Everyone was now in the dining area, eating and hanging out. Though, considering what happened recently, they could barely focus on their meals.
Tiona: Are you guys as excited as I am?! This is gonna be so cool!
Tione: They've had me curious for a while too. With how strong they've made themselves out to be, I'm getting tired of waiting for this.
Finn: I'd like to see what the future is capable of as well.
Loki: Some of those guys are in my Familia as well, so we'll be getting that quality soon.
Gareth: Yeah, just as soon as that boy gets to work, haha!
Lefiya: *Changing the subject* I assume you'll be rooting for your children, Miss Ais?
Ais: *Nods* I think everyone is doing that.
With Bell...
Zeus: You know, you could say that each of those kids represents a girl that's after Bell. Isn't it kind of like they're fighting too?
Hera: Perhaps, but you can keep that to yourself. Instead, let's see how this generation surpasses our Familias.
Zeus: Fine by me. I'm getting restless waiting to see what our great grandchildren can do.
Welf: So, who do you think is gonna win this?
Lili: Lili thinks the oldest is winning. Judging by their reactions, it is safe to say he is the strongest there.
Mikoto: I'm not sure. That blonde half-elf and my son appear to be near that boy in power.
Haruhime: I just hope they don't take it too far. I would hate if something bad happened.
Hestia: Rolan can always reverse any permanent damage, but I see your point. I also don't want anything to go wrong. On another note, aren't you worried about your daughter? She's fighting too.
Haruhime: Of course I'm worried, but part of me feels at ease knowing her level.
Hestia: How about you Bell? *Looking to him*
Bell: I dnt knw. (I don't know) *Mouth full*
He couldn't form an answer they could understand because he was eating. Well, because Artemis was feeding him again. She had the brightest smile on her face as she got the next piece ready on her fork while Bell swallowed. It took the other girls a moment before they realized what happened and swarmed to feed the boy. For the sake of their safety, those like Welf and Mikoto backed away and waited for them all the be satisfied.
Meanwhile, Freya and her Familia finally left the kitchen for the last time. Experiencing hell over and over had done its damage and now they were trying to recover again. Everyone else paid them little mind and Rolan finally came into the hall with them.
Rolan: I hope everyone is ready. The matches for the first rounds have been decided.
He left the poster on a table and everyone went to see what the matches were. The order looked to be top to bottom: Karmi vs Ariel, Alise vs Haruka, Masako vs Ardi, and last is Eileen vs Celdia. They each looked at their opponents and gave their regards. Rolan then showed everyone to the arena again while the others got ready for their fights. Everyone found a place to sit and made guesses as who would win this first battle. As for the other kids, Rolan sent them on a small scavenger hunt to keep themselves entertained.
Loki: Looks like Ais and Tiona's kids are gonna duke it out first. Make your bets now.
Finn: I think we can skip the motherly bias. *Looking to Ais and Tiona*
The two nodded, fully supporting their child.
Tione: I'll back my niece up. Only fair as her aunt to do so.
Gareth: I think I'll do the same.
Aki: Me too!
Finn: Yeah, I won't be playing favorites this time.
Tiona: Boo~
Riveria: Well, I think I'll support Ais.
Lefiya: I will too!
Raul: I'll do it as well.
Bete: I can try to make up for the rabbit gag by giving her my support. Line says she's gonna go with Tiona, though.
Tiona: Oh yeah!
Loki: Damn, we got a close split here.
With Bell...
Bell: Looks like it won't be long now.
Artemis: Are you still worried?
Bell: A little bit, but I should try to enjoy what the future is capable of.
Welf: Too bad my kids aren't going down there. Then again, they're more blacksmiths than adventurers like me.
Meteria: Any ideas as to who will win?
Lili: You're guess is as good as Lili's.
Rolan: I'll give break downs of their abilities as the fights go on. The space down their is also slightly distorted for your convenience.
Mikoto: Distorted?
Rolan: It's so you all will be able to watch. Adventurers will be fine, but gods and those without a falna will have some trouble keeping up with their movements, so this should help.
Zeus: Thanks for that. Wait, where are the other kids?
Rolan: My pleasure. They're waiting elsewhere for their matches. Now then, they should be just about ready to come out.
Everyone in the audience watched as the two girls walked out and into the arena. The amazon wore no armor, as expected, but had a strange looking weapon. What looked to be two great swords were connected to each other by the tips of their handles and she was holding them fine. As for her opponent, Ariel had on basic looking armor. It loons to be a standard breastplate, vambraces, greaves and pads for her joints; no battle skirt though. Under her armor was a black colored clothing with fingered gloves.
Zald: That doesn't look very durable as armor.
Rolan: Looks can be deceiving. That armor may look weak, but it's actually well-made. It was mostly because the girl wanted parts of it to look like what her parents wore, but that is made from materials that are very strong. Most monsters would have a hard time cutting through or denting it.
Welf: Really?
Rolan: It should be great considering you made it.
Welf: I did?
Rolan: As the Familia blacksmith, Bell and the others would logically turn to you for their gear.
Welf: Hehe, I'm surprised I made it look so ordinary.
Rolan: (The girl practically begged for him to do so, but that's not important.)
They also gazed at the weapon of choice she used.
In her hand was a long, black spear with a similar design to Bell's knife.
Elpis: Wow, that kinda looks like me.
Welf: If you were a spear. Rolan, did I make that too?
Rolan: You did, but it isn't a living weapon. No need to go that far for everyone.
Hephaestus: That's a relief. Imagine if everyone had a weapon like her.
Elpis: What's that supposed to mean?
Bell: *Sweatdrop* D-Don't worry about it.
In the arena...
The girls got into their stances. Karmi kept her weapon behind her and held her hand in front of her. Ariel gripped her spear with both hands and had the tip close the the ground. She positioned it to make it look like she was going to charged at her.
Karmi: No hard feelings?
Ariel: I'll get you some jagamaru after I win. *Smiling*
Karmi: Well, that's good- wait a minute, ohoho~ I see what you did there. It is so on now!
Up in the stands, everyone watched them stare at each other while Rolan got ready.
Rolan: And... BEGIN!!!
The two gave a battle cry before the sound of metal clashing rang throughout the arena. They fended off each other's attacks and everyone else covered themselves from the shock waves.
Rolan: I knew I forgot something.
He snapped his fingers and put up a barrier and everyone relaxed.
Tiona: Whew, that was a rush!
Gareth: Haha! Look at those girls go!
Tione: Give it your all, you two!
They cheered for their favored girl to win while the two kept up, not hearing them.
Clang*
They had their weapons in a lock as they stared at each other.
Karmi: Wanna give them a show? *Grinning*
The albino nodded before the both of them began turning up the intensity. Now they used the full area of the stadium and moved around as blurs that everyone could barely see at first, however, the distortion slowly adjusted and the view went back to normal.
Haruhime: My goodness! Look at them go!
Zald: Your grandchildren are giving quite the first impression, Meteria.
Meteria: I know!
Aria: Honey, look at her! Our granddaughter is putting up an even fight!
Albert: She so young but her skills with a spear are amazing.
Gareth: Finn, you think you can match her?
Finn: In power? Not a chance, but I can't help but feel a sense of familiarity when looking at her fight.
Rolan: That goes without saying considering you taught her how to use it.
Finn: I did?
Riveria: That would explain the similarities we've been seeing.
Ais: She didn't want me to teach her? *Sad*
Rolan: She actually wanted to follow her brother's lead. He wanted to use a weapon that was different from his parents and she went along with it. I can't really blame them since I agree that it would be boring if everyone just used a sword. What's the harm in being a little daring?
Meteria: I like their way of thinking! Maybe I could've used an axe if I were an adventurer?
Hera: Over my dead body! You would stay in the rear to support everyone while they protected you!
Alfia nodded and joined in her goddess' overprotective rant of Meteria.
Down in the arena, the girls picked up the pace even more, but Ariel wasn't feeling inclined to lose, so she backed off for a second while the other girl was on guard.
Ariel: *Smirking* Ventus
Immediately after she uttered her chant, a green wind sprouted from her body and rose upward around her. In the stands, the audience was shocked at the magic.
Bete: The kid us definitely yours, Ais.
Tiona: She has the same magic you do!
Ais: Mom... *Looking to Aria*
Aria: I know. I feel it too. *Surprised*
Argo and Crozzo were shocked at the familiar feeling emanating from the girl.
Argo: Is that spirit magic?
Crozzo: I'm willing to bet it is.
Rolan: And you would be a lucky winner. That girl is indeed blessed with the blood of a spirit. Not just a ordinary one, but a Great Spirit like you. *Pointing to Argo*
Argo: Me?
Feena: So, it's a spirit on the same level as Jupiter?
The man just pointed to Aria who waved to the group.
Aria: I guess I can do a full introduction. My name is Aria Waldstein and I'm also the Great Wind Spirit.
The ones in his group were surprised, but Argo grumbled in jealousy.
Argo: Why couldn't I have found her instead of the old man? *Jealous*
Albert: Hey! She's mine! Back off, boy!
Argo: *Changing to another subject* So, Ariadne, your butt has been looking in great shape! Have you been working out?
He snapped his attention to her and she responded by punching the boy into the seats behind her with a red face.
Ariadne: Idiot... *Blushing*
In the arena, Ariel's wind enchantment has now been outpacing Karmi and the girl was having trouble keeping up with her speed.
Karmi: Ngh!
Not only that, the slight gap in power was also closed, so she was even deeper in a bad spot. After finding an opening, she split her sword into two blades and knocked her back for more distance. Ariel then got another smile on her face which she didn't like.
Karmi: (She better not do what I think she's going to do.)
Ariel channeled some magic into her spear and the runes on the side glowed green making Karmi frown in response.
Ariel: HYAA!!!
She threw her spear at the amazon who knocked it away easily. The audience was confused as to why she would throw her weapon away.
Rolan: Give it a second.
The didn't help, but they did see the amazon was still very on guard. The frown was still on her face and deepened when Ariel brought her other arm down. The spear that was twirling in the air stopped and aimed its head back at the girl before charging back at her. She beat it away again only for it to rush back at her again and again.
Clang*
Karmi: Gah! I knew it! You know I hate it when you do that! *Pointing her blade at her*
Ariel: *Tilting her head* What am I doing?
The girl just played dumb while a tick mark appeared on Karmi's head.
Karmi: Fine, let's play it like that then. *Smiling menacingly*
In the audience...
Riveria: *Dumbfounded* What am I looking at?
Rolan: She enchanted her weapon with her magic. Now she can freely move it in the air without having to hold it.
Loki: *Excited* And she's in my Familia?!
Rolan: More or less.
The red head celebrated to herself while Albert cheered louder for his granddaughter, being the proud grandfather he is.
With Bell...
Bell: That girl is amazing! I didn't even know that was possible!
Lili: No one here did! This is only the first match too!
Mikoto: Yeah, but one of them has to give eventually. The question is who?
The scales would begin to tip again when Karmi drove her swords into the ground. She got on one knee and put her hands together to chant while Ariel aimed to bring her spear spinning to the amazon's back.
Karmi: An eye for an eye. A tooth for a tooth
Her body glowed red for a second before fading away as quickly as it appeared. Before anyone could ask what she did, the spear came down and slashed down on the girl's back. What no one expected was for an open would and blood to erupt from both girls instead of just the amazon.
Karmi: AHH!
Ariel: AHH!
The two cried out in pain as the sands were dirtier with blood for the first time in this tourney. In the stands, the parents gasped with worry seeing the two get badly injured.
Hera: What just happened?! *Worried*
Zald: How is it both of them got hurt when clearly only one received an attack?
Haruhime: It was before she was hit. I think I saw her chanting.
Rolan: That she was. You see, that girl has a special magic spell called Hammurabi. It's a reflection spell that deals damage back to it's source.
Alfia: Meaning any damage she takes, her attacker takes as well.
Rolan: Correct.
Tiona: Huh. That's kinda like my Berzerk, right?
Tione: Yeah, but she doesn't have to hit back.
Lefiya: A fighter like her having a spell like that. It suits her at least.
Finn: That it does.
Back in the arena, Ariel hissed a bit before looking at her half-sister with a teary pout.
Ariel: That was mean!
Karmi: You started it!
The albino grumbled in annoyance before grabbing her spear and rushing her at full force. The two were face to face once again, but this time, arguing about having to use those spells. Ariel insisted Karmi was in the wrong, but the girl said she wouldn't have had to use it if Ariel hadn't been a jerk and used her flying spear thing. The audience sweatdropped at how intense the argument got, but eventually, after several clashes, Ariel could be seen still standing while the amazon was on the ground, unable to get up. Both were looking in rough shape with lots of cuts and bruises from their attacks which were also impacted by the reflection spell.
Ariel: Hmph!
Karmi: *Wincing* No fair... you're leaning on your spear...
Rolan: Alright, that's the match. Since Karmi can't fight, Ariel wins and moves on.
Everyone clapped at the great match. Ais was relieved it was over, but Tiona was a little disappointed.
Tiona: Aw, I thought she had it.
Riveria: It looked like it turned into an endurance match towards the end. Your girl couldn't find a good hit.
Rolan: The two have been more or less even their whole lives. Ariel being part spirit just edges the girl higher which us why she wins most fights. They make it fair by agreeing not to use it, buy in a fight like this, she has an edge in almost everything.
Tiona: *Sigh* Oh well. Good match, Ais!
Ais: *Smiling* Mhm.
They shook on it as they waited for the next one to start.
With Bell...
Zeus: What a match! I have to say, our old Familias don't even come close to them!
Hera: No, but they've got the same spirit. Those kids were certainly raised well. I still have to wonder how they got so strong at their age.
Hestia: Yeah, they don't look any older that 14.
Rolan: Those two are actually 13. If you want to know how, I'll explain after this next one as it has some important context regarding one of the participants in this round. Speaking of, the next two can enter now.
On cue, Alise and Haruka came out of their respective gates. Alise was dressed in an attire that drew several resemblances to the Human Alise, though, she had a full chest piece instead of just guards for her breasts. She was practically the spitting image of her. She even had a similar flower bow to tie her hair into a ponytail and had a sword that looked the same as the one the Human Alise had.
Alise: Wow, I feel like I looking in a mirror.
Kaguya: She definitely looks a lot like you. Except for the hair and eyes. I think we know where she got those.
Astraea: I think I like you with blonde hair, Alise.
Alise: I might give it a try.
Ryuu: Do your best down there.
With Bell, he was doing his best to support both parties. However, a certain faction was eager to support one side.
Hestia: Looks like it's our Haruhime against the pub elf.
Bell: She's just so young. Is it really ok for her to do this?
Haruhime: I agree with Master Bell. My daughter is only 10, isn't she?
Rolan: She is, but I wouldn't count her out because she is level 10.
In the arena, the albino renard looked like a gentle girl dressed in a Far Eastern fighting gi. The top was white and the bottom was black with a white belt to tie the pants together. On her side was a bundle of three metal sticks which she took out and revealed them to be a set on nunchucks. Right then and there, her demeanor changed to one of a cold hunter as she twirled it around her before getting into a stance.
Alise(Emb): Uh, good luck?
The half-elf had trouble talking with the girl when she got like that. Instead, she just got herself ready and drew her rapier from it's sheath.
Alise: She even has a copy my sword too? Lion, I'm touched!
Ryuu: I-I didn't know anything about this. Still, I'm happy your memory lives strongly in her.
Astraea: We're just grateful you were able to move on. Now girls, we have to do our best to cheer for her. That is our little niece after all.
The girls of the Astraea Familia cheered loudly for the girl.
Alise: I still want to ask him. Mr. Rolan, who made that copy of my sword because I have to say that they did a good job.
Rolan: *Raising an eyebrow* Copy? That is your sword.
Alise: It is?!
Rolan: The girl heard your story as a child from her mother. She idolized you and visited your grave quite frequently. Eventually, she came to a conclusion that she would carry the torch for you all. Of course, she asked her mother for permission.
Astraea: Wow, that is a surprise.
Lyra: Any comments to having your grave robbed, Captain.
Alise: Fine by me. Not like I was using it.
Neze: *Sweat drop* You're surprisingly relaxed about this. Your grave was robbed.
Alise: Hey, I'm just happy to see another me carrying our mantle of Justice on her shoulders.
Kaguya: Oh gods, I just realized that! We have TWO Alises!
Ryuu: *Memories of Vietnam*
Alise: You say that like it's a bad thing.
Rolan: You can probably take it that way if Ryuu had to constantly remind the girl to listen to others and not be annoying.
Alise: *Looking at Ryuu* Hey!
Rolan: On the topic of who, she brought it to Welf Crozzo to have it restored and ready for combat.
Said Crozzo sneezed when his name was spoken. Back in the arena, the two stared off before beginning the fight. Haruka knew she would be at a major disadvantage at the start, so she used her weapon to her advantage and kept the half-elf away. After that, she began concurrent chanting under her breath which Alise did notice.
Alise(Emb): (I might as well make it fair.)
She decided to allow her to chant while the others were astonished by the little one's technique.
Take: She's good for her age. I've seen few as skilled as her.
Ouka: She's nothing like Haruhime right now. It's almost like she's become a different person.
Chigusa: It's a little creepy...
Back in the arena, the girl finished her chant and a streak of white light shot from her and at Alise.
Ryuu: Look out!
The half-elf made no effort to move away and was soon engulfed in a gray aura that soon disappeared. Haruka had the same thing happen to her which confused those spectating.
Alfia: I sensed a great amount of magic being used. What just happened?
Rolan: Haruka's magic deviated from her mother. I'm sure many in the Hestia Familia are aware of her level boosting spell.
They nodded while those who didn't know, like in the Loki Familia, looked at them in shock.
Hestia: *Sigh* They were gonna find out eventually. It's not like we're enemies but this still kinda sucks.
Rolan: Sorry about that.
Loki: What the hell do they mean "level boost?!"
Rolan: She has a spell that, for a period of time, allows those who receive it to gain an additional level. For example, she can cast it on Welf to temporarily make him level 3.
Many eyes widened more at the reveal.
Riveria: *Amazed* That's remarkable!
Zald: Something like that has to have some drawbacks, right?
Rolan: That it does. In exchange for the boost in level, the receiver will have a reduced gain of excelia as a consequence.
Loki: Meaning they can't just get the level boost to challenge a stronger monster.
Rolan: Correct. Back with Haruka, she has a magic similar to her mother's in nature. However, rather than level boosting, she can take it even further to level manipulation. Meaning the increasing and decreasing of levels.
Meteria: Wow, that's really impressive!
However, some were confused at the description of it and voiced their concerns.
Ottar: Decrease?
Lefiya: I'm confused. She can make them go down?
Rolan: Yes, for enemies and allies alike. She mostly uses her level decrease on her family, though.
Ais: I don't get it. Would they want to be stronger? Why would they want to become weaker?
Finn felt his thumb throb while others began putting the pieces together.
Rolan: It will be simple to understand when you recall the two spells are similar in nature. When something powerful is a benefit, something nearly equally powerful has to be a hindrance. If you grow in level, your growth in status is slowed. However, the opposite would also be true.
A few eyes widened at his last words as the pieces fell into place.
Lili: So if they lower their levels, they can grow faster!
Rolan: That's right. That's the method those kids have used to radically increase their growth even without having a skill like Bell.
Astraea: That's rather creative of them. How far can they go?
Rolan: As far as possible. Ideally, to get the fastest growth, they would have to go all the way back to level 1.
Finn: Would that not hinder their perception of the world around them?
Rolan: It used to, but repeated use let them get used to it. Now, they go in parties on the Upper Floors in the dungeon or at home to raise their stats.
Everyone was amazed at the methods the kids had. Even so, the two back in the arena had been slowly wearing away at the other. Haruka had many cuts on her while Alise had some bruises from the renard.
Alise(Emb): I'm not looking to waste too much time here, sorry.
She fended off more of the albino's attacks. She parried away her weapon while firing off her wind projectiles which Ryuu recognized as a lesser form of her Luminous Wind.
Alise(Emb): Now. Blaze!
Flames engulfed her body as the crowd stared in awe at her.
Tiona: She has one too?!
Rolan: It's not spirit magic, so all it will do is make her stronger while enabling the use of fire magic.
His words couldn't be doubted when the half-elf began swing her sword at the girl. Each time she did, a wave of fire shot from her sword and towards the little renard who did her best to avoid them.
Haruhime shielded her eyes as her daughter did her best to defend her self. The little girl was tiring out quickly while Alise kept her assault up. After a few more minutes, the half-elf landed a kick that knocked the girl out, winning the match. Rolan called it there and healed the two before they left the arena.
Alise(Emb): You did a good job there!
Haruka: I thought I could win this time.
Alise(Emb): *Patting her head* Sorry, but it's a little too early for you to do that.
In the audience...
Bell: Aw, too bad.
Hestia: She put up a good fight, Haruhime.
Haruhime: I'm just relieved it's over, but I did feel proud seeing her.
Everyone else was touched by their sibling bond, but the next match was ready to begin.
Rolan: Next: Masako and Ardi.
Kaguya: Now it's your other girl who's up.
Astraea: But he opponent is a demigod. I wonder how she will do?
Bell: Mikoto, looks like your son is up next.
Mikoto: I'm quite curious about his skills in combat. This will be a good match.
Haruhime: As long as they do their best.
In the arena, the albino half-elf wore light red upper clothing and some black leg wear with a white cape behind her while the boy had his usual ninja attire on. The boy bowed in respect which the girl returned before drawing their weapons.
In the audience, they were all wondering how this would go.
Loki: Got any info for us?
Rolan: Well, apart from his partial divinity, the boy is a few levels above her.
That didn't sit well with Ryuu, who began to worry about her girl down there.
Rolan: To be perfectly honest, don't expect this to last very long.
That didn't sit very well to those rooting for the half-elf. The god proved himself correct as when the match started, the boy vanished from sight only to appear behind her with his hand at her face. A black glow emanated from his hand before enveloping Ardi. Only a few seconds passed before the girl was only the ground, unconscious. Everyone was stunned at what just happened.
Loki: What in the hell?! That was so fast!
Astraea: What did he just do?
Rolan: He invaded her mind and essentially gave her a nightmare which made her pass out.
Ryuu: What did he show her?
Earlier in the girl's mind...
The albino was covering her ears and sat close to the ground as sinister mirage tormented her.
Ardi(Emb): No! I don't want to hear!
Evil Ryuu: That's right, there was no Tooth Spirit that snuck Valis under your pillow at night when one of your teeth fell out. It was I, Ryuu! *Pointing to herself*
That came and faded before another took its place. Ardi tried to run away before seeing an image of her sister calmly drinking tea on a chair and table.
Alise(Emb): Oh, hello there, dear sister. Care for a cup of tea on this fine day? *Smiling*
Ardi(Emb): No, you aren't real! You can't be! Big sister is nowhere near that we'll mannered!
She sprinted away from there only to find Mia with a big grin on her face. Before the girl could say anything, the dwarf pointed to the side where Freya was giving a lap pillow to her father, both their faces showing peaceful bliss.
Ardi(Emb): *Crying in fear* AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!!
Back in the present...
Rolan: You're better off not knowing.
Mia: Still can't help but feel a little disappointed.
Rolan just shrugged.
In the arena...
Masako carried the unconscious girl out before the last match began. This time, it was with the last of the half-elves. Celdia came out with her staff and dressed in her battle robes which were white and blue in color. Eileen had light armor on with a small shield on her left arm. Around her was a metal long bow and a quiver full of arrows while there was a sword sheathed at her side.
Hestia: Last but not least is Miss Advisor.
Bell: She looks pretty well rounded. I'm not sure how well a mage will do against her.
Welf: I think the past fights have taught us that anything can happen.
With the Loki Familia, Lefiya was praying for her daughter's victory. Many others also supported the albino while the Guild Staff was supporting the worrying Eina.
Rose: Being this wound up won't help her.
Misha: Yeah, you gotta cheer her on, Eina!
Eina: I-I know.
The crowd gave their vocal support while the other two down there readied themselves.
Eileen: *Nocking an arrow* I can't make any promises about your dress.
Celdia: Don't worry, Mom isn't here and Mr. Rolan said he could fix any damage.
After another few moments, Rolan started the match which was followed by Eileen firing off her arrow. The other girl easily dodged it and every other that came after. Not wanting to stay on the defensive, Celdia held out her staff and chanted get spell.
Celdia: Icebolt
She shot an icicle at high speed toward Eileen, who blocked it with her shield. The albino half-elf then chanted under her breath when suddenly, a light blue hole appeared in the air that soon quickly fired more of the spell.
Eileen: (She's using that already?!)
In the audience, many of the mage wanted to know what she just did.
Rolan: That's a repeater cast. By leaving a portion of her mind in one place, it will continuously cast the last spell she casted until the energy supply runs out. It even comes with automatic targeting on case the target moves around.
Lefiya: Well that sounds... incredibly unfair!
Eina: That's my line!
Rolan: Yes, well, you should expect that from an adventurer over level 10 versus a level 9 who mainly works in the Guild. No need to feel ashamed about it, Eina.
The other half-elf nodded while her daughter was trying to find a way to fight back against the albino. Seeing no other option, she chanted something in elvish before her shield began glowing white. After that, she slammed it to the ground which caused a massive barrier to appear from the shield, protecting her.
Alfia: A shield spell. A smart choice, but she won't be able to attack from there.
Rolan: Not necessarily. You see, that is a special magic which blocks enemy attacks, but not her own. Since she is the caster, the barrier permits any of her attacks to pass through it.
Finn: That's a useful spell to have. Looks like she's in the supporting role in a formation.
In the arena, Eileen fired more arrows, quickly burning through her supply. When she did, she abandoned her bow and fired a fireball to create a smokescreen while she went in close with her sword. Lili and Finn were impressed with her quick thinking while Celdia was trying to wave the smoke away. Once it cleared, she looked around for her half-sister, only to find her aiming a downward slash at her.
Eileen: HYAAAAAH!!!
In the audience...
Lefiya: Look out!
Celdia turned to her attacker with a glare before a glint appeared in her eye. As the sword came down, she dropped her staff and sent the sword away with a knife hand while using her other to disarm her.
Eileen: (Oh no!)
She raised her shield in defense when Celdia went for another punch at her, but that was only a feint. She stopped short and extended her middle and index finger towards the shield before shattering it with a one inch punch. The brunette found herself on the backfoot off the albino's assault as she tried her best to evade and block her punches and kicks.
In the audience...
Watching Lefiya's girl left many speechless.
Bete: What...
Tiona: Holy crap! Look at her!
Gareth: Wasn't expecting this.
Riveria: She's well adept at hand to hand despite being a mage.
Rolan: That was part of her training. Mages need ways to defend themselves, so basic hand to hand combat training was part of her regimen growing up.
Lefiya: Maybe I should try that too.
Finn: Who trained her?
Wallace: Actually, it was...
Rolan silenced him.
Rolan: No spoilers.
With Bell...
Bell: I... wow...
Welf: Sheesh! What the hell?!
Lili: She has her mother's feistiness, that's for sure.
With Argo...
Argo: Getting Feena flashbacks here!
Yuri: Hey, not so loud!
Feena: Brother, we should try and get blessing from the gods!
Many others looked to the gods with sparkling eyes at the potential the could have. Back in the arena, Eileen was quickly being worn down. After trading a few more blows, Celdia brought the match to an end. She putbher hands together and brought them down to Eileen's back followed by a knee to her chest before sending her flying with a backwards spinkick. The albino ran towards where she landed. Eileen saw her and held her hands up in surrender.
Eileen: Owowow! Alright, I give up- ow!
And that was that. Everyone cheered for the victor and praised the young girl for her skill as well as the other for the fight she put up.
Rolan: That concludes the first round. What are your thoughts so far?
Loki: You have to ask? Bring on the next one's!
Many shared her desire to continue.
Ouranos: I'm quite surprised to see how far they've come in the future. What say you, Zeus?
Zeus: Hmph! I couldn't feel more proud of my Great Grandchildren!
Hera: I agree.
While many were eager for the next matches, some were still processing what they saw.
Epimetheus: Ilia? Ilia!
He waved his hand in front of the girl, but she didn't respond. She was likely still shocked at what she watched.
Rolan: Now then, as a slight change of plans, Albert will, instead, be the final battle. Whoever wins in this bracket will face him in the Grand Finals.
Artemis: You mean we have to wait more?
Rolan: I was thinking about that. Actually, we could hold an exhibition match to show off some of his combat skills.
Elpis: But who can even do that? Weren't they talking about him like he was some Floor Boss?
Bell: I was wondering the same thing.
Just then, a voice spoke out and volunteered.
Bell(Urano): I'll take him on.
They turned to the person the once again forgot was there.
Hestia: He's good at hiding himself. Wait, how strong is that Bell in comparison.
Rolan: They should be relatively close. Of course, neither will be going at full force. This is just a sample after all. I wouldn't want to spoil what will come later.
The god transported the other Bell down to the arena while also informing Albert of the change in plans. The boybwas fine with it, and appeared in the arena in nothing but normal looking clothes.
Meteria: No armor?
Zald: Bell isn't exactly wearing armor either.
That was correct, but the albino did have a sword on his back. One that was all too familiar to some figures of the past.
Argo: Wait, is that...
Crozzo: That's- That's my magic sword!
Many turned to him in shock.
Feena: Is it?!
Crozzo: I'm more than positive it is! That looks exactly like the one I made for Argo before he went to save Ariadne!
Rolan: It could be more than mere coincidence that Welf Crozzo made a replica of it.
Bell: Wow! Welf made that?!
Welf: It looks beautiful. However, something like that needs a proper name.
Crozzo: There only one that fits it's look.
Welf/Crozzo: Mino-tan!
Several people fell out of their seats while Bell and Argo groaned in pain.
Rolan: In any case, that sword is the superior version the Crozzo originally forged. It's what you would call the complete, or rather, a True Crozzo Magic Sword.
Tiona: Catchy~
Alicia: And just why would it have that name?
Rolan: Because it has a special property that Welf was able to invent. I know Hephaestus would be thrilled to learn about his creation.
Welf: You mean?
Rolan: *Nodding* Yep, it's unbreakable. He can use its power over and over and it would never break.
Hephaestus looked to the blacksmith in surprise and awe while Alicia had a look of anger on her face.
Back in the arena, Albert saw the alternate version of Bell and went to summon his own weapon. A burst of fire appeared from his hand before a giant, black battle axe appeared in front of him before crashing into the ground. The blade was only on one side and had some immediate flaws based on the insight of those in the audience.
Gareth: Hm, something doesn't add up here.
Finn: You feel it too, huh?
Gareth: Yeah, that axe has a short handle. Way too short for a two handed heavy weapon.
Zald: Let's see what happens.
Much to the shock of the spectators, the boy easily picked it up from the ground withba single hand and then threw it over his shoulder.
Rolan: Obviously, he wouldn't use a flawed design for his main weapon. The handle is short because that axe is for one-handed use.
Finn and Gareth just stared with their mouths wide open along with much of the audience.
Tiona: Oh... wow... *Disbelief*
Lefiya: Wait, what about the rest if the kids?
Rolan: Oh, they'll be busy getting ready for their matches.
With the kids...
Alise(Emb): Hope you're ready, Ariel!
Ariel: I'll do my best!
Eileen: So, is no one going to help Ardi?
She pointed to the half-elf who was crying in the corner.
Ardi(Emb): *Muttering* Mom wouldn't lie... mom wouldn't lie to me...
Alise(Emb): Masako, what did you show her?
Masako: Her worst nightmare. One you couldn't even begin to comprehend-
Alise(Emb): Oh, is it the dream where Mom shows up and tells her the Tooth Spirit isn't real? Then I show up with some regal attitude inviting her for tea, then Grandma Mia shows up and points to Freya and Dad relaxing together under a tree and it's all like whaaat~?
Masako: *In shock* Yes.
Alise(Emb): Oh don't worry, she'll get over that eventually! It's really Mom and Dad's fault for not letting her grow up like me!
Masako: I can't promise I won't do the same for you. *Looking to Celdia*
Celdia: *Nervous* You can just knock me out with a chop to the neck. I don't want to know what you'd show me.
AN: Past interactions between Bell and Lefiya.
Back in the arena, Albert and Bell looked at each other during the calm before the storm.
Albert(Emb): So, you're fighting me?
Bell(Urano): Well, I figured there'd be no trouble with it. Rolan wanted us to give some entertainment before you fought seriously.
Albert(Emb): Well, it's not like they would put up that much of a fight against me. Only Alise and Masako or even Ariel to an extent could do that.
Bell(Urano): Well, you're a much older version of my son, but I can treat this like a game.
Albert(Emb): You did that with me when I was a kid. Mr. Rolan didn't want a serious match, so we might as well just mess around.
Bell nodded and the two got prepared for the match to start.
Rolan: And... BEGIN!!!
Right away, the audience was nearly blown away when their weapons met, causing Rolan to create an additional barrier for them. In the audience, they were shocked to see the ground shattering around them as they clashed.
Loki: It wasn't doing that before. Those two are ridiculous!
Rolan: I knew I should've made the ground stronger before starting. *Sigh* Oh well, later then.
Zald: I'm still having trouble keeping up with them. How is that boy moving so fast with a heavy weapon like that?
Rolan: Probably one of his skills. It doesn't make much difference right now, but it lessens the weight of heavy weapons by a certain amount. Sort of like Lili's ability to carry things.
Hestia: AH! Look at Bell go!
Lili: Go get him, Master Bell!!
Artemis: Fight, Orion!
Bell: I'll be like that one day?
Rolan: Eventually, but that Bell is a special case like several other variants of you.
Zeus: In what regard?
Rolan: Well, he isn't the current Captain of the Kronos Familia for nothing. As I said before, his group is responsible for keeping timelines stable, so naturally, he gets lots of exercise.
For some, the last part didn't register as they were too stunned after hearing about being the Captain of Kronos Familia.
Hera: Impossible! I thought he was still in Tartarus?!
Rolan: Technically, he still is. He just runs his operations from there. Speaking of which.
He opened a portal and the old god came out of it. Her wore a simple black robe and walked with a staff.
Kronos: What is this place?
One explanation scene later...
Kronos: I see. So this is where Bell went. I was wondering where he ran off to.
Zeus: Kronos.
Chronos: Ah, Zeus... and my other children as well. Hera, Hestia... *Eyeing Ouranos* Father.
Ouranos: Son.
Kronos: Well, I wasn't expecting to see you here.
Ouranos: Neither was I. Tell me, how has your time in Tartarus been? *Mocking*
Fels: (Here we go...)
Kronos: Just fine. *Hardening his gaze* How're your balls?
The old god glared at his son before Rolan broke the two up.
Rolan: Now now, let's bring our attention back to the fight there.
Everyone in the audience went back to seeing Bell and Albert battle each other. Bell swung his magic sword and used his own mind to give it power, but Albert used his own fire spell to cancel it outbwith equal power. Both looked slightly ragged, but neither was particularly fatigued.
Albert: The entire arena around them is completely wrecked.
Aria: Goodness, our son-in-law and our Grandson are both spectacular! Don't you think so, honey?
Albert: Yes, yes they are.
Finn: I can't find the words to describe this.
Riveria: This is only the beginning. Remember, neither are fighting seriously. The boy likely has more in store than he lets on.
Rolan: You would be correct. Those two should be just about done.
In the arena, Bell was charging an Argonaut blast for his sword while Albert prepared a massive amount of mind in his axe.
Welf: It's made of mithril! He's charging a magical attack!
When they ready, they fired off their attacks. Bell swung down and fired a beam of fire towards Albert, who countered by slamming the ground with his axe, sending a fiery shockwave in response. The two attacks met with a giant explosion that nearly shattered the extra barrier Rolan prepared. When the dust settled, both were still standing when Rolan called for then end of the match.
Rolan: Alright, that will do.
With that, Albert went back with his siblings while Bell returned back in the stands with everyone else. When he came back, they stared at him in awe at how much stronger he became despite being only a few years older.
Bell(Urano): Kronos? What are you doing here?
Kronos: Apparently he brought me here. At least this explains why you'd disappear now and again.
Bell(Urano): Ehehe.
Kronos: In any case, Rolan, was it? How long do you plan on keeping Bell here. I'm sure you know that one won't keep waiting for long. She'll be looking for him as we speak.
Rolan: Actually, I might bring her here for a bit while Bell watches with us.
Bell(Urano): *Nervous: I-I'm not sure that's a good idea! She's gotten better, but-
Rolan: It'll be fine. They had to cope with it eventually. The Xenos handled these matches well enough along with the Freya Familia. There were no incidents of concern whatsoever.
With the Xenos...
Lyd: We can't hold him any longer!
Gros: Argh, why is he so strong?!
Asterius: *Prying them off of him* I will fight my rival next!!!
Rolan: One thing at a time. For now, the next set of matches will begin shortly.
AN: I am so sorry this took so long to get out. Life has just been not so kind to me in terms of writing time. As a side note, this will be split into parts as I don't want to keep you all waiting forever. Hopefully this will be fine for now. I also hope I did the fight scenes well enough. I know I skimmed through some of them, but I'm not very good with them and this was also meant to show some of what Bell's kids could do.
Anyway, thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed.
I'll leave a spot here for you to Tage your questions if you have any from now on, so it's easier for all of us.
See you in the next one!