On screen, they saw Artemis in her tent and Hestia still lying down. She was awake, but Artemis didn't seem to notice. She went outside in the foggy morning to speak with everyone there.
Artemis: I'm sure you all are aware that all around the ruins is full of monsters. Antares is storing power even now. I understand that there will be horrors awaiting, but do not be afraid. Defeat is not an option. With all that said, I'll go over the plan. Hermes Familia, you need only lure away the monsters. Don't overexert yourselves.
Hermes Familia: Yes, Ma'am!
Artemis: Falgar, you'll be in command of them.
The weretiger nodded as she debriefed the others of their roles.
Artemis: Everyone else, we wait for the monsters to disperse, then we go in and fight Antares. We will slay it together.
Lili: Together? Like with you?
Artemis: Yes. I'm the only one who can open the door. I'll be joining you.
Bell: But Lady Artemis-
Hestia: I'm coming too!
Artemis: Ah?
Hestia: You can't hog all the glory for yourself you know.
Hermes: Also, I'll be joining in the fun as well.
Asfi: Are you mad? Please, you don't have to-
Hermes: *Laughing and patting her head* Don't say you didn't see this coming.
Asfi: I still don't like this...
They all laughed that off before Artemis rallied them together. Their morale boosted, they were about to mobilize before one of them was attacked by surprise by one of the scorpion monsters.
Asfi: How'd they get past the watch group?
Falgar: *Smirk* Doesn't matter.
Lulune: Looks like they're here early.
The Hermes Familia followed the plan and went to engage the larger group of monsters in the area. Falgar sent them off while they handled everything outside. Bell and the others began running inside to the ruins.
In the audience...
Hera: Looks like it's about to begin. I still don't like where this is going.
Zeus: Hera, we already know something happened and whatever it was it was both very good and bad. Nothing left to do but watch since Mr. Rolan has everyone's lips sealed.
Meteria: That doesn't mean we like it. Hmph.
On screen...
They all arrived at the massive front door and marveled at it.
Lili: Lili never knew this place was real.
Welf: It's so huge!
Ryuu: It looks like a temple made to honor the old gods. It's likely been lost to history.
Bell: It's really quiet.
Asfi: Remember how they caught us by surprise. We need to stay alert here.
Ryuu: Come on.
They walked inside. The halls were dark and barely lit by a blue glow.
Bell: What's with the glowing?
Artemis: That's from the seal. The spirits who placed it were like me. They could even be ancient ancestors.
Bell: It's been here that long?
They walked a little more before coming to yet another door.
Ryuu: We've arrived. This is the sealed door we spoke of.
Welf: No going back from here.
Lili: Antares is waiting beyond this door.
Artemis then steppe forward and placed her hand on a marking that had her emblem on it. It lit when her hand got near as did Artemis herself. The arrow turned and the door opened revealing a troubling sight. Pods of some kind lined all around the other side and many in the audience were unnerved by them.
Lili: What is that?
Ryuu: Something has been nesting in here.
Artemis: But how?
Hermes: I wasn't anticipating it to be this bad.
Asfi heard something behind them. When they turned around, a red substance had sealed their exit, trapping them there. At the same time, they also heard movement above them. The pods opened and scorpion monsters sprung out of them.
In the audience...
Ryuu: What?!
Bell: Are all of these eggs?!
In the audience...
Ais: Is that how I was born, Mom?
Aria: N-Not right now, Ais.
With Argo...
Argo: Wow. I don't know what you, Orna and Ryulu were talking about, Ariadne. That looks easy.
Ariadne: *Punches him* Those things don't have voices! I'll have you know I felt like killing you myself in the moment!
Orna: The pain is unbearable! No sane woman would be able to handle that!
Ryulu nodded weakly with a blue face as she remembered that time.
On screen...
Pods after pod opened and the monsters were quickly growing in numbers.
Ryuu: Come on!
The fight began quickly and they did their best to pierce through and move forward. There was already a close call when Hestia had a monster drop in front of her. Luckily, Artemis was able to destroy it before anything happened. The fight went on and they pushed forward as much as they could.
Asfi: HAH!!!
She threw some burst oil at another, but they saw it withstand the item and even regenerate.
Asfi: It survived the burst oil?!
Welf: No way! Why's it still standing?!
Hermes: This is turning grim fast. They're evolving faster than we can keep up.
The other monsters were grouping together with the much larger one. Bell was about to try the spear again before he saw Ryuu run in while chanting. Quickly finishing her chant, she launched her spell into the horde.
Ryuu: Luminous Wind!!
The orbs hit monster and pod alike at a rapid pace but-
Welf: Did it work?
Ryuu: I'm afraid not. They're still alive.
In the audience...
Alise: I call a foul! Lion cast her spell fair and square! That should have destroyed them all!
Neze: If only that's how it worked.
Lyra: Those things are just that tough for them. Shit, this isn't a good start.
Astraea: All of you, be careful.
She watched like a worried mother seeing everyone on screen in a tight spot.
On screen...
The pods began spitting out more and more.
Ryuu: It won't be long before their numbers become too much.
As the surrounding pods began to open as well, she screen changed to show Eina's mug cracking and leaking its contents.
Eina: Huh? How did that happen?
Misha: You ok, Eina? You're looking a little down.
Eina: I'm fine. This just cracked on me.
Misha: Oh no!
Eina: I liked this one too.
In the audience...
Misha: The kid had to have something to do with the cup if you're so worked up about it.
Eina: *Blushing* N-No!
Rose: It also broke around that time they were there too.
Eina: Coincidence!!
On screen...
Misha: Hey, I haven't seen your adventurer around for a while. Where is he?
Eina: He's apparently on a quest outside Orario with the Hermes Familia.
Misha: Wait, isn't there an order prohibiting adventurers from leaving the city?
The half-elf still couldn't shake the worried look on her face. As she stared at her cup, the other people in the Guild were talking about something going on outside. Everyone was looking up at the sky at something which even had Eina and Misha confused.
Eina: What's going on?
Mord: Help!!
Her attention was taken away from the sky when Mord and some of his friends came running towards her.
Eina: Are you alright, Sir?
Mord: We... we need help. Call the adventurers- no! Get the First Class!
Eina: What are you talking about?!
The man looked downward still in shock from what happened.
Mord: There were just too many! It was total chaos! The monsters are going on a rampage! This isn't normal! If nothing happens soon, things are gonna go straight to hell! You guys at the Guild gotta do something!
Eina: I-I'll see what I can do!
The audience saw brief flashes of the monsters going crazy in the Dungeon. Eina ran inside to get the higher ups informed. However, there was a brief moment where everyone could see a crescent moon in the sky. In broad daylight.
Hera: What in the world? Why was the moon there?!
Hermes: *Quietly* Why indeed?
Those who were there at the time also wondered why that was the case. However, those who knew the truth grimaced.
On screen...
It shifted back to show the ruins once more. There, Bell and the others running away from the scorpions chasing them.
Bell: Firebolt!
He blasted some of the ones behind them, but quickly fell to his knees, out of breath.
Lili: Master Bell, take this!
Bell: T-Thanks.
She handed him a potion to help with his fatigue but a loud roar got their attention.
*RRROOOOOOAAAAAAARR*
Ryuu: Did you hear that?
Asfi: We're close.
Hestia: You ok?
Artemis held her chest once more when the roar began to die down.
Artemis: I'll be fine.
She walked forward once more, looking very much weakened by something in the way her body swayed with each step. Hestia watched with worry as she remembered her talk with the goddess.
Flashback...
Hestia: Don't do this!
Artemis just shook her head while Hestia held her by the arms.
Hestia: Please, go back. You've done plenty already so just go home. I... We'll fix this so please...
The blue-haired goddess removed Hestia's hands from her.
Hestia: Please, I can't stand the thought of losing you!
She was then pulled into a hug by Artemis.
Artemis: Thank you, Hestia.
The tiny goddess clenched her fists and couldn't find the strength to return her hug.
End of Flash back...
The audience watched the flashback end as pieces were beginning to fall into place. Hestia herself teared up a bit watching that again and Artemis looked down in guilt.
On screen...
They kept moving forward, Artemis still holding her chest but her breathing had noticeably gotten more strained. They all entered a new room where inside they saw strange dark roots extended all over the room. They looked to be transporting something inside them. All of it leading to one place. Bell and the others looked with shock as they gazed upon the creature responsible for all the trouble thus far.
Bell: Is that... Antares?
Everyone in the audience saw the massive scorpion creature with shock and disgust.
Meteria: AH!!! What is that thing?!
Zeus: *Grossed out* Ugh! It's like walking in on Hera as she's waking up in the morning!
Crash*
He was sent into the wall once more.
Hera: Hmph!
Haruhime: It's... massive! You had to fight that?
Mikoto: Sir Bell?
Bell just sat in his seat and glared at it. This would be one of the rare times Mikoto and Haruhime saw pure anger in his eyes. The rubies burned with rage at that creature's sight and Bell was biting his lip hard enough to draw blood trying to keep his emotions under control. Artemis was also trembling a bit seeing that creature once more.
With Loki...
Loki: Sheeeesh! That thing looks like trouble!
Finn: That's putting it lightly. My thumb's throbbing like crazy just looking at it.
Riveria: No doubt they'll have their work cut out for them.
Tiona: Doesn't matter! They'll find a way to win!
Riveria: (Winning isn't the main issue here.)'
She glanced over to Bell and saw the albino slowly cracking.
Riveria: (Clearly a price too heavy to pay was required.)
With the Xenos
Lyd: Bellchi...
Wiene: Do you think they can win?
Gros: The boy has been through much, but this is yet another challenge.
Asterius: *Huff*
Ray and many other watched this with worry.
On screen...
They could also see a dark steam rising from its body. It rose upward through a hole in the ceiling as Artemis collapsed to her knees.
Bell: Lady Artemis!
Artemis: O-Orion, you have to shoot at it... Destroy it!!
On Antares, its chest opened and a large blue crystal protruded out. Hestia grimaced before looking away while the others were stunned at what they saw.
Ryuu: What?!
Lili: No way...
Welf: My gods!
Asfi: How? How can this be?
Bell: What's going on? That can't be!
The screen zoomed into the crystal and everyone would see what had the others so shocked.
Bell: That's Lady Artemis!
The goddess could be seen trapped inside the crystal. The creature roared and the screen got closer to her unresponsive face. Meanwhile, the audience had a loss for words at what they had seen.
Loki: Shit. That's what happened?
Astraea: *Tearing up* No... Artemis...
Hestia: *Sniffle*
Hera: No...
All the other gods were horrified. Aphrodite grimaced in disgust at what Artemis went through. Even Ouranos closed his eyes and pitied the goddess clinging to Bell tighter now.
Ouranos: So that's how it had to be. My sympathies to you both.
With Loki...
Lefiya: It ate her?
Rolan: In short, yes.
Tione: But why and how?
Rolan: You'll see in a few moments.
Back on screen, the monster was making strange noises as the purple light leaked out more.
Asfi: What's it doing?
It roared loud once more as a beam of dark light pierced the sky. It died down soon only for more beams of light to come crashing down from the sky, ravaging the surrounding area. That included inside the ruins which collapsed the inside.
Meteria: Oh no!!
Alfia: Those light beams again.
On screen...
The group was mostly fine, but Bell and Artemis had been separated.
Welf: Hey, can you get up?
Lili: Y-Yeah. Is everyone ok?
Lili had gained consciousness once again and Asfi was yelling at Hermes.
Asfi: What in the world was that?! I know for a fact that was Arcanum! How is it able to wield the god's power?!
Hermes: Because it consumed Artemis' body.
The woman had no way to continue after that. Meanwhile, Lili had noticed Bell and Artemis weren't there. When she asked, Welf said they got separated during the collapse. She looked worriedly at the pile of boulders down below. The screen shifted once more and showed the lifeless bodies of the Artemis Familia. Astraea's children grimaced at the site and Ryuu felt a similar sickness having experienced something similar. Astraea herself was much the same.
Bell: Who are they?
Artemis: My brave Familia. There was nothing I could do but watch them be slaughtered. I watched the monster that devoured me murder them.
She walked over to one of her children. A woman with red hair and her own blood staining her face.
Artemis: I had to watch them die because of me. Each of them one by one. Then, I came back.
Bell: Then who is the person with me now?
Artemis: All that was left of my spirit.
The screen shifted a bit to show two different pieces of Artemis next to each other. They also heard Hermes speaking, trying to explain to the others what was going on.
Hermes: Her thought for dwells in the spear. It's all that's left of her spirit. She is still the same Artemis in many ways but equally not in the same way.
Lili: How sad.
Hermes: Now that Antares is infused with her divine power, it can bend the laws nature itself.
Lili: H-How can we even stand up to that?! Mortals don't have a chance! Not against that! Can't you gods do something about it?!
Hestia: I'm sorry.
The prum turned to her and saw the tiny goddess about to break into tears once more.
Hestia: Sorry.
In the audience...
Kaguya: Things just get from bad to worse. Now what?
Ryuu: *Sad* It would be all up to him.
With Hestia...
Haruhime: So that's how she in both places at once?
Rolan: Yes.
Mikoto: But what now? That thing has a god's power.
Meteria: Mr. Rolan?
The screen shifted again to night in Orario. All the citizens were unnerved from a peculiar sight. There were two moons in the sky.
Chigusa: What is that?
Naaza: How can that be?
Mikoto: Are there two moons?
Ais: No.
Mikoto: Huh?
Ais: Look closer. One of them isn't a moon.
The screen zoomed into one of them and indeed there were small magic circles that shaped into a moon. When it zoomed out, it showed both Loki and Freya watching from Babel.
Loki: The hell is going on out there?!
Freya: Seems like Arcanum. It looks like Artemis' bow and arrow.
Everyone saw another beam of light begin manifesting towards the arch of light. This would likely become a bow and arrow as many could easily predict that formation based on what they could see already.
Freya: Wielded by the Goddess of Purity. It's the strongest bow in Heaven.
Loki: *Frustrated* I'm not that much of an idiot! Even I know that! The problem is using our Arcanum goes against our code! If she was that stupid, she would've been shot back to Heaven a long time ago!
Freya: Then perhaps it's because she was captured.
The ground beneath them rumbled even as far up as they were.
Loki: That must be from the Dungeon.
Freya: The monsters are agitated. If that arrow is released the Lower World will be gone.
The screen changed again to the Dungeon where monsters of all kinds were rampaging. As they did, Finn rallied his Familia to stop them from advancing.
Finn: Hell will break loose if those monsters get past. We cannot allow that to happen. This is our city and at this moment, we will make that known to those monsters. They will not take one step past here.
All of them charged forward to keep the monsters contained where they are. With Loki, she and Freya were stuck in Babel to wonder what exactly was going on outside.
Loki: Damn that Ouranos! He knew what was going to happen and he still kept us in Orario!
She was going to leave but Freya had stopped her.
Freya: Even if all of us banded together, it wouldn't be of any good.
Loki: I don't care. We can't just sit around when we're the only ones who can even do anything about this!
She left in a hurry leaving Freya and Ottar there.
Tiona: We were still in the Dungeon at the time. If she was that serious then it must have been bad.
Tione: Idiot! A god's power was aimed right at us! Of course she'd be acting like that!
Finn: It wouldn't have mattered any way. None of us had any part in the grand scheme of things. It seems Bell Cranel and his friends had to be the heroes of the day.
On screen...
Freya: Go help them.
Ottar: Is that your wish?
Freya: Yes. Unfortunately, this is all we can do.
He bowed and agreed to her request. Meanwhile, the screen switched back to Hermes as he explained what had to be done. He and the others were running down to where Bell and Artemis had fallen.
Hermes: The only way to defeat Antares is with that weapon Bell has.
Ryuu: That spear?
Hermes: Actually, it's more of an arrow than a spear. Just before or after she was taken, she used the last of her power to summon that.
Welf: It's a divine weapon.
Lili: You know about them?
Welf: Yeah. Hephaestus told me about them. They're from Heaven. Weapons capable of slaying gods.
The screen showed the arrow falling from the sky and making a crater where it landed. It then shifted once more to Artemis as she spoke to Bell.
Artemis: It's name is Orion. In our language, it means hunter.
Bell looked at the spear in his hands with awe. Though, he grew uneasy about the power in his hands.
Artemis: Antares is lying in wait now, but it could still come for us at any time.
The audience saw the monster open its eye and free itself from some of the tentacles.
Artemis: It was always been a brutal force, but now that it has a god's power, it's become a disaster waiting to happen. The only way to kill it is with this arrow.
In Orario, the people saw the arrow appear in what they thought was the moon. The fact is pointed at them made everyone on edge.
Eina: A bow and arrow?
Ganesha: *Watching the sky* You're running out of time, Hermes.
The screen returned to Hermes and the others once more.
Asfi: Wait a moment.
Hermes: Hm?
Asfi: You're really going to leave the fate of the world in Bell Cranel's hands?
Hermes: We... can't do anything else.
Asfi: *Furious* That's too cruel! How can you force all this responsibility onto a single boy?! Killing a god is a great taboo!
Hermes: You're wrong. That is not what this is about.
In the audience...
Hera: HERMES!!!
The goddess stomped over to him, her face contorted in anger.
Hera: You bastard!! What the hell were you thinking?!
Hermes: I-
Hera: You sent my Grandson there so he could kill a god?!
Everyone one else in the audience was shocked at that truth.
With Loki...
Loki: Damn it. That's too much for a kid like him.
Ais: *Tearing up* Bell...
Aria: *In disbelief* He... He has to... kill her?
Albert: But they've gotten so close. Now he has to throw that away to save everyone?
Aria: *Crying* That's too cruel to make a sweet boy do!
She fell into her husbands arms and Albert himself could only stare at Bell with wide eyes. Even he couldn't have imagined the boy had this kind of burden placed onto him.
Lefiya: Bell...
Tiona: Argonaut...
With the Xenos...
Wiene: Lyd, does Bell really have to do that to her?
Lyd: Uh...
Gros: Wiene, sometimes life isn't kind to us. We know first hand living in the Dungeon. Bell Cranel has simply been unlucky this time.
Ray: Unlucky is too tame for what is about to happen! Forget killing a god, he's supposed to kill the girl he loves!
Lyd: Yeah, but if he doesn't then...
They
With Bell, he was already leaking tears from his eyes. He tightly grasped his pants as the same feeling of helplessness crept back to him.
Artemis: You see now, Aphrodite?
Aphrodite: ...
Artemis: It wasn't Orion's fault. There was no other way.
Aprodite: But he could have- you-... grrr! There should have been another way!
Artemis shook her head. This greatly angered the Goddess of Beauty who placed herself in her face.
Aphrodite: *Angry* Don't screw with me!! I said you needed to find your own romance so you could really live! You didn't know what you were missing out on! That doesn't mean crap if you end up dead! Once you die, there's no meaning to it anymore!
Artemis: Aphrodite?
Aphrodite: *Crying* I... I was happy when I found out you found your love. I was glad you were finally opening your eyes. But, once I found out you died shortly after, I was so sad. Sad and angry at you for being so stupid. I even wanted to destroy the person who took you away. Especially after knowing it was your Orion who did it.
Artemis: My Orion did nothing wrong! He did what he needed to save everyone! To save me!
Aphrodite backed off and wiped her tears.
Aphrodite: Hmph! You're lucky you got your second chance here. I'll let the boy off easy this time, but that doesn't make me feel any better. I'm gonna give Hermes a piece of my mind.
With Hermes...
Alfia: *Menacing* I should obliterate you for what you made Bell do!
Meteria: *Demonic aura*
Hera: He was a sweet boy! The two even fell in love! How could you do that to them?!
Hermes: WHAT THE HELL DID YOU WANT ME TO DO, HUH?!!
They flinched back a bit, not expecting the god to snap at them.
Hermes: I LIKE THE KID TOO!!! HE'S A KIND SOUL!!! THE KIND THAT BARELY EXISTS IN ANY WORLD!!! I NEVER WANTED TO DO THAT TO HIM BUT THERE WAS NO OTHER WAY!!! IF I DIDN'T TELL HIM THEN ARTEMIS WOULD'VE DIED ANYWAY!!! THERE WAS NO TIME OR OPTIONS LEFT!!!
Alfia: *Furious* I'll still make you suffer for doing that to him!
Hermes: Go ahead! I felt like enough shit once the battle was over! Even months after that, I still have my regrets! I'm sure Bell feels hundreds of times worse than I do and I get to live the rest of time knowing I forced a child to kill a god for the good of the world!
Hera and the others looked in his eyes and saw genuine anger, sadness and regret in them.
Meteria: But... But Bell...
Hermes: he was lucky enough to get better after, but that doesn't mean the pain left him.
They saw the boy going through massive internal pain. The scene right now was clearly becoming too much to bear for him.
Rolan: Bell, no one here will hold it against you if you two need to step out. I'm sure your friends agree that there's no need for you to relive this a second time.
The boy wiped his tears and did his best to show his own strength by keeping his gaze on the screen.
Bell: I'll keep going.
The screen then changed back to Bell.
Bell: *Backing away* No... it's a lie. You can't... you can't ask that of me! Why did you choose me?! Tell you didn't bring me all this way to have to...
The Artemis in Antares returned back to his holding place as the monster fell into the same room they were in. The force of the impact alerted Hestia and the others of where it fell. The creature roared and ran forward to Bell.
Bell: *Throwing the spear away* Damn it!!
He took his Hestia Knife out and ran to fight it.
Artemis: Orion!
He rushed and jumped on to it slashed at the core on its chest.
*Slash slash slash*
Bell: Damn you!! Damn! You! To! Hell!!
All his attacks did no good. The knife couldn't cut past its defense. One of its arms then knocked him away and he slid on the ground away from it.
Bell: *Getting up* I promised... I would protect you!
They saw his mind flash back to their moment back to the lake. Back when he swore to protect Artemis no matter what until the end.
Bell: I will protect you!!
The boy went in again, this time targeting a weaker looking area on its body. He plunged the knife into its flesh and fire a spell into it.
Alise: Yes!!
Other celebrated this as a beacon of hope, but what would come next would dash it as quickly as it appeared. No sooner than when the monster lost its arm it grew back even faster than when it left. It slammed at the ground and forced him backwards. It's chest opened up and it fired a light beam at him while he was down.
In the audience...
Mikoto: Sir Bell!!
Haruhime: *Worried* Look out!!
Meteria: *Scared* BELL!!!
Everyone held their breaths seeing the boy stuck in the blast zone. When he looked up, Bell saw Artemis blocking the beam for him.
Aphrodite: Artemis!!
Hestia: No!
On screen...
Bell: Lady Artemis...
The others saw the bright light and rushed over to it quickly. Hestia grew more and more worried while she ran with the others.
Artemis: Orion! Please, I need you to pierce its heart with the arrow! Hurry!
Hestia: *Arriving with the others* Artemis!! Stop!!
Bell got back up and and rushed to her, but he was a step too late. The last fragments of her spirit faded away to nothing when the beam subsided.
Hestia: *Crying* Artemis?
Bell reached out his hand, but he already knew there was nothing there. He fell to his knees know she gave herself up for him and the shock held him there. His eyes and mouth wide open from what he witnessed. He started crying out helplessly while Antares prepared another attack.
Ryuu: Oh no!
Asfi: *Running to fight* You two, help him!
Ryuu and Asfi went to engage while the others tended to the boy. Welf ran forward and tossed Lili his magic weapon. The smith was going to join in the fight to help buy time. Antares showed off its power firing beams of energy that decimated whatever it hit. Ryuu and Asfi did what they could but the two were unable to deal any significant damage. Hestia and Hermes watched anxiously before the tiny goddess ran down.
Hermes: Hestia!!
In the audience...
Aphrodite: *Furious* You're giving up now?! How dare you!! You get back up and finish the job, little boy!!
Artemis: Aphrodite!!
Aphrodite: *Crying* Please! Just save her!
Bell watched through his tears but he knew he would fight through the pain enough to finish his job and save her. It was just that the other would have to wait and see him get to that point.
With Argo...
Argo: He's giving up?! You can't just give up! Don't quit on her now!
Ariadne: Don't be so hard on him! He just watched the girl he loves die right in front of him!
Feena: She's right. You're being insensitive, brother.
Argo: That's not the problem here! If he quits now, he'll be letting her down and himself down!
Crozzo: Even so, he looks broken.
With Astraea...
Astraea: *Crying* Artemis...
Alise: Lion?
She looked to Ryuu and saw her tearing up as well. The elf couldn't bear seeing him in so much pain after that.
Kaguya: He better get up soon. The fight isn't over yet.
Lyra: Come on. At least give the kid a moment.
Kaguya: He wastes precious time looking like a kicked puppy. Everything will be for nothing if he doesn't act.
Lyra: I get you're right but it's still wrong.
With the kids, many were already tearing up from the scene. Even Ardee had blown through entire boxes of tissues from watching.
Ardee(Emb): *Blowing her nose* I-*hic* another box, please.
Ilia: Bell... please get up.
Epimetheus: Now we'll see how rises as a hero.
Ilia: Huh?
Epimetheus: Even if it's hard, he still has to kill her and that monster. The way I see it, doing so saves her and makes him a hero. I'm sure they know that too.
Ilia looked to Bell and saw Artemis holding him tearfully as Bell cried.
With Loki...
Ais and the others teared up as well seeing Bell like this. Once more, the blonde regretted not being there for him when he needed someone.
On screen...
The screen shifted once more back to the Dungeon where the Loki Familia was. The monster numbers didn't relent even after the countless amount they all killed.
Tiona: They don't stop!!
Bete: Grr!! How the hell do we deal with this?! It's just one stampede after another!
Another roar echoed as a wyvern flew up to face them. However, its presence would he short lived as Ottar appeared and cut it so pieces.
Finn: Well well. That's some reassuring back up.
Ottar: I can't let them disturb my lady. I'll crush all of them.
Finn: Let's push them back!!
They let out their battle cries once more. The screen then went back to the battle with Antares and it was not going any better. It easily withstood and regenerated any and all attacks they launched at it and they were running out of options fast.
Lili: Nothing is working!
She turned to Bell and saw he was still on the ground, emotionally broken. Lili then saw Hestia appear and run towards where the spear was and take it.
Hestia: Bell!! Please, you have to stand up and fight!! Don't let Artemis' sacrifice be in vain!!
In the audience...
Hera: *Crying* Bell...
Zeus: Bell, you-
He stopped when he saw Artemis look at him. She flashed him as small smile before turning back to the screen.
On screen...
Hestia pleaded to him in tears as the others fought on.
Hestia: We can't abandon this world she cherishedThe children she loved! Listen to me Bell, I know she's still crying!
They saw the blue-haired goddess shed tears in her crystal prison. Hestia too kept leaking tears but pushed on to help Bell fulfill his duty.
Hestia: *Crying* Please, Bell!! Save her!!
His eyes snapped open when he said that. He remembered what else he wanted to be. A hero who saves people. He took the spear from Hestia and got to his feet.
Bell: Goddess, get back.
Zeus: *Smiling with tears* That's my boy. Go save her.
Epimetheus: *Small smile* He's made his choice.
On screen...
He charged his Argonaut skill as both he and the spear were cloaked in a bright white light. Antares heard this and turned to him, looking to stop the boy from doing whatever he was doing. Welf saw this and dropped his sword to get in position.
Welf: DO IT!!! FIRE!!!
Lili: Take this!!
She put the magic weapon into her small crossbow and fired it at the monster. The lightning magic hit and exploded right in the monster's eye but it looked unaffected. It fired another energy beam from its mouth, but Welf blocked it with the other magic sword on his back, diverting the beam away from him, Lili and Bell. The blade eventually broke, but it blocked enough until the attack ended. The shockwave threw him backwards.
Welf: GAH!!!
Lili: *Rushing to him* Master Welf!!
As he groaned in pain, the bells grew louder. Bell walked forward and Hestia noticed particles of light shining all over the room. As Bell stood before Antares, his words to Artemis echoed through his mind for everyone to hear.
Bell: (I envied those heroes. They could defeat any obstacle that stood in their way. They could make anyone smile and they never left any damsel in distress. They always saved them. That's the kind of hero I want to be.)
As he remembered that, he pushed forward, dodging each attack Antares threw at him. Meanwhile, Hestia's body glowed too, like the time she released her Arcanum. She held a tiny orb of light and threw it up while praying tearfully to her friend.
Hestia: *Crying* Artemis, please lend us your power just a little longer.
The gold light traveled forward and towards Bell.
Lili: Look at that!
Ryuu: It's Lady Artemis' divine light.
The boy continued to evade the monster's attacks as he got closer. He jumped and switched his grip to one about to throw. In his face, Antares manifested a smaller bow and arrow similar to the one that was in the sky that time.
Hermes: (That's right. This isn't a story about killing a goddess. This is about you saving a girl. One who is in great pain.)
On screen, the spear shined a bright gold as the color enveloped it. Antares fired its arrow and the two powers clashed.
*Clang*
Bell: HAAAAAAAAAH!!!
He kept pressing on and his spear pierced through the monster's attack. It kept going and caused cracks to appear all around its body the moment it touched its core. Bell skidded back momentarily as Antares fell to the ground, weakened. The boy walked forward once again. Looking to end it, he drew his knife once more and everyone could see the glittering gold light around the black blade as well. Then, Hestia's voice could be heard.
Hestia: (Artemis, I used to envy you so much. Your strength, poise, kindness. When we traveled together, I was worried because of how much you had changed.
As she talked, the audience, saw Bell walk up to the Artemis in the crystal as Hestia continued.
Hestia: (But, I admit I had fun. I'll never forget it.)
The gold light then entered the blade as the engravings glowed the same color. Bell looked down sadly as the tip rested on the crystal. He looked at her one last time before going to finish it.
Bell: HAAAAAAAH!!!
Hestia: *Crying* ARTEMIS!!!
*CRACK*
The knife cracked the crystal and the cracks traveled all over before breaking away. Artemis' body fell and Bell looked on with grief as he kept going, his knife getting closer and closer to her chest. He thrust the blade forward and Artemis tearfully smiled at him.
Artemis: Thank you... Orion...
Bell fell back to the ground from the force of it shattering. As he did, a new world flashed in his mind. He opened his eyes and he saw he was somewhere else. Standing across from his was Artemis in a white towel like that time. She was holding her spear as Bell got to his feet.
In the audience...
Welf: What's that?
Rolan: A realm in their minds in a way. Here is where they would make their goodbye to each other.
Meteria: *Crying* Bell... will they be able to meet again?
Bell continued crying when she asked that and grimaced from knowing the truth.
On screen...
Bell: Lady Artemis?
Artemis: Did you know, when gods pass we're reborn as well?
Bell kept looking at her with sadness on his face.
Artemis: So keep smiling for when we meet again.
He clenched his fists, but relaxed and but on a smile for her.
Bell: When will that be?
Artemis: Who knows? 100 years? Maybe 1000? It could even be another 10,000 years before we see each other again.
In the audience...
Meteria: *Paling* 10... 10,000 years?
Haruhime: *Crying* That's far too long. He wouldn't even be alive by then.
Rolan: You're correct.
With Loki...
Loki: He just never catches a break. What the hell?
Tiona: *Tearing up* It's so bittersweet.
Bete: Shit...
On screen...
Bell: I don't think I'll be around by then.
She walked to him and put her hand on his cheek.
Artemis: No, but you'll be reborn again and again somewhere in The Lower World. I know we'll meet again someday.
Bell felt his eyes begin to water once more. Artemis hopped back and put her hands on her spear and held it behind her. She smiled to him brightly before both broke into tears.
Artemis: *Crying* Listen, when that day arrives, let's catch up on 10,000 years worth of love, okay Bell?
The boy nodded to her, but the tears kept leaking out and his face broke before he fell from that trance.
In the audience...
Alfia: Bell... that's the promise you made to her?
Bell: *Wiping his tears* Yes. We promised 10,000 years of love when we meet again.
Alfia: Hm. I see. You two were very much genuine to the end.
Bell: So...
Alfia: *Nods* She passes.
Artemis: *Sniffle* Thank you.
She embraced Bell once more as Alfia returned to her seat.
Meteria: Sister, thank you.
Alfia: I couldn't separate them if I wanted to. Nothing I have would compare to a 10,000 vow of love, especially one as pure as theirs.
Hera: I agree. They are perfect for each other.
On screen...
Antares exploded into ash as a pillar of light extended to the night sky. Everyone would on screen and in the audience saw the light pierce the arrow in the sky shattering it and causing the bow to slowly fade away. White lights fell from the sky that looked like snow and everyone in Orario saw that. In the city, they wondered what it was with curiosity. In Elsos, the small group of people gathered around the boy on the ground as he wept. They mourned in silence for him and for Artemis who was no longer with them. Hestia stay there to hold his hand and comfort him, but that did nothing to lessen his wails of grief or the tears that streamed endlessly down his face. Victory came, but at a price too heavy for many to bear. The cheers in Orario heavily contrasting the grief the boy was experiencing.
Finn: I owe you one.
Ottar: I was just following the orders given to me.
He walked back to Babel and Freya could be seen before Fels was heard speaking.
Fels: The chaos in the Dungeon died down. We got by with minimal damage thanks to the Loki Familia. The bow and arrow of Arcanum has dispersed. Likely the ancient monster has been defeated. Ouranos, what of Goddess Artemis?
Ouranos: She is gone. Her spirit has been set free by the hand of a young boy.
Fels: Bell Cranel.
The screen changed a final time to show Hermes leaving the ruins with everyone else.
Lili: Master Hermes?
Hermes: It's fine. We'll wait for them.
It moved to Bell as he and Hestia remained on the wall of the ruins looking down on them.
Bell: I couldn't save her in the end. I promised to protect her and I broke that promise.
Hestia: It's okay. You may not be able to forgive yourself yet, but you did save Artemis. You should be proud.
Bell: *Gloom* I don't know if I can believe any of them.
Hestia: Have a look around.
The morning sun shone all over the land and Bell saw life return to the forest surrounding them.
Hestia: All the beauty has been restored. It's her thanking you.
The audience saw how the forest recovered and flourished with Antares' death.
Hestia: Did you see her crying? No, I bet she kept smiling.
Bell: Yeah.
She hugged him from behind as both of them began tearing up once more.
Hestia: In the end, you became Artemis' hero.
Bell: *Looking to the sky* Goddess... I want to become much stronger.
Bell and Hestia were seen leaving and joining the others on their way out the ruins. Everyone saw birds on Artemis' statue before the screen blacked out a final time.
In the audience, hardly anyone wasn't crying after seeing everything that happened. They needed several moments to compose themselves before moving forward. Bell very much included. He needed lots of time for his tears to stop. When they did, Zeus went to talk with him.
Zeus: Bell, don't doubt yourself on this one. You truly were her hero in the end.
Bell: *Sniffle* Thanks, Grandpa.
Welf: At least the hard part is over. Look on the bright side, she's here with you now.
Bell: *Holding her hand* Yeah, she is.
Artemis rested her head on his shoulder as she also did her best to calm herself. The other girls were moved by the purity of their feelings. They could have been jealous from what they saw and they were, but they all respected the feelings the two had for each other. However, some gloom would set in as they figured that meant they'd lose their chance with Bell now. That tore them up inside, but this wasn't the time that.
With Bell...
Aphrodite bowed in front of him much to his shock.
Aphrodite: Bell Cranel, I... I'm sorry about my previous actions.
Bell: I-
Aphrodite: I did treat you unfairly. I thought you killed Artemis with ill intent, but I see now that this was how it had to be. I didn't take you into consideration and how you must have felt to do that do her. Please forgive me.
Bell: N-No! It's fine. She's your friend, so of course you'd act like that.
Aphrodite: *Annoyed* HUH?! What the hell are you talking about?! I was just annoyed that all my hard work would have gone to waste since she died right after experiencing romance! Don't go assuming things!
Bell: S-Sorry!!
Artemis: Hehe! You don't have to pretend for me. I should be the one thanking you. If you hadn't kept trying to convince me, I don't think I would've been able to experience this wonderful feeling called love. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Aphrodite.
Aphrodite: *Blushing* J-Just be sure to enjoy it so you can prove I was right and you were missing out on life!!
Artemis: *Smiling* I will!!
As the ended their talk, Argo and Epimetheus walked to where Bell was sitting.
Bell: U-Uh, yes?
Epimetheus: You were a real hero there. Good job.
Bell: T-Thank you! That means a lot coming from a real hero!
Epimetheus: No, you were the true hero to the end. You should be proud.
Bell nodded and the man went to his seat before Argo came for his piece.
Argo: We all had to make hard choices on our path. Even so, seeing them through to the end to do what we thought was right is what made us heroes in people's eyes. In my eyes, you were the hero for saving her from her distress.
He held out his fist to Bell with a smile.
Argo: You did a good job. You're one of us now, brother. A hero.
Bell's eyes widened and turned glassy before he returned his kindness and bumped his fist with his own. Argo smiled and waved before returning to his seat. Meanwhile, the others were sharing their thoughts on the matter.
Chigusa: I never would have thought Mr. Bell went through all of that at that time.
Ouka: Me either.
Chigusa: *Blushing* O-Ouka, do you think we should do the same.
Ouka: I-I... If we could meet up everytime we are reborn, I would like that.
The girl smiled and held his arm when he said that. Take also wondered if he and Mikoto should make such a promise. Neither realized they had already done something of similar context a while back. Naaza hoped Miach could come to that conclusion, but his denseness gave her doubts.
Daphne: Hey, Cassandra, did you ever dream of stuff like that?
Cassandra: *Blushing* I-I-I wouldn't remember that! I hardly remember my dreams.
A lie. She fantasizes sometimes that she and Bell could make similar vows.
With Loki...
Loki: *Blowing her nose* What a beautiful romance. I should get one of my own.
She eyed Riveria's bust and went to dive in before the elf swatted her away.
Riveria: You'll do no such thing.
With Ais, the girl was hugging her legs in her seat in sadness.
Aria: Sweetie?
Ais: She took my rabbit...
Aria: D-Don't be so down! Remember, there was a chance he would accept others and you're one of them!
Ais: *Sniffle*
As much as Albert detested that idea, Ais being happy with Bell and other women would be better for her than Ais being depressed from losing a battle she lost before she realized it.
Tiona: Wow. That was a ride. It's like I read a romantic tragedy from one of my books.
Tione: It may as well have been. Oh, maybe someday the Captain and I will have that promise.
With the Xenos...
Wiene: *Hic* Is Bell done crying? I don't wanna see him sad.
Lyd: Don't worry. Something tells me the sad part is finally gone.
Ray: Good riddance. I don't think I could have handled anymore of that.
Laura: Me either. If she weren't there, I'd be there to comfort him.
Ray: Like hell you will!!
Two glared at each other while Lyd dragged Wiene to a safer location.
Marie: They promised 10,000 years. I wonder how long that is?
Rolan: Well, take how long you've been alive then live out the same amount of time a thousand times.
Marie: *Shocked* That's a long time!!
Gros: None of us would be alive. I doubt anyway.
Rolan: Who knows?
Ouranos: Bell Cranel.
The boy sat up when he heard his name and faced the old god.
Ouranos: You have done Orario and the world a great deed during that time. First, I must thank you.
Bell: Y-You're welcome!
Ouranos: However, with a heavy heart, I must enforce my law even in the face of the grief and sadness you two have experienced.
Bell: Huh?
Hera: *Angry* Oi! What are you trying to say?!
Ouranos: No matter how you look at it, the boy has slain a god. I cannot overlook this.
Bell lowered his eyes and several people looked to the old god with angry eyes.
Fels: (What are you doing?! You're going to get yourself killed!!)
Artemis: I refuse!! I will not accept Orion paying for a crime against me!! It's my fault Antares gained that power!! Punish me for my incompetence and leave Orion alone!!
Hera: Yeah!! Or better yet, punish Hermes for involving him!!
The other girls: YEAH!!!
Ouranos: Tempting, but no.
Meteria: *Worried* B-But he saved the world...
Ouranos: My decision is final. Bell Cranel must be punished for his actions.
Hera: But... but... *Looking to her side* Mr. Rolan!!
By the food bar...
Rolan: *Preoccupied* Makin' toast!!
Hera: Grr...
Bell: Guys, it's fine. I would prefer something like this anyway.
Lili: What?! But that's totally unfair!! You're the one who suffered the most!! Why do you need to be punished?!
Welf: She's right!! This is all wrong!
Eina: Lord Ouranos, I must insist that you rescind your punishment of him!!
Rehmer: Tulle!!
Misha: What are you doing Eina?!
Freya: I must agree as well. Bell has done nothing deserving of punishment. Not after everything he has been through.
Astraea: I agree. It would be unjust. Right girls?
Alise: Yeah!! Rabbit boy doesn't deserve this!!
One by one, more people rallied to Bell's defense. Inside, he felt happy he had this many people side with him, but he wanted to be selfish this one time.
Bell: Please, let me have this.
Hestia: But Bell...
Bell: I just want this closure. I can finally move on from what happened.
Hestia: Are... Are you sure it will help?
Bell: *Nods* Yes.
Hestia: Gh! Fine!
The boy presented himself before Ouranos.
Bell: What is your punishment for me?
Meteria: *Worried mother mode* Please, not the boiling oil!!
Ouranos: As it stands, you took a goddess' life. To make amends, an equal exchange would be required so you would need to give up one to make up.
A sharp rise in hostility rose in the room, but both parties were unfazed and continued, ignoring all of them.
Ouranos: However, seeing as how you saved Artemis in the process, I will be lenient.
Hera: Lenient?
Ouranos: Taking a life then saving one. I believe half is fair, so I will only need you to give up half your life.
Bell: *Nods* Done.
Meteria: *Demon mode* I WILL SEND YOU TO HELL SCREAMING!!!
Ouranos: *Raising his hand to Bell* I wasn't done. I want you to give up half your life and give it to Artemis. As you call it, to become a romantic couple. Married, so to speak.
Bell: *BLushing* EH?!
Ouranos: 10,000 years is a long time so you two should get started on your promise right away now that you're here.
He smiled at them as the two tearfully smiled at each other. Artemis embraced Bell and the boy nodded to him.
Bell: Yes, Sir!!
Ouranos: Now I probably don't have to do this, but as a god myself it feels right to. By the power vested in me as God of Orario, I give you my blessing for your union with Goddess Artemis.
Artemis smiled brightly and gave Bell a peck on the cheek as he thanked the smiling old god.
Hera: *Sigh* Don't scare us like that.
Fels: Speak for yourself! You were all so angry at him I thought would have a heart attack- wait... I can't have heart attacks.
Zeus: Alls well that ends well. My boy finally got his girl and resolved all his conflicts for now. One girl down, only dozens more to go-
CRASH*
Alfia: Only if they get through me. The goddess will get this pass for now.
As she said this, Rolan came back with a plate in his hand.
Rolan: Butterin' toast! Hm?
He walked in and saw everyone standing around Bell and his family.
Rolan: What are you all doing up still? You gonna get back in your seats or what?
Bell: Why?
Rolan: Just took a small break. Show's not over yet.
Aphrodite: But we saw everything, right? Are you going to show what happens to Bell with me later?
Rolan: Oh no, nothing like that. Just sit back down and I'll show you.
The looked at each other and shrugged before getting back in their seats.
On screen...
They saw a lush forest on screen. Birds were heard chirping and a voice was made out to all of them.
???: (When I came back to my senses, I was there. I listened to the soothing melody of a gentle stream and a peaceful breeze while feeling the soft grass under my feet. A bird sung as if it were blessing my birth. My life was transcendental. I'm an almighty goddess.)
Hestia: Hang on, what is this?
Rolan said nothing and the show kept playing.
On screen...
???: (I instantly accepted my fate as a missing pillar of Heaven, a ruler of "purity". But there was still one question left unanswered. Why I stood in the world of mortals. This was not the place for me, a goddess. Why am I here?)
Right as they asked themselves that, a voice called out to them.
???: Hey! Nice to meet you!
On screen, they saw Hestia there with her welcoming smile as always.
Bell: Goddess is there?
Hestia: I'm lost.
Meteria: What are we looking at?
???: (Looking back to the strange voice, I saw a girl standing there. With a flash of recognition, I knew who she was. She is the "hearth", a great pillar of the undying.)
Hestia: And I'm glad to see you again.
???: (But... why could I not say. There was an overflowing emotion of nostalgia.I felt like I've known her. I felt like she'd been with me.)
Hestia: I didn't think Hermes could be this thoughtful to send you here for the time of your awakening. He finally did something godlike, haha!
???: (I had no answers as to why she was smiling, or why I was drawn to the twinkling in her eyes. And then, I saw.) Are you crying?
Hestia: ..n-no, I'm not crying. I promised myself that when I'd see you again, I'd see you with a smile, not with tears. There are so many stories I want to share with you. There are many words I need to tell you. But before all that, there's someone you have to see.
In the audience...
Hestia: That has to be Artemis!! There isn't a doubt in my mind!
Loki: I thought she said it would take 10,000 years?
Artemis: I did.
Aphrodite: Surely this isn't...
On screen...
???: (As she spoke, I felt a tinge of emotion.)
Hestia: He's been waiting for you, forever and ever, and now, he's still waiting for you. Through many physical changes, and after a heart breaking moment and a time of despair, with his unchanging soul, he waited.
???: (I didn't understand a word she spoke. But even so, there was... something overflowing my heart. What was it?)
Hestia: Go ahead and remember the promise you need to keep.
Bell and Artemis smiled at each other as did some others, knowing where this was headed.
Hermes: *Removing his hat with a smile* Happy endings are real.
Zeus: *Smiling* Yes. Yes they are.
Meteria: *Tears of joy* Is she...
Haruhime: *Excited* Haaaaa~ It's the happy ending in a storybook!!
On screen...
???: (I went towards the direction she pointed. Through trees and along the stream I went, following the voice of birds until my legs started running as if they had forgotten how to walk.)
They saw them run through the forest as if chasing a fleeting dream that came so long ago.
???: (What is this feeling that's kindling my heart? Who is the "he" that's making my eyes shine? I don't know... yes, I know. I don't know... yes, I know. I knew the reason for the tears flowing down my cheek. Past the rays of light, through the trees and a forest, a field came into view. All I could see was the white light. Like a virgin snow field, and like silver lining behind dark clouds, beyond there, someone was standing.)
???: (Countless nights have passed. No... it has been 10,000 years.)
Bell: (10,000 years...)
He stared at the screen in awe before looking to his side at Artemis. He smiled before looking back to keep watching.
On screen...
???: (This was a neverending story of love. Love that I'd been awaiting, even before I became myself. I didn't know how I should react. I didn't know what to say. Then, I heard gods' voices. The wind of the traveler, the smile of the hearth, and the tricks of love, all told me to simply be me. So, I collected all my thoughts and emotions and turned them into his name.)
???: Bell!
Loki: Son of a... he did do it.
Gareth: HAHAHAHA!!! I owe the kid a few drinks for that!
Riveria: *Smiling* Good for him.
With Astraea...
Alise: She just said his name! You heard that too, right?!
Kaguya: I did.
Lyra: Yup.
Ryuu: *Nods*
On screen...
???: (Everything came together. My eyes caught a boy for I've so longed.)
After so long, the bright light died down and replacing was an even brighter smile from a face they all recognized.
Bell: *Smiling* Welcome back, Goddess Artemis.
Artemis: (The promise was kept. With a tearful smile, I said...) Let's have the 10,000 years of love!
Seeing the two of them together was the last thing everyone saw before the screen blacked out a final time.
Rolan: *Dusting his hands* Now it's over.
AN: Yeah, I'm just gonna cut it there. Extra happy on the aftermath next chapter before we dive into the next topic which is all about Bell's Dad (Mostly and the version where I fixed him) and because you all waited long enough for this. For now, I FINALLY DONE with this massive chunk of the anime. At last, I get to not suffer in limbo while writing this. Fun, but also painful every time. Worse for this chapter as the serious nature prevented me from making my normal stupid jokes like I usually do, but sacrifices must be made. By the way, be sure to vote in the discord server if you haven't already for the oneshot special for 600. Voting will end this weekend. Also, I'll be showing a list of the upcoming chapters for this story soon, so watch out for that.
Anyway, thanks for reading. Thank you very much also for the support and especially the patience as this took much longer to put together. Thanks for 500, even though that was a long time ago. Leave a comment on your thoughts if you want and I'll see you next time!