Chapter 2: Curiosity and Discovery
Morning sunlight streamed through the windows of the Hathor Familia home, bathing the dining room in a warm golden glow. Bell had woken early, eager to begin his second day as an adventurer. He was already seated at the table when the other members began to filter in for breakfast.
"Good morning, Bell!" chirped the twins in their characteristic unison as they took seats opposite him.
"Sleep well?" Emil asked, setting down a heavy platter of freshly baked bread. The dwarf seemed to have taken on the role of the Familia's unofficial baker, a talent Bell hadn't expected from the burly blacksmith.
"Very well, thank you," Bell replied with a bright smile. After years of living alone with his grandfather in their small cottage, the lively atmosphere of the Familia home was a welcome change. "I'm excited to get back to the Dungeon today."
Kiros, the cat-person warrior, raised an eyebrow as he buttered a piece of bread. "Eager, aren't you? Most newcomers need a day to recover after their first expedition."
"I feel perfectly fine," Bell assured him, helping himself to some eggs. "My grandfather always said I have good stamina."
Lady Hathor entered the dining room, bringing with her that sense of warmth and maternal energy that seemed to define her presence. The Familia members greeted her respectfully as she took her seat at the head of the table.
"You all seem lively this morning," she observed with a pleased smile. "Especially you, Bell. I take it you're ready for another day of adventure?"
Bell nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, Lady Hathor. I plan to go to the Guild first to exchange my magic stones from yesterday. After that..." He glanced at Nernatti, who had just entered the room. "I was wondering if I might venture into the Dungeon on my own today? Or should I return here after the Guild?"
Nernatti considered the question as she took her seat, her expression thoughtful. "After yesterday's performance, I believe you're capable of solo exploration," she said finally. "However, I would advise you to remain on the first and second floors only. Those levels are optimal for newcomers to acclimate to the Dungeon environment."
"I understand," Bell agreed readily. "I won't go any deeper."
"The upper floors are still dangerous," Lysandra cautioned, her healer's instincts evident in her concerned tone. "Always carry potions and be prepared to retreat if necessary."
Bell patted the small pouch at his belt where he had stored the potions he'd purchased the previous day. "I will. And I promise to be careful."
"Good," Hathor said with an approving nod. "Remember, there's no shame in retreating when faced with overwhelming odds. Bravery is admirable, but foolhardiness can be fatal."
As breakfast continued, the conversation flowed naturally between topics—upcoming crafting projects from Emil, the twins' progress with their combat training, and various events happening around Orario. Bell absorbed it all, feeling increasingly at home among these people who had so readily accepted him into their midst.
When the meal concluded, Bell thanked Emil for the delicious food and bid farewell to the Familia members. With his bow slung across his back and his sword at his hip, he set out toward the Guild headquarters, his steps light with anticipation.
The morning streets of Orario bustled with activity—merchants setting up their stalls, adventurers heading toward Babel Tower, and ordinary citizens going about their daily routines. Bell navigated through the crowd with growing confidence, already feeling less like a newcomer than he had just two days ago.
When he reached the Guild, he headed first to the exchange counter, where he presented the magic stones he had collected during his expedition with Nernatti. The Guild employee counted and assessed them efficiently.
"Seven thousand valis," the employee announced, pushing a small bag of coins across the counter. "Not bad for a first expedition."
Bell accepted the payment with gratitude, pleased that his initial efforts had yielded a respectable sum. It wasn't a fortune by any means, but it would cover his basic needs and perhaps some additional equipment.
With his stones exchanged, Bell's eyes automatically sought out Sophia's counter. He felt a small surge of pleasure when he spotted her silver hair and elegant profile as she worked through some paperwork.
He approached her station, waiting patiently until she looked up from her work. When their eyes met, Bell offered a warm smile.
"Good morning, Miss Sophia," he greeted her.
Sophia's professional demeanor softened just slightly at the sight of him. "Good morning, Bell. I see you've returned safely from your expedition yesterday."
"Yes," Bell confirmed, taking the seat opposite her. "I just exchanged my magic stones from the first floor. Captain Nernatti was a great guide."
"I'm glad to hear it," Sophia said, setting aside her paperwork to give him her full attention. "How did you find the Dungeon? Now that you've had time to reflect on the experience."
Bell considered the question thoughtfully. "It was both more and less intimidating than I expected," he admitted. "The environment itself is strange—almost alive in a way—but the monsters, at least on the first floor, weren't as fearsome as my grandfather's stories had led me to believe."
"The tales often emphasize the dangers," Sophia acknowledged. "But your assessment is accurate. The Dungeon is indeed alive in a sense, constantly changing and spawning monsters. The upper floors are relatively manageable for prepared adventurers, but the deeper levels..." She trailed off, a shadow passing briefly across her features.
Bell noted her expression with curiosity but didn't press the matter. Instead, he shared more details about his experiences—the Goblins he had encountered, the terrain of the first floor, and the tactics Nernatti had suggested.
Sophia listened attentively, occasionally offering additional insights or recommendations. Their conversation flowed naturally, more relaxed than their previous interactions.
"I'm planning to go back today," Bell told her. "Solo this time, though Captain Nernatti advised me to stay on the first and second floors."
"That's wise counsel," Sophia agreed. "Second-floor monsters aren't significantly stronger than those on the first, but they appear in greater numbers. Be vigilant about your surroundings to avoid being surrounded."
Bell nodded, absorbing her advice. Then, a question that had been forming in his mind since yesterday surfaced. "Miss Sophia, are there detailed maps or records of the Dungeon floors? I was thinking it might be helpful to have more information about the layout and monster spawning locations."
Sophia's blue eyes registered mild surprise at the question. "The Guild maintains basic maps of the upper floors, but they're not especially detailed. The Dungeon's layout shifts subtly over time, particularly on the deeper floors, making comprehensive mapping challenging." She tilted her head slightly. "Why do you ask?"
"Well," Bell began, leaning forward with growing enthusiasm, "I was thinking of keeping thorough notes during my explorations. Recording monster locations, environmental features, safe areas—that sort of thing. If there aren't already detailed resources, maybe I could contribute by creating some."
Sophia's surprise deepened, giving way to what appeared to be genuine interest. "That's... an unusual approach for a new adventurer," she remarked. "Most are focused solely on collecting magic stones or reaching deeper floors as quickly as possible."
Bell rubbed the back of his neck, slightly embarrassed. "My grandfather always emphasized the importance of observation and documentation when we went hunting. He said knowledge is as valuable a tool as any weapon."
A small but warm smile curved Sophia's lips. "Your grandfather sounds like a wise man. Documentation of the Dungeon's features could indeed be valuable, both for your own development and potentially for other adventurers."
Encouraged by her response, Bell continued, "I thought I could start mapping the first few floors in detail, noting monster behaviors and patterns. It might help me understand the Dungeon better."
"I think that's an excellent idea," Sophia said, and Bell was pleased to detect genuine approval in her voice. "Such systematic observation is rare among adventurers, but it could provide significant advantages. The Guild would certainly be interested in any detailed documentation you produce."
Bell beamed at her endorsement. "Then I'll definitely do it! I brought a notebook with me today to start taking notes."
"Just remember to balance your observation with vigilance," Sophia cautioned. "It's easy to become absorbed in note-taking and miss approaching dangers."
"I'll be careful," Bell promised. "Maybe I could show you my notes when I return? If you have time, of course," he added hastily, not wanting to impose.
Sophia hesitated for just a moment, but then nodded. "Yes, I'd be interested to see what you observe. Perhaps we could review your findings together after you return from the Dungeon today."
Bell couldn't hide his delight at the suggestion. "That would be great! I'll make sure my notes are thorough."
As their conversation drew to a close, Sophia's expression turned serious once more. "Be cautious today, Bell. Solo exploration requires constant awareness, even on the upper floors."
"I will," Bell assured her, touched by her concern. "I won't take unnecessary risks."
With a final farewell, Bell left the Guild, his spirits high and his mind already mapping out his approach to exploring and documenting the Dungeon. The prospect of sharing his findings with Sophia later added extra motivation to his mission.
As he walked toward Babel Tower, notebook secure in his pocket and weapons ready, Bell felt a profound sense of purpose. He wasn't just collecting magic stones or hunting monsters—he was beginning to chart his own unique path as an adventurer.
And somewhere in the back of his mind, he hoped his grandfather would be proud of the direction he had chosen.
The entrance to the Dungeon loomed before Bell, the massive cavern now feeling slightly more familiar than it had the day before. He adjusted his bow on his shoulder, checked that his notebook and pencil were secure in his pocket, and stepped into the otherworldly environment with determined strides.
This time, without Nernatti watching his every move, Bell felt both greater freedom and sharper awareness. He was entirely responsible for his own safety now, a thought that was both exhilarating and sobering.
"Alright," he murmured to himself as he moved cautiously through the crystalline passages of the first floor. "Let's begin with a systematic approach."
Bell drew his notebook and quickly sketched a rough outline of the path he was taking, noting distinctive features of the environment—unusual crystal formations, the width of passages, areas where the ceiling height changed significantly. He used a system of symbols he had devised over breakfast to mark these features efficiently.
His first monster encounter came about fifteen minutes into his exploration—a lone Goblin that emerged from a side passage. Bell observed it for a moment before engaging, noting its behavior in his mental catalog. The creature sniffed the air, spotted him, and immediately charged with a guttural cry.
Bell dispatched it with a single arrow, then approached the dissolving remains to collect the magic stone. In his notebook, he marked the location and wrote:
"Goblin - solo, aggressive on sight, no hesitation or assessment before attack. Direct charge pattern. No apparent awareness of disadvantage despite distance."
As Bell continued deeper into the first floor, he encountered more Goblins, sometimes alone and sometimes in pairs or trios. Each encounter added to his growing database of observations:
"Goblins in groups show minimal coordination. They attack simultaneously but don't appear to employ tactics or flanking maneuvers."
"Noticed Goblins seem to spawn more frequently in areas with dense crystal formations. Possibly related to magic stone concentration?"
"When wounded but not killed, Goblins don't retreat or adjust strategy—they continue attacking in the same manner."
Between encounters, Bell focused on mapping, creating an increasingly detailed chart of the first floor's layout. The effort proved more challenging than he had initially expected. The Dungeon didn't follow logical architectural patterns; passages sometimes curved without apparent reason, rooms varied dramatically in size and shape, and occasionally he found dead ends that felt somehow... incomplete, as if the Dungeon was still forming them.
After several hours of methodical exploration, documentation, and monster hunting, Bell decided to venture down to the second floor. His pouch was already half-filled with magic stones from Goblins, and he was eager to observe the subtle differences between floors that Sophia and Nernatti had mentioned.
The descent to the second floor came in the form of a wide stairway carved into the stone, illuminated by the same bluish crystal light that pervaded the entire Dungeon. Bell paused at the top of the stairs, making a careful note of its location in his map before proceeding downward.
The atmosphere on the second floor was immediately different—slightly dimmer, with a heavier quality to the air. The passages were wider on average, and the crystal formations more abundant. Bell documented these observations methodically before proceeding.
It wasn't long before he encountered his first Kobold—a dog-like monster that was slightly larger and more formidable than the Goblins above. Bell observed it from a distance, noting its movements in his book:
"Kobold moves with greater caution than Goblins. Appears to sniff and assess surroundings more thoroughly before moving. More quadrupedal in general movement, but rises to bipedal stance when attacking."
When the Kobold finally noticed him, Bell prepared for combat with careful attention to its approach. The creature was indeed faster and more agile than the Goblins, darting toward him with a speed that would have caught a less-prepared adventurer off guard.
Bell sidestepped its initial lunge and countered with a swift sword strike, noting how the monster reacted to his movement:
"Kobolds have better balance and recovery than Goblins. After missing initial attack, this specimen immediately pivoted for a second attempt rather than stumbling past as Goblins tend to do."
After defeating the Kobold and collecting its magic stone, Bell continued his exploration, repeating the same systematic approach he had used on the first floor—mapping, observing monster behavior, documenting environmental features, and collecting magic stones.
The hours passed quickly as Bell immersed himself in his work. He encountered various Kobold groups, found a particularly monster-dense area that he marked as "high risk/high reward" on his map, and discovered several relatively safe locations that could serve as rest areas for tired adventurers.
"Kobolds in groups show basic pack tactics. They appear to communicate through body language and vocalizations. When in groups of three or more, they attempt to circle their prey rather than all attacking from the same direction."
"Monsters seem to spawn more frequently in areas with high crystal concentration and less often in wider, more open chambers. Potential strategy: use open areas as safe zones for recovery."
"Kobolds appear to have better eyesight than Goblins but rely more heavily on smell for detection. Approaching downwind gives a significant advantage for surprise attacks."
By mid-afternoon, Bell had collected a substantial number of magic stones and filled several pages of his notebook with observations, sketches, and maps. His methodical approach had proven effective—he had gained valuable insights while maintaining his safety through careful observation and strategic engagement.
As Bell prepared to ascend back to the first floor and exit the Dungeon, he decided to explore one last passage he hadn't yet documented. The narrow corridor twisted unexpectedly, opening into a small chamber that was strangely quiet compared to the rest of the second floor.
Bell paused at the entrance, his instincts suddenly alert. Something felt different about this room. The crystal formations along the walls emitted a slightly different hue—more greenish than the usual blue—and the air felt oddly static.
He was about to make a note of these observations when a rustling sound from above made him look up sharply. Clinging to the ceiling was a creature unlike any he had encountered so far.
It resembled a large bird with iridescent black feathers, but its proportions were wrong—too elongated, with limbs that bent at unnatural angles. Its head swiveled to fix Bell with gleaming red eyes, and a mouth filled with needle-like teeth opened in a silent hiss.
"What in the world...?" Bell whispered, hastily stepping back as the creature detached from the ceiling in one fluid motion.
Bell had no time to consult his briefing about this monster—it clearly wasn't a standard Goblin or Kobold. Relying on instinct and training, he nocked an arrow and fired at the bird-like creature as it dove toward him.
The arrow struck its wing, but the monster barely slowed. Bell rolled aside as it crashed into the spot where he had stood, its claws leaving deep gouges in the stone floor.
This is faster and stronger than anything on the first two floors should be, Bell thought, drawing his sword as the creature whirled to face him again.
The battle that followed was brief but intense. The monster moved with unnerving speed and agility, forcing Bell to utilize every evasive maneuver his grandfather had taught him. It took three solid sword strikes to finally bring the creature down, and even then, it dissolving body seemed to twitch with lingering energy.
Breathing heavily, Bell approached the monster's remains. Among the usual ash-like residue that monsters left behind was something different—a small, gleaming object that was neither dust nor a standard magic stone.
Bell carefully picked it up. It appeared to be a feather, but it was solid like metal and shimmered with an inner light that shifted between black and deep purple. He had never seen anything like it before.
"Some kind of drop item?" he murmured, recalling what Sophia had told him about rare monster drops during his orientation.
He carefully placed the feather in a separate pouch from his magic stones, then quickly documented the encounter while the details were fresh in his mind:
"Unknown bird-like monster, significantly stronger than expected for Floor 2. Ceiling ambush predator. Extremely agile, sharp claws, needle teeth. Left behind unusual feather drop after defeat. Need to research identity—possibly out of place or a rare spawn."
With this final note, and a careful sketch of both the monster and the feather, Bell decided it was time to return to the surface. His first solo expedition had been more eventful—and potentially more profitable—than he had anticipated.
The Guild was bustling with late-afternoon activity when Bell returned from the Dungeon. Adventurers lined up at the exchange counters, turning in their day's haul of magic stones for valis. Bell joined one of the queues, his mind still preoccupied with the mysterious bird monster and the strange feather he had obtained.
When his turn came, Bell emptied his pouch of magic stones onto the counter. The Guild employee counted them efficiently.
"A good haul for a solo newcomer," the employee remarked. "That's 15,000 valis."
Bell accepted the payment with a nod of thanks, then hesitated before pulling out the second pouch. "I also found this item. I'm not sure what it is or if it has any value."
He carefully placed the metallic feather on the counter.
The employee's eyes widened dramatically. He picked up the feather with trembling fingers, examining it closely before looking back at Bell with an expression of disbelief.
"This... this is a Jack Bird feather," he said, his voice hushed with awe. "Where did you find this?"
"On the second floor," Bell replied, surprised by the man's reaction. "I encountered a strange bird-like monster in a small chamber. It was much stronger than the other monsters I'd faced."
The employee was already gesturing frantically to his supervisor, who hurried over to inspect the item. Her reaction was equally stunned.
"A Jack Bird on the second floor?" she muttered incredulously. "That shouldn't be possible."
She looked at Bell with newfound respect. "Young man, do you realize what you've found? Jack Birds are one of rarest monsters that normally only appear on the 10th floor and below. This feather is an extremely valuable drop item."
Bell blinked in surprise. "Valuable? How valuable exactly?"
The supervisor straightened up. "The current market value for a Jack Bird feather is approximately 1,000,000 valis."
Bell's jaw dropped. "One... one million valis?" he stammered.
"At minimum," the supervisor confirmed. "They're used in crafting high-grade magic items and certain rare potions. The Guild can purchase it directly from you, or you can try selling it to one of the specialty item merchants for potentially more."
Bell's mind reeled at the figure. A million valis was an astronomical sum for a novice adventurer—enough to purchase high-quality equipment, potions, and supplies for months to come.
"I... I think I'll accept the Guild's offer," Bell decided, still trying to process his sudden change in fortune. "But I should probably discuss this with my Familia first."
The supervisor nodded understandingly. "Of course. The offer will stand whenever you're ready to sell. We'll hold the feather in our secure vault until then, if you'd like."
Bell considered this for a moment, then nodded. "Yes, that would be best. Thank you."
After receiving a receipt for the deposited feather, Bell stepped away from the counter in a daze. From struggling newcomer to potential millionaire in a single day—it was almost too much to comprehend.
I need to talk to Lady Hathor about this, he thought. This kind of money needs to be invested wisely, not just spent frivolously.
Despite the excitement of his unexpected windfall, Bell didn't forget his appointment with Sophia. He made his way to her counter, where she was finishing up with another adventurer.
When she saw him waiting, a flicker of what might have been relief crossed her features. "Bell. You've returned safely, I see."
"Yes," Bell confirmed, taking the seat opposite her desk. "It was quite an eventful expedition."
"Oh?" Sophia's eyebrow raised slightly. "How so?"
Bell launched into a recounting of his day, starting with his systematic exploration and documentation of the first and second floors. He pulled out his notebook to show her the detailed maps he had created, the monster observations he had recorded, and the patterns he had begun to identify.
Sophia leaned forward with genuine interest as she examined his notes. "This is impressive work, Bell. Most adventurers don't take the time to document with such precision."
"Thank you," Bell replied, pleased by her approval. "I found it helpful to understand the environment better. The patterns of monster spawns, the layout of safe zones versus higher-risk areas—it all contributes to more efficient exploration."
Sophia nodded in agreement as she turned pages in his notebook. "Your observations about Kobold pack behavior are particularly astute. And these maps..." She traced a finger along one of his detailed sketches. "The Guild could definitely benefit from this level of documentation."
Bell beamed at her praise, then hesitated before adding, "There's something else that happened, though. Something unexpected."
He proceeded to tell her about the encounter with the Jack Bird and the valuable feather he had obtained. Sophia's expression shifted from professional interest to astonishment as he described the creature and the Guild's reaction to the drop item.
"A Jack Bird on the second floor," she murmured, echoing the supervisor's disbelief. "That's extremely unusual. They're normally found deeper in the Dungeon."
"That's what they told me," Bell agreed. "Is it dangerous that it was so far out of place?"
Sophia's brow furrowed thoughtfully. "It could be an anomaly, but it's worth reporting to the Guild's research division. Monster movements between floors can sometimes indicate larger changes within the Dungeon."
She looked at him directly, her blue eyes serious. "You were fortunate to defeat it, Bell. Jack Birds are considerably more dangerous than the monsters you've trained for."
"I didn't realize that at the time," Bell admitted. "I just reacted based on my training."
"Your instincts served you well," Sophia said. "As for the feather—one million valis is life-changing for a new adventurer. Have you decided what you'll do with it?"
Bell shook his head. "Not specifically. I want to discuss it with Lady Hathor and the Familia first. It seems wise to invest most of it rather than spending it all at once."
A small smile touched Sophia's lips. "That's an uncommonly mature perspective. Many adventurers would immediately spend such a windfall on equipment or celebrations."
"My grandfather always emphasized the importance of planning for the future," Bell explained. "Though I admit, the thought of upgrading my equipment is tempting."
Their conversation continued as they went through the rest of Bell's notes, with Sophia offering insights about the Dungeon features he had documented and suggestions for areas to focus on in future explorations. The professional distance she typically maintained seemed to relax slightly as they discussed his findings with shared enthusiasm.
As their meeting drew to a close, Sophia gathered his notes and handed them back to him. "You've made excellent progress for just your second day, Bell. Both in combat capability and in your understanding of the Dungeon."
"Thank you," Bell replied, carefully returning his notebook to his pocket. "Having your guidance has been invaluable."
"Remember to report that Jack Bird sighting to the Guild's monster research department before you leave today," Sophia reminded him. "They'll want all the details you can provide."
Bell nodded in agreement. "I will. And... perhaps I could show you my notes again after my next expedition?"
Sophia hesitated only briefly before nodding. "Yes, I'd be interested to see how your documentation progresses. It's refreshing to work with an adventurer who takes such a thoughtful approach to the Dungeon."
With a final farewell, Bell left Sophia's counter, his heart lighter than it had been in days. Despite the exhaustion of his expedition, he felt energized by their conversation and the unexpected good fortune of the Jack Bird feather.
As he headed toward the Guild's monster research department to report his unusual encounter, Bell couldn't help but reflect on how dramatically his life had changed in just three days. From a newcomer without a Familia to a potentially wealthy adventurer with a unique approach to Dungeon exploration—and perhaps even the beginnings of a special connection with a certain silver-haired Guild advisor.
The path ahead was full of possibilities, and Bell Cranel couldn't wait to see where it would lead.
The sun was beginning to set as Bell made his way back to the Hathor Familia home, painting Orario's streets and buildings in warm golden hues. His mind was still reeling from the day's events—the successful exploration, the detailed mapping, the unexpected encounter with the Jack Bird, and most of all, the knowledge that he was now, at least potentially, a millionaire.
One million valis, he thought, the number still seeming unreal. From a single drop item.
As Bell approached the Familia home, he could see lights already glowing warmly in the windows. The delicious aroma of dinner preparation wafted through the air, reminding him that he hadn't eaten since a quick snack at midday. His stomach growled in response.
Bell entered to find the house alive with pre-dinner activity. He could hear animated conversation coming from both the kitchen and the common room, along with the occasional burst of laughter. It struck him again how different this environment was from the quiet cottage he had shared with his grandfather—and how quickly he was coming to appreciate the lively atmosphere.
"Bell! You're back!" Rio (or was it Ria?) called out when she spotted him in the entryway. "How was the Dungeon?"
"It was... eventful," Bell replied with a smile. "Is there time for me to clean up before dinner?"
"Of course," the twin confirmed. "It'll be ready in about twenty minutes. Everyone's gathering in the dining room."
Bell nodded gratefully and headed to his room, where he deposited his equipment and notebook before making his way to the washroom. A quick but thorough wash removed the dust and sweat from his expedition, leaving him feeling refreshed and ready for the evening meal.
When Bell entered the dining room, most of the Familia was already gathered around the table. Lady Hathor sat at her customary place at the head, with Nernatti at her right hand. The others were engaged in animated conversation that paused briefly as Bell appeared.
"Perfect timing," Hathor greeted him with a warm smile. "We were just about to begin. Come, join us."
Bell took his seat between Lysandra and Emil, returning the welcoming nods and smiles from around the table. As the food was served—a hearty stew with fresh bread and roasted vegetables—the conversation resumed its natural flow.
"So, Bell," Kiros inquired after everyone had begun eating, "how was your first solo venture into the Dungeon?"
All eyes turned to Bell with interest. He swallowed his mouthful of stew before responding.
"It went well, I think. I spent most of the day mapping and documenting the first and second floors."
"Mapping?" Emil asked, his bushy eyebrows raised. "That's an unusual focus for a new adventurer."
Bell nodded. "I thought it would help me understand the Dungeon better if I recorded everything systematically—the layout, monster behaviors, spawning patterns, that sort of thing."
"A thoughtful approach," Nernatti commented with approval. "Many adventurers rush headlong into the Dungeon without truly understanding its nature."
"I filled nearly half my notebook," Bell continued, growing more animated as he described his methodical exploration. "I think I've identified some interesting patterns in how Goblins and Kobolds behave, especially in groups."
"Sounds like you had a productive day," Lysandra observed. "Did you encounter any difficulties?"
Bell hesitated, then decided there was no reason to hold back the day's most significant event. "Actually, yes. Just as I was preparing to leave, I encountered a monster I didn't recognize—something that apparently shouldn't have been on the second floor at all."
The dining room fell silent as everyone's attention sharpened.
"What kind of monster?" Nernatti asked, her voice suddenly serious.
"The Guild identified it as a Jack Bird," Bell explained. "A black, bird-like creature with abnormal proportions and red eyes. It attacked from the ceiling."
Surprised exclamations erupted around the table.
"A Jack Bird? On the second floor?" Kiros looked genuinely stunned. "Those are mid-level monsters!"
"That's extremely unusual," Nernatti said, exchanging a significant glance with Hathor. "Jack Birds normally inhabit deeper levels."
"Were you injured?" Hathor asked, concern evident in her voice.
Bell shook his head. "No, Lady Hathor. I managed to defeat it, though it was much stronger than the Goblins and Kobolds."
"You defeated a Jack Bird on your second day as an adventurer?" Emil's voice was filled with disbelief. "That's... remarkable."
Bell rubbed the back of his neck, slightly embarrassed by their reactions. "I think I was just fortunate. My archery training helped, and I had the advantage of surprise."
"Don't underestimate your achievement," Nernatti said firmly. "Many Level 1 adventurers would struggle against such a monster."
"There's more," Bell added, watching their expressions. "The Jack Bird dropped a rare item—a metallic feather. When I took it to the Guild, they told me it's worth approximately one million valis."
The silence that followed was profound. Every face around the table registered shock, with the twins' jaws dropping in perfect unison.
"One million valis?" Lysandra finally breathed. "From a single drop?"
"That's... that's a fortune," Kiros added, his eyes wide.
"It certainly is," Hathor agreed, looking at Bell with a mixture of surprise and pride. "It seems you've had quite the stroke of luck, Bell."
"I left the feather in the Guild's vault for safekeeping," Bell explained. "I wanted to discuss it with all of you before making any decisions about what to do with it."
Hathor's expression softened into a warm smile. "That shows admirable restraint and consideration, Bell. Many adventurers would rush to spend such a windfall immediately."
Bell looked around the table at his new family, suddenly uncertain. "That's actually what I wanted to ask your advice about. I've never had that kind of money before, and I'm not sure how best to use it."
"Well, what are your thoughts?" Nernatti prompted gently. "It's your earnings, after all."
Bell considered for a moment before responding. "I was thinking I should invest in some better equipment—perhaps some light armor and a new bow. And maybe some new clothes, since I didn't bring much with me from home."
He glanced down at his simple attire, which was beginning to show signs of wear.
"Those sound like sensible priorities," Hathor nodded approvingly.
"But I don't really know Orario yet," Bell continued. "I'm not familiar with which shops are reputable or where to find quality equipment." He looked up hopefully. "Would someone be willing to help me navigate the city for shopping? I'd be grateful for the guidance."
"I'd be happy to accompany you," Lysandra offered immediately. "I know several excellent clothiers in the merchant district."
"And I can point you to the best weapon shops," Kiros added. "Though for a truly quality bow, you might want Emil's expertise."
The dwarf blacksmith nodded gruffly. "Indeed. I know every weaponsmith worth their salt in Orario. I'll make sure you don't get swindled."
"Thank you," Bell said, genuinely touched by their willingness to help. He hesitated for a moment before adding, "Also, I was thinking that the rest of the money—after equipment and necessities—should go to the Familia. As a contribution to our shared resources."
This proposal was met with surprised looks around the table.
"That's very generous, Bell," Hathor said gently, "but unusual. Typically, adventurers keep their personal earnings, while contributing a set percentage to the Familia treasury."
"Oh," Bell said, slightly embarrassed. "I didn't realize. In our village, we often pooled resources for the community's benefit."
"A commendable philosophy," Nernatti commented. "But in this case, your first major windfall should primarily benefit your own development. A portion to the Familia is appropriate, but not the majority."
"The standard contribution in our Familia is twenty percent of monster drop proceeds," Hathor explained. "That would amount to two hundred thousand valis from your Jack Bird feather. The rest remains yours to use as you see fit."
"I understand," Bell nodded, adjusting his thinking. "Then I'll contribute the standard amount and use the rest for equipment and savings."
"A wise approach," Hathor approved. "Quality equipment will serve you well in the Dungeon, and having savings provides security for the future."
The conversation gradually shifted to more specific recommendations about equipment and shops as dinner continued. Each Familia member offered suggestions based on their expertise—Emil spoke at length about bow craftsmanship, Lysandra detailed the benefits of different types of light armor, and the twins enthusiastically described their favorite clothing shops.
Bell absorbed it all, deeply appreciative of their guidance and support. The knowledge that he had found not just a Familia but a true family in Orario filled him with a profound sense of belonging.
As the meal drew to a close, Hathor addressed the entire table. "Tomorrow, let's arrange for Bell to visit the various shops he needs. Lysandra, Kiros, and Emil, if you could coordinate your schedules to assist him?"
The three nodded their agreement.
"And Bell," Hathor continued, "since this will be your first major equipment purchase, I suggest you consult with Nernatti about balancing quality versus cost. With her experience, she can help you make informed decisions."
"I'd appreciate that greatly," Bell said, turning to the dark elf captain with respect.
Nernatti inclined her head. "We'll speak later this evening, if you're not too tired."
"Not at all," Bell assured her.
As the Familia dispersed from the dining room, Bell helped clear the table, reflecting on the dramatic turn his fortunes had taken. Just three days ago, he had arrived in Orario with nothing but his grandfather's sword, his bow, and a handful of coins. Now he was a member of a supportive Familia and possessed the means to establish himself properly as an adventurer.
Later, as Bell sat with Nernatti in the common room, reviewing equipment options and pricing, a thought occurred to him.
"Captain Nernatti," he began, setting aside the list they had been compiling, "do you think it's strange that a Jack Bird appeared so far out of its normal range?"
The dark elf's expression grew serious. "Yes, it is concerning. Monster movements within the Dungeon often indicate deeper changes or disturbances."
"The Guild seemed quite surprised too," Bell noted. "They're having me report to their monster research department tomorrow."
Nernatti nodded thoughtfully. "It's worth monitoring. If you encounter any other unusual monsters or phenomena in the upper floors, report them immediately—both to the Guild and to me."
"I will," Bell promised. "Is there anything specific I should watch for?"
"Trust your instincts," Nernatti advised. "You already demonstrated good judgment by recognizing that the Jack Bird was out of place. That awareness will serve you well."
Their conversation returned to equipment considerations, but Bell filed away Nernatti's concern for future reference. There was clearly more to the Dungeon than he yet understood—more mysteries to unravel, more patterns to identify.
As he finally retired to his room for the night, Bell pulled out his notebook and added a few more observations about the Jack Bird encounter, determined to maintain his systematic documentation of everything he experienced in the Dungeon.
Tomorrow would bring new adventures—the exploration of Orario's commercial districts, his first major equipment purchases, and perhaps more insights into the mysterious Dungeon that lay beneath the city.
Bell fell asleep with a smile on his face, grateful for the unexpected turns his journey had taken and excited for what lay ahead.