Hey everyone, today I bring you yet a new story. This is the other story I mentioned that I would make. Unfortunately I missed my usual 10k word quota by around 800 words, but it was close enough.
I have a bunch of ideas for this story and will probably work on this story for a bit, while I plan and develop the other ones. Now writing this one was particularly difficult due to how Bell speaks. This was on me and I really went for a suicide mission this time but I thought that it would fit him since he is from a long lost time. You'll see that Bell's speech is what I probably poured the most time into and really worked hard on it.
As for the prince story one, I read the comments and have to say that I didn't expect that much enthusiasm about it. I will announce here that the story will be a harem as requested as everyone just seems to love a harem, but I mean, who wouldn't. The stats will start at 0 cause I wouldn't see how they could really start at anything over that. Goes without saying that Alise will obviously be there as will Riveria, the others I need to think about it. I'll include Ais since there are many who simp her so why not.
In this story Bell will be OP but obviously not from the start, just for those wondering. He will gradually start speaking more normally as the story goes on and he tries to adapt. Sorry if you don't understand some of the meanings when he speaks, particularly at the start, I may have went overboard with it. For Bell's way of speech, there are references from all over the place, but some of the most notable might be from Fischl from Genshin Impact.
The first story will probably continue after I get the second chapter for both this and the prince fanfiction out. Like usual I'm probably forgetting something that I should mention but whateves.
Also DISCLAIMER I don't own any of the characters they go to their respective creators.
I never said this but thought that I might as well once.
Well enjoy the chapter of this new story.
The Last Dragonoid
Chapter 1 – Ganesha Familia
-7 Years Prior-
"Have you thought about my offer? I'll bestow you my falna."
"Thou refer to the ancient dragonoid before thee so complacently, at the very least display a minimum of respect with enlightened words to atone for when making such a request. However, as I have spoken to thee previously such arrangements don't do me justice, one shalt not participate in this plan of thine. One do not need to petition reverence to a God for I need no blessing."
The person across him sighed as his offer was rejected. A handsome man with black hair with strands of grey sat on one side, on the other was a man with a muscular yet slim build, sporting the perfect size of muscles, he was tall and had long hair as golden as the pillar of light of a God returning to Tenkai. A mask covered his face as he talked to the person across him.
"Erebus, it's not that one does not catch the drift as to what thou art trying to do. I can see it clear as the blue sky in the light of day, thou have well intended intentions. It is simply a matter of fact, that thine method won't work, forsooth thou know that one has observed the people of Gekai for far longer than thou did. Many are the sins I committed though I regret none, the cruelty of this world has deigned itself to smile as kindly at me for once as I have lived more than a thousand winters but one passed the test of time for I have not forsaken what will I have to protect the people. I am a hero, or so the people hail me and one wishes to keep it that way. That was but a sacred promise that I made to a brother of mine before he fell to an accursed beast. Hast we had met before the promised time was forged, the threads of fate might had been laid bound by the fetters of future differently. Alas that is not the case."
While hearing that from a mortal one may assume he sounded weird and made no sense, but the dark God knew that he was speaking the truth, for that very reason he had contacted him. However, Erebus also noted the unusual seriousness in his words. Normally he was carefree and bubbly.
To hear him speak so resolutely made Erebus understand that the man across him was speaking sincerely. Well, not that what they were discussing was a laughing matter as it concerned the lives of thousands.
"Sending me in would be pointless, none there could come close to complement mine strength. Angst is what this world was doomed to feel for centuries, nay, for countless millennia. When the world brought on violence I responded in kind, with brutal strength and violence, the same way it goes for kindness. One was taught to slay those who wrong me and revere those who respect me, it sounds cruel and unjust but a hero is not all flowers and I am a hero foremost anything else. If thou really go through with this, know that the day it happens I wilt not participate but I wilt save Alfia and Zald."
"Why would you sentence them to a life of torture like that."
"Them been desperate Erebus, they live in their own world and fantasy. I recognize that their health is declining and time isn't being favourable to them, but the loss of the two strongest members for the sake of raising a couple of heroes that won't come to parallel them even in the future will make this all a waste of time.
They are blinded by their forlorn. Reality is a cruel shackle that torments those it has trapped. To be freed, one dost need not escape reality but accept it. Only by accepting it does one's manacle fall apart. It is a gruelling process that many fail to pass, one that only true heroes pass.
One has roamed the earth far and wide. I watched the many wars that scarred the land, the demise of corrupt and peaceful nations alike toppled over by the everlasting hatred that spread like a plague, dreams and ambitions were coveted and the flickering flame that were the people, the essence of this world were snuffed out. Over time, the process repeated itself. In the span of a night, the souls of thousands were lost. Mortals never passed the trial of time as they keep committing the same dreadful offence that made them fall from grace."
The masked man looked out of the window to his side.
"I have heard of Ottar, but I hold no hope for him. If he were to level up to seven and reach the pinnacle of one's level, he still wouldst not be able to compare to a shard of Zald's power at his peak. Trust myself thou should, for I know. They are the only two people I've seen since the Age of the Gods that can compare to the heroes of old. That they live is also a wish of Zeus and Hera and I second that."
Erebus slumped down.
"At least give them a chance to try and make a hero rise."
The person sat across him made a small nod.
"That I shall, mine assertion is not definite, the future is full of uncertainties. At times it may seem bleak, at others one might see the light of hope at the end of the road, but once they are doomed to fall one shalt intervene to disrupt the natural order of time, then they will see how wasted their efforts were at the end of it all. How unconceivable thine goal is. Only the innocent's death will be the endgame, a few wilt grow stronger, but by a slender margin will only be. They will earn nothing but the wrath of the people. They will feel the claws of time and their excruciating pain sink into them, then and only then will the true test start. If they pass the trial, they will become true heroes. First though, they must live through this ordeal."
He got up to leave, waving at the God and for the next month he waited in a small town close to Orario. As the time came, he looked up and from the tree branch upon which he sat, he heard explosions and screams, towers of smoke and the smell of death permeated the surrounding. It was time for him to move and so he did.
.
-Present Time-
Sat on a hill overlooking the city of Orario, a rather handsome boy who looked no older than fourteen, breathed in and out, blissfully taking in the smell of nature. A gentle smile adorned his face as he looked with his golden eyes at the walls, pulling his head up to ruffle his mop of bright golden hair. It was but a great day. The day of his return to Orario, or Oratoria as it was originally called when the city was first created.
'Haah, long it has been since I endowed my eyes with such glory, even longer since I last saw this city. I barely recognize it, though to witness that humanity's greatest bastion still stands certes brings relief to me. Well, I have been here a few years agone but too chaotic to pay attention to the city it was. How it has changed … calm, peaceful … that's just the surface though. Crime is still rampant, like in any period of time.'
His gaze turned to the tall tower rising from the centre of the city. Following the rising column from the base to its spire.
'How could one such as myself not have noticed it last time? It is a good thing I haven't felled the wonder last time I had been here. It would have been a blunder that I would have regretted.'
He sighed.
'Babel. They truly built it. Thou would rejoice if thee knew that thine project came to reality, old friend.'
The smile that was already present bloomed and grew more radiant than before. He moved his attention to the people below him, where he watched the cue that had formed at the gate. His smile turned to a pout upon realizing that he'd have to stand and wait in that very cue.
'Mou, a long line indeed, the merchant kidding he wasn't. Well, I should probably go before it prolongs. People won't avaunt, only surface to take a place. I must hurry, if the line grows to be longer than the edge of the horizon that is painted red by the rays of the sun, I will truly lose heart.'
He jumped up to his feet before sliding down the side of the hill, straight onto the main road leading to the large gate of the city. Having lost great part of his strength, if not all of it, in the previous years, he hoped that he wouldn't run into any problems during his time in the cue. Course, that wasn't going to happen to the poor teen as he got in line.
An hour passed as he patiently stood in line under the shining rays of the blazing sun. The cue had moved fairly rapidly as he could finally see the office where the registration took place at, marking a soon to come end to the wait.
Then chaos ensued as a group of men cloaked in black clothes appeared from nowhere, running up to the guards at the gate and the people filing into the city. They started attacking, stabbing, slashing and hacking left and right.
'As I thought, the beautiful appearance of the city was just a veil masking the crude reality of its state. Purging evil is outright impossible, since wherever there is light there shall always be darkness.'
Seeing it happen alerted the golden haired boy as he looked around to see that there were around fifteen people. Ten attacking the gate, five the civilians. Analysing their moves and skills he noticed that these were all either level one or unblessed people and their skills were rather lacking. Their swings were wide and had no technique to them whatsoever.
He was distracted in his thoughts but the golden haired boy didn't waste time on hesitating, knocking one of them out with a punch to his face as he charged a child that was waiting in the same line right behind him. Seeing one of theirs fall, the others didn't waste time and converged on the golden haired boy.
The first one to arrive had a knife in hand. He thrusted at the golden haired boy as he weaved out of the way, grabbing his wrist before disarming him. The boy then kneed him in the stomach, causing him to collapse on the ground as he convulsed in pain.
The following one came in with a spear, golden eyes locked onto him as he approached and quickly stepped forward. Being within the range of the spear he had no way to use it against the boy and was too late to react to the open palm that impacted his solar plexus. The air was shot out of his lungs as he was thrown backwards, his spear flung up into the sky.
The golden haired boy grabbed the spear as it came down from sky and intercepted the last two incoming targets. The first of the remaining two swung his sword at the teen, who parried it with the shaft, before twisting his body and spear to the left, the attacker sliding forwards with his weapon before promptly receiving the butt of the spear in his neck.
The last one charged in with a knife, soon doomed to share the fate of his companions. Aiming for the knife in hand, the teen swiped with his spear, knocking the weapon out of his hands and finished him by smacking him in the face with the end of the spear. Everyone watched in awe at the boy while he looked down at the assailants.
The screams of panic started again as a loud explosion rocked the earth. He snapped around and watched as the guards at the gate were being overrun. There were only three guards on duty, two who seemed to be at level two, while one was a level four. Unfortunately the level four had taken a bad hit from the kaenseki suicide bomber that alerted the blonde teen and was out of the fight.
The guards were holding out well and had successfully taken out four of the ten attackers, leaving only five as one of them exploded. However, they appeared to be on their last legs and were slowly being pushed back and it didn't seem like the reinforcements be arriving in time.
The three guards, one on his knee, were in a standoff against the assailants, scrutinizing each other to see who would move first. Luckily for the guards the golden haired teen acted as a quick intervention reinforcement, he took the spear and aimed at one of the remaining five cloaked individuals. He then launched the spear, impaling one in the shoulder.
Being attacked from behind caused the cloaked people to turn their attention to their fallen comrade. The moment they let down their guard, the two level twos attacked them, quickly subduing one opponent each.
The level four that was on the ground roared in defiance and forced himself off the ground. He used his immense strength and with one swing of his blade he finished off the remaining two enemies.
The guards made sure to tie up the knocked out or disabled attackers before, spotting the golden haired teen from whom they received help from. One of the guards moved towards him and thanked him for his assistance.
"Thank you very much for your assistance, I really don't know how that would have ended without you."
"It was no issue, one should help when blackguards assay an ambuscade on the innocents."
The guard tilted his head slightly, a sweat drop trickled down his face next to his twitching smile, not having understood what the teen meant.
"This one's name is Bell, Bell Cranel."
"O-oh, I'm Modaka, a member of the Ganesha Familia. It's a pleasure to meet you Bell-san. If you will follow me, I'll register you, so that you can enter the city."
"What of the other kind people that are waiting?"
"As our saviour, it's just a favour we wish to return."
"Then I won't refute the blessing that is your kindness."
As Bell and Modaka reached the gate of the city, the two other guards waved at him. He waved back before their attention was grabbed by the arrival of a girl with blue hair who seemed to be a little shorter than Bell.
"What's going on here? Is everyone alright? Momonga you okay?"
"For the love of Ganesha it's Modaka, captain Shakti, anyways don't worry it's already over. Thanks to Bell-san here there weren't any casualties. Just Hashana, he got singed slightly by a suicide bomber, nothing of major."
The captain of the Ganesha Familia turned to the golden haired saviour and bowed lightly.
"Thank you for your help and saving my fellow members."
"There is no necessity to thank me. It was the right thing to do and it is nigh impossible that one as free spirited as myself, who stands for his own beliefs can stand to watch people get harmed."
"We were just about to register bell-san here."
"I'll accompany you then."
The group of three moved together to the office. Modaka sat down and pulled out a form from a drawer.
"Alright, I'll need to ask you just a few questions. Name? Already know. Do you have a falna?"
"No."
"Purpose here in Orario?"
"That is a valid question to which I don't have an answer."
Shakti and Modaka turned to Bell with questioning looks.
"You don't know? With your fighting skills it'd be a waste."
"Well, I mainly came here to behold how Orato- Orario had evolved. I afeared what had become of the city after Zeus spoke of the bruits of the Dark Age of Orario. I mainly wished to observe how it overcame the arduous times. What intentions I had after that it wasn't set in stone. Like the light of the stars that adorn the tapestry of night, they rifts with short lifespans, a fleeting existence that live only until the sun rises."
Modaka looked at him weirdly though Shakti's eyes had narrowed as if she had figured something out about the newcomer, though both were shocked to hear that he knew the God of the sky.
"I see, most people come to be adventurers or for better lives in general."
"That is why you so highly regard my fighting skills? Dost thou see the life of an adventurer as a better life?"
The question surprised Shakti who put her hand on her chin and thought about it.
"Well, I can't speak about being an adventurer per se since I tend to work more as a police force instead of an adventurer. Though I'm certainly glad I joined this Familia. I've faced hardships with this Familia, but sharing it with them has been my honour."
"I see. Perhaps I'll give it a try. An attempt at something new, it is an enticing offer that I am susceptible to so I won't desist."
Modaka then stated that there was a fee to enter the city, which they generously lowered it to less than half for him since he helped them out. Bell then pulled out a sack that jingled with each movement.
"How much mynet is it?"
Even Shakti didn't get this one as a question mark seemingly hovered over her head.
"Umm, what does that mean?"
"Oh, apologies, it goes by the modern literary meaning of money."
"Oh, I see, you have a funny way of speaking. Anyways the usual would be ten thousand but since you helped us so much it would feel wrong so we'll cut it down at three thousand."
The teen nodded and brought out a weird looking coin, one which Modaka never saw but caused Shakti's eyes to widen.
"These aren't valis are they?"
Bell turned to Modaka and shook his head.
"No? This is but the common hekte. What might this valis you speak of be?"
Before Modaka could answer Shakti interrupted him.
"Momonga, sorry I meant Modaka, why don't you help Hashana and Elrick with the other civilians? I'll get Bell registered."
He didn't question the sudden change in the captain and left the two after saying goodbye to Bell.
"Bell? Would you mind accompanying me for a walk? The registration is already done anyways."
The boy nodded and followed the Ganesha captain as they walked down the main road. There Bell got to see Orario's bustling city. Hundreds of people, from all races, walked on the street in front of him going about their business.
"Bell … could it be that you were born somewhere during the start of the Age of the Gods?"
The golden haired boy stopped and looked Shakti suspiciously. She turned around and tried to reassure him.
"I'm sorry that was a bit brazen."
The teen sighed and pointed to the roof the buildings. Quickly catching onto the wish of moving to a private place, Shakti followed him as he expertly climbed the building and reached the roof.
"Was it so transparent to be seen through already? I did not believe myself to be so incompetent."
"Well, the way you talk and the currency you use was a big give away. Mostly the currency. However, you nearly called Orario Oratoria, didn't you? That's how this city was called before, around the start of the Age of the Gods. I can assure you that I'm the only one that figured this out. That and your clothes, I got a glimpse."
Bell was wearing a cloak that covered everything but his head, below it he had an old outfit that used to be a traditional piece of clothing in the Kingdom of Khaenri'ah.
He sighed deeply and looked at Shakti with a serious gaze.
"Nearly a thousand years ere in time. A span which is unachievable by even the elves and which many yearn for without knowing the price and pain they'd have to endure if they had such a 'gift.' Wouldst thou believe I've lived that long?"
"Whether I believe it or not, it's the only explanation."
"I did not foresee this outcome, I have become naïve over the course of time, too accustomed to have other people do work for me. Can thou keep thy secrets close to you?"
"My lips are sealed."
"You're now my heart ichthus as in this case I'll place my faith in you."
"Rest assured."
"Then I shall go explore the new city for the time being. My curiosity has been peaked as much has alternated since the time from which I hail. It feels like a new world, though I have lived in many different worlds at this point."
"Would you like me to be your tour guide?"
"What might this title of tour guide you talk about be?"
Shakti looked speechless but remembered how he was practically from a different timeline and sighed. Having been explained what a tour guide Bell looked with surprise at Shakti.
"Dost thou have time dissipate for me? You seem like the captain on which all rely and look up to."
She giggled and nodded, seeing that it was the best choice he accepted her offer.
"Very well. I shall follow you like the north star that leads the people of Orario."
Together they ventured into the city, deciding to visit its main districts and most popular places such as the market, the Hostess of Fertility and Babel. Side by side the two walked down the main street before turning south and heading towards the market.
The Hostess was just straight down the street since Bell had entered the city through the western gate. However they decided to go to the market area first since it was closer, then head to Babel next, after that they'd go back towards the western gate and pass by the Hostess before turning north to go to the Guild.
Thirty minutes later, Shakti and Bell entered the market area, it was early in the morning and the place was filled with people and stands. Bell looked with a glint in his eyes, it had been a couple of decades since he last saw this many people and seeing them all smile brought him much joy, but not as much joy and excitement as the food stands and the exotic items, some of which even in his entire life he hadn't seen before.
Shakti was at Bell's side, looking at him with a gentle smile. She couldn't help herself as she thought he looked quite cute when his face lit up in excitement like that. She followed the golden haired boy around as he took a look at several stands and shops.
He took particular notice of a couple of food stands but looked down when he realized that he didn't have any money on him other than his old currency. Hearing Shakti giggling caused Bell to turn to her who offered to buy it for him.
"Then how are you going to buy it Bell?"
"Eh … that's … quite the question."
Shakti proceeded to order a jagamarukun and gave it to Bell.
"T-Thank you Shakti."
Bell had a slight blush, feeling embarrassed that he had to have someone else pay for it. After the little event they proceeded to go around as Shakti described the city and explained whenever Bell asked a question.
Having spent enough time in the market, observing the cute boy, Shakti decided to proceed to Babel next. She grabbed his attention and pointed at the tower of Babel, Bell nodded and started following Shakti through the city.
Shakti walked eastwards, looking to reach Babel. What she didn't notice was that while she and Bell were exploring, the two had wondered a bit south of the market area. As she kept walking towards Babel, she realized too late where this would cause them to end up, as she went around the corner she found herself in Amor square.
Shakti froze as she saw the few dozen couples who populated the open plaza. Luckily for her Bell didn't seem to be aware of the place in which they were. Unluckily for her though, she was spotted by a couple from the Ganesha Familia who were off duty and seemed to be on a date. It goes without saying that relationships with members outside of one's Familias were uncommon and hard to maintain which is why most couples are within the Familia.
Upon seeing their captain with Bell, an unknown boy, the two assumed that she was on a date and gave their thumbs up to the captain in encouragement. Shakti was stunned as a blush exploded on her face, she wanted to correct them, no, she needed to, she wanted to go there and explain but her hand was suddenly grabbed by Bell.
"Kya!"
She yelped cutely as Bell turned to face her with a smile that caused her to blush, betraying her attempt to clear the misunderstanding with her fellow members. While walking Bell had seen something of interesting and had unknowingly grabbed Shakti's hand. He pointed out to a shop and started going towards it, his hand still holding Shakti's.
Shakti thought about stopping and telling him how others might be viewing this. She wanted to ask his help to fix the misunderstanding but realized that it would just make it more awkward for them. So, she took a deep breath in and looked at Bell's back, a bright blush lit up her face as she held his hand, she would endure it no matter how embarrassing it was.
She burnt on in embarrassment for around an hour before he finally released her hand, too infatuated with a little trinket called a swiss knife which he had never seen before. She forced her mind to forget what had happened but the image of holding his hand kept popping up in her mind, a light blush covering her face.
While Shakti was distracted by her own odd behaviour, Bell had taken the moment to move away and have a secret chat with the owner of a nearby jewellery shop. The owner looked at him with a raised eyebrow as he leaned on the counter until he pulled out a bright red stone. The shop keeper's eyes bulged out. Bell had lived long enough to know how to deal with right about any kind of person.
It was a pear shaped ruby gem, but unlike anything he had seen before. For its type the size was rather large though it was only as big as a thumb. It was cut professionally, giving it perfect proportions and it was completely clear, showing off the brilliant crimson colour that appeared to glow as it had a life of its own.
The artisan who analysed the stone with a keen eye turned to the boy ready for whatever request he had if meant working with such a unique gem. The blonde haired boy placed the gem on the counter.
"I wish to make an exotic bangle out of this. A wing shaped bangle with the ruby at the centre of it."
The owner nodded and carefully took the gem, telling him it'll take a couple of days to make. He nodded and returned by Shakti's side who hadn't noticed anything as she was still too caught up in her own world, trying to figure out the situation she had found herself in a couple of minutes ago.
"Shall we keep heading east Shakti? I wish to see the colossal tower that has been erected at the centre of the city. You said it was the pillar that supported Gekai as it served as a lid for the dungeon, it really piques my curiosity."
She nearly jumped as Bell voiced his question but quickly nodded, making him follow her as she resumed her way towards Babel.
"L-Let's go."
.
Bell and Shakti arrived in the centre of the city, at the base of the colossal tower of Babel. Bell hadn't been able to see it properly last time, but now he got the chance to admire the architecture of the building.
Bell raised his hand to shield his eyes from the sun that was beating down on the city. He looked up at the spire of the tower that pierced the sky. He looked on with a smile as he thought of his now gone brother-in-arms.
"Let us visit the famed Hostess you talk so much about."
Shakti looked at Bell in surprise.
"Already? Here I thought this would have been what you would be most interested in."
"I am quite invested in the tower. It bears deep meaning within my heart, though I require to be lone as memories might resurface. I'll visit it again at a later date. Let's move onto our next destination."
She nodded and started leading him back towards the western gate. The two were back to walking side to side. Hundreds of people populated the street causing Shakti to be pushed into Bell. She blushed lightly as she felt Bell's shoulder against hers, Bell on the other hand walked on as if nothing happened.
They simply passed by the Hostess as it was unfortunately closed since it was early in the morning. She briefly described the place, staff and its service, overly emphasizing the food, stating that it was truly delicious, though it was pricey.
"Hmm, I shall bless them with mine presence, or wealth, later tonight once I find a way to get mynet."
She giggled seeing that he had already understood what Mia was interested in.
"Good, now the only thing that is left is the Guild. The heart and brain of the city of Orario. They manage the logistics of the city, working on the paperwork needed for an adventurer. They advise, spread information, give missions and post quests for adventurers. They work with the different Familias to keep the city operational and safe."
As they finished the tour, hours had passed and the sun had risen over the walls. Noon had just passed and both Shakti's and Bell's bellies growled. The two looked at each other with a slight blush.
"Shall we search a place that provides sustenance? Mine earthly vessel requires to be filled."
"Yes, we should go and eat."
Finding a nearby café that was open, the two entered and sat at a table. The two quickly ordered a light lunch, well Shakti's was light, Bell's … well it was light for him, but Shakti was wide eyed when she heard his order for a 'light lunch.'
The placed orders arrived shortly after, Shakti had ordered a chicken salad, while Bell's light lunch was composed of a plate of pasta, a row of three sandwiches and a donut. Now in who's right mind was that a light lunch?
'Ah, Bell's mind I guess.'
"Say Bell, you're not related to the Sword Princess, are you?"
"Hardly believe so. Besides the fact that I have roamed the lands for a long time. I'm not aware of any siblings. Actually I believe I'm the last one of my kind."
She internally face palmed at her own stupidity, she felt even worse knowing that she reminded him of him being the last of his kind, though that did intrigue her since it meant he wasn't human, but it didn't feel like it was her place to ask.
"Oh, sorry. I-I didn't mean to remind you of that."
He started giggling at her reaction, which she found weirdly cute.
"Tis a matter that thou should not concern yourself with."
"It's just that your hair and eye colour matches hers, so I thought that you might know her or be related. If you're curious she's a girl that appeared eight years ago. Her name is Ais Wallenstein."
Bell nearly choked at that.
"Did thou name the girl, Ais Wallenstein?"
"Umm, yes?"
'Could it … be? Though Wallenstein? No, she must have altered it when she landed in this timeline, since it would give her identity away.'
"Oh, I might be in all intent and conclusion be acquainted to her excellency the Sword Princess, but enough of that. Seeing the city brought much lief to the likes of my soul. Going back would be an extravagance of effort at this stage. I shall go on and follow Modaka's advice and try out the life of a mighty adventurer."
Shakti looked surprised but nodded with a smile.
"I'm sure you'll be successful. Why don't you go at the Guild? They will inform you and help you look for a Familia. I'll finish my meal here, how about you go and have a look, I'll wait you here."
"Thank you very much Shakti. Thou have a been a great help to me. I'll be sure to repay thy favour in full. I really appreciate how considerate you have been."
He then left for the Guild, disappearing behind the large doors of the building.
"What a curious person."
"Indeed, could my Shakti be finally falling for someone?"
Shakti jumped out of her chair as she turned around to see Modaka and Hashana with Ganesha who was the one speaking.
"I am Ganesha!"
"Ganesha-sama, please don't scare me like that! And don't joke about that! I'm not falling for anyone."
"Sorry Shakti. When I heard of the young boy from Hashana and Familia member A, I really wanted to see him."
Behind him Modaka glared at the God who had forgotten his name.
"Well, he should be back in a few minutes."
"Then I, Ganesha, will wait here!"
The minutes passed as the four chatted away, waiting for the blonde haired boy to return. As the thirty minute mark passed Bell arrived back at the table where Shakti was, only to be greeted with three new people, two of which he knew.
"Oh, Modaka, Hashana, it is nice to see thee again, you seem to have been healed Hashana. Thou should be careful, a human life is as fleeting as a bunny walking in the den of a wolf, whose life is at risk of being silenced in an instant."
Hashana looked at Bell surprised as he turned to the muscly man that wore an elephant mask with a tilt of his head.
"Could it be that thou art the benevolent Kami Ganesha? One who protects the people of the city like they are his own children?"
"Hahaha, I am Ganesha!"
'He is indeed like Zeus had described him, he truly is.'
"Although this is quite the ideal occasion for myself."
""Hmm?""
All four Ganesha Familia members turned to him with questioning looks.
"Ganesha-sama, could I join thy renowned Familia?"
All of them except for Ganesha, who grinned, looked shocked.
"What?! You really wish to join this weird God?"
"With your skills, even if you're a level one, I'm sure the Loki Familia would take you in."
"Surely there are better options Bell."
The God turned to them and looked hurt.
"Why are all of you insulting your God like that?! Don't turn him away."
"Hehe, I have heard all I needed about the other Familias at the Guild. Loki Familia is good, but it is not what I as wishing for and you are my first friends in a long while, so I still wish to join thy Familia."
"I am Ganesha! And I welcome you to the Familia!"
Hashana and Modaka looked in disbelief but still took joy in being called his friends, Shakti was also shocked that he'd pick this handful of a God but had a small smile at the prospect of him joining the Familia.
.
The five Ganesha Familia members arrived at their home base that it was. A giant statue of Ganesha made out of white marble, the entrance of it all was located at an uncomfortable place causing Bell to stare at his new home with his usual tilt of the head.
"Curious design if I may Ganesha-sama. Though thou should think more as to where thee place the entrance next time. It might make it a bit awkward for new members."
"I am Ganesha!"
The others behind him face palmed before following the other two into the building. As they slowly made their way to the office of the God, they passed by the facilities that the building offered, giving Bell a tour of their home.
They reached the office of Ganesha as the tour came to an end. The God of the masses opened the door before looking at the others, telling them to wait outside. They all turned around and waited outside when Bell grabbed Shakti's hand.
"Could thou come as well? Since thou knows about it, thou should enter and hear what I will tell Ganesha-sama about myself."
Shakti and the others looked shocked, even more so when she nodded. Looking at Ganesha he simply shrugged and had her follow inside as well. Bell then sat down on a chair when Ganesha boldly told him to strip.
"W-what does thou mean Ganesha-sama?!"
"I'm sorry Bell what he meant is that you need to expose your back to him so that he can bestow his falna on you."
"O-oh, I'd very much prefer if you said that beforehand Ganesha-sama."
"I am Ganesha!"
Bell's look was inscrutable as he turned to Shakti who simply face palmed and shook her head with a sigh. Bell then followed the God's instructions and started undoing his cloak, revealing his black and red outfit. The outfit entranced the God and Shakti, particularly the red colour as it felt like it moved, glowing and shining as if looking at a red starry sky in the middle of the night.
However, they were even more shocked when Bell undid his jacket and shirt. His back was muscular just to the right amount, but the factor that caught their eyes was a large and severe looking scar that travelled diagonally from the top right to the bottom left. Other than that, he had small and several light scars across his back.
"W-What happened t-to you?"
Hearing the question Bell turned around causing Shakti to put her hands over her mouth as a gasp left her lips. Even Ganesha couldn't hold his shock, seeing the large cross shaped scar that went over his chest.
"As thou have spoken of before, I bore witness to the city of Oratoria, I saw it's foundations being laid, I saw it as it was first built and as it flourished. Actually I was also there when we took over the fields of Strea around the dungeon."
Ganesha was surprised to hear the names Oratoria and Strea, names that were lost to the past and hadn't been heard of in a millennia. Confused as to how he knew of that he turned to his trusty captain.
"How does the young boy know about?"
"Ganesha-sama I'm sure you noticed that none of those were lies, that is because I believe that as he says, he was present when the city of Orario, or as he calls it Oratoria, was first created."
"How is that possible?! It was a millennia ago."
Shakti explained how his clothes, speech and use of ancient currency was a dead giveaway of his identity.
"I trust that thou can keep thine secrets Shakti, Ganesha-sama."
The two who were discussing all possibilities turned to the boy and nodded. He then grabbed the small four pointed star pendant that hang off his belt.
"Kaihou"
White light sprouted from under his feet, enveloping him like the petals of a flower envelope the bud. As the light disappeared both Ganesha and Shakti were left with jaws hanging down to the ground as in front of them was a completely different person.
The boy in front of them was just slightly more handsome and as tall as Ganesha. He had long, pure snow white hair and brilliant rubellite eyes, but the most notable aspects were his new limbs. He had a pair of smooth horns on top his head. A long and large scaled tail, the tip of the was a long fin shaped tail which was hard and razor sharp. The tips of the fin like tail were elongated forming a 'u' shape. Sprouting from his back was also a pair of beautiful and broad dragon wings. All of them glowed a candid white with red highlights.
(A/N: For reference to horns look at the star elf Aravos from Dragon Prince. For tail I don't really have a reference I like . For wings look at ancient dragon Leficios.)
The two were lost for words and couldn't even make any kind of noise. The tail swayed left and right and his wings extended. Shakti couldn't but help look at the image in front of her and think 'beautiful.' If only the background would have been a landscape under the shining rays of the moon, it would have been a perfect image.
"W-What, no, who are you?"
Ganesha had dropped the playful tone and asked mesmerized.
"A falna will tell thee all thou needs. I wilt elaborate from there."
(A/N: I'm not going to bother with describing the voice. Just listen to Aravos's English voice. It just sounds soooooo good. That's the voice he has when he is in his original form.)
The God carefully traced his blessing on his back. It was a little challenging due to the wings being in the way, but he completed it, nonetheless. He took a look at the status that he had transferred on a parchment. His eyes widened as did Shakti's as she was passed the parchment and looked at the status.
Bell Argonaut Cranel
Age: 4999
Familia: Ganesha
Race: Dragonoid
Alias: None
Level: 1
Strength: I0
Endurance: I0
Dexterity: I0
Agility: I0
Magic: I0
Skill:
Will Of The Dragon Hero – Accelerated growth in correspondence to the will to protect and save people. Allows the user to surpass the barrier of levels as well as break through the limits of the falna. User is immune to charms and mental attacks
Magic:
Wise Dragon – Allows user to predict the future precisely for a minute. Recharge time twelve hours.
Into the flow of time I peer
For I wish the future to be clear
Shakti had guessed him to be much older than herself, around five hundred years or so, a thousand when she heard him talk about the construction of Oratoria, but not even she was ready to discover that he was nearly five millennia old, nor was her God as he sat incredibly quietly. The very God who would normally go around shouting his name, now sat in complete silence.
"Bell, could this mean that you were born before the Age of the Heroes?"
Shakti turned to her God being unaware of any Age preceding that of the Heroes.
"Yes, as Ganesha-sama says, I was laid to open my eyes upon this world two thousand years before the Age of the Heroes. I myself know the date in which that Age started rather well … since I'm the one who started the Age of the Heroes."
This caused the two to turn to him in shock.
"As thou mayst read on the parchment my name is Bell Argonaut Cranel. I am the hero of the dawn, the one who is remembered in time as the myth of the Argonaut by the people."
Shakti was shocked at the revelation that a hero of old was standing alive right in front of her. One of, if not the most famous hero to have walked the earth. Now she discovered that he still lived to this day and was currently standing in front of her. Shakti would need a few days after that to recover as her world was flipped upside down.
"A living legend. I-I can't believe it."
Bell chuckled at the reaction of the silent Ganesha and seemingly distraught Shakti. Bell then moved on and picked up his pendant again.
"This before thee eyes is an ancient artifact that I made to mask my appearance. It allows me to change my hair, height and eye colour, after all, if one were to see myself after a hundred years they would start to suspect me."
Bell's look turned serious garnering the attention of the two before him.
"Ganesha-sama, the reason I wish to join this Familia isn't because of its noble goal, in sooth it's because of thine members. Tis a great family that goes on thrilling adventures and protects the innocent flames that dance openly within the arms of thine adventurers."
Bell closed his eyes, summoning memories of the past, a past long and forgotten.
"They give it their all, body, mind, soul and heart to enjoy themselves, to be themselves, unrestrained by the chains of fate, whilst never casting aside their indomitable spirit to protect the thousands. I can but praise and admire their fortitude. Between all of those I've met in the past millennia, they are the ones closest to truly resembling the heroes of old. Joining this great family would be mine honour."
Bell who had moved to the window to observe the people below returned his gaze back Ganesha. The God blinked before a massive grin appeared on his face and he started laughing. He got up and extended his arms outwards.
"Very well Bell. Welcome to our family! I hope that you can join us on our tales and bring their courage to untold heights!"
The boy bowed to the God and thanked him.
"Well, I've already given you my falna, so you may go. And don't worry, your secret is safe with me. I suppose you want this to remain between me, you and Shakti right?"
He nodded,
"That would be preferable."
"Very well! I Ganesha will grant you that wish!"
Bell then put the pendant back onto his belt, recuperating his golden haired form. His dragon like features shrunk and disappeared. He quickly put his clothes back and looked at Shakti, extending his hand.
"I look forward to working with you captain."
She smiled gently and nodded, shaking his hand.
"Me too Bell. Let's go and talk to Hashana and the other one before they barge in."
The three walked out of the office and closed the door, seeing Hashana and Modaka standing there outside.
"Finally, you took your time."
"My apologies for that. I was talking to them about my past."
"That, however, was decided it should stay between me, Shakti and the boy Bell."
The two's shoulders slumped down.
"Eh? Why is that? Oh well whatever, I'm sure Bell-san has his own reasons. Right Hashana?"
The taller man nodded.
"What now Bell-san?"
"I had intended to swiftly go back to Narka."
"Narka? Isn't that a town a hundred kilomeders away from here?"
"Yes, my weapons and armour are stored there. The initial idea behind that was to go back for them once I had terminated my visit of the city."
"Good, then Shakti, have some time off and accompany Hashana, Familia member A and Bell to Narka."
She spun around to face her God with surprise written over her face.
"Will that be fine?"
"Don't worry about that, I'll have Ilta take point until you're back. Once you get back, we'll go have a party at the Hostess to congratulate your entry in the Familia, Bell."
Bell wanted to protest but had little chance to do so as he was dragged out by a grinning Hashana, followed by Shakti and Modaka, who altogether set themselves on their merry way to Narka.
.
The Loki Familia executives along a few others lower levelled members were currently sat at a large table located at the centre of the establishment known as the Hostess of Fertility. The large pub was owned by the terrifying dwarf, Mia Grand.
Loki was drinking without restraint as were Bete and Gareth, much to the displeasure of Riveria who could only pinch the bridge of her nose in frustration. Emotion that was directed at the drunkards, who simply laughed at her, causing more and more irritation to be born within her.
Through this all Finn either laughed nervously at Riveria or at Tione's flirting, or watched with a smile as his Familia enjoyed itself. Ais picked at the plate with her fork, Lefiya stared at her in admiration while Tiona bickered with Tione whenever she wasn't trying to snuggle up to the captain. Raul and Aki had also decided to tag along with the executives but had the decency to restrain themselves.
Walking in at that moment was the Ganesha Familia, well a small part. Loki raised an eyebrow, curious as to what Ganesha himself was doing here. She kept observing as he entered followed by Shakti, Hashana and Modaka, who she didn't know. She was now convinced that he was now here to arrest someone or complain, thought which was shared by Mia as she asked if he needed anything.
"Ganesha? You need something? I don't remember causing any trouble?"
Secretly hoping that he wasn't here to arrest a blonde haired employee of hers. Though what Ganesha said surprised Mia just as much as Loki who was listening in together with Riveria, Finn and Gareth.
"Don't worry Mia, we're here to party with our new member."
"A welcoming party? Seems unusual considering how big your Familia is."
"True, but I am Ganesha! He's quite special."
Mia just shrugged, she wouldn't complain if he came here to party. It just meant more money for her. Though she was mildly curious and followed Ganesha with her eyes. Following him she saw Shakti and Hashana, she didn't recognize Modaka but gave off the feeling that he wasn't new. Then a golden haired boy entered her line of sight, closely following Shakti.
Loki choked on her drink as did Finn and Riveria upon seeing a boy who resembled Ais far too much for their tastes. She was initially surprised to hear Ganesha say that he was here to party, but completely shocked when she spotted the blonde man.
Ais too seemed to notice him as her attention was completely taken away by the boy. Though that wasn't because of the striking resemblance to her, but because she felt a nagging feeling of familiarity. She felt like she knew him, like she saw him before and had memories of him. Everyone got startled, particularly Lefiya who was staring at Ais closely, when the Sword Princess shot up from her seat.
She immediately started running, stopping right in front of the similar looking person. The two met each other's eyes and both of them stared at each other, slowly their eyes widening as they looked at each other. She completely froze as the memories of their time together hit Ais like a hurricane.
"It's been a while Ais."
The blonde haired boy spoke with a gentle smile, one which made her feel a thousand emotions, but resulted in only one answer which was posed as a question to verify his identity, to make sure that her eyes weren't playing a trick on her eyes, to make sure that her mind hadn't failed and that she wasn't finally going crazy.
"Bell?"
"Yes, it's me Ais."
Tears formed in her eyes and slowly slipped down her cheeks, one, two, three and the drops turned into a stream that flowed down the mountain. The stoic expression that people had nicknamed the doll Princess crumbled into dust as a single boy appeared and stood before her. She jumped and threw her arms around him, holding him in a tight embrace, fearing he might disappear if he were to let him go.
Her Familia looked at the events unfolding in complete and utter shock. They had lived with the blonde knight for a number of years, always beating at the wall that surrounded her heart but never managing to break it down. Now, it had completely collapsed in the span of a few seconds.
Finn, Riveria and Gareth were elated to see the emotional Princess, sitting beside them, the Goddess wondered who that could possibly be. Around the table of the Loki Familia one could find an orange haired elf that was heartbroken, a pair of level fours who were shocked, the amazon twins who cheered for her and a werewolf that was incredibly envious of the display of affection that the boy got.
The boy kept stroking Ais' back, drawing circles as she clung onto him tightly still refusing to let go of him. It took a few minutes before the blonde girl pulled back still sniffling and holding onto his shoulders. The whole pub was silent as staff and patrons all stared at the duo of matching golden haired teens.
The two basked in the nostalgic moment, the silence was a meaningful moment for them while it raised the tension in the room. Though all the suspense was too much too bear for a bubbly amazon and the feeling was just killing her and ended up interrupting the moment with a shout followed with the sound of facepalms from the people around. Even Bete and Lefiya couldn't help but ponder how insensitive Tiona was.
"Who is he Ais?"
Tione was about to punch her in the back of the head when Ais giggled. Everyone had to make a doubletake and make sure that their ears weren't playing a trick on them. The giggle was categorized as beautiful by most as they all stared at Ais with mesmerized eyes. However, the most shocked were the Loki Familia members who had never heard Ais laugh or giggle, barely having managed to make her smile a little over the past few years.
"Right, this is Bell, my brother."
To Be Continued~
QUESTION TIME! ... as usual
Thoughts on it? (How do you like the new Familia approach? Thought of trying out the Ganesha Familia for once.)
Harem - yes or no? (though I probably already know the answer to this one, it's just to make sure.)
Any requests or ideas?
With this I say my goodbyes and hope to see you next time with yet another new chapter. Have a safe week :)