Bell Cranel stood at the entrance of the Loki Familia's grand hall, a wave of unease washing over him as he prepared to join the group of elites for another descent into the Dungeon. The previous day's events at the Denatus still lingered in his mind—the shadowy entity, the ominous warning, and his new title, The Honoured One. As much as he appreciated the recognition, the weight of expectation now felt even heavier on his shoulders.
Hestia had accompanied him this far, her presence a comforting anchor in the sea of uncertainty. "Remember, Bell," she said softly, her eyes full of concern. "You're strong, but you don't have to carry this burden alone. Rely on them, and stay safe."
Bell nodded, giving her a reassuring smile. "I will, Lady Hestia. Thank you."
As he stepped into the hall, he was met with the familiar faces of Loki Familia's top executives. Ais Wallenstein, the Sword Princess, was sharpening her blade with a calm focus, her golden hair catching the light. Finn Deimne, the Prum captain, stood with his usual air of composed authority, discussing strategies with Riveria Ljos Alf, the High Elf mage whose wisdom was well respected across Orario. Nearby, Tiona and Tione Hiryute, the Amazonian twins, were playfully bantering with Bete Loga, the werewolf warrior, while Gareth Landrock, the Dwarven shield-bearer, watched them with a knowing smile.
Ottar, the Boaz warrior from Freya Familia, was also present, his imposing figure adding to the formidable group. He acknowledged Bell's arrival with a nod, his expression unreadable but respectful.
"Ready, Bell?" Finn asked, his sharp blue eyes assessing the younger adventurer. There was no doubt that Bell had earned his place here, but even so, Finn was cautious. The Dungeon was unpredictable, and today's descent was intended to push their limits.
"Yes, Captain Finn," Bell replied, his voice steady despite the flutter of nerves in his stomach due to his prior encounter with that entity. He knew that today's journey would be a test, not just of his strength, but of his resolve.
Loki, who had been watching from the sidelines, gave a wide grin. "Alrighty, everyone! Let's see what you're made of!" She winked at Bell, adding with a mischievous tone, "And you, Honoured One—show us why they gave you that title!"
The group set off, moving swiftly through the upper floors of the Dungeon. For the Loki Familia members, this was routine, their movements confident and fluid. But as they descended, the atmosphere grew more tense. They were headed toward the middle floors, where the true challenge would begin.
When they reached the 46th floor, a cavernous space lit by the eerie glow of luminescent moss, the familiar sounds of monsters echoed around them. A horde of Hellhounds, Minotaurs, and giant Lamias awaited them, their eyes gleaming with malevolent intent.
Before anyone could issue commands, Bell stepped forward. "Let me handle this."
The others hesitated for a moment, surprised by the young adventurer's boldness. But before they could object, Bell had already activated his Cursed Technique.
"Neutral Reversal: Pink."
It was a technique bell thought of while thinking of how to make his powers even more versatile, he combined the neutral form of limitless: Infinity and reversal red to get a technique that blocks off the opponent and the red involved crushes the target into the barrier, which eliminates the one targeted by the technique.
A shimmering orb of pink energy formed in his hand, radiating with an ominous power. Bell hurled it into the midst of the monsters, and the effect was immediate. The pink orb expanded, slowing the monsters' movements to a crawl, trapping them in a deadly stasis. The pressure from the orb crushed them from within, leaving the entire horde decimated in a matter of seconds.
The cavern fell silent, the echoes of the monsters' last roars fading into nothingness. The Loki Familia executives exchanged looks of shock and awe. Even Ais, who was not easily impressed, found herself gazing at Bell with newfound respect.
"Unbelievable…" Tione murmured, her eyes wide. "He took them all out with a single move."
Riveria stepped forward, her gaze analytical. "That technique… it's not just powerful. It's precise. You've come a long way, Bell Cranel."
Bell, slightly embarrassed by the attention, scratched the back of his head. "Thank you, Lady Riveria. I've been working hard to improve."
Finn nodded approvingly. "You've exceeded expectations, Bell. But don't let your guard down. The Dungeon is full of surprises, and we have a long way to go."
''Don't worry Finn, I'm way too strong for them'' My retort caused them to smile in amusement and we moved on.
They continued their descent, encountering more monsters along the way. But each time, Bell stepped forward, his techniques cutting through the hordes with ease. It wasn't long before the group realized that Bell was not just keeping up—he was leading the charge.
By the time they reached the 60th floor, a safe zone reminiscent of the 18th floor, the group was both impressed and relieved. The 60th floor was a vast, open area with a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere. A crystal-clear lake lay at its center, surrounded by soft grass and towering trees whose leaves glowed with a gentle light. The air was fresh and cool, a stark contrast to the oppressive heat and darkness of the floors above.
"This is… beautiful," Ais said softly, her voice filled with rare emotion. She sheathed her sword and took a deep breath, savoring the peacefulness of the place.
Tiona flopped down onto the grass with a sigh of relief. "Finally! A place to rest. My legs were starting to kill me."
Gareth chuckled, setting down his massive shield. "Aye, it's good to take a break. We've earned it."
As the group settled down to rest, Finn approached Bell, who was standing by the edge of the lake, staring into its depths.
"You've done well today, Bell," Finn said, his tone sincere. "You've proven yourself more than capable. But remember, the deeper we go, the more dangerous it becomes. We'll need to rely on each other."
Bell nodded, his eyes still on the water. "I understand, Captain. I won't let you down."
Finn smiled, placing a hand on Bell's shoulder. "I know you won't. And I'm glad to have you with us."
As the night fell and the stars appeared in the sky above the safe zone, the group of adventurers settled down to rest, their bodies weary but their spirits high. They had faced the Dungeon's challenges together and come out stronger for it.
But even as they slept, the darkness of the Dungeon loomed, waiting for them to venture deeper into its depths. Bell lay awake for a long time, staring up at the stars, the weight of his new title heavy on his mind. The Honoured One. He had earned it today, but he knew that his journey was far from over.
In the silence of the night, Bell made a silent vow. Whatever challenges lay ahead, whatever ancient evils awaited them in the depths of the Dungeon, he would face them head-on. He would protect those who fought by his side and live up to the title bestowed upon him.
Because he was not just fighting for himself. He was fighting for all of them—his friends, his family, his Goddess and the city of Orario.
And with that thought, Bell finally closed his eyes, letting sleep take him as the gentle sounds of the safe zone lulled him into a peaceful slumber. The journey would continue tomorrow, and he would be ready.
As The Expediton Party rested, a threat that tailed them lingered in the dark embrace of the shadows and was waiting for the perfect opportunity for it to take down their prey.