A/N: Yo, so as you know this will be a Bell x Haruhime story. I'm going to be trying out some new writing styles in this story, mainly I'm going to write in both 3rd and 1st person POV. I generally just stick to one but I'm gonna switch it up. Also, I am combining some idea's from some other fanfics such as "A Tale Of Riveria" by SluttyRiven and "The Infinity Elf's Return" by Davis IceElf.
Well thats enough of me talking, enjoy.
Not long after Bell had saved Haruhime from the Ishtar Familia she joined Hestia Familia as a mage and supporter. She was content with this way of life as long as it meant that she could be of help to Bell. However, she wanted to be more than a fellow Familia member.
Since she was a part of the Ishtar Familia that meant that she lived as a prostitute and hence doesn't see herself as being worthy to stand next to Bell. In legends prostitutes were bringers of bad omens and death to heroes and that's what Bell was to her, a hero.
But today that way of thinking was going to change for Haruhime.
As she was walking through the central market of Orario on an errand run, she ran into a familiar face.
"Hey Haruhime."
A voice called to the blonde haired renard girl. Haruhime turned towards the voice and saw that it was Aisha.
"Miss Aisha, what brings you here?"
"What? I go shopping just like everyone else. Is that so hard to believe?"
"Ah I apologize. So have you had any luck finding a new Familia?"
"Yes actually. I decided to join up with Hermes Familia. I can tell ya that god sure is a handful. He's more high maintenance than Ishtar. Anyways, I stopped by the other day to check on you but you were busy. So how is Hestia Familia?"
At the mention of her new Familia, Haruhime couldn't help but smile.
"It's a big change from Lady Ishtar's Familia. Everyone there is nice to me even though I don't deserve it after all the trouble I cause them."
"Haruhime, what did I say about talking that way? After everything that happened in your darkest hour all of them came to save you. You should be thankful and you shouldn't put yourself down. Start thinking of yourself every once in a while."
"I guess you are right. After everything Master Bell and the others did for me I should thank them somehow."
"Master Bell? So the two of you have that kind of relationship now?"
Aisha spoke in a teasing manner and had a smirk on her face.
"N-no it's nothing like that, I take it back! Me and him are just friends, nothing more, nothing less."
"But are you really content with just being friends, Haruhime? I mean the kid risked his life and almost got killed multiple times just to save you."
"That doesn't matter. I was a prostitute and because of that I'm tainted and unfit for a hero like him."
"You really haven't noticed yet?"
"Noticed what exactly?"
Haruhime questioned back, obviously confused.
"Haruhime, you're still a virgin, you're still pure. Everytime you tried you ended up passing out and all of the clients felt guilty and didn't do anything and even if they did try, I threw them out before they had the chance. I'm honestly surprised you never noticed."
As Haruhime heard the news she felt a wave of relief wash over her as if she was a new person.
"Miss Aisha, is that really true?"
"Haruhime would I ever lie to you about something like this? I know how important it is to you."
"No, I suppose not. So that means I do have a chance."
"Yes, you do and I think you should sink your fangs into him before anyone else does."
"Why did you have to make it sound so violent like that?"
"Sorry, but what I'm trying to say is that you should get a hold of him before its too late. You'll regret it if you don't. That kid is special and I'm sure that you'll have some formidable competition on your hands. Anyways, Hermes needs me to pick some stuff up. I'll see you later and remember what we talked about Haruhime, I'll be rooting for you."
"Th-thank you, Miss Aisha, for everything you've done for me."
Haruhime walked back to Hearth Manor with a feeling of relief as she carried the groceries in both arms.
The sun shined on the Renards golden blonde hair as she walked through the crowded streets. Her mind was elsewhere as her thoughts drifted like an ocean after the information that Aisha had just given her.
'So I'm not tainted after all. Maybe this means that I actually have a chance with Master Bell. Miss Aisha said that I have competition, but, how can I get his attention?'
Haruhime entered the quiet mansion. Most of the Familia was out today, including Bell. The only ones who occupied the mansion were Haruhime and Welf since he had to fix everyone's armor after the battle as Hearth Manor's forgemaster.
The blonde walked into the fairly large kitchen and set the bags of groceries on the counter top. As she did, Welf walked into the room.
"Yo, I see you're back from your shopping trip. How did it go?"
"Good evening Master Welf. It went well, the weather was pretty nice today and I even ran into Miss Aisha while I was out."
"Oh really? Well I'm glad that she's doing alright after the fall of Ishtar Familia."
"Master Welf, would it be alright if I asked you a question?"
"Sure go ahead."
"What kind of girls is Master Bell into exactly?"
"What kind of girls is Bell into?"
Welf put his hand on his chin and closed his eyes for a moment to think.
"Well I know he has a thing for the [Sword Princess]. So I guess he would have a thing for strong girls who are good at fighting."
"I see."
"So why the interest?"
"Oh no reason in particular. I was just curious is all."
Haruhime tried to laugh it off as nothing bust an innocent question but Welf saw right through her.
"You're in love with him too, aren't you?"
"Is it that obvious?"
She asked as a small blush formed on her cheeks.
"Well if you think about it he risked everything to save you so it's only natural. Personally, if you ask me if you just keep being you that will help your chances instead of being someone you're not, if that makes any sense."
"I get what you're saying but still. If I want to stand by Master Bell's side then I need to get stronger."
Welf then started laughing at the renards response to the question.
"W-what's so funny? Was it something I said?"
Haruhime asked both confused and flustered about the turn of events.
"I'm sorry, it's just you sounded so much like Bell for a second I couldn't help it. That's almost exactly what Bell said about Ais Wallenstein."
"Well, me and Master Bell do have a lot in common."
"Anyways, I need to get back to my forge to finish fixing up some armor. If you ever need to talk, I'm willing to listen. You're part of our Familia now Haruhime and that means your troubles are our troubles."
"Thank you, Master Welf."
"Don't worry about it. To be honest I think you and Bell would make a good couple."
Haruhime turned a deep shade of red as she heard him say that last part. Just the thought of Bell made her heart skip a beat, but the thought of being a couple with him made it want to explode.
After Welf had left the kitchen, Haruhime went back to putting away the groceries and getting everything ready to make dinner. After her conversations with both Aisha and Welf, she felt a strange sense pulling at her heart. Maybe it was because she was finally accepted into a Familia or maybe it was because she finally found the person she wanted to spend the rest of her life with. Either way this was one of the happiest days in her life.
As her mind was in a state of bliss, another person walked into the kitchen. Haruhime glanced over and instantly recognized the snow white hair and the crimson ruby eyes of the boy who saved her. It was Bell.
The air in the room changed as he entered and Haruhimes heart started to beat slightly faster as he spoke.
"Hey Haruhime, how was your day?"
"Oh M-master Bell! It was actually p-pretty good."
Haruhime turned to speak to him but tripped over her own words, she could feel heat rise to her face and her tail start to wag faster. She didn't know why she was suddenly feeling this way, well she did, but it wasn't the first time she was alone with Bell.
"So how are you adjusting to the Familia?"
"I'm adjusting fine. It's a big change from my old Familia but I think I'm going to like it."
"I'm glad. If Haruhime is happy then so am I."
"Thank you, Master Bell, for everything you've done for me. If it wasn't for you I'd be dead right now. I don't know how I'll ever repay you."
"Don't worry about that Haruhime, you don't owe me anything. You being here right now is enough. Now, is it alright if I help you with dinner?"
"Master Bell you don't need to, I'm sure that you're tired after your day. I can handle it on my own."
Haruhime was focused only on Bell and didn't pay attention to her surroundings. In her unfocused state her tail knocked some groceries onto the floor. She felt overwhelming embarrassment and quickly knelt down to pick up the mess.
"Here, let me pick those up."
Bell interrupted.
"Th-thank you. I guess I could use your help, if you don't mind.
"Don't worry about it. I'm always happy to help especially if it's Haruhime."
It wasn't long until Haruhime and Bell had prepared a feast for dinner that night. The whole Familia gathered and officially welcomed Haruhime. For the first time in what seemed like centuries she finally felt that she belonged.
Even in the Ishtar Familia she felt alone and isolated like an outcast but that feeling was finally gone.
The night went on with drinks and laughter. Soon everyone retreated to their rooms as their small celebration started to wind down.
Soon Haruhime and her childhood friend, Mikoto, who also aided in her rescue, were laying in their shared room.
"Haruhime, is everything alright? You've been quieter than usual tonight."
"Oh don't worry about me. I was just at a loss for words at how nice everyone has been. I'm very thankful to everyone."
"I bet it's a big change for you. I'm glad that we can finally be in the same Familia."
"It is and I'm happy as well. A lot has just been on my mind lately, I apologize if I worried you."
"Not at all. If you ever need to talk I'm here for you. No matter what it is, I swear I'll give you my best advice."
"Thank you Mikoto. If you'll excuse me I'm going to try and get some sleep, I've had a long day."
"I understand. Good night Haruhime."
"Good Night Mikoto."
The next morning came around as the sound of birds singing rang through the air and the sunlight of a new day flooded the room. Haruhime awoke with the sunlight blazing in her eyes.
"I have to remember to close those curtains before I go to bed."
She quietly got up since Mikoto was still sleeping and prepared for her day. She slowly walked down the quiet hallway to start her morning chores.
Once she arrived near the dining area, Haruhime glanced outside and saw Bell, her hero, training in the yard. She watched for a few moments as Bell striked the air with his knife with its black blade that glistened in the morning sun. Deep down she wanted to be like him, she wanted to stand next to him. Watching the scene in the backyard just strengthened Haruhime's determination and resolve.
The blonde vixen had an idea. She quickly finished her morning chores and then without speaking to anyone headed out onto the streets of Orario.
Despite it being still fairly early in the morning, the street was packed full of adventures belonging to all different Familia's.
Then someone caught her eye. She stood out from the rest of the adventurer's heading to the dungeon. She had unmistakable blonde hair and golden eyes, it was Ais Wallenstein.
Haruhime was captivated by her. She heard stories but this was the first time Haruhime ever saw her in person. She was beautiful and Haruhime understood why Bell fell for her. Even though the two never spoke to each other Haruhime finally knew what Aisha meant by 'formidable competition.'
She shook her head to get back on track and focused her attention on how she could get Bell's attention. After seeing Ais Wallenstein, Haruhime strengthened her resolve to become the woman to stand at Bell's side. Finally, she arrived at her destination, the Orario Guild Hall. She entered the large building and was once again greeted by a mosh of all kinds of adventurer's. She squeezed through the crowd and made her way to the front counter where the dungeon advisors worked.
Almost as soon as she approached the counter, Haruhime was greeted by a familiar half-elf.
"Ah Miss Haruhime was it? Its good to see you again."
Eina spoke in her sort of casual yet professional way.
"Miss Eina it's a pleasure to see you again as well."
"So what can I help you with today?"
"I was actually wondering if we could talk? I need some advice if you don't mind."
"Sure, it is my job after all. Just have a seat over there and I'll be with you in a second."
Eina pointed to some couches that were situated on the left most side of the guild. Haruhime walked over and took a seat on one of the couches. After a few moments, Eina sat down on one opposite of the vixen.
"So what was it you wanted to talk about?"
"I actually had a question about miss Ais Wallenstein."
"Ais Wallenstein? Don't tell me Bell sent you in here to get more information on her! I already told him everything that I could."
"No, no, Bell didn't send me. I'm here of my own volition. I'm curious about her."
"You are now? Alright, so what do you want to know?"
"Anything."
The golden vixen simply replied with a single word and a look of determination.
"Okay, let me think. Ais Wallenstein, level 6 adventurer and a top ranking member of the Loki Familia. She is one of Orario's strongest swordsmen and also one of the fastest. She has leveled up at a range of about once a year to a year and a half and spends most of her free time in the dungeon. Other than that I can't tell you anymore."
"I see. Thank you, Miss Eina."
"You know Haruhime I have to ask. Why the sudden interest in Ais Wallenstein?"
"Because there is someone that I want to pay back. If I can be as strong as her one day then maybe he will look at me with the same eyes that he looks at her."
"You're talking about Bell, aren't you?"
"Yes, I am. "
"Well its not like I don't understand where you're coming from. Bell is a very kind and brave young man. It's not surprising that you've fallen for him as well. But if you really want to get his attention, men react to actions more than they react to words. If you really want Bell to notice you then maybe you should start weapons training."
"Alright, I'll consider it. Thank you, Miss Eina. I appreciate you taking the time to talk to me."
"Oh please, don't worry about it. Just be careful and don't do something stupid like Bell has done."
"Don't worry I won't. Farewell, miss Eina."
"Goodbye Haruhime."
Haruhime made her way back to Hearth Manor with the information that Eina told her swimming in her head. She had considered weapons training before but was afraid that she wouldn't be all that good with it. However, if it means that she can be one step closer to Bell she would be willing to at least try.
Below the Guild Hall, in the Room of Prayers, some unexpected developments were taking place. The god, Hermes, has just returned with some alarming information.
Sitting atop a large structure that resembled a throne that a ruler would occupy was the god Ouranos. Standing below the structure looking up at him was the god Hermes, who had just returned from his latest venture outside Orario.
"Hermes, it seems you've finally returned. To be honest that was faster than I expected."
"Well after I found out I needed to return as soon as possible. The future of Orario lies within what we do next."
"Alright, enlighten me on the situation."
"I traveled to Melen to check out those strange storms and shipwrecks that have been happening. Turns out that they're happening under the same conditions as seven years ago. I then traveled east and encountered a mountain that wasn't marked on any map. According to surrounding villages it's as if it just appeared overnight."
"So essentially it's safe to say that the two legendary monsters that were defeated by the Zeus and Hera Familia's are back somehow?"
"It seems that way. We should take care of them as soon as possible. I already have the teams selected, just say the word and I'll send them out."
"You have my permission. If these beasts roamed about freely it could cause the deaths of hundreds."
"Not to mention we still have to figure out a way to deal with that Dragon. Hopefully if we send him out, it could give him some good experience for what's to come."
"I see what you mean. Alright, I trust you with this matter Hermes and I'm sure that Zeus would have as well."
"Yeah and if Hera was here chances are she'd be screaming at the three of us right about now about sending a boy to fight those things."
"Probably, but, now is not the time to bring back old ghosts. Time is running short Hermes."
"Yeah, yeah, I'm going. I'll keep you updated if anything happens."
As Hermes left the dark room a figure cloaked in all black emerged from the shadows and spoke in a sophisticated yet almost demonic sounding voice.
"Ouranos, how trustworthy is Hermes in this matter."
"Don't worry too much about him Fels. Even though Hermes has a tendency to pull strings, he knows how grave this situation is and I doubt he would try anything."
"Then what about the boy, Bell Cranel? He just recently reached level 3 and I doubt that he can kill Leviathan and Behemoth, let alone the One-Eyed Black Dragon."
"Don't worry, it won't just be the Boy. That Renard girl that they recently saved from Ishtar will also play a major role in this battle. She posses a certain kind of magic, however, it can't be used to its full potential yet."
"And you believe the Boy and the Renard have a chance at saving Orario?"
"Only time will tell Fels. Only time will tell if they have what it takes."