With the successful defense, the dungeon entered a golden period.
Mana reserves skyrocketed to 9,200/12,000. The rank up to D opened new features: automatic mana regeneration boost, ability to create mid-tier creatures, and a basic "Dungeon Shop" system where adventurers could spend crystals on items.
Tobi wasted no time.
He expanded to Floor 4 — a lava-themed cavern with heat-resistant golems and flowing magma rivers (safely contained). Uncle Festus got a volcanic upgrade and a younger "nephew" golem named Small Chinedu.
He also created a proper resting area on the surface: wooden tables, shaded pavilions, and a larger kitchen. The "Hustle Realm Café" was born. Word spread like wildfire. Adventurers from three nearby towns started visiting regularly — some to challenge floors, others just to eat and relax.
Business was booming.
Lila became a near-permanent fixture. She helped train new Mana Wolves and spent evenings talking with Tobi about her past and dreams. Their bond deepened — quiet moments where she would lean against him while watching the stars, or when Tobi would tease her until she laughed and punched his arm lightly.
Mira visited every few days with guild supplies, bringing books on magic theory that helped Tobi understand the System better. Her playful flirting was obvious, and she once admitted she found his "otherworldly" humor refreshing.
Elara returned after a week, acting like she was only there for "investment checks." But she stayed longer each time, sparring with Tobi and giving strict but effective lessons. The tsundere energy was strong — she would criticize his form harshly, then secretly smile when he improved.
Nyx watched it all with increasing resignation. "I used to be a quiet Core. Now my dungeon is a dating spot with occasional fighting."
The highlight of the new period came on the tenth day after the raid.
Tobi had prepared something special.
He used dungeon resources to create a private scenic spot on a hidden ledge overlooking the forest — soft glowing moss, comfortable seating made from smooth stone, and a small table with properly prepared fantasy versions of Nigerian snacks (puff-puff, plantain chips, and mildly spicy stew).
He invited Lila for what he called "a strategy meeting."
When she arrived, dressed in a simple but pretty adventurer dress instead of armor, her eyes widened at the setup.
"This… is not a strategy meeting."
Tobi rubbed the back of his neck, suddenly a bit nervous despite all his confidence. "Abi, maybe it's a date. First official one. No fighting, no copying skills. Just two people talking."
Lila blushed deeply but sat down. "You're really something, Tobi. In my world, adventurers don't usually… do this."
They talked for hours. About Earth (Tobi carefully explained "another world" without revealing too much), about her lost family, about his ambition to build something lasting. Laughter came easy. At one point, Lila shyly took his hand.
"I like being around you. You make this dangerous life feel… fun."
The moment was perfect — until Mira accidentally stumbled upon the spot while delivering supplies.
"Oh! I didn't mean to—" Mira froze, seeing their joined hands.
Awkward silence.
Then Elara's voice came from the trees. "Training time, Apostle. Don't get distracted by… whatever this is."
All three girls ended up at the scenic spot. Instead of jealousy exploding, it turned into a surprisingly fun group dinner. Tobi's humor kept things light. Lila was a bit possessive but polite. Mira was playful. Elara acted aloof but ate the most puff-puff.
Nyx commented dryly: "This is your life now. Good luck."
Later that night, after everyone left, Tobi sat with Nyx's orb.
"We're D-rank now. Growing fast. But bigger guilds will come eventually. We need to prepare for C-rank and above."
Nyx was quiet for a moment. "You're actually doing it. Turning me into something legendary. I… thank you, Tobi. Even if you're loud and ridiculous."
Tobi smiled. "We're partners. This is just the beginning."
Major Updates:
Dungeon Rank: D+ (approaching C)
Floors: 4
Allies: Lila (close), Mira (flirting), Elara (investor/tsundere)
New Quest Unlocked: Prepare for Regional Tournament (invitation from major guild alliance in 3 weeks)
Tobi looked out over his growing domain, eyes full of ambition and humor.
"Time to scale bigger. More floors. More food. More power."
"Naija hustle no get limit."