On their journey, the group conquered three more floors, arriving directly at the safe zone on the 50th floor.
"Sorry, everyone," in the safe zone of the 50th floor, Tione apologized while hugging her knees and speaking softly to the group.
After venting her accumulated rage, Tione realized that she had been too impulsive, pushing all the way to the 50th floor. Though they were strong enough to handle it, it was a bit rash.
"Ahaha, no problem at all," Tiona waved it off and cheerfully responded, then she asked with concern, "Feeling a bit better now, Tione?"
"A little," Tione managed a smile, "It will be better soon."
"Will be better?" Tiona looked confused, but when she noticed Tione's gaze fixed on Aston, who was preparing the dinner, she understood and said, "Ah, definitely, it will be better."
The prospect of enjoying Aston's cooking was enough to lift anyone's mood. Tiona couldn't imagine any problem that couldn't be solved by one of Aston's meals. If not, then maybe two or three meals.
"Here, it's ready to eat," said Aston, offering the first portion of grilled meat to Tione, "You had a tough day, so this first piece is for you."
Tonight's dinner was a barbecue feast.
"Ah? This special treatment, thank you so much," Tione replied, a bit surprised, and then she immediately began to eat the grilled meat with gusto after thanking Aston.
"Aston's playing favorites," Tiona pouted playfully, pretending to be dissatisfied. It was apparent she was trying to lighten the mood, aiming to return to their usual playful banter.
But Tione, indulging in the delectable food, ignored Tiona's teasing, concentrating on savoring the grilled meat, which was quickly disappearing.
Seeing Tione's enjoyment, Tiona urged Aston, "What about mine, Aston? How long?"
"Alright, alright, it's almost ready," responded Aston, soon serving everyone with a substantial piece of grilled meat, satisfying their hunger.
"I'm really looking forward to our next expedition," Tiona said while eating, "To have Aston's cooking every day, hehe."
With a large piece of grilled meat in her stomach, Tiona unceremoniously sucked on her fingers, smiling contentedly.
"Indeed," Aston agreed.
"Hey, Ryuu, why don't you join us on the expedition?" Tione, sitting nearby, suggested to Ryuu. Throughout their recent interactions, Tione had noticed that Ryuu's actions revolved around Aston.
It wasn't that Ryuu had feelings for Aston like Tiona did, but her fondness was evident, though not to the same extent as Tiona's. Ryuu's intention in joining them seemed primarily to protect Aston.
From the time when Aston was relatively weak to now, possessing the combat prowess of a first-class adventurer, Ryuu's aim had been straightforward: to safeguard Aston's growth.
Tione assumed that Ryuu would likely accompany them into the deeper levels on the upcoming expedition with the Loki Familia. Rather than risking Ryuu facing dangers alone, Tione found it prudent to invite her along, which would benefit both Aston and Ryuu.
"Thank you very much," Ryuu responded with a faint smile, a bit surprised, and then thanked Tione.
Ryuu wasn't aware of Tione's thoughts, but she indeed intended to accompany Aston. Ryuu now fully regarded Aston as her hope. Even with the protection of the Loki Familia, Ryuu wouldn't feel at ease with Aston joining their expedition.
She had already made up her mind when she heard Tione inviting Aston on the previous occasion.
If she weren't a wanted individual, Ryuu would have proactively requested to join the Loki Familia for the expedition. Being wanted, though the Familia showed no intention of acting against her, didn't mean they would welcome her into their ranks for the expedition. But now, with Tione, a first-class adventurer of the Loki Familia, extending an invitation, Ryuu certainly wouldn't refuse. The deeper floors were perilous, and even as a level 5 adventurer, venturing alone was dangerous.
"Tione, could you please discuss this with Finn and the others? Consider it a request from me," Aston also spoke up, turning to Tione.
Until Tione mentioned it, Aston hadn't considered this aspect. After giving it some thought, Aston concluded that Ryuu, who regarded him highly and was wholly devoted to his protection, would inevitably follow him into the deeper floors if he joined the Loki Familia's expedition.
Leaving Ryuu to venture alone would be too risky. Despite their short time together, and even though Ryuu's intentions towards him were unclear, Aston felt grateful to her and couldn't just watch her risk her life.
"Ah, don't worry, I invited Ryuu precisely considering your situation," Tione replied with a gentle smile. "Finn and the others won't object."
The group continued their conversation while rapidly finishing their dinner. Soon, the meal was over.
After clearing the dishes, Ais approached Aston, her sweet and slightly naïve voice breaking the silence. "Aston, let's spar."
"Ah, sure, let's go." Aston responded, ready for the challenge.
***
500 power stones = 1 extra chapter
Check out my Patreon for 20 chapters ahead! Your support helps a lot.
PATREON.COM/METARLN