Across the city, many were huddled in bars, waiting for the Wargame to start. Like most common folk, many were busy placing bets on who would win. It was obvious who was the favorite, though.
Civilian A: 20,000 on Apollo and Isthar!
Adventurer A: 40,000 for me!
Dealer: Hey hey, that's not how this works. You won't get anything if everyone bets on them.
Many looked at each other and agreed with him. The Chienthrope dealer, as well as everyone else, knew that Apollo and Ishtar were the clear winners. No one in their right mind would vote for the other team.
Thud*
A huge bag of coins was placed on the table.
Mord: 300,000 on Hestia and Artemis.
Everyone there looked at him and laughed. Some asked if he was joking and he was serious while others graciously accepted his donation of funds. Mord just scoffed and found himself a seat to watch.
Mord: *Whispering* Just watch and see.
Everywhere else where bets weren't taking place, people found themselves a seat to watch the show begin.
Twilight Manor...
Tiona: Ais, it's almost time!
Tione: Lefiya is there too, so we gotta support her and the rabbit.
Ais nodded and prayed for their victory in the face of their odds. Finn was curious as to how Bell would overcome Ishtar and Apollo. He wouldn't say it out loud, but it would be a shame for a promising young man like him to end up with Apollo.
In the Guild, Eina left with Misha to watch outside while Syr was waiting anxiously at the Hostess.
Babel...
Loki: Whew! Finally time for the show to start!
Hephaestus: Hestia, are you and Artemis doing OK?
Hestia: We're fine. Bell and the others won't let us down.
Artemis: Orion will be victorious today!
After that, Apollo and Ishtar arrived and took their seats. Ishtar kept to herself, but Apollo was mocking Hestia once again.
Apollo: I hope you've said your goodbyes. By the end of this, Bell Cranel will be all mine. *Smirking*
Hestia: Hmph! *Turning away*
Apollo: And Artemis, don't count yourself out either. You won't be seeing your "Orion" anymore. He'll be mine when I'm done.
Artemis: *Angry* (We'll see about that.)
Near the front of the room was Hermes and Asfi.
Hermes: You think now is a good time?
Asfi: Yes, I believe so.
Hermes: Good. Ouranos! May we?
Ouranos: Permission granted.
And so, all the gods activated their divine mirrors so everyone in Orario could watch. In an open area, Ganesha and a member of his Familia had a set up and were getting ready.
Ibri: Hello and good morning, Orario! I, Ibri Achaa, will be your commentator for this event along with Master Ganesha. Do you have any words?
He put the mic close to him.
Ganesha: I am Ganesha!
Ibri: And as you all know, we are but moments away from the start of this Wargame!
At the site of the game, everyone was preparing for the start. Guards stood on the walls, ready to defend. With Bell, they all knew the plan Lili pit together on short notice. The prum had managed to infiltrate and obtain most of what they were planning. As per more of the rules established, Apollo Familia was calling the shots and Hyacinthos was the main Commander of the force. Phryne Jamil was another concern, but Apollo Familia would be a greater nuisance with their numbers.
They all split to their positions as noon drew closer. In Orario, Ibri noticed it was time and signaled for his fellow member to hit the gong.
Ibri: All right! Let the Wargame begin!
For the first few seconds, it was quiet. The Apollo Familia didn't feel worried, though, a certain blue haired healer confided her concerns to her friend.
Cassandra: I'm telling you, it isn't just a dream! The sun will go dark and the moon will dazzle with a brilliant gold and white. After that, the sky cracks at the toll of a clock! After that, disaster will fall upon all of us here!
Daphne: Just relax. All we have to do is last three days or take out the other team. Either way, it's an easy win.
The redhead tried to reassure her, but Cassandra couldn't let go of her feeling of dread.
On the wall...
Apollo Member A: It's time.
Apollo Member B: This will be a long three days. I doubt anything will happen. Hm?
He looked and saw the small figure of a person in the distance. They wore a brown robe and jumped off the cliff they were on. The robe flew off and revealed Ryuu holding two swords and still disguised. She would begin the assault on the castle.
Apollo Member A: A single enemy confirmed! Let's get them!
The archers fired their arrows at her, to which she responded by swinging the red sword she held. When she did, a wave of Flames incinerated all the arrows and cracked part of the wall.
Ibri: Oh my! Could those be magic swords?
In Babel...
Apollo: Magic swords, huh. A good strategy. However, how will they help when both of us combine to over 100 members?
Hestia said nothing and kept watching.
At the site...
Ryuu swung again with the other and blew a hole into the wall.
Ryuu: Come out and face me!
Inside the castle, they all felt the force of the explosions and were confused.
Lissos: What in the world us happening out there?
Luan: It's magic swords!
Lissos: What?!
Luan: I received orders from Hyacinthos! 50 of you need to handle that person right away!
Lissos: That's almost half our numbers!
Luan: We can't stop them with any less! Just deal with them quick and come back!
Lissos: Gah! Fine, let's go!
He brought a team with him to challenge Ryuu. However, the moment they stepped out, most were blown away by another wave of the magic swords. Ryuu slowly dealt with them, but more Apollo members joined with some amazons from Ishtar and greatly outnumbered the elf. As the trickled outside, Mikoto sneaked in to do some damage of her own.
Luan: An enemy has breached the castle! Shoot her down!
Any available archers tried to hit her, but Mikoto blocked them as she ran, chanting a spell along the way. After dodging and making her way deeper inside, she rounded up a large group of them before casting the magic she was chanting. A bright sword appears and struck the ground, creating a gravity trap that kept everyone around her stuck in place.
Mikoto: You'll all be staying with me now!
In Orario...
Ibri: The invader has pinned them all down. There's no telling how long she can keep this up. What do you think, Master Ganesha?
Ganesha: I am Ganesha!
Take and his Familia watched from their home and kept supporting their friend.
Ouka: Stay strong, Mikoto!
Chigusa: Don't give in!
Take: Stand fast.
Back at the battle, the inside of the castle was in chaos. Explosions were still going off outside from Ryuu's magic swords. She already broke two of them, but there was still a third one to use. However, this was still going according to Lili's plan. At one of the gates, Bell waited with Welf, Lefiya and Filvis while Luan was on the other side, letting them in.
Ibri: Betrayal! Apollo looks to have a bad apple in his group!
Babel...
Apollo: What are you doing, Luan?!
Ishtar: Apollo, what is the meaning of this?!
The two were furious, but Hestia laughed to herself. Back at the battle, Bell and the others walked inside to greet the prum.
Welf: Everything's going smoothly so far.
Bell: Yup. Good work, Lili.
The prum was revealed to be Lili in disguise. She didn't drop it, but thanked Bell before running off to cause more trouble.
Bell: Come on. We have to find Hyacinthos and take him out first. Miss Lefiya, we can cover you two.
Lefiya: *Nods* Understood.
With that, they ran inside and went to the main tower. On the way there, the had to cross a bridge which was guarded by more of Apollo and Ishtar led by Daphne.
Daphne: They've arrived!
Welf: Bell, go! I got this!
Daphne called for the mages and archers to fire, but Welf was one step ahead of them. He cast his Will O Wisp spell which made the mages self-destruct, knocking out almost everyone there except Daphne and a few amazons. Bell ran past and Daphne was about to follow before being stopped by Welf and the two elves with him.
Welf: *Smiling* Going somewhere?
With Mikoto and Ryuu, the former was beginning to drop her spell. Now that they were free, the remaining enemies who could still fight went to attack her and she readied herself to engage them in combat. Ryuu was beginning to finish on her end. Her second sword had broken, but most of Lissos' team was beaten already. The elf lost his temper when he saw who was using the cursed swords.
Lissos: An elf using the cursed Crozzo Swords?! You should be ashamed of yourself!
He charged to attack her, but Ryuu easily dealt with him with her level advantage.
Ryuu: I have no interest in holding a grudge with my kin. I'll be as shameless as I have to if it means helping my friends.
Her wooden sword landed on his abdomen and Lissos fell unconscious as well. Seeing all about 60 Apollo members out of the fight, Ryuu was about to join with Mikoto and Bell before being stopped by a group of amazons.
Aisha: Leaving so soon, elf?
Ryuu: ?
She turned and saw Aisha and a fee of her friends there by the hole she made, smiling at her.
Aisha: Come entertain us next.
Ryuu: Very well. (Apologies, I will be delayed, Mr. Cranel.)
With Bell, he was in the tower right under where Hyacinthos was staying. Above him, the Commander was asking what remained of his forces what happened.
Hyacinthos: We've lost over half our army?! You're embarrassments to Master Apollo!
Cassandra went to try and prevent him from leaving, but he brushed her aside.
Hyacinthos: Looks like I'll have to step in.
Beneath him, Bell had already finished charging Argonaut and was ready to make his entrance.
Bell: Firebolt
A massive fireball appeared in his hand as he raised it up before releasing it.
BOOOM*
The explosion leveled the tower while startling everyone inside and those watching.
Hyacinthos: What's happening?!
In Orario...
Hestia: HAHA!
Apollo: WHAT?!
Ishtar grew annoyed at how quickly things were turning against them. However, she regained her smile when tuning back in with Aisha.
Ryuu was able to deal with most of the amazons, but Aisha and some others were still not going down. All of them were panting and looking worn out from the fighting.
Aisha: Hah... haha. Not bad. This is getting more fun than I was expecting. *Smiling*
Ryuu: You're quite skilled yourself. That doesn't mean I'm not yet.
Stomp*
The Elf heard one loud stomp behind her. When she turned around, she saw the looming figure of a giant amazon with a gold aura around her before her world went dark.
With Bell...
There was rubble around him at every turn. When he got his bearings again, he spotted Hyacinthos and went after him. The man saw Bell and drew his sword to meet his knives. What was supposed to be an easy battle had the roles reversed and Bell easily evaded and slashed at Hyacinthos. His body quickly accumulated cuts while he couldn't even touch Bell. Hyacinthos went for a stab which Bell dodged before shattering his sword with the Hestia Knife.
Shatter*
Hyacinthos: N-No way. This is impossible! You can't be this fast! Who are you?!
Bell sheathed Ushiwakamaru and charged at him again before Cassandra appeared and went to grab him. Bell saw her at the last second and jumped out of the way before attacking Hyacinthos again. Cassandra got back up and tried to go at Bell again, but Lili arrived and kept her in place.
Lili: No you don't!
Now that Bell had no distractions, he quickly overwhelmed Hyacinthos. He slashed, punched and kicked him around much to the shock of everyone watching.
In Orario...
Adventurer A: How is he doing that. Isn't Little Rookie only Level 2?
Adventurer B: Apollo's Captain was supposed to be Level 3, right? He shouldn't be losing like this.
Ibri wonderd the same before another Ganesha member whispered something into his ear.
Ibri: Well, that's some unexpected news. I've just recieved some news straight from the Guild. It appears our Little Rookie recently made it to Level 3 just a few days ago.
This stunned the city and made many who voted against Bell to sweat. However, those who were with him were in high spirits.
Loki Familia...
Tione: He's totally beating the crap out of him. He can't even fight back.
Tiona was making random fighting noises with each hit Bell landed while Ais watched his fight with pride.
Loki: Level 3, huh?
Finn: Rather quick again. He just keeps surprising us. Although...
Gareth: Something wrong, Finn?
Finn: My thumb is acting up again. It's just strange how easily they have the advantage here.
Riveria: I agree. We've barely seen Ishtar's main force. Where are they?
At the battle...
Bell had Hyacinthos on the ropes. The man was covered in cuts and bruises while Bell looked the same as when this all started.
Hyacinthos: How... how can this be? I can't lose here. I will not fail Master Apollo! RAAAAAAGH!!!
He went to attack with a short sword, but Bell easily disarmed him and threw him to the ground.
Bell: You're people said hurtful things to people I cared about. Your God is even trying to do this to them now. Sorry, but I can't lose here either. *Holding by his collar*
Lili watched with a smile at Bell near victory as well as Mikoto, Welf, Lefiya and Filvis, who all returned after catching up with them. However, Bell couldn't deliver the blow to end the fight and knock him out before he was interrupted by the voices of some amazons.
Aisha: Stop there, Cranel?
Bell: Huh?
He turned and saw Aisha along with another amazon with grey hair and a giant one that resembled a toad with something on her shoulder.
???: Geh get, that rabbit has some fangs on him.
Aisha: Not the time, Phryne.
Phryne: You are right this time. Listen, Little Rookie. I wouldn't throw that punch if I were you. You wouldn't want anything to happen to your friend, would you?
She grabbed what was on her shoulder and it was revealed to be Ryuu, beaten badly and barely conscious. Bell and his friends were shocked as were much of the people who knew the elf. Syr was in horror at the state her friend was in while Mama Mia was doing her best to not break the bar her patrons were seated at.
Bell: What have you done to her?!
Aisha: Sorry kid, but this is a Wargame.
Phryne: We are merciful. Just let the man go, and we won't do anything.
Bell: ...
His friends watched nervously to see his answer. Lili tried to dissuade him from the choice.
Lili: Don't do it!
Welf: Wha?! What are you saying?!
Lili: We'll never get another chance like this if we throw it away!
Mikoto: But, she is our comrade!
They stopped paying attention to Bell while arguing, so they didn't see Bell let the man go as he carried himself away from the boy.
Lefiya: Bell Cranel!
Bell: There, now let her go!
Phryne: Who said anything about that? I just said we wouldn't do anything to her. Nothing about the bargain said anything about letting her go.
Bell grit his teeth at this. Their upper hand was now gone, but luckily for him, Lili was quick on the draw and throw a stink bomb into the area.
Phryne: Agh! *Coughing* What is this?
Lili: Now!
Bell got the signal and slashed at the amazon's hand, making her let go of the elf.
Phryne: AH! My hand!
With that, Bell and the others temporarily retreated from the base. The smoke cleared and none of them were there.
Aisha: Hm, they ran.
Phryne: Rrr... that rabbit is going to pay for this.
Aisha went to Hyacinthos who was being healed by Cassandra.
Aisha: That was pathetic. He was a kid, and he had you completely outclassed.
Hyacinthos' face contorted with anger at her insult.
Hyacinthos: Don't you talk to me like that! He was in your grasp and you let him get away as well!
Aisha: We wouldn't have had to do that if you just pulled your weight here. As it stands, most of your Familia is out of the fight. We'd be wasting most of our resources just to get them back into the fight.
Cassandra: Actually, we can heal them all, but then we won't have any more potions for the rest of the game.
Aisha: *Sigh* That's just great. It's only around 2 hours and things have already gone to shit for us.
With Bell...
They found themselves in a secluded forest a ways away from the castle. There, Bell laid the elf down.
Ryuu: *Groaning in pain*
Bell: Hang on. Lili, potions!
She handed Bell the vials and he got to work in healing the elf. The liquids fell on her body and her injuries slowly healed. It was enough that she wasn't in great pain, but her body still felt very sore.
Ryuu: Mmm... what?
Bell: Thank goodness. How are you feeling?
Ryuu: Ngh, just a little sore. Why are we here?
Bell: We grabbed you and retreated back here.
Ryuu: And the Wargame?
Lili: Still going on. No doubt they're healing their members like us.
Ryuu: My apologies. We've lost our advantage because of me.
Bell: No! This isn't your fault. We knew they were strong in the beginning already!
Lefiya: Come with us. We can get you cleaned up.
Ryuu thanked the tow elves and they left to get her fixed up. That left everyone else to plan their next move.
Welf: That does beg the question: what are we gonna do?
Mikoto: Perhaps we can try again tonight?
Lili: We'll have to do it tonight. To get everything settled, we can't wait for tomorrow.
Bell: Aren't we being hasty here?
Mikoto: I agree. We shouldn't rush into this haphazardly.
Lili: You won't be saying that after what I dug up.
Welf: Oh great...
Lili: That's what Lili said. You see, if we wait any longer tonight, that Renard you're trying to save is going to die.
Mikoto: Lady Haruhime?! Why?! I mean, how?!
Lili: Because this.
She held a dagger from her cloak.
Lili: This is what they wanted. It looks like they snuck their with them. There weren't any documents, but I did over hear generally about what this is supposed to do. The plan was that they would sacrifice Miss Haruhime tonight when the moon was full then break the crystal ball on this dagger.
Mikoto: *Horrified* No...
Lili: Not sure what that's supposed to do, but that won't change the fact that her life is in danger.
Welf: So Bell, what say you?
Bell: We're going.
Mikoto: Sir Bell!
Bell: She's my friend too. I may not have known her long, but I know she doesn't deserve this. We'll go there tonight and save her!
Mikoto: Thank you! *Bowing*
Welf: Cool, then let's see what we have to work with.
Bell: I'll go find Miss Lefiya and the others.
He returned a few short minutes later and found them ready for their next move. They were a bit shocked to hear that they were moving out so soon, but after hearing of the fate of Haruhime, they understood and agreed with their decision. Now, they were discussing their plan of attack.
Welf: Out of the six magic sword la I was able to make, we lost three already.
Lili: With three left, we still have a decent edge. We can use one of them to thin their numbers. Lady Mikoto and Lady Ryuu can also deal with them as well.
Ryuu: We just have to watch out for Ishtar's Captain. She is a level 5, but somehow got the jump on me and gave me little time to react.
Bell: You won't be alone this time. Most of their castle should be destroyed, so this should be possible if things work out. Plus, we have this with us.
He held the dagger Lili stole.
Lefiya: By the way, how did you get that?
Before we got here, Lili coated some arrows with a powerful tranquilizer. Usually it can be dangerous to use, buy level 3s and 2s should be fine. Lili knocked the guards out with them after hearing them talk about it.
Bell: Good work, Lili! Now they can't do the ritual.
With the amazons...
Phryne: What do you mean you lost it?!
Ishtar Member A: S-Someone used a tranquilizer to knock us out. When we woke up, it was gone.
Whack*
Phryne knocked both of them put before storming off in anger. Aisha, who was with her, managed to suppress a smirk.
Timeskip several hours...
Orario grew weary at the long grace period. The viewers were cheering at the rapid pace of the battle, but now were very bored at the lack of action. They could see Apollo and Ishtar busy with their fortifications, but nothing with Bell and the others. Many assumed they had given up after they escaped with their ally.
In Babel...
Apollo: Argh! This is so dull!
Ishtar: *Irritated* This wouldn't have happened if your Familia wasn't so weak!
Apollo: *Angry* My Familia! Didn't yours let them get away?!
The two kept arguing while Hestia and Artemis kept watching to see what would happen. They knew Bell was prepared for this and prayed for his success. Ishtar also watched and saw them get away with an important object of hers. She was furious.
Ishtar: (All the trouble of keeping that out of the Guild's hands and now the bunny boy has it! Now they can't even perform the ritual! Damn you, Bell Cranel!)
In the forest, Bell and the others got ready to leave. The boy was making last minute preparations before seeing Ryuu with a lost look.
Bell: Miss Ryuu?
Ryuu: Oh, my apologies.
Bell: Are you ok?
Ryuu: I'll be fine. It's just, why did you do it?
Bell: Do what?
Ryuu: Save me. You had the advantage. Your friend still had three magic swords on him. With those, you could have been able to win this Wargame.
Bell: Yeah, but that wouldn't be worth putting your life in danger for it.
Ryuu: Your wasting your heroics on someone like me! Even if there was a chance of me dying ,you should have kept going and tried to win!
Bell frowned at that and took a few steps to closer to her.
Bell: Don't talk as if your life has no value. *Grabbing her hands* I'm not going to sacrifice anyone! You're an important person to me like everyone else and I care about your safety just like everyone else here! Our victory would be stained if something happened to one of you, so don't talk about yourself like that.
Ryuu: Mr, Cranel I... thank you. I'll try not to be a burden this time.
Bell: You weren't. You've been a massive help for all of us. Now, we need to go rescue someone in danger. Just do your part and I'll do mine.
Ryuu: You can count on me.
Bell smiled an left while Ryuu contemplated his words. She was flattered that he thought that much of her, but shook them off.
Ryuu: He shouldn't waste those words on someone... like... me...
The gravity of her environment slowly sunk into her mind as she recalled his words.
Ryuu: Wait, it's a full moon...
She looked up and saw the white orb shining in the night sky.
Ryuu: We were in a forest...
She saw the expanse of trees around the clearing she was in.
Ryuu: And he said...
She recalled Bell's words to her. When she did, her cheeks turned pink and she had a mental crisis.
Ryuu: (He even grabbed my hands!)
She remembered her friends words about never letting go of the man who would hold her hand. Ryuu was having new thoughts about their recent interaction and felt something budding inside her.
Ryuu: *Shaking her head* (Now isn't the time for that! I have to focus and make sure I don't hold Mr. Cranel back this time!)
She managed to push those thoughts away for now, but after this, they would resurface every now and then.
Now that everyone was ready, they made their way back to the castle. Ryuu and Mikoto each held magic sword while Welf had the last one on him. Bell had the dagger on him. He wondered why he couldn't just break it now, but Lili said they could possibly use it as a bargaining chip. Worst case, he breaks it later.
At the castle, the guards stood on what remained of the wall. They had some trouble seeing in the dark, but some beast people were able to see Ryuu and Mikoto running to the hole with Lefiya behind them. She was busy chanting a spell and was surprised at the fact she was running at the same time. It wasn't fighting, but she at least had some basics of concurrent chanting down.
Mikoto: Here they come!
Ryuu swung her sword when she detected the arrows fired and destroyed them like last time.
Ryuu: Now!
Lefiya: ...Release them, the fire arrows of the fairies. Falling like rain, burn away the savages. Fusillade Fallarica!
She cast her spell at and over the wall. Explosions were heard and as well as screams while Mikoto rushed inside to do damage with her sword. She and Ryuu were careful not to use up the magic yet, but they quickly dealt with the Apollo and Ishtar members. Ryuu was able to handle most of them on her own with support from Mikoto and the elves. Bell tracked down and found Hyacinthos again.
Bell: There you are!
Hyacinthos: Damn it! How did they breach us already?!
Welf: Like this!
He swung his sword and blew away most of the members in the area with them. Hyacinthos dodged most of the blast, but wasn't unscathed.
Bell: Welf, I can handle him.
Welf: Got it. I'll go help the others. Come on, squirt!
Lili: Don't call me that!
The two ran, leaving Bell with the last remaining Apollo Member still standing.
Hyacinthos: Fine, come on then!
Bell ducked under a punch of his and slammed his fist into his gut. He threw another upwards punch to his chin before hitting him with a spin kick to knock him out in the same fashion as Ais. Orario was stunned at how quickly he ended the fight this time.
Ibri: Holy cow, he ended that fight fast! Little Rookie isn't playing games here folks. The battle is just getting started, so don't any of you go and roll over for the night!
No one was as the action just started again. Although, seeing how things went this time, it was even worse for the Apollo and Ishtar alliance. Without a castle to hold them at bay, Bell and his allies easily breached and overwhelmed them with their firepower despite the disadvantage of numbers. Those like Mord, who bet on Hestia and Artemis, were laughing up a storm at Bell's team tearing it up.
Mord: HAHAHA! Looks like I'm getting rich tonight!
Back at the battle, Bell returned to everyone and saw them fighting off the rest of Ishtar's amazons. Phryne was joined by Aisha and several others that had Ryuu, Mikoto, Lefiya and Filvis on the ropes. Ryuu's magic sword was already used up and Mikoto had maybe one swing left in it. Seeing no other option, Bell shot a slightly charged firebolt that blew away some of the amazons, knocking them out of the fight.
Mikoto: Sir Bell!
Bell: Sorry for making you wait.
Lefiya: Took you long enough! I'm at my limit here!
Bell nodded before turning to Phryne and what was left of the amazons as well as Haruhime in the back.
Babel...
Filler God A: No way! They have them on the ropes!
Filler God B: How can Ishtar and Apollo be losing?
Hestia's friends were glad that things were working out, but still had to be wary of Ishtar. Her Captain wouldn't be going down easily.
Ishtar: (What are you waiting for, fox?! I don't care if everyone is watching, just use it!)
In the battle...
Phryne saw how the battle was quickly turning against them.
Phryne: Crozzo Magic swords do live up to their reputation. If that's the case. Haruhime, use it!
Haruhime: But the city-
Phryne: I don't care! We aren't going to be beaten by some back water Familia. Now, give me your power!
Mikoto: Lady Haruhime, don't!
Phryne: You shut your mouth!
The Renard had a sad expression on her face. She was about to start chanting when she raised her arms, but everyone stopped when the distorted sound of a clock's toll was heard. Cassandra in particular was trembling at the noise.
Cassandra: No...
Daphne: There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you!
Cassandra: It's too late. They're coming.
Daphne: What's coming?
In Orario...
The viewers were confused when they heard the sound. However, a small group wasn't, rather, they were nervous.
Albert: Oh no! They're here! Masako, cut the feed! Ardi, go help them!
The half-elf immediately left and the boy got to work. He forced some of his Arcanum to cause interference with the other gods. As a result, the mirrors went to static and the feed was lost.
Adventurer A: What the? What's going on!
Civilian A: We want to see the game!
Adventurer B: What was that sound too? It sounded like a clock.
In Babel...
Filler God A: W-What happened? Where did the show go?
Apollo: Why can't I see what's happening?
Hestia: Bell... *Worried*
Artemis: *Praying* Please be safe, Orion!
Meanwhile, Albert quickly rushed to Ouranos' chamber to explain what was happening.
Albert: Lord Ouranos!
Ouranos: I sensed a Divine disturbance outside.
Albert: So did we. We had the feed cut so no one could see what was happening.
Ouranos: Good.
His spector, Fels, wondered what the commotion was about.
Fels: What is happening?
Ouranos: They have found this place.
Fels: Who?
Albert: The Keepers. Those responsible for making sure timelines aren't skewed in any way.
Fels: And how do you know about them?
Albert: We never met them, but we've heard stories about them from our family. Hopefully nothing bad happens.
With Bell...
Bell: What was that sound?
Welf: Up there! *Pointing to the sky*
They followed where he was pointing and saw the sky beginning to crack.
Lefiya: By the gods!
When they grew large enough, the sky broke and a rift opened. Out of it came people dressed in blue robes with some white around the edges. They drew their weapons and looked hostile.
Aisha: Who the hell are you people?!
Keeper Grunt A: Remember the plan. Just neutralize them. We still have to find the source of the distortion.
They totalled only five, but everyone felt a certain aura from them. One exuded by a First Class adventurer. They went and attacked everyone while Bell and the others tried to defend themselves.
Phryne: Agh! Haruhime, the spell!
Haruhime: R-Right!
She quickly went to chant which was picked up by the intruders. Aisha and the rest of the amazons went to protect Haruhime while she chanted, but they were quickly being dealt with while Bell and the others only had to contend with one who went to attack Filvis and Lefiya.
Bell: Miss Lefiya!
Clang*
Bell blocked the attack from the Keeper. His eyes widened when he saw Bell and immediately backed off before running away.
Bell: What the...
Lefiya: Mr. Cranel?
He turned around and saw Lefiya looking away and to the ground before back to him.
Lefiya: Thank you... for the save.
Bell: Oh, uh, no problem.
Back with the amazons, there were only a handful left including Aisha and Phryne. The rest were already defeated.
Aisha: Shit! They're all at least level 4!
Phryne: RAAAGH! This guy might be Level 6!
Clang*
The two were fighting off the other four Keepers. They bought Haruhime enough time for her to use her spell which was cast on Phryne.
Haruhime: Uchide no Kozuchi!
A bright light circled above the renard before falling down onto the amazon. Afterward, her body was enveloped in light as she laughed.
Phryne: That's more like it!
She now had somewhat equal ground to her opponent, but the numbers were still a problem. Bell saw this and wanted to go help the renard.
Lili: No, we can't do anything!
Bell: But she's right there! You can't expect us to just stand around!
Ryuu: We don't have a chance against them. Even Phryne Jamil is having trouble and she is Level 5. Antianeira is nearly defeated as well and she is as strong as me.
Bell: But...
He was about to ignore the warnings and join in before several blasts of fire rained from the sky and landed where the fighting was. Bell turned back and saw Ardi on top of the wall.
Ardi: Get away from there!
Bell: What are you doing here?
She jumped down and came towards them.
Ardi: Just stand back. You can't fight them. I'll take it from here.
She drew her sword and prepared to engage them.
Lefiya: Wait, you can't take all of them on your own!
Lili: Just let her do it. She's more than capable.
At an incredible speed, she quickly and easily deal with all five of them in the blink of an eye. As they got back up from the ground, they regrouped together before reopening the rift from before.
Keeper Grunt A: We have what we came for. You won't get away with messing up this Era, girl.
They stepped through and vanished from the area, leaving everyone else here. Aisha and Phryne were confused as to who the newcomer was until the former recognized her face.
Aisha: Wait, aren't you the new addition to the Hestia Familia? The Level 8s and 9s?
Ardi just nodded before turning to Bell.
Ardi: I'm not sure when they'll be back. Just do your best here.
Bell: Can you tell us when we get back?
Ardi: *Smiling* Sure.
She waved goodbye before disappearing in a blur of wind. Many were shocked at the mystery girl and Ryuu was slightly sad at missing her chance with talking again. She knew she was at least connected with Bell, so she made a note to ask him about it another time.
Phryne: Damn it! My beautiful body has been tainted!
Bell: Who cares about that?! We're not done here!
Aisha sat out temporarily and watched the fight. Bell was joined by Ryuu while Being supported by Lefiya, Filvis and Lili. They did what they could to overwhelm the toad while Orario was trying to get the feed back up.
In Orario...
Albert: Where is she?
Masako: There!
They saw the girl arrive and jump up to where they were.
Ardi: I'm back!
Albert: Did everything work out?
Ardi: I dealt with them and they're gone now.
Albert: Good. We can stop the interference now.
Masako nodded and suppressed his power and the static disappeared. The city was shocked to see most of Apollo and Ishtar defeated leaving only three on their side while Phryne was left to fight alone with her level boost gone right before the feed went back.
In Babel...
Ishtar: What happened? How can she be losing to them?!
Apollo: Ishtar, do something!
Ishtar: What do you expect me to do?! If you're Familia wasn't useless, we wouldn't be losing!
Apollo: No, if Hestia didn't cheat, we wouldn't be like this! *Turning to Hestia* Tell us now! You had to have cheated for Phryne to be losing!
Hestia: I didn't cheat, Apollo!
Apollo: That explain that! It's rather convenient that we're losing when our divine mirrors stopped working and came back on!
Ouranos: There is no foul play from the hands of Hestia or Artemis.
Ishtar: Then why was there interference with our divine mirrors?!
Ouranos: I was informed of a disturbance near us, so I had to suppress the leaking Arcanums until it was calmed.
Ishtar felt something off about everything, but had nothing to say that would work against him. She and Apollo just had to accept that they were losing.
Apollo: At least get your other amazon to fight! She's just sitting there!
Ishtar: What are you doing, Aisha?!
Back with Bell...
Bell: HAAA!!!
Lefiya: Arcs Ray!
Filvis: Dio Thyrsos!
Boom*
Spell after spell was sent to the toad. Bell and Ryuu danced around her while Lili shot her legs with arrows.
Mikoto: I'm ready!
Bell: Everyone back away!
They jumped away while Mikoto cast her gravity spell. Normally she couldn't hold her for too long, but the amazon's weakened state let her hold on much longer while Bell charged an Argonaut in his hand. Bells rang and the sound was heard by all as Bell glowed white around his arm. Mikoto was beginning to lose her grip and Phryne eventually broke out before Welf hit her over and over with the last magic sword.
Welf: No you don't!
She was pelted again and again, leaving her no room to attack Bell who grew louder overtime. His allies bought enough time and he felt ready.
Bell: I'm ready!
They got to cover and Phryne was left in a condition that didn't allow her to dodge this next attack. That being a massive firebolt backed by a 2 minute argonaut charge. With all of her previous injuries, the shock was enough to knock her put of the fight, leaving only Aisha behind with Haruhime.
Bell: Hah... hah... hah...
The bloody amazon got up and walked to him with her massive sword on her back. She and Bell stared at each other as the boy drew the all too familiar looking dagger for her to see along with the rest of Orario.
Aisha: *Smiling* So that's where that went.
Bell: We don't have to do this. You can just surrender peacefully and end this.
In Babel...
Ishtar: Don't you dare, Aisha! I will not accept defeat!
Apollo: *Panicked* This can't be happening!
Hestia and Artemis just smirked watching the rest of it end. Even if Bell somehow lost, the rest could deal with her as she is. They weren't alone as the other rabbit supporters were already celebrating his victory.
At the battle...
Aisha: Maybe, but I'm not one to go down quietly.
Bell: There's no way for you to win!
Aisha: I know.
Bell: Are you really that loyal to your goddess?
She scowled at him for that.
Aisha: Not a chance!
He flinched slightly at that, but didn't step back.
Aisha: All I've been looking for is someone to look after the silly fox behind me. Seeing as how you basically took on two different Familias for someone you barely met, I think you fit that criteria.
Bell: Um, thank you? But why do we have to fight then?
Aisha: Because if you want to save her, you'll have to earn her by beating me!
He realized very quickly that there was no talking his way out of this. He put the other dagger away and drew his knives. Everyone else stood back and watched him.
Aisha: Here, use this instead.
She threw him a spare sword one of her allies used.
Aisha: Better to have something with a little more reach.
Bell silently put his knives away before picking the sword up. He stanced himself before the two charged at each other. Right away, Bell was slightly on the backfoot, but Bell was able to see Aisha was beginning to be affected by all the damage she received earlier. He wasn't doing as bad as her, but was feeling tired from all the fighting he did today. The most rest he got was a short nap before everyone started tonight.
Aisha: Hehe, not bad!
Bell: Gh!
Clang* *Clang*
Even so, he couldn't get a good hit in before he got a small cut on his cheek. He soon found himself overwhelmed by her power.
Bell: Gah!
Thud*
Welf: Bell!
Lili: Master Bell!
The boy gripped his sword and slowly got to his feet. Haruhime, who watched silently, cried from watching the boy get hurt for her sake as well as his own. This game only reached this point because of her and she felt she needed to stop him.
Haruhime: Master Cranel, please just stop! You don't have to get yourself this hurt for me!
Bell: What? *Looking to her*
Haruhime: *Crying* Please, I'm not worth it! A prostitute is the symbol of destruction for heroes like you! Don't waste yourself on someone like me!
Bell: No! You're not the worthless trash you think you are! I promised myself that I would save you and I'm going to make good on it! *Getting up*
Haruhime: *Crying* But I'm-
Bell: We both look up to the kind of heroes who don't discriminate! What you think you are doesn't matter! I want to be the hero who saves anyone who needs help!
Haruhime: I... I'm only going to be a burden to you.
Bell: No you aren't! We all did our part to get this far! Now is the time for you to say what you want! What's your real desire?!
In Orario, Ishtar watched furiously how the fight was going. Hestia's boy prattle on about his desire to be a hero while Haruhime was consumed by her guilt. Bell's friends watched and listened to him talk. They felt his desires in them and waited to see how she would respond.
Haruhime: I... *sob*
Bell: Tell me, from the bottom of your heart, what you really want!
She knew what she wanted. In that small time she knew him, she felt free from her burdens. Back to the happier times she had with Mikoto and the others. She wanted to have that back.
Haruhime: I want... I want to have it back. I don't want people to get hurt because of me! Please, help me!
Bell smiled and nodded before having to block another attack from Aisha.
Aisha: Heh, you finally got her to crack, good! Now let's see if you can beat me!
Clang*
Aisha: HAH!
Bell blocked that and was panting the same as Aisha. Satisfied with everything so far, she decided the next was all that was needed to settle this matter once and for all.
Aisha: Come, champion of the savages. Manly warrior, strong hero, greedy and unjust hero!
Clang* *Clang* *Clang*
She chanted her spell all the while attacking Bell with all her might.
Bell: (She can concurrent chant?!)
Aisha: Show your worth if you desire the girdle of the Empress. Satisfy me, penetrate and kill my body. My starving blade is Hippolyta!
Bell weaved around her swings and charged his own attack at the same time. His Argonaut wouldn't be at full power, but he only needed to overpower the amazon enough to end the fight without killing her. A short time would be fine. He charged the skill into his sword while Aisha's glowed red. They raised their weapons before bringing their attacks down.
Aisha: Hell Kaios!
Bell: AAAAAAAHH!
The two powes clashed and everyone was being pushed back by the force. Both swords broke, but Bell pushed on and threw a punch towards Aisha's stomach while she was staggered. She was surprised at first, but knew there was nothing she could do now. She let it happen and Bell shot a point blank forebolt at her to send her to the ground.
Thud*
Bell: *Panting*
Bell caught his breath while Aisha remained on the ground. Seeing this, Ibri, who was speechless the whole time, got his senses and called the fight right while the night was still young.
Ibri: That's it! It's all over! The winners are the Hestia and Artemis team!!!
All over the city, cheers rung out from the great match. Mixed in with them were groans of the many who foolishly bet against Bell. However...
Mord: Hmph, that looks like my money!
Dealer: *Grumpy* Grr, just take it and go.
Mord: Hehehe! (I knew you could do it, kid.)
Dealer: You get out of here too!
Mord: Huh?
He looked and saw Naaza there too to collect a large bag of valis for herself. She waved to him seeing a fellow supporter of her friend which he responded in kind. In the Hostess, Syr sighed in relief that it was over while Mama Mia was smiling at her potential winnings. She herself bet on Apollo to save face, but secretly enlisted her staff to bet on Bell to make up for losses which were meager in comparison.
Chloe: Eh?! But why do we have to give it all. We wanted to support him from the beginning, so can't we have just a little?
Mia: A good and fair question. I have a better one, though. What's that thing on your face?
Chloe: What's what thing in my face-
Mia: My fist!
Bop* *Thud*
She punched the cat girl and knocked her out before catching the bag of valis she dropped. Lunoire and the others fearfully offered their bags to her lest they end up like Chloe.
With the Guild...
Misha: They won! Aren't you happy, Eina?
Eina: *Sigh* I'm relieved it's over, but yes, I am. *Smiling*
With Ais...
Tiona: They did it! I knew he couldn't pull it off!
Finn: Indeed. They all did very well.
Gareth: Ha! Even Lefiya didn't look to shabby out there!
Tione: She looked great! Anything to add, Bete? *Smirking*
Bete: Tch. She looked less weak than usual.
Riveria: She even did some concurrent chanting. I have to say I'm quite proud of her.
Ais: *Nodding* They did a great job.
Babel...
Apollo: *Pale* N-No... it can't end like this...
Ishtar: *Angry* ...
Hestia: Apollo~
Apollo: Gh!
Hestia: So, have you said your goodbyes?
Apollo: W-Wait! Please, I just couldn't help myself because he was so cute!
Hestia: SILENCE!
Artemis: You said you would agree to any of our terms if you lost, right?
His face lost even more color when facing the two.
Hestia: All your assets belong to us! Your home, your money, all of it! Your Familia is disbanded and you're banished from Orario!
Apollo: NOOOOOO!
Artemis: And also...
She walked up to him while he trembled in fear.
Artemis: HMPH!
She then kicked him in the groin as hard as she could. Apollo was even lifted slightly into the air before crumbling to the ground. Hestia then turned her attention to a furious Ishtar.
Hestia: As for you, Bell and the others made a list for me. That Renard as well as this "Aisha" and her friends will no longer be part of your Familia. You'll be paying us money as well.
Ishtar fumed with rage as Hestia talked, but the last part was what sealed the deal.
Hestia: You will also agree to a Guild investigation of your property effective immediately. They're going there to search as we speak and you will make no moves to interrupt them.
Her face paled at that as she didn't want her secret dealings to be let loose. However, she had no choice in this situation. Once that was over, their attention was brought back to the screen when the saw what Bell was doing.
With Bell...
The boy was now with Haruhime and Aisha who was still stuck on the ground.
Aisha: Ouch. Damn, you pounded me real good.
Bell: Sorry. Now then, let's get you free.
She took the collar around her neck and freed her. Ishtar was forced to comply as per the rules and nothing happened to the Renard. After that, Bell took the dagger with the crystal on it back out before shattering in on the ground. The crystal first, then the blade under his boot showing that Haruhime was now free. The girl couldn't hold back her budding emotions and let them all out on him.
Haruhime: *Crying* Y-You're my hero! *Sob* Thank you so much!
Bell blushed a bit when she threw herself onto him, but he did what he could to comfort her by rubbing her back.
In Orario...
Many were still watching and couldn't help but feel slightly jealous of the boy. Though, he did reveal his desires and carried them out bravely, so they also were amazed.
With the Loki Familia...
Tiona: Hehe, just like in my story books. Hm, Ais?
The girl was frowning and had a gloomy aura around her.
Riveria: Something wrong?
Ais: No...
The other girls who wanted the rabbit felt slightly irritated. Hestia was behaving as expected, but Artemis kept herself calm as she knew how Bell was. He was just trying to help her and that's one of the reasons she loved him.
With Bell...
His friends surrounded him and congratulated the boy.
Welf: It's hard to believe, but we did it.
Lili: We sure did.
Mikoto: Thank you, Sir Bell! I'm in your debt for saving Lady Haruhime!
Bell: N-No, that's alright!
Bell heard footsteps on the other side and saw Lefiya there with Filvis.
Lefiya: ...
Bell: Miss Lefiya?
Lefiya: Y-You did alright, I guess. I should also thank you for allowing me to assist you.
Bell: No, in fact I should be thank you and your friend here. You both were a big help and I don't think could have done this without you. You were amazing!
She was caught off guard by his compliments again and responded in her natural way.
Lefiya: D-Don't misunderstand me! I didn't do this for you, but for Miss Ais! Now that this has been settled, we can be on our way.
Bell: Y-Yes, Ma'am! Thank you! You as well, Miss Filvis!
Filvis: *Nods* (I'll have to make a mental note of him.)
She felt a slight pain at that, but wasn't sure why.
Bell: Any you Miss Ryuu! Thanks again for helping us!
Ryuu: I-It's fine. Syr would be sad if anything happened to you.
Bell: Even so, I'm grateful for everything you've done for me.
He gave a smile that made her blush a tiny bit before she turned her head away. Once Haruhime calmed down, he helped her to her feet before giving Aisha a shoulder to lean on.
Bell: Are you doingOK?
Aisha: I've been worse. I just feel better knowing my sister will be safe with you. Just be sure to treat her well Cranel, or your ass is mine.
Bell: R-Right!
In Orario...
Chloe: *Jolts up*
Anya: Nya! You scared me!
Chloe: I feel... a disturbance. *Looking somewhere else*
Timeskip several days...
The next day, Bell was with Welf, Lili, Mikoto, Haruhime, Hestia and Artemis in front of the old home Apollo lived in.
Hestia: Tada! This is gonna be our new house from now on!
Bell: Wow! Lord Goibnu works fast!
Artemis: All we need now is a new emblem for it!
Hestia: I had plenty of time to work on it. How is this?! *Showing her drawing*
On the paper was a picture of a flaming bell with a crescent moon engraved on it with an arrow and string attached to it.
Welf: So you incorporated yours and Lady Artemis' emblems onto it?
Hestia: Uh-huh! Looks good, right?
Bell: Yeah, it's perfect!
Lili: Where are Master Albert and the others? Shouldn't they celebrate properly with us?
Haruhime: Are they not coming?
Hestia: They're off inviting everyone here as well as getting things for the party. In the meantime, let's all get ourselves situated into our new lives!
They opened the gates and ran into the next part of their lives which was looking very much up from here.
AN: So, first off, I apologize for the delay. I intended for this to drop literally a month ago to celebrate my full year of fanfic writing, but real life just disagreed. Anyway, I will just thank everyone again for their support, and their congratulations they gave me. Your love and support mean a lot to me and it's nice to see all the people who've stuck with me this past year. I aim to make this next year just as good, so I hope you all stay with me until then.
Thank you, as always, for reading this chapter. I hope you enjoyed and let me know what you thought of it. See you in the next one!