Danmachi: Valkyrie Oratoria

Chapter 2: Infant Dragon

Narrator's PoV

Four months had passed since Sigrid joined Astraea Familia in Orario. While growing accustomed to her new home, she still missed her village and those she left behind - her baby brother Bell, and her dear grandfather.

To achieve her dream of becoming a heroine of justice, she knew she must leave home and embark on adventures here.

Each day brought new adventures for the curious almost-9-year-old. She gained strength, knowledge and wisdom well beyond her years through her exploits. And under Goddess Astraea's guidance, Sigrid continued developing both her insight and character.

Of course, being a masked child adventurer with striking white hair gained her much curious attention, especially compared to others twice her age just starting out.

Especially when rescuing floundering newcomers far older than her, accepting nothing but gratitude in return. ''A future heroine must help those in need'' was her usual reply to queries about her aid, accompanied by a smile beneath the mask.

Where they struggled, she flourished - but remained as cheerful and inquisitive as any girl her age. Sigrid took everything in stride, soaking up knowledge and experience like a sponge. While she worked hard in dungeon delving, she also made time to explore the city streets and people of Orario.

Of course, word of such a unique adventurer would eventually reach the ears of a certain goddess residing high atop Babel Tower.

Freya, the Goddess of Beauty, reclined luxuriously upon her throne, gazing out through towering windows at the sprawling city below. She swirled a goblet of wine, a sly smile curving pale lips. Long silver tresses and glittering amethyst eyes framed a visage as fair as new-fallen snow.

''What an intriguing little child Astraea has found,'' she mused aloud. ''I must say, I'm feeling a touch jealous.''

Her violet eyes glinted with intrigue. ''I do so wish to behold the hues of that child's soul... but it seems this mask she wears prevents even my sight.''

Freya's smirk widened in anticipation. "No matter. I have my ways of getting what I want eventually. And such a unique specimen deserves a closer look, don't you think Ottar?''

Behind her throne stood Ottar, Freya Familia's new captain - a tall and heavily muscled dark-skinned Boaz with rust hair and eyes, maintaining stoic attention. ''Yes, Freya-sama.'' he replied simply.

''So please gather much information about Sigrid as possible, Ottar.'' Freya instructed.

The mighty Boaz warrior inclined his head. ''As you wish, milady.'' And with that, he took his leave to carry out his goddess' wishes.

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Sigrid's PoV

I closed the heavy book about monsters that spawn in the dungeon. Hard to believe it's been four whole months since coming to live in bustling Orario! Time really does fly when you're having adventures.

Delving into the dungeon has taught me lots - not just about monsters, but myself too. While I'm not weak physically, I realized I still lack experience, skills, strategies, tactics and staying calm in unexpected situations.

I may be able to copy sword styles I've seen for now, but true mastery comes from developing your own unique techniques. All martial arts start with imitation before a person can forge their own path, right?

That's why I train so hard every day. Not just to get stronger, but to learn from every fight. Analyzing what works and doesn't, then thinking of creative new ways to improve! Someday I'll be my ideal heroine of justice with skills all my own.