Since Hestia, the Familia's patron goddess, had decided to hold back Bell's level-up, Allen temporarily gave Bell some time off and let him move about freely for a while.
Allen himself continued hunting monsters in the deeper levels of the Dungeon, steadily increasing the reserves of magic within his body while practicing the two magical abilities he had just acquired.
Mana Burst in particular could not only be released through physical contact, but also infused into blades, bullets, and arrows, dealing devastating damage the instant they struck an enemy.
It could be said that magic, this fascinating form of energy, was like a booster that instantly raised Allen's strength by an entire tier.
More importantly, magic altered the body far more profoundly than Nen abilities or Chakra.
Almost every level-up brought a substantial increase in his basic attributes.
Just as he was enjoying this game-like experience of "killing monsters and leveling up," an unwelcome guest suddenly arrived at the shop.
"Hey! Hestia, long time no see!" Hermes greeted her first, a faint smile on his face.
"Do you need something?"
Hestia sat before the counter with her chin propped on one hand, her tone clearly distant and cold.
After all, this guy who loved wandering around was one of the most inscrutable gods in all of Orario—and also one of the gods hiding the most secrets.
In particular, many of the adventurers under his command secretly concealed their levels, claiming to be far weaker than they really were.
"Ha ha! Do I need a reason to come visit an old friend like you?"
Hermes spread his hands in a casual gesture, while his eyes discreetly swept across the shop.
There was no need to ask. He was looking for Allen or Bell.
Unfortunately for him, the only one in the