chaos incarnate, with monsters rushing from the forest and the Goliath wreaking havoc with its rapid-fire breath attacks. Adventurers scattered like ants, some falling to the relentless barrage, others struggling to regroup amid the devastation.

Bell fought fiercely, cutting down Minotaurs with swift slashes, their blood spraying as their bodies dissolved into ash. The forest around him darkened as more monsters emerged, their glowing red eyes marking them as predators drawn to him like moths to a flame.

As Bell caught his breath, Ryuu and Leo appeared at his back, standing as steadfast shields.

"Cranel," Ryuu said, her tone calm but urgent, "handle the monsters. We'll keep the Goliath occupied."

Leo cracked his knuckles, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Round three, huh? Guess I can't let this guy walk all over us."

Bell nodded, gripping his daggers tightly. His eyes burned with determination. "I trust you two. I won't let anything get past me."

Leo chuckled, his voice light despite the tension. "That's my little brother."

Ryuu glanced at the Goliath, her sharp gaze analyzing its movements. "The mages are preparing another volley," she said, her voice low and serious. "We need to buy them time. If that doesn't work…" She trailed off, her eyes narrowing as she gripped her wooden sword tightly. "We'll have to put it down ourselves. For good this time."

"Good luck!" Leo shouted as he and Ryuu split off, charging toward the Goliath.

Leo darted around the Goliath's legs, landing powerful punches against its thick hide. Though his blows barely made the beast flinch, they drew its attention, allowing Ryuu to leap into the air. Using her wind magic, she slashed her wooden sword across its torso, the enhanced blade leaving a deep cut that sprayed dark blood.

Asfi called out from a safe distance, her voice sharp with warning. "Leo! You're pushing too hard! You'll get yourself killed!"

Leo's rage flared as he landed another blow, his voice rising in defiance. "Better me than anyone else!"

Ryuu followed up with another aerial attack, dragging her blade from the Goliath's shoulder to its side. But as she landed, she noticed the wound sealing almost immediately, leaving no trace of damage.

"Asfi!" Ryuu called. "Its regeneration is still active! The mages' spells will be our only hope!"

Asfi cursed under her breath. "I can't break through to its magic stone! At this rate, we'll—" She stopped, the oppressive feeling of death looming closer as the Goliath roared in fury.

Leo leapt into the air, his fist glowing with the Nemean Lion's power. With a thunderous roar of his own, he slammed his punch into the beast's face, snapping its head backward. "As long as I'm breathing, I'll fight!" he shouted, his voice cracking with raw emotion. "I'll fight until there's nothing left to break!"

The Goliath turned its attention back to the forest, its glowing eyes locking onto groups of wounded adventurers. It unleashed a devastating breath attack, obliterating what remained of their siege equipment and any survivors within its reach.

Amid the chaos, Bell stood his ground, his breathing heavy as an ethereal glow began to surround him. The soft chime of Argonaut's activation echoed faintly, and small spirits circled his right hand, their light growing brighter with each passing moment.

Bracing his glowing hand with the other, Bell glared at the Goliath, his resolve unshaken.

Leo noticed the glow out of the corner of his eye. His instincts screamed danger as he grabbed Ryuu, leapt away from the Goliath, and shouted, "Asfi, move!"

The blue-haired strategist didn't hesitate, leaping back just as Bell unleashed his charged Firebolt with a furious yell.

The bolt of pure energy shot forward, colliding with the Goliath's head and obliterating its top half in a fiery explosion.

The battlefield fell eerily silent as the Goliath's massive body slumped, its headless form trembling before falling to its knees.

Leo jogged toward Bell, a smirk on his face. "Hell of a shot, little brother," he called.

But his grin faded as a low, guttural chuckle echoed through the air.

Leo's eyes snapped up, his heart sinking as the Goliath's decapitated form began to move. The sickening sound of flesh knitting together filled the silence as the beast regenerated its head, its twisted grin returning with malicious glee.

"No…" Leo whispered, his voice trembling as the Goliath let out a deafening roar.

The horrifying smirk etched onto the regenerating Goliath's face sent a cold chill down Leo's spine. His brief moment of triumph shattered, replaced with a surge of dread as the beast turned its gaze toward Bell, its glowing red eyes locking onto the light emanating from his brother's hand.

"BELL, RUN!" Leo's roar tore through the chaos, his legs burning as he pushed himself to reach his twin.

But it was too late.

The Goliath's chest swelled as it inhaled deeply, its massive frame trembling with the buildup of energy. Then, with a guttural roar, it unleashed a devastating breath attack directly at Bell.

The force of the attack sent Bell hurtling into the air, his small frame silhouetted against the blood-red glow of the battlefield.

Leo's world slowed. The noise of the battle faded, replaced by the deafening thud of his own heartbeat. Memories flooded his mind—Bell laughing, Bell training with their grandfather, Bell smiling as they ran through the fields of their childhood.

Then, the Goliath's massive arm cocked back, muscles bulging grotesquely.

"NO!" Leo screamed, his voice cracking with anguish as the beast swung its arm forward.

The impact was sickening. Bell's body spun wildly, blood spraying through the air as the force of the blow sent him careening across the battlefield.

Unknown to the Goliath, Ouka had leapt into the air, shield in hand. He intercepted the blow, gritting his teeth as the shield absorbed some of the force. But it wasn't enough. The impact sent both Ouka and Bell flying, their bodies crashing into the ground in a violent spiral.

Leo skidded to a halt, his breath hitching as he watched Bell's limp body disappear into the distance.

"No…" he whispered, his voice trembling as tears welled in his eyes. "No, no, no!"

Memories of their childhood played in his mind, sharp and vivid. He saw Bell lying in bed, bruised and battered after fighting a goblin Leo couldn't protect him from. Their grandfather's worried face as he tended to Bell's wounds flashed before him, each memory fueling his rising panic.

"I won't lose you," Leo growled, tears streaming down his face. "Not again. Not ever."

His legs moved before his mind could catch up, propelling him through the battlefield with reckless speed. Tears of rage blurred his vision, but he pushed forward, ignoring the burning in his muscles and the ache in his chest.

The chaos around him faded into background noise as his sole focus became reaching Bell.

Leo broke through the treeline, his breath catching in his throat as he stumbled upon the crash site.

Ouka lay motionless nearby, blood dripping from his mouth, chest, and nose. His shield, now dented and battered, was still clutched in his hand.

But it was Bell who shattered Leo's composure.

His twin's small frame was broken and bloodied, pieces of his chest plate embedded into his torso at odd angles. Blood poured from his stomach, mouth, and eyes, pooling around his still form.

"Bell…" Leo's voice cracked as he dropped to his knees, trembling hands reaching for his brother.

"No, no, no!" he shouted, ripping his shirt into strips and pressing them against Bell's wounds in a desperate attempt to stop the bleeding. His hands shook violently as he worked, his breath growing shallow and erratic.

When he leaned closer, his heart stopped. Bell wasn't breathing.

"Come on, Bell. Don't do this to me," Leo pleaded, tilting his brother's head back and pinching his nose. He pressed his lips to Bell's and exhaled, his voice breaking as he muttered, "Breathe, damn it."

He pumped Bell's chest with trembling hands, his strength fading as panic overwhelmed him. "Come on! Don't you dare die on me!"

Ryuu and Asfi arrived moments later, their eyes widening in horror at the sight before them. Mikoto and Chigusa followed, rushing to Ouka's side and immediately working to stabilize him.

Ryuu hesitated as she watched Leo frantically administer CPR, his tears falling onto Bell's bloodied face. She reached out, her hand hovering over his shoulder, but she couldn't find the words to console him.

"Come on, Bell!" Leo shouted, his voice raw and desperate. "You said you wanted to be a hero, didn't you?! You're my hero! SO WAKE THE FUCK UP!"

He slammed his fists against Bell's chest, his sobs growing louder as the seconds stretched on.

"I can't… I can't do this without you," he whispered, his voice breaking as his tears fell freely. "You're my brother. My twin. My best friend. Everything I do… it's for you."

His movements grew erratic, his fists trembling as he pounded on Bell's chest.

Leo's trembling hands pressed down on Bell's chest, his efforts growing more frantic as he blew air into his brother's lungs again and again. His lips quivered with desperation as he whispered, "Come on, Bell… breathe… please."

But there was nothing.

The crushing silence consumed him, the absence of life in Bell's still form tearing at his very soul.

"No…" Leo muttered, his voice cracking as tears spilled down his face. "No, no, no!"

He gripped his hair, tugging at it violently as his breath came in ragged gasps. The world around him blurred, and his mind spiraled into chaos. He struck his own head, desperate to wake from the nightmare. "This isn't real!" he shouted, his voice raw. "Wake up! WAKE UP!"

An agonizing cry tore from his throat, echoing through the battlefield and freezing everyone who heard it.

Ryuu knelt beside him, her voice soft yet urgent as she tried to console him. "Leo, stop! Please, this won't help!"

But her words didn't reach him. He was lost in the depths of his despair.

In his mind's eye, the battlefield dissolved into nothingness, replaced by a vast, dark expanse. A faint glow illuminated a figure in the distance—a massive lion with a regal yet fearsome aura. Its golden eyes gleamed with both pity and fury as it stared at Leo.

The Nemean Lion stood tall, its mane shimmering like fire. The air around it radiated raw power.

Leo stumbled forward, his knees buckling as he collapsed before the beast. "Help me…" he pleaded, his voice weak and broken. "Please, I can't do this. I can't lose him."

The lion didn't speak. It merely watched, its piercing gaze filled with understanding of his pain, it looked on with pity but his eyes held rage.

Memories of his and Bell's childhood flashed before him—laughter, mischief, and their shared dreams of becoming heroes. Each memory felt like a dagger in his heart, a cruel reminder of what he was losing.

A deep, resonant roar shattered the silence, pulling Leo back to the present. His eyes shot open, and the battlefield returned in sharp clarity.

The Goliath roared in the distance, its monstrous bellow shaking the ground as it continued its rampage, injuring more adventurers.

Tears streaming down his face, Leo slowly rose to his feet. His glowing red eyes locked onto the beast as his body trembled—not with fear, but with rage.

Inside his mind, Leo turned back to the Nemean Lion. "Please," he begged, his voice a desperate growl. "Lend me your power. Help me destroy that thing. I'll give you everything. My strength, my blood—whatever it takes!"

The lion growled low, its golden eyes narrowing as its regal aura darkened. For a moment, it seemed to hesitate, as if weighing his request. Then, with a thunderous roar, the lion surged forward, merging its fiery rage with Leo's own.

A suffocating aura spread across the battlefield, a primal force so overwhelming that adventurers froze in their tracks. The weaker among them trembled, their knees buckling under the oppressive weight.

All eyes turned toward Leo, who stood a few feet from Bell's body. His body radiated a menacing red light, the air around him crackling with energy.

Then came the growl—low, guttural, and inhuman.

"Leo…" Ryuu whispered, her voice trembling.

Asfi's breath caught in her throat. "What… is this?"

Leo's voice, now merged with something deep and monstrous, rumbled through the air as he began a chant:

"O beast within, born of blood and fury,

Devour my heart, ignite my soul.

By claw and fang, by rage and ruin,

Let the lion rise and vengeance reign!"

With each word, his body began to change. His white hair grew longer and wilder, cascading down his back like a lion's mane. His muscles bulged, his frame growing larger and more imposing until he rivaled Ottar in height. His teeth sharpened into fangs, and his nails extended into deadly claws.

A dark red aura enveloped him, pulsating like a heartbeat. The ground beneath his feet cracked as he flexed his powerful new form, letting out a deafening roar that echoed across the dungeon—and somehow, beyond.

Freya's Tower

High above Orario, Freya stood on her balcony, her silver hair flowing in the night breeze. Her ever-watchful gaze, usually calm and calculating, was now wide with surprise.

The roar that shook the city reached her ears, an ancient and primal sound that sent shivers down her spine.

She leaned forward, her eyes narrowing as she whispered, "Leo Cranel… What have you become?"

Below her, the citizens of Orario froze, their eyes darting nervously as they tried to locate the source of the monstrous sound.

Back on the battlefield, the transformed Leo looked down at Bell's still form one last time. His crimson eyes softened briefly as he whispered, "Please watch over Bell…"

His gaze shifted to Ryuu and Asfi, both of whom stared at him in awe and fear. "Keep him safe," he added, his voice deep and somber.

Then, with a guttural growl, he dropped onto all fours and launched himself toward the Goliath.

Leo moved like a wild animal, his powerful limbs propelling him at inhuman speed. Dust and debris exploded in his wake as he barreled toward the Goliath, his snarl sending shockwaves through the air.

The Goliath turned, its glowing red eyes narrowing as it let out a deafening roar of its own. But even its monstrous size and power seemed diminished in the face of Leo's feral might.

With a single leap, Leo closed the distance, his claws slashing across the beast's chest and leaving deep, bloody gashes.

The Goliath stumbled back, swinging its massive arm at Leo. But Leo ducked low, dodging the attack with ease before lunging forward and sinking his claws into its leg. With a ferocious growl, he tore through its flesh, blood spraying as the beast howled in pain.

As the battle between the two titans raged, the adventurers could only watch in stunned silence.

Ryuu, her hands trembling, whispered, "Leo…"

Asfi stepped forward, her usual composure faltering. "This… this isn't human," she said, her voice barely audible.

Mikoto and Chigusa knelt beside Ouka, their eyes darting between the battle and Bell's motionless form.

The floor shook with each clash as Leo and the Goliath traded blows, their roars reverberating through the dungeon. The transformed Leo fought like a force of nature, his every movement driven by an unrelenting rage that burned brighter than ever before.

Blood dripped from Leo's mouth and body as he stood in the shallow crater left by the Goliath's latest attack. Dust and debris swirled around him, but he paid it no mind. His chest heaved, each ragged breath filled with primal fury.

The Goliath loomed over him, roaring with frustration. It had expected its last attack to keep him down, but Leo only wiped the blood from his face, his glowing red eyes locking onto the beast once more.

A low growl rumbled from his throat, growing into a guttural roar as he shot forward with animalistic speed, his claws scraping against the ground before propelling him toward the Goliath.

The fight was nothing short of savage.

The Goliath swung its massive fists, each blow capable of leveling trees and crushing stone. But even as one punch sent Leo crashing to the ground, he clawed his way back up, his body trembling with unrelenting rage. Blood poured from his wounds, but he didn't care.

He launched himself at the Goliath's chest, digging his claws deep into its flesh. His fangs bared, he tore through its thick hide, his roars reverberating through the battlefield.

The two titans traded blows, their clash shaking the entire floor. Those watching from a distance felt the oppressive weight of Leo's aura, its sheer intensity rendering weaker adventurers immobile.

Ryuu, her wooden sword trembling in her hand, watched the fight with wide eyes. "This isn't human…" she whispered.

Asfi stood beside her, sweat dripping down her temple. "It's like… watching a beast rip apart its prey."

Hestia arrived with Lili, their hurried footsteps faltering as they took in the scene. Their gazes fell on Bell's motionless body, and the sight broke them.

"No… no, no!" Hestia cried, rushing to her Familia member's side. She fell to her knees, her trembling hands gently caressing Bell's pale face. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she whispered, "Bell… my child…"

Lili dropped beside her, her small frame shaking with sobs. "He… he can't be gone… not like this," she murmured.

Between her sobs, Hestia turned to Ryuu. "Where's Leo?" she asked, her voice quivering. "Did he see Bell like this?"

Ryuu nodded, her eyes flicking briefly toward the violent clash in the distance. "He saw everything," she said quietly. "When we found him… he was already broken, begging Bell to come back. But then…"

Her voice trailed off, the memory of Leo's transformation too raw to articulate.

Hestia's face crumpled, her tears falling freely. "He's fighting like this because of Bell," she said, her voice heavy with anguish.

Nearby, Mikoto and Chigusa worked tirelessly to tend to Ouka's wounds. Blood seeped through the bandages Leo had hastily applied, and Ouka coughed weakly, each breath labored.

Ouka's bloodshot eyes turned toward Bell. "I tried," he rasped. "I tried to stop that monster… but I wasn't strong enough."

Mikoto placed a steadying hand on his shoulder. "You did everything you could," she said softly. "But…" Her voice faltered as her gaze drifted toward Bell.

Ouka clenched his fists, his frustration boiling over. "It wasn't enough."

A sudden crash drew everyone's attention. The ground shook violently as the Goliath slammed another devastating blow into the ground, leaving a massive crater.

From the smoke and debris, a bloodied Leo emerged, clawing his way out of the rubble. His glowing red eyes burned with fury, his body trembling with raw power.

"Leo!" Hestia screamed, her voice filled with desperation.

"Twin Guardian!"

Lili called, tears streaming down her face.

But their cries went unanswered. Leo's mind was consumed by one thought: destroy the Goliath.

His roar ripped through the air, louder and more feral than anything they had heard before. The veins in his arms bulged as his muscles swelled further, his already massive frame growing even more imposing. His mane of white hair flowed wildly around him, and the dark red aura surrounding him pulsed like a living flame.

As he flexed his claws, the oppressive aura intensified, forcing those nearby to their knees. Even the stronger adventurers broke into a cold sweat, their instincts screaming at them to flee.

The Goliath roared in response, its monstrous bellow shaking the ground. But it faltered as Leo's speed blurred the distance between them.

Leo closed the gap in an instant, leaping onto the Goliath's chest. His claws raked across its torso, leaving deep, bloody gashes as the beast howled in pain.

With a powerful roar, Leo gripped the Goliath's head and sank his claws into its eye sockets. Blood sprayed as he wrenched the beast's head downward, dragging it to the ground.

The adventurers watched in stunned silence as Leo pummeled the fallen Goliath with unrelenting force.

"Is he…" Mikoto whispered, unable to finish her thought.

Ryuu's grip tightened on her sword as she watched Leo's feral rampage. "He's completely lost himself," she said, her voice filled with both awe and fear.

Leo's fists came down like hammers, each blow shaking the ground as he roared with unbridled rage. His claws tore through the Goliath's flesh, and his fangs sank into its neck, ripping out chunks of muscle.

When the beast tried to rise, Leo stomped on its head with enough force to crack the ground beneath it. He didn't stop, his punches and kicks becoming faster and more violent as he tore the creature apart.

The Goliath let out a pitiful roar, its strength waning under Leo's relentless assault.

Freya, watching from her tower, leaned forward, her silver hair glinting in the moonlight. Her usual smirk was absent, replaced by a look of deep intrigue.

"This is… something else entirely," she murmured, her gaze locked on Leo's feral form. "A beast born of grief and rage… but with a heart still tethered to something greater."

Her hand rested on her chest as she felt the faint echo of Leo's roar.

Below her, the citizens of Orario stopped in their tracks, their unease growing as the primal sound reverberated through the city.

Back on the battlefield, Hestia's trembling hands clutched Bell's lifeless body. Tears streamed down her face as she whispered, "Leo… please… don't lose yourself."

Ryuu stepped forward, her voice steady despite the trembling in her hands. "We have to stop him. If he keeps fighting like this…"

Asfi shook her head, her expression grim. "I don't think we can stop him. Not in this state."

Hestia sobbed quietly, her eyes never leaving Leo. "Don't lose yourself," she repeated, her voice breaking. "Bell wouldn't want this…"

But Leo's feral roars drowned out her words as he continued his relentless assault on the Goliath.

The adventurers could only watch as the battle between man and monster raged on, the line between the two growing ever thinner.

The Goliath thrashed wildly, its massive form buckling under the relentless assault. Blood poured from its throat as Leo's claws tore deeper, his snarls and growls merging with the beast's dying roars. The once-mighty floor boss, a terror of the dungeon, was now reduced to prey beneath Leo's monstrous strength.

With a guttural cry, Leo drove his claws into the Goliath's throat, gripping the edges of its torn flesh. Muscles bulging, his glowing red eyes burned with primal rage as he pulled. The beast's head, massive and grotesque, resisted for only a moment before a sickening crack echoed across the battlefield.

The adventurers watching flinched as Leo ripped the head free, holding it aloft as dark blood cascaded down his arms and splattered the ground below.

But Leo wasn't finished.

Tossing the severed head aside like discarded prey, he let out a feral snarl, his bloodied mane shaking as he crouched over the beast's still-twitching body. His claws, sharp and deadly, slashed violently at the exposed neck, tearing through thick muscle and bone with savage precision.

Each strike was fueled by an unrelenting fury, his roars blending with the wet, sickening sounds of flesh and bone giving way. Blood sprayed with each blow, painting the ground and his already-drenched figure in crimson.

Leo's claws found purchase near the Goliath's chest. Snarling, he plunged his hands deep into its torso, his muscles straining as he ripped apart the layers of sinew and bone guarding its core.

He roared again, louder this time, his voice echoing throughout the dungeon. The sound carried not just rage, but raw, unfiltered emotion—a mixture of anguish, pain, and despair that made even the gods and goddesses watching tremble.

The Goliath's final thrashes grew weaker, its massive hands clawing feebly at the ground as Leo tore deeper into its chest. The adventurers watched in stunned silence, unsure if what they were witnessing was a man or a beast.

Finally, with a triumphant snarl, Leo's claws wrapped around the pulsating glow of the monster stone. The Goliath let out a pitiful groan, its once-fearsome roars reduced to weak, gurgling gasps.

Leo ripped the stone free with a violent jerk, the sound of tearing flesh and cracking bone punctuating the act. He held the massive stone aloft, its flickering glow casting eerie shadows on his bloodied face.

The Goliath shuddered one last time before collapsing completely, its body dissolving into ash and leaving only the smoking remains of its core.

For a moment, the battlefield was utterly silent.

Leo stood atop the Goliath's remains, the monster stone crushed in his bloodied hands. His chest heaved as he took in deep, ragged breaths, his glowing red eyes scanning the area with a predatory gaze.

The adventurers, frozen in place, could only stare.

"He… he killed it," one whispered, their voice trembling.

"Is that really… the Twin Guardian?" another asked, their hands shaking.

Even Ryuu, standing closest to the scene, tightened her grip on her wooden sword. "He's… beyond anything I've ever seen," she murmured.

Then, with a guttural growl, Leo tilted his head back and unleashed a roar that shook the very floor of the dungeon.

The force of his cry sent a powerful gust of wind rippling through the battlefield, kicking up dust and debris. Even the gods and goddesses observing from afar felt a chill at the sound—raw and primal, a declaration of dominance and despair that echoed through the labyrinth and beyond.

High above Orario, in the tower of Babel, Freya stood at her balcony, her silver eyes wide with intrigue. The roar reached even her, vibrating through her very being.

"This boy…" she whispered, her voice tinged with both awe and something deeper. "What power lies within him?"

As the roar subsided, Leo's body trembled. He stood motionless atop the Goliath's remains, his blood-soaked form bathed in the dim, red light of the corrupted dungeon.

His claws hung limply at his sides, still dripping with the beast's blood. His white mane, matted and streaked with crimson, framed his face, which was marked by exhaustion and unrelenting rage.

For those watching, there was no doubt: Leo had won. But at what cost?

"Leo!" Hestia's voice broke the silence as she rushed forward, her small frame trembling with a mixture of fear and desperation.

Ryuu and Asfi moved to intercept her, their cautious gazes fixed on Leo.

"Wait," Asfi said, her voice firm but quiet. "We don't know if it's safe yet."

Hestia froze, her wide eyes filled with tears as she stared at her bloodied Familia member. "Leo…" she whispered, her voice breaking. "Please… come back to us."

Inside his mind, Leo was far from the battlefield.

He sat on the porch of his childhood home, the familiar creak of the wooden boards grounding him in a memory long past. The golden light of the setting sun bathed everything in a warm glow, but Leo's expression was anything but warm.

His young face was somber, his eyes fixed on the ground as he fidgeted with his hands. The door behind him creaked open, and Bell's grandfather stepped out, carrying the weight of years and wisdom in his posture.

The old man sat down beside Leo with a soft sigh. "You've been out here a while, Leo."

Leo didn't look up. "It's my fault, Gramps," he muttered, his voice small. "Bell got hurt because I couldn't stop that goblin."

The grandfather placed a hand on his shoulder, firm but gentle. "Bell is strong, Leo, but even he needs someone to watch his back. You're his brother. You're his protector."

Leo's shoulders slumped further. "But I'm not strong enough."

The door creaked again, revealing a bandaged Bell asleep in bed. Leo turned his gaze toward his twin, the guilt in his eyes mingling with relief.

"You'll get stronger," the grandfather said, his voice steady. "Not just for him, but because of him. You two are inseparable—your strength comes from being together."

The memory shifted, flowing into fragments of other moments: Bell's laughter as they chased each other through the fields, their shared training sessions under the old man's watchful eye, and their whispered dreams of becoming heroes.

A soft smile graced Leo's face as he relived these memories. But the warmth was soon replaced by cold, sharp pain as the reality of Bell's death seeped into his consciousness.

Tears began to drip down his face as he fell to his knees. His voice caught in his throat as he tried to speak, but only broken sobs escaped him.

"Bell… I'm sorry…"

In the real world, Leo knelt atop the Goliath's remains, his head hanging low. Tears continued to stream down his glowing eyes, streaking the blood on his face.

Ryuu, Asfi, and the others cautiously approached.

"Leo…" Ryuu called again, her voice soft but firm. "It's over."

He didn't respond. His growls deepened, filled with sorrow and despair.

Then, with one final roar, he released all his pent-up emotions. The sound was deafening, a mix of pain, anger, and grief. The sheer force of it forced everyone to step back, shielding themselves from the gale of wind it produced.

As the roar subsided, Leo collapsed to his knees, his body trembling as exhaustion finally overtook him.

Hestia and Lili rushed forward, tears streaming down their faces as they called his name. But it was Bell's weak, rasping voice that finally broke through.

"Leo…"

Everyone turned in shock as Bell stumbled into view. His body was battered and bloodied, but his chest rose and fell with labored breaths.

"Bell!" Hestia cried, running to his side.

Leo's head snapped up, his glowing eyes widening as he saw his brother.

"Bell…" he whispered, his voice trembling.

Bell gave a weak smile, his legs shaking as he stumbled forward. "You didn't… lose me," he said hoarsely.

Leo caught him as he collapsed, pulling him into a tight embrace. Tears streamed down his face as his feral features began to fade—his mane receding, his claws dulling, and his glowing eyes returning to their normal crimson hue.

"You're alive," Leo choked out, his voice filled with relief and disbelief.

Bell chuckled weakly. "Because of you," he said. "You never gave up."

The brothers clung to each other, their bond stronger than ever.

As the others watched the reunion, a sense of calm washed over the battlefield.

Ryuu let out a quiet breath, a small smile gracing her lips. "He's back," she said softly.

Asfi nodded, though her analytical gaze lingered on Leo. "Whatever power he tapped into… it's incredible."

Hestia knelt beside them, her tears falling freely. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice filled with gratitude.

For the first time since the battle began, hope returned to the weary adventurers. Leo and Bell were alive, and together, they had overcome the impossible.