บท 15: Chapter 15
Hours ticked by as Lunamon and I descended deeper into the Dungeon, our previous victories fueling my confidence. The eighth floor was a marked change from the earlier levels - the rooms were larger, the hallways shorter, and the ceilings towered above us, nearly ten meters high. A lush carpet of moss blanketed the walls and floor, giving the area a serene, almost otherworldly feel.
"Wow, this place is really something else," I murmured, my ghostly form gliding effortlessly through the cavernous space. Lunamon materialized beside me, her eyes wide with wonder.
"Indeed, David-kun. The sheer size of this floor is quite impressive." She paused, her ears twitching as she scanned our surroundings. "And yet, I sense no new threats. Only the familiar monsters from above."
I nodded, a grin spreading across my face. "Well, then I guess it's time to put my ghost powers to the test again."
No sooner had the words left my lips when a pack of Goblins emerged from the shadows, their beady eyes fixed on us. I didn't even hesitate, unleashing a barrage of ghostly energy blasts that sent the creatures reeling. Lunamon followed suit, her Tear Shot attack striking true and downing the Goblins one by one.
"Hah, is that all you've got?" I taunted, my confidence soaring as I watched the Goblins disintegrate into piles of magic stones and drop items.
Lunamon's voice held a note of caution. "David-kun, do not let your guard down. These monsters may be familiar, but they are undoubtedly stronger than before."
I waved a dismissive hand, already moving towards the next hallway. "Yeah, yeah, I got this. Let's just keep pushing forward and see what else this place has to offer."
As we traversed the winding corridors, we encountered more familiar foes - Kobolds, Dungeon Lizards, and Killer Ants. But with my ghostly powers and Lunamon's support, we dispatched them with relative ease, collecting the spoils of our victories.
The deeper we delved, the more I reveled in the thrill of the hunt. Each battle honed my skills, and I could feel my confidence growing with every passing moment. Lunamon remained vigilant, her cautious nature a welcome counterbalance to my own reckless enthusiasm.
"David-kun, perhaps we should consider returning to the surface and resting," Lunamon suggested, her gentle voice cutting through my adrenaline-fueled haze. "You have already accomplished so much today."
I paused, considering her words. As much as I wanted to continue our descent, I couldn't ignore the fatigue that was starting to creep into my limbs. With a reluctant sigh, I nodded in agreement.
"Alright, Lunamon. Let's head back and regroup. There's always tomorrow to explore further."
I checked my pouch, feeling the satisfying weight of the magic stones I had collected. A sense of accomplishment swelled within me - all those battles had paid off, and I couldn't wait to see the look on Hestia's face when I showed her our haul.
Just as Lunamon and I were about to head back to the surface, her ears perked up. "David-kun, I sense people approaching," she whispered.
Without hesitation, I told Lunamon to retreat into the Digivice, and she complied. Cloaking myself in invisibility, I hovered in the air, curious to see who else had ventured this deep into the Dungeon.
Footsteps echoed through the corridor, and soon a group of adventurers came into view. I recognized the insignia on their gear - they were members of the Loki Familia, one of the most powerful Familias in Orario. My heart raced as I watched them carefully, wondering if they had noticed anything amiss.
As I hovered invisibly in the air, I watched the group of Loki Familia adventurers approach. I recognized them immediately - Aiz Wallenstein, the Sword Princess; Tiona and Tione Hiryute, the Amazoness twins; and Lefiya Viridis, the talented elven mage.
Aiz Wallenstein, the leader of this group, was a sight to behold. Tall and slender, with flowing golden hair and piercing pale gold eyes, she exuded an aura of grace and power. Her movements were fluid and precise, a testament to her mastery of the sword. Despite her stoic demeanor, there was an underlying intensity in her gaze that hinted at her formidable abilities.
Tiona and Tione Hiryute, the Amazoness twins, were a study in contrasts. Tiona, the younger of the two, had a youthful and energetic appearance, with short dark hair and warm brown eyes. She seemed to radiate enthusiasm, her body language suggesting a love for battle. Tione, on the other hand, was the more serious and imposing of the two, with a sharp, determined expression and a muscular build that hinted at her incredible strength.
Lastly, there was Lefiya Viridis, the elven mage. Petite and delicate, with long golden hair and striking emerald eyes, she gave the impression of a fragile flower. However, I knew from the Danmachi series that Lefiya was a formidable spellcaster, capable of unleashing powerful wind-based magic. Her reserved demeanor and timid mannerisms belied the inner strength that lay within.
I hovered invisibly in the air, watching the Loki Familia adventurers converse in hushed tones. My heart pounded in my chest as Aiz Wallenstein, the Sword Princess, narrowed her eyes and scanned the area, as if sensing my presence.
"I thought I felt something," Aiz murmured, her voice soft and measured.
Tiona, the bubbly Amazoness, chimed in. "You think it's a War Shadow?" She readied her weapon, a massive double-headed greatsword, with an eager grin.
Aiz shook her head. "No, it felt... human." Her gaze swept the corridor once more, and I held my breath, praying that my invisibility would hold.
Lefiya, the elven mage, stepped forward, her eyes shining with admiration. "Aiz, you're so perceptive! I'm sure it was nothing to worry about."
Tione, Tiona's more serious twin, rolled her eyes. "If it's nothing, then let's just keep moving. We need to get back to the surface before it gets dark."
I watched as the Loki Familia adventurers turned and continued their trek through the Dungeon, their footsteps fading into the distance. Once they were gone, I allowed myself to breathe a sigh of relief, my invisibility flickering as I did so.
Lunamon materialized beside me, her large eyes filled with concern. "David-kun, that was a close call. We should be more careful going forward."
I nodded, my mind racing with the implications of our encounter. "You're right, Lunamon. Those were some of the most powerful adventurers in Orario. I don't want to risk drawing their attention for the time being."
Glancing down at the magic stones and drop items in my pouch, I knew I had to be more cautious. The Loki Familia was not to be taken lightly, and I couldn't afford to jeopardize our position in Orario.
"Let's head back to the surface for now," I said, my voice low. "We can regroup with Hestia and plan our next move."
I grabbed Lunamon and phased us both through the floor, flying swiftly up towards the surface. The familiar sights and sounds of Orario soon surrounded us, and I found a secluded corner to set Lunamon down.
"That was a close one, huh?" I said, offering her a reassuring smile. "But we made it out unscathed. Good job, Lunamon."
Lunamon nodded, her expression grateful. "Thank you, David-kun. I'm just relieved we were able to return unharmed."
With a deep breath, I closed my eyes and felt the familiar warmth of my ghostly transformation fade, my human form returning. Lunamon took that as her cue to re-enter the Digivice, disappearing in a flash of light.
I emerged from the shadows, clutching the pouch of magic stones. I made my way to the towering structure of the Guild, hoping to trade them for some much-needed Valis.
As I approached the familiar entrance, I spotted a familiar face - Eina, the half-elf receptionist who had so kindly assisted Hestia and me in the past. Her eyes widened in recognition when she saw me, and a warm smile spread across her face.
"David! It's so good to see you," she exclaimed, hurrying over to greet me. "I'm glad to see you're back from the Dungeon in one piece."
I couldn't help but return her smile, the tension in my shoulders easing slightly. "Eina, it's great to see you too. I, uh, actually have some magic stones to trade, if you don't mind."
"Of course, of course!" Eina gestured for me to follow her, leading me towards the counter. "I'm so pleased to hear you've been adventuring. How have you been finding the Dungeon?"
I hesitated, unsure of how much to share about my recent encounter with the Loki Familia. "It's been... challenging, but I'm learning a lot. I've been trying to take it slow and stay safe."
Eina nodded approvingly. "That's wise of you. The Dungeon can be a treacherous place, especially for new adventurers. I'm glad to hear you're being cautious."
As we reached the counter, I carefully emptied the contents of my pouch, the magic stones clinking softly against the surface. Eina's eyes widened in surprise as she examined them.
I stood before Eina, the half-elf receptionist, as she examined the pile of magic stones I had collected. Her eyes widened with a mix of surprise and concern.
"David, these are... an impressive haul," she said, her voice slightly shaky. "But how in the world did you manage to collect so many? You've only been an adventurer for less than a week!"
I rubbed the back of my neck sheepishly, bracing myself for her reaction. "Well, you see, Eina, I, uh, I actually made it down to the eighth floor of the Dungeon."
Eina's face immediately flushed with a mixture of shock and anger. Her eyes narrowed, and her lips pressed into a thin line.
"You what?!" she exclaimed, her voice rising in pitch. "The eighth floor? David, are you out of your mind?"
I winced, shrinking back slightly under her piercing gaze. "I-I know it sounds crazy, but I've been training really hard, and I've got this new partner who's been helping me-"
"Partner?" Eina interrupted, her brow furrowing in confusion. "What partner? David, you're supposed to be a new adventurer, and you're already venturing down to the eighth floor? Do you have any idea how dangerous that is?"
I opened my mouth to defend myself, but Eina raised a hand, silencing me.
"No, no, I don't want to hear it." She shook her head, her expression a mixture of exasperation and concern. "David, you could have been killed! The eighth floor is filled with powerful monsters that even veteran adventurers struggle to defeat. What were you thinking?"
I shuffled my feet, feeling like a scolded child. "I... I just wanted to prove myself, to show Hestia that I could be a strong adventurer. And with my new partner, I thought-"
"Partner or not, you're still a beginner!" Eina exclaimed, cutting me off again. "You need to start small and work your way up gradually. Rushing headfirst into the deeper floors of the Dungeon is reckless and dangerous. What if something had happened to you?"
I opened my mouth to argue, but the concern in Eina's eyes made the words catch in my throat. She was right, of course. I had been so caught up in the thrill of using my newfound ghost powers that I had completely disregarded the risks.
"I'm sorry, Eina," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "I... I didn't mean to worry you. I just got carried away, that's all."
Eina let out a long, exasperated sigh. "David, I understand the desire to prove yourself, but you need to be more cautious. The Dungeon is not a place for reckless behavior. Promise me you'll be more careful going forward."
I nodded, feeling a pang of guilt. "I promise, Eina. I'll be more responsible from now on."
Eina's expression softened slightly, and she placed a hand on my shoulder. "Good. Now, let's get these magic stones traded in. But please, David, for your own sake, don't do anything like this again."
I nodded, chastened, and followed Eina to the counter.
I approached the counter, the pouch of magic stones clutched tightly in my hand. Eina carefully counted and weighed the stones, her brow furrowed in concentration.
"Alright, David, let's see what we've got here." She paused, her eyes widening slightly. "Hmm, this is quite an impressive haul. I must say, I'm a bit surprised you were able to collect this many magic stones in such a short time."
I felt a surge of pride at her words, but I quickly tempered it, remembering her stern warning.
"Yeah, well, I, uh, I had a little help from my partner," I said, hoping to downplay my own role in the matter.
Eina nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I see. Well, regardless, this is a significant amount of Valis." She began tallying the total, her fingers deftly moving across the abacus.
After a few moments, she looked up at me, a small smile on her face. "Congratulations, David. These magic stones are worth around 50,000 Valis."
My eyes widened in disbelief. "50,000 Valis?" I repeated, hardly daring to believe it. If converted, that was 500$, more than twice my monthly earnings as a convenience store attendant back on Earth.
Eina chuckled at my reaction. "Yes, that's right. You've done very well for yourself, David. I must say, I'm impressed."
I couldn't help but grin, the excitement bubbling up inside me. "Wow, this is incredible! I can't believe I earned this much in just one day."
Eina's expression turned serious once more. "Yes, well, don't let it go to your head. Remember, the Dungeon is a dangerous place, and you need to be extremely cautious, especially at your level."
I nodded, sobered by her words. "I know, Eina. I promise I'll be more careful going forward. I don't want to worry you or Hestia."
Eina's eyes softened, and she placed a hand on my arm. "I'm glad to hear that, David. You have a good head on your shoulders, and I can see you have a lot of potential. Just make sure you don't let that potential go to waste by being reckless."
"I won't, I promise," I assured her, feeling a renewed sense of determination.
With that, Eina handed me the Valis, and I carefully tucked the pouch into my pocket.
"Thank you, Eina," I said, sincerely. "For everything. I really appreciate you looking out for me."
Eina smiled warmly. "That's what I'm here for, David. Now, go on, and be safe out there, alright?"
I nodded, a grateful smile on my face. "I will. Thanks again, Eina. I'll see you around!"
I left the Guild, the pouch of Valis a comforting weight in my pocket. As I walked the bustling streets of Orario, Lunamon's voice echoed from within the Digivice.
"Eina seems like a kind-hearted individual, David-kun. Her concern for your well-being is quite admirable."
I nodded, a small smile tugging at my lips. "Yeah, Eina's been great. She really cares about the adventurers here, even someone like me who's just starting out."
"It's reassuring to know you have such support," Lunamon replied, her tone warm.
I let out a contented sigh, feeling the tension in my shoulders ease. "You're right, Lunamon. I'm lucky to have them looking out for me. I don't know what I'd do without their guidance."
...
As I stepped through the portal, the familiar surroundings of my apartment greeted me. Lunamon materialized from the Digivice, stretching her limbs with a content sigh.
"We're back," I announced, my gaze sweeping across the room.
Hestia emerged from the hallway, her face lighting up with a radiant smile. "David-kun! Lunamon!" she exclaimed, rushing towards us.
Before I could react, Hestia enveloped us both in a warm, enthusiastic embrace. Her small but powerful arms wrapped around Lunamon and me, pulling us close.
"I'm so glad you're back!" Hestia said, her voice brimming with relief and joy. "I was starting to worry when you were gone for so long."
Lunamon returned the gesture, nuzzling Hestia affectionately. "It's good to be home, Hestia-sama," she said, her soothing voice filling the air.
I couldn't help but smile, returning Hestia's hug. "We're back, Hestia," I assured her, giving her a gentle squeeze. "And we've got quite the story to share."
Hestia pulled back, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Oh, do tell!" she exclaimed, her hands clasped together in anticipation.
Lunamon and I exchanged a knowing glance, and I could see the excitement in her expression. "Well, you see, we had quite the adventure in the Dungeon," I began, my voice tinged with a hint of pride.
As I recounted our exploits, Hestia listened with rapt attention, her eyes widening with each new revelation. She gasped in awe when I described Lunamon's Digivolution, and she beamed with pride when I shared our victories against the monsters.
When I finished, Hestia clasped her hands together, a radiant smile on her face. "That's amazing, David-kun! I'm so proud of you both," she said, her gaze shifting between Lunamon and me. "You've become such capable adventurers."
Lunamon bowed her head respectfully. "It was a team effort, Hestia-sama," she said, her voice soft and sincere. "David-kun has been an exceptional partner."
I felt a warmth spread through my chest, and I couldn't help but grin. "Well, I couldn't have done it without you, Lunamon," I said, placing a hand on her shoulder.
Hestia's eyes sparkled with affection as she watched our exchange. "You two are just the cutest!" she exclaimed, pulling us into another tight hug.
I beamed with pride as I showed Hestia the hefty sack of Valis I had earned from our recent Dungeon excursion. "Look at this, Hestia!" I exclaimed, the coins clinking together as I held it up. "Lunamon and I managed to collect over 50,000 Valis!"
Hestia's eyes widened in amazement, her mouth forming a perfect 'O' shape. "50,000 Valis?" she repeated, her voice tinged with disbelief. "That's incredible, David-kun!"
She clasped her hands together, her expression radiating pure joy. "I'm so proud of you both!" Hestia exclaimed, pulling Lunamon and me into another one of her signature bone-crushing hugs.
Lunamon smiled warmly, returning Hestia's affectionate embrace. "It was a team effort," she said, her soothing voice calming the goddess's excitement.
I chuckled, relishing in the moment. "Yeah, we make a pretty good team," I agreed, gently patting Hestia's back.
Pulling away, Hestia beamed up at us, her eyes shining with pride. "This is more than what most newbie adventurers make," she marveled, her hands resting on her hips. "You two have really outdone yourselves!"
I couldn't help but puff out my chest with pride as Hestia praised our accomplishments. Lunamon and I had worked hard to earn that hefty sack of Valis, and it was incredibly satisfying to see Hestia's reaction.
"Well, you know what that means," Hestia said, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "It's time to update your status, David-kun!"
I nodded eagerly, eager to see how my newfound powers had affected my abilities. Removing my shirt, I turned around, allowing Hestia access to the tattoo on my back.
I felt a tingling sensation as Hestia's slender fingers traced the glowing runes of my Falna. Her brow furrowed in concentration as she studied the information, and I couldn't help but hold my breath in anticipation.
[David Miller
Lv.1
Strength : I(11)
Endurance : I(9)
Dexterity : I(10)
Agility : I(13)
Magic : I(14)
Skill:
World Traveler - Allows to travel to different worlds and dimensions. Can convert to any currency. Can speak, read, and understand any language.
Ghost Manifestation - Turns the user into a half-ghost.
Magic:
-
-
-]
I held my breath in anticipation as Hestia studied the glowing runes of my Falna. Her brow furrowed in concentration, and I could see the surprise and excitement building on her face.
"David-kun, this is incredible!" Hestia exclaimed, her voice brimming with awe. "Your status has improved significantly since your last update."
I leaned in, eager to hear the details. "What does it say?" I asked, my heart racing with anticipation.
Hestia's fingers traced the runes as she read aloud. "Strength: I(11), Endurance: I(9), Dexterity: I(10), Agility: I(13), Magic: I(14)."
My eyes widened in disbelief. "That's a lot higher than before," I murmured, feeling a surge of pride and accomplishment.
Hestia nodded enthusiastically. "And that's not all," she continued, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "You've also gained a new skill called 'Ghost Manifestation'!"
I couldn't help but grin, my mind already buzzing with the possibilities of this new power.
I watched in awe as Hestia turned her attention to Lunamon, her delicate fingers tracing the glowing runes on the Digimon's back. Lunamon stood patiently, her large eyes filled with a sense of wonder.
"Alright, let's take a look at your status, Lunamon," Hestia said, her voice gentle and soothing.
I leaned in, eager to see how Lunamon's abilities had grown since our adventure in the Dungeon.
[Lunamon
Lv.1
Strength : I(12)
Endurance : I(4)
Dexterity : I(9)
Agility : I(8)
Magic : I(10)
Skill:
Tear Shot: Lunamon gathers water droplets in her hands, forming them into a concentrated sphere of water. She then hurls the sphere at her opponent, dealing damage with a splash of energy.
Lunar Claw: Lunamon's claws glow with a soft, silvery light as she slashes at her enemy, delivering a swift and precise attack.
Lunar Charm: Lunamon emits a calming, moon-like glow that soothes and heals her allies. This ability can also be used to pacify enemies or dispel illusions.
Lunar Heal: Using the power of the moon, Lunamon can heal small wounds and restore a bit of energy to herself or her allies.
Magic:
-]
As Hestia finished reading Lunamon's updated status, a proud smile spread across her face. "Wonderful, just wonderful!" she exclaimed, her eyes shining with delight.
I couldn't help but share in her enthusiasm. Lunamon and I had worked hard during our time in the Dungeon, and it was immensely satisfying to see the results.
"This is incredible progress, David-kun," Hestia said, turning her gaze towards me. "Compared to other adventurers, you and Lunamon are growing at an astounding rate!"
I felt a surge of pride at her words, and I couldn't help but puff out my chest a little. "Well, we've been putting in the work," I said, flashing Lunamon a playful wink.
Hestia nodded enthusiastically. "That's exactly what I like to hear," she said, her hands clasped together in front of her. "Keep it up, you two, and I am sure you will reach heights no one else can in Orario!"
Lunamon's eyes widened at Hestia's proclamation, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of determination welling up inside me. "You can count on us, Hestia," I said, my voice filled with conviction. "We'll make you proud."
Hestia beamed, her radiant smile filling me with a sense of warmth and belonging. "I know you will, David-kun," she said, pulling me and Lunamon into another one of her signature hugs.
As I embraced Hestia and Lunamon, a thought struck me. "Hey, why don't we go somewhere to eat?" I suggested, my stomach rumbling in anticipation.
Hestia's eyes lit up at the prospect. "That sounds wonderful, David-kun!" she exclaimed, clasping her hands together in delight.
Lunamon nodded in agreement, her lavender fur shimmering in the warm apartment lighting. "I would love to try more of Earth's delicacies," she said, her voice soft and melodic.
I grinned, excitement bubbling within me. "Great! I know just the place," I said, already picturing the familiar diner I had taken Hestia to before.
Hestia beamed, her affection radiating like the warmth of a hearth. "Lead the way, David-kun!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
I chuckled, gesturing towards the door. "Then let's go," I said, feeling a surge of joy at the prospect of sharing another adventure with my newfound family.
///
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