Elden ring x Danmachi. yes, i went here, no i do not regret it.

I own Nothing.

[ My Room.]

" Oh come oh!!! " I yelled as Once. Again. I get Hammered into oblivion by that cheesy shithead known as Radagon of the golden order.

I nearly chuck my controller but instead I just sigh explosively and crumble back into my computer chair. ' And attempt number 49 to complete the Elden Ring has failed.'

I was nearing a total of 110 hours in this playthough, and my first one at that, and Ive hit the wall. My character is level 152 and i just cant get any further. I have tried everything I can think of nothing works. I've even respect, twice just to deal with this guy and it has not worked out.

Now, i know what your thinking, Just leave and level up a bit more, or look for some spells to help. Thing is, ive tried, and it isint helping.

But to be honest im not yet ready to scour youtube to look up ways to beat him just yet, maybe if i hit 50 tries or something ill get desperate.

But in anycase i was feeling a stress knot in my stomach. So I decided to just turn off my console for the night and turn on Netflix. I need some mindless TV to calm myself down. Trolling my favorites for a few seconds I decide to Watch a classic I haven't seen in a while, I put on my favorite anime.

'is it wrong to try to pick up girls in a dungeon?'

Say what you will about the plot and the cast. But I for one find bell and his friends to be somewhat amusing. I especially like the fact that no matter what he always sticks to what he believes in. Lord knows I can name a few people in my life who say 1 thing but as soon as the situation gets tough fold over like a house of cards.

But, honestly? Thematically I also liked the story. The Idea of a fantasy world where the gods arent just some unseen omnipotent, overarching mechanics of the world was great. In this world, you lived and talked with the God and the Familia. Had a specific God you wanted to follow? Say you were a Smith? Ginobu or Hepheastus were the Gods to go to. Want to be a Farmer? Lady Demeter. Adventure and Monster slaying your game? throw a dart at a list and youll find a Familia.

It was a break from the mold, and one I could get behind. Besides all that, even if the story has been getting more serious its still funny.

In any case, I pressed start to the 1st episode but suddenly my TV turns black.

I think to myself 'what the hell? '

Suddenly my console turned back on, although i dont think the Power button should've been glowing Gold. I'll be honest, im starting to get freaked out. As i slowly stand up and back away from the possibly possessed piece of technology a Voice suddenly scares the absolute shit out of me.

" Pardon me, my friend. "

" RYAAAAaAh!!!! " I jumped out of my skin and whirled around to see... see...

What the absolute Fuck??

Standing in front of me, In my Goddamned room, was my player character from Elden Ring.

He was decked out in what i called his SpellBlade attire. But still, there was no doubt it was him.

Around 26 years old and near 6ft tall, his shining black hair pulled into a wolfs tail, faint stubble on his somewhat puggy cheeks. somber hazel eyes and a red star mark upon his brow. His hood was the same hood you found in Stormveil Castle, the same one Rodreika used to wear when you first met her, although his hood was pulled down. On his torso was the Iron Kight armor, the set you bought when you unlock the merchent in the Roundtable Hold. His arms were wrapped in Sorcerer wrappings and his legs were covered in Cuckoo Knight's greaves. On his Back was His Carian Knight's Shield, on his left hip was His Twin Moonveil Katana that I'd traded my Meteoric Katana for. And to top it off His Beast seal in hand and Astrologers staff secured under the Shield.

I swallowed thickly, Praying this was simply a borked dream and id wake up within a reasonable amout of time.

" D-drake, I assume? " I asked hesitantly, hoping that he dosent answer.

Prior experience tells me when figments of your imagination actually speak back, ya need to call the therapist.[ A.N. This has happened to me, seriously, call and talk to someone. holding it in just makes it worse.]

Drake, The Dragon Communing Spellblade smiled and nodded. " Yes, and wouldst i be correct in assuming that you are Ser Zachariah? "

A cold shiver runs merry hell up and down my spine as he asked that. The one thought running was of course.

'How does he know my name!?!'

" Because i told him, obviously! "

' SONOVABITCH!!!'

This time instead of screaming like a girl I curl my left hand into a fist and twirled around and let the momentum make my punch all the stronger.

"thump!!"

Only for the old guy who suddenly was in the room with us to catch my fist with barley a wince. Old bastard had the audacity to smirk.

" oh-hohoho!! Not a bad try that Zackey boy, could've used a little more of a windup considering you dont really have the musle to give it the right amount of power, but still, 3 out of 5. "

I got a good look at the old geezer, and was drawn up short. It was just a vauge feeling, but he was definitely familliar looking. Silvery grey hair that went past his ears and a full faced beard a simple tunic and pants and the most intimidating pair of thundery grey eyes ive ever seen. Then his voice and smirk hit me, and i knew who he was.

I blinked stupidly " Zeus? what the hell are you doing on earth? "

Said lord of the sky grinned in such a way that made me feel like i was not gonna like his answer.

" Well, Ya'know about the multiverse? Certain Gods, such as myself, have aspects that all operate under the same will. Think of it like being it several places but keeping track of it all at once." The King of Olympus started to explain. " But that gets into Omniscience and trying to go too deep into that with you would likely make your brain drip out yer ears. But to make a long story short, Ive seen what happens to my adorable Grandson, and quite frankly, It pisses me off. "

I nod along, less because im following along and more to due with the fact im hoping if i play the quiet idiot im less likley to be thrown across creation.

Slim hope I know, but gotta try.

Drake however, spoke up at this point. " And as for myself, When Lord Zeus came to me after my latest defeat at the hands of Lord Radagon, He explained a few things to me. and to be honest, i feel disillusioned with the task i have been appointed. "

I looked at him, the question must've been on my face because he immediately continued, his face a mask of disgust. " The Outer Gods of the lands Between, The Greater Will, The Frenzied Flame, the Formless Mother and all there ilk. Those foul deities were all using us as a mere means of Entertainment, Our struggles meant Nothing to them. I understand that the gods of the world lord Zeus hails from are similar, But at least they stay with the mortals that worship them, join them in their struggles to survive in the world. "

He sighed, appearing to deflate almost. " Lord Zeus hath asked me for my assistance, in helping to guide his Grandson Bell. But I am tired, To find myself Discarded by an uncaring God, only to be brought back because it childishly thought I could fix its broken Toy, so that none else could play with my world? I have had enough, I simply wish to rest."

He then looked up at me, a light entering his eyes. " Which, leads us to why we have appeard before you, Ser Zachariah."

Not gonna lie, I swallowed a lump the size of a apple at the tone he used.

Zeus, on the other hand, waved his hand carelessly. " Now now Drake my boy, old Zacky here isn't to blame, the game was merely based on your world, he had no idea you were a real person. "

Drake looked at Zeus like he was a idiot, but did not respond. " As i was saying. Now, this ' Video Game' as I believe it is called, has told you of most of my struggles in my time since returning to the lands between. As Lord Zeus has discribed it, you know of my abilities, my moves, my motivations and my reason as to why I wanted to become the Elden Lord. So before we go any further, I ask if you know the reason ive stayed on this path for so long, why i didnt give up even after so many of the people ive come to know have died or ended up worse."

For a second i wasn't sure what the fuck he was saying, how could i even know what his thoughts were. I mean its not like the... back...

Oh for the love of!!?

" You were once a member of The academy of Raya Lucaria, But you didnt focus on Sorcery exclusively like your fellow scollers. The way of the Sword interested you, particularly the sword of the land of reeds. But what truly captivated you was the Dragon Cult started by Godwyn the Golden. You sought a way to take the power of Dragon communion and combine them with the art of spirit calling. Before her fall into depression at Radagons leaving you had asked Queen Rennala about her Oathsworn spirits. But before you could even start, you were stripped of grace, became a Tarnished and were driven from the academy and Lurnia, and eventualy the Lands Between themselves. "

I outlined the backround i had thought up for Drake when i first made him in character creation. Something me and my friends did because we thought it'd be funny to see who made the corniest backstory.

Not that im stupid enough to say that to the guy who could partially transform into a fire breathing lizard to bite me in half.

" When you crossed the fog, you found yourself wandering, often alone, through desolate wastes or overgrown ruins. eventually you met a wandering swordsmen named Shiraka, in return for teaching him some spells he gave you instruction on the use of the Katana. You eventually passed on, only to awaken when Grace called you back to the Lands Between. "

Drake nodded, rolling his hand. Taking the que to continue i did so. " After Waking on the Precipice of anticipation, you could feel how the world had changed. You knew then that even if you had reservations, reforming the Elden Ring was the only way to fix the world. But you had also made a vow, to help those you could, because what use was there in fixing the world if nobody could even be Happy in a fixed world? "

Drake closed his eyes, and nodded. Removing his left gauntlet he held out his hand. I looked confused for a second but held out my own.

As our hands clasped, he opened his eyes and said. " Make it count, live as you wish, but never forget to protect those you cherish. "

I was confused for like, two seconds before i felt my face go flat. " Do I get a say in this by any chance? "

The original pervert of Greek mythology snorted. " Like you'd turn down the chance, this isn't something I've decided to do just today boy. I Know you've wish for something like this for a good long while. "

I sighed in depression. " I hate that I can't argue with that, just let me grab something for the ride. "

At the nod from Zeus, I let go of Drake and walked over to my nightstand and opened the drawer. Inside was a small jewelery case. Opening it up, I saw my mothers engagement ring and her mothers pendent necklace. An to round it out, my fathers gold plated wrist chain. My mom's ring was a small, three jewel affair with two Sapphires and a small dimond set between. as for Gram's pendent it was an eagle with a Ruby set into its eye.

Dad's plate was actually a gift for my 20th birthday, so it was a designs I had picked, the only reason i called it dad's was because the plate itself was originally his, he just had it turned into a wrist chain for me.

On the front was a design of a running wolf, and on the reverse was a latin inscription.

et spiritus tuus te

Let your spirit guide you.

I sighed as i put the wrist chain on. and slipped the small box into my pocket.

Turning to the two of them, I said. " I'm ready. "

Zeus nodded and placed his hands on our shoulders. " When you wake up, you will have my Falna, but it will be unlocked. That way you can explain away how strong you are and join a Familia if you wish. But, dont go overboard, Drake's powers are far from normal in Genkai, So keep a low profile as long as possible. Find Bell and keep watch, but other then that, your free to live how you want. "

I nodded, Giving my room, well, my World one last glance as Drake and I grabbed hands one more time and with a flash we were gone.

...

When I opened my eyes, I immediately closed them in pain. ' Stupid sun, Why the hell is it in my room?'

...

wait a sec.

I sat forward faster then i have ever done so in my life and whipped my head around.

.

.

.

.

Oh shit...

I was, to put simply, in the middle of a godsforsaken wasteland. But fortunately I can see a tower and walls in the distance.

' That must be Orario, well, at least im within sight of it.' I mused. I stood up, and immediately suppressed a squeak as I realized I was in heavy armor.

Looking down, I confirmed I was wearing Drakes armor. The silver colored plate and light blue cloth was actually more comfortable then I expected. The greaves were also comfortable, but, the wrist wraps on my arms were a little itchy. Im going to have to look into getting that changed. I held up a hand and felt the Crimson hood latched onto the armor. The embroidery still in great condition as the hood rested across my neck, the slight cape trailing down my back.

A shifting weight on my hip had me look down. I am not going to lie, I was Giddy when i saw my twin Moonveil's attached to my hip. Although, I dont think I could power stance them just yet.

I decided to take stock of my equipment before moving, better safe then sorry. Pulling my Shield off my back I turned the pointed oval shaped slab of metal and Glintstone around to inspect it. Now, i know im no blacksmith, but I am mostly just trying to see how much detail there is in real life compaired to the game.

After a good six seconds I put it back, and grab my staff. The Astrologers staff was one of the starting weapons for the Astrologer class. It was my main casting implement for most of the game. I'd faced Many bosses with this thing.

In any case, Next on the list was my Beast seal. Incantations were somewhat different then Sorceries in Elden ring. Thus different casting fouci.

And last, but not least was a small, thin golden band id found in my pocket.

I smiled as I held up one of the most important Items in every players journey. The Spectral Whistle. The item needed to summon your most stout ally, the spectral steed.

Torrent.

I honestly have no idea if this would work, but I lifted the ring and placed it near my lips.

FWEERRREEEP!!!

As i whistled, a Bluish light appeared in front of me. Rising up from the ground A dark grey, almost black stallion with horns on his head manifested. Torrent let out a whinne as he appeared and then began to look around, before cocking his head at me.

Before i could even say anything, my head began to THROB.

"ARGHH!!' I chrashed to my knees. The pain intolerable, I curled up into a ball as my mind was assulted by memories.

Drake's memories.

The Chaple of Anticipation and the first bout with the Grafted Scion. His journey to Stormveil Castle. Margit the Fell. Godrick the Grafted. Agheel, And so many more battles.

And with those memoreis, came understanding. I was able to understand how weilders of Magic cast their arts. I knew how to use the ahses of war I had placed on my armarments and how to actually use the weapons themselves.

Of course, there was no way I was suddenly a master. Im just a rank 0 newb. Not even trained in a way to fight bare handed, nevermind with deadly armaments of potentially Godslaying proportions.

After what felt like hours, the pain began to lessen. Soon, I could somwhat stand, although that probably wouldn't have gone as good as it did without Torrent moving to support me with his side.

I gently stroke his neck. " Thanks buddy. "

I was somewhat suprised to hear my own voice, instead of Drake's when i spoke. But i didn't have the mental capacity to focus on it.

Torrent, as a Horse, cant exactly speak. But, as a Spectral Steed, he dose have human like intelligence. So it comes as little surprise when he shot me a look that said. 'Dont worry, i got you.'

I managed to right myself, and looked at him. " Im gessing you can tell Im not the Drake you knew? "

I didn't think horses could do the whole raised eyebrow thing, but apparently they can. Torrent snorted an craned his neck around. He stuck his muzzle into a semi open pouch hanging from the saddlebags, and pulled out a mirror of all things.

Lifting my own brow, I ignored the horse slobber over the top half of the small reflective surface, and nearly dropped it in suprise.

I wasnt expecting what met my gaze, I had expected to be shoved into Drake, take over his body as well as his powers. Maybe even keep my own body and just get Drake's skills with weapons and his equipment. But this, this was just effed up on so many levels...

Because staring back at me, with silver hair, more slender and undoubtedly older, possibly around the age of 19, 20 at the most, was the face of Bell Cranel.

Or it would've been. Had it not been for the semi-pointed ears and Sky blue eyes.

I, I dont even have the words...

It was at this point, Something blasted into my head from the sky.

*BAM!!*

OW!!

Rubbing the top of my head, I picked up what had hit me. I was surprised to see it was an intact picture. I nearly had a heart attack when i saw who was in it.

In the picture, was a baby Bell, being held in the arms of his mother. Alfa, or as i know it, her twin sister Meteria, sickly but beaming with a pride only new Mothers could ever hope to have. Next to her a man, older by a little but still glowing with pride, He had Bells eyes, facial structur and his warm smile, honestly the only thing he didnt have was that hair. His being a somewhat dark Brunette. Obviously his father, or rather, our father.

Because standing in front of the man, at the tender age of six, was a small silver haired Half elf boy, staring at his younger, fully human half brother in awe.

And behing them all? An Elven woman, her own silver hair the same shade as everyone except the sole brunette in the room. Her Sky blue eyes shined with happiness, her hands clasped in her lap as she sat next to a bawling Zeus. Her face set into exasperated amusment.

How in the hell?

It was then I noticed two letters attached to the back of the picture.

One was addressed to Bell, the next to me, or rather it realy could only be me.

It read. 'To the guy currently having an existential Identity crisis.'

Harsh, but acurate.

I opened the letter.

Dear boy.

I know your confused, and currently fighting back the after effects of what ive done to you. But as you can see, your not in either Drake's or your own body. That was partially my fault. When i tried to bring you here, things got altered. The change was actualy pretty minor all things considering. Well, minor to all but you and Bell. As you can see, The change is in Bells family. The Elf is Velanina your mother. She and Meteria were always together in the Hera Familia, mainly because Velanina was a Doctor, and a good one at that. But here they both fell in love with Henris, Bells father, and yours now too. Long story short your about six years Bells senior. He should still be 14 here but I dont know WHEN youve been popped into the timeline. It is definitely after bell came to Orario but that is as far as i know.

As for why you didn't grow up with bell after the battle with the One Eyed Black Dragon, Velanina was injured critically and the only way she could ever survive was by being brought back to the elf forest she originally came from. They only Barley tolerated letting you in. Bell on the other hand? they wouldn't allow it. I was forced to take care of him in the village we settled in, while you did your best to look after your mother. The Elves of the forest had also forbbiden you from contacting us, or us you. So that is why Bell hasn't ever met you.

As far as I can tell, Your mother had passed several years ago. So, not getting along with the elves in the forest with their treatment of you. You left to find me and Bell, but, you had crossed the fog to the lands between by accident. Trying to find your way back to Genkai you basically did the journey that you played in the game, although this version did defeat Radagon and the Elden Beast. Eventually you found a way back and you managed to finally find the village but both me and Bell had left. But the elder told you he went to Orario so you went after him.

The other letter attached, was penned by me for Bell. Explaining why I left and why He is only meeting you now. I know that you arent really family to him, but still, I ask you, not as a god of the sky, or even the Patron god of the Falna you posses. But i ask as a grandfather please.

Please keep my grandchild safe.

Zues.

PS. there should be about 20,000 Valis in a pouch on your belt, a little starting money and a late birthday gift.

I digested as much of that as i could, and felt for the pouch. At hearing the clang of coins I focused on the letter again. Most of it was just plain old exposition dumped on me. But still, at least I have names and faces to put together for Bell, I know at this point, he doesn't even know his parents names, let alone what they look like. If i could help out my Little brother/ Friend/ potential Familia member, I see no reason not to.

Although Identifying how to act around him is going to be a journey and a half. Torrent nickered. Drawing my attention back to him, and the sun lowering on the horizon...'Have I really just spent hours standing here?'

Sighing to myself and pull up into the saddle. I stroke Torrent's neck again. " Well bud, It looks like we're gonna have to rush if we want to sleep indoors tonight. Wanna see how fast you can get without Trolls, battalions of soldier, and Raging Dragons chasing us? "

Torrent Let out a happy winnie and charged down the old road. The wind whipped my face, slightly stinging my eyes but the sheer exhilaration was overwhelming. Ive never ridden a horse before, and for my first experience to be on a horse capable of out racing Dragons mid flight? There was no way to put into words the amount of adrenaline i felt as Torrent tore into the stone under his hooves.

I couldn't contain it for long before I started to shout. " WOOOOOOHOOOOOOH!!! THIS IS AWESOME!!! "

Regardless of what else happens, at least I had Torrent.

...

Within less then an hour, Torrent had made it to the gate. A distance that mustve been close to around 50 miles, eaten up by the Tarnished's mount. Soon enough, I was at the back of a swiftly moving line of entrants to the labyrinth city.

Within a reasonable amount of time I was in front of a Ganesha Familia guard. The man was honestly undiscript. plain as a cut out.

And his name was Frank...

Not gonna touch that.

" Ok, your the last person for the night, so lets make this fast and we can both head inside. " He said with impatience, but mostly directed at the late hour. The sun had truly started to set, casting the sky a bright orange and leaving up trapped in the walls shadow.

I nodded my head and he began. " Alright, just a standard few questions, then we can go. First, Name?"

I'd been thinking a out this during the ride with Torrent, and I had decided.

I smile and said. " Drake Cranel. "

Frank( Never not gonna be funny) Continued. " Reason for coming to Orario? "

" Looking for my younger half brother, and possibly join a new Familia if he's become an adventurer. " I said.

The guard quriked an eyebrow. " Oh, your already part of a familia? "

I nodded, my lips pressed into a line. " Depends of what you consider a Familia. The last time I'd seem my God, or rather Grandpa as he insisted i call him. He had to take my newborn half brother into a human Village because the elves of the forest detested humans. they could barley tolerate a half-breed like me. It wasn't until my mother passed a month ago I felt i could look for them. Id finally found the village when the elder said Grandpa and a few others were killed by a wild pack of goblins and my little brother came here to become an adventurer. "

The Ganesha Familia guard winced at that. After all, it wasnt a pleasent story in any way, even without getting into the reason for the need to seperate.

He said. " My condolences. But in anycase the name of the God? I know it might me sensitive, but we do need it for the guild records. "

I shook my head and said. " It's fine, Ive had about two weeks to deal with it, and ive not seen him since i was six, while it hurts it isn't any worse then losing mom. But, in any case my Familia is the Zeus Familia. "

You could practically hear the record scratch that went of in Frank's head. His eyes damn near popped out of his head, jaw hanging wide open and he dropped his clipboard.

" WHAT!?!! "

I dig into my ear at the frankly( sorry bad pun.) ridiculous reaction, trying to see if that'd given me tinnitus.

" Ok, first off, loud. Second, Its not like I fought the damn Dragon with my dad. I was six. I was with Grandpa and Grandma Hera at the time with my baby brother. No need to go crazy man. "

Luckly Frank collected himself, and after a second he picked up his clipboard and said. " Ahem, um sorry about that. Still, you are aware of the banishment of both the Zues and Hera Familia's correct? "

I looked at him like he was an idiot. " And you are aware that with Zues now back in Tenkai All members of his Familia have lost the Blessing and only the Hieroglyphs remain, correct? "

Frank nodded at that. " Very well, but be warned that the guild may pull you in for questions if they feel the need to. In anycase the last question for now has to deal with your horse. Do you have anyplace to keep him while your here? The Ganesha Familia offers a stable for newly arrived adventurers for free for a few days, but by then you must sell it or pay a monthly fee of about 15,000 Valis."

I smirked at the guy before looking at Torrent, who had a mischievous glint in his eyes. I turned back to Frank.

I said. " Oh, that wont be nessicary, Torrent doesn't take up much space. "

As soon as I said that, Torrent disappeared into blue sparkles of light.

I walked passed him as his gobsmacked look sent me laughing on my way through the towering Portcullis.

Crossing into the city, was an experience in an of itself. In the Anime Orario was always shown as a bustling city, even if a mideveal one. Now looking upon it as i walked in, you could clearly see how it had earned the name capital of the world.

The architecture by itself was a blend of culture. The buildings were of every era and design, but their was constants in each building, the stone construction for one. And towering over it all was Babel, the tower that capped the reason Orario was originally built.

The Dungeon.

In any case I have one priority right now, Find an Inn for the night. Then find Bell.

...

" I am so fucking Lost. " I sighed in despair as I wandered down another street. I guess i was too used to a more modern world were i had a GPS and map ways on hand.

But as luck would have it. I saw something that should help me.

" Step right up! Get your fresh potato puffs! Todays special Is almost over so get them now!! "

I'll give you three guesses as to who that was, and the first two do t count.

Sending a prayer of thanks upwards to Grandpa(... why did i call him grandpa? ) I walk towards the voice.

As i expected, the short, big chested twintail Goddess of my Brother was in her work outfit in front of her stand. A few customers in line but not enough to be classified as busy. As soon as i neard, she saw me and promtly went pale.

" B-B-BELL!!? " She shrieked like a teenage girl. What the hell was with people reacting to me like that? seriously.

In any case I took the opening. " You know my little brother Goddess? "

She flinched when I said that word. She looked me up and down. You could see the mix of thoughts running through her head. After a second, the crowed around us watching this unfolding drama with an indecent amount of eagerness, Hestia Spoke.

" Who are you, As far as I know, my Bell is an only child. "

I nodded, and said. " And you would be correct, If only in so far as full blooded siblings are concerned. We share the same father, but as you can tell by my ears, I am a half elf. "

I took a breath, Bowed my head and said. " Forgive me for not introducing myself Goddess. I am Bells half-brother Drake Cranel. "

As a goddess, Hestia can tell when a person is lying. It was Impossible to lie to a deity, unless one was a deity themselvs.

So she could tell I was not lying, or well, at least telling half truths that were more fact then any falsehood.

She grew pensive, and after a minute sighed and said. " I get off in 19 minutes, follow me and the three of us can figure this out. "

I bowed my head and said. " My thanks Goddess. "

She squirmed a little. " Not to be rude, but can you please stop calling me that? Bell calls me Goddess and while your not an exact copy with your eyes and ears It feels like Bell grew six year in a day, please just call me Hestia. "

I smiled. " As you wish, Lady Hestia. "

She made mewling sound, blushing like a tomato. " T-Thats even worse, Oh i hope Bell grows up to look like you. "

Her eyes widen as she slaps her hands to her mouth. " I-I, I didn't mean it like that!!! "

I smirked, my eyes clearly revealing the Troll within. " Oh-hohoho? Did my little brother seduce a Goddess already? He takes after Father more then just in looks after all! "

She started stuttering denials, the crowd around us laughing like loons.

...

A good half an hour later saw us in front of the ruined Church, It was not much to look at, but I knew how much this place meant to both Bell and Hestia. Walking into the entryway I saw the ruins of the pews, the overturned altar and hole in the roof.

I said. " Is this place even structurally sound? "

Hestia laughed awkwardly. " It may need a lot of love, but it's as nice a home as we can afford, for now at least. "

I nod, running an Idea through my head. Ya see, during my hour on Torrent, I had the foresivht to check his saddle and found out that the inventory was actually kept on Torrent. So all of the gear I've collected was stored on him. That means ive got tonnes of Armor and weapons of all types I can sell for maybe a decent amount of Valis.

If I was willing to part with one of my special ones, that might fetch me a lot of cash.

I said. " I might be able to help with that, but for now, Is Bell here already or is he due back soon? "

No sooner then the words left my mouth, did a voice call out from stairs leading to the basement.

" Goddess, are you home? I heard an unfamiliar voice! "

Walking up the stairs, wearing his normal tan jacket and black trousers. Was the red eyed Rabbit of the Hestia Familia.

As soon as he saw me, however, he started choking on his own air.

" Chk, CHK, G-Goddess, who is this!? " Bell managed to get out after relearning how to suck in air.

I smiled as I walked over to him, Bell took a step back, but wasnt able to do much else when I held put my hand. " I'm sorry It took this long to find you again Bell, but Im your older brother, Drake. "

...

(Bell Pov)

How, how could I even process this!? I have a Brother!? An older better looking, and going by his equipment, better at adventuring too!? How, Just HOW!!!?

" H-how? " I barely managed to get out.

The stranger, Drake, sighed and grabbed something from his belt. " This might be the best start, Bell. "

Looking down I saw a picture frame, and had to fight a gasp.

The picture, was of a woman, her silver-white hair the same shade as mine, and in her arms was a small newborn, with red eyes.

Me.

At her side was a man, who looked just like Drake an me. He was of slender build like me, but about as tall as Drake. He was where my eyes came from.

Standing under the man, and gazing at my baby self with undisgiused awe was a half elf child about six. The only other difference, aside from the ears, and me when I was that age was his sky blue eyes.

As if to show just where those differences came from, another woman was sitting in the backround. She was an Elf, a rather beautiful one at that. She suprisingly had the same white hair as me, and Drake I guess. Her eyes were the same Sky color of the man in front of me.

And to tie it all together to show it wasn't faked, was Grandpa crying a river next to the elf lady.

I, I wasnt, I can't even...

*Pat!*

I felt a hand on my head, as i looked up, I saw Drake's hand. He waa smiling down at me, his eyes warm, and a little sad.

" I might not have been here Bell, but it was never by choice. I've been looking for you for the last four years, ever since my mother passed. We, we're all that's left of our family, and Im not going to let our estrangement stand a second longer. " He said, his voice as hard as steel.

Goddess was silently waiting by the entryway, although going by the waterworks and her silent sniffles I can see a death hig in my future.

Drake cleared his throat, getting both of our attention. " I think we'd best head down stairs, the conversation that's about to follow is best whith potential seating. "

As me and Goddes traded looks, I nodded and led him into our living space. I have no idea what to expect, and im not sure if that's good or bad...

Guess we'll find out.

END, CHAPTER 1

Hey guys, wolf here with some bad news. Yeah, it seems like the only times i update is WHEN there's bad news, but getting into it, My mother had a minor heart attack monday night. It was minor in terms of damage to her heart, but because of it we now know that she had THREE blocked arteries. So, within the next 14 days she will be having a triple bypass to hopefully fix the issue, seeing as how Stents wont work since shes diabetic.

In anycase my stress levels have compelled me to write, and as much as id like to do the Halo story id had posted back in JANUARY, My plot bunnies have only been multiplying for Elden Ring ideas.

Not, of course that im against it. I Love Elden Ring, Because ELDEN RING.

So, Review, worship From Software, Fun fact, this chapter was written mostly within the last three days in an ungodly uncomfortable hospital chair.

wolf out.