A year. Almost a year passed by since Bell left his home with Kojiro. It was hard to believe how much could happen in such a short time span compared to his previous years, where he lived on a farm in the mountains, each day passing by just like the other, the routine never changing. Yet in that one year, he felt he experienced lifetimes. Part of him regretted not leaving earlier... but then again, would he have seen the same things the way he did, if he left while his grandfather was still alive? While he hadn't met Kojiro yet? The young man shook his head with a sigh, standing underneath the warm sun. In a way, he felt a bit worried. Standing here now, having left behind the countries he visited. Or rather the bonds he made on his way here.
It felt like a burden on his shoulder. To live up to the expectations the strong and the weak, the shy and the brave, had for him. From the sheltered Haruhime to the confident Brunhilde. From the boisterous Welf to the chivalrous Artoria. Bell took a deep breath. They all guided him one way or the other, guidance he wasn't sure he wouldn't be able to manage without. He couldn't imagine a life where he never went on that journey. Closing his eyes, he clapped his hand together. In that moment, overly emotional as it was, he gave thanks to the year he lived through. Taking a deep breath, he opened his eyes and looked up.
And now... here he was. The walls of Orario, towering over them, as many many individuals desired to enter the center of the world. While it didn't glow like the walls of Yggdrasil, have the shine of Roma or the isolating nature of Sekigahara... These walls were old. Ancient even. And they stood ever victorious, with its many scars. It didn't need to present an overpowering presence or send a message. Its existence itself was more than enough to speak for itself.
Bell gulped, feeling his nerves get to him as it was their turn to enter. Was... was he supposed to say something? Some profound words? Yelling to the sky maybe? Yet as Kojiro gently pushed him, he entered the city and... that was it. He was inside now. Bustling streets with local stalls and shops yelling for merchants to make dealings with them. Many others guided or pointed towards the center, where a massive tower oversaw the circle that was Orario. And... he entered this world. Just like that. The young man blushed furiously. The fact he did nothing at all was embarrassing. Or rather his own expectations. Did he expect a holy light to shine down on him? A fanfare or celebration for the chosen newbie? Ah, he was getting too lost in his own dreams.
He was just another rookie wanting to make it big in Orario, just like everyone else. Slapping his cheeks, he took a deep breath. Alright, enough fantasies, reality waited!
"Hehe."
Bell froze up. Slowly he turned his head, seeing Kojiro and Nyx smile at him, almost teasingly. Clearing his throat, he tried to hide his blush as he looked away. All that did was cause them to chuckle at his reaction.
"No need to feel shame. We all daydream."
Saying it in such an understanding tone just made it worse! Still, he couldn't help but smile himself when Nyx laughed, weird and awkward as it was. Then her smile wavered a bit as she lowered her head.
"W-w-w-well... T-t-t-this is it."
Bell pressed his lips together. Right. From now on, Orario would be his home. He wouldn't travel with Nyx anymore. While she would stay here for a while... she would leave again and it would be months until she might come back. Even if she would remain here permanently, something she actually considered but hasn't decided yet, their jobs were pretty far apart. She was in charge of logistics while he would be an adventurer, diving into the dungeon. Their worlds wouldn't really cross. With a sigh, he put on a smile and extended his hand.
"Thank you for everything."
"Hm. It-It was my... p-pleasure." She shook his hand. "B-become a g-g-great adventurer. M-m-m-maybe we'll see each-each other?"
"I hope so!" Letting go he nodded in excitement. "I'll make sure to visit when I can!"
With those words, Nyx visibly brightened up. Hugging him one last time, they seperated, with Nyx retreating into the crowd. Bell frowned a bit at the looks she was getting, but he knew she was getting stronger these days. She barely flinched at her own trauma anymore and since they met, she was way more social now in comparison. Turning to Kojiro, they nodded at each other. Well then. It was time.
But before they could move forward, someone tapped Bell's shoulder. Turning around, he blinked in surprise at one of the Night Company's worker, the one that was supported by Eros back in Yggdrasil. Turning to the suited lady, she scratched her cheek with her gloved hand. It was only now that Bell realized how similar she looked to Nyx, at least body type wise. Not that he had perverted thoughts when he made that comparison, it was just something he noted!
"Ah, apologies. I just... wanted to get this off my chest, before we might never see each other again." The woman laughed awkwardly. "City is big and what not and we move around a lot, haha."
"I-It's alright! Thank you for letting us travel with you!"
"No." She shook her head before bowing deeply. Bell stammered at the treatment, but the woman raised her head with an earnest look in her face. Though for some reason it made the young man feel uncomfortable as her voice gained a deeper rumble to it. "I, Hemere, thank you for being so close to our goddess."
"N-no big deal."
"For you, maybe." Hemera sighed, closing her eyes wistfully as she touched her cheek. "Not many recognize her greatness."
Bell shared a glance with Kojiro. Greatness? He wanted to ask. But before he could, the woman flashed them a smile before politely taking her leave. The two men shrugged after a moment of silence. It wasn't their business anyway, even as weird as it was that someone would be this... worshipful towards Nyx?
"How about something to eat first"
And that was that. The two followed the flow of the streets. During that time, Bell could not get enough from what he was seeing. In comparison to these streets, Roma, Yggdrasil and Sekigahara were monotone in terms of its inhabitants. Humans and demi humans, ranging from half naked barbarian warriors and amazons, to robed elves and robust dwarves. Pallum and humans dressing similar, while the animal people shared their own tastes, being in between amazons and humans in terms of modesty. Not to mention the equipment. Swords, axes, spears, daggers. Shields, leather armor, steel armor. The variations were endless, ranging from katana, scimitars, broadswords, halbers, lances and what not. Not to mention the insignia, emblems and even banners some wore on them.
A jester gleefully presenting themselves. An elephant on a shield. Two hammers crossing in front of a flame. Symbols that represented their personal Familia. He thought back to the emblems he could recall back in the other countries, something he didn't pay too much attention to. Amaterasu's sun. Takemikazuchi's sword. The crescent moon of Tsukuyomi, the tornado of Susanoo, the fist of Hachiman. The soldier of Ares and the ravens of Odin. Suffice to say, Bell could only smile at the memories and compare their majesty with that of Orario's adventurers. He never expected that people could be so different in terms of appearance. There was even a blue haired Pallum with glasses and a white coat, standing in their way and staring at them with wide eyes-
Bell blinked when they came to a stop. Wait, why was that Pallum staring at them? He turned to Kojiro, wanting to voice that question, before seeing that his teacher had the very same wide eyed look.
"Ah."
"Shit," the Pallum exclaimed with a surprisingly deep voice, spat to the side and promptly turned around, his pace quickening. Yet Kojiro showed no mercy when he followed after him. It only caused the small man to run even faster, faster than his build would suggest. Yet because of the mass of people, he couldn't move as fast as he could, which allowed Bell and Kojiro to keep track of him as they chased after him for some reason.
"Hans Christian Andersen!" The swordsman shouted in delight. Bell's eyes widened. Another person he knew from his past? But unlike the previous occasions, where the other party was also excited to see them, the Pallum merely raised his hand and showed his middle finger, desperately trying to get away.
"Wrong person, asshole!"
After what felt like minutes of a goose chase, the man called Hans sent a death glare at Kojiro, who managed to grab him by his collar, forcing his feet to dangle in the air in the alley they ran into. It only emphasized how small the Pallum actually was, maybe reaching 145 centimeters at best. For someone that tried to run away, Hans didn't seem to put too much of a struggle. Instead he sighed in resignation, yet still maintaining the narrowed eyes to make his displeasure clear.
"Do I offend you this much?" Kojiro asked with a raised eyebrow. In response, Hans gaped at him before pointing at himself and then pointing at the ground.
"Yes, you freaky mountain hobo!" He took his glasses off and pinched the bridge of his nose, despair entering his voice. "Why?! Why aren't you in the Far East?! Be a good Asian and go back there, stuff your face with rice and sake!" Putting his glasses back on, he threw his arms in the air. "It's bad enough with one of you idiots here!" Pausing for a moment, he snarled. "Put me down already before I break your damn arm!"
"Hoh, so someone else is here?" Kojiro chuckled with a nod to himself before playfully moving Hans up and down. "It is good to see you too."
The Pallum sucked in air through his nose, veins bulging on his head. Then with a smirk, he exhaled and reached towards Kojiro's wrist. The Far Eastern man could only blink before Hans began to squeeze. Bell's eyes widened when the fingers dug into flesh, without piercing it however, and began to force Kojiro's hand open. The man winced when Hans let himself fall down on the ground, an iron grip on his acquitance's wrist. For someone so small, Bell wondered how much strength was hidden in that body of his.
"Are you not hearing a thing that I'm saying?!" He let go with a scoff, allowing Kojiro to rub his freed hand with a wince. "What am I saying of course you don't, you just like to kill and nothing more-" Hans suddenly stopped, his eyes narrowing when he leaned closer to Kojiro. "Hold up."
He looked up and down, eyeing Kojiro with suspicion. Then he took a step back, crossing his arms with a raised eyebrow.
"You changed. A bit. So tiny that one couldn't see it." "How?"
"I have a good student." Kojiro laughed, patting Bell's shoulder with a smile, causing the young man to blush a bit. Kojiro turned to Hans with a nod. "Bell Cranel."
The Pallum's eyes wandered towards Bell. At that moment, he felt a bit naked, blushing a bit as he tried to cover himself with his arm, which only made the small man scoff. The intense look he received... it was like Hans was taking apart his entire life with just a glance. It was the sort of eyes a god would have when easily discerning the truth. Heck, the only comparison Bell had for this kind of glint in someone's eye was Lord Odin and he was famous for his insight even among gods! After a while, the man adjusted his glasses with what Bell could only describe as a "naturally evil smirk".
"Aren't you a poor sucker."
"Uhm... what?"
Hans crossed his arms, closing his eyes as he nodded a few times.
"Fine. Fine!" With a long suffering groan he stepped onto the street. Glancing back at them, he craned his neck a bit. "Guess we're doing this then. I'll play your tour guide for a bit."
The two newcomers shared a look before following the man. Weirdly enough, he wasn't really saying anything as they walked. Not about the jobs, not about the city's history, not even on what street they were. Honestly, Hans came off more and more anti social. Yet despite that, the people spotting him seemed to recognize him. Some seemed sarcastic, but most of them seemed to genuinely be happy about seeing him as they waved at him.
"What's up, Mimir!"
"Hey there, Mimir!"
"Mr Andersen, I love your books!"
Bell blinked. The alias sounded weirdly familiar. Like he heard it before. But he wasn't sure from where. Still, it sounded like a cool name. But for some reason, with each mention of that title, Hans began to growl more and more.
"Piss off, piss off, much obliged," he responded to the people, who chuckled at his antics as if it was an everyday occurrence.
Soon enough, they reached the big structure, with many adventurers walking in and out. From outside Bell could spot suited workers inside, sitting at desks and finishing up paperwork. He saw a rather cute elf with brown hair and glasses chiding another young man with a slouched posture and slanted eyes. Some might even call them the eyes of a dead fish. Hans cleared his throat, shaking him out of his observations. He pointed at the distance, where the tower stood.
"Babel is the big ass tower and it has a lot. Entrance to the dungeon over there." He pointed at the building they were in front of. "Exchange center over here. " Clapping his hands together with a frown, he gave them a curt nod. "And that's it."
"That's it?" Bell asked, not being able to hide his own disappointment. Hans rolled his eyes before waving his hand dismissively.
"It's all you need to know about this generic fantasy setting. Guild. Dungeon. Tower." A dry laugh escaped him. "The rest is optional stuff readers wouldn't care about."
"Readers?"
"He is an author," Kojiro explained to Bell, who visibly perked up. Hans glanced at him before huffing, yet smirking as he crossed his arms.
"Might as well be the author."
The albino's eyes sparkled. An author! He always had respect for them, being able to weave stories from just their fantasies! To make the lives of heroes even more heroic with their words! For some reason Hans looked away, coughing. At the same time Kojiro seemed amused as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully. With a snap of his finger, he grinned.
"Well then, I shall order some food. Feel free to bond."
With those words, he left them, walking off to a food stall that was suspiciously far away. Hans spread his arms open in indignation as the swordsman wandered off.
"Oi, I already have a brat to look out for against my will!"
Bell gulped. Awkwardly, they both sat down on a nearby bench, just staring off into the distance. The albino fidgeted around. W-what should he do? Break the ice, but how? His grandfather would recommend talking about girls but there's no way he could do that. Maybe they could talk about his books? But he didn't know anything about them so that might just be overly rude. They sounded famous enough but during his travels, buying and reading books was the furthest from his mind. In a way it made him feel melancholy as he used to read a lot back on the farm. So talking about books was out. As ideas came and went, Bell's eyes started to spin as he tried to broach a good subject. In his haste, he reached into his back, hoping to find some sort idea. Then he felt it. It was not a good plan looking back, but he was panicking at that point. Pulling out his diary, he presented it to Hans with a nervous laugh.
"D-do you want to read my diary?"
For a moment, Bell expected to be laughed at. Yet to his surprise, all he received was a raised eyebrow before Hans closed his eyes with a sigh.
"God, you are just like pure white snow, aren't you?" A scoff escaped him. "If you were a girl you could star in one of my books. Ugh. Disgusting to think about."
Bell felt how an audience began to gather, small as it was, as it seemed like that Hans was just getting started. Giving Bell a pointed look, he shook his head in what could only be pity.
"It's just sad. The actions of a poor kid with few male role models in his life, much less friends. Only recently getting better and that's debatable considering Kojiro and whoever raised you and filled your heads with so many clouds." He twirled his hands at Bell. "Run off the mill kid chasing some big dream yet not knowing how that dream actually looks like or how to get there in the first place, even with all the guidance shoved up your ass. Not to mention naive. Believing in the good of all people and that belief was only being challenged recently. Not a lot of brains, more gut feeling that unfortunately works more often than not, so it encourages you to be more reckless, even if you think you aren't."
At that point, Bell gaped. His words were harsh. Blunt. Yet... he could not find anything to object to. Everything the Pallum said was absolutely true. Sensing the amusement and winces around him, his ears picked up the whispers as the spectators moved on.
"Aha, Mimir at it again."
"Poor kid, being torn apart like that."
Apparently Hans did this often. Still, for some reason he felt... happy? The fact that the man paid so much attention to him and figured him out so quickly. Seeing his flaws being pointed out... it could only help him. So he couldn't help but laugh a bit while sheepishly scratching the back of his head.
"Aaaand a goodie two shoes. You aren't even offended." Clicking his tongue, he extended his hand and sent Bell an expecting look. "C'mon, I don't have all day."
Nervously, he gave it over. In an instance, the author began to go through the pages swiftly, his eyes wandering over the letters at high speeds. So focused was he in reading that Bell couldn't tell if he actually liked it or wanted to get it over with quickly. There was not a hint of emotion, only the wish to finish the story so far. After what felt like seconds, he casually threw the diary back at Bell, who yelped and had to juggle the diary a few times before pocketing it safely into his bag.
"I give this a three out of ten," Hans said in a casual tone. Bell flinched before lowering his head with a sad smile.
"Better than expected... "
"Humility isn't a virtue, no matter how many people tell you that, boy." Hans sighed before nodding a few times, crossing his arms. "Well, if nothing else, you kept enough details in that I have a clear picture of the events. But in terms of structure and what not? Terrible. It ruins the immersion."
"I mean, it is a diary... " He weakly defended, earning a glare from the Pallum.
"Not an excuse to damage my eyes with the terrible writing." He tapped his cheek a few times as he crossed his legs. "Nothing I wouldn't be able to fix though... "
Bell blinked at the words. Was he implying-
"If I want, yes. No guarantees. Muses are bitches after all," Hans said with a casual shrug. Then he glanced at Bell before staring off into the distance. "Only if I get your permission of course. While it isn't common in this hellhole, I do believe in consent."
"S-sure!" Bell paused, thinking back to what actually happened in those countries. How... much was classified information? Abilities like Haruhime definitely. With a nervous gulp, he raised his hand. "I-I mean, some stuff I... don't know if you can-"
"Yeah, yeah, I know how to not step on toes," Hans said, waving his hand dismissively and earning a sigh of relief from Bell. Suddenly a chuckle gained their attention, revealing Kojiro carrying a few hot potatoes on his person.
"That would surprise me."
"Knowing doesn't mean doing it, you mountain vagrant," Hans growled. Clicking his tongue, he furrowed his forehead in thought. Sighing, he shook his head. "But fine, if it's other countries, I'll promise to try. Only if I write it though. Again, muse."
Well, that was the best he was going to get, Bell thought. Not that he had a lot of hope. As he said, it depended on his motivation... and he gave it such a low score... honestly, it was a bit demoralizing. He knew he wasn't interesting but he at least hoped his experiences were. Then a sharp pain flared up in his forehead. Yelping, he covered the spot, seeing Hans extended finger as he frowned at the young newbie.
"A piece of advice. Have some more confidence. Just keep moving and you'll get a half decent story out of your life." He looked away, covering his mouth as his voice turned quieter. "You're refreshing, I guess."
Immediately Bell's mood rose. He was refreshing! It sounded weird if he thought about it, but if an author who probably sold a lot considering the fame he had, that meant something! Lowering his head, he smiled widely.
"T-thank you, sir!"
"Jesus, it's Hans. And raise your damn head!"
Letting the sharp words wash over him, Bell raised his head with a smile. Hans' eyebrow seemed to twitch before he stood up and turned his back to them. Before he could leave however, a hand rested on his shoulder. He let out a loud groan before turning his head at Kojiro, who faced him with an innocent expression.
"Since we are new here... any idea what kind of Familia are looking for new recruits?"
"With your skills you can get in practically any one of them," Hans said bluntly. Then he paused, eyes narrowing in consideration before raising a finger. "Except Freya."
"Why not her?" Bell asked, not sure what would be wrong with her. He heard the name before, as it was associated with the top of Orario. A goddess of pure beauty, gathering high ranking adventurers like gems. Yet Hans' disgusted expression looked like he was talking about a cockroach as he spat to the side.
"Because she's a bitch. Insane, stalking slut." Ignoring Bell's wince, Hans sighed. "Never get close to her if you like your life as it is now."
Bell sweated. Why did this sound suspiciously a lot like Lord Odin's words? There was no way they were talking about the same person, right? The world wasn't that small, right? The goddess couldn't be that bad, right? Kojiro shrugged nonchalantly at the information, seemingly taking the author's words at face value. Then he tilted his head as he crossed his arms.
"What is your advice?"
Narrowing his eyes, Hans licked his lips in thought. Then with a lazy turn of his body, he pointed down the street.
"If you want to join a Familia, go to the south west. There's a house with a sign that screams "Hero of Justice"."
Sharing a glance, Kojiro and Bell turned back to Hans with a confused expression. That was not very specific. The ronin raised his hand politely.
"Just to be clear, when you say Hero of Justice... "
"I mean actual justice, not 'justice' as in the taste of slaughter, yes," Hans explained dryly. Bell's mouth thinned, turning to Kojiro.
"Insider?" He asked, his voice emotionless as he was pretty much used to this. As expected, Kojiro nodded. It only aggravated the author, clicking his tongue in annoyance.
"Way to beat a dead horse. Might have been funny the first time but it clearly loses its charm." He pointed at the two of them with a glare. "If anyone asks, I did not tell you. No way I'm gonna get involved with top virgin and Miss Prim and Proper." Turning his back to them, he began to wander away while waving his right arm lazily. "Rest in peace, kid."
Bell felt a shiver down his spine. With a pal expression, he turned to Kojiro.
"What-what did he mean by that?"
Unfortunately, his teacher seemed just as clueless. So in the end, they could only follow Hans' advice. They sent Hans once last look, only to spot him being badgered by a young girl in a white hood, a Pallum as well, puffing up her cheeks as she waved her finger at the man who tried his best to ignore her.
"There you are! Lili has been searching for you this whole time!"
"Honestly, girl, can't a man take a break in peace?"
"You have been taking a break for weeks now!"
"Yes, I know, it's barely nothing."
They continued to bicker before they disappeared into the crowd. Bell tilted his head. Huh. Did Hans have a sister in this place then? It certainly looked like it.
/
"Well, if this doesn't scream Hero of Justice, I don't know what would."Bell laughed awkwardly, a bit surprised at finding such a beautiful mansion in what was pretty much an isolated space. The insignia of wings surrounding what Bell at least assumed were parts of a scale? If anyone thought of justice, that image was probably the thing they thought of first. So that was the place Hans recommended. The Stardust Garden. Standing in front of the door was... daunting. Bell wasn't the type that would confidently knock on people's doors just like that. What if they would shut it before they could make their case? Still, as Kojiro patted his back reassuringly, he raised his hand, knuckle in front of the door. But before he could knock, it opened, catching Bell flat footed.
The beautiful goddess with the long brown hair and the white dress smiled at them encouragingly. Bell felt a blush creep up on his face as he faced the divine beauty. Yet he felt weirdly at peace. Almost protected. As if her mere presence would right all wrongs in the world. Giggling behind her hand, she lowered her head respectfully before putting her hand on her chest.
"Apologies. I saw you through the window so I assumed you had some business with me?"
"Err, y-yes! We are new in Orario!" Bell shouted nervously, straightening up his back. Shaking his head, Kojiro gently shoved him back, smiling casually at the goddess.
"And someone recommended us that this was an excellent first place to try our luck."
The goddess tilted her head, looking surprised. Then she smiled warmly as she stepped aside and gestured towards the living room.
"Well, don't let me keep you outside. By all means, come in."
As they entered, they heard a commotion from another room. Through it, a cheerful girly voice shouted through the closed door.
"Ah, do we have guests, Astraea?"
Bell stiffened up at the name. Only through Kojiro pushing him from behind did he move forward. The goddess didn't seem to notice as she responded to the girl with a warm smile.
"Hm. Please prepare some tea, Hestia!"
"Heating it up!"
Soon enough, the two men sat down in front of Astraea, the living room table between them as they got comfortable on their couch. The goddess folded her hands on her lap, smiling in amusement.
"As you might have heard, I am Astraea."
Bell's mouth twitched nervously. The first goddess he met in Orario and it had to be one of the most famous ones. If one talked about the strongest, Astraea was among the names one would consider next to Ganesha, Loki and Freya. Unlike those three however, she earned that title with a Familia of only five members.
Level 4 Tiresias. Level 6 Senbonzakura, Royal Gale and Scarlet Harnel. Last but not least... the only one who could claim to be the King's equal. Level 7 Starfall.
To say that he was overwhelmed was an understatement. Only due to his prior experiences of dealing with people like Oryou, Romulus and Artoria could he maintain his composure and not freak out in any way. So with just a bit of nervousness he cleared his throat and lowered his head.
"B-Bell Cranel!"
"Sasaki Kojiro."
"It's a shame you can't meet my children right now. They are currently on an expedition." The goddess giggled. However then she tilted her head with a curious expression. "But I am a bit confused as to why someone would recommend me to you."
The two men blinked, sharing a glance before tilting their head as well in perfect sync.
"Why is that?" Kojiro asked. Astraea smiled awkwardly before taking a deep breath.
"Well, I usually only accept women with one exception." She looked to the side, her smile wavering. "And we haven't had any new recruits lately. Mostly because people have... mixed feelings in terms of joining us due to our past and work we do." Sighing, she shook her head, putting on a bright face once more. "We have many supporters, but they usually are freelancers or belong to other Familia."
Bell bit his lips. He recalled it now. The "misfortune" that was supposed to surround the Astraea Familia. He felt that something was off when he realized that the Stardust Garden was the base of the Astraea Familia. For just five people... or six, including the person currently making tea... this home was too big. Which meant only one thing. They had more members originally after all... and ever since then... most people might just be intimidated, not just by their power but by the danger they faced. He couldn't imagine how much it must hurt, to lose those one loved. His lips quivered at the thought. Looking up, he saw Astraea nod ever so slightly at him, closing her eyes with a thankful smile. He choked up a bit but managed to rein his emotions in. Meanwhile Kojiro hummed in thought before leaning back with his arms crossed.
"I suppose your Familia is involved with safekeeping the city?"
"Self proclaimed. Officially that is Ganesha's job." Her smile turned more soft as she put her hand on her chest. "But my children share my same commitment. If we see people suffer, if we see wrong in the world... we cannot just idly stay back. For the sake of the stars that have yet to shine, we will pursue justice."
"That's amazing... " Bell muttered, his heart burning up at those words. It made him genuinely believe that justice was a tangible, physical thing he could grasp. That his dreams of heroes saving the day, that the stories, were all real and could manifest in the world. Seeing his awe, the goddess giggled, covering her mouth politely.
"Why, thank you." Clapping her hands together, she nodded at them. "So yes, there is that. If you are still willing to join my Familia, I can promise you I will discuss it with the others."
The choice should've been obvious. One didn't always get such a great chance. Yet Bell hesitated as Kojiro glanced at him. In that moment of silence, the door to the kitchens suddenly opened up. Bell and Kojiro leaned sideways to see who was there and the young man's eyes widened.
"Here you go, some tea for our guests!" The maid with the blue string and twintails announced, holding a tray while motioning with her head behind her. "Also, I woke up Solaris!"
"What's the big deal... ?" The red head muttered, yawning as she stretched her body. For some reason her hair color was oddly familiar. Not to mention that name... Still, he could tell that the maid, as blasphemous as it was, was a goddess. And she radiated warm, similar to Amaterasu. But there were differences.
Amaterasu was just like the sun. Confident and bright, she could be everywhere at once... yet not all the time. On top of that, she was always something far away in a sense. Sometimes even too bright. Hestia on the other hand felt... homey. Small, yet warm nonetheless. The kind of flame one could rely on even in the darkest of nights. It reminded him of the fire they kept back on the farm when winter came, huddled together in blankets and admiring the flickering light in front of them.
As Bell stared at Hestia who put down the cups while Solaris rubbed her eyes, Astraea glanced at Bell with a growing smile.
"Thank you." She gestured at the goddess who was about to leave Astraea to her talk. "Perhaps someone sent you here for her?"
Hestia froze up. She slowly turned her head, eyes growing with hope, yet not too hopeful as she stared at the two men in the house. The red head blinked before leaning forward with a grunt.
"Eh?"
At Hestia's reaction, Astraea calmly gestured towards the two guests.
"Hestia, Solaris these two gentlemen are in need of a Familia. Bell Cranel and Sasaki Kojiro."
Hestia started to smile, her eyes glistening. On the other hand, Solaris tapped her chin in thought. Then her eyes widened.
"Hold up…!" She stood up and then pointed at the two in shock. "Bell Cranel and Sasaki Kojiro? The two people that are pals with Lord Quirinus and my bro?!"
The two shared a look before staring at the girl in surprise. It was then that it all came back to Bell. The appearance. The name. He pointed back at Solaris, blinking in surprise.
"Wait, you are Welf's sister?"
"Sure am!" The girl clapped her hands a few times, giggling, before flashing a wide grin as she leaned over the table, putting both her palms down on it. "Now you really gotta join Hestia Familia!"
"What is your focus anyway and how big is the Familia?"
At Kojiro's innocent question, Hestia and Solaris flinched. The two girls looked at each other, an unspoken conversation passing between them. Then in the end, they both lowered their head, almost in shame.
"Not really having a focus with only me as a member... I guess dungeon exploration?"
Hestia laughed weakly, sounding empty as she averted her eyes with a blank look in her eyes.
"We... aren't popular... "
Bell winced, deciding not to comment on that. Unfortunately Kojiro did not have the same restraint, crossing his arms with a small frown.
"That's small."
"Ey, I'm level two, have some respect!" Solaris shouted, pointing at herself with her thumb. Kojiro merely grunted in acknowledgement while rubbing his chin.
"Hm. With all due respect, if it was a choice between Lady Astraea and you... well... " He trailed off, causing Hestia to let out a small whine. Suddenly she slapped her cheeks, determination entering her expression as she raised her finger.
"B-But hey, I might not look mature like Astraea nor is my Familia super strong... err…" She faltered, looking to the side. "What I'm trying to say is... " Puffing out her assets, she put her hands on her hips with a nervous smile. "I'll definitely love you as my children if you join me!"
A polite cough took the wind out of her sails, causing her to look at Astraea. Her smile was as polite as ever, but there was a certain dark aura behind it.
"Hestia, are you implying I don't love my Familia as my own children?"
"Y-You know what I mean!" Hestia shouted, waving her hands in panic. Astraea shook her head, covering her mouth in amusement.
"My, my, you are so easy to tease."
The small goddess pouted before turning her attention back to Bell and Kojiro.
"Oh, if you join, I figure out how to add you to our symbol!"
It was almost sad to see Hestia visibly deflate after uttering those words, already giving up hope as her only child patted her back with a pained expression. Kojiro laughed lightly before turning to Bell with a raised eyebrow.
"Well then. Your choice, young master."
Bell sent his teacher a flat look. Sometimes he wished he wasn't the one always calling the shots in his journey. It was a bit worrying he started to get used to it. He looked at Hestia with a hum, who pleaded with him with the eyes of a small puppy. Solaris as well, even as she tried to act casual as she whistled innocently.
Common sense dictated to try and join a famous Familia. They had experience and resources a newcomer would need to grow fast. But Bell pressed his lips together. He wasn't someone who considered himself an ally of justice. He admired them for sure, but he would never claim he was one of them. Not to mention... a selfish part of him wanted a 'harder' start. To grow with the Familia he joined, to see its rise from bottom to the top, just like he wished he could one day. He turned to Hestia, whose eyes shone and begged him. He laughed lightly before lowering his head.
The choice was simple, he thought as he took a deep breath. It just felt... right, the moment he thought about it. Maybe he already decided the moment he saw her.
"If it isn't too much... " Bell smiled shyly as he scratched the back of his head. "Will you accept us, Lady Hestia?"
Bell wanted a home. It was stupid, really, but that was his wish. A home to return to, to find happiness and peace. He left his home behind in the mountains... and Orario would be his new one. It only felt right to follow the goddess that felt the most warm, the most welcoming, wasn't it?
Anyway, the goddess and the captain gaped at Bell. After a while, he began to sweat nervously when they didn't move, even when Astraea snapped her fingers in front of them. Luckily they slowly seemed to process the situation, as the two girls turned to each other. Smiles broke on their faces and the two screamed in delight, hugging each other as they jumped while turning with each leap.
"Double catch!"
"Yay, yay, yay!"
It took awhile for the room to calm down. Out of breath, Hestia wiped some sweat from her forehead, as the rest of the room shared their happiness with a smile on their faces. Kojiro stood up and patted Bell's shoulder.
"Sooo... how does a Blessing work?"
"Well, first off all, strip your upper body."
"Eh?" Bell blushed a bit, covering himself with his arms. It only served for Hestia to grin even more.
Suffice to say, it was an embarrassing affair. To show his naked chest to three good looking ladies. He was also worried when his new goddess breathed heavily while doing the whole initiation thing, brushing his back a few times. Still, soon enough, it was over, with Bell looking at the piece of paper his goddess presented to him.
Bell Cranel
Level 1
Strength: I0
Defense: I0
Dexterity: I0
Agility: I0
Magic: I0
Magic:
Dragon Fang: Swift-Strike Magic.
Skills:
()
"Already got magic? Welcome to the club!" Solaris said, slapping his back with a wide grin. Bell nodded, gleefully looking at the sheet. This was it. He now had a Blessing. Though he was a bit confused at the short description of his magic. Bell sent his thanks to Brunhilde, for allowing him to experiment with it as much as he could.
"Aaaaand... done!" Hestia left Kojiro's back, weirdly taking less time than with Bell. Clasping her hands together, she held it to her cheek as she nodded with a giddy expression. "Welcome to the Hestia Familia!" She stared at Kojiro with an amazed expression. "And two skills already! Though... "
Solaris snapped her head at the man, eyes wide before snatching the paper away from him.
"Wait, what?!"
Sasaki Kojiro
Level 1
Strength: I0
Defense: I0
Dexterity: I0
Agility: I0
Magic: I0
Magic:
()
Skills:
Tsubame Gaeshi: Allows user to &$ß?=!*+#
Vitrification: Active skill. Lowers one's presence.
Everyone turned to Hestia with a confused look. Solaris tilted her head, motioning at the paper in her hands.
"Lady Hestia, are you drunk?"
The goddess in question threw her arms up in the air with a flushed face.
"It's not my fault! It's a bunch of gibberish! I just wrote down what I saw"
Bell immediately remembered the Far East. He knew exactly what that skill was. Yet for even the divine to not being able to parse it properly... what kind of sorcery was Kojiro capable of? Said man just seemed amused before shaking his head.
"Do not worry, I know what that skill does. It is nothing too harmful."
"That only brings up more questions!" Hestia exhaled slowly. "But alright, I can see you are telling the truth, so as my child, I will trust you!"
Solaris didn't seem satisfied with that answer. Yet she shook her head and put up a cheerful front, focusing on other things for now.
"Right now ya won't feel any changes. It's like a switch that goes off the moment you get into a hussle!"
"You'll test that stuff out tomorrow. So no sneaking out, alright?" Hestia said, shaking her finger... yet she was not referring to Kojiro and Bell when she uttered those words. Solaris gave their goddess a flat look.
"Lady Hestia, why are you looking at me like that?"
"You know exactly why!"
The two girls began to nag at each other. Most of it went past Bell's head, but it seemed these two went through a lot in their lives. Suddenly Kojiro tapped his shoulder. Turning his head, Bell blinked in surprise as the man rummaged through his pockets.
"Right, before I forget... "
He presented a little armband to Bell. It wasn't anything special. A red band with an ornate feather attached to it.
"Happy fifteenth birthday, Bell."
The world stood still. Everyone turned to Kojiro in utter shock.
"Eh?"
"What."
"Hm?"
His body moved automatically. He grasped the present and raised it over his head. It was then that his vision began to swim. Bell realized he was crying. With a weak smile, he spoke softly to himself.
"I completely forgot… "
It was pretty much a year after all. Yet with everything going on...
"Ahhh, this needs celebration!" Hestia clapped her hands. "We gotta get some cake!"
"I shall go. It is your Familia after all." Astraea giggled and nodded her head at Bell. "Congratulations."
He could only grunt back. Then, without being able to hold it in anymore, he threw his arms around Kojiro, who grunted in surprise. He buried his face into his chest. At the same time, more arms wrapped around them.
"Group hug!"
"That means we can do a double celebration next year!"
Laughing in between sobs, Bell enjoyed the warmth he felt in his chest.
Grandfather... I'm finally here.