Normally one would wake to the peaceful sounds of birds chirping in the open while the warm sun helps to stir them awake. Bell could only hope for such an awakening, however this was far from it. It would be one thing to wake up with a sore body, he was no stranger to getting beat down by monsters. However, the abnormal pain in his head was a different story. His nightmares had thankfully subsided for the night but that was a small reprieve more than anything.
'Ughh fuck!'
Without warning a sharp piercing pain jolted in his head. Having no idea why it was happening or how to deal with it he tried his best to ignore it…
"Ugh so much for that plan…"
He spoke in a quiet voice as he wasn't the only one in his tent. He remembered the night before, Artemis had come to check on him, no doubt she could hear his painful cries. At the time he wasn't in a state to argue with her and was far too tired. She maintained her distance from him while they slept. No doubt she didn't want a similar situation to the one that started the trip.
'Just don't look at her…'
While his head was ripping itself apart he still tried to keep his rationality.
'Ughh, I need a drink.'
He kept his eyes away from the sleeping girl and moved to exit the tent, he didn't want to wake her it was still early. He exited the tent to a distant sunrise, the cold air did wonders for his overheating body. He walked over to the river and knelt down. Cupping his hands into the water he brought it towards him, splashing his face. The cold water felt like ice and he felt his sleepiness disappear.
"Ughh arghh!"
The pain suddenly struck with a vengeance and he almost fell into the water, he managed to steady himself but a new issue followed. He managed to get to his feet but he felt very weak in his legs. He slowly dragged himself back to camp, with a deep breath he found himself already worn out, he took a seat on the log and waited.
'I can't spend another day in bed… She supposed to be having fun not looking after me!'
He was angry that things turned out this way, he wanted to enjoy this trip but he was physically unable.
'I should have brought some potions I knew I forgot something!'
While his body and mind ached he tried his hardest to keep himself awake. Despite everything, his eyes were opening and closing constantly and his yawns became louder.
*' Never forget…'*
"Are these nightmares trying to tell me something? But why now…"
His head fell into his hands with a large sigh.
"Even if they did mean something it's not like I can do anything about it now… Perhaps goddess can help me when I get back…"
"But we've got another day before we need to head back…"
Artemis turned over trying to ignore the urge to get up, with a silent yawn she brought her hands to he head and rubbed her eyes.
"Umm good morning Bell…"
She spoke but didn't get a reply. Guessing he was still asleep. With a slightly blurred vision, she moved over to shake him awake only to be met with an empty spot.
"Bell?"
She opened and closed her eyes and looked around the small tent and realised quickly he had gotten up. She ran her hands through her long hair and moved it away from her face.
"Can't that boy follow a simple request? Guess I should go find him…"
She got to her feet and left the tent, quickly noticeing the white-haired boy fighting to stay awake. With a sigh she walked over to him, he hadn't yet noticed her arrival so she was able to sneak around behind him.
'Seriously he must really be tired, his body still hasn't recovered fully. No doubt he's using more energy than ever… He should have just stayed in bed asleep.'
She pouted before poking the back of his head.
"Huh?"
Bell felt an odd force hitting him. He turned his head to see what was going on only to be poked in the forehead. The poking stopped but he started to be pushed back as the force began pushing into his skull. He brought his eyes up to see a less than happy Artemis staring down at him.
He gulped.
"Uhh y-your awake…"
She glared at him her eyes were scarier than normal something Bell both oddly attractive and fearful.
"Yes, Bell I'm awake… And you should be asleep."
Her slightly calm but harsh tone was off-putting but Bell knew full well that she was not best pleased.
"Ugh, n-no I just need some f-fresh air was all"
Her finger started to press harder into his head and she was starting to push him back.
"G-goddess your gonna push me over!"
Artemis ignore his plea.
"Good! After all the effort I went through yesterday you risk ruining. Perhaps I was too kind! Now unless you want me to leave you suffering I suggest you listen... Bed now!"
Bell tried his hardest to keep himself up but felt himself on the end of a losing battle. Her glare had all but left him speechless and the ease of her being able to push him back just showed how weak his body was.
'I'm not going to win this fight today…She's even bossier then goddess, and a lot scarier'
He felt his mind ache and he instinctively raised his hand to hold his head, however, the act of doing so left him off balance. Without a second to realise he continued to fall back. Having tried to reach and grab the nearest thing to steady himself. What he grabbed happened to be the same thing that caused him to start falling in the first place.
"Ugh, w-wait ahhhh!"
Artemis eyes went wide as she felt herself being pulled down along with him. The end result was her falling on top of him.
"A little warning…"
She stopped as she felt an odd feeling between her breasts.
"U-umm!"
Bell opened his eyes to find himself in a very awkward position. Artemis had landed atop him, but worse was how she landed. He attempted to move his head only to feel two notable mounds stopped him
'It it can't be…'
He wanted to bring his hands up to touch them just to make sure he wasn't imagining it. But when she lifted herself up he got the answer. His head had been between her breasts.
'Ohh gods oh shit, it it was an accident…'
He was about to apologise till he realised something. He had only just noticed exactly what she was wearing. His eyes widened as he took in the sight. She was wearing a white nightdress and boy did it leave little to the imagination. It was a short dress barely hiding her never region, the white fabric just managed to cover her breasts and the little ribbon in the middle just summed up the whole picture.
'So pure and innocent it's just like her. But gods why does she look so hot?'
Bell clenched his fist as he tried to calm her emotions.
"Hmm? Bell are you okay your face is red?" She placed a hand on his forehead and gasped.
"Bell your burning up, you should really get back to bed before this gets any worse!"
Her kind and caring words were but a clear contrast to her firm and demanding tone earlier. Bell had two thoughts in his head. One was taking in this glorious sight for as long as possible and second was doing as she said as to not piss her off.
"Y-yes y-your right if you excuse me."
He chose the sensible option.
With his fist clenched he tried to get up and flee to his tent, hopefully with no more incidents. However, before he could even take his first step his body flared up with pain and he dropped almost instantly.
'Damn it why is this happening!?'
It was starting to annoy him now.
'Having to spend a day in bed yesterday was unavoidable but I have to do it again and while still being conscious I'm gonna lose it!'
Again trying to get to his feet proved nearly impossible. He was about to drop for a third time; however even after he gave up his body remained upright. Someone was keeping him up and once he realised why he became instantly apologetic.
"A-Artemis… Y-you don't ha...to…" He was cut off by a jab in the ribs. "Argh!"
"Sorry, Bell but you really need to stop talking and let me help. Stop seeing me as a pillar that needs to be worshipped. I'm a girl like any other, I want to help you so for once just let me okay."
'I don't even have the energy to argue at this point…'
He rested his head against her shoulder and closed his eyes as she helped walk him back to the tent. Once he was back inside and laying down Artemis checked his temperature again.
'Hmm, he's not as warm as before… Strange I wonder why?'
She kept an eye on him, the painful look on his face, didn't help her in staying calm.
"Just wait for a second Bell I've got something that should help you."
She quickly left to her tent and retrieved a vial. Returning she kneeled down and lifted his head. His painful cries were a dead give away that it was flaring up again.
"Here drink this Bell it should ease your pain somewhat."
Bell couldn't open his eyes to look. Instead, he opened his mouth to receive the strange liquid. Once she poured it in and he swallowed his body seemed to calm and he was able to breathe normally again.
"T-thanks.."
Having managed to open his eyes to look up towards her, a light blush on his face as she lowered his head into her lap. His mind still managed to make him question whether this was okay or not even will the pain continued, but he managed to find enjoyment in the softness of her thighs.
It was a strange mixture of firm and soft and he felt like his head sank slightly, her bare skin was like silk and provided an oddly satisfying warmth that radiated into him. He did his best to try and ignore the urge to turn his head over and sink his face into the heavenly body. But the harder he tried the harder it was becoming to ignore.
'Is...Is it okay for me to enjoy this…?'
He peeked one of his eyes and snuck a look at the goddess above him. He wondered something.
'Was Aiz ever this comfy?'
"Bell? Is something wrong?" Artemis looked down.
He snapped out his thought to see her emerald green eyes looking at him. Her worried look left him a little confused but he assumed it was the strange look he had been giving her.
"Ughh n-no I'm fine."
He avoided her gaze not wanting to get drawn into another one of their awkward staring contest.
"Umm, I'll be fine now if you want to continue with your day… Its the last day you have to go hunting…" He hoped that reminding her of there limited time would spur her into leaving and doing something with her day.
'I can't be using her as a pillow all day...Even if is one of the best pillows Ive had.'
A strange feeling started to well up inside him, the very second she started to move he felt a great loss.
'No, no-no-no! Stop thinking that, I shouldn't be enjoying this. I won't enjoy it!'
He clenched his fist to the point of blood trying to ignore the very thought. While in retaliation his thoughts grew more explicit. It was like his mind was rebelling with his body.
"Huh?"
A smooth and warm, object had started to move along his head, it was strangely calming. He soon opened his eyes after he felt movement in his hair. Artemis could see the boys pained look, she had no intentions of leaving him alone while he was in such a state. Her basic instincts wanted to help the boy. Her hand rested atop his forehead and she began to slowly rub it. After a minute or so she moved to start playing with the boy's hair.
'W-why is she doing this?'
He felt a weird sensation run through his body and the longer she went the more he wanted. Once she got a confused look she stopped.
'Does he not like it? Should I stop?'
This short conflict in her head ended when he moved his head into her hand prompting her to continue. She smiled before moving so she could sit. Quickly she repositioned his head so he was resting in her lap. The calm and happy look on his face as she played with him was oddly satisfying. He closed his eyes and allowed himself this wonderful sensation.
'Guess he does like this...Just like dream Bell.'
Meanwhile, Bells inner conflict had continued but he ignored it focusing on the satisfying feeling of her hands. His body reacted as she reached the side of his head. Turning him so his face was flat against her lap.
'Yeah… Best pillow I could ever have.'
He pushed his face into her lap and took but mere moment before he was lost in blissful comfort. Artemis blushed heavily at the boy's actions. Thankfully his eyes were closed. Her nightwear only just hid her most private of areas. If he was to open them she would die of embarrassment. However, his boyish smile made her cold thoughts melt and she allowed him this one comfort. She spent her time watching the boy, she wanted to wait for him to fall asleep before she'd go do something else.
"I'm starting to see why Hestia enjoys your company Bell… Don't feel bad about the trip...I'm actually enjoying it more then I thought I would."
She blushed as he moved his head once again, he had pushed himself into her and she quickly moved her hands to cover herself. Held her position until he turned over.
"Huff"
With a deep breath out she relaxed. Her heart was beating rapidly and her body started to shift constantly. 'What's this feeling… It's similar to when I'm waiting to go on a hunt…'
She shifted her gaze and looked at the sleeping boy. This was the first time she was placed in this situation. She moved her hand onto his face. She pressed a finger into his cheek and watched the spongy skin sink and bounce back as she lifted away. He showed no signs of waking up, as he let a small snore.
'I'm curious.'
Her finger followed her line of sight down to his chin. She cupped it and turned his head so it was looking at her. She took a moment to look at him.
'So this is what a sleeping boy looks like? He looks so innocent…'
Her heart rate steadily increased, she ran her finger along his cheek as she held his face. With her other hand, she placed her finger on his lips. The soft flesh moved with the lightest of touches and pushed back against her finger. Her curiosity wondered the difference between her own so she moved the same finger and placed it against her own lips. In many ways they were similar.
Her heartbeat increased again, she moved her finger away from her lips and allowed his head to drop back into her lap.
'I-I… I should stop...But."
She moved her hand so it was on his shoulder. Running her hand along his arm before reaching his hand. She moved it back, ignoring her base instinct to grab hold as it brushed over his. As she did she felt the differences in his body. His muscles and skin were both strangely new but familiar to her. Her mind flashed to when he held her. The stronghold and grip that had been oddly comforting at the time. Her body trembled at the thought of enjoying it. The same thought happened when she was sleeping next to him.
'Forget that happened!' She told herself shaking the thought from her head. But it wasn't like she hated the idea. "I willingly slept next to him knowing what happened last time… I can't keep having these thoughts…
"..."
"Can I?"
Her heart reacted to her thought. It was hard to ignore the pounding in her chest she held her hand close so she could feel it. The steady and heavy beat pounded against her chest. Her confusion was showing as she gripped her gown.
"I wonder if…"
She placed her hand onto his chest, even though he was asleep his heartbeat was just as strong. She didn't remove her hand instead, leaving it resting on him.
"Hestia… What is this feeling…? Why only around Bell?"
She held his head as she moved him down onto the pillow. She looked at the entrance.
"I...I should leave."
She moved her hand over his and squeezed it… She slowly moved it away but felt it being pulled back.
"Huh?"
She looked back.
'Even though he's still asleep...Did he feel my touch… No, I'm over thinking this…"
She released her hand from his and thought nothing of it. But once again she felt the same grip pull her back.
"B-Bell?"
He didn't respond but she noticed the pained look on his face. She moved back and observed him.
'I-is he having a nightmare?'
She leaned closer
"Bell?"
He shook his head back and forth but still didn't wake up.
"D-don't go…"
His voice pierced her. She stopped in her tracks and wondered what was going on.
"P-please don't leave me!"
It was heartbreaking to hear him. She could hear the sadness in his voice and the pain he was in. But she was left confused and her mind just assumed he was talking about her.
'Who me? No why would he be having a nightmare about me?'
"I-it hurts...Why does it hurt so much?!"
His cries became more and more unbearable for her to listen to. She moved back and squeezed his hand.
"I-its okay Bell, I'm here…"
She squeezed harder as the pain on his face grew. A tear ran down his face, as he let go of her hand. But Artemis continued to hold it and moved her free hand to wipe his tears away.
"You really are in so much pain aren't you Bell… I hope one day you'll open up to me, I-I want to help you…"
She felt a wave of sadness roll over her. She looked at the boy and moved closer. She moved closer to him laying her head against his chest. His heartbeat had died down but it was still noticeable. She felt herself counting to the rhythm… Before to long she had given up trying to lean and laid down over him. His chest rose and fell but he seemed to calm down as she got closer.
'No, surely it's just a coincidence? Yeah, that's it's just a coincidence nothing… Eep"
She felt him turn into her now instead of being laid on him, her face was pressed into his chest. His right arm was now over her and slowly wrapping around her. She still had the chance to move away…
'Screw it!'
She didn't care at this point as his arm wrapped around her and pulled her body in. Her face was red with embarrassment but that didn't stop her smiling. She managed to move up so her head was resting atop his. Bell must have noticed as he nuzzled into her for warmth. After ten or so minutes she found herself fighting with his legs before finally wrapping around them like a coiled snake. She followed his actions as she wrapped her arms around his back. All the while her brain was screaming, telling her to stop. To let go, that it was wrong and something she should despise. She knew she should despise the boy for touching her. But this was the fourth time they had share such an embrace. She felt him squeeze her body tighter and she squeezed him back. All the while she eased her mind.
'How could I despise this… When it feels so nice. It's only a hug nothing more! It's not some random boy, its Bell… It's just the same as I do with Hestia. But this is strangely nicer...I think I found a new secret pleasure… And it's so addicting.'
She finally stopped listening to her thoughts and started listening to her body. Her heart was beating faster than when she was first staring down a monster. Despite it being there last day and they'd need to return to Orario first thing in the morning she didn't want to do anything else at that moment. She closed her eyes and smiled...
Meanwhile just outside the camp.
"Urgh to think I'd be stuck having to watch these two. What does he think going to happen them realise they like on another and nobody is going to be around to see it?. If I knew this was going to happen, I wouldn't have bothered spiking his water…"
She reached into her pouch and pulled a small vial out.
'Strange though I only used two drops, this should be at most causing him to have a mild fever… He shouldn't be in any pain at all.?
As the hooded figure sat on a tree branch overlooking the campsite, she pondered what could be the cause.
'I wonder if he's suffering from a side effect of something? If so it must be a potent reaction if he's in this much pain. This girl sure does have an idea for plants though. Figures she'd identify something that could ease the effects. But why would she help him at all?'
She leaned against the tree and sighed.
"She shouldn't have any want or need to be near him, let alone that close! Ugghh it doesn't matter if things don't start to get interesting soon I'll just leave them… But considering this forest that may not be happening straight away."
"Hmm, now that I think about it perhaps there is something I can do to make this more interesting."
The girl started to kick her legs back a smile starting to grace her lips.
Back in Orario
Hestia sat next to Hermes again as the final days meeting was called to a close. It had been a relatively short one compared to the last couple of days, Hestia wanted it to be over quickly so she could go and warn Bell and Artemis. She had avoided going back to the two so they could have some time alone. But now with Apollo looming over them, it was a matter of urgency that she return. As everyone started to say their farewells, Hermes looked at Hestia who was tapping her feet on the ground.
"Don't worry Hestia I'm sure they'll be fine… Besides I've had Asfi keep tabs if something bad was to happen, she'd have told me."
Hermes leaned back in his chair and looked at the small goddess.
"If you rush of now you'll be seen as interfering. Apollo's not going anywhere, so relax."
Hestia sighed
"I know but I can't shake the feeling something bad is going to happen."
It was at this point another god walked up to them. Hestia and Hermes looked up to see who it was only to be surprised.
"Ohh Ganesha it's you? What can we help you with?"
"I am Ganesha!"
Ganesha shouted, causing the two to sigh…
"We know Ganesha, what do you want?"
Hestia said, looking at the strange god.
"As I Ganesha have been apart of the problem I feel responsible somewhat?"
Hestia shook her head.
"You weren't don't worry about it you did us a favour nothing more."
He looked around and leaned forward.
"That's not all, one of my children spotted your child leaving north with a blue haired woman!"
Hestia and Hermes both went white in the face.
"Please tell us your joking?"
Ganesha shook his head.
"I never joke about something so serious because I am Ganesha!"
Hestia clapped her hand against her face.
'Damn Bell I leave him alone for three days and he does the one thing I'd otherwise hope to avoid!'
Hermes finally weighed in.
"Well not a lot we can do now... If anything they'll be back sooner rather then later, even if they only left for a couple of days. You know what Artemis is like."
The two turned to Ganesha
"Thanks for informing us can you keep this to yourself."
Ganesha nodded.
"Of course, my lips are sealed. I am Ganesha!"
The two had quickly disappeared fully unaware of the situation. Hiding behind one of the pillars, a blond-haired god smiled and licked his lips.
"Hmm interesting… Ganesha you should really learn to speak more quietly."
Outside Orario
"Where is Whisper?"
Regis walked past the other man and sat on a small log. He folded his arms and leaned back again on a nearby tree.
"She's currently following her orders, no doubt keeping an eye on your pet project."
Regis only scoffed at then man's comments.
"You still haven't told us why the boy is important?"
Regis looked at his companion and shook his head.
"He's not… well not any more. He's important to an old associate of mine, if he was to move against me I'd have used the boy as leverage. Before you ask, no the boys life would never be put in danger."
His companion throw a log on the fire and watched it burn, remaining silent as he watched the embers disappear.
"You know I trust you but…"
Regis leaned forward.
"Void how long have we known each other, two, three years now? I know my methods these last few weeks have been somewhat harsh but I do them because I'm left with no other choice."
"You wanted us to hunt down an entire Familia just because their god said no!"
Void ignored the man but continued to speak.
"From what Ive seen, none of them were bad people…"
"Void I never wanted to harm them. Loki is stubborn, but she's not an idiot, retaliation was the only way. I had to show her I was serious. Otherwise, she'd use that weakness against us just like she has in the past."
He sighed and rested his head in his hands.
"I've made a mess of things haven't I? Loki's disappearance and the attack on Freya may have been to be a bold move. Instead Ive lost two of my best and risked all our lives…"
Void looked at his friend for the first time that evening.
"Well I wasn't going to mention it but since you brought it up."
He smiled and got to his feet placing his hand on the man's shoulder.
"Sometimes the hard approach is the right approach. If it makes you feel better Freya hasn't retaliated or made our existence known. Besides having certain streets watched she's been awfully quiet."
Regis nodded.
"Good hopefully that's one less enemy we have to deal with, maybe even a potential ally in the future…"
He dropped his gaze to the fire.
"By the way how goes your own little quest?"
"Ughh slow. Ishtar is more of a problem then I realised. She has eyes and ears everywhere in the red-light district. I've noted down all the possible people that are in her Familia. I've managed to locate the girl in question but getting to her is hard…"
Regis looked at the man and laughed.
"Haha you always get so worked up over a girl in need. Tell me why are you so interested in her?"
Void looked into the fires and sighed.
"S-she reminds me of someone I used to know… Her situation is very similar. I can tell she's troubled but worse she's all but accepted her fate. I refuse to let someone go through that again."
Regis nodded as he began to whittle away at a piece of wood.
"Funny this is one of the few times you've ever brought up your past. I don't want to pry but was this girl something special to you?"
"Yeah, you could say that… In truth, there were two people special to me. Her and another. Both were stubborn at times but I managed to grow on them."
He chuckled before a tear started to appear from under his mask. They only seemed to multiply as time passed.
"Haha sorry, it's unlike me to cry. No doubt if my sister was still alive she'd have told me to man up".
Regis smiled and nodded.
"It's okay we all have those moments, it just reminds us that were only human."
He laughed.
"Guess your right I'll just have to double my efforts!"
"Now come on let's head back inside gods knows I'm in need of a stiff drink and you sure as hell looks like you need it to. Ohh and if Whisper asks this never happened okay…"
Regis said rubbing the back of his head.
"I'm not gonna say anything that girl can be scarier than monsters at times."
The two burst out laughing as they headed back towards the city. Meanwhile a certain girl faraway sneezed.
"Someone's talking about me!"
It was later in the day when Bell started to reawaken. Unlike previously his body barely hurt and his nightmares had subsided after a point. His head pains had died down to a bearable degree, and he could think straight for the first time. Shame the first thing he noticed was a certain blue-haired goddess cuddling up to him and his head staring down at her chest. He gave a large gulp.
"N-no way I must still be dreaming. This can't possibly be happening again!"
He smashed his eyes shut and tried his hardest to wake up, but no matter how hard he tried it became more and more evident.
'I'm awake, and this is really happening again.'
Two things stood out to him. Firstly he knew Artemis was aware of this due to her being in his tent. Second, his whole body was really numb. He could barely move his arms but for better or worse he wasn't in pain.
Having the goddess back in his arms left him with complex emotions. Here he was a mortal with a goddess of heaven in his arms, sleeping next to him. He didn't even allow Hestia to get this close yet here was Artemis happily asleep. Everything he knew about her told him this was a dangerous situation to be in. But yet he wasn't worried, he couldn't explain it. Was it her calmness compared to the last time this happened or her kindness from the last few days?
'I should just wake her up. I'm sure she'll understand if I explain'.
With his right hand, he shook the goddess, hoping to stir her from her sleep.
"Artemis? Hey…"
He spoke up, but all it seemed to do was slightly stir her.
"Ughh… No... Sleep."
She spoke but didn't open her eyes. When Bell did it again, it caused her to push closer.
"Bell...just let me sleep."
'S-she just said m-my name! D-dose that mean she knows…'
He didn't know what to do.
'If she's doing this of her own accord should I wake her? If I do she might be angry… But if I don't and this is just some random accident then I'll be in even more hot water.'
"Mmmh its okay Bell… I don't mind...Just let me have five more minutes."
Artemis soft and sleepy voice made him doubt the second option. In fact, it made him more open to the first. Her light snores and warm breath hit his face and he felt his body melt. Her legs were wrapped around his, and it only made him more aware of how close she was. His head was placed firmly atop hers, her lush blue hair gently rubbed against his skin and tickled him.
'What should I do… What… What do I want?'
His mind and ideology were telling him to let go, while his body wanted to stay as close to her sharing his small tent. Small movements made her cling closer, trying to wake her up had failed and his body was in no condition to fight back.
'It's just a hug… You've hugged plenty of girls…'
He didn't move.
'But one wrong move and that's it… Are you willing to take that risk?'
His Arms were already around her it would be a simple act of accepting his position and embracing it.
'Just do it Bell!'
He wrapped his arms around her and rested his head atop hers. He smiled as his troubled mind started to ease.
"Bell what do you think you're doing?"
A voice called out, and Bell instantly felt a cold sweat run down his back as his eyes to see Artemis looking at him. There was no way he was going to get out this one by playing it off as an accident….
'Shit damn, I knew it she's gonna be pissed… no amount of apologising is going to fix this!'
He didn't notice at the moment, but she had a small smile on her face.
'I guessed that would be his reaction… It's actually kind of cute. Not that I'd think of him like that!'
She continued her stare, but didn't even attempt to let go or move from her warm position. Instead, she waited to see if he'd catch on.
"I-I..I..I..I…"
His brain broke, he couldn't even form an apology his only reaction was to let go and try to move away.
Artemis felt disappointed as he let go and could fell him slowly trying to move away.
'I guess he doesn't feel comfortable around me… But I can't just leave it like this.'
She gripped his back and stopped him from moving away. His gaze met hers as she could feel her cheeks heat up.
'I have to say something!'
"A-Artemis…"
"I asked you a question Bell. Perhaps I should be more specific. What made you think touching me was a good idea?"
Bell started to shake.
"I-I wasn't thinking… I...I…"
Artemis was smiling on the inside.
'Why am I enjoying this… I'm not angry at him but teasing him is kind of fun.'
She moved so she was facing him.
"Even knowing I'd be angry, you decided to embrace a goddess of chastity?"
Bell gulped
"Y-yes".
"You thought you could just sleep holding me and I wouldn't have a problem with it?"
He looked away.
"Y-yes I mean no b-but…"
Artemis glared at him and stopped him from speaking any further.
"Now that I've noticed what do you think I should do?"
Bell looked down with a defeated gaze.
"Do what you want...I won't resist...I deserve whatever punishment you feel like dealing."
He closed his eyes and took a deep breath waiting for a slap, punch, kick hell even long and loud telling off.
"Hmm I should have you sleep outside in the cold as punishment!"
Her cold words seemed to get the point across as Bell started to get up, heading for the door.
"Bell where do you think you're going? I didn't tell you! I said I should not would. No your crime requires a far worse punishment."
He gulped and turned back to look at the goddess.
'She has every right to be angry at me. I should just accept whatever punishment she has in store.'
"Now sit!"
He did as he was told like a dog that had been told off.
"Now, lay down."
Again he did as he was told laying down on his back. Artemis leaned over him and looked him in the face.
"Close your eyes."
He was a little confused but, he did as he was told. Now he was unable to see anything as he waited quietly.
"Are you ready Bell I've decided what your punishment is going to be?"
She dropped her stern look and smiled trying not to laugh at how easy it was to order the boy around. Once she noticed him nod she smiled leaning closer.
"Huh…"
He suddenly felt something touching his body, no it was more like wrapping around his body, he wasn't in any pain or discomfort, he wanted to open his eyes to look but before he could.
"Okay, Bell your punishment has been decided. From now until the end of this trip you're going to do everything I say…"
"Huh, But…"
"Oh and if you even think of disobeying me will result in you sleeping outside in the cold! Now be a pillow…"
Not long after she said it did Bell eyes shot open as he looked at the goddess that had gripped to his chest and rested her head against him.
'W-W-What's going on… Did I get hit and I'm just imagining this… I-I don't understand!?'
"G-goddess…"
"Artemis! And I would remind you that pillows don't talk!"
Her stern words left him speechless.
'Is..is she serious...Did she just refer to me as a pillow? Wait more importantly why is she still holding onto me… I'm so confused!?'
He wanted to speak up but he was doing as he was told and being a speechless object. Her body rubbed against his and it was starting to drive him crazy. A small part of him wanted to reach out and pull her in. He could just imagine her adorable moans if he did. He was glad not to hear his grandfather's perverted wisdom. He didn't need to get sexually frustrated as well.
'I wonder if he'll try it again… I kind of hope he does…'
Artemis nuzzled her head back into her new favourite spot below his head.
'I know I shouldn't want this, but it's only until we get back… After that, I won't allow myself this!'
Bell remained silent and still, unsure what he could do. He ended up letting his eyes wander and in typical fashion he found himself looking at her. She was laying face down on his chest and slightly curled into him. His eyes drifted downwards following her back till he found himself staring at her ass. He never thought about it before but his hormone-filled body just seemed to single it out. It was noticeable now more than ever her nightwear did little to hide it and he almost had the perfect view.
'No! Must ignore those urges! She's beautiful, no she's breathtaking! But she's a goddess I can't see her in that way!'
He bit his tongue, clenched his fist did everything in his willpower to ignore her and risk his body reacting. Once he felt her rub her legs against his did he finally break his will.
*" Go on Bell! Embrace her, enjoy it while it lasts… Once you go back to Orario you can act like it never happened."*
His grandfather's words came at the worst possible time, He didn't even stop to think he was beyond caring. He'd rather be beaten to a pulp then have to suffer this torture. He quickly grabbed hold of the goddess and pulled her down into his chest.
"Epp B-Bell I…"
Bell smiled as he got to hear her cute reaction, she looked extremely embarrassed by his sudden attack. He glared at her with an evil smile.
"Sorry.. But this pillow has a tendency to fight back…"
'W-what is he doing, why did he suddenly grab me…. Mmm, why do I enjoy this feeling.'
She trembled under his touch and attempted a stern look and failed as Bell turned over pulling her with him. They were now in the same position as they started but this time Bell was in control.
"Forgive me goddess but I can't help myself… It's just… I'm sorry but I. I…"
He trailed off as he was filled with embarrassment. His grandfather had won over his body and mind. He wanted to enjoy this moment even if it would be for one more night. He knew he was blushing hard his face was red with embarrassment. He just pictured Aiz and imagined it was her and not Artemis in this situation.
"B-Bell… Idiot...Pervert!"
Her cold words just bounced off him as he held her closer and pulled her as close as he could.
'H-he really did it! What is this feeling, my heart is racing I should stop this now... B-but I don't want to…' She closed her eyes and gave up. She lost and a small part of her was glad she did.
"Don't think I'll forget this! I'm only letting you off because you're ill…"
"Thank you Artemis… I'll be sure to repay your kindness"
Just as he was about to lay his head down he felt a large rumble in his stomach.
"Ha-ha, why don't you start by making dinner… I'm quite well rested now…"
She said quickly sitting up. Bell nodded and looked at the door.
"Don't overwork yourself I'm more than happy to help out…"
"I did say I'd teach you…"
He said smiling.
'Hopefully, that keeps her happy, or at least distract her long enough for her to forget.'
Artemis jumped up and down at his suggestion.
"Yay I'll go find us something to cook."
She didn't wait for him to say anything as she bolted out the tent.
'That girl…'
He finally managed to stand on his own two feet. He still was sluggish but other than that he was glad. Slowly walking out the tent. He spent the next half an hour preparing everything. He wasn't going to start cooking till she got back. He wanted to show her from the beginning what to do.
"I'd have preferred to do this back at home but this is a better start than none. She'll need to know this if she leaves…"
He continued to watch the tree line.
'She's been gone for a good while now… Maybe I should go look for her.'
He picked up his bow and quiver from his tent.
"Ha-ha well I guess I look the part, still best take my knife just to be safe."
He followed the direction she went, she had remarked that she wouldn't go far but he wasn't sure. After five or so minutes and not seeing any trace of her he contemplated heading back.
*Snap*
"Artemis?"
He was about to hear a loud roar behind him and he quickly turned around. His eyes went wide as he saw a pair of Minotaur's behind him.
"You've got to be fucking me!"
He barely had the time to react as he was smashed into a nearby tree.
"Argh fuck!"
He had little time to react as the other charged toward him. He pushed himself into a roll and watched the tree shatter as it smashed through it.
'I thought the guild dealt with the monster problem? What stupid Familia did they get to clear this out?'
He was in a bad situation even though he was versed in fight these now he wasn't at one hundred percent.
'I can't use firebolt ever I'd burn the whole forest own if I did.'
He was on the defensive. However, it didn't take long for him to find an opening. He pulled the Hestia knife out and cut the monster through. In its last moments, it tried to grab him but he managed to avoid it. It quickly disappeared leaving a magic stone on the floor. He didn't have time to think as the next one charged towards him again.
"Argh Fuck not now!"
The splitting pain in his head. He was to late to react as the Minotaur slammed into him smashing him into a nearby tree. His body hit the ground landing on a large shard of wood which pierced his side.
'Screw this day!'
He tried to move but quickly realised it was inevitable.
"FIRE…"
"BELL!"
A voice from the trees shouted to him, followed by it was an arrow landing on its head. But to his surprise it did little but bounce off. The Minotaur stopped his pursuit of Bell and turned its attention to the new arrival.
Bell realised from the arrow it was Artemis and his face showed the horror of their predicament.
"ARTEMIS RUN!"
He shouted hoping that she could make a quick escape but she didn't, instead she stood her ground as she readied another arrow.
"Artemis you can't fight it, please just run!"
Artemis took the shoot but to her own surprise her arrow just bounced off the thick hide. The monster lined itself up to charge her.
"I haven't run away from a fight before Bell I don't intend to start now. I'm more than capable of handling myself!"
The Minotaur didn't care if they were in a conversation it took its opportunity and charged. Artemis was easily able to dodge it in time quickly running to her side. Having the moment she quickly drew her bow again and shot. This time at a closer distance. However, it only just managed to pierce its skin. It shrugged the blow off and swung its arm at the tree next to it. Artemis slowly moved back as it walked towards her.
'Arrows aren't going to cut it, but that doesn't mean I'm gonna give up.!'
She reached around her back and pulled out a long thin knife. She sprinted towards it, her mixture of speed and agility meant she could easily dodge its slow strikes. It took little to no time for her to realise there was a window to strike as it swung for her. She moved out the way sliced.
"Got you"
She called out but found herself unable to even make a cut.
'No!'
Bell watched in horror as she was caught off guard. The quick counter hit her sending her flying. "ARGHHHHH!"
Her screams echoed through the forests her body smashed and rolled along the ground. Bell watched as she struggled to her feet. He could see the pain on her face as she coughed up blood.
"ARTEMIS"
Bell shouted as he struggled to get to his feet. He pulled the spike out his side and moved towards her. The jolting pain in his body was nothing at this moment, he was spurred on by pure rage. However the pain in his head struck violently as he fell to the floor dropping the Hestia knife.
He tried to reach it but the pain was unbearable as his arms shook violently. His vision darkened and he clenched his fist trying to stay awake.
*"Failure!"*
A new voice called out but this one was one that Bell didn't want to hear.
*"Weak! Pathetic! You call yourself a hero yet you can't even save one girl!"*
"PLEASE NOT NOW, ANY OTHER TIME BUT PLEASE NOT NOW!"
He screamed as he finally clenched the knife but it was to late. The Minotaur had just reached her. She wasn't moving, her body lay lifeless on the ground. It raised its fist preparing to strike.
*"Watch false hero. Watch your dreams shatter as the beast that started it all kill her! What was it you said again? Oh, that's right you promised to protect her!"*
Bell was in crippling pain. His head felt like it was getting ripped open and he could do nothing.
*"Watch as the women you promised dies! Watch your failure to protect someone gain! Watch… Because after its finished with her your dream will finally end!"*
Bell's final moments before his vision went black was the tall beast standing over her body. Arms raised and fist clenched. A vision of a large black monster stood over him.
*"Now Die!"*
"NO!"
Bells eyes opened wide.
"FIREBOLT!"
He shouted with all his might and the fire burst from his hand before engulfing the beast.
"RAHHHH"
It stepped back as it fought to extinguish the flames on its body, flailing its arms about.
"YOU WANT TO FIGHT SOMEONE FIGHT ME!"
Bell got to his feet, he didn't care about the pain in his head. He was filled with pure rage and he was going to use it.
"FIREBOLT!"
He released another burst reigniting the beast. He slowly walked to it, his eyes filled with nothing but malice for the beast.
"FIREBOLT!"
One after another he continued his endless barrage as he slowly moved closer and closer. The beast wasn't given a moment to react as it body was hit with the barrage of flames. Bell halted his barrage as he reached the beast face to face. It dropped to the ground as the flames melted and scorched its skin. Bell clenched the Hestia knife and looked down on the beast.
With a cold glare of malice, he raised his arms. He gripped the blade with both hands and with a final cry, he slammed the blade into its skull. The Minotaur vanished and it's stone shattered.
"ARUGGHHH!"
Bell screamed to the heavens as he felt all the pain sadness return all at once.
*" Well done… You proved me wrong"*
Bell tried his best to get to Artemis but his body gave out as he collapsed to the floor next to her. He just managed to make out her blue hair as he tried to reach her. His vision went black and he drifted out of consciousness.
'I'm sorry Goddess I...I...Failed….'
'F-forgive me A-Ar...t..mis…'
Authors Notes
I'm not gonna say anything... Nope... Nothing at all.
I'm, gonna keep this short and sweet. Thank you to everyone that commented this chapter would have been out earlier if I hadn't run into some technical difficulties. But its here now. Thank you to everyone that has taken time to comment. I have noted all feedback and suggestions. To the rest thankyou for the kind words. Seeing them boosts my confidence. As always thanks to Webweasel for taking the time to edit this chapter.
I hope your all staying well and I will see you in the next chapter. Thank you.
Discord link-zvPcBt4