Everything had happened so abruptly that even the gods summoned to the Denatus were unaware. Loki Familia—who had long since arranged their assembly—and Dionysus, who had forced his way into participating in this raid, were no exception.
Thus, none of the people shown in the projection noticed that a live broadcast had begun.
Except for one person.
'So it's started.'
With his sharp senses and awareness of power, Bell turned his head and immediately spotted the massive screen in the sky, clearly concealed on purpose.
'As expected, they processed the display. Was it to prevent anyone in the raid group from noticing? Or… to deliberately keep Dionysus, who's inserting himself into this operation, from seeing it?'
Since Loki had already revealed that Dionysus was "Enyo," the intent was unmistakable.
Preventing Dionysus—who had not yet formally entered the Dungeon—from noticing anything was a sign of very thorough preparation.
As for whether Loki Familia's members should be informed?
Perhaps it was better if they remained unaware. Otherwise, the slightest misstep could expose Dionysus's identity.
And if it leaked too early, certain things would no longer be salvageable.
...
Finn, the true core leader of Loki Familia, was currently making the final checks.
This operation might not reach the deep floors, but the challenges ahead were no less severe. Essential potions, Rune Stones, and weapons all needed to be properly prepared.
"Aisha, stick closely to Haruhime for this run."
Finn spoke firmly, reminding Aisha that Haruhime was essentially a protected treasure within Loki Familia.
"Relax. I'm always around this girl. Wherever she goes, I'll be watching."
"Good. The key this time is giving Haruhime more chances to participate."
"You mean… finding opportunities?"
Aisha glanced toward Dionysus and Filvis, who were also making preparations.
But Finn shook his head lightly, lowering his voice deliberately.
"No. There's no need to find opportunities."
"!?"
Aisha, perceptive as ever, froze for a moment. A flash of understanding passed through her eyes before she nodded slightly.
"I understand."
No more explanation was needed. There were now two additional individuals who required careful attention during the raid.
Finn lifted his head again, his expression subtly altered, and walked toward Riveria and Gareth.
"You've briefed everyone?"
"Yes."
Both of them had already conveyed what needed to be said.
Some things couldn't be openly explained beforehand. And some truths, if spoken outright, would be difficult for others to accept. All they could do was offer indirect reminders.
"Then let's depart."
After saying this, Finn turned toward Dionysus and his captain, Filvis, who were still finishing their preparations.
"Dionysus, it's time."
"Thank you, Braver."
Dionysus had also readied himself.
"Dionysus-sama, we'll be heading straight to the 35th floor. We may have fewer rest stops along the way."
"I understand."
Of course he did. The objective of this expedition was to reach the hidden floor, so speed took priority.
"My child will carry me forward, though we won't be of much help once the fighting begins."
"Not at all. Your participation lets us relax a little. If we really end up facing Evilus gods… we might not have many options."
Dionysus fully grasped the meaning behind those words.
"Indeed. The sin of godslaying is far too heavy for children of the Genkai."
"This is all I can still contribute."
Finn's expression tightened; he couldn't bring himself to add anything else.
"Then begin the operation."
"The vanguard will be Ais, Bete, Tione, and Tiona. Riveria and Lefiya will handle rear clearing. Gareth and I will provide protection."
"White Witch, stay behind Lefiya."
"Understood."
Filvis nodded lightly, turned her back toward Dionysus-sama, and lowered herself slightly.
Dionysus leaned against Filvis's back with practiced ease.
Once everything on their side was settled, Finn immediately returned to the forefront.
"Vanguard, step out."
The four designated members moved to the front line.
"Listen carefully. Our objective is the Evilus hidden within the Dungeon's stealth floor."
"They're prepared for our arrival, but we're going to give them a far greater surprise."
"To reach our goal, we need to get to the hidden entrance within the 35th floor's White Palace as fast as possible."
The purpose had been made perfectly clear.
Every Loki Familia member participating in this assault now burned with fighting spirit—they were long ready to strike.
"Since everyone's ready… begin the assault!"
With Finn's command, the four in front shot into the dungeon entrance like arrows released from a taut bowstring.
As the vanguard, their task was to clear the way for those behind them.
Riveria and Lefiya, capable of large-scale Magic, followed soon after.
Filvis, carrying Dionysus-sama, moved behind Lefiya.
Then came the remaining members of Loki Familia eligible to participate—a large force of Lv.5s and Lv.4s. Only a minimal guard was left at home; the rest had joined this mission. It was no exaggeration to say Loki Familia had mobilized nearly everything they had.
The gods watching the projected scene heard Finn's intentionally lowered voice clearly, as well as the Amazoness's meaningful glance.
All of it was aimed squarely at Dionysus.
"Sss—!"
A collective breath was sucked in among the gods.
They immediately sensed something was wrong.
Children of the Genkai wouldn't target a god like this unless they'd been instructed beforehand.
So… this was Loki's will?
"Loki, the Braver's attitude—was that on your orders?"
Demeter's narrowed eyes slowly opened. She and Dionysus were drinking companions, after all. Loki's behavior was exceedingly strange.
"So Dionysus is the Evilus hidden among us?"
Loki didn't answer. She only jerked her chin slightly.
"If you want to know, keep watching. Saying it early ruins the fun."
...
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