Rolan prepared the next set of matches while he set a brief intermission. During this time, the younger children returned with some of the things he asked for.
Rolan: Good, now here is the next set. Good luck, kids!
The Children: 'Kay~
They left once again while the brackets were arranged. First is Ariel and Alise then Masako and Celdia. With the others, they were getting more snacks together while others were being once again amazed by the strange gadgets in the snack room. Lefiya had a tub of popcorn and pressed a button near the station she got it from. When she did, a golden liquid came out the nozzle above.
Lefiya: Woah...
Tiona: Lefiya! What are you doing?! You just soaked your food in piss!
Tione then came and took a taste of it.
Tione: Actually, this is butter.
Tiona: *Rubbing her head* Oh, nevermind.
Now back in the stands, everyone was eager for the next round of matches to begin. Now, it was a duel between Ais and Ryuu's girls. When the two entered the arena, the Loki and Astraea Familias cheered loudly for their girl.
In the arena...
Alise(Emb): No need to hold myself back with you.
Ariel: I'll show you what I'm made of, Alise!
Alise(Emb): Bring it!
In the audience...
Zeus: Well gang, it's time we pick our favorites again. I understand Bell's position, but everyone else is free to pick.
Meteria: Oh, I choose Ariel!
Alfia: I'll go with the half-elf this time.
Zald: Me as well.
Hera: Really? The part spirit girl has me intrigued. I'm giving her my vote.
Zeus: Me as well!
After a few moments, many put their votes in before Rolan called the start.
Rolan: FIGHT!!!
Alise(Emb): HRGH!!!
Ariel: HYAA!
clang*
Spear met rapier and their bout began. At first glance they looked even, but a closer look showed the half-elf had the upper hand.
Ariel: Ngh! Ventus
Loki: Sheesh, already?!
Riveria: Looks like it's safe to say the half-elf is a higher level. It won't be easy for her.
Ais: It's just the start. I know she can win.
Alise was able to find her off, but she knew this wouldn't last for long. She knew her half-sister would have to try something else since she still doesn't compare in a test of strength.
Alise(Emb): All right! Here goes!
Now Alise was the one on the offensive. Ariel tried to use her range advantage, but was overpowered by their difference in strength. With a burst of speed, the albino quickly retreated for more distance. Though, Alise wouldn't make it that easy.
Alise(Emb): Not gonna work! I am the eye of the storm. Gale Force!
Leaning forward and keeping her sword behind her, a strong current of wind circled around the arena and halted Ariel's movement. After that, she felt herself being drawn towards Alise which she tried to resist.
In the audience...
Loki: I think that's your cue.
Rolan: Of course. That is a special spell of Alise that draws targets towards her. Once in range, she'll strike them at high speeds and send them away, only to be drawn back towards her.
Finn: Hm, it seems quite effective against enemies that rely on movement. This isn't looking too good for us.
Ais grew worried as did her parents, but they held on to hope that Ariel would find a way through.
In the arena...
Ariel: (I'm not gonna get anywhere at this rate. Deep end it is.)
She held her spear into the ear and cried out.
Ariel: Release
The runes along the edges of the spear glowed blue and red before a bright light enveloped it. As the light finally died down, everyone could see again and they were shocked to see the girl holding a different spear. This had gold around the sides of the new blade which now had smaller prongs along the side which pointed inwards and toward the tip of the spear.
Loki: WHAT?!
Finn: Goddess?
Loki: How can she have his spear?!
Hestia: You recognize it?
Loki: Well, I'm not drunk, so it's got to be real. Can I get an explanation for this?
Rolan: You see, Ariel's spear was just a normal weapon. Well-made, but normal all the same. That is, until an unexpected event happened.
Zeus: Event?
Rolan: Yes. Odin came to visit to see how Loki was doing since he last saw her. Thor would've have come as well, but unfortunately was preoccupied at the time.
AN: Moment of truth: Do I genderbend Thor or keep him a guy? I'll try to keep god genders the same throughout my stories.
Loki: *Shivers* Thank goodness.
Rolan: Anyway, long story short, the girl ended up cutting him.
Hera: Why?
Rolan: Just an accident. She was caught up in her practice and didn't see him behind her when he was going to be introduced by Loki. Her instincts to protect herself from Loki acted up when she felt her nearby. Well, his blood sort of mixed with her spear and unlocked another level for it to ascend to. It's more or less a replica of Gungnir now.
Hephaestus: So, it evolved to a Divine Weapon?
Rolan: Pretty much.
Welf: I never knew that was possible.
Tsubaki: Well, ya learn something new everyday.
Bell: She has a Divine Weapon too.
Artemis: Like father like daughter.
In the arena...
Ariel struck back at Alise and the half-elf felt even more power behind the blows. In response, she enchanted herself with her fire magic which made Ariel amplify her wind magic more and move even faster.
Aria: She's using more of her spirit power!
Ais: Even I'm not that good at that.
Rolan: You got better over the years, and were able to show her how to control it. Beyond that, she just had lots of practice.
For the next several minutes, the two had a back and forth, trying to overpower the other and gain a decisive advantage. Anytime Alise gained the upper hand, Ariel pushed back even harder. Her new divine spear slowly helped to even the odds along with her magic.
Alfia: This is getting nowhere fast. One of them needs a good attack soon.
Mikoto: I think the younger girl will tire out faster at this rate!
Tiona: COME ON, ARIEL!
Kaguya: Fight hard, Alise!
Lyra: Go, girl!!
After backing away from another clash, the two caught their breaths once again. Ariel looked more winded than Alise.
Alise(Emb): Heh, got any more tricks?
The albino frowned and decided it was all or nothing now.
Ariel: Ventus
She cloaked herself in her wind once more. It was on and off to conserve her mind, but that wasn't an option for her anymore. If she couldn't win even after going through all her reserves, then that was that.
Riveria: Looks like she's not holding back anymore.
Albert: She might as well go all out now. Nothing more she can do.
Aria: But even her wind wasn't enough! What can she do?! *Worried*
In the arena...
Ariel: *Closes her eyes and breathes in and out* Rage! Inferno!
In between her wind, an orange fire enveloped her body as well. The wind fed the fires and the two constantly covered the other to enhance her abilities. The audience was shocked at the development.
Loki: T-Two enchanting spells?!
Gareth: Now that might do it. The magic themes fit too.
Finn: Haha. I see your point. Fire and wind going together.
Ais heard that and blushed at the symbol down there.
Ais: (Fire and wind. Like me and Bell.) *Blushing*
Tione: She's not done yet!
With Astraea...
Astraea: That doesn't look good.
Alise: Do something, quick!
In the arena, Alise saw Ariel combine her two spells and realized she probably has respond in kind to stay in one piece.
Alise(Emb): That's not good! I know what's coming!
She quickly got to work and began chanting a spell.
Alise(Emb): I call upon the might of the stars. Imbue me with your light and pave me a path through the night sky...
On the other end of the arena, Ariel focused her mind on both of her spells and enchanting her weapon with them. Afterward, she twirled it fiercely above her, causing an orange tornado of wind and fire to erupt around her. She jumped up in the Cyclone and flipped backwards before getting into a stance with her free hand out and her spear hand behind, ready to throw it.
In the audience...
Haruhime: Here it comes.
Zald: This will decide the winner.
In the arena...
Alise had finished chanting and Ariel took aim at her target. The two were ready for their final clashed and cried out a final time.
Alise(Emb): STARDUST DRIVER!
Ariel: GUNGNIR STRIKE!
The half-elf jumped with all her strength towards the girl, ready to thrust her sword at her. Ariel threw her spear as hard as she could back at Alise. The two looked ready to clash, but when Alise's sword was about to meet the tip of the spear, Ariel moved her hand a little and made the spear spin a bit and knock Alise down to the ground by hitting her with the butt end of the spear. After that, the weapon tried to preserve its momentum and rushed downward to pierce itself in the half-elf's back, resulting in a massive explosion.
Argo: Holy crap! What happened?!
Astraea: Can anyone see?
As the dust settled, Alise was facedown on the ground with Gungnir stuck in her back while Ariel was panting on her knees a bit further away. The Astraea girls gasped in shock at seeing the girl and it only got worse when the albino waved her hand to get her spear back.
Lyra: I-Is she dead?
Neze: Lyra!
She chastised the prum who looked to Ryuu and saw she was crying at seeing her daughter in that state. However, that would be laid to rest when the half-elf groaned and flipped herself over on to her back.
Alise(Emb): *coughs* Yeah... that hurt...
She coughed up more blood, but smirked nonetheless. Many in the audience were impressed by the girl's strength and her ability to smile despite her current state. Rolan ended the match there since Ariel eventually found herself to her feet while Alise was stuck on the ground. Many of the girls were relieved it was now over and that the children were back in top shape again.
Alise(Emb): Yeah, I see why Al usual has trouble with that move. Good match, sis.
Ariel: Thanks! *Smiling*
They shook hands and left while the last two got ready for their match.
Loki: Yeah, she won!
Gareth: Haha! That's our girl!
Ais: She did a great job.
Lefiya: Yes, that was an amazing fight.
Raul: Isn't Lefiya's kid next?
Aki: I'm not sure how to feel about that one.
Alicia: She was facing that ninja boy, right?
The orange haired elf grew nervous knowing that her daughter's odd of winning were next to none with him as an opponent.
With Bell...
Zeus: Hahaha! Very impressive! You've raised a good batch of children, my boy!
Bell: *Blushing* Grandfather!
Lili: Those girls did a good job, but that's probably where the good things end for you.
Welf: Yeah, I know what you mean.
Mikoto: That only means it's my son's turn to shine!
Bell: That's if he lets a fight happen.
Hestia: A good point.
With Astraea...
Astraea: *Wiping sweat off* That's finally over.
Alise: Man, too bad she lost.
Ardi: Aw, don't be so negative. They all did great, right?
Ryuu: *Nodding* They did.
Kaguya: It's still a little weird how she lost. Wasn't she a higher level?
Rolan: Well, Ariel had some things go for her instead of Alise in that instance.
Neze: Like?
Rolan: For one thing, her wind magic allows her to freely control her spear when it's out of her grasp. She has a skill that increases her power when she's empty handed, so controlling her spear like that meets the requirements of that skill.
Alise: *Amazed* Wow, so she twisted the rules!
Astraea: I-I don't think we should be too proud of that. It sounds a little wrong.
Rolan: No, all is fair. Anyway, she eventually was able to also gain an Development Ability that increases her strength when using throwing attacks. That way, her last move would also be her strongest when all the conditions were met.
Lyra: I guess that makes sense.
Rolan: Anywho, let's get the last of this bracket settled. We have Masako and Celdia up next.
Down in the sands, the two walked out and readied themselves, though, the albino was nervous at her opponent.
Masako: I'll be fair, so I won't use Tsukuyomi on you.
Celdia: *Sigh* That's a relief.
Masako: Although, I'm curious as to how sharp your hand to hand is now from seeing your last match.
Celdia: Eep!
The boy got into his stances while the half-elf tried to reason with him.
Celdia: C-C-Can we t-talk about this? *Scared*
Masako: Fine by me. Let's talk more about Aunt Lefiya's dark past.
Celdia: *Pouting* AGH! FINE!
She went into her stance as well and the two decided this would be handled with their fists.
In the audience...
Riveria: Another hand to hand fight then?
Loki: Kinda weird if ya think about it, but I guess she is a half-elf.
Tiona: Woah, let's see how this goes! *Smiling* Lefiya?
She turned and saw her friend praying for her daughter's safety. Tiona couldn't exactly blame her for acting like that, but they would all be fine in the end, so she never saw what the problem was.
In the arena, Rolan signaled for the match to begin and Masako was immediately on the offensive. Celdia knew she would have a hard time, but it was quite soon to have to use this much effort. She tried shooting bolts of ice at him since she is fine without a staff, but Masako easily deflected them.
Masako: Oh, so we're playing that game now?
Celdia: W-Wait a second!
He brought his hands together and made strange shapes with his fingers. It was slow at first, but then it quickly sped up into a blur before he breathed deeply and spit fire at Celdia from his mouth.
Lefiya: What was that?!
Alicia: He didn't even say anything! He just moved his hands!
Rolan: That would be a skill he gained. It's a skill that allows for a substitution of chanting methods. Rather than audibly speaking the words, he can exchange them for hand seals, one for each word. Of course, this would prove to be much better suited for him in battle.
Mikoto: Very impressive!
Lili: He could put every mage to shame with that.
Haruhime: He's already doing that to her.
In the arena...
Celdia tried every trick she knew of, but it proved to be pointless as he overcame all of them. After a while, she looked like a mess and was panting on the ground while he looked fine.
Masako: You did better than I thought, but that still isn't enough to beat me.
Celdia: Mm... *Frowning*
Masako: Alise somehow lost to Ariel, but I won't be as clumsy as her.
Said half-elf felt an arrow hit her at that.
Celdia: You can't say that! You know Ariel is stronger than me and Karmi with her spirit power!
Masako: I know. Still, I can see you've gotten better.
Celdia: *Sigh*
She tried one more spell and sent it from the ground to the boy. In a split second, he was surrounded in a cyclone of fire. However, when the fire disappeared, the boy looked to be fine.
Lefiya: Even that didn't do anything?!
Rolan: That boy is quite crafty. For one thing, his clothing is highly magic resistant.
Tione: Well, we already knew how this was going to end.
Gareth: Hey, she put up a fight at least. The girl turned put fine, Lefiya.
Lefiya: Yeah, thank you. (At least it's going to end soon.)
In the arena...
Masako: *Dusting himself off*
Celdia: (Alright, I'm done here.) *Raising her hands* I give up.
Rolan: And that's that.
Everyone clapped for the two before they left.
Zeus: Only one more to go. Well, two actually.
Bell: I wonder how this one will go?
Welf: I wouldn't be surprised if he just did the same thing as his first match.
And surely enough...
He ended up using Tsukuyomi again and trapped Ariel in an illusion. Though, it was a happy one full of potato snacks which made her not want to wake up. In the arena, she just laid on the ground with a peaceful face as she slept. Since she wasn't getting back up, Rolan gave the win to Masako.
In the audience...
Lili: Are you happy now, Master Welf?
Welf: I was kidding!
Rolan: It's not like she had a good chance of winning anyway.
Ais: She didn't?
Rolan: She may have beaten Alise, but Masako is a demigod. Gods are superior to spirits and he was a higher level, so her odd of winning were more or less zero.
Ais' head sunk, but her parents comforted her.
Aria: Don't be sad, Sweetie.
Albert: She did very well. 2nd place is very respectable. Besides, you son is still there as the final challenge.
The girl felt a little better, but Rolan had to move to the final fight.
Hestia: So, what are Masako's odds of winning?
Rolan: If I did the math right, then it would be around 30%.
Mikoto: *Nervous* O-Oh...
Bell: It's that bad?
Rolan: There are reasons for that, but I won't reveal then right now. Let's get this last one over with.
With that, the two entered the ring. Albert already carried his axe over his shoulder and Masako had his weapons ready on his back and hip. The audience was ready to see this next match. Although, another pair of demigods was having other thoughts.
Wallace: So, any idea on how this'll go?
Wendi: Albert will be fine, unless Masako does something.
Wallace: Don't jinx it.
In the arena...
Masako: Let's see how this goes.
Albert(Emb): Sorry about what happens next.
Masako: Sure you are. *Sarcastic* Well, at least I don't have to pull my punches with you.
Albert(Emb): *Smiling* You like that, though.
Masako: *Smiling* Hm, I guess I do.
They drew their weapons out: Albert with his axe and Masako with his sword from his back. When Rolan started the mamatch, Masako was immediately face to face with Albert and the two clashed. The arena was being barrage with the shockwaves of their battle. The speed was on a different level that the distortion once again had trouble keeping up.
Riveria: How is he swinging that large weapon around so quickly?
Gareth: Must've had a good teacher!
Rolan: He certainly did.
The dwarf wondered why he was looking at him like that.
Gareth: What?
Rolan: Oh nothing, it's just rather ironic you say that when he came to you for lessons on wielding an axe.
Gareth: Hah! The boy has good taste after all!
Riveria: Looks like all of us have students.
Tiona: Woah, look at that!
She pointed to Albert when she saw him throw a giant ball of fire at Masako who easily sliced it in two.
Masako: You really expected that to work?
Albert(Emb): Nope. That's why I'll turn things up. Ventus
Just like Ariel, a green wind surrounded his body as the enchantment took effect.
In the audience...
Loki: Damn! I forgot he was part spirit too!
Albert: Wait, I thought he didn't like his spirit powers?
Rolan: He doesn't, but that was when he was much younger. Now that he's more mature, he knows that it's a valuable asset to have. Besides, Masako convinced him that he can use it for fun when they train.
Aria: *Sweatdrop* This is for fun?
In the arena...
Masako saw this and decided to play along with his game. Suddenly, everyone felt a massive spike in Divine power coming from the boy. Masako released his partial Arcanum and assumed a more divine form that had a bright glow around his body while his hair flowed freely in the air rather that be held down by gravity.
Welf: Oh boy, here comes round 2.
Hestia: Anything to say, Take?
Take: I never expected this. I have to say, I'm quite proud even though I do not know him that well still.
Ouka: I still feel uneasy about this. Mr. Rolan said he had around a 3 in 10 chance at winning.
Haruhime: Master Bell's son is likely still hiding something.
Welf: Wonder what that would be?
Wallace: Just keep watching, Dad.
In the arena, the two boys had their weapons meet each other again and again. The force from their clashes began creating cracks around the arena that Rolan had to fix before reinforcing. Eventually, Masako tried using a spell to seal Albert's magic, but that was quickly proving to be a waste of time since Albert wasn't letting that happen.
Masako: GAH!
Albert(Emb): I've got you now!
The Far Eastern boy was retreating back, but Albert was quickly pursuing him. Masako decided to bait him into getting closer while making hand seals with his free hand behind his back. When he finished he held it out while Albert was closing in.
Masako: Gravity Impact!
A powerful force pushed the blonde away, allowing Masako to prepare another spell. By the time Albert got his bearings after tumbling, Masako was near complete.
Masako: *Smirking* Try to catch me now!
A black fog surrounded the boy before dissipating. Everyone was shocked to see the boy was nowhere to be seen.
Riveria: Alright, now I have to ask this. How does he have so many spells? As I recall, adventurers only get up to three.
Rolan: Correct. However, you only know as much as you've discovered. It truly is a pity, Hera. If your Empress could only gain another level, she would've been granted two more slots.
Hera: She what?
Rolan: Of course, you wouldn't know. No one would since no one in your history has broken past level 10.
Bell: Can they even go higher than that?
Rolan: Who says you can't? Just because something feels impossible doesn't mean it is. I will inform you that a person does, in fact, gain another 2 spell slots upon reaching level 10. After that, they get one every 5 levels.
Lefiya: Why every 5 only after becoming level 10?
Rolan: It's something about how your bodies contain magic. The problem is that most people aren't born with the ability to wield it. It is possible, but it isn't the natural norm. Three is fine, but any more than that initially would be harmful. Unless properly trained, a normal adventurer would risk themselves if their falna had to retain a fourth spell.
Haruhime: Is it really that dangerous?
Rolan: The falna system is like that because grimoires exist. This would be fine naturally, as your falna will grant you magic as you level up. The problem is if a level 1 decided to read 4 grimoires before they could properly develop.
Alfia: So, the gods made that as a safety.
Rolan: Correct. That safety would be automatically be disabled after reaching level 10, as any adventurer at that point could handle most of what the falna could give it. Not at once mind you, but in increments.
After that explanation, they returned to watching the fight to see that Albert was letting off fire from his body. It was likely because of a similar fire enchantment his other siblings have. With it, he was able to locate Masako even while he was invisible.
Clang* *Woosh*
After another clash, Masako decided to drop his invisibility.
Masako: Hehe. This isn't looking to good for me, is it?
Albert(Emb): No, I don't think so. If you're trying to turn this into a battle of wits, I swear I'm gonna kill you.
Masako: *Sly grin* Oh no, I wouldn't dare do that.
The blonde just stared at the boy before going in once more. In that opening, Masako used all his speed to get behind the boy.
Masako: (I have to trap him now! This is my only chance!)
He got behind him and the process repeated itself once again. Albert turned around to late and was now a victim of his Tsukuyomi.
Ais: Oh no!
Tiona: Ah, crap.
Welf: He's got him now!
In the arena, Albert's body was unmoving and his eyes were dulled from being trapped in a dream. However, the seconds passed before suddenly, Albert yelled out and Masako was pushed away a few meters.
Albert(Emb)/Masako: *Panting*
The ninja was closing one of his eyes while recovering from the shock while Albert's face was flushed.
Masako: How did you break out of that? Hah... that was supposed to be a perpetual dream only I can stop.
Albert(Emb): *Blushing*
Masako: Though, it all looked very real. Too real to be a memory.
Albert: Be quiet... *Embarrased*
The boy's eyes widened as he put the pieces together. Rolan caught on much earlier and silenced their conversation for everyone else.
Loki: Hey, why'd you do that?
Rolan: *Looking to Wendi* This isn't meant for you all to hear.
Wendi saw Albert's face and she too was getting nervous as what was happening. If Masako showed him what she was thinking, then it was for her own good that no one could hear them.
In the arena...
Masako was backing away slowly with a look of shock on his face.
Masako: So that wasn't a dream I made. Those were your memories!
Albert(Emb): *Blushing* Please, just stop talking!
Masako: By the gods, you and Wendi actually did do it! You two had-
Albert(Emb): RAAAAAGH!!!
BOOM*
The blonde charged a blast of fire and wind and fired it at Masako as hard as he could. The boy knew he couldn't dodge it at this distance, so he shielded himself as best he could. The dust settled and Masako was weakly Prying himself from the wall he was stuck in.
Masako: *Sigh* Oh... damn... I concede.
Albert(Emb): *Blushing* Hmph!
Rolan: That's the match!
Everyone was still in reeling from the shock at what the boy did.
Zald: Well, he was still hiding more that I thought he was.
Bell: I wonder what they were saying?
Rolan knew. Oh, he knew very well. In the space of their minds, he saw Masako and Albert as they recalled the night Albert and Wendi had their first time. Their regular night of cuddling took a rapid turn when the demigoddess was enjoying his touches a bit too much.
Rolan: (I suppose I can fault Masako for this. He had no idea the two had gone that far.)
While the two were being healed, Mikoto and Bell were congratulating each other.
Mikoto: Well fought, Sir Bell. Our sons did both of us proud.
Bell: Yup, they sure did! This was a nice break to have.
Rolan: I'm glad you enjoyed it before their departure.
This silenced them as they wondered why he would say that.
Meteria: Departure? You mean they're leaving?
Rolan: Yes. I'll be sending them back to their world soon.
Bell: But why?
The god turned away for a moment and sighed before facing Bell again.
Rolan: Look, while I am a god and my powes grant me a position far superior to any of yours, that doesn't make me perfect.
Bell: I'm not sure I'm following.
Rolan: You'll figure it out for yourselves in a moment. For now, I have some business to take care of.
He disappeared for a moment before appearing in the arena with Albert after Masako went back inside.
Rolan: That is the end of that, now.
Albert(Emb): I do appreciate you doing this for all of us. I have to ask though, why couldn't you bring my father back as well?
The audience watched nervously as they still felt uncomfortable with the mood Rolan was setting for everyone.
Rolan: Well, because that wouldn't be much fun for me.
Albert(Emb): Pardon me?
Rolan: I am a god like them. What I do is solely for my own entertainment, nothing more.
Albert was becoming annoyed with his tone.
Rolan: You said you were from the future, but that isn't the whole truth. You see, my friend, your future isn't even the true future to begin with.
Albert(Emb): What does that mean?
Rolan: Everyone will recall when I said that I coied their essences from a certain point in their time. From the main, Canon timeline.
The boy kept his glare and let the god continue.
Rolan: Well, I am not the only God capable of this. Just like how I'm the superior God to them, there exists another at a higher place than I. The world of yours he created is the absolute one. Any worlds I've made are just cheap imitations of it.
Albert(Emb): ?
Rolan: Your world is simply an idea that could happen, but may not happen. It's just something I wished to exist, so I made it that way.
Albert(Emb): "You" made it that way? *Angry*
Rolan: Correct. I see you finally figured it out.
Albert(Emb): My world. My future. All of it happened that way because of you?
Rolan: Yes. I decided for everything to go as it has in that world.
Albert(Emb): Then my father's death. My family's suffering because of it. All of it was your fault!
Rolan: *Smiling* That would be the pong and short of it.
Everyone was stunned at that reveal. This previously kind god had put this boy and his siblings through so much, and all for his entertainment. In the arena, a blonde was no longer able to contain hid anger and lashed out.
Albert(Emb): SON OF A BITCH!!
BOOM*
The barrier protecting everyone began to crack as Albert unleashed his attack at full force at the god. However, he was surprised to see Rolan catch it easily with one hand.
Albert(Emb): What?!
Rolan: Nothing you try will do any good Your odds of winning are zero.
Albert(Emb): Shut the hell up! I'll make you pay for what you did!
The boy sent blow after blow at the god, who now simply used his hand to swat them all away. After that, he went of the offensive and threw a punch unto the boy's stomach that sent him to the ground.
Albert(Emb): *Coughing*
The boy didn't get a chance to look up before Rolan held his head on the ground. The audience was in shock and anger at how he was treating him.
Albert: What are you doing?!
Aria: Please, stop this!
Alfia: Damn it, we can't get down there.
Bell: Mr. Rolan, don't do this!
In the arena, Rolan talked to Albert in a tone that only he could hear him.
Rolan: You know, you're only like this because of what you experienced.
Albert(Emb): Shut up...
Rolan: This conversation would be much different if you knew the whole truth.
Albert(Emb): What do you-
He couldn't finish before Rolan approached close to his ear and whispered something. The boy's eyes widened as Rolan released his grip. He got up slowly and looked at the god with a less hostile face as Rolan's own face softened.
Bell: What just happened?
Hestia: I think he whispered something to him.
Artemis: It must have been important if the boy stopped struggling.
Rolan: You want the whole truth? Take it.
He touched his forehead with his finger and Albert was loaded with the whole story of what happened. What led to Bell's death and the entire truth behind it. He wobbled a bit and held his head in his hand while Rolan helped support him.
Albert(Emb): I-I'm fine. I'll be fine, but what now? You said you would send us back, but for what?
Rolan: What you do won't affect you time, but it will influence that one for the better.
Albert(Emb): Isn't that still according to your will anyway?
Rolan: *Waving his hand* Oh no. I'm only going to influence each major event. It would be far to tedious to control each individual movement. I pieced you together and let you develop your own personalities.
Albert(Emb): Why do that?
Rolan: So you all could grow in your own way, gods and mortals alike.
Albert(Emb): I see.
Rolan: Any more questions?
Albert(Emb): No. Now that I know the whole truth, I feel much better now. *Smiling* Now I'll work to make that world even better when you send us back.
Rolan: You should at least say goodbye to everyone.
The boy nodded and everyone returned to the main building. All the kids went to their parents to say goodbye.
Karmi: It's been fun here, mom.
Tiona: Yup. It was great meeting you!
Celdia: Mother...
Lefiya: You don't have to say it. I'll... try to be fairer with your f-father.
Celdia: Thank you.
Albert said his goodbyes to his mother and grandparents. Ariel was a bit more emotional and cried a bit along with Aria and Meteria. The latter hugged and kissed each and everyone one of her grandkids.
Meteria: I'm going to miss all of you!
Masako was saying goodbye to his main branch of family.
Masako: Father, Mother, this is goodbye for us.
Take: We know.
Mikoto: Take care, son.
Masako: I will.
Ouka: It has been an honor meeting you.
Chigusa: Say hi to our future selves when you get there.
Masako: I will.
Haruhime: You stay safe as well, sweetie.
Haruka: I will, Mom!
The two embraced each other once more before the two kids left.
With Astraea...
Ryuu was bidding farewell to her children along with the rest of her Familia.
Alise(Emb): Well, it's been fun, Mom.
Ardi(Emb): It was nice spending time with all of you.
Ryuu: We feel the same as well.
Kaguya: Take care.
Lyra: We're gonna miss you runts.
Astraea: Farewell.
Alise: You did all of us proud!
The kids said goodbye to each of their parents, family and the Xenos. Now it was only Bell and Albert talking a final time.
Bell: I guess this is goodbye for us?
Albert(Emb): It is, but it was a pleasant time for all of us.
Bell: I know I'm not the father you knew, but I am proud to see what you've done.
Albert(Emb): That means a lot. Thanks, Dad.
The kids waved goodbye before Rolan transported them back to their world. All the parents were still tearing up a bit along with the other watchers.
Miach: The family was truly beautiful to watch.
Naaza: It was.
Ganesha: I am Ganesha!
Zeus: So, can you explain what that was all about?
Rolan: I simply sent them back to finish living their world.
Hera: I assume it had something to do with what you told the boy?
Rolan: It did, but that isn't something you need to worry about. They were simply the result of my work when I was still a novice god. As you could tell from their strength, I had made plenty of problems with their world.
Bell: What about our world?
Rolan: Well, this is your world now until I put together a new one for you all to live in.
Artemis: How long would that take?
Rolan: Depends, but I'm not inclined to let you leave here anytime soon anyway.
Everyone sweatdropped at that before Rolan felt another disturbance.
Rolan: *Sigh* Well, looks like that time came too. I'll handle it first before anything else.
He looked to the other Bell who was sweating a bit.
Bell(Urano): You know what has to happen now, right?
Rolan: Yeah, I have it covered. All right, I need everyone one of you to stay over there by the dining tables. All of the Xenos stay here by this Bell.
Now everyone was confused again.
Lyd: Uh, why do we have to be here?
Wiene: And why can't Bell be here too?
Rolan: For his safety. Now, let's see. I need this and that...
He set up several different barriers to separate the people of Orario and others from the Xenos.
Rolan: Alright, she's coming in now. To you people on that side, not that you'll be able to, but refrain from doing anything foolish.
He gave a hard glare that unnerved everyone.
Rolan: I won't warn you again.
After that, another portal opened and put stepped a woman with a similar appearance to Wiene.
AN: To those who already know where this is going. Yes, I know that this would probably piss off and upset some of you. I'm not interested in any hateful bashing and how this is bullshit if any of you dislike this. I'm respecting your opinions by allowing you to speak them, but asserting my authority as the author by telling haters to suck it.
The only differences she had were that she had dark grey horns that flowed up and towards where her face was facing. She had similar wings, but also a tail. Her face was mostly human looking, but her striking feature was her body covered in pitch black scales along with a slash scar running along her left eye. Her other remaining one was of a light purple color. She also had minimal clothing on. Just enough to cover the areas most girls would cover in a red cloth.
???: What is this place? Where am I?
She looked around before spotting a familiar sight near her.
???: Bell?
Bell(Urano): H-Hey, Eirí.
She gained an angry glare and stomped towards him before smashing her fist on top of his head with created cracks along the ground from the force. She growled and prepared another before Rolan had to step in.
Rolan: Please calm yourself, Eiríni. This will be easier for us if you don't get angry.
AN: I'm not going to keep the accent on that i the whole time. Just be aware that is the actual spelling.
The woman turned over to Rolan.
Eirini: Who are you? How do you know my name and why is Bell here?
Rolan: If you've calmed enough, I'll give you the run down.
He briefly explain what she asked him and she now knew why Bell had gone missing. On the otherside, Bell and the others were confused with what was going on. Though, the older gods were beginning to catch on.
Ouranos: (So, that's how it is.)
He turned to his son who had been groaning at the situation at hand.
Kronos: Damn it, he just had to bring her here.
Ouranos: Is that a problem?
Kronos: You could say that. In they end, she was going to find Bell one way or another with how attached she is.
Ais heard that and for some reason, she disliked this far more than usual.
The Xenos side...
Eirini: So, is it just us? I see the past Xenos are here. Even Wiene is here! She was so cute when she was little.
The voivre girl let the woman play with her cheeks while the other Xenos shifted around nervously.
Bell(Urano): N-No, there are others?
Eirini: Who?
Rolan: Bell, just be ready.
He nodded and Rolan let the ward down. The barrier he put up let the audience see the otherside, but not the other way around. Eirini was unable to notice the presence of the other people on that side. Once she caught sight of them, her face contorted with rage and Bell immediately put her into a full nelson to restrain her.
Eirini: GRRR!!!
Bell(Urano): Hey! Just calm down!
While he was trying to control her temper, a few select members from the otherside were having flashbacks to their darkest hours. Alfia and Zald remembered the pressure they felt when it roared at that time. Now, it was even worse that before even if it didn't look the same.
Alfia: *Scared* N-No. It can't be.
Zald: *Sweating* Why is that here?
Bell: Uncle? Stepmother?
Meteria: *Scared* What's wrong, Alfia.
She tried to shake her sister from her trance while Tiona and Lefiya were doing the same with Ais.
Tiona: Ais? Ais!
Lefiya: What's wrong, Miss Ais?
Ais: (It's here! It's here!)
She felt frozen from the shock at being face to face with her formerly past demon. Albert and Aria were no different. The former recalled the searing pain he felt after dealing a single blow to it that time.
Albert: How? How can it be even stronger?
All the other former heroes trembled in their boots as well. Epimetheus and Ilia could barely stay standing in front of the beast. Argo and his friends were also quaking.
Argo: Oh c-crap. This even worse than that time with Minos and that Lion. *Scared*
All of them were too overwhelmed to move, but Zeus was able to muster the strength to ask important question.
Zeus: Mr. Rolan, who is she?
Rolan: That, everyone, is Eirini. She comes from the same universe as that Bell. *Pointing to the other Bell*
She glared at the adventurers with her remaining eye that now glowed a deep red, similar to monsters and some Xenos when they attack.
Rolan: She also work with him. Known and feared as the Dragon Empress of the Kronos, however, I think you all know her of a different name. The One Eyed Black Dragon.
At that moment, a piece of Ais snapped. She overcame her initial shock and summoned her Tempest Avenger along with drawing Desperate. However, Rolan already saw this coming and froze the girl in place.
Rolan: Enough! This isn't the time or place to fight nor will it ever be.
Ais: Why?! Why would you let that monster here?!
The several others joined the girl as they berated the dragon woman for her crimes.
Hera: That monster is responsible for many of the troubles the Lower World had to suffer.
Zald: She wiped out our Familias! *Angry*
Alfia: Get Bell back here! A human like him shouldn't be anywhere near that disaster!
Hearing the word "human" caused the woman to dive further into her rage.
Eirini: HOW DARE YOU CALL HIM THAT!!!
The increase in pressure became too much and several weaker adventures and people fainted before Rolan gave them more protection from her.
Eirini: KEEP THAT WORD AWAY FROM HIM!!! BELL IS BETTER THAN ANY OF YOU COULD EVER HOPE TO BE!!!
Another pressure then made itself known in the room. Rolan did this to bring the attention to him to all the hostility would hopefully be resolved.
Rolan: Stop fighting! Yelling at each other will not resolve a thing!
Albert: This would never have happened if you didn't bring that monster here! After what it did, it's no wonder everyone would be like this!
Eirini: Ha! Playing the innocent victim! All you humans are the same!
The two glared at each other before someone came between them.
Bell: Mr. Albert, please, he just said not to provoke her. Let's just try to talk this out.
Everyone, even Bell's family, was shocked by this. Was he seriously trying to defend that legendary monster. The one that struck fear into the hearts of all mortals for over a thousand years.
Hestia: Bell, why are you trying to defend her?
Bell: Because she isn't different now! She can speak, have emotions. She's no different from Wiene and the others!
Lili: Are you seriously trying to compare her to Wiene?! You know what the Black Dragon has done with all the stories you've read, haven't you?!
Bell: I know! It's just- I want to hear both sides of the story now that both parties are here to tell it.
Rolan: The boy makes a fair point in this regard. Had she been just a normal monster, there would be no need. However, now that she is of the Xenos species, I'm afraid you won't be able to simply label it as a monster any more.
Alfia: And why not?!
Rolan: Because your worlds will never know real peace in these conditions.
They were silent for a moment before Zeus of all people spoke up.
Zeus: *Serious* Not that I'm looking to forgive her, but I will at least hear her out.
Hera: What?!
Zald: You can't be serious?!
Zeus: I am. If my Grandson was willing to give her a chance, the I will respect and support his decision.
Meteria: I will as well.
Alfia: Sister, you can't mean that!
Meteria: Alfia, please, have faith in Bell.
She looked to her nephew who had a pleading look on his face. She sighed and hesitantly accepted. Many others were unwilling to accept this, but Rolan left no room for argument.
Rolan: Now then, let's begin.
AN: Okay, another down. Just one more and this is finally settled (I think.) So, did this reveal upset you? If it did I apologize. Things will only get more chaotic from here.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed. Leave your thoughts or questions here. See you in the next one!