Chapter 3: New Horizons
Morning sunlight streamed through the windows of the Hathor Familia home, illuminating the dining room with a warm golden glow. Bell was among the first to arrive for breakfast, his mind already racing with plans for the day ahead. The knowledge that he would soon claim his million valis and begin outfitting himself properly as an adventurer had him practically buzzing with anticipation.
One by one, the other members of the Familia filtered into the room. The twins, Ria and Rio, arrived with their characteristic energy, chattering excitedly about their training plans. Emil followed, carrying a fresh batch of bread that filled the room with its mouthwatering aroma. Lysandra, Kiros, and finally Nernatti joined them, each offering morning greetings as they took their places around the table.
Lady Hathor arrived last, her presence immediately warming the atmosphere further. "Good morning, everyone," she greeted, her smile visible beneath her cow-shaped mask. "I trust you all slept well?"
As breakfast began in earnest, conversation flowed naturally between bites of Emil's delicious bread, eggs, and fresh fruit. Bell listened contentedly to the familiar banter, still marveling at how quickly he had come to feel at home among these people.
When there was a natural lull in the conversation, Bell cleared his throat. "I was thinking about today's plans," he began, drawing everyone's attention. "First, I'd like to go to the Guild to speak with Sophia and collect the payment for the Jack Bird feather."
"Ah, Sophia," Ria teased with a mischievous smile. "Your Guild advisor who's been so helpful."
"You mentioned her quite a few times at dinner last night," Rio added, her expression matching her twin's.
Bell felt heat rise to his cheeks. "She's been very professional and knowledgeable," he defended, though his slightly flustered tone only encouraged the twins further.
"Oh, of course," Ria nodded with exaggerated seriousness. "Professional and knowledgeable. And pretty too, from what I've heard."
"Silver hair and blue eyes, wasn't it?" Rio mused innocently. "Like something from a story book."
"Now, now," Lysandra intervened, though her eyes twinkled with amusement. "Don't tease Bell too much. It's perfectly normal to appreciate a good advisor."
Kiros snorted into his drink. "Especially one as renowned for her beauty as Sophia. Half the male adventurers in Orario find excuses to visit her counter."
"That's not—I don't—" Bell stammered, his face now decidedly red.
Hathor's melodious laugh interrupted his fumbling. "It's all in good fun, Bell. We're just happy to see you settling into life in Orario so well." She tilted her head curiously. "What were your plans after visiting the Guild?"
Grateful for the change of subject, Bell composed himself. "Well, that's actually what I wanted to ask everyone about. I know we discussed yesterday that some of you might help me with shopping for equipment and clothes, but I was wondering..."
He hesitated briefly, then continued with more confidence. "I was wondering if perhaps the whole Familia might want to join me today? I could treat everyone to lunch as a small token of my appreciation for all your help and guidance. It would be nice to explore the city together."
A moment of surprised silence followed his suggestion, soon replaced by warm smiles around the table.
"That's a lovely idea, Bell," Lysandra said, genuine appreciation in her voice.
"Indeed," Nernatti agreed with a rare smile. "Most adventurers who receive a windfall think only of themselves. Your generosity speaks well of your character."
"I wouldn't mind a day away from the forge," Emil added gruffly, though his eyes betrayed his pleasure at the invitation.
"Then it's settled!" Hathor declared, clearly delighted by the suggestion. "A Familia outing is just what we need. It's been too long since we've all taken a day to enjoy the city together."
"Really? Everyone can come?" Bell asked, surprised and pleased that his invitation had been so well received.
"The Dungeon will still be there tomorrow," Kiros said with a casual shrug. "And watching you spend your first fortune should be entertaining."
The twins clapped their hands in unison. "This is going to be fun!" they chorused.
As breakfast concluded and the Familia members began preparing for the day, Hathor approached Bell privately.
"That was a thoughtful gesture, Bell," she said warmly. "In just a few days, you've shown a remarkable understanding of what being part of a Familia truly means—it's not just about advantage in the Dungeon, but about creating bonds and sharing experiences."
Bell smiled, touched by her words. "You've all made me feel so welcome. It seemed like the least I could do."
Hathor patted his shoulder affectionately. "Why don't you go ahead to the Guild now? Take care of your business with Sophia and collect your payment. The rest of us will meet you there in about an hour."
"That sounds perfect," Bell agreed. "I'll see you all then."
With a final wave to the Familia members bustling about the house, Bell headed out into the morning sunshine, his steps light and his heart full. The streets of Orario were already alive with activity—merchants opening their shops, adventurers heading toward Babel Tower, and ordinary citizens going about their daily business.
The Guild headquarters was its usual hive of activity when Bell arrived. Adventurers lined up at various counters, some turning in magic stones, others reviewing quest postings, and a few engaged in animated discussions with Guild staff about Dungeon matters.
Bell made his way first to the secure transaction counter, where he presented his receipt for the Jack Bird feather.
"Ah, yes," the Guild employee said, examining the document. "The million-valis feather. One moment, please."
Bell waited as the employee disappeared into a back room, returning shortly with a secured container. The transaction process was surprisingly involved—Bell had to sign multiple forms, verify his identity, and confirm his Familia affiliation before the Guild would release such a valuable item.
"Would you like the payment in cash or as a Guild credit note?" the employee asked once the paperwork was complete.
Bell considered briefly. "A combination, please. Two hundred thousand in a credit note for my Familia's treasury, and the rest in cash."
The employee nodded and processed the transaction accordingly. Soon, Bell found himself with a small but heavy pouch of high-denomination coins and a credit voucher for Hathor Familia. The reality of his sudden wealth finally sank in as he felt the weight of the money in his hand.
With his primary business concluded, Bell's eyes automatically sought out Sophia's counter. He felt a flutter of anticipation when he spotted her silver hair, and then a surprising disappointment when he saw she was engaged with another adventurer.
Bell waited patiently at a respectful distance, using the time to observe her professional demeanor as she assisted the other adventurer—a burly man with an axe strapped to his back. Her expression remained composed and attentive, though Bell noted that she maintained a certain emotional distance that seemed to disappear somewhat when they spoke.
When the other adventurer finally departed, Bell approached her counter with a smile. "Good morning, Miss Sophia."
Sophia looked up, and Bell was pleased to see a flash of recognition in her blue eyes, followed by what might have been a slightly warmer expression than she offered other adventurers.
"Bell," she greeted him. "Good morning. I trust you returned safely to your Familia yesterday?"
"Yes, thank you," Bell confirmed, taking the seat opposite her desk. "I shared everything with them, including the Jack Bird encounter. They were quite surprised."
"I imagine so," Sophia nodded. "Have you collected your payment for the feather?"
Bell patted the pouch at his belt. "Just now. It still doesn't seem quite real."
"Such windfalls are rare, especially for new adventurers," Sophia acknowledged. "Do you have plans for how to use it?"
"Equipment upgrades primarily," Bell explained. "And I've arranged for my Familia to join me today for shopping and lunch. I wanted to let you know I won't be entering the Dungeon today."
"That's probably wise," Sophia said. "Taking time to properly equip yourself will serve you better in the long run than rushing back into exploration." She paused, then added with a hint of curiosity, "Your entire Familia is accompanying you?"
Bell nodded, unable to keep the enthusiasm from his voice. "Yes, they've all agreed to help me navigate the commercial districts and choose quality equipment. Lady Hathor thought it would make a nice Familia outing."
"That's... unusual," Sophia remarked, a trace of surprise in her tone. "The Hathor Familia is known to be close-knit, but for everyone to take a day away from their duties for a new member..." She studied Bell with renewed interest. "You seem to have made quite an impression on them."
Bell rubbed the back of his neck, slightly embarrassed. "They've been incredibly welcoming. I'm very fortunate to have found them."
Sophia nodded thoughtfully. "The relationship between an adventurer and their Familia is crucial. Your progress will be significantly influenced by the support and guidance you receive."
"I believe that," Bell agreed. "Already I've learned so much from Captain Nernatti and the others." He hesitated, then added, "And from you as well, Miss Sophia. Your advice about documenting the Dungeon has already proven valuable."
A slight flush colored Sophia's cheeks at the compliment, though her professional demeanor remained intact. "I'm glad to hear it. Will you continue your documentation on your next expedition?"
"Absolutely," Bell confirmed enthusiastically. "I've barely scratched the surface of what I want to record. There are so many patterns and behaviors to document, not to mention the environmental features that might influence monster spawning."
Sophia's eyes brightened with genuine interest. "I'd be curious to see how your observations develop over time. The Guild's knowledge of the Dungeon is extensive but far from complete, especially regarding the subtle interconnections between levels, monster behaviors, and environmental factors."
"I'd be happy to share my findings with you," Bell offered. "Perhaps they could contribute to the Guild's research in some small way."
"They very well might," Sophia agreed, and Bell was pleased to see that the professional distance she typically maintained had relaxed somewhat during their conversation.
They continued discussing Bell's documentation methods and plans for future exploration until a small commotion near the Guild's entrance caught their attention. Bell turned to see the members of the Hathor Familia arriving, drawing curious looks from other adventurers. It was, after all, unusual to see an entire Familia moving as a group outside of Dungeon expeditions.
"It seems your Familia has arrived," Sophia observed, a hint of amusement in her voice as she noted the obvious stares from other Guild visitors.
Bell stood, smiling broadly at the sight of his new family. "Yes, that's my cue. Thank you for your time today, Miss Sophia."
"Of course," she replied. As Bell turned to leave, she added, "Bell?"
He looked back at her.
"Enjoy your day with your Familia," she said, her expression softer than her usual professional mask. "Such moments are precious."
Bell nodded, touched by the sincerity in her voice. "I will. Thank you."
With a final smile, he left Sophia's counter and made his way to the waiting Familia members, who greeted him with warm smiles and playful teasing about his "lengthy conversation" with the silver-haired Guild advisor.
As they prepared to set out into Orario for a day of shopping and camaraderie, Bell couldn't help glancing back once more at Sophia. To his surprise, she was still watching him, a thoughtful expression on her face. When their eyes met briefly across the bustling Guild hall, Bell felt a connection that transcended their professional relationship—a nascent bond that he hoped would continue to grow with time.
Then the moment passed as Hathor gently guided him toward the exit, ready to begin their day of exploration and new experiences in the City of Adventurers.
The streets of Orario bustled with activity as the Hathor Familia made their way through the commercial district. Bell walked at the center of the group, surrounded by his new family, his eyes wide with wonder at the city's vibrant marketplace. Vendors called out their wares, adventurers haggled over prices, and the air was filled with the mingled scents of food, leather, metal, and exotic goods from distant lands.
"First stop, proper adventurer's clothing," Lysandra declared, steering the group toward a well-maintained shop with mannequins in the window displaying practical but stylish adventuring attire.
Bell had never experienced shopping quite like this before. In his village, clothing was purchased from the local tailor with little variety or choice. Here, he found himself presented with dozens of options—different materials, styles, and features all designed specifically for adventurers' needs.
"This fabric is treated to resist monster fluids," Lysandra explained, showing Bell a dark blue tunic. "And these pants have reinforced knees and extra pockets for potions and small items."
With the Familia's guidance, Bell selected a practical wardrobe—several sturdy tunics and pants, boots designed for the uneven terrain of the Dungeon, fingerless gloves to improve his grip on his bow, and a lightweight but durable coat that could be adjusted for different environments.
"You look like a proper adventurer now," Rio observed approvingly as Bell emerged from the changing room in his new attire.
"Much better than those village clothes," Ria agreed. "More dashing too. I'm sure a certain silver-haired advisor would approve."
Bell's cheeks reddened, but he couldn't deny the boost in confidence he felt in his new gear. Looking in the mirror, he hardly recognized himself—the white-haired boy who had arrived in Orario just days ago was transforming into a true adventurer before his eyes.
Their next destination was a specialist armor shop recommended by Kiros. The feline warrior helped Bell select a set of lightweight leather armor that offered protection without restricting movement—crucial for an archer who relied on mobility.
"This is crafted from the hide of Upper Floor monsters," Kiros explained as Bell tried on the chest piece. "It's flexible but tough, and won't impede your archery."
Bell marveled at the craftsmanship, the armor fitting him perfectly after a few minor adjustments by the shop owner. It was strange how quickly he was becoming accustomed to spending significant sums of money, though he remained careful to compare quality and prices as Nernatti had advised.
"Now for the most important part," Emil announced as they exited the armor shop. "Weapons."
The dwarf led them confidently through a maze of side streets until they reached a large, imposing building with a sign depicting a hammer and anvil.
"Hephaestus Familia headquarters and main forge," Emil explained to Bell. "The finest smiths in Orario work here."
Bell's eyes widened. "We're going to the Hephaestus Familia? I thought they only served high-level adventurers."
Emil chuckled, his beard quivering. "Normally, yes. But I have connections. One of their captains owes me a favor or two."
Inside, the building was alive with the sounds of metalwork—hammers striking anvils, the hiss of hot metal being quenched, and the steady roar of forge fires. Bell had never seen such an operation before, and he watched in fascination as skilled smiths transformed raw materials into weapons and armor of exceptional quality.
Emil approached a counter and spoke briefly with the attendant, who nodded and disappeared into the back. A few minutes later, a tall woman with an eyepatch and striking black hair emerged, breaking into a wide grin at the sight of Emil.
"Well, if it isn't the old dwarf himself!" she called out, striding forward to clasp Emil's arm in greeting. "What brings you to my forge today?"
"Tsubaki," Emil nodded respectfully. "We've come to outfit our newest Familia member with a proper bow. Thought you might be willing to show him your finest work."
Tsubaki turned her attention to Bell, her single eye assessing him with professional interest. "So you're the new blood in Hathor's family? I'm Tsubaki Collbrande, Captain of the Hephaestus Familia."
"Bell Cranel," he replied with a polite bow. "It's an honor to meet you."
"Emil here taught me a few tricks of the trade when I was just starting out," Tsubaki explained with a fond glance at the dwarf. "I always have time for his friends. Now, tell me about your archery style. Range? Draw weight? Preferred materials?"
Bell described his experience and preferences as best he could, impressed by Tsubaki's deep technical knowledge. She listened attentively, occasionally nodding or asking clarifying questions.
"I think I have just the thing," she said finally, motioning for them to follow her deeper into the workshop. "It's not often I get to outfit a serious archer—most adventurers prefer swords or spears for the Dungeon."
She led them to a display case containing several bows of varying designs. After considering them briefly, she selected one and presented it to Bell.
"Reinforced yew with monster bone lamination," she explained as Bell examined the weapon. "The string is treated monster sinew—won't stretch or snap in the Dungeon's humidity. The draw weight is adjustable to grow with your strength development."
Bell tested the bow's balance and draw, immediately recognizing its superior quality. It felt almost like an extension of his arm, responsive and powerful.
"It's perfect," he breathed, genuinely awed by the craftsmanship.
"Try it," Tsubaki suggested, gesturing toward a small testing range at the back of the workshop.
Bell nocked one of the arrows she provided and drew the bow. The action was smooth, the tension building evenly. He released, and the arrow flew true, striking the center of the target with a satisfying thud.
"Well, well," Tsubaki remarked, clearly pleased. "You weren't exaggerating about his skill, Emil. The bow suits you, Bell Cranel."
They negotiated a price that, while substantial, reflected the weapon's exceptional quality. As an unexpected bonus, Tsubaki threw in a quiver of high-quality arrows and a maintenance kit.
"Consider it a welcome gift to Orario," she said with a wink. "And perhaps someday you'll visit my forge again when you're ready for something even more special."
As they left the Hephaestus Familia headquarters, Bell couldn't stop admiring his new bow. "This is incredible," he told Emil. "Thank you for introducing me to Tsubaki."
The dwarf grunted modestly. "Connections are as valuable as coin in Orario. Remember that. Now, where to next?"
"I believe it's time for lunch," Hathor announced, noting the position of the sun. "And I know just the place for a proper Familia celebration."
She led them through the streets with confident steps until they arrived at a large, welcoming establishment with a sign reading "The Hostess of Fertility."
"Best food in Orario," Kiros informed Bell as they approached. "And a favorite gathering place for adventurers of all ranks."
The tavern was busy even at midday, filled with adventurers and ordinary citizens enjoying the renowned fare. As they entered, a tall, muscular woman with short blonde hair called out from behind the bar.
"Well, look what the cat dragged in!" she bellowed good-naturedly. "The whole Hathor Familia, gracing my humble establishment!"
"Hello, Mia," Hathor replied with a warm smile. "We're celebrating our newest member today and thought there was no better place for a proper feast."
The woman—Mia—came around the bar to greet them properly, her imposing presence drawing attention from the other patrons. She looked Bell up and down with an appraising eye.
"So you're the newcomer, eh? I'm Mia Grand, proprietress of this establishment. But everyone calls me Mama Mia."
"Bell Cranel," he introduced himself with a slight bow. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Mama Mia is a former adventurer herself," Hathor explained to Bell. "Captain of the Freya Familia and a high Level 6 before she retired to open this tavern."
Bell's eyes widened with newfound respect. Level 6 was a legendary achievement—far beyond what most adventurers could ever hope to reach.
"That was another lifetime," Mia waved dismissively, though she seemed pleased by Hathor's introduction. "Now I just make sure adventurers like you are well-fed and don't destroy my tavern." She turned and bellowed toward the kitchen. "Syr! Ryuu! Table for the Hathor Familia!"
Two waitresses quickly appeared—one with gray hair and a cheerful expression, the other a blonde elf with serious blue eyes. They efficiently guided the Familia to a large table near the back of the tavern, bringing water and menus with practiced grace.
"Thank you, Ryuu," Hathor said to the blonde elf, who paused briefly at the goddess's recognition. "How have you been?"
"Well enough, Lady Hathor," the elf replied with formal politeness. "Thank you for asking."
Hathor studied her for a moment, her expression gentle. "Have you reconsidered my offer?"
A flicker of emotion crossed Ryuu's stoic features. "I am content here for now. But should circumstances change, I would be honored to accept your invitation to join your Familia."
Hathor nodded understandingly. "The door remains open. Astrea was a dear friend, and offering sanctuary to her children is the least I can do."
"You are kind, Lady Hathor," Ryuu said, bowing slightly before returning to her duties.
Bell watched the exchange with curiosity, sensing there was much more to the story than he understood. He could tell from Ryuu's demeanor and the brief mention of Astrea that something painful lay in the elf's past, but he didn't feel it was his place to inquire. Whatever had happened, it was clearly something personal and likely tragic.
The meal that followed was a jovial affair. Platters of food arrived in seemingly endless succession—roasted meats, fresh vegetables, savory pies, and breads still warm from the oven. The Familia members shared stories and jokes, occasionally including tales from past adventures that had Bell hanging on every word.
"Did I ever tell you about the time Kiros got stuck in that monster web on the fifteenth floor?" Lysandra asked, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
"We agreed never to speak of that again," Kiros growled, though his whiskers twitched with suppressed amusement.
"Oh, but it's such a good story," Ria insisted.
"Especially the part where Nernatti had to carry him back up three floors," Rio added gleefully.
Even Nernatti smiled at the memory. "He was completely cocooned. Only his tail was sticking out."
The laughter that followed was warm and inclusive, with even Kiros eventually joining in. Bell soaked it all in, delighting in the camaraderie and feeling truly part of something special.
Throughout the meal, various adventurers stopped by their table to greet Hathor or Nernatti, many curious about Bell as the Familia's newest member. He was introduced to so many people that the names and faces began to blur, though he did his best to remember each one.
When the dessert plates were finally cleared away, Bell insisted on paying for the entire meal, as he had promised. The cost was considerable but worth every valis to see the contentment on his Familia members' faces.
"A toast," Hathor proposed, raising her glass. "To Bell Cranel, whose generosity and spirit have brought new light to our Familia."
"To Bell!" the others echoed, raising their glasses in unison.
Bell blushed at the attention but raised his own glass in return. "To the Hathor Familia, who welcomed a stranger and made him family."
The rest of the afternoon passed in a pleasant blur of additional shopping—supplies, potions, and other necessities for Bell's future expeditions into the Dungeon. By the time they returned to the Familia home, laden with packages and bags, the sun was beginning to set.
"Well," Emil declared as they gathered in the common room, "I'd say our newest member is properly outfitted now."
"Indeed," Nernatti agreed. "Bell should be well-prepared for deeper exploration of the Dungeon."
Bell looked around at his new possessions and his new family, a profound sense of gratitude filling his heart. "Thank you all for today. For everything."
"It was our pleasure," Hathor assured him with a warm smile. "Now, before dinner, why don't we update your Status? After your expedition yesterday, there should be some changes to record."
In the familiar privacy of Hathor's room, Bell removed his new tunic and lay face down on the bed as the goddess prepared the sacred oil. The day's activities had been enjoyable but tiring, and he was curious to see how his parameters had developed since his adventure in the Dungeon.
"The soul responds to experience," Hathor explained as she applied the oil to his back. "Every challenge you overcome, every skill you hone, every insight you gain—they all contribute to your growth as an adventurer."
The now-familiar warmth spread across Bell's back as Hathor examined the mystical text revealed by her divine power. He heard her make a soft sound of interest.
"My, my," she murmured. "Quite impressive development for such an early stage."
"What is it?" Bell asked eagerly.
"Your parameters have increased substantially," Hathor replied. "More than I would expect after just one day in the Dungeon. And there's something else..." She trailed off, her fingers tracing a particular section of the Status.
"Something else?" Bell repeated, curiosity growing.
"See for yourself," Hathor said, holding up the mirror so Bell could view his updated Status:
Bell CranelLevel 1Strength: I42Endurance: I38Dexterity: I50Agility: I47Magic: I25Skills: [Explorer] – Enhances awareness of surroundings and mapping ability in unknown territories. Improves memorization of paths and spatial relationships.Magic: None
"A skill!" Bell exclaimed, genuine surprise in his voice. "I didn't know that could happen so quickly."
"It's unusual but not unprecedented," Hathor confirmed. "Skills manifest in response to an adventurer's needs, desires, or significant experiences. Your systematic exploration and documentation of the Dungeon appears to have triggered this development."
Bell stared at the skill description with fascination. "Explorer... it suits perfectly what I was trying to do with my mapping and observations."
"Indeed," Hathor agreed. "The Falna responds to an adventurer's soul—to their deepest nature and aspirations. This skill reflects your methodical approach to understanding the Dungeon, rather than merely conquering it."
"Will it help with my documentation efforts?" Bell asked.
Hathor nodded. "Significantly. You'll find your spatial awareness enhanced, your memory for routes and landmarks improved. You'll notice details others might miss, and your maps will become more accurate with less effort."
As Hathor wiped away the sacred oil, causing the Status to fade from view, Bell sat up, his mind racing with the implications of his new skill.
"This is wonderful," he said, genuinely excited. "It will make my exploration so much more effective."
Hathor smiled at his enthusiasm. "Skills are personal manifestations of an adventurer's journey. They're as unique as the individual themselves. Some are combat-focused, others support specific abilities or attributes. Yours reflects your intellectual approach to adventuring—something relatively rare and potentially very valuable."
Bell pulled his tunic back on, still processing the development. "I can't wait to test it in the Dungeon tomorrow."
"Just remember," Hathor cautioned gently, "even with enhanced awareness, the Dungeon remains dangerous. Don't let your new skill lead you into overconfidence."
"I won't," Bell promised. "I'll remain cautious and methodical."
As they left Hathor's room to join the others for dinner, Bell couldn't help but feel that everything was falling into place—his Familia, his equipment, and now this perfect skill that aligned so well with his approach to adventuring.
Tomorrow would bring new challenges in the Dungeon, but tonight, surrounded by his new family and equipped with both physical tools and divine blessing, Bell felt prepared for whatever lay ahead.