Time for Apollo's Ball! I find it funny how both Tales of Royalty and Delicate Balance have a chapter with Freya making my characters blush up a storm. Except this version of Freya is a little more... forward, in a subtle manner. You'll see. After all, I still have the next few chapters planned. I have not written the Game as of yet, but I want to actually see how I can write combat.

As always:

"Speaking"

Individual thoughts/Mindscape talk with the twins

*Ability/Spell*

...

The days before Apollo's ball, Dia chose to take Isaac, as it would make sense. The male escorts the female. The twins had stepped out for a minute, just to visit Grandma. The magic energy has eased away their worries, if only temporarily. Still, they didn't mention Ottar, as they thought it was weird that the King visited their Grandmother's grave.

"Okay, Isaac, we need to get you a fancy tux, like yesterday, and I need a matching dress," Dia declared. Well, considering the last dress she wore was by definition 'casual', she wanted to go further out, making it 'classy' instead.

"I know, I know, but could you just relax for me, just for a second?" Isaac had opened Dia's door to see her jumping on the bed while spouting off her demands. His patron goddess pouted but eventually jumped off the bed landing in front of him. "You happen to know a place where we can get proper ball gowns and tuxedos that won't cost too much?"

Dia smiled, nodding her head, "Of course, I was doing research!"

"By research, she means going to the store, asking if they did fittings and what the average costs were," Irene said, chiming into the conversation.

Nodding with a smirk, "Alright, I see. By the way, did the invitation say anything about a limit to how many escorts?"

Irene answered, as she had the same question and knew the answer, "Only one, sadly. I'd love to go, but…"

"Then why did you pick me?" Isaac asked, turning his attention to Dia. the aforementioned girl turned away, twirling a loose strand of her hair. She wanted a knight in shining armor kind of thing, didn't she?

Irene busied herself with the task of storing her weapons into their proper place, Yep… can't say I feel bad. "Alright, I'm going to the Dungeon with Bell and everyone else. They wanted to go for a quick run to prep themselves before the ball. Orario hasn't been this excited since… well, it's been a while.

"Stay safe, will you?" Isaac asked.

"As if you have room to talk, dear brother," Irene smiled at him, then left for Babel.

Dia has been quiet since the twins conversed, and now she was left with the elder sibling. "So… you totally had a fantasy of a knight in shining armor, didn't you?"

"Promise me you won't laugh," Dia said, preparing herself for the mortification. Isaac nodded. "I did, okay? I wanted to feel like a princess being escorted by her faithful servant, her knight."

Isaac lasted all of about two seconds, almost lost instantly when she spoke, but it was cute. "Well then, shall we also depart, my lady?" Isaac asked, teasing his goddess.

"You're going to hold this over my head, aren't you?" Dia asked muffled as her hands were covering her face, cheeks beet red.

An evil grin was her answer. "However, I'll spare you the embarrassment from the other Gods." The grin turned to a smile, "You're not the only one who wanted to be a princess." Dia turned to Isaac with concerned eyes, seeing the pain in his gaze. She reached out and he gently grabbed her hand, "You asked us one time what our dreams were, and you remembered what Irene's answer was?"

"She wanted…" Dia saw the revelation come forth, "and you…"

"I only want her happy, but don't second guess yourself, alright Dia?" Isaac gently answered. "So while we're getting fitted, we can get Irene a dress, just in case. After all, our birthday is soon."

Dia paled, "How can I forget your birthday?! I need to get you gifts!"

Isaac smiled at her panic, but a smile that wasn't malicious or lecherous, but a smile that showed content. "I personally don't need anything but one thing."

"That being?" Dia didn't let go of his hand, squeezing it harder. She wanted to know what her child desired. If he was so selfless that he didn't want a gift, what could it possibly be? When he spoke again, Dia hugged him close and burst into tears.

"Now, I have someplace to be, as I asked to meet them all for something in case someone tried anything. I shouldn't be more than an hour, then we can go shopping, alright?"

"That can wait until later. I'm accompanying you, no exceptions. I did get a charge after all for a few thousand valis," Dia said, wiping away her tears.

"Oh, you did, did you?" Isaac asked. "Well, I guess the barkeep can wait…"

Irene arrived at Babel to see the three normal people, along with Mikoto. "Hello!" Irene greeted them.

Mikoto turned before feeling a little saddened, but Welf had a knowing smile. Of course, he's heard the rumors and that just confirmed it. "Hello, Miss Irene," Bell greeted, his easy-going smile present on his face. Lili was glaring at her again, but Irene ignored it.

"What's up?" Welf said as a greeting, inclining his head.

"Nothing much, Lady Dia and Isaac are going shopping for Apollo's ball, so he won't be able to join us. Apologies, Mikoto," Irene did genuinely feel bad for the Far Eastern girl as she did like seeing him. Her heart wouldn't stop once she started thinking about him. Then, Irene had an idea. She gently approached Mikoto before hugging the girl, whispering, "Just imagine how he'll look in a tuxedo, his hair styled to perfection, his eyes tracing your figure…"

Mikoto squirmed in the hug, positive her face was flushed, "L-Lady Irene!"

Irene pulled back with laughter, her hand covering her mouth, the other holding her stomach, "I'm s-sorry, but the op-opportunity presented it-itself!"

"What did Lady Irene say to Lady Mikoto?" Lili questioned, her eyes scrutinizing the pair of females. Even her demi-human features couldn't pick that up. It might have to do with the fact that the streets were loud today.

Mikoto had a flushed face as she replied, "N-Nothing important." A blatant lie if Lili ever heard one. Welf, again, had a knowing grin on his face.

Bell just looked between his party members in confusion, "Am I missing something here?"

Oh, you sweet summer child, you'll find out one day, Irene thought to herself.

"Looks like Mikoto is falling hard with a sword," Welf commented, knowing full well how it sounds. Irene's eyes glinted with humor.

She then turned towards Welf, "I'm going to need your skills for a project I plan on starting for Isaac's birthday."

"Wait, his birthday's soon?!" The party said in unison. Mikoto was slightly louder than the rest.

Irene obviously didn't expect that as she leaned back in surprise. Once she regained her composure, she spoke, "Well, technically it's our birthday soon, but I want to get Isaac something. A gift that I physically can't make, but you..." a finger landed on Welf's chest, "...can. So, will you help me?"

"What do you have in mind? As long as it's not-"

"I'd never ask that of you, Welf. Come on, use that brain of yours!" Irene then flicked his forehead. "I'll tell you later after I get you the materials. I hope none of you need Minotaur horns."

With everyone else, giving agreement, they descended into the Dungeon. Bell and Welf as the vanguard, Mikoto as a middle guard, and Irene and Lili as supporters. However, Irene has a plan today. She planned on using her newest spell(s). They are not part of her status yet, but she knows their chants.

After all, they're only one word, and since she has the Mage development ability, they are going to pack quite the punch. So began their journey to the middle floors, their goal, the eighteenth floor, and back. After all, any further and they'd need some backup.

The group descended past the first ten floors with ease, not even breaking a sweat. Effectively having her level three status doubled, Irene felt like she was on top of the world, ironically being below the surface. So, when they made it to the fifteenth floor and Minotaurs started spawning with Hellhounds and a few Lygerfangs, Irene grinned.

Just as Bell was about to fight, he suddenly saw rocks flying by him, suspiciously ones that Isaac has. Lili looked at Irene in shock, and seeing the giddy grin on her face made it even worse. Holding her staff in her hand was Irene, as she said a single word and a very familiar attack came out.

*Firebolt!*

A magic circle flashed for a second while her staff was held out and an enchanted version of Bell's very own Firebolt came out, the crimson flame screaming through the very wide cave and into the Minotaur's hide.

And within the next ten minutes, Irene was casting spell after spell, giggling like a madwoman drunk on Soma. The very image gave Lili chills.

After Irene was done with her magic-induced high, she turned to the party, "So, you may be wondering how I can do that." They all mutely nodded their heads. "Alright, you know my Grandmother, who was the most powerful sorceress around?" Another nod. "Well, she had a spell that allowed her access to any spell imaginable, and guess who found out has that same spell?"

The four party members all robotically raised their index fingers and pointed to her. "That's…"

"Pretty damn awesome! Now, all I need to do is ask Riveria for magic refinement and training," Irene clapped her hands in glee. Then her cheeks turned red, "I also kinda sorta wanted to show off for a bit."

Mikoto recovered first, "So what spells have you memorized?"

Irene grinned again, holding her staff in front of her, "Swift strike magic aside, I have been trying to learn new spells, mostly defensive and protection magic with a dash of offensive." Irene explained her wants for magic as a magic circle appeared beneath her, "Your humble vessel calls to you, Vishnu, give my allies the spirit to withstand!"

*Living Shield!*

A faint glow encompassed every member of the party, including Irene. None of them have been ingrained in her status as of yet. "I have been doing my best to memorize as many spells as possible. That one I just cast is an easy to medium-level protection spell, raising our Endurance by a significant margin based on my magic and Mage statuses. Given that they are high, this will hold against Goliath's punch easily. However, physics is a factor, so don't just stand there."

"We have a literal Jack of all trades mage with us," Welf said in awe.

"Did the alliance finally go through?" Bell asked. "I heard Goddess Hestia murmuring about it one day. Not that she was stressed because she seemed far more exuberant that day."

"That's true, it went through, so our familias are now allies, in case anyone tried anything." Irene started collecting the magic stones and drop items, slightly disappointed that she only got five horns from a pack of thirty Minotaurs, ten Hellhounds, and half a dozen Lygerfangs. The magic stones went to Lili. "But we also have another thing on our plate." She put the horns in her own pouch before turning to the rest, eyes searching their surroundings, making sure that there are no more monsters in the immediate vicinity. "Apparently, Lady Loki offered Lady Dia an alliance as well, but I believe that th-"

"What?!" Came the voices of everyone else.

Irene, once again, found herself pulling back to regain her bearings, "Since you're my friends I can tell you: Riveria is my Godmother."

Cue the what from the boys and Lili. Mikoto had already figured this out.

"Apparently, Grandma had convinced my parents or they suggested that she be our Godmother. We only found out just recently, but that most likely is the driving force to the alliance. What happens is uncertain, but it is nice to have a maternal figure in my life," Irene ranted, then blushed at the stares. "Just don't tell Riveria I said that!"

"So, if Lili has this right, you have the same spell as the Great Mage, an alliance with Lady Hestia, Lady Riveria is your Godmother since birth but you didn't know, and Lady Loki wants an alliance with Lady Dia because of you and Master Isaac?" The Prum supporter summed up the past five minutes in a single query.

"Sounds about right, yeah. So, Mikoto, be ready to get absorbed into the most confusing Familia tree possible," she smiled, getting Mikoto to blush. The sight was adorable. Again, she was happy with her brother's choice and now she can tease him as well as her. She then got close to the swordswoman, "So when can I expect a niece or nephew?"

"Lady Irene, that's a… that's a little t-too far, we haven't even…" her flushing face was too cute for Irene to not giggle. "...gone on a d...d-date yet."

"I know, but I've waited for him to court someone for almost two years, he got used to my teasing after two months when I brought it up. And I plan on teasing you a lot more," Irene said, smiling all the while.

Bell flushed as he realized what was implied. He may be innocent, but he's not as dense as one would believe. After all, seeing Lili and Hestia fight over him gave Bell a very good impression of how they felt. Welf, however, cleared his throat, "You know how that sounds, right?"

Irene paused, then mortification overtook her features, the tips of her ears red, "That's not what I meant by teasing!"

A sigh of relief came from the smith, "Good because I'd have to invoke bro code rule thirty: Thou shall not steal the bro's girlfriend, especially if the sibling is plotting to, unintentionally or not." He did this in a serious older brother tone.

"You totally made that up, Master Welf," Lili accused.

Without shame, "Yep, but it gets the point across. If I didn't know any better, you were flirting with little Miss Mikoto over here." He jabbed a thumb at the aforementioned maiden.

Irene vehemently denied it, "I was only teasing her about my brother and how I want to be an aunt."

"Uh-huh," Welf chimed sarcastically. "Welp, let's get moving, the Dungeon awaits."

Bell, off to the side, "I thought there were only twenty-nine rules of the bro code…"

"Achoo!" Isaac sneezed.

"What's wrong, Isaac?" Dia asked.

"Someone invoked the bro code and it concerned me," he whispered, narrowing his eyes.

"The what code?" Dia was a Goddess, and even though she's been around a long time, she didn't understand the males' weird customs.

"A code that involves men, and I cannot say much more, but I think I have to hit Irene later," Isaac said, thinking of the reason why. "Not to worry, the reason will come later."

The deity-adventurer duo was roaming North Main for clothing suites, for the ball. After all, they wanted to dress to impress. Dia managed to find one and pulled Isaac over to the entrance. The door opened automatically, which was a wonder for the pair. It must have run on magic stones.

When they entered they heard an older lady's voice, "Oh, hello?"

"Good day, Miss-"

"Aren't you two just the cutest couple?" The voice said, coming into view. The woman didn't look a day over forty and she had dark navy blue hair that cupped her face, they had obnoxious curls that ended by her cheeks, but her youthful face made them pause.

"We're not-"

"He's not-"

The elder woman giggled, "Oh, I know, but I had to tease you. I know who you are, young man. It's such a pleasure to meet one of the named Titans and his goddess."

That information didn't exactly sit well with them. Isaac gulped, "Oh, how far have those rumors and such spread?" Probably all over Orario at this point.

"Your worry is unneeded, those are just conversation starters, now, my name is Serafall, I assume you need a fitting?"

"Apollo's ball, right," Isaac confirmed. Serafall wore a casual dress that covered most of her body, and upon looking, Isaac noticed the slight elongation of her ears. "You're a-"

"Quarter elf, that's right, just like you, but unlike you, I was not born of a High Elf," Serafall commented. She continued when she saw Isaac's expression became tense, "No, I am not going to say anything else, but when I was a little girl, I saw her and thought she was beautiful, more so than most." Serafall approached Isaac, looking into his eyes, "May I?"

The question was aimed at Dia, but the purpose of the question was to allow consent to be touched. After all, the trope of elves and touch has been rehashed more time than one cares for, but it was about permission. "Sure."

Serafall gently cupped Isaac's face, and she only looked for a second, "Yep, those are her eyes. Still looks as beautiful, in your case handsome, as I remember."

Isaac couldn't help but flush, "I appreciate it, but I am currently courting someone…"

A small chuckle, "Relax sweetie, I am not taking you away from your woman. Merely making an observation. Now," her tone shifted from casual to business, "you both want a tuxedo and dress for the ball?"

Dia answered, "Yes. Something that matches. Once I get my other child here, I would like it to match."

Serafall walked around the two of them, nodding to herself all the while, "You have their measurements?" Dia nodded. Serafall rounded them once more, "I have just the thing in mind! Hope you're ready." The elven woman snapped her fingers and an entourage of girls and some men came out. "Get them fitted so that even a Goddess of Beauty will be swayed!" Green is definitely a fit for both of them, and I have just the items needed for their perfect dress. Now, I just have to make sure that he doesn't see his courted's dress. Serafall was aware of who he was courting—as did most of Orario—as she and her patron god had arrived the day before.

That's not exactly hard for me, Isaac thought dryly. Dia just seemed surprised but was quite literally carried away by the girls. The men, however, guided Isaac to a fitting room.

They spent the next six hours dressing and undressing, getting fitted, compliments, and minor adjustments. Dia seemed to be enjoying herself, but Isaac was more worried about the comments on his scars. Just because he displays them doesn't mean he wants them to be gawked at. The silver lining was that they were healing well, fading into a discolored skin tone. It got worse when the men started hitting on him. For now, he wished he could shut off his hearing.

Thankfully, they saw the embarrassment on his red face and spared him. Their compliments did help when it was about his outfit. Of course, they had their disagreements, but once Isaac looked himself in the mirror and smiled wide, did they step back.

"All he needs is some hair gel, parted just the right way and he'll be the hottest one there," one of them said.

The second agreed, their tail wagging, despite the blank face, but the third, "While I agree, as long as we do not go too overboard. Say, would getting a haircut help?"

Isaac had a response, "I've thought about it, but I have a certain fantasy in my mind…" his cheeks flushed and the men understood. Thank goodness for the bro code. They won't ask for details.

Dia, on the other hand, was being showered in compliments. The girls, from as young as fourteen to twenty-six, loved having the chance to dress up a Goddess. They teased Dia mercilessly at how he was going to swoon over her. She denied it, knowing Isaac only sees her as an older sister. She sees him like a little brother and Irene as a younger sister. What does that make Riveria then?

Throughout these six hours, Dia was out in all sorts of dresses and gowns. Some puffy, some frilly, some a mix of both, and some completely off the charts. Serafall checked on her from time to time, giving advice to the girls and praising Dia.

After an hour of that, the two of them left, with outfits ordered, paid upfront, and a glint in Isaac's eyes. He was ready for the Ball, but he had one more place to visit later, without Dia. Even still, he had to defer suspicion, and he had to get a birthday gift for Irene. While he had an idea for her, he also remembered something important about her.

With that being said, he escorted Dia home and then quickly left with a kiss on her forehead. He rushed to Hibachitei as fast as possible. Even though his ribs healed fully, his run was equated to a light jog. He wasn't in a rush, but he also wasn't trying to break the world record for the fastest run to a bar.

Upon entering the door to Hibachitei, the barkeep waved him over. "You have them?" The place was currently empty, the chairs upside down on the tables, surprisingly clean from the days previous. They work fast.

The dwarf nodded, "I see why ya needed them, but do ya really 'tink that they'll listen to ya?"

Isaac grinned, "They better, otherwise they won't have any entertainment."

The dwarf stared incredulously at Issac, "You're bettin' on that?!"

Harpe stared directly into the dwarf's eyes, "I planned on it. After all, compiling all these on the night of the incident was a huge help." Isaac set a small pouch on the counter. "This is thanks from my sister and me."

"What would have happened?" The dwarf grabbed the pouch, and Isaac simply smiled.

"We would have shown what happens when you mess with our friends," the smile was filled with a burning emotion that made the dwarf shiver in fear. "We would have handled the cleaning fee as well…"

That did not instill confidence in the dwarf.

With that out of the way, Isaac left Hibachitei with a suspicious bag of rustling papers. Now, he had one last thing to do and it was to prepare for what he was about to see. His blushing cheeks were the only indicator.

The night of Apollo's Ball came upon Orario and every Deity invited was invested. Irene had come home with about fifteen horns total but hid them from Isaac. He didn't press but asked how everyone was, but Irene saw through his ploy. She proceeded to explain how she said that he 'should make a move so I can be an aunt' and something similar to that.

Isaac blushed just as hard as Mikoto did, according to Irene. She told him of their trek to the eighteenth floor and back, expressed her happiness at feeling useful—Isaac suspected she would feel that way—and showed off a new spell, the protection spell she cast earlier.

All of this was hours before the ball even started, so Irene had to accompany the two to the boutique. Safe to say, she was glad she did. The dress that was waiting for her was beautiful. Isaac pulled her aside and whispered something in her ear, making Irene gain a similar glint that Isaac had. She readily agreed. Soon after, Dia and Isaac headed for the ball.

The children accompanying their patron deities were excited because this was a high-class ball. Everyone went all out, even Hestia, who was known to be poor, but she did get a very pleasant dress. It was not a ball gown, but more of a casual dress that matched her eyes and exposed the upper half of her bosom. As for Bell, he was dressed up in a nice suit and a white bowtie, his white hair and red eyes sticking out even more. The jacket extended down into a two-pronged design, making Bell think of a hero story he read with his grandfather years ago.

It would have been fitting if he was wearing a white tuxedo, but he'll save that for another time. Both he and Hestia arrived at the door where they met Miach and Naaza. "Look at you, all nice and handsome," Naaza said, teasing Bell. Knowing the chienthrope, she was teasing him playfully. Her bright red dress accented her figure nicely. The little details on it made the dress feel like a children's book, popping out at them. A red sleeve covered Naaza's right arm, as there was a story attached to it.

"I appreciate what you have done for us, Hestia," Miach said. Nahza expressed her thanks and bowed.

Hestia smiled, "Well, I'd do anything for Naaza, a girl has to pamper herself every now and again."

"Miach! Hestia!" a third God said.

Hestia turned her bright blue eyes over to her friend, "Takemikazuchi! Mikoto!" The loli Goddess waved with exuberance. As for the gentlemen, they wore suits with matching ties to their respective children.

The War God laughed, "I see we've arrived on time, but have you seen Dia?"

Miach hummed in thought, "No, but I did hear from one of the stores that she and Isaac entered and did not leave for almost half of the day."

While Mikoto did brighten up at the mention of Isaac, she was worried that they weren't going to show up. Bell gently caught her attention, "You look wonderful." Bell meant it too if his smile meant anything.

"T-Thank you, Sir Bell," Mikoto said. Her pink dress was shoulderless, and exposed some of her ample chest, giving an eyeful, but kept most under wraps for the daring. Just beneath her breasts lied a red and black wrapping, designed with words of the Far East. On her hands were gloves that had similar markings to the ones on her chest. Her normal hairstyle was completely changed and while a strand of hair connected from her forehead to the bun, she still looked amazing. As for the bun, it was fixed to perfection, thanks to Chigusa. Paired with matching heels, the samurai looked like a femme fatale. At least, that's my hope. I wonder what he's wearing… if Lord Miach heard about this, then why haven't I?

Even as they entered, Mikoto hadn't seen a single sign of Isaac. Did they not receive an invitation? Or have they decided not to come? Flushing the thought out of their mind, she wanted to enjoy the night.

After that, the party went into full swing, post-introduction, and cheers from Apollo himself. Gods intermingled, children danced, and people gorged themselves on food…

...Okay, Hestia gorged herself on food while everyone else did the former activities.

However, Mikoto wasn't enjoying this as much as she should. How long has it been since the party started? Five minutes? Ten? Forty? She wanted Isaac to be here, that way they could actually talk, maybe dance, maybe… Okay, I've spent far too much time with Lady Irene. She might secretly be some pervert.

Just as Mikoto was about to turn and step outside, did she notice someone entering the ballroom. Most did not take notice but once she saw him, her attention went out the window. Hestia had a knowing smile from the buffet table. In strode Goddess Dia and Isaac Vlahos, looking as sharp as ever.

Dia's dress was an immaculate gown that one would find in a portrait from decades past, but it was more of a modernized style. Strapless at the top, it was a gentle corset that had beautiful greens and whites mixed in, Amaryllis flower patterns were imprinted across the entire dress. The dress had a slit that ended at about Dia's mid-thigh, allowing her mobility, but kept the appearance of divinity. While Freya and Ishtar are Goddesses of Beauty, Dia could be considered the Goddess of Cuteness. Of course, Dia's posture was nothing short of graceful, but anyone close to her could see the child-like twinkle in her eyes. For once, she had her hair parted so that everyone could see Dia's emerald eyes and her smile.

Several Goddesses simply stared slack-jawed at Isaac though. While he went for the standard tuxedo, it was how he carried himself. Underneath his jacket was a green vest that matched his eyes, down to the exact shade. Serafall made sure of that. His jacket itself had an Amaryllis pinned to his coat pocket, where a green handkerchief was folded with precision. The dark dress pants looked black but were actually a very dark forest green. The shoes were, of course, standard with every tuxedo, but in this light, made no difference. However, the one that threw everyone for a loop was how he styled his hair. Normally, Isaac just lets his hair go where it wants, but just for tonight, he took the advice of the assistant at Serafall's shop to gel his hair. It was a mix of compounds and everyday household items, but it allowed for his hair to shine. Parted the correct way, he looked like he was at least twenty-five, but he was just short of eighteen. While he was escorting Lady Dia with one arm, his other hand was still in his jacket, seemingly holding on to something.

Mikoto felt her face flush and her heart rate skyrocketed as he looked towards her, his smile going from formal to beaming. The smile that Lady Dia said that only a few people can get out of him. Mikoto was one hundred percent fangirling and she couldn't bring herself to stop.

Dia spoke, addressing the party, "Apologies for the delayed arrival, Apollo. I had to make sure that this one was ready."

"You wound me, Lady Dia," Isaac replied quickly, the smile now a smirk.

Apollo looked pleased, a glint in his eye, "Not a problem, please, enjoy yourself. The night has only just begun."

With that final message, Dia and Isaac turned and headed towards the rest of the group, but Isaac only had eyes for Mikoto, ignoring all of the other females who seemed headlong at throwing themselves at him. He knew having High Elf blood was one thing, but he felt completely out of place, as he would demonstrate in just a moment.

Once they were together, Isaac let out a breath of relief, nervousness, and anxiety. His eyes finally caught sight of Mikoto for the first time, having only seen her head. Obviously, he took his time looking her over, as she did him.

Of course, those around them confirmed that the courtship between them was indeed true. The way they were undressing each other with their eyes was proof enough. Some even laughed it off as teenage hormones, which… they weren't wrong… but they weren't right either.

"Mikoto…" Isaac said breathlessly.

"Isaac…" Mikoto replied just as breathless.

Isaac took his hand out of his jacket revealing two flowers, cut off around two inches from the stem. The first flower was a Crocus, a purple flower with an orange center, its petals spread wide open to fully expose its beauty. This one matched Mikoto's eyes. The second flower was a Peony, a flower that was a mixture of pink and white, the petals swirled up until they met. This matched the color—as close as possible—to Mikoto's dress. "Which one do you want in your hair? Either one will suit you perfectly."

Mikoto swore she felt her heart stop, her eyes flicking to the flowers, to him, and back again. "I… the…"

"Take your time, Mikoto," Isaac smiled, but it was slightly teasing. He liked having this effect on her. Little did she know, she had the same effect on him. He was just better at hiding it.

She pointed to the Peony, "This one." Isaac nodded and gently slid the flower into her hair, while not messing up the delicate nature of it. When he got close, she could smell the freshness of his scent and as a result, her face heated up again. Isaac's ears were bright red because she smelled just as amazing. "Thank you."

"Anything for you," Isaac responded easily.

"Now that you two are done devouring each other in everything but the literal meaning, Isaac, come dance with me," Dia said. At Mikoto's pout, she added, "I only want one dance, then he's yours, okay?" After all, a dance with their patron god or goddess was important, and more of tradition.

Isaac had literally tuned everyone else out, except Dia and Mikoto. Bell was conversing with Hermes, seeming to have a decent conversation, but it got even weirder when another guest entered the room.

"Is that Lady Freya?" "The King has arrived." "She's been making more public appearances as of late."

Freya was wearing a simple dress that matched her silver eyes but exposed most of her breasts, a black brooch that contrasted her hair sat neatly on the side. Ottar was wearing a blue vest that sat comfortably around his large form. The details were all spot on, embroidered with the Freya Familia symbol. The King looked ready for anything, despite being in a suit.

Of course, as Isaac and Dia were dancing, the attention went to the Goddess of Beauty herself, Freya, much to a certain Trickster's dismay, who had entered just after her. As always, Ottar was right at his lady's side. Both were dressed to impress; it wasn't that hard for Freya though. As Dia and Isaac danced, Freya's silver eyes found the pair and subtly licked her lips. He looked absolutely ravishing tonight.

Isaac shivered for no reason, "Are you alright, Isaac?" Dia asked.

The quarter-elf turned Dia and brought her into a dip before spinning her once, "I believe Lady Freya has arrived, but why have I felt this gaze before?"

"Ah," Dia said, her mood dampened, "Don't let her sink her claws into you. Mine were there first."

A smirk, "Possessive, are we?"

Dia smiled slightly, "Yep." Without shame too, Isaac noted.

Soon enough, the dance ended and the two cleared the floor, only for Freya to enter their line of sight. Now, this was Isaac's first true encounter with Freya, so his flushed face can be excused, but not for the literal campground forming in his pants. How the hell do people survive with her around?! She made him aroused by just standing there! Now he knew that her beauty was no simple exaggeration.

It was an underestimation.

Freya's smile widened at seeing her beloved get so flustered. Having just imagined some lewd and obscene things prior to arriving, she was pleased with his reaction. Her silver eyes flickered to Dia, "Well, don't you just look gorgeous tonight?" It wasn't a joke or a snide comment. Freya always knew Dia could pull off the looks, so from her, this was high praise.

"I'm surprised you're here, Freya. After all, I thought public appearances weren't your thing." Secretly, she was pleased that Freya complimented her, but she was wary of her because she's not one to dole out compliments so freely.

Freya laughed, "I have to get out sometimes, you know. Being a shut-in all the time is surprisingly boring."

Dia did not like the looks that she was giving Isaac, who looked ready to run to avoid making a scene, but if he did, he would cause a scene. Checkmate, it seems. "So, how can I help you?"

"Well…" her smile widened, a toothy smile, like she just won the jackpot from the Casino, "I would like to dance with your child if that is alright?"

The petite Goddess looked to her child, "Will you be alright with that?"

Thinking very morbid thoughts, Isaac managed to get out a reply without a stutter, "Sure, if it is only one dance, I do not see the harm in that." Not that I can refuse, making me look like the ass. The jealous glares only increased as Isaac accepted. Being the man, he reached out his hand, "May I have this dance, Lady Freya?" Accompanied with a bow, he looked up directly into her eyes.

Freya's eyes twinkled with delight, Fufu, a bold one. His aura is shining, even though I've been trying to charm him. She accepted his hand, and he led her to the dance floor.

Even though Mikoto saw this, she wasn't as upset as she thought. She was angry at Freya. She wanted to dance with him. Am I jealous? Soon enough, she was whisked away into a dance. Isaac noticed and felt jealous as well, but his reaction was dampened considering who stood next to him.

The party continued like normal as Freya and Isaac shared a dance. Her hands were on his shoulders while his were on her waist. He was aware that Ottar was watching him closely. Isaac knew that any slight against her would result in a world of hurt. That being said, Freya increased her charm, directing it all onto Isaac. She wanted to see what it would take to make him hers. To claim him, right in front of Dia, an added insult to injury.

And boy did he feel it.

His vision swam for a moment, not losing his footing, but blinking at Freya. He felt it on him as soon as they made eye contact, and it only increased the longer he resisted. Without Liaris Freese, he would have been nothing more than a lovesick puppy to Freya. "While I appreciate the sentiment," he whispered so only she could hear him, "could you tone it down, you're giving me a headache." It really was killing his head, making the worst migraine seem tame in comparison.

The Goddess smiled before gently lowering his head right into her bountiful breasts, despite the small height difference, "Oh, sweet child, then why don't you rest?" Did he avoid my charm? Ara ara, my beloved is certainly resilient. I wonder if his sister shares the same resistance… no… immunity. Most glared with envy at Isaac. It's not hard to imagine why either.

The dance continued for a few minutes and during that time, there were quite a few conversations. Most were rumors, but some didn't seem interested in the dance.

Dia narrowed her eyes, and Hestia came up next to her, "You're seeing it too, right?"

Surprisingly, Loki answered having snuck up on them, "Yep, looks like Freya is marking her territory."

Dia turned to see Loki in a crimson suit which wasn't as surprising as Hestia and Loki not at each other's throats, "Well, I don't like it." Little do they know, Freya's charm won't work on him. So I am not overly worried, but she definitely wants my children.

"You're not worried she isn't trying to charm him?" Loki asked, now eyeing Dia.

The Goddess shrugged with a knowing smile, "He'll be fine, but his hormones on the other hand… he's definitely going to need a few to calm down."

Both Hestia and Loki sympathetically nodded.

Back to their dance, Freya whispered to him, "So, you can negate my charm, hm?" She suddenly stopped dancing and pushed herself closer to Isaac, who stiffened… as did his pants. She was pressed right up to him, and her leg was certainly happy to feel his third leg. Her eyes glazed with poorly concealed lust, but who said she was trying to hide it? Isaac gently, but forcefully, moved himself away.

"I appreciated the opportunity to dance with a wonderful woman such as yourself," Isaac said. While he did not appreciate her actions, he did mean it. She was an excellent dancer. That, and he felt the weight of Ottar's glare. He was more upset at his weakness, but could anyone really blame him? It's a Goddess of freaking Beauty! They exist to charm the pants off anyone!

Freya pouted, but soon smiled again, "I enjoyed it as well." Her hand reached out and cupped his cheek, making Isaac tense.

Is she going to steal my first kiss? Isaac internally panicked, his heart rate rising like one races up a set of stairs. With one hand on his cheek, the other went to his ear and she softly stroked it. Her head then rested in his chest, feeling his beating heart.

If this was how fast he could pum-

"Mmmm," Isaac couldn't contain it even if he wanted to, it just felt so good. He bit his tongue and clenched his fists, hard enough to feel something slide between them. He couldn't bring himself to slap her hand away, as her beauty stunned him. This is shameful!

"Oh, so it's true, elves do have sensitive ears," she said as she raised her head and placed a kiss on his open cheek before walking away.

As soon as she left, Isaac put a fist on his chest, taking deep breaths. "Oh my…" he proceeded to swear in the Elven language under his breath before turning and walking outside to get a breather and clean his hands of his blood. He hopes that he didn't get any on the floor. Mikoto followed him both worried and jealous, and neither emotion wanted to take the top spot. She didn't even focus on her dance.

Isaac's flushed face said it all. That was way too intense. The cool night air definitely helped bring some semblance of sanity back into him, but if that was her trying to charm him, well, he'd be screwed—in both forms—if Freya had it her way.

"Are you alright?" Isaac heard Mikoto's voice.

He turned with slight trepidation, "Honestly? No, not really."

"Can I… help you in some way?" Mikoto meekly asked, making eye contact.

Isaac drank a potion beforehand—carried in a pocket of his jacket—so his hands were clean, and cupped her cheek, "You just being here is enough." It was an honest answer, but it came off as more… and no one heard him rescind it.

Thump. Mikoto internally debated how he was so good at flirting off the cuff like this. It's inhuman! "Well, g-glad I can help."

Taking a deep breath, "I still owe you a dance, but I feel like I should clean up after she…" He stopped because it would be insulting to a Goddess and Ottar is terrifying.

"You owe me multiple dances," Mikoto said, laying a hand on his chest, feeling his heartbeat strongly under her fingers, and little did she know, it wasn't from the aftereffects of his dance with Freya. It was because of their proximity.

Isaac found himself lost in her gaze again, and this is where he imagined himself. They both started to lean closer, not even realizing it. They were mere celches away from one another…

Closer…

...and closer…

Their breathing picked up again, their eyes searching the other for permission—but they knew that they had it already. They were close enough to feel one another's breath and at the same time, their eyes closed...

"Isaac!" Dia's voice called.

The two snapped away from one another to turn to see Dia and Takemikazuchi looking at them with acute surprise, but with a slight grimace as well. They realized that they just interrupted a moment between their children.

Isaac breathed out a sigh, as he and Mikoto thought the exact same thing.

'Thank all things good that Irene is not here right now.'

They'd never hear the end of it.

I wouldn't be so sure, brother. I saw everything.

...

I'm going to start putting spells that Irene uses at the endnotes. One for my benefit and one for you, the readers.

Living Shield: A medium-level protection spell, increasing the user's party's Endurance significantly based on the user's magic stats. Bonus is increased if the user has Mage. Chant-"Your humble vessel calls to you, Vishnu, give my allies the spirit to withstand!"