Last time Leo and his Expedition Party entered the last room of the Ancient Corridor on the second floor of the Dungeon. There they encountered a recording left by the strange figure, Da Vinci. He revealed there are more Ancient Corridors are on deeper floors of the Dungeon. A/N: My writing style has changed since I last updated this story, I hope none of you mind the change.

A new day had risen over Orario as Leo was seen within is bedroom getting dressed for the day. Since he had no intentions of braving the Dungeon today, he opted for a simple white button-up shirt, brown trousers with suspenders, and a pair of faded brown boots. The blonde Driver looked himself over in the mirror before nodding his head in approval.

Leo: I believe this is presentable enough for the debriefing with Lady Loki.

Leo however felt a warm presence behind him as he turned to face Pyra who was holding the Aegis out to him.

Pyra: Even if you don't plan on going into the Dungeon, I would prefer it if you still carried the Aegis with you Leo.

Leo nodded his head in agreement, something he quickly learned about Blades is that they refused to leave their Driver's side for even the briefest of moments. Leo took the Aegis from Pyra before sheathing it on the back of his waist.

Leo: I imagine you intend on joining me for the debriefing?

Pyra smiled at her Driver and nodded her head.

Pyra: Of course, I might be able to help fill in any blanks during the conversation. However before we go, may I ask a question?

Leo looked at Pyra with a mixture of curiosity and confusion.

Leo: Yes Pyra what can I help you with?

Pyra: The two Core Crystals we found in the Corridor. What do you intend on doing with them? A Dtiver can resonate with up to three Blades, you could easily give yourself more of an edge while exploring the Dungeon.

Leo remained silent for a moment, contemplating the question. While the prospect of having three Blades did sound enticing to speed up his research of the other floors of the Dungeon. However another part of him didn't like how selfish taking the Core Crystals for himself sounded.

Leo: I intend on giving them to people I believe are worthy of such power. Keeping the power of the Blades for myself would be foolish, the more Adventurers that become Drivers, the better odds we have of conquering the Dungeon one day.

A relieved smile spread across Pyra's face, while she wouldn't blame her Driver for resonating with other Blades. It put her mind at ease that her power didn't go to his head.

Leo: Now then, we best make our way to the meeting room. I wouldn't want to keep Lady Loki waiting.

Pyra nodded her head in agreement before the Driver and Blade exited Leo's bedroom and began their walk to the meeting room.

Meeting Room
Leo and Pyra both opened a set of double doors that led into a lounge room that was more private than the one where most of the Familia gathered.

????: You're here early, glad to see you are as practical as ever Leo.

Leo turned to face a young man with short blonde hair and blue eyes he wore purple and gold adventuring attire.

This was Finn Deimne, despite his youthful appearance he was one of the older members of the Loki Familia and its current captain. Leo smiled at Finn, when he had first joined the Loki Familia, the Pallum had taken him under his wing and showed him the basics of dungeon exploration and survival.

Leo: You always told me an Adventurer had to be practical if they wanted to survive the Dungeon Captain Deimne.

Finn smirked before turning his attention towards Pyra. The Pallum studied the Blade closely, causing her to tense up due to discomfort.

Finn: You must be the living weapon Lady Loki mentioned. For once she wasn't making up some elaborate lie.

Pyra: Y-Yes, my name is Pyra. I am the Aegis, Leo's Blade. It's a pleasure to meet you Captain Deimne.

????: Honestly Finn, stop studying the poor girl like she's some artifact.

The trio turned to see an elf woman with long jade hair and jade eyes, her outfit consisted of elven mage robes.

This woman was Riveria Ljos Alf, the Vice Captain of the Loki Familia and its best mage. Riveria walked up to the trio before stopping in front of Leo, looking him over carefully.

Riveria: It appears you haven't grown much stronger since I last helped with your training. If what Lady Loki said is true about these hidden sections of the Dungeon. You will need to grow stronger if you still intend on braving them.

Riveria's gaze was stern, causing Leo to flinch slightly. Riveria was a mother figure to many of the Loki Familia members, so her stern gaze was rather intimidating. Riveria then turned her attention towards Pyra who she offered the smallest of smiles.

Riveria: I do hope at the very least Leo has been treating you well. Living weapon or not, you are still very much a person.

Pyra smiled at Riveria, the elf seemed stern yet caring.

Pyra: Leo has been wonderful, I couldn't ask for a better Driver.

A small blush spread across Leo's face as he scratched the back of his head nervously. Riveria smirked at Leo while Finn chuckled at the young man's reaction. The door to the room opened once again as everyone turned to see Loki and Gareth walked into the room.

Gareth: Seems we're the last ones to the party Lady Loki.

Gareth let out a good natured chuckle, Loki however was rather serious, her usual mischievous smile replaced with a stern frown. All the members of the Familia stiffened as their Goddess was rarely this serious, this could only mean even she felt the situation was dire. Loki stepped forward into the room before walking up to one of the couches and sitting on it. The trickster Goddess laced her fingers together as she opened her eyes, revealing her red eyes.

Loki: Leo, Gareth explained a few details to me about the Expedition. Is it true? All of you encountered a man made monstrosity? One that's armor couldn't be pierced even by Gareth?

Finn and Riveria looked stunned at this information as Gareth was one of their Familia's top physical powerhouses. Leo however stiffened, his hairs standing on end as he had never seen Loki this serious before.

Leo: Yes, it was called the Garasha Soverign, its body was made entirely of metal. From what my Skill, Ancient Knowledge revealed to me they are something called a "Robot" they apparently function via electrical currents running through their bodies. They have something akin to a fake brain, it can be programmed to perform certain tasks. Its primary form of attack was firing a concentrated beam of energy from a red eye on its body.

Gareth: It was a mean piece of work, even with me, Bete, Ais, and Lefiya working together to attack it. If it wasn't for the lad and Pyra melting through its tough exterior, we'd probably be good as dead.

Finn and Riveria looked at Gareth completely stunned, some of their most talented Familia Members, one being an Executive working together could barely harm this strange thing. Loki's expression only became more stern however as members of her Familia were nearly slaughtered by this unknown monster.

Finn: I must say, if Pyra has such great power, that even a low level Adventurer like Leo could harm a monster that some of our top Familia members couldn't. It begs the question, how strong are the Blades?

Riveria however swiftly slapped Finn on the back of the head, earning her a glare from the Pallum.

Riveria: Finn, now is not the time for such statements. Especially since you are referring to Pyra more as an object than a living being.

Finn's expression softened as he let out an embarrassed sigh.

Finn: My apologies Pyra, this is all very new for us.

Pyra smiled at Finn, gently waving her hand at the Pallum.

Pyra: It's fine Captain Deimne, I understand how strange all of this must before all of you.

Finn smiled at Pyra and nodded while Riveria turned to look at Leo, a small smile on her face.

Riveria: Leo, well done keeping your Party safe, you truly proved yourself as a member of the Loki Familia.

Leo: You should thank Lefiya, she dealt the final blow to the Garasha Soverign. Pyra and I merely weakened it enough to give her such an opportunity.

Riveria gently patted Leo on the shoulder regardless, proud of what he had done. Loki cleared her throat, once again getting everyone's attention.

Loki: Leo, Gareth mentioned you found a room with something called a computer? He said a man was talking to you through it?

Leo: Yes, he referred to himself as Da Vinci. From what he told me, he is the creator of the Soverigns, Blades, and Ancient Corridors. It was rather odd, he said his chosen heroes failed to conquer the Dungeon and that led to the Corridors being sealed away. He said that if the Dungeon had been conquered when finding this place, to simply forget it ever existed. However he also said if not, that I, the Driver of the Aegis should search out the other Ancient Corridors.

Loki, Finn, and Riveria stared at Leo in disbelief, whoever this Da Vinci was, it sounded as though he had extensive knowledge on the Dungeon as a whole. Furthermore if he created the Corridors, Blades, and Sovereigns, he was potentially an even better craftsman then Hephaestus herself.

Loki: Did this Da Vinci mention anything else? It sounds like he has extensive knowledge of he was able to setup multiple of these corridors throughout the Dungeon.

Leo: He said the next Ancient Corridor is located on the Eighth Floor. That is my next goal, to get strong enough to progress down to the Eighth Floor and begin searching for the next Ancient Corridor.

Finn: Certainly shooting high Leo, as much as I would want for us to perform an expedition to the Eighth Floor to find the Next Ancient Corridor. From what little Lady Loki told us, you are the only one who can open the doors to them.

Leo let out a defeated sigh as his own weakness was a bit of a hinderance at this point. If the members of his Familia could open the Corridors without him, the could learn more about Da Vinci and his involvement with the Dungeon at a far faster rate.

Loki: That is probably for the best, I should bring these Ancient Corridors to the attention of the other Gods. Until then you should focus on getting stronger Leo, we're gonna need to lead future expeditions into these Corridors.

Leo: Understood Lady Loki, I will attempt braving the Third Floor tomorrow. I believe with Pyra by my side I should be able to handle it.

Pyra: I will do everything to keep Leo safe while we are in the dungeon.

Loki's trademark mischievous smile spread across her face as she studied the Driver and Blade duo.

Loki: Seems you left quite the impression on your Expedition Party Members. Ais gave you credit for the victory over the Soverign, Bete even said things would've been more difficult without you. It seems now more of our Familia has their eyes on you Leo~

An embarrassed blush spread across Leo's face as he scratched his left cheek in embarrassment.

Riveria: Lefiya mentioned she wished to form a Party with you during your next incursion into the Dungeon. Saying that she didn't approve you your reliance on a rather meager supply of potions.

Riveria shot Leo a teasing smirk as the teen once again found his face heating up as it turned a slightly darker shade of pink. The teasing however was interrupted by Loki clearing her throat.

Loki: There is however one final thing we must discuss. Gareth mentioned you found two Core Crystals within the Ancient Corridor correct? Considering you are the only Driver in Orario at the moment, I would say the decision of who should receive them is left to you Leo.

Leo: I appreciate that you give me the honor Lady Loki, I already have someone in mind for one of the Core Crystals.

Finn: Already? You barely know most of our Familia Members personally.

Leo smirked at Finn before clearing his throat

Leo: I intend on giving one of the Core Crystals to Bell Cranel.

When Leo said that a blood vessel popped on Loki's forehead.

Loki: The Hestia Brat?!

Leo: Lady Loki, regardless of your less than stellar relations with Lady Hestia. I would not have made it to the chamber containing Pyra without Bell's help. He was willing to brave that uncharted territory with me despite his own misgivings. He has more than earned the right to one of the Core Crystals.

Riveria: Leo does make a valid point Lady Loki, the young Hestia Boy did accompany him into the dangerous place. I dare say it is show of good faith.

Loki grumbled in annoyance before taking a deep breath to calm down.

Loki: Very well, I believe we've covered the major points of this meeting. I'll have to relay all this information to the other Gods at the next banquet. Leo, go deliver that Core Crystal to the Hestia Brat. At the end of this week I intend on checking your stats.

Leo nodded before he and Pyra exited the meeting room. Once the door closed behind the duo Loki, Finn, and Riveria all turned their attention towards Gareth.

Riveria: Now then, what exactly did you want to talk to us about Gareth.

Finn: And why did you request it be after we dismissed Leo?

Gareth stroked his beard contemplatively for a moment before reaching into his coat and pulling out Leo's journal on the second floor of the dungeon.

Gareth: I was worried the lad would try and deny any sort of help on this matter, but I have to show you this.

Loki: Isn't that one of Leo's journals? Why would you have that Gareth? What quick little notes could he have that would help you?

Gareth set the journal down on the table in the center of the room before stepping away.

Gareth: Lady Loki, this ain't no simple journal, the lad has been doing far more than making simple notes for himself.

Loki looked at Gareth in confusion before opening the journal, Finn and Riveria look over her shoulder. The trio's eyes widen in complete shock at what they see. A detailed map of the entire second floor that spanned across two pages. A combination of letters and numbers marked certain points on the map. When Loki turned the page they found a list with the letter and number combinations, each one representing a resource or spot where a monster could be found. Finally they flipped through a few more pages, finding a page dedicated to each monster that appeared on the floor. The information included behavior patterns and even a rough estimate of how long it takes the Dungeon to spawn more of that monster.

Loki: This is....

Riveria: Absolutely....

Finn: Incredible.....

The three were absolutely stunned, they had never seen any form of recorded information on the Dungeon this comprehensive. Gareth smiled at their reactions, this is what he was hoping for.

Gareth: The lad has one for the First Floor as well, that journal also contains a map and guide to the Ancient Corridor. It's why he's only been to the first two floors in his two years with us. Since he had to go solo, it took him a month sometimes to map out a single section of a floor. Of course he had to make money as well, so he would put his research on hold to make sure he wasn't broke. That there journal is genuine labor of love from the lad.

Loki: Why go through all the trouble? He could've moved on after finding the pathway to the next floor.

Gareth let out a booming laugh at the question, he had expected that as well.

Gareth: The lad has a heart of gold, he said that the reason we fear the Dungeon is due to the unknown. Says he wants to brave that unknown and discover all its secrets and write it down. Once he gets to the eighteenth floor, the first safe zone, he intends on handing all his journals over to the Guild. Let them make a comprehensive guide for rookie Adventurers to have some information on the Dungeon going in. Then he plans on moving onto all the floors leading up to the Fiftieth Floor.

Once again Loki, Finn, and Riveria found themselves stunned. Leo was doing this of his free will and his ultimate goal was to give all Adventurers a better chance at surviving the Dungeon.

Finn: It appears we failed to see a rather unique talent amongst our younger members.

Riveria: Leo's personal mission could prove beneficial if given the proper support. Perhaps we should announce his intentions to the rest of the Familia? That may encourage some of them to party with him?

Loki smiled at Riveria's suggestion, the journal was more than enough to convince her Leo's personal mission was worth investing in.

Loki: Perhaps a new type of expedition is in order, one to map the Dungeon.

The three executives nodded their head in agreement, it was time they gave recognition to a member of the Familia with a rather unique talent.

Orario
Leo and Pyra walked through the streets of Orario as they made their way towards the home of the Hestia Familia.

Pyra: This part of the city looks a bit rundown doesn't it?

Leo: The Hestia Familia is one of the smaller Familias in Orario, they can't exactly afford a pricier place of residence.

Pyra looked at Leo, saddened hearing that information as she liked Bell, he was nice young man, if a bit awkward at times.

Leo: Ah, it appears we've arrived.

Pyra looked up and the worry present in her eyes only grew at the sight of a rundown church.

Pyra: Thid is the home of the Hestia Familia?

Pyra looked the church over once more, it did not look like a place a person should be living, much less an entire Familia.

Leo: It's not much, but Bell and Lady Hestia make it home.

Pyra's eyes widened in surprise before turning to look at Leo, stunned.

Pyra: Bell is the only member of the Hestia Familia?

Leo: Yes, Lady Hestia as I mentioned does not have as much power as some of her fellow Gods due to being the Goddess of Hearth and Home.

A saddened look once again spread across Pyra's face, after seeing how lively the Loki Familia is, she imagined being the lone member of a Familia was lonely. Leo walked up to the front door of the dilapidated church before gently knocking on the door. The sounds of footsteps could be heard from behind the door before it was swung open. Standing before Leo and Pyra was a young woman with long black hair pulled back into twin tails and gentle blue eyes. She wore a tattered white dress, with white gloves that almost reached her elbows.

????: Hello! This is the Hestia Familia, how may I-

The woman finally got a good look at Leo and Pyra and her eyes widened in shock.

????: Leo! It's been awhile since you stopped by for a visit, are you here to ask Bell if he's available to go to the Dungeon?

Leo: It's wonderful to see you again Lady Hestia, no I am not here to request Bell's assistance in the Dungeon. I am actually here to give him a thank for his help the other day.

Hestia's eyes widened in realization as she remembered Bell telling her about the strange corridor that opened up in the Second Floor of the Dungeon. Hestia then turned her attention towards Pyra, who stiffened up slightly under the Goddess's gaze.

Hestia: So this is that girl you two rescued? The one that's connected to that fancy sword?

Pyra: Y-Yes Lady Hestia, my name is Pyra, I am a Blade. More specifically the Aegis.

Hestia looked Pyra over for a few more moments before turning to look at Leo again.

Hestia: She's gorgeous, I'd say you hit the jackpot with her Leo.

Pyra's face turned a shade of red as dark as her hair while Leo let out a nervous cough, earning a giggle from Hestia.

Hestia: As much as I would love to go get Bell for you, he already departed for the Dungeon. He's really put his nose to the grindstone the last week or two.

Leo: I figured as much, could I please leave the gift with you then?

Hestia smiled at Leo and nodded. Leo reached into the pouch on his left hip before pulling out the Core Crystal and handing it to Hestia. When the Goddess touched the Core Crystal, she felt a strange energy coming off of it.

Hestia: What is it?

Leo: A Core Crystal, we found two of them within the Ancient Corridor. That contains a Blade like Pyra.

Hestia's eyes widened in shock before she looked up at Leo.

Leo: So you're saying that Bell could get a partner like Pyra?! He mentioned when you two worked together you were overwhelmingly strong.

Pyra: Yes, however Bell must be careful. Those who are unworthy will be killed by the Core Crystal's power instead of awakening the Blade within.

Hestia's eyes widened in horror, however it only lasted a moment before a confident smile spread across her face.

Hestia: You're giving it to Bell knowing he'll be worthy aren't you?

Leo: There is not a doubt in my mind that Bell is worthy. Given how often he's stuck by my side in the Dungeon, it would be preposterous if he was unworthy.

Pyra: I have no doubts either, I just wished to tell you the truth. Lying is not something I am fond of.....

A sad look spread across Pyra's face for a moment before her smile returned.

Hestia: Alright, I'll hand it over to him when he gets back. Now you kids run along, and try not to have too much fun alright?

Leo and Pyra both blushed at the Goddess's words, earning a snicker from Hestia. The Driver and Blade bid farewell to Hestia as they began the journey back to the Loki Familia.

Leo: Pyra....

Pyra: Yes Leo?

Pyra looked at her Driver with curiosity in her eyes.

Leo: Let's do our best to reach the Eighth Floor so we can find the next Ancient Corridor.

Pyra smiled and nodded her head in agreement as they continued to walk home, little did they know their personal mission would receive some unexpected support.

So Leo and Pyra updated Loki, Finn, and Riveria on what happened during the expedition! Leo also gave one of the two Core Crystals to Hestia to pass to Bell. Once again I hope all of you are okay with the new writing style. As always leave your thoughts and opinions in the comments! What awaits Leo and Pyra when they next brave the Dungeon? How far down will the duo make it? Who may offer their assistance in their mission? Find out in the next Chapter of Danmachi: Master of the Aegis!