The sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets of Orario. The bustling city, known for its towering dungeon and the adventurers who sought glory within it, buzzed with the usual energy of merchants hawking their wares and children playing in the alleyways.
However, amidst the vibrant life of the city, a somber cloud loomed, heavy with the weight of recent tragedy.
As I was walking towards the guild, I caught snippets of hushed conversations drifting through the air.
The words "deaths," "adventurers," and "familia" punctuated the chatter, drawing my attention like a moth to a flame. I quickened my pace, curiosity gnawing at me as I approached the familiar wooden doors of the Adventurers' Guild.
Inside, the guild was a hive of activity. Adventurers huddled in groups, discussing quests, sharing tales of their exploits, and exchanging information about the dangers lurking in the depths of the dungeon. But the usual laughter and camaraderie were tinged with an undercurrent of fear and uncertainty.
I made my way to the reception desk, where the ever-busy receptionist, Eina Tulle, was sorting through a stack of papers. Her brow furrowed in concentration, and her glasses slid down the bridge of her nose as she worked diligently.
"Eina," I called out, trying to cut through the noise.
She looked up, her expression shifting from focused determination to a warm smile. "Zephyr! It's good to see you. How have you been?"
"I've been well. Just trying to navigate my way through the dungeon and Orario," I replied, trying to maintain a casual tone despite the unsettling atmosphere. "Came to cash in and get some much-needed info."
As we exchanged pleasantries, I noticed the tension in Eina's demeanor. I could sense that something weighed heavily on her mind, but I feigned ignorance, not wanting to pry too deeply into matters that did not directly concern me.
"Have you heard about the recent tragedies?" Eina asked, her voice lowering as she leaned closer.
My heart raced, but I maintained my composure. "Tragedies? What do you mean?"
Eina's expression turned grave. "Five adventurers from the same familia were found dead in the dungeon. It's been all anyone can talk about. Some write it off as being mauled by monsters while the familia they belong to is saying that it was done by other adventurers."
Oh… they already found them? I hope it won't get traced back to me though. If their god is the type to care about their children, then I'd be in trouble.
"Have they figured out anything yet?"
She shook her head, her tone serious. "No, not yet. But the guild is investigating, and all adventurers are advised to be cautious. It's a reminder of how dangerous the dungeon can be, even for the most experienced."
I nodded, absorbing the information. I had always been aware of the risks involved in dungeon diving, but the run-in with other adventurers already reinforced the idea that monsters aren't the only enemy in the dungeon.
"Have you heard anything more?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.
Eina hesitated, glancing around to ensure no one was eavesdropping. "There are whispers that it might be related to a new group operating within the dungeon, but details are scarce. Everyone is on edge."
I feigned indifference, though my mind raced with possibilities. I was not part of any familia, and while that had its advantages in terms of freedom, it also meant I lacked the protection and resources that came with being part of a group.
"Anyway," Eina said, attempting to lighten the mood, "what can I help you with today? Are you here to cash in your monster cores?"
"Yeah, I've got a few I'd like to trade in," I replied, trying to keep my tone light.
She began processing my request, her fingers deftly moving across the keyboard of her guild interface. "Let's see what you've got."
As Eina assessed the monster cores, I took a moment to reflect on my journey. I had been diving into the dungeon for some time now, slowly building my skills and gathering resources.
"Alright, you have quite a collection here," Eina said, her eyes widening slightly as she calculated the total. "You're looking at a total of 300,000 valis for these."
"That's great," I said, but as I prepared to collect my earnings, Eina continued, her expression turning apologetic.
"However, since you're not part of a familia, you'll receive only 70% of the total. It's the guild's policy."
A wave of disappointment washed over me, but I understood the reasoning behind it. Familias had resources and connections that provided additional benefits, while solo adventurers like myself were seen as independent contractors. But to me, that sounds like extortion.
"So, that's 210,000 valis then?"
"Correct. I'll process that for you now," Eina replied, her fingers flying over the keys as she finalized the transaction.
As I received the valis, I couldn't help but feel a mix of gratitude and a little bit of frustration. I was grateful for the opportunity to get rich and grow stronger, but the limitations of being a solo adventurer were preventing me from living the dream.
"Before you go," Eina said, her tone shifting to a more serious note, "I wanted to ask if you've considered joining a familia. It could provide you with additional support and resources."
I shrugged, appearing nonchalant. "I've never thought about it, but I'm sure I don't really need to. I like having the freedom to explore on my own. Plus, I'm already strong enough to get by without it."
As Eina was contemplating something, I shifted gears. "Actually, I wanted to ask you about the falna leveling system. I've been curious about how it works."
Eina nodded, her demeanor brightening. "Of course! The falna is a system that helps adventurers grow stronger. When you level up, your abilities and stats improve significantly. Each level has its own requirements and benefits."
"What's the difference in strength between levels?" I asked, genuinely interested.
"Generally speaking, the difference between levels can be quite substantial. For example, moving from Level 1 to Level 2 involves a significant increase in physical and magical capabilities. As you progress, the increments become larger, and the abilities you gain can be game-changing," she explained.
Listening intently, I noted the similarities and differences between the falna system and my own leveling system. "And what about abilities? Do they vary much between levels?"
"Yes, each level grants unique abilities that can enhance your combat effectiveness or provide strategic advantages. For instance, a Level 2 adventurer might gain skills that allow them to manipulate their magic more effectively or increase their physical prowess," Eina replied.
I felt a spark of enlightenment. The falna system resembled my own, but where levels dictated power and abilities, in my system, it was stats.
With my system, leveling up often required experience points earned through experiencing something new, while the falna appeared to focus on personal growth and the adventurer's connection to their familia.
"Interesting," I said, contemplating the implications. "So how long does it take to level up?"
"Leveling up can take anywhere between a few months to several years," Eina affirmed. "It varies greatly with certain skills, experience, and the intensity of the challenges."
What!? Months to years? How long would it take to reach level 100!? "Wait. Wait. Wait… how high does the level go!?"
"Ah. Um… 10." She affirmed.
"Familias often have resources, training, and guidance that can help adventurers reach their potential much faster than going solo. Plus, your growth contributes to the familia's overall strength."
I didn't even bother considering joining a familia. My own system is definitely leagues ahead of the one here.
"Thank you for the information, Eina. I'll definitely give it some thought," I said, feeling a sense of superiority.
As I turned to leave the guild, Eina suddenly spoke out.
"By the way, how come you are strong enough to gather so many cores without a familia and not being a level 1?"
I stopped and slowly turned to her. Telling her about the system would be foolish, and saying something normal would be a cause for suspicion.
"I'm simply growing stronger as I age," I said with a smile. Without missing another beat, I left.
Not noticing an extremely beautiful blonde with golden eyes quietly watching as I leave.
With the weight of my newfound knowledge and the valis in my pocket, I stepped out into the bustling streets, ready to carve my path through the ever-looming darkness.
The guild had provided me with the tools and insights I needed.
As I made my way toward the market district, thoughts of the falna system and the potential strength they possess passed through my mind.
My former enemies were a group of level 2s, and I dispatched them with 'ease,' so that must make me close to level 4 in strength.
Put together with my recent abilities, I can probably take on higher.
But for now, I need to focus on the present. The city was alive with opportunities, and I intended to seize every moment. I would explore the market, gather supplies, and prepare for my next venture into the dungeon.
---
As I continued towards l the Dungeon's location , my thoughts were interrupted by a voice calling out to me.
"Zephyr, was it?"
I turned to see a man with kind eyes and a gentle demeanor, accompanied by a young woman with sharp features and a no-nonsense expression. The man's presence was calming, almost divine, while the woman exuded a sense of quiet strength.
"Yes, that's me," I replied cautiously, my hand instinctively resting on the hilt of my sword.
The man smiled warmly. "I am Miach, a god of healing. This is Naaza, the captain of my familia and a skilled potion maker. We heard about what you did for our friend, Hestia. She told us how you saved her from a dangerous situation. We just saw and wanted to thank you."
I blinked, surprised. Hestia? The name rang a bell, but I couldn't quite place it. Then it hit me—the petite goddess I had encountered some time ago. I forgot I had saved her and bell, but I hadn't thought much of it since.
"Oh, that," I said, shrugging. "It was nothing. Just doing what anyone would do."
Miach shook his head. "Not everyone would have risked their life for a stranger. Hestia is dear friend of mine, and I'm grateful for that."
Naaza stepped forward, holding out a small vial filled with a shimmering blue liquid. "This is a high-grade healing potion. Consider it a token of our gratitude."
I hesitated, eyeing the potion. It was undoubtedly valuable, but I didn't like the idea of owing anyone, especially a god. "I appreciate the gesture, but I can't accept this for free. How much is it?"
Miach chuckled. "There's no need for payment. It's a gift."
I shook my head firmly. "I don't take handouts. How much?"
Naaza raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised by my insistence. "It's worth 30,000 valis."
Without a second thought, I reached into my pouch and counted out the valis, handing it to her. "Here. Consider it paid in full."
Miach looked at me with a mixture of amusement and curiosity. "You're an interesting one, Zephyr. Most adventurers would jump at the chance for free potions."
"I'm not most adventurers," I replied simply. "I prefer to keep things clear. No debts, no obligations."
Miach nodded, his smile never wavering. "Very well. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to visit our shop. We're always happy to help."
"Thanks," I said, tucking the potion into my belt. "I'll keep that in mind."
As Miach and Naaza walked away, I turned back toward the Dungeon entrance, my resolve stronger than ever. The encounter had been unexpected, but it served as a reminder of the connections and alliances that existed within Orario.
While I preferred to operate alone, it was good to know that there were people—and gods—who had my back.
With a deep breath, I stepped into the Dungeon, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
---
End of chapter 10