The story of Artemis begins.
“My father was an exceptional adventurer. He possessed talent that rivaled the renowned Sword Saint Grail von Winter,” Artemis spoke in a calm tone. Her demeanor seemed different from before, but which was her true self? Besides, the content was intriguing.
The Sword Saint of this generation, Grail von Winter, known as the <Lovely Sorcerer>’s main heroine Freya von Winter’s true father and the kingdom’s strongest knight. Regarded as unparalleled in swordsmanship, officially inheriting the title of <Sword Saint> from the king, he stood as one of the strongest in the world.
While the average level of adventurers and knights ranged from 20 to 30, Grail von Winter’s level was an astonishing 60. In a world where winning is deemed difficult without a significant gap of at least 10 levels, his level showcased his exceptional prowess.
If I were to battle him now, I would undoubtedly be defeated instantly. He was truly a formidable man.
However, Artemis’s father was said to be a skilled individual who approached the Sword Saint’s level of strength. Judging by her words, it was probably a story from the Sword Saint Grail’s younger days. It seemed unlikely that he could defeat the current Grail, considering his immense strength. If he was that strong, he wouldn’t be described as just an exceptional adventurer. From her tone, it was apparent that her father was no longer in this world.
In the game, neither Artemis nor the Astor Earl’s name, nor the name of the previous head of the family, were mentioned. Unfortunately, they were like background characters.
“He was a proud father. Though he was consumed with adventures and rarely returned home, I knew he loved me. I was aware of being loved. However, there came a day when my father didn’t return. From that day when he looked excited, saying that he could challenge even a high-level dungeon… my father never returned.”
“A high-level dungeon?”
“Yes. He mentioned going to the <Ten Commandments>.”
The <Ten Commandments>!?
The moment I heard that name, I realized that indeed her father had passed away.
The high-level dungeon <Ten Commandments>
Among numerous dungeons, it was one of the most infamous and challenging. High-level dungeons, compared to mid and low-level ones, had vast areas where monsters of at least level 40 appeared. The moment any resident of this world stepped foot inside, they would be killed by the weakest creature.
Moreover, the <Ten Commandments> focused on the strength of individual creatures. Although the number of monsters placed wasn’t high, each one’s status was about double mine. Under normal circumstances, one would need the strength of the current Grail von Winter to survive and return.
“…Judging by your expression, it seems you are familiar with high-level dungeon tales as well. I, too, believe my father’s survival is hopeless. But whether my father is alive or not is irrelevant. I will become a great adventurer like my father. I swear to surpass even my father’s accomplishments and conquer high-level dungeons one day! That’s my pledge, and finally setting foot into the dungeon, I realize it. I’ve truly done something terrible. It’s not a matter that can be resolved by an apology, but let me apologize.”
With those words, Artemis deeply bowed her head. I had the knowledge and strength to survive even if I made all the weaklings in this dungeon my enemies. Honestly, I didn’t feel good about being burdened with monsters, but I wasn’t so angry as to solely blame her.
I gently reached out and placed my hand on her shoulder. I lifted Artemis’s head, smiled to reassure her, and shook my head slightly to indicate there was no need to be afraid.
“That’s enough. I’ve accepted your apology wholeheartedly. If you promise not to do something like that again, I won’t say anything. I understand your determination, Artemis, and I’ll do my best to cherish life. I can relate to the feelings of strength and aspiration.”
“Th… Thank you. Thank you very much.”
Trembling with gratitude and emotion, Artemis looked up. I released my hand from her shoulder, and it was then that I suddenly realized I hadn’t even mentioned my own name yet.
“By the way, Artemis, I asked for your name but failed to introduce myself. Allow me to do so belatedly. My name is Hermes. Hermes von Lunaceria. As long as you dream of conquering dungeons, we might meet again. If you ever need advice, feel free to ask.”
“Lunaceria…? Could it be, the Duke Lunaceria?”
“Indeed, his legitimate child. But you don’t have to be so formal. This is a dungeon. One thing I must tell you is to stay vigilant, be cautious, and above all, make your way back to the surface no matter what. Your strength should have recovered quite a bit by now, right?”
“Y-Yes… Thanks to you.”
“Good. I have to proceed to conquer the <Gloomy Forest> next, but Artemis, make sure to return early, alright? I won’t be able to help you next time.”
With those words, I headed towards the depths of the dungeon. Fluttering my hand in farewell, I left the spot, and Artemis watched me dumbfounded until the end.
Is she okay? Judging by her expression, she might be a little delayed in returning.
***
After parting ways with Artemis, I resumed my dungeon conquest. I had already delved quite deep, so it took only about an hour to reach the designated area. Just before the surprisingly spacious cave, this was the final destination of the low-level dungeon <Gloomy Forest>. It signified the boss area.
“Well then… the plan has changed slightly, but let’s dance until we get that thing we’re after.”
With a smirk, I leaped off a steep cliff. As I appeared in front of the cave, a dull rumbling sound gradually emerged from the depths. Scraping against the walls and ground, what emerged from the cave was… a serpent of unprecedented size—a <Venom Serpent>.
