This wasn't going to be any normal meeting of the gods. Hestia knew it, Hermes knew it and every single god and goddess knew this wasn't going to be a simple get together. Almost every god was there with a few exceptions. Hestia found herself sitting with Hermes, Hephaestus and Takemikazuchi. Hermes leaned over to whisper in Hestia ear.
"Remember were the only ones that know what happened with Artemis. Were going to be suspects just stay calm and don't give anyone a reason to challenge you."
Hestia didn't feel good, she felt sick the very thought that this had something to do with Artemis made her on edge, Hephaestus had tried her best to calm her but it was a failed effort. Takemikazuchi placed a hand on her shoulder.
"You look like a child that's been caught stealing, I don't know why you're worried but it's not like you…"
Hermes looked over to him.
"I'll explain later, for now just know that this could affect Hestia personally, I agree that she needs to stop looking so guilty."
Hestia sighed.
'I hope this is to do with Loki's disappearance and not Artemis… Please don't let these fools think they're connected.'
It was then that Freya entered the room and everyone turned to look. She looked around the room giving her usual smile before heading to her seat. Once she was sat she glanced at Hestia before starting a conversation with another god.
"Do you think she knows something?"
Hestia looked at Hermes who shrugged.
"Your guess is as good as mine, Freya has eyes everywhere, the fact she was attacked is enough evidence she may know… I wouldn't put it past her to avoid the topic."
Hestia out of the corner of her eye noticed another stare from one of the gods. She turned to meet said god in the eye but regretted it almost immediately. It was a tall blonde haired god, his locks slightly retained by his laurel wreath. But it was his smile that creeped her out.
"Why Hestia, what's with the doom and gloom look? Perhaps your regrets in life are finally surfacing…"
"Apollo still as annoying as ever! I would remind you to keep to yourself, nobody wants you poking into there personal life."
Apollo's smile grew as he ran a hand through his hair.
"Come now Hestia, when will you drop that cold shoulder, become mine its only natural at this point."
He licked his lips with a large smile on his face.
Hestia felt a shiver go down her spine as she looked away from the fool of a god.
"Hmm fine have it your way, no doubt you can't hide forever."
He spoke in a low voice making sure not to be noticed by any of the others around him.
It was at that moment that a small crystal ball in the centre of the room started to light up. Any conversations or mutterings stopped and all turned their attention. A light rose from it and formed a picture. An old god sat upon his throne and looked around the room.
"Thank you all for coming, I apologise for calling such a meeting at this time. However certain events have come to pass and we can not wait till the next Denatus."
He rested his hand on his head and took a deep breath. A moment of silence filled the room as they waited for him to continue.
"As you know the disappearance of Loki has been a worrying topic as of late. While the guild is looking into the matter on our behalf I believe its necessary for us to be wary."
He looked over to Freya.
"When you were attacked did you happen to gain any information on the attackers motivates?"
Everyone turned to look at the goddess of beauty who's smile dropped to a serious stare.
"No, Ottar dispatched them quickly, I had hoped to ask them myself but I didn't get such an opportunity."
Hermes looked at the goddess before turning his attention to Ouranos.
"A shame but what about your own actions, its been observed that your Familia has been watching areas of the city, care to explain?"
Ouranos slowly tapped his fingers against the stone waiting for her response.
"I'm ensuring that any attempt of future attacks are reduced, I will do as I please with my Familia if the guild has a problem with my children then Ill personally explain this…"
Ouranos shook his head.
"No its fine, the questions are from local residents, the guild just wants to put there minds at ease."
He turned his attention to Hermes how meeting the gods look. Hermes just nodded and looked down. Ouranos turned his attention to Hestia.
"While the recent attacks are a matter of utmost concern this next matter can't be over looked ever. Hestia, it has come to my attention that a certain person has been seen round the city. Care to enlighten us."
'Figures he'd be the one to bring this up.'
Hestia remained silent for a long time. It wasn't until Hermes nudged her that she stood up.
"Y-yes, well you see…"
Everyone was looking at her, it was a daunting task just to answer a simple question, she wanted to avoid bring her up but it seemed see wasn't going to get that wish.
"I-its Artemis…"
It didn't take long for the other gods to start muttering amongst themselves. These then turned to conversations which became louder and louder.
"Wait isn't that her friend? Didn't she appear a few weeks back for a quest?"
"I heard something happened on a quest, Hell I won't forget that night her Arcanum is a scary thing…"
"Indeed but I was sure that she was confirmed killed… Are we mistaken?"
Ouranos took another deep breath.
"Everyone be silent! Yes the events from a the last two weeks are true. Artemis's Arcanum was used, we all saw it and no you are not mistaken, Artemis did die that night…"
All eyes turned to Hestia, her head had dropped to her feet. The secret was out now and she couldn't hide that fact. One of the gods stood to speak.
"Hestia, how is this possible and why is she not here today?"
Hermes stood instead of Hestia who remained seated, she made the attempt to look at him but he gave her a reassuring nod.
"As the only other god that witnessed the events unfold I speak for all when I say no one was more shocked than me. However we know as much about this as the rest of you, we can all agree that her reincarnation is a strange one."
He paused and took a breath, waiting for the overs to stop talking.
"We don't know how or why it happened the way it did but one thing has to be made clear…"
Hestia grabbed his trousers and attempted to pull him down, Hermes turned to look at her.
"Hestia they need to know" he returned to the crowd. "Artemis at least the being Artemis has returned… But not as a god…"
Even Ouranos raised an eye brow amongst the commotion of the gods and goddesses. He looked at him and Hermes could only give him a small nod.
"Silence!" Ouranos let out a load roar which caused all to stop any chatter. He quickly composed himself. "Hestia can you confirm this?"
Hestia just nodded refusing to say anything but still giving confirmation.
"This is worse then I could have expected… Never has god or goddess returned with out there arcanum… We can only assume that she is a mortal…"
It was Apollo to stand up next, Hermes gave a worried look to Hestia before sitting down. "Hestia what ever you do don't get angry…"
Apollo turned to Ouranos. "I speak for all of us here when I say that the safety of Artemis is priority, what are we to do? Leaving her to her own devices would no doubt lead to her death, I suggest we keep her under protection amongst one of the Familia's."
Hestia eyes widened and Hermes stood up quickly to avoid a dangerous situation.
"Indeed my friend but would you not agree that she would be safer with her friend Hestia more then a random Familia?"
Apollo tried to hold but his laughter but failed as he placed his had over his face. "Ha-ha surely you must be joking Hermes! Need I remind the others here that it was Hestia that failed to save her in the first place!"
Hephaestus and Takemikazuchi quickly jumped to restrain Hestia as she prepared to leap at the laughing god. "Shut you mouth Apollo, her death was unavoidable we did everythin.."
"Everything you could yes I'm sure you did Hestia, but lets face it you didn't do enough, more to the point your child wasn't up to the task!" Hestia felt a vein pop as her anger grew.
"You leave Bell out of this Apollo! He's the one that suffered the most!" Hestia shouted at the man how simply stood smiling as he shook his head.
"Speaking of your child would you please remind me how it was she died?"
Hestia went silent and Hermes was about to interject on her behalf but was stopped.
"No no you old friend I'm talking to Hestia, I want her to answer. Now ill ask again, how did she die?"
Hestia started to tear up as she shook her head.
"No not going to answer? Fine I already know…" He he ran a hand through his hair again and raised his hands to the sky. "It was your precious child, the one that was supposed to protect her… He killed her didn't he?"
Hestia felt the tears well up as the memories flooded back into her head. "H-He…"
"Answer me, why it was him? You and Hermes were present no? Isn't it your duty to return her to heaven and not a mortal!"
Hermes glared at him. "Enough Apollo, Yes Bell killed her, but the situation called for it, besides its what she would have wanted…"
Apollo raised an eye regarding the last comment. "Why? What possible reason should she have for wanting him to finish her?"
Hermes clenched his fist, he just walked himself into a trap. He had no choice he couldn't avoid the question. "Because she loved him…"
The entire room went silent, even Apollo went silent from his response. The silence lasted a good long minute before Apollo burst out laughing.
"Hahahahahaaha oh that's hilarious, good one Hermes. Artemis.. Falling in love…. Hahahahaha I've never heard such ridiculous excuse... That girl was more stubborn then Hestia and Athena."
It didn't take long for many other gods to burst into laughter joining Apollo. The only ones that weren't was Ouranos, Takemikazuchi, Ganesha and Freya.
"Ha-ha seriously, even if I was to believe such an excuse it still doesn't excuse the fact that he failed, worse still he took it upon himself to kill a god!"
Hermes and Hestia knew what he was suggesting, but it was Ouranos that spoke up. "Enough Apollo, the boys action were with the blessing of his goddess and two witness were present. He has no sins to atone for."
"Of course, forgive me I was just point out the facts, simply put how can we trust such a task to the person that failed!"
Hestia stood up her face red with anger. "HE DIDN'T FAIL YOU IDIOT, IF HE FAILED WE'D ALL BE IN TENKAI RIGHT NOW AND YOUR SLIMY ASS WOULD BE BEGGING IT WAS OTHERWISE!" She didn't hold back letting out all her anger in one go.
The room went quiet waiting for Apollo to respond. He looked to Ouranos and then back to Hestia. It was Freya that spoke first.
"We have a lot to be thankful for, Hestia's child stopped an otherwise unavoidable calamity. Nobody here can deny he saved us all."
Freya's words left many conflicted but overall the mood had dropped as the other gods dropped there heads. Even Apollo couldn't give a reasonable response.
"Fine he didn't fail… But I will not allow her to be the one responsible for Artemis and her safety. Would you all not agree that she'd be safer in the hands of a more experience Familia?"
Ouranos looked to Hermes and Hestia. Before turning his attention to Apollo. "What do you suggest Apollo?"
Apollo smiled as he licked her Lips, "Allow me to take over her care, If she is mortal then she would be able to join my Familia no?"
Ouranos nodded "In theory yes, but such an action is a risk in of itself"
"No I don't think it is, I have large number of members we are not like the larger Familia such as our lovely Freya, She won't be going to any lower floors and the blessing is protection in of itself."
Hestia wasn't going to allow this to go on. "No if she's joining any Familia then its going to be mine. I refuse to let her fall into your slimy hands Apollo!"
"Ohh perhaps you'd like to put that to the test." His smile only grew larger and Hermes forced Hestia to look at him. "What are you doing! Don't fall for his taunts its okay that you want to protect her but don't get yourself in a situation you may regret."
Hestia nodded taking a deep breath and returning to her conversation with Apollo.
"Finished? So how about it Hestia. You say you can protect her prove it!"
Apollo climbed atop his chair and raised his arms as high as they could go. "I challenge you to a wargame!"
Hermes looked to Ouranos how just shook his head. 'Dammit I knew Apollo would try something like this! Its just like him!"
"What you can't be serious, I'm not going to risk my friends future!"
Apollo just shrugged. "Then you have no claim to protect her then do you? Face it ever yo agree or you don't I'm still the best choice for her."
Hestia wanted nothing more then to slap that smug bastards face but she knew she couldn't, she looked to Hermes for help.
"I'm sorry Hestia I can't stop this…" He looked to the old god and nodded.
Ouranos turned to Apollo. "Apollo there is no precedent for a wargame. Hestia has no obligation to agree and you have no claim on a goddess. Mortal or not."
Apollo looked at the old god with a less the agreeable look.
"When it comes to Artemis she'll be treated as any other mortal, It falls upon her to chose who she follows, however I will not allow her to leave the city alone. Her safety is a priority."
All the gods agreed and Apollo rested in his chair as he looked over at the Loli goddess. 'Don't think I'll leave it here Hestia, I will have your child and best friend.' He licked his lips as his body started to shiver with anticipation.
Hestia finally started to calm down a little but one thing still bothered her. 'How the Hell am I going to explain she can't leave… I don't want to be the one to tell her that her freedom is being restricted.'
The conversation continued on as normal and Ouranos made it clear that they'd continue the discussion of Loki tomorrow dismissed the gods. Hestia and her small group remained together till they were alone.
Takemikazuchi sighed. "So this is what's been bothering you, I must admit it was a little hard to believe at first…" He rested against the wall "Surely you didn't believe that excuse would work Hermes. Artemis falling in love is more unbelievable the Zeus returning to power."
Everyone looked at him. "What? You can't be serious… Artemis!"
"Join the club it took me a good while to believe it" Hephaestus spoke up confirming the situation.
"However that's not entirely the case right now…" While she did fall for him before she wasn't entirely her usual self. There was one piece of information they agreed not to mention..
"And that is?" Takemikazuchi looked at his friend with a curious look.
"She doesn't remember anything. Not Bell, not her Familia dying and not being trapped in a monster." She looked at them all. "I had to erase Bells memoires and ill no doubt have to do the same for Welf and Lili."
Hephaestus looked at her friend. "I can't speak for this Lili girl but I don't think it'll be needed for Welf? I know he can keep a secret and I can order him not mention it to the boy."
"Thank you Hephaestus."
At this moment Miach joined them. "Ahh I see your little secret is out now, what are you going to do about Artemis?"
Hephaestus tried to look optimistic. "Hestia your gonna have to tell her when you get back, no doubt she'll have to make a decision…"
"What's even worse is that Apollo is getting involved? I can keep him off your back but he's not going to roll over on this… Please just keep her and Bell out of trouble." Hermes tipped his hat "Now if you excuse me I have other matters to attend to. Farewell untill tomorrow."
The group all said there goodbye and Hestia left for her room all wondering what Bell and Artemis were up to?
Elsewhere in Orario.
The streets had finally returned to some kind of normality and the people finally got on with their days in peace. It was here at a small cafe hidden away amongst the many buildings that a young girl sat observing the crowds. She took a sip of her tea as she leaned into her hand. She tapped the table with her left and hoped something interesting would happen.
"So I take it the little bird has given up flying around the city?"
Her lilac eyes looked up from the street only to return as she realised who was speaking to her. "You were told to wait to be contacted, you know what he's like when you don't follow orders."
She took a sip of her tea but it soon became apparent that her new arrival wasn't going to leave under reason. With a sigh she placed her cup down and turned her full attention towards him.
"If your going to stay at least sit, your way to conspicuous." Her eye looked over the men's attire, a tall black cloak and mask wasn't the best day attire.
"Hey blame our glorious leader for not allowing me to show my face. Still not like I care to much none of Freya's lap dogs are watching this place. Might I say what a nice choice. I heard this is quite the spot for couples."
Whisper scoffed at the man's words. "Save it for someone who cares Void, I came her to have some peace and quiet!" Her harsh tones only made the man laugh as he sat looking at the menu.
"Come now whisper don't be so harsh, I'm only teasing you, besides this is the first time I've seen you without your mask, I must say its a treat for the eyes."
Whisper placed her hand on her face and shook her head. "Honeyed words aren't going to get you very far. Now why are you here, if its to annoy me then…"
Void stretched his arms. "No no quiet the contrary, Seer contacted me he'll be returning in the next few days. He didn't sound to happy mind you… still I suppose it will mean I have to put my plans on the back burner for now…"
Whisper eyes were placed firmly on the street but she still made an effort to listen. "Finally I've been sick of watching that boy…"
Even though she couldn't see it the man had a large smile on his face. "Oh yeah that's right you got watch duty. So how it been. Seen anything interesting?" His words and voice had a suggestive tone to them but she wasn't going to fall for it.
"No I haven't and besides a brief meeting with him I don't see why Seer has such a key interest him?"
"Perhaps he sees the potential or maybe its something we can't begin to comprehend. After all he is a strange one." Void rested back into the chair looked at the girl in front of him.
'She really is a strange one, not as strange as him but still.'
"What about you Void weren't you supposed to be dealing with Ishtar?"
He stretched before folding his arms. "I had hoped to have this over with by now. However that goddess is a crafty one, getting close is almost impossible and trying to be covert is hard… Her Familia is all over the district and she has eyes on every street. For now I'm just bidding my time until an opportunity arises."
Whisper poured herself another cup, while he talked, it was more then small talk for her.
'I really don't care about his personal objectives, I just hope he leaves soon.'
"Well that opportunity isn't going to come while your sitting here now is it?"
"No but it's nice to have a small break once in awhile. But speaking of which shouldn't you be watching a certain boy and girl at this time?"
She lifted the cup to her lips and stopped her lilac eyes piercing the mask. "I have very little care about watching them constantly. Its annoying at times, either way they've left the city, I made sure to take note about were they're headed."
At this moment a waiter arrived with a puzzled look on his face. "Ohh apologises sir. I didn't see you enter may I take your cloak?"
He held out a hand only to be met with a small coin pouch instead of a cloak. His confused look only grew as the cloaked man stood up. "No no I'm just leaving, this should cover her bill and then some. It should pay for anything else she wants and please keep what's left for yourself."
With a tap on his shoulder Void left. Whisper sighed and finished her tea which started to grow cold. "I'm going to need another pot please."
The waiter just nodded heading to the back. Whisper looked back at the street. 'What does Seer see in him and better yet what does he see in that boy…'
Bell sneezed, a chill down his spine as he thought that someone was possibly talking about him far away. Trying to ignore it he carried on hammering the pegs for the tent into the ground. They had arrived just before sundown, and for the most part were met with an untouched wilderness. He had been somewhat disappointed that he lost their little race but it wasn't like he stood much of a chance.
'It just goes to show how much more used to this she is.' He made an attempt to look over at the goddess in question.
She had gone to tie up their horses while Bell worked on setting up the tents. He at least wanted to get this and a fire started before it got dark. It was starting to get cold and he rather not work in the dark. A howl in the distance caught his attention but he didn't pay it to much attention.
'Wolves hunt in packs and tend to stay away from humans. So long as we don't give them a reason to attack us well be safe…'
He finally finished hammering in the final peg, and stood back to look at his handy work. He had tried to keep his tent as far away from hers but still close enough to get the warmth from the fire. He looked over to Artemis who looked to be collecting water from the nearby steam.
'We got lucky find this place, its a perfect place to set up camp.'
The were situated next to a small flowing stream, the area next to it was quiet open and allowed for perfect view of the area. Artemis made sure that the area wasn't used as drinking spot for local wildlife. That was the last thing they needed to wake up to. Once she gave him the all clear he started setting up camp.
"Well this will do for the next couple of days…"
"Indeed it will" Artemis arrived behind him holding a bucket of water, she placed it down at his feet before taking a seat on a nearby stump. "Years of hunting and you get to know where good spots are."
He nodded in agreement. 'Glad she's here if it had just been me I'd have probably set up outside the tree line when I arrived…"
He had collected a pile of sticks and dried leaves and formed them into a pile. He didn't have anything to collect logs so he made sure to keep a stockpile of branches nearby. After he piled them up he held his hand up. "Firebolt" a burst of flames leapt from his hand and onto the pile below igniting them. The faint light of the fire slowly died as the twigs and leaves burnt away. Once he had a steady flame he started to build it up. Artemis watched him from the side.
"You know magic?" She leaned forward getting closer to the flames as the air grew cold.
"Ohh yeah, I suppose this is the first time you'd have seen me use it, yeah I, by accident I got hold of a grimoire."
Artemis looked somewhat shocked by the boys casual response. "You must be joking grimoire are especially rare items. The cost alone would set you millions. How on earth did you get one?"
Bell explained how he came into the possession of the grimoire. He tried to laugh it off but Artemis looked at him like he was crazy.
"I can't believe it… If it had been anyone else they'd have been forced to work the rest of their life to pay it off. If it had been me I'd have shot you…"
Bell gulped as he saw the serious expression on her face. She slapped her hand against her head. "Seriously I can't believe you, how can one boy get away with so much…"
Bell sighed and got up to get the pot for the fire. He was starting to get hungry and didn't fancy sleeping on an empty stomach. He went over to his horse and took a large cooking pot off its side. He also grabbed the metal rods to hold it up.
"Bell, I have a question?" Artemis spoke up so he could hear her.
"Ask away?"
Artemis looked to the sky and kicked her feet up in the air as she leaned back on her hands. "I want to know more about you and Hestia. More specifically what do you think of her?"
He smiled as he continued his task. "I think she's a kind person, you already know about how she took me in but she never stopped helping me or cheering me on. I dare say I don't know where I would be now without her."
Artemis nodded. "Yes she was always a kind person. Even if to others she seemed harsh or stuck up. They didn't know her like I did, she mainly kept to herself and going to visit her was always nice. She'd act like a puppy that had just received a new toy."
"We bonded over many years and I learned a lot about her. She wanted to feel wanted, not as a woman but as a person, she wanted to help others even as best she could…"
Bell continued to listen to her speak of his goddess. It was funny learning about Hestia from a friend of hers. He had only known her for a short time but he could relate to some of the similarities.
"She was always overprotective, didn't matter if it was me or her food, she'd fight you every way."
Bell felt the sweat drop as he pictured Hestia when he first brought Lili back. "Ha-ha yeah I've seen that from time to time…"
He looked at the pot which was boiling the water she brought. He took the pot off and allowed the water to cool.
"Tell me Bell do you love her?"
Bell nearly tripped as he lost his concentration. Her question had nocked him off guard and he scrambled not to spill the boiling water.
"Ahh ugh I mean…" He tried to collect his thoughts. "I'm forever grateful to her, she gave me a home and a purpose… She's like family to me."
Artemis shook her head. "No I mean… Romantically?"
He looked at her confused. 'Why would she care about such things…?' Bell shook his head. "No, I don't think I could."
'Why am I asking this question? Hestia said it herself he loved someone else. More importantly… Why have I taken such an interest in this?' She turned her head trying to look at something else.
"It's not her, it's just… I don't think I could love a goddess."
"I see, sorry its just you seemed close I just wondered if... Doesn't matter, forget I said anything."
The silence started to set in as Artemis tried to think of a different topic… Bell had taken a sip of the water to check it had cooled enough before handing her a cup.
"Here you haven't had anything to drink in a while." She happily took the cup of water, taking a large sip.
"Ahh thank you Bell, I didn't realise…"
She watched quietly as he prepared their dinner. From the looks of it it was going to be a soup or stew again. Not that she minded, it was his cooking was delicious and filling. She waited patiently as he prepared everything.
"Need any help." She asked out of pure boredom but Bell shook his head.
"No no I'm good you just relax." He smiled and continued on.
Artemis sighed and decided to take a small walk. "I'm going for a walk, ill be back in a few minutes…"
Bell was about to interject but Artemis had already started walking away. "Don't worry I'm taking my bow… I might catch a rabbit if I have the chance."
Her smile made Bell think twice about stopping her. He left her to her own devices; she was more than capable of defending herself. 'I need to relax, Or else I'm going to become a nervous wreck when it comes to her.'
Once she was out of sight Bell sat back and tried to ignore his base instinct to follow her. "She'll be fine, just think about something…"
He ended up falling on Aiz, he began with remembering one of there training sessions. But it slowly drifted off like it always did. He imagined her in a more casual attire, sitting in the armour square watching the sunset. He had pictured it so many times that he often forgot it was his imagination. Her innocent face glowing in the setting sun's light, as her head rested against his shoulder. She'd hold his arm close to her chest and as the sun disappeared he'd lean in for a kiss.
'Ahh how I'd wish it could be…'
He was in his happy place, nothing could touch it. Not Hestia, not the fears of the dungeon, not…
He looked to up at Aiz how had turned to kiss him, but as quickly as their lips connected he felt a force pulling him away. He looked back and saw what it was. Or more specifically how it was. A blue haired girl with green eyes, now grabbed hold of his free arm. She had begun pulling him away on for Aiz to pull back.
'A-Artemis but why is she…'
His eyes shot open as he hit his head against the logs. 'God damn it why! Why can't I get that girl out my head!' He got up and headed for a nearby tree. With the Hestia knife in hand he began a short training session. He pictured the tree as a monster, specifically a Minotaur, he closed his eyes and started dodging its attack. Once he got into a rhythm he began to add his own strikes in while he pretended to dodge and weave through the attacks.
After fifteen or so minutes he imagined a different scenario. He had memorized the attack patterns of hundreds of monsters, while most followed a typical pattern he always kept on guard for a surprise attack.
*Snap*
His ears heard a branch snapping behind him, his dungeon reflexes kicked in and he spun around, he kicked his foot out in an attempt to knock over or scare whatever it was. His leg connected and sudden yelp escaped.
"Ahh!"
'Wait what monster goes Ahh?' He looked down to find out and instantly regretted it. 'Ohh that's not good.'
He was so focused on his training that he forgot that Artemis had left. 'She probably came over to ask what I was doing… Oh gods what should I say!'
"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry…" Bell dropped to his hands and knees as he begged for forgiveness, while Artemis continued to blink at the sky.
'What just happened… I had gone over to see what Bell was doing and then I ended up on the ground… Wait why is he apologizing…' She put two and two together.
"Ughh I'm not a monster you know!" She began to scold him but seeing him so apologetic she stopped. 'I guess I didn't help, how was he supposed to know it was me.'
"I'm sorry I was training and I didn't realise you had returned. You have every right to be angry with me." He had his head to the ground and she just sighed. She got to her feet and stood in front of Bell.
"Bell please stand up." Bell didn't say anything instead getting to his feet quietly. Once he did he was meet with a smiling face. "You shouldn't you be more worried about dinner? Don't want the food to burn…
"Ohh yes of course sorry." He quickly walked past her as he focused on his task. Just as he walked past her Artemis let out a cheeky grin as she stuck her foot out.
Bell felt his body move forward but his right leg seemed to miss a step, before he knew what had happened he planted face first into the ground. "Owww".
He was unsure why he tripped but a certain laughing goddess gave him a good idea. "Hahaha that's payback, don't worry I already checked, next time be more aware of your surroundings."
He sighed into the ground before he pushed himself up and off the ground. 'Guess I deserved that.'
He quickly got to to his feet and brushed himself off. He then joined her, the two continued their discussion and Bell explained Welf and Lili and how he'd like her to meet them at some point. The night slowly drifted on until Artemis yet out a yawn.
"Ugh guess I was more tired than I thought, how are you feeling Bell?" She looked over to the lake seeing Bell wash the pot out. However he gave her a thumbs up.
"I'm okay if you want you can head off to bed, don't wait up for me."
She wanted to ask if he was sure but decided she wouldn't be able to stay awake much longer any ways. Getting to her feet she gave him a quick wave before entering her tent. "Goodnight Bell".
It didn't take long for Bell to follow her, he put the pot away on the horse. He gave the fire another few sticks, to keep it going for another hour. Once he was happy he entered his tent and settled down for the night.
Bells dream
It was a surreal feeling, Bell could feel the chilling air around him. His vision was hazy and his body was weak. He felt himself having to get to his feet and it hurt. His legs were shaking, his arms were tired and any attempt to raise them ended in failure.
"Ori…" He could hear a faint voice, he tried to reach out to find the owner. He felt his heart beating, but what was worse is the pain. Like an arrow in his chest he could feel nothing but pain and sadness.
"Live…" The voice faded and he felt his body gave out and he feel to the ground. Tears flowing out his eyes as everything faded to darkness. It was then a new voice filled his head. It taunted him.
"Look at you… The person that wanted to be a hero. To save everyone and make everyone smile… Time for a reality check Bell. Your dream its meaning, its all a lie and your walking a path with no ending. You will only be meet with hardships and situations that can't be easily solved."
Bell tried to look up but he couldn't it was impossible, his body wouldn't let him.
"Even now you forgot, forgot what happened! Forgot her and her memory. Hero… No you are nothing more then fool trying to imitate better men. You are no hero, you just try to act like one!"
The voice got louder and closer.
"A hero would never forget! A hero would have found a way! You may have forgotten… But I haven't!"
Bells vision went dark as his was slipping out of consciousness. He tried valiantly to stay awake but he felt himself slipping.
"I am your demon, the part of you, you tried to run away from! But you can't run away from your failures!"
Bell forced his eyes open and what he saw terrified him. A monster unlike any other. It harrowing screech sent fear through his heart and before it made an attack a flash of light.
*End of dream*
"Ahhhh!" He shot up, clenching his chest as looked around his tent. His eyes were wide open and filled with horror. His breath was short as he found himself gasping for air. The cold morning air made his sweat fell like Icicles on his back."
*Gasp* "Ughh arghh" He through his hands to his head from where a great pain emanated from. His body was shaking, he could feel it. It wasn't the cold, no he knew this one well. It was fear!.
"Huh What the Hell was that… Arghh damn it." The pain only started to grow before coming to an abrupt stop. But he felt like it was still there.
He shook his head and tried to stand but as he got to his feet his legs collapsed, his body was still in shock, With another effort he pulled himself to his feet. Just like the rest of his body his legs were shaky and unstable. He would have to be careful. He cautiously made his way outside.
His mouth was dry and the sound of rushing water from the stream seemed to fill his mind. He headed in the direction of it, but with each step he felt his body grow weaker and his breath shorter.
"AHH! BELL WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOUR DOING!?"
Bell could make out the voice it was Artemis, but where he couldn't see her and her voice seemed faint… But she was obvious angry.
"STOP LOOKING AND GET INSIDE OR I PROMISE ILL SHOOT YOU!"
He was looking straight forward, but he couldn't see her. In fact realised his vision was extremely blurry. "Arte...ARGH!" Another piercing pain struck his head as he collapsed to the ground.
"HUH BELL WHAT'S WRONG?" She watched from the stream she was bathing in as he collapse to the ground clenching his head. But as his painful screams ended she became worried.
'Oh no!' She quickly rushed to bank of the stream and grabbed her towel. She wrapped it round herself in quick fashion as she rushed over to his side.
"Bell.. Bell talk to me." She reached his but he showed no signs of being conscious. His body was jerking badly and chest was rising and falling at a ridiculous rate. She placed a hand over his head and was shocked.
"He's on fire!" She quickly rushed and grabbed a small towel and dipped it in the cold water. She wrapped it around his forehead, trying to cool him. 'Did he catch a cold… No its not possible he was fine the night before, this came on far to suddenly!'
She placed a hand on his chest, a rapid bouncing erupted from his chest, his heart was going crazy. 'No even if it was his blessing should otherwise negate it…'
Having little to no options she ran over to his horse and started to rummage through his travel bag. "Come on he must have something, A potion, antidote anything…"
He didn't and she began to worry. 'There should be no poisonous creatures in the region of Orario so it can't poison. I can't leave him like this… but I need to find some medicine or something to calm his body…'
Having no other choice she brought him inside his tent and laid him down. She kept a close eye on him. He was sweating profusely and his whole body started to feel like a fire.
'I remember seeing some herbs, last night… Where's my book?'
She rushed to her tent and found the picture corresponding to the plant she had seen. After reading the passage quickly she realised it was a potent pain reliever used in potions with a calming effect. She quickly rushed out her tent and followed the stream down.
She quickly found the herb in question and luckily it was growing in large supply. She deftly gathered up a few and some others that she had noticed in the distance. Once she got everything she needed she rushed back to camp.
Unaware of the situation she hurried over to the horses grabbing the pot bell used the night before. She filled it with water and some of the herbs and brought it over to the fire pit. She managed to get the fire going again with little effort and placed the pot over to boil.
'That's going to be a few minutes yet…' Having little else to do she went back to check on Bell only to be met with a saddening sight. He may not be conscious but his body was and it contorting violently. She rushed over and tried to hold him down to stop him hurting himself.
"You probably can't hear me but it's okay." It didn't take long but his body started to settle but she reckoned it would only be briefly. She grabbed his bowl and filled it with the herb mixture. She blew on it attempting to cool it as best she could. Having sat next to him she brought his head to rest on her lap. She lifted his head as she poured the liquid into his mouth.
'I hope this helps…' She waited a few minutes and very little changed. However after about fifteen or so minutes his body started to relax and his heart rate settled to a normal pace.
She sighed with relief "Oh thank goodness." it took her a moment to realise she was almost crying. It pained her to see anyone in such pain. But it seemed more so with Bell. Another half an hour passed and he returned to a stable condition. Meanwhile she had started petting his head hoping it would help.
'I should leave him for now… let him get some rest.' She got up and exited the tent and breathed in the air. "Ahhhh… I suppose I'll be hunting on my own today, lets see if I can catch something nice for dinner…
Artemis wandered the forest for hours looking for prey, but luck was not on her side. Not a track to follow or sound to investigate. She tried to stick close to the camp. She didn't want to leave Bell for too long. But she was starting to get annoyed.
'This was the prime hunting spot before the monsters moved in… But they're all gone so why isn't there any wildlife…? It's strange, even in other areas with monsters the balance between them and the local species was always even.'
*Snap* She paused and drew her bow, she carefully and quietly moved behind a tree and peered around it. She spotted a deer grazing on some grass. Luckily it hadn't noticed her. 'Well I guess there is wildlife here.' She drew back her bow and aimed it for the head. She took a short breath before releasing. Her arrow leapt from her bow and speedily pierced the deer's head, killing it. She smiled. "Still got it". She slowly made her way over to it, she placed a hand on its neck and closed her eyes, confirming it had no pulse. "Rest now and return to nature."
She got to her feet and looked around… "I guess this will do. Shame I was hoping for something smaller… Ugh this is going to be a pain." She knew she couldn't lift it but luckily she could pull it along the floor. Grabbing its legs she dragged it along the floor. "Ohh why couldn't there have been some birds or rabbits…"
After spending an ungodly amount of time trying to drag the carcass back to camp she was finally glad when it came into view. Doubling her efforts she left the carcass to one side, while she took a minute to breath.
"Well… I suppose I understand why my Familia didn't like the job of huffing it back." She made her way over to tents and popped her head in to check on Bell. She was happy he seemed to be sleeping soundly now.
She looked up at the sky and tried to gauge the time… "Hmm its still early… but I guess I can do something useful for once." The next few hours passed quickly for her. The skinning and carving up the deer took up a good portion of her time. She disposed of the entrails in a sack and planned to bury them later.
Next she portioned up the meat, it was realising it probably wasn't going to last she only removed enough for the next couple of days. What was left she added to the pot with some water to boil.
It was around this time that she saw movement coming from Bell's tent. Worried he was starting to flare up again she rushed over to check on him. As she entered she was quickly realised he was fine and awake. Bell looked up at her but didn't attempt to sit up.
"Ohh Artemis it's you… ugh what happened?" His body was numb and hard to move, but he quickly saw the goddess crying a little.
"Y-you collapsed Bell, it gave me quite the scare, you've been out for a while now…" She decided to join him and took a seat at his side. She placed a hand on his head to check his temperature and smiled.
"Well your not burning up any more that's good, how do you feel?"
Bell was still confused with the whole situation, last thing he could remember was a sharp pain and then blankness. It felt like minutes to him but she made out like it was hours.
"I'm fine I guess besides the numbness in my arms, legs and body yeah I'm all good." He tried to laugh but failed. Artemis was looking at him with concern.
"Bell I have to ask has this ever happened before?"
"No, I can't say it has…" Bell was unsure himself. His frequent nightmares had become a problem but this was the first time he found himself in such a state.
"I-Im sorry if I've caused you hassle… You shouldn't have to care for me…" Bell words drifted off. He looked at the girl beside him with her worried look. But she still managed to smile.
"Nonsense Bell, stop trying to make me out as this thing I'm not. I've said it enough times that you've done enough. So I'm going to say this once. Until your back on your feet I'm in charge of everything. "
"B-but!" He tried to get up and object but she placed a finger on his lips and pushed him back into his pillow.
"Ah no buts." She smiled as she once again silenced the boy who accepted his defeat with a huff.
'She shouldn't need to do this… not for me. Still it's kind of nice.' He let himself rest into the pillow and closed his eyes.
She left and started to work on cooking so food for the two of them. She wasn't the best of cooks as almost always someone in her Familia would cook and she would be forced to watch. 'I've watched them enough times.. How hard can it be?"
She regretted that, while it wasn't as nice as something that Bell would have cooked, it was still edible, The fact she forgot to put in any herbs to cut back the gamey flavour showed how inexperienced she was.
She sighed and brought him the results of her first attempt at cooking. Bell noticed that she didn't look confident in her food. He still found it hard to move but he managed to sit up and accepted the bowl.
'Well it's doesn't look that bad… Hmm venison…' he took a bite of the meaty chunks, he realised quite quickly the meat was overdone, but over then that it wasn't that bad. 'Its not got much in terms of flavour but its still isn't that bad.'
He noticed Artemis looking down at her bowl. She barely touched it instead just sitting swirling it with her spoon. 'Does she think its not that good… Compared to the old man's cooking this is a treat. Even Syrs cooking isn't this good…'
He proceeded to scoff down the rest of his stew. "Ahh…" He held out his bowl only to get an odd look from Artemis. "Any chance of another Bowl please?"
Artemis seemed to light up at his request as she grabbed his bowl and nodded. Once she returned she finally finished of her own which made Bell happy.
"Not bad not bad… A little chewy but it was good." He spoke kind words while still giving her criticism.
"I'm not that good. I know I could have done better…"
Bell smiled. "Hey it's okay, you just need a little practice that's all… If you'd like I'd be happy to teach you, I mean if you'd like to that is?" He looked away from her but she leaned forward.
"Really, that would be great!" She grabbed his hand in her moment of joy and hadn't noticed, but Bell did.
"Y-yeah…" He looked down at her hand, he was attempting not to squeeze it.
Artemis, however, did, causing him to blush a little. "In that case since your helping me don't hesitate to ask me if you want a training partner, I noticed you train alone now and then…"
She realised she was holding his hand in between both of hers and she quickly let go. She turned to the side and scratched her face. "Or if you prefer, I can teach you how to use a bow properly."
"Yeah I'd like that…" He said leaning back into his pillow. Artemis looked at him again
"Which one?"
"Both" the two of them both smiled. Artemis left him alone and went to clear up. It was quickly becoming dark and she decided to have a quick wash. She removed her clothes and placed them in her tent. She wrapped her towel around her and entered the water, leaving it at the side.
"Ahh cold!" it didn't take long for her to get used to the water, she quickly washed the blood and dirt from her. She wanted to wash her hair but chose to wait. 'I can do it in the morning when its warmer.'
Having cleaned herself as best she could she got out. She looked over at Bells tent, the morning had been quiet the scare. She didn't expect Bell to walk out of his tent that early. What was even worse was he saw her naked, or so she thought. It was embarrassing but also…
She ignored the last part quickly covering herself and headed for her tent. Once she dried herself off and changed into her nightwear she sat down and started to read her book. It was an hour later that she realised a small cry in the distance.
'What's that sound?' She got up and poked her head out of the tent. She listened carefully and realised it was close. She followed it only to realise it was coming from Bells tent. She didn't know why but she hesitated for a moment but decided to enter to make sure he was okay.
"Bell are you okay…" she asked but didn't get a reply, so she stuck her head in. 'Is he having a bad dream? I hope their not a recurring thing.' She felt the need to sit next to him. She had known what it was like to have consistent bad dreams.
She did what she normally would do and started to pet his head. 'Gods know why I enjoy this…' She didn't stop however and to her surprise he seemed calmer from her touch.
'Surely its just a coincident…' She could feel her body grow weary and her eyes heavy. But she didn't get up and back to her tent.
'I can't believe I'm willingly going to do this… But…'
She laid down next to him, she remained at a distance at first as she watched the boy. She placed her arm next to his. Her touch made Bell stir and he opened his eyes a little.
"Huh, w-what…?" He was so sleepy he hadn't noticed the goddess in front of him. It wasn't until he moved his hand forward that he realised.
"A-Artemis?" He said in a sleepy voice, he didn't seem shocked but he was still confused. "W-why are yo…" *Yawn* he let out a yawn and slowly drifted back of.
"It's okay Bell just go back to sleep... " He did and she moved closer to him. 'I'm just making sure he's fine… Nothing else. Nothing e-else.' She also yawned and moved closer to him.
'I guess I can change…'
Authors notes
Chapter 35 yay Another chapter down. Hestia is losing control of the situation and Bell's sudden pains, what's going to happen next hmmm... You'll just have to wait and see.
Comments from the last chapter.
Pix25- Haha Bell was brought up to admire the gods it only be natural... As for his connection with Zeus well you'll just have to wait and see were it goes.
H3110- Thank you for the kind words I intend to continue this story to the very end!
Surfysun95- No idea what happened with your comment but I got there in the end. All I can say is, there will be less mini situations involving the relationship of the two. Rather I was testing the waters more than anything.
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. :)
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