Character quote of the day: "Hey Skelly, does snake charming apply to Lamias? Cus' if so, I really need for you to start a melody for me." ~ Bell Cranel


Story: Somebody Up There Likes Me

Chapter Thirteen: North to Siberia


Bache walked behind Bell, keeping a very close eye on him. She had to; who knew what might happen next? Bell attracted danger like a fire drew moths to its flames. A completely uneventful day might be occurring, and Bell would wander past and throw a sword into it. He just had a way of making anomalies pop up. Therefore. She would have to be on guard around him at all times.

Especially right now as they led the largest grouping of rabbit monster ever seen. There were more than a quarter of a million of them. To think that all of them were going to Siberia? They would overrun the wasteland in five years if they went unchallenged. That was another thing for the boy to consider: Siberia was massive and almost completely unexplored. It was just too cold, too desolate, and above all too huge to get anywhere. Who knew what could be lurking in the wasteland?

It was just too hard to believe that some… some boy was the leader of such a huge gathering. He'd gone from a respectable 'person-of-interest' to VIP in the span of a month - and no one had seen it coming. In fact, what she'd heard about the said boy, was that he wasn't even in a famillia yet. That in itself was odd. One would think that the gods or goddesses would have jumped on him far sooner. That was their loss; now they'd be all over him.

She kept her face impassive as the thought rotated. There had to be reasons, some logic explaining why the Gods might have held off recruiting Bell. But the only reasons she could imagine were stupid if one was to think about it. First, perhaps the gods wanted to see how far Bell could go without a blessing. That was the most likely reason. To her, it was a complete and utter mistake doing that. He was growing too fast and might actually grow to resent the gods for their decision. It also left the boy open so at literally anytime any god could claim him in an instant. There was also a strong chance that he might die because of it, too.

A second reason was just plain and totally stupid all together. Perhaps the gods had no idea the boy existed or had just overlooked him? It was a simple idea, that they just had no idea the boy was even around. It was was unlikely though, because the gods talked - a lot.

The third reason bubbling in the back of her mind made sense, but at the same time, caused more questions to arise. Had Bell rejected the gods when approached by them? It would be a move completely unexpected and idiotic on the boys part - why would he not want a blessing? What did he gain by working alone? What would he be trying to prove? Many questions indeed.

She wanted to speak her mind to Bell; Bache was a quiet woman and had been since she was born. Timidity possessed no place in her psyche, no she was always observing and assessing the situation before her. She spoke when her input was required, or when curious. It was better that way; Bache had the mind, while her counterpart wielded the voice. She wondered what Argana might do once she found out about this little escapade.

However, Bache did not want to think what she might do to the red-eyed boy before her. She would no doubt try to fight him. He would not survive the encounter, as he was now. In a heartbeat, she wiped the thoughts from her mind. There was no need to tell Argana anything. Not now, at least.

Returning to her previous musings, most of the time she started talking was when she became excited in battle. Learning common had also made her speak much more than she normally would; funny how it all came back to that white-haired child. This baby-faced teen would surely be a force to be reckoned with when he grew up. Siberia would turn him into something far beyond expectation, she knew that.

She wasn't naive enough to think he would come right back to Orario. He would be gone for quite a long time. He wouldn't leave the rabbit monsters up there, not without being certain, they could handle themselves. He'd make sure he knew where they would settle and what kind of monsters lived up there. Reiterating that most of Siberia was a massive wasteland failed to overstate the issue if what she heard was right. To think that the boy would be on his own up there? Well, by himself and with a horde of monsters behind him. He should be fine with the army at his back. He'd grow at an exponential rate as well - he had to lead, stand strong before his followers, make tough choices that could make or break his heart. He'd grow far beyond his current status.

"Are you sure you have a plan, Cranel?"

That was the elf that had spoken. She was just a little bit behind the blonde haired swordswoman, Ais was her name. She was walking alongside Bell, protective movements in every stride.

Bache was not a stupid woman. She could clearly see what the two were up to. They could try and keep up the act around the boy but she knew. They were enticing him to join their familia. Not only that, but they were trying to make her keep her distance. An entertaining concept, since she was the one who had protected the boy more than they.

If Bell joined the Loki Familia, she wouldn't be able to learn more from him. If it had been just the two of them, and they hadn't run into these two then maybe….

It didn't matter.

It was very likely that he would join the Loki familia at any rate. It's not like he could join hers. No, her sister would try to eat him or something before he even got close. That standoff at the steps had been enough evidence as it was. That and the fact that he was a male waved red flags. There would have been no way to actually keep hold of him. Bell knew the code as well. That meant it would have been even harder to force a believable scenario without her being at fault.

Even if she did, there would have been no way that she could have kept a hold on the boy for long. Someone would step in or figure it out. Bell was a Person of Interest to the gods now. After reading what she had on the boy, she could tell. He had done far too much for a no-level to remain anonymous. Her plan had been cut to pieces the moment they'd run into the Loki Familia.

A sigh, silenced by years of solitude quivered in her chest. Bache could always just figure the dungeon out on her own. She could easily get down into the lower levels on her own already. She would have to before the younger amazons arrived. Bell had helped her see what the world would be like. There was going to be a lot of training involved - the dungeon was far more mysterious than she'd given it credit. No matter: she was a captain. This was to be expected of her, by Kali.

"Yeah, I already told you I was saved from the second group of juggernauts that attacked me. That adventurer had apparently tracked me down, the falcon I had earlier was actually Lady Falcon believe it or not. I think the Freya Familia is going to handle keeping the crowds in line."

Bache raised her eyebrow. The bird that had perched on Bell's shoulder was actually a person? She'd wondered where the creature came from.

Once again the elf looked displeased by the boy's response, "I am aware and I still don't understand how she knew you were in danger."

The boy shook his head, "I didn't think to ask. I mean, a giant juggernaut had formed right in front of me."

The elf raised an eyebrow at him, "Unusual, I've heard of such occurrences before, just not with juggernauts. It was a lack of judgment on my part."

Bell turned his head to look at Riveria with a fake dumbfounded look, "Tell me how you would have known."

The high elf looked at him unimpressed by the look on his face as if it was a simple answer. "If smaller monsters could make themselves stronger by feeding off monster crystals and adventurers than the same could be said about the stronger ones as well."

"Yes, but you make it sound as if you could have done something to the juggernauts." Bell pointed out looking skeptical.

That seemed to get under Riveria's skin as her face scrunched up, "Are you saying my strength is insufficient?"

"Riveria, you were just waking up from a bad case of magic depletion when it happened. Do you really have something in your arsenal that could take out that damn thing without bringing the whole cave on top of us as well? Ais and Bache would have had a better chance; they're frontline fighters." Bell argued back.

"I have more experience than the both of them. I assure you I would have figured something out."

"That just means you're old," Ais spoke for the first time since the conversation started.

'Oh-ho!' Bache twitched. 'The sword princess is still sore about getting punished?'

Bache watched the elf lose her cool instantly, there was a crunching noise and Ais was hopping on one foot.

"Ow… Ow… Ow…." The blonde haired girl uttered in complete monotone. She gave Bell a look and started chuckling. Bell had a look of amazement on his face as he looked at Ais, caught in a trance at the odd behavior.

"That is the cutest thing I have ever seen," he muttered, still in a stupor. He must have been thinking out loud by accident. That caused the elf to 'hmph' her distaste. The boy grabbed the hopping girl by her shoulders to stead her. "You alright?"

"Ow…." Was all she said as looked up from her foot to the boy. The boy flustered before breaking into laughter.

"Cranel she will be fine." Riveria said irritably once more regaining the boy's attention, "Now back to the original topic. Why weren't you more surprised by her sudden appearance?"

He shrugged. "I dunno. I mean, she has been watching me for a while now."

Bache looked at the back of the boy's head. He'd known that he was being watched? Interesting. The Boy was more aware of his surroundings than he let on, and caught the notice of higher-leveled adventurers - not just some dense kid it would seem.

"You knew she was tailing you?" The high elf inquired.

Bell tilted his head at Riveria, "Well, I didn't know it was her exactly, but I knew I was being watched by the Freya Familia early on. They didn't really try to hide their interest."

The elf remained silent. Bache could see the subtle frown form on Riveria's lips. It would seem the Loki Familia was slow to see the writing on the walls: Freya was after Bell as well. The most powerful goddess in the land of Orario had her sights on him. If she'd sent one of her finest like Lady Falcon, it was only a matter of time. Riveria must have realized this as well. Freya wouldn't wait any longer. Not after something like this. The window of opportunity was closing. Bache really wondered who would get him first. Loki or Freya? Those were the top two candidates at the moment. It was certain that the other gods would jump at the opportunity as well, once they marched up topside.

Thoughts turned tactical in her mind. How long until they reached the surface, two floors was it not? Yes. Two floors until they reached the surface at the Tower of Babel. Bache wondered what this Lady Falcon had in store for them when they reached the top.


I had to admit that I was feeling nervousness creeping up on me the closer we got to the surface. It was bad enough that we hadn't run into anyone - adventurer or monster so far. It was quiet in the dungeon. Well, minus the pitter-patter of thousands of rabbits hopping along behind my group. It was building up the unnecessary tension a situation that could turn explosive the minute we set foot outside the dungeon. I, of course, had faith in Freya to get the job done. I'm sure she had the most pull in the dungeon city. This was not out of her reach.

BUt in full honesty with myself at least, I honestly didn't know if that was true or not. I just wondered how she was going to pull it off. How could she make an entire race escaping the Dungeon seem like something inconsequential? I would have to say that I was quite beside myself. I really wanted her to explain whatever plan she'd concocted than what she had told me.

A realization struck home: we were close. Keeping my senses calm, I realized we were on the first floor. This was where I'd started my journey. This was where I found out who my parents were, that my grandfather was really a god. This was where I found out that I was something more.

Once I hadn't thought of myself as anything special. It turned out that I was all along, but I couldn't let that get to my head. Sure I'd been given the tools to be successful, but it was all a matter of how they were used, and how hard I worked. Anyone could rise to power. Anyone could lead. But ... not everyone would be good at it. It took time, will, courage, faith, strength, and by god did you have to have a way with words.

Zeus was a great teacher, perhaps greater than I'd thought. He'd taught me the most important things in life before dropping off the face of the map. I remembered every lesson he'd ever given me, thanks to my memory retention. That too was far more advanced now, thanks to the powers of the Jackalope. Why else had I been able to work with the rabbits so naturally?

Thinking gave me a surprising insight: my abilities were the same abilities that every Jackalope had. I was literally born to lead the rabbits. Not elected, not bumbling my way closer to the right answer. Born. Purpose. It was a perfect role that I could turn away at any time, yet chose to accept.

I had no idea what to do, once I got to Siberia. There was a lot to learn and not enough time to do it. I wasn't worried about the rabbits as much as for myself. The rabbits could make holes fast and be out of harm's way in no time, and they had plenty of food around them. I wasn't as lucky. This was going to be difficult. Let's not add to the fact that I had to protect them from wildlife to boot. I just hoped these rabbits realized that some of them were going to die before they even reached Siberia.

It was bound to happen. Not all of these rabbits were young; some were very old, some were very young. I was happy that they could defend themselves from some things, but I was mostly worried about the people that would pop up along the way. I really didn't want to have to deal with that. Ugh, this was going to be brutal. To make things worse I had no idea how long this was going to take. How long would I be gone? Months? Years? Decades? I had no way of knowing the answers until we got there. I had no idea of what to expect from Siberia.

There was no room for making bad decisions: I had the lives of more than a quarter of a million rabbits on my hands. A mere fourteen years of experience would not be a valid excuse. I had to do the best I could, both for them and for myself... These were my people after all. They seemed to trust my judgment. They would listen, they would follow, and hopefully, know what I was supposed to do.

Dead ahead, in the dim darkness of the cave, I could see the dim glowing purple of the portal. We were almost out of the dungeon, and as challenging as this had been, the real challenges would begin. No more time for dallying. I would have to be ready now. It was time to 'grow my antlers as they say.'

I don't who but that was beside the point!

"Alright, ladies, from this point on I have no idea what to expect. Once we leave, I will lead the rabbits up. We'll do what Freya's Familia asks and I'll let the rabbits advance while I resupply with Helix before setting after them."

"So you do plan on leaving today?" Ais spoke up from beside me. I looked at the blonde-haired doll and gave her a small nod with a smile.

"Yeah, the faster I get to Siberia and get things set up… the faster I come back."

Ais seemed to understand that, but her face remained neutral but I could tell she was deep in thought. 'Hmm, seems she doesn't want me to go so suddenly.'

The high elf Riveria had a perplexed look on her face as well, "I understand your decision Cranel. I just wouldn't be so hasty to leave as soon as possible." I looked up at her emerald green eyes with confusion, "There might be some people that would be angered by your sudden disappearance."

'Ahhhh, fuck! I'm dead and just didn't realize it yet. Eina and Syr are going to kill me! No, I have to worry about the whole Hostess! See Zeus! This what a harem will get you! Too many women in any man's life will bring ruin. That and how the Hell can you be a harem master if you never even had one in the first place! I HOPE TO FREYA THAT THE WOMAN YOU FEAR SO MUCH FINDS YOU!'

I rubbed my temples in irritation, "Thanks, Riveria." I said, sarcasm dripping from my voice.

Riveria looked discomfited as if I had struck her. "I'm sorry?"

"You should be." I agreed. After giving her a few seconds, I started smirking. Yep, she was annoyed now, if the narrowed eyes were something to go by. "That was something I could have gone without remembering Riveria."

"Be that as it may, it would be beneficial for you to do so."

"Right. I'm not saying that I won't do that. It's just that some people will be extra glad to see me." I could tell she understood what I was saying the moment I said it. "Alright let's get a move on. We don't have very long to get to Siberia before winter arrives. First: let's not cause any problems for the people up in the city! We cannot have a fight break out. Helix, you're with me."

"Yes, Jackalope," Helix answered, hopping over to my side. I steeled myself as I stepped through the purplish glow. My vision was hit by the common sight of the entrance to the dungeon. Ah, it been a while since I'd last seen it. My gaze followed the stone circle staircase upwards. The glow stones shone brightly against the thick stone walls. Back to the world, I knew. I smiled in appreciation at the sight.

"This is the world of above?" Asked the little rabbit monster beside me. He sounded almost in awe.

"Trust me, you haven't seen anything yet." I smiled down at Helix, "Come. I have a feeling that we're going to run into the Freya Familia above us."

"On your lead, Jackalope," bowed the little rabbit.

We started up the steps when I heard the portal making noise behind us. I turned to see the Loki Familia coming through. Well, Riveria with the horde following after her. Earlier I had asked Bache and Ais to watch the door and make sure nothing else was going to come up behind us. I waited for her to reach me. "I wonder how this will go…."

"I have a few ideas with which I will entertain myself." I blinked as we climbed the steps.

"Which are?" I asked curiously wondering what my Familia would pull.

"They could call it a mass monster taming event," she murmured in deep thought, "It would make the most sense."

'A monster taming event? I wonder…' Realization caused my eyes to widen, "Like Monster Feria." I summarized.

"Yes, exactly like that." She confirmed my thoughts. 'Unlike Riveria, I know I am in Freya's Familia. This will boost her reputation and the reputation of her Familia. It would also protect me from any gods and goddess trying to reach out for me. The Freya Familia will go down in history for actually removing a monster species from the dungeon completely. That's something no one has ever been able to do.' Freya would no doubt go above and beyond with this little event as well. There was going to be a massive crowd outside.

I could hear the truth of that when we reached to top of the steps. I could hear people outside the tower.

Speaking of which, it was dimly lit, and there was only one person inside. It was like seeing a completely new place. Babel, even at night, had some hustle and bustle; it was never dead like this. I turned my head to look at the person standing in the middle of the tower. It was a very tall man, a Boaz I believe, with a massive weapon on his back. I could tell just by looking at the man that he was powerful. I also saw Riveria tense out of the corner of my eye. He must have been high up the ladder in Freya's Familia. I took slow steps, biding my time as I walked to him. Seeing someone in the same Familia shouldn't have been this nerve-wracking, should it?

"Hello, I'm Bell Cranel." I put my hand out to greet the Boaz, once close enough. I wouldn't have been surprised if he didn't shake my hand. There was a strong air of confidence radiating off of him; he looked impassive about the whole ordeal. In a move that surprised me, his large hand met my own and squeezed. 'Oy he's got a strong grip, that's for sure.'

"I know who you are, Cranel. I am Ottar, Captain of the Freya Familia." His voice was deep, like the cracking of oak branches; I got the idea that he was a loud man when he so desired. "You and your group are to head north and pass through the gate there. I will escort you to the destination. The rest of our Familia will keep the crowds in line and make sure no one causes a problem."

Well shoot, it looked like the cat was out of the bag. Did Freya not tell him to keep my membership in her Familia a secret? Or did he mean our in a different way? I quickly changed the subject before Riveria caught on. Better safe than sorry. I don't think I would be able to lie to the high elf and get away with it. Even if I did get away with it I wouldn't feel right doing it. I raised an eyebrow at him, "You say that as if someone would try."

He crossed his large arms, ignoring how close he came to breaking my promise with Freya, "You say that as if you think one would not."

I nodded at him, "Point taken." Then that meant even Captain Ottar had no idea that his Goddess was Lady Falcon. Meaning the only ones to know her secret was Zeus and I. Oh, boy.

Ottar looked past me, "Nine Hell. It has been a while."

"Yes, I believe several years since the last time our paths crossed." The high elf reckoned. I watched the two stare at each other. "How has your new role been going?" She inquired with a small amount of interest.

"Busy." He grunted. The elf clicked her tongue. Oh, now I want to the story behind these two. "Cranel, I was aware that the monsters won't cause a problem."

"We will not cause any unneeded violence with your people, King." I blinked at that last part. King? What was Helix going on about?

The man looked at the black rabbit with newfound interest, "You know of me?"

Helix looked up at the towering man, "People speak of much within the dungeon. One with open ears will know everything."

"..." The man stayed silent for a bit before looking back at me. "You will bring much to our Familia." Wow, now that was some high praise coming from the tall man.

"If he decides to join yours that is," Riveria added, a half-smile on her face. That surprised me; Riveria was quick to jump on that as well. Riveria didn't lose her cool doing that. In fact, she was looking at me with friendly eyes. "There might be better options than just joining the first one that comes along, no?"

The man had a smile of sorts cross his lips. "That is what you think."

I shook my head. Now of all times, people want to start fighting? Over me to boot. I had to put this spark out before it became a flame.

"Could we hurry this the fuck up!" Came a yell from behind Ottar; someone had snuck in when everyone was busy talking. I looked past the larger than life male at the newcomer. I'd seen this man. He was the one that had stuck up for me at the guild, Allen, I believe. "I don't want the Goddess to get irritated by our lack of progression! Ottar tells the high elf to beat it so we can get a move on."

Riveria glared at Ottar then cast an even darker one to the cat person. "Besides the rudeness, he has a point. Away we go!"

I looked at Helix, who moved to get the Needle Rabbits and Almiraj to start moving forward and walked past Ottar and Allen. Much to my surprise, Allen walked up next to me. 'Hmm, I should try and break the ice with him.' It was best to make friends with your Familia members.

Better start with the basics. "Thank you for what you did back at the guild awhile back."

"It wasn't my idea." He bit back, scowling like the words caused some form of pain.

I nodded; he seemed to have a very toxic personality. "Still."

"I don't like you." I could tell he was glaring at me under his helmet. Man, what did I do to get this guy to hate me so?

"Well, I don't know what I have done to earn your anger, Allen," I told the man. This was confusing; where did this anger come from, and why did he have to bring this up now at any rate?

"Freya favors you highly. Do not disappoint her, or I will kill you."

'Holy Dumplings of Malthak. What is wrong with this person! Jealousy … to that much?' I narrowed my eyes at him, "I don't wish to disappoint anyone, especially the first Goddess that took me in. I also don't appreciate comrades threatening me, and your attitude is subpar."

"We are not comrades, we are rivals. If you weren't in the Familia or if Freya liked you less, you would not be alive. Remember that." The utmost seriousness was on his face.

Fortunately, Ottar and Riveria caught up to us before anything else could be said. Thank the Goddess for that. Ottar seemed cool as it was, but Allen was just a fool. I wonder what else I had to expect from Freya's Familia? I hoped to the Goddess that Allen was the worst. I honestly hoped they were not all like Allen. Freya helps me. There was nothing viler than a jealous man. They would kill brothers for what they wanted.

Allen moved past, heaving the doors to the outside open and I was assaulted with a massive crowd of villagers, adventurers, and people of other occupations. It was odd to see so many people gathered here. They were all standing at the sides of the street, leaving a massive path open. On both sides of the street were members of my new familia keeping people in line.

Ottar moved forward and stood in front. One hand rose in a regal fashion, before booming out a voice every bit as impressive as I'd suspected back in the dungeon. "Bell Cranel has tamed these species of monster, they will no longer spawn as the enemy in the dungeon. This is the power of the Freya Familia."

Cheers broke out all around us, my name yelled out as I'd just saved the city from destruction. It was overwhelming, seeing the awestruck looks they gave me. I had no idea. People kept on praising me and the Freya Familia. It was interesting seeing Riveria getting extremely annoyed at all the cheering for the Freya Familia. She still had no idea that I was part of the Familia. I also noticed that Ottar and Allen had dropped back and we're talking about something.

Things started to quiet down when we started moving down the steps, all eyes focused on Helix who stood proudly at my side, the black almiraj. Then the horde of monsters started pouring out after us.

"Rabbits?!"

"Oh, look honey!"

"They're so cute!"

"Careful now, those bastards have killed plenty of low-level adventurers."

"They look harmless."

"That's what dead adventurers said!"

"They are tamed, right? Right?"

"I want one!"

"That white haired kid is amazing!"

"It's Bell Cranel!"

"Why won't anyone answer me?!"

"Make way for these rabbits!"

"Cranel sure is cute!"

"They're taking the rabbits to-"

"Just stop with that already!"

"Please, someone just tell me those rabbits are tamed! Please!"

Yep, nothing has changed at all. It was good having the sun beating down on my skin. Goddess had I missed the sun. I missed the wind messing with my hair. I missed the smell of lush green life. I missed the city sounds. It was good to know that I was back.

Riveria had decided to take her growing frustration out on the source. "Bell, these people believe you have joined the Freya Familia. Why aren't you denying this?"

"Well I mean, I did join the Freya Familia." The elf frowned at my words.

"Is that your final decision?" She almost seemed- no she was disappointed in my choice. "I'm sure the Loki Familia would be a better fit for you since you already know most of the higher members. That and Loki does favor you."

I blinked at that tidbit of knowledge, "Well, fools gold. Why didn't you say something before?!" I questioned her in disbelief. I knew Riveria wouldn't have made up this story just to try turning me over to her side. 'Then why had she waited so long to tell me about this?'

"You don't understand, Cranel. You just disappeared. Gone, no one knew you were alive. Loki and the rest of our Familia have been looking for you since you first disappeared. When you told Loki that you had put in a request, she and I spent a full day tearing apart the registration room in the Twilight house."

"Yes, but still doesn't explain why you didn't tell me when you found me?"

Riveria's frown deepened but I could tell it wasn't directed at me, well not entirely. "We were in shock to see you alive and well. Not to mention you had company. Nobody thought you were alive after three weeks. Lady Loki was most distraught."

"Freya knew I was alive," I responded. How could she know if no one knew?

"Who would have thought a no level adventurer would have made it to Rivira, the eighteenth floor? Certainly not I. The last report on your progress said you had managed to reach the fourth floor." Riveria heaved a sigh, doing interesting things to areas I couldn't admire. "Yes, you make a good point. Freya did know you were alive. Isn't Freya knowing you were alive odd? Do you not question the fact that she knows so much about you?"

The Loki familia was keeping tabs on me too. 'I wonder how many others.' I sighed as I pinched the bridge of my nose, "Yes it is odd Riveria, but what do you want me to do about it?" My question held a defeated tone. I understood her viewpoint, but sometimes life's arrows curved toward you.

She paused for a moment, and I shook my head, continuing to walk without her.


Riveria watched him walk forward without her. She was quick to follow behind once again but kept thinking. Why would Cranel wish to join Freya? Or better yet, why would he dismiss the Loki Familia so easily like he just did. Her eyes narrowed. 'But what do you want me to do about it?' That line stuck out at her like a thorn in a gap of her armor. Something was going on here and Riveria was going to find out what.

She thought back. Her past observations on Ottar proved her point. Ottar was acting weird as well. Ottar wouldn't shake anyone's hand unless Freya had told him to; Ottar was Freya's lapdog. What did he know? Bell's reply was concerning but Allen's was just downright disturbing. Allen never talked to anyone outside the Familia. He wouldn't have anything to do with anyone outside the familia.

Riveria had never spoken to the cat person due to it almost being sacrilegious for the man to touch or even speak to females that were not Freya. She had heard so from Tione, and the young woman wouldn't lie about something so serious. Riveria had done her own research on the various familias in Orario. Her job as vice-captain had made sure of that. She was the most logical choice, due to her friends in very high places within the guild and beyond.

What was the Freya Familia up to, that could induce some of their best adventurers to act thus? She turned her calculating gaze to the boy causing all this commotion. She thought her analysis quite thorough. It seemed that Cranel loved proving one wrong at every step of the way, intentionally or unintentionally. That, and not to mention, he was an anomaly. His question had brought more confusion than years of observation.

It was simple from her viewpoint. If one did not desire to join the Freya familia, don't join the Freya Familia. The answer was so simple and yet it wasn't. There was something preventing Bell from refusing to join the Freya Familia. It was a cause for concern. Blackmail? Freya was not above such a thing, Riveria did not doubt. Maybe the reason behind it was the fact that Cranel had made a deal with Lady Falcon? Yes, that could be it. Though once again that couldn't be true due to Allen. He was far less hostile with him and said more than one sentence to the boy.

Then could Bell already be in Freya's Familia? That would be impossible. She had seen his... mark. No, he wasn't in any familia. He'd stated as such a few times. Then what was it? Her mind cycled through so many theories that it was starting to cloud her mind. She narrowed her eyes at the boy's back, lost completely in contemplation.

She kept her eyes on the boy's back and received her answer. A gust of wind lifted up a flap of the boy's tattered shirt, just a bit to show his back.

Her eyes widened. Bell still had bandages around his back, but she could still see the top. It was the Freya Familia Falna. She knew that design anywhere. That's why Bell had asked her what she wanted him to about it. It was already too late to do something.

'Well, that's what he thinks.'

The question now was how. How could the Goddess of Love place a Falna on him without anyone noticing her? She hadn't done it when they came through the portal, and that would have been the only opening. Then when? It had to happen in the dungeon. Which broke quite a few rules in one sweep. When though? Bell would have said something about such a thing, right?

What if he had? Then that meant… Lady Falcon. Could she have brought Freya into the dungeon? That had to be it. Riveria frowned at the conclusion. While the only logical path, it didn't really make sense. Where was the goddess hiding if Lady Falcon was in said Falcon form? Or did that mean… No that couldn't be?!

'Is Lady Falcon really Freya?!' That was Riveria final conclusion. That was the only possibility. Then it looked like Loki finally had what she needed to suppress Freya's growth. Riveria smiled to herself. 'You almost got away with it.' It reminded her of the times when she'd helped expose Zeus. It was time for the Loki Familia to mobilize.

She had to find Loki.

She walked up to Bell, "It appears that the situation is under control." Bell looked at her with cautious eyes. He was observing her carefully as if he could see through her soul. He was far more observant now

"Yes, they did a better job than I'd expected. Then again…" the boy waved his hands around, "I didn't know what to expect, but I could tell you it wasn't this."

"I have to find Loki and report to her as soon as possible. We have been gone much longer than we'd discussed." Riveria explained.

Bell looked like he was about to say something until he pointed at the crowd, "Isn't that someone from your Familia?" He asked. Riveria looked to where he was pointing. 'Not just a member, that's the goddess of the familia.'

The high elf realized how bad this would look to her goddess. There was Loki, standing there with a look of defeat written all over it. Loki just looked at her with that distraught look on her face. Riveria had to do something quickly. She made a small hand sign that the goddess luckily caught. By the look of it, she had no idea what Riveria knew.

'This couldn't come at a worse time.' She rubbed her palms on her eyelids. A headache throbbed under her fingertips, making its early presence known. "Ai subiki." She mumbled, "That is Loki."

The boy's eyes widened, she actually had to cover her mirth at seeing his expression. "N-No way! I talked to her before and … and … she never said anything about that!" He whispered that last part but her ears easily picked up on that. Oh, did Bell not know that Loki was a Goddess? Humorous indeed.

"If you will excuse me?"

"O-Of course, tell her…." he paused in thought. "Tell her I said hello and, um, it's good to see her again." Apparently, Bell had no idea how behave around gods did he?

Riveria grinned at the boy in a lighthearted fashion, "I think she would be extremely happy to hear that." Loki would have been over the moon if the boy had said it to her.

Riveria departed as the parade of rabbits marched down the street. Loki disappeared into the sea of people, matching Riveria's movements with the grace of a seasoned rogue. Riveria saw the alleyway off to the right and knew where to find her Goddess.

She made her way to the spot and found her. Riveria caught up to the Goddess. "I was too late..." The goddess all but sniveled at the high elf. The dreaded waterworks were preparing to overflow.

"It is not too late Goddess."

"Of course it is Riveria!" The goddess angrily snapped. Riveria glared at the red-haired goddess. She raised her staff above the Goddess's head as the red-haired fury continued. "Even Ottar announced it! I just can't believe that witch got to him before me!"

"Snap at me again, oh goddess?" she raised her staff higher. That did it. Loki was covering her head in an instant; that was a familia secret: she cowered in the face of the motherly high elf. Said elf might not have agreed with the nicknames some people called her; she was no mother hen to the Loki Familia! She was simply the most mature of the group. Someone had to be. She lowered her 'Blunt-Instrument-of-Destruction,' as Loki once dubbed it. "Are you ready to listen?"

"Yes," the little goddess squeaked up at her. Riveria just shook her head. Why did her Goddess have to play games so often? She understood her role as a jokester but, such a role was not necessary all the time. Riveria was not a fool by any means. She could tell the loss did sting at her Goddess but the news she had would definitely peak her spirits.

"First off, Bell asked me to say hello, and said it was good to see you again."

That seemed to raise the goddess's spirits to a greater extent than Riveria'd hoped. That boded well for the rest of her news.

"So he does remember me!" Loki's smile stretched across her face, like the sunrise.

Riveria decided to add her two cents as well, "You are hardly easy to forget my goddess."

"Oh shucks, Riveria, you're the best." The goddess flung her arms around her in a hug.

Riveria returned the gesture but felt the hands of her goddess start to move downwards. "If you touch my derriere you will be skinned." The fearful eep released from the woman was satisfaction enough.

"So what is this news you have for me?" The goddess was deeply invested in what Riveria had to say now. There was a small glint in her eyes.

"Freya has broken the rules. I believe that she had entered the dungeon to place her-" She didn't finish her sentence as Loki stopped her. No, she hadn't stopped her, it was the fact that her goddess had frozen in place. All emotion left the expression as swiftly as a falling blade severed the last connection a body held to life.

Then the most horrific smiled appeared on her goddess's face, one that chilled Riveria to the bone. She'd never seen that smile before. No wait, yes she had. It was the same smile present on her Falna. It was one thing to see it there than in real life. It was utterly terrifying seeing it for real.

"Do continue Riveria," All playful expression, the signs of a teasing jokester goddess evaporated. In its stead was the terrifying, patient expression promising retribution for a thousand wrongs. "Please. Tell your goddess what you found."


We were getting close to the northern gate. I remembered it from the map I'd bought off that Alsing character a while back. We'd already passed the clothing district and were now pushing up to a Jagamarukun Stall where some short woman was working. She was very energetic it looked like with glowing blue eyes. She waved at me with a big smile. I waved back matching her smile with a grin of my own.

Looking forward my gaze caught the sight of the Twilight Manor off to the right as it towered over the buildings in front of it. It really was that big, made from white stone with large blue windows. It had multiple circular spires pointing upward with a red roof. There was one massive spire that was off to the right and connected to the front of the main building.

Behind that massive home lay the northern gate, which would take us out of the city. I wondered where Freya was in all this mess. She had to be at the end of the road by the gate my mind concluded. She would want to see me off since she wouldn't see me for a long time, and I highly doubted she would miss my sending off. From what little I knew of her, she didn't seem the type to miss a farewell. No, she'd told me I was important to her plans.

That bothered me a little, the plans I had no idea. What could the Goddess of Love be planning? What was going on? Did she really just want me? I had no idea, and wracking my mind with more questions wasn't going to help me at all. There was time to worry later.

My mind let the questions die as Ottar and Allen walked in step on either side of me, "Cranel." I looked to Ottar as he had addressed me in that commanding tone. 'He must have something important to tell me.'

"Yes, captain?" I asked, adding a little respect due to his position in what was now my familia.

"When you return to Orario you will be tested by myself. It is done with all new members." One massive shoulder lifted, then fell in a Gallic shrug. "You will also have to move into Folkvangr upon your return."

"The south side of town? I haven't been down that way yet." I thought aloud.

Ottar didn't seem care as he continued; it was likely a list he was bound to recite, "You will also have to be fitted for your Walküre armor."

I hadn't expected that; it seemed he took the job seriously. "There is more I will go over with you but that can wait. Freya has instructed me to ensure you knew she wishes to speak with you before your departure."

That brought a nod from me. "I already planned on it."

"Good," the man ended the conversation just as fast as he'd started it.

Ahead, I could see the main gate, and I also caught a small glance of the goddess that had made all of this happen. She stood, two men in a protective position next to her. They wore the Walküre armor much like the rest of the Freya Familia but added a face-concealing helmet. From this distance I could only tell they were elvish, one a generic looking individual that likely could have stood in any place and been unnoticed, while the other was a dark elf.

Freya was dressed much differently than what I'd last seen. Gone was the mighty battle armor, powerful enough to withstand a blow from a Juggernaut. Now she wore a long white dress, suspended from pale shoulders by two light-blue straps, emphasizing her assets with a blue fringe winding its way beneath her bust. A long, blue silken wrap draped over her forearms, winding behind her back and out again in an intricate design. She also looked taller than I remembered, which implied high heels.

I looked to Helix, "Helix, walk the colony out and have Joseph Von Stal take over, I'll be right here when you get back. Since you are the minister of public relations, foreign policy, and development, I need to show you around town. This would be a good experience for you, to see what the world above is like. Take notes."

"I will, and at once sire." The black Almiraj gave a brief nod, and then hopped along to join the mass as Allen, Ottar and I veered off. Our steps lead to the position held by our goddess that waited, watching us.

No, not us. Me.

I made eye contact a moment later. Those purple pools the goddess called eyes latched on to me like the shackles on a prisoner. I was utterly helpless under her satisfied gaze, nigh euphoric in a possessive glow. She'd gotten what she wanted. She wanted me. I could read it all over her. She'd deliberately left herself open like that - she wanted me to know that she wanted everyone to know who owned me.

We eagerly came to a stop in front of the Goddess of beauty. Well, I was eager. I couldn't speak for the other two.

"Hello once again Bell," The goddess welcomed me, warmth in her voice.

I grinned at her, "Thank you for, well, everything." I noticed I was scratching my arm, a nervous tic I'd thought trained out years ago. "I didn't know what to expect, but you outdid yourself, I believe."

"This is nothing compared to what we are able to do, as you will eventually find out." Her voice was endearing until the end, where it became a twisted distasteful hiss. She seemed highly displeased with letting me go. Her body language spoke volumes: she'd just gotten me and lost me in such a short time. I said nothing, but gave a nod, knowing the goddess did not lie. She looked behind me. "How are they doing?"

I knew at what she was looking, "They'll be fine. A little hungry, but other than that, we should be making good time to Siberia. I plan to have a settlement up within a month and go from there."

"Wonderful, how long do you plan to be in Siberia?" The look she gave me was demanding an answer. She wouldn't like my answer, I realized. She would be very impatient. If I thought the way she derailed my life since I arrived in Orario was bad... I would hate to see how she would act the moment I got back.

I closed my eyes in thought. Who was I deceiving? It was more to avoid the look in her eyes, trying to will me to stay or reduce the time in Siberia. "Years."

Opening my eyes, I saw a very dissatisfied face. She clearly knew what I was going to say but was nonetheless happy to hear it. There was more bad news for her. "I have no idea what awaits me up north. Not to mention I have no idea how winter is going to be."

She eventually sighed in defeat, "Yes, I knew that was going to be your answer. However," She looked to the dark elf next to her. "Hogni if you will." So that was the man's name. He must have been pretty high in the Freya familia.

The dark elf moved forward with a simple 'Yes goddess.' He stepped in front of me and pulled out a white book from the bag under his arm. I took it from him, and he stepped back behind Freya once again.

"That is a grimoire. It will give you a great magical skill."

I looked at the white book, admiring its smooth surface. "How do I use it?"

"You open it, that is all. But I would wait until you are away from others and protected. It leaves you in quite a slumber." A bright smile tainted her warning with deceptive cheer.

"Thanks, but why give it to me?" I asked, confusion entering my voice. A grimoire had to be extremely expensive. To just hand me one...

The elf that had done nothing but glare at me finally spoke up. "All in our Familia receive one at one point. It is a standard of our familia. An honor some have gotten earlier than others."

I felt three heated glares pointed my way and nodded at the answer. Good, I didn't want anyone getting more angry at me than before, but such a dream seemed impossible. 'Oh, he got it before me! What a bunch of babies.'

"Calm yourselves children." Freya directed a frown at her familia. "This situation is very different, and I will not have infighting in my familia. Is that clear?" Her voice held an ominous tone, like the threatening appearance of a distant thunderstorm. Despite the hint of power, she sounded like a mother berating children that had stepped out of line. It seems everyone got the same feeling at angering their goddess.

"Yes, goddess."

"Excellent." She smiled, looking pleased with herself. "What do you plan now? Are you leaving right away?"

"No, I'm going to the Guild to make sure they don't have me listed as dead, then going to the Hostess to see if I have anything left over there. I was also planning on showing Helix-"

"I have returned Jackalope! Stal is leading colony ahead and knows where to stop." The black rabbit monster ran towards the group. Quiet eyes evaluated.

"Great," I said. My eyes followed Helix's dark form until he stood at my side. I then cast my eyes back to Freya, "I was going to resupply after that." I tilted my head at her, "Is there anything more you need from me, my goddess."

"Yes. I understand you have a very busy time ahead. I will not keep you longer here." My nerves stood up and quivered at that last word, particularly how it rolled off her tongue. "You may resupply at Folkvangr for your expedition. Meet me there." She turned away, gesturing to the others. "Come, the rest of you. We will go to Folkvangr and plan for our next raid." I watched as the group departed from me. I did catch the look that Freya sent my way. It was utterly lustful in a playful way.

It was official. That woman was going to drive me nuts. Just the way she talked made me feel good, wanted even. It felt pleasing.

But I was getting too worked up by just her words. 'I need to calm down.' There were people I had to say goodbye too before leaving. Well, I had better go find Eina first. "Oh man this is going to take forever, the Hostess will be the worst." I groaned to myself.

"What is this Hostess you speak of sir, and why does it bother you so?" I looked down at Helix.

"Women." Was all I managed.

"I don't understand?"

My mouth thinned into a flat line, "And you probably never will. Come, Helix. We don't have all day to stand here and do nothing."

I paused before we'd taken a step, seeing the end of the colony coming closer to me. Ais and Bache were right behind them. I grinned. Well, it looked like I had a few goodbyes to say. I waited for both girl and woman to reach me, grinning at the unlikely pair of deadly frontliners.

"You guys didn't run into any trouble down there did you?" I asked Ais once she was within earshot. Ais only shook her head at me. "That's good to hear."

"Boring." Is what the tall woman grunted, crossing her arms. Yes, I knew just how well she took to no combat in a combat zone. Like a fish in a volcano.

"Well thanks anyway for keeping watch over them. You guys have been a great help." I said anyway. It was good to have help to get things done. That and pull your rear out of the clutches of death as well.

"You are leaving?" I looked to the blonde-haired girl, who had an eyebrow raised.

"Yeah, have too. Winter is fast approaching up there, and I have to get there first. Won't be able to come back for a while, a couple of years possibly." I told her.

She nodded. "Get stronger and come back alive."

It almost sounded like a demand from the girl, which was odd. But then, her talking was pretty weird as well. I don't think she was used to talking all that much; her voice was very quiet and rusty almost. It didn't sound masculine but it was deepish just a bit. It was odd but in a very good way.

I snorted at her, "As if I plan for anything else. We have plans in the dungeon, you and I." I smiled at the girl. I hoped it looked charming or whatever. I can't believe I was scared of this girl at one point. If anything I should have been fearing the taller women behind Ais.

"Good luck Bell." Ais gave me her own smile, 'Oh man is she cute!' I heard my inner Zeus call forth as she left; I had to focus in order to keep my eyes away from her departure. Speaking of the taller woman ...

"Bache," I looked up at the woman. Boy did that outfit look outstanding on her. I mean, you didn't have to imagine anything. Well, I wouldn't need to imagine anything anyway. I'd seen that body without clothes on multiple occasions. Oh, boy that was a wild month of teaching, beatings, bathing... if I ever ran into Zeus I'd have to tell him about that one.

I would no doubt get the: 'Thatta boy, Bell! That's my Grandson over there!' Zeus was a very proud man that would take the whole known land masses if you gave him a grain of dust. The girls of my village back in the good old days would follow me around like I was some kind of demigod or something - now that I'd started to understand things.. Zeus would never shut up about it.

"Remember, the more you use it. The more you master Common. You have to talk a lot more to be able to get Common." I instructed her. "You've come very far in the month that I taught you, and I don't want it going to waste. So speak up, you're not a woman that lacks boldness."

She raised her eyebrow at me before putting a slim finger in my chest, "I tell you same. Don't die. Waste training."

"Of course not! I mean, I did have a great teacher after all. That's why I'm confident about this." My arms went wide, taking in the whole marching column of rabbit-folk and myself in a 'hey look at me' attitude. "Remember: this is your doing."

I think I actually saw a smile forming under her veil if the way her eyes curled told me anything.

"Bell is stronger. Don't let it…" she paused looking for the right word. "Cloud you."

"I won't, I can assure you I don't plan on dying up there."

"Good luck, Bell."

"Same to you, I hope it goes well with your familia." She nodded at me before taking her own leave. I watched her attractive form recede, hips swaying in a hypnotic fashion. Still can't believe I had that on my face.

"Are we ready now sir?"

"Yes, we are Helix, yes we are."


Orange eyes basked in amusement at the sight before them. Hidden within the depths of his hiding spot, he tipped a feathered hat, watching the boy stride towards the guild. A grin formed on his lips. "Well, Zeus is going to love this development." He turned and walked down the alleyway, unseen by all. Today was a good day. A very good day.


Author's notes: Well here it is! I hope you all liked it. Can't wait to expand the lore of this story so much more than I have already. I hope you guys ready for Siberia. As the title of this chapter is play off of North to Alaska by Johnny Horton. 500 Reviews! Very nice and also we still have the top spot for follows and faves! I don't doubt we will retake our spot back with reviews soon.

Chuck: Have a Boo-tiful evening.

Owen: Dammit Chuck! It's spooktacular! Have a happy Halloween to all you witches, vampires, Goblins, Giant Foxes with nine tails- Oh you get what I mean!