Chapter 2: Temporary Choreboy

"...so, how does this Falna thing work, exactly...?"

I muttered as I pulled off the beige tunic that Miach loaned me, rolling my shoulders before lying down on the bed in front of me. I felt Hestia straddle my waist just as I was getting comfortable, causing a bead of sweat to roll down my cheek and my eyes to twitch.

'Don't focus on her thighs. Don't focus on her thighs. DO NOT—'

I blinked when I felt her place some sort of sheet of paper on my back.

"This will help me copy down the Falna once it's updated," Hestia said brightly. "And don't squirm so much. It's hard to focus when you're all twitchy."

Easier said than done when a goddess is sitting on you like this.

I cleared my throat. "So... Falna. That's like… magic power? Or is it more like training wheels for getting stronger?"

Hestia chuckled, the sound light and a little smug. "Oh no, it's not magic. It's something more sacred! When a god blesses a mortal with a Falna, they become part of our Familia. We unlock their potential by inscribing divine hieroglyphs directly onto their backs. That blessing allows them to grow stronger by fighting monsters, facing danger, or even just training really hard."

"It's kinda like your body starts remembering everything you do," Bell chimed in from nearby, watching from the side with a mix of fascination and excitement. "Every fight, every close call, every training session—it all adds up! Your strength actually grows from your experiences."

I hummed, trying to wrap my head around it. "So… it's like my body keeps a tally of how much I've busted my ass, and it translates into power?"

Hestia snorted. "A very crude way of putting it, but yes, that's not entirely wrong. Once you have a Falna, your growth becomes exponential compared to normal people. It's our way of supporting you from behind the scenes."

"And you're the one who updates it, right?" I asked.

"Mhm! I read the changes, keep track of your progress, and record it on this paper using my blood. Only gods can interpret Falna hieroglyphs."

Bell nodded eagerly. "Goddess checks mine every day after I get back from the Dungeon. You never know when your stats might jump."

I raised a brow. "Wait. Stats?"

"Right, let me explain," Hestia said as she grabbed a metal pin and pricked her finger. "When you receive a Falna, you gain attributes: Strength, Endurance, Dexterity, Agility, and Magic. They're each graded from I to S—starting from I, then H, G, and so on up. At each Level, you can raise those stats until you reach S. After that, you can break through and Level Up—if you've had enough accomplishments to prove yourself."

"Accomplishments?" I echoed.

"Things like defeating strong monsters, surviving near-death, or helping others in significant ways," Bell said, his eyes sparkling with admiration. "It's not just about raw power… it's about heart, too. A-At least, that's how I think of it..."

That struck something deep in me, though I couldn't say why.

I exhaled slowly, letting it sink in. "So if I want to get stronger… I have to fight. Keep pushing myself. Train."

Common sense, really.

"That's right," Hestia confirmed. "Your Falna reflects your will and effort. The stronger your resolve, the faster you grow."

"And what about magic? Or skills?"

Hestia perked up. "Ah, that part's always fun! Skills are unique to each person. Some people awaken one right away when they get their Falna. Others don't get any for a while. Same goes for magic—it's rare to start with it, but not impossible."

My fingers curled into the mattress as something stirred in my chest. An instinct. I needed to know.

"Alright," I said. "Do it. I want to see what I've got."

"Okay~!"

Hestia gently pressed her finger to the small of my back, and I felt something sharp—but not painful—sting for a moment. A soft light pulsed across my skin, warm and divine. My muscles tightened on instinct, but I forced myself to stay still.

Then silence.

A long silence.

"...Huh?"

Bell stood up straight. "Wait—Goddess? Is something wrong?"

Hestia didn't answer immediately. Her brows furrowed deeper the longer she stared at the paper, mouth falling open just slightly.

"Is this… really your first update…?"

She blinked rapidly, then tore the sheet off my back and held it up into the light from the window.

Bell hovered at her side. "W-Wait… those numbers—?!"

I turned my head slightly, trying to read the atmosphere. "Okay. You two are starting to freak me out a little."

Still staring at the page, Hestia said slowly, "You're only Level One… but your stats… They're already above what most new adventurers could reach in weeks. Maybe even months. And you don't even remember training?"

I sat up, blinking. "Nope. Well—unless you count exercising at the Miach Familia's pharmacy, but I don't think that's very substantial..."

Bell leaned over Hestia's shoulder, mouth slightly open. "Your Endurance is… wow. Your Strength, too! Do you have a cheat skill or something?!"

Hestia shook her head in disbelief, then turned the paper toward me.

[Hestia Familia]

Name: Ren

Race: Human

Level: 1

STR (Strength): F-389

END (Endurance): E-413

DEX (Dexterity): G-248

AGI (Agility): F-301

MAG (Magic): I-0

Magic: —

Skills:

• Infinite Potential (限界なき可能性 – Genkai Naki Kanōsei)

– A unique blessing dormant within the soul.

– Enables accelerated growth through effort, experience, and battle.

– The more adversity faced, the greater the response.

– Growth ignores common plateaus but still obeys mortal limits.

– Adapts subtly to overcome physical and mental constraints.

– Evolves in response to continuous challenge.

I stared at it. The words didn't mean much to me yet, but I could see the way Bell and Hestia looked at the paper—like it was something rare.

"'Infinite Potential,' huh…" I murmured.

Bell gave me a look of absolute admiration. "That Skill… I've never heard of anything like it. It sounds like you're made to grow. Like, really grow!"

Hestia crossed her arms, puffing her cheeks slightly. "Sheesh. Bell already gave me enough to worry about with how fast he improves, but now I've got another one of you?"

I smiled sheepishly. "Sorry?"

She sighed, but there was a proud little grin tugging at her lips. "I'm not complaining. This just means my Familia's full of hard workers—and that means I've got to work just as hard to support you both!"

My chest tightened at that.

Family.

Even without remembering my past, the warmth in this tiny room felt real. Felt right.

Bell grinned and reached out a hand. "Welcome to the Familia, Ren."

I clasped it firmly. "Glad to be here."

X-X-X-X-X-X

The next morning, after a quick breakfast of eggs and bread—courtesy of Bell, since Hestia seemed pretty worn out after yesterday—we set out toward the Guild. The sun hung low over the rooftops of Orario, casting warm golden light across the cobbled streets. I stayed close to Bell as we walked, trying not to stare too much at the buildings, the adventurers, the sheer number of races and faces moving all around us.

"Still not used to the city?" Bell asked with a smile.

"That obvious?"

"You've been looking at every shop and stall like it's your first time seeing a door."

"...Well," I muttered, rubbing the back of my neck, "technically, it is."

He laughed, and I found myself relaxing a bit.

Orario was loud, crowded, and filled with so many scents it made my nose itch, but walking with Bell made it manageable. Comfortable, even. The kid had an easygoing energy about him.

Eventually, we reached a large, official-looking building nestled just off the main road—white stone walls, large archways, and a crest engraved into the entrance.

"This is the Guild," Bell said, gesturing up at the sign. "Adventurers come here to get jobs, report Dungeon progress, exchange magic stones, and—most importantly for you—register."

I paused. "So this place… runs the Dungeon?"

"Not exactly," he replied. "The Guild doesn't own the Dungeon. No one really does. But they were founded to manage it—and help keep Orario from descending into chaos."

As we entered, the interior buzzed with activity. Guild workers shuffled papers behind long counters, adventurers argued over contracts, and a few burly guys compared monster wounds like badges of honor.

Bell led me to one of the counters near the back. A beautiful half-elf woman with glasses and short chestnut hair looked up and immediately lit up.

"Bell! Good morning!" she said brightly.

"Good morning, Miss Eina."

"This must be the new addition Hestia mentioned in her letter?"

Bell nodded and gave me a small nudge forward. "Yep! This is Ren. He just received his Falna last night."

I gave a small, awkward bow. "Uh. Hey."

She chuckled. "You don't have to be formal. I'm Eina Tulle—Guild employee, and Bell's assigned advisor."

"Advisor?"

"Each adventurer is assigned one once they register with the Guild," Eina explained. "We offer guidance, training plans, Dungeon reports, safety advice, job requests, even help with managing finances. It's our duty to make sure adventurers survive—and grow safely."

"Sounds like a lot of work," I said.

She gave Bell a look. "Especially when your charge has a habit of rushing headfirst into trouble."

Bell's face turned beet red. "I'm getting better...!"

Eina turned back to me. "Normally, each adventurer has a dedicated advisor, but since you're new and you'll be working closely with Bell, it may be more efficient for you to share one. If that's okay with you?"

I glanced at Bell, who gave a thumbs-up. "I don't mind."

"Then it's settled," she said, retrieving a registration form. "We'll start with your name, race, and Familia. After that, I'll schedule an orientation and give you the Dungeon's basic maps."

I filled out the form with her guidance. When I reached the 'Background' section, I hesitated.

Eina noticed. "You don't remember anything?"

"Not a thing," I admitted. "It's like I just woke up here."

Her eyes softened. "Amnesia cases aren't unheard of. Some adventurers awaken near the city or in the Dungeon itself. Orario's filled with mysteries."

"Makes me feel a little less broken," I said with a faint grin.

"Not broken," Bell said firmly. "Just a blank slate. You get to write your own story now."

I blinked. Bell might've looked like the kind of guy who'd trip over his own sword, but he really did have a weird way of saying stuff that hit you.

Eina handed me a copy of the Dungeon's first five floors—rough sketches of terrain types, monster patterns, and advice for retreating. She emphasized the importance of retreating. Repeatedly.

"Never go in alone," she said. "Even if you think you're ready. You two can explore together for now. Bell, you're responsible for him."

Bell straightened like he'd just been handed a holy quest. "Yes, ma'am!"

She turned back to me. "And Ren? The Dungeon rewards the brave—but punishes the reckless. Understand your limits. Test them—but don't ignore them."

"Got it," I said.

And I meant it.

Because if I was going to get stronger—if I was going to protect others the way that memory told me I wanted to—then I needed to survive first.

After finishing up the paperwork, Eina offered to help me get outfitted for the Dungeon. Which was a relief, because I had no idea where to even start—leather armor? Chainmail? That weird spiky glove a guy in the corner was wearing?

Bell tagged along as we weaved through Orario's bustling market district, passing by various shops with weapons proudly displayed in the windows.

"You sure you're okay helping with this?" I asked Eina. "I mean, I'm kind of... broke."

Bell scratched the back of his head. "Well... to be fair, we're kind of broke too."

I gave him a look.

"Our Familia kind of runs on Goddess's part-time wages," he admitted sheepishly. "We make do, but... yeah. We can't afford the fancy stuff."

Eina smiled patiently. "Fortunately, the Guild keeps emergency funding set aside for new adventurers—especially those without established means of income or equipment. It's not much, but it's enough for basic gear."

"Wait," I said, slowing to a stop. "You're giving me a loan?"

"It's a grant," she said. "It won't need to be repaid. The Guild wants new adventurers to live, Ren. Not bleed out on the first floor because they couldn't afford a chestplate."

That... made more sense than it had any right to. A system that actually gave a damn about the people risking their lives. It didn't feel real—but I wasn't complaining.

Eventually, we found a small outfitter tucked between two larger weapon smiths. Nothing flashy. No glowing swords or ornate armors. But the gear looked well-used and practical.

Eina left us to browse, trusting Bell to help me pick things out. The shopkeeper, an older dwarf with a missing eyebrow and a pipe perpetually clenched between his teeth, waved us in with a grunt.

"You fight bare-handed?" Bell asked, eyes scanning the racks. "Or...?"

I nodded. "Something like that. I don't remember any real techniques, but my body moves on instinct. When I was training a bit with Miach, I found I'm more comfortable with speed and close-quarters fighting."

He perked up. "So you're a brawler type! That's pretty rare. Most adventurers pick up a weapon right away."

"I might try one eventually," I said, testing the weight of a pair of reinforced gauntlets. "But for now, I'd rather focus on what feels natural."

Bell helped me find a good set—fingerless leather gloves reinforced with metal plating across the knuckles and backhand. They were light but sturdy, flexible enough to let me throw a punch without resistance. A matching set of shin guards rounded out the lower half. No full body armor—I needed to move, not clank around like a walking bell tower.

"Here," Bell said, pulling a fitted chest guard off the wall. "This one's padded with monster hide. It's not as heavy as metal, but it'll protect against scratches and claws. A lot of mid-level brawlers use it."

"Nice," I muttered, sliding it on over my tunic. It clung snugly to my form, but not uncomfortably so.

Bell gave me a thumbs-up. "You look like a real adventurer now!"

"Do I get a certificate or something?" I smirked.

"No, but you do get to risk your life for money and magic rocks," he replied cheerfully.

"...Yay?"

Eina returned not long after and helped handle the transaction. She even insisted on grabbing a few essentials—healing potions, a basic Dungeon map, and a pouch for storing magic stones.

"You'll want to bring these to the Exchange counter when you're done with your first run," she said, placing a small coin pouch into my hand. "Once you start earning your own valis, you can buy better gear or save for upgrades."

"Thanks, Eina," I said sincerely.

"Of course. You're part of the Guild now. It's my job to look after you."

Bell clapped a hand on my shoulder as we stepped outside, our shopping done. "Now we just need to hit the Dungeon!"

"Not today," Eina warned, overhearing. "Give him time to train with his new gear. Come back tomorrow morning, and I'll walk you through proper procedure."

Bell visibly deflated, but nodded. "Yes, ma'am."

As we walked back to the church-turned-home of the Hestia Familia, I glanced at him.

"You really love this job, huh?"

He blinked. "Being an adventurer?"

"Yeah."

He smiled—small and genuine. "I do. Even when it's scary. Even when I get hurt. I want to be stronger... strong enough to protect people. Strong enough that someone I admire can look at me and say I'm not weak anymore."

I didn't know who that someone was—but I understood the feeling.

"Yeah," I said, tightening the straps of my new gloves. "I want that too."

X-X-X-X-X-X

The sun had started to set by the time we got back to the church. Despite its crumbling edges and moss-stained walls, it felt... warm. Welcoming. Like a place people genuinely lived and laughed in. The scent of home-cooked food wafted from the side room, and Hestia poked her head out from the kitchen, waving a wooden spoon.

"Oh! You're back! Dinner's almost ready, so go wash up!"

Bell immediately scurried off with a cheerful "Yes, Goddess!" and I followed, though... I was still adjusting to this whole 'Goddess' thing.

As I rolled my sleeves up and splashed water over my face from the small washbasin, I caught Bell glancing at me in the reflection of a cracked mirror.

"You settling in okay?" he asked, towel draped around his neck.

I nodded. "I think so. Still... feels a little surreal."

"You'll get used to it. I did," he said, drying his hands. "I mean, I never thought I'd end up here, either. I was just a farm boy a year ago."

A farm boy, huh? That explained the earnestness. "And now you're diving into monster-infested catacombs for fun."

He grinned. "Well, it's not just for fun. I have goals, too."

I leaned back against the wall. "Like getting strong enough to impress a girl?"

Bell nearly tripped over his own feet.

"H-how did you—?!"

"Just a guess." I smirked. "You've got that 'hopeless romantic in a shonen anime' energy."

Bell blinked. "What's a... 'shonen anime's...?"

"It's—" I paused, furrowing my brows in confusion. "... huh."

He tilted his head before perking up with a gasp. "Is it something from your memories?!"

"I... think so?" I murmured, unsure. I closed my eyes and pinched my brows with a hum. "Mm..."

...

"Yeah, I got nothin'."

Bell deflated instantly. "Oh..."

I shook my head, parking my hands on my hips. "Either way, you just seem like the type."

The white-haired boy's cheeks warmed as he averted his gaze, fiddling with his hair. "W-Well it's part of the reason, but... there's also someone I look up to, that I want to be like..."

I leaned in, curious. "Really? Who is it?"

His gaze flicked towards me and stammered, before letting out a nervous chuckle and waving his hands. "A-Ah, don't worry about it! Let's—ah, I think dinner is ready, so...!"

I blinked in confusion.

Speaking of, we returned to find the living space cleared and a modest table set with bowls of stew and fresh bread. Hestia was beaming, hands on her hips, looking mighty proud of herself.

"Hope you're hungry!" she announced, dropping into her seat and gesturing for us to join her. "And you better eat every bite! I slaved over this all afternoon!"

"Wait... you cook too?" I asked, raising an eyebrow as I took my seat.

"I do everything around here!" she huffed, puffing out her chest. "I'm a multitasking Goddess~!"

"She really does," Bell said, nodding. "She handles the house, the money, the food... even my status updates."

"Darn right I do." She took a long sip of water, looking at me thoughtfully. "You're not just staying here for a night anymore, Ren. You're one of us now."

Something about the way she said that... made my chest feel a little tight.

"I've been alone for a long time," she continued, quieter now. "Starting this Familia was... harder than I thought. But Bell gave me hope. And now you're here, too."

Her eyes sparkled as she smiled.

"We're small, but we're strong. That's what matters."

I didn't know what to say to that, so I just nodded and started eating. The stew was warm, hearty. Tasted like it had been made with real care. Like something a mom—or I guess, in this case, a Goddess—would make for her family.

After dinner, we spent a while chatting. Bell talked about his first few trips into the Dungeon and the embarrassing mistakes he made early on. Hestia poked fun at him with sisterly teasing, and I found myself laughing more than I had in a long time.

When the moon rose high in the sky and we were all winding down, I ended up helping Hestia clean the dishes.

"You're not bad," she noted as I dried a bowl.

"Hard not to be when you don't remember anything. Just feels like instinct."

She leaned against the counter, watching me for a second. "You really don't remember anything at all, huh?"

I paused. "No. Not even my full name. Just... Ren. Everything else is a blank."

"Well, that's okay," she said, bumping her shoulder against mine. "You've got time to figure it out. And until then, you've got us."

"Thanks," I said, voice quieter than usual. "I appreciate it. Really."

She gave me a soft look before letting out a big, dramatic yawn. "Alright! Time for bed, boys! Big day tomorrow!"

Bell saluted like a soldier before shuffling off to his bedroll in the corner. I followed suit, stretching out on the spare futon Hestia had found for me. It wasn't the most comfortable, but in this moment? It felt like luxury.

As I stared up at the ceiling, the muffled sounds of the city beyond the church walls, I realized something:

It'd only been a day, but... I was starting to feel like I belonged.

I smiled to myself, closing my eyes.

'I will protect this family... with everything I've got.'

The moment I closed my eyes, the world seemed to fall away.

And then, the sound of cicadas filled my ears.

Warm sun on my skin. The smell of asphalt after rain.

A memory.

X-X-X-X-X-X

"REN!"

I turned my head just in time to catch the soccer ball hurtling toward me. I deflected it with a quick step and a side-kick, sending it bouncing harmlessly down the street.

"Damn it, man, your reflexes are crazy!" one of my classmates whined.

I rolled my shoulder, adjusting the leather strap of my schoolbag. "Maybe if you stopped lobbing shots like a five-year-old, you wouldn't miss."

"Yeah, yeah, the mighty delinquent king speaks again," another muttered, half in awe, half annoyed.

That nickname again. I didn't ask for it. But after getting into so many fights protecting the younger kids from bullies—and not exactly following the rules myself—it stuck.

I hated the label. Not because I wasn't strong... but because it made everything else feel so damn far away. Like no one could see the real me anymore.

I walked home alone that afternoon. Past the alley where I got into my first fight. Past the corner store where I used to share melon bread with a friend I could barely remember now.

When I reached my apartment, I found the door cracked open.

"…Mom?" I called out.

She was sitting in the kitchen, stirring a pot of miso soup. Her hair was tied up, apron slightly stained from cooking. A familiar sight.

She turned and smiled, tired eyes softening when they saw me.

"You're late. Again."

I rubbed the back of my neck. "Had to keep some punks from shaking down a first-year."

She sighed—deep and long—but her smile didn't fade. "Ren... you know I'm proud of you, right?"

That caught me off guard.

She stepped over and cupped my cheek with a warm hand. "Continue to use the strength you cultivate... not for violence, not for revenge—but to protect others. Even if the world sees you as a thug. You'll know the truth."

I swallowed hard. That line... stuck with me.

Even now.

...

I shot up with a gasp, raising a clammy hand to my forehead and running a hand through my hair.

'Was that... a memory?'

I shook my head, sitting up slowly as I took in deep breaths to settle my racing heart. I looked around the dark room—a cold breeze and moonlight seeping through the cracks in the walls and ceiling. I could see the dust bunnies dancing in the stale air with the help of the light, giving a perfect picture to the age of this abandoned cathedral.

Bell and Hestia were still asleep...

I couldn't go back to sleep, not after that. As quietly as I could, patting myself down and stepping out of the bedroom. I entered the washroom and splashed my face with water, before looking at my reflection in the cracked mirror.

A youthful face, boyish in appearance, yet still holding a sense of maturity and wisdom beyond my years. My hair was black with silver tips and perpetually unruly; almost spikey. My eyes were a bright blue—almost cyan in coloration; so bright they pierced through the darkness encroaching the room. My skin was pale, but not overtly so—a healthy shade, if I had anything to say about it.

A face that I didn't wholly recognized, yet still felt... right.

I shook my head and stepped away from the mirror, walking out of the washroom and making my way upstairs. As I stepped out of the church, I Inhaled sharply, taking in the crispy morning air. The sky was still dark, and the sun was just beginning to rise, peeking over the horizon.

"I've got a few hours until Bell and Hestia likely wake up..." I muttered, rubbing my chin.

I guess I could spend my time familiarizing myself with the town.

With that in mind, I stretched my arms over my head and began walking down the long winding path, leading into the city of Orario.

Orario was already beginning to stir.

Vendors dragged carts into place, shopkeepers raised their shutters with long yawns, and the faint aroma of bread and roasted beans wafted through the air. People passed me by—adventurers in light armor, elderly folk sweeping their stoops, couples walking hand-in-hand. It was a strange mix of peaceful and chaotic, and somehow... it felt alive in a way I hadn't quite felt before.

I kept my hands in my pockets, letting my feet take me wherever they felt like going.

Just then, something soft smacked into my chest.

"Ah—!"

A paper bag tumbled through the air like a slow-motion snowstorm, bursting open as it hit the ground. Apples rolled across the cobblestone, a bunch of herbs fluttered into a puddle, and a long loaf of bread sadly flopped out like a fallen sword.

I blinked, snapping out of my daze. "Oh—crap. I'm so—"

My breath hitched.

The girl in front of me was already crouched down, gathering the groceries with quick, practiced hands. Green hair tied back neatly, beautiful, sharp sky blue eyes that flashed up toward me like twin daggers, and a pair of pointed ears.

'An elf...'

... I'm staring too long. I need to stop.

"…Watch where you're going," she said calmly, voice level but icy.

I quickly dropped to a crouch beside her. "No, that was my bad—I wasn't paying attention."

She looked at me again, eyes narrowing slightly. "…You're not from around here."

"Is it that obvious?" I chuckled sheepishly, grabbing a rolling apple before it disappeared under someone's stall. "Name's Ren."

She didn't offer hers right away. But she didn't tell me to buzz off either.

I scooped up the bread and handed it to her. "At least let me help you carry it. Kinda owe you for bowling into your shopping."

"…Fine," she relented, standing up and dusting off her skirt. She adjusted the grip on her half-full bag, then handed me the rest without a word. I followed her silently as she led the way through the streets with a swift, purposeful stride.

The quiet between us wasn't awkward, exactly. Just... cool.

Eventually, she slowed as we approached a cozy-looking tavern nestled between two taller buildings. A wooden sign swung overhead, depicting a smiling goddess holding a tankard.

Hostess of Fertility.

My mysterious escort stopped at the door. "You can hand me the bag now."

"Not gonna at least let me see it through to the kitchen?" I smirked.

She gave me a long, unreadable look.

"…You're persistent."

I shrugged. "Helpful. There's a difference."

The door opened before she could reply.

"Ohhh? Ryuu~ You're back already?" A lilting voice rang out as a young woman with silver hair and soft features peeked through the door. "And who's this handsome helper you've brought?"

"…He knocked over my groceries," Ryuu said flatly.

"Ah! So a troublemaker!" the girl giggled. "Welcome to the Hostess of Fertility!"

The moment I stepped inside, the warmth of the tavern hit me. Wood walls, the clatter of pots from the back, and a few early customers nursing hot meals. Behind the counter stood a very large woman with a scowl that could flatten mountains.

... that is a very big woman.

"Ryuu, who's the brat?"

"Just someone who felt guilty, Mama Mia." Ryuu replied, taking the bags from me. "I'll be in the kitchen."

She disappeared through the back without another glance.

"Well, she's not exactly warm," I muttered.

"Oh, don't mind her," the silver-haired girl chirped. "Ryuu's a sweetheart once you get past the whole 'mysterious elf' thing. I'm Syr, by the way."

"Ren," I nodded. "Nice to meet you."

At that exact moment, a blur of orange fur and ears zoomed in from the side.

"NYAH! What's this? A new customer? Or a new boy toy for Ryuu?" said the waitress—catgirl, rather—who practically draped herself over the back of my chair.

"Neither," I muttered, gently trying to pry her off. "I was just helping."

"That's what they all say," Anya sang, tail flicking playfully.

Syr giggled behind her hand. "Well, since you're here, why not stay for breakfast? You can try our famous honey rolls. On the house, for helping Ryuu."

Before I could argue, Mama Mia barked from behind the counter. "If he's eatin', he's helpin'. Syr—put him to work scrubbin' tables!"

"Wha—hey, wait—!"

X-X-X-X-X-X

The cloth in my hand was starting to smell like lemon and regrets.

"Scrub harder, Ren~! That table isn't gonna shine itself!" Anya chimed cheerfully, swishing her tail in my face as she darted by with a tray balanced on one hand.

"I'm scrubbing. I'm scrubbing," I muttered under my breath, wiping another stubborn stain from the wooden surface.

I didn't even know how I got here. One second I was handing off a bag of groceries, the next I had a rag in one hand and a tray in the other, dodging waitresses and flying utensils like my life depended on it.

"Ren! Wipe down that table before the next group comes in!" Syr called from behind the counter, effortlessly balancing a stack of clean mugs.

"That's the third table in five minutes!" I protested, wiping sweat from my brow as I hustled over. "How do you people live like this?!"

"NYAHAHA! We live on chaos and tips, baby!" Anya laughed, practically cartwheeling past me with a tray of breakfast plates stacked dangerously high. "And don't slow down now, new guy—this is only the pre-lunch rush!"

I stared at her. "There's more?"

"Oh, honey. You have no idea," Syr giggled as she glided past, placing mugs down with practiced grace. She paused beside me and gave me a playful wink. "But you're doing great! Ryuu wouldn't let just anyone carry her groceries, you know."

I glanced toward the kitchen doorway. Sure enough, Ryuu stood just beyond it, back straight and hands deftly working to slice bread with quiet precision. Her expression was unreadable as always—but there was a small, lingering glance in my direction.

I quickly turned back to scrubbing the table.

"Don't read into it," I muttered, voice low.

Syr leaned in, resting her elbows on the cleaned surface, head in her hands. "Who said I was?"

I scowled. "I'm not staying. Just helping. I can't pay for anything, so don't waste your food on me."

That made her blink. "…Is that why you've been refusing the rolls?"

I nodded. "Look, I appreciate the gesture, but I didn't earn it. I don't like taking stuff I can't pay back."

Syr stared at me for a beat. Then smiled softly. "Well, you're scrubbing tables, bussing dishes, and letting Anya shout in your ear every five seconds. I'd say that counts."

"Nope," I said, straightening. "That's repayment for bowling into Ryuu and causing trouble. It's not charity if I owe you."

Anya plopped down beside us mid-hop, a breadstick already halfway in her mouth. "Daaaamn, this one's got honor! Bet he's secretly a prince~!"

"More like a self-flagellating knight," Syr said thoughtfully, tapping her chin.

"The two of you are exaggerating... I'm just trying to help," I muttered, wiping another table down with a bit more force than necessary.

A heavy thud interrupted us.

Mama Mia had stomped over, arms crossed, brows low. "Brat. You're helpin', not freeloadin'. I don't give out handouts."

"I didn't ask for one," I said carefully.

"Then I'm telling you." Her tone dropped like a sledgehammer. "If you work in my place, you eat. That's the rule. You don't like it? There's the door."

I stiffened. She wasn't threatening me. She was just... making it clear.

Syr leaned closer and whispered, "You're not gonna win this one."

Anya grinned. "She once made a priest weep just by looking at him."

My stomach growled, betraying me at the worst possible moment.

Mama Mia raised one brow. "Hmph. I'll take that as agreement."

I sighed in defeat. "…Fine. But only something small. I mean it."

Syr clapped happily and vanished into the back, humming a tune. A few minutes later, she returned with a single plate: a modest slice of toast with honey, and a hot mug of tea.

"That's all?" I asked.

Syr smiled. "It's what Ryuu eats when she's feeling off."

I blinked and looked toward the kitchen. Ryuu wasn't there anymore.

But when I turned around, she was suddenly beside the bar, nursing a matching mug of tea. Her gaze flicked to mine, almost like she was checking to see if I noticed.

"…Thanks," I said, finally sitting down.

"You worked," she said quietly. "That's enough."

I went quiet, and opted to eat, biting into the toast and savoring the sweet tang of honey... there was a pinch of cinnamon as well. It was simple, but filling. I didn't need much else.

As I ate in silence, Anya sidled up to me with a cheshire grin, her tail swaying like a pendulum. "So, Renny—"

"Renny...?" I muttered under my breath.

"—we've never seen ya around before! And we make it a habit ta' know every customer that comes in here!" the cat girl rested her chin in her hands as she propped her against the counter. "So, are you new, nyah?"

"Something like that," I sipped my tea, "I just registered as an adventurer the other day."

Ryuu shot me a brief glance before focusing on her work again. Anya let out coo, grinning.

"Ah~! We've got a Freshie, then, nyah!"

"What Familia do you belong to?" She asked curiously as she passed us by, bringing a stack of dirty dishes into the kitchen.

"Hestia Familia," I answered with a smile, washing down the rest of my toast with my tea.

Syr stumbled over her feet before regaining her balance, glancing at me in surprise. "H-Hestia Familia?! So you're with Bell...?!"

"Eh? Rabbit Boy?" Anya tilted her head in confusion.

'Rabbit Boy...?'

I nodded slowly. "Yeah... you know him?"

"Met him a few days ago, nyah." Anya answered, twirling around as she backed away from the counter. "He's like, totes adorable~! Didn't know he got another person into his Familia, though."

"Is it that surprising?" I murmured in confusion. From the corner of my eye, I saw Syr whispering something into Ryuu's ear. The elf glanced at me before nodding and retreating into the kitchen.

What was that about?

"Not really. Or at least, with the Hestia Familia. Haven't heard much about them to be honest."

I frowned. I knew that Bell was Hestia's only 'child' in the Familia until I came along—but still... was their situation that bad? Or was something else keeping them from getting more members? Maybe I should ask them later...

"Well, it's nice to know that Bell has another member in his Familia," Syr said warmly.

... my big brother senses were tingling. I didn't even know I HAD big brother senses?!

THUD!

Mama Mia's hand smacked against the counter with a loud thumping noise, causing the three of to jolt. The large woman gave us all a sharp stare, her lips curving downwards in a deep frown. "If you have time to gossip, you have time to work!"

She jabbed a finger at me.

"Get to scrubbin' the floors, brat!"

"SERIOUSLY?!"

X-X-X-X-X-X

"Sorry again for all the trouble..." Syr gave me an apologetic bow, smiling sheepishly.

"It's... it's no problem..." I muttered tiredly.

Mama Mia was a real slave driver. Scary, too. I didn't want to get on her bad side if I could help it—but I had to admit, helping out around the tavern was... actually pretty fun. Maybe they'd be willing to hire? I'll ask them another time. I've got other places to be.

I smiled. "It was actually kinda fun. Reminded me of home..."

Syr perked up. "Oh, really? You do a lot of cleaning and cooking?"

"... I think so." I shrugged, "It's hard to remember, considering my amnesia. But I do remember doing something similar with my... mother."

"Amnesia?" Syr muttered softly, her expression melting into one of sympathy. "That's awful, not being able to remember your own past..."

I shook my head. "It's fine, really. I'm hoping my memories come back some day, but I'm in no rush to get them back."

I chuckled. "A few people told me that this can be considered a fresh start for me. So I'm going to take it as that."

Syr smiled softly. "If you're sure."

Ryuu stepped out and walked up to me, practically shoving a thick paper bag into my hands. I blinked, stammering. "W-What is—?"

"Food," she said plainly, "You're an adventurer, aren't you? You'll be heading into the Dungeon, then. You'll need to keep your strength up."

"I can't take this—"

"You can, and you will." Ryuu cut me off swiftly. Her tone was soft still, but there was an undercurrent of steel to it that shut me up. "Mama Mia insists. It wouldn't do you any good to die because you passed out from exhaustion."

I stared at Ryuu in surprise. "I..."

"Plus, we'd rather you come back so you can actually pay for you food."

My expression dropped and my brow twitched. With a huff, I snatched the bag out of Ryuu's hands, causing Syr to let out a soft giggle. I swore I caught the faintest hints of a smirk on the woman's face.

"Future investments, huh?" I grumbled playfully.

"Yes."

I huffed and rolled my eyes, "Thanks for the food... I guess."

I waved to them and walked off.

"Byeeee, Renny~! Make sure to come back soon, nyah!" I heard Anya call out.

"Sure thing!"

The sun was properly up by the time I made my way back through the quieter streets of Orario. The paper bag of food weighed down my arm, but it wasn't unpleasant. In fact… it smelled really damn good. Whatever Ryuu had packed, it wasn't some half-assed leftovers.

Still felt wrong accepting it, but turning it down wasn't really an option—not when she stared me down like that. I'm starting to think she could give Mama Mia a run for her money in the intimidation department, and that's saying something.

As I reached the steps of the church, I noticed something... odd. The front doors were wide open, practically flung off their hinges. I squinted.

"…The hell?"

I climbed the stairs, heart picking up a bit. And just as I stepped into the main hall—

"REN!!!"

A blue-and-white blur launched at me like a missile.

"H-Huh—?!" was all I managed to get out before I was tackled with surprising strength, the bag of food flying from my hands as I was slammed onto my back with a solid thud.

And then—soft.

Very, very soft.

Right in my face.

Oh, no.

"W-We thought you left us!" Hestia's voice cracked as she sniffled, hugging my head tightly into her chest. "You didn't leave a note, and you were gone when we woke up, and Bell was freaking out and—!"

I was dying. I was absolutely going to suffocate.

"Mmph—! H-Hestia—I can't—breathe!"

"Huh?" she blinked, looking down.

I slowly pried myself away from the embrace, face beet red, mouth gasping for sweet, unfiltered oxygen.

"Geh—! Warn a guy next time you go full chest-pillow mode!" I groaned, sitting up and rubbing my neck.

"W-Well maybe don't vanish at the crack of dawn without telling anyone!" she shot back, cheeks puffed out. "You scared the divine pants off me!"

"I don't think you wear pants," I muttered under my breath.

Bell came stumbling out of the back room, wide-eyed and panicked, until he saw me sitting there on the floor beside the groceries.

"…Ren?! You're okay!"

"Yeah. Just went for a walk," I mumbled. "Didn't think I'd trigger a family-wide crisis."

"Next time, leave a note," Hestia huffed, arms crossed under her chest—which only made it more obvious how… generously proportioned she was.

I averted my gaze, focusing real hard on the food bag I dropped. "Got some food... met some interesting people."

Bell tilted his head. "Really? Who?"

"Hostess of Fertility," I said, standing and dusting myself off. "Helped a waitress with her groceries, and the next thing I knew, I was roped into cleaning. Felt like I was back home."

Hestia narrowed her eyes suspiciously. "That's a tavern full of pretty women, isn't it?"

I blinked. "I mean... yes, but—"

She leapt up again. "Ren, you dog!"

I barely dodged the incoming headlock.

Yup.

This was my life now.

A/N.

This chapter came out fast, mainly because I already had it written in advance alongside the first chapter. I was mainly editing it for most of the day when I wasn't busy. Probably not gonna have back to back updates like this. lol.

Onto reviews!

Xeronica: Thank you~! Hope you enjoyed this chapter, too.

Phantom-Zero-v2: Yeah, that's the plan. I'm still early in the show. I'd rather know more so I don't go into things half-cocked.

spauldingsmaqc: Thank you! Yeah, like I said, I'm still fresh in the show. Currently going through Season 2 as we speak. I'm gonna be dedicating time to combing through the series and then read the Light Novels just so I'm confident in what I'm doing.

Glad you guys like Ren, though! I like him too. :)