Shirou sat near Hestia's merchant cart, holding a small book with a simple cover. The book was a general guide about the dungeons in Orario, something Syr had given him in the hopes that Shirou could gain a deeper understanding of the challenges he would face if he decided to become an adventurer. The soft sunlight illuminated the pages of the book, while a gentle breeze caused his hair to flutter slightly.
As Shirou guarded the cart, his thoughts kept turning, reflecting on the contents of the book. He read about the structure of the dungeon, the monsters that roamed within, and basic strategies for survival. Even though he already had some knowledge of combat from his past experiences, Shirou realized that this dungeon was not an ordinary battlefield. It was a place where mysterious forces and magic intertwined, full of unforeseen dangers.
In the midst of his reading, he heard the sound of light footsteps approaching. Shirou looked up and saw Aiz Wallenstein, the famous swordswoman from the Loki Familia, walking toward him. Aiz glanced at the book in Shirou's hand with a curious expression. "Are you reading a dungeon guide?" she asked in a flat yet attentive tone.
Shirou nodded, closing the book for a moment. "Yes, I'm learning more about the dungeon. I'm thinking of joining a Familia that focuses on dungeon exploration."
Aiz's eyes narrowed slightly, as if trying to understand Shirou's decision. "So, you really want to become an adventurer?" she asked again, this time with a more serious tone. There was a hint of concern in her voice, though she tried to hide it.
Shirou smiled faintly and nodded again. "Yes, I want to explore the dungeon and see what I can learn. But I also need to find the right Familia."
Aiz was silent for a moment, pondering Shirou's response. In her heart, there was growing concern that if Shirou truly became a full-time adventurer, he might no longer have time to cook Jagamaru-kun—her favorite food. However, an idea suddenly popped into her mind, making her smile slightly.
"If you're serious about learning more about the dungeon," Aiz said in a softer tone, "the library at the Loki Familia mansion has a much more extensive collection of books than this guide. You can come there... if you want."
Shirou seemed surprised by the offer. "Really? That would be very helpful. But... isn't that only for members of the Loki Familia?"
Aiz nodded slowly, looking directly into Shirou's eyes. "Yes, but if you want, I can arrange for you to visit. And... if you're interested, you could consider joining the Loki Familia."
In her heart, Aiz thought about how wonderful it would be if Shirou became a part of the Loki Familia. Besides gaining access to all the resources needed to become an adventurer, Aiz would also get to enjoy Shirou's cooking every day—a thought that made her heart beat faster.
Shirou, unaware of Aiz's hidden motivation, pondered for a moment. "I'll think about it," he said with a smile. "I really appreciate your offer."
Aiz nodded with satisfaction, then looked at the book in Shirou's hand once more. "You'll definitely find more knowledge in our library. And who knows, maybe you'll find something that helps you achieve your goals faster."
Shirou smiled, feeling more motivated. "Thank you, Aiz. I'll seriously consider your offer."
Aiz just nodded, but in her heart, she hoped that Shirou would accept her offer. Perhaps then, she could ensure that her favorite dish, Jagamaru-kun, would always be nearby. And maybe, just maybe, she could get to know Shirou better.
With those thoughts, Aiz continued on her way, while Shirou returned to his book, but this time with new enthusiasm and a bit of curiosity about what was to come.
Shirou paused for a moment after Aiz made her offer. In his mind, he felt very fortunate for this opportunity. The Loki Familia was known as one of the strongest Familias in Orario, with many high-level adventurers and extensive experience in dungeon exploration. This was a golden opportunity that might only come once in a lifetime, especially for a newcomer like him who had neither reputation nor significant power.
When Hestia returned from buying groceries, Shirou immediately greeted her. "Hestia-sama," he said with enthusiasm, "I might go for a while to visit the Loki Familia mansion. Aiz-san invited me to check out their more extensive library on dungeons."
Hestia looked at Shirou with a bit of surprise, her eyebrows furrowed. "Loki Familia, huh?" she asked, her voice tinged with caution. "You know who Loki is, right? That goddess is notorious for causing trouble."
Shirou smiled reassuringly. "I know, Hestia-sama. That's exactly why I want to go and see for myself what Loki and her Familia members are like. It's also a good opportunity to see if the Loki Familia might be a good fit for me."
Hestia looked slightly worried but nodded slowly. "Alright, Shirou. If you feel this is the right thing to do, I won't stop you. But be careful, okay?"
Shirou nodded confidently. "Of course, Hestia-sama. Thank you for your understanding."
After saying goodbye, Shirou turned to see Aiz still sitting there, eagerly devouring Jagamaru-kun like a child enjoying their favorite snack. Shirou approached Aiz and conveyed his decision.
"Aiz-san," he called softly, causing Aiz to pause from her meal and look at him. "I've decided to visit the Loki Familia mansion and check out the library, as well as get a closer look at the members and Goddess Loki herself."
Aiz's eyes lit up slightly upon hearing Shirou's decision. "Really? That's great. I'll take you there," she said with a gentle smile, feeling relieved and happy that Shirou accepted her offer.
Shirou nodded gratefully. "Thank you for this opportunity, Aiz-san. I want to learn more about the dungeon and also make sure if the Loki Familia is the right choice for me."
Aiz, still holding the last of her Jagamaru-kun, smiled happily. "Don't worry, Shirou. I'll make sure you get all the information you need."
Shirou smiled, feeling more enthusiastic and ready for his new adventure. He knew there was much he didn't know about this world, and perhaps this journey would give him the answers he sought. With Aiz as his guide, Shirou felt more confident that he would find his way in this mysterious world.
Shirou followed Aiz with steady steps, entering the grand gates that led them into Twilight Manor, the headquarters of the Loki Familia. The majestic building stood gracefully, reflecting the strength and prestige of the Familia residing within. Despite its massive and grand size, there were no guards blocking their entry, as if Aiz's presence alone was enough to guarantee security.
Aiz walked confidently, not saying much as she led Shirou through the vast courtyard and toward a smaller, more hidden back door. Shirou observed his surroundings, impressed by the architecture and atmosphere of the place. Every corner of the Manor seemed filled with history and stories, something only those who had lived here for a long time could truly feel.
They arrived at a large wooden door that seemed simple compared to the other grand doors in the Manor. Aiz opened it easily, and they entered a room filled with towering bookshelves. Sunlight streamed through large windows, illuminating the room and creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle outside.
Shirou stepped into the library, and his eyes were immediately drawn to the impressive collection of books. Shelves were filled with various books about dungeons, history, and even some novels that seemed to be written by famous authors in Orario. Each book appeared well-preserved, reflecting the importance of knowledge within the Loki Familia.
"This is our library," Aiz said as she glanced at Shirou, who looked mesmerized. "Here, you can find information about dungeons that you might not find elsewhere."
Shirou approached one of the shelves and carefully pulled out a thick book titled "Exploring the Dungeon: Complete Edition." He flipped through its pages, seeing diagrams, maps, and detailed notes about the monsters on each level of the dungeon.
"This is amazing," Shirou murmured, his voice filled with awe. "I never imagined seeing a collection of books like this."
Aiz nodded. "The Loki Familia is indeed known as one of the best in dungeon exploration. The knowledge gathered here is the result of years of experience."
Shirou then noticed other shelves containing history books. He picked up a book discussing the history of Orario and the gods who descended to the human world. Along with his curiosity about Syr, he felt this book might give him more insight.
As he examined other books, Shirou also noticed several novels tucked among the serious collections. These novels seemed to provide entertainment for the Loki Familia members who might want a break from the daily pressures and challenges they faced.
Aiz watched Shirou, who seemed absorbed in the world of books. "If you want, you can come back here anytime," she said. "You can read as much as you want."
Shirou smiled at Aiz. "Thank you, Aiz-san. This is truly an amazing place. I really appreciate this opportunity."
Aiz only nodded, appearing pleased to see Shirou so interested. In her heart, she felt increasingly confident that Shirou would be a valuable addition to Loki Familia. However, for now, she chose not to push him and let Shirou enjoy his time in the library, hoping that the desire to join Loki Familia would grow within him naturally.
Shirou carefully opened the book titled Dungeon Exploration Guide: Complete Edition, his fingers touching the thick pages filled with detailed illustrations. The guide was neatly organized and structured, with each chapter dedicated to a specific floor of the Dungeon, complete with descriptions of the types of monsters that could be encountered, their weaknesses, attack patterns, and any special dangers that might be faced. There were even detailed diagrams of hidden traps and safer alternative routes to take.
Shirou was mesmerized. "This book is so detailed… it's like a tactical manual," he murmured, his eyes fixed on the intricate drawings of monsters surrounded by small notes.
Aiz, standing beside him, gave a faint smile. "Riveria-sama often forced me to memorize all of that when I was little," she said, recalling her strict training.
Shirou raised an eyebrow, slightly surprised to hear the name. "Riveria? Who is she?"
Before Aiz could answer, a soft yet firm voice came from the reading room behind them. "I am Riveria Ljos Alf," the voice asserted with a tone full of authority.
Shirou turned around and saw an Elf woman with long green hair cascading down her back, her eyes sharp and full of alertness. She had an aura that combined the calmness of a sage with the decisiveness of a leader. Riveria looked at Shirou with a curious expression. "Who is he, Aiz?" she asked seriously.
Aiz nodded politely. "This is Shirou. He's interested in learning more about the Dungeon, and I brought him here to explore the library."
Riveria sighed lightly, her face remaining calm but slightly weary. "Loki Familia is not currently recruiting new members," she stated firmly. "But I'm glad to see you taking the initiative, Aiz," she added, her tone softening slightly, though her eyes remained sharp as she gazed at Shirou.
Shirou felt slightly tense under Riveria's intense stare, but he tried to maintain a calm demeanor. "I understand," he said politely. "I just want to learn more about this world and the preparations needed to explore the Dungeon."
Riveria nodded slowly. "That's a good attitude. However, the issue isn't just about intent. Joining Loki Familia as a level 1 adventurer would be a significant challenge. Most of our members are already at a high level. If you want to join, you must be prepared to face the reality that you will be far behind," she explained.
Aiz hesitated for a moment before speaking, "But Shirou seems to have potential, Riveria-sama. Maybe we could…"
Riveria raised her hand, interrupting Aiz with a faint smile. "I don't doubt his potential. However, you know that in Loki Familia, we only accept those who are ready to face immense pressure. Shirou, if you truly want to join, I suggest you consider it carefully. This isn't an easy decision."
Shirou nodded seriously, appreciating Riveria's advice. "I understand, Riveria-san. I will consider everything carefully," he replied.
Riveria nodded before returning to the reading room, but there was a slight smile at the corner of her lips, as if she appreciated the sincerity she saw in Shirou's eyes. "Good luck," she said briefly before turning away.
Shirou realized that he would have to seriously consider his next steps. Twilight Manor and Loki Familia, although highly appealing, also had demands and expectations that couldn't be taken lightly.
Aiz stood tall beside Shirou, seeming determined to defend him. "Riveria-sama, Shirou has his own unique strengths," she said, her voice steady.
Riveria raised an eyebrow, showing greater interest now. "Oh? And what are those strengths, Aiz?" she asked, curious.
Aiz was silent for a moment, hesitating to answer. After a few seconds, she spoke in a softer tone, "He… is very good at cooking."
Shirou was surprised to hear Aiz's response, while Riveria tried to suppress her smile. Shirou could feel his cheeks warm slightly, realizing that Aiz might want him to join just because of his cooking. Riveria sighed lightly, but her tone remained gentle as she said, "Aiz, cooking is indeed a wonderful skill, especially for maintaining team morale. But it's not enough to be an adventurer. Perhaps Shirou is better suited to being a chef here," she said with a bit of humor in her voice.
Aiz looked slightly embarrassed, realizing her intentions had been uncovered. Riveria then turned her gaze back to Shirou. "However, Shirou," she continued in a more serious tone, "do you have any other skills? Something you think would be useful in the Dungeon, besides cooking?"
Shirou thought for a moment before answering, "I'm skilled in archery. I'm quite proficient with a bow and arrow."
Riveria's eyes lit up slightly, intrigued. Though she was a High Elf and a skilled mage, she also had an interest in archery. "Oh? Interesting," she said, a slight smile appearing on her face. "Coincidentally, I have a hobby in archery myself. How about we test your skills, Shirou?"
Shirou felt a bit nervous, but also excited to accept the challenge. "Sure, I'm ready," he replied confidently.
Riveria nodded and led them out of the library to the backyard of Twilight Manor, where a training arena was set up. Several archery targets were already in place. "Let's see how skilled you are, Shirou," she said as she picked up her longbow.
She handed another bow to Shirou, along with some arrows. "Show me," Riveria said with a tone of anticipation.
Shirou accepted the bow, feeling its balance and weight, then focused his gaze on the target. He took a deep breath, concentrating fully on his aim. Shirou drew the bow steadily, channeling his energy, and released the arrow.
The arrow flew swiftly and hit the center of the target with perfect precision.
Aiz smiled proudly, while Riveria was slightly surprised, her eyes narrowing as if to make sure of what she had just seen. "Hmm… not bad at all," she murmured. "Perhaps I was too quick to judge."
Shirou smiled, knowing that this was only the beginning of the greater trials ahead.
He stood tall with the bow in hand, eyes focused on the targets lined up along the training arena. He felt the weight of the bow, the tautness of the string as he drew it back, balancing his breath with a smooth, concentrated motion. He took a deep breath and held it, then released the arrow in one decisive motion.
The first arrow shot forward with astonishing speed, cutting through the air and striking the center of the target with perfect precision. The sharp metallic sound echoed as the arrow embedded itself right in the bullseye. Aiz's eyes widened slightly, while Riveria raised an eyebrow, showing unexpected admiration.
Without hesitation, Shirou took the next arrow and quickly released it, followed by the third, fourth, and so on. Each arrow flew through the air and hit the center of the target without missing a beat. His movements were so quick and efficient, it was as if he had been doing this his whole life. Aiz couldn't take her eyes off Shirou, while Riveria observed every move intently, searching for any sign of weakness or hesitation.
But there was none. Each of Shirou's shots was flawless, reflecting incredible accuracy and concentration. He hit every available target, all his arrows striking the bullseye with undeniable precision.
Aiz looked at Shirou with clear admiration, while Riveria seemed astonished. "Every shot on target..." Riveria muttered softly, almost in disbelief at what she was witnessing. "Shirou, this… this is an extraordinary skill," she continued, her tone turning more serious. "Not many adventurers, even those at high levels, can shoot with such consistency."
Aiz nodded in agreement, her face showing irresistible admiration. "I knew you were talented, but… this is more than I imagined," she said with a wide smile.
Shirou lowered his bow and exhaled a sigh of relief. "Thank you," he replied humbly, "I'm just trying my best."
Riveria approached, seeming to consider something carefully. "Shirou, even though we're not currently seeking new members, your skills are remarkable. And while this is just a suggestion, perhaps you should consider joining a Familia that can truly appreciate your talents," she said wisely.
Shirou nodded, understanding the implication behind Riveria's words. "I'll think about your advice," he responded, feeling more confident in his abilities and the opportunities ahead.
Aiz, still smiling, seemed more motivated to convince Shirou to join the Loki Familia. In her heart, she could already imagine enjoying more of Shirou's cooking while watching his archery skills develop in real battles.
Shirou nodded firmly, solidifying his decision. "Alright, I agree to join the Loki Familia... but I'd like to meet the goddess Loki first," he stated. Riveria nodded in agreement, while Aiz smiled with enthusiasm.
"Follow us," said Riveria as she turned, gesturing for Shirou to follow. Aiz walked beside him, clearly pleased with Shirou's decision. They walked through the long corridors of Twilight Manor, heading toward Loki's private quarters.
When they arrived at a large door with intricate carvings, Riveria knocked lightly. Soon, a cheerful and lively voice was heard from inside. "Come on in! Don't be shy!"
Riveria pushed the door open, and Shirou immediately felt something different. The air inside the room was warm and lively, full of vibrant energy. A unique scent filled his nose, a scent that was familiar yet hard to describe—like a mix of cotton candy, sweet wine, and various flowers, with a touch of divine aroma that penetrated his senses. It was as if the entire room was filled with the aura of a festive yet sacred carnival.
There, in the middle of the brightly decorated room, sat Loki on her throne, with a wide, mischievous smile. Her red hair flowed wildly, and her sharp eyes radiated deep curiosity. "Oh, so this is the new recruit I've been hearing about?" her voice teased.
Shirou looked at Loki, feeling a bit nervous but remaining calm. The presence of this goddess was unlike anything he had ever experienced before—her spirit was so strong, her energy like a colorful storm. But there was also a dark side hidden behind her smile, like a goddess who enjoyed toying with the fate of others.
Loki tilted her head slightly, looking at Shirou with great interest. "You have an interesting scent," she said with a small laugh. "Like someone who carries a heavy burden, but with a great spirit to fight for what they believe in."
Shirou was a little surprised by the comment. "Thank you... I just want to make sure I'm making the right decision," he replied cautiously.
Loki stood up from her throne, stepped closer, and examined Shirou closely. "You want to join the Loki Familia, huh?" She smiled, a bit mysteriously. "But before that, I want to know... what can you bring to our Familia?"
Riveria and Aiz watched the interaction in silence, letting Loki assess Shirou on her own. Shirou took a deep breath, keeping his gaze steady on Loki, ready to answer questions that delved deeper than just his skills or talents.
"I can shoot well and cook fairly well," Shirou answered honestly. "But more importantly, I have the determination to grow stronger and learn more... And I'm looking for a chance to help others, to protect those who are weak. That's my main reason for being here."
Loki's smile widened, her eyes sparkling. "Hmm... a standard answer, but I can sense something deeper within you. Alright, let's see if you're truly worthy of being part of the Loki Familia. I love surprises, and I think you can provide me with one."
Loki turned to Riveria and Aiz, still with her wide smile. "What do you two think? Should we take this kid?"
Riveria looked at Shirou with a soft yet serious gaze. "He has potential, and I think he could be a good addition if we give him a chance."
Aiz nodded quickly, with a slight smile on her face. "I'm sure he can bring something different to our Familia."
Loki laughed heartily, as if pleased with the answers from her two best fighters. "Alright, Shirou Emiya! I, Loki, welcome you to the Loki Familia! But remember, here, we play seriously. Don't disappoint me, okay?"
Shirou nodded, feeling a mix of relief and excitement. His meeting with Loki had given him a deeper understanding of this goddess's personality and what might await him within this Familia. His adventure had only just begun, and he was ready to face whatever lay ahead.
Aiz and Riveria exchanged glances before they left the room. They knew the moment when a god grants their blessing is something personal and full of meaning, especially for a new member. "We'll take our leave," Riveria said politely, and then she and Aiz exited the room, closing the door behind them.
Loki approached, her eyes gleaming with undisguised curiosity. "Alright, Shirou, take off your shirt. I'll give you my blessing," she said, pulling out a small needle from her pocket. Shirou, though a bit nervous, obeyed Loki's command and began to remove his shirt, revealing a muscular body marked with scars here and there.
Loki, with a teasing smile, couldn't help but comment on Shirou's appearance. "Wow, your body is pretty good for a beginner," she joked as she brought the needle close to her finger. After pricking her finger, a drop of Ichor, the sacred blood of the gods, oozed out. She touched Shirou's back with her bloodied finger, channeling the Ichor into his body.
A warm and strange sensation crept along Shirou's spine as the blessing began to take root. Loki then took a sheet of paper, placed it on Shirou's back, and carefully traced the results of the newly given status.
Loki looked at the paper seriously, studying Shirou's newly acquired status. His basic stats appeared standard for a beginner; nothing stood out in strength, endurance, or agility. But when her eyes reached the "Magic" section, Loki paused for a moment.
"Eh?" Loki raised an eyebrow. "Magecraft?" she murmured, looking slightly confused. This magic seemed different from what she had seen among adventurers in Orario. There were no detailed explanations, only the word "Magecraft" written in letters that seemed to symbolize a different kind of power.
"What is this, Shirou?" Loki stared at him with curiosity. "I've never seen this type of magic before. Where did you learn it?"
Shirou was silent for a moment, feeling doubt creeping into his mind. Magecraft, as taught by his adoptive father, Kiritsugu, was something unique and different from the Magic in this world. Finally, he decided to answer cautiously.
"It... is something I learned from my father, Kiritsugu," Shirou replied, his voice calm yet firm. He chose his words wisely, not wanting to reveal too much about the origins of his Magecraft abilities.
Loki gazed at him sharply, trying to delve deeper into Shirou's soul. "Kiritsugu, huh?" Loki chuckled, a thin smile forming on her lips. "I'm curious to know more about this, but I guess you have the right to keep your secrets." She lightly patted Shirou on the shoulder. "But one thing is certain, kid. If you have this advantage, you need to learn how to use it properly in the Dungeon."
Shirou nodded, feeling somewhat relieved that Loki didn't press him further. However, he also knew that his desire to keep Magecraft a secret would only fuel Loki's curiosity.
Loki then stepped back with her characteristic sly smile. "Well, welcome to the Loki Familia, Shirou. You'll find many interesting things here. Don't disappoint me!" she said with a challenging tone.
Shirou nodded again, with a growing resolve in his heart. He knew that joining the Loki Familia was only the beginning of the long adventure that awaited him. And with every step, he would get closer to uncovering deeper mysteries, both about this world and about himself.
Loki handed Shirou the paper, with a mischievous grin on her face. "Here, take a look for yourself," she said.
Shirou took the paper and looked at his status:
Level: 1
Strength: I0
Defense: I0
Dexterity: I0
Agility: I0
Magic: I0
Magic: Magecraft
Skills: None
Shirou stared at the status with a mix of curiosity and slight disappointment. All of his stats were at the base level—"I0." Meanwhile, his Magic was simply listed as "Magecraft," without any further details.
Loki, noticing Shirou's expression, chuckled softly. "Relax, kid. That's normal for beginners. Excelia, the life experience you gain in battles or adventures, will fill up your status and change those numbers," she explained, pointing at the values on the paper.
"Excelia?" Shirou asked, wanting to know more.
Loki nodded. "Yes, Excelia is the form of experience you accumulate every time you face a challenge, like defeating monsters in the Dungeon, or even through hard training. Every time you gain Excelia, I can update your status by pouring my Ichor into it again," she explained, pointing to the finger she had cut earlier.
"That Excelia will turn into Falna, which appears as an increase in your status strength. For example, if you fight a lot of monsters, your Strength or Defense might go up. If you study and practice Magic, your Magic stat might increase."
Loki looked at Shirou with a sharp but hopeful gaze. "So, the harder you work, the more Excelia you accumulate, and the stronger you'll become. But remember, it all depends on you. This is the beginning of your journey as an adventurer," she added with a spirited smile.
Shirou nodded, starting to understand how this new world worked. "So, I have to work hard to gather Excelia and improve my status?"
"Exactly," Loki replied with a laugh. "And don't worry, rookie. In this Familia, you'll get plenty of opportunities for that. This world might be different from the one you knew, but as long as you're brave and willing to learn, you can achieve anything."
Shirou nodded again, this time with a smile on his face. He felt excited to begin his new journey, to gather Excelia, and to test the limits of his abilities in the Loki Familia.
Shirou returned to the restaurant, the door to the Hostess of Fertility creaking softly as he pushed it open. Some waitresses, busy setting tables and preparing for the evening, turned their heads toward him. Friendly smiles and light greetings welcomed him.
Syr, who was arranging glasses at the bar, immediately approached Shirou with curiosity. "Shirou, you're back! What's up?" she asked with a smile.
Shirou smiled and nodded. "I just wanted to say goodbye. I've... joined the Loki Familia."
The room suddenly fell silent. The other waitresses—Anya, Chloe, Ryuu, and Lunoire—turned to Shirou with surprised expressions. Anya even dropped the spoon she was holding.
"Really?! How did that happen?" Chloe asked in disbelief. "That's the Loki Familia, the strongest Familia in Orario!"
Ryuu looked at Shirou calmly, but her eyes showed interest. "Tell us, Shirou, how did you manage to join them?"
Shirou chuckled softly at their curious reactions. "Well, it's a long story... but in short, I met Aiz at the Jagamaru-kun cart, and she offered to visit the Loki Familia library. From there, I met the goddess Loki and... well, now I'm a new member."
Syr smiled broadly. "Wow, I didn't expect that. Congratulations, Shirou! But, does that mean you won't be working here anymore?"
Shirou shook his head. "No, I'll still help out here when I have time. I promised Mama Mia, and I also enjoy working with all of you."
Lunoire giggled. "Of course, we'll miss you if you just leave. Make sure you come back often, Shirou."
Anya enthusiastically added, "Yes, yes! Shirou has to come often and cook for us again!"
Mama Mia, who had overheard the conversation from the kitchen, appeared with her arms crossed over her chest. "This kid always has surprises, huh? But remember, Shirou, this place will always be open for you."
Shirou nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Mama Mia. I'll definitely be back."
With warm farewells and some light-hearted jokes, Shirou felt more ready than ever to start his new chapter in the Loki Familia. However, he also knew that this place, the Hostess of Fertility, would always be a second home for him.
Syr gently helped Shirou pack his belongings in the restaurant's small changing room. One by one, she neatly placed his items into Shirou's bag. Shirou watched her with a smile on his face, but his mind was far busier than it seemed.
The scent of winter flowers he had smelled before returned. The same scent he noticed when he first suspected something about Syr. Now, with Syr so close to him, the scent became clearer, almost filling the air around them. Shirou felt his heartbeat quicken, and the question that had been lingering in his mind nearly slipped out.
"Syr..." Shirou began, his eyes narrowing slightly as if trying to read the secrets hidden behind the girl's smile. "I—"
Syr looked up, smiling with the gentle smile she always showed. "Yes, Shirou?" she asked in a tone full of curiosity.
Shirou paused for a moment. He could sense something mysterious in Syr's eyes, something he couldn't fully understand. His urge to ask if Syr was a goddess almost escaped his lips, but something held him back. Perhaps it was respect, or maybe the realization that he still didn't know enough to directly confront this girl.
He sighed and smiled again, deciding to save the question for later. "Nothing," he said, shaking his head. "Thank you for helping me."
Syr smiled, seemingly satisfied with his answer. "It's no problem, Shirou. We'll miss you here. But I'm glad you found your own path."
Shirou nodded, still sensing the scent of winter flowers in the air. He knew that this wasn't the end of this mystery. There were many things he still didn't understand about Syr, about this new world of his, and perhaps about himself. But for now, he decided to let everything flow, to follow its course.
They continued packing, while Shirou's thoughts kept spinning, searching for answers among the unresolved questions.
Shirou looked at Syr with genuine gratitude in his eyes. "Thank you, Syr," he said softly yet firmly. "I really appreciate everything you've done for me. When I first arrived in Orario, you gave me a place to stay, and I feel indebted."
Syr smiled warmly, her eyes shimmering with kindness. "You don't need to feel that way, Shirou. I just did what I thought was right. Besides, you've helped out a lot here. We all like you, you know?"
Shirou smiled back, feeling slightly embarrassed by the compliment. "Still," he continued, "I want to repay your kindness. If there's anything I can do, anything at all, don't hesitate to ask."
Syr looked at Shirou for a moment, as if considering his words. There was warmth in her gaze, but also something else—something almost unspoken. "I'll remember your offer, Shirou," she finally said. "Who knows, maybe one day I'll need your help."
Shirou nodded. "Whatever happens, I'll always be ready to help you, just like you've helped me."
Syr chuckled softly, her voice gentle. "You're too kind, Shirou. But alright, we'll see."
Shirou felt relieved to have said that. Despite the many mysteries between them, he knew he had found a valuable friend in Orario. As he prepared himself for the next steps in his new life, he felt stronger with people like Syr supporting him. And behind Syr's friendly smile, he was sure there were more stories to be uncovered as time went on.
Syr's POV
Syr stood near the door, watching Shirou continuously express his gratitude. Behind her smile, her mind was racing. "Loki Familia," she mused silently. "I didn't expect him to make it into the Familia that rivals mine."
The Freya Familia and Loki Familia had a long history, full of rivalry and occasional clashes. But Syr hadn't expected that Shirou, who seemed so simple and kind-hearted, would get involved with them. "Maybe I underestimated him," she thought.
Her eyes glanced at Shirou, who was busy packing his belongings, his face full of the usual determination. Syr smiled faintly, recalling how Shirou was always so quick to respond to any request for help, no matter how heavy or trivial. "He really can't refuse a call for help," Syr thought. "Is it because of his kind heart... or is there something deeper?"
Syr could see that there was something glowing within Shirou's soul, something burning with a strong desire to help others. But she could also sense traces of wounds there, something deeply etched and not easily healed. Was Shirou helping others because it made him feel better? Or was it a way for him to atone for mistakes he had made in the past?
"Perhaps, I should be more cautious," Syr thought. "After all, Loki Familia is not an easy place for someone like Shirou. But he must have his reasons." She gazed at Shirou for a little longer, trying to read deeper into that seemingly rusty soul that sometimes shone brightly like the sun.
"Are you really the one I've been searching for, Shirou? Or just another soul passing by without leaving a mark?" Syr wondered before finally deciding to observe Shirou more closely. Perhaps, with time, all her questions would be answered.
As Syr returned to Babel, she felt the aura around her change. Syr, who had previously seemed like an ordinary waitress, now walked with undeniable elegance, radiating a divine aura so powerful it was palpable. As she passed through the door into her room atop Babel, her form shifted into Freya, the beautiful Goddess of Beauty.
Freya approached the balcony, looking down at the bustling city of Orario. Her gaze penetrated deep into the crowd, like an eagle searching for its prey. Among the throngs of people walking below, her eyes settled on a young man with white hair and red eyes. The young man seemed new to Orario, his steps innocent and awkward, his face filled with curiosity and enthusiasm.
"Him..." Freya paused for a moment, her soul seemingly jolted by the sight. The soul of that young man, so pure, so innocent, so full of untapped potential. "Is this what I've been looking for?" she wondered.
The young man's soul, shining with a brilliant white light, drew her in with such force. That light was different from Shirou's rusty and scarred soul. This young man's soul was still like a blank slate, ready to be filled with experiences, struggles, and emotions that would shape him. A soul still clean, untouched by the hardships of the world.
Freya smiled faintly, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Is this the Odr I've been waiting for all this time?" she whispered softly. "So pure, so full of hope and dreams. This soul will be mine."
She watched the young man a little longer, trying to feel every emotion radiating from him. "Bell Cranel," Freya said slowly, guessing the young man's name with her divine intuition. Even though she didn't yet know his name, Freya knew that this soul would become the focus of her attention.
"He is the true Odr," Freya thought. "The one I've been seeking among the crowd of adventurers."
The smile on her lips grew wider. With newfound excitement, Freya knew she had to have this young man, had to bring that pure soul into her grasp. "I will see how far you can go, Bell Cranel... and how you can become the best of them all."
Freya turned away, her dazzling and ambitious gaze shining brightly. She knew the hunt had just begun, and Bell Cranel would be the next target of her boundless desires and beauty.
I need more voters for the next illustration. You can support me by joining at
https://www.patreon.com/Rayish