My Self - Insert Stash

-Somehow I found this WW3 Soldier reincarnated to Danmachi fanfic really wholesome💕

Sypnosis: Go on adventures? Nah, no time for that. Get involve with dealing with a cult that threatens the entirety of Orario? I'll let the main casts deal with that. What am I going to do you ask? Earn enough money to pay off my Familia's debt of course. Who knows, maybe I'll even fall in love and get married at some point. Assuming that I manage to survive that long that is.

Rated: T

Words: 72K

Posted on: fanfiction.net/s/13366594/1/Member-of-Miach-s-Familia (NakaruSoul)

-I'll be putting the chapter ones of all the fanfics mentioned, to give you guys a sample if you wan't more please do go to the website and support the author! (And maybe even convince them to start uploading chapters in here as well!)

Chapter 1

AN: Alright, a few things to note before you begin.

1) I might get facts wrong about the Danmachi universe so please do tell me when I do.

2) My English is not the best since I typically just sleep in school instead of, you know, studying.

And lastly,

3) This is actually a plot bunny so the story is not fully flesh out yet. Ideas are welcome.

Okay, I'm done. Please do enjoy.

-0-

There will always be a time in your life where you would question the decisions that you've made that led you to where you are now. The countless paths that you could've taken that would've led to multiple different outcomes and yet, you somehow manage to choose all the right ones that put you that predicament in the first place and you couldn't help but wonder what life would be like had you just taken another path.

Since I'm leading the story with that, you can predictably guess that time for me is right now.

"Oh sonova-" I let spew an unrestrained curse but was interrupted when I had to duck under a swiping claw of a Kobold least I lose my eyes.

Just in case you didn't know, a Kobold is a humanoid creature with a dog's head. It's a very odd sight I know but trust me when I say that it's not the strangest thing that you'll see in this world.

I retaliated by kneeing the creature at where the balls would be at if it had any. Thankfully, the monsters in this world didn't have any genitals. Can you imagine the amount of bestiality there would be if they had? There are Goblins in this world, GOBLINS! If this world was the anime that shalt not be named, there would be plenty newbie female Adventurers being r.a.p.ed at all times.

Good thing that the Goblins in this world is only interested in killing them instead of fornicating with them. Thank god for small miracles right?

The Kobold let out a pained cry and flinched back involuntarily, creating some distance between us that I exploited mercilessly. I lunged in and thrust the short sword in my hand into it's throat. The sword dug into the Kobold's flesh with a bit of resistance and because of poor maintenance, it snapped in half from the force of my thrust.

The Kobold fell down to the floor with a piece of my sword in it's neck, gurgling in it's own blood before finally ceasing movement. I look towards the broken weapon in my hand and cursed again at the bad timing. I knew not taking care of it would come to bite me in the a.s.s one day but I honestly don't have the time to do so. So this is how much abuse I could expect from a guild issued weapon to take before it breaks. I thought to myself as I look in front of me.

Now that the Kobold is dealt with, let's get back to the reason why I was regretting my decisions. It's mainly because I had my back to a wall and is about to be gang banged by a bunch of other hairy doggos that's en route to my location along with a few goblins thrown into the mix as well. Note to self, memorize the map before going to a new floor. I let out a growl as I ready myself for combat, trying my best not to let my enemies out of my sight as they started to enter my vision.

As to what led me to this predicament, it all started from when I tried killing a monster while exploring the new floor that I've just been authorized to enter this morning. Like a noob that I am, I did not properly make sure that there's nothing nearby while I killed it, causing it's friends to hear it's dying cry and came charging at me. The numbers were a lot more than I would normally fight against so I did the smart thing and bailed. Unfortunately, this is a floor that I've never been to so I am not familiar with the routes to take in order to return to the previous floor. Instead of reaching somewhere safe, I ran around like a headless chicken, unfortunately attracting more monsters until I hit a dead end in a narrow passageway and thus, leaving me in this situation.

In hindsight, had I just killed those Kobolds when they came to me, I wouldn't be facing against such uneven odds right now. Now I'm going to be maul to death by a bunch of werewolf rejects and the typical ugly bastards in hentai doujins. Why did I even want to be an Adventurer again? Oh right, money problems.

Alright, let's assess the situation. I thought and did a head count on the amount of monsters that I have to deal with. I counted 20 total from what I could see running my way and that's a lot more than the 3 at a time that I'm used to dealing with. Right now the nearest monsters are the Kobolds and the Goblins are still catching up a few paces behind them. Good, that means I don't have to deal with them all at once.

That Kobold that I killed just now was the fastest among the group so it reached me first before the rest of it's peers could. The rest could arrive at different intervals, allowing me to deal with them 1 or 2 at a time if I'm lucky.

My weapon is now broken, halving my range effectively so it's now more of a dagger than a short sword. I'll just have to keep that in mind while I fight so I don't mistake my range for the sword that I'm accustomed to using.

Looking around yields no path of escape so if I want to survive this, I have to deal with those monsters before me.

Okay, options. What are my options.

Fighting them all sounds very stupid because I'm very low on stamina from all the running I did. Do I create an opening and run? No, wait. That won't solve the issue of not knowing where I am and I could be running around aimlessly again and end up at another dead end with even more monsters after me.

Ugh, looks like killing them all is the only option available for me. I just have to be conservative with my actions in order to conserve stamina then, no biggie right? Whose balls do I have to fondle to get a gun around here. I would literally kill a god for an assault rifle right now.

I watch tensely as they got nearer and had to let out a sign of annoyance when I saw that they had grouped up when coming through the narrow corridor. "There goes my luck." I murmured as I steady myself, ignoring the small voice in the back of my head constantly shouting 'I'm so f.u.c.k.e.d' in favor of letting my mind sink into what I like'd to call, 'Combat Trance'. It's a neat trick that I have. It filter out every stray thoughts and allows me to focus solely on my surroundings and objectives.

Knowing that I couldn't do anything about how the monsters are approaching me, I chose to ignore that faint hope that maybe I could get them to separate somehow and started crouching down into a sprinting start. I plan to spring towards the nearest monster to kill it and take out a few more when they're still surprised before fighting to the death with the rest. As I crouch down, my hand brush against the pouch hanging on my waist and my eyes widen slightly when I realized that it's still there. To be fair, I've never really need to use it before so I may have forgotten about it for a bit.

Well, this changes everything. I thought to myself with the feeling of relief blooming in my c.h.e.s.t. In my haste to escape, I had forgotten that I have brought along tools that could help me when I got into tough situations such as this.

I quickly dug into the pouch with my free hand and procure a bunch of small marble size smoke bombs in my palm, all homemade. They would make this a whole lot easier than what I originally had in mind

Okay, new plan. Smoke assassination it is. I close my hand around the smoke bombs and use the spare cloth that I have in the pouch to cover the lower half of my face so I don't inhale any smoke. I got into a running start, turning my entire attention towards the incoming horde.

Predictably, the Kobolds were at the forefront of the small mob since they were faster then the Goblins. They all charge at me with the intent to decorate the space with my blood and guts.

Once they were but a few meters away from reaching me, I shot forwards like an arrow, kicking up dust and dirt behind me. I ram my broken sword into the nearest Kobold's head and used it's body as a shield to ram against another onto the ground. While that was happening, I use my other arm to throw the smoke bombs into the ground, causing an extremely thick smoke screen to erupt on impact, effectively covering the entire area that I'm in with black fumes. I'm now shrouded in smoke, making me invisible to my enemies but in return, it also hides them from my view as well.

I could hear the confused cries and coughing of the monster around me and I smiled because I could use the noises to pinpoint exactly where they are while they remain unaware of my position.

I could hear the Kobold that I had knock onto the ground getting up and I move swiftly towards where it is and saw it's silhouette in the smoke. I slid it's throat before it could cause me trouble; blood sprayed and it's body thump against the ground while I kept on moving. I focus on ears on the sounds that the monsters are making and my eyes on any moving silhouettes, repeating what I have done with the rest of the monsters.

Soon, the smoke lifted and the floor was littered with the carcasses of my enemies. I took off my mask and the bag on my back so I could sit against the wall without harming it's contents, panting like a dog as I try to regain my bearings.

I think this should be enough for the day. I thought to myself as I look over the mess that I've made. I lean my head against the wall and took deep breaths. I'll just rest up a bit before I dig the magic stones out and head back. Yeah, sounds like a plan.

I kept my awareness of my surroundings up at all times while I rested, thinking to myself about the mistakes that I've made today and what I could to do improve myself.

I also gave myself a once-over to check the damage that I had sustained so far. My black long sleeved shirt, trousers and boots are all fine and is merely covered in dirt. At least I don't have much blood on me this time. I'll be able to sleep early tonight instead of spending the night washing it off my clothes. As you can see, I have a black theme going for me because it's useful for stealth. Being a solo Adventurer meant that I have no one to watch my back so I had to improvise with sneaking around and killing things. It's not as fast as a frontal assault but definitely safer...so long as I don't get spotting like I did earlier.

My Guild issued c.h.e.s.t armor looks worn and has some light scratches and small dents on it but those were from older engagements. My sword on the other hand, is now half the length it used to be. Can it be repaired? I thought as I look at it, wondering if I should look for a blacksmith later. Then I remembered how much services like that cost and immediately drop that idea. Oh screw it, I'll just file it down when I get home and turn it into a dagger instead. I grumbled internally.

I sheath my sword into it's scabbard on my waist and focus on recovering as much energy as I can for my trip back. It won't be pretty if I run into more monsters and is too tired to even fight or run.

Now that I'm reasonably safe, well, as safe as one could get in the Dungeon, I figured now is as good as any to start the exposition about my backstory like any anime would do when a character is introduced. You probably noticed the references that I've made earlier and came to a conclusion that I am not from this world. If you did, then you're absolutely right.

But since I'm not really in the mood for long winded exposition that the main characters somehow always manage to spew out of their asses that took the entirety of an episode, I'll keep the explanation of how I arrive to this world brief. In fact, I'll do mine in two sentences that all weebs would understand.

Truck-kun.

Isekai'd.

There, got it? You do? Good, because I lied about the first one. I died from a mortar strike….no wait, I actually survived the mortar strike, I just have half my body blown away and bleed to death. Or did I die from the shock? Hmm, I can't quite recall. So in short, I'm just another casualty in war as they would say, World War 3 to be more specific.

Truth be told, I find that it's a bit of an overkill that they would use mortars against me. I mean, a greasily death is to be expected when one is fighting on the front line; doubly so when one is put on a suicide squad, but unleashing an entire barrage of mortars just so they could kill me? I'm flattered.

Anyways, when I opened my eyes again I found myself in this world and had been living in it for 14 years. Apparently it's from an anime that I've watched many years ago called Dan...something something. Don't be surprise but over here, there's Gods and Goddesses living in this world with us mortals and a big a.s.s Dungeon that spawn monsters looking like they came from Satan's anus.

I must admit that the idea of having divine entities walking among us pitiful mortals is a concept that I have the most trouble wrapping my head around, mostly because I'm an atheist.

So, in order for me to accept that they exist, I merely think of them as overpowered people with bullshit abilities instead of omnipotent beings that could snap me out of existence with a flick of their fingers. Same thing, but different.

When one think of being Isekai'd into Dan-something-something, one would normally think that they're either:

A) Be the main protagonist and take Bell's place.

Or

B) Is an extra character that could join Hestia's Familia and go on adventures with the main cast.

Right? Totally a normal thing to assume, right?

Well you're wrong in both account. First off, Hestia hasn't even come down from Heaven to grace us unworthy mortals with her divine (Read: bouncy) presence yet and secondly, I'm in another Familiar, Miach's Familia.

An odd choice of Familia to pick you say? Well, not much I could do about that since I was a member of this Familia from the moment I was born. My parents were members of the Familia so being born in it, it automatically meant that I'm a member as well. I was raised and taken care off quite well so I don't have much to complain about it. It's a rather well off one too. Well, it was until tragedy struck us a few months ago, causing me to lose my parents and leaving my Familia in a large debt.

Almost everyone left the Familia soon after, leaving only me and my little sister in all but blood as the only ones who had decided to stayed behind the sinking ship that is the Miach Familia. We both have our reasons for doing so, mine is out of gratitude for Miach for taking care of me and my parents back when they were still alive. It's also because that guy is just too nice for his own good and kept giving things away for free.

Afterwards, the shop that we own stopped getting much business now due to losing most of our stock because of the debt and is unable to meet our customers wants, causing them to go elsewhere to get what they want instead. Right now we have no way of replenishing the high quality stuff to attract our old customers back and we're barely holding on.

I quickly realized that we needed another source of income. Dungeon diving is easily the most profitable thing to do in the city of Orario so it's only natural that I chose to become an Adventurer. There was some opposition from my God of course, as he wanted me to stay home where it's safe but I ignore his protests and went anyway. I know that we desperately needed money and this is the only way I can help. I'm shit at potion brewing despite being in a Familia that focuses on that so what else can I do but put this body through hard labor.

And there you go, the entire reason of why I'm risking my life dungeon diving in the first place. I assure you that it has nothing to do with my childish d.e.s.i.r.e to fight against monsters, honest.

…..

…

Okay fine, I lied. I wanna fight against monsters as well; there's nothing wrong with that. I mean, what hot-blooded teenage boy wouldn't? I blame anime for filling my head with fantasies of that.

At any rate, the exposition is done and I'm feeling rested. Time to get back to work.

-0-

Orario- The Guild

-0-

"Here you go, a total of 3500 Valis." I heard the Guild Employee said in a professional tone and watch as the coins get dropped onto the tray. I pick them up one by one while counting them mentally to ensure that not a single Valis is missing. It's a lot less than what I normally earned on a daily basis since I decided to leave early but it's not as less as it would've been if it weren't for the monster drops that I got lucky with. Thank you RNGesus, I'll be sure to sacrifice goats for you in the future. No wait, that's the method for thanking Lootcifer. Anyway, I'll most likely still meet my weekly quota so I don't have to worry about not earning a lot today.

Satisfied that I'm in no way being cheated, I place them inside my pouch of holding hanging on my waist next to my tool pouch. It's just a normal pouch but I like to call it that because why not?

"The distrustful eyes that you have when you counted your coins really hurts me my friend. You know I'd never cheat you of your money." The guild member said to me in mock hurt, obviously more laid back now that our transaction is done.

"Yeah well, math was never your strong point so it's better to be safe than sorry."

"Hey! I'll have you know that my math absolutely superb thank you very much. Anyway, congratulations on surviving another day Cain-kun. For a kid your age, you sure are doing quite well on your own. Reaching the 4th floor only after a few months of your Adventurer career with no help and prior training to give you a boost, not bad, not bad at all."

You know what I find weird about Orario? It's that despite being a hot spot for western deities, everyone here is using Japanese honorifics. The rest of the world is the same as well. It's like the eastern deities infected everyone in the world with Japanese culture and everyone just accepted it as the norm. But then again, it may have to do with the fact that the Light Novel was written by a Japanese.

"Thank you. If anyone asks about the secret to my success, please tell them that my stubbornness in regards to not dying is what got me so far. Oh, that and also my d.e.s.i.r.e to not die a v.i.r.g.i.n." I deadpanned.

"Ah yes, the power of wanting to get laid is the best drive any men could have to see them through tough situations." He nodded sagely. "Oh right, I know that you're a busy guy and all but you should go see your advisor first before you leave. She's still quite new to all this and seeing her first charge return safe and sound would do her a great service. Poor girl needs more confidence in her decisions; she was fretting all day, worrying that something might go wrong after authorizing your new floor."

I mull over his words and started rubbing my chin in thought, wondering whether I should go reassure my advisor that I'm still alive and well or be a d.i.c.k and go back home.

"Oh, I know that look Cain-kun. You're thinking of being an asshole again aren't you?"

"What? I would never." I defended myself while trying to sound as offended as possible, causing the Guild member to snort before giving me a pointed look.

I rolled my eyes and dropped the act. Hmm, now that I think about it, I do need to preview the map of the new floor and properly memorize it as well as acquiring more data regarding the monsters on the floor lower than that just in case they decided to climb up. Huh, looks like I'll be visiting my advisor after all. "Alright fine, I'll go talk to her. She's right to worry though, something bad almost did happen to me today." I replied as I turn around to leave.

"Huh? Hey wait. You can't just leave after saying something like that! Cain-kun!? Tell me what happened buddy!" I pause in my steps and turn my head around to look at him over my shoulder. Then I offered him the best shit eating grin I can manage before leaving, knowing full well that he's going to be absolutely brimming with curiosity and will have no way to know about what almost happened to me unless someone tells him.

He's just too curious for his own good and wants to know every little thing that happens. Can't blame him though, working at the exchange area is usually a bore unless someone brings in something rare to exchange. I think I'll just let him stew on it for a day before telling him, I'm not that evil after all.

"Damn youuuuuuuu Caiiiinnnn! I know you're doing this on purpose!" I ignore his voice and kept on walking to where the receptionists are.

-0-

As I got close to where the reception area is, I saw the familiar figure of my advisor. There she stood, with her short pink hair and eyes, looking rather bored and lost in her own world. It's still quite early so most of the Adventurers are still in the Dungeon. They mostly only come in during the mornings and evenings so it wouldn't be weird that for the receptionists have to a lot of free time during the time in between.

The girl is quite young as an advisor, somehow managing to get a job at the Guild at a tender age of 14 along with her friend. From what I have gathered, they joined the guild right after freshly graduating from school and is good enough to impress them that they hire the two on the spot.

Right now she's wearing the standard Guild uniform that consist of a set of black vest and pants with a white collared long sleeve shirt underneath, a gray bow tie and black shoes. Because of her age and height, she looked like a child trying on her parent's business suit in my eyes. Absolutely adorable.

Oh, it looks like she finally noticed me. We made eye contact and the bored expression on her face was instantly replaced with a large smile filled with relief. After that, she quickly move to straighten herself and force her expression to look natural, which she is failing at because her lips keep twitching upward.

What's this? She's totally trying to act professional isn't she? Normally, she'd be waving her arms like a madwoman the moment she saw me. Wonder what's changed? Maybe I should investigate a bit and find out?

With that in mind, I started looking at everything else but her and started my approach, noticing the slightly confused look on her face in my peripheral vision. I kept on walking towards her while pretending to sight see. Just when I was about to a few meters away from her desk, I did an immediate 90 degree turn to my right and walk towards the receptionist beside her.

"Hey there Eina-chan." I greeted the bespectacled female Half-Elf that was seated next to my advisor with a grin instead of greeting my advisor herself. Mostly because I know it'll make her mad.

Said person quickly look up from the paperwork that she was working on and a pair of emerald colored eyes met mine as she brush aside her long, brown hair behind her ear. As a Half-Elf, Eina shares a similar physical trait that her full blooded counterpart all have: long, pointy ears.

"Oh! Good afternoon Cain-san. You're back early today, it's only a bit after midday." Eina greeted me back with a small smile of her own.

"Yeah, some stuff happened and I decided to come back early."

"I see. While I do appreciate that you're spending your time to talk with me, shouldn't you be talking with Misha-san instead? You know, your actual advisor?" She said, shifting her eyes to the side and I followed suit.

We saw that Misha is currently looking at us while pouting hard with slightly red cheeks and both her fists were shaking in front of her c.h.e.s.t in indignation.

I quickly turn my attention back to the Half-Elf. "You're right, maybe I should…." I said while nodding before I lean in a bit closer and started whispering. "Or, we could just pretend to do small talk and laugh just to see how long she can last before she barge into our conversation?" I suggested with a wagging eyebrow, knowing full well that Eina enjoys teasing her friend as much as I do because she was being teased all the time by Misha back when they're in school.

"You, Cain-san, are a very cruel man." She replied with a disapproving frown on her face. "You shouldn't tease your Advisor so much, it's unbecoming of you to do so."

We simply stared at each other after that. She held her reproachful look for a few seconds before she let out a snort and started giggling and I join in with a small chuckle of my own.

"Stop ignoring me already!" Came Misha's displeased cry for attention and we both turn to face her with large smiles on our faces. The pinked haired girl looked like she wanted to pound her tiny fists at me as she glared cutely at me like an offended kitten. Like I've said, absolutely adorable.

"Sorry, I couldn't help it. You just look too cute when you're mad." I told her and it seem to only get her even madder because her face is becoming even redder now. Eina just giggled at her friend's expression, causing Misha to shot her a look of betrayal.

"So Misha-chan, any reason why you're trying to act all professional for? Last I've checked, you both are still in training so being a bit lax should be fine right? Speaking of which, I don't see your supervisor anywhere. Isn't he suppose to look out for you both while you man the counter?" I said as I look around the area for any sign of their supervisor.

"Rehmer-san needed to step out for a bit to deal with a particularly tricky Adventurer so it's just us for now until he gets back." Misha informed me and I nodded. Yeah, troublesome Adventurers does appear from time to time. It'd be bad news for rookies like these two if they had to deal with them.

"What about your behavior from earlier then?" I asked the pink haired girl.

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"I mean why you weren't waving like a madwoman when you saw me earlier like you use to."

"Wha- I most certainly do not wave like a madwoman when I see you." Came Misha's panicked reply along with a bit of pink appearing on her face from what I presume to be embarrassment.

I merely offered her smug smile that told her that she wasn't fooling anyone. "So, I'm guessing that you got told by your superior about needing to be professional at all times or something?" I asked, changing the topic to something else.

Misha's shoulder went slump and she let out a sigh. "Yeah, something like that. Our superior noticed how Eina and I were chatting away like we were at a cafe or something and gave us a stern talking to. Mr. Rehmer can be really strict when he wants to be. I've been trying my best to act all serious all day today but it's just so hard." Misha said as she let out a pitiful w.h.i.n.e.

"It's your fault if I recall. We wouldn't have been caught if you weren't so loud." Eina chipped in.

"Hey! You were the one that made me laugh in the first place." Misha shot back as she pointed an accusing finger towards the Half-Elf.

"Here's a suggestion: maybe just be yourself? I don't see anything wrong with the way you are; so as long as you aren't that loud when your superior is nearby, you should be fine." I said, interrupting the two.

"No way, I am a member of the Guild so it's my job to be professional."

"Uh huh. You, being professional? I'd imagine we'd have more luck getting the sky to rain gold." I teased.

"I totally can do it! Just watch me!" Misha fumed, looking rather offended by my lack of faith in her ability.

"Sure, sure, Miss professional. Whatever you say." I told her with both my hands raised in a placating manner. "Oh, and before we all get sidetracked even further, I actually have another reason for coming over other than showing you two that I'm still alive and teasing Misha."

"Really?" Misha asked with an eyebrow quirked in obvious interest. "What is it then?"

"I'll need to see the map of the 4th floor, as well as the bestiary that the Guild has."

"But didn't you examine the map just this morning? And what do you even need the bestiary for? Don't you always keep a notebook with you that has everything about the monsters you would encounter noted down already?" Misha tilted her head to the side cutesily with a confused look on her face.

"Yes, but back then I was too excited at the prospect of going to a new floor to properly memorize it and I need the bestiary so I can update my notes to include monsters from the floor below just in case." I explain my reasoning for needing the two items.

Misha gained a look of understanding and nodded. "Okay, sure. Let's go to the private room so you can look them over without bothering others."

Eina's eyes suddenly gained a mischievous glint. "Oh my, inviting a boy to a room so you could be alone together already? You sure do work fast Misha."

Misha's face turned bright red. "That is not what I'm doing and you know it!" She growled at the Half-Elf, causing her to chuckle. "I'll get back at you for this Eina! When you become interested in a man one day, know that I will be there to tease you relentlessly about it! Mark my words!" Misha all but shouted out as she stomp away, looking peeved.

"Did you really have to do that? Now she's going to be glaring at me the entire time." I said to Eina in exasperation.

"I'll leave you two to it then." Eina giggled and I rolled my eyes before following Misha.

-0-

I let out a happy sigh as I lay sideways on one of the couch present in every private room that the guild has. I could feel my body sinking deeply into the soft cotton seat and the stress that I have in me slowly melts away into blissful oblivion.

When one spends an entire day fighting for his life, he would no doubt build up stress within his body from being constantly alert and wary of any attack that might come his way. I find that letting it build up too much without a way to release it is generally a bad thing for the body so any chance I got to de-stress is one that I would take gladly as I am a very busy guy.

"I'm totally going to marry this couch in the future." I murmured as I feel myself being lulled into slumber.

"Didn't you say you wanted to marry your kitchen in the future?" I heard Misha said, accompanied by the sound of something being place down on the table placed in front of the couches. The setting was arranged in a way so that both sides would be facing each other with a table in the middle.

"Hmmm, you're right. Maybe I'll just marry them both. I don't think I can live without one or the other." I said lazily and I could practically feel Misha rolling her eyes at me.

"I'm sure you'll manage somehow. Anyway, here's what you asked for." She told me and I reluctantly pull my lazy a.s.s up from the comfortable couch so I could sit properly. On the table I spot a large sheet of paper all rolled up as well as a very thick book.

I took out my notebook and place it on the table. Then I spread open the paper, revealing the layout for the 4th floor of the dungeon and opened the book to the page about monsters in the 5th. I started scanning through them both, jotting down what I find interesting or important. That's right, I can multitask, be in awe at my ability to do two things at once.

"Do you need me to bring you some refreshments while you work?" Misha offered as I was starting to get to work.

"Yes please!" I immediately replied, feeling grateful that Misha is such a considerate girl.

"Tea as always?"

"Always." I nodded seriously. "Thanks Misha-san, you're the best." I told her with a smile.

Misha gave me a smile of her own and went out to get my drink. I turn my attention back to the information before me and started soaking them in, my hand jotting down important notes that will no doubt aid me in the future.

-0-

Orario- North West Street

-0-

After spending 2 hours painstakingly burning the image of the 4th floor into my brain and jotting down important details about War Shadows and Frog Shooters into my notebook, I bid the girls goodbye after returning the items to Misha and left the guild.

I was on my way back home while busily sorting through the information in my mind when I noticed something happening in front of me.

There was a crowd of people there. They were gathered on the street and forming a circle for some reason. From how rowdy they sounded, it seems like something interesting is going on.

Needless to say, I got curious myself and went to join the crowd to see what's up.

Using my secret skill that I gained many years ago from surviving hordes of impatient and angry women during markets sales, I easily weave through the crowd and arrive at the front with ease. Truly, it's the most essential skill to have if I ever decided to become a househusband like I had originally intended before shit happened.

In the middle of the crowd encirclement I saw a pair of young Amazoness duking it out with some guys. It couldn't even be called a fight as the girls were easily trouncing the dudes. Seeing them demolish the guys with such ease, I'm guessing that they're either level 1s with extremely high stats or level 2s.

As Amazons, they have their signature tanned skin and they both have black hair and brown eyes. They looked about the same age from what I can tell. 11 or 12 years old maybe? One may think that it's out of the ordinary for kids to reach this level of strength but I'd like to beg the differ. I mean, I know a kid that managed to reach level 2 just within a year of joining a Familia. Man, kids these days are scary.

An important thing to note is that the Amazon with longer hair has a slightly more developed body while the one with short hair is still like a child's.

Who are they? I thought to myself as they seem familiar to me somehow. My foreknowledge of this world is spotty and unreliable at best so I don't really know if they would play an important role in the future. You can't blame me for not knowing, I can't even remember what I ate last night and it's been years since I last saw anything related to Dan-something-something.

While I was busy thinking, the girls seem to have enough with playing around and ended the fight without me realizing. The guys were on the ground looking battered but very much alive. They looked fine aside from having their ego bruised and would probably be all healed after a good nights rest.

"Well then, is there anyone else who wants to give us a shot? Remember, we'll only join your Familia if you manage to beat us." The Amazon with long hair spoke out confidently, like she knew that there's no one here that could beat them. The other one was looking around while whistling with her hands hooked behind her head.

A few moments pass by with murmurs going through the crowd and no one stood up to answer the girls' challenge. Seeing that there isn't anyone stepping up, the girl spoke again. "Since no one here is going to face us, I guess we'll go look elsewhere. We'll be going around searching for people who could actually give us a challenge so if you feel like manning up and face us, feel free to come find us."

With her piece said, the crowd started to disperse while I stayed on my spot, still digging through the archive in my head that I named 'Approximate Knowledge of Many Things'.

So lost in thought as I was, I didn't notice the people were leaving nor did I notice that the Amazoness were heading my way. Apparently, I was unknowingly staring at them in my distracted state and because of that, the girl with long hair seem to take it as a challenge or something.

"What are staring at so intensely there for bud? You want to have a go as well?" She asked with a grin, obviously ready for more fighting.

Her words jerked me back to reality and I paled slightly at the prospect of fighting either of them. "Nope. No thanks. I'm still tired and sore from fighting in the Dungeon earlier today and I'm not so stupid as to fight against someone who looked like they could snap me in half. Besides, I'm just a level 1, the best I could do is bleed aggressively on you and hope that you'll be annoyed with the mess I left." Left unsaid was the fact that they're both shorter than me so I'd most likely have my fragile ego destroyed as well.

"That's not right. You're a man aren't you? You should have more confidence in yourself." The Amazon with short hair told me while eyeing me with a look of disappointment.

"Oh, I'm plenty confident. Confident that I'll lose that is." I told her with a smirk while frantically thinking of a way to change the subject that doesn't involve me being buried five feet underground via Amazon suplex. "If I may ask, you two are looking for a Familia to join right?" I questioned, thinking back to what I've heard the girl with long hair said earlier.

"Yep/ Yes." The two replied in sync as they nodded.

"Then why are you two using such a roundabout way to find one? Can't you just join the one you find suits you?"

The one with long hair rolled her eyes. "It's because we don't want to join just any Familia, we want to join one that earned our respect." She told me as though it's the most obvious thing in the world. Well sorry lady, it's not like I can read minds. "It'd be great if they are interesting and fun as well but we'll take what we can get so long as they prove themselves worthy." I resist rolling my eyes at the cliché reason that they have because I don't want to get hurt for being rude. Amazons and their battle boners.

I let out a thoughtful hum as an idea started to form in my mind, a very interesting idea. "Weeeeell," I drawled. "If you're looking for a strong and interesting Familia, you can always try Loki's Familia." I suggested while keeping a smirk from appearing from my face. "They're currently the top 2 ranking Familia in Orario and frequently go on expeditions into the Dungeon."

"Really?" The one with long hair asked, a bit of interest leaking into her voice.

"Yep. From what I've seen and heard about them, they are the most interesting bunch you'll ever find in this place and is always looking for new challenges to overcome. Loki-sama seem to accept everyone who comes her way so it's a pretty big and diverse group that you'll be joining. Lots of interesting people there, not to mention strong ones too. Their captain and vice-caption are both level 5s and they have a handful of level 3s in their midst." I informed them, hoping that they would give Loki's Familia a shot. It's definitely not because they're absolutely guarantee to lose against them and I want to see them knock around a bit. Nope, no siree.

Anyway, that place would be good for them if an exciting life is what they're looking for. Loki may have a reputation of being a perverted old man but she actually cares for her children and is actually one of the few deities that I don't dislike, unlike many of the other deities that I know of who treats people as tools or toys.

Deities. They never change.

I could tell them about Freya's Familia instead as they're ranked 1st in Orario but I don't really like the Goddess there despite having never seen her before. Not sure why but something about her Familia just rubs me the wrong way.

The girl with long hair nodded with a thoughtful expression on her face. "Alright, it does sound interesting. If they're as you say then I suppose we'll go see them for ourselves. Mind directing us to where they are?"

"Most certainly." I replied with a grin and started rattling off the directions that they would need to take in order to reach the Twilight Manor.

The girls thanked me and started making their way there. Just as they were leaving, I remembered something important and call out to them before they got too far. "Oh hey! If you do see their pet dog, do give it head pats and tell him he's a good boy for me yeah? I haven't been able to visit him lately so he must've been lonely while I was gone. He's easily recognizable by his gray hair and bad attitude." I shouted.

I can tell that they're obviously confused by my sudden request but agreed to do so nonetheless. I watched them go, thinking that this will be the last I will see of them.

With that dealt with, I began my trek home. Since it's still rather early, I'm thinking that I'll put in some time to properly maintain my equipment for once least they break down again in the worst time possible and replenish my smoke bombs- Wait, wasn't there a sales going on in the market today?

-0-

Orario- Blue Pharmacy

-0-

"I'm home." I called out tiredly as I push open the door to the medicine shop that I've been living in for the past 14 years.

After a grueling battle with crazy housewives and occasional grandmas, I managed to buy enough supplies that will last us for a while so I wouldn't have to worry about us running out of food for the time being.

It was a battle of epic proportions; things were flying everywhere while people charged into the melee, using whatever means they could to reign supreme in a death match that challenges one's mettle and wits. Old ladies were performing amazing feats of acrobatics and flying everywhere, housewives were using toddlers as makeshift shields and their shopping bags as weapons and one guy got a leek stuck up his a.s.s for trying to clam them down.

Truly, it's an epic that will be recorded down in the annuls of history where our descendants will read about in awe.

"Welcome back, Nii-san." Came the warm greeting from behind the counter of the shop. I look towards the source and saw a little girl a year younger than me sitting behind it with a small smile on her face. From seeing such a small shift in her expression alone, I can tell that she's obviously relief to see me back safe and sound as she's one to rarely show much emotion on her face.

That, my friends, is the girl that I came to think of as my little sister during my life in this world, Naaza Erisuis.

If any of you weebs have any l.e.w.d thoughts about her, I swear by Apollo's limp d.i.c.k that I will find a way to cross over to your side and kill you…. Then I'll steal your computers or console because damn do I miss video games.

Naaza here is a Chienthrope, one of the many races that exist in this world, meaning that she has dog ears and tail. She used to have very long hair but it's much shorter now due to reasons and purple eyes. She's wearing a shirt that has it's sleeve longer on it's right side while the other is short. It may look like she's wearing a silver gauntlet on her right hand right now but in actuality, she's not. Her entire right arm is a prosthetic silver arm that she can move around just like a regular arm.

Best part is, it also grows alongside it's owner. If you ask for how that works than I'll answer with 'Magic!' because I don't freaking know. As for why her arm is like that, well...it's a s.e.n.s.i.t.i.v.e topic, fresh too for the both of us so maybe I'll explain it next time?

"How's business today?" I ask her as I enter the shop and close the door, adjusting the bags of groceries in my arm so that the contents doesn't spill.

"The usual." She replied in her usual soft spoken manner and I nodded. Usual meant absolutely not a f.u.c.k.i.n.g customer. Being someone close to her, I can tell that she's rather upset by it judging by how her ears just drooped.

Noticing that she's in low spirits, I went to cheer her up. I put the bag down and move behind the counter so I could ruffle her head. "Don't worry about it, someone would come in eventually. Even if no one did we'll still be able to get by with the money I've earned by adventuring." I told her as I continued to make a mess of her hair.

Naaza seem to frown at the mention of my current profession but didn't say anything about it. Instead, she tilt her head to look at me and gave me a small glare that has no heat in it. "I told you to stop doing this."

"So you say, but yet you're wagging your tail like you're enjoying it." I replied. Smugly of course.

"N-no I'm not." She tires to deny it, eyes darting away from mine and using her hands to keep her traitorous tail in check. Fufufu, don't you know that the more you deny it the more obvious it is to me?

It was then did the door swings open and in comes a dude that looks like he has a permanent scowl on his face.

"Oh." I let out as I stop rubbing Naaza's head so I could address him properly. "Well, if it isn't the perpetually angry mutt. What brings you here today Bete-kun?"

That guy there is Bete Loga, a level 3 from Loki's Familia that's well known for his rough personality. He's a werewolf so the ears and tails of a wolf's is a given. Bete has gray colored hair along with amber eyes and the first thing one would notice about him when you're speaking with him face to face is that he has a blue tattoo on the left side of his face that looks like a lightning bolt.

He's currently wearing a gray furred jacket that's currently open with no undershirt underneath, along with black trousers and boots. I'm also not sure why he's even wearing a jacket in the first place if he's going to be showing off his entire c.h.e.s.t to everyone like a flasher. Who knows, maybe it's a werewolf thing.

"Tsk. I'm here to buy potions obviously. Why else would I enter a shop specialized in them?" He replied as he walk towards the counter.

"I see. Oh, by the way, did you guys receive the gift that I sent your way?" I asked him, placing both my hands on the counter as I lean forward with a smirk on my face. Bete's eyes twitched and his scowl seem to deepen, giving me all the answer that I needed.

"What gift?" Naaza question with a puzzled look as she look between us.

"Just something I found on the way back and decide to sent over to Loki's Familia. So, how are they?" I told Naaza before turning back to Bete.

"They're a pain in the a.s.s. You sure have a lot of guts to sent something so troublesome to my home." Came Bete's irate answer.

"Really? They seem like good people to me."

"The entire courtyard got destroyed during their spar." Bete's ear twitched at the reminder he gave himself, most likely thinking about the cost it would take to repair all the damage.

"At least they're strong right?" I tried again and the werewolf sighed, shoulders slacking slightly.

"Yeah. Can't deny that." He muttered.

"Neat. Did you get to fight them?" I asked in curiosity, wondering how well they did against him.

Bete shook his head, looking disappointed. "No, Finn and Gareth were the ones that took them down. I didn't even get to see the fight because it was already over when I got there."

I nodded with a slight frown on my face, disappointed that I wouldn't be able to get first hand account of the fight. What a shame. "I'm guessing that they're part of your Familia now right?"

"Yes." Bete answered testily. "Loki-sama was more than happy to add two scantily clad girls into our ranks." I smiled and nodded to myself. Yep, that's Loki alright.

"You seemed rather annoyed Bete-kun, is something wrong?" I asked him, trying to sound concern but failing as I have an idea as to why he's so worked up already.

"Apparently, someone told the Amazons that Loki's Familia has a pet dog and ask them to give him head pats when they see him so he wouldn't be lonely. Something that Tiona is more than happy to do after she finally realized that you were referring to me after asking around for our pet dog that doesn't exist." He growled at me and I grinned widely.

"So one of them actually did it? Wow, who would've thought." I stated in genuine surprise. I thought they would forget about it by the time they reached the manor. "By the way, who's Tiona?"

Bete paused for a moment, looking like he's trying to recall the image of the one we're talking about. "Short hair and looks like a sack of bones."

"Ah." I let out in understanding, finally able to put a name to the face that I've met earlier. "What about the other one?"

"Tione."

"Now that's just lazy writing." I muttered to myself.

Now, one may wander just how I am able to converse with someone of such high social status despite being nothing more than a lowly level 1 and is able to dash out jibes without getting my face pound in; well here's the exposition for you curious viewers and I'll keep it short as always.

It all started out many years ago where we bump into each other by chance. I was 9 and he was 12 and just arrived in Orario all lost and clueless and he's all angst and angry from having his entire clan wiped out by monsters. He didn't like the way I looked and I didn't like the way he smells so we fought (verbally) until he I managed to convinced that being all angst isn't going to help with his situation.

That got him out of his funk and he started doing something about his situation, mainly finding ways to get stronger so a tragedy like that doesn't happen to him again. I helped by looking for a Familia for him to join as well as providing some basic necessities which I have to force onto him because of his stubbornness. We remain in contact afterwards and hang out from time to time just to trade barbed words with one another.

It all worked out great for him...until he did a Sasuke last year after becoming a level 3 and went to kill the monster that destroyed his clan. He came back after successfully completing his mission only to find that his Familia got shot to hell in the Dungeon when he was gone and had left Orario. I was the one who had to break the news to him.

He disappeared after that and I had to look all over for him, fearing that he might commit sudoku-I mean seppuku, and eventually found out that he got into some trouble in a pub and ended up joining Loki's Familia the next morning for my effort. I punched him in the face for worrying me when I saw him again and that did almost no damage at all. My hand was the one that got hurt instead. Damn him and his ridiculous resilience against my attacks. How am I suppose to show that I cared if I can't hurt him with my punches? That's like, the only few ways us guys use to show affection to one another.

We still kept in contact afterwards just so we could snub at each other like always and I'd like to think that we're friends at best or frenemies at worst. Still, it's good to see that he's a lot better now.

"Putting all that aside, what can I get for you today Bete-kun?"

"One small bag of the lowest quality potions you've got." Bete told me, straight to the point as always.

I nodded and turn around to get what he requested. Naaza is keeping quiet the entire time during our pleasantries mostly because Bete scares her even if I had told her plenty of time before that he's a big softly deep down in his heart. Shielded by multiple defensive layers of pain, remorse and his self-hate of his own weakness of course. Sign, nothing's ever simple with Adventurers.

I got the potions and place them all in a potion bag that could hold a total of 10 before placing them on the counter. "Here you go, that would be 10000 Valis total." I informed him with a grin.

Bete's eyes narrowed when I mentioned the obviously ripoff price but he just let out an affirmative grunt and place the money on the counter before taking the bag and started walking away.

"Don't let the door hit your a.s.s on your way out mutt!" I shouted to him as he left through the door.

"Don't slam your d.i.c.k on the toilet seat when you're taking a piss, twat!" He shot back and close the door while I just laughed. Ah, good old Bete.

With Bete gone, Naaza finally spoke up. "Why do you two keep insulting each other like that?" Her extremely puzzled expression told me that she had been wanting to ask that particular question for a while now.

"It's just how we guys show affection to one another." I simply replied with a smile.

She stared at me with those stoic eyes of hers, searching my expression for any sign of deceit. After finding none, she simply sighed in defeat. "Boys are weird." She concluded and I just let out another laugh. "Still, I just don't get it."

"What don't you get?" I asked while rising a curious eyebrow.

"Why does Loga-san keeps coming over to buy low quality potions from us? Someone of his caliber shouldn't have any need for them and he didn't question the ridiculous price you were charging him. Only a fool would think that 10000 Valis is normal for 10 low quality potions."

I let out a thoughtful hum as I scratch my chin, thinking about the best way to explain this situation to her. Knowing how Bete is like, I figured that the best way to do this is to go over a scenario that has probably already happened while I was away. "Well….judging by what you've said, Bete-kun has came to our shop before while I was away, yes?"

Naaza looked puzzled at my question but replied nevertheless. "Yes."

"I'm assuming that he bought the same thing as he did today right?"

Naaza nodded again.

"How did you charge him then? Normal or overcharged?"

"The normal price of course. We're running a business here you know."

I smiled at her answer because I can easily predict what Bete would do afterwards. "And I'm guessing that he payed way more than he needs to and told you to keep the change, adding in some kind of snide comment about not being able to return them right?"

Naaza's eyes widen slightly at my words. "How did you know?" She asked, looking a bit astonished at my ability to tell what had transpired with so little information.

Feeling rather proud that I got it right, I began explaining to Naaza the secret of understanding how Bete ticks and started assuming a lecture pose. It has me standing straight with my hand on my elbow and a finger waving in the air. "You see, that's just how Bate-kun is. News about our Familia's situation has probably spread to all of Orario by now so it wouldn't be weird that Bete-kun has heard about it. Being such a nice friend that he is, he probably thought about helping us but didn't know how. He wouldn't just come up and give us some money because it would be awkward for him due to his personality so he went with the next best think he could think of. In other words, he does so by buying things from us and paying us way more than what the items costs and refuse any change."

"I already realized just what his game is the moment he asked for the potions so by charging him by that amount, I also effectively told him that I know what he's up to and set a limit to how much he can give us as donation. It wouldn't do if he keeps giving us too much money after all. He's a level 3 and he needs the money to keep himself and his gear maintained." I told my little sister and she just stares blankly at me. "He knows that I knows that he knows that I'm onto him but didn't say anything because he just wants to save face. He's too proud to say it by he actually does care. Besides, it's not like the potions are going to waste; they'll most likely be passed out to their low level Familia members during training or something." I concluded my explanation with a nod and let my hands down.

After hearing what I have to say, Naaza just kneaded her temples like she's having trouble grasping how the being known as Bete works. "Why does he have to be so complicated? Can't he just be honest and tell us he's giving us money to help us?" She complained with a bit of annoyance in her voice.

I just chuckled at her reaction. "He wouldn't be Bate otherwise. That's how he is, a typical tsundere." 80% tsun, 20% dere to be exact.

Naaza quirked a lone eyebrow slightly. "What's a tsundere?"

"Well, my young pupil, a tsundere is someone who is shown to be cold and doesn't care about other people but deep down, they're just someone who has trouble showing how they really feel and actually cares a lot. That's what Bete-kun is, a tsundere. While you, on the other hand, can be considered as a Kuudere."

"A what?"

"A Kuudere. Cold, blunt or cynical on the outside but warm and caring on the inside, just like I know you are." I began cooing as I started scratching the bottom of her chin like how one would with a puppy.

"Stop that." She w.h.i.n.ed in protest but I noticed that she's not really doing anything to stop me and despite having a cool and calm facade, her tail was wagging frantically at being c.a.r.e.s.s by me.

"Your lips says no but your body seems to be saying yes." I let out an evil laugh. Man, that sounded so wrong when I said it out loud. I thought to myself as I added an extra attack by patting her head as well.

I felt her ears twitched when my hand landed on her head before her entire body relaxes as I started stroking her head. I could feel Naaza basically melting into a puddle in my hands as she looked lost to the world with an expression of absolute bliss on her face.

Best. Stress reliever. Ever.

"Glad to see you two are getting along as always." Someone said as they entered the shop.

"Oh! Welcome back Miach-sama!" I greeted him with a grin as I let go of Naaza. With my hands gone, she finally snapped out of her stupor and realized that our God has return.

"M-Miach-sama!?" She yelped, face burning red with embarrassment from being seen in such a state.

"I'm home." Miach replied with a warm smile on his face. If you couldn't tell by the name of my Familia, this guy here is my God. He has long dark blue hair and dark blue eyes and he usually wears a black robe with a tan brown stole that reaches down past his shoulders, and brown shoes. He's also criminally beautiful to the point that I'd often wonder if I'd have to fend off a horde of horny ladies one day to keep Miach's purity safe.

"So where've you been Miach-sama?" I asked him. Probably off unintentionally seducing girls again with that beautiful face and caring personality of his no doubt. Chicks just digs that.

Miach let out a tired sigh that made me wonder what could've gotten him so down. "Well, I remembered that there was a sales today in the market so I went out as quickly as I could before things were all sold out. But when I got there, I was already too late and everything was already gone." He told me in obvious disappointment.

"Oh, I've already went there and bought what I could so don't worry about it." I Informed him and pointed to the bags on the counter.

"You have?" He asked before seeing the bags and a small smile broke out across his features. "I see. Thank you for doing so Cain-kun."

"Since you're back, I guess I'll take a shower first before working on dinner." I said as I took the bags from the counter and walk towards the kitchen in the back. I've always been working as a cook for this Familia since I was young and that hasn't change even after I became an Adventurer. I started out my day by cooking breakfast and lunch and I always made sure to come home before dark so I could cook for Dinner them. It's my favorite hobby as it lets me do things while letting my mind wonder and relax, and watching people enjoy what I've made always makes me happy too.

"Do you want me to-" Miach began speaking but was cut off.

"Nope! Just sit down and relax while I work Miach-san." I answered him quickly. Was I being disrespectful? Yes, probably. But Miach was about to suggest helping me in the kitchen and I can't have that. The kitchen is my sanctuary, my personal happy place and experimentation area for new dishes. If Gods have can dominion over things and places then the kitchen is mine and I will protect it till my dying breath. Trespassers will be dealt with via leeks being shoved into their anuses.

"You too Naaza-chan." I said as I saw her wanting to get up and offer her help as well. "The ban is still in place remember." I reminded her and her ears flatten against her head with a small pout on her face.

"It was just one time." She muttered softly in discontent.

"Yes, I know. But you have a tendency to mix whatever you want just to see what would happen. Useful trait for potion making but absolutely horrible when it comes to cooking. So unless you learn to control yourself young lady, you're not stepping into the kitchen." I told her as I walked away, doing my best not to let her pitiful w.h.i.n.es affect me resolve.

-0-

Dinner went by normally, it was a routine as it could get to be honest. We ate and talk about our day, chatting about nonsensical topics to pass the time. It used to be many of us but now it's just us three; it's quieter than before but I don't mind.

Then we went and did out own things, Naaza went to make more potions to replenish the ones we've sold today and Miach is watching over her so she doesn't make any mistakes. I, on the other hand, went to make more smoke bombs and turning my broken sword into a dagger by filing it down the jagged tip with a whetstone until it became a single point.

Afterwards came the routine that I do every night; updating my status.

"Yo, Miach-sama. I've come to get my status updated." I said as I opened the door to my God's room. It was already dark and the only source of light in the room were the magic lamps in the room.

"Cain-kun. How many times have I told you to knock before entering." My God admonish me like a disappointed parent would but directed me to take a seat nonetheless. It looks like he was expecting me already and have prepared the things necessary for my update.

I sat down on one of the only two chairs in the room and took off my shirt. Miach took a seat behind me and I heard the familiar cl.i.c.k.i.n.g sound of a small box being opened. I watch over my shoulder as Miach took out a small needle from the box and prick his finger with it. I turn back around and felt his blood dropping on my back before the usual glowing began. I could feel his finger touching my back as he began working on my Falna.

As someone who has received a blessing from a deity called Falna, I can become stronger than any average humans in the way of video game like stats. There are 5 basic abilities that can be increased with this blessing and they are very typical in any RPG games; Strength, Endurance, Dexterity, Agility, and Magic.

It's very self explanatory. These stats can be increased further with excellia. The more excellia, or exp as I'd like to call it, that I earned while diving in the Dungeon, the more my stats will be increased.

Now, Dungeon diving isn't the only way one can gain exp, you can gain them from everyday life too. Be it running around, doing manual labor or even playing, you'll still get exp from doing all those things. But the amount you can earn by doing those is almost nonexistent so the Dungeon is always the main location to gain exp for Adventurers. The only exceptions where one can gain large amount of exp while outside of the Dungeon is fighting against monsters from the surface and other Adventurers. To my knowledge at least. There could be more but I sure as hell don't know about them.

"Did something happened in the Dungeon today Cain-kun?" Micah suddenly asked as he continued to move his finger around on my back.

I tried really hard not to flinch before addressing him. "Whatever do you mean Miach-san? Nothing happened today." I replied in a nonchalant manner.

"Oh? Then explain how you managed to buy the groceries today?"

"I went over there and bought them obviously." I replied, trying my best to remain inconspicuous.

"But Cain-kun, if you returned from the Dungeon by your usual time then you wouldn't have made it to the market sale before everything is gone. Since you did so, that meant you returned from your trip early. I know you well enough to know that you would never do something like that unless something has happened. So don't try and lie your way out of this one young man, tell me what happen and don't leave anything out."

I winched at his words, feeling rather dumb that I thought I brush aside what happened today without anyone knowing. "I really can't hide anything from you now can I?" I said as I look over my shoulder at him. Miach most likely suspected something after I told him about my shopping trip but he waited until we're alone so he would question me without Naaza knowing. Smart move on his part. Naaza would've exploded with worry if she had known.

Miach has a small smile on his face that looked almost sad in my eyes. "We deities have a lot of experience in reading people Cain-kun. We have lived a very long time after all."

I just heave out a sigh, knowing that I can't get away from this and face forward, not daring to see my God's expression as I told him about the mistake that I've committed today.

As I recount my tale, I felt his finger stopped moving at the part where I got myself trapped at a dead end before moving again moments after I told him how I managed to get away.

After I finished, Miach let out a sigh of his own. "Cain-kun, I know what I want to tell you will be pointless since you most likely already took the mistake you've made to heart. But please, do be more careful. If something happened to you as well…." He trailed off as his eyes seem to lose some of it's usual l.u.s.ter as he seem to be thinking of memories of the past.

"Hey! I know that!" I quickly said something before he got too deep into his memories. The downfall of our Familia is still a very recent thing and my God is the one affected by it the most. Losing some of his children in the Dungeon, incurring a large debt and watching most of his children leave soon after; what Miach had experience would make anyone mortal man fall into a downward spiral of depression.

But yet he didn't, he continued to stay strong and with a smile on his face, just for us. He kept trying despite the state our Familia is in, working harder than he ever has before to provide for us and is actually hopeful that we could recover from this. He's a strong man and I respect that; that's why I'm doing this, fighting everyday and risking my life just so we could recover what we've lost just a bit faster.

"I'll be more careful, I promise. I'll get so strong that you won't ever have to worry about me getting hurt in the Dungeon ever again." I told him confidently with a smile.

I don't know what's going on in his head but I seem to succeed in bringing him back to the present if the smile he return to me was anything to go by. Miach nodded and remove his finger from my back, signifying that he's done updating my status.

I got up from the chair and pick up the shirt that I had dropped to the ground. When I got straightened myself, I just so happen to be facing the mirror that Miach has in his room and I saw my own reflection in it.

With my shirt off, I looked like a scrawny child, something that I'm hoping to change in the future. There is already some noticeable development in my muscle mass, most particularly in the legs and arms. I looked up to see my own face and a pair of black iris met with mine and short, black hair sway gently in the air as I moved to put on my shirt.

They say that I've inherit my mother's looks and I can agree with them. She's from the Far East, some place where black hair and eyes were the most dominant trait there. My name on the other hand, is a mixture of western and eastern names because my parents had trouble naming me. My father is from Orario and he wanted dips on naming me, but sadly for him, so did mum. They argued about it but eventually reached a compromise by mixing the names that they have in mind. Cain is from my father and Musashi from my mother as it's her family name.

While I was examining my looks, Miach was busy writing down my status on a piece of paper. The reason for doing so is because the Falna on my back is written in the language of the Gods and I have no way of understanding them. Oh, and also because it's hard to read the thing on one's back.

"Here you go Cain-kun." Miach said as he handed me the paper. I took it from him and quickly read what was written.

Cain Musashi

Lv. 1

Strength: H 150 → H 158

Endurance: I 80

Dexterity: H 189 → H 195

Agility: G 205 → G 215

Magic: I 0

Magic

[ ]

Skill

Stealth

[One with the shadows]

Makes one harder to detect

Effects increases when hidden in the shadows

Effects increases with one's experience

Let's see here, my stats didn't increase much but that's to be expected with how little I did today besides running for hours on end. I try my best to keep things balanced but with your life on the line, it's rather hard to do so.

I really need to catch up on lost time tomorrow and grind my stats but I need to be more careful at the same time as well. Sheesh, I wish I had some overpowered ability that would let me plow through enemies with ease like our main protagonist does. That way I don't have to keep worrying about possibly dying on accident.

Oh that's right, I forgot to mention that I actually have a skill.

It is said that discovering a skill is rare occurrence but I call BS on that. If I recall correctly, all the main casts has a skill or two in their disposal. Besides my skill is not that much of a big deal anyway. Stealth is a very easy skill to acquire. In fact, it's the most common skill out there for thieves and cutthroats. From what I've heard, in order to acquire it, one just has to spent a lot of time sneaking around and pray to RNGesus that it'll appear one day.

For me, it showed up when I got my Falna updated for the first time, which was 3 months ago for when I wanted to start going into the dungeon to earn money. Previously, there was never really a need to update my status as I wasn't doing much other than goof around like a brat that I am but when I set my goals to fighting monsters so we could afford living comfortably, I knew that I needed the boost in my status to help me through.

Miach theorized that I may have gotten it due to how sneaky I used to be back when I was younger. I've already been trained in the art of stealth in my previous life for assassination and espionage missions during WW3 so I have all this knowledge regarding stealth in the back of my head and no way to utilize it here. And so, I've made it my personal mission to sneak around and scare the other members of my Familia for shit and giggles. Their cries of shock and terror always do make me feel warm and fuzzy inside. I am smart enough not to do that to those who would enter the dungeon to collect materials of course. Their first instinct would no doubt be attacking the source of their scare and I prefer living thank you very much.

"Thanks a lot for the update Miach-sama. I'll be heading off to bed now so good night." I told him as I kept the paper to burn later. It wouldn't do if someone got their hands on it after all.

"Good night, Cain-kun. Sweet dreams."

-0-

I was awoken from my slumber when I heard the door to my room creek open. I didn't move an inch nor did I open my eyes to show that I was alerted to the intruder's presence. My instincts from the war came flooding through my body and it automatically readys itself to attack anyone that could be coming to end my life. I was ready to fight, the moment the intruder came within a few meters to slid my throat, I would reach for my knife I have strapped on me and strike first-

My brain finally caught up from it's restful state and is in full alert. I remembered that I'm no longer in that hellhole, I'm in the Blue Pharmacy, my home, somewhere where I'm safe. I force my body to relax and kept my ear out to hear whoever just entered my room. There's only two other people here so it really isn't that hard to guess who had entered.

She has done this many times before after what happened to her in the Dungeon after all. I peek open a lone eye and confirmed that it is indeed who I thought it is and I close it again.

I kept myself still, breathing evenly as I hear Naaza's attempt at being sneaky as she move towards me.

I could feel her climbing onto my bed slowly and steadily. Once she's on, she lay down and place her head against my shoulder, trying to make herself comfortable as much as she could without disturbing me. I could feel her breath against my skin and the heaving of her c.h.e.s.t as she tried to go back to sleep but the shaking of her body told me that she's having trouble in that regard.

"Nightmares again?" I suddenly spoke up without opening my eyes and I could feel the girl went stiff.

Naaza has been suffering constant bouts of nightmares after the incident. I would normally find her crying in her bed at night and will always try my best to comfort her. It makes my heart wrench whenever I saw her in that state and a feeling of uselessness assaults me when I realized that I can't do anything about it at all. There was nothing that I could do to make the nightmares go away and when morning comes around, she would look like a shambling corpse.

I found that being by her side usually helps so I did so as often as I could, sitting by her bedside and talking to her until she falls asleep. This went on everyday and eventually, I find her climbing onto my bed to sleep with me like what she's doing right now. The nightmares were especially bad during the first few days but gradually lessen in intensity. Now though, she managed to go four days without having one so it's an improvement.

After a moment of asking my question, she eventually nodded.

There was silence for a moment as I ponder on what to do. "Do you want me to sing a lullaby like last time?" I asked her.

Another pause, another nod.

I wrap my arm around her and pull her close, she didn't resist and lean her body against me more. I took a deep breath and began humming a melody. I began humming the lullaby that my mother used to put me to sleep with my past life as it's the only one that I know by heart. 'Wanderer's Lullaby'. Just listening to it always calms me down so I hope it would have the same effect for Naaza.

Eventually, the little girl fell asleep and I stopped. I carefully sat up and adjust her position so that she'll be sleeping in a proper position. I watch over her as she slept and realized that she had been crying again before coming over to my room as I noticed the dried tears at the edge of her eyes.

I move my hand onto her head and began stroking it. Naaza shifted a bit in her sleep but remained asleep. Many thoughts were going through my mind at the moment but the most prominent one that kept making it's way to the forefront of my mind is the one telling me to keep this little one safe and secure. The little girl that I've come to view and love as my own little sister. The only way I can do that is to provide her with a better life where she doesn't have to worry about anything and live as a normal girl.

The best way to do that is to get stronger so I can earn money faster.

Being an Adventurer, it's a dangerous life where one could die from a single mistake. Who knows when I'll die in the Dungeon, could be tomorrow, or years later but it'll happen the moment I let my guard down and become careless. The Dungeon is said to be a living entity that hates all living beings and will do everything in it's power to eradicate us like insects. I don't disagree with that notion. But the money one could earn just from simply killing monsters in the dungeon often outweigh the risks.

With that money, I could help Miach pay off his debt, allow Naaza to live more comfortably. They'll be able to live out their lives unburdened and free.

And for that reason alone, I'll keep on fighting. I'll keep on staining these hands with blood and gore as I crawl upon another mountain of corpses. I'll survive whatever it is that the Dungeon will throw my way and I'll come back home to my Familia at the end of the day, alive and smiling.

For their sake, there can be no other outcome.