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In the future Orario, the Loki and Freya Familias were recognized as the two strongest.
However, before Ais, Bete, Tiona, and Tione ascended to Level 6, the two Familias weren't on the same level.
Before their ascensions, the Loki Familia boasted four Level 5s and three Level 6s.
The Freya Familia, on the other hand, had four Level 5s, three Level 6s, and a Level 7.
This didn't even include Mia Grand, the former captain of the Freya Familia, a retired Level 6 adventurer now working as the owner of the "Hostess of Fertility."
The Freya Familia's three current Level 6 members were the very Level 5 adventurers from this era.
Allen Fromel, known as the "Goddess's Chariot," possessed unparalleled speed, earning Him the title of "Orario's Fastest."
Hogni Ragnar and Hedin Selland were both Elves.
Both were magic swordsmen, similar in style to Ryu, specializing in close-quarters magic combat.
After the introductions, everyone gained a basic understanding of their previously unfamiliar teammates.
Further bonding would have to occur through future cooperation and shared experiences.
Once everyone had become acquainted, Finn continued, "For this operation, the Freya Familia, led by Ottar, will spearhead the expedition, clearing the path forward. The Loki Familia, under my command, will take up the rear."
"You eight will remain in the center of the formation. Refrain from engaging unless absolutely necessary before we reach the boss. Leave everything to us."
"This operation is a race against time. The longer we remain in the dungeon, the greater the risk of exposure."
"If the dark faction discovers our absence from Orario, they will undoubtedly seize the opportunity to strike without hesitation, leading to devastating losses. Do you understand?"
"Yes, sir!" Mika and the others responded in unison.
They understood the urgency of the situation, just as Finn had emphasized.
"Excellent."
Finn nodded slightly and continued. "Regarding the strategy for subjugating the Floor Bosses, here's the plan."
"First, on the 27th floor, we'll face the Amphisbaena. Mika, Shakti, and Tsubaki will lead the assault, supported by Alise, Gojouno, Ryu, Airmid, and Mellie. We will provide backup and control the battlefield."
"Next, for the Udaeus on the 37th floor, everyone except Ottar will participate. I will take command of the operation."
"Finally, only the seven of us, will confront the Balor."
"This is the general strategy. The specifics might change depending on the situation, but the overall plan should remain consistent."
After Finn's explanation, everyone contemplated the strategy.
"So, our main battle will be against the Amphisbaena on the 27th floor," Mellie mused, using telepathy to communicate with Mika, Airmid, and Tsubaki.
"The Udaeus battle on the 37th floor will likely be a test to determine who among us is qualified to participate in the final battle against the Balor."
"That seems likely," Mika agreed.
Compared to Finn and the other six Level 6 adventurers, the remaining eight were far too weak to participate in the fight against the Balor.
However, there were always exceptions.
For example, Airmid.
Her magic could prove invaluable in any battle, regardless of the opponent.
Finn and the others were likely evaluating whether any of them possessed magic or skills that could be beneficial in the Balor fight.
After all, the effectiveness of magic and skills could only be truly determined through practical application.
"I reckon the three of us should be able to participate in the final battle. We each have our unique strengths," Mellie said confidently.
"Don't get ahead of yourself. Remember what I told you: refrain from using the techniques you learned in the Type-Moon world. Stick to your Falna enhancements and Nen abilities."
Compared to Nen, which could be disguised as magic, the techniques Mellie learned in the Type-Moon world were far too conspicuous.
Although their true strength had been partially revealed, they intended to keep their ability to travel between worlds a secret.
If the gods, who were easily bored, were to discover this secret, it would undoubtedly cause a massive disruption.
"Yes, yes, I understand!" Mellie replied, rolling her eyes.
It was frustrating to have learned so many powerful techniques yet be unable to use them openly.
This feeling of hidden strength was incredibly irritating for her.
Sensing Mellie's frustration, Mika used telepathy to console her. "Don't worry, Mellie. While you can't use those techniques in Orario, you can use them freely in other worlds."
"Remember when we fought the mafia in the Hunter x Hunter world? You used your magic to your heart's content."
"I know, I know!"
Mellie glared at Mika and thought to herself, "Of course I know that! I wouldn't cause any trouble for you. Stop lecturing me!"
"It makes me seem so immature. No, I'll get him back for this later, while he's sleeping."
A mischievous grin spread across Mellie's face.
Seeing Mellie's smile, Mika felt a shiver run down his spine.
He knew he was in for some payback later that night.
"That's all I have to say. Get yourselves ready. We depart in five minutes!" Finn announced.
"Yes, sir!"
Everyone rose to their feet, making their final preparations.
Alise and Shakti, who had just arrived and required no further preparation, led Gojouno and Ryu over to Mika.
"We look forward to working with all of you," Gojouno said with a smile, her gaze fixed on Mika, Shakti, and Tsubaki, the three Level 4 adventurers among the eight.
Gojouno Kaguya, also known as the "Yamato Nadeshiko."
As the vice-captain of the Astraea Familia, her combat abilities rivaled those of Alise.
Her greatest strength lay in her swordsmanship.
Ryu had inherited her katana techniques from Gojouno.
Despite her delicate appearance, she was one of the most formidable close-combat specialists in the Astraea Familia.
"Don't worry, Gojouno, I'll have your back!" Mika replied, playfully patting her shoulder.
Among the Astraea Familia members, Mika was most familiar with Alise and Gojouno. While Ryu would become more prominent in the future, Mika only knew her casually.
His close relationship with Alise stemmed from their shared role as Familia captains, often working together on various missions.
As for Gojouno.
After witnessing Mika's swordsmanship, she challenged him to a duel.
And she was utterly defeated.
Refusing to accept defeat, she challenged him numerous times.
But she lost every single time, often swiftly and decisively.
However, Mika always offered her guidance and advice after their duels.
Through these interactions, they had developed a close bond.
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"I knew something was off about you! I can't believe you're Level 4!"
"You hid it so well!" Gojouno Kaguya glared at Mika, her face a mask of disbelief and annoyance.
She had been utterly shocked when Alise told her about Mika's true level.
If it weren't for the fact that Mika had previously lent the Astraea Familia a substantial sum of money, earning their gratitude and preventing her from expressing her indignation, she would have confronted him much sooner.
Unlike Alise, Gojouno's relationship with Mika was more complex.
Initially, they were only challenger and challenged.
However, after Mika's guidance significantly boosted her strength, their relationship had evolved into a quasi-mentorship.
"Haha, it was all due to the circumstances," Mika replied with a sigh, shaking his head slightly. He then turned to Ryu, who stood beside them.
Compared to her future self, she seemed much more youthful and innocent.
"Why so quiet, Ryu?" he teased.
"I just... I didn't want to interrupt your conversation," Ryu mumbled softly.
In truth, her reticence stemmed from Riveria's presence. The elf was currently conversing with Mellie nearby.
Unlike Mellie, who lacked any sense of reverence, Ryu, as an elf, held deep respect for Riveria, an elf royalty.
This made her feel somewhat self-conscious.
"Relax, there's no need to be nervous," Mika said gently, patting her shoulder reassuringly. He had guessed the reason for her unease.
This was the most physical contact he could initiate with her.
Elves tended to be wary of physical contact with other races.
"Yes, I understand," Ryu whispered.
Observing her reaction, Mika realized just how nervous she truly was.
Normally, even a light pat on the shoulder would elicit a wary glance from her.
But today, she showed no signs of apprehension.
"Time's up! Form ranks and advance!" Finn's commanding voice rang out, dispelling any lingering thoughts.
At that moment, they had only one objective:
To advance!
Donning their hoods and cloaks, the fifteen adventurers emerged from the passage and began their descent towards the 25th floor.
"Even though we're protected by the Freya and Loki Familias, that doesn't mean we're completely safe."
"This is still the dungeon. We must remain vigilant. Just in case, let's maintain formation as we move forward," Mellie said as they made their way through the dungeon.
"What kind of formation?" Shakti asked quickly.
As a captain of the Ganesha Familia, she understood the importance of tactical formations.
"We don't need a vanguard or rearguard. The Freya and Loki Familias will serve as our natural protection. However, we need to secure our flanks."
"We have three Level 4 adventurers. Mika, you take Gojouno and cover the right flank. Shakti, you take Alise and cover the left. The remaining four will stay in the center."
After a moment of consideration, Shakti agreed with Mellie's suggestion.
"Sounds good. You're in charge of command from now on."
"Leave it to me!"
"We're counting on you, Commander Mellie!" Mika said with a grin, waving to Mellie before heading towards the right flank with Gojouno.
Shakti and Alise moved to the left flank.
"Mellie is quite impressive! In time, she might even become another 'hero' of Orario!" Gareth remarked, observing the group from behind.
"No, she won't become a hero. She will become herself," Riveria stated firmly.
Finn shook his head, understanding Riveria's unspoken meaning. She was clearly displeased that her Student resembled someone else more than herself.
"Honestly, at her age, she's still getting jealous over such things," Finn thought to himself.
However, considering the importance of their current mission, he chose not to challenge Riveria's statement, avoiding further conflict.
When they had first become companions, Finn, Riveria, and Gareth had constantly butted heads.
They had argued incessantly.
"Now is not the time to debate who she resembles!" Finn declared, abruptly changing the subject.
"Due to our tight schedule, we'll be pushing ourselves hard every day. Our destination for today is the safe zone on the 29th floor. But before that, we need to defeat the Floor Boss."
"So, all of you, be prepared!"
"Yes, sir!" Mika and the others responded loudly.
As they continued their descent, they were nearing the 25th floor.
From the 25th floor onwards, they would be entering the dungeon's lower levels.
Reaching the lower levels required a minimum of Level 3 strength.
Therefore, even Mika and his companions rarely ventured into this territory.
However, now, under the protection of the powerful Loki and Freya Familias, they charged into the lower levels with an indomitable momentum.
As they emerged onto the 25th floor, a massive waterfall greeted them.
It was the gigantic Rivira Falls, spanning four hundred meters in width, its height immeasurable.
It was the first trial adventurers faced upon entering the lower levels.
The floors from the 25th to the 27th were all encompassed within the waterfall's domain.
These three floors were collectively known as the "Water Labyrinth."
As the dungeon's "second death line," the Water Labyrinth had claimed the lives of countless adventurers.
The terrain was treacherous, with narrow paths and monster-infested waters.
Even Mika and his companions had struggled immensely when they first reached this area.
If it weren't for their exceptional sensory abilities, they would have had a difficult time escaping unscathed.
However, this time, they experienced something different: the thrill of being carried by powerful allies.
Due to their haste, ordinary monsters were swiftly dispatched by Ottar, Allen, and the other vanguard members.
All Mika and his companions had to do was run.
Although they had prepared for battle, the Level 6 adventurers from the Freya and Loki Familias gave them no such opportunity.
Thus, they reached the 27th floor without encountering any significant resistance, arriving at the domain of the Floor Boss, the Amphisbaena.
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