"Well, that was different… I have to admit he didn't seem like the type to get angry. But damn, perhaps Seer had a good reason to keep an eye on him after all."

Whisper sat on the tree and observed the fight from afar her eyes were drawn to the anger the boy showed towards them. A small smile on her lips as she pushed herself off the branch and walked towards them. She walked the scorched earth before standing over the two.

"Seer would be angry if I left you both like this… Be glad you kept my interest or else I'd have left you to your fate!"

She kneeled down and smiled.

"Perhaps you can be useful to us… If not then it will be fun to watch you struggle."

The darkness drew closer and danced around him. The great lake was now dried to the bone. A red moon overhead offered no light. The earth started to swallow him up as the air left his lungs. As he gasped for air the darkness gripped him and all that was left was the bitter cold.

"One day you'll remember Bell… When that day comes you won't be able to run or hide!"

His mouth was sealed shut. He couldn't fight back. All he could do was listen.

"You've earned this brief respite for your actions, but remember as long as you forget the truth… The more pain I'll inflict…"

A brief pause ensued as the bitter cold dissipated.

"Hmmm seems she's close… This is your opportunity to redeem yourself Bell… Protect her and keep her close… You may not know it now but she means more to us you know. But perhaps your starting to see, to understand that…"

The cold disappeared and it was replaced with a warm feeling, he knew it well. He had started to want it more and more… But why?

"Time to wake up pretender…"

Bell slowly opened his eyes, it took him a moment to realise but he wasn't laid on the floor face down in the dirt. Rather he was in his tent. His body wasn't in any pain or discomfort. But even if it was he didn't care. One thing and one thing only was on his mind.

'Artemis…' It was like a horrible dream come true. He watched helplessly as she risked her life to help him. He failed to protect her… He clenched his fist, the moment she was flung to the floor he felt so angry…

'I… I failed! Gods why… Why am I so weak!'

His emotions flared up as he played back the scene over and over. His fist was still clenched as he felt the anger boil over at his failure.

'What am I supposed to tell Hestia… It doesn't matter she's gonna hate me no matter what!'

He looked to his side and found a piece of paper, he was confused but he decided to look. The writing was rushed but he could make it out to be a letter of sorts.

*LETTER*

Dear Little Rookie

While you don't know me know you've done me a great service. The monsters in this forest had all but been eradicated but a couple still remain. As you are the one that finally ended the scourge I have deemed fit to reward you.

Your friend is safe and in good health. I healed both of you shortly after your fight. While I'm not super experienced Ive managed to reverse most the damage. Your friend was much more fortunate only suffering a small head injury. I've returned the two of you to your camp. Considering the damage you did with your flames I'm glad you didn't burn the whole forest down.

Consider your healing and friends safety significant payment. Besides I'm sure you'll receive something better when you wake up..

Till next we meet.

The whisper in the forest.

*End of letter*

Bell sighed with relief dropping the letter. He wanted to check on Artemis to make sure she was okay but as he tried to move he found it difficult.

"Mhhh"

'Wait why can't I move? And what's that noise?'

He tried to move his body when that failed he tried to sit up again a great weight was holding him down. It took him a moment to realise what was the cause and he sighed with a smile on his face.

"I guess I can't complain… I'm just glad she's safe."

He lifted his head and noticed a few strands of blue hair poking from under the covers, He could feel her holding onto his side and restricting his left arm. He knew he was going to have to wake her.

"Hey come on Artemis time to wake up…"

He gave her a quick shake but when he didn't get a response, he tried again and got a little movement. Having no other options he decided to throw the cover off of her. What he wasn't expecting was the situation he was walking into.

"W-wait w-w-w-whats going on!?"

He hadn't noticed a very important detail about his attire… Or the lack of. He was laying practically naked, which left him with the question of why. But that was a far cry from the bigger problem laying next to him.

'Why is Artemis not wearing her anything!?'

He couldn't ignore it, that was far to difficult, she was laying next to him wearing nothing but a light purple bra and panties. Something that really excited him. Just something about her appearance screamed forbidden fruit. He knew he shouldn't be looking, but the small part of him that did was winning.

'No, no no.'

He forced his eyes shut and looked away but as he felt her start to move her body rubbing against his back. The skin to skin contact was frying his mind and will power as he felt himself slowly turning over to look.

*"Ohh what a sticky situation your in here. To your left an almost naked girl holding you down. To your right nothing. Lets see how long you can hold out. Ha-ha-ha!"*

It wasn't very long. Her smooth skin was wrapped around while the fabric of her bra rubbed against his side. He couldn't help but enjoy the feeling of her breasts rubbing against him. The soft mounds squashed against him and bounced as she moved. Her legs had wrapped around his like a snake with its prey, while her arms were cling to his chest.

'Did I die and go to heaven? Or Hell?'

"Mhh Bell…hold me."

He knew she wasn't awake. He knew she was probably dreaming. But the most obvious fact still remained.

"S-she's dreaming about me… No no its just… there has to be a good reason!"

He wanted to get out before he did something he would later regret. He almost lost her to a Minotaur attack. He wasn't going to risk something that would jeopardise their friendship.

'I don't want this! I don't want this!'

Artemis moved again and he breasts pressed against his arm, giving him a perfect idea of there size and shape. An image he didn't need in his head.

He could feel his lower region harden and it was becoming a very dangerous situation.

'Come on Bell get a hold of yourself. She's a goddess. One of the three great virgin goddess!. A goddess of chastity. Those very thoughts are an a front to her very existence. She would never see you as anything more the a friend!'

"This is your reward for saving me Bell… Come its okay…"

Bell wanted to believe it was his head imagining it. He wanted to get out to this situation as fast as possible. However he knew that was impossible. He only had one option available.

"I just move as far away as possible and don't look at her… Hopefully she understands…"

He said this while taking in the sight of her, a little drool leaving his mouth.

'Gods why does she have to be so fucking hot! Grandfather you old bastard if I die I'm coming for you!'

He gulped and closed his eyes as he shook her shoulder. Every second that passed was pure torture to him, he had to get out this situation he wasn't going to be able to wait for her to wake up first.

'I'll just have to explain it as best I can… Only thing I can do… I can't lay here knowing she'd hate the situation!'

"Hey Artemis please wake up!"

He cried out and it finally managed to stir her from her sleep. Her green eyes fluttered open and shut... before meeting his big red eyes.

"Ohh Bell? What happened? Where are we?"

Bell didn't know what to do first, answer questions or get the elephant out the room.

"I'll get to that but first there's something you need to know… Promise me you won't freak out?"

She gave him a curious look and nodded.

"Okay… I don't know how to say this but… Well your kinda…"

He was to ashamed to say it in front of her all he could do was point. Artemis was confused why he was point down but after she looked… Her eyes widened.

"Ughh ahhhhh!"

'WHY AM I NAKED! NO NO THIS ISN'T HAPPENING THIS ISN'T HAPPENING… AND HE SAW! HE SAW ME LIKE LIKE THIS…'

Her fist instinct was to slap him but she knew better then that… However she was curled up to him and the two had hardly and distance between them. Her face went red with embarrassment. Her mind was on fire trying to piece together the situation she was in. But when she looked him over and noticed a similar lack of clothes she could have died.

"B-Bell… please tell me there's a r-reason your not wearing c-clothes?"

Bell face was just as red as his eyes. Eyes that were looking at a piece of paper and not her. Still looking away he picked up the letter and handed it to her. Artemis quickly grabbed the letter and read it over. Then again and she finally got a picture.

'Soo what happened… Damn it I'm such a fool I should have listened to him… My body isn't like it used to be… my powers are gone I have no protections. If Bell hadn't been there I would have…'

She dropped her head. Her reckless actions nearly got them both killed.

"Bell I think firstly I owe you an apology… I-I was stupid to not listen to you. I was being stubborn I thought I had something to prove…"

She wiped the tear from her eyes as she started to lose the ability to speak.

"I-I… If y-you h-hadn't been there I…"

"No Artemis I'm the one that's sorry!"

Bell could feel the guilt eating away from within, he knew, deep down he knew that if he had been stronger and not ill the situation would have been different.

"My hesitation to act caused you to get hurt. I will never forgive myself I'm I'm so sorry…"

It was Bell to breakdown first he bowed his head to the floor as he gripped the ground below.

"I failed you… I failed Hestia… I was to weak! Just like back then!"

Artemis watched the boy grovel for forgiveness, It was heart breaking to see. Not just because she didn't believe it to be true but because of who it was. Her tears were for him, the boy, no the man she met that changed her world. The carefree and happy attitude that made her laugh and smile. Who comforted her when she was sad and listened to her when she need someone to talk to. He saved her on multiple occasions.

'I can't sit her and watch this and not do anything… Not him!'

Bell remained in his head down position waiting for a response of some sorts. He waited and waited till finally he got one.

"No no you didn't fail Bell…"

Bell looked up his eyes both light and dark red. He saw her smiling as she placed a hand on his cheek.

"Bell… you didn't fail Hestia.., and you certainly didn't fail me."

She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him in, embracing him with all her might. She could feel his tears hitting her shoulder and running down her back it reminded her about the lack of clothing but she didn't care.

'Lante if this is what you meant… then I think I understand.'

She also started to cry and the two sat silently for a moment before she broke it.

"I trust you Bell, not because your not like other men, or because of Hestia. No from the moment we meet till now I always tried to doubt you. Even when Hestia told me about you I still didn't want to trust you. But time and again you proved me wrong. I've told you this all before, but more so now then ever, do I believe it."

She pulled back from the hug and stared him in the eyes. His tearful red eyes. She tried to smile to ease his mind but she was having trouble holding back her own tears.

"You've saved me twice now both because I was careless… Yes I got injured but that was my fault not yours. I'd be dead or worse if you hadn't stepped in… So I'll say it now…"

She grabbed hold of his hand and gave him the biggest smile she could muster.

"Thank you Bell, you may not think it but really are a hero to me."

She watched as Bell tried to fight his emotions, a small smile on his face as he tried to hid his watery eyes. It didn't take to long but he finally composed himself.

"I suppose… umm perhaps we should get dressed…"

His suggestions come as he remembered the whole reason he woke her but he was surprised at what she did next. She looked away for a moment but didn't move in fact she still had hold of his hands at the time.

"W-well its still quite dark outside… and I'm still quiet tired…"

Bell looked at her confused but when caught the blush on her cheeks he could assume one thing.

"W-would it be okay if I slept here…"

She trailed off at the end not wanting to admit it, but Bell was the one that was most shocked by her request.

'Okay yeah I'm dreaming no way is this real! That perverted old man and my head have joined forces!'

"Yawn"

Artemis let out a loud yawn and laid down causing Bell to freak out.

"G-goddess surely you wouldn't want someone like me… I mean perhaps it would be best if."

Artemis pouted before a sly smile grace her lips. She reached out and pulled him down and little rosy tint in her cheeks as she placed a finger on his lips.

"If memory serves me correctly, this trip isn't over which means you still need to follow my orders. So lay down."

Bell couldn't explain it but his body just followed her orders. Even when he had no intention of following them. Once he was laying next to her she moved closer and meet his eyes.

"I'm only doing this because its cold outside. Besides you've earned my trust even if this is far to much for one man to see!"

Her cold tone made it perfectly clear to Bell that touching her was a bad idea. He nodded and prepared to turn over however she stopped him as she leaned over him. His confused stare just caused her to smile as she leaned in and kissed his cheek. She waited a moment before moving away and she laughed a little as his face went even redder then his eyes.

"He-he… can I tell you something Bell?"

He couldn't speak in fact he was having trouble processing anything at that moment. He managed a nod. She moved closer and leaned into his ear.

"I enjoy sleeping next to you… Even if it is only to thank you."

With that she takes her favourite spot and waited.

"Don't worry Bell… I don't mind…."

She moves her head into his chest her warm breath hitting him and sending signals all over his body. He gulped as his arms started to move but he wanted to resist.

"Mhhh it's cold Bell...please hold."

*"Go on Just do it. Its obvious you want to!"*

If there was ever a moment Bell would listen to his grandfathers words it was now. He smiled and finally embraced her. With no fear about her not knowing or what consequence would follow. He didn't attempt to hide his boyish grin as she wrapped her legs around him. For once he was gonna enjoy even if would be the last time.

"Good night Artemis."

"Good night Bell, and thank you"

She moved and rested her head on his shoulder before drifting back of to sleep. Bell mean while relaxed back and enjoyed her warm touch. He to slowly fell asleep waiting to see what the morning would bring.

Back in Orario.

Hestia, Hermes and Hephaestus all gathered inside the church, Hermes was laid out on one of the benches flipping a coin in the air while Hestia paced back and forth.

"Where are they… The note said he'd be back in three days, Ganesha confirmed that he left the day after…"

Hephaestus sighed.

"Your worrying to much Hestia, perhaps the two are just enjoying themselves and forgot about the time…"

Hestia shook her head.

"I want to believe you I really do but, I can't shake this feeling something bad has happened. You know what Apollo is like he doesn't just leave things alone! For gods sake Hermes would you stop that!"

Hermes caught the coin in his hand and shrugged.

"Hestia we don't even know were they went, Apollo is in the same boat as us. Its late, the two won't be back tonight. Listen if they're not back by tomorrow I'll have a couple of my Familia go look for them."

He sat up and faced her. Stretching his arms above his head.

"Listen Hestia I know we're trying to avoid this but perhaps we should deal with Apollo once and for all?"

Both her and Hephaestus looked at him like he was crazy.

"I hope your not suggesting what I think you are. She'll lose everything if she does."

Hermes smiled and looked at Hestia.

"Just listen, I know Apollo he's crafty he will find a way to incite a wargame, we need to be ready for when he does. Look Bell is more then ready to take on any of his members I wouldn't be surprised if he levelled up and we hadn't noticed."

Hestia placed a hand on her chin.

'He's got a point I didn't check Bells level since that incident… He was level three before we left... '

"That's all well and good Hermes but your forgetting that wargames can be anything from one vs one or a damn siege. If Hestia gets the short straw she'll be annihilated!"

Hermes nodded and got to his feet turning to Hephaestus.

"Which is why we need to prepare. Look as it is now her Familia is only Bell. I sure push or shove Soma will allow Lili to leave I'll convince him if I have to. I know its not my place to say this but surely you could allow Welf to join her for a short time…"

Hephaestus nodded but shrugged.

"If Welf wants to then I won't stop him, Bell has been a good influence on him I'm sure he'll be come a great blacksmith following him. Still even with those two she's still going up against a large Familia…"

"Which is why I had a word with Takemikazuchi apparently one of his children… Mikoto I believe has been asking for a way to earn Bell's forgiveness for that incident a while back. He believes if that it comes to that she will join him."

He turned around and at both them.

"Bell, Welf, Lili, Mikoto and Artemis the gods aren't cruel Hestia they won't allow an unfair outcome… Even if it did we can push for extra help!"

He sat down after expressing his opinion and got really confused looks of the two goddess.

"Okay Hermes lets say I go along with this stupid plan, its all assuming that things go our way. Welf might not want to leave, Soma might not to give up Lili. Maybe joining us is to much for Mikoto. Artemis might want to remain neutral. Look I don't want to rush this…"

Hermes nodded before standing and heading for the exit.

"I understand Hestia, just keep it in mind. Apollo will do something soon, I can't keep on top of him all the time. Just prepare for the worst outcome… I don't think we're going to get out of this one…"

"Hephaestus I'll be seeing you tomorrow, Hestia try to get some sleep, when Bell gets back I'll have a word with him about all this. He needs to understand that any action against Apollo or his Familia will result in a wargame."

With that he left the two alone and Hestia ran her hand through her hair. She started tapping her feet on the floor as she tried to keep herself calm.

"He's got a point Hestia you don't need to worry about this right now. Once Artemis gets back we'll explain the situation. She'll understand the situation. Why don't you take tomorrow off. I'll make sure to visit you later with Hermes."

She gave her a hug and headed off. Hestia could only nod as she looked out the broken window. She held her hands together and closed her eyes.

"Bell, please keep her safe and hurry back soon…"

Morning arrived in Orario and Whisper finally got back into the city. She made her way towards the meeting point that Seer had told them about. She arrived at a broken and run down house deep in Daedalus Street. She looked around and knocked twice before entering. The inside was a hell of a lot nicer then the outside. The furniture was well made and a fire roared away in the corner filling the room with a warm heat. She noticed two other sitting and she went to sit next to them.

"Ahh Whisper how was your little trip?"

Regis looked up and smiled at the girl that had finally joined them, she took a seat in a large arm chair and relaxed back.

"I'll admit it was more insightful then I originally thought. The boy has talent perhaps he could be some use to us?"

Regis shook his head.

"No from this moment onwards we are going to be leaving him alone. The situation has changed he's no longer a problem."

A short silence ensued before the girl shot up.

"So what the Hell have I been doing for the last week! I've spent the last three nights sat in a tree watching them and your telling me it didn't matter!"

It was Void that raised his hand to calm her.

"Look Its not all bad, you looked like you had fun and besides its one less problem you have to worry about. You've been saying you want out of watch duty right? Or perhaps you like watching the boy?"

Whisper didn't look happy with the man's comment but it was Regis that intervened.

"Enough Void, Whisper for now the boy isn't a threat, I've agreed to leave him be after all he was just a pawn in a game he wasn't aware of. We have more important issues to be dealing with."

She understood and sat back down.

"We have been given a moment to get back on our feet. So from this moment, we are going to try and make allies. I'm planing to meet Freya and confirm our previous agreement, Void is making progress on this new recruit and for the time being I don't have anything for you. After the last few days you've earned a rest so go and enjoy yourself."

Whisper looked at him and nodded.

'I guess I should think of something to do the next few days.'

"I mean if you want to spend your time watching the boy then go ahead if he's peaked your interest I won't stop you."

Even though she couldn't see their faces she could tell they had smug smiles. She went red in the face and just ignored them.

Void handed Regis a small coin pouch and sighed as he snatched it from him.

"Told you…"

Seer took a sip out of his goblet and laughed.

"Well unlike her we've got business we should be getting to. See you all later tonight."

Void waved him off.

"Don't get pulled in by her charm…"

With that the two were left alone once again, and Whisper leaned forward.

"Why did you hand him a coin pouch?"

Void laughed and got to his feet.

"Don't you worry about that, now if you excuse me I've got a Familia to infiltrate. You should get some sleep wouldn't want to ruin that pretty face of yours."

Whisper scoffed.

"Hmm why do you care, I don't remember ever being friendly with you?"

He laughed and shrugged as he walked to the door.

"Just think of your well being, besides you wouldn't want Bell to see you in such a state…"

She gave him an angry glare.

"What does he have to do with this?"

"The faint blush on your cheeks says it all…. Have a nice day."

With that he quickly exited leaving her alone. She let out a deep sigh before sitting down and smiling.

"Idiot"

The sun shined down on the small camp. The forests creatures had come out of hiding and filled the surrounding area with joyful sounds. The birds had started chirping as the sun rose and help wake a two worn out adventures.

The first to stir was Artemis, she knew two things were going to happen when she got up. First they would have to start getting ready to get back to Orario and second this would be the last time she was going to enjoy such comforts.

'I guess its true, even the gods can change… To think I would sleep with a boy like this… If my Familia saw me now they'd call me a hypocrite.'

She said this while holding onto Bell with with her legs wrapped around him. She liked to refer to him as a human pillow to make her actions justified. What she couldn't explain was the want for him to hold her.

'Your doing it because he saved you… Doesn't matter if you like it!'

She kept telling herself this however she didn't want it to end. Something about it was just nice. The very thought was a big no no. But he had an effect on her like none other.

'Just a little longer…'

She knew the moment she opened her eyes that was it, she would have to leave this alone, a one time thing never to be repeated. Yet the very thought was saddening.

'Maybe… No I can't I want to but I can't… He probably doesn't want it ever… After all he loves someone I can't indulge in this!'

She could feel him, all of him. That's how close they were, his hands, arms, legs even his toned chest pressed against hers. Any other time she would shoot those thoughts dead and anyone that had them. She strictly forbade anyone in her Familia from having such needs. Now her she was enjoying every minute of it.

"I guess I really have changed, I no longer have the responsibilities, I'm just like they were back then…"

He moved again and she could tell that he was going to wake up soon, She sighed and opened her eyes and found his face extremely close to hers. In fact if he moved his head just slightly, his nose would be touching hers.

'H-he's so close…'

She wasn't going to wait for it to happen so she moved back a bit, she sighed and placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Bell, its morning time to wake up."

"Goddess… just let me hold you for a little longer…"

'Is he dreaming about Hestia... '

She shook him again and this time got a different reaction.

"Sorry, I know you prefer me to use your name… please your so warm Artemis."

'He's dreaming about me… no why is he dreaming about me?"

Her cheeks heated up as she heard the boy speak her name with a sleepy yet needy voice. She admitted she indulged in dream Bell more then once but she never thought he would as well.

'I guess I shouldn't be surprised I've been clinging to him a lot… Another reason for me to stop.'

"Ughh morning…" "Yawn"

She was meet with two big red eyes and a large smile on his face. He quickly let go of her and sat up.

"Sleep well goddess?"

Artemis pouts.

"How many times do I have to tell you Bell its Artemis."

He rubbed the back of his head.

"Sorry I know its just force of habit…"

Artemis smiled and nodded.

"As for your question I slept like a baby… what about you?"

Bell avoided looking at her directly he moved his eyes to look past her.

"Y-yes I-I slept well…"

For once he was he was having a nice dream, he was having a typical day in Orario going to the dungeon heading back and going to go train. What was different was the fact someone else was in that dream. The same person that was with him now… Artemis. He had been dreaming about the idea of her joining the Familia, part of him wished it was true. As the dream went on he found himself in a situation he had only experienced with her. They had been training up on the wall in the spot he and Aiz used often. When the day had come to an end, she asked him to sit and watch the sunset with her.

The two of them cuddled up and watched as the sun disappeared into the horizon, even after the sun had disappeared the two sat complacent not to move, even when Artemis seemed to have wanted to move he had clung on to her for warmth. It wasn't until she had fallen asleep that he had finally decided to head back. He carried her in his arms back to the church. He got the odd look from people on the street but he didn't care, something about her being curled up to his chest made him smile.

After they got back he placed her in Hestia's bed and went to sleep on the sofa as he always did, it was when he woke up that he found an extra person under his blanket. He assumed it was Hestia but the blue hair changed matters, she had woken up along with him and went to get up. He felt sad by this prospect and latched onto her getting one of her adorable yelps. He begged her to let him continue holding her, and she got angry when he didn't use her name… She ultimately did as he asked and continued to lay beside him. What he wasn't expecting was for her to move closer to him before he was woken up he was but mere inches from her face and if it had gone on he could only imagine…

'Ugh I shouldn't be sad that I had to wake up. I shouldn't think about what it be like to...to kiss her.'

The very thought sent signals to his body had he could feel himself growing strange as he sat beside her. He knew he would have to get a grip of the situation. For one they were both practically naked and he was trying very very hard not to look at her.

"Umm perhaps we should think about getting ready to head out… its a long way back and we've spent more time here then we should have…"

Artemis quickly caught on to what he was doing, as she caught him taking quick glances at her. Part of her knew he was trying not to look and was giving her a way out. She felt her cheeks heat up the longer she waited.

"Y-yeah your right… In that case I'm going to have a quick wash.. Stay here until I'm finished… Attempt to peek and I'll shoot you."

She quickly exited the tent leaving him alone but something was odd about her warning, she didn't seem as harsh with her warning.

'I guess I'm just imagining it… But fuck its hard to be around her, I can't get her out my head…'

*"You could take a quick peek?"*

"Shut up old man I'm starting to think your haunting me from the dead!"

His grandfather laughed

*"Hey you believe what you want but I'm just a manifestation of your thoughts, besides your body is trying to tell you something."*

Bell could feel his lower half becoming more active, he had done everything he could to hide his erection, he was worried to wake up to close to her and being in a very dangerous situation.

*"Ha-ha come on, its okay its only natural, you leave it for to long and your going to become frustrated… You've got the perfect masturbation material in viewing distance… Just think about it."*

The voice disappeared and Bell was stuck, he hoped that it would pass but it didn't and he felt the greatest of urges to do something. Thankfully he imagined Aiz instead…

It didn't take long for Bell to finally scratch the itch that he had been fighting for the past three days and he managed to keep her off his mind for more then a minute. He quickly cleaned himself up as best he could and waited patiently for her to let him leave the tent. He was hot and sweaty and he desperately need to wash himself off.

*"So there's the girl you like and this new girl hmmm. Bell I'm glad to see your embracing the harem after all."*

Bell let out a heavy sigh and leaned back as he waited.

"No I just… Haven't seen much of Aiz these last few days hopefully seeing her will kick these dreams…"

He could hear his grandfather laughing and he knew he'd be in for a long conversation.

*"Come now Bell, don't lie to yourself, its obvious that you like her what difference does it make?"*

"Don't you get it, it makes all the difference and besides I don't like her like that were just…"

*"Friends. Yeah because friends sleep next to each other and have romantic dreams about watching the sunset together. What are you friends with benefits?"*

His grandfather not only cut him off but also countered his point entirely he hated this stupid farce.

"Why do you care, I can't have a relationship with a goddess okay. Yes she's beautiful and kind but it would be unfair to want such a thing. I will die and she will continue to live on what then?"

The voice in his head went silent and he finally thought he had won.

*"So why are you following her around, why are you striving to protect her? You heard her she doesn't want to be referred to as a goddess, she doesn't want to act like a goddess? Right now she is as human as you."*

Bell knew he was right, the very fact her arcanum didn't kick in and send her back to heaven was a clear sign she was mortal. She really didn't act like other gods and goddess. She actively tried to fight back. She said it best herself she wasn't a goddess just a normal girl like everyone else…

*" Do you finally get it…? She doesn't want to be treated differently and now she's got her wish. Your biggest hope is that she will join you and Hestia right? Well ask her and I bet she'll will agree!*"

"I can't it has to be her decision! I can't influence that!"

*"For gods sakes boy what difference will it make? If she says yes it means she wanted to from the start, if its no then its no. Worse case she says she's still unsure and your back to the same place!"*

Again Bells reasoning was shattered as he tried to come up with a plausible argument but he couldn't and he was starting to regret ever getting into it.

"You really are haunting me aren't you old man, no way your just my imagination!"

Again the voice of his grandfathers laugh echoed in his head

*"Ha-ha you believe what you want to believe Bell, doesn't change the fact that your trying to avoid the obvious. Now if your done arguing how about we have a little bet?"*

Bell was left seriously confused he was sure that he was now being haunted and his grandfather was trying to act like he always had.

"I can't believed I listened to you advice!"

*"I know I couldn't either but hey it got you in bed with a beautiful girl. So come on won't you give your dear grandfather this one moment to be right"*

Bell sighed as he knew some way or another he was going to regret this.

"Fine what's the bet?"

*"You have to ask her to join, if she says yes then I'm right and you have to ask her on a date?"*

Bell nearly chocked when he heard the last part and he was filled with embarrassment with the very idea.

"W-w-wait why that!"

He hoped this was a practical joke and that his grandfather was going to burst out laughing but it wasn't, he made bets in the past and knew when he was serious.

*"What's wrong worried she'll accept and you'll have to ask. What are you man or chicken?"*

"I'm worried I'm gonna get a slap or worse!"

*"So chicken then. What kind of hero shies away from a challenge, are you afraid? What hero is afraid of stepping up!"*

Bell clenched his fists as he cursed the old man for know just what to say to push his buttons!

"Argh screw you old man your on and if she doesn't or isn't sure you stop interfering and leave my head alone!"

*"Deal now I wish you luck my grandson and don't chicken out or ill haunt you for the rest of your life."*

With that he disappeared and Bell knew he had just gotten himself into a whole worse situation. He fell back onto the hard floor and sighed as he ran his hands through his hair. All the while a thousand questions went through his head. But he didn't have long to dwell on them as heard a voice from outside his tent.

"I'm finished Bell, if you want to do the same I'll wait till your finished then will start packing up."

It was Artemis thankfully she remind Bell that he was in dire need of a wash.

"Thanks I will do"

He waited a minute so he was sure she was gone before he exited and went to the nearby stream. After a short while he exited and dried himself off before getting dressed with his spare clothes. That being a black shirt and brown pants his usual look. Once he was dressed he shouted to Artemis. The two had a quick breakfast and started to pack up everything, it took them an hour or so but by the time they were finished it barely looked like they had been there.

Bell helped Artemis up onto her horse before mounting his own. He was slowly starting to get used to controlling him. He nodded to her and the two set off into the forest. They were meet with a variety of different animals and Artemis sighed.

"Figures they'd all come out when we decided to leave…"

Bell noticed the displeasure in her voice and the unhappy look as she glanced around.

"Sorry it didn't go as planned, I feel kind of responsible…"

Bell spoke up knowing for a large part of this trip he was bed ridden and unable to do anything. He felt even more bad that for a large part of that she had been looking after him instead of doing what she wanted.

Artemis mean while smiled and shook her head.

"I wouldn't say it was a total waste of a trip. I did enjoy myself, besides can't blame you for the lack of animals to hunt. Besides I kind of enjoyed taking care of you… Not often I get to try new things."

She let out a gentle smile as she looked around the forest and noticed the animals looking at them.

"Strange I wonder if the monsters we faced had anything to do with how quiet its been?"

Bell did wonder the same thing. They had spent three days and had trouble finding even a couple of deer or rabbits. Now it was full of them almost if they had been in hiding up until they killed them.

"Perhaps but I do know one thing I'm gonna put a formal complaint into the guild!"

He was pissed, no more then pissed he was furious, he knew certain guilds liked to cut corners on missions and quests but this was stupid. Artemis could have been killed. He knew they were stronger then most normal monsters and the fact they had scars means they had been attacked before.

"Not that it matters now. The guild can't investigate them and even if they did it wouldn't lead to much… Not like we just killed the only evidence to that fact."

Artemis thought about it and agreed, even if they both went and complained it was unlikely that they'd do anything to help. It was on of the reasons she stayed out of the guilds politics.

"Well, it doesn't matter I know that thanks to you this place is a lot safer… Besides nobody comes here so I'll have my own little hunting ground".

She beamed with excitement and Bell smiled but felt sorry for all the creatures looking at them; they had no idea what they were in for if she came back…

"Ha-ha well, glad I could help, maybe next time you'll have a bit more luck."

Artemis looked at him as if he said something strange, her head was leaned to one side and she was looked quite confused.

"Don't you mean we?"

"Huhh?"

Artemis looked away as she realised he didn't know what she was on about.

"Ohh sorry I just thought that because you didn't really have a chance to do any hunting yourself… I thought maybe you'd like to…"

She trailed off at the end but he got the idea of what she meant.

"I mean, you don't have to I know it may not be your cup of tea but…"

"I'd love to…"

His voice knocked her out of her little thought process as she turned and saw him smiling. However she was unsure if she heard him correctly.

"W-what?"

"I said I'd love to join you again… Hopefully I won't be bed ridden, besides you've still got to teach me how to use a bow right?"

His words lifted her spirits.

"Yes, yes we do… Don't think I won't hold you to this!"

The two laughed as they finally reached the edge of the forest with an agreement to come back someday. Bell looked back and smiled.

'Its been an eventful few days… But I can't say they were all bad.'

With the forest behind them and an open plain to ride the two could finally make some decent progress back to Orario.

"Hows about it Bell, think you can beat me to the next town. Winner buys lunch?"

Bell raised his arm with a fist. He smiled at her. After he lost the first time around he was ready to regain some of his honour.

"Yeah you're on… I hope you brought some coin with you?"

She didn't say anything, only smiling as she gave him a wink, before they lined up their horses. She turned to look at him.

"Ready Bell… three… two… one… Go!"

The two sprinted off with the wind in there hair.

They soon arrived in the town in question and Bell let out a light sob.

"Ohh what's wrong sad that I beat you for a second time…?"

He was certain he was going to win, in fact he almost did, shame that he was up against a crafty girl. He was about to over take her but she cut him off. Even had the audacity to gloat by waving him off as they reached the towns out skirts.

"Free lunch is free lunch besides I didn't have any money so you'd have been paying anyway."

She jumped of her horse and tied her up to a nearby post. Bell was left jaw dropped that he fell for such an obvious trap.

"You tricked me!"

He quickly got of his horse and joined her. Her adorable giggle made him less annoyed but still bothered.

"I'm sorry, but I thought if you did win you'd be more forgiving."

Bell didn't have it in him to be annoyed at her. She even managed to pull puppy dog eyes which he was certainly not ready for. He just melted like butter and accepted.

"It's fine, it was fun, come on. I want to grab a couple things first then we'll go find somewhere to eat."

Being a small town they were able to find most of what they needed. Artemis had already spotted one or two places she'd like to go eat at. She just had to wait for Bell to finish shopping first.

"Okay this is the last one I promise."

"You said that about the last one, ugh can't at least get a table and wait for you?"

Bell chuckled.

"Fine, take this, I'll find you when I'm done."

He handed her a small coin pouch and headed inside the shop. Artemis now overjoyed that she could look around freely headed back in the direction they came. She looked around a couple of stores pondering getting Hestia something. She couldn't decide so left it.

While she was looking around a few more shops she hadn't noticed that she was being watched from a distance.

"Hey that's her isn't it the girl that we saw the other day?"

One of the men pointed her out and another larger man came round the corner.

"Yeah that's her, what luck, I've been waiting to get back at her for that!"

He turned around into the ally and waved his hand to a couple more to join them.

"Listen up get the boys and tell them to meet us at the meeting point in 5 minutes… Tell them I'll be bringing some entertainment."

"But boss what about lord Apollos orders? Were supposed to be looking out for a white haired Boy and the girl with him?"

The large man waved off the comment turning to keep an eye on Artemis as he licked his lips.

"Don't worry, we have plenty of time, besides we've been here for a day now and haven't seen them. We've earned a little fun don't you think. Now go on and get the rest!"

With that the two men ran off in different directions as he turned to face his two friends.

"Come on lets go"

They slowly followed her from a distance and watched as she went from store to store.

"Hmm I wonder where I saw it?"

Artemis meanwhile was trying to work out where she was, she had been taken in by the little trinkets of each store that she wasn't paying attention to where she was going. She looked around and finally found a familiar store next one of the allies. She wandered over but to her horror she as a cold hand gripped her arm and pulled her in. Her skirt was snagged on the side as a small piece was torn away.

She tried to attack her assailant but found that something had held her other arm. She struggled to try and break free but found that whoever it was were far stronger then her.

"Who are you let me go!"

"Ohh don't worry my dear, like I said before were here to help… And as payment your going to help us."

Her eyes widened in horror as she as a familiar face walked out of the shadows, the bruise on his face was a clear indication who it was. She was about to scream for help but he quickly covered her mouth with his hand.

"No no no, I think its about time I repay you for the gift you left me with on our last meeting… Come on the rest are waiting. Artemis felt the horror of her situation as she struggled with all her might to break free. All she could do was move enough to get one of her arrows to fall from her quiver. Tears started to run down her face as she was carried off. All the while she prayed.

"Bell please… Hurry… Save me!"

Bell had finally arrived at the restaurant but to his surprise Artemis was no where to be seen. When he asked someone if they had seen her they had shook their heads. He then quickly headed to the other and once again got the same response.

"Where on earth could she have gone?"

He was beginning to worry and resorted to asking if anyone had seen her. He finally got a lead of one of the stall merchants that pointed him in the direction of where she had been last. When Bell arrived he found an awfully familiar arrow lying on the ground and noticed a small piece of her clothing… He knew instantly she had been struggling.

He clenched the arrow in his hand and noticed some large footprints imprinted into the ground. Bell knew the shape well.

'Armour, plate no doubt, and there's a few of them which most likely means adventures.'

He felt himself growing angrier at the thought. But also that Artemis was again in danger and this time he wasn't there to help. With out a second thought he sprinted after them following the tracks they had so carelessly left behind.

'Just wait Artemis whoever did this is going to pay!'

Authors notes

And another one bites the dust... Yep were 3 chapters away from that lovely round 40+ mark who'd have thought it. But the continued support for this story has made it possible. that and if I stopped now half the discord would come for my head... But enough about on to the chapter. Yes I know a few are gonna ask why I took this route... Because I can enough said!

This chapter is the official start of the Apollo arc Or wargame arc. This will be the only arc from the light novels and anime I plan to do (For now). But you'll understand more in a few chapters.

AS always thanks to everyone that has commented its good motivation to get these chapters out. Thanks to Webweasel for editing the chapter for me.

I hope you all enjoyed and look forward to the next chapter to see what Bell plans to do next. I hope your all keeping well. thank you for reading and your continued support.

Discord link-zvPcBt4