No one's POV

The faction alliance expected the expedition to last one week. Muller assured them that a party like this could easily make it to their destination and back in five days, so they had planned their trip accordingly, including where they would set up camp beyond the safety points.

Welf, Ouka, and Bell made up the vanguard of the formation heading into the Dungeon. The center was split into two groups: Mikoto, Chigusa, and Daphne would act as floaters to protect the combatants and supporters, while Lilly, Haruhime, and Cassandra served as supporters. In reality, the function of the latter three was more like a rear guard. Muller, Rin and Aisha, 3 powerful Level-4 fighter, was stationed at the very end to dispel any attacks from behind.

Of course, this was the first time Hestia Familia was acting as part of such a large group, so they expected to carefully observe how the coalition worked and make temporary changes in positions as needed. Ultimately, they were headed for the lower levels.

Bell: Aah!!

A screech split the air. Bell's Hestia Knife flashed in a violet arc as it cleaved a monster in half.

Beatle: OUUUUUUU!!

Belatedly, the mad beetle's death cry thundered through the passageway.

Daphne: Little Rookie! Keep it up! Kill them all!

Daphne cried as the two halves of the enormous beetle rolled over the bark- covered floor, pressing her against the wall. Bell narrowed his eyes sharply and nodded as he raised his new knife in his left hand and kicked off the They were in the Colossal Tree Labyrinth on the twenty-fourth floor. The party had rapidly broken Hestia Familia's previous record for Dungeon floors cleared and was now in the lowest section of the middle levels. One reason for their speed was Bell.

Bell: UOO?!

In place of the purple arc, a heroic white flash emanated from his left hand. The beautiful, glittering white knife reduced the monster to a cloud of ash with a single blow.

Like the Hestia Knife in his right hand, Hakugen—the new weapon in his left—was quickly racking up an impressive bodycount. Measuring thirty-five celch from tip to base, the long knife fell just between the Hestia Knife and a baselard in size. Incredibly, it was made from unicorn horn, a rare drop item. Welf had crafted it for Bell with great care, and its blade was even sharper than the lost Ushiwakamaru. Every time Bell moved his arm even slightly, a flash of light instantaneously shot forth, proclaiming death to herds of swordstag monsters.

As usual, Bell wore his dir-adamantite armor, currently on its fifth reincarnation. The durable, lightweight set shined like new thanks to Welf's repairs. For the moment, it was still scratch free. His left leg was wrapped in a new holster made of old bison leather, far stronger than his previous one. Fitted out in new gear from Welf, Bell got to work driving off the monsters circling the party, just as Daphne had requested.

Lili: Hornet at two o'clock!

Lili was shouting out a constant stream of information to Bell, who had moved away from the main formation. Jet-black deadly hornets were zooming in for an attack, wings buzzing.

Ouka: Smith, get down! Your shield isn't in position!

Ouka warned from his spot in the vanguard.

Welf: Unfortunately, I'm bad with shields!

Welf shouted back, holding his massive shield with both hands. As the deadly hornets bore down on them at an angle, their defensive positions wavered. Multiple giant insects attacked with claws, poison stingers, and body blows. The two young men up front took the brunt of the attack but managed to hold strong.

Protected by Welf and Ouka, Mikoto and Chigusa shot arrows at the hornets from their position in the center, but—

Muller: They're fast...!

Rin: Oh man...!

The deadly hornets flew nimbly through the air, easily evading the arrows. Even when one hit its mark, it bounced right back off again; the hornets had exoskeletons even harder than those of killer ants. But the two level 4 partners didn't waver at the threat, it was obvious why they were also known was "high killer bees."

Rin: You and me, Muller!

Muller: Always got your back, Rin!

Muller intervened with lightning reflexes. She had just finished off some monsters away from the rest of the party when she immediately raced straight toward the Dungeon wall. She launched herself from the wall and leaped into the swarm of hornets.

Muller:...

Taken off guard from behind, they froze. Muller's diamonds eyes glinted as she swung her sword.

Monsters: GAAA?!

The white blade sliced through their rock-hard exoskeletons and sets of double wings like butter. Rin follows Muller flying forward from the extreme force of her leap using wind magic. Still in midair, she raised her staff and used the momentum from her blow to spin halfway around, thrusting out her staff and shouting.

Rin: Sword of the Lightning God!

Two deadly hornets burst into fragments as two shots of electrified lightning drilled into them. The monsters had no time to dodge. As gravity pulled Rin back to the ground, motes of fire fell around him.

Cassandra: W-wow...

Daphne: There was a time when you would have been running for your life from those guys, but now...

Cassandra and the others in the formation's center were dumbfounded. The teamwork between the two level 4 Muller and Rin were perfect. Welf sighed in amazement and grinned as if he thought they were invincible.

Welf: Uaaaaa!

A second later, he and Ouka thrust out their shields and knocked down several more hornets zooming in for an attack run. Instantly, Mikoto and Chigusa jumped out from between the two young men and thrust their daggers into gaps in the exoskeletons.

Aisha: But this is pointless...As long as we don't get rid of that, these hornets will keep attacking us. Even if we run from the bees, we won't get far.

Aisha muttered. As the front and middle ranks worked together to reduce monsters to ash, she was left alone at the rear to fend off swarms closing in on them from behind.

She glanced back at the Dungeon wall, where a massive hornet's nest was buried in sap. The colony was covered in countless deadly hornets, but it was also a monster itself—a rare one that existed co-dependently with the hornets. It was a bloody hive.

The seven-meder-long, pinecone-shaped black mass looked like some hideous fruit. An immobile trap-type monster, it normally buried itself inside a hollow big enough to allow deadly hornets to fly in and out. But the instant prey approached, it burst through the Dungeon wall to reveal its full form. When one of these monsters appeared on the main route, things got extremely nasty. Bell and the others were experiencing that misery at this very moment.

Daphne: There's no end to it! Cassandra, can't you get this mucus off yet?!

Cassandra: Sorry, Daphne, I still need more time!

Haruhime: Everyone, I'm sorry I can't help!

The nest's means of attack was a liquid it shot out that didn't kill or wound but was so adhesive that it completely immobilized anyone who was hit. Deadly hornets would then fly out and impale the trapped victim. Haruhime had been caught unawares by the emerging colony and lay helpless on the floor, covered in orange goop. Welf and Ouka were trying to guard the supporters, but their shields were also smeared with the sticky material.

The worst part of it all was the ludicrous number of deadly hornets that were spawning. Since the bloody hive was directly connected to the Dungeon, hornets were appearing at a much greater rate than usual. As the adventurers focused their energy on fighting off the insects, other monsters approached from side paths. It was a vicious downward spiral.

Bell: Don't waver! We have to take it down!

Occupying the main route and spitting out hornets one after the other, the colony was the key. Calling it a citadel for monsters would not be an overstatement. The adventurers quickly set about taking the veritable fortress down, just as Aisha—who had wiped out all the monsters approaching from the rear— had instructed.

Ring, ring!

Light radiated from Bell's right hand. As he continued intercepting deadly hornets, he initiated a Concurrent Charge. In place of an activation chant, the sound of a bell rang out. Bell finished up his current attack and fell back from the vanguard to Lili's position in order to stand at the ideal range.

Lili: Center, step back! Form a circle around Master Bell!

Lili's order echoed out to each member of the party. Mikoto, Chigusa, and Daphne quickly took the shields handed to them to ward off the ferocious swarm of attacking and receding hornets. Aisha did the same with her weapon, the podao. Ouka and Welf joined them in the battle line, beating back the violent attacks. Rin and Muller comes rushing after they were done with the rear.

Bell: I'm gonna fire!

It had taken only seconds for Bell to assume his position. The adventurers split off to the left and right to open a direct path for Bell, who had transformed into a living gun ready to fire. He had charged for twenty seconds. Using his radiating right arm as a barrel, he let loose.

Bell: Firebolt!

A massive blast of electrical fire edged in white light shot forward. All the hornets in the line of fire were instantly incinerated. The hideous colony exploded with tremendous force.

Monsters: AAH?!

The monsters still inside the nest shrieked wretchedly, and an earsplitting roar followed. The Dungeon wall burst into fragments along with the bloody hive, filling the passageway with masses of ash and smoke.

(Timeskip)

Muller: Whew...I'm exhausted. It feels like I just finished fighting a floor boss!

Rin: Well, it's practically the same thing. That hornet's nest is the worst thing around here.

Muller: When was the last time I had this much trouble in a dungeon?

Rin: Well, I can't really blame you. The monsters at Azbaya are no longer a threat to you.

The conversation between Muller and Rin, who were sitting on Lili's backpack in the middle of the passageway chugging down potions and water, echoed through the now-quiet space.

Bell and the others were taking care of the aftermath now that their biggest battle of the day was over. That meant collecting magic stones and drop items. Purple crystals far purer and larger than those found at higher levels were laying among pieces of the deadly hornets' tough exoskeletons and piles of ash. They set about gathering the loot and extracting magic stones from the remains of the monsters.

Haruhime: I'm sorry, Master Bell...I slowed you all down.

Bell: It's not your fault, Miss Haruhime. In fact, we should have been protecting you.

Haruhime had finally been freed from the viscous liquid and was helping with the cleanup. Since there had been so many monsters, everyone—not just supporters—had to join in.

Chigusa: Mr. Bell...you're so amazing.

Bell: Huh?

Chigusa, who was working nearby with Ouka, had broken into Bell's conversation.

Chigusa: I mean, you're even the one who defeated the most monsters on our way down here. I always knew you were something special, but... B-But now, it's like you're super special!

Ouka's eyebrows scrunched at an odd angle as he listened.

Ouka: It's the same with Antianeira, Golden SwordWoman, and Priestess of Element, so I agree. Adventurers at level 4 are in a whole different league. Not as a league like Sora. But it still makes me feel like a worthless oaf...

His voice was tinged with frustration and competitiveness.

Cassandra: Yes, I think so as well! The way that you move is different during the War Game... Uh, I'm not sure how to put it.

Cassandra said as she scoured the area for items.

Mikoto: His moves are Sharper. Like a certain Hero. Is that what you mean, Lady Cassandra?

Cassandra: Yes, exactly!

Both seemed completely in awe of Bell's combat prowess. As for the boy himself, he was more embarrassed than pleased by the praise. He didn't know what to say in this kind of situation. The same had been true when he moved up to Level 2. He simply wasn't good at accepting compliments. He rested his hand awkwardly on the back of his head.

As his mind rambled incoherently, he suddenly felt a pair of eyes on him and shifted his gaze. Haruhime was standing right next to him, staring at his face.

Bell: Miss Haruhime?

Haruhime: Uh...I-I'm sorry, I'm being impolite...

Bell: It's not a problem...but is something the matter?

She seemed to be wondering about something and wanting to say something. Bell urged her on with his eyes. The renard shifted her gaze away, then timidly opened her mouth.

Haruhime: When...um, before, when the thing happened with the Xenos, you were very troubled by it, so I was worried...about whether you'd really be able to fight monsters again.

Bell widened his eyes slightly as he listened. He had considered the exact same thought himself before. At one point, he'd been extremely concerned about whether he'd still be able to kill monsters—or even continue as an adventurer—after learning about the Xenos. He'd never been able to come up with a good answer.

Haruhime: And so, I must admit that seeing how you acted on our way down here was a surprise. Did Master Sora happened to say anything?

Haruhime, aware of his state during that time, was confused by the present Bell, who took down monsters with such unfettered enthusiasm that he garnered praise from Ouka and the others.

Confronted by the concerned look in the girl's green eyes, Bell was momentarily wordless. As Mikoto and the others returned to work, Bell turned away from Haruhime and kneeled by a pile of ash. He sifted through the gray dust that slipped through his fingers like sand and withdrew a beautiful purple crystal. Then he stood and, staring at the monster's magic stone in his hand, answered Haruhime.

Bell: I decided that being a hypocrite was the best choice.

Now it was Haruhime's turn to be surprised.

Haruhime(mind): Hypocrite!

Bell recalled his conversation with Sora and the Hero's words before coming here.

Sora: From everyone's point of view, I was a Fool for protecting monsters, but let's look it from a different perspective. I see it like this, we mortal beings aren't perfect. But those who possess power beyond that of the average person will occasionally be forced to make hard choices. What we've chosen and what we choose in those moments... We're going to make mistakes, but that's the pain we must accepts.

Bell: Pain?

Sora: Yeah. But those, who decided to do the right things, even if it makes them the enemy to all people. Even if it makes them a hypocrite. Those are the most noble thing to do. And those who decide to become such hypocrites, deserve to become a Hero better than anyone.

Those words had remained in his ears and heart all along, and he had accepted them. After the black minotaur had defeated him, he had made up his mind.

Bell: Defeating other monsters in order to save the Xenos... It may be wrong, and some people may vilify me for it, but I feel like being a hypocrite is what I should do.

To save Wiene and the other Xenos, he would kill their brethren. He would do it even though he knew ordinary monsters could be reborn as Xenos. To save those who were important to him, he would take countless lives. They may have been monsters, but he would still be snuffing out their very existence. No one had ordered him to do it. He had chosen this path for himself.

He had decided, and set his mind to it. He would content himself with either being honored as a hero or disgraced as a villain, so long as it was a consequence of those actions.

Bell(mind): Let me become a hypocrite.

Hee thought to himself as his gaze bored into the glittering crystal.

Haruhime: Master Bell...

The renard girl gasped and shuddered at the sight of his resolute face. Her cheeks flushed red with admiration. Totally oblivious, Bell squeezed the magic stone firmly in his palm.

(Timeskip)

Welf: He was plenty strong before...but now, it's like I feel more secure.

Lili: Is that so...?

The two were watching Haruhime and Bell from a distance. In contrast to the smith, who seemed pleased, the pallum girl looked troubled.

Welf: What's the gloomy face for? I don't see any reason to be so concerned. He's gonna be fine.

Lili: I know that!

Just as Welf said, there wasn't so much as a hint of a threat on the boy's face. He hadn't become rushed and reckless. His was the face of someone who had overcome indecision and arrived at a definite answer. His decisive gaze cut straight ahead into the distance. As his unchanging feelings grew stronger, so did he.

Lili: Master Bell has become remarkably more... well, dependable than he used to be. Even without Master Sora here, we managed to progress smoothly. Yet, at the same time, I can't help but feel like he's drawing further away from me.

That was Lili's honest impression. Her voice was sad and dejected as she told Welf how Bell seemed to be racing further and further ahead of and away from them. Welf stared down at the girl, whose head hung glumly, then laughed provocatively.

Welf: That doesn't matter what a Supporter should do. You just have to keep chasing after him and providing the assistance he needs. Isn't that right?

Lili looked startled, then sullen.

Welf: I'm going to be right up there with him, staying by his side. Actually, I'm going to be even stronger than him. And one day even stronger than Sora. So don't get left behind!

Lili: O-obviously!! Lili is Bell's supporter, his number one partner. She won't be beaten by Master Welf or anyone else!

Welf: Back to your old self, I see...Hey, stop hitting me! That hurts!

Smack, smack!!

Lilly laid into Welf a couple of times, then slapped her own cheeks.

Lili: All right!

Welf: There it is. But we all know that Bell's number one partner will always be Sora, right?

Lili: Hmph! I'll work hard that one day I'll overthrown Master Sora, and be Master Bell's true number one partner!

She had made up her mind once again to fortify herself. The sight of Bell fighting so hard had renewed her own enthusiasm.

Rin:...

Rin gazed at the scene ahead of her and thought about their situation. Their arrival on the twenty-fourth floor definitely hadn't been due to Bell's strength alone. As they moved from floor to floor, both her and Muller, and the others had cooperated seamlessly. They'd seen Bell's performance, and they'd tried to fight just as hard as him.

Muller: What's wrong...?

Muller asked with a smile already guessing Rin's thought.

Rin: Hehehe... Nothing. Bell's presence is having a positive influence on the party as a whole.

A single person could inspire determination and strength in many others.

Muller: Yeah, you're right. Sora had raised him well. He's not just pulling them along with his strength, he's encouraging his allies and making sure they all share the same commitment, which stimulates their growth.

Rin: That pretty much just makes him as heroic as Sora, doesn't it?

Muller: You have a point. It feels like those times we had passed in a blink of an eye. When it's just you, me, Lemia and Sora, when the 4 of us had our adventures.

Rin: At the very least, he had the raw potential to become one.

Muller: No...he didn't have them; he grabbed ahold of them.

From the most ordinary of places. He'd lamented his own weakness, then stared up at the peaks of strength. He was still running, reaching out for whatever handhold he could find. His progress was still surprising even for the deities. Everything had begun in chance encounters. And all these opportunities were what made the boy strong. Even Aisha admired him.

(Timeskip)

As Lilly pops open her cracked watch with a snap, she announces that night has fallen up on the surface. They were done exploring for today, so they decide to take an extended rest in the Dungeon. In other words, it's time to set up camp.

The spot they've chosen is a gaping tree hollow alongside a small path off the main route on the twenty-fourth floor. They decide to use the pocket of space a short way inside. The "room" was one of the candidates for a rest point that they identified beforehand on the map provided by the Guild.

The first thing they have to do before taking a major rest is wreck the environment of the Dungeon. They attack the surrounding walls and floor of the labyrinth with their weapons. Doing that forces the Dungeon to prioritize repairing the area, meaning no monsters will spawn there for some time. The next thing to do is station a guard at the entrance to the room to ensure no monsters make it inside. Then they quickly wipe out any monsters already occupying the room and at the same time, go to work on the walls inside with their axes and hammers.

Bell had guessed the best way to describe the room is to say it's like a space underneath a tree. It's about the size of a small common room. The walls are covered in little white flowers and leaves, along with the occasional herb. When you look up at the ceiling about three meders above, a dome formed by tree roots is visible. Clumps of Lamp Moss on the surface of the dome emit a greenish light, which actually makes the room quite bright.

Lili: I chose this spot randomly off the map, but it's pretty nice!

Lili says. She's taken off her heavy backpack and is breathing in the deep-green air with relish. On the way here, they took a break on the eighteenth floor at Rivira—the 335th-generation post town has already been repaired since the Xenos destroyed it—but maybe because they were finally able to relax their tense nerves, everyone seems exhausted. Still, there's a feeling of accomplishment and relief in their long sighs.

In order to spend the night here according to time up on the surface, we quickly set to work preparing our camp and getting ready for tomorrow's exploration.

Haruhime and Cassandra got Ouka to help them set up camp, and they're romping around clapping their hands like kids. Mikoto and Chigusa are in charge of cooking, and Aisha is guarding the entrance. Lili and Daphne are discussing our route as they look at a map.

Since their party is so small, all their gear fits in their backpacks, so while it's nothing like a Loki Familia base camp with cargo and supplies lying around, their rest point is still starting to look like a real camp.

Welf: Hey, Bell, let me do that one, too.

Bell: Okay, thanks.

Bell accepted Welf's offer and hand him the Divine Knife and sword in exchange for Hakugen, which he's just finished sharpening. Whetstones, hammers, and even a miniature furnace in a box surround him. He seems to have brought all his smith's tools on the expedition. Thanks to their High Smith, they'll be able to keep their weapons at peak performance and not lose any of their edge. It's incredibly helpful, since they can't return to the surface during the course of the expedition.

Muller: It's such a luxury to have a smith in your familia. I doubt that even famous factions like Loki Familia have someone like that on hand all the time.

Rin: Yeah, you're right.

Welf: Gee, thanks. And what do you think, Bell? Are you finding Hakugen easy to use?

Bell: It's the absolute best! I was honestly stunned by how impressive it is. It cuts through even the toughest monsters like a knife through butter!

Welf: Well, yeah, I used a unicorn horn to make it after all. But Lil Lili gave me a tongue lashing for it. She says I shouldn't give you any preferential treatment.

The smith's eyes are fixed on the Divine Knife, but he's grinning like a mischievous little kid who likes to play tricks. Bell smile back at him wryly and look down at Hakugen. The unusual white blade flashes brilliantly. He can sense that compared to the Ushiwakamaru series of weapons, which he'd been using until recently, it's far more powerful. More than that, the edge is much keener. And the best part is how light it is. The handling is incredible.

Perhaps it's not so well suited to defense or fending off attacks...but overall, he don't have any complaints. Since it's custom made, the grip is molded to match to his fingers exactly. Even though he was using it for the first time, it feels like an extension of him more than anything he'd used before. Welf is clearly gaining mastery over his skills. Bell feel so proud and happy to be working together with Welf like this, adventurer and smith, polishing each other's abilities to ever greater heights.

Bell: I'm trying to get used to wielding Hakugen, so I haven't used the Goddess's Knife and Sword much at all...

Welf: I figured. But it doesn't hurt to be prepared.

It's probably thanks to Hakugen and all the other weapons and gear Welf has made for them that they managed to made it to the twenty-fourth floor.

Bell(mutter): The twenty-fourth floor...

Bell mull over the number once again. They've made it from the surface to the twenty-fourth floor in about a day. That's an extremely good pace. No, considering the fact that they used to have trouble even reaching the twentieth floor, you could say it's too good.

Bell(mind): I'm a bit afraid that things are going so well... Why is that?...It's strange how calm I feel.

It's not simply that he was no longer terrified of the middle levels after he reached Level 4. It's more like...he'd crossed blades with things much more terrifying— and much stronger—than anything he can expect to run into around the middle levels.

Those long hours of training with the Spirit Hero, for one, and his great rival for another. Those experiences have affected both his body and his soul. Bell must've realized that once again as he stand here on the twenty-fourth floor of the Dungeon—which is not at all an easy place to be—and listen to the calm, measured sound of his own heartbeat.

The same goes for his improved sense of courage and his thoughts, swirling inside his head at this very moment. Bell return Hakugen to its sheath and look up.

Bell: Say, Welf. Those Knife and Sword were made from Mithril, right?

Welf: Yep. The same as Muller's short sword. Not only is it easy material to work with, but it also has high magic conductivity. It's one of the best ingots you can get.

Bell: Like Sora's Lightning Blade and Muller's Red Lotus.

Welf: Yeah.

Welf replies while he gently turns over the black blade etched with hieroglyphs.

Welf: But even though it transmits magic well, that doesn't mean it can be magically empowered. The blade will just dispersed any magic that you try to imbue it with. Anyway, why were you asking?

Bell: Uh, I just...

Sitting next to Welf, who's immersed once again in his work, Bell stare down at his right hand. Very softly, so that no one will notice, he start to sound the chime. A few particles of white light converge on his hand. The pitched battle he fought and ultimately lost at the hands of his rival has made him more diligent. Before, Bell simply used his magic and skills. Now he'd study them.

Especially Argonaut.

Before the expedition, Bell had been conducting a kind of secret test with a certain Hero every night There are quite a few things that he'd learned already. First, the maximum charge time for Argonaut is four minutes. It used to be three minutes, so he'd gained an extra minute by advancing to Level 4. The power raised by the charge increases wherever the particles of light gather, up to his action limit for attacks. This applies for slashing, punching, and magic, but Bell can initiate the charging at only one place at a time.

Charges and Concurrent Charges are zeroed out if an enemy attacks him or he get distracted. When that happens, the physical and mental strength that he'd been amassing disappear as well. This seems to be similar to what happens with a mage's chants. Even right now, if he will the particles of light to disappear from his right hand, he instantly feel overwhelmed by exhaustion. He could restore his energy using recovery items, but it's best to save those for crucial moments and avoid constantly charging.

What he'd been most interested in as a result of these tests is convergence, which is the most outstanding attribute of Argonaut. It's—

Bell(mind): The high magical conductivity of the knife and sword...The convergence of my skill...

In fact, the Hestia Sword feels like it was already been imbued with lightning. It's faint, but it's there. Only Bell would've realized this, since it was always him and Sora that used the knife and sword. Bell'd realized something about himself.

He was not smart enough. To make up for that, he was currently relying on Lili and some of the others. Without the support of his companions, having him be the leader of anything would be ridiculous. His title would be worthless. Bell got to use every last bit of his insufficient brain.

Bell(mind): If I don't, I, Bell Cranell, will not amount to anything. I won't ever be like Miss Asuna, nor Miss Aiz, who's constantly adding new sword skills to their repertoire. I won't be like Sora, who spins out countless inspired strategies. I'll never get to the other side of genius.

If Bell don't use every last idea in his head, He'll never be able to invent anything new. So he'd been thinking and thinking until he couldn't think of anything else— then right when the flash of possibility shoots through his mind—

Lili: Everyone, dinner's ready!

Bell:...!

Lili's voice rings out from the tent.

Welf: You heard the little lady. Let's go, Bell. I'm done with my maintenance.

Welf hands him the Divine Knife and Sword.

Bell:...Okay!

Bell answer, setting aside his thoughts as he stood up. Welf and Bell head toward the center of the room, where Lili and the others are waiting.

(Timeskip)

After the modest drinking party ends, a quiet like the tranquility of a forest falls over the room. When Bell listen carefully, he can hear the soft breath of Lili and Rin and the other girls sleeping in the tent. Out of consideration for them, Welf and Ouka are sleeping in the open, leaning against a wall of weeds and brush. Their arms are wrapped tightly around their greatsword and ax, respectively.

UOOOOON...Far down the passageway, Bell heard a howl. It's probably a beast-type monster, but from the way the howl echoes, he could tell it's far away. Bell decided it's not a threat. Bell had been on guard duty since the party. One of the bottles stuffed with Lamp Moss is at his feet, lighting up the dim entryway. As he look around, he see that the room is slowly but surely repairing itself. Just to be safe, Bell keep adding new gouges to the walls with his knife. Bell sat down on a stump and open the broken watch Lili lent me. It's two in the morning. Almost time for someone to take his place.

Bell:...?

Bell hear the sound of cloth rustling and turn around. A woman emerges from the tent and walks toward me. She's beautiful young elven woman with a gorgeous face and blue eyes.The Lamp Moss that lingers like starlight on the ceiling illuminates her long blonde hair with incredibly good looks, and due to this, other adventurers call her "The Golden Swordswoman". It's Muller.

Bell: Miss Muller...? I thought Welf and Ouka were taking over next!

Muller: Obviously. I just finished my turn.

Bell: Um...I should have said this earlier, but thank you, Miss Muller...for coming along on our expedition...

Muller: It's no problem. I was planning to get you and Sora to help out with one of our expeditions anyway. The timing was perfect.

If she had added, "In exchange for helping with the Xenos situation," Bell wouldn't have had any response. Plus, despite her words, she was worried about Rin. Bell smile back at the young elf woman. She sweeps her bangs away from her face.

Muller: I thought your nerves might be getting to you.

Bell: Huh?

Muller: That's why I came to check on you.

She looked away from Bell down the long, dim passageway.

Muller: There's a passageway connecting to the lower levels right over there. Tomorrow we'll attack the twenty-fifth floor, our goal.

Bell:...!

Muller: You probably overheard our conversation, but the next level—the lower levels—they're a whole different deal.

Bell: The Lower Floor...

The twenty-fifth floor. Other than Sora, for Bell's familia and himself, it's unknown territory. This is the first time they'll step foot in the lower levels. This threshold is known as the Second Line, just like the First Line up in the middle levels. Even among upper-class adventurers, only a select group has ever crossed it.

Muller: Do you know what adventurers call the zone starting on the twenty-fifth floor?

Bell:...No.

Muller: I heard from Sora, the term was used in the early days of Dungeon exploration, but we still use it today...It's called the New World.

Bell: The New World.

The phrase, with its implication of unknown territory, sends ripples through Bell's chest. The elf glances back toward the tent.

Muller: If you stumble, the party stumbles. That's the kind of party this is.

Bell:...

Muller: So I'll ask you one more time...Are you freaking out?

A piece of moss comes loose from the ceiling and falls between them. If Bell close his eyes, the lush green smell that fills the air almost makes him think he was not in the Dungeon at all but instead in a forest on the surface. In a forest all alone with Muller. He seem to hear nonexistent leaves rustling in the wind. Bell quietly inhale and hold his breath, then slowly answer Muller's question.

Bell: I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel afraid at all...but...

Bell turn my thoughts inward. The conversation he had with Sora before entering lingers in his ears.

—Dragons leap between floors down there.
—And that's not the worst of it. There are swarms of monsters all as strong as floor bosses.

Within that unimaginable world is a certain person—his Hero and his idol. Beyond the New World they are about to step into. Those two person stands on the front lines of the Dungeon, which he don't doubt are nicknamed "hell."

Bell: But I still want to move forward.

Bell quietly squeeze into a fist the hand he'd brought to his chest. It's true. The truth is Bell was scared. No matter how hard he will himself to be strong, he couldn't stop trembling. But his desire to reach that place outweighs his fear. Those were his feelings. He doesn't have time to freak out.

Muller: I like the look on your face. It's way better than 2 months ago when you ranked up to level 3.

Muller says, narrowing her eyes.

Muller: I barely recognize you.

Her grassy green garments sway, and she comes so close placing her hand on his shoulder.

Muller: Call me when you feel like you're on fire and you can't cool down. I'll spar with you until you're satisfy.

Bell: I will!

Her words, whispered form a smile on his lips as she returns to the tent, smiling. After she's disappeared, Bell cleared his head of distraction, he lower his fist. Attacking a lower level. His first Level-4 adventure. Bell turn his mind to the coming day, when he'll face the unknown with his companions.

(Timeskip)

The passage connecting the twenty-fourth floor with the twenty-fifth is a cave covered in crystals.

Rin: Ice...No, crystals...

They had left camp and arrived at the deepest part of the twenty-fourth floor. After killing all the monsters in the room, they gathered in front of a tree hollow that's covered in crystals, as if just this one part of the wall had frozen over at some point.

The cave seems to swallow Rin's words. The cavity is dim and slopes gently downward into the distance, where a cool wind blows toward them from deep inside. The draft, absent elsewhere in the Colossal Tree Labyrinth, ruffles his hair and draws his thoughts to the next stage of their adventure.

They look at one another and, urged on by a nod from the smiling Muller, step into the hole.

Bell was standing at the head of the line. Holding one of the magic-stone lanterns that Haruhime passed out, he tread down the slope. All of them in the front and middle ranks have magic-stone lamps, but Muller, Rin, and Aisha, who's bringing up the rear, have brought along a jar of Lamp Moss instead. They move cautiously through the cavern, thinking how the slippery walls, floor, and ceiling reminded Bell of an ice cave. They go down, ever down into the depths of the long tunnel.

Mikoto: I hear water...

When the end comes into view, Bell could see a bluish light filtering through the opening, along with the sound of water. It grows louder and louder. Soon they can tell that the water is clearly landing on something. At this moment, Bell was neither nervous nor anxious. He was simply following his adventurer's instincts as he search single-mindedly for the unknown beyond the light. They reach the end of the slope and exit the cave.

Bell:...

Bell was dumbstruck. The magnificent scene before his eyes enthralls him. It's a terrific, thundering waterfall, surrounded by valleys and cliffs formed from the tips of crystals. Together with the misty spray of water, the air is full of harpies and sirens. Their songs ring out at a high pitch as their wings swoop and cut through the air in the spacious cavern. They had arrived at a grand watery paradise.

Welf: Whoa...

Behind me, Welf and the others stand completely still, taking in the scene. They were all dazed by this encounter with untrammeled nature in the Dungeon, but more than anything, it's the enormous waterfall directly in front of them that draws their eyes.

Rin: This must be what they talk about, the...

Mikoto: The 25th floor, Water City...

Bell: So these are... The Great Falls?

The sound is like a cacophony of thunderclouds or a rumbling of the earth. Even standing hundreds of meders away, it makes their eardrums vibrate.

The Great Falls.

As the name implies, it's an enormous cascade that starts on the twenty- fifth floor. Judging by eye, it measures about four hundred meders wide and easily as many tall. Perhaps because of the reflected light, the falling water appears to be emerald blue. It's so entrancingly beautiful that for a moment, it makes them forgot they were in a dangerous dungeon.

At the same time that Bell feel moved by the sight, however, he was also shivering in awe—terrified awe. Directly below the crystal cliff they were standing on is a huge plunge pool. Even a first-class adventurer would die instantly if they fell down there. But what really makes him question his eyes is the fact that the waterfall continues on past the pool. Just like a staircase, the falls continue on below the twenty-fifth floor.

Aisha: That humongous waterfall continues all the way down through the 27th floor. As you can see, there's basically no chance of survival if you fall, so watch your step. Oh, and don't worry, monsters don't climb up the falls. Well, most don't.

Aisha explains. Ouka and Chigusa gasp. A waterfall that transcends floors. In the parts of the Dungeon Bell had explored so far, that would have been completely unthinkable. It's said that adventurers will constantly watch their common sense torn to shreds. This must be an example of what that really means. The gaping cavern behind the falls must be a quarter the size of the nineteenth floor.

Welf: How do we get to the twenty-sixth floor...? Don't tell me we're gonna climb down the cliff.

Aisha: No, there's a proper path. Tons of slopes and staircases, too. You take them down to that cave over there.

Aisha points to the bank of the plunge pool on the bottom of the twenty- fifth floor. Although it looks tiny from here, there's definitely a cave with a yawning entryway down there.

The twenty-fifth through twenty-seventh floors have a multistory structure. We have to ascend or descend a distance equal to the height of the Great Falls using the interconnecting passageways at the depth of the plunge pools. If they were to jump over the falls, they could probably make it to the twenty-seventh floor in a single leap, but it doesn't require much to understand that their bodies would be smashed to bits at the same time.

Unlike Lili, Rin, and the others who are staring downward, Bell look up. The Great Falls pour out from the vicinity of the twenty-fifth floor's ceiling. Right above the top of the falls, he can see traces of the Colossal Tree Labyrinth: The roots of an enormous tree measuring five meders in diameter radiate outward. The falls must originate there.

Bell look back down at the magnificent scenery. He trembled at the sight of the Under Resort on the eighteenth floor, too, but...what he feel now is at least as moving. No matter how much he learn from his seminars with Eina, and the knowledge he gained from Sora, there's no stopping the feelings that well up when he lay his eyes on these places firsthand. His heart is pounding with trepidation, tension, excitement, and the shock of encountering the unknown.

Together, the three large caverns linked across three floors by a single waterfall are called the Water Capital of the Dungeon. From ancient times until today, it has been one of the great mysteries of this part of the Dungeon that adventurers call the New World.

Muller: All right, enough scenery. Let's get a move on. If we keep standing here, those harpies hovering over there are going to attack us.

Muller's words dispel the trance they were in and pull them back to reality. Adventurers and their supporters are mercenary folks who leap at the mention of a potential attack, and we quickly forget our amazement as they hurry to follow Muller's instructions.

Aisha: Take that path off to your left and follow it along the wall. Of course, it's a straight shot, so you can't get lost. That cave over there will take us back to the usual labyrinth.

Aisha speaks authoritatively, like she knows everything about this place. She jerks her chin toward a crystal bridge that begins right next to them.

Ouka: Is that the spot where we came in from?

The cliff they were standing on is nearly perpendicular to the crossing. To their right is the precipice and to their left is a path that follows the round curve of the cavern. It goes without saying there's no handrail or anything convenient like that, so if they slip, they'll fall straight into the plunge pool.

Daphne: The scale of everything in here is so big, it really screws with your distance perception.

Bell mentally unfurl the Guild map and take stock of their position. The sheer cliff they were standing on is located at the far southern tip of this floor, at the end of the connecting passageway from the twenty-fourth floor. The cavern and Great Falls directly in front of them were in the center of the floor. The passageway to the twenty-sixth floor that Aisha pointed out a minute ago is on the southeast side. Like she said, they'll head west along the wall of the cavern and enter the inside of the cliff via the cave. From there they'll move in a circle from west to north, passing behind the waterfall, and then east to the underground connecting passageway at the bottom of this floor. In other words, they'll move clockwise from the south to the southeast.

They head along the cliff trail with Bell leading the party. The trail is about three meders wide. To the left is the wall and to the right is a sheer drop. Bell was sure Cassandra is avoiding looking to the right at all costs. In the area around the Great Falls, harpies and other bird-type monsters swim through the air, crying and screeching. Luckily, they don't seem to have noticed Bell and the others yet. Fighting on this narrow path is not something any of them want to do, so it does seem wise to get into the labyrinth as quickly as they could. If they were attacked by flying monsters, their only options will be to respond with arrows and magic or to hunker down beneath their shields.

Bell(mind): If I look very closely, I can see a bridge-like crystal pathway jutting out near the Great Falls. Maybe we'll be using that path as well...

Welf: Hey, Bell, is everything on this floor made of crystal?

Welf, who was right behind him. Bell could only nod.

Bell: There are supposed to be some plants, too...but Sora told me that basically, yeah, it's all crystal.

Bell say, looking out at the cavern to his right and the cliff wall to his left. The precipice and the rock wall, the trail they were on, and everything else making up this floor is deep-blue crystal. The color is much richer than that of the crystals on the eighteenth floor, with faint striations in it. At first glance, it looks like ordinary rock.

Translucent white crystals of various sizes are emitting the light illuminating the floor. They're protruding from the walls and pathway like bamboo shoots, but each one emits only a small amount of light. Aside from the Great Falls, which sparkle emerald blue, everything else on the floor is wrapped in a dim blue haze.

Chigusa: Haruhime, you've been here with Miss Aisha before, haven't you...?!

Haruhime: Yes, Lady Chigusa. At that time, I was stowed away with the cargo and didn't have much chance to look around, but I do remember being amazed.

Bell could hear the two girls talking behind him in the center of the formation. He glance back toward them. Chigusa is admiring the scenery, while Haruhime is swishing the rear of her robe back and forth as she walks. She must be wagging her fox's tail. The girls seem completely taken by this "fantasy in blue" as well. Those are the words this floor brings to his mind.

Mikoto: Still... There's so much water here, where does it all go? I know the dungeon is supposed to be incredibly vast, but it feels like it should overflow at some point.

Rin: The water here flows from the base of the plunge pools up to the surface. You've heard of the port town of Melen outside Orario, haven't you? The water connects to Lolog Lake, which is located there. Of course, it's all sealed off now, like Babel...so I bet the Dungeon sucks up a surprising amount of the water.

Rin says in answer to Mikoto's question.

Muller: During the Ancient Times, water monsters were said to have invaded via that route when they conquered the oceans of the surface.

Mikoto: In which case, there must be monsters lurking within the water of these falls as well.

As they talk, the west wall of the tunnel comes into sight, marking the end of the long cliff trail. They have made it to the inside of the labyrinth without having to engage in battle on the edge of the cliff.

Lili: Okay, everyone. It's time to review our mission.

Inside the cave, tunnels split off directly after the entrance, just like in the Cave Labyrinth in the middle levels. It's like the gray stone structure of that floor has been remade here all in deep-blue crystal. They pause in front of the tunnels to take a short rest and discuss their plans. Lili leads this informal meeting.

Lili: In order to prove to the Guild that we've completed our mission, we need to have the following number and types of drop items: Ten shells from Blue Crabs. Along with three fins from Aqua serpents or thirty fangs from Raider Fish. Or if we aim for rare monsters, then we just need one mystic crystal of the Carbuncle. If we choose resources, we need to gather a thousand grads of Azure Stone.

Lili adjusts her heavy-looking backpack and reads the memo she's taken from her pocket. It makes sense that so many of the items are related to the water, since this is the first watery part of the Dungeon.

Lili: As for the expedition itself, we've already made it as far as we need to for the floor requirement. I don't think it's necessary for us to push further and try to push further and try to reach the 26th floor.

Mikoto: In other words, you're suggesting we spend our time thoroughly exploring the twenty-fifth floor?

Lili nods at her.

Lili: Yes. This is our first time in this area. We have six days left in our expedition, so Lili thinks it best to use yesterday's camp on the twenty- fourth floor as a base for going back and forth to the twenty-fifth floor.

Welf and the others seem to agree with her explanation, and Bell don't have any objections himself. Repeatedly entering the twenty-fifth floor from their camp on the twenty-fourth is likely a good way to adapt to the totally new environment of the lower levels. As Eina likes to say, adventurers shouldn't be too adventurous. They should probably take her advice on this expedition, even if it means passing through some unavoidable tough spots.

Lili: I mentioned this before we left, but we'll be encountering a lot of monsters that live in the water on this floor. This may sound like an unreasonable request, but please do not approach the water's edge.

They acknowledge these plans and warnings about the lower levels, and Lili looks around at all her comrades.

Lili: Finally, just to be sure...Does everyone have on the Undine cloth I handed out this morning?

She looks at the new clothes they were all wearing. Bell's undershirt and pants, Welf's kimono, Mikoto's and Ouka's Eastern-style battle clothes, Rin's skirt, Haruhime's shrine maiden outfit...all of them have been remade in a thin light-blue material officially called "spirit protective cloth."

It's waterproof, exactly the opposite of the salamander wool they wore to get through the thirteenth floor. That one was linked to fire spirits; this one is linked to one of the 5 Grand Spirit like Slyphid. The water spirits Undine. They won't be able to survive the Water Capital without this gear.

The most important thing about Undine cloth is that its protective properties become fully activated underwater. It reduces water resistance and water pressure and improves underwater movement. In other words, it will help them swim faster. Bell heardd Undine cloth called an absolute must for water quests.

Since Hestia Familia is the host of this expedition, they special-ordered all the Undine battle clothes from a specialty shop in Babel—not only for their own familia but for Daphne, Ouka, and the others as well. It wasn't cheap, but as always, they all stashed it from Sora's saving much to his displeasure Only Aisha brought her own Undine gear. As long as they were wearing it, the danger associated with falling into the water goes way down.

Welf: Can't you see this bright blue stuff, Li'l Lili? Obviously we're wearing it.

Welf says. Maybe because he's always hostile to anything related to spirits, there's something irresponsible about his answer. Even after meeting Slyphid, Welf was the only one not as friendly as the others.

Lili: Didn't I say, 'Just to be sure'?! We spent a fortune buying this protective cloth for everyone. I certainly hope you will all make use of it and earn enough from this expedition to cover the costs! And if you don't...!

Cassandra: M-Miss Lilly is scary!

Rin: -_- Um... Just to be clear. It was Sora's money that we loot from his saving to buy all of this clothes.

Muller: And he's been sulking ever since when he learned we stole his money to buy this.

Sora: 💢 Are you kidding me?! Why do I always have to be the one to supply you all with these?! These clothes aren't cheep, you know!!

Everyone: 😅 Ahaha...

They all laugh awkwardly still remembering Sora's irritated face when he learned they stole his money. Incidentally, they plan to split their haul from the expedition among the participating familias based on how many people each side supplied.

Lili: Miss Aisha, am I forgetting anything?

Lili asks, handing over the discussion to the party member with the most experience on this floor.

Aisha: Let me think...

The Amazon rustles her blue clothes and glances at the faces of the Hestia Familia members.

Aisha: One of the key features of this floor is its large number not just of water monsters but of humanoid monsters as well.

She must mean sirens, harpies, mermaids, and lamias. Eina mentioned the same thing in our seminars.

Aisha: You might feel confused at first, but don't hesitate. If you're standing there wondering if a monster is about to start talking, it will take you down.

Hestia Familia:...!

No doubt those words are aimed specifically at Hestia Familia. Aisha knows about the Xenos, and she's giving them a strong warning not to waver under any circumstance. Rin, Welf, Lilly, Mikoto, Haruhime, and Bell nod gravely and keep their mouths shut.

Aisha: Also, be careful not to look away even if your opponent's face is incredibly ugly...Okay, break time is over. Here they come.

Aisha says, wrapping up her warnings with a joke and grabbing her podao, which she's stuck into the ground. Surprised by her last words, Welf and the others turn their heads and see a swarm of crab monsters with blue steel shells approaching from the far end of the cave.

Muller: Don't overdo it just because this is our first battle in the lower levels. Just do what you always do.

Aisha's advice, shouted as she nonchalantly takes up her position at the rear, is the signal for us to attack. The vanguard runs forward, toward our first battle in the lower levels.

(Timeskip)

The battle with the blue crabs ends without incident. The crabs, which are categorized as metal monsters, have irregularly developed claws on either the right or left side, depending on the individual. Although their hammer-like attacks are menacing, even Level-2 adventurers like Welf are able to work together to take them down quite easily by following Muller and Aisha's advice to remain calm. Their steel carapaces are even stronger than those of the deadly hornets, but the seams are wide, and the dexterous Mikoto and Daphne remove them in a few swift strokes. The most shocking thing for everyone is probably the surreal sight of the creatures advancing toward us head-on, instead of walking with a crab's usual sideways scuttle.

Personally, now that Bell have confirmed that Hakugen can tear through the crabs' steel shells, he could move forward with some confidence.

Lili: Look, we've already got two Blue Crab Shells! What a great start!

Everyone smiles wryly at Lilly, who is in a good mood due to finding some drop items so soon. They start down the crystal cave.

Welf: I gotta say that was kind of anticlimactic for being our first battle on the lower floors. We shouldn't let it go to our heads, though.

Their positions in the formation have not changed since the middle levels. To be safe, though, Bell took the lead because of his Level-4 status. Muller, Rin and Aisha, of course, were still at the tail end. As they proceed, the people in the center of the formation spread out across the path, which is at least five meders wide. Lili acts as guide, carrying the map of the floor and keeping them on the main route.

Haruhime: I hear something mixed with the sound of the waterfall...

Haruhime whispers, her fox's ears quivering.

Rin: Yeah, I can hear water flowing...

The sound of the Great Falls echoes ceaselessly through the crystal labyrinth like the sound of distant waves. But as the two girls whisper to each other, something changes in the passage.

Chigusa: A stream...

Just as Chigusa says, a stream is running alongside the path we're walking down. As tributaries from other passageways flow into it, it grows into what could accurately be called a river. The water is another fantastic vision, its surface sparkling deep blue as it reflects the color of the crystals.

Aisha: Streams like this run through every part of the labyrinth. Basically, though, the dry parts make up the main route, so you don't have to worry about swimming.

Aisha explains to them as they stop to gaze at the water. They start walking again. The path is more like a riverbank than a road, with the water flowing to their left. The stream is about as wide as the bank and seems quite deep. It's flowing remarkably fast. If they let down their guard and slipped in, they'd be in trouble.

Cassandra: Uh, what if we fall into the stream...?

Cassandra asks, eyes wide.

Aisha: Get back on land as fast as you can. You won't die the moment you fall in, but you will get killed.

Cassandra: Huh?

Aisha: The monsters will torture you to death. The water is their world, so you're at a huge disadvantage. I'll be honest with you. If you're not used to underwater battles, Undine cloth is no more than a security blanket.

Cassandra's eyes widen as she blanches at Aisha's response.

Aisha: I may be Level Four, but I'll be damned if I'm going for a swim down here. If you fall in, you're done for. Keep that in mind.

Water-dwelling monsters display an overwhelming potential underwater. Land-dwelling adventurers are the reverse—their performance drops drastically in water. As their party listens to the Level-4, second-tier adventurer speak, fear of the water finally begins to settle in.

Bell have heard that the only way for an adventurer to fight an equal match with a water-dwelling monster in its own territory is for them to acquire special development abilities that majorly improve their underwater activities. For those of who lack such abilities, they don't have a chance. If they fall in the stream, they'll be in a tough spot. That's what they need to remember.

Bell: Miss Aisha, all these streams lead to the Great Falls, right?

Bell ask, fixing his gaze on the water that speeds along noisily.

Aisha: Right. Some of them change the direction of their currents over time, and there are traps where a geyser suddenly shoots out of the floor or the ceiling.

According to what Eina taught him, all these streams converge at the origin of the Great Falls in the center of the floor. In other words, if you fall in, you'll eventually be swept into that huge cascade of water and pounded down into the plunge pool. Plus, like Aisha said, most of the traps in this zone use water. Everywhere he turn there's a stream. That's probably another reason why this is called the first waterside floor in the Dungeon.

Aisha: Also, be sure to take great care whenever you walk along the water edge like this.

Haruhime: What for, exactly?

Haruhime asks, tilting her head. Just then, a powerful splashing sound comes from the stream.

Monster: OOOOOOO!

Haruhime: Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh?!

An enormous fish measuring 160 celch suddenly breaks the water's surface and soars into the air. It's a type of monster called a raider fish. Haruhime lets out an astonished scream as it bears down on them, water droplets flying and sharp fangs glittering.

Aisha: You see, if you let your guard down, this is what happens.

Monster: GYAA?!

Before the fish can strike, a sword, a podao and a katana slice it to pieces and knock away its fangs. Aisha had a smile while Muller had a calm on their face, and Mikoto, drenched in cold sweat as she shields Haruhime behind her back, successfully intercepted it. Lili and the others in the center are as astonished as Haruhime. Up front, Welf, Ouka, and Bell stand frozen, facing the sudden commotion in the rear.

Aisha: The monsters are constantly watching us from underwater. Take that to heart...I'm not surprise for you Golden Swordwomen. But good job reacting, Eternal Shadow. Seems I can leave the protection of this worthless fox to you.

Muller: I'm already to use to sudden attack. So my body mostly react to it.

Mikoto: N-no, it was so sudden, I was acting on reflex...And also, since Sir Bell is up front now, it's my job to guard Lady Haruhime...

Lili, the brain, and Haruhime, the sorcerer, are simultaneously the core of our party and its weakest points. Mikoto seems to have understood that and made it her mission to prevent any harm to those two. As a result, her nerves are twice as on edge as normal.

Haruhime: Mikoto, my savior!

Overwhelmed by emotion at Mikoto's speech, Haruhime throws her arms around her, tears streaming down her face. For some reason, Bell and the rest of them clap their hands at this mini romance, or rather friendship, between the lady and the ninja.

Mikoto: Uh, um, you're welcome?

The embarrassed Mikoto says, lowering her head. Meanwhile, maybe because she's envious of their friendship, Cassandra quietly reaches out her hand to Daphne, but Daphne bats it away coldly, eliciting a surprised yelp from Cassandra.

Welf: So the fish down here will jump onto land to attack us...

Welf says as we start walking again. He sounds worn out.

Ouka: What a pain.

Ouka comments as well, as if bracing himself for the worst. Bell silently agree with them both. Bell heard that, unlike the blue crabs that inhabit both land and water, purely water-dwelling monsters spawn by breaking through the beds or crystal walls of the streams. They were able to notice irregularities on land because they have good visibility there, but monsters that multiply underwater are harder to track. It's also harder to sense their presence and bloodthirst. In fact, dozens of enemies could be hiding in the stream running alongside them at this very moment.

Bell glance toward the water. A faint black shadow disappears toward the bottom exactly as though it was sucking its teeth at him. His nerves are going to get a serious workout until he's used to this. Bell move forward cautiously, scanning their surroundings both wet and dry.

Welf: Hey! Look over there, Bell!

Welf has noticed something. They all follow his eyes. A mass of branch-like forms is growing out of the crystal-strewn shore on the far side of the stream. Their bright coral color sparkles like a jewel. They must be...

Rin: Is that what I think it is?

Bell: Under Coral?! I remember reading in the field guide that this is the only place it can be found.

Welf: That's what I thought! I saw it once before when I paid Lady Hephaestus a visit. I think it would make a good material for a weapon. Is there any way we could get some?

Probably because he's a smith, Welf sometimes asks Sora to explore the deep floor to collect materials or drop items when he was right in the middle of exploring the Dungeon. Bell want to agree, because he works exclusively for their familia, but...

Lili: Don't be ridiculous, Master Welf! Didn't Miss Aisha just tell us how scary the water is? We cannot enter that dangerous territory!

Lili insists firmly.

Muller: If I remember right. That under coral has a gorgeous luster to it. If we brought it back to the surface, it would fetch a good price. And look, isn't that shell hidden inside the coral an under pearl

Lili sighs.

Lili: Very well! Let's hurry across and get as much as we can!

Welf: You're ticking me off, Lil Lili.

Rin: Anything for money, eh, Lili?

Welf scoffs and Rin smile wryly. Welf squeezes his hands into tight fists, and the rest of them laugh hollowly. It's decided—they were going to harvest one of the Dungeon's most prized treasures.

But first, to get to the far bank, they have to cross the stream. With Aisha's warning fresh in their minds, swimming is not an option. But a number of crystal rocks are jutting out of the water, and by jumping from one to the next, they should be able to make it across. Still, Bell catch the vague but undeniable whiff of a trap...

Aisha: By the way, I don't think this party has a thief, but is there a scout among us? This type of work usually goes to them.

A scout's main job is reconnaissance. They go out ahead of the group to check for monsters on the path or sometimes intentionally lure them into specific areas. Since part of their job involves making use of the terrain, it's not unusual for them to also be tasked with collecting or excavating dungeon resources.
Hestia Familia has never clearly established a scout position, but as they listen to Aisha's question, their eyes naturally gravitate to one person.

Mikoto: It's me, isn't it?

Mikoto says, her black ponytail swaying. Her Yatano Black Crow detection skill and ninja abilities make her very well suited to scouting and clandestine Dungeon exploration. The far bank of the river is narrow and won't hold more than two. Along with Mikoto, who's been de facto selected, Bell had chosen to provide support because of his speed and agility.

Bell: Lady Mikoto, is Yatano Black Crow reacting to anything?

Mikoto: No...At the very least, the blue crabs and raider fish that we encountered earlier aren't in the vicinity. Of course, that includes the water, too.

Bell: What are we going to do if that rocky bank is actually a crystal turtle...?

Rin: Your concern is well taken, Bell. I'll cover you two with magic, so don't worry.

To lighten their load, Bell discard all but the bare essentials—his knives—and put on a backpack to load with the items they collect. Rin prepared some long range magic and shoots at the crystals to make sure they're not a monster in disguise. They're not, so Mikoto and Bell leap from the shore. Kicking off the tops of the crystal rocks, they fly through the air. Mikoto, who's ahead of Bell, moves ninja-like across the stream, drawing surprise from Welf and the others who are watching from the shore with arrows and ropes at the ready.

Mikoto: This is our first time working as a team of two, is it not, Sir Bell?

Bell: Now that you mention it...your right.

They start collecting under coral as soon as they arrive at the crystal-rock shore. Mikoto cuts off pieces at their base with her dagger, and Bell load them into the backpack. Incidentally, under coral is a different species from surface coral. Bell have heard it's as hard as a mineral.

Bell: Whoa, there it is! I see an Under Pearl in here!

Lili: Please make your way back soon! Being too greedy will only land us in big trouble!

Rin and Welf: That's rich coming from you!

Lili shouts from the far shore. Rin and Welf frown. Bell and Mikoto follow her orders and locate the fist-size shell concealed inside the mass of branch-like coral. Under pearls are sometimes called "rainbow jewels" because they shine with a dazzling array of colors. They harvest it, pure-white shell and all.

Muller: Please watch your steps!

Bell and Mikoto pack stuffed with the Dungeon's riches, they quickly finish up our task and step off the rocky shore, where a large mass of under coral still remains. But as we might have expected, the Dungeon is the Dungeon. It's not going to let a couple of adventurers who just stole its treasures get away without a fight. The water's surface explodes violently.

Welf: Whoa—that was huge!!

Lili: An aqua serpent!

As Welf and Lilly scream from the far shore, Mikoto and Bell stop breathing. The monster is enormous. It has light-green scales and a snake's head, and is clearly a large-category monster. The formidable head with fins protruding from it reminds me of a dragon. According to information collected by the Guild, aqua serpents can grow up to ten meders long!

Monster: OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!

The monster has emerged directly in front of us in the middle of the stream, as if to block our way forward. Its motions send waves through the water as it glares at us and opens its jaws. It drops its head—which was raised so high it scraped the ceiling—toward Mikoto, who is ahead of Bell.

Bell: Miss Mikoto!

Haruhime: Mikoto?!

The flow of time slows to a crawl as Haruhime and Bell both cry out. But before Rin can loose a magic from the shore, or Muller and Aisha can ready their weapons, or Bell can shoot a Firebolt from his extended right hand, Mikoto herself takes action.

Mikoto: Ngh!

She makes a perfect landing on the crystal rock even though it is hidden by the waves, then leaps off again, spinning forward through the air. Aiming for the aqua serpent's lowered jaws, she kicks up her toes.

Monster: GAA?!

A hard blow from Mikoto's right foot sends the serpent's head flying upward and breaks off two of its fangs. It takes me a few seconds to stop gaping and realize Bell had just witnessed ninja martial arts in action.

Daphne: A s-somersault...

Daphne whispers, grimacing. Her words snap the sluggish flow of time back to its normal pace. The instant Mikoto falls into the stream, Muller tosses her a rope, and Bell rush forward belatedly toward the monster's long, undulating body. The serpent has plenty of vulnerable points, and as they cross paths, Bell slice its body in half with Hakugen.

Bell: Yah!

The serpent sinks into the water, its death throes beating up powerful waves. The move almost seems intentional, like a final attack aimed at Bell. He was already off-balance from the excess momentum of running forward, and the waves almost sweep him into the stream. Somehow, though, Bell manage to kick off a rock and land on the shore where Welf and the others are standing. Mikoto, too, has been pulled ashore with the rope.

Bell: M-Miss Mikoto, when did you learn to do that...?

Mikoto: A-actually, I was training with Sir Takemikazuchi before the expedition and he taught me some new martial arts...They came in handy right away, I guess...

Rin: That was amazing, Mikoto!

Muller: Yeah, you've been rocking this whole trip!

Bell smile at her from his position on all fours, dripping wet. She wipes her face and smiles faintly back at him, as if to say she's just narrowly escaped death. Rin and Muller are praising her unreservedly, and the whole party is wrapped up in a fever of excitement.

The excitement lingers after we move from the flooded main route to a small room a slight distance away. Everyone peers curiously at the contents of the backpack that Bell had placed on the ground.

Rin: So much under coral, and an under pearl on top of that...!

Welf: Sweet! This is some high-quality stuff!

Muller: No kidding! I think this alone could fetch upwards of 3 million valis!

Aisha: Better yet, you could pawn it off for 3.5 million with enough smooth talking.

Lili: D-Did you say three and a half million valis?!

Ouka: I can pay back the loans I took out for the weapons in one go...!

Chigusa: O-Ouka, you can't have it all for yourself!

Lili: This is a great achievement, Miss Mikoto and Master Bell!!

Rin, Muller, Welf Aisha, Haruhime, Ouka, Chigusa, and Lili cheer when they see the haul of coral and pearl sparkling inside the bag. All Mikoto and Bell could do in response to all this clapping and praise is scratch their cheeks self-consciously.

Welf: It's starting to feel like a real expedition, isn't it?

Welf says, throwing an arm around his shoulder.

Bell: Yeah!

Expeditions promise high returns in exchange for high risk. Bell had learned the meaning of those words firsthand by retrieving these treasures. As he stood there laughing excitedly with his friends, something different from his desire to grow stronger rises in his chest... Something that makes him remember the innocent child's heart of his earliest days in Orario. Back then, Bell was completely wrapped up in the fun of the quest. The events of a few months ago feel like ancient history, but he'd rediscovered his old excitement for adventure.

Bell(mind): On the other hand, to have been attacked by an aqua serpent so soon...

Even as he was smiling with everyone else, a warning bell is ringing softly in his adventurer's heart. It's fine to enjoy themselves to the fullest during happy moments. But when it's time to switch gears, they really have to get their heads in the game. Bell would never be like Sora, but he should at least be able to overcome his carelessness and conceit. He had the one responsible for leading their party. Quietly, he focus his mind.

From now on, he'll be anticipating the excitement of a new floor, along with the challenges of exploring watery terrain, and the quick wits that requires. Over and over, Bell review in his mind the information he learned about the lower levels, and the face of the person who helped him learn it.

(Timeskip)

Compared to the yawning cavern of the Great Falls, the inside of the cliff, where the labyrinth is located, is a lot like a high-rise apartment building. Like Aisha said, there are lots of staircases and slopes. Whenever Bell start to feel they've been going down for a long time, they go up again. He was getting a real sense of its multilayered construction. He guess they have to go up and down like this over and over to reach the equivalent of the apartment building's first floor—that is, the passageway to the twenty-sixth floor, which is located on the southeast side of the cavern.

As for exploration itself, they've had quite a few close calls. At one point a huge geyser burst through the ground, stopping their progress, and when they tried to get around it via another route, a monster party appeared. Then Daphne absolutely refused to take the crystal bridge that goes right past the Great Falls. Another time, one of Welf's arms got stuck on a drug octopus's sucker, and he almost fell into the rapids. But despite the constantly shifting circumstances, they were managing to make their way down the main route through the twenty-fifth floor.

Right now, they were in the labyrinth in the northern section of the floor. If they follow the stream due south, they should arrive at the Great Falls. According to Lili, who's reading the map of the twenty-fifth floor with its many drawings of the various layers, they're not even halfway down the main route. They still have a long way to go. While they take their third rest of the day, they decide to go a little farther and then turn back toward the twenty-fourth floor. They start moving forward again.

Bell:...?

As they proceed down the dim passageway lit by faintly glowing white crystals sticking out from the floor, Bell saw something. Since he was at the front of the party, he notice it first, but soon Welf sees it, too.

Welf: An adventurer?

Indeed, the silhouette slowly approaching from straight ahead does seem to belong to a human. Long, thin ears protrude from either side of the downturned face...It looks like an elf. Bell could just barely guess its race by squinting down the dim passageway.

Rin: We haven't met one of our own for a while. Even in the middle levels, we weren't seeing many adventurers.

Lili: It must be someone powerful. No other familia was scheduled for an expedition at the same time as ours...Lili thinks only a second-tier adventurer or higher would venture this far for ordinary exploration.

As Rin and Lilly talk behind Bell, the figure of the approaching adventurer grows more distinct by the second. It's dressed in high-quality leather armor, with a quiver at its hip. Bell spot a familia crest. The gear is familiar.

Bell: I recognize him! I'm pretty sure it's...Luvis?

Bell came into contact with him almost two months ago, when he was serving as Eina's bodyguard. He's the upper-class elven adventurer who, along with the dwarf Dormul, was pursuing Eina night after night, egged on by his patron deity. Bell can't yet make out his face very well because of the shadows, but he was certain it's him.

Bell(mind): What's he doing all alone on this floor?

Lubis was Level 3, but this is extremely dangerous behavior. Even if he is second tier, Bell would have a hard time saying he took all the necessary safety precautions unless he came down here with a party. Plus, why is he carrying a quiver but no bow? And his armor covered in scratches and rips. The back of Bell's neck tingles. A moment later, confusion turns to uneasiness.

Muller: All of you, battle position!

Aisha: Yeah! He's acting strange!

Bell: Huh?

At almost the same instant, Bell took his stance and Muller and Aisha warns the others to do the same. He's staggering like he could fall at any second. Actually, he looks like a zombie. The party reacts with a mixture of confusion and tension to the ominously unsteady form emerging from the dim passageway. Lili holds her breath. Finally, Luvis comes to a point directly below one of the white crystals in the ceiling. Slowly, he raises his face.

Rin: Ah...Oh...?!

The light has exposed a figure completely covered in blood.

Daphne:...!!

Cassandra: Wha—?!

Every member of their party gapes at him in surprise. But the blood isn't the biggest shock. What renders everyone speechless is the fact that Luvis's right arm is missing. The upper arm is still there, hidden in the shadow of his body, but everything from the elbow down is gone. Luvis stretches his still-intact left arm out toward Bell and the others.

Lubis: He...el...!

He collapses onto the ground as he utters a fragment of a word. As if to take his place, a large monster emerges from the darkness. Green. That's the only word Bell could find. The human-shaped body is two meders high, and every bit of it is covered in moss. Over the moss, tree roots form a kind of protective covering. The monster looks like a giant covered in full plate armor. The fact that its head brings to mind a bald human likely plays a role in that impression.

Judging from the short, hornlike pieces of wood protruding from its head, though, it's probably closer to an ogre. The two huge, emotionless eyeballs glitter yellow. Its rough left hand grips a nature weapon—a crystal mace that gives off a deep-blue light. Its right hand grips a human arm. Luvis's right arm, torn from his body.

Haruhime: Ahh...!

Haruhime lets out a brief scream at the unpleasant sound of the arm being squashed in the monster's hand. The blood dripping onto the crystal pathway. The cruelty of the torn-off arm. They all stood frozen and wordless before this shocking scene. Bell felt like his hair is standing on end. The hideous monster silently stretches its gore-drenched hand toward Luvis, who's still lying on the ground.

Bell: Stop!!

Bell charge full-force toward this unknown being. In an instant, Bell was beside it, on the verge of slicing through it—when the monster's yellow eyes roll angrily toward him.

Monster:...

The crystal mace in its left hand swings down next to me with incredible force.

Bell: It's fast!!

Bell hurl himself forward to avoid the flash of light that carves a whining path through the air. The mace passes above Bell's head, which is nearly touching the ground, and slams into the Dungeon wall directly next to him.

Bell(mind): It's reading all my moves?!

There's a thunderous roar, and the ground shakes. The crystal wall makes a screaming sound as fissures race through it from ceiling to floor, and the whole passageway quakes.

Welf: Crap!!

Welf and the others are yelling in astonishment behind him. Bell was shocked, too, by the unexpected speed and force of the blow, but he move straight from his doubled-over posture into an attack. Out of the corner of Bell's eye, he glimpse a few strands of white hair floating through the air, fragments of the crystal wall scattering like rain, and the monster's nearly closed eyes. This time bell thrust Hakugen—gripped in his left hand—upward from its low position. The fiercely powerful flash of white light seeks the monster's midriff— but misses by a hairbreadth as the giant steps unexpectedly backward.

Bell:...! It reacted again!

This is not a coincidence. It's foreseeing Bell's attacks. The superfast attacks of a Level-4 adventurer who is not holding back! This monster can't be— The tip of his knife grazes its body, sending fragments of moss flying toward him like enemy blood. Bell's eyes meet the yellow eyes of the monster. In those eyes, Bell detect not the raw instinct of a rampaging beast but, instead, the will to fight, heavy with a kind of muddy lust. That, and an intelligence that is observing his every move.

Bell(mind): This thing is different than any monster we've fought today.

In our brief second of combat, Bell also sense the monster's high potential. It's beyond comparison with any other monster they've fought in the Water
Capital today. In other words...

Bell(mind): It's an enhanced species!!

His mind shrieks silently as it recognizes a skill level and decision-making ability far beyond what one would expect on this floor.

Monster: OOO...!

As if to affirm his conjecture, the monster sticks out its red tongue and licks its lips. Using the momentum from the knife thrust that met nothing but air, Bell release a spinning kick at waist level. This time his right leg, thrust out like a spear, makes contact with his enemy's body and succeeds in pushing it away from where Luvis lies on the ground.

Muller: Don't push yourself!

Rin: We're coming, Bell!

As the mossy giant is forced to retreat about five meders, Muller shouts at Bell sharply, and he heard Muller and Rin's approaching footsteps. A rustling sound comes from the monster's body, and in an instant the wounds from Hakugen disappear under newly grown moss. The giant looks past Bell to the members of the party running toward Bell and Luvis.

Then, Bell was quite sure, it narrows its eyes. The next moment, it stretches its huge arms out in front of him as Bell stood in a defensive position guarding Luvis.

Bell(mind): What is it about to do?

Bell's tension level jumps even higher. He heard a horrible cracking noise as small bumps rise all over the surface of the huge body. They're on its arms, shoulders, neck, torso, legs...everywhere. Bell could swear it was about to shoot something. A chill runs through him.

Luvis:...away...

At Bell's feet, Luvis is trying to say something. The wounded adventurer is summoning his last scrap of energy in order to warn him.

Luvis: Get away! Don't try to block it!!

As Luvis utters those words, dozens of pointy bullets—seeds—shoot out from the monster's body.

Bell: Huh?!

It's an unbelievable firearm. Not flames, not snow, but a barrage of seeds rains down on me. They're not all coming straight on, either—they're coming from above, below, left, and right. They're bouncing off the walls of the passageway and attacking him from every angle.

Rin: They're ricocheting!!

Bell can't even track them all because there are so many, flying across his field of vision at random angles. Worst of all, they're being released at extremely close range. Bell have no choice but to follow Luvis's advice. He abandon his defensive stance, throw appearance to the wind, and leap to the side. As he jump, Bell grab Luvis's body and fly with him into the shadows of a crystal mass to their right.

Aisha: Haruhime!! Put on your robe!

Monster: Eeyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa?!

Seeds are reaching the other members of the party now. Aisha shrieks her warning just before they hit. Ouka and Welf, who are in the vanguard, crouch down and manage to raise their shields to deflect some of the seeds. But they can't stop them all. Mikoto and Daphne go pale and turn away. Rin cast her Protection spell to cover her and Muller. Aisha leaps out, waving her podao to protect the supporters directly behind her. Haruhime, her tail quivering, lies facedown on the ground with Lili, both of them covered by the Goliath Robe.

Chigusa: Aaah!

Welf and the other adventurers manage to withstand the rain of bullets, and the steel wall of the Goliath Robe is protecting the helpless supporters, but one voice rings out. Chigusa.

Mikoto: Lady Chigusa!

Unable to dodge completely, she's been hit in the shoulder with a projectile. Her legs collapse under her and she sinks to the ground. Bell can't stand to watch this scene from the sidelines. He leap from the shadow of the crystal mass into the passageway, where the fierce barrage has now stopped. The monster is staring at him with arms limp at its sides. Bell was about to lunge at it with knife outthrust, when—

Monster:...

Bell: Huh?!

The mossy giant stomps the ground powerfully, then disappears into a tunnel in the wall.

Rin: It's escaped—no, retreated?! A monster, retreating?!

As Bell stood in shock with knife raised, he heard a scream from behind him.

Ouka: Chigusa! What's the matter?!

Chigusa: Ohhh, aaaah...!

As Bell, Rin, Muller, Welf turn around, he doubt his eyes for a second time. Ouka is kneeling on the ground with Chigusa in his arms. Her eyes are
squeezed shut as if in great pain, and ivy is growing from her shoulder. It trails from her right shoulder over her arm and chest, crawling inside her battle dress as if to violate her soft skin. The green vine even sucks up the drops of sweat that drip down the back of her neck.

Mikoto: A plant growing from the wound...? Ch-Chigusa?!

As Mikoto's distraught words sink in, Bell stare at Chigusa. So that seed bullet is the cause of this—? Gaping in surprise, he glance back toward Luvis, who he had left slumped in the shadow of the crystal mass. Bell hadn't noticed before in the dim light, but now he see. Like Chigusa, a tangle of ivy encircles his body.