Yet, Some Things Never Change. (13.1)

…

"Man, Hikigaya-kun, you sure are scary." Orimoto Kaori, by all means, was not someone I expected to see in this world. Still, could I really call the person looking over my Status as Orimoto Kaori? The first girl who I fell for? The mannerisms and other habits were there. The always-present smile, the energetic disposition, and even her single-mindedness were all present. Even her laugh, the slight cross between a chuckle and a giggle, was the same. "I've seen a lot of Statuses, but yours take the cake!"

"I'll take that as a compliment." I couldn't help but be a little gruff towards Orimoto because of those reasons. Seriously, there were a myriad of other people I'd rather have around now than my first crush. People I knew that didn't have a cloud of awkwardness neither one of us really wanted to acknowledge. Like Hayama. Scummy goody-two-shoes that Riajuu might be, but he knew how to play a crowd better than I did. No way in hell I'd want Totsuka here, no matter how much happier I'd be to have him around. Totsuka is too good for this world. Too innocent. Too pure. Amen. "Are you done?"

"Yep! I'm all finished now, Hikigaya-kun!" Orimoto gave a huff of accomplishment as I reached for my shirt. The room was noticeably dimmer once the 'divine' power faded away. According to Orimoto, while the ceiling of Under Resort was healing, it wasn't as luminescent as it used to be. Candles and Mage Lights were slowly being carted back from Orario along with other, important supplies. I ignored how close her breath was to my back as she pressed a piece of paper against my Status. "Man, already at D-Rank in all your Skills, too! That's scary even without thinking about your new Skill!"

"Given how powerful Mentor is I'm not very surprised." I really shouldn't hold Orimoto at arm's length. The two of us were from the same world. Our circumstances alone should've meant that we'd do our utmost to help one another in our current situation. Still, despite that fact, I couldn't help but simply comment and allow the conversation to flow rather than actually speak to my old classmate. There was something hanging between the two of us that I couldn't place my finger on. Blame, relief, and many other things that conflicted with one another. "And, are you really one to talk Miss Level 4 and 'Leader' of Rivira? You've got an entire town under your thumb and you call me a monster?"

"Hilarious, Hikigaya." Prying the paper against my back, I felt her palm settle against my Status. I felt the skin of my back shift, a familiar feeling, and I knew that my Status was completely hidden. As I shrugged my shirt on, Orimoto took a seat by my side on the cot we'd appropriated and handed me the results of my Rank Up. My old classmate gave a sigh and a soft chuckle as she laid back against the bed of straw covered by a blanket. As I examined the changes to my Status, raising an eyebrow at the stupidly Chuuni name of my new Skill, she covered her eyes with her forearm. "Hey, Hikigaya, you see the same thing as I do, right? The words that are just always there? Telling us that we can go back home?"

"…Yeah, I do." I folded the paper before running it beneath the candle. No point in having physical evidence of my Skills. I turned my attention back to my old classmate. Now, the person lying at my side was different. Orimoto Kaori still existed, but there was no way that the person I used to know would ever act so… defeated. Her Skill allowed her to focus on a single object and pursue it fearlessly and without qualm for consequences. I didn't know whether or not it was as terrifying as my own, but it was most certainly horrible. "Reach the end of the Dungeon and return home, right?"

"I've reached Floor Thirty, Hikigaya-kun. It's terrifying." Orimoto placed her hand against her stomach and turned her gaze towards me. I ignored the memories that her gaze brought back. The rejection and the disgust I'd seen as a child all returned. As always, despite the fact that some things were left forgotten, I couldn't. I've always been a very spiteful person. My memories, brought so clearly to the forefront of my mind, wanted me to say dozens of stupid things and air out many regrets. I clamped down on them, screwed the lid tightly, and focused on staying quiet and simply listening. "There are armies of monsters there. Hordes upon hordes. Tidal waves of monsters that hammer whatever expedition that-."

"I know, but we'll get through it." I interrupted Orimoto with both my words and a shake of my head. I got up from the cot and shrugged on my coat. After a moment, the surge of power from the Rank Up was gone and I was once more 'normal.' Just as strong as the average Level 2. My students all agreed that it's suicidal to try and stride into the Dungeon past Rivira as a Level 1. "We have to if we want to go back. So we will."

"Can you really just say that, Hikigaya-kun?" Orimoto didn't rise. For a moment I just turned and looked at her. My old classmate leaned on her elbows, meeting my gaze with a slight, small smile. Melancholy, I decided, didn't suit Orimoto Kaori in the slightest. "Just… we have to so we will?" She brought her knees up and rested her head upon them. "We could die. Level 5s and 6s die down there all the time. I want to see my friends. My family… but would they want us to die trying to get back to them?"

"No. They wouldn't." Orimoto wanted to know why the two of us should keep fighting. Everything she said was true. Would my mother and father want me to risk my life to go back home? Would Komachi? Would anyone? No. I knew they wouldn't. However… "But I want to. I want to go back and see my family and everyone again." I decided a long time ago that I would. "I want to go back to school. I want to worry about just getting a job." I took a breath to steady myself. "It sounds… ridiculous, I know, to risk my life for things as simple as that, but…"

"No. I get it." Orimoto interrupted with a sigh. Yet, even then, my former classmate did not rise. "But… what about everyone else? Everyone here?" A sigh escaped her. Ever so slightly, her voice cracked. "Don't you ever think that you're going to lose more just by leaving?"

To that particular question, I didn't have answer.

…

"I'm gone for a week, brat, and you manage to start a war." Arde massaged her temple and gave a groan. The Abandoned Church was in good shape despite being attacked by the Apollo Familia. I supposed that having the Sword Princess around must've helped in that regard. Like finding a raid boss at the entrance of the dungeon. Scary. Cranel, of course, fidgeted beneath Arde's gaze. "And, not only that, but you manage to start one with one of the largest Familias in all of Orario!"

"It wasn't my fault!" Ah, Cranel used 'cry cutely' it's super effective against Sensei-types and Oppai-Loli-types. Unfortunately, my white-haired student, Arde is a Fighter/Pettanko hybrid legendary with resistances against such debuffs. My Pallum student simply crossed her arms and sighed. As expected, it's not very effective… "They wanted me to leave Kami-sama and they threatened to burn our home down if I didn't! I had to fight!"

"You could've just had Wallenstein show up and scare them away!" Arde protested. Hmmm… good point there, my Pallum student. The classic 'my friend is stronger that you' technique has allowed me to circumvent many odd situations. By all means, such a plan would've worked given the fact that the Sword Princess was well-known and very, very strong. "They'd have been scared away and we wouldn't be caught up in this mess!"

"A man can't let the girl he likes fight for him!" Ah, good point Cranel. I see that you're pursuing the classical romance of a hero and a damsel. My white-haired student's face contorted into one of determination, his hand curled into a fist before his face. I could feel the fires of his will shining brightly. It made my stomach curdle. Such an overused gag… "I'd lose all my pride as a man if I let Aiz fight for me!" Wow, he actually slammed his fist against the table. Unfortunately, the manliness of the gesture was lost given the fact he was blushing madly at his own proclamation. "If anything I regret not being able to handle them all by myself!"

"Uwaa… Bell-kun is becoming so manly!" Ah, a Hestia interrupt! The Oppai-Loli uses side tackle and wiggle! A truly devastating attack! Cranel is lost in marshmallow heaven. Rest in peace, my student. May you forever be the envy of Otaku everywhere. Still, I was able to read between the lines. Though unsaid, I could see the subtext behind the hug. It was like this: "Oi, stop thinking about that Wallenstein! Think about me! Bell-Kun~." Truly terrifying. "I'm so proud of you!"

Mikoto, the newest of Hestia's Familia, watched the scene with a small smile. Eh, you're awfully content and quiet despite the fact a girl's raising flags on your crush? Shouldn't you be trying to get his attention or something? You're being way too cool, Mikoto-san! You're setting yourself up for disappointment by staying quiet though! I don't think I'll be able to take if you don't even get a fair chance to confess! That'll break my heart!

For a moment, I just basked in the presence of the Hestia Familia. Just Cranel, Arde, Mikoto, and Hestia up to their usual antics. I didn't have to worry about maintaining an image, my missing limb, and the general escalation of violence and plots that were underway. Though I usually had no problem spending time with my students, Laulos's decision ensured that such a gathering would be awkward at best. Both Hiryute and Lyon had other matters to attend to, the former concerning her seeing her Familia Members rested and the latte to get some rest.

The past month had been hectic. An attack on Orario forced me to reunite with Hecate. I had helped rescue what remained of Mikoto's Familia. We had taken on three Monster Rexes and a Calamity in a single Expedition. Only the previous month could hope to compare, and in that one I had been ambushed while shopping, kidnapped, burnt alive, and killed a dragon roughly in the same week. Now, we were all planning on confronting one of the largest Familias in Orario, with a ballroom dance just two days before the massive, city-wide battle, and gathering whoever was willing to help us.

There was no doubt in my mind that I'd already achieved my original objective of ingratiating myself into this Light Novel's plotline. There's no way that all those events could've happened in such rapid succession, along with my survival of them all, if not for my success. I was part of the 'cast' and deeply, completely involved in the myriad of plots and plans that are now occurring in Orario. I'd achieved one of the first steps of my plan to get home… yet, as I sat there I couldn't help but remember Orimoto's words.

I could get home my reaching the end of the Dungeon. That was a fact that was always in the corner of my vision. A constant reminder that made sure I couldn't simply sit still.

Now, with Orimoto's words and my 'success' those words were another reminder.

If I did succeed, when I succeeded, I would be leaving everyone behind if I chose to return home.

Yet, Some Things Never Change. (13.2)

…

"The Loki Familia isn't going to be involved in this." I started with the most pertinent, but unsaid question. No point in dancing around the subject. Looking around the table, I was pleased to see that no one was surprised about that fact. Well, Hestia seemed slightly perturbed, but she stayed silent. I was tempted to ask them why they weren't surprised, but I wanted to make sure everyone was on the same page before I tried to pound some knowledge into Cranel's head. "If they get involved, there's a high chance that this will turn into chaotic mess. Too many valuable people would be on the line if the Loki Familia decided to help us. Ganesha, Freya, and every god with even the slightest chance at winning will throw in their lot trying to win it all."

"Gods are the sort to do that." Hestia gave a slight sigh as she agreed. I made sure to keep my eyes on her face. Given the fact Oppai-Loli was blatantly a fanservice character… that was easier said than done. Oi, oi, oi! Don't cross your arms! Arde's about to combust with jealousy and she doesn't even like Cranel! Please be more mindful of your assets, Hestia-sama. "Hephaestus said that she's willing to lend us Crozzo-kun's help, along with his swords, but we'll be outnumbered since Apollo's Familia is so large…"

"We're not as outnumbered as you think, Hestia-sama." I calmly interjected after she trailed off. Heh, I was taking sound cues now. Truly, I have attained the status of a 'Major Supporting Character.' Maybe I have a fanclub now? Is Totsuka cheering for me-. Wait! Focus! "Erisuis and Nelly, two of my other students, should be capable of helping us." I explained. "Nelly says Hermes-sama is still away and has left his Familia to their own devices. I've yet to speak with Miach-sama, but given your friendship with him…"

"Both our friendships with him, Hikigaya-sensei." Hestia gave a swift nod with her correction. For a moment I was confused by the goddess's words, however I soon remembered she first heard of me through Miach. I had saved Erisuis and trained her after she had lost her arm. I'd considered that particular debt paid, but if they didn't… well, I wasn't going to say no to their help. "I'm sure that Miach will be more than happy to help." Her lips curled downward. Worry. "What about you, Hikigaya-sensei? Shouldn't I speak with your goddess about your participation?"

"I'd rather not involve my Kami-sama with Orario Hestia-sama." I simply, bluntly lied as I shook my head. "Honestly, I've half a mind to stop meeting with her entirely and just keep going to Orimoto for Rank Ups." Hestia seemed ready to say something about my plan, but I held up my hand. Given her focus on Family and how far she was willing to go for Bell, I was sure she didn't approve my plan to distance myself from my 'Kami-sama.' "I'm not saying that I will, Hestia-sama, but Orario has been absurdly dangerous the past few weeks. I just don't want to see my Kami-sama hurt."

"We're supposed to protect our children…" Hestia gave a sigh and shook her head. I could tell that the goddess wasn't pleased by my response, but wasn't willing to pursue it any further. Still, she offered me a grateful smile. "You have my thanks for staying at my Bell-kun's side despite the current dangers, Hikigaya-sensei." She gave me a small, but proper bow. "I know that he attracts a lot of trouble, however… please, continue to take care of my Familia."

"…" I gave a nod in return, keeping silent. Hestia truly still believed that I was doing my best to keep Cranel safe. I had nearly gotten him killed-. I took a measured breathe and forced myself to focus on other matters. There was no time for regret and guilt now. Later, perhaps, but now I had to make sure that everyone present was on the same page. That meant not being defeated by myself. I'd overcome that once before, in more terrible circumstances, so there's no way I was going to allow it to occur now. "It's no problem, Hestia-sama, despite Cranel's ability to attract trouble." I gave a nod and a small chuckle, forcing myself to focus on something else. "Whether that trouble be in the form of damsels or monsters, he's more than promising enough for me to continue teaching."

"Eh!? Why are you saying that like I'm somehow doing it on purpose!?" Ah, I've successfully activated the comedy tag of this particular genre. Or, since this was Cranel being flustered, was it actually the cute tag? Anyway, even as my white-haired student suddenly turned scarlet and gave several denials, Arde, Hestia, and Mikoto were already chuckling. The mood became unsuitable for the thoughts I didn't want to confront. I had to laugh myself. "You all agree with him?!"

"Of course I do." Arde rolled her eyes and sighed. My Pallum student gave me a slight nod and a smile when ours met. I was reminded of the odds we had faced, and how completely possible it was for her to not be present, and found myself happier knowing she was still here, still able to antagonize and help Cranel along, but also being safe and unharmed. "Nothing this crazy every happened while I was Sensei's student."

"I must agree, Bell." Mikoto, surprisingly, spoke up. Oh ho, a new challenger appears. There was tender, but mischievous smile on her face. I noticed Hestia scowl slightly. I'm afraid that you have more competition now, Oppai-Loli-sama. "My first venture with you into the Dungeon was very… eventful." A coy, measured laugh came from the swordswoman's mouth. Gloved fingers touched the parted lips slightly. I noticed Cranel's flush deepen. Critical hit. "You're quite exciting to be around, Bell. I must say that I'm quite excited to continue working with you."

Watching them interact, for a moment, I was content.

…

"Sensei, are you sure that you should be fighting already?" Cranel's question was surprising. Turning to my white-haired student, I found him not meeting my gaze. We've walked the path from the Abandoned Church to the Hostess of Fertility dozens of times. Typically, I explained to him what we were doing in the Dungeon on our way to pick up his lunch from Syr, but he rarely spoke. "You just woke up today and you're going to fight in a War Game at the end of the week? Isn't that dangerous?"

"Going into the Dungeon every day is dangerous, Brat." I shook my head. Cranel's face contorted for a moment, but I sighed and shook my head before he opened his mouth again. He seems to have gained one of my 108 Skills: Detecting Purposeful Changes in Topic. I've taught my scarlet-eyed student too well. I sure hoped he didn't plan on challenging me one day. With all my skills and his cuteness, I stood no chance against him. "Cranel." Using his name quickly got him to turn fully towards me. "Part of the reason why everyone's taken such an interest in you is because of how well I've taught you. This War Game? It's not wholly because of just your own work. Part of it is my fault as well."

"That doesn't mean you have to fight, Sensei." Cranel shook his head. A sigh escaped my human student's lips. He fretted with his gloved hands idly before scratching at his cheek. I paid closer attention to him. It seemed that I hadn't fully gotten through to him. I supposed that I should be flattered that the protagonist of this LN thought so highly of me. Somehow, that thought didn't please me as much as I believed it would. "If I'd listened to you about staying incosp- inco… unnoticed, then Apollo-sama wouldn't have noticed me."

"Inconspicuous, Brat." I provided him with the word he was looking for. I realized that I was slipping back to old habits. Once more, I was trying to place people into small, clear boxes. I should've learned my lesson already with Lyon. Bell Cranel was worried about me. I shouldn't make a joke of it. Did it fit his character to care for people who were wounded? Yes, but that didn't mean that I should treat his worry like it was something he should've given me at the start. People who did that were just complete scum. I shook my head as I focused back on my conversation with Cranel. "No one with a pair of eyes could deny everything you've done, Cranel. This was bound to happen sooner or later. The fact that I'm heading into the fight missing an arm and just getting up from a coma are just additional disadvantages." I made sure that he was listening. "I told your Kami-sama that I'll teach you, that I would see you succeed in the Dungeon, and in my mind that includes keeping you out of the hands of some perverted, old geezer."

"Indeed, I believe that Hikigaya wants you all to himself, Cranel-kun." Shit. Lyon was here. Dammit, that elf is too quiet! Even walking at my side, it was easy for me to forget that she was present! Turning to glare at her, I was less than pleased to find a smug smirk on her face. A series of small chuckles escaped her mouth. They were too measured, too controlled, to be considered the final world. Shit, my abrupt reaction has led me straight into a trap. "Oh my, such a quick reaction. How suspicious of you, Hikigaya-kun."

I was about to reply, but I suddenly felt the lengths of two, slender legs settle on my shoulders. My body went rigid as I noticed a length of cloth settle over my shoulder. I nearly snapped my neck as I turned my features to face completely forward. Even then, my efforts to not let my eyes drift failed me. I was all too aware of the warm form against the back of my head that took my hat as her own. Why now Hiryute!? No! Not why! What! What's with this development!?

"That's right, Rabbit-kun!" Tiona spoke with unreserved cheer. However, I was able to read the situation very well. The knowledge unveiled to me forced a chill went down my spine. In the corner of my eye I saw Lyon's smirk increase in smugness. That verification, that symbol of the coming of the end, symbolized my complete and utter loss. No. No! NO! They're working together! You can't expect any man to be capable of fighting against this! Zaimokuza you bastard, there's no way in hell this sort of thing can actually happen! "Don't worry though, we'll protect you from Hikigaya-kun's terrible, hidden nature!" Stop it! Stop wiggling- distracting me! " Since you've already got a Sensei and lots of Senpais! We'll be your Onee-sans! You can count on us to keep your Sensei in line!"

"O-okay! T-that's great! Onee-san!" E-et t-tu Cranel!? Why are you beaming and smiling at me!? Help me! Don't act as though you're seeing your dreams have come through right before you, dammit! Where the hell is the denseness and innocence that a Harem Protagonist like you should have!? Save me from this hell-. Lyon, why are you holding onto my arm!? Hiryute must've spoken to her while they waited for me to leave the Church! I'd made a grievous tactical error! "Thank you very, much Onee-sans! Do a good job, please!"

Seriously, how the hell did this go from Cranel being concerned about me fighting so soon after recovering to me being harassed by Hiryute and Lyon!?

Dammit, I even heard Arde chuckling behind me!

Yet, Some Things Never Change. (13.3)

…

Fighting with one arm is more difficult that I initially thought it would, especially while I was restrained to being just a mere human. I shouldn't have been surprised given the fact I'd lived my whole life with two arms. Without the Strength, Dexterity, and Agility provided by my Status, I was practically stumbling every other step as I trained with my new weapon.

Lunge. Weight misplaced. Correct. Retire. Evaluate. Body still believes arm is present.

I, of course, was training beneath the full moon, on the rooftop, as Orario slept. I did so partly because I wanted to make sure I was getting some screentime, but mostly because I didn't need much sleep after being comatose for an entire week. I would've enjoyed the view of the massive, sprawling field of stars and the immense moon more if Babel didn't ruin the view. There was a pleasant breeze in the wind. Spring arrived early.

Counterweights? No. Knife bandoleer already present. Essential tools against monsters.

I was acclimating myself to a sabre. Crozzo, unsurprisingly, came through and made me a powerful weapon. The weapon easily cut through monsters with a mere flick of my wrist. I can slide it through wrought iron without effort. Not only that, but despite its slender blade it hadn't broken when Hiryute struck it with Urga. Undoubtedly, it was the sort of Magical Weapon that Crozzo wanted to make, put his name on, and see proliferate across the world. It would need maintenance, and it had cost 175 Million Valis, but there was no doubt it was a powerful weapon.

Lunge. Better, but not perfect. Need to stop immediately. Cannot allow weapon to be stuck into opponent. Re-do.

Five days and nights to master a weapon. Four nights, at the very least. I had to train Loki's kids further. Another night would be lost if I couldn't find an excuse to not attend the Ball. Still, I supposed four nights was enough to make decent montage or flashback sequence for the audience to explain my skills with my new weapon. Admittedly, I was missing a mentor-figure looking over my shoulder and correcting my stances, but I hoped that I built enough credit with the audience that they'll believe I taught myself how to fight without help. I'd considered asking the Sword Princess… but that sounded like too much of a flag. No way in hell, would I risk making Cranel think that I was interested in Wallenstein. NTR is a trash fetish.

Cuts. Downward. Right-to-left. Left-to-right. Shoulder to hip. Hip to shoulder. Neck. Thrusts. Eyes. Throat. Heart. Groin. Perfect.

I wondered if I ever pushed myself this hard before. Sure, I'd worked on papers and journals into the middle of the night. However, that was just reviewing and memorizing words. Practically homework. For a long time, I'd prided myself into doing things efficiently and with the tools I gained where I had been born. Training into the night, fighting against imaginary opponents, and practicing how to use a sabre? Hell, knowing the fact I was lunging just a hair too much? I've read about all those things in shitty, trash light novels… but I only learned about them all in Orario.

Concentrate on leading foot. Required to float, but cannot move a millimeter out of place. Perfect control required. Lunge. Perfect stop. Recover. Cut. Pierce. Evade.

Years from now, I'd have to face the fact that I was becoming a part of this world. Ever since I'd met Orimoto, that thought was always in the back of my mind. A small whisper begging for attention. Would I still want to go back home after everything that happened to me? After everything I accomplished? All the people I'd met? The answer should've been simple, but it no longer was. It became convoluted and confusing and, as expected, I couldn't stop thinking about it.

Check time. Three hours until sunrise. Sleep? Not required. Can continue. Must continue.

However, I knew that I couldn't afford to allow the thought to distract me forever. I'd let that happen before and ended up in the gutters. So, I answered the question in my usual fashion. Ruthlessly, efficiently, and coldly… I decided to leave the problem aside for another day. I wanted an answer, I truly did, but I knew that I couldn't provide myself one I could truly believe. I was going nowhere and simply wallowing in confusion and half-assed pity. That, especially given my circumstances, was unacceptable.

Chant. Cast Nourish. Chant. Cast Haste. Restart training.

So, I chose to admit that I didn't have an answer and wouldn't until I was actually faced with the decision itself.

Lunge. Weight misplaced. Correct. Retire. Evaluate. Mistake due to Continuous Haste. Good. Making progress.

Surprisingly, the errant, continuous thought went quiet after that.

…

Seriously, what the hell, that's all that I needed to do!?

…

My sabre met with Cranel's longsword. In typical anime fashion, sparks arose from the meeting of our two blades. However, I paid that no attention as I swiftly aimed a quick at his midsection.

Underhand knife throw. Delay maneuver. Allow to pass. Kick.

"Oof!" Cranel flew across the air, the wind knocked out of him, as the knife he threw flew into the air. That knife would've struck my throat. If it hadn't been blunted I'd most certainly been killed by the surprise quickly. Taking a blow to end a fight quickly. Really, can you call yourself a hero if you're fighting so dirty, Cranel? He curled up in midair, spun, and then embedded Hestia's Knife into the cobblestone to slow himself down. "Arde-senpai!"

Boulder. Behind me. Duck. Large. More coming.

"Get off your asses and attack!" Arde cried out just as she heaved another, man-sized piece of stone towards me. Four more were right behind her. They sped towards me like cars on an empty road. I had no doubt that they'd hurt far more than a car if they made contact. Jeez, isn't that a bit much for a guy with only one arm? "Cranel, use the cover I've given you!"

Five flanking attacks. Loki Familia members. Taking advantage of suppression. Cranel at back. Encircled while suppressed. Good strategy. Need to break out. Weakest link?

Wifra and Arior were now very capable melee fighters. I couldn't take one of them down before one of their allies came to help. The two worked very well with one another. Oswald and Baade were both excellent in melee. Taking one of them down in a timely manner wasn't possible in the current circumstances. Glim was right out. Her 'practice' warhammer could snap my 'practice' sabre in half.

Duck below boulder. Second boulder coming. Roll back. Boulder crashes into cobble floor. Fragments. No concern. Large fragment left over. Too heavy to lift. Cannot use as mobile cover.

Cranel or Arde were dangerous opponents, but one was preoccupied with throwing boulders and the other one was recovering from being kicked in the gut. Needless to say, despite the fact that they were both very capable in hand-to-hand combat, my Pallum student was better at using her fists and my human student more capable with weapons. However, Cranel was swift in getting back up and resuming his attack, while Arde was doing her best to embarrass siege weaponry everywhere. Taking those facts into account, attacking Arde was the wisest move to make.

Weigh sabre. Good balance. Even design. Hold by blade. Javelin throw. Follow.

"Watch out!" Oswald gave a cry of warning, but my dull, iron sabre punched into Arde's gut. My Pallum student tried to hold, but I'd timed the blow to arrive just as she was about to let go of her latest projectile. As her skill didn't give her extra strength, just made things largely weightless, she had to put a lot of effort in if she wanted to use massive projectiles. I can imagine being punched in the gut while putting your back into a throw couldn't really be resisted against. "Cranel get up there-."

Pick up sabre. Slash to throat. Arde 'down.'

"Dammit!" I didn't know who gave out the cry, but I didn't waste time in checking. I gave Arde a nod before launching myself towards one of the corners of the abandoned fort. There, they wouldn't be able to flank me and couldn't put their numbers to use. Glim's warhammer would also be limited to overhead strikes and rams unless she wanted to come at me alone. Otherwise, the dwarf would definitely knock out one of her allies. "Don't let him establish his perimeter!"

Stance. Leading foot forward. Minimize profile. Sabre at waist level. Focus on counterattack.

Wifra and Arior were quick. Their heavily gauntleted hands lacked the usual blades or spiked knuckles. The two Wolf Tribe girls were very quick on their feet, worked exceedingly well with one another, and could definitely engage me in such a narrow corridor. Wifra rushed forward with a burst of speed as Arior slowed and began to weave through her path. A double-pronged attack with a slight delay, but with the second blow being stronger and better-aimed than the first. Clever.

Amend strategy. Sabre to chin level. Feint Lunge. Wifra slight delay in stopping. Arior halts completely. Improved movement. Roll forward. Horizontal slash through both. Two down.

"Dammit!"

"Augh!"

I returned to my position just as Oswald and Baade rushed in. The former was using a longsword while the other used a pair of knives. The Cat Tribe adventurer was using her flexibility to her advantage, slinking close to the ground with knives bared, while the bespectacled human cautiously charged with sword held before her in a two handed grip. Their teamwork wasn't as good as the two of Wolf Tribe, but it was passable. Still, it was obvious that Baade was going for twin cuts against my stomach while Oswald delivered a lunging, hip-to-shoulder slash. Tricky to counter, so I chose to dodge.

Upward leap. Throw sabre. Evaded by both. Capitalize on scattering. Launch off wall. Oswald still recovering. Diving kick to temple. Down. Twist. Catch sabre mid-bounce. Baade on defensive. Knives flashing in defense. Thrust to chest. Down.

"Raaaa!" Glim gave a massive war cry that precluded an air-displacing upward swing of her warhammer. The well-armored dwarf reasserted her control over the massive weapon just as the head reached over her shoulder forcing me back as she swung it downward. The head of the hammer was nothing in comparison to her actual weapon, just made of cork and with a weighted sphere in the middle, but she accomplished the same technique with her usual weapon. Scary. "Cranel!"

Cranel?

For a moment I was honestly confused, as I saw no sign of my student. My white-haired student wasn't behind Glim, neither was he running through the gaps between the dwarf and my corner. I searched for him. Soon enough, I caught sight of him… running and leaping off the length of the wall leading to my corner. A flanking maneuver on an opponent at a corner. What. The. Hell. How didn't I think of that!?

Upward leap? No. Hammer will reach. Evade? Backed to a corner. Roll? Wide swings means loss. Doing nothing means Cranel attack lands. Loss.

Well, I supposed expecting myself to fight seven Adventures without magic, knives, and my limiter on was too much, as expected.

Throw sabre to delay Cranel. Step back to evade hammer thrust. Hand is free. Withdraw two, blunted knives. Throw. Direct hits to foreheads. Down and down.

"You still had your knives!?" Cranel gave a cry of frustration. One that Glim mirrored. The two pouted in concert as they rubbed at their foreheads. "We… We were so close! Gah!"

I had hoped that just working with the maximized Agility and Dexterity of a Level 2 I could do more, but it appeared that wasn't the case. Really, I'm getting too arrogant for my own good. I seriously couldn't afford to do this is in the Floors past Rivira.

I really needed to get better than this if I intended to face armies of monsters.

…

Yet, Some Things Never Change. (13.4)

…

Social gatherings are simply ridiculous, both in this world and my previous one. From the first tribes, to kings, and even to the leaders of the modern world, social gatherings like parties are important moments in time for the upper class to flaunt their wealth and power. Ludicrous amounts of time and money are spent to make a place look pretty, catered with good food, and dressed up with music and 'events' that could be better spent on something life-saving… like a knife.

Ball, gala, party… whatever it's called is just a name to cover up the true purpose behind the project. For those without information, outside the know, its meaningless entertainment provided by the rich that makes them feel better about themselves. For those 'in the know' it's presented as an opportunity to meet with people who have more money and power in their pinky than they'll ever have in their entire lives.

The fact is that the rich talk with rich people, the middle-class worker bees talk with the middle-class worker bees, and the corporate slaves stuff their faces with food while crying into glasses of champagne. There's no such thing as climbing the corporate ladder or the social ladder by meeting someone by happenstance at a highbrow party. There's no corporate heir waiting to sweep a waitress off her feet. At the very most, that filthy rich Riajuu would ask her for another glass of champagne while the waitress wonders if she'll get to take some leftovers home.

So, overall, going to parties is worse than useless. Parties, galas, and whatever else just make people raise their expectations, spend money, and then show off that fact that there's no way in hell that they can ever rise to the top. All social gatherings do is raise hopes and crush them. The rich are just kids who poke ant nests, wait for a reaction, and then laugh as ants scramble to protect only to be met with a magnifying glass. No, wait, children don't force the ants to purchase tuxedoes, dresses, and sit down for hours listening to a speech while watching food get cold.

Basically, parties are literally hell, with demons and devils replaced by wealthy folk, and the damned by people who have no idea what the hell they're doing.

Don't worry, my corporate slave parents, I'll be sure to hate this party just as much as you hated the ones you attended. I might not have many coworkers who I hate, which is a miracle that I'm sure you'd cry if you'd heard me admit, but this son of yours will do his best to hate this upcoming corporate slave viewing party just as much as you did yours.

You know what, if Bete Loga shows up, I have a feeling that I wouldn't really have to try too hard in doing so.

…

"So, Hikigaya, do you have a date?" Crozzo, surprisingly, was still willing to talk to me after the words we exchanged when I awoke. If the red-haired blacksmith had some sort of hidden intent to see me dead, I had to admit that it was very difficult to find. Still, it was far easier for me to believe that he was some sort of super-spy that could hide his true self than think that he was alright with all the words I said to him. The smirk he had on his face was very, very convincing. Very smarmy and proud of himself. "You know, the sort of person that should be fixing your cravat instead of me?"

"Shouldn't a man's date be the only one who knows what the hell a cravat is?" My retort was masterfully executed. From my interactions with many elves and Yukinoshita, I've learned that there are degrees to insult. The perfect insult, which had nearly killed me once upon a time, makes one wish for death instead of continued existence. On my Yukinoshita-scale of insult harshness, I barely managed a passable one. Crozzo blinked twice, considered his life for a period of two seconds, before wiping the smirk on his face and just finished setting my 'cravat.' Yeah, you do you, Crozzo. You do you. "So, are you going with Hephaestus or with Collbrande?"

"!?" I would've probably died from the sudden tightening on my neck if I was a normal human. Ah, it appears I've commited a Yuigahama. I said something I shouldn't have while totally in the dark. Oops. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to. Jiggle. Sway. Wave arms. Jiggle. Oh no. I can't complete the ritual since I lacked Yuigahama's Yuigahamas. My apologies Crozzo, I can't properly save you from my accidental social critical hit on your pride. Rest in peace. "W-what do you mean by that!? Tsubaki's my girlfriend! My one and only girlfriend! I'm not like you or Cranel, at all!"

"Oi, don't lump me in with that Brat." Oi, that's a low blow. Please apologize to me, my family, and my ancestors for such a comparison. I expect a written apology, in gold filigree, and signed by either Hephaestus or the Prime Minister. Also in gold filigree. Whichever one is available for you. "I demand an apology for the comparison."

"I'm not going to apologize for the truth!" Crozzo was taken aback. Oh no. He's lost his sense of reason. "Hikigaya-."

"You aren't apologizing for the truth." Don't worry, I'll do my best to help you Crozzo. "You'll be apologizing for lies and slander."

"What?" Damn. Could it be some lingering effect from the Dungeon? "You can't possibly not see the correlation between you and-."

"I want it written." It seems that I will have to resort to brute force methods. "You can start with 'I, Welf Crozzo, do solemnly apologize-."

"Dammit, Hikigaya, I'm not an idiot!"

"I never insinuated, or said, that you were."

"Gaaahhhh!" Crozzo cried his retort to my answer to the heavens. "Neither of you can possibly be this dense!"

"Says the guy with two girlfriends."

Hopefully, this will be all the comedy needed for this episode.

…

"A-aiz! You look amazing!"

"Thank you, Bell-kun"

I was very convinced that something important to the plot was going to happen at the Ball. There were too many open-ended plot ends that haven't been resolved. The attack on Orario with the Monster Adventurer and the tentacle monsters, the massive burst of energy that spawned the two Black Goliaths, Crozzo's troubles with Rakia… I could go on and on about all the events that were half-finished at most. Though I was sure I was giving Zaimokuza the benefit of the doubt by thinking he has the talent, skill, or work ethic to finish a single plotline, there was no way in hell an editor wouldn't kick his ass if he just left everything half-finished as he typically did.

"U-ummm… I got you these!"

"Thank you, they're very beautiful. My apologies, I did not get you anything."

So, considering the upcoming, rebranded Tournament Arc was going to be the main of focus of at least one Light Novel, the Ball that the Gods were hosting at the end of their Denatus was going to be the best place to have plot-relevant events to occur. Every Adventurer above Level 2 was invited to it, after all.

"Oh no, you didn't need to! It's just traditional only for a man!"

"Regardless, I would've liked to have given you something, as well."

Knowing all of that still didn't help with the fact that I really didn't want to go.

"O-oh! Well, it's the thought that counts, so I'm happy regardless, Aiz!"

"… I see."

We'd all agreed to meet at the Hostess of Fertility and ride together to the Ball. My students were all present, along with Crozzo, the Hestia Familia, and Challia. The atmosphere had been pleasant with just those few groups. However, once the Loki Familia dance attendees arrived… I realized that I was basically going to be chaperoning a pack of teenagers with hormones, issues, and who could take down monsters with ease. Cranel and Wallenstein were practically in the middle of a VN dating sequence, which was fine, but everyone else…

"Mutt." Arde.

"Pipsqueak." Loga.

"Ready for the pet-show? All groomed up?" Fire.

"Nice dress. Which children's store did you go to?" Gasoline.

I had no doubt this entire evening was going to be worse than I expected it to be. Which, given how I expected it to be attacked by monsters, be involved in some sort of doomsday declaration, or be a deathtrap... was saying something. Sure, there were people like Erisuis who was happy to be going with Miach, and Crozzo who was going with Collbrande, but in the end happy, lovey-dovey relationships simply made the people without dates feel bad.

I was pretty sure I could hear Hestia's teeth grinding, sense Syr's wistful gazes, see Challia's frown, and sense Mikoto's determination through the floorboards.

Loki was probably enjoying herself though.

Anyway, at least I looked alright. Most of the clothes I wore beneath my coat were already half-way to formal, so my formal clothes were just slightly different from my old clothes. A half-cape/shawl covered up my lack of an arm, blended in with the rest of my clothes, and met the clothing standards of the Formal Dance well enough. Pushing back and 'grooming' my hair was different, along with not having a mask and a hat, but I was content with the fact I could move and act at my full potential in my clothes.

Komachi, your useless older brother has made sure to look good going to a high-brow event without your help for the first time! Don't worry, I won't embarrass you by showing up looking like a slob to a fancy dance! Also, I'll be herding a pack of retarded cats and making sure they don't mess anything up while I'm at it! I am the absolute best, respectable, and mindful brother for such an amazing sister, aren't I? Ah, I'm sure that earned a lot of Hachiman points!

I made sure my knives were as well concealed as always, my gloves set, and made my way out of my room to join everyone else.

"Alright, I suppose everyone's ready to go?" I asked as I descended the stairs. It was difficult for me to believe that just four days ago I had walked down the same steps after a week-long coma. Seriously, Zaimokuza, isn't the pacing on your light novel a bit too fast? Two weeks after we beat a giant monster there's a dance and a War Game? Seriously, I know that I'm a very good teacher and Cranel's skill is cheap as hell, but you're really risking making Cranel look stupidly powerful! "Seriously, you all better make sure you have everything you want with you. We're not coming back-."

"You're not old!"

What.

"What." I turned to the source of the interruption. Surprisingly, the outburst came from Filvis Challia. The black-haired elf, clad in a long, white dress lined with blue designs, covered her flushing face with a gloved hand as I turned my gaze towards her. Dionysus, her god, looked at her amusedly. Dammit. I nearly forgot about this running gag. I sighed and shook my head. "I am not old. I have never been old." Seriously, is it my eyes or my voice that make people think that? Wait, I'll feel bad with either answer. Just don't answer. "Did you all seriously think that I'm an old man?!"

Silence. A damning silence echoed across the entire room. Glances were exchanged. Every single person and being present, from my students, every Familia present, and to Syr, Grande, and Lyon… all united behind a single, simple answer.

"Yes"

"Yeah."

"Sounds about right."

"Absolutely.

I hated every single one of them.

…

Interlude: The Astray Elf (Part 3)

…

I couldn't help but fret. As unbecoming the action might have been, I was utterly incapable of stopping myself from shifting and looking to-and-fro. Carriage after carriage, each one as extravagant as the last, stopped before the grand stairs to the grand structure that the gods had made centuries ago for their annual Ball. Dozens of handsome men and beautiful women disembarked and climbed the stairway. I was out of place. I felt as though I were a weed dressed like a flower beside the finest roses. I'd never attended before, but Loki-sama had insisted and-.

"Lefiya, calm yourself." Clad in a long, green and black dress of exquisite make, Riveria-sama looked as royal as she was meant to be. The Heir Apparent wore a simple, short, and white mantle with gold stylings above her dress. The very picture of elegance and beauty, I noticed quite a few Adventurers of note, of all races and both genders, turn their gazes towards her. Of course, she was the very pinnacle of our nation, I took pride in the fact-. She placed her hand on my shoulder and offered me a smile. "Lefiya." She repeated my name. "You look wonderful. Please, hold your head high. You need not lack confidence in yourself this night."

"Yeah, Lefiya-chan!" A pair of hands wrapped around my waist, and I felt myself very nearly lifted up. However, as I gave my most fervent protests in the matter, the lithe arms extricated themselves shortly. Soon enough, Tiona's visage filled my vision. Her dress was a full, warm yellow, contrasting well with her skin. In typical Amazon fashion though, the dress showed quite a bit of skin. Backless, sleeveless, and with a skirt that hardly reached mid-thigh. It was modest until she turned around… my thoughts were interrupted by a wide, white smile. She had begun smiling again. They were in short supply since the previous week. "You look great! Be more confident!"

"T-Thank you!" I stumbled on my words. I felt my cheeks flush in embarrassment and mortification. I found myself smoothing my skirt, picking at imagined frays of my leggings, and searching for stains on my tunic. Why had I chosen pink and white? They stained so easily and-. Riveria-sama's hand on my shoulder tightened lightly. I forced myself to take a deep breath. "I will."

"They'll be here soon." Riveria-sama relinquished her light grip on my shoulder, turning her gaze towards the clock tower at. Without my teacher, my timidity threatened to increase once more. I forced myself to turn my gaze elsewhere. In the distance I could see Tione hanging off Finn-sama's arm. Gareth-sama seemed to be enjoying himself. It was almost odd to see them all wearing such fine clothes, though they seemed at ease in them nonetheless. I wished I had the same confidence. "Hikigaya-kun, if anything, is punctual."

"Hmph! I spend the entire week with Hat-kun and he doesn't bother telling me that he's coming to the dance!" Tiona pouted, idly twirling a lock of her hair. I noticed that she lacked her trinkets. No, she lacked all of her jewelry save for fine gold bands on her wrists and heels. Riveria-sama was wearing earrings and a necklace when she usually eschewed them. As I examined them, I realized that both of them were better dressed than I thought originally. I was lucky to have remembered to don my broach… "I only found out after Kami-sama told everyone that we're going with all our friends, even though he was definitely planning it the entire week!"

"Mindfullness is not a virtue that Hikigaya-kun ascribes to, no." Riveria-sama laughed lightly, a smile forming on her face that she hid behind a raised hand. How perfectly demure! I should really remember to act pleasantly! Tiona shared a grin at that, crossing her arms, and agreeing with a swift, single nod. I expected a silence to follow after, but I was surprised to hear the Heir Apparent speak once more. "Tiona, do you think he's forcing himself to attend this event as a show of strength? Do you think he'd be better resting, especially after reclaiming his strength and skills so quickly?"

"You know, Hat-kun hates sitting around even when he should. Hat-kun always wants to be doing something, even if it's just chores, instead of resting." Tiona gave a shake of her head, sighed, and placed her hand against her cheek. I was perturbed. Was my friend being dramatic or was she truly worried? There was still a small, slight smile on her face. Riveria-sama's smile was no longer present, though, and a small frown played at her lips. "Tomorrow, he'll be helping Rabbit-kun in the War Games too, so I think he should be preparing for that…"

"Your concern is well-founded, Tiona. Thank you for sharing them it with me." Riveria-sama gave a swift nod after a moment of thought. A grateful smile played on my teacher's lips for a moment, but her features soon turned contemplative. I felt a slight chill go up my spine. Such looks always heralded a long, challenging, and terrible day of lessons for me. I'd been seeing them more frequently since I took another Step towards Divinity. "Hmmm… next week, he's not set to train Oswald and the others, correct? And since our expeditions have been postponed until Rivira is reestablished… perhaps I shall aid you in your duties?"

"Really, you'd help Riveria-sama?" Tiona beamed joyfully. I was taken aback by my friend's happiness. She swiftly captured Riveria-sama in a hug. As they were both on the Sixth Step, my teacher was actually made uncomfortable by Tiona's impressive strength. I oft wondered how Finn-sama would survive his days once Tione managed to take her Sixth Step. I honestly feared for his survival once that occurred. I doubted he would be able to escape as he usually did. "Yay! With you, me, and Gale-chan, we'll be able to make sure Hat-kun stays safe the entire week!"

I blinked at the odd name, especially as Riveria-sama's mood suddenly soured at the mere mention. Who was Gale-chan?

"Alf-chaaaaannnn~." Kami-sama's voice drew the attention of everyone present. Loki-sama disembarked from her carriage with her usual, tasteful purple dress and gloves. Bete-san followed her, along with Riine and Hikigaya-sama's students, but they couldn't match her pace as she trudged up the stairs. Aiz-chan disembarked from the next one, followed by Cranel-kun. Both were quite dashing. My friend seemed happy to attend the Ball for the first time. I was somewhat jealous. "You look so pretty, Alf-chan!" Loki-sama latched onto Riveria-sama with her usual, overbearing affection. Stay strong, Riveria-sama! "But you're so elegant now! I want my cute, Imouto Alf-chan back!"

"Please, Kami-sama, be more considerate of our circumstances." Riveria-sama protested lightly, but made no move to remove Kami-sama's arms. For an immortal god, I supposed that even Elves with their lives extended by the Divine Steps matured too quickly. I looked upon them gleefully. I was happy that Riveria-sama was cared for so well by our Kami-sama. My own mother hardly had time for me and our family had hardly been as busy as the Royal House. Loki-sama was a good mother, no matter her quirks. A smile played upon the Heir Apparent's lips. "We are, after all, here too make a statement of our continued strength and prosperity. We ought to act in a dignified and controlled manner-."

"Dignified and controlled, but you decide to allow Loga to come? I don't think you thought this event through, Alf." I found myself more alert at Hikigaya-sama's voice. Having fought with him many times, I suppose I associated the dull timbre of Cranel's teacher to combat. I felt my face flush as my heart beat quicker at the thought. How embarrassing for a maiden such as myself to attribute a man's voice to such a commonality in my life! It was the very height of scandalous presumptuousness! "I'd have found a kennel to keep him at, if you didn't have anyone willing to watch him. Maybe leave some treats or a blanket he likes to keep the kennel owners from putting him down?"

"Hat-kun!" Tiona turned immediately at the sound of Hikigaya-sama's voice. I half-expected my friend to throw herself at him as she usually did, however I was perturbed as she went still, blinked a numbers of times, and her dusky skin suddenly gained a deep flush. For the perhaps the first time in my memory, my exuberant friend seemed speechless. "Ummm… ah…" Meekness seemed to overtake her and she turned her gaze downward while clasping her hands together. "Y-you look nice, H-hikigaya-kun."

"I see that you're as uncouth as always, Hikigaya-kun. Perhaps your suggestion is more suited for yourself-." Riveria-sama's words suddenly died in her throat. The Heir Apparent had elected to roll her eyes and give a feigned sigh before disentangling herself from our Kami-sama, so she had taken her time to face him. I was surprised as she averted her eyes quickly from where Hikigaya-sama's voice came, but a deep, scarlet blush formed upon across her features all the way to the tips of her ears. She brought her hand to her face and feigned a cough once or twice. How strange of my Crown Princess to act so oddly! "A-at the very least y-you seem dressed well for the occasion, Hikigaya-k-kun."

"Of course I am! Did you seriously expect I'd come to an event like this in my usual clothes?" The typical, feigned, and humorous affront was present in Hikigaya-sama's voice. As always, he never failed to be comedic. Oddly enough, however, both Tiona-chan and Riveria-sama weren't acting as they typically did. My Familia-members almost seemed to have captured and shared my earlier timidity with one another. Hikigaya was at just as much of a loss as I was at their actions, as I heard an edge of confusion in his tone. "Oi, Viridis, did something happen to these two on the way here or something?"

I suspected that it was due to Hikigaya-sama's lack of arm. While I imagined his normal coat hid his missing limb well, the same could not be said for a suit. Still, there were flaws in that method of thinking. Tiona had been with him the entire week. Riveria-sama had heard the tale straight from myself. They had planned to keep him rested the following week. Still, as I turned around, that was the only reason that came to mind for both their sudden bouts of bashfulness and embarrassment.

Until, of course, I fully faced him.

"…" Hikigaya-sama's gaze met mine as it typically did. There was always a sharpness to his eyes that greatly contrasted with their usual boredom, but that edge seemed ever-clearer without his usual mask, hat, or even his bangs. His features were very fine, almost refined, but not akin to his student's. There was a definite masculinity to his features that shone through his usual coverings. Without them, however, he seemed to combine youthfulness with honed cunning. He wasn't dashingly handsome… but somewhat predatory and dangerous. "…I swear if you make a comment about thinking I was an old man, as friendly as you are Viridis-san, I'm not going to hesitate to throw you into the Red Light District just to watch you squirm."

"U-uh…Ummm…" I couldn't help it, I found myself incapable of speaking. I felt a sudden warmth spread across my face to the tips of my ears and down my neck. My mother always told me I should look for someone gallant, dashing, and heroic! N-not someone cunning, self-assured, and a-aggressive! He was still meeting my gaze. This was bad! He was so close! This was absolutely terrible! He smelled of steel and leather despite his tasteful appearance-. I meant his clothes! His clothes were tasteful! My brain went completely and hopeless awry. My thoughts went to and fro to the dance and back to him until I found myself saying something I had never thought I'd say. "W-would y-you like to d-dance with me this evening?!"

There was a sudden silence. I could swear that my face was threatening to melt.

"It's a dance isn't it?" He blinked once, twice, and then shrugged. The very picture of aloofness. "Sure, why not. Just look for me later, I guess."

Then, he entered the ballroom wordlessly.

A familiar hand then settled on my shoulder, as it did earlier to calm me, but this time the grip was much tighter.

Abruptly, I realized that I might have just transgressed on my future-monarch's claim.

…