Rolan finished preparations with the projector again and was now ready to resume the showing of Bell's adventures with his friends. He had also given any newcomers the basic rundown of what they had missed before this.
Bell: If I remember right, we were still making our way down to Floor 18's safe zone.
Meteria's good mood turned sour when she recalled the plight her son was going gets through when they last watched.
Welf: Yeah, that was pretty rough.
Lili: We made it out, though.
Meteria: But how close was it? I have to know what my son went through before he was safe.
Bell sweated a bit remembering his close encounters with death before arriving to the safe zone.
Rolan: Let's find out.
The screen lit up again and showed several monsters dying as Bell fought through them. Hestia's voice was heard as she sounded her knowledge of Bell's condition.
Hestia: I know he's alive. I can still feel his blessing.
With Bell, he was cutting down another monster only for it to reveal a hellhound about to attack after dying.
Bell: Gh?!
Welf used his magic again to kill it and clear the path once more. He panted from overexerting himself as did everyone else. They were all close to their breaking points.
In the audience...
Meteria: *Worried* They look terrible!
Zald: That's what it looks like to have an adventure. Your son is doing well for the difficulty he's facing.
Bell: Thank you, Uncle.
Many others close to Bell had pained expressions watching the three fight for their lives.
On screen...
The video changed to show the rescue party on their way down. Ryuu and Asfi were easily dispatching the monsters into their way. The others with them and many in the audience were impressed at their skill.
Mikoto: Amazing. That took mere seconds and they finished them so easily.
Ouka: It's hard to wrap your head around.
Ryuu: *Turning back to them* We have to keep moving.
The screen showed Asfi as Ouka narrated the information about her.
Ouka: Asfi Al Andromeda. A talented item crafter known as Perseus.
The three then turned their attention to Ryuu.
Chigusa: Is that true?
Mikoto: It's like she's the wind.
In the audience...
Alise: Haha! That's right! Don't you underestimate our little sister!
Ryuu: *Embarrased* Stop calling me that!
Kaguya: *Giggles* No, I don't think we will. Even if you are older than us now, you'll always be our little one.
The elf lowered her head in embarrassment while the others continued to tease her. Meanwhile Hermes boasted the strength of his Captain.
Back on screen, the rescue party continued downward. Soon, they came to a pile of debris that stretched nearly to the ceiling.
Ryuu: What's this?
Ouka: That can't be good.
Ryuu started to climb to the other side while Hestia noticed something in the rubble.
Hestia: *Holding a dagger* N-No... this is Bell's...
Ryuu got to the top and found a mix of empty supplies and monster stones.
Ryuu: They aren't over here.
Asfi: They won't get far if they lost their equipment here. Their party is more competent than that. All that leaves is that they abandoned the idea of climbing back up. Rather, they kept going down to the safe zone on Floor 18.
Mikoto: Huh?
Asfi: There are plenty of shafts that go straight down in the Dungeon. They figured going down would be better than going back up.
Ouka: What? They went down? Why would they do that?
Ryuu: I would've done that. Besides, they, or he, finished his first adventure and wanted to push forward.
Hermes: I see what you're saying.
Hestia: Me too. I can feel them further down.
Asfi: Then our next objective will be to go to Floor 18.
Hestia: (Please. Please, be ok, Bell.)
Another hellhound exploded as the screen switched back to Bell. After that, Welf went limp in Bell's arms.
Bell: Welf! (Oh no, Mind Down!) *Turning to Lili* Now what?
When he turned back, the prum was already down on the ground.
In the audience...
Tiona: That doesn't look good.
Tione: That's an understatement.
Finn: Let's see how he handles it.
With Bell...
Meteria: *Tearing up* Now what? They're both unconscious!
Hestia: I can't believe this is how it's happening!
Bell: This was our adventure. Eep!
He felt a glare of death coming from Eina when he said this. He forgot that he left out some details about it so now she could see everything that happened to him and she was not happy about it.
Misha: *Scared* Uh, Eina?
Eina: Idiot... *Furious*
Rolan: Oh, before I forget, Freya, don't count on getting off on Bell's adventure.
Freya: Huh?
Rolan: I had Mia slip some special anti-horny serum into the food you ate while training, so have fun with that.
Freya: Why!? *Crying*
Back on screen...
Bell did the only thing he could think of in the moment. He got rid of everything unnecessary and carried them both with his arms the rest of the way down. Many in the audience admired him as he stared down the next shaft where monsters noises could be heard.
Finn: That was a risky but smart move to abandon all your equipment.
Bell: It would've slowed us down, so I figured it was the best option.
Alfia: It probably was.
Welf: You could've handled me a little better. My leg was broken and you dragged it across the ground.
Bell: Sorry.
Welf: I'm just kidding. That was a lot rougher than what I was picturing.
Meteria was biting her nails in worry as the scenes played out.
On screen...
He slid down and crashed down into the next floor. After that, the screen changed back to the rescue team.
Hestia: Now would be a good time for you to explain why you're here to help Bell, Hermes.
Hermes: I already told you, I want to lend a hand to a friend-
Hestia: You think I'm a fool, Hermes?
Hermes: Uh... alright, fine. Someone's just asked me to help keep an eye on Bell.
In the audience...
Zeus: Many thanks, Hermes. I knew I could count on you.
Hermes: Anytime, old friend.
Hestia: That would explain a lot of what's happened with him.
Hera: What happened?
Rolan: You'll see later.
Bell: *Nervous*
On screen...
Hestia: Someone asked you?
Hermes: That's right. However, I didn't come down just to follow orders. I have my own agenda with the boy. His strength has me very curious about him.
The screen shifted to show Bell carrying his friends further.
Hermes: I want to see if he is capable of carrying the new age.
In the audience...
Welf: New age?
Hera: Zeus? *Holding a broom*
Zeus: H-Hera, love, p-put the broom down.
Rolan: I wouldn't let him talk anyway. That new age is something to be said later.
Hera: Of course it is...
On screen...
Bell: You're kidding me!
They arrived to a new place that looked much different from everywhere they've been so far. The lighting was brighter than the previous floors.
Bell: The Wall of Lamentation.
The boy gulped as he recalled Lili's words earlier.
Lili: [Goliath. The Loki Familia should have taken care of it. Considering it's respawn time, we should barely make it.]
As the words played out, he kept moving at a faster pace. Just then, the walls and floor began shaking around them and rocks fell from the ceiling.
In the audience...
Meteria was now biting Alfia's nails and everyone else watched with anxiety at their plight.
Tiona: Watch for the rocks!
Tione: They can't hear you, idiot!
Lefiya: Oh no, look!
She pointed to where the wall cracked open. On screen, the Monster Rex was being born out of the walls. The giant monster began breaking itself out and right new to Bell and the others as he kept running.
Meteria: Bell!!!
Welf: Holy- it was that close?!
Lili: Suddenly really glad Lili was unconscious.
Haruhime: I'm sure most of us would prefer it that way.
Loki Familia...
Raul: There's no way I could handle that even if i was Level 2 or 3!
Aki: That kid is nuts!
Finn: Guess we can see how he ended up like that.
Aria: *Rubbing Ais' head* Shh, he'll be fine, sweetie.
Ais watched with fear for her bunny as he dodged more debris.
Ilia: Seems he's rather, what's the word?
Epimetheus: Unfortunate??
Ilia: Not quite, but that's accurate of the boy.
Epimetheus: It makes no difference. Trials like this build the best heroes. We can see he was able to overcome it, but now we will see exactly how.
On screen...
As the monster laid eyes on them, Bell kept his fast pace to the end.
Bell: Keep running!!!
The monster tried to reach for him as Bell kept going.
Those who weren't present, so everyone but Bell, were more anxious than every while watching. Meanwhile, Freya just had a lost look on her face while watching.
Freya: (I want to be happy, but I also want to be horny.)
With the kids...
Albert(Emb): Is that why Dad didn't want us going on our own?
Eileen: You do remember you tried to replicate his adventures, right?
Albert(Emb): Yeah, but all of us did that.
On screen...
Bell: Whatever you do, don't stop!!!
The entrance was in front of him. Everyone saw the monster raise its fist and slam right as Bell and the others descended down.
Bell: AAAAAAHH!!! (Lili... Welf... Goddess...)
His world was white until he opened his eyes. When he did, he saw green grass around him and blue boots in front of him.
Bell: *Reaching out* M-My friends... need help... *passes out*
Ais: Ah, just the way I like you. Bloody, bruised and begging.
Take 2
The screen zoomed out and many could make out Ais' figure watching them.
In the audience...
Many were relieved the hard part was over.
Meteria: Haaaah... safe at last...
Alfia: Yes, it's a relief to see- *Sees her hands* wait, who cut my nails?
Zeus: That was quite an adventurer, my boy.
Bell: Yeah. Thankfully, Miss Ais was there along with her Familia. *Looks to her* Thanks again.
Ais smiled and nodded to him.
On screen...
The video shifted to Bell opening his eyes. Everyone saw he was bandaged up and resting in a tent.
Bell: Oh, by the Heavens, I'm alive. Where are Lili and Welf? Wait, I was saved by-
Ais: I'm in your bed.
Bell: UWAAAAAAHH!!!
Ais: I'm going in dry!
Bell: AAAAAAHH!
Ais: Please stop. My Familia already thinks I do weird shit.
Let's try that again
Bell: Ah! Welf, Lili- ugh... *Holding his head*
Ais: Are you alright?
He turned and saw Ais looking at him with worry. By how she sat, she was watching over him as he rested right next to her.
Bell: Huuuh?! Miss Ais? Where did you come from?!
Ais: My Familia came to this floor. We're resting here after our mission.
Bell: Floor 18? Are my friends- ngh...
His body was not yet at it's best condition. When he tried to crawl, he ended up slipping and ended up falling into the blonde's chest. His face exploded in red before he jumped away, squealing.
In the audience...
Loki/Lefiya: NOOOOOOOO!!!
Bete: *Crying manly tears* It's not fair...
Hestia: Bell?
Bell: I-I'm sorry!
Artemis: *Sigh* You're rather unlucky with these things. Or, would this be lucky?
Zeus: Yes!
Bonk*
Hera: Enough with you!
Aria: Now, that won't do, Ais. You should have held him down if you want him, right dear?
Albert: *Annoyed grumbling*
Aria: *Sigh* At the very least, you could give a reaction. Didn't you like having him there?
Ais: I... um...
The girl was quite conflicted with how she felt. She knew she liked it, but couldn't get the words out.
Aria: Oh dear.
Riveria: Ais has always had trouble getting her feelings out.
Ais: Sorry.
Rolan: It's quite alright. With what's she's been through, she unconsciously locked them away. Even now, while better, she still has some trouble letting them out.
Aria: Is there anything you can do for her?
Rolan: As a matter of fact there is.
He snapped his fingers and a golden glow lit from Ais' chest. The light dimmed and then a smaller Ais landed on the normal version's lap.
Mini Ais: Hm? Where am I? *Looks around* Wait, I'm out? I'm out! I'm finally free!!!
She jumped down and raised her hands up excitedly.
Aria: Ais? Wait, what's happening?
Tiona: Woah, a little Ais!
Lefiya: Two of Miss Ais. Ah~ *Faints*
Rolan: She isn't so different from the Ais you know. Rather, she is the true feelings Ais has suppressed.
Albert: She is?
Mini Ais looked around before spotting a certain albino.
Mini Ais: Mr. Rabbit!
She ran to him and attempted to jump into him before she was caught by Loki.
Loki: What do ya think you're doin'?!!
Mini Ais: I want to stay with him.
Loki: What?!
Aria: What do you mean by that?! *Excited*
Mini Ais: *Pouting* All the other girls got to have their moments with him and I want mine! I was going to give him a kiss and show I love him more than any of them!
Thud*
Loki fell to the ground, unconscious and crying while Albert was slumped in his chair with a ghost coming out of his mouth, also crying.
Haruhime: K-Kiss?!
Mini Ais: *Smiling brightly* Yeah! After that, we'd get married, have a family of our own and live happily ever after, like in the stories Mama would read to me- Mmph!!!
She was cut off when her older self had covered her mouth. The normal Ais was beet red and dragged the girl away from Bell who was also red in the face. Many of the other girls were also blushing at how forward the girl was, but vowed they wouldn't be shown up by a girl who could barely express her feelings. The challenge of who loved Bell more was more on than ever.
Tiona: Hold up. Isn't that Ais supposed to be her true feelings? *Pointing to Mini Ais*
Tione: Is that how you really feel about him, Ais?
Ais didn't say anything, but simply covered her face with her hands as steam rose from her head.
Aria: Aw, no need to be embarrassed, Ais. *Rubbing her head*
Zeus: Well, at least we know one of his future wives is willing to admit her love with confidence.
Mini Ais: No! I'm his only wife! I'm not sharing my bunny!
Aria: Ais, calm down! You just saw how sharing could work out!
Mini Ais: *Rolling on the ground and flailing her arms* I DON'T WANNA!!!
With the kids...
Albert(Emb): You know, this is kinda how I expected Mom to be.
Alise(Emb): Ariel is like that a little too.
Masako: Yeah, but her age allows that. Aunt Ais was older and acted half her age.
With Ryuu...
Astraea: Well, things got interesting.
Alise: Lion, you need to make yourself more obvious to him. Make him know how much you love him!
Lyra: Now's not the time to be holding back, girl! You gotta take your man!
Ryuu herself was blushing madly at how they worded their encouragement. After everyone settled down, and other girls quelled their jealousy for the moment, they returned to watching Ais and Bell talk on screen.
On screen, Bell saw Welf and Lili resting safely with him.
Bell: Welf, Lili?
Ais: They'll be fine. Riveria and the others treated them. *Feeling his head* You were just as bad as they were.
Bell: I- Uh, thanks for saving us.
Ais: *Shakes her head* Can you stand?
Bell: I think so.
Ais: *Stands up* Then you can come with me. You can give your report to our leader.
The main tent of their Familia was in view as Bell gave a dogeza Take would be proud of.
Bell: I'm very grateful for what you've done for us. Thank you.
Finn: Well, someone has grown since the last we met.
Riveria: That's golden coming from you, Captain.
Finn: Hey Riveria, suck my dick.
Riveria: Couldn't find it even if I wanted to, Captain. *Smug*
Finn: MMMMMMMM!!! *Annoyed*
Okay, last one
Gareth: Hahaha! So, you got to Floor 18 on your first trip to the Middle Floors, then give Goliath the slip?
Bell: Not exactly, sir. I really just got lucky.
In the audience...
Haruhime: Humble as always, Master Bell.
Bell: Uh, sorry?
Rolan: Don't be. That trait is what many admire about you.
The screen showed each major executive of the Loki Familia.
Bell: I just want to say I am very grateful to you for helping us.
Finn: You have gone through much. You and your party are free to stay as our guests.
Bell: Thank you. I promise I'll pay you back.
Finn: No, I could never abandon someone important to Ais. She'd never speak to me again.
They all had a moment to reminisce about Ais in the past.
Finn: Actually, some of our member were poisoned, so we sent our fastest runners back up for medicines. Until then, we're camping here.
In the audience...
Zeus: Damn, I can't believe Loki was useful for something.
Loki: Hey!
Hera: Technically, it was her Familia, not her. Many thanks, Braver.
Finn: Uh, sure.
Loki: Bitch!!!
Meteria: You sure were lucky they were here to help you, son.
Bell: Yeah, we were.
Meteria: That must mean they'll be allies you can count on in the future, right?
At that, Bell and Finn alike sweated a bit as did most of the Xenos.
Meteria: Right?
Rolan: Another time. Back to the show!
On screen, Bell and Ais exited the tent where two amazons met them.
Tiona: Oh, Argonaut!
Tione: Hey, Ais.
Ais: Tiona, Tione.
Tiona: Good to see you up, Argonaut.
Bell: Thanks, but what's with that name?
Tione: Hehe. He still doesn't now that's his nickname.
Tiona: You were totally amazing. The way you beat that minotaur was like in those story books I read when I was a kid! You looked like a hero! *Hugging his arm*
Bell: Uh... *Blushing*
Tione: So, you're Level 2. I have to say, getting down here is a lot more impressive than beating some silly bull.
Asterius will remember that.
The screen gave more attention to her breasts making the men cheer while Tiona tearfully looked at her cleavage.
Tiona: Aw, he's so cute when he blushes!
Bell: O-Oh, I-uh, it was nothing!
The boy was blushing harder before he and Ais began to leave. On their way, they passed by Lefiya who came to see them.
Lefiya: Thank you for your hard work, Miss Ais!
Ais: You as well, Lefiya.
Lefiya: *Menacing glare to Bell* (I won't forgive you if you do anything weird to her!)
Bell: (U-Understood!)
Lefiya saw the twins try to smother Bell again and grew more annoyed with him.
Bell: I-I'll check on my friends! I'll meet with you later, Miss Ais! *Running away*
Those in the audience shook their heads at rhe beet red boy who once again ran away from women.
Zeus: My boy, you need to get rid of that mentality. Once you get these girls in bed with you, there won't be anywhere to run. Rather, they're trapped with you instead of you with them.
Eina: Why do you keep telling him that?! *Blushing*
Zeus: Why does it matter to you? You'll be one of the women having fun with my Grandson.
Eina: Ah- (Blushing harder).
Bell: G-Grandfather!
Bell(Urano): He brings up a good point, Bell.
Bell: Huh?
Bell(Urano): You'll have to learn how to handle your wives when the time is right.
Hera: I don't know if we- Mmph!
Zeus: *Covering her mouth* Do go on.
Bell(Urano): Don't worry, I know many ways to please them. One trick for the elves is to lay them with their back on your chest while on your back. That way, their breasts are close enough so you can-
Rolan: Okay, no need to spoil anything.
Zeus: Tell me, Bell! How was it when you did that?!
Bell(Urano): It was hot! Eina never told me she had such a good singing voice, but I get to hear it a lot!
The half-elf was passed out with a red face with Bell bit far behind her. The other elves were also blushing at their words.
Rose: What did you do to our, Eina?!
Bell(Urano): Nothing she doesn't ask for.
Even Riveria was blushing at hearing how future Eina was.
Alfia: Why is he acting like that?
Rolan: A byproduct of growing up. Need I remind you he's a husband and father of two children with another on the way?
Thud*
That was it for Bell as he passed out too. Meanwhile, the other Bell was giving more head scratches to Eiri to keep her calm and happy.
Lyd: Bellchi is the alpha rabbit.
Alulu: Kyu!
Gros: The young man will have hard times ahead of him.
Wiene: Something wrong, Ray?
Ray: *Jealous grumbling*
Laura: She's just jealous, Wiene.
After another break, they returned to the screen when Lefiya arrived.
Lefiya: So, why do girls care about that human anyway? Did something happen?
Tione: Well, you see...
Tiona: It was amazing! He beat a minotaur as a Level 1!
Tione: By himself too.
Lefiya: Oh, I see...
.
.
.
Lefiya: *Shocked* EEEEEHH?!
In the audience, the Loki Familia felt some embarrassment seeing Lefiya act like that for everyone to see. Celdia was also cringing at seeing her mother like that.
Loki: Damn, a little overprotective, eh, Lefiya?
Lefiya: I-I apologize.
Celdia: M-Mom, this is where it ends, right? *Worried* Y-You'll treat Dad better, right?
The elf recalled other moments she had with the boy not long after that and just gave a weak smile to her worried daughter.
Back on screen, Bell and Ais were walking through a dense forest before the light blinded Bell a bit.
Bell: Aren't we in the Dungeon? Why is it so bright?
He had to cover his eyes once they got out.
Bell: Is that...
Ais: Yes, it's made entirely of crystal. The light fades and shines periodically which gives this place a day and night.
Bell looked amazed as did several others in the audience.
Argo: The Dungeon is something else. I never expected to find out something like this.
Yuri: Almost makes me want to take up adventuring.
Crozzo: We'd never make it that far. Especially after seeing what the kid went through.
Orna: I'd never let Argo there in the first place. He's had enough of his silly games for one lifetime.
Argo: I'm glad you care so much about me, my dear.
Orna: Somebody needs to give poor Feena a break.
Feena: I'm glad it's you or Ariadne. My foolish brother needs a tight leash for his tight leash.
The women agreed with her. Back on screen, Bell and Ais kept staring at the crystal ceiling.
Ais: They call this the Under Resort, or the Labyrinth Paradise.
The lights began to dim and Bell was walking through the camp when he saw Lefiya pass by with a pan in her hands.
In the audience...
Lefiya: (Nonononono! Why are we seeing this?!)
Tiona: Hm? Why are we here?
Bete: I can take a guess and see what'll happen next.
Line: I remember her asking about that boy before that.
Riveria: Lefiya?
The elf looked to her student who was now red in the face and keeping her head down.
On screen
Lefiya: (He beat a minotaur at Level 1?! By himself too! I couldn't do that until I was Level 3 and I still don't like them!) *Shaking her head* (There's no way that's normal! If he was able to do that, he must be a master strategist on par with the Captain!)
Everyone listened to her inner thoughts while Lefiya was buried under more of her embarrassment.
Bell: You really thought that?
Lefiya: D-Don't speak to me! *Embarrased*
Lefiya: (That must be it! It was weird how he was training with Miss Ais. He must have planned so many ways to draw her in-)
They saw Lefiya walking while deep in thought until she tripped on a crystal on the ground.
Bell: Look out!
*Splash* *Thud*
A few people groaned or facepalmed when they saw the elf not only drop the pan, and spill the food, but also spill some on Bell.
Bete: Yup, had a feeling.
Aki: Classic Lefiya.
Lefiya: *Utterly embarrassed* Mmmm...
Tiona: Don't feel too bad! We all mess up every now and then.
Mini Ais: Yeah, cheer up!
The elf looked to both blonde's and saw they had thr exact same supporting smile. This brightened her mood as the show went on. Sadly for Celdia, she was already bleeding from the mouth from watching only this much of Lefiya's past.
Karmi: Cel! Stay with us!
Ariel: Don't go into the light!!
Celdia: *Sniffling*
On screen...
Lefiya: Ah! Ah! *Seeing the spilt pan* Ah...
The elf started tearing up before Bell spoke.
Bell: I'm sorry! I wasn't looking where I was going!
Loki Member A: Oh, you're that friend of Ais.
AN: I couldn't tell if that person was Sharon or Narvi in that panel of the Manga, so I'll go with this.
Bell: Y-Yes. Is there any way we could have more water in our tent because we ran out.
Lefiya: (Huh? What's happening?) *Confused*
Loki Member A: Not much we can do since you're hurt. Someone short deliver it shortly. *Leaving*
Bell: Haaaah-wha?!
The boy was caught off guard when Lefiya grabbed his collar from behind.
Lefiya: Come with me.
In the audience...
Hestia: No! She's scoring alone time with Bell!
Lili: She has it so easy too! Agh! I'm so jealous!
Artemis: Too bad she doesn't see him like that, I think.
Elpis: I don't know about that.
Artemis: Huh?
Alfia: Are all elves clumsy?
Mia: No, just her and Ryuu.
Lefiya and Ryuu: GWAH! *stabbed in the chest*
On screen...
Bell and Lefiya now found themselves by a stream far away from the camp.
Loki: Ooo! A secret getaway to do something?!
Lefiya: NO, IT WASN'T!
Tione: *Teasing smirk* Then what is it?
Lefiya: J-Just keep watching!
Bell: This is pretty far from camp.
Bell turned to Lefiya and saw she had rolled her sleeves up.
Lefiya: Take off your clothes.
Bell: *Blushing* What?!
In the audience...
Hell was unleashed after the elf said that. More than a few girls were out for blood.
Loki: Lies!!! The plot thickens!!!
Hestia: I knew it!
Lili: She will never have him!
Ryuu: You've crossed a line, sister elf. *Menacing glare*
Alfia: Looking to score bonuses are you? And you said you weren't interested in him. *Smiling darkly*
Mini Ais: You will pay in blood, traitor!!! *Holding a sword*
Lefiya: AAAAHH!!! *scared*
Rolan: All of you relax, it isn't what you think.
Zeus: What?
On screen...
Lefiya: I'm going to wash your clothes, so give them to me!
Bell: O-Oh.
Lefiya: Hurry up!
Bell: R-Right!
Loki: Phew! For a second, I thought he was going for her before Ais. I wouldn't have minded that as much.
Lefiya: Goddess!!!
With the children, Celdia had become a blubbering mess as her perfect image of her mother was destroyed in a matter of minutes.
Celdia: Mom... *Sob*
On screen...
The elf was busy washing and it was rather quiet until she broke the silence.
Lefiya: Why did you do it?
Bell: Huh? You asked me to take my clothes off.
Lefiya: *Blushing* No, you idiot! Why did you help me?! It was my fault we're here, so why did you take the blame?
Bell: ? *Confused*
Lefiya: What's with that face?!
Bell: S-Sorry!! *Thinking* Hm... well, because you were in trouble, I guess?
Lefiya: I guess?! We hardly know each other!! (What...)
She looked at him and saw he had a humble smile on his face while Rubbing his head. Those in the audience who knew him well saw this was a classic case of Bell Cranel.
Lefiya: (He isn't some master strategist. This human is just a nice person and yet, he can come this far as an adventurer, unbelievable. ) *Whispering* Thank you for helping me.
Bell: Hm? What?
Lefiya: *Annoyed* I-It's your fault I tripped in the first place!
Bell: Me?!
Lefiya: That's right! I was too busy thinking about you- *covers her mouth* (Shoot! I almost caused a huge misunderstanding!)
Tiona: *Whistles* Good save.
Lefiya: *Dying inside* Uuuuugh...
Lefiya: (That is not it! What I meant was-)
Bell: Achoo!!!
The elf noticed Bell feeling cold with nothing on and started to take off some of her clothing to give him.
Lefiya: I'll let you borrow it for now. Just wear my jacket until your clothes dry.
In the audience...
Loki: Holy crap! She's scoring so much!!
Ais and Mini Ais both pouted with tears in their eyes at what their friend was doing behind their backs. The other girls were also getting jealous about the attention Bell got.
Artemis: Orion? Did it smell nice when you put it on? *Dangerous smile*
Bell: I-I didn't put it on.
Elpis: Watch.
Ais: Bell, Lefiya.
Bell and Lefiya: Miss Ais!
Ais: *Holding her shirt* I heard your clothes were still drying, so I brought one of mine for you.
Bell and Lefiya: One of hers?!
Loki: That lucky bastard!!
Ais watched with a small smile while Mini Ais had a Smug look on her face while looking at Lefiya.
Ais: Yeah, sorry. This might be too small.
Bell: I-It's fine! I'm happy enough that it's from you! It was very thoughtful!
Lefiya watched the two with anger before casting a spell.
Lefiya: Arcs Ray!!!
She fired it at his wet shirt which was now dry and handed it to him.
Lefiya: It's alright, Miss Ais. His clothes are dry now. (Just as I thought. I really don't like this person.) *Annoyed*
In the audience...
Tiona: Puhahahahaha!
Loki: Ahahahaha! I can't believe you did that!!
Bete: Hahahahaha! His clothes are dry now!! Hahaha!
Riveria: Kuku... pfft!
Gareth: Hahaha! She's a fiery one! You got yer hands full with just her, lad!
Bell: I- uh..Uh...
Lefiya was slumped in her chair with tears in her eyes when everyone finished watching her scene with Bell. Celdia was also near deaths door at this point. The other girls were just glad the elf's moment was over.
Meteria: She seems ok.
Alfia: Strange how she seems to be one of the best wife materials for Bell and yet acts like that.
Zeus: I'm sure she'll come around. A night alone with Bell ought to change that.
Bonk*
Hera: That won't happen!
AN: *Coughing* Ugh, sorry.
Timeskipped by once more and Bell was now watching over Welf and Lili in their tent when it was now darker on the Floor. He turned to them when he heard the two waking up.
Welf: Woah... the hell are we?
Lili: No clue.
Bell: You guys remember anything? It's me, Bell!
Lili: There's no way Lili could forget you.
Welf: Same here. Looks like we made it.
The boy was relieved to see the two doing better now.
Lili: Sorry for not being stronger.
Welf: Yeah, I had to be a huge weight on you. Sorry, Bell.
Bell: No, you don't have to do that. Without you, Lili, we would never have known to even come down here. Welf, you helped protect us from those hellhounds. This party needs all of us.
Welf: *Chuckles* Fair point.
Lili: Then we all put in our fair share.
All was well and then Ais came through the entrance.
Ais: Okay, the food is ready.
Welf: ?! The Sword Princess?
Lili: Ais Wallenstein!
The screen changed to everyone by the fire and ready to eat.
Finn: Tonight, we have three brave adventurers as our guests. They have risked much to make it here, so please make them feel welcome.
Bell and his group stood and bowed before everyone started eating. Ais sat next to Bell before giving him a fruit to try.
Ais: Try this. It's some fruit from this floor.
Bell: *Holding it* Fruit can grow here? *Munch* AUGH!?!
He bit into it and voiced his disgust loudly.
Lili: You don't like it? I'll eat it if it's too sweet!
Hestia: Supporter, you sly bastard!
The girls looked at the prum with jealousy at why she was trying, but she, Welf and Bell already knew what went down.
Meteria: Why did he react like that?
Zeus: Bell doesn't really like sweet foods.
Alfia: Why?
Zeus: A Halloween mishap is all.
Bell: *Giving it to her* Sure.
As she was about to eat it, Welf snatched it from Bell and ate the whole thing.
Welf: Ugh, way too sweet for me.
Lili grumbled with tears in her eyes before kicking his back.
In the audience...
Hestia: Thank you, Welf! *Crying* You saved us from having to watch that!
She clung to him with tears in her eyes.
Welf: Goddess?! H-Hey, get off!
Hestia: You have such a good man, Hephaestus!!!
Hephaestus blushed and nodded as other girls gave their thanks to the red-haired blacksmith.
On screen...
Lefiya was off to the side and Riveria had asked what was wrong.
Riveria: You doing ok, Lefiya?
Lefiya: Um, Lady Riveria, is it true? Did he really defeat a minotaur as a Level 1?
Finn: He wouldn't be here if he didn't.
Riveria: Ais even tried to help him, but he refused.
Lefiya: So it's all true... (So he didn't have some master plan. Then...)
Bell: [Because you were in trouble, I guess?]
Lefiya: (We're those his true feelings?)
In the audience, many of the girls were having panic attacks watching this scene.
Lili: No! She's going to realize her feelings for Master Bell!
Hestia: Someone stop her!
On screen...
Lefiya watched him mingle with the others and grew more irritated with each passing second.
Lefiya: (I will not acknowledge him!!!)
In the audience...
Hestia: Phew! Safe!
Zeus: But not for long if she gets over her tsudere phase.
Hermes: From the looks here, seems like that's exactly what happens.
The girls grew worried again at the idea of another rival for their rabbit. Lefiya was busy organizing her thoughts on the boy given how much he's influenced everyone including her. Bell himself felt a small stab in his chest when she said that.
On screen...
The next thing Bell knew, he had both amazon sisters at his side asking him questions.
Tiona: Argonaut.
Bell: Huh?
Tiona: How did you get your abilities to Rank S?
Tione: Yeah, spill.
Bell: U-Um...
He looked to Ais for help, but she simply let her ear out to listen to his explanation. One that wouldn't come as while he was sweating, he heard screaming coming nearby and went to check it out. In the audience, they all saw Hestia roll down the ramp and land herself on the floor as well.
Lili: 4/10 for that landing, Goddess.
Hestia: What? Sorry, I couldn't hear from the creaking sound Bell's bones made from carrying you down there.
Both of them: Rrrrr!!!
On screen...
Hestia: Why did no one think to leave a sign to warn us about that thing?
Bell: Goddess?
She turned to the voice and was face to face with the person she was searching for.
Hestia: Bell!!!
She jumped onto him and cried in relief that he was safe.
Hestia: Bell! Thank goodness you're alright!
She got up and checked to see if he was real while Bell still wondered why she was down here.
Hestia: I'm so happy...
Bell: Me too.
The tiny goddess gave a tearful smile before it faded away.
Bell: I know I made you worry and I'm sorry.
Hestia was about to make her move before Lili came and stopped it from going any further.
Hestia: How dare you interrupt our reunion!
Lili: He needs rest, not your chest in his face!
Zeus: Actually-
Crash*
Alfia: *Dusting her hands* Continue.
Hestia: *Sees Ais* Wallenwhatsit is here too?! Who invited you?!
Ryuu: Mr. Cranel.
The boy turned and saw Ryuu there as well.
Ryuu: Are you hurt?
Bell: Miss Ry-
Ryuu: Shh.
Hermes: *Walking in with Asfi* Well, if it isn't the famous Bell Cranel.
Bell: Yes?
Hermes: I couldn't wait to meet you. I'm Hermes and the pleasure is all mine. *Holding his hand out*
Bell: Thank you for coming, sir.
Xena: *Snorts* Hehehehe.
Hermes: Sure thing. Anything for a friend like Hestia. Besides, you have others to thank over there. *Motioning behind him*
Bell: Huh?
Hermes: They are why we're here.
The screen showed Mikoto, Chigusa and Ouka with the former having a guilty look on her face. Welf and Lili were not happy to see them again so soon.
Welf and Lili: Rrr...
The screen changed and showed them all in a private tent while they discussed.
Mikoto: We are so very sorry! *Dogeza*
Bell: You don't have to do that.
Lili: You can apologize, but asking for forgiveness after what you did is too much! We nearly died!
Welf: She's right. We can't ignore that.
Hestia: Thankfully that's in the past now.
Lili: Lady Mikoto learned her lesson along with the others.
The samurai nodded but shivered a bit remembering her time in the chair, as brief as it was.
Mikoto: It was inexcusable.
Chigusa: We're very sorry.
Mikoto: I will take responsibility for this.
Ouka: If anyone should do that, it should be me. I still think it was the right decision.
Welf: Huh? You wanna try saying that again?
In the audience...
Welf: I still find it annoying how he's right. A lot of leaders would try the same thing for their group.
Lili: Yeah, a lot except Master Bell. He'd find a way no matter how hard it would be.
Hestia: (Except for that one time, but his family doesn't need to know that yet.)
On screen...
Welf and Ouka continued to glare until Bell spoke up.
Bell: Wait, I mean, I don't know if I would have done something different if it were Welf and Lili.
Lili: Well, if that's what you want...
Welf: I guess I'll let it slide, but I still won't accept this.
Ouka: Works for me.
Most of the tension had finally left and everyone breathed easier.
Hermes: If that's all settled, let's move on to our next move. Asfi, if you would.
Asfi: We have to go back up, but we should wait for the Loki Familia to defeat Goliath. They'll be leaving in 2 days.
Hermes: That gives us a whole day to ourselves.
Meteria: How did you spend that day?
Bell: Well, we went to check out the city, but you'll see soon.
He also recalled some other things, so he had to mentally prepare himself.
On screen...
Everyone was now getting ready to get some rest when Welf was stopped by Chigusa and Hestia as they left the tent.
Hestia: Welf?
Welf: Hm?
The girl handed him something long and covered in cloth which he took.
Hestia: Hephaestus wanted to give this to you along with a message.
In the audience...
Zeus: Hm, I wonder what she said?
Bell: I think we'll find out later.
Welf just had a complicated look as he was still a bit uncomfortable with his past. At least that one elf wouldn't be out for his blood.
Time passed a bit and everyone was asleep except Bell who was outside with Ais.
Bell: It's still hard to believe this is the Dungeon.
Ais: Are you feeling ok?
Bell: Yeah, just having trouble getting to sleep. What are you doing here?
Ais: I saw you walking around and... I got worried.
Bell and Ais in the audience blushed at this. Zeus was being filled with more pride while the other girls planned on how they would nurse Bell when he needed it.
On screen...
Bell's face got red when she said that.
Ais: Sorry to disturb you.
Bell: What?! No, I'm glad you- I mean, no!!
He stumbled on his words while Ais smiled at him.
Ais: It's alright, you don't need to stress yourself. So, when are you leaving?
Bell: After you guys. Until then, we'll all be resting.
Ais: That's good. You can see the city.
Bell: City? In the Dungeon?
Ais: *Nods* Mhm. You sound excited about that.
Bell: Yeah, I wonder what kind of place it is?
Hestia: Hm, I wonder? *Irritated*
Just then, Cockblocker A- I mean, Hestia appeared between them.
Mini Ais: Agh! That Goddess interrupted us again! I'll never get him with her around!
Aria: Ais!
Riveria: I know she can be as annoying as Loki...
Hestia and Loki: Hey!
Riveria: But you should try to treat her with respect.
Mini Ais: *Annoyed* I did.
Gareth: Welp, we tried.
Hestia: Like I'll let you have him!
The other girls nodded with her.
Alfia: We also still haven't approved you as a proper partner for him yet. *Menacing* That is, unless you wish to test yourself against me now?
Both blondes shook their heads with fear as they knew they still couldn't match the woman.
Zeus: My boy makes me so proud!
Zald: He's going to die because of you one day. Have you seen those women?
Zeus: Pah! They'll be all over him soon enough.
Hera: *Bashing his head* Silence!
On screen...
Bell: Huh? G-Goddess?!
Hestia: It seems you've been holding out on me. I can think of a reason why you wouldn't invite me. I am your number one, RIGHT?!
Bell: Okay, okay!!
Hestia: *To Ais* As for you, you can forget the city because I won't allow you to go on a date with my Bell!!!
Ais: *Tilts her head* A date?
Bell: N-No, she didn't mean that!
Cockblocker B- er, Lili: Master Bell is going on a date?!
Hestia: Not you too!!
The screen then shifted to show Welf alone and holding the mysterious object. Then, everyone was able to see his thoughts as he recalled a conversation with Hephaestus.
Welf: No way. Never again.
Hephaestus: Alright then. No more magic swords. Welf, you'll regret this. You'll take this back when you find someone else important to you. Let go of your stubbornness for your friends, please.
The man had a conflicted face as he sat.
Welf: Damn it.
After that, the screen black out for a final time.
Rolan: And that concludes the next part.
Hephaestus: Welf...
Welf: I'll be fine. I see now I was wrong. I won't put my friends in danger for my sake anymore.
Hephaestus: *Smiling* Good.
Meteria: I should thank you all for going to rescue my son and those for keeping him safe.
Hestia: Not sure if you'll be saying that after what Hermes pulls.
The woman tilted her head while Bell and the others recalled what she meant and blushed.
Zeus: What did he do?
Rolan: Something most would expect from him, but that's for later. For now, we must continue.
AN: That's another down. I honestly don't know how a month slipped by, but this is done now.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed. Let me know what you though about the chapter and I'll see you in the next one.