Inner Voice: All Heroines Hear My Inner Voice Chapter 938 938: Wooing the captain of the Ganesha Familia

One possibility was encountering another woman.

And indeed, this proved to be the case.

The women's intuition was accurate, for mere moments later, Eiji found himself strolling along a main thoroughfare in Orario. He mused that the city's layout bore a striking resemblance to a pizza sliced into numerous portions.

This particular area was situated not far from the Seiya Familia's residence, which, coincidentally, was adjacent to a structure known as 'I am Ganesha'—the home of the Ganesha Familia.

As fate would have it, they were neighbors.

His exceptionally striking appearance led many onlookers to mistake him for a deity. However, his attire suggested to others that he might be an adventurer. For context, he was still clad in attire reminiscent of Blade from the game HSR.

This distinctive look drew the curious gaze of a tall, beautiful woman with sky-blue hair who happened to be nearby. Eiji's obvious disorientation, as he surveyed his surroundings as if a first-time visitor, only prompted her to approach him.

"Excuse me, sir. Are you perhaps lost? May I offer assistance?"

Eiji turned his attention to the lovely woman who had approached him, his eyes flashing briefly before he replied with feigned innocence. "Lost? Possibly. I'm actually exploring the vicinity to familiarize myself with the area surrounding my new residence."

"So, you are new to this district... My name is Shakti Varma. As the captain of the Ganesha Familia, it is my responsibility to aid any citizen of Orario in need."

Eiji recognized the woman before him. He had, in fact, planned to engineer an accidental meeting with Mikoto, who was known to be walking with certain members of her familia not far from this very spot.

How did he know Mikoto's whereabouts? He had discreetly dispatched one of his shadow warriors, embedding it within her shadow.

The same tactic had been employed for every beautiful woman from Danmachi whom he had previously met in person.

However, who could have predicted that another captivating woman from the original narrative would proactively approach him? On reflection, he realized he was currently standing quite close to the Ganesha Familia's headquarters.

Gazing past Shakti, he could discern a colossal statue of Ganesha, its entrance discreetly located at the base. This served as the Ganesha Familia's headquarters, boasting the largest membership among the families in Orario, and also the highest number of first-class adventurers (Level 5), totaling eleven, including Shakti herself.

Unlike the Loki Familia, Freya Familia, or even the Hephaestus Familia, the Ganesha Familia uniquely functioned as the city's military police and security force within the DanMachi universe.

Shakti's offer of assistance was therefore quite natural, given her role. She essentially served as a street-patrolling law enforcement officer.

Eiji certainly had no intention of declining this unexpected turn! This presented an opportunity; he needed to revise his plans and add 'Wooing Shakti, one of the SR (Super Rare) beauties overlooked or ignored by most Danmachi fanfic protagonists' to his list of '100 Danmachi Regrets'.

"You may call me Eiji."

"Understood. Eiji, are there any specific locations you wish to visit in this area? I can guide you."

Had it been anyone else, Shakti would not have displayed such enthusiasm. Perhaps it was due to her prolonged single status, coupled with her god's frequent teasing about finding a partner as she approached her thirties, which often led to annoyance and anxiety.

It wasn't a lack of desire for a romantic relationship, marriage, or starting a family, despite her demanding work schedule. It was simply that no man had previously captured her interest until the appearance of the gentleman before her.

He possessed striking good looks and a physique that appealed to her. Shakti consciously tried to avoid staring, maintaining a composed facade, though a flicker of embarrassment surfaced internally.

"Compose yourself, Shakti! You are not some wild amazon captivated merely by a handsome man's appearance!"

"Nevertheless, this man is the most handsome I have ever encountered... Is he a god, or merely human?"

Eiji, perceptive of Shakti's thoughts, sensed the ease of the situation. The corners of his mouth curved upward into a broader smile, revealing his pristine white teeth. "Shakti, you are a genuinely good woman... However, might this be too much of an imposition for you?"

Good? He perceives me as a good woman? This implies he holds a favorable opinion of me, doesn't it?

A thrill coursed through Shakti, and she quickly shook her head in response. "Not at all. As I mentioned, this falls within my duties as a member and captain of the Ganesha Familia. Furthermore, unlike other familia, our primary responsibility is the city's overall security."

She assumed Eiji, being new to Orario, was unaware of her familia's specific functions.

Eiji adopted an expression of newfound understanding and remarked, "I see. Shakti, you are not only beautiful but also a woman of considerable standing."

"Ah, my status isn't quite that elevated..."

Shakti felt a warmth spread through her, flattered by the compliments from the man who had instantly caught her eye, responding with a blend of happiness and humility.

[Truly an important matter you mentioned, host. Wooing another woman?]

Miss System, you need to grasp the bigger picture here.

Shakti leads the Ganesha Family's charge. Forge a strong bond with her, and it's like forging a new alliance for the Seiya Familia.

[A convenient excuse for all your words and actions.]

Shrugging off the System's sarcastic jab – she seemed a tad envious, Eiji mused, stroking his chin thoughtfully.

He was acutely aware that Shakti's interest in him was just that: interest, not yet love. To truly win her over, he needed to prove he possessed more than just good looks.

Still, wouldn't it be ideal if he could achieve multiple objectives with a single action? An idea sparked.

"I've made my decision. Shakti, do you know of any place that can grant rapid fame, aside from the dungeon?"

Shakti hadn't anticipated Eiji's desire for such a venue. Yet, in her view, it was perfectly natural for anyone in Orario to crave renown.

This reinforced her perception of him as an adventurer, which only pleased her more.

"I do, and that place is one of my familia's new ventures. I can assist you with an application if you're confident in your strength."

Shakti stated this with a serious demeanor before elaborating on the Colosseum. Initially, the Ganesha Family utilized the arena, with its ample spectator seating, solely for their yearly Monsterphilia, or Monster Feria, festival. During this event, they showcased their monster-taming prowess, acquired from the Dungeon, to the public.

However, following the incidents that plagued this year's Monster Feria, the festival was deemed excessively perilous and subsequently halted. Eiji was aware of the specifics; wasn't that one of the plot threads from Danmachi season one?

The issue arose when the protagonist, Bell, captured Freya's attention. Freya seized the Monster Feria as an opportunity to test him, employing her enchantments to unleash a monster from the Colosseum, directing it towards Hestia. Sensing his goddess in peril, Bell, naturally, could not stand idly by and defeated the beast with great difficulty, utilizing the new sword Hestia had procured from Hephaestus.

Freya was content with the outcome, but the Ganesha Family bore the brunt of the blame, offering apologies to all of Orario.

Shakti then explained that, in its stead, the Ganesha Familia had launched a new enterprise: adventurer-versus-adventurer battles for prize money, held regularly at the Colosseum.

In essence, it was akin to gladiator contests, with several Level 5 adventurers from the Ganesha Familia serving as overseers to mitigate potential casualties. Ganesha himself presided over these bouts whenever they occurred, once every two weeks.

(A/N: This detail is not present in the original work; it is a fanfic, and I have made my own arrangements to serve the plot. I have also deliberately structured Eiji's understanding to believe such an event existed in the original narrative.)

"Incidentally, that event is currently underway. Are you interested, Eiji?" Shakti inquired.

"A place like that exists? I'm certainly interested. Please help me sign up, Shakti."

Eiji, of course, had already been aware of such a venue's existence in the original narrative; this was precisely the concept he had been referring to.

"Very well, come along. That place is located a bit of a distance from the Ganesha Familia headquarters."

"I appreciate the trouble."

Under the watchful eyes of the populace, including several Ganesha Familia members, Shakti walked alongside a man, and seemed to offer a slight smile each time she conversed with him!??

Before long, mirroring the whispers surrounding the Hermes Familia's captain, rumors began to circulate about the Ganesha Familia's captain entering into a relationship.

However, the onlookers would have been even more astounded had they discovered that the man featured in each of these rumors was, in fact, the very same individual.

Eiji, though he could discern the hushed conversations from a distance, reveled in the public's mistaken assumptions.

En route to the Colosseum, he frequently posed questions about the structures they passed, as if Asfi hadn't already provided him with exhaustive explanations.

Shakti consistently provided answers, her initially formal tone gradually softening.

In a remarkably short span, their connection deepened considerably! Truly, the prowess of the God of Conquest was undeniable!

Leme chuckled, continuing to observe the scene while munching on popcorn.

[If Asfi witnessed Shakti and me together now, would she feel jealous?]

Eiji's internal monologue registered, causing Shakti to realize that the man beside her was the very one whose voice she had been hearing with increasing frequency.

She was, naturally, taken aback, yet she remained unaware of his true identity. After all, Eiji had only ever spoken these words directly from his own lips up to this point.

Meanwhile, within the confines of the Hermes Familia's abode.

In an office that apparently served as Hermes's primary workspace, Asfi sat before a formidable stack of documents.

She had overheard Eiji's spoken thought and found herself somewhat unsettled by his words.

"I'm not jealous... why on earth would I be?"

Asfi's lips quirked, and despite her verbal assertion, a distinct irritation flickered in her eyes.

Ever since departing from the Seiya Familia residence the previous day, her thoughts had been preoccupied with Eiji's visage, a fact she would, of course, never admit to anyone.

It was simply impossible for her to be missing him!

Asfi adjusted her spectacles and glanced back at the documents on her desk. "Still Shakti? The captain of the Ganesha Family? What is Eiji doing with her? Tsk!"

She clicked her tongue in annoyance. If only her god were more diligent and didn't always offload his work onto her, she might actually have the opportunity to stroll through the Ganesha Familia headquarters and 'accidentally' bump into Eiji.

Contrary to outward appearances, a woman's jealousy could be a truly terrifying force.

A member of the Hermes Familia entered the office, intending to inform Asfi about a routine matter. However, upon witnessing the oppressive aura and the chilling gaze emanating from her captain, she became visibly frightened.

Who could have possibly provoked her!?

Was it their god, Hermes-sama?

"What's wrong, Lulune?" Asfi inquired, turning her attention towards the newcomer.

Lulune, a Chienthrope and one of the level 3 adventurers within the Hermes Familia, stood before her.

"Uh... actually, on second thought, I don't wish to burden you excessively, Captain. It's merely a minor issue concerning some of us desiring new equipment, though I believe our current gear is perfectly adequate! I shall take my leave now!"

Lulune stammered, scratching her head, before quickly turning and practically fleeing the room.

"...?" Asfi was perplexed but dismissed it, shaking her head and returning to her work.

...

Meanwhile, within the Colosseum.

This grand arena, reminiscent of gladiatorial combat grounds, was filled with an enormous crowd seated in tiered, circular stands.

Upon a towering podium, a burly god concealed by an elephant mask stood holding a microphone. He was, of course, Ganesha.

"BEHOLD! Two valiant souls clash amidst the sands of the arena! Their weapons, a sword against an axe, their spirits, determination against raw strength! Will this young adventurer falter under the weight of the fierce assault? NO! FOR I AM GANESHA! And under my watchful eye, only the truly courageous shall emerge victorious!"

His voice, amplified by the arena's magical loudspeaker system, boomed out as he struck a dramatic pose. The spectators roared in approval, chanting, "Ganesha! Ganesha!"

Across the arena, not far from Ganesha's booming commentary, Eiji blinked. "This place is really something," he mused, impressed by the sheer scale.

Shakti, her movements silent, approached her deity from behind the curtained area near the podium, her hands clasped behind her back. "Ganesha-sama, there is something I wish to discuss with you."

Ganesha turned, a wide grin spreading across his face. "Shakti! My disciplined captain! Isn't this magnificent? The surging adrenaline, the vibrant spirit of youth! What is it? Have you uncovered some spectator betting fraud?"

One couldn't help but wonder how the Ganesha Familia profited from such events, especially when they were often obligated to pay out prize money to champions.

Beyond the registration fees, the sale of food and beverages, and the ticket sales for viewing, there was also the spectator betting system. Their Familia monitored these wagers for security, taking a modest 5% commission. It was, in fact, a far more lucrative venture than the Monster Feria.

"There are no security concerns. I am here regarding a scheduling matter. I request that you add one more participant to this afternoon's main duel lineup. His name is Eiji."

Shakti's request stemmed from the fact that registering a new participant through the official channels was no longer feasible. The event had commenced that very morning, and participant registration had officially closed. However, she had found an alternative way to assist Eiji.

Ganesha consulted the participant list he held. "Eiji? That name sounds... familiar..."

He had momentarily forgotten about the god whose name had been the talk of the divine realm since the previous day.

He also failed to connect this Eiji with the one Shakti mentioned, as his current focus was the ongoing match.

"However, I do not see this name on the official enrollment roster. Who is he, and which Familia does he belong to? Does he boast an impressive victory record?"

Shakti faltered, then hesitantly replied, "He... is an adventurer I recently encountered. I am unsure of his Familia affiliation. However, I hold a rather favorable impression of him. A very favorable one, indeed."

She realized, with a slight pang of regret, that in her absorption discussing various topics with Eiji on their walk, she had neglected to confirm if he was indeed a registered adventurer.

All she had gleaned from him was his supreme confidence in his own strength.

Ganesha tilted his masked head. "A favorable impression? Shakti Varma offering a personal endorsement based solely on an 'impression'? This is highly unusual! Is he on par with a Level 4 adventurer? Or perhaps he possesses some hidden talent?"

He's just incredibly handsome, so I made an exception for him...

Naturally, Shakti could not voice this sentiment aloud due to its sheer embarrassment. "He... possesses a promising appearance—I mean, technically! His movements are composed. I believe he deserves this stage to prove himself, and I wished to assist with his application. That is all."

Ganesha drew his elephant-masked face closer to Shakti, attempting to discern her true expression.

Shakti, meanwhile, endeavored to maintain an impassive facade.

"Hmm... suspicious. But very well! If Captain Ganesha Familia herself puts in a good word, then Ganesha sees no reason to refuse! Eiji, you say? I'll ensure he faces a worthy opponent so he can truly shine!"

Shakti's fists tightened with a hint of unease. "Thank you, Ganesha-sama. However, please ensure his opponent isn't overwhelmingly strong, lest he sustain severe injuries, particularly to his face."

Ganesha paused her laughter for a moment, tilting her head. "Huh? What was that you just said?"

Shakti, flustered, quickly turned to depart. "It was nothing! Please proceed with the schedule arrangements immediately. I will personally escort him to the adventurer's lounge."

Completely aware of the nuances of their conversation thanks to his acute hearing, Eiji let out a soft chuckle.

He found it rather surprising that Shakti would go to such lengths to facilitate this for him.

And all because of... Yare-yare.

[Host, please try to moderate that narcissistic expression currently gracing your face.]

"Ahem! Understood."

Before long, Shakti reappeared, relaying the details of the arrangements made with Ganesha.

Eiji expressed his gratitude and readily agreed to her cautionary advice, assuring her he would be careful.

"Eiji, where is your weapon?"

"Weapon? There's no need for one, at least not right now... I am currently a mage."

He had decided to adopt a mage's fighting style for this encounter. It presented an excellent opportunity to test one of his newly acquired abilities against a live opponent.

Shakti almost advised him that even mages typically wield staves, but seeing the unwavering confidence in Eiji's eyes, she refrained from elaborating further.

A short while later.

At the heart of the arena, a radiant beam of magical light focused upon Eiji as he emerged silently from the corridor.

Ganesha's voice resonated powerfully throughout the arena and even the surrounding districts. "LADIES AND GENTLEMEN! LET US HEAR IT FOR AN ADVENTURER WHO EARNED A PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION FROM MY OWN CAPTAIN! POSSESSING A FACE THAT CAN SOOTHE THE WILDEST STORMS... PRESENTING EIJI!"

A face capable of calming storms?

"That's quite an exaggerated introduction," Eiji remarked without a trace of embarrassment.

The spectators, witnessing Eiji for the very first time, were initially taken aback before erupting into excited clamor. The female attendees, in particular, were mesmerized, many visibly blushing and appearing ready to swoon.

While such a reaction is understandable, allow for a brief explanation... The striking combination of his features, his white hair, golden eyes, and even his blade-inspired attire amplified his already considerable charm to a level that caused even Shakti to momentarily deviate from her usual composure.

"Who is he?! He's incredibly handsome!"

"Does he have a girlfriend?"

"I think I'm already in love!"

Among the female onlookers, a certain goddess, who happened to be attending Ganesha's spectacle that day, watched with surprise.

Her name was Demeter, a woman of striking maturity and beauty, adorned with long, wavy hair the color of golden honey and captivating orange eyes. Similar to Hestia, she possessed a slender figure complemented by a generous bust, exuding an allure highly attractive to men.

Upon observing Eiji's appearance, she narrowed her eyes playfully, resting one hand against her cheek.

"Ara. Such a strikingly handsome man, even more so than the gods I am acquainted with... It would be a true shame if he were to suffer serious injury in this battle."

"I sincerely hope he possesses sufficient strength to match his looks."

Demeter decided to join the betting pool alongside the other spectators, wagering all the money she had brought on Eiji as a gesture of her support.

Unbeknownst to Eiji, his thumbs twitched repeatedly, and a slight itch tickled his nose. Apart from Shakti, he was aware that other beautiful women were present in the venue.

They seemed to be observing him as well, an awareness that filled him with a sense of excitement.

'Perhaps I should go a little overboard.'