Is It Wrong To Level Up In A Dungeon?

Bell Cranel's heart still pounded from his near-death experience as he weaved through the crowded streets of Orario. The scent of freshly baked bread and sizzling meats filled the air, mixing with the distant chatter of merchants and adventurers alike. Yet none of it registered in his mind. His thoughts were consumed by the image of the Minotaur's blood-drenched axe swinging toward him, the sheer terror of that moment still fresh in his veins.

He needed to see Eina.

Guild Headquarters stood tall before him, a beacon of order amidst the chaos of Orario. Pushing past the doors, Bell found himself face-to-face with his guild advisor, Eina Tulle—a half-elf whose sharp emerald eyes instantly locked onto him with concern.

"Bell Cranel!" she scolded, her voice firm yet laced with worry. "Do you have any idea how reckless you were? Charging into the Dungeon without proper preparation, getting nearly killed by a Minotaur of all things—"

Bell winced, bowing his head. "I know, Eina... I messed up."

Eina sighed, rubbing her temples. "You're lucky to be alive. If Ais Wallenstein hadn't stepped in, you wouldn't be standing here right now."

At the mention of Ais, Bell's face turned scarlet. "She was... incredible," he admitted, unable to hide the admiration in his voice. "She moved so fast, and her swordplay was perfect. I've never seen anything like it."

Eina smirked knowingly. "I see what's going on here. You have a crush on the Sword Princess."

Bell nearly choked on his own breath. "I—! N-no, it's not like that!"

Eina chuckled, folding her arms. "Relax, Bell. There's nothing wrong with admiring her. But if you really want to stand beside someone like Ais, you need to get stronger. Daydreaming won't help you improve."

Her words struck deep, rekindling the fire in Bell's chest. "I will," he said, clenching his fists. "I'll become strong enough to stand on my own."

Eina smiled softly. "Good. Now go home and get some rest."

Bell nodded, leaving the Guild with renewed determination.

—

The old church was quiet when Bell stepped inside. The familiar warmth of home embraced him, the scent of freshly cooked food guiding him to the small dining table where Hestia sat waiting with a bright smile.

"Welcome home, Bell!" she beamed. "I made your favorite—fried potatoes!"

Bell's stomach growled in response, and he wasted no time digging in. The crispy, golden-brown potatoes melted in his mouth, perfectly seasoned and filling him with warmth. Across from him, Hestia watched with satisfaction, the simple joy of sharing a meal evident in her expression.

For a moment, the weight of the day lifted.

But as dinner came to an end, Hestia gestured for Bell to turn around. "Alright, let's update your status."

Bell nodded, pulling off his shirt and sitting forward as Hestia placed a drop of her divine blood on his back. Moments passed in silence. Then—

"Huh?" Hestia's brows furrowed. "There's... nothing?"

Bell sat up, confused. "What do you mean?"

"It's like your Falna isn't there."

Bell blinked. That didn't make any sense. He was sure he still had his abilities. But then, just as he was about to speak, something in his vision flickered.

A translucent screen hovered before his eyes.

[Inbox]

[Congratulations on becoming a Player] (Unread)