Orsted wasn't naive.

Noticing oddities with the Astraea Familia, he grew suspicious and began investigating.

Although, he found nothing—five years had passed.

But Eina's information revealed a discrepancy.

The Guild's records on the Astraea Familia were vague, noting only "disappeared," not "wiped out."

Orsted became certain the Astraea Familia's fate differed from the Anime.

They likely vanished briefly for some reason, not eradicated.

Why they disappeared was unknown, likely known only to Ryuu in Orario.

Given Ryuu's guarded nature, Orsted doubted she'd reveal anything.

Learning about the Astraea Familia, Orsted also suspected Ryuu's kindness toward him had a purpose.

She approached him deliberately, tied to the Astraea Familia's events.

He must have an ability to act in the present and affect the past.

Ryuu knew this but couldn't ensure he'd act, so she befriended him, offering help anytime.

Orsted didn't mind.

He'd liked Ryuu's character in the Anime, and her first impression here was positive.

Even knowing her intent, he saw no harm—she'd aided his growth, showing genuine care despite her motives.

Still, he had no clue how to awaken this magic.

Even if he did, the cost would be steep, so he planned to rank up to Level 5 first, then find ways to help.

If possible, he wanted to prevent the Astraea Familia's downfall.

After chatting with Ryuu, Orsted bid her farewell and returned to Hearth Manor.

Ryuu lingered on the city wall, watching his retreating figure.

'It's confirmed—Orsted is the benefactor who saved Astraea's Familia.'

'With their expedition looming, no one knows when Hestia's Familia will launch theirs.'

She murmured, then headed to the Hostess of Fertility.

The next morning, Orsted woke early.

The Hestia Familia had no dungeon plans, awaiting Ais's reply to the commission.

Orsted had an afternoon task.

Ais arrived before nine, bringing companions: Tione, Tiona, Bete, and herself—three Level 5s and one Level 6.

"Looks like you're ready to accept the commission," Orsted said, smiling.

"They have, but I haven't," Bete said arrogantly. "If you want me sparring with your weaklings, show me your strength."

Behind Orsted, Lili and the others bristled at Bete's tone.

Being called weaklings stung, and most Hestia familia members shared the sentiment.

Orsted, unlike them, stayed calm.

He knew Bete's character—harsh but fair, despising only those who stagnated, not those striving to grow.

That likely drew Bete here.

The commission to train Lili's group indirectly showed their drive to improve, which Bete respected.

"Fine, let's head to the training ground," Orsted nodded, agreeing.

"Orsted, fight me later," Tione said, stepping forward.

"Me too!" Tiona grinned, raising her hand.

"Then I will too," Ais added, seeing her companions' enthusiasm.

Orsted: …

Lili and the others: …

"Alright, one by one or all together, your choice," Orsted shrugged.

The more opponents, the stronger his Display of Might.

"You're cocky!" Tiona huffed, slamming her fists together, her face fierce.

"Tch!" Bete's eyes sharpened, but he just snorted.

"Dear, you'll get thrashed like that," Tiona teased kindly.

"You will," Ais agreed.

Orsted smirked. "That depends on your skill."

---

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