Chapter 24: Advisor Trouble, Dungeon, and Meeting
~Chico POV~
I woke up to the soft warmth of Demeter pressed against me, her breath slow and peaceful. The room was quiet, bathed in the soft gold of early morning light filtering through the curtains. For a moment, I didn't move, just stayed there, watching the way her chest rose and fell, the way a stray lock of hair curled against her cheek.
I almost didn't want to get up.
But today…I had plans.
I slowly eased away from her, careful not to wake her as I slipped my arm from under hers. She shifted slightly, but didn't stir. I took a moment to sit at the edge of the bed, glancing back at her one last time before letting out a quiet sigh.
Things were going to start picking up. That plant monster yesterday, Violas if he recalled…they weren't some accident. That was an attack. And it would be the first of many.
If I wanted to protect her, Persephone, Ariel, and anyone else, I had to get stronger. A lot stronger.
And there was only one place to do that.
"The Dungeon…" I murmured, rubbing the sleep from my eyes. "I need to go deeper."
That was the plan for today. Prepare to go further than I ever had.
But before that, I'd need to sit down with my advisor.
…Ariel.
My chest tightened a bit at the thought.
That last interaction replayed in my mind.
Demeter said to give her time. Maybe that was the right move. But how much time exactly?
Did I say something? Do something? Was it the kiss? The danger? Maybe I was overthinking it. Or maybe I wasn't thinking hard enough.
I ran a hand through my hair, frowning.
"…I hope she's alright."
I stood and quietly made my way out of Demeter's room, grabbing my shirt on the way out. She was still resting, a content little smile on her lips. I didn't want to disturb that.
So I returned to my room, shut the door behind me, and began getting ready for the day ahead. I didn't plan on going to the dungeon, so I just carried my clothes and some Valis.
Whether Ariel wanted to talk to me or not—I'd see her soon.
And I hoped…that things were still okay.
——————————————————————
The streets of Orario bustled with the usual morning energy, vendors opening stalls, adventurers chatting on the way towards Babel. But all of that felt muffled to me.
My steps were steady, but they weren't fast. I wasn't in a rush, not because I had nothing to do…but because I was nervous.
The Guild building loomed ahead, just as it always did.
I stepped inside.
The air smelled of ink and parchment, the low murmurs of conversation mixing with the soft scratching of quills. I scanned the rows of booths until my eyes landed on her.
Ariel.
She was hunched over a small stack of papers, focused—but clearly frustrated. Her brow was furrowed, her lips drawn tight, and she rubbed her temple as she turned another page.
That expression didn't suit her at all.
…I wanted to fix that.
I walked up, trying to play it cool. "Hey," I said with a small smile. "You look like you're two paper stacks away from burning this place down."
She blinked, looked up at me, and then back down at her paperwork.
"…Good morning," she said, quietly.
Not cold. But distant.
"Can I help with anything? I make a pretty good paperweight," I offered, with a light chuckle.
Nothing.
She just set her pen down and stood up, grabbing a folder. "You must be here for an advisor session are you not?"
I blinked at the bluntness…but I nodded nonetheless.
And just like that, we were back to business.
We found a booth and went through the usual setup. She opened a detailed floor chart and began explaining.
"The 8th and 9th floor begins a transitional shift. You'll notice more open plains. Ceiling height changes from 3 to 4 meters. Room size and quantity increase. Fewer halls. More space. Light becomes brighter—almost like sunlight—because of the phosphorescence above."
Her voice was calm, steady. Professional.
No warmth.
"No new monsters," she continued. "But the older ones from floors 1 through 7 return, enhanced. If you're planning on diving deeper, the Guild recommends a minimum status of E in all basic stats."
I nodded, trying to focus. Trying not to feel how tight my chest had gotten.
"Got it…E-rank baseline. Got any notes on optimal paths?"
She handed me a folded map without a word.
We reviewed routes. Danger points. Rest stops. The kind of stuff I usually enjoyed going over with her.
But she barely looked at me the whole time.
And that hurt more than I expected it to.
As the session wrapped up, Ariel quietly began stacking her papers. I lingered, unsure if I should say anything. Eventually, I rose from my chair, turned toward the door…and stopped.
"…Ariel."
I heard her hand freeze mid-fold.
I didn't turn back yet.
"I…I'm sorry," I said, swallowing once. "I…might not know exactly what I did…b-but I have a guess."
My hand clenched slightly at my side.
"I didn't mean to make you feel…this way. Whatever it was, I'm sorry. Really."
Silence.
I finally turned, looking straight at the closed booth door between us.
"I care about you," I said, voice soft but clear. "and no matter what…I always will."
I lingered for just a second longer…hoping maybe she'd say something.
But nothing came.
So I walked away.
Behind me, hidden by the booth wall, Ariel stood frozen. Her eyes wide, lips parted, and her hand reaching, hung in the air, trembling softly.
——————————————————————
I quickly returned home.
I stepped through the front door without a word and made my way straight to my room.
No pause. No greeting. Just quiet, determined footsteps down the hall.
Once inside, I closed the door behind me and exhaled. My room was still, untouched. The same as I left it, but it felt…quiet.
I grabbed my backpack and placed it onto the bed and began preparing.
No need for armor for the moment. He wouldn't go too deep today.
Instead, I checked the leather straps on my belt, made sure my potion vials were full and secure, fastened a couple to my thigh and belt. I also made sure that I had a single high healing potion and magic potion both held summoning marks, ready to be summoned.
I tightened the drawstrings on the pouch that held my magic chalk and spare dagger. My hands worked with a practiced rhythm.
And through it all…my mind wouldn't remain still.
She didn't look at me once during the session…
I shook the thoughts off. This wasn't helping.
I slung my pack over my shoulder and headed out, pulling the door quietly shut behind me.
I moved out.
What I didn't notice was Demeter
She was out in the familia's garden, the morning breeze gently stirring her hair. She was kneeling near a planter box—probably tending to new seedlings—but her hands had stopped moving.
She was watching me with concern in her eyes.
And I didn't notice, my head was just…not in the best place, and worse I didn't know why it was affecting me so much.
She didn't call out to me.
And right now, I needed something.
I needed to clear my head.
Was the dungeon the best choice? Probably not. But I went anyway.
And so I made my way to the dungeon. Hoping to clear my head.
——————————————————————
I drove the dagger into the last kobold's throat.
It let out a short, wet gasp before going still—joining its comrades in a heap of steaming, broken bodies littered across the stone floor. I let out a slow breath. Not from fatigue…not really. But from the awareness that something was off again.
I looked down.
My arm was bleeding.
A thin cut along the forearm—not deep, but still bleeding more than it should. That was the 3rd time today.
Tch…no. 4th.
I wiped the blade clean on a corpse's tattered pelt and stepped back. I hadn't gone deeper into the Dungeon—not past the 6th floor. Not when my mind wasn't all there. Which, looking back, made my decision to even enter the Dungeon today feel stupid.
But here I was.
Still.
I pulled out a basic healing potion and uncorked it. No drinking. It wasn't worth wasting the whole thing. I poured some over the cut and watched the blood slow, then clot. The stinging helped. Made sure it was working.
In the area, only my Mimic and myself remained. Nobody else.
Good.
I wandered off toward one of the dead-end pockets of the 6th floor and sat down. My backpack became my pillow. And the floor became my bedding. The floor was very hard, and cold…but I needed the break.
Still felt too open, though.
So I slotted Holy Flame, raised a hand, and cast a few golden fireballs into the corners of the stone chamber. They hit with light and sizzle, scorching small patches of floor and wall.
No spawn points here now. Not for a while.
A low, content sigh escaped me as I leaned back again.
Something was still missing.
I blinked…then smiled.
With a thought, I summoned a Familiar.
A flash of white shimmered before me, and there it was, Schrödinger's Cat. A perfectly ordinary-looking orange tabby, who immediately stretched, circled twice, and curled up right on my lap. A low purr started rumbling in his chest, and he rubbed his face against my arm.
I didn't question it.
I just pet him.
Maybe it was my Beast Bond trait. Maybe he just liked me.
Either way, I smiled for the first time in hours.
My body slowly relaxed. Tension in my shoulders softened. The pulse in my neck stopped racing.
Finally…silence.
Which meant…my thoughts could start.
And of course, they went right to Ariel.
The way she looked the day before, how distant she seemed today, the way she didn't look at me. Barely made eye contact. Her voice was…lifeless. She just wasn't the Ariel I've known.
And it hurt.
Why?
I was with Demeter, wasn't I? A goddess. Kind. Passionate. I accepted her feelings.
So why did my chest feel tight when Ariel pulled away?
I glanced down at the cat. His tail flicked once, content.
Was it guilt?
No…not quite.
It was confusion.
I turned my head, and saw the charm that she gifted me, my luck charm, a flame.
I exhaled again and my thoughts drifted inward—my Harem King trait.
"A Harem King to be…women are more attracted to you…and open to a harem."
That's the gist of what it said.
But what was underneath that?
Was it nudging me toward something I didn't understand yet?
Would I eventually have a harem whether I wanted one or not? Would my feelings adjust over time? Would theirs?
Was this what I wanted?
Was this what they wanted?
I didn't have those answers.
Not yet.
I would have to talk to Demeter. Tonight. Really talk. No distractions. No flirty glances or lingering touches. Just…a conversation.
And maybe she could help me untangle this knot in my chest.
I ran my fingers gently along the cat's fur, earning another soft purr.
Ariel…
I hoped she'd be alright.
I really, really liked her.
And I didn't want this distance between us to turn into something worse. I didn't want to lose another bond. Not like before.
So I stayed like that for a while. Let the firelight flicker across the dungeon walls. Let the Mimic consume the monster corpses. Let the purring steady my heartbeat.
An hour passed.
And I finally stood.
"I think it might be time to go home. You wanna come up with me?" I looked toward the orange tabby, and it mewed at me. I took that as a yes, and lifted the cat on top of my shoulders, once we were close I'll place him in my backpack.
I've been in the dungeon for a while, honestly, probably longer than I thought.
But I made my way back to the surface.
——————————————————————
With my cat hanging out of my backpack, and my feet climbing the steps, I finally made it out of the dungeon.
And the first thing I noticed was that the sun was starting to set. That meant I've been in the dungeon for at least 7 hours…that was much longer than I thought.
It seemed that the dungeon rush had already begun to calm down, as there were barely any other adventurers coming up from the dungeon, and only a small number heading down the main roads.
"Haaah…might as well head home." I murmured to myself.
Now that I realize it, I haven't eaten anything today. Perhaps I could make a quick detour to the Hostess or something, now that got my mouth salivating.
But as I began to leave the area around Babel, someone was heading towards me. Someone I doubt anyone wouldn't recognize.
Ottar…King
I paused my steps, my spine began to tingle, there was a hint of nervousness within me. But I believed there was no need to be nervous, after all, Lady Freya had wished to meet with me.
The King's footsteps finally stopped. He tilted his gaze down on me, and I looked up at him. We both stared into each other's eyes…Was I supposed to begin the conversation? Probably.
"…I presume that Lady Freya wishes to meet at this time?" I cautiously asked. I would be as respectful as needed.
His gaze was as cold as steel. He didn't even speak, he just nodded once. And that was enough.
"Please…lead the way." As soon as those words exited my mouth, he turned away from me, and headed back towards Babel. I began to walk just behind him, if I got any closer, his presence alone would make me sweat.
Whatever adventurer remained near Babel, was looking in our direction, mostly at Ottar. But I received a few curious glances, but I paid them no mind.
In just minutes, we stood in front of Babel's magic stone powered elevator. A very convenient invention for this time. And with just a couple of minutes of silence, waiting, the elevator doors opened, Ottar entered first, and I followed behind him.
If I recall, Freya's…suite? Was at the top floor. So this might be a long ride…
…
…
…
Yeah the silence was a little too awkward for me. So I did what any sane person, alone with the strongest person in the world would do…I tried to strike some conversation.
"…Would you mind if I asked you some questions?"
"…Speak." Those were the first words he's spoken to me. And his voice was very deep.
I took a slight breath, and asked my first question.
"…Is your name Ottar, or is it Ottarl?"
"…Either." Well that didn't really answer my question…perhaps something more intriguing.
"Your first rank up…how did you do it?" This was a genuine question. Not only was I interested in his story, but I was curious for myself as well. All it would take for me to level up would be a worthy feat, an adventure.
"…I wished to get stronger, so I fought those stronger than me, and I won."
And he was just as blunt as he was said to be. I was hoping for a more detailed story. But this is what I should have expected.
"Why do you ask?" Oh, he was actually engaging in some conversation. Well, he's answered my questions, even if just barely, I might as well answer back.
"I believe I'm only an adventure away from ranking up. I just don't know what I should do. What to aim for. Do I just let it come naturally? Search for an adventure? Or do I force the adventure to appear?…I am not certain." I had to get stronger. Strong enough to protect the ones I keep close. And the timetable has been ramped up. I did not wish to fall behind.
The lift continued in silence after that. Whether Ottar would reply to his answer, he did not know.
After nearly 10 minutes, the elevator had stalled, signifying that the ride had reached its destination. The doors open and reveal a rather luxurious hallway. Stepping out, the hall leads towards a pair of grand doors.
Ottar walks past him, and heads towards the doors. Chico then follows after him, only a few steps behind.
Ottar reached the door, but pauses. He turns around and faces him once more. Then he speaks.
"Adventurers must adventure. No matter the method, if we do not push past our limits, then we can never truly grow." He opened one of the doors.
"My lady will be with you shortly." He held the door open for him, and after processing what he said, he stepped into the room. Chico paused for a moment.
"Thank you." And with that Chico entered the room, anxious for what would come next.
——————————————————————
If Chico had to describe the room in a single word—it would be eloquent.
He stepped quietly into Freya's suite, and it was everything he'd imagined…and more.
Bookshelves lined the walls like watchful sentinels, packed with aged tomes, literature, perhaps even some grimories.
His eyes were drawn next to a lone red and gold chair at the far end of the room. It wasn't just furniture…it was a throne. The structure, the height, the rich, royal colors—it belonged to someone who ruled.
Beside it sat a low but elegant table set, accompanied by matching couches. Soft, regal, yet refined—red and gold once again.
But nothing held his attention like the wall of glass.
It stretched across the entire far side of the room, floor to ceiling. Looking through it, provided a view like the heavens.
He approached it slowly, standing just in front. His breath caught.
From here, Orario looked…small. So small. The streets, the plazas, the people—tiny threads in a vast, intricate pattern. The sky above was painted in purple and red. The sun had dipped past the city walls, but from here, high above, it still lingered on the horizon…burning gold through layered clouds.
It was peaceful…quiet…yet also lonely.
As he continued to gaze, he had failed to notice something. He didn't hear the door open. Nor the soft footsteps behind him. He didn't feel the gaze watching him.
Then a voice came out, smooth as velvet, with warmth that passed through him
"It's beautiful, isn't it?"
He answered without thinking. "Yes…it's so peaceful, quiet, but also…lonely."
A breath of silence followed. Then he blinked…once…twice. Reality caught up.
His chest tightened slightly as he slowly turned his head.
There she was.
Freya.
The Goddess of Beauty. Of Love. Of Fertility. Of War. The most influential, most powerful goddess in all the world stood just beside him…watching with silver eyes that seemed to peer past him, directly into his soul.
Her expression was soft…but unreadable.
Chico forced a nervous smile and bowed slightly. "G-Goddess Freya…it's an honor to meet you."
She turned to him with an elegant, playful smile. "There's no need to be nervous, Chico-san…may I call you Chico?"
He met her eyes—and immediately regretted it.
Her gaze pulled at something deep within him. His heartbeat quickened. His breath caught. His thoughts scattered like leaves in a storm. That gentle smile of hers…that divine glow…his entire perception felt off-kilter.
He blinked hard. Twice. Then again. Something wasn't right.
Her passive charm. That had to be it.
He thought he heard her sigh, maybe even whispered something, but his head was swimming. He clenched his eyes shut.
Focus. Clear your mind.
He tried to clear his mind, he also thought about his abilities. Masochist Soul. He slotted it in. His thoughts began to clear, but it wasn't enough. So he reached deeper into himself and finally began to calm down.
Relief swept over him like a breeze after suffocation. His pulse slowed. Thoughts straightened.
He exhaled, deeply, and opened his eyes.
Freya was facing him, expression surprised. Her silver eyes were slightly wide, her brows raised—not out of offense…but interest.
Chico dipped his head again. "Forgive me…your passive charm seemed to affect me."
She stepped closer, voice curious and amused. "And yet you were able to recover, even now you aren't affected…how interesting."
He noticed again just how tall she was. Her heels gave her added presence, but even without them, she carried herself like a queen. Her outfit—if it could even be called that—left little to the imagination. Tasteful, elegant…but impossibly revealing.
She began to circle him slowly…
Chico turned his head to follow her…until something white blocked his vision.
White feathers.
His wings.
"Oh…ohhh…" he muttered. Well that was an awkward reveal.
Freya now stood behind him. "It seems that Demeter was right about you…but these…"
She reached out and gently stroked one of the wings.
He flinched—and let out a noise.
"Hei!"
A blush crept across his face from embarrassment.
Freya let out a soft, musical laugh. "Ah…I'm sorry. I didn't ask permission to touch…but I just couldn't help myself."
"I-It's alright…" Chico stuttered, shrinking in on himself.
Freya stepped away, and he had to fight every instinct not to let his gaze wander. He focused instead on her hair. That silver waterfall shimmered under the ambient light…moonlight made manifest.
She reached the couch and sat gracefully, her posture perfect. "Please…join me."
Chico followed, wings folding behind him. His blush faded, though not entirely.
He took the seat across from her…and just as she opened her mouth to speak—
GRRROOOOWWWL.
His stomach.
No…
Chico immediately pulled his wings and folded them in front of him to hide him from embarrassment.
Freya's lips curled into an elegant smirk. "Fufufu…"
"I may have…forgotten to eat today…" he mumbled behind his wings.
"I understand." Freya turned slightly toward the door. "Ottar…would you bring dinner for two, please?"
A presence shifted outside, then left in silence.
She turned back to him, voice gentle. "Before the meal arrives…I'd like to satisfy a few curiosities of mine. But please—only answer what you're comfortable sharing."
That actually made him smile. She seemed genuine.
Something in her tone felt sincere. Honest.
"I'd be happy to answer some of your questions," he said.
She smiled and started with some small questions. "How long have you been in Orario?"
"Just about two weeks. I've been preparing for the Dungeon and diving for around eleven days now."
Her fingers laced together in her lap. "And how has the Dungeon treated you so far?"
"Besides one incident…it's been smooth sailing so far."
Her eyes narrowed slightly. "Would that incident…happen to be the Minotaur that reached the fifth floor?"
He blinked. "Yeah…how did you know?"
A fond smile played on her lips. "Demeter and I shared a private gathering. She spared no detail about your battle. She said something along the lines of…" Freya's voice softened into a dreamy imitation, "how her man was so brave…"
Chico's heart skipped.
His lips parted into a grin he didn't even try to hide. He turned away slightly, blush creeping back in full force.
Gods that woman of his…though embarrassing, he couldn't help but feel elated.
Freya observed him with a glint of something warm.
Then her tone shifted…subtle, but unmistakable.
"Demeter told me you were special. But to slay a Minotaur at your level, your experience…and now these wings…"
Her eyes grew sharper.
"You're something else entirely. I can see it. You're not just gifted. You're different. A being this realm has never seen before."
She leaned forward just slightly.
"So I must ask, Chico-san…just who are you? And what are your goals?"
——————————————————————
Chico blinked at the sudden shift in tone.
The room hadn't changed, but something in the air had. Stillness. Weight. A slight tension.
"Who I am and my goals, huh…" he said aloud, voice quieter than before.
He had already touched on them—at least to himself. They revolved around the promises he made…to the two people who mattered most to him right now.
He looked into Freya's eyes. There was no hiding in them…only reflection.
"I am Francisco Sol, but my friends usually call me Chico. Before I came here…I had no true purpose. I let the days pass without change…without meaning." He exhaled slowly. "Then I was given an opportunity. And I accepted it. I journeyed to a small town, three days from Orario. From there…my journey began."
His voice was steady now, anchored in memory.
"I'm a Level 1 adventurer of the Demeter Familia. And while I'm still figuring a few things out…I know this much for certain." He lifted his chin, voice resolute. "I wish to be strong. Strong enough to protect my life…strong enough to protect those close to me. I believe that there is danger ahead…I've seen it. And when it comes, I do not wish to fall behind."
He leaned forward slightly.
"I made a promise to two of the most important people in my life…that I would return to them, no matter what. Whatever it takes."
Silence followed. But not the heavy kind. A thoughtful silence, one that filled the space with quiet understanding.
Freya stared at him, sharp eyes unwavering. She saw no lies…only conviction.
Then she asked something he didn't expect.
"…And how does the idea of a hero sound to you?"
Chico's breath caught. A hero…?
His eyes slowly shut as his mind wandered.
In his mind, a hero was selfless. Brave. Reckless. Unyielding. True to their ideals. A hero stood tall even when the world pressed down.
And when he thought of himself…he didn't fit all of those traits. He may be a bit reckless when the time calls for it, perhaps even a little brave…but selfless? Heroic? No, he did not believe that he was, not enough.
But someone else came to mind.
He opened his eyes with a smile. Bright, honest.
"I don't think I have the traits of a hero, I'm not sure if I can even become one," he said. "But I believe that there is another. A new hero that will rise and become the hero that Orario needs."
Freya said nothing. But her eyes softened. A slow, graceful smile touched her lips.
Then—click.
The door opened.
Ottar walked in, silent as a mountain breeze. In each hand was a tray of food…while around his waist was an apron, complete with front pockets holding utensils.
Chico blinked. Then blinked again.
"…Freya-sama? Is that the King wearing an apron and delivering dinner? Or am I just seeing things?" he asked aloud.
"Fufufu…no, you're not seeing things. Your vision is not betraying you."
Ottar, expression unreadable, approached and placed both trays down on the low table. He opened the silver covers with careful precision.
The scent hit Chico instantly—rich, buttery, decadent.
A whole lobster sat perfectly on each tray, surrounded by warm melted butter, delicate greens, and seasoned sides. Chico's mouth immediately started to water.
He bowed his head. "Thank you…seriously."
Freya also offered a polite nod. "Thank you, Ottar. That will be all."
Ottar said nothing. He simply turned and left.
And then came peace.
Chico wasted no time. With hunger as his only companion, he tore into the meal like a man starved. The silence between them was a blessing, he didn't have it in him to make conversation.
Within minutes, his plate was cleared.
He leaned back and let out a long, satisfied sigh. "Thank you again for the hospitality…that was absolutely delicious."
"I'm glad," Freya said softly, still eating at her own pace.
She took another bite. Then slowly placed her utensils down and sat back.
"I imagine you must be wondering about the true reason I invited you here."
Chico nodded. "Ah-yes…I was curious."
Freya's eyes returned to him, steady and quiet. "I wished to understand the kind of person you are. Not through Demeter's words. But through my own eyes. And now…I believe I have a solid idea on your character."
Her gaze sharpened again. "And with that, I'd like to make a request. But before that…I'd like to see something."
Chico raised a brow. "See something?"
She nodded. "The magic you acquired from that grimoire. I wish to bear witness."
He blinked. "You…want to see that? Here? The spell happens to involve fire…"
"It's fine," she said with a soft smile. "From the cushions to the rugs, nearly everything in this room is infused with salamander wool. Highly resistant to flame."
"Really?" he asked, slightly impressed.
She nodded.
He stood, brushing off his pants.
"Alright then…"
He took a deep breath. His voice became calm, focused, as he began his chant.
"All evil shall burn by my light,
Holy fire, blaze through the night.
Wings of flame, rise ever higher—
Cleanse the world in sacred fire.
With my heart unshaken, I ignite…
Lux Sanctum: Puriflamma…"
The room lit up instantly.
Golden light burst from his body in radiant waves. With his wings unfurled, he only shined brighter with holy fire. His limbs shimmered in dancing flame, neither harming him nor the floor.
It was as if the sun had been called down to earth.
Freya watched with narrowed eyes and a quiet smile. The light seemed to reflect in her irises…almost familiarly.
He canceled the magic, and as quickly as it had come, the light began to fade.
"…It looks so similar to her's," she said aloud, almost in a whisper.
Chico tilted his head. "Huh?"
She didn't elaborate.
Instead, she nodded to herself, then met his gaze again. "I believe you may be able to help me with my request."
Chico felt a weight settle on her words.
"I owe you," he said honestly. "The grimoire alone was…well, thank you. So…I'll listen."
Freya's voice lowered, carrying something tender beneath it.
"There is someone I care deeply for. Over the years, I've tried to help her adjust to her new life. And while she's gotten better…it's only been marginal. She has suffered greatly. And I wish for her to find peace, I wish to see her soul shine."
Chico's eyes narrowed slightly. He had a feeling…but asked anyway.
"Who do you speak of?"
Freya watched him closely. "Tell me…what do you know of 'Gale Wind'?"
His feeling was correct. "The Gale Wind…a surviving member of the Astraea Familia. It was through her vengeance filled rage that she was able to end the dark ages. Using very violent methods…she was black listed by the guild."
"All true," Freya said. "But most believe she perished after her crusade. But that is not the case. She still lives…and now works at the Hostess of Fertility."
He leaned back slightly, blinking.
Freya continued. "Her true name is Ryuu Lion. And I believe…that your light may be able to help her find peace."
Chico took a breath.
"…You said that my flames remind you of her. Are you perhaps speaking of…The Scarlet Harnel, Alise Lovell?"
Freya's smile deepened, soft and nostalgic. "Yes. Her flames were a brilliant scarlet. Passionate. Wild. Hopeful." She tilted her head slightly, silver hair cascading over one shoulder. "Yours…burns a brilliant gold. Steady. Light. But the feeling they evoke…is much the same."
Chico's chest tightened.
Ryuu Lion…A person with a tragic past. One full of suffering, sorrow, and death.
"I…" he began, then paused. His mind spun for the right words. "I don't know if I'm the right person for something like this. This cannot be forced, it must come naturally."
Freya said nothing. She just listened.
"But…" he continued, firmer now, "If you believe that I can, then I wish to try. If my light can give her peace…even a little…I'll do what I can. I'll try my best."
That answer seemed to settle something.
Freya's expression softened. She reached up, gently brushing a strand of silver hair behind her ear.
"Then I wish you good luck," she said warmly.
Chico gave her a small nod.
A soft moment passed between them. Then Freya stood.
"Thank you for your time, Chico-kun. I'm glad we were able to speak tonight, and I expect great things from you."
He rose as well and bowed respectfully. "Thank you for your hospitality…and again for the gift."
He gathered his things, slinging the strap of his bag over his shoulder.
"Have a goodnight, Lady Freya."
"Goodnight."
And with that, he stepped out. Finally hiding his wings.
The doors closed gently behind him, and Freya stood quietly in the warm glow of the chandelier. She brought a hand to her chin and whispered thoughtfully to herself.
"Someone else suited to be a hero…hmm…I wonder if he meant…"
——————————————————————
Chico approached the elevator, where Ottar stood waiting.
Without a word, the executive clicked the runeplate, and the doors opened with a soft ding.
Chico stepped inside and turned to him.
"Have a good night, Ottar-san."
The giant said nothing. Just stared ahead.
Chico didn't mind.
The doors slid shut behind him.
Feat Achieved! Gain the Favor of Lady Freya, the most powerful, and influential goddess in the world!
Reward: Gold Item Gatcha Ticket
'A welcome surprise.' He thought with a smirk.
With a thought he rolled and received:
Aerolite Bar (2.6 Rarity, 0.27% odds)-Uncommon Item-
Calamity Mod - A refined bar of Aerilite from the sky islands infused with sky energy, when infused with energy this one is capable of releasing wind and even emulating weather effects under special conditions, it also synergizes very well with lightning and air. Restock Timer: 8 hours
Hmmm…an interesting pull. But for the moment it didn't really help him. Perhaps he could gift this to someone else, or even forge something…
Whatever. It was finally time to head home.
——————————————————————
The room was dim, lit only by the soft glow of the moon peeking through the curtains.
Chico lay beside Demeter in bed, his arm around her waist, her back pressed lightly against his chest. His hand gently stroked her bare arm, the quiet rhythm helping him focus his thoughts.
Demeter broke the silence.
"You've been quiet," she said, voice soft and steady.
Chico paused, then sighed.
"Yeah…I've got a lot on my mind. Just not sure where to start."
Demeter turned a little in his arms, just enough to meet his eyes. "Then start at the beginning."
Chico nodded, eyes drifting to the ceiling before settling back on her.
"After the plaza attack yesterday…I realized I need to get stronger. I believe that danger is on the horizon."
Demeter said nothing, giving him her full attention.
He took a breath. "I went for an advisor session today. And I know you told me to give Ariel some time, but I didn't listen. I thought maybe I was just overthinking it..."
His voice quieted.
"She didn't even look at me. Not once. She was colder. Distant. Like we were strangers."
His brows pulled together slightly.
"And that hurt. I didn't expect it to hurt that much. But why did it hurt? I know I care for her…but why did it hurt like that?"
Demeter was quiet for a moment, thinking. Then she placed a hand over his.
"It hurt, because your heart sees her as more," she said. "You didn't expect it. You didn't plan for it. But that feeling's real."
Chico frowned, trying to process it.
"But…if that's true…shouldn't you be upset? I mean…I'm with you. And now I'm sitting here saying I…might have feelings for someone else."
Demeter shook her head, calm and collected.
"No. I'm not upset."
Chico looked confused. "How?"
"Because I knew what I was getting into," she said simply. "Even without your traits, I knew you'd attract people. Your kindness, your caring nature, your respectful demeanor, it's a rarity in Orario. The traits just made it easier."
She reached up and touched the side of his face.
"And more importantly…the love we share is real. That's never been in question."
He was silent for a moment. The tension in his chest slowly started to ease.
"You're really okay with it?" he asked again, needing to hear it twice.
"I am," she answered. "Ariel…she must feel confused right now. Just give it time. She'll come around. I've seen the way she looks at you."
Chico exhaled slowly, then nodded.
"Yeah…alright. I'll wait. I'll focus on getting stronger for now."
Demeter smiled. "Good."
He leaned in and kissed her—deeply. There was no hesitation, only gratitude and love behind it. She kissed him back, her hand holding the back of his neck.
When they finally pulled apart, Chico rested his forehead against hers.
"Thank you," he said quietly.
"You're welcome," she whispered. "Now, was there anything else you felt the need to talk about?"
Chico held a smile, he unfurled his wings, and covered her in an embrace. "Yes…there's one last thing. I had a meeting with Lady Freya. It was…"
——————————————————————
Chico leaned back against the headboard, his arm wrapped loosely around Demeter's waist. He had just finished recounting the events of his visit to Freya's suite—her questions, the dinner, the view, and finally, the request.
Demeter had listened patiently the entire time.
"…So she asked you to help Ryuu Lion," she repeated, brows slightly raised.
"Yeah," Chico nodded. "She said she wants to see her find peace. That maybe…I may be able to help her."
Demeter tilted her head, expression a mix of thoughtfulness and mild irritation.
"Of course Freya would get to see your wings before I did."
Chico blinked, then winced.
"Right…sorry about that."
Demeter rolled her eyes lightly, but her smile returned. "It's alright. I'll forgive you…just this once."
They shared a quiet laugh, the moment easing back into silence.
A few minutes passed before Demeter spoke again.
"Do you have a plan on helping her?"
Chico looked up at the ceiling, then turned his gaze toward her.
"I don't have a plan yet. But I get the feeling our paths are going to cross sooner or later. When they do…I'll see what I can do."
Demeter nodded at that. Her expression softened as she looked past him, eyes distant.
"I adored the Astraea children. Every one of them had hearts full of purpose. And Astraea herself…she was one of the kindest goddesses I've ever known."
She paused, her voice quieter.
"They didn't deserve what happened."
Chico didn't say anything. He just pulled her in a little tighter, letting the silence hold everything else that didn't need words.
Demeter rested her head on his chest, eyes closing. Her breathing slowed.
And before long, the day faded out with no more to be said.
Chico let his wings spread gently over the both of them, pulling them in like a blanket. Warm. Protective. Still.
And under that quiet cover of feathers and moonlight…they finally slept.
Chapter 24 End
A/N: I'm not gonna lie…this was probably my worst chapter yet. Honestly the Freya segment felt like it was written to pave the way so that my character and Ryuu could interact. And it might just be. There was an outline for the chapter, but it felt like I barely was able to convey what I wanted to. And the worst part, is that this will probably be the best I can write this particular chapter. It's a shame too, cause I thought Chapter 23 was absolutely phenomenal. Also the Harem part…yeah. Honestly when it comes to the part where any MC has to open up the idea of a harem to someone he's already in a loving relationship…it's just hard, a little cringe too. But the Gatcha demands a harem, so I will deliver a harem…eventually. Besides Ariel and Demeter, anyone else will be a bit slower building romance, but that's probably for the best. Also if you want to know the Harem plan, I don't mind sharing. Though it's not set in stone, as in some may or may not be in it, it just depends on how the story goes. Anyway, sorry for the mediocre chapter, the next few won't be as bad, but it will be a couple of chapters until things pick back up, at least 2. Also if you have any questions please ask, I don't mind answering them. Like about how some of the characters are acting. Freya for instance, you may be wondering how she's acting a bit more melody, kind, how she's not acting how you might expect her to. Well there are a few answers to that. Freya is still on an emotional high, especially after Bell's fight against the silverback. Another reason would be for Demeter's sake, while someone being able to resist her charm isn't nonexistent, as I believe Finn from Loki Familia cannot be affected by mental attacks and such, she should hold a more profound interest in Chico. But with her relationship with Demeter, which is more genuine that what was interpreted in lore, along with her attention mostly on Bell, we get this Freya…at least with Chico. Anyway that's it. Bye bye.