Bell and the rest of the group went back to the surface a day after defeating the
Goliath.
By some miracle, every member of their group survived the ordeal. Each of
them went their separate ways, to inform those closest to them of their safe
return. One went to his goddess to express his gratitude and buried the remains
of a weapon; one went to bring their group members up to speed; and still
another removed the hood and went back to working at a bar without anyone
noticing.
At the same time, a gag order was issued to all of the adventurers who had
witnessed the events on the eighteenth floor.
The appearance of the floor boss at a safe point was an Irregular beyond
comprehension. The Guild declared it to be an "act of the gods"—henceforth
classified as a "Calamity." To avoid excessive confusion, Hestia and Hermes
received a strict warning, as well as a penalty—their explanation of the
circumstances was ignored—and forbidden to speak of it ever again.
However.
It was impossible to keep voices silent forever. That's the way of the world.
"You are sure of this?"
"Completely. A Goliath appeared on the eighteenth floor. Adventurers in the
town of Rivira engaged it in combat and prevailed…While I do not know how, it
is highly likely that it was the Little Rookie who delivered the final blow."
"Ku, fu-fu, ha-ha-ha-ha…Is that so? You have done well, Hyacinthus."
Suppressed laughter echoed throughout the dark chamber.
The master of the room reached out and lovingly stroked the cheeks of the
young man named Hyacinthus.
The master's gaze left the kneeling man, looking off at nowhere in particular
with a twinkle in his eyes as if someone were on his mind.
"Bell Cranell…He is indeed superb. As Apollo, I claim him as my own."
The deity's lips curled into a smile as what little light that entered the room
illuminated his smooth blond hair, which matched the color of sunlight.