Adventurer of Orario
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Naruto x ?
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Story Start
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A soft creak echoed through the Hestia Familia church as dawn's light poured in through the newly repaired windows. The once-ruined sanctuary now boasted a fresh coat of paint, mended pews, and a sense of vibrancy. In one corner, carpenters—paid with the Familia's recent windfall—were finishing the last beams for a second-floor sleeping area. The rhythmic hammering felt like a heartbeat, drumming with new life.
Naruto Uzumaki, standing near the altar, gazed at it all with a mixture of pride and gratitude. Not so long ago, he and Hestia had slept in cold shadows, scraping by on half-rotten bread. Now, they had resources, allies, and a growing reputation. He'd become a Level 2 adventurer faster than nearly anyone in recent memory.
A swirl of warm energy thrummed in his belly as he formed a Ram seal with practiced ease. In a quiet puff, a single identical copy of himself appeared. The clone glanced around the open hall, then gave a cheerful grin.
"Morning, boss," it said.
Naruto dismissed it with a wave; he was still pacing himself with clones for now, especially when not out in the field. The knowledge that each clone could channel not only his chakra but also, in some capacity, the synergy from his Falna, had opened doors Naruto never thought possible. Harvest Crest, his sub-skill, already multiplied the monster materials he gathered. If each clone wielded that same advantage, the potential for farming monster stones and loot soared exponentially.
Hestia entered from the hallway, eyes lighting up at the sight of the dissipating clone. "Practicing early again?" she asked, pushing a stray lock of black hair behind her ear. She wore a simple white dress—her usual attire, though now with a small tool belt around her waist, courtesy of her recent involvement in renovation projects.
"Yeah," Naruto replied, stretching his arms. "I can make four clones at once without exhausting myself too much now. In the Dungeon, they're a game-changer. I just need to refine how I use them to gather resources safely."
Hestia's gaze was gentle but knowing. "And you're thinking of turning that into a financial strategy, right? Your mind's been whirling with ideas ever since you realized how synergy works with the clones."
A sheepish grin tugged at his lips. "Guilty as charged. You know me. I want to help us grow faster—get better gear, expand the Familia, and maybe even start paying back some folks who believed in me when I first got here."
"Just don't wear yourself out," she cautioned, stepping closer to lay a hand on his arm. "We've seen how ambitious you can be. But I trust you."
Naruto felt warmth flow through him, remembering how critical Hestia's faith had been. "I promise to pace myself. But I won't let this opportunity slip away."
A sudden knock at the church's front doors startled them both. "That might be Geoff or Rhea," Hestia noted. "They said they'd come by to discuss some new quests."
Naruto nodded, inhaling a breath of anticipation. His mind was already racing—Shadow Clones combing multiple Dungeon floors was reminiscent of Rasenshuriken training all over again. Soon weeks if not months of resource gathering will be condensed into days.
Naruto pulled open the heavy wooden doors, expecting to see the familiar faces of his adventuring companions. Instead, he found Eirene, the minor goddess known for her focus on peace and negotiation. She stood beside an older dwarven craftsman, both of them wearing polite smiles—if somewhat anxious ones.
"Hope we're not intruding," Eirene began, her silver hair catching the morning sun. "We heard about the renovations and wanted to see how the Hestia Familia was faring."
Hestia came forward, beaming. "Eirene! It's been a while. Please, come in." She noticed the dwarf. "And you must be…?"
He gave a slight bow, leathery hands gripping a cloth cap. "Name's Bronn. I'm a traveling artisan who sometimes helps with odd jobs for smaller Familias. Lady Eirene said I might be of use here."
Naruto greeted them warmly, showing them around the refurbished interior. Bronn peered at the carpenters' work, occasionally nodding or pointing out ways to reinforce certain beams. Eirene looked genuinely pleased at how the church had blossomed into a bright communal space.
As they toured, the conversation shifted to the topic of finances. Eirene, known for mediating disputes, also kept her ear to the ground regarding Orario's economic undercurrents. "Some of the lesser-known Familias are struggling," she admitted, voice tinged with concern. "They can't afford to fix their compounds, or they're stuck paying inflated prices for supplies. Your rapid success has raised eyebrows—and perhaps some envy."
Hestia sighed, exchanging a glance with Naruto. "We've been fortunate with our quest rewards and Naruto's synergy skill. But we can't deny it's tough out there."
Eirene nodded, turning to Naruto. "I also hear rumors of your new capacity: using clones to gather materials in the Dungeon. People are calling it 'the unstoppable harvest.' Are you prepared for what that might entail?"
Naruto scratched the back of his head, half-embarrassed. "I didn't realize it was big news yet. I guess word travels fast around Orario. But yes, I'm working on a technique to speed up the rate at which we gather monster drops. My clones can fight independently, and each uses my Falna synergy."
Bronn let out a low whistle. "That's no small thing, lad. If you can harvest double or triple the materials in a single run, you'll have coin flowing like water."
He hesitated, thinking of potential backlash. "I'm aware it might cause friction with established Familias, especially the ones controlling resource monopolies. But I've always believed competition can be healthy. People are free to do their own thing."
Eirene's expression grew somber. "Still, be cautious. Wealth can stir greed in mortal hearts—and gods' hearts as well."
A short silence stretched, broken only by the distant hammering of carpenters. Naruto felt Hestia's reassuring presence at his side, and he was reminded that not every deity was as gentle as she. Freya's letter, he thought grimly.
Finally, Hestia cleared her throat. "We do appreciate the concern, Eirene. But for now, we plan to keep forging ahead. Perhaps we can use our growing resources to help some smaller Familias too—like a cooperative network?"
Naruto nodded enthusiastically. "That's a great idea. I've always believed in alliances. We can buy or sell raw materials from them at fair rates, share the wealth. If I can help them fix their compounds like we did ours…"
Bronn's eyes lit up. "That's philanthropic. But also business-savvy. If you gain a reputation for fairness, you'll attract more allies—and more deals."
Eirene smiled softly. "Ever the peacemaker, Hestia. And Naruto, I see your convictions haven't dulled. Very well. Bronn here can coordinate with your carpenters, perhaps help you expand your training area. Consider it a small favor from me."
Naruto offered a grateful bow. "Thank you, Eirene. We'll do our best not to misuse this opportunity."
She and the dwarf left soon after, satisfied with the church's progress. Once the doors closed behind them, Naruto turned to Hestia. "Time to get to work on this idea of building an economic network. Let's gather Rhea, Geoff, and Sophia. I want their input on how to manage this influx of materials."
Hestia laughed softly, hooking a finger under the ribbon beneath her chest. "You're turning into quite the entrepreneur. Or maybe a feudal lord."
Naruto just grinned, an electric excitement pulsing in his veins. If this goes well, we can reshape the city's adventuring economy—and help others while we're at it.
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The next day, Naruto stood in the courtyard behind the church—a space once choked with rubble, now cleared and level, perfect for training. Geoff, Rhea, and Sophia had gathered at his request, forming a loose circle. Hestia sat on a repaired bench nearby, eager to witness their brainstorming session.
"I appreciate you all coming," Naruto began, voice calm but charged with energy. "We've had a lot of success in the Dungeon lately, and that's opened up a chance to earn valis at a scale we never imagined. But we need a plan—a system—to sustain that growth without overextending ourselves or drawing unwelcome attention."
Sophia crossed her arms, her rapier clinking against her hip. "I heard about your clones collecting monster drops. That's a neat trick, but how do we keep from flooding the market? Prices might drop if we dump too many materials at once."
Geoff nodded. "Yeah, too much supply means less demand, right?"
Naruto tapped his chin. "Exactly. Which is why we should approach smaller Familias or independent crafters, people who typically get overshadowed by big Familia deals. We can supply them consistently, at fair prices. They'll gain stable stock, and we maintain good margins without crashing the market."
Rhea, hugging her staff, spoke hesitantly. "So, you want to bypass the typical Guild Exchange system for some of the materials?"
Hestia chimed in, voice thoughtful. "The Guild is still essential for magic stones—officially, we must exchange them for valis. But items like monster hide, claws, fangs, or special drops can be sold in the open market. Many smiths and alchemists prefer private deals if it means better quality or stable supply. It's perfectly legal, as long as taxes are paid. The difference is we can do so in an equitable way."
Sophia gave a wry grin. "Seems you're building your own mini-empire, Naruto. So how do we start?"
Naruto spread a rough map of Orario's districts on a wooden crate. "Bronn, the dwarf Eirene introduced, has connections with certain artisans who can't compete with big Familia contracts. We'll approach them first, see if they want to buy direct. If they do, we can supply them with consistent materials weekly."
He traced a line across the map to the city's eastern quarter. "I also know a blacksmith named Derrin who once gave me a small discount when I was new. He's overshadowed by Hephaestus and Goibniu Familias, but he's skilled. He told me if I ever had a stable supply of hides, he'd make me gear at cost. That's a perfect example."
Rhea leaned forward. "But we're only a handful of adventurers. Even with your clones, how do we gather enough materials every single week?"
A flicker of excitement lit Naruto's eyes. "That's where Shadow Clones come in. I can create four to five stable clones at a time—maybe more if I keep training. Each clone can dive to the upper floors to farm, or accompany a party to the middle floors. They each have my Falna synergy, meaning every finishing blow triggers additional drops. It's like having multiple 'Narutos' farming simultaneously."
Sophia whistled, impressed. "It sounds insane, but if you can handle it, that's a huge advantage."
He shrugged. "I'll need strategic management. The clones share my stamina bar in a way, and if they're destroyed, I lose their collected knowledge—though any physical loot they've pocketed remains behind if stored properly. We'll have to figure out the best approach. But with a rotating schedule, we can keep the supply chain consistent."
Hestia nodded. "And we can also sponsor lower-level Hestia Familia members once we recruit them. Imagine a newbie who normally has trouble collecting enough drops to sustain themselves. They can team up with a single Naruto clone, gain confidence, and funnel materials up the chain."
Geoff scratched his chin. "Sounds complicated, but profitable. Count me in. I could use stable pay to upgrade my armor."
Rhea offered a shy smile. "I'm willing too, if you don't mind me healing the clones when they're wounded. It's a bit odd, healing illusions—uh, clones, I mean—but if it helps—"
"It does," Naruto assured her. "The clones might not be illusions in the typical sense, but they have real bodies until dispelled. Your healing spells can keep them in the fight longer, thus collecting more materials."
Sophia laughed, slapping a hand on Naruto's shoulder. "You cunning fox, you. You're basically turning us into a micro-company. Just don't forget your friends when the valis rolls in."
Naruto's eyes sparkled with sincerity. "Never. The whole point is to lift us all up. We'll be the most welcoming Familia in Orario—protecting the overlooked, forging alliances, and maybe changing a few minds about what it means to be an adventurer."
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Within days, Naruto and Hestia took the first concrete steps toward building their new economic network. While contractors finished the church's renovations, Naruto recruited Geoff and Rhea to serve as intermediaries for forging connections in the city. Meanwhile, Sophia volunteered to help him refine the multi-team approach for Dungeon runs, as she had a knack for logistics.
Naruto, with Geoff at his side, made a series of visits across Orario's lesser-traveled alleys. They stopped by unassuming workshops hidden between larger forges. Many were run by solitary artisans scraping out a living—blacksmiths who specialized in unique designs but lacked a steady supply of monster hides, tanners forced to accept low-paying contracts, or alchemists overlooked by bigger Familia.
At each stop, Naruto introduced himself politely, explaining he had access to consistent, high-quality materials from the upper and middle floors. He offered stable prices—lower than the extortionate rates demanded by some big Familia but fair enough to earn the Hestia Familia healthy profit. Those artisans, starved for reliability, often jumped at the chance.
A short, wiry woman named Tessa, known for her intricate monster-leather armor, summed it up best. "I can't compete with Hephaestus shops on marketing, but if I get reliable hides, I can undercut their custom jobs. You help me, I help you." She shook Naruto's hand, her eyes shining with renewed hope.
While Naruto scouted deals, Sophia took Rhea down to the Dungeon's seventh floor to train her in small-scale farming. Rhea needed the confidence, and Sophia was a swift teacher. Soon, Rhea learned to manage small skirmishes while Sophia delivered finishing blows. Their synergy improved, building trust and speed. They collected modest drops each day—enough to test the new arrangement.
By the second week, Naruto had laid out a formal schedule:
Morning runs: Two clones would lead small parties (like Rhea, or newly recruited low-level members) through the fifth to eighth floors. They'd gather materials until midday.
Afternoon runs: Another two clones accompanied higher-level adventurers (such as Sophia or Geoff) to the ninth or tenth floor, picking off mid-tier monsters like Frog Shooters and War Shadows for more valuable loot.
Naruto (the real one) would occasionally delve deeper, sometimes the eleventh or twelfth floor, if a quest or specialized drop was needed.
Through careful note-taking, Naruto tracked each clone's experiences, using the memory transfer from dispelled clones to refine strategies.
Hestia oversaw the warehousing of materials. The newly renovated basement of the church became a secure storage area, with strong locks and an organized system of crates. Rhea practiced basic record-keeping, logging each day's haul. Geoff organized rotating shifts to transport materials to crafters around dusk, avoiding any large, suspicious caravans that might alert envious Familias.
Sophia, never one to relish bureaucracy, nonetheless admitted the system was slick. "You're basically an army of you," she joked, elbowing Naruto after a successful run. "Who needs a huge Familia if you can replicate yourself and coordinate it all?"
He grinned. "Still, I can't do everything alone. You guys are the real MVPs, making sure my clones don't get overwhelmed."
That day, they returned with a trove of hides and magic stones. Hestia, waiting at the church entrance, burst with pride at the haul. She embraced Naruto, momentarily forgetting any reservations about overshadowing bigger Familias.
Within a fortnight, the Hestia Familia became a quiet powerhouse in Orario's monster materials market. Small shops sang their praises, placing orders in advance. Valis began flowing in. Enough to not only finish the church's renovations but also plan expansions: a proper library for magical research, a training yard for novices, even the first hints of building a dormitory wing for future recruits.
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One late afternoon, Naruto found himself descending the eighth floor corridor with three clones at his side. The plan was to gather large quantities of Lizardman hides for Tessa's workshop. Thanks to Harvest Crest synergy, each finishing blow from any Naruto meant double drops. The clones advanced in formation, scanning for threats.
A shrill hiss echoed off the damp walls. A pack of four Lizardmen emerged, brandishing crude weapons. The real Naruto grinned, forming the Ram seal. "We do this quick, guys."
The clones nodded as one. They fanned out, cornering the Lizardmen. Two clones rushed in with coordinated sword strikes. Another clone leaped overhead, hurling a handful of thrown knives. The real Naruto circled, launching a diagonal slash that severed one Lizardman's arm. It shrieked, dissolving in a swirl of black dust.
Harvest Crest flared. Two extra hide scraps materialized amid the dust, which the nearest clone scooped up. Another Lizardman lunged at the real Naruto from behind, only to be tackled by a clone. The synergy-laced final blow came from Naruto's sword, dropping the monster instantly. More hide pieces shimmered.
Within minutes, the corridor lay quiet, the Lizardmen vanquished. Naruto gathered the spoils, feeling a surge of satisfaction. This is almost too efficient, he mused, noticing only minor scuffs on his armor. But just as he was about to press on, he heard a faint cry from down the tunnel.
"Help… someone…!"
Naruto exchanged a glance with his clones. They rushed toward the voice, rounding a bend to discover a battered adventurer pinned under rubble. Blood trickled from his scalp, and a broken sword lay nearby. Another adventurer—presumably his companion—lay unconscious a short distance away.
Wasting no time, Naruto had one clone lift the debris while another stabilized the unconscious partner. He crouched beside the wounded man. "Hang in there. We'll get you out."
The man coughed, eyes flickering with pain. "S-snake woman… ambush… She took our loot and collapsed the corridor."
Naruto's brow furrowed. A rogue adventurer? Possibly from a rival Familia or a freelance thief. "We'll handle it. Let's get you to safety first."
Working together, the clones carefully freed both men. After tying bandages around their wounds, Naruto escorted them back toward the seventh-floor safe zone. That's when they found fresh footprints leading deeper into the eighth floor—a sign of the so-called "snake woman." He debated pursuing her, but the immediate priority was these men's safety.
Still, the incident left him uneasy. If adventurers are turning bandit, maybe the Dungeon's competition is fiercer than I realized, he thought. The city's big Familias usually policed the upper floors. But apparently, not well enough.
He parted ways with the injured duo at a safe zone, ensuring they were stable and giving them some leftover potions. They thanked him profusely, promising to repay him. Naruto only nodded, urging them to find a proper healer on the surface.
Returning to gather Lizardman hides, he mulled over the shift in Orario's atmosphere. The Hestia Familia's new wealth might be inspiring copycats or cutthroats who wanted a piece of the pie. If his success disrupted the old status quo, not everyone would respond kindly.
When he finally hauled the day's spoils back to the church, he found Hestia talking with Rhea about a wave of petty thefts reported near the Dungeon entrance. Geoff sat by, looking grim.
"Seems some unscrupulous folks are taking advantage of novices, stealing their loot," Rhea explained. "The Guild's concerned but can't patrol every corridor."
Naruto folded his arms, recounting his earlier encounter. "I ran into that. A so-called 'snake woman' ambushed two adventurers. They almost died."
Hestia's face fell. "Naruto, we can't let that stand. If people think it's open season to rob or kill novices for resources…"
He nodded, an iron resolve forming. "Our Familia stands for helping the overlooked, right? Let's do something about it. We can use our newfound influence and clones to keep watch. Maybe we'll capture these bandits, or at least deter them."
Geoff cracked a wry smile. "Who'd have thought we'd become vigilantes on top of everything else?"
Rhea shook her head but smiled softly. "It's very you, Naruto—protecting the vulnerable. Count me in."
Hestia's eyes shone with pride. "Then it's settled. We'll guard those who need it, and keep forging alliances with folks who fall through the cracks."
Naruto met her gaze, heart swelling. This is exactly why I came here, he thought. To do better, to protect people like I once promised. With an economy of synergy, an army of clones, and a heart set on justice, he felt unstoppable—yet mindful that real challenges lay ahead.
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A few days later, the Hestia Familia put their plan into action. Naruto, accompanied by Sophia, Rhea, and a pair of Shadow Clones, patrolled the seventh and eighth floors. Their official reason was monster-farming, but they also had a covert objective: root out the snake woman rumored to be robbing novice adventurers.
They soon discovered that her presence was more extensive than one incident. Multiple battered adventurers recounted a tall, lithe woman with serpent-like eyes and a whip sword who attacked swiftly, seizing their loot, and vanishing deeper into the Dungeon. Each story stoked Naruto's anger.
Late one afternoon, while investigating a side corridor, they found fresh carnage: a small party of novices left moaning on the ground, pockets stripped of stones, one unlucky soul pinned by a dagger to the wall. Sophia grimaced, carefully removing the blade and tending the wound with a basic salve.
"Any sign of her?" Naruto asked the injured adventurer, a trembling elf girl.
"She…ran that way," the elf whispered, pointing to a narrow passage. "Said something about selling the loot to black-market buyers."
Naruto's jaw tightened. "We're on it. Hang in there."
Leaving Rhea to heal them, Naruto and Sophia signaled the clones to follow. They sprinted into the labyrinth of tunnels, tracking faint footprints. The corridor twisted abruptly, descending to a small chamber lit by a single glowing crystal. The hair on Naruto's neck prickled—this place felt like a trap.
A sudden hiss sliced the air. A slender figure stepped from the shadows, green eyes glinting like polished jade. Her long hair was braided into a rope, a single scale-like ornament dangling at her temple. She wore dark leathers that clung to her lithe form, and in her hand, a whip-like blade—folded metal segments that could strike at range.
"So, you're the meddling Hestia brats," she said, voice dripping with disdain. "Came to be heroes, have you?"
Sophia raised her rapier, tension radiating from her every muscle. "More like came to stop a thief."
Naruto formed a clone behind him, grip tightening on his sword. "Why are you doing this? There are safer ways to earn valis than robbing novices."
She sneered. "You don't know a thing. My Familia cast me aside when I refused to bend to their cruelty. Now, I take what I need."
Naruto's eyes narrowed. "That doesn't justify leaving people bleeding in the Dungeon."
A savage grin twisted her lips. "Spare me your morality. Maybe I'll just rob you, too." With a flick of her wrist, the whip-sword unraveled, snapping toward Naruto.
He reacted fast, diving aside. The metal segments crashed against the stone floor, leaving a deep gouge. Sophia lunged at the opening, thrusting her rapier at the woman's flank, but the whip-sword pivoted like a serpent, forcing her back. Naruto's clone flanked from behind, but the bandit spun, delivering a cunning blow that nearly took the clone's head.
The real Naruto summoned a second clone, synergy crackling. "We don't have to fight to the death," he insisted, but his voice wavered, unsure if she'd relent.
"Death is part of the Dungeon," the woman spat, whipping her sword in a wide arc. "I won't surrender to some do-gooder children."
Sophia grimaced. "She's not giving up, Naruto."
He nodded, focusing chakra and Falna synergy into his limbs. "Then let's subdue her. Just try not to kill her."
The ensuing clash was swift and fierce. The woman's agility rivaled Sophia's, each strike a lethal flourish. Naruto's clones tried to corner her, but she used the segmented blade to keep them at bay. Sparks flew as metal met metal. She launched a downward slash at one clone, severing it in a burst of smoke. Yet that momentary victory exposed her side. The real Naruto struck, Harvest Crest flickering on his blade. She twisted with almost inhuman grace, the blow grazing her ribs instead of landing a solid hit.
Growling in pain, she retreated a step. Sophia capitalized, stabbing for her leg. The woman hissed, abruptly changing tactics—her blade snapped back into a short-sword form, and she tossed a small sphere to the ground, unleashing a noxious plume of smoke. Sophia coughed, eyes watering.
Naruto reflexively shielded his face. Smoke bomb? She's prepared. Through the swirling haze, he glimpsed her shadow moving swiftly toward the exit. The remaining clone intercepted, but with a crack of the whip-sword, the clone dissolved. Naruto rushed forward, heart pounding, trying to nab her—only to find empty corridors.
Sophia staggered out of the smoke, cursing. "She got away." She wiped her eyes, tears streaming from the acrid fumes. Naruto scanned the area fruitlessly, no footprints left in the stone. "Damn it."
He clenched a fist. "She's skilled. Probably ex–Familia, as she said. We can't let this continue."
Sophia sighed. "We'll keep looking. But she's elusive. At least we saved those novices."
They returned to Rhea's position, hearts heavy.
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Over the next week, Hestia Familia's new supply network continued to flourish, despite the gloom cast by rumors of banditry. Naruto's clones tirelessly scoured the Dungeon's upper floors, reaping monster drops at an astounding pace. Tessa, Derrin, and other small-time crafters boasted surges in production, which in turn elevated the Familia's daily earnings. Valis piled up faster than Naruto ever imagined.
But the success also drew the gaze of established merchants who wondered how a small Familia could funnel so many resources so steadily. One afternoon, Naruto returned from a run to find Hestia in the main hall, conversing with a visitor: a tall, broad-shouldered man in a fine green doublet, carrying an ornate cane.
"Ah, so this is Naruto," the man exclaimed, turning to face him. He had a slick grin and eyes that looked perpetually calculating. "My name is Tragus, a merchant affiliated—informally—with various gods of commerce. Might I have a word?"
Naruto cast a quick glance at Hestia, who seemed cautious but not hostile. "Sure," he said, setting down a crate of monster hides. "What's on your mind?"
Tragus folded his gloved hands over the cane. "I represent a certain coalition of business-minded individuals in Orario. We noticed your Familia's remarkable output. Some might call it—extraordinary."
Naruto shrugged. "We have an efficient system."
"Yes, indeed," Tragus purred. "We're offering a partnership. We can connect you with major buyers—people who pay top valis for bulk monster materials, no questions asked. In exchange, we'd negotiate a small 'broker's fee.'"
Hestia's posture tensed. "A broker's fee?"
Tragus smiled, showing too many teeth. "Purely for facilitating distribution. You see, amateurs often flood the market or get themselves in trouble. We keep everything neat and profitable."
Naruto knew extortion when he heard it. This was a classic middleman trying to wedge himself into their supply chain. "And if we decline your generous offer?" he asked politely.
Tragus's grin held steady, but an icy undertone seeped into his voice. "Well, you might find it harder to get decent prices. Merchants are a tight-knit community. If rumors spread that your goods are…questionable in origin, or that you undercut the bigger houses… Let's just say the business environment might become hostile."
Hestia glared. "You're threatening us?"
"Merely stating facts," Tragus replied, adjusting his cane. "But we prefer cooperation. We can help you scale even further, you see—there's a demand for rare drops in certain shady markets. If you produce them, we can triple your profits."
Naruto's jaw tightened. This is the underbelly Eirene warned about. "We're not interested in shady deals. We do honest business with crafters who've supported us. We pay fair wages, no extortion."
Tragus's lips curled. "Your approach is…quaint. But naive. You'll learn Orario's ways soon enough."
Silence fell, tense as a drawn bowstring. Hestia stepped forward, eyes blazing. "We stand by Naruto. If you think intimidation will sway us, you're mistaken."
Tragus shrugged, unaffected. "Very well. My card, should you reconsider." He handed a small silver-embossed card to Naruto. "I'll be in touch. In the meantime, watch your back. One never knows who might want a piece of your success."
He turned on his polished heel and strutted out, leaving a whiff of expensive cologne and veiled threats behind.
Naruto exhaled sharply, fists clenched. "That's exactly what I was worried about. As soon as we stand out, the vultures circle."
Hestia placed a comforting hand on his arm. "We can remain true to ourselves. If some merchants boycott us, we'll keep relying on our direct relationships with local crafters. We don't need to go mainstream if it compromises our values."
He nodded, trying to quell the anger. "We have to be ready, though. People like Tragus might escalate. Maybe he's even connected to that snake woman, or bigger threats."
Hestia sighed. "We'll remain vigilant. In the meantime, let's keep building ties with the honest folk we trust."
Naruto eyed the silver card in his hand. He flipped it around before tossing it into a nearby waste bin.
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Determined to outmaneuver any sabotage from merchants like Tragus, Naruto doubled down on his strategic use of Shadow Clones. He refined the technique to create up to sixty stable clones at once—a strain on his chakra reserves, but manageable if he paced himself. Each clone carried enough potions and basic gear for a mid-level dive.
Over several days, each collective of clones was assigned a distinct area of the upper floors to farm. Meanwhile, the real Naruto led a specialized party—often with Sophia or Geoff—deeper, hitting floors ten and eleven for bigger game. This multi-pronged approach ensured a steady flow of materials without any single corridor becoming over-farmed or drawing too much attention.
He quickly discovered a boon: Falna synergy extended to each clone's finishing blow. While they couldn't individually replicate the entire might of his original skill—since each clone split his chakra and stamina—they still triggered Harvest Crest enough to produce extra drops. That alone multiplied the standard yield. The effect was staggering.
Early Morning: Naruto formed sixty clones in the church courtyard. Each clone received a mission briefing—like infiltration squads. They parted ways, with several clones heading to floors 3–4, another to floors 5–6, and so on, ensuring coverage. Each set of clones had to link up with a small ally group if possible—for safety and synergy. This also allowed novices in Hestia Familia to gain experience while feeling supported.
Midday: The real Naruto and Sophia tackled a quick quest on the tenth floor, subjugating a cluster of War Shadows for a local alchemist's special request. They returned by lunch, each loaded with stones and War Shadow claws.
Afternoon: Naruto re-formed any lost clones (dispelling them in shifts) to glean the day's experiences. This memory transfer alerted him to any bandit sightings, monster hotspots, or merchant attempts to intercept them. Then new clones deployed again, rotating with fresh stamina.
Evening: Clones converged at designated safe points, handing off loot to real party members for transport. They then dispersed or dispelled, transferring knowledge back to Naruto.
Within a week of implementing this routine, the Hestia Familia's daily yield soared beyond anything even major Familias might gather with typical squads. And because Naruto personally directed the operation—his clones meticulously following the plan—there was little wasted effort or conflict.
With each day, more novices approached the Hestia Familia, drawn by the rumored safety nets Naruto's clones provided. Some just wanted to level up without risking death alone. Others admired Naruto's sense of fairness. Hestia accepted them selectively, ensuring they shared the Familia's ethos of mutual support.
Rhea devoted extra time to healing these recruits, honing her own magic. Geoff took charge of martial drills, teaching basic tactics so novices wouldn't drag down the group. Sophia, though not an official Hestia member, kept a close orbit, enjoying the thrill of these expeditions. She teased Naruto about becoming an "adventure manager," but he could tell she respected his leadership.
Meanwhile, behind the scenes, Hestia's basement bustled with sorting and storage. The newly minted novices learned to record drop details, label crates, and prepare shipments for Tessa or Derrin. Every night concluded with at least one wagon rolling out to deliver raw materials. Their reliability became legendary. Contracts poured in, and more valis flowed back.
Naruto felt a surge of satisfaction every time he dispelled a clone and absorbed the day's experiences. There were rumors that bigger Familias, once indifferent, were now paying attention. So be it, Naruto thought. We'll keep doing what's right, and if someone challenges us, we'll be ready.
Each evening, as he updated his Falna under Hestia's caring gaze, he felt his stats steadily climb. This regimen was forging him into a more formidable adventurer. Yet the real treasure was intangible: a sense of family and shared purpose that glowed brighter each time the sun set on another triumphant day.
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The weeks rolled by in a flurry of activity, and the Hestia Familia stood as a rising star in Orario's adventuring ecosystem. Their synergy-laden resource streams helped many small crafters and novices thrive. Valis kept piling up. Yet not all eyes saw them kindly.
Late one night, while Naruto and Hestia were finalizing the day's ledger in the newly furnished library corner, Geoff rushed in, face pale. "We have a problem," he blurted.
Hestia set aside her quill. "What happened?"
Geoff took a moment to catch his breath. "A rumor's spreading—someone is claiming the Hestia Familia deals in contraband materials, that we're forging illusions of monster stones or hoarding stolen goods. If it catches on, the Guild might investigate. We could lose our buyer connections."
Naruto's stomach churned. "Sounds like sabotage. Might be from that merchant, Tragus. Or maybe the snake woman is behind it."
Hestia's eyes flashed with anger. "We can't let lies ruin us. Is there proof?"
Geoff shook his head. "No actual evidence. Just gossip. But you know how rumors can be."
Naruto stood abruptly, resolve blazing. "We'll cut it off at the source. Let's talk to Rose at the Guild tomorrow. She knows our track record. We'll also gather testimonies from crafters we've helped."
Hestia nodded firmly. "I'll handle the crafters. Naruto, you speak with Rose. Geoff, you find out who's spreading these rumors. Let's coordinate."
Geoff saluted, relief crossing his features. "Understood. I'll check the taverns and side streets. Word is, some shady brokers are fueling the talk."
They broke up for the night, each with a distinct mission. Hestia lingered as Naruto donned a light cloak. "Be careful," she murmured. "If the rumors are orchestrated by a powerful faction, you could be stepping into a trap."
He gently clasped her hand. "We've overcome worse. They're messing with the wrong Familia."
She squeezed his hand in return, a silent promise of unwavering support.
At the Guild
Early the next morning, Naruto entered the Guild Hall. A swirl of adventurers bustled around, but he headed straight for Rose Fannett's counter. She was busy stamping forms, her usual curt expression overshadowed by a flicker of concern upon seeing him.
"Back again, Naruto?" she asked, not unkindly. "Heard some odd rumors swirling."
He frowned. "That's exactly why I'm here. People are saying we deal in stolen or fake materials. You know our record. Has the Guild received any official complaint?"
Rose consulted her ledger, lips tightening. "No formal complaint. But there's talk from certain merchant representatives. They want the Guild to 'examine' the Hestia Familia's supply chain."
Naruto snorted. "So they're trying to force an audit. We have nothing to hide. But it'd be a hassle."
She sighed. "The Guild tries to remain neutral. However, if the rumor gains traction, an investigation might be unavoidable. You and Hestia should prepare to show your books and prove the materials are genuine."
Naruto spread his arms. "We'll do exactly that. Our crafters can vouch for the authenticity of our deliveries. I just wanted to confirm there's no official ban or anything yet."
Rose nodded. "Not yet. Keep me informed if you learn who's behind this smear campaign."
He offered a grateful bow. "Thanks, Rose. We'll bring evidence of our honesty if needed."
Her eyes flickered with an unspoken worry. "I trust you, Naruto. Just be aware these merchants can be cunning. They might stage an incident or bribe someone to 'find' counterfeit goods on your premises."
Naruto's jaw set. "We'll stay vigilant."
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Leaving the Guild, Naruto headed to Tessa's workshop. She greeted him with an enthusiastic hug, brandishing newly crafted leather armor. When he explained the rumor, Tessa's face twisted with fury. "That's nonsense! My finished armors are top quality because of your real monster hides. I'll stand by you."
Similar conversations followed at Derrin's forge and other small shops. Each pledged their testimony if the Guild demanded proof.
But behind the warmth of these alliances, the threat loomed. A hidden web of powerful merchants or manipulative deities might orchestrate a downfall for the Hestia Familia.
Armed with new resolve, he returned to the church to plan a robust defense—both legal and, if necessary, physical.
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That same evening, Geoff's investigation bore fruit: an informant whispered that a group of hired thugs planned to "plant fake monster stones" at the Hestia Familia church, then tip off a bribed Guild official to storm in and "discover" evidence of fraud. The entire plot hinged on stealth and timing, presumably happening late at night when fewer members were around.
Naruto, Hestia, and their close allies hatched a counterplan: They would lie in wait, letting the conspirators walk into a trap. With the help of Shadow Clones, they'd watch every entrance to the church.
Shortly before midnight, the church stood dark and silent. Carpentry tools lay in neat piles, and the usual hustle of novices organizing loot was nowhere in sight. Inside, Naruto and four clones, along with Geoff, Sophia, and Rhea, hid in the shadows. Hestia, refusing to be helpless, stood near the side exit with a small dagger and unwavering determination.
They didn't have to wait long. A group of five figures in hooded cloaks approached, scuttling around the perimeter. One carried a sack that clinked suspiciously—likely the fake stones. The tension crackled as Naruto exchanged hand signals with Sophia. She readied her rapier, eyes narrowed.
The intruders picked a side door's lock with practiced ease. They slunk into a dim hallway. One whisper carried through the silence, "Let's get this done quick. Boss says the official shows up at dawn to 'catch them red-handed.'"
They scattered, rummaging among crates and shelves, seeking a prime spot to hide the contraband. Naruto watched from behind a corner, adrenaline pumping. He was grateful Hestia had insisted on clearing out the novices for the night—no sense risking their safety in this.
Finally, one intruder knelt near a large crate of legitimate monster hides, opening the sack. "Here—stuff them in, so it looks like they were mixed with real materials."
Naruto gave the signal. Clone Attack Formation.
In an instant, four clones leapt from the rafters, blocking the corridor exits. Geoff charged from the hallway, sword drawn, while Sophia closed in from behind with lethal grace. Rhea, trembling slightly, stood ready to cast a defensive barrier if the thugs resisted.
The intruders gasped in shock. One tried to bolt, but a clone tackled him. Another brandished a short blade, swinging wildly at Geoff, who parried with practiced skill, disarming him in two swift moves. Sophia's rapier pinned a third to the wall before they could draw a weapon.
"It's over," Naruto said, stepping forward. "We know what you're doing. Who hired you?"
The thug with the sack spat on the floor. "We talk, we die."
Geoff twisted the man's arm, forcing him to drop the bag of fake stones. "If you don't talk, you'll face the Guild's wrath—and ours. Which is scarier?"
Sophia pressed her rapier to the pinned man's neck. "Try us."
One thug, cowering, babbled, "It was a merchant—a big shot. We don't know his name, just got orders to frame you. Something about too many monster materials, messing with profits."
Naruto exchanged a grim nod with Hestia, who had appeared from the corridor. Her eyes flashed with anger. "Tragus, no doubt."
Rhea stepped in, incanting a paralyzing spell. "Remain still," she said, voice quivering but resolute. A faint glow bound the intruders' limbs.
Naruto stooped to examine the bag. "Cheap glass beads coated with some magical paint—definitely not real. Enough to fool someone at a glance." He looked at the trembling conspirators. "You realize you almost ruined lives with this?"
One thug lowered his eyes. "We just needed valis. He said it'd be an easy job."
Hestia's tone was cold. "You'll be turned over to the Guild for trespassing and fraud. If you cooperate, maybe you'll get leniency."
They all sagged, beaten. Geoff and Sophia restrained them, tying their wrists. Naruto dispelled two clones, absorbing their vantage-point memories—no sign of more intruders.
As the night wore on, they contacted the Guild. A group of Guild enforcers arrived, led by none other than Rose Fannett, who snapped her quill in frustration upon seeing the scene. "This is worse than I feared," she muttered, surveying the bag of fakes. "The Guild will investigate thoroughly."
Naruto and Hestia provided statements, detailing how they caught the intruders red-handed. Rose took custody of the thugs, promising to interrogate them. "You might have just saved your Familia from a massive scandal," she said.
Naruto exhaled, relief and anger mixing. "We're done letting them push us around."
Hestia touched his shoulder. "This is only the beginning. But we'll see this through, no matter what."
The embers of conflict still smoldered, but the night ended with a small victory—the Hestia Familia refused to be victims of deceit.
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Over the following days, the Guild's investigation revealed direct ties between the hired thugs and the shady merchant network that Tragus represented. An outraged Rose Fannett demanded an official hearing to address the matter. The hearing would involve multiple deities and Guild officials, aiming to clear the Hestia Familia of suspicion and expose any conspirators.
An air of tension rippled through Orario as the date approached. Rumors flew about which powerful figures might show up. Some speculated even Freya or Loki might observe, curious about the upstart Familia.
The night before the hearing, Naruto paced in the church's main hall, glancing at the high, vaulted ceiling. Hestia quietly joined him. "Nervous?" she asked softly.
He exhaled. "A bit. We'll be surrounded by gods and top Guild members. One misstep, and they could twist the narrative."
She laid a comforting hand on his arm. "We have evidence, testimonies, and Rose's support. Plus, the crafters will vouch for us."
He mustered a smile. "I know. Still can't shake the feeling that big players like Freya might be watching."
Hestia sighed, murmuring, "If Freya tries anything, we'll handle it together."
Encouraged by her resolve, Naruto forced himself to rest, though sleep came fitfully.
Morning arrived with a swirl of tension. The hearing was set in a grand Guild auditorium typically used for public announcements. Stone columns lined the walls, and a raised dais at one end served as the seat for gods or officials presiding. Rows of benches were filled with onlookers—adventurers, merchants, and lesser deities.
Naruto and Hestia entered together, followed by Sophia, Geoff, Rhea, and a few novices from their Familia. The hush that fell told him they were under heavy scrutiny. On the dais, a panel of officials awaited. Rose stood off to the side, flipping through documents. Next to her, Eirene offered a reassuring nod to Hestia. At the center sat two imposing figures: Grand Advisor Pericles of the Guild, and the goddess Demeter, known for her agrarian domain but also her fairness in disputes.
Beside them, arms folded, stood Tragus, an air of wounded innocence plastered on his face, as if he were the victim. Naruto's fists clenched, but he forced calm.
Pericles rapped a gavel. "We gather to address allegations and counter-allegations involving the Hestia Familia's resource supply and an attempted frame. Let us begin."
A series of formal statements followed. Rose presented the evidence: the captured thugs, the bag of counterfeit stones, the confessions tying them to certain merchant factions. Tragus tried to distance himself, claiming he was innocent of the conspiracy. "My associates sometimes act on their own," he said with feigned regret.
Demeter leaned forward, eyes sharp. "Yet your name was mentioned in multiple testimonies."
Tragus waved a hand. "Unfounded, I assure you. I have no reason to sabotage Hestia Familia. I offered them collaboration, which they refused. This might be a personal vendetta from my associates, not me."
Naruto's temper flared. "You threatened us directly, remember? Told us to watch our backs."
A ripple of murmurs spread among the audience. Tragus only shrugged. "A mere warning about the realities of commerce."
Pericles signaled for silence, turning to Hestia. "Lady Hestia, do you have final evidence to connect Tragus to these criminals?"
Hestia stepped forward. "We have the crafters Tessa, Derrin, and others who can attest to his attempts to sabotage deals. We also have this record of overheard threats—written by Geoff's informant, who risked his life to gather it."
She held up a parchment detailing clandestine orders for "Operation Glass Stone," with references to Tragus's name and seals from his merchant group. A hush fell as Pericles reviewed the document.
Tragus's face paled. "Forgeries! This must be a setup. Why would I sign something so incriminating?"
Before he could elaborate, Demeter slammed her hand on the table. "You forget, mortal, that we gods can read your heart's sincerity in a hearing of this nature. The divine energies swirling here do not favor liars."
Tragus stiffened. Sweat beaded on his brow. "I—"
At that moment, Eirene stepped forward, silver hair gleaming. "I, too, sense deception. Tragus, your aura is trembling. Face the truth."
Tragus faltered. A frenzied panic crossed his face. "Wait. Let me—"
But Pericles raised a palm. "Enough. The evidence of your complicity stands. The Hestia Familia is hereby cleared of all allegations." He paused, turning a grave look on Tragus. "As for you, the Guild will recommend punishment according to Orario's trade laws—likely heavy fines, public censure, and possible blacklisting."
Tragus's jaw dropped, but he had no retort. Guards stepped forward to detain him.
A wave of relief swept Naruto. Hestia squeezed his arm. Applause and murmurs of approval rippled through the audience. The conspirators were exposed. Their Familia was vindicated. All the tension that had built for weeks seemed to dissolve in that moment of triumph.
Yet, as the crowd dispersed, Naruto sensed eyes upon him—cool, incisive. Glancing around, he briefly spotted a flash of silver hair and amethyst eyes in the back row. Freya? She vanished before he could confirm. A chill ran down his spine. One trial is over, but bigger players are watching.
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In the weeks that followed the hearing, the Hestia Familia's reputation soared higher than ever. Tragus and his associates fell under Guild scrutiny, freeing up the market from their manipulations. Freed from fear of sabotage, more independent crafters flocked to Naruto's network. The supply chain grew, though Naruto carefully managed output to avoid over-saturating the market.
Hestia ensured the entire Familia remained humble. She organized donation drives for the slums, distributing leftover monster meat and older gear to novices who couldn't afford better. Eirene praised these efforts, calling them a model of "godly compassion." Even the mercurial gods who once mocked Hestia's tiny Familia began recognizing her unwavering devotion to her children.
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Inside the church's now-spacious basement, newly installed shelves brimmed with organized crates labeled for each buyer. Subterranean storerooms extended deeper, thanks to the dwarven craftsman Bronn, who built a reinforced sub-level. Novices came in shifts to sort and pack items under Rhea's supervision. Geoff managed logistics, ensuring everything ran on schedule.
Naruto coordinated a rotating squadron of Shadow Clones, each assigned to different Dungeon floors. Typically, he'd create sixty clones at dawn, they'd operate until midday, dispel or rotate, and new clones would spawn in the afternoon. Day by day, his chakra control improved, allowing him to maintain clones with less strain. The synergy from Falna kept each clone's Harvest Crest potent enough to double or triple standard yields.
Adventurers outside the Familia often watched in awe (and sometimes envy) as multiple "Narutos" headed into the Dungeon, each leading a small team of novices or forging alliances with friendly parties. But Naruto remained approachable, forging new connections wherever he went.
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One surprising ally was the snake woman they'd once encountered. Rumors surfaced that she'd parted ways with unsavory contacts after narrowly escaping a bounty placed on her head. Through discreet channels, Naruto learned she was holed up near the nineteenth floor, ironically preying on big Familia squads who ventured too deep. He sent a few clone-led search parties, hoping to find and reason with her. Though they never caught her, the hostility from bandits cooled significantly in the upper floors—perhaps a partial success.
Naruto also nurtured a relationship with small-time mercenaries who occasionally provided safe escorts for novices. In exchange, the Hestia Familia gave them discounted potions. This synergy further reduced accidents among lesser adventurers. Slowly but surely, Orario's underdogs were uniting under an informal umbrella of mutual aid, all thanks to Naruto's knack for forging bonds.
With every new alliance, valis poured in. The Familia's coffers swelled. Hestia delegated the finances carefully, balancing expansion with philanthropic outreach. They funded new dorms for novices, training expansions, and an apothecary wing for Rhea to brew potions in-house. Yet Naruto couldn't ignore the undercurrent of risk that came with this empire of friendship.
One evening, after a successful day's run, Naruto sat alone in a newly built balcony overlooking the church's courtyard. The full moon bathed the city in silver light. He formed a single clone for company. They sat shoulder-to-shoulder in companionable silence.
"Hard to believe how far we've come," the real Naruto murmured, looking down at the bustling compound below. "Remember when it was just me and Hestia, scraping for scraps?"
The clone nodded, the same memories swirling in its mind. "We're forging a legacy. But we can't let our guard down. Powerful Familias might still see us as a threat."
Naruto sighed, feeling the weight of responsibility. "I know. And what about Freya? I swear I saw her at the hearing. She hasn't approached me yet, but I sense her interest."
The clone gazed at the moon. "She's rumored to only act when she's truly fixated on someone. Maybe she's just watching—for now."
They both fell silent, mindful that a single goddess's whim could alter the course of everything they'd built.
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As he was about to store the day's loot, an unfamiliar figure approached: a slender young man with short blond hair, wearing a crisp set of traveling robes. He bowed politely, introducing himself as Remus, a messenger of Hermes Familia.
Naruto exchanged a wary glance with Sophia. "Hermes, huh?"
Remus nodded, producing a scroll sealed with Hermes's emblem. "My god, Hermes, wishes to congratulate you on your success and extends an invitation to a banquet in two weeks' time. He's hosting it for various rising Familias and wishes the Hestia Familia to attend."
Naruto blinked. "A banquet? Why?"
Remus shrugged, half-smiling. "Hermes enjoys bringing promising individuals together. He's heard tales of your synergy-based gather rate and wants to meet you. Lady Hestia is also invited, of course."
Sophia stifled a laugh. "This is typical of Hermes. Always wanting to rub elbows with new talent."
Naruto accepted the scroll. "We'll consider it. Thank you."
As Remus departed, Naruto felt excitement twine with caution. Hermes was known for his cunning. He might be an ally or a subtle manipulator, but it was worth hearing him out—especially if forging alliances with other rising Familias could stabilize their position.