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.