248: One Question
At the same time, while Alex and Silveria were busy talking, Luna, who just put Sakuya on the bed, sat down next to her and heaved a sigh.
''Alex almost got to know the real Sakuya.''
''Well, he will eventually know one day. I have a headache; just by thinking about it.'' Maria, who was sitting on the opposite said.
Luna observed Maria for a while. Others may think it is hard to read Maria's emotions due to her natural cold face, but as a friend who grew up with her, Luna could read Maria's emotions to some extent.
''Are you feeling jealous that I'm the first?" Luna asked.
''Yes, I'm a little bit jealous, and I think it's because I wanted to be the first even though I knew he is your childhood sweetheart. I can't help it but want to be his first, it's kinda selfish, but I guess women are selfish creatures, to begin with.''
Luna nodded. It seemed that after getting engaged to Alex, she noticed the look of envy in Maria's and Sakuya eyes.
''I understand how you feel. I'm jealous of you as well. You made him agree to your condition. It's because of you we are together. If he didn't like you seriously, I don't think he would accept such a condition. Somehow it could be said you got him first. It's natural to feel jealous; if not, it would have been odd.''
To Luna's words, Maria nodded in understanding.
''I guess you're right. Fufufu! You may have taken his first times; however, I will be his queen, I will manage the Harem.'' Maria declared, from her words, she had no intention of backing down from this position.
Having no desire whatsoever for this position, Luna shrugged her shoulders. However, there is something she wished to make clear.
''We should limit the number of women Alex will have. What do you think about Artemia and Lilith?"
''From Lilith, I feel no threat, but from the princess, I feel threatened for some reason. However, I double-checked it seems she doesn't like Alex; however, she is curious about him, and you know better than me it is a matter of time for a curious woman to fall for the target of her curiosity. I hope it won't happen in this case. She's the smart type, hard to control, so I wouldn't want her to be in the Harem as I feel that she may threaten my position, but logically we can use her, her status. Nobody will try to mess up with humanity's strongest empire Third princess's man.'' Maria explained how she felt about Luna's question.
''I see, you have thought that far. Well, I don't think anything will happen soon, so better focus on what is ahead right now. I want you to change that manager, that golden-haired man. My instincts are warning about him being unclear, as for why I don't know. It's just a gut feeling.'' Luna said. If she knew that she was not the only one to find that man suspicious, she would be shocked.
After she heard her friend's warning, Luna considered for a moment before saying.
''Like you, I also find his presence repulsive, and I was searching for a way to make him leave. I will do it; however, it won't be easy as he did great work through the years, almost flawless. Well, I will think of a reason to chase him away.'' Maria promised. Because of the golden-haired man's popularity, it would be troublesome if they didn't have a good reason to chase him, it might make the other employees dissatisfied it why Maria hadn't acted, same goes for Alex. Some employees may decide to follow the man if he was chased without a proper reason. As a newbie, it would be hard to find some new employees because the other restaurants in the vicinity were eyeing them, ready to swallow them after the switch of the owner.
'What a headache. We need this restaurant to fund our future activities. Adventuring only without a good activity to increase the money earned would be a waste.' Maria mumbled and became lost in thoughts.
Luna watched her friend lost in thoughts; she knew she must be thinking of a way to help her man, help their family to live a better life. She may not be wise as Maria, strong as Sakuya, but she has a role to play, an essential role; she must increase her strength to the extent that she can almost heal any injury, restore stamina when the others get tired. This is her role, the role of a cleric, the role of the Saintess; she would be their extra life.
While the two of them were lost in thoughts, on the other side, Alex and Silveria continued with their talk.
°°°°°°
''I do not mind,'' Silveria responded. Alex's proposition caught her off, but it was a pleasant surprise.
''Because today is my birthday, won't you grant me a wish?" Alex suddenly said this.
Silveria's lips lifted into a smile; she expected this question.
''I see. I will grant you one wish. Ask one question. No matter what question you ask, I will answer honestly.'' Silveria said with an earnest face.
Alex stayed silent; he started to ponder what kind of question he should ask. Having the right to ask only one question, he ought to ask a question that can help him understand a little bit what kind of mess he was getting himself into. He has far less information to picture the whole thing.
'What should I ask? Her real identity? That won't do. Then what about the real enemy they fought and lost against it? I don't think I can handle the answer, at least not yet. Then what about this world? Huh! This world? Hehehe! I know what I should ask.'
In a minute, numerous questions went through Alex's mind; Silveria watched in the side, not pushing him to ask his question; she knew he must carefully consider what kind of question he would ask.
'Well, it doesn't matter as he has the right to ask a single question.' She thought while waiting for Alex's question.
''I want to know if someone is controlling the one responsible for the curse placed on Mysthia's world?"
It was a gamble.
''That dragon?" She blurted out without even realizing that her voice was loud.
''So, it's a dragon, the one responsible,'' Alex mumbled. His gamble paid off, and he got a rather valuable piece of information; he now knows what he would be facing in the not-so-far future.
''Huh!?"
It finally dawned on her that she got tricked.
''Master, you tricked me.'' She pouted.
Shrugging his shoulders, Alex replied, ''It's your fault for getting tricked. By the way, you haven't responded to my question. I'm still waiting, you know?"
''Ugh!" Silveria grunted.
She knew there is no way to extricate herself from this situation unless she answered Alex's question, she had promised. It was her fault for getting tricked; she shouldn't have listened adequately to her master's question instead of getting flustered and saying something other than answering the question asked.
''Yes, the probability is high.'' Silveria finally answered.
''I see,'' Alex murmured; he didn't continue to ask more questions as he knew he wouldn't get anything even if he were to ask. He was lucky to have earned two answers instead of one. Well, luck did play a part in what happened, but it was because he was smarter while raising his question.
'Humph! At least you know when to stop.'
Silveria harrumphed when she saw that Alex did not raise any more questions after getting her answer.
''How strong do you think Artemia will become if she succeeds in making her Gift complete?" Alex asked this after taking a bit of the remaining birthday cake.
''I can only give you a rough estimate. I think if she succeeds, she may become Rank 10 or at least Rank 9,'' Silveria answered; she said this because she believes that the other party of Artemia's Gift might contain a sealed power, this power will be transformed into levels (XP) after entering Artemia's body.
And there's the most important thing to know, which is Artemia's body must be strong enough to contain the power sealed in the other half of her Gift.
'Well, considering how thoughtful that girl is, she must have prepared everything.' Silveria thought.
''Your answer is within my calculations. Well, in this trip, I need to surpass her or at least be at the same level as her.'' Alex declared, his fighting spirit got ignited; Artemia was like a rival he must surpass; she was not the only one, though; there is Leon and others.
If he wants to be their leader, he must be ahead of them in terms of strength. Strangely, he thought like this; it was the first this type of thinking entered his mind.
''Do you your best. I'm here; use me the way you want, as you see fit I won't complain.'' She declared with a serious expression.
Silveria's words made Alex's face twitch; she didn't have to word it like that; it sounds weird.
''I shall take my leave. Good night, master.'' Silveria said before vanishing; she acted as if she did not understand how ambiguous her previous declaration sounds.
''Good night too,'' Alex said before he decided to go outside to take in some fresh air.
249: An Unexpected Visitor
After spending few minutes outside, Alex went back to his room to sleep. Luna and Maria slept in the same room as Sakuya, too tired after tonight's event.
The next day morning, Maria and Sakuya returned to their mansion. Sakuya's expression remained unchanged as if what happened last night didn't happen; Alex didn't pursue the matter either.
One hour after Maria and Sakuya left, Alex got an unexpected visitor.
Alex, who was inside his library reading some in-depth information about the monsters inside dungeons, got startled when he heard that the second princess came to visit him.
''What are you going to do?" Gracier asked; like her brother, she was also reading some pieces of information about the dungeon's ecosystem, and she was aware of the past that existed between her brother and the second princess.
She was not the only one, though; Luna was also present in the library; she closed the book she was reading and removed her glace before looking at Alex in silence. She was curious about what Alex would do.
''Hah! I will see her.'' Alex finally decided after taking a deep breath. Judging by the butler's expression, the princess wouldn't go without seeing him.
''I will be right back, girls,'' Alex announced before leaving the library.
''Do you think it's a good thing for a brother to go? What if the princess came with bad intentions?" Gracier couldn't help but ask this question; she closed her book; she was not in the mood to continue reading. Currently, she was more concerned about the reason for the princess's visit.
''Relax, I doubt the second princess came with bad intentions.'' Luna calmed Gracier.
''She is probably here in the hope of mending her broken relationship with Alex to get a fresh start. Obviously, her end goal must be to have Alex work for her, join her faction like Leonardo and others; however, she won't say anything because she knows that Alex will not accept, she would try to win him over slowly.'' Luna added how she saw things.
Gracier nodded her head, having finally understood what was going on.
''Brother should chase that vixen away,'' Gracier said as she doesn't like the fact that her brother being used.
Luna chuckled when she heard Gracier's words; she had expected such a reaction.
''You are right, but better have a lot of allies than enemies. Besides, the relationship between them hadn't gotten to the point that they would become mortal enemies. Your brother is smart; I don't think he will let himself get used.'' Luna explained.
Gracier couldn't only wait for Alex to come back to tell them how the meeting went.
•••••
Meanwhile, Alex was walking toward the reception room where the princess was waiting.
Silveria had materialized and was walking beside him.
''What are you going to do? Outright refuse her?'' She asked; the two knew why the second princess came.
''Let's hear what she has to say. Honestly, speaking I want to chase her away, but I controlled myself and decided to see her. I will make my decision after hearing what she has to say.'' Alex said before entering the reception room; Silveria had already disappeared.
When Alex entered the room, his eyes quickly swept through the room to finally land on the blue-haired woman sitting gracefully on the sofa; behind this woman stood a guard; he had a cold expression, his posture was straight like a sharpened spear. Even though he stood there, he was emitting an intense pressure that only Experts would emit.
The man in silver armor gave Alex and glance, then a bow before vanishing from the room.
Alex wasn't surprised when this happens as he had the feeling that it must be the princess order.
''Morning, princess.''
Alex said after sitting across the second princess; the latter smiled before saying,
''Good morning Alexander. Happy birthday, by the way.''
Alex only nodded his head; he was not surprised that Katherina knew that yesterday was his birthday; she must have gotten the information somewhere, and Alex was too lazy to ask where she got that information from.
''What brings your highness here?" Alex went straight to the point; there's no need to beat around the bush; it was a waste of time.
Seeing Alex's unwelcome expression, Katherina sighed before sipping the tea that one of Alex's servants served.
''I'm here from us to start anew. To build a good relationship.'' Katherina declared.
Alex snickered, ''What for?"
''I believe that we must join hands, or at least be on good terms, like that it would be easy to forms an alliance in the future. Unlike others, you are smart, the general populace might not be aware, but a storm is brewing. There's some unusual movement coming from the demon continent. Who knows, maybe another Demon King was on the rise. We must be united, not fighting each other.'' Katherina explained.
Alex wore a slight smile on his face, not stopping her; he just watched her talk.
''I know that I made a mistake on our first meeting. But is there anybody that never makes a mistake? I don't think so. We all make a mistake at some point of time in our life. If you know what you did wrong and correct it, I think it's a good thing. I made a blunder, and now I'm trying to correct it. My previous approaches may have lacked sincerity. However, my coming here today can attest to how sincere I am. So, I hope you can consider my words sincerely.''
''Heh? Do you think that everything can be erased so easily? Didn't you send some assassins after me? When I was still in Eria's city, if not because of Elseria's protection, there will not be an end to the amount of trouble I would have faced. Now, you want me to forget everything? Cut the crap. Don't joke with me.'' Alex bellowed, a powerful pressure was emitted from his body, going straight toward Katherina.
The latter didn't do anything; just before the pressure could crash against her, it got dispersed by her aura.
Alex may appear cold on the outside; however, inside, he was surprised; his earlier outburst was because he had a goal in mind, as he couldn't appraise the princess; he decided to use this method to gauge the latter power and what he found surprised. At the same time, he didn't know her exact level; she was without at Rank 10.
''I understand your words. While I asked none of them to make things difficult for you, it was, in fact, because of me they acted to please me. As for the matter concerning the assassination attempt you suffered on your way here, I'm sorry about it.''
Surprisingly, Katherina bowed slightly when she was saying these words. Alex was surprised beyond as he hadn't expected Katherina to bow to him out of the blue.
He was not the only one surprised by the current situation; the silver armored man who was hiding was surprised as well; he couldn't help but ask himself if Alex was worth it. However, he was soon forced to reconsider this question when he recalled the boy's frightening connections. One of them was looking at him; even though the man couldn't locate where Silveria was, he knew she had her Aura locked on him; if he makes any wrong move, he didn't know what would happen. No, strong as he is, the man doubts if he could win if he were to confront Alex's master.
'How troublesome.' the silver armored man muttered.
''Sigh! Raise your head, princess.''
On the other side, Alex was forced to say this as it appears that if he didn't say anything, Katherina wasn't planning to raise her head.
Katherina lifted her head, and with a thin smile on her lips, she asked,
''So, will you accept my offer? Let's start anew.''
''What is your real goal? There's no way you just came here to make peace with me.''
Instead of answering her, Alex proceeds to ask Katherina's true motivation for visiting him.
Katherina chuckled and said, ''You are smart, so you know the answer. I may have another goal in mind, but I sincerely wish to make peace with you, to start anew on good terms. Well, nobody does anything without a goal in mind. You coming here is because you have a goal in mind. Let's take, for example, your earlier outburst; you did it with a goal in mind; am I wrong?"
Alex's face stayed impassive; he refused to say a word; his silence was a form of acknowledgment.
''I understand everything you have said. While I may not like you, I understand that it's better to have many allies than enemies. Sigh! I have suffered too much at your-"
Katherina didn't let Alex finish his words before clicking her fingers; a beautiful black pair of boots appeared in front of them, there was a small design of wings carved on the boots.
''Because yesterday was your birthday, and I couldn't participate in, I brought you a gift,'' Katherina announced before placing the boots on the table.
A beautiful smile appeared on Alex's face when he saw the black boots.
Chapter 255 - 250: Sleipnir
''Because yesterday was your birthday, and I couldn't participate in, I brought you a gift,'' Katherina announced before placing the boots on the table.
A beautiful smile appeared on Alex's face when he saw the black boots.
''You should have started from there, princess.''
Alex said and picked up the boots and expected it; the speed with which he picked the boots startled Katherina and the silver armored man. The man wondered how shameless Alex could be; the moment he saw the boots, his expression did a 360-degree change, his eyes started to shine.
'Well, I can understand how he feels knowing the origin of that boots. Hah! To think the princess will give away such family treasure.' The man lamented, even he felt envious when he saw the black boots.
〖Wow! Master, it seems you have gotten a rather lovely gift; how generous of Katherina. We shall forgive her and become her friend. As a friend, she must share her treasures with us. Fufufu! I can wait to get my hand on what she has.〗Silveria declared, unlike Alex, who hadn't appraised the black boots, she had done it and knew it was not average treasure.
Alex's lips twitched when he heard Silveria's shameless words; he wondered where she has learned to be that shameless. Fortunately, he didn't ask her anything. If not, Silveria would have rolled her eyes at him before pointing at him, saying he was the culprit.
Alex's eyes widened with shock when he saw the description of the black boots.
[Sleipnir
Grade: SS
Increase the wearer's agility by 200 points.
Special abilities:
✒ Auto-repair
✒ Fly: Ability to temporarily fly. (Sealed)]
Alex almost whistled when he saw Sleipnir's description; however, what disappointed him was that Sleipnir's most important ability was sealed. Alex wondered what happened and how can he unsealed it. He was instead getting fed up with sealed things.
As if Katherina could read Alex's mind, she said.
''I hope you like my Gift. As you have seen it, Sleipnir's ability is sealed; however, you don't have to worry according to theory, it can be unsealed with the blood of a Dragon.''
''A dragon?" Alex asked, eyes filled with disbelief; he almost shouted. 'You must be kidding me. Must I slay a dragon before unsealed? What kind of bad joke is this?'
However, he refrained from saying these words.
Unaware of what going through Alex's mind, Katherina continued,
''Well, I said theory, but only dragon blood can unseal Sleipnir. We have tried with lesser dragon blood: wyvern blood, but while we managed to unseal it, it was only temporary. From that experiment, we concluded that only higher-rank dragon blood could successfully unseal it. You may be able to find a ranked dragon inside a dungeon. I have the feeling that you can unseal Sleipnir and reveal to the world how amazing it is.''
Alex didn't say anything, still holding them; he could feel a warm breeze coming from the boots cover his hand; it became lighter. Even though Sleipnir's special ability was sealed, it was still op enough, an increase of 200 points on agility stat is not a joking matter. Also, there's the fact that Sleipnir was SS grade treasure, the same grade as Loki. The highest grade a treasure could reach in Mysthia's world.
''Thank you. I appreciate the gift.'' Alex sincerely declared. He wasn't ungrateful; when you get something better, thank the person who gave it to you no matter how much you dislike this person.
Katherina waved her hand, ''I'm glad you like it. While this can compensate for everything you went through, take it as the token of my sincerity. I hope to form a good relationship with you, a relationship-"
''I won't work for you like Leonardo. It will never happen, so better drop that idea. We are not enemies anymore. However, it doesn't mean we are now allies. It may happen in the future. All I can promise at the moment is that I won't intervene in your life; I won't find trouble with you.'' Alex cut Katherina off before she could continue any further; both knew what the other wants.
''Ugh! I understand.'' Katherina was forced to surrender, for the moment, that is. Today's goal could be considered accomplished. While she hadn't succeeded in making Alex her subordinates, she believes that it was a matter of time.
'Maybe I should use my charm to make him mine?'
Katherina considered for a moment before shaking her head; she threw those nonsensical thoughts to the back of her head.
''It's good to have talked with you. I shall take my leave.'' Katherina said before standing up; Alex accompanied her until the entrance.
Suddenly, Katherina stopped and spun around to face Alex,
''While I know you are strong, please be wary during your excursion inside the dungeon, and more importantly, please protect my sister.''
Alex was surprised; he thought Katherina didn't like Artemia from the rumors.
'Guess rumors can't be trusted after all.' Inwardly Alex thought while outwardly, he nodded his head.
As if he remembered something Alex said,
''I hope you will discipline your dog to know how to behave.''
Katherina immediately knew whom Alex was referring to as a dog. She couldn't help sigh, and before she could open her mouth, Alex said, his eyes cold, earnest, as if he wouldn't forgive her if she went against his words.
''I'm warning you. Suppose he did something he shouldn't have done. I will take care of him as I see fit. I hope you will not intervene at that time. If not, you will become my enemy.''
''I understand. I will discipline him.'' Katherina was forced to make this promise. Leonardo may be an asshole, but he still has an important role to play. Because she managed to enroll in her faction, she had gained a compared advantage over the other candidates. By now, she should have disciplined Leonardo entirely, tame his wild side and his delusion of grandeur. However, she postpones it due to Alex's arrival.
'I guess I should have a word with him. Well, it will be quicker to talk with his girlfriend, that Camilla girl. I heard that recently he started playing around with his maids and other girls. Hah! What a headache.' Katherina lamented, she knew that Leonardo had a view on her; in fact, she used his desire to have her as his woman to make work her.
Alex watched Katherina board her carriage and left with his guard, who acted as her driver, before returning inside.
Inside the carriage, Katherina sat comfortably and started to read a report on Leonardo's recent activities.
Suddenly, she heard her most loyal guard's voice.
''Was it worth it? Especially, that last condition?" The silver armored man inquired.
Tucking her beautiful blue hair behind her ear, Katherina replied.
''It was worth it. I don't regret coming here today. On the contrary, if I haven't come, I would have regretted it in the future; the only way to win his trust and eventually make him mine, cough cough; I meant to make him work for me was to approach him and show my sincerity. As for his last words, while it displeases me, I do understand him a little. While I may not know what kind of past relationships those two had when they were still in their world, Earth, they called it. I believe it wasn't a harmonious one; Alex is the one to bask in the limelight while Leonardo can only fade in the background. And having seen him, you understand better than me what that boy wants; he wants to be the center of attention. Leonardo may have gotten what he wants; however, the moment Alex show up, he became a background character again. He must be truly pissed; he even lost in their fight. To make matters worse, the women he coveted were snatched right before his eyes. Tell if me, Maximus, if you were in his place won't you try to take revenge?"
Facing Katherina's question, the silver armored man who goes by the name of Maximus contemplated for a moment before responding.
''I will.''
''Well, most people will. Alex knew this and warned me because I'm Leonardo's backer. Better discipline your man for him to make a blunder than stop me when I would want to take care of him. It was what Alex meant.'' Katherina explained.
''I see. From his words, he must be sure that Leonardo will try something and better be prepared if he does. You mustn't intervene. It is a rather bold move; that boy knew you'd accept his condition.'' Maximus said after analyzing Alex's words.
''Yeah, it's why he warned me to discipline Leonardo. Hah! I hope that delusional boy will know what is good for him and not try to do something he shouldn't have. He is a fool to think he would ally with that Holy son. I can more or less guess the condition of this alliance. Both must have decided to divide Alex's women between them.'' Katherina muttered while scanning through the report inside her wants.
Putting a disgusted expression, she announced, ''What do they take women for? Trophies to be distributed? What a bunch of assholes. Maximus, we will be going towards that asshole mansion. I need to give him an earful.''
''Certainly, my lady.''
Chapter 256 - 251: A Hidden Ability?
When Alex came back to the library, both girls stopped chatting and turned to face him.
''How did it go?"
Luna was the one who asked this.
Sitting between the two, Alex responded.
''Pretty well. Katherina came to apologize and asked that we start anew. After a moment of consideration, I accepted.''
Luna looked at Gracier as if to say, 'Didn't I tell you?'.
Gracier pouted. Smiling at how cute she was, Luna stared at Alex intensely and said.
''Well, you accepted after gaining some compensation, am I right?"
Scratching his nose, Alex said with a smile,
''You know me too well.''
''Big brother, I wanna see what you got,'' Gracier shouted; she was curious about what Alex gained, knowing her brother he must have got something good.
Alex presented Sleipnir to them, and it went without saying that Luna was the most shocked as she also has appraisal skills. She was astonished, even though she expected Katherina to gift something to Alex, what Luna didn't expect was that Katherina's gift would be this expensive, akin to national treasure because it's how rare SS Rank items (A/N: Treasure if you want.) are, how valuable they are.
Luna felt Katherina was too generous, so generous it was suspicious, somehow she felt uneasy, and Alex's following words didn't help her feel better.
''That Katherina is a good girl to give such a-"
''Humph! Why not make her your woman then?" Luna harrumphed; she was dissatisfied with Alex's words.
And the latter knew he had misspoken when he saw Luna jealous.
Gracier ignored the couple and stared dreamily at Sleipnir. She hoped that one day her brother would unseal it and take her to the sky. She has forgotten that she could also fly, that she possesses beautiful flame wings that could make one envious.
To disperse the heavy atmosphere around, Alex rapidly made a suggestion.
''Girls, why don't we have a quick mock battle?"
''Huh?!"
''Why not?"
Gracier was surprised by the sudden proposition, while Luna smiled and accepted right away.
'I'm safe for now. Gotta control how I speak from now on.' Alex thought.
Soon, the three moved to the training ground; it was big. Looking at the two girls who changed in training gears, Alex spoke.
''You two come at me, don't hold back.''
Facing this declaration, the girls smiled and said in unison,
''Sure. However, you will not use Shadow Shift, your eye, and Erase. Do you agree?"
Alex was surprised by their condition; however, when he thought about it, it made sense these two abilities were dangerous; he could end the match with them, so better prohibit it.
''Sure, I agree.''
''Great, shall we start?" Luna asked.
''Wait, I want to check something first.'' Alex stopped them as he had something to verify. After putting Sleipnir, he decided to check his status to verify if he got an increase of 200 points on his agility stat.
'Status,' He mumbled.
『[Alexander Kael Touch]
Class: Magic Gunslinger
Age: 17
Male
Race: High Human
「 Rank 7]
Level 66
Experience Value (XP): 0/18900
Magic Power: 5070/5070
Magic: None
Attack: 1550
Defense: 1450
Agility: 1600 (+200) ✒ 1800
Intelligence: 1450
Luck: 1230
BP: 0
SP: 0
Gift: Two Guns * Semi-sealed*
Skills: [Advanced Appraisal Level 1] [Item box Level 2] [Swift Fingers Max] [Divine Sense Level 4] [Throwing knife Level 5] [Dark Vision Level 2] [Dual Wielding Level 2] [Accel Level 3] [Knife Art Level 4] [Link Level 3] [Gun Art Level Level 10] [Normal Regeneration Level 5] [Mana Recovery Level 5] [Synthesize Level 3] [Shadow Shift Level 1]
Special Abilities: [Language Comprehension][Danger Sense] [Overdrive] [Death's Eye] [Envisage] {Erase} {Magic Bullet} {Snatch} [Hellsing] [Xerox]
Titles: [Otherworlder] [The one who can't use Magic] [The one whose fingers are faster than Flash] [Goblin Slayer] [The Reborn] [Shadow Nemesis] [The Slaughterer]』
''Great. Let's begin.'' Alex announced after checking his status.
Gracier and Luna exchanged looks; Luna wore a dangerous smile on her face, the moment Alex saw that smile, he knew something dangerous was about to happen.
And indeed, it did happen.
A white light covered Luna's body before she raised her hand high and swung it down.
Boom!
A blinding holy light exploded from her fist, blasting straight at Alex; it was swift. Alex was forced to momentarily closed his eyes while jumping back, and it was exactly what the girls were aiming for.
Like a ghost, Gracier appeared on the other side, her bow readied and,
Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!
Gracier performed Rapid shots.
Both girl's timing was perfect; if it were an ordinary opponent, he would have been caught off guard; unfortunately, Alex wasn't one.
With his back still facing the incoming arrows, Alex crossed his arms; two silver guns were pointed behind him, their muzzles aimed at the incoming arrows as if he had eyes behind his back.
BANG BANG BANG
Three bullets tore through the air and welcomed the incoming arrows.
BOOM!
When Alex's bullets clashed against the fire arrows, they exploded, creating an explosion, a beautiful firecracker in the air.
Even though they were surprised by Alex's quick reaction, the girls still moved.
Like a rocket, Luna shot forward; her left leg raised high, water was wrapped around her foot like a glove, she appeared above Alex and tried to bring down her leg.
It was now Alex's turn to be surprised; he had not fought against Luna to know how strong she is; if you think she was just a cleric, a simple healer, then you will suffer a fate worse than death. Luna's current physical strength was beyond that of her level.
Even so, looking at the incoming foot coming straight toward his face, Alex grinned before ordering,
'Non-lethal bullet.'
〖Sure〗Silveria responded.
Bang!
Alex fired at Luna's foot just as it was an air breath from his face. Luna was surprised to find her foot missing. However, she didn't have time to contemplate what happened because Alex threw his fist toward her stomach.
At this rate, she wouldn't have the time to create a shield to defend against Alex's fist; fortunately, she was not alone.
Just as Alex's fist was about to collide against Luna's stomach, a fire arrow was shot at his fist; Alex quickly retreated. And to his astonishment, the fire arrow transformed into a flame string that got wrapped around Luna's thin waist and brought her back. Everything happened too fast; Alex couldn't only watch helpless Luna joining Gracier.
After being rescued by Gracier, Luna panted for a moment before saying.
''Thank you, little Alexandra.''
''You welcome, brother wasn't gotten serious yet. He is only playing around.'' Gracier said while watching the smiling Alex.
''Sigh! I know. It's frustrating to think after suffering our attacks; he was still perfectly fine. I guess we shall make him get serious, don't you agree!" Luna asked; however, she didn't receive any response.
Then she decided to check Gracier to see why she wasn't responding; Luna was shocked to find Alex appear not too far from Gracier. His knife aimed at her; however, it was blocked by Gracier scythe.
''Since when?" Luna couldn't help but exclaim; however, now wasn't the time for such a question. She knew she must help Gracier.
With his free hand, Alex aimed Silveria at Gracier's right leg, wanting to hinder the latter; however, just as the bullet was about to reach Gracier's leg, it got blocked by a white shield that appeared out of nowhere.
''Tch!" Alex couldn't only click his tongue.
Sensing heat starting to gather around him, Alex knew that his sister was planning to unleash Fire lotus, something similar happened back then, the first time the two fought, and Alex almost lost.
Putting strength under his foot, Alex jumped back, and because of Sleipnir, he was sent into the air. Not wanting to waste any opportunity to attack, Alex shot at Luna; the latter quickly created a shield to defend against Alex's attacks. However, the bullets changed trajectory at the last moment and struck the defenseless Gracier's hand, the one holding the scythe.
Clark!
The red golden scythe fell to the ground, and Alex landed on the other side; he quickly rolled on the ground to avoid a white beam shot at him by Luna.
By the time Alex got up, Luna had treated Gracier's injury; even though it was a non-lethal bullet, it still hurts a lot.
After receiving Luna's treatment, Gracier smiled at her before facing her brother; her expression turned serious, the air around her changed, one, two, three,.....
Hundred fire arrows appeared around Gracier; the arrowhead pointed at Alex, the latter gulped before grinning. It was time to test if what he felt after putting Sleipnir on was right.
Whoosh! Whoosh !!!!
Like a bullet, the arrows were hurtled at him; Alex let go of Silveria and summoned his knife. He heard a sudden call, it seemed to be coming from Sleipnir, as if Sleipnir wanted something, so Alex concentrated, free himself from any worries; he understood what Sleipnir wanted, he poured his MP into Sleipnir as the latter wished fo. His body became lighter like a leaf; he could feel the wind around him, the minute change in the air. If Alex had opened his eyes, he would be astonished to see that his knives were covered by the wind making them sharper, longer than usual.
Alex felt his MP drain at fast speed, so he moved; his speed was so fast that it was hard to follow. One minute hasn't passed since Gracier created the hundred fire arrows. The girl's plan was simple, Gracier would use this attack to kept Alex occupied while Luna would finish him.
However, everything changed when Alex moved, he passed through the fire arrows, and they vanished, cut into two; no resistance was shown; it was as if he was cutting the leaf, not an arrow made of magic. Before the girls could open their mouths, they got stuck in their stomachs; they felt the air escape their lungs before plunging forward headfirst.
Whoosh! Whoosh!
Like the wind, Alex moved again and gently laid them on the ground. Afterward, he sat down while panting hard; his forehead was drenched in sweat.
〖Interesting I never thought this boot has that ability.〗Silveria said.
Chapter 257 - 252: Evening Date 1
〖Interesting I never thought this boot has this ability.〗Silveria's voice echoed inside Alex's head, the latter was too tired as if he had run a marathon, he was feeling a little dizzy. To put it simply, what happened when one almost drained one MP.
After catching his breath, Alex observed Sleipnir; he would be a fool if he couldn't deduct that the peculiar state he was previously in was due to his boots. He decided to check his status to see if there was something he had missed.
『[Alexander Kael Touch]
Class: Magic Gunslinger
Age: 17
Male
Race: High Human
「 Rank 7]
Level 66
Experience Value (XP): 0/18900
Magic Power: 170/5070
Magic: None
Attack: 1550
Defense: 1450
Agility: 1600 (+200)
Intelligence: 1450
Luck: 1230
BP: 0
SP: 0
Gift: Two Guns * Semi-sealed*
Skills: [Advanced Appraisal Level 1] [Item box Level 2] [Swift Fingers Max] [Divine Sense Level 4] [Throwing knife Level 5] [Dark Vision Level 2] [Dual Wielding Level 2] [Accel Level 3] [Knife Art Level 4] [Link Level 3] [Gun Art Level Level 10] [Normal Regeneration Level 5] [Mana Recovery Level 5] [Synthesize Level 3] [Shadow Shift Level 1]
Special Abilities: [Language Comprehension][Danger Sense] [Overdrive] [Death's Eye] [Envisage] {Erase} {Magic Bullet} {Snatch} [Hellsing] [Xerox]
Titles: [Otherworlder] [The one who can't use Magic] [The one whose fingers are faster than Flash] [Goblin Slayer] [The Reborn] [Shadow Nemesis] [The Slaughterer]』
However, to Alex's disappointment, he didn't find anything, he decided to ask Silveria if she knew something.
〖Master, I know what you want to ask. Previously I was not able to see because I didn't focus on the result of the appraisal; however, after seeing what happened a moment ago, I decided to recheck it. Sleipnir had another ability besides Fly. The ability to synchronize with the wind to become faster, more deadly, the wind will cover any weapon you hold to make it a bit longer. By the way, it won't work on me, but as you might have noticed, it can also accelerate not only your movement, your brain's cells will work faster. It's somewhat surprising that Sleipnir possesses such ability; if a Wind element user uses it, it will become more dreadful. However, this ability consumes too much MP as you have experienced it.〗Silveria explained before Alex could ask.
'I see. I guess I could not see Sleipnir's real ability due to my appraisal skill level being too low. If it's true, then maybe Loki has some hidden ability I don't know?' Alex thought.
〖Well, that may be true. However, one thing you should know is that Sleipnir's rank is higher than that of Loki. Sleipnir's rank is beyond SS Rank; maybe SSS, if it exists, the current system differs from ours.〗Silveria made an astonishing revelation, if the world knew this they will be a storm. Maybe Katherina would regret having given away such a treasure.
'I see I'm pretty lucky then.' Alex said, staring at Sleipnir.
Half of an hour passed in a blink; Gracier and Luna woke up; they rubbed their eyes and surveyed their surrounding. They saw that they were still inside the training ground using Alex's lap as a pillow, the latter smiled at them.
''I thought you are not going to wake up soon. How are you feeling? I hope I didn't go hard on you?" Alex asked, his voice was filled with concern.
The girls smiled and reassured Alex.
''Don't worry, we are fine. Well, I knew you were strong but experiencing it makes me realize how strong you are. Even without your core abilities, you were able to handle us easily. Well, I know most of the credit goes to Sleipnir, especially that last move. However, this happens because of your talent, your hard work. A good tool in the hand of an untalented man, a lazy man, will never show its full power like it will when wielded by someone who knows how to use it. I guess I can say that Katherina has done a good job giving you Sleipnir.'' Luna said while looking at Sleipnir.
Gracier nodded her head; she also shares the same opinion as Luna.
Alex smiled, not praising Katherina because he doesn't want to make her upset.
The three returned to their rooms to bathe; Alex whispered something into Luna's ears. After hearing Alex's words, Luna smiled.
Later, Gracier and Luna went to visit Maria and Sakuya.
•••••
The sky began changing its hue.
Night fell.
The shimmering radiance of the starry sky once again enveloped the sky. The clouds slowly dissipated, exposing the bright, lustrous moon that illuminated the land from above. At this moment, inside the Blue Haven Villa, a couple was going to have a date.
Alex, who was escorting Luna toward the date location, couldn't help but take a look at his fiancée, the one that makes his heart speed up, one of the ones he loves, nobody can replace the place this gentle girl. This girl kept waiting for him even after their reincarnation. Luna held a special place inside his heart; this will never change.
''Beautiful,'' Alex murmured. Luna heard it, and she smiled, feeling happy to be praised; it doesn't matter how many times she heard this.
Since Luna was always casual with her dress and appearance, Alex now felt that her beauty was even more spellbinding when she cared about her appearance.
Luna wore an evening dress, a Floral Applique Gown; it was V-neck sleeveless with fixed shoulder straps, it had a left front vent. The dress accentuated her body, making her more charming; if previously she was like an angel, now she was like a seductress.
Alex was sure of something; he was sure that if he walked outside now with Luna's arms tucked in his, it would surely carry away the breath of many men and women of any age. She gave off the feeling that no men were worthy enough to lay eyes upon her.
But he knew that no matter who or what she was, whether he was worthy or not, he would never let go of her. She was his; this will never change no matter what; he would be a fool if he were to let such a woman go. He must always tell her how much he loves her, how much she meant to him.
''You are my angel, the one that brightened my days, never leave my side because I will never stop loving you no matter what happened, Luna Touch.''
Chapter 258 - 253: Evening Date 2
''You are my angel, the one that brightened my days, never leave my side because I will never stop loving you no matter what happened, Luna Touch.'' Alex declared.
Even if they haven't married yet, this declaration of Alex made her release once again that she was already part of the family.
Luna felt over the moon hearing Alex's loving and sweet declaration. Her beautiful eyebrows raised as her eyes smiled in happiness. She hugged him intimately and felt how warm his chest was. A strange feeling of absolute safety and warmth always filled her body whenever she was in his embrace.
The first time she felt this was when they were kids; she had sneaked into his chamber and asked him to let her sleep beside him, Alex accepted, and since then, she will always sneak inside his room almost as if she couldn't sleep without him.
It might be since that day she became attached to him, her attachment developed into love, and she came to love him more after that declaration, after accepting him. Luna decided that she will never let him go in this life and even in their next one. If she were to let him go, she wouldn't feel complete without him, and his existence gave meaning to her life. For his sake, she will do anything; if he became a demon, she will still happily stay beside him as the demon's wife, no she can even turn into a demon if it could help him. This is how much he meant to her.
Both had their thoughts, unaware that they were thinking the same thing. They genuinely love each other from the bottom of their hearts.
Alex kissed Luna's forehead and smiled as he pointed towards one of the chairs put out near the table he had prepared, "Now, let's take a seat and have dinner. I want to spend some quality time with my fiancee.''
Luna's beautiful golden eyes sparkled, hearing that Alex's words. She happily nodded and quickly took a seat and looked at Alex; her eyes were filled with love. She knew he noticed her mood; it was why he set up this date.
''How attentive.'' She couldn't help but mutter this.
Suddenly, the delectable aroma of the food Alex prepared wafted through her nose.
After smelling it, she recognized that it was Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti, one of her favorite food. Luna felt loved.
Looking around, she was incredibly impressed with how warm and beautiful the garden looked now with all the string lights and candles, highlighting the beautiful flowers and plants even more.
Alex sat opposite her and asked with a proud smile, "Hehehe! It seems like you love what I have done with the place."
Luna gave a bright smile as she said,
"Yes. It looks so beautiful, especially with the surrounding view and the moon in the sky. I feel refreshed and happy sitting here and having dinner like this. This is way better than going to those luxurious restaurants. I never thought you would decide to have dinner here. I guess you will stop surprising me."
Alex chuckled, "Well, I guess nothing could beat the feeling we get by dining in our home. Let's dig in."
The two happily ate their food while lovingly gazing at each other's eyes, while at times, they would look at the scenic view outside and enjoy it.
The moon in the sky shined brighter than usual, as if she was giving them her blessings.
Alex was the first to finish; he started to drink a glass of wine while observing Luna eat.
'The way she remains me of a-'
Alex abruptly stopped whatever he was about to say because Luna glared at him.
'Are you an Esper?'
He almost shouted this. However, he didn't and shifted his focus toward the moon.
'I wonder if grandma is doing fine?'
Alex couldn't help but become melancholic; her grandmother used to place him on her lap while gazing at the moon, back when he was still a child.
''Don't worry, I think she is fine. Everyone on the other side is fine. Maybe one day we will be able to return to Earth if we become stronger enough.'' Luna consoled her fiancé after seeing the look on his face.
Smiling, Alex said, ''I guess you are right. However, I doubt that we have the same timeline.''
Luna could understand what he meant; she also has this worry.
''Well, even if we can see them. We have to visit their graves and pay our respect. Let's stop thinking about those depressing stuff.''
''Have you ever exchanged words with your Gift's spirit?" Alex raised this question after hearing Luna's words.
''Yes, we talked few times. She told me Silveria's real identity and a bunch of other stuff.''
At the end of her words, Luna blushed; Alex wondered what her Gift's spirit told her to make her blush when she remembered it. However, he knew Luna wouldn't answer even if he asked.
''Do you know what High Human means?" Alex asked.
Luna was surprised why Alex asked such a question but answered straightforwardly, ''High Humans are superior to humans.''
''That is all?" Alex couldn't help but raised his eyebrows, he had thought she would know more than that, but it seems that he was wrong.
''High Humans are indeed superior to humans. However, there's more than that. High Humans are part of the original races, the first races created by a supreme being. It's all I know. It seems that High Humans are rare. Why we got reincarnated into this race is unknown, but I'm sure there is a purpose behind this. Never speak about our real race to anybody. It won't end well for us.'' Alex warned Luna.
''I see, don't worry, I understand. By the way, how long will we live for?" Luna became curious after hearing Alex's explanation of High Human's origin.
''Around 500 years, more as we get stronger,'' Alex answered.
''That is good. I got to spend many years alongside you until we grew old and die.'' Luna was happy to learn that High Human could live that long.
Alex was surprised when he didn't hear Luna's wishes for eternal life.
As if she could read his mind, Luna told him,
''I don't care about eternal life. I will be happy if I can have it. However, even I can't; I'm content with growing old by your side. I hope you will not throw me away once I grow old.''
''Of course, I will never do something like that. Let's live our lives to the fullest, leaving no regret behind. It may be a short-lived life, but we will make it enjoyable.'' Alex declared before embracing Luna, who came to sit on his lap.
Alex placed something inside Luna's right palm.
Startled, Luna quickly checked what it was. She was shocked to find a golden key; she immediately understood what this meant. She couldn't help but be overwhelmed with emotions.
Alex's embrace got tighter; no words were needed. Both understood what others want to convey. This golden key means the Blue Haven Villa was hers to manage.
Women are living creatures bound to be jealous no matter how much they loved someone, especially if this person shows more care to another woman than them.
Maria became the manager of the Golden Nugget now Golden's Spoon made Luna a bit jealous even if she didn't show it.
However, now that she also received something equal, no more valuable than Maria's, Luna was pleased, that jealousy inside her heart vanished, leaving place to happiness, an overwhelming amount of happiness.
''Thank you. I will take great care of it.'' She said before turning her head to kiss Alex. It was a simple kiss. However, Luna kiss was filled with love.
Alex wore a soft smile on his face, ''No need to thank me. You deserve it.''
The two stayed silent as they observed the beautiful moon in the sky. It was peaceful; they wished for this peace to last forever. However, they knew it was wishful thinking. To live a peaceful life, they need strength, and they will become powerful.
The two spent their time like this until they went back to sleep. That night, they slept in each other embrace, feeling each other heartbeat, not doing anything; this made them closer, strengthened their bond.
Chapter 259 - 254: Troublesome Things
Deep in the night, Capital of the Holy Crux Empire.
The pope was conversing with someone shrouded by a mist; only this person's voice could be heard; it's a male voice.
''Your son got beaten up badly. He couldn't even make it to the final, how pathetic.'' the mysterious person mocked.
The Pope's expression didn't change; he still wore his gentle smile.
Seeing that the Pope was not going to say something, the mysterious man clicked his tongue.
''Tch! Forget it. From the report, he didn't manage to make any progress with the Saintess. To make matters worse, the latter became someone else fiancée, the Eighth fiancée. This boy is becoming more troublesome. Let's watch for now. We shall take care of him once, making sure that he can't be used.''
The Pope's response was a smile. The mysterious man got more annoyed.
''Even though the Saintess lost her innocence, she still can be used. Ensure to secure the Saintess successfully; the Goddess doesn't want any more mishap to occur and delay her plan. Think of a way to get that girl, or else you know what will happen if you don't.'' The mysterious man threatened the Pope hoping to see a reaction. Unfortunately, nothing happened.
''Tch!"
The mysterious man clicked his tongue and vanished.
After the mysterious man left, the Pope sighed.
''How bothersome. I must follow the orders.'' the Pope muttered.
The mysterious man who was still hiding harrumphed before disappearing; however, this time, he was gone for good.
The Pope's expression turned ugly after the mysterious man's presence was gone.
''If not because of you getting a preferential treatment, I would have crushed you the moment you acted arrogantly in front of me.''
A little bit of the Pope's aura was leaked out, and it crushed the stone table into a powder.
Controlling his anger, the Pope sighed.
''I guess I'm getting old. To think I would have lost my cool so easily. Ah! Forget it. I must think of a way to make Luna's capture successful.'' The Pope murmured before leaving the room.
Shortly after he left, two shadows appeared and moved in his direction. The Pope wasn't shocked by their arrival; one of the shadows extended a black envelope to the Pope.
After quickly scanning the content of the black envelope, the Pope's expression distorted for a moment before going back to normal again.
''Just watch for now.'' The Pope ordered.
The shadows nodded before leaving.
''Sigh! I hope everything goes well. It's a shame that things ended like this. Only if I couldn't go back in time, forget it.'' the Pope mumbled as he disappeared into his chamber.
•••••
The following morning Alex woke up with Luna nestled in his chest like a little kitten.
''How cute.'' He couldn't help but said this.
Chuckling after observing Luna for a moment, Alex move away the few strands of hair overlapping her face behind her ears and give her a soft peck on the forehead before leaving for the bathroom.
After freshening up, Alex stepped into the hall for breakfast. There, he saw Gracier and Silveria sitting; they were waiting for him. After exchanging greeting, their ate their breakfast.
Luna woke up one hour later. She joined Alex and Gracier after taking her breakfast.
The three left the villa for the academy; today was the date they will depart toward the dungeons.
A few minutes later, the three joined the other students waiting for their teachers to announce what dungeon they got assigned to.
''Too bad we won't be saying in the same group. Don't worry; I will protect your sister as if she was my own if I came across her.'' Leon promised, although they won't be staying together in this dungeon exploration, Leon still made this promise as he noticed Alex's concern for his sister.
''Thank you. Don't worry; we will have all the time in the world to explore dungeons later.'' Alex slapped Leon's shoulders while saying this.
Ferris chuckled before shaking his head. He wanted to explore dungeons with Alex, but he didn't say anything as he believes they will be a chance later. When Ferris remember what his father said, he couldn't help but sigh and look at her sister.
Even though Eris appeared to be talking with the other girl's face full of smile, you can see that her smile was slightly unnatural, a bit forced because she was preoccupied with the order they received a few days ago.
'Try to get close to the Eighth no matter what.'
Their father's order couldn't be more explicit (Become Alex's woman).
While as the future ruler, Ferris understood this decision, like a big brother, he could not accept it. However, he knew nothing could be done about it. Being born as royalty comes with shackles; because Eris couldn't inherit the throne, she can only be used like this. A political marriage. It was to draw Alex to their side. Even if it doesn't work, at least they could get Alex's descendant.
All other forces are thinking of a method to win Alex over.
''How troublesome. Sometimes I wish I was born mortal; I will be free.'' Ferris muttered.
Only if he knew that mortal also wishes to have the life he has because he thinks he is suffering too much.
''Sigh! Eris, do your best.'' Ferris silently cheered his sister, completely unaware that Alex had heard him. He noticed the sibling's unusualness and added what he just heard, and with Eris's sudden interest in Luna, Alex could understand what was going on.
'Sigh! Indeed how troublesome. I knew my performance during the Mock battles was bound to attract some unwanted attention, but I didn't think it will be this soon and this way. Well, I can approach her and say something after understanding what's going on, but I think it will be unwise. I don't know what type of girl Eris is as I didn't interact too much with her; she may become furious thinking I'm looking down on her; in this case, she would want to become my woman at all cost to prove to me that I was wrong. I don't want this to happen. In the second case, after hearing my words, she may start having feelings for me because I showed some concern; I don't want her to sell her to me. It will be troublesome either way; better observe and deal with the situation accordingly.' Alex analyzed and concluded that not doing anything until Eris approach him was the best solution.
Leon, who was observing Alex, couldn't help but sigh, as the most substantial empire on the beastman continent, they knew what Wolfang empire planned; in fact, if not because of his friendship with Alex, Leon was sure that his father or someone in the counsel would have suggested marrying his sister to Alex.
''Don't worry, no matter what you decided to do, I will help you,'' Leon whispered into Alex's ears.
Alex smiled at his friend.
〖This fellow is sure interesting. Usually, with such a body, his love for battle, he shouldn't be wise, and yet this one is quite intelligent, almost more brilliant than you.〗Silveria commented.
'Well, there's always an exception.' Alex said.
〖By the way, Master, what are you planning to do about that wolf girl-〗
'Nothing.' Alex cut Silveria off as he knew where she was going.
〖Fufufu! As Harem king, you ought to make a move first and collect all beautiful women before others.〗Silveria suggested, she sounds like a passionate master trying to force his disciple on the road of depravity.
'Sorry, I'm not that type of person. Although it's true, I plan to have a harem, but the number of women I will have would be limited. I won't go after every woman I saw; my hips won't take it, and I doubt I will be able to love them all. When you have too many women, this is not considered love anymore but a physical relationship; you saw something in them, and after getting bored, you will discard them. I don't want this kind of relationship. If I have five women, I will love them all, not equally, of course, as this kind thing is impossible because you are bound to love one than the others, it's natural, and it's human. So, no, don't count me in; lets me have few women of my liking rather going after every woman and end up neglecting some. I wouldn't last long if this were to happen. The neglected women may stab me during my sleep.'
Alex's refusal was automatic; he never planned to have a big harem, to begin with. He never understood those wuxia protagonists that go after every woman they saw and end up neglecting some; it is hard for the readers to remember all of them. Well, he plans for a small Harem.
〖Sigh! How disappointing, you see a glorious road of you, and yet you refuse to take it.〗Silveria lamented when she understood that her master wasn't going to follow her advice. She was not the only one, though, strangely Silveria's big sister was also disappointed; however, she didn't give up hope, at least not yet.
'Turn into man and create your big harem. I'm cheering for you.' Alex mocked her.
Silveria pouted and started cursing. Ignoring her, Alex resumes his discussion with Leon and Ferris while waiting for Chris's arrival.
Chapter 260 - 255: The Departure
Alex and his friend kept chatting until Artemia, accompanied by Lilith and Artemia's bodyguard, the one Alex fought back, then arrived and joined them.
Before Artemia and Co could exchange greeting with Alex, Chris came and immediately announced how the students would be distributed.
Maria, Luna, Gracier, and Sakuya were in the same group, while Ferris, Eris, Roman, Camilla formed another group. Leon, Kuina, Kevin, and Cyril formed another group. Lilith formed a group with Amy and a twin sisters, while Leonardo, Dodolus, and Damien formed another group. The remaining students formed a group of three.
Leonardo and Damien exchanged glances before secretly grinning; however, Leonardo's expression turned murderous when he recalled Katherina's warning when she visited him unannounced.
'I do not know what you are scheming with Damien; however, let me warn you if you went and do something you shouldn't, believe I will watch as you suffer the consequence of your action. It's time for you to open your eyes and search for something good to do.' Katherina had said.
'Fuck, Fuck Fuck. It has always been him. Why? Why? Why is that? Someone tell me why?'
Leonardo became abnormal when he recalled the feeling of always be in the shadow of someone he hated; his eyes almost turned bloodshot.
Damien's expression changed when he saw Leonardo's abnormal state. He cursed his bad luck to think that fool couldn't control his hatred.
''Snap it, you fool,'' Damien shouted as he sent a light punch into Leonardo's stomach to bring him back. Fortunately, they were facing the others, so nobody noticed what was going.
''Thank you. I almost lost it.'' Leonardo said before turning to face the others.
After some light speech about the things they must look out for once in the dungeons, they were sent away.
However, just as everyone was about to disperse going to the dungeons. Alex disappeared to reappear in front of Leonardo; the latter was completely surprised.
''Do not cross me,'' Alex said with a calm smile; however, to Leonardo, it was like a death sentence, his body started to tremble even after Alex vanished from his sight uncontrollably. It was thanks to Damien's assistance that he regained a bit of calm.
''Don't worry, nobody will know. Everything is already prepared. You only have to do as I say.'' Damien whispered into Leonardo's ears disregarding the odd stared they had been receiving after Alex's visit.
Leonardo nodded before smiled; his smile was full of madness; he passed by Camilla and didn't even look at her, as if she didn't exist. Camilla couldn't help but clenched her fists together until they were almost white.
Last night the two fought because of Katherina's visit; Camilla advised Leonardo not to do anything reckless, to drop any plan he has concerning Alex; however, until the end, Leonardo played the dumb, saying he didn't know anything, that he wasn't planning anything. Furious, Camilla yelled at him to end up being slapped hard until she was sent flying and her head collided against the door; Leonardo shouted at him to leave his sight.
''Sigh! I hope my fear never come true.'' Camilla muttered as she watched Alex talk with his sister and others. After observing them for a moment, Camilla turned her head and glared at Damien, eyes full of hatred; the latter acted as though he had not noticed Camilla's stare as he understood the reason for Camilla's hatred.
Thinking about how foolish Camilla's man is, Damien's thoughts couldn't help but wander to last night's encounter.
...
Flashback.
Yesterday late in the night.
[A bar in the Slum's Area]
It was a rundown bar that could be found anywhere in the slum. However, there was something particular about this one; it stood like a lone boat amidst the ocean and reek blood.
The area around the bar was empty because usually, no sane resident of the slums will come here. After all, only death awaits them if they were to do it.
However, currently, someone was walking toward this particular with a calm pace. This person wore a cloak that covers his body; however, his white hair, even though hidden, still stand out.
''Tch! Once again, I came here.'' Damien grumbled as he pushed the door of the rundown bar open and went in.
Nobody was inside except for the bartender and a black cat lazing on the counter.
''Oh! A guest, how rare. Welcome to the No name bar.'' The bartender said with a slight bow. However, Damien ignored him and sat not too far from the black cat.
The bartender let a small chuckle escape from his mouth before leaving.
''Take your time.'' He said.
And after the bartender left, the black opened its unusual golden eyes and spoke.
''Did you succeed in your mission?" The black cat asked.
''Yes, I did succeed. Leonardo will work with us. We will do as you say.'' Damien didn't show any surprise facing a talking cat as it wasn't his first time facing the strange cat.
''Good. You may now leave. I will tell when it's time to act.'' The black cat instructed before closing its eyes again.
However, Damien wasn't happy with the black cat's attitude. Even though he agreed to cooperate with this unknown entity, he doesn't mean that he would blindly follow orders like a perfect soldier, especially when he lacked information.
''What? That's all? What do you take me for? Tell me what it's the plan." Damien, for the first time since their meeting, became emotional and shouted.
A bored expression appeared on the black cat's face, something only humanoid creatures should possess.
''Annoying. Shut up and go back. I have nothing else to say to you. Remember, I'm talking nicely to you because you have some use. You're a disposable pawn; just because I said cooperation doesn't mean we are equal. I gave an order you follow it if you want to get what you desire that is it. So better scram while I'm still patiently saying so." The black warned Damien with its eyes still closed. However, Damien found it challenging to breathe as if the whole bar had been put on his shoulders; he almost kneeled.
''Kuh!" Gritting his teeth in shame, Damien left; however, just as he was about to pass the bar's doors, he heard the black cat's voice.
''Don't worry, everything will work as we intended.''
Even though he was feeling shame to have received such a treatment considering his lofty status, Damien decided to endure it for the sake of ambition, for the sake of the Holy mission.
After Damien left the bar, the bartender appeared again and asked the black cat.
''Isn't it is dangerous to talk to him the way you did?"
''Don't worry, those church fanatics also ready to go to the extreme when it's a question of their mission. So, that fool will follow the order no matter how much I belittle him.'' The black responded.
''I see. Why are you not interested in this Saintess?" The bartender asked.
''Well, well, I do. However, I know what my priorities are. Better stick to the plan. I want that girl, and you want him. No distraction is allowed. Understood?" The black asked with its golden eyes wide open.
''How scary. I understand. Hope everything goes well.'' The bartender lifted his arms and said in surrender.
While closing its eyes again, the black cat said. ''Don't worry, it will. It's a well-thought plan.''
•••••
Back to the present.
Damien's group departed, and before leaving, he looked at the sky while mumbling.
''Hope everything goes well and soon I will make you me while at the same time receiving the goddess praise, her blessings and reign supreme as the New Pope.''
On the other side, Alex was saying his farewell to his sister and others.
''Gracier do not wander alone. Stick with others, understood?" Alex ordered, his tone indicated that he was serious.
''Understood, brother. Don't worry, I'm the weak Gracier anymore. I'm the proud Gracier, Alexandra, your sister.'' Gracier said with her head held high.
While chuckling, Alex rubbed Gracier's head before putting a kiss on her forehead, then he said. ''I know, I know, my proud little princess.''
Gracier smiled proudly and stick out her small chest.
The others smiled when they saw Gracier's reaction. Suddenly, Alex pulled the nearby Maria into his embrace and planted a kiss on her lips.
''Oh!!"
Shouted the others, Maria was so surprised that her ears went red for a moment before she pushed Alex back, however, instead of falling to the ground, Alex maneuver somehow to end up beside Sakuya and planted a kiss on her lips, however, unlike Maria's case, it was a light kiss.
Another commotion started, dodging Sakuya's kick; Alex moved at last toward his fiancée; the latter seemed to have been waiting for him, they shared a deep kiss before Alex leave.
''Take care, everybody. I hope to see you soon.'' Alex left these words behind.
Maria's group, Damien's group, Ferris's group were going into the same dungeon, while others were sent to separate dungeons.
After leaving the others, Alex joined Artemia's carriage where she was waiting for him.
Isabella, who was sitting in the driver's seat, harrumphed when she saw Alex approaching.
''How shameless.'' She commented. It seems that she was seen what Alex did earlier.
Alex ignored the sore loser and faced Artemia,
''Princess, shall we go?"
With a smile, Artemia held her right hand out and said, ''Yes.''
After helping Artemia board the carriage, Alex joined her, and Isabella drove the magic carriage forward.
Alex's first dungeon exploration was about to begin.
Chapter 261 - 256: Arrival At The Dungeon's Village
The magic carriage driven by Isabella went towards a building. Alex, Artemia, and Isabella entered the building to use the teleportation circle to go where the dungeon was located.
However, they were told to wait for a moment because the teleportation stone would be replaced. Alex decided to use this chance to ask few questions to quench his thirst for knowledge.
''I'm curious about something." Alex couldn't help but said this as he watched the intricate designs of the gigantic teleportation circle.
''Fufufu! Let's me guess you are wondering about how these teleportation circles all over the capital have been made?" Artemia asked with a smile.
''Indeed. I want to know how.'' Alex responded while he ignored Isabella, who was still giving him the cold shoulder.
''Well, I'm privy to the details of how they are made, but I know it was made Runrmasters,'' Artemia explained.
''Runemaster?" Alex reacted to the unfamiliar term.
Artemia wasn't surprised by Alex's lack of knowledge on what runemasters are, hence his surprise.
''They a group of person capable of using Rune Magic, ancient magic. They are extremely rare and recluse. Those teleportation devices, teleportation circles you saw all over the capital, have been made hundred years ago. Some are even more ancient. Rumor has it that Avalon floating in the air was done by a Runemaster, the most powerful of runemasters to have ever existed. Well, in the end, it was still a rumor, nothing more, nothing less.''
Alex's eyes narrowed at Artemia's revelation. He was also curious about how such a colossal island could float in the air. It went against the law of physics. If Earth's scientists were here, they would have discarded all their projects to focus on studying this floating island. If that rumor was true, then that Runemaster must be pretty powerful; Alex doubts that he/she was from this world.
''Magic swords and other magic weapons have runes engraved on them. Am I right?"
Alex asked when he remembered Golfak magic sword. He wondered if he and the others are doing fine. Somehow, Alex missed them. He hopes he could see them soon.
While crossing her leg one over another as she waited for the teleportation stone to be replaced, Artemia answered.
''Yes, it's as you have said. However, true rune magic is more complex than those simple runes used on the weapons; it's why those responsible for engraving rune magic on the weapons are called 'Lightruner.' A true runemaster is capable of making a teleportation device, and even the famous magical pouch (Magic storage), space ring. Even treasures such as Loki, Sleipnir found inside dungeons are said to be products of High-level Runemaster that existed in the bygone era.''
Artemia made another revelation that startled Alex.
''Wow! Incredible! I want to encounter a Runemaster, and if it's possible, I want to learn that magic.''
The last part was said rather inaudibly. Artemia chuckled when she heard Alex's words while Isabella harrumphed; Artemia's expression changed.
''Humph! What a country bumpkin you are. Dare to dream of encountering such existence. Who do you think you are?" Isabella couldn't let go of the chance of mocking Alex.
The latter smiled; it was a devilish smile, ''You ask who I am? Well, I will tell you. I'm the one who is going to green your father.''
''Pffft''
Artemia couldn't help but burst into laughter; she quickly closed her mouth to stifle it not to draw too much attention.
''You- You--''
With a trembling hand, Isabella pointed her finger at Alex; the latter expression became cold, and he released a bit of killing intent that made Isabella's body froze; she started trembling shortly after as if she was having a seizure.
''Listen carefully, I'm not going to repeat myself. I don't know what I have done to earn your hatred, but I want to stop it from now on as I won't stay silent if you keep up with that attitude. Understood?" Alex increased by bit his killing intent.
Like a cornered rabbit that was about to be devoured, Isabella nodded. She was scared of the look Alex was giving her. It was like she was not worth even a pebble in his eyes.
''Good,'' Alex said pleased, the killing intent disappeared like a joke. Isabella breathed a sigh of relief, unaware that Alex and Artemia exchange looks before smiling. Both understood what the other wanted to convey; no word was needed.
For Artemia, it was gratitude, gratitude for what he has done; while it was confirmed that Isabella is exceptionally talented, she has one big flaw. She was too arrogant, tend to look down on everyone, especially men. For the first time, she lost facing someone younger than her, and a male to boot, her anger and shame because of the defeat turned into hatred for Alex. She couldn't stop but ridicule Alex at every opportunity she got; this was done to maintain the illusion that she was still superior to Alex. If nothing were done, this would have evolved into something Artemia wished not to see; it was why she sought Alex's intervention; he knew he would react and chose not to do anything.
From now only, Isabella will behave and know that they exist people she should never provoke.
Even though Alex reacted because he couldn't take any more being ridiculed in almost every discussion, he knew he was being used to teach Isabella a lesson. It was why after rebuking Isabella, he looked at Artemia as if to tell her, 'You owe me one.'
Artemia knew if she tried to fix Isabella's behavior because of their relationship, even if she were to listen to her, it wouldn't completely disappear. Let's her suffer first before advising her to better behave from now on using what happened as an example; it was Artemia strategy.
〖This girl is rather shrewd. Carefully not let yourself get devoured, not even leaving a bone behind.〗Silveria, who was watching the entire scene from the beginning and understood what was going on, couldn't stay still but warn her master.
'Don't worry, I know.' Alex said.
At the same time, someone entered to inform them that the teleportation circle was ready to be used.
''Let's go.'' Alex stood up and followed after the one that informed that everything was easy. Artemia and Isabella silently followed behind.
Everywhere they pass, people would look at Artemia in awe, almost as if they were worshipping her. Strangely, nobody pointed their fingers at Artemia even though the latter face was uncovered and they knew her identity.
'I wonder if it was due to the goddess halo?' Alex couldn't help but have this irrelevant thought. He quickly discarded these irrelevant thoughts and stepped into the teleportation circle; Artemia and Isabella joined him.
The man responsible for activating the teleportation circle bowed respectfully before activating it.
The teleportation circle shined brightly before the light went out. Alex and Co had disappeared.
•••••
When Alex and the others opened their eyes again, they inside a somewhat identical room; however, this one scale was small compared to that of the capital (Teleportation room, the teleportation circle).
After a quick exchange with the one responsible for this building, Alex, Artemia, and Isabella left the black building and appeared outside.
''Wow! What incredible sight.'' Alex muttered in awe. He was not the only one, though. Isabella was also surprised; only Artemia appeared to be lost in thoughts.
Even though Alex heard that it was a village, the current scenery in front of him made him doubt if it was really the case. Rather than a village, it would be more accurate to call it a small town surrounded by high mountains and beautiful forest.
''Are we still in the capital?" Alex couldn't help but ask this question.
''Well, you will be surprised how big Avalon is. Did you know our capital nickname?" Artemia, who had come back to reality after feeling the nostalgia of setting foot here again; however, compared to last time, she was in better condition, spoke.
''I don't know; I'm all ears,'' Alex said.
''It's called the sixth continent. Avalon is almost half of the beastmen continent. From the ground, you won't how big it is.''
Astonishingly it was Isabella who answered Alex's question.
''I see. Thanks for the information.'' Alex said he was not someone doesn't know how to show his gratitude when helped.
Isabella was surprised; she thought that because of her behavior, Alex wouldn't respect her; however, he proved otherwise. Isabella felt ashamed, biting her lips, her eyes became resolute, she decided to interact before judging someone.
Looking at Isabella's unwavering gaze, Artemia smiled, feeling happy that the latter was evolving.
''Welcome, princess. Shall we led you to your the house specifically prepared for you?" The captain of the guards stationed over this village approached them and asked.
''No need, we shall book rooms. What do you think, Alex?" Artemia refused; she tilted her head in Alex's direction.
''Let's do that.'' Alex accepted Artemia's suggestion.
''Understood your highness, Mr. Alexander, Ms. Isabella, Please follow me.'' the captain bowed respectfully before turning to walk towards the best Inn in the village.
Chapter 262 - 257: Visit At The Guild Branch
After booking rooms at the best Inn, Alex and Artemia went to the Guild branch to inform the staff about their arrival and goal.
The Guild branch building looks smaller than that of Eria's city; however, it appears more sturdy probably due to its proximity to the dungeons; in fact, all buildings in the village were built sturdily.
After a quick scan of the building, Alex declared,
''Let's enter.''
Artemia nodded.
As they entered, they looked around the inside of the guild.
''As I thought, it's different compared to the others,'' Alex commented as he scanned the guild with Artemia standing next to him.
As for Artemia, the moment she appeared, the guild staff and adventurers all unintentionally glanced at her. It was expected; however, those with keen eyes immediately understood Artemia's true identity, so nobody said something disrespectful.
Alex ignored the odds stare he was receiving and observed the guild. As he said, the Guild branch here is different.
Maybe related to its temporary nature next to the dungeon, it was very different from the guild he had set foot in. The most significant difference was that the guild didn't have a bar.
Material purchasing and party application, because a large number of adventurers would gather at the guild, the bar in Eria's city was something that was added for their use. For example, many requests were always posted on the request boards in the guild at Eria's city.
Also different were the periods of crowdedness in the morning and evening when people went to start and finish requests. Even then, they still had room to spare.
However, because all the adventurers were aiming for the dungeon gathered here, the guild here was crowded. At night, the monster in the dungeon became more belligerent and active, no different from when they were outside. Because of that, most adventurers would enter the dungeon at roughly the same time, causing this packed crowd.
After searching for the guild counter and found it, Alex and Artemia walked toward it. The crowd parted the way to let them pass. For most adventurers here, it was their first time seeing the famous Third princess, so they were in awe.
As the adventurers and guild staff who had glanced over finally gathered themselves, Alex and Artemia were already in front of the counter. Alex left Artemia to do the talking.
''Good Evening.'' Artemia politely greeted the man behind the counter.
''Ah, yes. Good evening your highness. What can we do for you?"
''I have a little business with the person in charge of the guild here; I would like you to inform him of my arrival them,'' Artemia announced.
''Pardon my rudeness, may I ask about what for?''
As expected for someone working for the guild near the dungeon. Although the young male staff member was stunned by Artemia's presence and status, it didn't take him long to calm down as he spoke and gave a reply as usual.
Impressed in her mind at his professionalism, Artemia continued to speak.
''That's right, I forget. Here, take it.''
Saying that she presented a letter that had the Elseria seal on it.
The young male staff immediately recognized this seal. He became nervous all of a sudden.
''I understood. Please wait. I will inform the head branch of your arrival.''
He then ran up to the stairs next to the counter at a quick pace.
Watching him go, Artemia looked around the inside of the interest. It has been a long time since she sneaked out disguised to play the adventurer. Glancing at Alex, who had a bored expression on his face, Artemia chuckled.
''Relax, we will go back soon and rest. Tomorrow we will dive into the dungeon. You won't be bored any longer.''
''I hope so,'' Alex answered.
Just as Artemia wanted to say something, the young male guild staff came back.
''Sorry for taking so long. Our representative would like to meet you.''
''Ah, you back. Sorry for the trouble.''
Artemia nodded and followed the staff, who guided her up the stairs. Alex followed them as well, and soon they arrived on the second floor.
''Representative, I've brought her Highness and his comrade.''
After respectfully guiding them to the room of the guild representative, the young male guild staff knocked on the door and called out. The reply to the staff member was an unexpectedly young voice.
''Yes, please enter.''
Following the voice from inside, he opened the door and entered. Artemia and Alex followed after him.
''Welcome. My name is Axel, and I serve as the representative of the guild.''
Saying that a man in his twenties stood up from behind his work desk and gave a bow. Even the highest estimate of his age wouldn't be above his early thirties. He had gentle features and gave off the atmosphere of having a good attitude.
Alex didn't pay too much attention to the man; even though he appeared gentle, he must have another face, and this would be used depending on the situation or the person he was dealing with.
Artemia sat down on the sofa for visitors and spoke up without any particular change in expression. Alex was sitting on her right.
''As you may have guessed after seeing that letter, we are here for that dungeon.'' She said.
''Indeed, princess, I have been informed about that matters. Although I'm aware of you and Mr. Alexander's strength, I still think it would be hard to accomplish your goal due to the existence of that boss.'' Axel warned; he seemed to be saying this out of good faith.
Alex frowned; he knew this expedition was not going to be easy, but he faith in his skills; however, judging from Axel's words, the difficulty of this dungeon was high. While their goal is not to conquer this dungeon, there's a floor they must enter to complete their original goal.
After hearing Axel's warning, Artemia smiled.
''I understand the circumstances. Don't worry; I have faith in my subordinate and Mr. Alexander here. We will proceed carefully and won't let our guard down.'' She promised.
''Okay, I shall believe in the princess and Mr. Alexander. Is there anything I can help you with? Anything you wish for?" Axel asked.
''Not for the time being. We have prepared sufficient goods and combat strength before coming. There are no particular issues as long as we can smoothly enter the dungeon.'' Artemia said; she seemed to be hinting at something.
It didn't take long for Axel to understand what she was hinting at. He took out something similar to a guild card; it was black. Axel gave this black card to the princess.
''Please have this. You will need it to have free access to the dungeon.'' Axel explained.
''It's more like a pass to not wait in line and directly enter the dungeon, isn't it?"
For the first time since entering the room, Alex spoke. His words surprised Axel as he didn't think Alex would immediately understand the use of this card after his first time seeing it.
Smiling, Axel explained.
''Yes. All the adventurers enter the dungeon at about the same time. Because of that, waiting is sometimes necessary. You can use this card to go in immediately without waiting.''
''I see. Thanks. I'll be grateful to receive this. When I return, should I return it?" Artemia asked with a smile. Looking at her, you would almost think she wasn't expecting this kind of card. However, she knew it existed; it was what she was hinting at when she said, 'Smoothly enter the dungeon.'
''Yes, that would be helpful,'' Axel said, not saying anything on the fact that Artemia made him intentionally hand over the black card.
''I understand. Do you have more detailed map of the dungeon? The one I have is only limited to ten first floors.'' Artemia, who suddenly remembered something, asked this.
''No, we don't have any other map, as you might know. This dungeon is practically sealed. Few are allowed to go in, and it is limited to the first seven floors. I apologize for b-"
Artemia stopped Axel before he could finish his words and said.
''Don't worry. While it may be dangerous to go down without a complete map, it is exciting. We will need to be careful, that is all. Well, she is calling me, maps or not, I will still be able to get there.''
The last part was said almost inaudibly; Axel didn't hear it; however, Alex heard it, he didn't say anything and waited for the meeting to end. He was feeling extremely bored; he wanted to go back and rest to be prepared for tomorrow. If not, because Artemia needs a guard when coming here and Isabella was busy with something else, Alex wouldn't have accompanied Artemia. Well, Artemia was almost like his employer, so he ought to do his job.
''Sigh''
Alex let a sigh escaped from his mouth as he closed his eyes. Artemia, who was talking with Axel about another matter, chuckled before ending this meeting after exchanging few words.
Alex and Artemia left the guild after that. They went back to the Inn to rest. Tomorrow, Alex would be experiencing his first dungeon exploration.
Chapter 263 - 258: Into The Dungeon
Early morning the next day, they finally went to the dungeon's grounds. Artemia led Alex and Isabella to the dungeon.
Isabella was the vanguard, Artemia the midguard, Alex at the rear; he can also play the two other roles as a long-range attacker.
They walked through the village while feeling the cool weather on their skins; it was a fine autumn day.
They encountered adventurers on the way; those adventurers were probably going into the dungeon. The second dungeon, the most used, different from the one Alex and others were going into. The adventurers they encountered ranged from parties of 5 to people going solo. Alex could also see a few parties of up to 10 people.
Ignoring the curious stares they were receiving, the three continued forward, and soon they arrived before the dungeon.
Several adventurers were lined up at the entrance of the dungeon. Roughly 20 people or so, about four parties if you consider one group having five members.
''It seems that we will need to use that card after all,'' Artemia muttered when she saw the adventurers line up at the entrance.
''Well, it's why you got it in the first place. Make sure that everything is prepared.'' Alex said.
After hearing his words, Artemia and Isabella checked their equipment; even though they have prepared before going here, it wasn't wrong to verify if everything was alright one more time before heading to the dungeon.
''Let's go. Everything is okay.'' Artemia announced after checking her equipment; she wore elegant silver armor with blue patterns on it. Isabella's equipment seemed okay as well.
Passing the adventurers, they went towards the guild staff member at the front of the entrance next to the queue.
Even though some adventurers wanted to complain, they shut it after seeing the black card.
After recovering the black card, Artemia gave a generous bow toward the adventurers, leaving a good impression. She did this in order to weaken the dissatisfaction they felt when they used this particular method to go ahead of them.
''I understand why you are so popular,'' Alex mumbled when he saw Artemia's way of handling things.
''Did you say something?" Artemia asked as she didn't hear what Alex had said.
Shaking his head, Alex said, ''Nothing.''
As Artemia entered the dungeon, the adventurers around her involuntarily looked at her admiringly.
The entrance to the dungeon itself was a standard set of stairs. They went down into the ground.
Curious, Alex couldn't help but ask.
''Are the stairs also part of the dungeon?"
''No, the stairs were prepared by the guild after the dungeon was formed. Here, this is the evidence.''
At the end of the stairs was a black door. As for what it was, it was something the guild installed to stop monsters from coming out of the dungeon because sometimes monsters escape from the dungeon and attack the nearby villages; these monsters are fierce than the monsters outside.
"In other words, past this door is the real dungeon?" Alex asked after studying the black door; it was sturdier than anything he has ever seen. As for what materials were used to create this door, Alex didn't know. His appraisal skill only showed only one thing: Black door.
''Exactly.'' Artemia nodded. Her voice brought Alex back into reality.
Isabella opened the door; a wide corridor greeted them.
''This, it's pretty wide. Do the walls emit light themselves?'' Isabella muttered, impressed, and touched the walls that emitted a faint light. Judging from her reaction, it was her first time seeing this.
''According to the information I've gathered, walls that emit light seem to be a feature that is common to all dungeons. Well, depending on the layer, there are places completely wrapped in darkness with no light, so you shouldn't become careless.'' Artemia explained.
''By any chance, can you take the walls here back home and sell them for a considerable amount?'' Without thinking, Isabella muttered.
However, Alex shook his wry smile.
''I doubt it will wor,.'' he said.
Artemia confirmed Alex's doubt before further explaining.
''It's as Alex said. Or did you think no adventurer has thought of that before? Even if you shaved off parts of the wall and brought them up, they don't seem to shine outside. It seems to be a dungeon-only feature. Some speculated that dungeon nucleus (Dungeon Core) does this as not to inconvenience the monsters that live inside the dungeon.''
''Wow! Dungeon's Core can do that for monsters? Something like that is that possible?" Isabella asked in disbelief.
''Isabella's question is reasonable. I think it's possible as to why the Dungeon's Core does this? All I can say is that it's done in order to help monsters, as the others speculated. Most monsters can't see in the dark, so this will help them attack the intruders. I do not think the monster would hardly be active if it were completely dark."
''I see. It certainly might be if you think about it. '' Isabella nodded at Alex's words.
''Well, what the Dungeon's Core does is impressive, but I'm more interested in knowing how dungeons are created. And who created them, for what purpose." Alex voiced his thoughts.
Artemia sighed; it was the eternal question. Numerous people tried to find the origin of the dungeons to end up failing at the end. Nobody knows how they were created, just that they existed a long time ago. Even if one manages to conquer a dungeon by acquiring the dungeon's core, a new one will soon form elsewhere.
''Well, that's some good questions. However, we do not have time for this. Let's get going.'' Artemia said.
Alex and Isabella nodded. Following Artemia's instructions, their party advanced through the dungeon. As expected, most of the monsters that appeared on the first floor were easy to deal with, such as Horned Rabbits and Giant Bats.
Thrusting her spear forward, Isabella cut down the giant bat, diving toward her.
From the other side, Artemia moved her glaives and cut down three Giant bats.
Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!
Alex threw his knives around to eliminate the remaining monsters.
Soon the monsters on the first floor were cleared, and the group walked toward the second floor.
The group went straight to the stairs leading to the third when they entered the second floor after quickly dispatching the monsters on this floor. Monsters on the second were not different from the one on the first floor.
''I thought it would be hard, but I guess I was wrong,'' Isabella muttered as she sliced a 2 m long Poison Toad, which had jumped at her with her spear. The third floor was filled with Poison toads.
Artemia, with her glaives, danced amidst a group of Poison toads; she struck their vitals, killing them with almost no effort.
Alex at the back made use of his Swift fingers and launched knife after knife at monsters standing further away. His knives effortlessly killed the poison toad charging toward the others. He was a little bit surprised by how strong he became; if it was three months ago, he couldn't kill Poison toads so easily as he did now. This shows that he has grown up and was still growing.
''Let's go,'' Artemia said after shaking off the blood on her glaives.
The three moved toward the fourth floor.
''I hope that the monsters ahead will be more interesting than Poison toad or Giant bats,'' Isabella said as they moved.
Soon they arrived on the fourth floor. What greeted them was another group of Poison toads; however, unlike on the previous floor, the toads here were larger.
The three quickly cleared the monsters. However, soon an ominous feeling assaulted them just as they killed the last Poison toad.
''New monsters are coming,'' Alex warned.
Suddenly, the dungeon's light dimmed, and when it got lighter again, Alex and the girls found themselves surrounded by monsters. It was a goblin.
Twenty goblins showed. Most were armed with long swords or daggers with simple shields and armor.
''Their equipment seems to be quite substantial for Goblins,'' Isabella commented.
''Perhaps they stole them from inside the dungeon or obtained them by attacking adventurers who came exploring the dungeon,'' Alex said while Isabella nodded.
Artemia looked at Alex for a moment. Alex understood what she wanted to convey. While the two charged toward the goblins at the front, Alex summoned Silveria for the first time since their arrival inside the dungeon.
BANG!
One bullet was shot; however, five goblins lost their lives. Isabella, who was killing a goblin holding a rusted sword and a half-broken shield, froze when she witnessed Alex killing five monsters with only one shot.
''How?" She couldn't help but raise her brows.
''Can you please focus?" Artemia chided the distracted Isabella. While the monster in front of her may be just a goblin, one of the weakest monsters, the slightest lack of focus may result in injury worth death. Goblins are cunning creatures by nature.
''My apologies, your highness.'' Isabella apologized and moved her spear at fast speed. Like a snake, the spear tore through the neck of two goblins, instantly killing them.
Alex, who was watching them after killing another two goblins, was impressed by the level of Isabella's spear skill.
''She seems to have improved as well.'' He muttered.
〖It's natural. Her defeat against you must have been a hard blow for her. So, it was natural for her to try to improve. By the way, master, why you didn't use me until now?〗Silveria asked, a bit dissatisfied.
Alex ignored her and killed the last goblin.
Artemia turned to face him and asked.
''How did you do it?"