An unlikely meeting

In front of a cave with a fire cracking and a rabbit being roasted, a youth with white hair and blue eyes stares at a group of adventurers. While the boy does not appear perturbed- perplexing slightly the group-inside, his mind is in chaos.

Only for clarity to be restored a moment later

'Ok,ok.... Calm down...'

[It is probably a peculiarity of the World.], calmly announced my companion, her tone further alleviates my growing anxiety, [As Akasha said there are infinite number of possibilities for Worlds to exist. Some characters that share similarities could-potentially- appear in other Worlds except their original, but tailored to the current one. So, calm down Akira and talk with them! Beware that a likable character can- just as well- become a villain. They do not have to necessarily be the same people!]

'Got it Rose.'

"What are you doing here?", asked Goblin Slayer(?) with no emotion in his voice. The others simply pursued their lips in- what I assume- exasperation at his bluntness.

" Nothing really.", keeping a polite smile, I answer with no difficulty, the skill already made me calm enough to speak- while I slowly rise from my seated position, "I was hunting and decided to take a break. What about you? What are you doing here?"

"Oho? A young lad like you staying in the western forest to hunt and spend a night?", continued the Shaman Dwarf(?) with a healthy amount of suspicion in his voice, "You must be a hell of hunter for your parents to allow you to come here!", he finished with a hearty laugh.

"I must agree with my companion young man", said the Lizard man appearing quite different from the Lizard Priest I remember. More humane, "The Forest is home to terrible monsters. Some dangerous enough for experienced adventurers!"

At least my plan is working. Appear amicable, answer the question with a smile and confidence so I can lead the discussion to my tempo.

'It is apparent they are adventurers... Some time to access potential threat. Despite initial display as grey dots on the [Map], we can't be too certain on their intention.', my musing was disguised behind a small chuckle that I was far too accustomed giving in the job when in company of less likable induvial, with Rose providing her confirmation.

"Well, you are certainly right kind sir.", throwing a complement since they showed concern-'Which seemed to surprise him'- "But your concern is misplaced. While I have the ability to hunt game, my main hunt regards monsters.

Before I continued an interruption occurred in the form of High-Elf Archer.

'She could still be the weakest link concerning social interactions, Priestess would most likely be "protected" by Goblin Slayer as the potentially youngest.', grumbling under my breath I zone out her little speech, due to personal growing frustration, 'Although any information is substantial to change considering the circumstances... Darn.'

[Ara-Ara~ Already met and planning for a date? Is Akira having a crush on the Elven Archer now~? Do not be hasty and remember be a gentleman~!], drown in my thoughts her lovely interruption had quite the effect.

My face exploding in redness, as my complains were readily know to the ever-cheeky companion.

Yet she is but a Padawan- a Beginner in the holy art of teasing!

'Rose-chan!? You're embarrassing me!', utilizing a more childish voice, I progress with a far more normal and endearing tone, 'But I can't look at other girls! After all, you are my other half! My soulmate!'

[…], although no words were provided, her burning embarrassment was enough of an answer. Her cheeks reddened as she "averted" her gaze, hiding her face in the process.

A small smile manifested through her adorable action. One pure, full of honest satisfaction.

While High-Elf Archer's could be called beautiful or cute, I wouldn't jump into a thoughtless pursuit. Definitely appreciate her beauty outside, turning into a leering pervert! She might be in a league of her own, there were "beautiful" women in Earth I could have started a relationship with. However, their inner world lacked the "grace" of the exterior, so that was a major no-no in my book for partners.

The main point that drove my lovable companion to such cute actions is the honesty in my words. A factor which could be felt through our bond, substantiating their legitimacy.

Rose is indeed my Soulmate. We share a soul and a very special connection.

She is indeed my other half, as we are both intertwined through the gift of Akasha, namely the System.

Both truths that when put into perspective and presented by some ambiguity can conclude to very adorable moments such as this.

[Mou! This is plain bullying! You can't play with a maiden's heart Baka-Aki!] ,her lips slightly pursued, a finger pointing at me...Rose-chan is back with vengeance!

'I know~ But you are so adorable when you flustered! I cannot resist teasing you~.', slightly smiling at her reaction, I softly intoned, 'If I made you feel uncomfortable, I do apologize. Sorry Rose.'

[N-no n-need t-to ap-apologize!] Hearing her stutter in surprise was pleasant in its own right, [Ju-just surprised is all!]

Sharply narrowing her eyes, a glare which was ruined by the feelings of happiness, wonder and awe, she delivered her "ultimatum", [Be prepared! I am going to get back at you! It will be-

"DID YOU HEARD WHAT I ASKED STUPID?!!"

Blinking rapidly our attention is taken by an irritated elf half-shouting. Her brow wrangled in displeasure and impotent rage.

Releasing a restrained laugh, I scratch the back of my head, my embarrassment shared by Rose.

Since it is my fault-

[Our!], blurred out an abashed Rose.

Our fault! It is only fair to take responsibility!

"Sorry it was my first team meeting such a beautiful woman!", sheepishly speaking I peer into her forest green eyes, I tactically avoiding to mention her reddening cheeks, "Your hair and eyes perfectly complement each other! Both unique and similar to green leavens in spring, that froze me into silence! Sorry but could you repeat the question miss Scout?"

She was stunted and in the next moment her face further exploded crimson!

'What is this adorable creature?!'

"H-Hah! What do you mean b-beautiful! Y-you..."

"How did you know she was a scout?", came the calm voice of Goblin Slayer getting the elf out of her trance-'Nooooo! I could have teased her even more!!!'-, delegating the previous light ambience with a more austere air. The five of them are looking at me more cautiously and slightly change their stance.

'Hm~ Hook, line and sinker.', a devious thought on my success instantly evaporated in order to continue.

Despite their disposition, I raise my left hand in a sign of peace, with the right slack, yet ready for action.

"Not to sound judgmental but out all of you, she has the most chances of being the scout of your group. Dwarves and Lizard-men are not really known for their subtlety in a forest. The blonde lady is wearing a ceremonial dress, which encumbers stealth in foliage by obvious restrictions on movements.", exhaling I give my full attention on the possible leader, "You suffer from a similar problem considering your armour! No matter how much you trained the weight you carry will still cause issues. So! By process of logical elimination and probability, miss Elf would be the most conjecturable conclusion. Correct outfit and she is-probably- the most experienced in a forest too."

While the others have a more relaxed stance, with Orcbolg loosening his guard and Priestess looking at me with stars in her eyes-'I know I am repeating myself but what is this Adorable creature! We must protect that innocence! It is blinding! Blinding I tell ya!!!'-. I continue before he can continue his questioning. The tell-tale smell of cooked meat long since sprung out and assaults the senses.

"I have gathered monster cores from goblins and Hobgoblins in my bag for proof of my words. Now before the rabbit is turned into ashes how about we all seat in the campfire I made. I would share my rations with you if you like. You might be in need for them far more than me. Unless you have some problem with that?"

Seeing into the eyes of the one calling himself Slayer was an interesting experience. While not the terrifying strength a powerful opponent boasts, he has a unique quality to his visage.

'So, this is what Goblins face huh... Interesting.'

"Very well.", after a while he nodded his head, "But since we impose, do allows us to share some of our rations. We have more than enough."

"Be my guest.", shrugging my shoulders, subsequently some tension alleviating, I smile genuinely at both the known-yet unknown group," Also my name is Akira a pleasure to meet you."

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Conversing with the team of adventurers was an interesting experience to say in the least. Seeing characters, you have read about and seen through a screen can be both bizarre and amazing.

I just met them, yet I find myself honestly comfortable conversing with them. Though that doesn't mean that I or Rose have dropped our guard.

Comfort does not equate trust. They could possess abilities that I do not even know, since we are on a different World. Their character far darker than what the series alluded. Hell, even Lizard Priest has a different appearance than what was shown. His resemblance with a Demi-Human more noticeable! Or I should say Balrom...

In retrospect, it's only natural they have names here. In the original World, aptly named Goblin Slayer, they did not have them- to my knowledge. So that will take some time to get used to....

After the introductions and my claims proven through the collection of monsters cores in my bag- specifically three Hobgoblin and 15 Goblin ones, the rest hidden in my limited [Inventory]-, thus validating my claims, the atmosphere was more amicable. They even provided some of their rations to accompany the rather small meal for six people.

And the best company for dinner is what I was really curious about.

Information, or rather a dialogue to familiarize with each other. My giddiness aside, I was careful enough to appear curious yet nor overbearing with my queries.

Apparently similar events happened to the story-line I was aware of- it led to them taking on adventurous against monsters. The intriguing developments, which consummate to new variables in their tales- are quite intriguing.

For example, they are experienced adventures specializing in quests outside of Orario. They shall challenge the Dungeon from time to time-whether the reason is financial or training. It isn't their specialty.

They are part of the Eunomia Familia. Sadly, an unknown goddess. There is no recollection from either my fictional knowledge and Yggdrasill, where the Sh*tty Devs could introduce different Npcs whose roots were in mythology. Apparently, she takes proactive action to adventuring with her "children" and she even is an impressive swordswoman.

All five became a team, after attending a mission that had them save a village, against a level 3 monster called Goblin Lord. They all had family members, sans Priestess who was an orphan. Even Goblin slayer! His little(?) sister is alive! Albeit the news brought a new flood of questions, I was sensible enough to avoid any such bold probing in fear of alerting them. Questions regarding his mother would be a touchy subject- one I know well enough to avoid.

Considering how anyone is subject to the past-experiences from a bygone time- to shape one's character, it only empowers the notion on how different they could be from the group I read ages ago. Despite lack of evidence to suggest such a divergence occurred in all members to create a variation with their character.

In turn, I had to answer some questions of my own. Intentionally keeping any information vague as well as "illuminating". A tale peculiar to a boy from Far East. Dreams of adventure like no other in connection with unfortunate- private- circumstances led to an early leave towards one of the most famous cities in all of realm. A travel requiring a pause. Hence the hopeful explorer traversed the Western Forest. To train oneself and acquire funds by the acquisition of monsters' cores.

Suffice to say, whereas their worry was anticipated- it was highly appreciated. Both being moderately due to the genuineness displayed and....how well my story containing trues and falsehoods was readily accepted.

I took in stride any reprimands about my carelessness. During a long-awaited question concerning my Familia, I humbly denied any such allegiance to one.

My declaration did gain shocked looks, half cause my apparent brashness and surprising success. Apparently, it is quite rare for a person without Falna to fight and defeat monsters. Especially the level 2 Hobgoblins. No matter their clear interest, I didn't expound, sidestepping any defining answer.

From their looks, it appears a temporary victory at best. Yet another factor on my side depends on the secrecy with secrets of such a degree. For members of different Familias- current and future ones-, it is quite taboo for one to reveal all his abilities.

I mean who would simply reveal everything and hope the other party does not take advantage of the information? Ignoring a membership alongside a divine "founder".

Although, it didn't exempt any offer by Balrom, or Lizardman priest, to become a part of their own Familia since I have quite the "hardworking" and reckless spirit for a warrior.

"Well, it is certainly a kind offer. But I do not wish to commit myself right now.", a polite and professional smile with enough experience was delivered, "However, when the time comes to decide I will remember your offer. Though would it not be prudent to make such a proposition to an unknown? Would not goddess Eunomia place some restrictions on the applicants?"

"It depends young man.", replied Balrom with an amused chuckle, "While an unknown would not be readily accepted, my impression of your story only grows. Doubly considering your exploits, but also manners! Usually most in your case would flaunt their achievements and become arrogant. Yet not only are you being polite to all of us but also quite humble! "

Laughing awkwardly at the praise to cover some embarrassment, Zahei, or Goblin Slayer, cuts in with his usual emotionless voice.

"Also, you are quite knowledgeable and polite for someone coming from a village."

"Well mama raised a gentleman.", while understanding Zahei's mannerisms, since in his stead I would become suspicious. I decided to tell the truth. Unfortunately, said honesty concluded on certain memories. Emotions that couldn't be fully hidden through a polite smile. My melancholy took root before [Gamer's Mind] cleared my head...

It was seen, since right afterwards Zahei tried to apologize for bringing painful images. Again, not his fault, so I simply waving my hands dismissively. I could not fault him. He doesn't know my past and was expressing a logical discretion. To be mad at him would be plain stupidity. Yet my bitter feelings resurfaced momentarily.

Much as I have accepted her demise that doesn't mean, it-ever- stopped hurting.

The veracity she is okay through Akasha-chan, improves my mood...

[She is okay Aki-chan! So, cheer up!], Rose expressed with warmth a fact I know...Yet still managed to bring comfort to my heart.

"Oho~! Someone sounds like a mama's boy", apparently Tuka not seeing my mood tried to tease back, getting Zoltan, or Drawf shaman to mutter something along the lines of 'Stupid long ears'. Nevertheless, Tuka heard him but before she could respond and start an argument-seriously they would throw insults at each other at near every chance- I immediately responded

"Of course~.", while I express my heartfelt gratitude to this beautiful partner of mine through our bond, I nod, causing the elf to splutter, "However considering we spoke about my possible recruitment I have to ask how is goddess Eunomia?"

I was quite surprised by Kiyoko, or Priestess, as she ecstatically recalled how nice and heroic their goddess is. Which was pretty adorable since she went on a tandem, only to stop and blush from the chuckling of her teammates.

"But why would your goddess proactively engage in combat? Usually, gods abstain from combat or any other strenuous and dangerous activity."

"You are right, "commented Zahei, uncharacteristically with more emotion, "However she could not stand behind, while our Familia was taking missions outside of Orario. She wants to take some of our burdens. It is a commendable quality."

Chuckling Zoltan-Dwarf Shaman- teased the young man "Oho~! Why couldn't you be truer to your feelings lad. After all, everybody knows your mutual crush with Eunomia-sama~"

"I simply admire her dedication.", he answered without an emotion nor hesitation, "After all I have a debt to pay her"

'Hm, interesting. And exploitable.', said information was filled as important to the deep reaches of my mind.

"It was not your fault Lord Zahei. Eunomia-sama does not hold anything against you and would be sad, should she find you having any such notion of unliquated favour.", admonishes softly Balrom

"I see...", he replied coolly.

There is a story there but considering how heavy the atmosphere got, I decide to change the subject.

"Hm, but why would you want to adventure outside the dungeon. I thought, considering your occupation, anyone wouldn't want to leave the city?"

Zoltan, who heard my queried, replied boisterously " You see lad, while that would normally be the case many Familias take missions outside the city for a variety of reasons. Some like us, do as to protect villages, since it isn't unheard of for strong monsters appearing and destroying villages. Others can do, in order to gather fame and a reputation, so their Familia can be advertised. It depends on the adventurer really!."

'Understandable.' before I could continue, Tuka having regained addressed me.

"I actually have a question. Why haven't you joined a Familia? It would be far better than going solo. Safer too.", seeing the High Elf tilt her head in my direction, I was tempted to comment how Cute she was! But I decided to answer her...teasing her in another way~

"Well, you are correct. Yet, I find it difficult to believe in the chance I would choose a Familia that I like and- in turn- they would accept someone unknown.", shrugging my shoulders, I focused on how to word the truth without giving away any discrepancies, "It seems prudent to gain some training before visiting Orario. After all, I am a traveler far away from home with the implicit intention to become an adventurer. Naturally I would never do something dangerous with no method to protect myself efficiently."

She looks more interested by the minute, like her companions and –dare I say-the ever-stoic Zahei. It was time make my move!

"Of course, it is a secret of mine.", my tone turned far more ominous, I immediately add, "To tell you more about it, there is a price..."

"W-what kind of price?", statures Kiyoko, while the rest of her companions' eyes sharpen slightly, especially Tuka's

"You have...", pointing a finger at Tuka who tenses up, either due to unwillingness for any unpleasant surprise or foul play, "to go on a date with me~ After all such discussions are better talked about over a plate of food~!"

.

Suddenly silence pertains to the woods, while my smile would make the Cheshire cat proud.

.

.

Only to be stopped a moment later, by the boisterous laughter of the Dwarf and the silently chuckling of the Lizard-man. Zahei palms his helmet, while a sigh of exasperation escapes him. The Priestesses and Tuka faces become red ,while the latter processing what I said started to stutter

"W-w-wh-what...

Chuckling to myself I heard Rose's commenting fill of amusement

[Oh my~ I think you broke her~! What a prude you are Akira~.]

The "Elf" finally gets her ability to speak and issues a glare that was ruined by how red her face had gotten along with the still laughing Zoltan.

"AF IF I WOULD ACCEPT THAT YOU IDIOT!!!"

"Is it because I am not handsome?", I asked while adopting a "sad" expression, providing in turn a "puppy dog stare", "I suppose it is only natural to be shot down..."

"No-I mean....", her eyes darted around. Seemingly in an attempt to find a way out, she suddenly snaps her fingers" We do not know each other enough to go on a d-date! "

Her response solid was broken to a stutter towards the end. Adopting an "innocent" expression, I silently chuckled at her adorable reaction.

"But that wouldn't be a date. Instead, an outing between two people!", my answer did make her deadpan, despite the growing embarrassment her face displayed.

"Although I suppose a sorry is in order. I didn't mean to offend or fluster you.", my words followed a small inclination of my head to Tuka and a small honest smile, " I have simply never encountered an elf before much like someone as beautiful as you. I wanted to get to know you more miss."

Despite the joy teasing others bring. Quite a positive stress reliever equal to the possible entertaining instances and reactions different people can bring. It was especially true in Yggdrasil.

'Oh, the glorious times~!'

Still a degree of caution is imperative. Some might not take too kindly to harmless comments, get offended on certain subjects and even sad when someone doesn't know their respective limits. I always take extra care against hurting others. In this instance I don't know how receptive Tuka is to my mannerisms.

[So, it does not have anything to do, with the fact she is someone you are interested in~]

'While that is the case, I do not want to come it as overbearing. The apology at the end will do damage control, as I might have offended her. You never know.', I keep my attention both Tuka and in conversing with Rose, 'Plus, while my interest isn't exactly what I presented, it doesn't give me the right to hurt an innocent because of a plan.'

Rose smiled at me I couldn't see. But I felt it. When we are communicating with each other we could send our "intent" through our bond. Emotions laid bare.

Broken out of my thoughts I heard a small murmur.

"Excuse me?"

"I said my name is Tuka....and I suppose... The offer isn't that bad.."

"But of course, Tuka", my smile widened both at how pure her answer was and at the success.

The smile she gave, could melt hearts of unprepared youths as easily as the sun provides its warm.

.

.

The moment was-of course- once again, ruined by Zoltan laughter, which increased in volume, embarrassing and infuriating Tuka.

"To think long-ears has let someone call her name! We had to earn the right while a stranger was given the "privilege" so easily! BWAWAWAWA!"

"S-Shut it, you annoying shorty!!"

"To think that young Akira's tongue is as sharp as his sword!", for his part, Balrom supports his Demi-Human's companion amusement.

"G-good luck Tuka!", came the support of Kiyoko timidly by her reddening cheeks at the scene before her. Like the stories she read!

Zahei on the other hand, gave her a thumps-up while wishing for the best

Huh so no romantic feelings between Zahei and Tuka. Otherwise, her refusal would be more prominent. That is good to know.

The story is much different since even if Zahei had a romantic interest, Tuka doesn't have romantic feelings for him. The world is much different than I thought....

Oh well~ I have a date with a beautiful and adorable elven beauty!

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As the night was progressing, the group of six was conversing. The small feast shared between them filled their bellies and brought another smile out of Akira.

"We should go to sleep soon, if we want to get a move on early on.", as the Leader of his team spoke, his four comrades gave affirmative nods, I titled my head at awaited chance.

"You know, you never mentioned. What is your mission anyway? Or is it that you can't tell?"

"Oh right!", Kiyoko answered my question, "We have a quest to hunt an Ogre, we've encountered before."

Toward the end I saw different emotions on her face. Fear and anxiety chief among them.

"Do not worry lady Kiyoko! This time, we are plenty prepared to deal with the monstrosity.", echoed encouragingly Balrom followed by an affirmation from Zoltan

"Last time we'd not know what we were going to face. Now we and we also have plan", added Tuka while squeezing Kiyoko's shoulder.

While she calmed down and they continued explaining the details, my mind begun racing.

'This is ideal...'

If I provide help not only will my action win further respect of the group, I will get an easy access to the city. It will also be possible to sell my cores for the currency and map out Orario. In the process, my date with Tuka would expand on new information about the World.

On the other hand, I will expose myself on danger with a group met today. While I have a grasp of their character can I genuinely trust them in combat?

Visiting the city, creates a big problem called Freya. Not only is her Familia amongst the top 3, along with Loki and Hephaestus, she possesses great individual might, especially since she has the strongest adventurer on her side. The level 7 Ottar. Yet she isn't in the top 3 Familia in a city with myriad gods for only one person. I remember she has at least a level 6 too. Though that is what I know from cannon. Who can say what has changed?

The crucial reason she can be a problem, is her ability to discern souls. Allowing her to pick individuals with the greatest talent. When someone catches her attention, a person that was welcomed to another Familia, she would employ quite the bold and disastrous plans in order to obtain, what she wants. Along with the fact she has a powerful charm and is rumoured to be the most beautiful, she can bewitch anyone.

That can happen because, while a God's divinity is "sealed", they can still use some unique powers of their own. A goddess of beauty a charm ability, a god of forge retains his blacksmithing skills, a god of war his strategic abilities and so on. These are created regardless of their avatar which they descent, as Gods are million-year-old beings. During which they have amassed different experiences in "heaven", as they call their world.

Another factor that furthers complicates the subject? She is observing the city from the tower of Babel.

Although the tower stops monster from being released, that is the case for the Dungeon. Above it, exists the Guild. Its goal is to manage the threat created in the unconventional prison. Aside from this, the Guild buys magic cores, drops items monsters occasionally leave after death and ores found in certain floors.

The organisation sells maps of the dungeon, provides weapons and armour to new adventurers who are just starting out. The Guild staff also take the position of advisors for adventurers, often suggesting at what depth one should venture should go in accordance to their respective level and skills, as well as warning them of any special dangers of certain floors and how to prepare against them. A staff member may be in charge of one or more adventurers.

It has several branch offices outside of Orario. Babel is owned by the Guild to watch and take care of the dungeon. The first twenty floors are filled with Familia business, facilities, and money exchanges. The Hephaestus Familia has shops in floors 4-8. Above that are living areas of the most prominent Gods in Orario, known as the Private Rooms.

Freya lives on the top floor of Babel. I do not know the range of her ability, but she can apparently "observe" the whole city at her leisure and even pinpoint the location of her interest by the use of a mirror. The last thing I want is to get her attention, since when Bell was lucky enough to gain it, his is life become far more turmilious. Sure, she helped him on occasions, but only to temper his abilities.

However, Rose said that I am pretty much covered on that front, because my soul is hidden, since the system is attached to it. Also, while there is a chance something can happen in the city, I t is pretty slim. I do not want to draw attention to myself anyways. Good as it may to be concerned, simply avoiding doing something, because of a minimal if is stupid.

[You know there is someone called Murphy right Akira?]

'True but even then, it is a prime opportunity to get to the city. I won't throw myself in front of danger to save this group, neither are they for me. And it isn't wrong to help them.'

[You are right. It is a good opportunity to get access to the city.] Humming Rose answered

'You know, I am really glad we can agree. It would be annoying if I simple got a quest to play hero'

[The system exists to help you. Not to put you through challenges nor force you on a path. If you choose to do something the system will give you a quest. I exist to be of help to you.], coolly responded Rose

'I know.', I said sternly, only to speak softly thereafter, 'Yet I am immensely grateful for it. You help me enough by being there for me. So, as far as I'm concerned, you are not the system but ROSE! The one who accompanies this troubled man to this second life and the most important companion. If I say something stupid, I want you to express your opinion. Not simply affirming my decisions. After all we are in this together.'

Meanwhile, I nodded my head outwardly and questioned about the sleeping arrangement of the party. I proposed to sit outside while they could use the cave, since they are more and I am -if we stretch it- an acquaintance. It wouldn't do, for me to sleep in the same environment as the team.

I also offered that to keep watch. Rose can keep her attention on the map and since those monsters are not using a form of stealth. Thus, joining into their swifts to alleviate someone's turn.

Zahei as the party leader agreed and while some were dissatisfied with the arrangement. They worried about me, but I easily dismissed any such thoughts by the logical point that we are not friends and while on amiable terms, it would be best to keep some distances. They agreed, albeit reluctantly.

After they went to check the cave while Zahei kept me company, there was a lull of silence.

[Hah...], after a while Rose simply exhaled. Mirth apparent in her voice, [You know, it would be better if you treated it as an object, rather than a person, right? I am connected to the system itself as its representation.]

'You are an existence created by the being at the very top of practically everything. You have a thinking process and are helpful to me. You are the most important companion I have!'

A system is usually a thing that can help the growth of a person, while providing a myriad of benefits. While Rose is a system, she is also an existence that is attached to the very fabric of my soul. She is literally created as a thinking entity, possess intelligence, is kind ,shows concern for me. And that was only for a day!

Compared to my previous life ,she did more than some of my "friends" and fellow "humans" did. I would be damned if she didn't receive the appropriate respect she deserves as a thinking entity!

[You can be pretty incomprehensible sometimes Akira.], while I felt her shaking her "head", only to stop and give a gentle smile that conveyed so many positive emotions I was momentarily stunt, [But thank you very much for your kind thoughts and intentions....]

I was about to reply when she mischievously added,

[Though I will never stop teasing you! It is too funny to see the calm and collected you flustered!]

'Love too Rose-chan~', some chuckles escaped me, gaining the attention of Zahei

[And I love you Akira-chan~]

"I thought something funny~"

"You want to come with us, don't you?"

"Exactly!"

"No....and I believe you know the reasons. The cursed city of Thorolund ,while abandoned, isn't a place to go on an adventure. Additionally, we are hunting a level three monster and-

"You do not know my capabilities and I might not listen to your orders as a party leader."

He offered a nod

"That is right.", my eyes turn sharp, "But since you are clever enough, you can see the advantages of me joining you. I can hold my own in a fight against a level two monster and I have no problem following orders as long as it isn't something suicidal. My "ability" could be pretty advantageous to you. I do not require the cores or drops from the monsters, but in exchange I will accompany you to Orario ."raising a hand to stop any rebuttal, I continue,

"My mother and brother are not on this world anymore and I have nowhere to call a home that will not provide bad memories. I am able to fend for myself and I will reach Orario anyway. We will use each other. So, what say you Zahei?"

Silence followed my words, while he continued observing me.

No words were exchanged. A silent stare down between us

"You know", he slightly drawled, "I did not expect your story, right?"

"Yet I still told you the truth of questions you would ask. It was the short version anyhow.", I said shrugging

"Also, why use? Isn't that a little extreme?"

"I am not going spout lies and try to play hero. Yes, I will help you. That is because I want to. Not out of some misplaced "heroism". We are, in fact, going to use each other. Unless you want me to start using flowering words to hide the truth of the matter?"

That seemed to get a reaction out of him since I heard a very "Unorchbolg" like snort of amusement.

"Has anyone ever told you are quite jaded?"

"I prefer the world realist thank you very much!", I said while rolling my eyes

"So be it.", after a sign he continues," I will accept you and your clauses but I will add another one,"

"Hm... Are you not satisfied? I say this situation pretty much benefits you. But do continue."

"We will be comrades in the coming fight and we will not use each other but help each other.", eyes glimmering a sinister red, Zahei spoke seriously. His eyes trained to my own, conveying a certain degree of sternness over the matter.

"Aye-aye Leader~", I said chuckling

And in the back of my mind a small sound manifested.

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*ping*

Thorolund,the abandoned city

-Accompany the party of adventurers

-Kill the Ogre

Bonus objectives

-Let nobody of the party die 5/5

-Uncover what happened in the city

-Defeat?????????

-Release????????

Rewards

An update to the shop adding weapons and Armor, access to Orario, ??????,???????

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Eunomia is a minor goddess goddess of law and legislation.

Members of a god's Familia are considered their "children".

Orcbolg means Goblin Slayer in Elvish and Beard Cutter in Dwarven.