The screen lit up once more showing Hestia updating Bell's status again.
Hestia: (I get what happened isn't something that happens every now and again, but I'm gonna need a lot more to explain this.)
The numbers were changing as the update went through. Hestia hardened her gaze as she tried to find an explanation for it.
Hestia: (There's only one explanation then. It has to be because of that skill, Liaris Freese. Thanks, Wallenwhatever!)
The audience could practically feel the sarcasm coming from the Goddess. Her Familia in the audience sweatdropped at her intentional mispronunciation of Ais' name. Ais' family was wondering why the Goddess said that.
Albert: I feel like that was uncalled for. What did our daughter ever do to you?
Hestia: U-Uh...
Rolan: She's just jealous.
Aria: Jealous?
Rolan: Of course. Ais had taken Bell's attention away from her, so it's only natural she doesn't like her that much.
A look of worry grew on the girl's face.
Ais: (She doesn't like me?)
Rolan: You shouldn't worry about it too much. It's only romantic jealousy. Most people interested in Bell will find you annoying when you take his attention from them away, but no one actually hates you.
It was a relief to hear, but she didn't like the idea of people who are friends with Bell to finding her annoying.
With Argo...
Argo: He's got a lot on his hands.
Crozzo: Definitely.
Argo: I can't help but feel proud of him. My new self is an even better ladies man than me!
Thwack*
Argo: OW!!!
Feena: Will you stop with that?!
They turned back to the screen when they heard Hestia talk again.
Hestia: (The skill causes his growth to accelerate rapidly as long as he maintains his feelings. If that weren't enough, the rate increases further based on how strong they are. Isn't that just great for you?) Bell, you cheater!!
She pressed her hands onto his back, finishing the update before slapping his back with them.
Hestia: (The question now is if I should tell him about this.)
The screen flashed back to Bell being covered in blood telling her he wants to be strong. Everyone grimaced at the uncomfortable memory.
Hestia: (Other gods are going to want to get him. I should probably keep this secret.)
She got off his back and asked him something as he was getting up.
Hestia: Bell, can I just tell you your status today?
Bell: Oh, um, sure.
Hestia: (Then again, a small push couldn't hurt. )
The screen zoomed out to show their home once more, but in broad daylight this time.
Bell: Huh?! My status really grew that much?!
Hestia: Yes. You're growing at an incredible rate, like a growth spurt of sorts. It's only my opinion, but I think you have a natural talent for this.
Both the Bells on screen and in the audience smiled at her compliment.
Bell: I can't thank you enough for saying that to me.
Hestia: Oh, it's my pleasure, Bell!
She gave the boy a big hug before turning to Ais and giving her a smug grin which was responded with a pout.
Ais: (I'm not giving my bunny up just because a Goddess is after him!)
Back with Bell, they felt a chill when they saw Alfia giving the short goddess a glare. She quickly got off the boy to save herself from imminent destruction.
Hestia: You're not only getting stronger, but your desire to get stronger is also growing.
Bell: Yeah, that's right.
Hestia: You should know that I respect your wishes and will do what I can to help. Still, don't push yourself too hard, please. I'm begging you not to go and leave me alone.
Bell: Okay, I promise. I'll do what I can to get stronger, but I'll never leave you alone.
She breathed a sigh of relief when he said that.
Hestia: Well that makes me feel better. Oh, before I forget I should tell you that I'm going to be gone for the next few days.
Bell: Huh?
The screen proceeded to give a massive shot of her breasts causing chaos in the room. Many of the men where whistling at the sight while the women held their heads and sighed. Some like Loki and Tiona looked at their chests and sighed.
Loki and Tiona: Life's not fair...
The children shielded the eyes of their younger siblings once more. Argo took the time to admire the sight of the goddess while his sister covered his eyes with her hands.
Argo: Mhm, a beautiful sight.
Feena: Why you!
Ariadne pulled his head towards her.
Ariadne: I've got a pair too, you know.
He wasn't alone as Lili made sure Bell couldn't see either.
Lili: No you don't, Master Bell!!
Rolan: (Imagine how much clearer the plot would be if even half of this fan service got removed.)
Back on screen, it changed to show the Hostess of Fertility once more.
Bell: I'm really really sorry! I swearI never intended to run off without paying you for the food! Here, for last night!
He handed the money to Mia who took it without hesitation.
Mia: It's good you went through the trouble of doing this. Because if not, I would've hunted you down and collected it myself.
They could feel the intimidating aura the dwarf gave off. The waitresses in particular felt it and were sweating hard.
Anya: I thought he was a goner, nya.
Lunoire: It's common knowledge not to anger Mama Mia. Even more so not to dine and dash her pub.
The girls from the Astraea Familia looked at their sister and wondered what was wrong with her.
Alise: You feeling ok, Lion?
Ardi: Yeah, you're looking a bit pale.
Ryuu: I-I-I'm f-fine...
The elf was currently having flashbacks of what the dwarf had done before. An angry Mia was a living nightmare she is happy to never see.
Bell: I know, I'm sorry.
Syr: You know, you can stop apologizing. I'm glad you came here, it's nice to see you again. Are you going to the dungeon today? Here, have this.
She handed the boy a small box of food.
Bell: No, I couldn't possibly-
Syr: Please?
She gave a smile to the boy who was being assaulted by her cuteness. In the audience, there was many glares sent to the girl who returned back to her human form. She felt many death glares get sent her way as she tried to hide.
Bell: Okay then, thanks.
He took the food before the girl went back to the kitchen giggling. It was then that the dwarf got the boy's attention.
Mia: You should count yourself lucky she likes you. The rest of us are letting you off easy because of how much she begged us to last night.
Bell: She did that?
Mia: Now listen here, adventurers who try to look cool don't get far in their life. Your goal should be to take care of yourself and come out of the dungeon alive. You may look weak, but you're a winner everytime you come back alive.
She quickly grabbed him by the shoulders and turned him to the door.
Mia: I won't be so hard on you, but I'll be very disappointed if you go and die down there. Now, move along, you're getting in the way of business.
Bell: Alright, bye then!
He quickly left the pin as the screen returned to Mia's smiling face and the looks of the rest of the staff from the kitchen.
Syr: (Hope I see you again soon.)
The screen returned to Bell who had a bright smile on his face as he ran to the dungeon.
Bell: (Wow, it felt like Iwas leaving home.)
Many of the boy's friends had smiles after watching that heartwarming scene.
Alfia: It's nice to see you surrounding yourself with good people.
Bell: Ehehe...
He had a sheepish smile, but felt good about it. Meanwhile, Meteria was busy thanking the dwarf.
Meteria: Thank you so much, Miss! I can't believe you would bother yourself to look after my son!
The dwarf just smiled before waving her off.
Mia: It's no big deal. The boy is a valued customer, so I'd rather nothing bad happen to him. Besides, his well being is quite important to some of my girls.
She looked to her employees and made Ryuu and Syr blush at her implication. They turned back to the screen when they heard loud noises coming from it.
Welf: Ah! What was that?!
The screen showed a giant statue of a man with his arms crossed and wearing an elephant mask. They then heard the voice of the only person who correlated with them.
Ganesha: Hello, my friends! I am Ganesha and it brings me great joy to see-
The screen showed many gods dressed well meaning that this was a party of sorts. The god's voice slowly faded out as the small talk of the other gods was heard.
Filler God A: Hey, it's been a while!
Filler God B: It's been four days.
Filler God C: Who's that guy over there?
Filler God B: That's just Takemikazuchi.
Filler God A: Yeah, and Hermes is there. Finally back from his trip.
The screen showed Hermes messing with Take who was trying to eat some of the food there.
Take: *Sigh* Always a bother.
Hermes: Ouch.
He played hurt as Asfi just sighed at her god.
Filler God B: Hey, look! She's here!
Filler God A: The Goddess of Beauty, Freya~
Everyone could see the Goddess walk down the stairs in a white dress. Many people there had blushes on their faces and had to look away before they get charmed by her on screen
Hestia: DON'T LOOK AT HER, BELL!!!
The short goddess jumped and latched onto Bell's face to protect him.
Bell: *Muffled talking*
Loki: *Sigh* It's always like this with Freya around.
Freya: What can I say?
She laughed lightly as many of the people in the room had tried to resist her charm. Even Argo's group was in danger.
Argo: W-What is this feeling?
Rolan: What you're feeling is the effects of a Goddess of Beauty's charm.
Crozzo: S-So, this is a god's power?
They all had blushes on their faces as they tried to fight it. Freya had a small smile before turning to the group of kids sitting near Bell's family. She saw that they had no problem looking at her there. She saw that her charm had zero effect on them and had a look of surprise on her face. Astraea had caught on and seen it.
Astraea: Is something wrong?
Freya: It's those kids, they don't seem affected.
The kids looked back at they confused as the rest looked and saw that she was right.
Bete: Wait, how come they aren't affected by it?
Albert(Emb): I'm not sure what you expected, but charms don't work on us.
A moment of silence passed before everyone had the same thought.
Everyone: HUH?!!
Rolan: It's a skill of theirs. One that was passed down to them from their father. Like Bell, the effects of divine charms and alcohols are ineffective against them.
This made Hestia turn around and get off the boy.
Hestia: Wait, so Bell can't be charmed?!
Rolan: No. It's amusing the way his skill works. His mind is so focused on one girl that the seduction techniques of other women don't work on him. Every fiber of his being is focused on becoming closer to Ais which protects him from the charms of other women.
Bell was a blushing mess when he heard this while Syr pouted.
Zeus: Wow, that's impressive.
Hera: Thank goodness my grandson was blessed with a skill like that. I can rest easier knowing he won't be seduced by some woman.
The girls interested in the rabbit slumped after hearing what the god said. Though Ais had a bright smile knowing Bell was looking at her instead of the Goddess.
Albert: It just keeps getting better.
Aria: Oh come now, we should be glad our future son-in-law will be able to protect himself.
They were brought from their thoughts when Loki spoke.
Loki: How should we know this actually works?!
Rolan: Let's ask Bell.
He looked at the boy.
Rolan: So, what do you think when you see Freya there.
Bell: Uh, I'm not sure what you mean.
Rolan: Well, just give me what comes to your head.
Bell: W-Well, I think she looks beautiful there.
Rolan: And?
Bell: There's really not much I can say. I've never met her, but I guess it's flattering to know a woman like her is watching me.
He tried to sound humble before her Familia went on a rabbit hunt. Syr herself was blushing when she heard the boy compliment her.
Alfia: Still, I'd rather you not get to close to her. Even there she has to go with the most revealing clothing.
Bell blushed when he saw what she was talking about.
Rolan: Well, enough of that, back to the show.
The show continued and moved to show Freya smiling as she noticed Hestia. The short goddess was currently stuffing her face and filling containers with the food there.
Bell: What were you doing there, Goddess.
Hestia: I-I thought I should bring some of the food there home for us to eat.
Hera: At least you're doing your best for him.
Hephaestus: She makes a good point. I'd say you changed for the better after Bell joined your Familia.
Hestia: Hehe. I completely agree!
Freya: Hello there, Hestia.
Hestia: ?! Oh, it's you, Freya.
Freya: Oh, are you busy?
Hestia: To deal with you? Always.
The audience was shocked to hear her talking like that. Freya had to hold her Familia back from going to teach Hestia a lesson.
Allen: How dare you speak so rudely to our goddess!!
Rolan: Probably best for you all if you stay in your seats.
They threw the god a glare before seeing Alfia crack her knuckles while looking at them with a wicked smile. They complied and returned to watching the show.
Freya: That's what I like about you.
Hestia: Well, you're better than other people.
Hestia looked to the side and the screen showed Loki running down the stairs. She quickly made her way to the two.
Loki: Hey, guys!
Freya: Hello, Loki.
Hestia: Just great, why are you here?
The goddess had a smug smile as she looked down on her.
Loki: You know me, I'm loki and I do whatever I want.
Hestia grunted before composing herself.
Hestia: Actually this works out. So, I'd like to ask you something if you don't mind.
Loki: Oh? What is it shrimpy?
Hestia grunted before answering.
Hestia: The Sword Princess, Ais Wallenwhatsherface. Well, I want to know if she has a partner.
The atmosphere turned tense as Loki glared at her.
Loki: Come again?! Ais is my favorite! I'll tear apart any guy who even looks at her!
Hestia: Gh!
Back in the audience, the Loki Familia just sighed at the act of their goddess. Ais herself was pouting and giving Loki an angry look at the idea of her separating Bell from her. The screen showed the two fighting each other again as they put their heads together, glaring at the other.
Riveria: Some things never change.
Finn: Hehe...
It was then that Loki and Hestia remembered what happened that night along with the other gods. Hestia snorted in laughter and Loki began turning pale before looking at Rolan.
Loki: H-Hey, c-could we m-m-maybe skip this part?
Rolan: Hm?
Many others looked in confusion as Loki had looked almost desperate to hide something. Hestia couldn't hold it in anymore and laughed out loud.
Hestia: HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
Bell: G-Goddess?!
Welf: Hey, what's with you?!
Zeus: I feel like we're missing something here.
Rolan: Just wait.
Loki: Wait! Please!!
The God snapped his fingers and Loki was once again in her chair, immobilized. Her Familia looked at her in confusion as she tried reasoning with the god.
Tiona: What happened to her there?
Tione: Not sure.
Bete: Why don't we find out?
He said this with a grin as Loki tried once more to beg the god.
Loki: PLEASE!!! THEY CAN'T KNOW ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED!! DON'T DO IT!!
Rolan: Sorry, not sorry.
The show went on as Loki tried to free herself.
Freya: You two get along so well.
Hestia and Loki: No we don't!!
Freya: Oh, and Loki, Ican't help but notice you looking a bit differently today.
The two gods got out of their headlock causing Hestia to fall to the ground.
Loki: Well, I heard a certain short was coming so I wanted to look my best when I mocked her.
The screen gave another money shot of Hestia causing many to shield the eyes of the younger audience once more. It was then that Hestia was on the ground looking at Loki with a smile in her face.
Hestia: Huh, is that right? Because I'm here having a good laugh too.
She gave the goddess a dark smile as the two in the audience were in chaos. Hestia was worrying her friends with how desperately she was trying not to bust out in laughter. Loki, on the other hand, was crying for mercy to have this part skipped. Sadly, I- err, Rolan wasn't that nice.
Hestia: You came to show off without any boobs!
The phrase "without any boobs" echoed. Hestia laughed at Loki who writhed on the ground in tears and agony while the screen flashed over and over showing the differences in their breast size. Needless to say, many in the crowd laughed at the humiliation of the goddess while she cried in her seat.
Finn: Hahaha! That's seriously why you looked so depressed when you came back that day?!
Gareth and Bete couldn't say anything from all the laughing they did. The rest of the Familia wasn't far behind them. With Hestia, she burst once more as she laughed at her. The rest of her Familia laughed a bit too. Though, Bell, Mikoto and Haruhime only sweatdropped at this.
Zeus: HAHAHAHA! She got her good that time!!
Hera: Hmph!
She had a smug grin as she watched Loki continue to suffer.
With Argo...
Argo: So, this is what the gods are like?
Feena: They aren't that different from us.
Orna: Yeah, they even share some of our problems...
She looked down at her chest sadly and at her reincarnation. The problem of her chest size hasn't changed in thousands of years.
With the kids...
They were also laughing at how their aunts were fighting. After several minutes, they laughter finished and Rolan released Loki's lifeless body from the restraints. The Goddess had a ghost leaving her mouth and both had tears in their eyes.
Rolan: Well, that'll be enough fun for now.
After reviving her, they went in to watch and saw Bell climbing up the stairs from the dungeon. They saw people moving cages from the dungeon as they remembered what the next day was. Freya especially remembered what happened and began to sweat profusely.
Adventurer A: Looks like it's that time again.
Adventurer B: Has it really been a year?
Adventurer A: Uh huh, Monsterphilia.
The screen returned to the God's Banquet to show Hestia and Loki continuing their fight.
Hestia: LET ME GOOO!!!
Loki: I've got you now!!
The red haired goddess was currently holding her in the air by the cheeks as Hestia tries to break free. The gods watching began placing bets as to who would win before Loki put her down.
Loki: I'll let you go this time!
Hestia: You better not show up with that flat chest again or I might mistake you for a man!
Loki: Shut up!!
Hestia was holding her swollen cheeks as Loki stomped out in tears. Hestia got up and turned around when she heard a familiar voice.
Hephaestus: Back at it again, huh?
Hestia: Hephaestus!! I'm missed you, I'm so glad you're here!
The screen spent some time to show off the goddess in her dress. Welf was a blushing mess when he saw her and the Goddess was no better causing her captain to tease her a bit on showing off to her man.
Hephaestus: What, you missed me? I'm just putting it there, but if you're asking for money, it's not happening.
Hestia: What's that supposed to mean? Do I look like someone who'd leech off her best friend?
Hephaestus: You've got a lot of nerve after doing exactly that off my Familia. Then you came back crying saying you had no money or Familia after I kicked you out. You're seriously asking why I assume you want something from me?
Hestia: Maybe I did do that, but I've changed because I have a Familia now!
Hephaestus: Right, that boy, Bell. The boy with white hair and red eyes? I guess we do change when we get Familia.
A person then walked next to Freya to inform her of something while the other two talked. After saying his piece, Freya went to notify the two.
Freya: I'm terribly sorry, but I'm afraid Imust be on my way now.
Hephaestus: Already?
Freya: Yes, well, I was going to check up on something, but my business is done. Besides, the men here have had plenty of time to stare at me.
Said men then began to move from the area.
Freya: Until next time~
The Goddess left and Hephaestus brought Hestia back to their previous conversation.
Hephaestus: So, you wanted something from me? Also, depending on what it is I might not speak with you again.
Hestia: G-Got it. Well-
She got on the ground into a dogeza.
Hestia: Please, I want you to make a weapon for Bell.
The screen changed to show Bell looking through the window of a weapon shop at night. He sighed as he saw the price of a higher class weapon. He was brought out of his head when he heard a friend call to him.
Miach: Hello, Bell.
Bell: Lord Miach. Sorry, Ican't buy it.
Miach: Haha. There's no need for you to apologize.
Bell: Wait, shouldn't you be at the banquet with the other gods?
Miach: That's right. I did get an invitation and planned to go, but I'm too busy. I have a Familia to support after all. Anyway, here.
He handed Bell two potions that the boy was quick to refuse.
Bell: No, Ican't take those.
Miach: Think of it as a thank you for doing business with my Familia, and to keep doing so in the future.
Bell: Uh, thanks.
He ended up taking them after all.
Miach: Take care, Bell.
The god went on his way as Bell held the two vials in his hand. Back in the audience, Naaza was yelling at Miach after seeing what he was doing with their valuable merchandise.
Naaza: WHY ARE YOU LIKE THIS?!! WE CAN'T PAY OFF OUR DEBT IF YOU KEEP GIVING OUR STOCK AWAY FOR FREE!!!
Miach: C-Calm down, Bell is a good friend.
The god tried to calm his captain down before the others got curious.
Hera: It's good to know that you and my grandson are friends, but what is this about a debt?
The two along with their new members had sad looks while a certain god of another clinic was beginning to sweat.
AN: All right, be honest, I know you all forgot Dian was here. Maybe you remembered Airmid, but not her god. I know Ididn't even after all the work I put in on this story.
Miach: It was for my child, Naaza. She had a terrible accident in the dungeon and it put her in critical condition. With few options, I begged Dian for his help in saving my child. In the end, she recovered and now has a prosthetic for where her old arm was.
Naaza: But because of that we have a massive debt to pay off. Everyone else ended up leaving our Familia because of it and it was only me and Miach.
Astraea: Couldn't you still make money in the dungeon? I know you were alone, but surely you could make a decent haul being level 2.
The chienthrope began to shed tears as their past came to light.
Naaza: No, I was too scared to go after what happened. Even now, I still am. We've had to get by with selling lower quality potions, but it hardly did any good. That's why I get irritated when Miach gives them out for free like that. Still, he's always been a good person at heart so I can't be mad at him.
Miach: Thankfully things got better after Daphne and Cassandra joined us. We're in a much better position now that these two can enter the dungeon.
They took a look at the red head and the blue head who felt uncomfortable from all the stares.
Daphne: It's not trouble. Beside, we aren't the only ones down there.
Cassandra: T-That's right, we also go down with Bell and his Familia from time to time.
Many in the room felt pity for the Familia.
Hera: Hmm, and this debt of yours came from Dian?
The god nodded as Hera turned her attention to the old looking god in fancy clothes.
Hera: I get that it was business, but I can't afford to turn a blind eye when you're choking the life out of my grandson's friends.
Dian: W-Wait, l-let's be civil about this!
3 minutes later...
The god was beaten to a pulp as Hera turned her attention to the captain of his Familia, who had a look of guilt on her face.
Hera: *Sigh* I truly pity you for having him as your god. I know you do wonders for the city, but you don't have to stay with him.
The silver haired girl thought about her words.
Airmid: I understand that, but unfortunately he has all the resources I need to do my job properly. The clinic as a whole is a major piece of Orario and it's my duty to see any patient who needs my help.
Hera: If my Familia was there, this kind of crap wouldn't even be happening.
Zeus: There's no point in dwelling on the past. Remember, Bell and them are friends. They can handle themselves.
The Goddess sighed as she smiled at him
Hera: You're right.
They all gave Miach and his Familia their best wishes as they returned their attention to the screen. This time it showed Hestia once more in a dogeza, but in Hephaestus' office.
Hephaestus: So, how long do you plan to keep doing that? I have work to do and you're being a distraction.
The short goddess didn't budge as the screen flashed back to the party.
Hephaestus: This is crazy talk. You do know how much I charge for personal commissions, right?
Hestia: I know it's a lot, but please-
Hephaestus: Get the money first, then we'll talk.
She tried to walk away, but Hestia blocked her path and kept begging.
Hestia: I can't afford to wait, please! I need you help, Hephaestus!
Hephaestus: Mm...
The flashback ended and it returned back to her office.
Hephaestus: What are you even doing down there?
Hestia: It's called dogeza. I learned it from Takemikazuchi and he says it's the best way to ask for a favor.
In the audience, Take just rubbed his head and gave an embarrased chuckle.
Take: Ahaha...
Hephaestus: Ugh, he can't mind his own business.
She got up from her desk and walked towards Hestia.
Hephaestus: Why are you even going through all of this, Hestia?
Hestia: I'm trying to help my child. He's changed lately. He has one goal in mind and won't let anything stand in his way to reach it. The path he needs to take is dangerous and I want to give him the strength to push forward. To do that, he needs a weapon that will help him. I want to do what I can to help, to support him as his Goddess. It's stupid to say that though because Ihaven't been able to do anything "godly" for him.
She clenched her fists on the ground while Hephaestus was smiling at her friend's change.
Hestia: I feel so useless. I hate it! I hate it so much!!
Hephaestus: I guess you did change. Okay then, I'll do it
With a mark on her forehead showing she was the avatar, Hestia got up from the ground when she heard her friend say yes.
Hestia: Huh?!
Hephaestus: If it means that much to you, I'll do it.
Hestia: Thank you so much, Hephaestus!
She got up from the ground to thank her, but she tripped up after being in the same pose for so long which forced the redhead to catch her.
Hephaestus: I'm sayin this now, I will be collecting payment from you. No matter how long it takes, you will pay back every valis you owe.
Hestia: Mhm, I promise I will.
Hephaestus: So, what weapon does he use?
She proceeded to grab a hammer from her wall.
Hestia: Well a knife- wait, are you going to do it yourself?!
Hephaestus: Obviously, this is between the two of us.
Hestia: The divine Hephaestus herself is making it!
Hephaestus: Did you forget? We aren't allowed to use our arcanum remember?
Hestia: Who cares?! It's all fine because you're making it!
The goddess was jumping for joy already. Hephaestus then led her to the forge they would be using.
Hephaestus: You'll be playing a part in this too, so be ready.
Hestia: Whatever you need.
Hephaestus: (Making a weapon for a boy who's been adventuring for a month, ugh.) Well, no time like the present.
The audience was in awe at how Bell was able to get a weapon from the Goddess of Blacksmithing herself.
Loki: How the hell did you pull that off?!
Hephaestus: Believe me, I'm still in shock about it. I was just moved by how much she changed that I decided to humor her.
Lili: Yeah, and that humor left our Familia in a mountain of debt.
Zald: How much exactly?
Hestia: U-Uh...
She shuffled nervously and the rest of her Familia was sweating hard.
Welf: T-Two hundred million...
Everyone: WHAAAAAAT!!?
Finn: Hehe... and I considered buying magic swords from their Familia before the expedition.
Bete: Holy crap...
Tiona: That's nuts.
With Argo...
Argo: Is it really that much?
Ryulu: It's a big number.
Yuri: Please, I can hardly count so why should I be afraid?
Rolan snapped his fingers and gave them a picture in their minds of what exactly they were talking about. The transfer back to the currency they used made all of them lose color in their faces.
Rolan: Give or take about that much.
Every one of them looked at the Hestoa Familia with with eyes at the debt they suffered and gave them their silent respect. With Bell's, family they weren't too happy to hear the boy have this huge debt.
Zeus: Unbelievable, and for a knife.
Meteria: My poor baby.
They were lamenting the past before Bell asked Hestia a question.
Bell: Wait, why did you ask for a knife anyway?
Hestia: Huh? But, you always used knives.
Bell: That was because we could only afford those.
The short goddess clutched her head as she realized her mistake.
Hestia: NOOO!! I should've asked for a sword!!
Like lightning, Lili suddenly rushed into her face.
Lili: Oh no you don't! The knife already cost us a fortune! Imagine how much a sword would have been!!
Their Familia paled as they imagined the amount of zeros on the price tag.
After that traumatic flash back, the screen turned back to show Bell walking the streets of Orario.
Bell: She said she'd be gone for a few days. Will she come home today?
He was brought out of holis thoughts when he heard someone calling to him.
Anya: Hey, white hair. I need a favor from you, nya.
Bell: Huh?
Anya: Oh, good morning.
Bell: G-Good morning to you too.
The cat girl gave Bell a purple wallet as she tried, and failed, to explain what she wanted.
Anya: So, I need you to take this to that silly Syr, nya.
Bell: Uh, sorry but I still don'tknow what you're trying to say.
Anya: Hm...
Anya tried to think of a way to tell him before Ryuu came out of the alley behind her with a bucket.
Ryuu: You need more practice talking to people. Mr. Cranel is still confused.
Anya: Oh come on, I just said that he needs to take the purse to Syr, nya. She ran off to Monsterphilia so fast she forgot about it. What's so hard to understand about that, nya?
Ryuu: You got that? Syr took the day off to watch and ended up forgetting her purse. Can you bring it to her?
Anya: Uh huh!
Bell: It's no problem!
He gave them a smile before asking about the festival.
Bell: But, what is this Monsterphilia thing?
The screen flashed to show the arena where the event took place. Thousands took up the seats as they watched the show below them.
Anya: It's a really neat event that started some time back. It's hosted every years by the Ganesha Familia, nya.
Ryuu: The arena is occupied for the whole day. They take monsters they captured from the dungeon and train them live with people watching. Thousands come to watch it with their own eyes.
Anya: As you could guess, it's really popular with the people here, nya.
Those who've never seen the festival were amazed by the sight.
Argo: Wow, our old enemies even became a show for them.
Crozzo: They've got a lot of guys to do that.
Argo: Pretty cool, I should try doing that!
Feena: Oh no you don't!
Back with Zeus, he had a curious look at it.
Zeus: Strange, this wasn't a thing when we were around.
Hera: True.
Ouranos: That's because I had it created shortly after you left.
They turned to the old god.
Zeus: Why's that?
The old was about to speak before Alfia spoke.
Alfia: It's about those talking monsters, isn't it.
Ouranos: That's correct. I shared the information about the Xenos with him. He ended up sharing my desire to peacefully coexist with them. As such, we devised Monsterphilia as a way to brighten the people's view of monsters.
Everyone was shocked to hear the truth of the event from him.
Loki: You mean to tell me that's what that was all about?!
Ouranos: Correct.
Ganesha's own children just started at him in disbelief.
Shakti: You kept this secret all this time?
Ardi: Master Ganesha...
Ganesha: I was skeptical at first, but after hearing it from Oura is himself, I couldn't help it. It soon became my dream as well to help these Xenos live up here with everyone. Once they did, I would be able to ascend from my original position and become Neo Ganesha!
The room was in awe at the elaborate plan the god had. Behind the elephant mask was someone more than meets the eye. The Xenos themselves were also shocked to hear another god supporting their cause.
Lyd: I didn't realize it was like this.
Ouranos: I believe your kind deserves a chance to live peacefully with us. And many people share this belief as well.
This prompted Bell and his Familia to nod in agreement.
Rolan: Luckily for you, it might not stay a dream for long.
They turned to the god in confusion.
Bell: Why do you say that?
Rolan: Well, it's only one instance...
He turned to the children as they saw everyone stare at them.
Albert(Emb): Oh yeah, the Xenos are able to live peacefully with everyon on the surface in our world.
This caused them to have bright expressions.
Bell: Seriously?!
Alise(Emb): Oh yeah, that dream became reality for us.
Ganesha: Even-
Karmi: Especially you. Most of us didn't even know you had an old name at first. We just called you Lord Neo.
The brought the god to tears as he cried out.
Ganesha: I AM GANESHAAAAAA!!!
The rest of the Xenos were smiling bright at the future the could have.
Lyd: That's amazing!
Wiene: Does that mean I get to live with Bell?!
Asterius: Did we have our fight to the death?!
Many stared at the bull in awe at his question.
Asterius: What?
Bell sweatdropped before he felt immense bloodlust behind him.
Alfia: Care to repeat that?
The bull's survival instincts cried out to him.
Asterius: It's our fate to have a final battle. Our score must be settled.
Meteria: Bell, we're going to have a talk about promising fights to the death.
Bell: Okay...
They turned back to the screen to show Loki and Ais having a meal with a disguised Freya.
Loki: Now what are you up to? Are you after another kid?
It showed Freya smiling as many recognized her in her cloak. Hera and Alfia had their eyes on the Goddess who started sweating in her seat. The screen then showed Hestia running her finger on the new weapon. The runes lit up a blue light when she made contact with the blade.
Hephaestus: That should do it.
Hestia: Woohoo!! You did it, all right!!
She jumped for joy before her friend put the knife in a box and wrapped it around her body for her to carry.
Hestia: Ican't thank you enough. So, is it fine if I give it to him right away?
Hephaestus: Do it whenever you want. Just remember, you owe me.
Hestia: Okay!!
The screen then returned to the meeting Loki had with Freya.
Loki: The boy you're after, what's he like?
Freya: He's weak, he's unreliable and a cry baby, but he's pretty and has a transparent aura about him. I've never seen such a color before. It was complete chance when I found him and when I did, he vanished just as suddenly.
In the crowd, they could see many people as Ais watched them walk the streets. Suddenly, she saw Bell there as Freya was describing the child she was after causing Ais to widen her eyes. The girl's attention was brought back when Freya suddenly rose from her seat.
Loki: Somethin' wrong?
Freya: Apologies, but something has come up.
Loki: Huh? Wait, you can't just-
Freya: Until next time, Loki.
The goddess left as the two stared at her exit.
Loki: Hey, she totally left me with the bill!! Hm? You good, Ais?
Ais: Oh, its nothing.
Though it wasn't directly stated, it was easy enough to tell that it was Bell that Freya was after.
Alfia: So, you've been watching him all this time, huh?
A demonic aura surrounded the woman as she began making her way to the Goddess. Freya's Familia quickly mounted a defense as Ottarl went to intercept. Alfia didn't even spare him a glance and kept glaring at Freya. She punched the boaz into a wall before continuing on her way to Freya as the rest of them trembled in fear.
Bell: Should we stop her?
Hera: It's for your own good, Bell.
Back with Alfia, she was face to face with Freya as the rest of her executives were beaten to a pulp. The Goddess was trembling as sweat ran down her face.
Alfia: Maybe I've been too easy on you. The challenge for the other girls is the same, but I'll be making a special program for you.
She had a wicked smile as Freya and Syr in the background were sweating even more now. They didn't even want to imagine what the woman had in store for them, but they couldn't before she went back to her seat and the show went on showing Bell in the middle of a busy crowd.
Bell: They weren't kidding about this. Finding Miss Syr is gonna be next to impossible...
He dreaded the odds he had to work with before he heard a voice he hadn't heard for a while.
Hestia: Bell!
He turned to his side and found Hestia after several days.
Bell: Goddess!
Hestia: I know I missed you too.
Bell: Well I-
Hestia: Heh, our bond is one thatcan't be broken.
Bell: Huh? What are you-
The short Goddess began to drag him with her to enjoy the festival.
Hestia: Let's have ourselves a date!
Bell: W-Wait, I have to look for someone!
Hestia: We can do that along the way!
Bell: I-I don't know about that!
She dragged him to a crepe stand and ordered one for each of them. They found a open spot and ate them.
Hestia: Here, try mine.
Bell: G-Goddess, I already have one! Besides...
Hestia: Is it gross when I bite it first?
Bell: No, it's not that, I just don't like the idea of taking food from a Goddess. Why don't you have some of mine?
Hestia: Well, alright then.
She took a bite and ended up getting some of it on her face causing Bell to turn red.
Hestia: Wanna get that for me?
Bell: S-Sure.
He wiped the cream off her face as she laughed happily. Many girls in the crowd grew jealous watching this while Zeus and Hermes cried tears of joy for Bell's progress.
Zeus: Getting this far with a Goddes and in only a few weeks! I'm so proud of you!!
Whack*
Hera: You may have gotten your hands on him earlier, but don't think for a second you'll have that kind of freedom later. Once he gives us great grandchildren I'll be the one to help raise them properly.
She gave a determined huff as Zeus picked himself up from the ground. Many girls interested in Bell made a mental note to stay on her good side as well as Alfia's. Back on screen, they could see guards falling to the ground under the arena where the monsters were kept.
Bell: What happened to them?
Zeus: Charm.
Many gods gave Freya a look as she was the only one who could do this. The screen showed many of the monsters in cages with the sound of footsteps before standing in front of a particular cage.
Bell: Don't tell me...
Hestia: It was your fault that thing chased us?!
Before anyone could follow up, they heard Freya on screen speak to the monster.
Freya: You'll do nicely.
She used the keys she took to open the door and walk inside the cage. She approached the monster and placed her hand on it's cheek before activating her charm.
Freya: I hoped to watch his progress a little longer, but oh well.
Loki: So, it was Freya that made the monsters rampage during Monsterphilia.
Bete: Why'd she bother with that?
Rolan: To test the boy.
They turned to the god as he explained her motives.
Rolan: Freya wishes to help nurture Bell into becoming the most powerful adventurer ever. As such, she would give him challenges to overcome like Hermes and Bell had to find a way to overcome them. Although, you should think about who you involve unless you want to look bad in front of him.
He walked away as Bell glared at Freya.
Bell: You willingly put my Goddess in danger?!
Freya: I-
Bell: Why?! What's there to gain from getting innocent people hurt?!
She had no answer and could only lower her head in shame. The rest if her executives had to hold themselves back from attacking the rabbit for yelling at her. Alfia and Hera didn't even bother trying to hide their smug grins. Now that everything was coming to light, the Goddess had nothing to hide and all her schemes would soon be revealed. Bell just returned to his seat as the memory played on.
Hestia: Yeah, you could've mentioned you were looking for a girl. You sly dog.
Bell: Hey, what does that mean?
Hestia: Who knows?
Bell: Come on...
*Crash*
They were brought out of their thoughts when they heard a crashing sound before a silverback ran from the corridor leading under the arena.
Hestia: Bell?!
Freya's voice echoed in its mind.
Freya: The one with hair similar to mine, capture him.
*Roaaaar*
Hestia: Call me crazy, but is it looking at me?!
Bell quickly grabbed her arm and went to try and escape it.
Bell: Why is it after you?!
Hestia: How should I know?!
He brought them through an alley where it couldn't follow causing it to jump on top of buildings to continue the pursuit.
Bell: Daedalus Street?
*Growling*
Bell: Come on!
They kept running as the monster chased them down. Their friends in the stands worried about them as they were being chased by a monster found much deeper in the dungeon.
Meteria: You had to fight that all by yourself?
Bell: Mhm.
Rolan: You'll see soon enough how this fight went down.
They found another clearing in the neighborhood as the residents closed their doors to protect themselves. The monster suddenly landed in front of them separating the two. It looked at Bell giving the boy flashbacks to when he almost died to a minotaur. The boy was paralyzed with fear as the monster walked closer to Hestia.
Bell: (I'm scared! I'm so scared, but I'm a man, right?! You have to fight!! THERE'S ONLY SHAME IN RUNNING WHEN A GIRL IS IN DANGER!!!)
He had a look of determination as he ran to face the monster and protect his Goddess.
Bell: HAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!
*Shatter*
Many in the audience gasped when Bell's dagger broke. He was helpless in the air as the silverback slammed him into a wall.
Bell: Gah!!
Hestia: NOO, BEEELL!!!
Bell: HYAAAH!
As the monster celebrated, he threw something at the monster to blind it causing it to drop Hestia. He quickly made his way to her before running away from the area.
Welf: Sheesh, that was a close one.
Lili: Lady Hestia should've tried to find a away to leave, she's only a burden being there.
Mikoto: I'm pretty sure she noticed that, but the monster was after her, so that would be impossible.
They ran through the alley as Bell began doubting himself.
Bell: (I can't do it, I'm not strong enough. I can't protect her with how I am now. What do I do? He won't stop until he gets her.)
Arriving at the end of the alley, they found another clearing as the sunlight beat down on their eyes.
*Clang*
Hestia was shocked when she saw Bell had locked her on the other side and away from the area.
Hestia: Hey, what are you doing?!
Bell: Sorry, Goddess. You have to get out of here and save yourself.
Hestia: Not a chance!! Now open this door right now!!
Bell: Listen, no matter what happens, I refuse to lose anymore of my family.
The roar of the monster could be heard as he started walking away from the cage. Then he began running as Hestia called out to him.
Hestia: NO!!! Bell, come back!! BEEEEELL!!!
And like that, the screen blacked out as the show ended once more. Many had worried looks for the rabbit as he went to challenge the monster once more.
Zeus: He was off to go on his adventure.
Hera: Yes, but one that wouldn't be necessary if that bitch didn't sick a monster after them!!
Meteria: Please let him be alright...
Bell: Mom, I'm right here.
The woman didn't hear him as she sent her prayers to the Bell from the past.
With Loki...
Tione: Guess we weren't the only ones walking into a tough spot.
Tiona: Yeah, he had a fight of his own too.
Ais: He sure did.
The girl smiled to herself remembering how the boy had won.
With the kids...
Ardi(Emb): This story was always a good one.
Alise(Emb): It's so exciting seeing dad fight that thing right here!
With Argo...
Argo: Finally, his first real adventure.
Feena: I have to admit, I'm excited to see how this goes down.
Crozzo: Me too!
Argo: Come on, let's get to the next one!!
Rolan nodded and prepared the next chapter.
AN: God that was a long one. By the time I hit 2,000 words, which is typically my halfway point, I was like 7 minutes into the episode. I knew from that that this would be painful and it was, but now it's done. My relief will be short lived now that the next several chapter are going to be this long, oh well.
As always, thanks for reading. Sorry for the delay with this, there have been some problems in real life recently. Hope you enjoyed and I'll see you in the next one.