Another month went by, and everyone had made great progress. Neze and Kaguya had risen to level 5 after each of them took on and defeated Goliath on their own. This left only Lyra and Iska left to become First Class as the boss took around 2 weeks to respawn. They had drawn straws and went in the order that they drew. This made it so Iska would be next and Lyra would go last which would now make everyone level 5 except Bell. As of now, Bell and the others were at Loki's place again. Astraea was concerned the boy wasn't acting his age in terms of doing things other than being an adventurer which he normally wouldn't even be doing. As such, Bell and Tiona found themselves a game to play instead of training for once.
Bell and Tiona: ...and GO!!!
Bell-Paper/Tiona-Scissors
When he saw he lost, he quickly grabbed the steel helmet in front of him and put it on his head while Tiona was quick to grab the war hammer in front of her.
Clang*
Bell sighed in relief that he was safe as the hammer only hit steel.
Tiona: Aw man, I thought I had you that time.
Bell: *Laugh* Sorry, not that time!
They both smiled before staring at each other again. They put their objects back in front and went back to the game.
Bell and Tiona: GO!!!
Bell-Rock/Tiona-Scissors
Bonk*
The girl wasn't fast enough and Bell bashed her over the head with his war hammer.
Tiona: Gah!!! Argh, you're too fast!!
They played this for a while and very loudly. The sound of crashing and metal banging against metal had gotten the attention of a certain elf.
Riveria: What's going on?!
She arrived and saw the two sitting across from each other as well as the armor and weapons in front of them.
Riveria: What are you two doing?!
Tiona: You said to take it easy to today and that training wasn't allowed.
Bell: So we found a game to play instead.
Riveria: *Eye twitching* And you thought that those weapons were toys?!
Bell: It's not like we'd hit each other hard enough to hurt them.
Tiona: Yeah, it's fine!! *Smiling*
The elf sighed and shook her head.
Riveria: Regardless, pounding your heads with those hammers is not a children's game.
AN: Neither is the part when Bell pounds your ass in the future.
She took the equipment and scolded them more before leaving. It was still a bit past noon and they already had lunch. Now they had to find something else to do.
Bell: Library?
Tiona: *Excited* Yeah!!!
The two then went to the library in the Manor and looked for some hero stories to read. Where was Ais during all this? She was also in the library, but she was busy taking lessons from Riveria. There was a pile of papers and books next to her while the elf watched her work.
Riveria: I won't tolerate any of your studies falling behind, young lady. *Glare*
The girl shivered in her seat as she wrote, but turned her gaze to the side and saw Bell and Tiona picking out books on the shelf. When she saw them laughing, she pouted and grumbled which annoyed the elf.
Riveria: Focus!!
The elf was concerned about the two being in here. She initially thought Tiona would have to take some of her lessons, but for some reason, Alfia had graciously given the girl some tips to improve herself. This surprised her when Tiona told the story, but it sounded like Alfia had tolerated the girl. Tiona said she just had to not scream and did so because she didn't want to be rude to Bell's mom which was strange considering she didn't do the same for her.
Some time later...
It was close to evening and they had finished most of what they wanted to do. Considering it had been a while, Bell wanted them to come over for dinner. He had invited Tione as well, but she declined to help Finn instead. The last month did wonders for her and she quickly became his right hand girl. They arrived and came inside where they were greeted.
Bell: We're home!!
Alise: Hey, Bell! Oh, looks like we have company! *Smiling*
Riveria: Pardon the intrusion. The boy invited us over.
Hera: It's no bother.
Astraea: You're always welcome friends to us.
Bell washed up and went to see what Zald was doing.
Bell: Are you cooking, Uncle?
Zald: Yup, dinner will be ready soon.
Bell: Cam I help?
Zald: Sure, you've made this before, so you should know what to do.
The boy nodded and did what was needed be it chopping vegetables or preparing seasonings. Once the food was ready and the table was set, they all sat down and ate their food. The dinner was uneventful as they just talked about minor things like what happened today. Though, Zeus and Zald had a laugh after hearing about the game Bell and Tiona were playing.
Hera: *Sigh* And just what made you think that was a game?
Bell: I saw kids playing it before and it looked like fun.
Tiona: Yeah, but there weren't any of those toys they had, so we used the stuff from the armory.
On one hand, she was relieved they were taking easy acting their age, but on the other, she was concerned because they were doing dangerous things and acting their age.
Astraea: Just don't play dangerous games like that. We wouldn't want you to get hurt.
Bell and Tiona: Okaaaay~
The rest of the night went by and everyone went to sleep. Bell decided to have a sleep over with Ais and Tiona. They stayed in his room where they read some more stories before passing out.
Zeus: *Sigh* Finally asleep.
He walked back to the living room where Zald was waiting for him.
Zeus: So, what did you want from me?
Zald: I need to discuss something that happened with our group during our dive to the Deep Floors. I also need this to stay between us, which is why I checked to make sure Alfia and Hera were asleep. The others are also out like a light so it's only us now.
Zeus: Alright, so what is it?
Zald: I'm sure you remember the black minotaur Bell spoke about before when he was telling about his time in the dungeon.
Zeus: Yes, the boy had a quest of his own.
The god was rambling which the man cut short.
Zald: Zeus, he's hiding something.
Zeus: Hm?
Zald: When we were down there, Bell said "He" when the monster showed up.
Zeus: He did?
The man nodded.
Zeus: And you are certain it wasn't just a slip of the tongue. Adventurers have given genders to monsters before, especially the more human looking ones.
Zald: If it was that simple, it wouldn't bother me as much. The problem is how adamant he is about dealing with it on his own. By now, that monster is level 7 or even greater in strength, and he's still insists on doing it on his own. He isn't the most prideful child out there, so it makes little sense for him to turn down help.
The old god looked at his child with a neutral expression.
Zeus: So, are you going to confront him about it?
Zald: No, not now. I know Bell enough that whatever he's doing, it's for a good reason. All I want to know is what that reason is, but I don't want to pressure Bell into telling when it's obvious he doesn't want to share.
Zeus: Fair enough. The boy knows how to share things with us when he feels it's fine for us to know. I just hope it doesn't put his friends into danger.
Zald: Me as well.
The following day, Riveria and the others returned home while Bell wanted a challenge from his Uncle. He figured a fight with him could probably push him to level up if he went all out, so the two went to the dungeon to do that.
Meanwhile...
The remnants of Evilus were busy with their work. After their crushing defeat, they had been waiting to strike. Although, a certain pig was face to face with one of their gods.
Thanatos: This is really no good, Royman. The plan to eliminate them on the expedition failed miserably.
Royman: I-I am deeply sorry for that.
Thanatos: *Sigh* Now what? Our forces aren't nearly enough to launch an attack on Orario.
Royman: The more we delay, the more difficult it will be. Those monsters from Zeus and Hera are still at the surface and Freya is on her way back as we speak.
Thanatos: I know, and I-
The door of the room slammed open to reveal a cloaked goddess and an individual who was likely a child of hers.
Thanatos: Oh? To what do we owe the pleasure of your presence, Ishtar?
Ishtar: We can skip these pleasantries. I came to see the progress of the item you promised me.
The purple robed god gained a wicked smile at that.
Thanatos: Hehehe! You came at a great time then! Follow me. *Looks to Royman* You can go for now. I'll notify you if I need an audience.
The elf bowed and took his leave while the gods went to their business. Arriving at their destination, the room was just a balcony that peered down into a giant hole. Inside it, there was a giant bull monster with what appeared to be a green girl's body on its head. The creature was devouring the vast amounts of magic stones it was practically swimming in.
Ishtar: *Curious* I take it that's what you were talking about?
Thanatos: Yes. The experimental demi spirits from over a year ago may have failed, but this one will be ready. Ever since it was made, we've made sure to supply it with a vast amount of magic stones. *Menacing giggle* The best part is, those stones mostly come from the guild when adventurers cash them in for money!
The goddess of beauty in the room smirked at that.
Ishtar: That's quite messed up. So, how strong is it? I don't want a faulty product when I sick this on Freya.
Thanatos: For now, it should be on the cusp of level 7, but the safest estimate is around high level 6. Most adventurers in the city won't be able to take it down.
Ishtar: *Scowl* There's still those monsters Alfia and Zald.
Thanatos: Yes, two level 8s do not make it easy for us. If we delay this for around another few months, nothing in the city will be able to stop it.
Ishtar: *Sigh* Oh fine, I suppose my patience will be rewarded.
Thanatos: *Smiling* Great! In the meantime, we also have to test our other demi spirit experiments. We've made decent progress so far, and we hope the next generation will be even mor powerful than this one.
Ishtar: It just better be worth the money I'm investing in your projects.
Thanatos: Oh, I'm sure you'll he a happy customer, my dear Ishtar.
Ishtar: For your sake, I hope so. The Bull of Heaven will be my key to revenge against Freya.
Back on the surface, it was nearly evening. The door to the entrance of Stardust Garden opened to show Zald and Bell returning.
Hera: Welcome home, you two- OH MY GOODNESS!!!
She goddess rushed to her grandchild as Zald laid him down on the sofa and saw he was still out cold and rather injured.
Hera: I hope he gets what he wanted for your sake. *Upset*
Zald: You think I'm scared of you?! Nothing you say could ever compare to what Alfia will do to me when she finds out!!
Hera: I think I'm plenty enough.
Zald: No, you aren't even close. I have to go get more potions for Bell before she comes. If Alfia sees him like this she'll-
He began to pale as he looked back at the sleeping Bell, only to find that Alfia was there tending to the boy without either of them noticing.
Alfia: Oh no, don't mind me. By all means *Looks to Zald* give me some ideas. *Angry*
Timeskip...
After dragging the large man outside and thoroughly beating him up, Alfia returned with several potions and gave them to Bell. Afterward, he slowly began to wake up to see Hera and Alfia there along with Astraea who heard Zald's screams of pain.
Astraea: My goodness, Bell!!!
Bell: H-Hi, goddess. *Tired*
Hera: Can you just check if he's ready for his level up? Alfia already left Zald outside to reflect.
They looked outside to see him face down and groaning in pain.
Astraea: Sure.
She got access to Bell's back and began the update. She was surprised at what she saw, but was also relieved.
Astraea: Yup, you're ready.
Bell: Yay!!!
Bell Cranel
Astraea Familia
Level 5 - 6
Str XX-1673 - I-0
End XX-1709 - I-0
Dex XX-1695 - I-0
Agl XX-1792 - I-0
Mag XXX-1847 - I-0
Magic
-Blaze
Skills
-Thunderlord
-Liaris Freese
-Argonaut
-Accelerant
-Ox Slayer (New)
Development Abilities
-Luck E
-Aero Mana G
-Abnormal Resistance E
-Strong Body H
Astraea: *Dizzy* Ugh, he's still only a child...
Hera: *Hugs Bell* My little boy is level 6!!!
Alfia: *Smiling* Good work, Bell.
Bell: Thanks!
She squeezed his shoulder harder, causing him to squeak.
Alfia: Since you did level up, I'll go easier on you for your punishment. *Smiling*
Astraea: Well, he has to choose his new development ability and I also have to show his new skill.
Bell: Skill?
Astraea: Yes, Ox Slayer. Looks like you'll fight better against ox like opponents.
The boy gulped internally as he had a decent idea of why that is.
Alfia: You also mentioned development abilities?
Astraea: I did. I see Escape, Fist Strike and Relentless.
Hera: That last one is interesting.
Astraea: You and Zeus have been at this for much longer than me. What does that do?
Hera: It's quite useful in battle. If memory serves me right, it lessens fatigue during long battles.
Alfia: It's less about fights and more about physical activities in general. The user will have more stamina as a whole.
AN: More stamina, huh?
Bell: Maybe I should get that then?
Hera: You are clearly strong enough as it is. I think you could use more ways to last rather than increase your power. You already have access to large amounts of magic and you aren't even a mage.
Astraea: It's still your choice, Bell.
He thought about it too. Being able to fight longer would probably be more useful than what the other two have to offer. Then again, he remembered Hera said the first was able to be gotten past level 4.
Bell: (I can just level up again and get that next time.) I'll get the last one!
The goddess did her work and Bell's level up was finished. He held the sheet in his hands with a big smile.
Bell: I can't wait to tell the others about this!!!
Astraea: You can do that later. First, we need to submit this to the guild and-
She stopped and a look of great worry appeared on her face.
Astraea: Say, did we ever update Bell's status in the guild since he arrived?
Everyone there stopped to think and they realized she was right.
Hera: *Sweatdrop* I guess we were so caught up in his return we forgot about that. We may as well do that tomorrow along with updating your record. I'll tell your Grandpa whenever that idiot gets back.
With Zeus...
The two were in Hermes' office discussing matters most wouldn't expect.
Hermes: My Familia spotted Freya and her executive on their way back. Estimations say they will arrive here in around two or so days. I figured I should let you know about this in advance.
Zeus: Well, things won't be boring with her back. Just hope her Captain will keep her in line.
Hermes: Actually, Mia was retiring the moment they get back from their trip. Ottar is going to take her place with Vana Freya coming as Vice Captain.
Zeus: Well, that boaz is in a better mental state compared to the others in his Familia. If only they could be like Mia. The only other good thing to come from this is also Freya's reaction when she finds out she was overtaken by Loki.
Hermes: Hahaha, that's true. Another matter to discuss is about the strange monsters that you all encountered in the Deep Floors during your expedition. My Familia has done some digging, but there are no signs that these monsters were here before. On top of the stones you've given us to look at, it would be safe to assume those monsters were artificially created by something other than the Dungeon.
Zeus: It makes no sense! Who would even bother doing this?!
Hermes: Whoever it is, they're planning something big. We should ready ourselves for the future just in case.
Zeus: Believe me, if anyone is getting ready, it's Bell. The boy left earlier with Zald to try and level up and knowing him, it probably worked.
Hermes: Ah yes, that boy will be a key player for us and the world.
The old god glared at his friend.
Zeus: That still doesn't make me happy about it.
Hermes: *Upset* Believe me, sending a child to do a hero's job upsets me as well, but we both know it will be up to him someday.
Zeus: Right, well, I should be heading back now.
Hermes: Sure. Tell him I said congratulations.
Zeus: I will. Next time you call for me, I hope it's for spying on women instead of something like that.
Hermes: *Smiling* You know that's how I prefer it.
The old god then left and made his way back home. Back with Bell, he was telling the three women about what happened.
Bell: And then he threw me into a wall again, but I was ready that time! My magic wasn't helping that much and my weapons were too short.
Astraea: A sword would probably work better for you.
Hera: Yeah, a sword- wait, what about the old one you had?
The boy wondered what she was talking about and suddenly remembered the sword Astraea had gotten for him for his birthday years ago.
Bell: AH! I forgot about that!
Astraea: D-Did you lose it? That was pretty expensive. *Nervous*
Bell: No, a friend of mine was holding on to it for me! I can go get it tomorrow.
Alfia: Who would this friend be?
Bell: You all met him. It was Fels, the person in the robe.
Astraea: Well, if it was some Lord Ouranos trusts, it should be fine. In anycase, we should get a big feast going to celebrate.
Hera: That will be a challenge right now.
They realized Zald was still outside, not healed of his injuries.
Alfia: Bell, you shouldn't be cooking for your party. I'll get him back on his feet while you just relax.
Bell: Okay.
And so, she went out and splashed some potions on the man as he slowly got back up.
Zald: Ow...
Alfia: Oh, walk it off. You've been through worse.
Zald: Easy for you to say. Let me guess, you need me to cook since you-
Alfia: *Menacing glare* Continue that sentence, and no potion in this world will be able to fix what I do next.
Zald: So, what am I making?
Back inside, Bell was sitting in the living room where Hera was brushing his hair after he took a bath.
Bell: Can't I do that myself?
Hera: Of course not. Doting on their grandchild is part of being a grandmother.
While this happened, the doors opened as the girls let themselves inside.
Alise: You can all relax; I'm back home now!
Kaguya: Please be quiet. Today was hard enough.
Astraea: Did everything go alright?
Neze: For the most part, yes, but there were some complications.
They turned their attention to Lyra who walked to the bathroom humming a tune to herself.
Hera: And why is she different?
Neze: Oh, she just got a date with Braver tomorrow. The hard part was sneaking past the amazon with him. She is quite attached to him and we weren't looking to pick fights with her.
Alise: Anything exciting happen while we were gone?
Hera practically beamed at that while Astraea smiled sheepishly.
Astraea: I-I think Bell can tell you.
They turned to the boy who was sitting in Hera's lap.
Bell: I'm level 6!
Alise: No way!!
They were dumbfounded hearing a boy his age being even close to that level.
Ardi: That's great, Bell!
Iska: Congrats, kid!
Ryuu: Level 6 is quite the milestone. Good job.
Kaguya: *Smiling* We're all very proud of you! (AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!!)
Neze: What are we doing to celebrate?
Astraea: Zald is making a big feast for us to enjoy. You all get changed and get ready.
The girls: Yes, Goddess!
They did so and soon the smell of food could be smelled throughout the entire house. Neze had it pretty bad and couldn't stop her mouth from watering. Meanwhile, the door opened again to show Zeus returning home.
Zeus: I'm back!
Hera: Where have you been?
Zeus: Hermes wanted to see me.
Hera: *Rolling her eyes* Of course. Forget I asked. Well, while you were gone, Bell has successfully leveled up.
Zeus: HAHAHA!! Why am I not surprised?! That's great news!
Hera: WHEN the girls are finished, go and clean yourself. No doubt you reek of many things from the Pleasure District.
Once the girls were done, the god did as he was asked and soon, everyone was ready in the dining room. They sat in their seats and had glasses in their hands.
Zeus: To Bell's rise to level 6!!! Cheers!!!
Everyone: CHEERS!!!
And so, they all started eating, save Alise and Neze, who both were fiercely devouring their food.
Alise: MMM!!! IT'S SO GOOD!!!
Kaguya: Will you get a grip?!
Iska: So, how did the kid do?
Zald: Well, it definitely hurt for me as much as it did for him. He is getting an even better grasp on his fire magic than before. It's hard for me to say which he is better with now.
Ardi: What would you say was his strongest move?
Zald: Well, he was able to charge a massive Argonaut fire spell at me. *Rubbing his arm* Even after all those potions, I think I'll still be feeling that tomorrow.
Ryuu: The fight with Bell was that hard for you? You're level 8.
Zald: I was beat up bad today. I'll chalk this as one of the worst battles in my life.
Ardi: The one with Bell?
Zald: No...
Astraea: O-Onto other things, Bell and I will have to pay a visit to the Guild tomorrow. We need to mark his level up as well as update his record.
Alise: Oh yeah, we never did tell them Bell was alive, did we?
Astraea: No, so we will be fixing that tomorrow. What about all of you?
Ardi: Lion and I will be take tomorrow off.
They all gave the girl a knowing look.
Alise: Take all the time you need. We can handle one day without you. *Smiling*
Ardi: Thanks.
Bell: If we're visiting her, can I go too?
The blue haired girl smiled at him.
Ardi: Sure, I know my sister would be happy to see you.
Hera: What about the rest of you?
Alise: I'm taking some of the others to Hephaestus' to get our gear checked out.
Zeus: If we're done talking about that, there is another topic we should address. Freya is on her way back. In two days, she'll be in Orario again.
Hera: That is good news. I've got some new toys to play with her.
Astraea: Are we sure messing with one of the top Familias is a good idea?
Hera: It should be fine.
Alise: So Bell, what new skills did you get?
Bell: Well...
The night came and went as they talked about his level up. After they finished, they stayed up a little later before going to bed for the night. Come the next day, Bell, Ryuu and Astraea went with Ardi to the cemetery after stopping by a flower shop. The walked down several paths before arriving at the grave they were looking for. It was far more extravagant compared to the others, but that was canceled out by whose grave it was. Ardi knelt down and placed the flowers on top.
Ardi: Sorry Sister, I know it's been a while since I came to visit. I've been busy, but I came with good news. It turns out Bell was alive the whole time. I hope you were watching over him and helping him during his hard times. I hope you'll keep watching us until the end. *Standing up* I still haven't given up hope. We'll keep peace and order in your place.
She continued the promise she made while they all gave a moment of silence to pray. When she was satisfied, the girl turned and smiled.
Astraea: You know, she would be really proud of you now. After all, you're almost as strong as she was.
Ardi: Thank you, Goddess.
Ryuu: So, the guild is next?
Astraea: Yes, but you don't have to keep following us.
Ardi: It's fine. We'd like to hang out with Bell for a change.
Astraea smiled and the four made their way to the Guild. Upon arriving, they talked to one of the receptionists in front of the counter.
Guild Staff A: What can I do for you, Goddess?
Astraea: We need to update the record of one of my children as well as submit their level up.
Guild Staff A: Right away. Let me fetch the documents for your Familia.
The lady left and came back a few minutes later which several files.
Guild Staff A: So, who is the adventurer you wish to update?
Astraea: The boy, Bell Cranel.
Guild Staff A: Let's see, Bell Cranel... here it is. Wait, it says he is deceased.
Bell: I'm right here.
She looked down and saw the boy who was supposed to be dead looking at her from below the counter. She looked to Astraea to the boy to the paper in her hand and back to Astraea who smiled sheepishly at her.
Astraea: If it makes you feel better, we were surprised too.
Guild Staff A: Right... well, if that is all, I will change him back to an active status. Now, you also mentioned a level up. He was level 3 last time you came here, so you can give me his next level up sheet to process.
Astraea: Here you are.
She handed the paper to her.
Guild Staff A: Thank you. So, we'll mark him down for level 6 and-
She paused and reread the sheet in her hands. On it, she saw that she boy was now level 6.
Guild Staff A: Are you positive this is correct? You know you will be heavily penalized if this is false.
Astraea: The Guild knows my Familia doesn't work like that. I give you my word as a Goddess of Justice that what is written on that sheet it true.
The woman's hands were trembling.
Guild Staff A: I-I need to grab my boss.
She left and the familiar face of Rehmer was seen next to her.
Rehmer: Goddess Astraea, I'm told you want to update the record of your child?
She nodded.
Rehmer: While I am aware of your Familia's work, we won't be able to allow something like this. It's practically impossible for that child to be a level 6 in this short of a time window.
This got many in the Guild talking. They looked at Bell as murmered about how he was the Record Holder for every level. If it wasn't, it was about how impossible it was for a child to reach level 6.
Astraea: I can understand why you are hesitant, but I assure you that this is true.
Rehmer and the receptionist spoke to themselves for a bit before breaking apart again.
Rehmer: Alright, it looks like we will need to take you to either Royman or Lord Ouranos to verify this directly. Now, I understand this may be over the top, but since it's you we are dealing with, we need to make absolutely sure nothing has been falsified. Not just for you, but for the Guild as a whole.
Astraea: *Nodding* I understand. What of the children?
Rehmer: They may go for now, but I need to get in touch with either of my superiors. Even I don't know how long this could take.
The two left and Astraea turned to Bell.
Astraea: I think I'll stay for now. Bell, you take them to get your sword back.
Bell: Okay, but we'll be back.
Astraea: *Patting his head* That's a good boy.
Afterward, Bell lead Ryuu and Ardi through some strange streets which confused them.
Ryuu: Where are we going?
Bell: We have to take the secret entrance. Just don't tell the others about this.
Ardi: Probably a good idea. Not even the gods know what Alise would do.
They traveled through some more dark corridors before entering Ouranos' chamber. Once there, Bell greeted the god, but Ryuu and Ardi were in awe at being in the same room as THE Lord Ouranos.
Bell: Hello, Lord Ouranos!
The old god was surprised to see the boy.
Ouranos: Bell? Why are you here?
Bell: Well, we were supposed to tell the Guild about my level up, but they didn't believe us. The dog man said he would go to you or to some person named Royman.
There was a slight twitch in the god's eye when Bell mentioned that name. He was suspicious about the elf for a while, but had no concrete evidence to work with. He only knew there was something up ever since the Loki Familia expedition.
Ouranos: *Shaking his head* Ah, I can see that. Well, should they come to me, I will give my seal of approval.
Bell: Thank you!
Ouranos: Is that all you need?
Bell: No, I'm looking for Fels. He still has my sword.
They talked as if they were good friends. Well, they were, but the fact it was happening left Ryuu and Ardi at a loss for words.
Ouranos: I have called for him. In the mean time, are these two friends of yours?
Bell: Yeah, they're part of my Familia.
The two broke from their trance and bowed.
Ryuu: R-Ryuu Lion!! Astraea Familia, Lord Ouranos!! An honor to meet you!!
Ardi: A-Ardi Varma of the same Familia. It is an honor to meet you, my Lord.
Ouranos: *Holding a hand up* At ease, children. The honor is mine.
After a few moments, Fels came into the chamber.
Fels: You called?
Ouranos: Yes, Bell here needs you.
Fels: Bell Cranel, it's good to see you.
Bell: Yeah, nice to see you too. So, I sort of need my sword back since I'm back on the surface.
Fels: Say no more. Follow me. Your friends are free to join as well. You see, something strange happened ever since last night and I have reasons to assume were the cause.
Bell: Oh, is that bad?
Fels: It's not bad, but... ah, you just have to see for yourself. Come along now.
They walked down anothe corridor and Ardi spoke.
Ardi: So, your friend is looking a little thin. Is he ok?
Fels: I assure you I'm fine. This is how I normally look. On the topic of me, you people will be one of the few to ever step foot here.
They exited the first corridor and entered the room.
Fels: Behold, this is my Lab!
Lab: *Woof*
Ardi couldn't suppress her squeal at seeing the cute dog in it's own play room. They walked through the next doorway and entered the next room.
Fels: And this is my laboratory!
The new room was full of strange looking instruments and items.
Ardi: Wow, this place is something else.
Ryuu: I'm not sure if even Perseus has a set up quite like this.
The two looked around the place and Fels lefts for a storage room. When he came out, he returned with a Familiar black blade that Bell hadn't seen in a long time.
Fels: Here you are. *Hands it to Bell*
Bell: Oh, thank you so much!
Fels: Just brace yourself.
Bell: For what-
As soon as he touched the blade, it glowed blue and the loud voice of a little girl was heard throughout the entire room.
???: YOU!!! So, you finally decided to show yourself after abandoning me so long ago!!!
Bell: Ah, what the?!
Ardi: *Covering her ears* What was that?!
Fels: That's what I was warning you about.
Bell heard that and looked back to his sword.
???: Some partner you are!! You use me for a little bit then you decide to abandon me!!! If I wasn't stuck like this, I'd make you rye the day you left me in this shop!!!
Anytime it spoke, the runes would light blue in rhythm with her speech.
Bell: Wait, are you my sword?
???: I sure am!!! The same sword you left behind for over a year!!! You're nothing but a big meanie!!!
Bell: I-I'm sorry!!! I couldn't let people know it was me, so I had to use something else for a while!!!
???: Why didn't you just keep me with you?! You could have just set me aside and grabbed me when you came back!!! Instead, dry bones over there left me in that closet to collect dust!!! If I had a body, I'd be sneezing over and over again!!!
Fels: First, leave my bones out of this! Second, if Bell took you, that runs either risk of his family discovering his identity or him losing you in an accident!!
After saying that, the girl voice began sniffling as if she were about to cry.
???: BWAAAAAH!!! He's being mean!!! *Crying*
By now, Ryuu and Ardi didn't know what to feel anymore. This was just too much weirdness for one day.
Timeskip several minutes...
Fels: Are you calm now?
???: Mhm.
Fels: Good, now that that's over with, Bell here is going to bring you back with him.
???: Only if you promise to stay from now on.
Bell: I will. I'm sorry I had to leave you behind.
???: Yay!!! I get to stay with you again.
Ryuu: This is great, but what do we call her? It's clear this is a special sword, so she needs a name.
Fels: Well, part of her composition comes from Astraea along with another from Bell so it's linked to him.
???: So, are they my Mama and Papa?
Ardi blushed at that idea while Ryuu did a spit take.
Ryuu: P-Parents? But he isn't even 10 yet... Oh, Goddess... *pale*
Ardi: But to make a child, they would have to... *Blushing*
Fels: Calm down, nothing you are thinking of happened.
They breathed a brief sigh of relief, but that was quickly nullified when he continued.
Fels: They may technically be the parents of her, but that doesn't mean they were in that kind of relationship.
Ryuu: So they are her mother and father!!!
She quickly rushed to the specter and gripped his neck tightly.
Ryuu: THERE MUST BE SOME MISTAKE!!! YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS WHEN YOU SAY A CHILD AND OUR GODDESS HAD ANOTHER CHILD TOGETHER!!! *Strangling him*
Fels: *Gagging* L-Let g-go... y-you're choking- wait... *Looks down* I can't choke.
Ryuu and Ardi had gotten a better view of Fels and saw that he was indeed nothing but bones.
Ryuu: What in the world?!
Ardi: HYAAAAAH!!! A spartoi!!!
Bell: Wait, he isn't a monster!!!
Fels: I'll keep it brief. I was once human, but certain events lead to me looking like this. As for Bell and your goddess, they are not in that kind of relationship.
AN: Yet
Fels: As such, your worries are wasted. The boy himself clearly doesn't know why you are worried to begin with.
He pointed to Bell who was confused at why they were worried, but glad they weren't attacking his friend anymore.
The elf was still flustered, but was able to calm down. She knew nothing like that was happening between Bell and their goddess, but still, the idea of it sat poorly with her. Even Ardi was still slightly red in the face.
Fels: Now then, if you're down with that, our friend needs a name and I believe Bell should decide.
Bell: *Pointing to himself* Me?
Fels: It is your sword.
The boy stared at the blade in his hand and thought about it.
Bell: Libra.
Ardi: Are you sure?
Bell: What do you think?
Libra: I like how it sounds! Libra it is!!! I'll call you Papa then!
She sounded happy with her name.
Fels: Good, then I believe that covers our business here.
Bell: Yup, thanks!
The specter nodded before the three left the same way they entered. Though, what she said at the end left Ryuu worried about the future. They bid Ouranos farewell and returned to the Guild to see Astraea waiting for them outside.
Astraea: Good, you're here. We were in luck and they were able to get approval from Lord Ouranos.
Ardi: That's great! Now Bell will be recognized as a level 6 adventurer!
The goddess noticed the slightly worried look on Ardi and the nearly mortified look on Ryuu.
Astraea: What's wrong with you two? Were you not able to get his sword?
Ardi: No, he got it but...
Ryuu: We'll explain it to you when we get back.
They made their way back home and once they did, there would be a very long discussion.
AN: Alright, the next chapter should be the last of this minor filler arc. Afterward, the next one will be starting. If you wonder why I cut out the fight against Zald, it's because nothing really changed from what they would normally do back home. The same goes for everyone else's level ups, but at least the whole Familia is First Class now.
As always, thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed. I'm probably going to focus more on this and Universes and Reactions as there are some big events in the near future for both of them. I'm also working on Embers in my spare time, so in short: I'll be busy. Chao~