-Walls-
A day had passed since the Loki Familia set off for their expedition. Bell had heard they were heading to the 59th floor—a place so deep and dangerous it felt like another world entirely. He couldn't even imagine getting there himself, not yet anyway.
Thud!
"Haa..." Bell exhaled, his breaths short and heavy. Sweat dripped from his forehead, and he wiped it away with a shaky hand. The golden light of the sunrise spilled into the streets, brushing against his tired face. It was warm, but it didn't ease the weight on his shoulders. Sitting against a wall to catch his breath, Bell stared into the distance, determination flaring in his crimson eyes.
"I have to get stronger.." he muttered, clenching his fists as he stood up again.
Unfortunately, he had to cut his training short. After gathering his equipment, Bell dashed toward the center of Orario.
-The Day Before-
After saying his goodbyes to Ais, Bell was heading back home when a store caught his eye. The gleam of swords and armor through the window was enough to make him pause. His curiosity got the better of him, and he stepped inside.
As soon as he entered, the sound of arguing filled the shop.
"Why do you keep putting my work all the way at the back?!" came a frustrated voice.
Bell froze."Welf?"
"You know how much effort I put into making this gear! Why isn't it out on display?" Welf sounded upset, almost angry.
A shopkeeper's voice answered, clearly annoyed. "We've told you before, Welf. Your designs are too... plain. Customers want flashy, eye-catching stuff, not basic swords and armor!"
"Flashy?!" Welf's voice rose, and Bell could hear the frustration boiling over. "It's not about looking good, it's about saving lives!"
The shopkeeper sighed. "Look, I don't make the rules. If you want your stuff up front, you need to make what sells."
Bell hesitated. He felt guilty. Welf had been kind enough to craft his armor for free, without asking for much in return. Bell knew how hard Welf worked and how much he believed in his craft. Taking a deep breath, Bell stepped forward.
"Um, excuse me," he said, his voice breaking through the tension. Both Welf and the shopkeeper turned to look at him.
"Bell?" Welf blinked, surprised. "What are you doing here?"
"I... uh... I just happened to pass by," Bell said quickly, scratching the back of his neck. "But, uh, Welf, I couldn't help overhearing... Are you okay?"
Welf crossed his arms, his frustration still evident. "It's nothing. Just the same old problem—no one here appreciates good craftsmanship anymore."
Bell shook his head. "It's not nothing. You put your heart into your work. I've seen it firsthand."
The shopkeeper rolled his eyes. "Look, kid, I get it. You're friends, but business is business."
Bell frowned, feeling a mix of helplessness and determination. An idea sparked in his mind.
"How about this?" Bell said, looking directly at Welf. "Come with me to the dungeon tomorrow. Let's work together—with Lili, too. We'll show just how good your equipment really is!"
Welf raised an eyebrow. "Dungeon..?"
Bell nodded firmly. "Yeah. I know how strong you are, and I trust your weapons. If we take on the dungeon together, we can prove their worth! We'll earn a little extra cash on the way as well."
Welf stared at him for a moment before a grin slowly spread across his face. "Alright, Bell. You've got yourself a deal."
-Present-
Upon arriving at the bustling main plaza, Bell scanned the crowd. Adventurers of all kinds were busy preparing for their own dives into the dungeon, some were checking their weapons, others discussing strategies with their party members.
After a moment of searching, Bell's eyes landed on his companions, Welf and Lili. Welf stood near a fountain, his greatsword resting casually on his shoulder as he chatted with a vendor selling potions. Lili, in her usual prum form, was perched on a crate, double-checking the contents of her oversized backpack with a focused expression.
"Welf! Lili!" Bell called out, waving as he hurried toward them.
Both of them turned at the sound of his voice. Welf grinned, lifting his free hand in greeting. "Yo, Bell! You're early."
"Bell-sama!" Lili hopped down from the crate, her expression brightening. "Good morning!"
"Morning!" Bell replied with a cheerful smile, slightly out of breath from his jog across the plaza.
Welf tilted his head, giving Bell a quick once-over. "You look ready to go. Been training hard, huh?"
Bell nodded, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah... I've been working hard lately."
Lili smirked, adjusting the straps of her pack. "Lili hopes Bell-sama didn't tire himself out before the real work begins."
Bell waved his hands defensively. "Don't worry, I'm good! I wouldn't slack off on a day like this."
After a bit of lighthearted teasing, the group began their final preparations. Welf adjusted his armor and checked the edge of his blade, giving it a quick polish. Lili meticulously counted the potions, antidotes, and other supplies in her bag, muttering under her breath about weight distribution and efficiency.
"Lili, you sure you're okay carrying all that?" Bell asked, glancing at her bulging pack.
"Of course!" Lili said with a confident nod. "This is nothing for Lili. Bell-sama just needs to focus on fighting."
Welf chuckled. "Don't underestimate her, Bell. She's tougher than she looks."
Bell smiled, grateful for their teamwork. Once everything was accounted for, Lili hoisted her pack onto her back with surprising ease. Welf slung his sword onto his shoulder, the metal gleaming in the sunlight.
"All set?" Bell asked, looking at both of them.
"Ready as ever," Welf said with a grin.
"Lili is prepared," she added, her voice steady and determined.
With their gear secured and spirits high, the trio set off toward the dungeon's entrance. The lively buzz of the plaza slowly faded into the background as they walked, replaced by the imposing sight of Babel Tower. Its shadow stretched out like an ominous omen, a reminder of the dangers that awaited below.
But then—
Bell froze mid-step.
A sudden, chilling sensation crawled up his spine, gripping him in fear. His breath hitched, and his eyes darted upward as if drawn by an invisible force. His heart pounded in his chest, and his hands instinctively tightened around the hilt of his weapon.
"What was t-that?" he muttered under his breath, his voice trembling. A bead of sweat rolled down his temple, and a heavy sense of unease settled over him. It was as if something—or someone—was watching him from above, their gaze heavy and suffocating.
The feeling was unlike anything he'd experienced before. It wasn't the usual dread of the dungeon; this was personal. Malevolent.
"Bell?" Welf's voice broke through the tension, drawing Bell's attention back to reality.
"Bell-sama, what's wrong?" Lili asked, concern evident in her voice as she stepped closer, her sharp eyes scanning their surroundings.
Bell blinked and shook his head quickly, forcing himself to snap out of it. He turned to face his companions, his expression softening into a small, reassuring smile. "I-It's nothing," he said, though his voice wavered slightly. "Just... a weird feeling. Let's keep going."
Welf raised an eyebrow but didn't press the issue. "Alright, if you're sure. Let me know if something's up, though."
Lili wasn't entirely convinced. She studied Bell's face for a moment longer before nodding. "If Bell-sama says it's nothing, Lili won't push. But please be careful."
"Thanks, you two," Bell said, his voice steadier this time.
Despite his words, the unease lingered at the edges of his mind as they continued their journey. He couldn't shake the feeling that whatever had just happened wasn't something to dismiss so easily.
As they approached the grand entrance to the dungeon, the cold, dark maw of the labyrinth seemed to welcome them with an eerie stillness. Bell stole one last glance upward, his stomach twisting as a shiver ran through him again.
"Focus," he muttered to himself, gripping his weapon tightly.
.
.
Above the bustling city of Orario, atop the towering heights of Babel, Freya lounged in her luxurious penthouse. The sunlight poured through the open terrace, bathing the space in a golden glow. A warm breeze stirred the silken curtains that framed the entrance, carrying with it the faint murmur of life from the streets below.
Seated gracefully on a chaise adorned with plush cushions, Freya's silver hair shimmered like molten light as it caught the sun's rays. Her divine mirror hovered before her, its surface glimmering faintly as it reflected the figure of a young adventurer descending into the dungeon.
"Oh, Bell..." Freya whispered, her voice sweet and honeyed, tinged with a predatory edge. She leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand as her molten silver eyes drank in his every movement.
The way he moved, his determination, and the faint unease in his expression—all of it was intoxicating.
"You can feel it, can't you?" she murmured, a sly smile curving her lips. "Even if you don't know why, you sense me, little rabbit."
Setting aside the goblet of fine wine in her hand, she rose gracefully, her dress flowing around her like liquid silk. She stepped onto the open terrace, the golden sunlight dancing on her skin. The city stretched out far below, but her gaze was fixated solely on the adventurer.
"You're so small and fragile," she purred, her voice soft yet laced with a dangerous edge. "And yet, you keep moving forward, facing a world far too vast for you. How admirable... how deliciously naive."
Freya reached out, her fingertips brushing the surface of the mirror as if she could touch him. Her eyes burned with a possessive intensity, her smile growing as her thoughts deepened.
"No matter where you go, no matter how far you run, you're mine, Bell Cranel. Every step you take only brings you closer to me."
She tilted her head back, closing her eyes as she basked in the warmth of the sun, a serene smile on her lips that belied the dangerous longing within.
"One day, you'll stand before me, unable to look away," she whispered, her voice dripping with anticipation. "And when that day comes, you'll realize there was never a choice. You were always meant to be mine."
Far below, Bell paused at the dungeon's entrance, his chest tightening as an inexplicable chill ran through him. He glanced upward, squinting against the bright sky, but saw nothing out of the ordinary.
Freya's laughter echoed softly in the penthouse, carried on the gentle breeze. Her gaze remained locked on the mirror, a glimmer of satisfaction in her eyes.
"Soon, little rabbit. Very soon..."
.
.
-Dungeon (10th floor)-
Orcs, a terrifying presence in the dungeon. Standing at three meters tall, their grotesque pig-like heads snarled with sharp teeth bared, and their bulky frames were draped in ragged hides that barely served as clothing. Their enormous clubs, often made of stone or crude iron, could shatter bones and crush armor with a single swing. These beasts were no mere threats; they were killers, capable of ending the life of an unwary Level 2 adventurer with one direct hit.
"Graahhh!" The orc's roar reverberated through the chamber, cutting through the dense fog that blanketed the 10th floor. The oppressive mist obscured almost everything, reducing visibility to mere feet ahead. Shadows flickered and twisted in the murky air, making the hulking form of the orc all the more menacing.
Bell's heart pounded as the creature's fiery red eyes pierced through the haze, locking onto him. With a savage growl, it raised its massive club high above its head, the faint outline of the weapon barely visible through the swirling mist.
The air whistled as the club came crashing down. Bell darted to the side at the last second, narrowly avoiding the devastating blow. The weapon slammed into the stone floor, sending shards of rock flying and causing the ground beneath him to tremble. The mist swirled from the impact, momentarily revealing the jagged cracks left behind.
"Now!" Bell muttered, gripping his sword tightly. He surged forward, the fog curling around him as he moved. Exploiting the momentary opening as the orc struggled to free its club from the fractured ground, Bell swung his blade in a wide arc. The sword's edge cut deep into the orc's exposed side.
A guttural scream echoed through the mist as blood sprayed from the wound, painting the ground beneath them. The orc staggered, clutching its bleeding flank, its rage only growing more ferocious. Its glowing red eyes burned even brighter, glaring at Bell with primal fury.
The beast bellowed and charged at him, its massive form barreling forward like a shadow in the mist. Bell tried to maintain his distance, but the orc's sheer size and speed made it relentless.
Just as the creature raised its club for another devastating swing, a shadow darted through the fog.
"Move, Bell!"
Welf's voice rang out as his greatsword sliced through the mist. With a powerful leap, Welf brought his weapon down, the blade piercing straight through the orc's chest.
The beast froze, its roar cutting off mid-growl. It looked down at the blade embedded in its chest, blood pouring from the mortal wound as its life faded.
The orc collapsed with a thunderous crash, disappearing into the mist as its massive body fell lifeless at their feet.
"Are you okay?" Welf asked, yanking his sword free and glancing at Bell, who was catching his breath.
"Y-yeah," Bell stammered, his chest heaving as he wiped the sweat from his brow. The fog around them swirled, faintly illuminated by the faint glow of their magic stones. "Thanks, Welf. That was close."
"Stay sharp," Welf said with a grin, resting his greatsword on his shoulder. "This floor doesn't give second chances."
Bell nodded, his grip tightening on his sword as he scanned the misty surroundings. The fog seemed alive, shifting and twisting as if the dungeon itself was watching them. They were far from done, and the 10th floor wasn't about to let them leave unchallenged.
"More are coming!" Lili's urgent voice cut through the thick fog. Bell and Welf instinctively closed ranks, forming a protective triangle with Lili in the center. The mist hung heavily around them, swallowing all but the nearest shapes. The growls of approaching monsters echoed, bouncing eerily off the chamber walls.
The uneven ground beneath their feet shifted with each step—small patches of grass were interspersed with jagged stones and loose dirt. Bell tightened his grip on his sword, his knuckles whitening.
A snarl tore through the fog, and an Imp darted out, its glowing red eyes fixed on Bell.
"Rahh!"
The creature lunged, claws swiping toward him. Bell twisted his body, narrowly avoiding the attack, and countered with a quick slash of his sword. The blade sliced cleanly through the Imp's chest, and it let out a pained screech before collapsing into ash.
"Stay sharp!" Welf barked, his greatsword swinging in a wide arc to bisect another Imp that had tried to flank them. Blood sprayed onto the grass before the creature dissolved.
"They're circling us!" Lili warned, her voice tense as she scanned the fog with her crossbow.
Bell glanced at the horde emerging from the mist—dozens of Imps with hulking Orcs lumbering behind them. Their sheer numbers made the air feel heavier, and a cold knot of dread twisted in Bell's stomach.
"We're outnumbered!" Bell shouted, sweat dripping down his face.
"No kidding!" Welf replied, stepping forward to intercept an Imp that lunged at him. His greatsword cleaved through the monster with a single, brutal swing.
"We have to fall back!" Bell yelled, his eyes darting around for an escape route.
"Which way?" Welf asked, his tone edged with frustration as another Imp rushed him. He stepped back, avoiding its swipe, and slammed the flat of his blade into its head, sending it sprawling to the ground before finishing it off with a downward strike.
"Toward the 9th floor!" Bell replied, blocking an incoming attack from an Imp. He pushed the creature back, slashing across its torso as it staggered. "We need to regroup!"
An Imp leaped out of the fog, its claws aimed at Bell's face. He sidestepped, but the monster swiped again, leaving a shallow cut on his cheek. Bell clenched his teeth, frustration building as he took a step back, raised his hand, and channeled his magic.
"Firebolt!"
The spell surged through his palm, but instead of launching it, Bell held the energy in his hand. When the Imp lunged at him again, he swung his fist forward, delivering a fire-charged punch directly into the creature's chest. The impact sent the Imp flying, flames consuming its body mid-air before it disintegrated into ash.
Welf's voice snapped him out of the moment. "Don't get cocky! We're still surrounded!"
Lili fired a bolt from her crossbow, striking another Imp in the head before it could get too close. She glanced at Bell, her expression firm. "We need a plan, fast!"
The Orcs let out guttural roars as they began their charge, their massive clubs smashing against the ground and sending tremors through the chamber.
"Lili!" Bell shouted.
Lili nodded, grabbing a small round object from her backpack and hurling it toward the oncoming horde.
"Firebolt!" Bell shouted, thrusting his palm forward. The bolt of fire struck the object mid-air, triggering a fiery explosion that engulfed the front lines of monsters. The shockwave threw dirt and ash into the air, temporarily clearing a path.
"Move!" Bell barked, his voice sharp as he took the lead.
The trio sprinted through the opening, their footsteps crunching against the uneven ground. The mist began to thicken again, but they didn't stop. The growls of pursuing monsters echoed behind them, growing louder with every second.
"We're almost there!" Lili shouted, her voice strained.
Bell glanced back over his shoulder, spotting the glowing red eyes of the Imps and the hulking forms of Orcs closing in. Gritting his teeth, he picked up his pace, the uneven terrain threatening to trip him with every step.
The air shifted as they reached the stairwell leading back to the 9th floor. Bell turned, positioning himself at the rear to cover their retreat.
"Go!" he urged.
Welf and Lili made it out first, Welf's greatsword at the ready to defend the rear if needed. Bell followed quickly, keeping his sword raised in case the monsters pushed forward.
The trio finally emerged onto the 9th floor, the slightly clearer air and familiar terrain bringing a momentary sense of relief. They didn't stop moving, though—Lili led them to a defensible spot among a cluster of large stone formations.
Panting, Bell leaned against a rock, his sword still in hand. Welf sank to the ground beside him, resting his greatsword across his lap.
"That was too close," Welf muttered, wiping sweat from his brow.
Lili crouched nearby, her crossbow still in hand as she scanned their surroundings. "We need to be more careful if we're going to make it any deeper."
Bell nodded, his chest rising and falling as he caught his breath. "We'll figure out a plan... after we recover."
.
.
After catching their breath and tending to any minor wounds, Bell glanced at his companions. Welf sat with his greatsword resting against his shoulder, his expression thoughtful, while Lili checked their inventory, her sharp eyes scanning for anything they might need to restock.
Bell finally broke the silence. "So... what do you guys think? Should we keep going? Head back to the 10th floor?" His voice carried a mix of uncertainty and determination.
Welf snorted, shaking his head. "Bell, are you crazy? That floor is swarming with Orcs and Imps. We barely made it out alive last time."
Lili chimed in, her tone matter-of-fact. "We can't risk it, Bell-sama. The monsters there are too aggressive and too many. Our best option is to stick to the 9th floor for now. It's safer, and we can still gather resources."
Bell hesitated but eventually nodded. "You're right. We'll stay here and focus on what we can manage."
The trio rose up from their feet, dusting off their clothes as they continued on with their dungeon dive. As they explore the 9th floor, the visibility was already a lot better than that of the 10th floor. It was also mostly quiet with only a few monster encounters.
They encountered a few clusters of goblins and kobolds, the smaller monsters attacking in pairs and groups. Bell moved swiftly through them, his sword cutting clean arcs as he focused on precision rather than brute strength. Welf backed him up, his greatsword cleaving through multiple enemies with each swing, while Lili picked off stragglers with her crossbow.
"This floor is almost relaxing compared to the last one," Welf joked, wiping monster blood from his blade.
"Don't jinx it," Lili said sharply, glancing around with her crossbow at the ready. "We've still got a long way to go before we call it a day."
As they ventured deeper into the floor, they stumbled upon a swarm of Killer ants tucked into a corner of the labyrinth their red eyes glowed through he darkness. Soon they emerged from the shadows the creatures were larger than Bell remembered, their sharp mandibles clicking as they swarmed out and prepared to lunge at the three.
"Stay back!" Bell shouted, charging in to keep the ants away from Lili. He ducked under a snapping jaw, driving his sword into the creature's abdomen before pulling back to avoid another attack.
Welf swung his greatsword in wide arcs, breaking through the ants' tough exoskeletons with sheer force. "These things are tougher than they look!" he called out, grimacing as one tried to latch onto his leg.
Lili worked quickly, aiming for weak points in the ants' armor with her crossbow. "Aim for the joints! It's the fastest way to bring them down!" she called out, her voice steady despite the frantic battle around her.
Another Killer Ant rushed toward Bell, its jagged mandibles wide open as it lunged with terrifying force. Though its speed wasn't as fast as an arrow, the sheer size and weight behind the attack made it deadly. Bell reacted just in time, dodging to the side, but the creature's sharp mandibles grazed his left shoulder.
"Argh!" Bell winced, gritting his teeth as pain shot through his arm. Blood seeped from the shallow wound, staining his armor. He bit back the discomfort, forcing himself to focus. The ant twisted around to strike again, but Bell met it head-on, his sword flashing in a powerful arc that cleaved the monster in two.
His breathing was heavy, but there was no time to rest. The buzzing sound of the remaining ants grew louder, and Bell turned to see Welf locked in a fierce struggle. Welf swung his greatsword in broad strokes, taking down two ants at once, but the creatures kept coming, relentless in their attacks.
"Hang on, Welf!" Bell shouted, his determination pushing through the pain.
An ant lunged at Welf from behind, its mandibles poised to strike. Without thinking, Bell pushed off the ground with a loud thud, propelling himself forward. His boots skidded across the rough stone and dirt floor as he intercepted the creature, his sword clashing against its mandibles. The impact sent a shockwave up Bell's arm, but he held firm, using his strength to parry the ant away.
The creature staggered, giving Bell the opening he needed. "Firebolt!" he yelled, raising his hand and releasing a burst of fiery magic. The spell struck the ant dead-on, engulfing it in flames.
The remaining ants turned their attention toward Bell, their movements erratic and frenzied. Bell didn't hesitate. With a sharp pivot, he raised his palm again. "Firebolt!" Another burst of flame shot forward, hitting the group of monsters in quick succession. One by one, the Killer Ants fell, their charred bodies collapsing onto the floor.
As the last of the creatures died, silence returned to the corridor, broken only by Bell and Welf's labored breaths. Bell lowered his hand, his palm faintly smoking from the repeated spellcasting.
"Thanks for the save, Bell," Welf said, giving Bell a firm pat on the shoulder. His grin was tired but grateful. "You've got my back like a true bro."
Bell smiled, despite the lingering pain in his shoulder. "Of course. We're a team, right?"
Their camaraderie was short-lived, however, as they turned to check on Lili. She stood frozen a few meters away, her crossbow hanging loosely in her trembling hands. Her face was pale, and her eyes were wide with a mix of shock and fear.
"Lili?" Bell called out, concern etched in his voice. "What's wrong?"
She didn't answer, her gaze fixed on something ahead. Bell and Welf exchanged worried glances before following her line of sight.
Then they saw it.
A group of adventurers lay scattered across the ground, their bodies mangled and broken. The scene was brutal—large, gaping slashes ran across their torsos, some nearly cutting them in half. Blood pooled beneath them, fresh and glistening in the dim light of the misty corridor. The sight was enough to make Bell's stomach churn.
He staggered slightly, his knees weak. "What... what happened here?" he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.
Welf furrowed his brow, his jaw tightening as he looked away. "This wasn't done by any of the monsters we've faced," he said grimly. "These wounds... they're too clean, too precise."
"The blood hasn't even dried yet," Lili finally spoke, her voice shaky. "This just happened... not long ago. That's why the Killer Ants were swarming here—they were drawn to the scent of fresh blood."
Bell clenched his fists, his eyes darting between the bodies. "Then... something else is down here," he said, a cold sweat forming on his brow.
"Something that can kill adventurers like this," Welf added, his voice heavy with unease.
Lili crouched down, inspecting one of the wounds more closely. "These slashes... they're massive, almost as if a giant blade did this. But there's no sign of weapons or a struggle. Whatever attacked them must have been incredibly strong and fast."
The three of them stood in tense silence, the weight of the scene pressing down on them. The mist swirled around them, thick and oppressive, as if the dungeon itself was watching and waiting for its next move.
Bell tightened his grip on his sword, his earlier confidence now tinged with apprehension. "We need to stay together," he said firmly, his voice steady despite the fact that his heart was beating very fast.
"Agreed," Welf said, his hand resting on the hilt of his greatsword.
Lili nodded, though her hands still trembled. "Let's... let's move. We can't stay here."
As they turned to leave, the faint sound of something heavy moving echoed through the mist. It was distant but unmistakable. A slow, deliberate thud, followed by a low, guttural snort.
Bell's heart skipped a beat, his mind flashing back to the Minotaur he had encountered once before. He swallowed hard, his knuckles turning white as he gripped his weapon.
Whatever had caused the carnage before them, it was coming.
Bell stared into the dark hallway, his breathing shaky. It was just like before when he first encountered it—a menacing shadow emerged from the darkness. The air around him grew heavy as glowing red eyes pierced through the foggy gloom. The sheer bloodlust in its gaze sent chills down his spine.
Its massive horns came into view, sharp and threatening, cutting through the shadows.
Thump.
The sound of heavy footsteps echoed.
Thump.
The monster's weapon came next, dragging along the ground with a deep scraping sound. Then, the full shape of the beast stepped into the dim light of the dungeon—a minotaur. But it wasn't like the others Bell had heard about or seen before. Its fur was a deep crimson, marked with countless scars that told stories of violent battles. Its red eyes glowed like fire, and in its massive hand, it carried a jagged greatsword, far deadlier than anything Bell could imagine.
"A... A minotaur!?" Lili cried, her voice shaking.
"This is bad!" Welf shouted. "Bell, we need to move, now!" He grabbed Bell's arm and started pulling him.
"ROAAHHHH!"
The minotaur roared, its voice shaking the ground. It bent its powerful legs and launched itself forward like a boulder fired from a catapult.
"Run faster!" Welf yelled.
Bell risked a glance back and froze. The creature was already upon them, its heavy breaths hitting their backs.
"Move, move!" Welf's voice cracked as he turned just in time to see the minotaur raising its greatsword high.
CLANG!
The sound of metal clashing echoed as Bell, acting on pure instinct, swung his sword up and blocked the incoming strike. The force behind the attack was terrifying, nearly crushing him to his knees.
"Bell!?" Welf shouted.
"Run! Both of you, run!" Bell roared, his legs trembling under the pressure of the minotaur's strength. "I'll hold it off! Just go!"
"Bell-sama, no!" Lili cried, her voice filled with fear.
Bell didn't have time to argue. "Firebolt!" he shouted, releasing a fiery blast into the minotaur's chest. The flames exploded, forcing the beast to stumble back a few steps.
"Go, now!" Bell yelled again, his voice breaking from the strain.
But before he could take another breath, the minotaur growled and swung its massive fist, hitting Bell square in the stomach. The impact sent him flying backward, smashing him into the dungeon wall with a sickening crunch. Dust and debris filled the air as Bell crumpled to the ground, coughing and gasping for air.
"Bell-sama!" Lili screamed, trying to run to him.
Welf grabbed her arm and pulled her back. "We can't! We have to get help!"
"But Bell—"
"Trust him!" Welf shouted. "He fought the Silverback alone, didn't he? He'll survive this!"
Lili hesitated, her heart pounding. Tears welled in her eyes as she allowed Welf to drag her away, her gaze fixed on Bell's slumped figure in the distance.
The minotaur turned its attention back to Bell, snarling as it stomped toward him. Bell's vision blurred, but he forced himself to stand, leaning on his sword for support.
"I'm... not done yet," he muttered, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth.
The minotaur roared again, raising its sword for another crushing blow. Bell tightened his grip on his weapon, ready to fight until the very end.
The minotaur charged toward Bell, its massive greatsword swinging downward like a guillotine. Bell threw himself to the side, rolling across the grass and stone just as the blade carved into the ground, sending chunks of dirt and stone flying.
Bell stood, breathing heavily, his legs trembling from both pain and fear. He gripped his sword tightly, his knuckles white. The minotaur turned to face him, snorting hot air from its flared nostrils.
Bell breathed slowly, he calmed his mind as he felt his body getting lighter[Vereath Aevum]. He prepared his sword, as the minotaur lunged again, its greatsword cutting through the air as it swung horizontally. Bell ducked low, feeling the rush of air from the blade above him. He countered with a swift upward slash, aiming for its arm.
The blade connected, cutting into the beast's thick hide. Blood sprayed out, but the minotaur barely flinched. It snarled in anger and swiped its free hand at Bell, catching him off-guard. The massive fist collided with Bell's side, sending him skidding across the ground, his back slamming into a patch of stone.
"Gwah!" The blow cracked most of Bell's ribs, forcing him to cough up blood. The sharp, searing pain shot through his chest, but he forced himself to stay conscious. His mind raced, adrenaline surging as the Minotaur stomped toward him, each step pounding like a drumbeat of doom.
Bell planted his sword in the ground and clawed his way to his feet, his entire body trembling under the weight of the battle. His vision blurred, but his determination burned brighter than ever.
"No... I'm not done yet," he muttered, his fingers tightening around the hilt of his sword. His breathing steadied as he focused.
[Heroic Desire]flared to life. A faint white aura enveloped his body, flickering like a fire in the wind. Every ache, every bruise, and every ounce of fear—it all became fuel for his will to fight.
"Come!" Bell roared, his voice echoing through the chamber.
The Minotaur bellowed in response, raising its massive greatsword high into the air. The weapon gleamed with deadly intent as it came down in a devastating arc.
Instead of dodging, Bell stepped forward, angling his blade to meet the attack. His sword clashed against the beast's weapon, deflecting the swing just enough to send the greatsword crashing into the ground beside him. The shockwave from the impact rattled his bones, but he held firm.
"Not yet!" Bell growled, seizing the opening.
With a burst of speed, he slid under the Minotaur's arm, his blade slicing into the back of its knee. The cut was deep, and the creature stumbled, roaring in pain.
But the victory was short-lived. The Minotaur spun around, its massive elbow striking Bell square in the chest. The force of the blow was like a freight train, knocking the wind out of him and sending him skidding across the dirt-stone floor.
Bell gasped for air, clutching his chest as he struggled to rise. His legs felt like lead, refusing to move. The Minotaur loomed over him, its eyes glowing with murderous rage.
"No... I can't..." Bell whispered, raising his trembling hand. He began to chant, his voice weak but resolute.
"Fi-Firebo—"
Before he could finish, the Minotaur grabbed his outstretched arm in its vice-like grip. The boy cried out in pain as the beast lifted him effortlessly into the air.
With its free hand, the Minotaur gripped Bell's face, its claws digging into his skin. Then, with a guttural roar, it slammed him into the ground.
Once.
Twice.
Three times.
Each impact sent shockwaves through the chamber, leaving cracks in the ground beneath them. Blood splattered from Bell's mouth as his body was battered and broken.
"Ugh... no..." Bell groaned, his vision fading in and out. But even in the face of overwhelming pain, his spirit refused to break.
The Minotaur paused, raising Bell to eye level as if savoring its victory.
That moment was all Bell needed.
Through the haze of pain, Bell gritted his teeth and clenched his free fist. The faint white aura of[Heroic Desire]surged brighter, feeding off his determination. His crimson eyes glowed fiercely between the beast's bloodied fingers.
"You... made a mistake!" Bell growled.
A ball of flame began to form in his raised hand, growing larger and more concentrated with every passing second. The accumulated damage, the pain, and the fury all funneled into a single point of pure power.
"[Heroic Desire]—FIREBOLT!"
The flame erupted from his palm, slamming into the Minotaur's face at point-blank range.
The explosion was deafening. Flames engulfed the beast's head, forcing it to release Bell and stumble back. It roared in agony, clawing at its smoldering face as smoke and embers filled the air.
Bell collapsed onto the ground, gasping for breath. His body screamed in protest, but he forced himself onto his hands and knees. His vision was blurred, but he could see the Minotaur still standing, though it was clearly disoriented and in pain.
"This... isn't over," Bell muttered, gripping the hilt of his sword tightly.
The beast turned its burning gaze back toward him, its rage reignited. The skin on the side of the minotaur's face was gone, exposing raw muscle.
Bell's aura flickered weakly, but his resolve remained unshaken.
Welf and Lili will come back for him, he just knew. But, he had to hold out until help arrives.
"Just a little longer," Bell muttered to himself.
It's either wait for help, or defeat the minotaur himself, he chose the latter.
"Come on!" he yelled, steadying himself for the next round. "Let's finish this!"
The Minotaur huffed, its crimson eyes narrowing as if acknowledging Bell's resolve. The tension in the air was palpable, their unspoken agreement clear—this was the final clash.
"GROAAAAAAAHHH!"
The Minotaur's deafening roar shook the cavern, the very ground trembling beneath them. Bell tightened his grip on his sword, his rubellite eyes locked onto the beast as it hefted its massive weapon once more. Each of its movements felt like a thunderous drumbeat.
Bell took a deep breath, his sword pointed toward his towering foe. Their gazes met, unyielding and fierce.
"HAA!"
"GROAAAH!"
Both let out a battle cry, charging toward each other with all they had left.
"FIREBOLT!" Bell shouted, unleashing three rapid bolts of fire in quick succession. The fiery projectiles streaked toward the Minotaur, exploding on impact and engulfing the beast in a dense cloud of smoke.
Bell didn't wait to see the result. He surged forward, his boots skidding across the dirt and stone as he slid under a wild, sweeping slash from the Minotaur's greatsword. The weapon's blade sliced through the air just above him, narrowly missing.
Coming out of the slide, Bell spun on his heel and rose to his feet, now positioned directly behind the beast. He let out a guttural roar of his own as he swung his sword with every ounce of strength he could muster.
The blade struck true, carving a deep, jagged gash across the Minotaur's back. Blood sprayed in an arc as the beast roared in pain, staggering forward from the force of the blow.
But the Minotaur wasn't finished. Snarling, it turned with terrifying speed, its glowing red eyes burning with fury. Bell tried to leap backward, but the beast's massive hand shot out, grabbing him by the face once again.
"Urgh—!" Bell's muffled cry escaped as the Minotaur's nails dug into his skin.
The beast raised its weapon high with its free hand, the blade poised to crush him. Bell's eyes widened. He needed to act—now.
Thinking quickly, Bell gritted his teeth and angled his sword, driving its tip into the Minotaur's wrist. The blade pierced flesh, and Bell twisted it violently, slashing to the side.
"GROOOOOHH!"
The Minotaur howled in agony, releasing Bell as its blood sprayed across the cavern walls. Its injured wrist thrashed wildly, spraying crimson as it slammed the limb onto the ground, nearly crushing Bell in the process.
The beast's greatsword slipped from its grasp, crashing onto the ground with a resoundingclang.
Bell scrambled to his feet, clutching his bruised ribs. He coughed, each breath a sharp reminder of his battered state. But he couldn't stop now.
The Minotaur glared at him, its rage unrelenting despite the severe injuries. Blood dripped from its wrist and back, pooling at its feet. Yet its stance remained firm, an unyielding monument of brute strength and durability.
"Not yet," Bell muttered, raising his sword once more. "We're not done."
The Minotaur snarled, blood dripping from its mangled wrist. Undeterred by the pain, it reached down for its greatsword once more. Bell's sharp eyes caught the motion, and he acted on instinct.
With a burst of speed, he lunged forward, his sword flashing in an arc. The blade cleaved through the Minotaur's remaining hand with a sickening crunch.
"GRAAAAHHH!" The beast roared, not in pain but in seething rage.
Its eyes burned brighter as it dropped to all fours, its powerful legs coiling like springs. The ground beneath its hooves cracked as it launched itself at Bell with terrifying speed.
Bell moved to sidestep the charge, but his legs betrayed him—bruised, battered, and barely able to hold his weight. He gritted his teeth, knowing he couldn't avoid it.
I can't move! I have to brace for impac-!
He planted his feet firmly and braced his sword, aiming to intercept the beast's razor-sharp horns. The impact came like a tidal wave.
"Urgh—!"
The Minotaur's full weight and force drove Bell backward, slamming him into the dungeon wall. The sheer force of the collision sent a cloud of dust and debris into the air, obscuring them from sight.
The sharp, suffocating scent of blood and sweat filled Bell's nose as he struggled to breathe. The horn pressed dangerously close to his chest, his arms trembling as they bore the brunt of the Minotaur's unrelenting power.
"RAAAHH!" Bell roared, his voice a mixture of defiance and desperation. He poured every ounce of strength into his arms, trying to pry the Minotaur's head away. His muscles screamed in protest, but he didn't let up.
[Heroic Desire]ignited within him, the faint white aura surging brighter. Every wound, every bruise, every broken rib—it all became fuel for his resolve.
"Get... OFF ME!"
Bell shifted his weight, planting his shoulder against the beast's neck while twisting his sword. With a surge of adrenaline, he managed to push the Minotaur back just enough to break free from its crushing charge.
Staggering forward, Bell's gaze locked onto the beast. The Minotaur stumbled momentarily but quickly regained its balance, pawing at the ground with its hooves as it prepared for another charge.
Bell's breaths came in ragged gasps, his vision blurred at the edges, threatening to fade. He gritted his teeth, forcing himself to stay upright. His body screamed in protest, every bruise and broken rib begging him to stop, but his resolve held firm.
He wasn't done. Not yet.
Taking a deep breath, Bell calmed himself, scanning his surroundings with razor-sharp focus. Amidst the dust and scattered debris, his eyes locked onto the Minotaur's great sword lying a few meters away. Its massive blade glinted faintly in the dim dungeon light, a weapon meant for monsters, not humans.
The Minotaur snarled, pawing at the ground like a bull ready to charge. Its body was battered and bloodied, yet its rage hadn't diminished—it was ready to finish this.
Bell didn't have time to think. As the Minotaur roared and charged again, he raised his hand instinctively.
"FIREBOLT!"
The fiery explosion erupted point-blank in front of the charging beast, creating a blinding cloud of smoke. Using the brief distraction, Bell pushed his aching legs forward, stumbling but determined.
His hand gripped the hilt of the great sword, the weight of the weapon almost overwhelming him. Sheathing his Hestia Sword, he used all his strength to lift the massive blade. His arms quivered under the strain, but he steadied himself.
The smoke began to clear, revealing the Minotaur once again. Its glowing red eyes burned with fury as it stomped toward him, undeterred. Bell planted his feet, holding the greatsword in front of him.
He exhaled sharply, forcing his battered body into a stance. This was it. No magic, no tricks—just him, and his unyielding determination.
The Minotaur lunged, its sheer size and speed causing the ground to tremble. Bell tightened his grip on the greatsword, waiting for the perfect moment.
"HAAAH!"
With a roar of his own, Bell swung the massive blade, channeling every ounce of strength he had left. The blade connected with the Minotaur's charging shoulder, slicing deep into its flesh and sending a spray of blood into the air. The beast stumbled to the side but retaliated immediately, swinging its massive body.
Bell dodged to the side and swung the greatsword again. The blade struck the Minotaur's thigh, cutting deep and forcing it to one knee. But before Bell could press the attack further, the Minotaur, despite having no hands, lunged forward and kicked him with its powerful legs.
"GUAAHH!"
The force of the kick sent Bell flying backward, slamming into the ground a few meters away. He skidded to a stop, coughing up blood as he struggled to push himself back up. His arms trembled, his shirt torn and stained with blood, but he refused to let the pain stop him.
The Minotaur snorted, its red eyes glowing with rage as it charged again, using its sheer weight and speed as a weapon. Bell forced himself to his feet, dragging the greatsword with him. He knew he couldn't afford to take another hit like that.
As the beast closed the distance, Bell planted his feet firmly and raised the greatsword.
"HRRRAAAH!"
He swung with all his might, the blade meeting the Minotaur's horn with a deafeningclang. The impact sent shockwaves through his arms, and the greatsword shattered into pieces, fragments scattering across the dungeon floor.
Bell's eyes widened, but he didn't falter. With the broken sword's momentum, he twisted his body and slid to the side, narrowly evading the Minotaur's charge. Its sharp horn grazed his chest, tearing through his shirt and skin, leaving a deep cut. Blood trickled down, but Bell gritted his teeth and pushed forward.
As he slid past the Minotaur, he unsheathed the Hestia Sword, gripping it tightly in his hand.
"THIS ENDS NOW!"
Bell lunged forward, driving the Hestia Sword deep into the Minotaur's stomach with everything he had left. The beast roared in agony, its massive body convulsing as it thrashed violently, but Bell refused to let go.
"[Heroic Desire]—FIREBOLT!"
Crimson energy surged from his hand into the blade, coursing through the Minotaur's body like a raging inferno. The light from the sword illuminated Bell's bloodied face, his eyes blazing with unyielding determination.
For a brief, almost surreal moment, silence filled the air.
Then, the Minotaur exploded.
Flames erupted from within the beast, engulfing it in a fiery inferno. The shockwave from the blast sent Bell hurtling backward, his body slamming into the cold, unforgiving ground. He landed hard, the impact knocking the wind out of him as the dungeon quaked from the force of the explosion.
When the flames finally subsided, the Minotaur's massive form was gone. Only a scattering of ashes remained, fading into the dungeon air like smoke.
Bell lay motionless on the ground, his chest rising and falling in uneven, ragged breaths. Every inch of his body screamed in pain, and blood oozed from the gash across his chest. His shirt was reduced to torn scraps barely clinging to his battered frame.
It was over.
The dungeon floor was eerily quiet now, littered with scorch marks and debris—a grim reminder of the brutal battle that had just ended. Bell forced himself to move, groaning as he rolled onto his side. His trembling hand pressed against the ground as he tried to push himself up.
"BwuAgh!" He lurched forward, vomiting blood. The sudden motion sent a sharp, searing pain through his chest, and he crumpled back down. His hands shook violently as he tried to catch himself.
"I… won…" he rasped, a faint, delirious smile forming on his bloodied lips.
But victory felt hollow. The dungeon's oppressive silence loomed over him, a stark contrast to the chaos just moments before. Bell's strength ebbed away, his arms giving out as he collapsed fully onto the cold, bloodstained floor.
His vision blurred, the edges darkening as exhaustion overtook him. The pounding in his head drowned out any coherent thought. He knew he had lost too much blood—his body was shutting down.
As the world around him started to fade, faint sounds broke through the haze. Footsteps.
Voices followed. Urgent. Familiar.
"Bell!"
That voice. Ais?
Through his foggy vision, Bell thought he saw a glimmer of golden hair, shining even in the dim light of the dungeon. It was hazy and dreamlike, but the sight filled him with a faint, fleeting sense of comfort.
"Bell!"
Another voice, frantic and desperate.
"Bell-sama, are you okay?!"
Welf? Lili?
Relief washed over him in waves. They were safe. He could feel their presence—real, warm, alive. Hands gripped his shoulders, voices growing louder and more frantic around him.
Bell's lips moved, his voice barely a whisper. "I… won..."
The warmth of his allies surrounded him, grounding him in the moment, but his body had reached its limit. His head lolled to the side, his eyelids fluttering shut as he finally succumbed to the darkness, letting the exhaustion pull him into unconsciousness.
- ʟɪᴛᴛʟᴇ ʀᴏᴏᴋɪᴇ -