The air in the Dungeon's 17th floor was thick with tension as Lunamon and I fended off a relentless swarm of monsters. My ghostly powers surged through me, granting me enhanced speed and strength to match their onslaught.
Lunamon's Tear Shots rained down, striking the Goblins and Kobolds that scurried towards us. I unleashed a barrage of ectoplasmic blasts, knocking them back with each powerful discharge. The creatures' shrieks echoed through the cavernous halls, but we refused to falter.
As the last of the monsters disintegrated, Lunamon and I took a moment to catch our breath. "That was quite a workout," I said, wiping the sweat from my brow. "But we showed them who's boss, didn't we?"
Lunamon nodded, her large eyes filled with pride. "Yes, David. Our teamwork was flawless. I'm glad we were able to protect ourselves."
I grinned, placing a hand on her soft, lavender fur. "And we'll keep getting stronger, Lunamon. Nothing in this Dungeon can stop us."
Surveying the area, I spotted a suitable spot to set up camp. "Come on, let's get ourselves settled. I have a feeling we'll be here for a while."
Together, Lunamon and I got to work, clearing a small space and laying out our supplies. I conjured a ghostly flame to provide warmth and light, while Lunamon busied herself arranging our meager provisions.
As Lunamon and I settled in for the long haul, I couldn't help but chuckle to myself. See, the thing about this Goliath fella is that he's one tough cookie - a real Monster Rex that only shows up every few weeks or so. And let me tell you, every adventurer in Orario has got their eyes on him, just waiting for their chance to take him down and claim the glory.
But not me, oh no. I've got a plan that's gonna make sure no one else gets a piece of the action. While those other chumps are waiting around, Lunamon and I are gonna be camped out right here on the 17th floor, biding our time until old Goliath decides to show his ugly mug.
Sure, it might be a bit of a wait, but I figure with my ghostly powers and Lunamon's skills, we'll be more than a match for whatever that oversized brute can dish out. Plus, I've got plenty of snacks and games to keep us entertained in the meantime.
I let out a long, exasperated sigh as Lunamon and I finished setting up our little camp on the 17th floor of the Dungeon. "Remind me again why we had to lug all this stuff all the way down here?" I groaned, plopping down in one of the portable chairs.
Lunamon gave me a sympathetic look. "Well, David, we needed the proper supplies to make our wait for Goliath more comfortable. And you insisted we be fully prepared."
I leaned back, running a hand through my messy hair. "I know, I know. It's just...my back is killing me from carrying all those heavy bags. I wish I had some kind of storage ring or inventory system, like in those anime I watch. That would make this so much easier."
Lunamon nodded in understanding. "I can imagine how convenient that would be. Perhaps we can look into acquiring something similar in the future."
I chuckled. "Yeah, that'd be the dream. Just toss everything in a pocket dimension and voila - no more aching muscles."
Stretching out my legs, I gazed around our little camp setup. The portable stove was already heating up, filling the air with the tantalizing aroma of some dehydrated meals. My stomach rumbled in anticipation.
"At least the food's gonna be worth it," I said, eyeing the packages hungrily. "I'm starving after all that fighting."
Lunamon perked up. "I'm looking forward to trying more of these Earth delicacies. The flavors are so unique compared to what we have in the Digital World."
I sank into the collapsible chair, letting out a satisfied sigh as the warm meal filled my belly. Lunamon sat beside me, her eyes wide with wonder as she savored each bite.
"This dehydrated pasta is quite remarkable," she said, delicately wiping her mouth with a napkin. "The flavors are so concentrated, yet still so delightful."
I chuckled, leaning back and patting my stomach. "Yeah, it's not exactly gourmet, but it gets the job done. Especially when you're stuck in a dungeon waiting for a giant monster to show up."
With our meal finished, I reached into my pack and pulled out my smartphone.
I settled back in my chair, making myself comfortable. "Alright, Lunamon, how about we take a break from all this Dungeon talk and watch something a little more fun?" I said, unlocking my phone and scrolling through my media library.
Lunamon's ears perked up with curiosity. "What do you have in mind, David?"
"Well, I was thinking we could check out this movie called The Nightmare Before Christmas. It's one of my favorites from back home," I explained, patting my lap. "Why don't you come sit with me and we can watch it together?"
Lunamon nodded eagerly, hopping up onto my lap and snuggling close. I wrapped an arm around her, holding the phone out so we could both see the screen as I pressed play.
The familiar opening notes of the movie's theme song filled the air, and Lunamon's eyes went wide with wonder. "Oh, the visuals are simply enchanting!" she breathed, entranced by the colorful, gothic-inspired world unfolding before us.
I chuckled, feeling a sense of nostalgia wash over me. "Yeah, the animation in this movie is top-notch. Wait until you see all the crazy characters and the songs - they're super catchy."
Lunamon nodded, her gaze glued to the screen as we immersed ourselves in the whimsical world of Halloween Town.
As the credits rolled on The Nightmare Before Christmas, Lunamon turned to me, her eyes shining with excitement.
"That was absolutely captivating, David! The music, the characters, the entire world - it was all so wonderfully imaginative." She paused, her brow furrowing slightly. "But I must admit, I found the story a bit...melancholic at times."
I nodded, a small smile playing on my lips. "Yeah, that's kind of the point. Jack Skellington, the main character, is searching for something more in his life, even though he's the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town. He ends up causing a bit of chaos when he tries to take over Christmas."
Lunamon hummed thoughtfully. "I see. It's a tale of finding purpose and balance, then, isn't it? A cautionary tale about the dangers of trying to change one's nature too drastically."
"Exactly," I said, impressed by her insight. "But that's enough heavy analysis for now. We should probably get some rest before we have to take on Goliath."
I glanced around our little campsite, taking in the flickering fire and the supplies we had gathered. "Why don't you go ahead and get some sleep, Lunamon? I'll take the first watch tonight."
Lunamon's ears perked up, and she fixed me with a determined stare. "No, David, I insist that you rest first. You've been pushing yourself so hard in the Dungeon, and I can see the fatigue in your eyes. Please, allow me to take the first watch."
I opened my mouth to protest, but the look in Lunamon's eyes stopped me. She was right - I was exhausted from our recent expeditions, and I knew I needed to be at my best to face Goliath. With a sigh, I relented.
"Alright, Lunamon, you win. But promise me you'll wake me up in a few hours, okay? I don't want you staying up all night on my account."
Lunamon nodded, a small smile on her face. "I promise, David. Now, get some rest. I'll keep a watchful eye out for any trouble."
As I settled into my sleeping bag, I couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for my loyal Digimon companion. Lunamon was always looking out for me, even when I tried to be the one doing the protecting. With a content sigh, I let my eyes drift shut, knowing I was in good hands.
...
A few hours later, I felt a gentle nudge on my shoulder, rousing me from my slumber. Blinking the sleep from my eyes, I looked up to see Lunamon standing over me, her large eyes filled with concern.
"David, I'm sorry to wake you, but I thought you should know - there have been a few monsters lurking around our camp," she said, her voice hushed.
I sat up quickly, adrenaline already coursing through me. "What? Are you alright? Did they try to attack us?"
Lunamon shook her head, her long ears swaying with the motion. "No, no, nothing like that. I was able to handle them easily. They were just a few Imps and Goblins, nothing too threatening. I didn't want to wake you unless it was something more serious."
I let out a relieved sigh, running a hand through my messy hair. "Well, I'm glad you were here to keep watch. I must have been more tired than I thought."
Lunamon offered me a reassuring smile. "Please, David, don't feel bad. You needed the rest. Now, it's your turn to take over guard duty. I'll go rest in the tent."
I nodded, stretching my limbs as I rose to my feet. "Alright, Lunamon. Get some sleep. I'll keep a close eye out for any more unwelcome visitors."
Lunamon gave me a grateful nod and slipped into the tent, leaving me alone with the crackling fire and the quiet hum of the Dungeon. I settled down on a nearby rock, my senses heightened as I scanned the area for any signs of danger.
I settled down by the crackling fire, keeping a watchful eye on the dimly lit Dungeon around us. With Lunamon resting in the tent, I decided to pass the time by catching up on some anime on my phone.
Hours passed, and I was starting to feel a bit restless. The quiet of the Dungeon was starting to get to me, and I couldn't help but fidget in place. Deciding I needed to do something to pass the time, I got up from my chair and began doing a few quick exercises.
I started with some light stretches, rolling my shoulders and bending at the waist to get the blood flowing. Then, I transitioned into a series of jumping jacks, the rhythmic motion helping to keep me alert. After a few sets, I moved on to some push-ups, counting each one under my breath.
As I continued my impromptu workout, I couldn't help but glance periodically towards the tent where Lunamon slept. I didn't want to disturb her well-earned rest, but a part of me wished she was out here with me, keeping me company.
As I continued my workout, a distant noise caught my attention. I paused, straining to listen as the sound of footsteps echoed through the Dungeon. Curious, I crept towards the edge of our campsite, peering out into the dimly lit corridor.
To my surprise, a group of women came into view, their footsteps echoing against the stone walls. As they drew closer, I recognized them - Aiz Wallenstein, the Sword Princess, accompanied by Tiona, Tione, and Lefiya, all members of the renowned Loki Familia.
I watched from the shadows as the Loki Familia group approached, their voices carrying through the quiet of the Dungeon. I couldn't help but feel a twinge of nervousness - these were some of the most powerful adventurers in Orario, and I wasn't sure how they would react to my presence.
"Ugh, I can't believe Finn is still busy with his duties," Tione groaned, her frustration evident. "I was hoping we'd get to spend more time together."
Tiona patted her sister's shoulder reassuringly. "Don't be like that, Tione. You know Finn has a lot of responsibilities as the captain."
Lefiya chimed in, her voice tinged with awe. "I'm sure Finn is just doing what's best for the Familia. And Aiz, how are you feeling?"
Aiz, ever the picture of composure, responded calmly. "I'm fine, Lefiya. Just...thinking about some things." Her gaze suddenly shifted, and her eyes locked with mine. "Wait, I recognize you. You're the new adventurer from the Hestia Familia, aren't you?"
I felt my heart skip a beat as Aiz addressed me, and I stepped out from the shadows, offering a sheepish smile. "Hello, I'm David Miller. Nice to meet you all."
Tiona's eyes widened as Aiz confirmed my identity. "Wait, you're the one who flirted with Loki at the banquet?" she exclaimed, a hint of mischief in her voice.
I felt my cheeks warm at the memory. "Uh, yeah, that was me."
Tiona grinned and stepped forward, extending her hand. "Well, it's nice to meet you, David! I'm Tiona Hiryute." She winked playfully.
I took her hand, giving it a firm shake. "It's an honor to meet you, Tiona. I've heard a lot about your skills in the Dungeon."
Tiona's cheeks flushed slightly, and she let out a sheepish laugh. "Ah, well, I do my best."
"Is it true you flirted with Loki at the banquet? She's not exactly known for her good looks, you know," Tiona said with a mischievous grin.
I felt my cheeks warm at the memory. "Well, I don't know, there's just something charming about her. She has certain charm, you know?" I replied, trying to sound nonchalant.
Tiona looked at me with a mischievous glint in her eye. "So, David, do you really think I'm sexy?" she asked, striking a playful pose.
I felt my cheeks flush as I met her gaze. "Well, uh, yeah, I do," I admitted, rubbing the back of my neck sheepishly. "I mean, you've got a great figure, and you carry yourself with so much confidence. It's...really attractive."
Tiona's eyes widened in surprise, and for a moment, she seemed at a loss for words. "Wait, you really think I'm sexy? Most guys just say I don't have any sex appeal because of my, you know, lack of curves."
I shook my head quickly. "No way, Tiona. I think you're absolutely stunning. Your athleticism and strength are so impressive, and I find that incredibly attractive."
Tiona blinked a few times, as if trying to process what I had just said. "Hold on, you really think I'm sexy and cute? Are you sure you're not just trying to flatter me or something?"
I met her gaze, my expression earnest. "No, Tiona, I'm being completely serious. I think you're one of the most beautiful women I've ever seen. Your confidence, your strength, your spirit - it's all incredibly attractive to me."
Tiona's cheeks flushed, and she let out a nervous laugh. "Wow, I, uh, I don't know what to say. I've never heard others call me sexy before…"
I couldn't help but chuckle at her flustered reaction. "Well, maybe they are just blind not to see your own charm?" I said, winking playfully.
Tiona's eyes widened, and she let out a surprised laugh. "You know, David, you're full of surprises. I think I'm starting to see why Loki was so interested in you at the banquet."
I watched as Tione's expression shifted, her eyes narrowing slightly as she looked between Tiona and myself. "Has my sister really fallen this easily?" she asked, a hint of disapproval in her tone.
Tione turned her gaze to me, her brow furrowing. "You're a weird person, you know that?" she said bluntly. "Flirting with my sister and Loki? What's your game?"
I felt my cheeks flush, but before I could respond, Tiona stepped forward, her expression indignant. "Hey, leave him alone! David's not weird, he's just honest about what he finds attractive."
I recognized Tione Hiryute standing beside her twin sister Tiona. The famous Amazon duo from the Loki Familia. I turned to Tione, offering a friendly smile. "Greetings, Tione. It's an honor to meet you."
Tione eyed me skeptically, her brow furrowed. "So you know who we are. That makes you either very brave or very foolish to approach us."
I chuckled nervously. "Well, I like to think I'm a bit of both. But I assure you, I mean no harm. I'm simply enjoying the company of your delightful sister here."
Tione scoffed. "Delightful, huh? That's one way to put it." She shot Tiona a pointed look, which Tiona returned with a sheepish grin.
Sensing the tension, I quickly interjected. "Please, let's start over. I'm David, a member of the Hestia Familia. It's a pleasure to meet you both."
Tione's expression softened slightly at the mention of my Familia. "Hestia Familia, huh? Interesting..." She studied me for a moment, as if sizing me up.
I turned to see Lefiya Viridis, a young elf woman from the Loki Familia, approaching with a slightly displeased expression on her face. Sensing her suspicion, I offered her a friendly smile.
"Hello there, I'm David Miller, a member of the Hestia Familia. It's a pleasure to meet you." I extended my hand in greeting.
Lefiya eyed me warily, but returned the gesture. "I'm Lefiya Viridis. It's...nice to meet you as well." Her tone suggested she wasn't entirely convinced.
"What are you doing on the 17th floor?" Aiz asked, her expression calm and measured.
I met her gaze evenly. "Honestly, I'm here to face the Goliath," I replied, trying to convey the same level of composure.
Aiz's eyes widened slightly, and I noticed a hint of disappointment in her features. "I see. That's a shame," she said. "We were planning to challenge the Goliath as well."
Tiona stepped forward, a rueful smile on her face. "Looks like you beat us to it, David. I was really looking forward to that fight."
Tione folded her arms across her chest, her brow furrowing. "Well, I suppose we'll have to find something else to occupy our time then."
Lefiya spoke up, her voice laced with a hint of skepticism. "Are you sure you're ready to take on the Goliath, David? It's no easy feat, even for experienced adventurers."
I felt a surge of determination, and I met Lefiya's gaze evenly. "I may not be as experienced as you all, but I'm ready to give it my all. I won't back down from this challenge."
"Wait, did you not start only recently? What is your level?" Aiz asked, her brow furrowing in surprise.
I met her gaze evenly, feeling a surge of pride. "I'm still Level 1," I replied, unable to contain the slight smile tugging at the corners of my mouth.
Aiz, Tiona, Tione, and Lefiya all stared at me in shock. I could practically see the gears turning in their minds as they tried to process what I had just said.
"Level 1?" Aiz repeated, her voice tinged with disbelief. "But you're challenging the Goliath?"
Tiona's eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at me. "Wait, you're Level 1 and you're going to fight the Goliath? Are you crazy?!" she exclaimed, her voice laced with concern.
Tione stepped forward, her brow furrowed in a disapproving scowl. "You're an idiot, you know that?" she said bluntly, her tone dripping with disdain. "I've seen my fair share of foolish, brave adventurers, but you might just be the most idiotic one I've ever encountered."
Tione scoffed, shaking her head in disbelief. "You're delusional if you think you, a Level 1 adventurer, can take on the Goliath. You'll be crushed in an instant."
I opened my mouth to protest, but Aiz raised a hand, silencing me. "Tione is right. Challenging the Goliath at your level is reckless and dangerous. You'll only end up getting yourself killed."
Lefiya nodded in agreement with Aiz's assessment. "She's right, David. This is far beyond your abilities right now. Let us handle the Goliath - we have a much better chance of defeating it."
I felt my hackles rise at their dismissive attitude. Who were they to tell me what I could and couldn't do? I had come this far, and I wasn't about to back down now.
"No way," I said firmly, squaring my shoulders. "I appreciate the concern, but I'm not letting you take this fight from me. I'm going to defeat the Goliath, even if it's the last thing I do."
I heard the sounds of Lunamon emerging from our tent and immediately tensed, seeing the members of the Loki Familia draw their weapons. Without hesitation, I stepped in front of Lunamon, shielding her with my body.
"Wait, stop! She's not a monster, she's my friend and partner," I said firmly, holding my ground.
Aiz, Tiona, Tione, and Lefiya all paused, their eyes narrowing as they took in the scene. Lunamon peered out from behind me, her large eyes blinking in confusion.
"Your partner?" Aiz repeated, her voice laced with skepticism. "What do you mean?"
I took a deep breath, keeping my tone even. "This is Lunamon, my Digimon companion. She's been helping me in the Dungeon."
Tione scoffed, lowering her weapon slightly. "A Digimon? What is that? You expect us to believe that?"
I met her gaze unflinchingly. "It's the truth. Lunamon is real, and she's been fighting by my side." I turned to Lunamon, giving her an encouraging nod. "Go ahead, show them."
Lunamon hesitated for a moment, then stepped forward, her lavender fur shimmering in the Dungeon's dim light. "H-hello," she said softly, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "I am Lunamon, David's partner."
The members of the Loki Familia stared at Lunamon, their expressions a mix of disbelief and fascination. Aiz's eyes narrowed as she studied the Digimon, her fingers still gripping the hilt of her sword.
"A talking Monster," Lefiya murmured, her brow furrowed in thought. "I've never heard of such a thing."
I could see the tension in the air as Aiz and the others eyed Lunamon warily. I knew I needed to do something to ease the situation, so I gestured towards our small camp.
"Look, why don't we all sit down and I can explain everything? I promise Lunamon isn't a threat - she's been my partner and has really helped me in the Dungeon."
Aiz glanced at Tione and Tiona, who both still had their weapons drawn. Lefiya looked uncertain, her gaze flickering between Lunamon and me. After a moment, Aiz nodded and sheathed her sword.
"Very well. We'll hear you out," she said, her voice calm and level.
The others followed suit, albeit a bit more reluctantly. We all gathered around the small campfire I had built, the flames casting an orange glow over our faces. I took a deep breath, trying to find the right words to explain.
Lunamon quickly set about serving tea to the members of the Loki Familia, her movements graceful and precise. I watched nervously as she handed a steaming cup to Aiz, who accepted it with a nod of thanks.
Tiona was next, and as Lunamon offered her the tea, the Amazon's face lit up. "Thank you, Lunamon!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight. "This is wonderful."
Lunamon sat beside me, her gentle presence a comfort amidst the scrutiny of the Loki Familia. Tione eyed her skeptically, her brow furrowed. "So is she like a contracted beast? Have you tamed her?"
I shook my head firmly. "No, Lunamon isn't a contracted monster. She's a Digimon - a digital companion. She's a part of the Hestia Familia, just like me. We're partners, not master and pet."
Aiz and the others seemed to accept my explanation, though I could still see the doubt lingering in their eyes. Tione in particular eyed Lunamon with clear skepticism.
"So you really think you and your 'Digimon' can take on the Goliath?" she asked, her tone dripping with condescension. "You're delusional if you believe that."
I met her gaze unflinchingly. "I know you may not believe in us, but Lunamon and I are ready for this challenge. We won't back down, no matter what you say." I turned to Aiz and the others. "And I won't let you interfere when we fight the Goliath. This is our battle."
Aiz studied me for a moment, her piercing gaze unwavering. "Very well, David. I understand this is your fight." She turned to the others, her expression softening slightly. "However, if he is in grave danger, I will intervene."
Tiona's eyes widened, and Tione scoffed. "Seriously, Aiz? You're just going to let him take on the Goliath alone?"
Lefiya looked concerned. "But Aiz, he's only a Level 1 adventurer. Surely he doesn't stand a chance against such a powerful monster."
Aiz raised a hand, silencing them. "If this is his choice, we must respect it." She met my gaze, a hint of respect in her eyes. "Good luck, David."
I nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Aiz. I won't let you down."
///
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