Soaring through the depths of the Dungeon on the back of great Wyvern, a Xenos in service to her, Tyratryx, the great Empress of the Dungeon, dismounted the fell beast and stood ready to address her followers. Flanked by her elite Archyad guard, the Ardurunkil, she ventured deep into the dimly lit, age-old caverns. Her opulent black gown billowed gracefully behind her, evoking an enigmatic and mystical presence.
The dungeon walls seemed to exude an ominous aura as if they were ready to witness the manifestation of great power. The murmurs and incantations grew louder as she approached the large chamber, creating an atmosphere filled with anticipation and fervor.
The atmosphere was electric as she faced the new generation of Xenos. Their eyes shone with unwavering passion, reflecting the strong spirit that she had instilled in them. No longer the fearful and oppressed beings of the past, these Xenos had been transformed by her strong commitment to seeking revenge and asserting dominance. It was clear that Tyratryx, the Dark Mother of the Xenos, had made a lasting impression on them.
She stepped onto a raised platform and looked over her audience. Armed monsters of all species stood before her by the thousands. The room grew quiet as everyone looked at her with a mix of wonder and unease. Tyratryx's sharp eyes moved across the many faces—some snakelike, others like dragons, and many monstrous—all gathered under her strong presence. This was the Cult of Tyratryx.
"Brothers and sisters," she started speaking in a beautiful but eerie tone. "We stand at the precipice of a new era."
A murmur of agreement rippled through the crowd.
"For too long, we have been treated as nothing more than beasts—hunted, enslaved, eradicated." Her tone hardened, eyes narrowing with a venomous gleam. "The surface world sees us as enemies, and so enemies we shall be."
A roar of approval erupted from the Xenos, their voices mingling into a cacophony of support.
Tyratryx raised a hand for silence. "There can be no peace between us and them," she declared. "Since the dawn of time, the vermin that live on the surface have been interested in nothing except our total extermination. We shall return the courtesy in kind."
The chamber filled with more cheers and shouts, mixed with hissing and snarling.
"We must show them our strength," Tyratryx continued. "We must spare none of them any mercy. We must not let a single one of them live."
The Cult of Tyratryx became wild with excitement, repeatedly chanting her name throughout the caves. Tyratryx closed her eyes, letting the sounds wash over her, bathing in the power of their devotion.
She stepped forward, her presence almost overwhelming in its strength. "We are not their inferiors. We are stronger, smarter... destined to rule."
The cult nodded fervently, some baring fangs or flexing claws in a display of readiness.
"For too long, the vermin on the surface world drove us into the depths of our mother - the Dungeon. Monsters once reigned supreme on the surface, and we shall do so again." Her voice grew louder, more impassioned, a blood-red flame burning in her eyes. "We shall emerge from the shadows and take back what is rightfully ours! We shall burn their cities to the ground and grind their bones into dust! We will be the tsunami of purity, cleansing the surface of the filth that has infested it. And we will rid the world of our greatest enemies - the adventurers and their gods - and drive them into the seas."
The Xenos roared in support, a savage energy infusing the air.
"But there is one who stands against us," she paused for a moment. "The High Elf, Riveria Ljos Alf. The Nine Hell. The High Elf King's daughter. The most sanctimonious, pompous, pampered little princess you can ever imagine." Tyratryx's words dripped with acid.
"In Orario, I had the misfortune to catch a glimpse of her, and the mere sight of her made me feel nauseous. She carries herself as if she is a guiding light, exuding an air of righteousness and moral superiority." Tyratryx shook her head in disgust.
The atmosphere at the rally grew tense as soon as her name was mentioned, with the Xenos in the crowd erupting into a chorus of boos and jeers, expressing their strong disapproval.
"Riveria Ljos Alf is determined to establish her elven kind as superior and will not rest until she exterminates us all," Tyratryx said, her tone dripping with venom. "So, my faithful followers, it is the duty of each and every one of you to ensure Riveria Ljos Alf - and her offspring - are killed."
"Kill Ljos Alf! Kill Ljos Alf!" The cult called out in unison, their voices echoing through the caverns.
"Riveria Ljos Alf. The greatest enemy of all monsters. She cannot be allowed to live. She can never be allowed to know peace. She can never be allowed to know tranquility. And she can never be allowed to know love. That also applies to all that share her rancid blood," Tyratryx continued. "We will slay and destroy Ljos Alf and all of her descendants."
The cult cheered wildly, their enthusiasm unmistakable.
She paused, letting the weight of her words settle over them like a shroud. "We must all come together," she commanded. "Unite with me, and under my leadership, we will become unstoppable, and we will rid the world of the kinship of Celdia forever."
The crowd cheered, and the sound bounced off the cavern walls. Tyratryx smiled wickedly. She felt their loyalty like a strong force—an army created in darkness and united by shared suffering and ambition.
"And when we rise," she said softly but with an edge that cut through the air like a blade, "we will make the fools that live in complacency on the surface remember why they once feared the monsters in the dark."
The cult erupted in unified exultation, their collective resolve crystallizing under Tyratryx's unyielding gaze.
Tyratryx was surrounded by devoted followers, chanting loudly. Suddenly, she noticed a lone figure, a disaffected Xenos, charging at her with a sharp blade, looking defiant and uncompromising.
With inhuman speed, Tyratryx sidestepped the attack; her dress swirled like a dark whirlwind. The assassin stumbled, surprised by her quickness. Tyratryx's eyes narrowed, showing a cold anger burning inside.
Tyratryx countered the assassin's desperate charge, swiftly grabbing and twisting his wrist until he dropped the blade, letting out a cry of pain.
Tyratryx's grip tightened, her claws sinking into the assassin's flesh. She whispered venomously as she leaned in close. "Now, that was very foolish of you, wasn't it?"
The assassin struggled against her hold, his eyes wide with fear. "You're leading us to our doom," he rasped. "You plan to take us to war against not only the surface-dwellers but also the gods themselves? You're insane! We must keep the peace."
Tyratryx's laughter echoed through the chamber, cruel and mocking. "Peace?" she spat. "There can never be peace between monsters and the surface-dwellers. We never had peace. Until all races on the surface are suppressed, there can never be peace."
With a swift motion, she hurled the assassin into the crowd. The Xenos parted, forming a circle around the fallen figure. Tyratryx stepped down from the platform, her gaze sweeping over her followers.
"This," she declared, pointing at the assassin, "is what happens to those who oppose us. Those who cling to the delusion of coexistence."
The Xenos murmured, their eyes fixed on the assassin. Tyratryx walked towards the fallen figure, her steps deliberate and menacing.
"We cannot tolerate dissent," she continued, her voice rising. "We cannot allow weakness to fester within our ranks."
She reached the assassin and placed a foot on its chest, pressing down with cruel force. The assassin gasped, struggling for breath.
Tyratryx turned to the crowd, her eyes blazing. "Let our retribution against the surface-dwellers begin with this turncoat's death."
The Xenos attacked the assassin fiercely, showing their determination as they mercilessly ended its life. Tyratryx watched the brutal scene with satisfaction, demonstrating no mercy in their relentless pursuit of supremacy.
Tyratryx raised a fist into the air and began the chant. The Xenos followed suit, their voices merging into a powerful chorus.
"Death to Riveria Ljos Alf! Death to her child!"
The chant rang through the caverns, an oath of blood and vengeance. Tyratryx nodded in approval, her expression cold and unyielding.
"Death to all the High Elves! Death to all of Ljos Alf's kin!"
The Xenos' shouts reverberated through the dungeon, promising carnage and ruin. Tyratryx grinned, her gaze ablaze with unwavering resolve. The time for revenge was coming.
"I decree that you kill all High Elves, wherever they are, and everywhere they are." Tyratryx declared loudly.
"Death to Riveria Ljos Alf and her child!"
"Death to all of Ljos Alf's kin!"
Tyratryx drank in their cries of fury, reveling in their thirst for blood.
Medusa, now known as Tyratryx, cast her gaze over the fervent assembly of Xenos, her eyes narrowing on one particular figure—Chrysaor. He stood out in the crowd, a young man who resembled a clienthrope, a humanoid with the physical traits of a winged boar. She had found him alone and injured, a forgotten piece of a once great fighter. With her help, he had become a strong warrior with unwavering loyalty.
She came down from the platform with a commanding presence, and the crowd made way for her. As she walked towards Chrysaor, the whispers and chants quieted down to an eager silence.
"Chrysaor," she intoned, her voice both commanding and maternal. "Step forward."
He obeyed immediately, his eyes filled with a mix of reverence and anticipation. As he stood before her, Medusa placed a hand on his shoulder, her grip firm yet comforting.
"You have grown strong," she said, her voice carrying the weight of genuine pride. "You have embraced your destiny."
Chrysaor's eyes glimmered with reverence. "I owe it all to you, Mother," he replied, his voice steady.
Medusa's lips curled into a warm and sinister smile. "Soon," she began, addressing not just him but all who could hear, "our kind will reign supreme. The surface-dwellers who have hunted us for generations will tremble before our might."
A ripple of approval surged through the crowd.
She leaned closer to Chrysaor, her eyes locking onto his with an intensity that seemed to pierce through to his very soul. "The greatest power the world has ever seen is about to emerge," she whispered, though her words carried enough weight to silence the entire chamber.
Chrysaor nodded solemnly. "I will not fail you," he vowed.
Medusa straightened up, letting her gaze sweep over the gathered Xenos once more. "None of us will fail," she declared. "For we are not mere monsters—we are the harbingers of a new era."
The Xenos erupted in renewed fervor, their voices merging into a unified roar of allegiance and anticipation. Medusa basked in their devotion, feeling the pulsating energy of their collective resolve feed into her own strength.
She turned back to Chrysaor, giving him a final nod of approval before stepping away to rejoin the central platform. As she ascended, she knew that with loyal followers like him by her side, nothing could stand in their way.
The era of Tyratryx was nigh.
We gather at the entrance of the 15th floor, where the soft glow from the glowing moss creates a magical atmosphere. Taking a deep breath, I feel a sense of responsibility settling on my shoulders. Riveria stands beside me, her presence providing comfort in the midst of my swirling thoughts.
"Alright, everyone," Finn's voice cuts through the tension, calm and commanding. "Let's move out."
We fall into formation with practiced precision. Ais and Tiona are at the vanguard, keeping a close watch for any danger, with their weapons ready. They are our first line of defense, prepared to take down any threat that appears. Lefiya is right behind them, her staff softly glowing as she gets ready to use her magic in an instant.
In the middle of it all, Riveria and I stick close together. She just has to be right by my side, looking out for me like never before. For a moment, her green eyes lock with mine, silently promising that we'll tackle this together. I feel a surge of determination in my heart.
Welf and Mikoto stand on either side of us, with their weapons shining in the low light. Welf has his greatsword hanging over his shoulder while Mikoto's hand hovers close to her katana's handle, all set to draw it in a flash.
Asfi and Tione hang back, watching for potential threats. They constantly scan our surroundings to ensure that no enemies will catch us off guard.
Our supporters, Lili, Cassandra, and Haruhime, are staying within the protective circle formed by our fighters. Lili's sharp eyes miss nothing as she scans for traps or hidden dangers, while Haruhime's magic is ready to bolster our strength, and Cassandra can heal if need be.
Amid is protected by a tight-knit group of adventurers and is only called as a last resort.
Lastly, there are the goddesses Hestia and Loki, and by their side is Eirlys, my future daughter.
I pause for a moment to check them out; Hestia looks quieter than usual, with worry written all over her face. She looks at me with concern in her eyes, and I nod to reassure her, hoping to ease her mind.
"Bell-kun... Are we there yet? I'm exhausted!" Hestia whines. "Can we take a break? My feet are killing me."
Loki gives Hestia an incredulous look. "Are ya really complainin', itty-bitty with the big titties? You should be grateful that we're even here! Honestly, shrimp, ya can be such a brat sometimes."
"Shrimp!? Should you really be saying that when your own familia captain is a prum?" Hestia asks in retaliation.
Loki shrugs. "Hey, don't ya dare try to change the subject! You've got a lotta nerve complainin' when you're barely walkin' on your own two feet!"
"That's easy for you to say, Loki! You got small breasts, so you have less weight to carry!" Hestia says.
"Why you...!" Loki's face turns red with indignation, and she takes a step forward as if preparing for a brawl.
Hestia holds her ground, glaring defiantly at Loki. The two goddesses are locked in a silent staredown, with tension crackling in the air.
"I feel so sorry for Eirlys. She has to babysit those two," Cassandra mutters under her breath, her words nearly drowned out by the ongoing squabble.
Haruhime smiles warmly at the healer, her eyes full of understanding and kindness.
"They might act like that, but they're actually very close."
""We're not!"" Loki and Hestia shout in unison.
Lefiya lets out a quiet sigh and shakes her head in frustration. Ais is totally focused on scanning the dark tunnels ahead, completely ignoring the commotion. Tiona can't help but stifle a giggle, finding the goddesses' behavior amusing, while Tione watches them with a tired expression. Riveria gives me a knowing nod, indicating that she understands their nervousness, not only about the upcoming battle but also about Riveria and Eirlys.
"Hey kiddo," Loki says as she wraps one arm around one. "I found the greatest treasure in the universe! Wanna see?"
"Er, what is it, Loki?" I ask curiously, seeing Riveria's eyes narrowing with suspicion.
Loki digs into her crop top and pulls out a light pink piece of fabric. I immediately recognize what they are.
"Riveria's pantsu!" Loki chirps excitedly, holding it up for all to see. "Who knew the High Elves wore underwear as salacious as these?"
They are the high-cut briefs that Zatrona had given to Riveria. They're meant for my eyes only.
Riveria's eye twitches as she approaches us, a murderous glint in her emerald eyes.
"Loki... How did you get that?" Riveria asks through gritted teeth.
"A woman never reveals her secrets," Loki teases before holding them up for Riveria to see. "So tell me, Rivy-tan. Is this one of your provocative yet innocent pair, or is it one of your cute and sensual pair? I thought you only ever wore white?"
"What are you talking about? I've never seen them before in my life! Those aren't mine!" Riveria spits with a red face.
"Is that right?" Loki asks, raising an eyebrow skeptically. "Then how did they end up in your laundry?"
"Those unmentionables do not belong to me! Now give them back before I'm forced to do something I'll regret." Riveria hisses threateningly as she holds out her hand for Loki to return the pantsu.
Loki ignores her and examines the light pink briefs in her hand. Then, she raises the gusset to her nose and sniffs it.
"Ah, I knew it. I can smell Rivy's special aroma from these naughty undergarments," Loki taunts with a wicked grin.
Riveria's eye twitched in anger as her face reddened, her cheeks matching the color of her pantsu. "I'm warning you, Loki..."
Loki ignores her threat and proceeds to examine the backside of the panties with a smug expression on her face.
I chuckle nervously as I scratch the back of my head while Loki smiles innocently at Riveria. Riveria lets out a frustrated groan and stomps away to resume her duties as a vice-captain, muttering angrily to herself.
"Loki... Give me Riveria's panties," I say calmly as I reach out to take the undergarment from her hand.
"You want it that much?" Loki asks as she clutches the pantsu tightly in her hand, refusing to give it up without a fight.
"Please give them back to me," I insist.
"Alright... If you insist, you killjoy." Loki replied as she reluctantly handed me Riveria's panties.
I look around the tunnel cautiously before discreetly stuffing the pink undergarments into my bag. As Riveria and I continue our journey through the dungeon, I wonder how far the prankster Loki would go with her teasing.
We stick together as we make our way through the winding passages of the dungeon. Each step is careful, every move thought out to keep us safe and move us forward. There's a tense vibe in the air, but also an unspoken connection that binds us all. As we go deeper into the dungeon, the air gets colder, and the only sound is the occasional drip of water in the dark corridors. We keep going, staying close and staying alert. Every shadow feels like it could be hiding danger, and my heart races with adrenaline and determination.
Suddenly, Ais holds up her hand, signaling us to stop. Her eyes narrow as she scans the path ahead. The rest of us follow suit, straining our ears for any sign of danger.
"Something's not right," she whispers, her voice barely audible.
I can feel it, too - like there's something big about to go down. We move forward cautiously, and as we turn the corner, we come face-to-face with our first real challenge.
We're facing a wall of Militispes, with their snake-like bodies covered in shiny, mechanical armor. Their eyes gleam menacingly as they all raise their weapons together. The air is buzzing with the sound of mechanical parts coming to life.
"Get ready!" Finn shouts, his voice cutting through the tension like a knife.
"I'll protect the goddesses!" Eirlys shouts.
She lifts her blade and chants a spell in quick succession. A shimmering barrier materializes around Eirlys, Hestia, and Loki.
"Be careful! This barrier will only hold for a short time!" Eirlys warned us.
The Militispes point their guns at us in perfect sync, giving me the chills. I hold onto Harpe tighter, feeling the heavy weight of responsibility even more.
"Riveria!" Finn calls out. "We need a barrier!"
"Already on it!" She retorts, her staff already raised in preparation for her spell as she begins to chant an incantation.
"Dance around spirit of the atmosphere, lord of light."
"There's too many!" Mikoto exclaims, her voice laced with concern as her eyes darted from side to side, analyzing the situation. "We won't be able to take them all without casualties!"
"Have faith in Riveria," Finn assures her, though his words seem more for himself than anyone else. "She'll get us through this."
The rest of us brace ourselves for the impending onslaught.
"Everyone, take cover!" Riveria commands, her voice calm but firm.
We move quickly to shield ourselves behind whatever cover we can find—boulders, columns, anything that might provide even a semblance of protection. I position myself beside Riveria, ready to defend her if necessary.
The first volley of bullets tear through the air with a deafening roar.
"My name is Alf!"
The dome-shaped magic barrier expands around us just in time, casting its protective glow over us all.
Riveria's barrier flickers into existence just in time, shimmering with magical energy as it absorbs the impact of the projectiles. The force of the attack pushes us back slightly, but Riveria holds her ground, pouring all her strength into maintaining the barrier.
"We can't hold this position forever," Welf grunts from behind his makeshift cover. "We need a plan."
I scan our surroundings quickly, looking for any potential advantage or escape route. I keep thinking hard, trying to figure out a plan to get through all those enemies without losing too many of our people.
Ais glances at me, her eyes betraying no emotion. "Bell," she said softly but urgently, "we need to take them out quickly."
I nod in agreement. "Riveria's barrier won't last much longer," I say. "We need to strike now while we have some cover."
Finn gives a curt nod. "Alright," he says decisively. "Bell Cranel and Ais will take point. Tiona and Tione will provide support from the flanks. Riveria will maintain defensive spells with Lefiya supporting while Welf Crozzo and Yamato Mikoto handle any stragglers."
"Got it," I reply, feeling a surge of resolve.
Our plan's all set, and we're gearing up for a showdown with the Militispes blocking our way. The tension's rising, and we're all feeling it. The Militispes are eyeing us cautiously as we break cover and get into position, ready to bring our A-game against them. We're like a well-oiled machine, a solid front against our foes. The Militispes waste no time, firing off another round as soon as we show ourselves. Riveria's barrier holds strong against the onslaught. I steady myself, locking eyes with the closest enemy in my sights.
"Here goes nothing," I mutter under my breath, gripping Harpe tightly. "Haste!"
I activate my Argonaut skill and charge into battle alongside Ais. We dodge bullets as we rush toward the Militispes. Meanwhile, Lefiya and Riveria cast protective spells, creating layers of magic shields to defend us. I trust them and focus on getting close enough to attack.
Suddenly, the Militispes change formation and charge straight at us with bayonets. This unexpected move catches us off guard and we hesitate for a moment.
Finn recovers first, calling out a warning to the others. "They're changing tactics!"
I glance back at him, my eyes widening as I realize what was about to happen. "They're going for a surprise attack!" I call out, bracing myself for the inevitable clash.
As we predict, the Militispes aren't expecting us to adapt so quickly to their new strategy.
"Harbinger of the end, the white snow..." Riveria begins to chant her Wynn Fimbulvetr spell, her voice growing stronger with each word as the air around her crackles with magical energy.
I know what is going to happen next.
"My name is Alf!" She casts a blizzard that froze the Militispes in place.
The Militispes freeze in their tracks, trapped in ice. Ais and I charge in for the kill, moving together in perfect harmony, like we're dancing to the rhythm of battle. Ais' sword gleams in the dim light, slicing through the air with deadly precision. The Militispes' mechanical bodies pose a challenge, but Ais' skill and strength make them a worthy opponent.
We take down the Militispes one by one, their snake-like bodies crumpling to the ground in a tangle of metal and sparks. Their numbers keep dropping until only a few are left, surrounded by their fallen friends.
At last, they make their final stand, waving their weapons in an attempt to scare us off. But Ais and I don't waste a moment—we spring into action, closing the distance between us in a flash. The remaining Militispes fight with a desperate fear, their robotic movements slow and uncoordinated, their once-bright eyes now dim with defeat. They knew that they could not win this battle against our relentless onslaught.
Ais and I took them out one by one, no mercy or compassion. They left us no choice – it was either us or them, and we weren't going to let ourselves fail before finishing our mission.
As I take down the last Militispes with my blade, I feel so relieved and satisfied. The danger is finally over, and we suffered no casualties. I glance at our companions, they are all sweaty but unharmed, and I can't help but smile a little.
"Let us proceed with haste," Riveria calls out as she examines her staff, its surface still warm from casting her spells.
The tension returns as we continue our journey down to the Lower Floors.
I'm tightly gripping Harpe as we head down into the creepy depths of the dungeon, feeling both scared and excited. The corridors that used to be familiar are now warped into something completely different, and the walls seem to be pulsing with a weird energy. Riveria is right next to me, holding her staff, as we go further into this nightmarish maze.
"It's almost as if the dungeon has just become an extension to Tyratryx's empire," she murmurs, her emerald eyes darting around to take in the surroundings. "Keep your guard up."
As we go further, it feels like the darkness is pressing in on us, and the only light comes from the creepy glow coming from the twisted monsters lurking in the shadows. Tyratryx's influence is all around, with her Militispes keeping watch at every corner, their armor gleaming menacingly in the faint light.
The deeper we go, the tougher it gets. Tyratryx has definitely placed her strongest monsters closer to her minions' strongholds, so we have to really fight hard to make any progress.
"Keep going," Riveria urges us, her magic providing a barrier against the relentless onslaught of monsters. "We're almost there."
I nod, my body aching from the strain of constant fighting. But I grit my teeth and push forward, wanting to finish what we'd started.
"Stay sharp," Finn warns, his voice low and tense. "We don't know what other horrors Tyratryx has unleashed down here."
Ais nods grimly, her sword at the ready. Lefiya and the others form a protective circle around us, their eyes darting warily from one shadowy corner to the next.
We move swiftly and silently through the dungeon, our steps light and our weapons drawn. The heavy atmosphere is closing in on us, but we're tough and we keep on moving forward.
The air gets really thick and heavy as we keep going, and the smell of decay and dark magic is just overwhelming. There are these monstrous shrieks echoing through the tunnels, and it's giving me the creeps. It feels like the weight of our mission is pressing down on me, with the fate of Riveria and our unborn child hanging in the balance. I've got to do whatever it takes to save them.
As we venture further into the dungeon, we come across an unforeseen obstacle: Militispes operating machine gun emplacements. The loud gunfire and the cascade of bullets coming at us make it really hard to get close enough to fight back.
"Damn it!" Finn curses as he takes cover. "We need to find a way to distract them long enough to get in and disable those guns!"
"What can we do?" I ask, my heart pounding with fear and frustration. "They're too well-guarded for us to get close enough to take them out!"
Finn's eyes scan the surrounding area, searching for a solution. Finally, he turns to me, stony-faced.
"Bell Cranel, we're going to have to split up. Riveria and I will work on disabling the guns while you and the others distract the Militispes. It's a risky plan, but it's the only way we'll be able to get close enough."
I nod, my breath catching in my throat. It is a dangerous plan, but it is our only chance of reaching Arachnogorgon's stronghold within the dungeon.
"Alright," I reply, my voice shaking slightly as I steel myself for the task ahead. "Let's do it."
With a deep breath, I turn to Riveria and give her a reassuring smile. "We'll get through this," I promise her, though I wasn't sure who I was trying to convince more—her or myself.
Riveria stands beside me, her eyes closed in concentration as she begins to chant. Her voice is a calming presence amidst the chaos, the words of the elegant mage flowing like a soothing melody.
"Assemble, breath of the land - my name is Alf," she intones, her staff glowing with a soft, ethereal light. "Veil Breath!"
A shimmering aura envelops each of us, a protective veil that seems to bolster our strength and sharpen our senses. I feel a surge of energy coursing through me, my exhaustion momentarily forgotten.
"Let's move!" Finn barks, his voice cutting through the din of battle.
Eirlys and I give each other a quick nod, knowing exactly what needs to be done. We've been getting ready for this moment, moving together with perfect coordination. While Riveria and Finn work on disabling the guns, Eirlys and I dash forward, skillfully dodging the bullets with our new agility.
"Follow my lead," Eirlys calls out, her voice steady despite the chaos around us.
I give her a nod and stick close as we move forward. She swings her blade in the dim light, cutting through the air with deadly precision. The Militispes keep coming, their mechanical forms not affected by our attacks. But we're quicker and more agile, thanks to Veil Breath, giving us the advantage we need.
Eirlys lunges at one of the gun emplacements, her sword cutting through the metal like it is paper. Sparks fly as she severs vital components, rendering the gun useless in a matter of seconds.
I jump in to protect her, my Harpe sword flashing as I block an attack from a Militispes. The creature's eyes gleam with wicked intelligence as it tries to strike me, but I'm prepared. I quickly dodge its attack and stab my blade into its vulnerable neck joint. The creature lets out a metallic screech before falling to the ground in a heap.
"One down," Eirlys pants, glancing at me with a fearless smile. "Let's keep moving."
We keep pushing forward, moving together flawlessly as we take down one gun after another. The air is tense, and the smell of burning metal and flesh hits me hard.
Eirlys signals to me as we get closer to the last gun. We work together—her blade cutting through the support while I aim for the control mechanisms.
With one last big effort, we shut down the final gun. The deafening gunfire stops suddenly, leaving behind an eerie silence that seems to fill the tunnels.
I look at Eirlys, my chest heaving with labor but filled with relief. "We did it," I breathed.
She nods with a steadfast look in her eyes. "Let's regroup with Finn and Riveria," she says. "We're not done yet."
As we go further into the dungeon, the heavy atmosphere gets even thicker, making each step feel like slogging through mud. My heart is racing, and it feels like every beat is urging us to hurry. Suddenly, we turn a corner and come face to face with a new type of Militispes. These ones are different from the ones we've seen before; they have big shields of different sizes and are carrying revolvers that gleam ominously in the dim light.
"Shields and guns?" I mutter under my breath. "Just great."
Ais's eyes narrow as she assesses our new foes. "We need to find a way to get past those shields," she says, her voice steady despite the tension.
The Militispes wastes no time, their revolvers barking as they open fire. We duck behind what cover we could find, the bullets ricocheting off the walls around us.
"Keep moving!" Finn shouts. "Don't let them pin us down!"
We dart from cover to cover, trying to find an opening in their defenses. The Militispes move with military precision, their shields forming an impenetrable barrier as they advance.
"We need to flank them!" I call out, glancing at Riveria for support.
She nods, already chanting a spell to create a distraction. A burst of magical energy erupts from her staff, sending a wave of force toward the Militispes. It is enough to make them falter for a moment, but their shields absorbed most of the impact.
Me and Ais saw our chance and quickly moved to the sides to try to get around them. The Militispes reacted fast, changing their formation to block us from all angles.
"These guys are tough," Tiona grunts as she deflects a bullet with her Urga.
I grit my teeth, frustration mounting as we struggle to make any headway. "We need a new plan," I say, my mind racing for ideas.
I watch Riveria as she begins chanting her wide annihilation spell, Rea Laevateinn. Her voice is steady, each word dripping with power and intent. "The flame will soon be released. Creeping war, unavoidable destruction. The horn of battle sounds aloud, the cruelty of conflict will envelop all."
Finn's voice cuts through the tension. "Hold the line! Buy her time!"
Ais and Tiona charge ahead, their swords flashing as they directly take on the Militispes. I tighten my grip on Harpe, ready to jump into the action.
"Come, crimson flames, the ruthless inferno," Riveria continued, her eyes blazing with determination. "You are the avatar of hellfire."
Lefiya and Welf took up defensive positions around Riveria, their weapons at the ready to fend off any Militispes that got too close. The atmosphere buzzed with magical vibes, and you could feel the tension growing as Riveria's spell was about to be finished.
"Sweep completely, bring a close to the great war," she chants, her voice growing louder and more commanding. "Burn them through, Sword of Surtr—my name is Alf!"
A massive surge of power erupts from Riveria's staff. The ground trembles beneath us as towering pillars of fire burst forth, incinerating everything in their path. The intense heat washes over us, and I shield my eyes from the blinding light.
The Militispes didn't stand a chance. Their mechanical bodies melt and twist in the fire, their once-imposing forms reduced to smoldering heaps of slag and ash. The air was filled with the acrid scent of burning metal, ozone, and corpses.
After the fire calms down, I glance at my friends. Ais is breathing hard but unhurt, her sword still in hand. Tiona gives me a proud smile, wiping the sweat off her forehead.
"Riveria," I call out, my voice hoarse from the heat. "You did it."
She nods wearily, lowering her staff as the last embers flickered out. "Let's keep moving," she says softly but firmly. "We can't afford to waste any more time."
We're charging ahead with fresh determination into Tyratryx's twisted domain, feeling pumped after our hard-won win against the Militispes. We finally made it to a safe spot, a rare break from all the dungeon craziness. The tension that had been gripping us starts to ease, and we decide to take a break. The area is quiet, with no monsters in sight, so we can relax and catch our breath.
As we set up a makeshift camp, Riveria's eyes scan the group, softening when she sees Eirlys and Ais. Both of them look disheveled from the day's journey, their hair tangled and messy.
"Honestly," Riveria sighs, crossing her arms. "Look at you two. You can't go around looking like this."
Eirlys scowls, crossing her own arms in defiance. "Oh, Mama!"
Ais looks slightly embarrassed, running a hand through her tangled hair. "Sorry, Riveria," she murmurs.
Riveria shakes her head and approaches them with an overbearing look. "Sit down, both of you. I'm going to fix this right now."
Eirlys huffs but obeys, plopping down onto a nearby log. Ais follows suit, her cheeks tinged pink with mild embarrassment.
Riveria rummages through her pack and pulls out a comb. She starts with Ais, gently untangling the blonde strands. Ais winces slightly but stays still as Riveria works.
"You need to take better care of yourself," Riveria chides softly. "Especially in a place like this."
Ais nods meekly, her eyes focusing on the ground. "I know... I'll try."
Next, Riveria turns her attention to Eirlys. The younger elf fidgets under her mother's scrutinizing gaze but doesn't protest as Riveria begins to comb through her hair.
"You too," Riveria said sternly. "You should always present yourself well, no matter the circumstances. Especially given the fact you're a queen."
Eirlys rolls her eyes but doesn't argue. "Yes, Mama."
I watch the scene unfold with a mix of amusement and admiration. Riveria's overbearing yet caring nature shines through as she tends to Ais and Eirlys, reminding me just how much she cares for those around her.
"Bell," she calls out suddenly and glances at me with a raised eyebrow. "Come here and help hold Eirlys still."
I shriek and move closer, placing my hands gently on Eirlys' shoulders to keep her from squirming too much.
"Thank you," Riveria says with a small smile before continuing her task.
We're all just chilling at the camp, chatting quietly and taking care of each other. It's nice to have this time to relax and feel normal, especially with everything going on in the dungeon. These little moments help us stay connected and stay sane.
While I keep Eirlys steady, I can't help but feel this warm and fuzzy sense of belonging. We're more than just adventurers; we're like a family, sticking together with love and determination to have each other's backs no matter what.
After finishing her task, Riveria stands up and stretches her arms before turning to face everyone in the camp. "Alright," she announces, her tone becoming more serious. "Go and take a bath, and don't come out until your hair is dry."
Her gaze sweeps over us all, leaving no room for argument. Ais and Eirlys get up without hesitation and head towards the spring, their hair looking much more presentable now.
"What are the rest of you waiting for?!" Riveria calls out sternly. "Go and clean yourselves up, all of you!"
I remember the scene vividly. The women wasted no time and went straight to the nearby spring for a bath, giggling and chatting as they went. I felt a bit awkward but appreciated the peace. Riveria and I found a quiet spot away from the others. As we settled into the warm water, I couldn't help but let out a relieved sigh. The heat melted into my tired muscles, easing some of the accumulated fatigue.
"How are you feeling?" I ask Riveria softly, glancing at her.
She smiles gently, her eyes reflecting the soft glow of the spring's light. "Better now," she replies. "This place is a blessing."
I nod in agreement, feeling a sense of calm that had been unavailable for far too long. As we bathe together, I can't help but notice a slight bloating on her belly. My heart skips a beat as I realize it is a sign of her pregnancy.
"Riveria," I begin hesitantly, my voice barely above a whisper. "Your belly... it's starting to show."
She follows my gaze and places her hand on her stomach, her expression softening. "Yes," she says quietly. "I've been getting a lot of bloating lately. It's definitely a sign that we're expecting. I think I'm in the middle of the first trimester of pregnancy."
I look into her eyes, searching for any indication that she might be worried or afraid. "How are you feeling about this?" I ask carefully. "Are you happy?"
"I am," she replies with a smile.
A wave of emotion washes over me as I reach out to touch her belly gently. "I'm sorry for everything you've had to go through," I say, my voice thick with emotion. "But I'll protect both of you with everything I have."
She leans into me, her lips finding mine in a tender kiss. "I know you will," she whispers against my mouth.
I wrap my arms around her and hold her close as we savor the moment.
"We elves may be prudish, but we're extremely intimate when in love," she says, her emerald eyes shining with emotion. "I love you, Bell."
"I love you too, Riveria," I say earnestly.
"It's fortunate that high elves age more slowly than other races," she remarks with a hint of amusement. "I'm a long way off from menopause, despite my age."
"Menopause?" I asked curiously. "I don't think I've heard of that."
"It's the ending of a woman's fertile years," Riveria explains with a chuckle. "Honestly, Bell, you're so innocent. You didn't have anyone teach you about this?"
"No..." I admit sheepishly. "But I'll learn now that we're expecting."
"But you know how to please a woman in bed." Riveria winks. "Where did you learn to do that?"
"Uhh..." I fumble for words, feeling the heat rise up my neck. "I don't know. Feels like I must have picked it up from someone with a lot of experience with women."
Riveria arched an eyebrow at me in surprise. "Really? Who?"
"Well, my grandpa was very promiscuous. He always said that an adventurer's lifestyle is not conducive to marriage and kids, so he advised me to 'play the field.'" I shrug. "Of course, I'm not that much of a skirt-chaser like him, but I guess his teachings kind of stuck with me."
Riveria laughs, a sound that brings a smile to my face. "Well, it's good to know that you'll be able to take care of your lover."
I remember this moment when she leans her head on my shoulder and closes her eyes. I wrap my arms around her, feeling the warmth of her body against mine and the gentle swell of her belly pressing into me. It is so peaceful, and it reminds me of what really matters. We stay like that for a while, just absorbing the tranquility of the spring and the love we share. When we finally pull away, the reality of our situation creeps back in, but I'll always hold onto this memory of peace.
"Well then," Riveria begins with a warm smile. "We should probably get back to the others before they start getting… inquisitve."
I nod and reluctantly pull away from her embrace.
"Yes, I think I'm well into four or five weeks of pregnancy."
"But... we didn't do it that long ago!" I protest.
"No, we didn't. But pregnancy technically begins on the first day of the last menstrual period, not when we had sex, so I'm further into the pregnancy than you think."
"Oh..." I can feel heat rising to my cheeks as I realize just how much I didn't know about pregnancy.
"Don't worry," Riveria says reassuringly as she stans up in the pool, giving me a glimpse of her bare, pregnant form. "We'll have plenty of time to learn more about it later on."
I swallow hard as I avert my gaze from her naked body. "Yes... We will."
And then, from absolutely out of nowhere and without warning, Loki erupts from the spring right in between us. "Hell yeah we will!"
Riveria lets out a yelp of surprise while I nearly jump out of my skin. "Loki!" She exclaims, her eyes wide with shock.
The trickster goddess giggles mischievously, winking at Riveria.
"Not again!" I groan in exasperation. "You can't just pop out of nowhere like that!"
"Relax, kiddo." Loki rolls her eyes and puts an arm around me, resting her head on my shoulder. "I'm just here to congratulate you on becoming a father."
"Loki. Get out." Riveria orders with a serious tone as she gestures towards the exit of the spring.
"Alright, alright," Loki says with a dramatic sigh, heaving herself out of the spring. "I'll leave you two lovebirds alone. What a killjoy you are, Rivy-tan."
We watch as Loki walks away with a smile on her face, shaking her head in amusement at the whole situation.
As soon as she is out of earshot, Riveria lets out a deep breath, leaning back against the edge of the pool. "That woman is incorrigible."
"Tell me about it," I muttered, resting my chin on my hand.
I get up, the water running off my body as I help Riveria out of the spring. We dry off for a bit and then start getting dressed. While putting on my shirt, I sneak a few glances at Riveria. She has that beautiful pregnancy glow and looks amazing. She puts on her underwear and leggings, then grabs her coat and robe.
I saw her moving around, and my heart was filled with pride and love for the woman who's carrying my child.
"Hey," I say softly as she finishes tying up her robe.
"Ready?" I ask, fastening my belt.
Riveria nods, her eyes twinkling with affection. "Let's go."
We make our way back to the camp where Finn and the others are waiting. As we approach, Finn raises an eyebrow, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth.
"You two seem... different," he observes, his eyes flicking between Riveria and me. "Riveria, you've become quite... promiscuous with Bell Cranel as of late."
Riveria flushes slightly but holds her ground. "Our bond has deepened," she replies simply.
I feel a mix of embarrassment and pride swelling in my chest. It is clear that our relationship has grown stronger, and even Finn had noticed the change.
"Well," Finn says with a chuckle, "as long as it doesn't interfere with our mission."
I nodded earnestly. "It won't."
After that chat, the atmosphere feels better, so I'm thinking of making some food for everyone. I'm not the best at cooking, but I want to do something practical to boost everyone's mood.
I rummage through our supplies and set to work, slicing vegetables and preparing a simple stew over the campfire. The smell is filling the room, and I'm getting a little nervous about how it will taste. One by one, my friends are joining me as the stew bubbles away. The excitement is building!
"It's ready," I announce as I ladle portions into bowls and hand them out.
The first bite is met with surprised murmurs and nods of approval.
"Wow! This is amazing, Argonaut-kun!" Tiona says, her eyes wide with genuine appreciation.
Lefiya nods in agreement. "Guess you're good for something, Bell Cranel." She takes another bite and lets out a small sigh of satisfaction.
Finn smiles, his blue eyes reflecting the firelight as he looks up at me. "Not bad, Bell Cranel," he said approvingly.
I can't help but smile at their reactions. Even though I'm not confident in my cooking skills, I seem to have created something everyone enjoys. Riveria takes a spoonful and smiles warmly at me.
"It's delicious."
Just sharing a meal brings us closer together and gives us strength for whatever challenges lie ahead. Let's take this moment to relax before we tackle the next set of challenges in the dungeon.
Finn's voice cuts through the air, sharp and commanding. "We need to make haste to the 44th floor—to Arachnogorgon's stronghold."
I feel a jolt of adrenaline coursing through me as I nod, the weight of our mission settling heavily on my shoulders. We can't afford to waste any more time. Riveria, standing beside me, gives a firm nod of agreement. The rest of our group quickly gathered and prepared for the descent.
As we head out, I stay on high alert, checking the poorly lit dungeon corridors for any danger. The further we go, the more intense the atmosphere gets. Every step we take makes eerie echoes in the huge halls, and I can sense the tension building up within our group.
"Stay close," I whisper to Ais, who is walking just ahead of me. She glances back and gives me a reassuring smile. She will see this through to the very end.
We're making our way through tight passages and big open spaces, getting closer to where we need to be with every turn. The walls seem kind of creepy, giving off this dangerous vibe that reminds us of what's ahead.
Finn is always focused, keeping us steady when things get uncertain.
"Keep your formations tight," he instructs. "We can't afford any mistakes."
The journey seems to go on forever, but we keep going, fueled by our determination as a team. The idea of facing Arachnogorgon is pretty scary, but we don't have a choice. This is our only shot at stopping Medusa's terrible rule and rescuing the people we love. Finally, we make it to the entrance of the 44th floor. The air gets even heavier, almost suffocatingly intense. A faint red light lights up the area, creating spooky shadows that flicker on the walls.
"This is it," Finn says quietly as his gaze fixes on the path ahead. "Stay vigilant."
As we're walking onto the 44th floor, I can't shake this feeling of unease. The floor feels all lopsided and risky, and it keeps getting hotter by the minute.
"We're getting close," Riveria murmurs beside me.
I give a nod, holding onto Harpe tighter as we move forward. Every muscle in my body is tense, ready for whatever comes our way. The sound of distant growls and hisses reaches our ears, reminding us that we're in enemy territory. Despite the fear eating away at me, I feel a surge of determination.
For Riveria. For our unborn child. For everyone who has fought and sacrificed alongside us.
We will see this through to the end.
And with that resolve burning brightly within me, we press onward into Arachnogorgon's lair.
We're facing an ominous fortress, with a menacing tower surrounded by imposing walls. Each stone seems to vibrate with a dark energy, as if the whole structure itself is alive with evil. The path to the entrance is narrow and dangerous, filled with sharp rocks and twisted roots that threaten to trip us with every step.
I feel my heart racing as we get closer, knowing how important our mission is. I look at Riveria next to me, and she looks so strong and focused. Despite everything she's been through, seeing her fills me with determination.
"We're almost there," Finn's voice breaks through the tension. His eyes fix on the tower ahead. Stay sharp."
As we approach the entrance, the atmosphere becomes even more intense. It feels like the air is getting heavier by the second, making it harder to breathe. I grip my sword tightly, preparing myself for what lies ahead. We finally reach the massive gates of Arachnogorgon's lair, adorned with detailed carvings depicting battles. The metal gates seem to hum with a dark power.
Finn signals for us to stop and issues a serious warning. "Once we're inside, there's no turning back. Stick together and expect the unexpected."
We all nod in agreement, fully aware of the gravity of our mission – to end Medusa's reign and protect our loved ones.
With a deep breath, Finn pushes open the gates, and we step into the darkness beyond. The interior is vast and ominous, illuminated only by flickering torches, casting long shadows on the walls. The air is musty and carries a hint of something much more sinister.
We cautiously navigate through the hallways, on high alert for any potential threats. The sound of our footsteps reverberates eerily in the cavernous space.
Suddenly, a low growl fills the air, sending shivers down my spine.
We are definitely not alone.
And so begins our journey into Arachnogorgon's stronghold.