"Mmmh So warm…"

Artemis was in bliss. She slept like a baby for the first time since she got here. Her dreams didn't bother her and it was quite a dream indeed. However, she didn't understand one thing about it.

She was in the forest, thick grass and trees were as far as the eye can, the sun shone down about her yet it didn't bother her it felt nice. Time seemed to go slowly for her, an endless hunt and a blissful moment in time. No worries. No death. No men… Her eye spotted a new prey. White fur and red-eyed. She recognised the little creature. It's the same rabbit that plagued her other dreams. But this time it was different. It wasn't cautious, and its eyes were oddly hypnotic and familiar.

Her first thought was to fire her bow. But she tried that before in other dreams, no this time she waited and watched. Once it realised she possessed no threat, it made its way to her side. Once it was next to her, it rubbed its head against her leg. The sensation was oddly calming to her. A small smile formed as she kneeled down to pet it. Its fur was so soft and thick, and she enjoyed the velvety sensation in her hand.

Time passed and she decided to bring it with her. Picking it up and holding it within her arms. It snuggled into her palm and arm peacefully, enjoying itself. Artemis continued to walk randomly as she had done for hours before. However, she soon came to the edge of this endless forest. The outline of trees trunks in the distance were like black pillars shielding her from the light. Her eyes became fixed on the end of her long journey. The rabbit in her hands noticed her newfound joy. The red eyes looked back and forth from her to the light.

Her surprise came as her new pet jumped from her arms. Sadness filled her as she lost the ball of softness that graced her. It ran towards the light and stopped at its edge. Its ears lifted and it turned to her. Without a second thought, she followed. Slowly at first, but she became faster and faster. She ended up in a sprint to catch up. The light blinded her as she reached the end and a moment of nothingness filled her.

"Where am I?"

Silence. Her eyesight was blurry and faded; however, she could make out the white hair of her furry companion. She moved her hands forward to catch it. The first thing she felt was the unbelievable softness. She smiled and closed her eyes and brought it close to her chest.

She received some resistance at first, but in the end, it returned to her embrace. She continued to stroke it with a newfound fondness. It was then that she realised it. The second thing was more extensive and slightly rounder form. When she placed it into her chest, it felt hard and poked her. She peeked her eyes open and realised it almost instantly.

"B-B-Bell!"

Being Surprised was an understatement. Being confused was an understatement. Being wholly speechless and embarrassed beyond belief that wasn't an understatement. His beet red face matched hers. Seconds passed and then minutes in fact before too long she realised something. She was enjoying it. Enjoying it the same as she enjoyed the rabbit in her arms. The only difference was who it was.

'Ugh why is Bell here? This is my dream, so why am I dreaming about Bell and like this?'

A thousand questions filled her head.

Bell moved his head and snuggled into her chest. She watched him and wondered.

'W-would the real Bell like this?'

Her thoughts should be challenged; she wanted to challenge it and yet.

"Are you comfortable Bell?"

Bell nodded his head in response. Artemis felt his head make contact with her breasts. A strange sensation filled her, but she chose to ignore it.

"Be grateful that I'm in a good mood. This is a reward for your kindness over the last few days."

Her voice was calm, yet she wanted to be harsher.

"Thank You goddess!"

He said a with a tremendous amount of enthusiasm. He pushed himself closer into her.

"B-BELL!"

Her embarrassment flared up when she realised his head was betwixt her breasts. Such an action worthy of death.

'Ughhh why…. Why do I… why do I…'

Her train of thought was cut short. She suddenly felt him wrap his arms around her, like a snake that coiled around its prey. It dawned on her. This feeling was the same one she got when she hugged him before. Their closeness, his touch, his warmth. All things she had for millennia sworn not to want or embrace.

'It's just a dream, It's just a dream. It means nothing!'

As if saying it would make her lack of actions credible. No, it was to appease her mind. In contrast, her body shifted and shuddered under his touch. It wanted it—the warmth he provided.

'It's just...a dream.'

She reached out and embraced him. Just like when the two embraced in the doorway, it was a moment of serenity for her. She rubbed his back before returning to her favourite pastime. Finding his hair, she started to play with it.

"Umm Goddess why are you?"

He looked up, but she didn't care. Continuing to enjoy the moment. A moment that she had to keep questioning.

'This is fine, isn't it? I mean it's not like anything is happening.'

Suddenly Bell moved away, and she felt a deep sadness as she once again lost her playful bunny. However, the dream Bell turned to her.

"Goddess, you seem tired. Perhaps you should rest a little."

His suggestion seemed to click a switch and her body felt rugged and tired. He pulled her into him as he laid down. Her head rested on his chest, and he closed his eyes. She didn't know what to do.

'Why do I suddenly feel so sleepy? This is a dream… Isn't it?'

Thoughts were pointless. His muscular body did little to hide the subtle but noticeable beat of his heart. It was like a calming rhythm and she slowly closed her eyes as well and enjoyed it. Minutes passed and Bell's light snores did little to disturb her, only a moment when he moved did she react.

"Hmfp come back pillow."

She reacted by stretching out her arms and pulling him back in.

'I wonder if the real Bell would make a good pillow?'

'No, no Artemis that's not something you should ask about in a dream or reality!'

Her imagination and Bell were starting to bring stranger thoughts to her head. She knew she trusted him, but why in heaven did she want him to be her pillow!

'Even if he is warm… and…'

She blushed and continued to do so.

'Such contact is wrong… Or is it? How could something so good be bad?'

Before her mind could think of a reason why being held by the boy was wrong, she had come up with her own answer.

'H-hes just being friendly. K-eeping me warm.. Yes, that's it he's just keeping me warm he's just being friendly…'

Her body cuddled closer to reconfirm that statement.

'Besides this is just a dream, just a dream…'

Morning arrived, and with it, one would assume the warmth of the sun. But it didn't, it was cold, the light did little to heat the room. Yet this did not bother the two. One was aware of the situation after waking up in the middle of the night. Bell had found himself in a position that most men could only dream of. A sleeping beauty wrapped around him. However, Bell knew this situation was dangerous one, but he could do little in his current position. Instead, he accepted that it wasn't going to get any worse for him. Now he had fallen back asleep, his arms wrapped around Artemis, a small smile on his face.

Artemis, on the other hand, was unaware of her predicament. She also fell asleep shortly after Bell; however, she was off in her little dream world, unaware that what was happening there, was also the case on the outside as she would soon find out.

Once again the first thing that gave away it was morning was the faint light illuminating her eyelids. With little resistance she turned her head into the pillow and ignored it. However something was strange.

Her so-called pillow was firmer than usual and seemed to move up and down. She thought it was her imagination until it twitched and she realised it wasn't something she was holding but someone. Her eyes shot open and the soft fabric she felt was a shirt and the pillow.

'B-B-B-B-Bell….'

She felt herself going red, her mind was having a hard time comprehending it. She felt like she was going to faint from embarrassment. Which seemed more and more likely. She shifted and tried to move only to realise she was being restricted. With a quick glance gave her answer. Bell had his hands around her.

'Dreaming yes that's it I must still be dreaming! Why else would he be in my bed holding me!'

She wasn't, this was real and she knew it. She tried to wriggle her way out, moving her body up. She hoped that she get enough of her body out his grip to escape.

"Mmm Artemis…"

With that, she felt herself being brought closer to the boy. He had quickly grabbed her and tightened her hold again. She suddenly realised something as she looked forward.

"Epp"

She let out a small squeal as she found herself face to face with Bell. She had moved herself into a worse situation and this time there was no escape. His body was about to lose its source of warmth and comfort and it reacted with increasing its hold.

This was the first time she realised how strong he really was. Even she found it pointless to struggle. But this was the least of her worries. Her body had given up without a fight. His hugs were like a drug and her body was addicted to it. However, her thoughts weren't and were screaming for help. She was but a few centimetres from his face. His light breathing graced her cold cheeks warming them. Not that it was needed. She was as red as his eyes which were hidden by his eyelids. His cheeks were a light pink as were his lips.

'Stop thinking about him, stop thinking about him.'

She closed her eyes and prayed for a way out. But it seemed like the other gods enjoyed her suffering. Bell moved his head forward resting his forehead against hers. His soft hair was now touching her cheeks. Never had a man gotten this close to her. She'd have shot them long before. But Bell was touching her, skin on skin.

She bit her lip.

'Why why me? Why him? Why this?'

She had to stop this now. Her embarrassment had reached a point of boiling over. Her face was on fire and her body had succumbed to his touch. If he woke up she'd die but if she didn't wake him up it be a torturer unlike any other.

"B-Bell?"

No response. She tried again. No response.

"B-BELLLL!"

With a final loud voice she managed to get a reaction and what a reaction it was.

Bell's eyes opened and closed several times. A moment of confusion, embarrassment then horror. Emerald green eyes met his ruby ones and they were really close. Bell could feel her heavy breathing just centimetres from his face. His body was holding her extremely close and he felt her rubbing against him.

"I-I'M SORRY!"

He let go and bolted off the side falling to the ground. He didn't wait, instead like a flash he ran for the bath room shouting the same words constantly.

"I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY I'M SO SORRY, I'M SORRY!"

This continued even after he slammed and locked the bathroom door.

'WHAT DID I DO, WHY WAS SHE SO CLOSE, HESTIA IS GONNA KILL ME, ARTEMIS IS GONNA HATE ME. I'M FUCKED I'M SO FUCKED!'

*'Yeah you're gonna die it was nice knowing you Bell'*

Just like the voice of his grandfather bolted from his head. Bell was unsure of what to do. The fact of the matter was he messed up big time. He had allowed a moment of weakness to decide his decision. He started to pace back and forth over and over again.

Artemis meanwhile remained were she was. Her thoughts were all muddled and mixed. She didn't know what happened. She was embarrassed to even think about it. What was worse was that it was a situation she was dreaming about not a moment before. Her body grew cold from the morning air and she realized what warmth he was providing her. She quickly wrapped the blanket around herself in an attempt to get warm again. But it only helped so much. She tried to remember the previous night. Certainly it was a strange situation.

^Flashback^

She and Bell were reading their respective books. She had been reading up on local hunting spots east of the city. Apparently it wasn't to popular due to monster activity in the area. The guild had apparently sorted the problem but people still refused to go there. Its when she looked away from her book that she noticed Bell had gone to sleep next to her. She decided to wait till she could stop at a point.

'It so cold…'

She turned her head to Bell he was fast asleep at this point but she could feel the warmth under the blanket.

'He's so warm… I hope he doesn't mind.'

She moved closer to him. She still kept her distance but she got a close as she could. The heat he provided was enough to keep her comfy as she continued to read on. After awhile she felt her eyelids grow weak and her yawns became more and more frequent. She noticed Bell had started shifting strangely.

'Is he having a nightmare? He did say he was frequently having them.'

She placed a hand on his arm and he started to calm and relax a little. She decided to wait just to be sure as she rested her head.

Flashback end

She realised that she must have fallen asleep shortly after. In some ways she couldn't blame him for what happened. He was asleep long before her. She blushed as she realised that she could have been partly responsible.

'D-did my body react while I was asleep? If so it could explain why I was thinking about Bell like that…'

She was now sighing into the blanket. It was a situation that shouldn't have happened. But it did and she couldn't deny it felt good. But was this something she should be enjoying? Bell was a boy, a man. She had pushed them away for so long and now she was conflicted. She liked it, she enjoyed it and it was strangely calming.

'What do I do? What do I do?'

She rocked back and forth but she didn't have the answer. This was uncharted territory and she had to make a decision. Should she embrace this change fully and see where it goes? Or ignore it like she always has…

'Three days… three days and I'll have my answer!'

She got to her feet.

'It goes against everything I know and believe. I'm gonna stop worrying and enjoy these next three days. If it goes bad Ill continue as I always have. If however he can prove me wrong…'

She smiled and moved to the bathroom. As she got closer she realised the boys inner and outer conflict. She didn't call out instead she listened for a moment.

"Why did I have to wake up when I did. Ughh I should have just ignored it…"

She leaned in closer towards the door placing her ear next to it so she could hear better.

"She looked so beautiful ugh why did I have to be so pathetic. She's a goddess I'm just a lowly adventurer…"

Artemis felt her cheeks grow hot and she seemed to like the boys words. She still remained quiet.

"What possessed me to think holding her was a good idea. Because she was hugging me? Its not like chose to do it she was asleep… She just assumed I was a pillow."

She knew she was blushing now. It was confirmation that they were both to blame for the situation. It didn't bother her that he did what he did. She had a dream about it so she can't deny the idea was in her head.

"I don't deserve to look at her. She probably hates me! The moment Hestia leaves I do something stupid. Artemis will never speak to me again…"

'I can't let him keep thinking this…'

"Bell are you in there?"

She knew he was but she didn't need him to think she had been listening.

"I'm sorry I'm sorry I didn't mean too! Please I know you hate me for it, but I'm sorry."

It hurt her to hear him blaming himself it hurt more that he believed she was genuinely angry at him.

'Maybe I should be I would have in the past… But I didn't dislike it so I can't complain.'

"Bell can you come out and talk. I promise I'm not angry I just want to talk."

She was speaking how she normally would, she was trying to show him she meant her words.

"I-I don't deserve it I know I did wrong I don't want you to be angry because of me."

She shook her head.

"Bell do you remember what I said yesterday? I spent my whole time around you, judging you. I swore I'd stop doing that. I trust you Bell so please lets talk about what happened."

"But I"

She had enough.

"Not another word Bell, I'll be more upset with you if you don't open this door!"

'Perhaps that was a little harsh... But it's the truth, I just want to talk to him'.

After a moment of silence the lock on the door clicked and she was able to open the door. She grabbed the door handle and opened it. She found Bell standing in the center of the room. He looked down his face was slightly bloody and slightly bruised.

'Oh no please tell me he hasn't been hurting himself…'

Bell looked away. Her face was upset and he assumed it was her.

'I was right she can't even stand to look at me.'

"Bell what happened are you alright?"

Her first thought was to make sure that he wasn't injured.

'Screw talking he shouldn't be injuring himself.'

He was confused.

'Why is she asking that, she couldn't look at me a minute ago so why is she…'

He was silenced when she placed her hands on his face she covered his mouth and looked over his face. He had a small cut on the top of his forehead and it was bruised almost as if was hitting something hard.

"What on earth happened?"

She removed her hand so he could speak but he remained silent.

"Bell please speak to me."

He turned his head and looked to the ground. But she wasn't gonna leave it there. She grabbed his cheek and forced him to look at her holding his face forward.

"If you think turning your head is going to get me to stop then you really have a lot to learn Bell."

He continued to remain quiet he was still angry at himself.

"Now answer me Bell how did you get that cut?'

He remained silent but he turned his head left to look at the wall. Artemis look and noticed one of the tiles had been cracked and broken on closer inspection she noticed blood.

"Oh Bell why?"

He looked to his feet.

'I deserved it, that's what I want to say. That I deserved it.'

He looked up and was about to say something but Artemis had disappeared.

"I can't believe you Bell!"

She came back and pulled him out of the bathroom. Bell was pulled along back to the sofa before being forced to sit down.

"Stay!"

With that she wandered back to the bathroom. Returning with a cloth, towel and bandages. "I can't believe you would be so stupid as to injure yourself over such a silly situation!"

She was angry, but not for the reasons he thought.

"I w…"

She glared at him.

"Quiet!"

She barked and he obeyed. After bringing a bowl of warm water she started to clean his wound. She was still in her dress from yesterday Bell watched as the bloody water dripped down her arms and started to seeped into it.

'Now I've ruined her dress…'

Once his wound was cleaned she dried it and applied the bandage round his forehead. Luckily his hair was long enough to cover it so it was hard to tell. She stood up and sighed.

"I should hit you for your stupidity. But you seemed to have done that well enough yourself."

He was still being quiet and refused to look at her.

"Thank you… I don't deserve your kindness…"

He said in a low and down voice however she had managed to get him talking. Which was better then nothing.

"No no you don't."

He continued to skin his head to the floor. He knew he was just one big problem for her.

"But you've got it anyway."

His eyes widened when he felt her bring him closer as she wrapped her arms round his head.

"You're an idiot, you know that Bell? I was never angry at you."

She started to rub the back of his head.

"I was surprised, that much is certain but what I didn't think for a second you had any ulterior motive."

She cupped his face and made it so he could see her face.

"I'm more angry that you would go so far as to injure yourself. But I also feel kind of responsible."

Bell opened his mouth to object but she placed a finger over his lips.

"No-no I'm talking and I don't like to be interrupted."

She smiled as he went back to being silent.

'He looks like a puppy that's getting told off.'

"I was the one that invited you to sit with me. I was the one that stayed next to you while you slept. I allowed myself to fall asleep next to you and not in my own bed."

Bell wanted to interject but she still had a finger on his lips.

"Before you say anything yes I know you woke up earlier in the night and decided to return my embrace."

Bell looked horrified that she knew that information.

"H-how do you…?"

Artemis smiled.

"I overheard you in the bathroom, don't worry I'm not mad. Besides like you said I assumed you were a pillow…"

She felt wrong saying that.

"So I can't say I fully blame you for what happened and I'd have to do the same thing to myself plus you've hurt yourself enough."

Bell just nodded.

"But I still can't let it…"

She shook her head.

"Ahhh I'm not finished yet. I can't lie that I don't like being touched especially by men…"

She paused.

"But it was cold and I was happy that you helped warm me…"

She was blushing with embarrassment. She wasn't going to admit that she liked it, but she wasn't gonna deny it ever.

"Here's my proposition Bell. You have to do one thing for me, do it and Ill forget what happened."

Bell just nodded.

"Of course anything!"

He was now on his knees waiting to hear her request he wanted to redeem himself anyway he could.

"Excellent, here's what I want. I'm going to get cleaned up, and you are going to get some supplies ready."

Bell looked a little confused

"Umm goddess why?"

She looked at him with a smile.

"Because were going hunting and your gonna be my guide. Also didn't I tell you to stop calling me goddess?"

Bell realised his mistake and nodded.

"Ohh yes sorry Artemis…"

With that she grabbed a towel and headed into the bathroom. Bell meanwhile got to his feet and cleaned up the mess. Once he finished with that he passed the bathroom door and grabbed a couple of towels, it was then that he heard a light humming behind the running water.

*'Still alive Bell, you really are one lucky boy you know that.'*

Bell was trying to ignore him. Nothing ever good came from that voice.

*'I'll assume since you can hear me. Your thinking of something naughty right now. Hmm Artemis naked shower.'*

Bell was just going to ignore him, it was safer and less likely to get him killed.

*'Come on, I thought I raised you to be more curious. This is a rare opportunity to get some good masturbation material'*

'Shut it old man, I don't want to think of her in that way now.'

*'Of course of course, you'd never imagine her lets say standing half naked in one of the inn rooms. And you certainly wouldn't become frustrated to the point of needing a release.'*

Bell was annoyed. Annoyed that he this brain was right and it was using his grandfather the man he blamed for all his perverted thoughts to prove it.

'Fine I admit it, I feel bad and dirty for thinking it. Now please leave me alone.'

*'Go on you know you want a quick peek. She's too busy cleaning herself to notice you. Go on the key hole has a great view.'*

Bell felt his body agreeing, especially his lower body.

'No no I won't.'

*'How did it feel to have her so close to you Bell? To have such a beautiful girl in your arms and you in hers. I know you enjoyed it and wished you could have it every night!.'*

'Or perhaps you'd like your own voice…'

Bell shivered and the voice of his grandfather was replaced with his own.

'No I'm done with these thoughts.'

He could hear her, humming in the shower. The water distorting it slightly. Bell tried his best to ignore it. But his body was starting to reach its limit.

'No no I won't be beaten think Bell think. Anyone anyone but her. Aiz, Syr for fuck sake, Ryu…'

Nope his mind could only picture Artemis and he was losing his will to live. Fuck knows how he managed to gather everything while having to fight back his thoughts.

'Spare clothes, camping supplies, tent, sleeping bags what else?'

He wasn't sure were she planned to go but there wasn't anywhere close to Orario. He knew hunters mainly hunted north which was a good eight hours away. No doubt they'd be spending the night in the wilderness.

'Three days at the very least, I guess this works out for my goddess getting back but I haven't hunted since I was young…'

He thought back to that time but all he could remember was his inability to hold a bow. He still couldn't but perhaps this would be good practice.

"I suppose I should get this stuff upstairs."

He started to shift everything upstairs remembering not to leave anything. Once he got the last of the stuff he knocked on the bathroom door.

"I'll be waiting upstairs."

With that he left the room and headed back upstairs. He sat down on the bench and looked around.

'I suppose if were gone for a few days I should pay the workmen, don't need that when I get back. Some horses would be good too.'

He made sure that he had enough on him to pay for it all. What little savings he had downstairs he wanted to keep.

"I suppose a trip outside the city will be a nice change. Its been awhile since I left… Besides I'm sure it'll be fun."

He reassured himself leaning back. He suddenly remembered something.

'I don't have a bow?'

He looked to the one Artemis brought.

'Bows really aren't my thing any ways. I suppose its more for her I'm just going to make sure she's safe…'

He didn't think there would be much for him to do, but he supposed while she was out hunting he could gather supplies, cook or read something.

'Maybe I could get some training in. Might not be much in terms of the dungeon or with Aiz but I have been slacking!'

After a while he convinced himself that he'd have plenty to do on their little trip. But one thing was on his mind.

'I have been spending a lot of time with her…'

It was something that he noticed recently. Not that he minded he enjoyed her company. But he was worried.

'I don't want to get to used to her…'

He hadn't thought about it but the fact she may still leave bothered him. He knew it was her choice but a part of him wanted her to stay.

'Ohh who am I kidding? I want her to stay!'

Everything he did to try and reason with his mind had failed. In under a week he had grown accustomed to her. He had gone from wanting to protect her for Hestia's sake to doing it for his own. Something about her made him want to know more, to get closer and enjoy her company.

'I wonder if I asked her to stay would she? If I asked her to join the familiar would she agree?'

He wanted to ask, but he knew he couldn't.

'She's got to make her own decision… I can't influence that!'

Suddenly the door next to him shot open and standing there was Artemis. She was wearing the same outfit as when he first met her. It looked good on her and showed her more adventurer side.

'No doubt its what she prefers to travel in.'

Bell got to his feet, he was still unsure of her mood and the last thing he wanted to do was annoy her by staring. He turned his head away making it look like he was checking their supplies.

'I wonder what he's thinking?'

She had spent the time in the shower calming herself down.

'I really didn't think this through, I hope I'm not being selfish with my request?'

"Soo Bell are you ready?"

She smiled deciding that she wouldn't let it bother her for now. She moved forwards to join him.

"Ohh I think so…"

He was unsure himself. He had checked they had everything multiple times. But something was off.

'I'm not mentally equipped for this.'

He nodded.

'No this is for her I'll just keep my nose clean and everything will be okay.'

He smiled and grabbed the tents and bag of supplies.

"Yeah I'm ready shall we be off?"

The two of them headed for the door, after a short walk into town, Bell stopped them.

"I'm sorry to be a pain but I need to drop off this coin for the repairs, Ill only be a minute."

Artemis nodded, Bell quickly headed into a large stone building, She checked her bow and remembered a small detail.

"Bell hasn't got a bow!"

It was something she had overlooked, but it was obvious from yesterday that he wasn't used to holding one. He even remarked it had been awhile that he last held one.

'Hmm if memory serves me correctly…'

She looked around and soon noticed a small number of stalls peeking round one of the corners. She looked back at the door before sprinting off in a hurry.

'I should have enough time.'

Bell waited for a short time before being seen. What he hoped would be a quick chat turned into a lengthy conversation. He only wanted to pay them in advance simply because he wasn't gonna be here. He had to wait for them to find his original request, then he was told to wait while they counted his coin. All the while he hoped Artemis wasn't getting to bored. When he was finally done he was told that work would begin today.

"All that hassle just to give them some money!"

He exited to find Artemis missing.

'Please gods don't let anything have happened while I was waiting.'

He looked around worried and was about to start searching until.

"Bell sorry I just went to get something!"

Artemis shouted from a distance and Bell sighed with relief.

"It's okay, I've only just got done myself."

He waited for her to join him before they headed off but she grabbed his shirt to stop him.

"Hmm is something wrong."

He turned his head slightly to look at her. She just shook her head.

"No no, its just…"

She looked down and held out a dark brown bow. He took a moment to realise the situation. He hadn't noticed she had been holding a second bow. Worry had taken his mind for a minute so when he saw her he was just relieved she was okay.

"I noticed you didn't have one so I thought you might need it… I wouldn't want you to feel left out."

Bell looked at the bow in her hands. Just from the look he could tell it was well made, plus he knew first hand that she knew a good bow. He was shocked by the girls kindness.

'She went out of her way to get this for me…'

He grabbed the bow and bowed.

"Thank you Artemis, you didn't have to."

Artemis blushed a little before holding her hands behind her back.

"I-it was the least I could do Bell, you have been so kind to me these last few days this is a small repayment for your kindness."

"W-we should get going…" She suggested following quietly behind.

The two were quiet for the short walk to the stables, he was unsure if he'd be able to get any horses for them but when he arrived he was quiet shocked.

"Ahh master Bell good to see you again."

One of the workers greeted him as if they had met before but Bell couldn't remember.

"Ohh ahh I'm sorry do I know you?"

He was unsure of what to say in this situation. This had been the first time he had been to this particular stables so it was strange that they would know him by name.

'If memory serves me correctly this stables is run by the Ganesha Familiar…'

He then noticed a tall grey haired man exit the house, he quickly noticed Bell and looked at the confused worker.

"Oi get over here!"

The worker quickly ran forward and seemed to be told off but Bell couldn't understand why the man had been pulled to the side.

"Listen, I forgot to mention this but orders are to act like we don't know him. Look its come from lord Ganesha himself just let me handle this and you let rest know okay."

With that the worker sprinted off towards the other workers and the grey hair man walked towards them.

"Apologize Mr Cranel, Your recent feats have made you quite the topic for conversation, forgive the worker for any confusion. No what can I help you with?"

Bell just shock his head for a moment.

"Ohh well were looking to hire some horses if possible?"

The man nodded.

"Of course"

He led them over to a small table. Once there he opened a small ledger and started to write.

"Lets see here, yep okay I've got two available, I'll just need a small deposit, when you return them you'll get it back."

Bell was a little confused. "I thought I'd have to pay for the time?"

"Ha-ha no no. Lord Ganesha allows all adventures to use them, we ask for a deposit in case of injury or loss."

Bell just nodded understanding the situation a little better. He handed over the agreed amount before being shown to their horses. And boy was he in for a shock.

The man brought out an elegant chestnut brown horse with a long mane and decent build. But behind it was a large black horse, Unlike the first it was built buffer, it legs looked like they could move the ground itself. Bell had seen monsters more tameable then that horse.

"Here we go, for you my lady."

He handed the reigns of the chestnut mare to Artemis before turning to Bell with a small smile on his face.

"And for you master Cranel."

Bell looked horrified. He knew just by the way it looked that he was gonna end up with it. Part of him wanted to just walk instead.

"Your lucky lord Ganesha personally helped train this one, it's one of his favourites."

He looked at the speechless and horrified Bell.

"Ha-ha don't worry despite his looks he's quite tame."

'Why do i not believe you.'

He had no choice but to accept, before the gentlemen left he helped Bell pack his stuff into the travel bags provided. Before Bell had gotten everything on, he noticed Artemis had already gotten on hers and was waiting by the gates.

"I think you should hurry don't want to keep a lady waiting."

With that the grey haired man returned to his work leaving Bell alone.

"Okay Bell, just keep calm, I'm sure it won't be so bad."

He climbed onto the saddle and closed his eyes expecting the horse to rear back or try to knock him off. Instead it waited patiently for his command.

Bell sighed. 'Oh thank god!'

He flicked the reigns and made his way over to Artemis who was laughing at him.

"What's wrong Bell worried he wouldn't like you?"

Bell was silent, as he rode up next to her. She gave him a big smile.

"Don't worry Bell I think he likes you. Come on we need to get going!"

With that she galloped off leaving Bell in the dust.

"Ohh well here we go."

He quickly followed behind her. Bell for once was following Artemis, who had a map and compass in her hand. Once he had caught up to her he started a conversation.

"So where are we headed any ways? I thought we'd be heading North? Where most hunters go?"

Artemis seemed to ignore his question as if it was not worth her time to answer it.

"Umm Artemis?" Again no response.

'Okay well no point trying to get a response…'

He decided to look over her shoulder to the map. From the looks of it they were heading east, Bell remembered there being a quest to clear a forest in that area.

'Why would she want to go there… I mean Eina said that it had been cleared but nobody has been up there since. Even local hunters avoid it…'

He tried to keep an open mind. Besides whoever took on the quest no doubt cleared it properly. He took the time to think.

'Hmm we've got at least eight hours before we reach the edge of the forest. Best to set up camp before it gets too dark.'

After an hour of riding and nothing but quiet. He was starting to get bored, which was not a good thing.

"Ummm Artemis?" Still silence.

He didn't do anything to upset her, and as far as he knew she had been looking at the map since they left.

'I know about following directions but…'

"You don't have to look at it all the time you know?"

Bell said this aloud, finally getting a reaction out of her. She looked back, nodding as confirmation before returning to look forward. She took the reigns of her horse and slowed down so she was riding next to him.

"Sorry if I've been ignoring you… I-I just don't know the area that well and I don't want to get us lost…"

Her sad expression made Bell feel a little guilty. He didn't believe for a second she was ignoring him on purpose. He smiled.

"Hey its okay, I barely leave the city so I'd probably get us lost as well."

Artemis tried to hide her chuckle but Bell noticed it and smiled.

"Gods know how I managed to reach Orario?"

"Blind luck I suppose."

Artemis didn't seem to agree.

"Oh come Bell I'm sure it was that simple. But I am curious what was it like setting out on a journey for the first time?"

Bell just shrugged.

"It never really crossed my mind. I had promised my grandfather I'd be a great adventurer and his death was on my mind for so long. When I reached Orario I really didn't think back on the journey…"

She nodded understanding.

"I see well its understandable I hope this isn't bringing back bad memories?"

She gave a worrying look but a simple smile was enough to put her mind at rest.

"No its fine… I often think back to those days, I was sad for so long but I remembered that he wouldn't want me to mourn him forever…"

Artemis watched as his smile faded.

'He says he's okay but it's obvious that's just a front. I hope its not just for my sake…'

She leaned over and placed a hand on his shoulder, her eyes let him know he didn't have to hide his problems.

"You said to me that you knew what it was like to lose a loved one. It wasn't something you'd easily get over."

He looked down realising she saw through his act.

"Bell its okay, Its hard, but you said that you'd be there if I need to talk, its only fair that I'd do the same for you."

Taking in the small bonding between the two was enough for Bell. His cheerful nature renewed he looked forward with a smile.

"Thank you…"

"Well we've got plenty of time to kill. How about a little wager?"

Bell looked at the smirking goddess with curiosity and worry.

"What do you have in mind?"

She lifted the map up and pointed to a small town on the map.

"It shouldn't be too far away. So I suggest we have a race?"

Bell looked at her then the map, before nodding in agreement.

"Fine by me what's the wager?"

"Loser has to set up camp."

Bell smiled and nodded his head.

"Fine your on!"

The two came to a stopped and waited.

Artemis smiled

"On your marks. Get set… GO!"

The moment she shouted go she was off and Bell following quickly behind her.

Meanwhile faraway from Orario.

"For a man who's supposed to be in exile he's not really hiding."

A tall dark man stood in a small field looking towards a modest home. It was slightly weathered in areas and seemed to have been poorly repaired. The walls around the field had started to crumble and the gate had all but been lost to time. The man looked around and sighed.

"I'll give him credit, its not gonna be easy to sneak up on him… Figures that old man was always one for caution."

He made his way towards the house, stepping over a part of crumbling wall and slowly making his forward.

When he reached the home he noticed a muddy shovel and hoe placed next to the door. He looked at the large green door, it had obviously been repainted recently but the damage was still noticeable.

'Monster attack… seemed its from a long time ago…'

He didn't bother knocking instead noticing the door was slightly left ajar, pushing it open he entered. The inside was in far better condition then the outside. Crude wooden furniture was placed throughout. A small fire and pot was obviously part of the kitchen. The shelves and cupboards were partially stocked and there was a make shift sink in the corner. He looked at the stairs, dark oak and held up best out of all the house.

He took a moment to wait and listen.

"Hmm nobody's here… Where are you hiding?"

"Hiding no, not from you at least."

A loud gruff voice spoke loudly behind him. He smiled but remained facing forward.

"Your not an easy man to find. Doesn't help you keep moving around what's the excuse this time?"

The man didn't speak, but the sound of creaky floor boards alerted him to movement. From the sound he was heading towards the pot.

"Not going to answer my question?"

He turned to the pot. A tall white haired man stood over it. He was an oldish looking gentleman but his body didn't give the same suggestion. His overalls fitted him well and he moved like a man in his prime.

"Lets skip the small talk, you were never good at it. What do you want?"

The old man turned to look at the hooded figure. His glare was one of impatience waiting for a response.

"Oh come now is it so wrong to visit an old mentor? But you're right I'm not just here a simple chat."

He turned and grabbed a small chair from under the table. Slowly sitting in front of the owner.

"It seems you've been busy since your exile from Orario. But I have to say you've fallen from grace. The man who inspired hope in his Familia. But the past is in the past. Wouldn't you agree Zeus?"

Zeus smiled at the man and shook his head.

"I suppose, it's been so long I have almost forgotten. Living a simple life is rewarding in its own way. You should try it sometime Regis."

He took a sip of the pot's contents. His face shrivelled up and shook his head before putting the lid on. He grabbed the chair near the pot and sat, warming his hands.

"What do you want?"

"What do you mean?" Regis leaned forward with a smile on his face.

"Don't play dumb with me Regis, you were never one that did anything without reason. Even when it was less than noble!"

Zeus' voice grew angry and while Regis' smile grew.

"I'm here because I have questions… Answer them and I'll be out of your hair."

Regis leaned back on the chair and stretched his arms.

"Ughh or I can make myself comfortable, your choice."

Zeus sighed. "Ask."

Regis smiled and leaned forward. "So why have you been watching me?"

Zeus shook his head. "I keep an eye on all members of my Familia and those of Hera. Ever since that incident in Orario all those years back."

He nodded. "The incident with Zard and Alfia… I must admit when I heard about it I was taken aback but then again they were always strange."

Zeus shook his head. "Not many know why they did it, I'm one of few that do. Strange as they were they had good hearts…"

Regis shrugged. "Whatever their reasons were, I don't care, one thing was obvious and that's times have changed. If they did it as a last hurrah or if they genuinely believed they could inspire the next generation it doesn't matter. If they could see what their sacrifice achieved then they'd only feel regret."

Zeus throw some wood on the fire, knocking the embers into the air.

"No I don't believe they would…"

Regis sighed. "Whatever, I don't care but I do care about my privacy stop prying into my business!"

Zeus didn't show any signs of agreeing.

"Why should I? You lost my trust that day and as far as I'm concerned you haven't redeemed yourself!"

Regis glared at the old god, his hands clamped together.

"You still bring that up. No offence but you can't talk…"

"I'm not having this conversation again!" Zeus stood up.

Regis grew annoyed by the his god and threw himself to his feet.

"No I don't think it is over! You knew, you knew what would happen and yet you ignored every warning!"

He started to slowly walk back and forth.

"Zard's illnesses, a worn out Familia and even when I warned you what did you do?"

He paused letting Zeus remember.

"You said I was wrong!"

Zeus shrugged which pissed of Regis even more. He didn't speak instead taking the moment to calm himself.

"Getting angry isn't going to prove anything. Your actions proved me right."

Zeus sighed

"I'm sorry, yes you were right we weren't ready, we should have waited."

He walked to the door and opened it letting the breeze flow in.

"But I don't regret the decision and neither does Hera, I don't let the past influence my future…"

Regis took a deep breath "And what about the boy?"

Zeus turned around "What do you know about him?"

"Don't play dumb Zeus, I your not the only one that kept tabs, I must admit when I first learned about him I was quiet shocked. I genuinely thought you were willing to settle down."

Zeus looked away. He closed his eyes as an image of a small white haired boy with red eyes sat and listened as he read an adventure book to him.

"But you couldn't help, what did you see Zeus? What made you set that boy down that path?"

The door closed "I didn't… I'd have sooner kept him out of it, it was her last wish after all…"

"Who the boys mother? Or his Aunt who never laid eyes on him?"

"Both?"

Regis sighed, "I remember his mother… Kind women helped me after I got injured on the thirty second floor. Still didn't know what she saw in the useless supporter… What was his name again? You know what it doesn't matter…"

Zeus smiled "They were good people"

"One was good… The other was just a pervert, only reason you kept him round!"

Regis leaned back into the chair and looked at the ceiling. Smiling as a memory returned to him.

"It reminds me of when I first met you, I was starving and homeless. An orphan of a monster attack."

He leaned back even further till the legs of the chair lifted off the ground.

"You gave me hope, something to fight for… I believed more than anyone else that your dream was right."

The two men looked at each other and Zeus moved his hand to the door.

"We'll finish this conversation outside."

They both exited the house and Zeus grabbed the hoe heading for the field.

"I didn't come here to ask you for forgiveness. I came to warn you!"

Zeus continued his walk not showing any signs that he cared. Regis followed waiting till he stopped and began working the field.

"Stay out of my business, keep your informant on a leash, Hermes has been useful but I know who he works for…"

"Is that all?"

"Yes". Zeus raised the hoe and swung it down.

"Fine, but I have one condition?"

"I'm not here to negotiate!"

Zeus took another swing. "Whatever your plan is, leave the boy out of it."

Another swing. "I can't promise that."

Zeus stopped.

"No harm will come to that boy, that's not a request that's a warning. I let this meeting happen as thanks for what you did for him. But this will be the only time!"

"Even Hermes didn't know? How did you know?"

Zeus turned to him and pointed to his eye. "My connection with that boy is stronger then you think."

'Call it what you want you're just manipulating him'

Regis sighed and moved past the old god.

"If the boy gets involved I can't promise his safety. I hold nothing against him, but I won't let anything get in the way of my plan."

"Not Loki, Freya, Ouranos and certainly not you! When this is all over I'll finally be able to rest and unlike you I'll have earned it… Goodbye Zeus"

With that Regis left leaving the god to carry on with is work. Once Zeus confirmed he was out of sight he stopped.

"Bell I'm sorry I couldn't help you before. But I'll do everything in my power to help you now…"

Authors Notes

Chapter 34, yep were getting there only another 100 chapters hahahahah... No, but seriously I enjoy writing this, and enjoy the feedback im getting from you all. In discord, , Wattpad... Sorry, AO3 your late to the party... But I've finally reached 200 followers and close to 200 favourites on this story in which is amazing... Seen as I never expected to get past 100 but hey here we are lol. So as a celebration... I don't know yet... Im planning something for 200 favourites but I suppose ill do a couple extra long chapters. That should be good right?

Now onto the usual. Thanks again to webweasel for editing this chapter big help and it saves me a day editing... Seriously it would take me a day. Please check him out if you haven't he has some great stories.

Comments

Pix25. I try not to disappoint but let me know what you think... Yes, not as violent as I had planned but hey I think it works.

As always, please comment and review on what you liked or disliked. It helps me out a lot. and blah blah blah if you bother to read these you now it all already.

Thanks to everyone for taking the time to read and is still reading. I promise to continue this as often as I can. With that please be safe and hope to see you all next chapter. :)