Is it wrong to try to build a criminal Empire?

chapter 8

The faint glow of the updating ritual lit Hestia's surroundings as she let a drop of her blood fall onto the bare back of her only child.

Her expression shifted to a slight frown of worry; her child was growing exceptionally fast for an adventurer who had only received their falna two weeks ago. Hephaestus had mentioned it herself when Hestia sought advice on how to treat her Familia members.

Gently pressing an empty sheet to Bell's exposed back, Hestia printed his updated status.

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Bell Cranel, Level 1 Adventurer
Strength: 96 → 112 H
Endurance: 54 → 66 I
Dexterity: 65 → 79 I
Agility: 92 → 110 H
Magic: 65 → 70 I

Skills:
All For One, Fireball, Feral Clarity

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Troublesome. Her Bell-kun had an extraordinary growth rate that would surely draw unwanted attention to her small Familia, not to mention his rather dangerous skill.

That encounter with the Minotaurs had initially made her worry deeply for his safety. But after Bell's dismissal of the event, And his insist on an update, she was shocked by the leap in his stats, which immediately led her to Hephaestus again, hoping to understand if this was normal.

"Here you go, Bell-kun! Congratulations! You've finally reached over 100 in two of your stats!" She smiled brightly despite her concerns. Her child was working so hard to support them both, and she wouldn't let her worry change how she treated him.

Although, she was a bit concerned about where he'd been getting all that money without venturing into the dungeon these past few days. Perhaps he'd taken up a part-time job until he could afford new equipment? Maybe she should ask Hephaestus for a weapon for him!

No, that's stupid.

Her Bell-kun took the sheet and studied it, his expression turning serious and calculating.

He was just so cute when he does it like that!

"Thanks, I'll be late tonight, don't wait up for me." Oh, he must be in a good mood! But Curses! She had thought about maybe going out to eat with him tonight!

Then again, she also had an invitation to attend herself. Perhaps she could ask him to come with her? Would that be inappropriate? How fun it would be to show off her adorable child to her colleagues!

"No! Bell-kun, I have to attend a party hosted by another god! I want you to attend too!" She cut his plans short, though she immediately regretted it when she saw his slight frown.

Stupid, Hestia! Of course, he wouldn't want to be around so many gods so soon!

"O-on second thought, do whatever you like!" she stammered, quickly retracting her suggestion. No need to do anything silly.

He nodded, then headed for the door.

Sighing, Hestia murmured, "Oh, Bell-kun…" His strange mood shifts were... well, strange, but she adored him just the way he was.

"I should head to the banquet too. Maybe I'll see Hep-chan and ask her for more advice." Managing a Familia was a hard work.

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All For One exited the rundown church, contemplating the need for a better base for the Familia.

His funds were beginning to stack up slowly, as his steadily growing account under his New Persona "Mr. Shigaraki" suggested. Lady Lia had likely set up the casino he requested; a visit might be in order to ensure the operation was running smoothly. Proper management was vital in every venture.