Rolan: I shall begin the next one immediately. I know a select few of you are eager to see what happens, so let's not delay.
Tiona: Finally!!
Gareth: This should be good.
Finn: I'm not opposed to seeing this a second time.
Raul: I didn't even get to see it the first time.
Tiona: You better be ready because it's gonna blow you away! Even Bete was pumped from watching it!
Bete: It was ok, I guess.
Finn: Don't worry about him. He was quite motivated once we reached the lower floors.
Bete: HEY!!!
With Bell...
Welf: So, anyone else excited to see this?
Mikoto: Definitely!
Lili: There is some progress to be made beforehand, but it was still amazing to watch.
Bell: Yeah, but we won't spoil anything.
Meteria: Mmm... fine.
Many figures of the past were feeling eager to see why everyone was so hyped for this next part.
The screen lit and the episode began with Ottar's voice being heard in the background.
AN: As I keep reading it to myself, I think I'm going to use this spelling of his name from now on.
Ottar: The barrier will never be broken if one does not embrace adventure.
This had many in the audience thinking, and some had to agree.
Zald: He has a good point. Overcoming your limits is precisely how one levels up in the first place.
Meteria: Doesn't it contradict what she says to Bell? *Pointing to Eina*
Rolan: In a way, Eina and Ottar are both correct. Ottar has a point when he says that overcoming your limits will make you stronger, but Eina also provides the necessary restraint an adventurer should have. You won't get stronger if you end up dead.
Alfia: Maybe, but constantly holding yourself back will have long term consequences.
Zald: Yes. That's precisely why Loki and Freya still don't come close to rivaling our Familias.
Loki: Hah! You think so?! I'll have you know that my Familia is on par your Familia of monster adventurers!!
She puffed her flat chest out as many looked at them.
Alfia: How so?
Riveria: We made it to Floor 59. Those records are the lowest your two Familias have ever been in the dungeon.
Loki: Yeah! We may not have any level 7 adventurers, but we're still at the top!
She expected the two gods to be intimidated or angry, but Zeus and Hera had blank expressions on their faces. They then turned to each other with playful smiles.
Zeus: That's wonderful to hear, Loki. *Clapping*
Hera: That's right. I mean, we only had a level 8 and a level 9, but you had a group of level 6s go to that floor. I must say I'm impressed.
Finn: (I don't like where this is going.)
Astraea: That has me confused. Zeus and Hera at their peaks got to Floor 59, but Loki and Freya still don't compare, no offense.
Loki frowned as they took her words into consideration.
Lili: Something isn't adding up here.
Bell: Grandpa? Grandma?
Zeus and Hera soon began laughing to themselves which was quickly followed by Zald shaking in his seat with a smile that showed he had to hold his laughter in. Even Alfia had a hand over her mouth, but Meteria could see she was quivering.
Loki: H-Hey, what's so funny?!
Rolan: It really isn't that complicated if you think about it.
Loki: What do you mean?! Those records come directly from the guild!
Rolan: True, and the guild doesn't lie about those kind of details.
He looked to Royman specifically.
Rolan: Although, perhaps that could change if you considered that maybe it wasn't the guild that was lying.
Finn: What?
Loki: T-That can't be!
Astraea: Zeus? Hera?!
The two broke into laughter for a bit before calming down enough to explain.
Zeus: Whew... well, it's true, we lied to the guild.
Hera: We just didn't tell them about our true records.
Riveria: True records?
Rolan: You can't expect a Familia full of level 7 adventurers along with even higher level captains to only manage up to Floor 59 especially since your Familia was able to do that with a max of level 6. The logical conclusion is that they've been deeper in the dungeon than they have let on.
The entire room was in awe at the reveal.
Loki: B-Back up a sec. How far down have you been?
Hera: Oh you know, not that far down. Just a bit to Floor 70.
Thud*
That was all Loki could take before passing out on the ground.
Finn: 70?!
Riveria: Impossible...
Hera: This feels great. If only Freya where here for this.
Zeus: I wonder how they're doing?
With Freya Familia...
Allen: Why is that moving?
Alfrigg: I don't even know what this is.
Hedin: I pray our Lady is doing better in there.
She wasn't.
Freya: AH!! It's turning purple again!
She was trying to make the food in her pot right, but kept messing it up and angering Mia.
Mia: I'M SHITTING MY FUCKING PANTS HERE!!!
Back in the audience, several major figures wanted explanations from Zeus and Hera.
Astraea: Why did you hide this from everyone?
Hestia: This is just crazy!! Floor 70?!
Ganesha: I AM GANESHA!!!
Zeus: We have our reasons.
Loki had woken up again.
Loki: Ugh, I had the worst dream that Zeus and Hera lied about their records.
Hera: Dream? That was real, Loki.
The past experience played back in her mind again and Loki fell to her hands on the ground. Several other executives were also getting down in their spirits, but the younger ones were less affected.
Loki: Why...
Rolan: Were you honestly expecting it to be that easy?
Loki: ...
Rolan: Those two were the ones to defeat two of the three monsters in the Great Quests. Your Familia is no where near that level. Even if you had your three executives rise to level 7, it still wouldn't be enough.
Bell: Um, aren't you being harsh on them?
Welf: Yeah, this is getting uncomfortable.
Rolan: This is something that has to be said. After all, Loki still hasn't said the entire story of how her Familia rose to the top.
Finn, Gareth, Riveria and Loki felt a chill at that while everyone else was confused at his words.
Hera: That's right. How could I forget?
The Goddess had a dark aura around her that contradicted the smile on her face.
Alfia: I should say, I'm disappointed with the change I've seen so far.
Zald: Me as well. These more peaceful times have made you soft.
Meteria: Sister? What are you talking about?
Bell: Yeah, you're acting weird.
Alfia: *Sigh* I hoped you would never find out about this.
Hestia: What's happening now?
Hephaestus: Hestia, just stay out of it for now.
Rolan: Well, you can either confess or I will tell them.
Loki was sweating as she felt their stares.
Tiona: Goddess?
Tione: Are we missing something here?
Bete: Why the hell are they staring like that?
He pointed to the members of Zeus and Hera who looked at them with anger and disappointment.
Rolan: You should already know who to point your ire at. The younger generation has little to do with what happened.
Zald: We know. It still doesn't change that they've been lied to.
Lefiya: Lied to?
Raul: What are they talking about?
Seeing no way out, the Goddess came clean to what happened 15 years ago.
Loki: So, you all remember how Zeus and Hera was banished 15 years ago?
They nodded.
Loki: Well, there's more to it than that. Freya and I may have forced them away.
Bete: Huh?
Rolan: In simple terms: the two kicked the two Familia while they were down to inherit the statuses they had.
Tiona: They what?!
Argo: Hold on! Weren't those two Familias the ones who took up the missions?!
Rolan: They were.
Argo: Then why would they do that?! They already lost so much trying to help the world!!
Alfia: The world is that cruel boy. They had no more use for us once we failed to slay the dragon.
Feena: B-But you didn't even get to mourn you losses.
Zald: Correct. Seeing how our Familias had little First Class adventurers, Loki and Freya challenged them while we were returning and defeated them, giving them the chance to banish them from Orario.
The older heads of the Loki Familias lowered their heads in shame at that.
Take: Loki!! You would strike at a weakened Familia just for political power?! I've never heard of anything more dishonorable!!
Hestia: This is a new low for you.
Ilia: (So that's what really happened.)
Loki: We were just tired of being in their shadows fir all those years.
Albert: Since you're at the top, I assume you all will be working to defeating the dragon?
They turned to the swordsman sitting with a glare on his face.
Albert: I mean, as the strongest Familia now, you have to finish what they started.
Loki: U-Uh...
Hestia: You weren't even going to do that?
Loki: W-Well, we aren't strong enough to do that so-
Artemis: Then why did you banish what was left of Zeus and Hera?!
She flinched when she heard her scream.
Artemis: Alfia and Zald were still level 7 and could have helped.
Loki was trying to come up with another excuse. Meanwhile, the three main heads were being questioned by their other members.
Tione: Tell me this is a lie, Captain!!
Finn: I... I saw it as a necessary step for my goal.
Raul: Sir, there are lines that can't be crossed.
Finn: I know and this is something I've regretted.
Gareth: I'm sorry you youngsters had to hear what happened.
Tiona: So, we really aren't supposed to be at the top?
Riveria: We never truly earned it. We just got lucky at took the chance in front of us.
Ais: ...
With Bell...
Bell: Grandpa?
Zeus: It's fine, Bell. It's all in the past now.
Rolan: Whether they took responsibility or not wouldn't have mattered in the end anyway.
Bell: Because of me.
Rolan: Correct. However, it still doesn't excuse them for what they did. Had they taken proper responsibility, we would be having an entirely different conversation right now.
Meteria: I still think there has to be proper punishment for them.
Rolan: (The people also agreed and called for their banishment, but this is too funny so I'll keep that to myself.)
Many in the audience agreed with her, but the other Loki member were worried at what kind of torture she would put them through.
Meteria: Oh, don't worry. It won't be harmful to them.
Rolan: Even if it was, they wouldn't die here.
Raul: I don't think that's the problem here.
Zald: Just let it happen.
Alfia: Punishing Loki's children will make our discussion more effective.
Loki: Now hang on!! They were only following me!!
Hera: True, but this way is more fun.
Loki: Grrr...
Meteria: *Puts her hands together* Good, then let's begin!
Timeskip 5 minutes...
Everything had been set up and the three were taking their selected punishments farther away from the group.
Finn: *Teeth chattering*
He was currently bathing in an ice bath. The special case was that the ice doesn't melt and he had to step out and back in every 2 minutes so he didn't get used to it. When he was inside, he had to be fully submerged in the water.
Gareth: ...
The dwarf was in a tub full of beer that was being stirred. Being in the middle, Gareth would be in a state of constantly spinning in a circle and grow more nauseous as time passed. Though, it didn't appear to be as effective as she had thought.
Riveria: HAHAHAHAHA!!!
The elf was tied down in one of the chairs as numerous hands were tickling her body while she couldn't move. Meteria, being the half demon she was, even went as far as removing her shoes as well. After finishing the set up, she returned to the others with a satisfied grin.
AN: I rewatched Dragon Ball GT recently and saw that hell episode.
Meteria: That should take care of it. *Smiling*
With Loki Familia
Bete: When they said punishment, I had pictured something completely different.
Raul: Me too.
Tione: Are you kidding me?! Just look at the Captain!!
She pointed to Finn who had jumped into the tub again and cried out at how cold it was.
Finn: AAAAAAHHH!!!
Lefiya: Yeah, Lady Riveria is also suffering!! Her head, hands and feet are flailing all over the place!!
That was indeed the case as the elf tried to kick her feet to keep the hands away from them.
Tiona: I dunno, that one looks fun.
Tione: Of course you'd say that. You were the one who went to the piranha tank at that salon we visited a while back.
Tiona: What? They had more bite to them.
Aki: I think Mr. Gareth is going to vomit soon.
Gareth: (Should I try drinking this?)
The dwarf had his hand on his mouth, but he let out a burp instead.
Tiona: Actually, I think he's fine.
Raul: The booze only invigorates him.
With Argo...
Argo: *Yawn* I'll be heading to, what was it? Oh, a bathroom.
Crozzo: I'll do that too. We should grab some food back with us.
Feena: I'll have to go as well lest my brother do something idiotic.
With the children...
Alise(Emb): So, you think Granny Riveira will be ok?
Celdia: Physically, yes. Mentally... there could be some damaged pride.
With Loki...
Zeus: Do we still need to do this? Bell is already fated to slay the beast.
Alfia: I am not sending the boy to fight that monster!
Meteria: Yeah!!
Bell: But Mom, they already said I could do this. Even the other me did it when he was a year older than me.
Alfia: There's still no telling what could happen to you. We just want you to be safe, Bell.
Zeus: I understand that, but no one else will be able to do it if Bell doesn't. Just look at them. *Pointing to where Finn, Gareth and Riveria are* 15 years or even 7 years later, and they are only at the end of level 6. Surely they could have found a way to rise to at least level 7. Had that been the case, we'd be less disappointed.
Alfia: ...
Bell: What if they helped train me or go into the fight with me?
Alfia: Hm, that could be a good option. Meat shields may work.
Loki: Say what?!
Bell: I'm not using my friends like that.
Meteria: Let's just relax, sister.
Alfia: Oh fine.
She looked to Rolan.
Alfia: Tell me, what are Bell's odds if he gets trained by them?
Rolan: There are many instances where Bell becomes strong enough to face it. The problem is that everyone else is too weak and would likely slow him down. Considering how much stronger your Familias were, they would be killed even more easily.
Bell: No way...
Rolan: But, there are ways around this.
Bell: What are they?!
The boy would take anything he could get if it meant his friends could survive.
Rolan: The first would be for you to go alone.
Meteria: What?!
Zeus: He has to fight it one on one?!
Rolan: At a high enough level he could do that. Another would be if he could manifest another skill. Ideally, one that shares the effects of Liaris Freese to others.
Bell: I could do that?
Rolan: You already willed your first one. Who can say you can't do it again? If that happened, then your friends would be able to grow as fast as you and not hold you back if you decide to bring them on your adventure.
Bell: I wish I had that kind of skill.
Hera: It sounds as preposterous as your first one, but it would be very useful.
Meteria: I still don't agree with Bell having to fight that monster.
Rolan: Well, that is something you'll have to deal with as the mother of the lower world's greatest hero and the mother of a boy who wanted to become one.
She pouted at him and Bell gripped her hand with his own.
Bell: Mom, I promise I'll find a way for this to work out. I have all my friends with me too.
Zeus: The boy is right. You should have some more faith in him.
The woman was still unconvinced, but one pleading look from her son had persuaded her for a little bit.
Meteria: Mmm... oh fine!!
Zeus: Excellent!! Then it's settled!!
Loki: Then what the hell was the point of this?! You saying my children are suffering there for nothing?!
Alfia: I'd hardly call it a punishment at this point. The dwarf at least looks to be the most resilient one of the three.
Hera: And besides, we're having fun.
Loki: I'm not!!
Alfia: That was never a factor. Just be glad your dwarf is still going strong.
They looked at Gareth and saw he was still doing fine.
Meteria: Should I have done something different?
Zald: You could have had him face me in a drinking contest.
Zeus: You just want an excuse to draw on his face again.
Zald: HAHA!!! Good times!
Bell: Is Mr. Finn going to be fine?
The boy could swear the prum was beginning to turn blue.
Alfia: I'm sure his amazon girlfriend will help warm him up.
Tione had heard that part and snapped her head to Finn who felt an even greater chill than when he stepped into the bath again.
Finn: (Why me?) *Dip* COOOOOLD!!!
Alfia: If anything, the elf looks to be the weakest one there. A childish game has reduced her to tears.
They looked and the elf was indeed crying from all the laughing that she did.
Riveria: HEEEELP!!! HAHAHAHA!!!
Meteria: Don't make light of it!! That is a torture from hell!!
Alfia: Are you still scarred from that? I did that twice when we were kids.
Meteria: And that was two too many. But now that you remind me, I'll pay you back soon.
Alfia paid it no mind, but she felt a chill.
Alfia: (Maybe I should hold on to that chair and possibly even that ice bath for later purposes.)
Loki: This is sweet and all, but can we just let them go and watch again? We literally heard one line before you all trampled me.
Hera: Aw, and we had a good time too. A shame we couldn't do it longer.
Loki: I hate you!!!
After that, they mercifully released the three and gave them time to recover. More accurately, they gave Finn and Riveria time to recover. Gareth needed only a few seconds to regain his sense of balance. Finn was shivering in Tione's arms and Riveria was panting with a flushed face in her seat.
Tione: My poor captain... *Crying comically*
Lefiya: Lady Riveria!
Riveria: *Holds up one hand* Forget... you ever saw that...
Lefiya: Yes, Ma'am!
Rolan: Now then, back to the show.
Many had left the theater room when the punishment began so they could take a small break. It was mostly for them to use the bathroom. Everyone was ready to start again and when the show resumed, they saw Bell's sad face zoom closer.
Bell: (Level 6...)
Eina: It was on Floor 37. She killed the Floor Boss there all on her own.
Bell: Woah...
On the guild's board, it showed the notice on Ais' level up for everyone to see.
Eina: An enemy like that would normally take a large party of First Class adventurers. You shouldn't try to compare yourself to her. I've never even heard of something like this. Miss Wallenstein is just very unique.
Back in the audience...
Albert: My daughter levels up and you don't even congratulate her?!
Bell: I-I'm sorry!!
Tiona: He looked really gloomy there.
Bete: Looked like part of him died or something.
Ais: Why was he like that?
Rolan: His entire goal was to catch up to you as quickly as possible. You leveling up only widened the gap and made it harder for him.
The girl looked down and her face looked like she committed an unforgivable sin.
Ais: I'm sorry, Bell... *Tearing up*
Bell: N-No, it's fine! Please don't cry!
Back on screen, they could see Bell putting in even more effort than before during their training. He was still being knocked around, but they could see the improvement.
Bell: (Only a little bit is fine. I just want to be closer to her.)
He got up from the ground and readied his weapons.
Bell: Again!
Ais nodded and he charged in again. The screen faded out and back again to show the streets of Orario. It zoomed in and showed Bell with a sunken expression on his face. The boy was stuck in his thoughts until a girl called out to him.
Syr: Bell!!
He turned to her only to find she'd grabbed his arm and held it to her chest causing several in the audience to grow jealous and for their impressions Freya to worsen.
Bell: M-Miss Syr?!
Syr: You're the one I want!!
The shock on the boy's face grew as did the anger of the women there.
Hestia: NOT IN YOUR WILDEST DREAMS!!!
Artemis: Not happening!
Ilia: (May you suffer in that kitchen!)
The screen snapped and now showed Bell standing in front of a pile of dirty dishes.
Bell: That's what you meant?!
Syr: Sorry sorry. I got sidetracked when I was slacking- I mean taking a break so they piled up and now Mama Mia is punishing me.
Bell: Then you're just making me do your work?!
Syr: Yeah, it's mean, but I believe in you! *Giggle*
Bell: *Sigh* Maybe this will help take my mind off of things?
Suddenly, Ryuu arrived to lend him a hand with it.
Ryuu: You can't do this alone. Allow me to help.
Bell: Uh, thank you.
In the audience...
Alise: Mmph!!
She never even got a chance to speak before Ryuu covered her mouth.
Ryuu: Not. A. Word.
Astraea: Oh, but you look so precious doing the dishes with him. I can only imagine how it would be when you two become official.
Ryuu: Lady Astraea!
While she was having her dilemma, some other were also watching that with envy. Those being everyone except for the Hestia Familia.
Hestia: Ha! We get to do that almost everyday.
Lili: Yes. It feels great after eating Lady Mikoto's food.
Mikoto: T-Thank you. *Blushing*
Welf: A girl did something with Bell and you aren't acting jealous. Someone pinch me.
Meteria: See sister, that elf isn't as bad as you think.
Alfia: Maybe those extra years did her some good.
On screen...
Bell: Have you been an adventurer before?
Ryuu: In the past, I was.
The Ryuu in the audience couldn't help but put her head down until she felt her friends give her their support. They would never hold what happened against her.
Bell: I want to know what Ishould do to level up. Do I keep fighting monsters?
Ryuu: No, that won't be enough. You'd need to best a more powerful foe.
Bell: Huh? You think I can even do that?
Ryuu: It definitely won't be easy. With the right amount of skills and a careful strategy, it could be possible.
Suddenly, Bell remembered the advise Ais had given him during their training.
Ryuu: Though, that still wouldn't be enough. You'd have to also find a party. You can't be going solo forever. Look for people who can cover for your weaknesses and in turn, whose weaknesses you can cover. Doing so will allow you to conquer even your toughest enemies. If I were to answer your question, the way to level up is to go on adventures. Going on those adventures will have moremeaning if you have others with you. That doesn't mean you should forget the lessons you've learned so far.
Bell: ...
Ryuu: This is my opinion, but if you want something, you have to take it.
Off screen...
Kaguya: You should take your own advice.
Ryuu: Mmm... *Blushing*
Alise: You can't really blame her for this one. Ignoring the other girls, she still has to get through Alfia.
Lyra: She's right. We can cut her come slack.
Kaguya: Oh fine.
The elf breathed a sigh of relief, but was interrupted when she saw Meteria grab her hands.
Ryuu: Wha-
Meteria: Thank you. I'm truly grateful for your help with my son.
The elf was in shock at the woman showing up out of nowhere. Meanwhile, Alfia and Hera were wondering where she ran off to.
Ryuu: I-It was my pleasure!
The woman bowed again before rushing back to her seat.
Astraea: Perfect! Now you have mother's support.
On screen...
Ryuu: Still, I have been wrong in the past.
The screen zoomed out and everyone could see Syr listening in on their conversation. It shifted again to show Bell and Ais training on the wall. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, until Bell slid the sheath off of his knife in order to counter attack.
Bell: HAAAAH!!! GH!!
Ais had stopped him, but was surprised at the attempt.
Ais: You countered. You never did that yet.
Bell: I guess so.
Ais: Then I think that should do it for your training.
Bell: *Bowing* Thank you for all your help, Miss Ais.
Ais: I should thank you as well. I had fun.
The boy stared at her with a blush as they said their goodbyes for now.
Ais: You do your best from here.
Bell: Uh, right! You as well!
With that, they began to part ways from the wall.
Back in the audience...
Aria: *Patting Ais' head* You did a good job, sweetie.
Ais: Thanks, Mom.
Aria: I'm sure you'll do fine in the future, but always remember that you have others to help you.
Albert: Friends are very important and you have many of them.
Ais: *Smiling* I know.
She thought of them all, but then heard Alfia speak to her.
Alfia: I'll thank you for you help with Bell, but I won't be forgetting those forced lap pillows of yours.
The smile remained, but Ais also felt a chill down her spine.
On screen...
Bell: (Maybe I'll never catch up, but I swear I'll keep trying. Then...)
It shifted again to show the abandoned church.
Hestia: So, you finished your training with her?
Bell: Mhm. The Loki Familia expedition is starting today.
Hestia: Good to know you successfully completed your training. (But these abilities.)
Bell: I'll see you later!
Hestia: H-Huh? But your status!
Bell: We can do it when I get back.
He walked up the stairs, leaving her behind.
Hestia: Bell...
Now it showed the entrance to the dungeon where the Loki Familia was.
Off screen...
Bell: Wow, I wonder if we could be like that someday.
Lili: That would be the day when we didn't have a 200 million valis debt.
Hestia: Leave me alone!
On screen...
Finn was giving the plan of the expedition to everyone. The outside members who were joining them, and the reminder that the goal was Floor 59. The view then rose up the tower as Freya came into view.
Ottar: Everything is ready.
Freya: Perfect. This should be fun. *Smiling*
Bell and Lili could now be seen walking the empty floors of the dungeon.
Lili: Something wrong?
Bell: You can't feel it? It's like we're being watched.
Lili: No, but Lili gets it. She's getting the creeps down here.
Bell: This floor is totally empty. No monsters or people. (It's like the last time.) *Anxious* L-Let's go!
Lili: O-Ok.
The kept walking, until they heard the distant roar of a monster.
Bell: What was that sound?
Stomping and growls could be heard and they grew louder as the seconds ticked by. Now, it was in full view for everyone: a red minotaur with a great sword in its hand.
Lili: A minotaur? But this is Floor 9! *Turning to Bell* We have to go!
She tried to reason with him, but Bell's face had nothing but fear in it as he stared at the monster.
Lili: *Worried* Master Bell?
*Stomp* *Stomp*
Minotaur: *GRAAAAAA*
Bell: ?!
Lili: *Pushing him* Get it together!!
She pushed them away, but was injured in the process.
Bell: Lili!
Off screen...
Meteria: Mmm... *Worried*
Hera: Bell...
Welf: Holy Crap!
Mikoto: You had to fight that?!
Haruhime: Master Bell!
She looked to him, but only found him watching with a neutral expression.
With the others...
Tiona: Let's get some more popcorn!
Rolan: *Holding several bags* Small, medium or large?
She took a bunch and handed them to everyone. Those who had seen the fight already were watching with excitement while those who hadn't were growing more worried for the two.
Lyd: Bellchi...
Wiene: Bell!
Ray: Oh no!
Asterius: (Yes!)
With Argo...
Argo: Getting flashbacks here!
Feena: I hate minotaurs.
Crozzo: Yeah, I get that.
Asterius: *Tilts head*
Crozzo: Ah shit, was that racist?!
Not taking offense nor understanding what that meant, the bull turned back to the screen.
Back on screen...
Bell threw Lili aside before firing a firebolt at the monster. He fired several more before being knocked into a wall by it.
Bell: Ah!! Ngh...
He stared back at the monster again as the screen changed again. Now it had several injured adventurers talking with the Loki Familia.
Bete: Wait, you saw a minotaur down here?
Adventurer A: Y-Yeah, I saw it. It was on Floor 9 and it had this massive sword with it.
Tiona: Could it be a survivor from before?
Riveria: That would be impossible. It's been a month and there's been no word of a minotaur since then.
Finn: Well, it is good you made it out. Was there anyone else?
Adventurer A: Yeah, it attacked someone else. That white haired kid.
Right after he said that, Ais ran off.
Bete: Hey, Ais!!
Tiona: Hell yeah, rescue time!!
Tione: Wait up, guys!!
Finn: Sorry about this. Can you take over, Raul?
Raul: S-Sure!
The screen returned to Bell fighting. His armor was destroyed and he was stuck on the defensive.
Bell: (It's like before.)
Ais: [You're afraid.]
Bell: Gh!
He drew his other knife and prepared to clash again. The difference in strength was not in his favor, so when the bull slammed the ground, Bell was blown away.
Bell: Gyaaah!!
He got up from the ground once more.
Bell: (It'll get me eventually. I have to find some way to escape!)
At the same time, Lili was regaining consciousness. Her friends gasped when they saw her face covered in blood. On the screen, she saw Bell fighting the monster on his own and grew worried.
Lili: Master Bell.
Bell: Lili, you have to leave!
Lili: No...
Bell: Now!!!
Lili: I won't leave you!
Bell: GH!!! GET AWAY FROM HERE!!!
She broke down in tears before leaving him.
Off screen...
Welf: That was harsh, don't you think?
Lili: It was for the best. I was only a burden by being there.
Meteria: At least tell me you found help?!
Rolan: Just keep watching.
She tried to, but she was already tearing up at watching her son.
On screen...
Bell: (Now, I have to find my chance to escape too. Wait, Ican't! If I run he'll go after her too and kill her!) Damn it!!
He drew his other knife and attack again. He dodged several more attacks before gaining some distance.
Bell: (Our speed is nearly the same. As pathetic as it is, I should just hold him off for now.)
Off screen...
Argo: Don't feel too bad about that. It isn't wrong to have to rely on others sometimes.
Bell: Really?
Argo: Of course. I'd gladly use my dear sister to protect myself when I need to.
Bell could only gape at him before he saw the looming image of Feena behind Argo.
Feena: *Demon aura* Oh, dear brother?
Argo: Y-Yes, my darling sister? *Scared*
Feena: RAAAAGH!!!
Bonk*
Back on screen...
The fight had continued, but the monster had gained an opening and landed a blow on the boy which shattered the green vambrace he had before throwing him to the ground.
Welf: Bell!!
Mikoto: He won't last much longer!!
Meteria: My baby!!!
He tried to get up again, but he struggled to recover from the damage he'd just received. The monster was prepared to attack again, until both were surprised to see Ais arrive.
Alfia: For a level 6, you took your sweet time.
Rolan: Actually, that wasn't her fault that time.
He changed the view for a bit to show Ais as she ran to help Bell. In her way, she saw Ottar standing in front of her.
Ottar: I can't let you pass any further.
Hera: I will skin that boaz!!
Alfia: *Menacing giggling*
With Freya Familia...
Several had already died and were in the process of being resurrected. Ottar felt himself slip away until he felt another chill before dying again.
In the kitchen...
Mia: You're blowing fire in your face, you fucking donkey!!!
Freya: *Soot covering her face* HIII!!!
Back on screen...
Ais drew her sword and activated her wind magic as she charged at him. Going all out, he simple batted her attacks away with no sign of fatigue on his face.
Ottar: You've gotten stronger, but you're still not fast enough.
Ais: (Damn.)
Feeling hopeless at the situation, she was surprised when the others arrived to help her. Bete and Tiona gave her the opening to slip last him as Finn walked in with his spear in hand.
Finn: Fancy seeing you here.
Ottar: Finn.
Finn: So, was this Freya's request?
Ottar: No, I did this of my own accord.
With nothing else to say, he left and the rest advanced further before finding Lili. Bell's friends grew angry when they saw that Freya had once again put people in danger, but it was worse when they saw it was Bell and Lili. Rolan changed back and now Ais was standing in front of Bell.
Ais: Are you alright?
The question echoed in his mind as he remembered how they first met a month ago.
Ais: [Are you alright?]
He looked in awe from the ground as she readied herself.
Ais: You did a good job. Let me handle the rest.
Bell: !! (Again?)
Memories flashed in his mind. Those during the bar that night and how he was ridiculed. The time he fell mind down in the dungeon.
Bell: (Is Ais Wallenstein really going to fix my problems again? Do I have to be rescued all the time? Do I have to be weak?)
He struggled to his feet with a grimace as the audience felt the mood shift.
Welf: You guys feel that?
Mikot: Yes.
Haruhime: *Smiling* It's starting!
Zeus: At long last, we've arrived.
Hermes: The real show starts now!
Tiona: Come on!!
Lefiya: (Hmph, let's see how this really went down.)
Ardi(Emb): It's here!! It's here!!
Albert(Emb): Dad's adventure...
Ariel: Cel, record this.
Celdia: Already on it.
The child picked up her recording device and prepared to document her father's big moment. The other hero figures watched with smiles to see the next of their kind rise.
Argo: (Time for our rematch.)
Albert: (It's time to prove yourself, boy.)
Epimetheus: (Show us what a true hero looks like.)
On screen...
Bell: (No, not again! I have to overcome this or I'll always be weaker than her!)
Tiona and Bete had caught up and saw what was happening.
Tiona: Man, there you are.
Bete: What are you thinking?
Ais turned in surprise when she felt her arm being grabbed by Bell.
Bell: Iwon't allow it. I refuse to let Ais Wallenstein rescue me again! I won't let it happen again!!!
Readying his knives, he stood in front of her and took a stance before the monster.
Bell: (It starts here. Right now. This is my first adventure.)
He walked closer to the bull before breaking out into a run. And so, the two began their bout once again while the rest watched from the sidelines.
Bete: Wasn't there a rule about not taking someone else's prey. Wait, is that the tomato kid?! Haha! How can he be this unlucky with these minotaurs?!
Tione: He's the one Ais saved?
Bete: Yeah, and these monsters love him enough to come up from the Middle Floors to play with him!
Tione: Don't be like that.
Bete: Well, you already heard him. He doesn't want our help after he embarrassed himself in front of the girl of his dreams.
Tiona: So, you sure about this Ais? He'll die out there.
Bete: So? Just let him do it. He's gotta grow up eventually. I know I'd rather die than have a girl save me again.
Off screen..
A demonic aura was felt in the room once more and once more, everyone moved away from a certain werewolf.
Bete: Aw crap- !!
His hairs stood on ends as he turned to a certain silver haired woman. She stood up with her back facing to him before turning around with a look of death on her face.
Bete: U-Uh, would it help if I said sorry?
Meteria: *Smirks*
Another beating later...
Meteria now stood over the destroyed body of Bete as she cried out in victory. After reviving him, they continued watching. On screen, Lili threw herself on Bete and begged him to save Bell.
Lili: Please help him.
Bete: Get off me!
Lili: Don't let him die.
Tione: She isn't doing so well.
Tiona: It already took a lot out of her to bring us here.
Lili: I'll lay you whatever you want, I promise. Please, just don't let him die.
She collapsed on the ground as Riveria began to heal her.
Riveria: And where are you going?
She saw Bete get up and begin walking forward.
Bete: I don't normally do this, but Idon't wan to be seen as the person who enjoys picking on weaklings.
In the audience...
Tiona: Didn't you already enjoy doing that? *Smirking*
Bete: Shut it!!
Tione: Aw, he's just being a tsundere again. He really did care about him. *Smiling*
Bete: I will kill both of you!!
Having too much fun, Tiona stood on the arm rests next to Bete's seat and took an all too familiar stance.
Tiona: *Deep voice* Die 1000 Deaths!!!
Bete: *Recoiling in fear* AAAAHHHH!!!
This made the two fall to the floor, laughing while Bete growled with an embarrassed look on his face.
Meteria: Someone just please help him!!
Zeus: Meteria, he needs to do this. This is his adventure.
Meteria: But!
Zeus: Even Hera agrees.
The two turned to see the Goddess cuffed to her chair and her mouth gagged, but with a thumbs up sign attached to her arm rest.
Hera: MMMMPH!!!
Hermes: *Thumbs up*
Asfi: *Hits him*
Meteria: Mmm...
She was still doubting it, but agreed to keep watching.
Hera: (How can you agree so easily?!)
Back on screen...
Bete: Stand aside, I'll go. Hm?
The Loki Familia watched in awe as they now saw Bell fighting evenly with the minotaur.
Tiona: Is he really level 1?
Finn: *Smiling* You were so quick to write him off as an amateur a month ago, eh Bete?
Bete: What happened to him?
Bell deflected another blow and tried to go in for a strike, only to be kicked away. He landed on his feet and steeled himself for another rush.
Bell: (This is my adventure now.! I'll succeed no matter what!! I will be a hero!!!) HAAAAAAAAH!!!
Tiona: He's like the Argonaut.
Finn: The boy who wanted to be a hero.
Tiona: That story was always one of my favorite.
Back in the audience, Argo smiled smugly at Albert and Epinetheus who both scoffed and returned to watching. On screen, Bell and the bull kept up their fight, not knowing the Loki Familia wasn't the only one watching.
Freya: Ahahahaha! Oh, it's wonderful! Such beauty!!
Of screen...
Alise: You see that? That's just weird.
Many older figures had to cover the eyes of the children once more from the perverted Goddess.
Ardi/Ardi(emb): Sister!!/Mom!!
Shakti and Ryuu: No!
The screen returned to Bell blocking the sword with Elpis.
Bete: Damn, that knife is tough.
Riveria: How is he doing that?
Finn: Technique maybe?
Off screen...
Elpis: I happen to have my Awesomeness Ability at Triple S. *Smiling*
On screen...
Tione: He's giving it his all.
Tiona: But he can't get in.
Ais: Minotaurs have extremely thick skin.
Lili: *Opening eyes* Master Bell...
The boy tried over and over to find a way to land a clean blow, but was knocked away again and again.
Bell: Firebolt
*Boom* *Boom* *Boom*
He fired more magic spells to wear the bull down further which surprised them.
Tione: Magic without chanting?!
Riveria: Looks like it, but his opponent is tough.
Bete: Not really.
Tiona: Is it a draw?
*Clang*
The anxiety in the audience reached its peak once Bell's other knife shattered.
Meteria: NO!!!
Welf: Not good!
Mikoto: His knife!
Haruhime: Master Bell!
Zeus: Not yet.
The seasoned warriors were curious at how the boy would overcome this while many others were even more worried for the boy.
Aria: Oh no! What now?
She turned to her daughter only to find Ais with a bright smile as she watched.
Albert: Let's just keep watching.
Now stuck with only one weapon, that was the opening Bell needed to the turn fight around. He flipped around the bull's arm and stabbed the Hestia Knife into it throwing both of them into the ground. The monster cried out in pain before crying louder as Bell twisted him weapon rendering it's right arm useless. The minotaur got back to its feet only to drop its sword. This had left the audience amazed at how quickly he turned the situation around.
Welf: That was cool!!
Mikoto: A spectacular move!! I'm surprised you could turn it around to quickly!
Alfia: *Nodding* Well executed.
Zald: *Smiling* Good move.
Bell: Hehe. Thanks.
With Argo...
Argo: Yes!!
Yuri: Damn, that had to hurt.
Feena: This is perfect! Now that monster doesn't have it's arm!
With the Xenos...
Gros: You sure we should be happy about this?
Lyd: Yeah, it's Bellchi!
Wiene: Kick its butt!!!
The monsters shouted with joy at their friend. Back on screen, Bell swapped hands with where he held his knife. Dodging another swing, he weaved around and quickly grabbed the sword it dropped.
Bell: RAAAAAAGH!!!
*Slash* *Slash* *Slash*
He ran at it again and delivered three slashes to its chest which covered him in its blood. Now backed into a corner, the monster got on all fours and got ready to charge with its horns. Bell was ready with his sword and the two charged each other for the last time.
Bell: DAAAAAAHH!!!
Minotaur: *ROAAAAAR*
Riveria: Bad move.
Bete: That idiot!
Lili: NO!!!
Off screen...
Meteria: BELL!!
Welf: What's he thinking?!
Bell just smiled at his friends who wondered why he would do something that reckless.
On screen...
Ais: It's fine.
When the two met, the sword also broke at the clash. This worried everyone again until Bell dodged that and the second attempt to skewer him as he trusted his knife into its chest making it cry out it pain.
Bell: Firebolt
He channeled the spell through his knife and into the bull. Flames spewed out of its cuts as it coughed out blood. The monster raised its arm to attack, but Bell wasn't done.
Bell: Firebolt
They watched in amazement as the monster was on its last legs. It was bloated to near its limit before Bell ended it once and for all.
Bell: Firebolt
That was all its body could take. It expanded even more before it exploded into an inferno. When the flames died, the rest of it exploded into dust leaving only a stone behind and Bell standing, victorious.
Lili: Master Bell?
Bete: He actually did it.
Tione: He passed out on his feet. Mind Zero.
In the audience...
The room was in uproar as everyone congratulated the boy.
Zeus: HAHAHA!! Well done, my boy!
A fabulous adveture!
Hermes: This is another important step in your hero journey.
Welf: Yeah, I'm impressed!
Mikoto: As expected of our Captain!
Lili: Definitely!
Aisha: (I could devour you right now!) *Licking her lips*
Haruhime: I just wish you wouldn't worry us like that.
Bell: I'm sorry.
He then suddenly felt Meteria hug him in tears.
Bell: Mom?
Meteria: Bell, my baby.
Bell: Mom, you can see I'm fine now. Please, stop crying.
Meteria: Just promise me nothing like this happens again.
Bell: I-
He then had flashbacks to several instances of this. Apollo, Ishtar, Knossos, Asterius, the juggernaut. He sweated a bit as he rubbed her back.
Bell: (Sorry, Mom.)
Ilia: So, what did you think?
Epimetheus: I admit, I'm a little excited to see what else he can do. (Show me what a true hero is, boy.)
With Loki...
Loki: Fine, I admit it, that was amazing.
Tiona: Wasn't it?! I've got goosebumps again!!
Lefiya: Mmmm... (I really can't call him my rival after that, huh?) *Slumping*
Raul: He really did that at level 1? I couldn't imagine anyone trying that and surviving.
Aki: Yeah, that boy is crazy.
With the guild...
Eina: *Slumped* I can't believe that's how it went down.
Misha: No kidding.
Rehmer: We should keep the details of this a secret. No need for other rookies to try to copy him.
Eina: Agreed.
Eileen: Too late for that, Mom.
AN: Eina's daughter.
Eina: *Groaning* Please tell me this is going to be a joke.
Eileen: *Sweatdrop* You see, my siblings and I may have followed in Dad's footsteps.
Rose: Explain.
Albert(Emb): That was probably my fault. When I first heard of the story, I was so amazed by it that I also wanted to do that. It got out of hand and slowly all my other siblings did it too.
Alfia: What?
Rolan: Oh yes. It would soon become a Cranel Family tradition. Any adventurers in the family would have to defeat a minotaur as their feat to achieve level 2.
This had floored everyone in the room.
Alise(Emb): It goes that far?! I just thought it was a game between us?!
Eina: A GAME?!
Rolan: Of course. That "Wall of Rookies" you all are a part of will soon become "The Hall of Rookies" naming each and every adventurer that rose to level 2 after defeating a minotaur. Though, they all were Bell's descendants.
Argo quickly threw his arm around Bell smiling.
Argo: Congratulations, my friend! Now you too have a legend that echoes through history!
Bell: *Blushing* That's still embarrassing!
Back on screen...
*Thud*
A drop item of a minotaur horn hitting the floor snapped them out of it as Lili ran to him.
Lili: Wake up!!!
Bete: Hey, let's check his status.
Riveria: I don't think that would be right.
Bete: Not like he's in any condition to say no.
Riveria: *Sigh*
Off screen...
Lili: You peeked at Master Master Bell's status?!
Alfia: Sister, I should inform you that is frowned upon. A falna is private information that shouldn't be shared.
Meteria: *Menacing smile* Oh really. Maybe Miss Riveria needs to spend more time in that chair again?
The high elf felt a chill at the thought of being trapped in that hell of a chair again.
Hera: *Now free* You should have that locked up, Hestia.
Hestia: Sorry...
Back on screen...
The elf went to read his back, but kept the rest of them in suspense which they grew tired of. This prompted her to turn around with a smile.
Riveria: Bete?
Bete: What?
Riveria: You know how your dick is pretty small? Well, let me tell you about his stats.
Off screen...
The audience was completely silent after that. Rolan had paused it immediately as the Loki Familia voiced their shock.
Bete: What in the hell was that?!
Lefiya: Lady Riveria?!
Riveria: I-I never said that!!! *Blushing*
Gareth: HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
Rolan: No, wrong one, sorry, that was my bad. I forgot I had that tabbed.
Alicia: Explain how Lady Riveria could have possibly have said something so-so foul!!!
Rolan: That was a different universe. I was watching it before and had it paused until now.
Lefiya: Is everyone there that vulgar?!
Rolan: Yes. In fact, Bell isn't a virgin in that world.
Alfia: WHAT?!
Rolan: Blame Hestia.
She turned to the tiny Goddess who trembled in terror at the sight of the angry demon.
With the kids...
Celdia was wondering what her Grandmother said while Alise was trying to hide her blush after hearing what she said. This was the curse of being the only one old enough to hear it.
Rolan: Anyway, let me get the real one. Ah, here we are.
The screen returned to the same scene as Bete asked Riveria about Bell's status.
Bete: What's it say?
Riveria: Well, his abilities are level S.
They all collectively gasped.
Finn: You know his name, Ais?
Ais: Bell Cranel. *Smiling*
The screen faded out and showed Bell in a hospital bed.
Hestia: You did amazing, Bell. I'm so proud of you.
She recalled all that happened before they arrived to this moment. All the struggles they had and now Bell had finished his first adventure.
Bell: (I want to be strong.)
Hestia: This is only the beginning of our story.
With that, the screen blacked out for a final time and the show ended.
Rolan: And that concludes his first journey.
Meteria: I wish he wouldn't get so hurt.
Airmid: (I wish he wasn't a regular at the clinic.)
Zald: The adventuring life isn't like that. He has to shed sweat and blood to grow.
This made the woman growl as she repeatedly jabbed her finger into his chest.
Meteria: And that's exactly why I made Alfia promise me to keep my boy away from that!!!
Alfia: I'm sorry I failed to keep that promise.
Meteria: *Sigh* It's fine. After hearing about his destiny, I see that there was no avoiding it. I just pray I don't have to see him hurt like that again.
This made Welf, Mikoto, Haruhime and the Xenos sweat. Ryuu's face was also beginning to lose its color as Meteria grew anxious.
Meteria: What? H-Hey, you guys are scaring me. This didn't happen again, right?!
Rolan: Let's all go out for a small break. I'm sure we could all use it after all this excitement.
Meteria: Wait, what happens to my son?!
AN: And that's a wrap for this one. I really don't have anything to say for this one, so thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed. Let me know what you thought and I'll see you in the next one.