Had my medical specialist exam this Monday and it is the build-up of almost 12 months of constant study (not to mention every other year of med school plus the couple of years working as a doctor right through a pandemic). I find out my results next month and if I pass, will send out updates across my stories which have updates banked, which is like a dozen of them. Even now, I've still got over 30 updates banked and now that I'm not absolutely smashing myself studying, my writing pace will pick up, case in point, I've written basically another two future chapters for this story within 7 days, but there is more to be said about that below.
I'm actually having a bit of trouble posting my free, direct text to pat reon (not my completed word docs though) at the moment. Already spoken with tech support about it and they are trying to sort, but I am posting my extra free stuff in my discord's Danmachi channel as well, discord. gg/ mgAZ9GGuFG
So far, I've got "A date with Airmid" which is set somewhere ballpark around chapter 30-ish and was part of my desire to get some more Airmid out there. Just today though, I also put up "Bell meets Lefiya and Lefiya meets Syr", which I'd be guessing will be somewhere between chapter 15-20, so the closest chapter I've got to what I currently have properly written. So yeah, no matter what happens, I'm writing, you just got to put in some effort to find my stuff outside of here.
In the shared writer's discord Extalia || Writers' Realm, me and a few other Danmachi authors are also doing a group story just for fun. We've got about 5K words so far and are making use of some of the more underutilised characters. If you want to see what that is about, be sure to join that discord too, discord. gg/ veQrzjgNYh
Lastly, one of the writers in the group story will be putting up their own Danmachi story later this month, so look forward to that and give Sagarel's Devil (AKA Mira) your support. I posted this update because they let me have a peek at chapter 2 of their story, so thank them as well for the update.
Oh, and regarding my story so far, are you all liking Syr? She gets even better, but would love to know how people are finding her characterisation so far.
Enjoy!
SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan.
Previously:
Bell and Hestia would drop off the drop items and magic stones Bell had acquired from clearing out the first four floors of the Dungeon and explain what happened to Eina. Bell would then make his way to the Hostess of Fertility and apologise to the staff, before staying for the day, helping them in the kitchen, with his surprising culinary talent.
Disclaimer – I don't own anything from the Danmachi light novel/anime/manga/games. All I own are my original characters and plot twists.
'Talking'
"Thinking"
*expression*
Flashback
Magic
Chapter 4 – Schemes
'Welcome back, Goddess.' Said Bell, as Hestia entered their home.
'Bell? What is this?' Asked Hestia, seeing a lovely spread on the table.
It wasn't overly extravagant, consisting of a small piece of roast, with some roast veggies, steamed rice, and a chocolate pudding.
'I was allowed to pick some things for dinner today for some work I did.' Explained Bell.
'You mean you did all of this for me?' Asked Hestia, her eyes sparkling.
'Yes.' Said Bell, only for Hestia to run and tackle him into a hug.
'Oh Bell, you're the best! Let me go wash up quickly.' Cried Hestia happily, before heading to the bathroom.
Coming back a few moments later, Bell and Hestia sat down to eat.
'So Bell, how was your day?' Asked Hestia.
'It was nice, I forgot there are things to do outside of the Dungeon.' Laughed Bell.
'That's nice, I also heard some rumblings though.' Said Hestia with a teasing grin, causing Bell to blush.
'Of course it doesn't seem like anyone knows it was you, so you're off the hook.' Giggled Hestia, causing Bell to exhale in relief.
'Was your day good as well, Goddess?' Asked Bell.
'It was fine, maybe if you aren't planning to go back to the Dungeon, you can come visit me.' Said Hestia.
'I don't want to distract you though; we can always spend time together back home.' Said Bell, causing Hestia to smile.
The pair finished their meal and Hestia felt down for a moment, lamenting that such a nice meal was not something they could enjoy regularly, before getting an idea.
'Bell, I'm going to be out tonight, maybe for a day or two, will you be okay with that?' Asked Hestia.
'Of course. Is it something for work?' Asked Bell.
'Uh, not this time, some of my closest friends are going to a party and I wasn't really interested at first… but now I think I will go say hello to everyone since it has been so long. You still aren't planning to go back to the Dungeon yet, right?' Asked Hestia.
'No, I won't, please go and see your friends, I'll be okay.' Said Bell kindly, causing Hestia to smile.
'Ok, I will head off in just a bit. Thank you again for dinner, Bell.' Said Hestia, coming over to Bell and hugging him while he was still sitting down, placing his head against her sizeable chest, as she wrapped her arms around his head.
'Y-you're welcome.' Stammered Bell, turning pink.
'Okay then, make sure you get some rest while you can.' Instructed Hestia, before walking off to get ready.
Bell placed his hand on his cheek and sighed.
'I will, Goddess.' Muttered Bell, before collecting the dishes to wash up.
-line break-
Hestia looked up at the large structure which was a building in the shape of a man, with the head of an elephant.
"Did he really need to put the entrance there?" Thought Hestia, before entering through the groin of the building.
The figure upon which the building was based stood inside.
'Thank you for coming everyone! I am Ganesha, host of the Banquet of Gods.' Said the figure with the elephant-based headdress.
Hestia was sampling as much of the food she could get a hold of and filling a box with the things she approved of.
"I'll bring Bell something nice back as well." Thought Hestia.
'Oh look, Loli Big-Boobs is here. I'm surprised she's still alive.' Said one of the onlookers of Hestia's food raid.
'I hear she is working part-time at a street kiosk; she was getting patted on the head by the customers.' Said another observer.
'Well that's to be expected of the Loli Goddess.' Commented another spectator.
'What are you doing over there?' Interjected a new voice, causing Hestia to turn around.
'Hephaestus, I knew you'd be here! I knew it was a good idea to come!' Said Hestia, jumping off a small stool and walking over to a red-haired Goddess, who was wearing a dark crimson dress.
While a black eyepatch covered her right eye, she was still gorgeous to the point that she made her golden earrings look dull in comparison.
'I'm not lending you a single valis.' Said Hephaestus flatly.
'How rude? What kind of Goddess do you think I am? I might have needed your help in the past, but I'm doing fine now, I don't need to eat from anyone else's plate anymore!' Said Hestia hotly.
'You were doing literally just that.' Deadpanned Hephaestus.
'That's not for me, that's for my Familia. It would just be thrown away anyway, why shouldn't I put it to better use?' Rationalised Hestia.
'Oh you're right, you've completely changed.' Said Hephaestus flatly.
'The two of you are still so friendly with each other.' Spoke a new voice.
A Goddess in every sense of the word approached the pair. Her breathtaking silver hair and eyes complemented her smooth, snow-white skin. Her gold trimmed dressed stretched over her curvaceous form, doing nothing to hide the curves underneath.
'Freya…' Said Hestia.
'I ran into her earlier, we were looking around the hall and were going to invite you to walk with us.' Explained Hephaestus.
'Am I disturbing you, Hestia?' Asked Freya, a small smile on her lips.
'It's not that, I just get uncomfortable when you are around.' Admitted Hestia, causing Hephaestus to flinch and Freya to giggle.
'Ah, that's why I like you though, Hestia, you are always so honest.' Said Freya.
'Hephaestus, Freya, runt.' Said Loki, walking over to the group as she waved at them.
'Speaking of people who make me uncomfortable.' Muttered Hestia, as Loki approached in a stripped ball gown.
'Why are you here, Loki?' Asked Hestia with a sharp glare.
'Huh? Am I not allowed to greet you without an ulterior motive?' Asked Loki.
'It's been so long since I've seen either Freya, or itty-bitty, but Hephaestus sees me all the time, since our children go and raid the Dungeon together.' Continued Loki.
'Oh yes, I do hear about your children often these days, Loki. It seems they are doing well for themselves.' Said Freya.
'Oh, hearing that from you makes me all warm inside, but I am very proud of my children.' Said Loki with a smile.
'Hey, Loki, I've got a question about someone in your Familia, Wallensomething or other.' Interjected Hestia.
'Oh, the Sword Princess, I would like to hear about her as well if you don't mind.' Added Hephaestus
'Oh, the little brat is asking me a question? Is it Ragnarök? Did hell freeze over?' Joked Loki, causing Hestia to frown as she clenched her fists.
'Here is my question, is the Sword Princess in a relationship with someone?' Asked Hestia.
'Of course she is, she is mine. She's my favourite child. I won't give her to anyone, and anyone who tries will end up mounted on my bedroom wall.' Said Loki.
Hestia clicked her tongue at this.
"I was hoping for an easy resolution." Mused Hestia internally.
'What's with you clicking your tongue at me? Don't tell me you are jealous?' Asked Loki teasingly.
'As if! My precious Bell is better than your Sword Princess!' Retorted Hestia hotly.
'Please, what poor fool did you manage to recruit?' Asked Loki dismissively, causing Hestia's hair to stand up.
'How dare you! My Bell is kind, cuddly, and an excellent cook.' Said Hestia.
'You make him sound like a cat and if he is such an excellent cook, why are you here taking food to go?' Asked Loki in amusement.
'I'll have you know my dear Bell made me a delicious dinner before I came here! I'm taking this back for him.' Said Hestia, causing Hephaestus to blink in surprise.
'Really Hestia?' Asked Hephaestus.
'Yes! He is working very hard for both of our sakes, so I am also doing my best!' Said Hestia proudly.
'Well look at that, maybe the brat grew up a little bit, but you're still wearing kiddie clothes, unlike me.' Said Loki.
'I'm surprised that dress is even staying up, it has nothing to grip on to.' Sniped Hestia, causing Loki to grit her teeth.
'Oh, that reminds me, I heard of an interesting story today.' Said Freya, surprising the two who were about to come to blows.
'Hmm, what's that?' Asked Hephaestus.
'A little boy who plundered the Dungeon last night and left nothing behind, one who supposedly looked like a rabbit, with white hair and red eyes.' Continued Freya, with a small smile of amusement.
'Hey, Loli Goddess, is your kid a boy with white hair who got attacked by a Minotaur?' Asked Loki, causing Hestia to bristle slightly.
'So what if he was?' Asked Hestia sourly.
'And now he demolished the Dungeon. Ah geez, I better make sure Bete never hears about this or his tongue will become even sharper.' Lamented Loki.
'What do you mean?' Asked Hestia.
'Well, I also heard a rumour that someone in the Loki Familia was quite rude to a new adventurer, almost brought them to tears.' Said Freya.
'You flat-chested bitch! You're the reason Bell came back half dead yesterday!' Roared Hestia, pointing a finger at Loki.
'I don't want to hear that from a brainless breast monster! All your nutrients went to your chest, leaving your mind to starve!' Retorted Loki.
'So it begins.' Sighed Hephaestus, recognising any productive conversation was now finished.
Freya merely watched the scene in amusement, as the two fought like little children.
'Freya, when have you ever been interested in rumours?' Asked Hephaestus.
'Well, Loki has always had interesting children, and I imagined Hestia's first child had to be something special, was I wrong?' Answered Freya with an amused smile.
As the fight reached its inevitable conclusion, with Loki running away, envious of Hestia's sizeable bust, the two other Goddesses approached Hestia.
'Yeah, you're completely different than before, aren't you?' Quipped Hephaestus.
'I won't let anyone hurt my precious Bell.' Huffed Hestia.
'You seem quite enamoured with your Familia member, Hestia; I didn't think someone like you could be won over by cuteness.' Commented Freya.
'Bell isn't just cute, he is a hard worker, and he never gives up, he is always trying to get stronger, I just can't help him very much.' Said Hestia shyly.
'I see. Well good luck with that, I bid you both farewell for now.' Said Freya, placing her glass down.
'Eh? You're leaving?' Asked Hestia.
'Yes, I've gotten bored of all the men here already.' Said Freya, before she left.
'She always rubs me the wrong way. Those Goddesses of Beauty.' Grumbled Hestia.
'Well, you two are almost opposites in terms of personality, so it stands to reason.' Said Hephaestus.
'It's not even that, she just always seems to be up to something.' Said Hestia, narrowing her eyes.
'Well, if you are staying, why don't we get a drink together like old times?' Proposed Hephaestus.
'Yeah, that sounds good… actually, I was meaning to ask you something…' Started Hestia, only to feel a chill go down her spine.
'After all that you still have the nerve to ask me for something? You just said you weren't going to eat from someone else's plate.' Said Hephaestus, a threatening aura around her.
'It's not money this time… I just… want some advice.' Admitted Hestia, causing the aura surrounding Hephaestus to dissipate.
'Oh, really?' Asked Hephaestus, getting a nod from her shorter friend.
'You really have changed then, haven't you? Come, let's get a drink and discuss things then.' Offered Hephaestus.
-line break-
'So Bell, when are you thinking of going back to the Dungeon?' Asked Syr conversationally, as she helped Bell dry the dishes from the breakfast rush.
'Uh, I'm not sure.' Admitted Bell, as he handed her a plate.
'Well, by dinnertime, it seemed things had gone back to almost normal in the Dungeon.' Pointed out Syr.
'Syr, don't tell me you were eavesdropping on people for me.' Said Bell with a small smile.
'Oh I wasn't eavesdropping; people like to tell me things. I am a cute girl after all.' Said Syr with a smile, closing her eyes as she did so.
Bell gave a small laugh, causing Syr to open her eyes.
'Did I say something funny?' Asked Syr.
'No, it was just the way you said it. It fit you very well.' Explained Bell.
'Of course it fit me, it is my voice after all, who else would it fit?' Retorted Syr.
'Yeah… other than the other adventurers though, I've got no equipment. All my armour was destroyed, and my knife is one hit away from shattering from the last time I was down there. Really, I'm lucky I made it out in the end, but at least I got a lot of valis from all the drop items and stones. I might even be able to buy something better this time, but I can't afford to spend everything, especially when my Goddess is working so hard.' Said Bell.
'What do you think of your Goddess?' Asked Syr curiously, her eyes seeming to twinkle.
'She is the most important person in the world to me. Without her, I don't know where I would be right now. When I first came here, I went to nearly every Familia around and no one accepted me. I went to all the big ones, like the Loki and Freya Familia, as well as some of the smaller ones. The big ones said I was too weak, and the small ones didn't have the resources to take me in at the time. I don't blame any of them, I was just a farm boy with dreams and no experience… but Goddess didn't care about any of that. She took me in, even though I later found out she was one of the poorest Goddesses around, with no Familia either… but even if she had no money, she was rich in kindness. That's why, even though I still want to pursue my dreams, I never want to let her down. I want her to be proud of me and never regret that she made me a member of her Familia.' Said Bell, pausing in his washing of the dishes.
'That's such an adorable thing to say.' Said Syr after a moment, causing Bell to blush.
'Does that mean you only have eyes for your Goddess? I know you've said you could never not save a cute girl, what would your Goddess think of that?' Asked Syr.
'Actually, she teases me about that sometimes… she once asked me what kind of girl I was hoping to find in the Dungeon and said I wouldn't find what I am looking for in there… but I feel like a chance encounter is the best way to meet someone as an adventurer… yes, you can meet very special people that way.' Admitted Bell, as he started washing the dishes again.
'Oh? Speaking from experience?' Asked Syr curiously.
'Sort of… but it doesn't always have to be in the Dungeon.' Said Bell, turning to face Syr and giving her a smile.
Syr looked at Bell in surprise for a second, before returning his smile.
'But I think I need some help to be honest. I'm just kind of going with the flow now and it seems to be working, but then it also means I let my emotions get the better of me sometimes.' Said Bell.
'And then you go and destroy part of the dungeon.' Finished Syr, causing Bell to chuckle nervously.
'Something like that.' Agreed Bell.
'What if you had some help then?' Asked Syr.
'Syr, you aren't going to tell me that you are some secret famous adventurer and you are moonlighting here to hide your secret identity?' Asked Bell jokingly.
'Oh no, not me, but someone else here might be.' Said Syr smugly, causing Bell to drop the dish he was holding back into the sink filled with water.
'I think I have a plan though, but we will need to sneak out before the lunch rush.' Said Syr quietly, looking over her shoulder quickly.
-line break-
'Syr, I don't think this is a good idea.' Said Ryuu, standing with Bell and Syr in the storeroom.
'But Bell has no weapon and no armour, we can't let him go into the Dungeon like that, what if something bad happens to him?' Protested Syr.
'Mama Mia would never let both of us leave during the second busiest time of the day.' Said Ryuu.
'But Bell helped so much today, I'm sure the others can pick up the slack for just a little bit, it is all for Bell's safety after all.' Said Syr, causing Ryuu to sigh softly.
'This is a bad idea.' Said Ryuu, but Syr grinned.
'I knew you'd agree, besides, I'll handle Mama Mia.' Said Syr.
'Shall we head off now then?' Asked Ryuu.
'Just give me a minute, I have a letter I need to prepare first so I can drop it off along the way.' Said Syr, before walking off, leaving the two alone.
'Um, Ryuu, can I ask you a question?' Asked Bell.
'Of course you may, Mr. Cranel.' Nodded Ryu.
'Well, I thought Syr was joking, but it didn't seem like her normal joking… is someone working here a famous adventurer?' Asked Bell.
'Did she tell you that?' Asked Ryuu carefully.
'I asked her if she was a secret famous adventurer who was moonlighting here to hide her secret identity. She said she wasn't, but someone else might be. It didn't seem like she was joking though, even though she said it like a joke.' Admitted Bell.
'Before I answer, why were you asking such a thing, Mr. Cranel?' Asked Ryuu.
'I was telling Syr how I was worried about how I am going about things in the Dungeon. I don't really have anyone to teach me if what I am doing is right or wrong and I've been lucky so far…' Said Bell, trailing off at the end, leaving his unspoken words clear.
'Okay, all ready to go, let's go quickly.' Whispered Syr, ushering for the two to follow her.
As the three embarked on the street stealthily, Bell noticed the group was heading towards Babel Tower.
'Where are we going, Syr? We can't go to the Dungeon like this.' Asked Bell.
'Oh don't worry, we won't be going down the tower, we will be going up.' Answered Syr.
The trio made their way up to the fourth floor of the tower, before Syr shifted direction and led them to a shop. Bell and Ryuu followed the cheerful girl, before Bell started to get nervous.
'Uh, Syr, didn't I say I couldn't spend all my valis?' Asked Bell nervously.
'Don't worry, Bell, I'm giving you your first lesson now, the art of the haggle.' Said Syr.
Syr led the group into a small shop run by the Hephaestus Familia. Bell looked at the prices on the walls and was expecting to cringe, only to find the prices were actually reasonable.
'So Bell, what do you use in the Dungeon to fight with?' Asked Syr.
'I use knives.' Said Bell.
'Is that why you are such a good cook?' Joked Syr, only for Bell to chuckle weakly in response.
'What about armour then? Do you use something bulky, like a shield?' Asked Syr as she perused the shelves, only for Bell to shake his head.
'Do you not have anything for long range either?' Asked Ryuu.
'Uh, no, not really.' Admitted Bell.
'Ok then, that gives me an idea. I'll go find something long range, Ryuu will find you a knife, and you can go pick out the armour you like most from over there.' Said Syr, pointing to a wall which had lots of barrels filled with armour.
Syr then quickly walked off, with Ryuu giving Bell a nod, before she did the same. Bell shrugged in confusion and gave a small sigh as he approached the barrel. Looking through it, Bell saw lots of sets of armours, almost all of which were in his price range, but they didn't seem to be a good fit for him. Moving on to the next barrel, Bell found this one had even cheaper armour, but it seemed to be of the same quality. Almost halfway in though, Bell spotted a little piece of armour that caught his eye. It was a curved breastplate in the shape of an inverted triangle. Digging in a bit deeper, Bell found forearm and shin guards from the same armour set, as well as a simple holster. It wouldn't cover Bell up much, but they were extremely light and wouldn't impair his mobility at all.
"Plus, with the way I fight, I can use the forearm guards to block and the shin guards to protect my legs when I kick monsters that get too close." Thought Bell.
Adding up the armour, the total came to only five thousand valis, basically, a steal in Bell's opinion.
'Did you find something you like?' Asked Syr, appearing beside Bell stealthily.
'I think so.' Said Bell, showing Syr the breastplate.
'Pyonkichi Mk-I, really leaning into your rabbit-like features.' Commented Syr.
'Rabbit?' Asked Bell.
'White hair, red eyes, speedy and quick, sounds like a rabbit to me.' Teased Syr, causing Bell to blush.
'Don't worry, I think it is cute. Anyway, here, I found this for you.' Said Syr, before showing what she had gotten.
It was a small sickle with a handle length of fifteen centimetres, with a forty-five-centimetre blade, which was slightly curved to the right ten centimetres in, before curving back towards the centre. It wouldn't have worked well as a true farming sickle, but for the purposes of cutting and hacking monsters, it was probably better, as it could be used for counterattacking as well, since it could isolate an attack in the curved portion.
'You did say you were a farm boy, and this will give you a bit more reach than a knife, especially when you start running into bigger monsters.' Said Syr.
'I have found a knife I believe is suitable.' Said Ryuu, as she approached the two.
It was a twenty-five-centimetre silver blade with a black hilt.
'Oh that looks nice, I found one almost just like that.' Said Syr, showing a green blade with a blue hilt.
'I see, I can return this one.' Said Ryuu with a nod.
'Wait Ryuu, Bell, which one do you think is best?' Asked Syr.
Ryuu seemed to give Bell a look, indicating that he should pick Syr's knife.
'Well, actually, I could use both. I've actually been working on using my knife with both hands and sometimes use sharp stones as a second blade, so having two proper blades means I can dual wield all the time.' Said Bell happily.
'So one isn't enough for you then?' Joked Syr.
'Well it is important to be prepared.' Replied Bell, missing Syr's innuendo, unlike Ryuu, who gave Syr a firm look, causing the girl to wink at her.
The trio then took the goods to the counter and had their purchases rung up.
'Okay, that'll be twenty thousand valis.' Said the shopkeeper.
'Oh, can't you please give us a little discount, our poor friend lost his equipment trying to get stronger to protect us and we want to help him replace it?' Pleaded Syr, pressing her hands together.
The shopkeeper was luckily human, as a Dwarven shopkeeper wouldn't have tolerated any kind of haggling.
'Please mister, it would make our day.' Continued Syr, holding her hands together and making her eyes water slightly.
'Ah, how can I refuse such a pretty face? Okay, ten percent off, final offer.' Said the man, causing Syr to beam as she bounced in place for a second.
'Thank you so much Mister!' Said Syr, as Bell counted out the amount and placed it on the counter.
'You better look after those two, boy, you hear me?' Said the shopkeeper sternly.
'I will.' Nodded Bell, getting an approving grunt from the man.
The trio then left the shop, with Syr looking very pleased with herself.
'And I thought I was the only one you tricked like that.' Commented Bell in amusement.
'It isn't a trick, he wanted to give me a discount, just like you wanted to come and eat at the Hostess of Fertility, I just helped both of you see that.' Said Syr.
'Sure.' Said Bell with an amused smile.
'Here, let me go get us a snack, why don't you two sit here for a minute, it'll be quicker this way.' Said Syr, before darting off into the crowd.
'Is Syr really not a secret adventurer, she moves faster than any non-adventurer I've ever seen?' Commented Bell in surprise.
'Syr is truly a special person.' Nodded Ryuu.
'Thank you for your help today, Ryuu. Syr seems to love getting me to do things without knowing what is going on, but you didn't have to come along too. You didn't have to give up your free time to help me out.' Said Bell.
'Think nothing of it, Mr. Cranel. It is clear you are fast becoming someone important to Syr and I can't speak for everyone, but we did enjoy your presence yesterday.' Admitted Ryuu.
'I'm glad to hear that. Syr is easy enough to read, but I'm not sure what the rest of you think of me. You and Mama Mia in particular are the hardest to read, I can't tell if you are happy or upset with me half the time.' Laughed Bell.
'I see, I apologise for causing you uncertainty, Mr. Cranel. Is there anything I can do to help put your mind at ease?' Asked Ryuu.
'Well, if you could call me Bell, that would help. My friends usually call me Bell, not Mr. Cranel.' Said Bell.
Ryuu seemed to think on this for a minute.
'Very well then… Bell.' Said Ryuu, causing Bell to beam.
'I'm back!' Said Syr, showing up with a bag full of potato snacks.
'Come on, we better get back then, before the dinner rush starts up.' Said Bell.
'It's okay, we can take our time.' Said Syr, as she handed Bell and Ryuu a potato snack.
Bell bit into his, causing Syr to smile in approval. Ryuu looked at her treat uncertainly, before taking a bite. It wasn't quite to her palate, but she would never refuse food from Syr, even to her own detriment at times. The three then made their way back to their place of work. As soon as they entered the Hostess of Fertility, an irritated Mama Mia was there waiting for them.
'Oh hello Mama Mia, Bell is sorry he skipped out on lunch, but he said he would be happy to stay for the dinner rush today.' Said Syr with a smile.
'I did?' Said Bell questioningly, only to see Mama Mia's stern glare on him, causing him to sigh.
'I did.' Conceded Bell, with Syr giving a peace sign.
'We still have the lunchtime clean up to get through, so get to it.' Said Mama Mia, before walking off.
'That was mean, Syr.' Pouted Bell.
'Well, to use your own example, you can't make a cake without cracking a few eggs. We did get you a good deal too.' Said Syr, causing Bell to sigh as he conceded the point.
'I mean, I would have agreed to stay back anyway without being tricked into it.' Said Bell.
'This way was more fun.' Said Syr.
'For you maybe.' Grumbled Bell.
'Yes, for me. Don't worry, we will help you with the dishes.' Agreed Syr.
'But I need to let my Goddess know I won't be home at least. I don't want to make her worry again.' Said Bell.
'Don't worry, I made sure someone let her know.' Revealed Syr, causing Bell to narrow his eyes.
Syr simply smiled at him in return.
'Fine, let's just get ready for dinner.' Sighed Bell.
After Bell put his purchases off to the side, the three then got to work. Bell handed the washed dishes to Syr, with Syr drying them, and Ryuu putting them away. In no time at all, the sink was empty. It didn't take long after that for the dinner rush to start coming through. Bell and May worked through the orders as they came through, with Syr and Ryuu handling the seating, while Chloe, Lunoire, and Anya took the orders out. It was as a certain patron entered that Syr gave a small grin.
'Ah, welcome to the Hostess of Fertility. Just yourself tonight?' Asked Syr.
'Uh, I'm not sure, I was told to meet someone here.' Said Hestia.
'Oh, then leave it to me. Now seating one!' Said Syr, as she led Hestia to a table.
Ryuu then approached and handed Hestia a menu.
'What will you be having?' Asked Ryuu.
'I don't know, I was told to come down here and everything would be taken care of.' Said Hestia.
'Oh yes, the meal will be covered for you today with a complimentary desert, but you still need to choose your main meal.' Explained Syr.
Hestia narrowed her eyes at the girl.
'Have we met before?' Asked Hestia.
'It's possible. You'll have to excuse me though; I have more customers to seat.' Said Syr, before walking off, with Ryuu filling the spot Syr had vacated.
Hestia pursued her lips for a second, before looking at the expectant Ryuu and turning back to the menu.
'I guess I'll just have what the chef recommends.' Sighed Hestia.
'An excellent choice.' Said Ryuu, as she took the menu away.
Syr smiled as she saw Ryuu leave Hestia's table, before walking up to her and whispering something into her ear, causing her to nod. Hestia watched the interaction carefully, before a new noise caught her attention.
'The Sword Princess is here. Alone.' Whispered a voice, instantly pricking Hestia's ears.
The diminutive Goddess quickly turned her eyes to the door and spotted the aloof looking blonde. The famed adventurer spoke with Syr and showed her a piece of paper, causing the girl to smile and nod.
'Now seating one!' Said Syr, leading Ais to a table.
Hestia watched the pair, her eyes starting to narrow the closer Ais Wallenstein got to her table, before her eyes widened completely, when Syr gestured to the seat in front of her.
'Here we are, this is your table. It was specially organised by one of our own employees.' Said Syr, before Ais sat down.
Hestia's eyes widened, before becoming slits.
'And who exactly organised this?' Asked Hestia suspiciously.
'I'm sorry, the chef is too busy to come out right now, but he will be able to greet you both at the end of the night. Please enjoy your food and drink in the meantime.' Said Syr, as Ryuu handed Ais a menu.
Ryuu waited patiently as Ais stared at the menu. After five minutes of waiting, Ais put down the menu and looked at Hestia and Ryuu.
'Do you have any suggestions?' Asked Ais, looking between the two.
'The chef's recommendation is usually the best.' Said Ryuu.
Ais nodded and handed her menu back to Ryuu. Hestia was now left with the vacant looking Ais Wallenstein. Hestia felt her face shifting into a frown quickly, only for Syr to pop by a bit later.
'Can I get either of you something to drink?' Asked Syr.
Ais stared at Syr, before looking to Hestia, who seemed to be staring at her suspiciously.
'Should I get you your regular?' Asked Syr, looking to Ais.
Ais simply nodded.
'Wait, if you are a regular here, why did you take so long to order?' Asked Hestia, slamming her hands on the table.
'I don't usually order myself.' Said Ais, causing Hestia to look at her oddly.
'Well, Goddess, what would you like?' Asked Syr.
'Just get me whatever she has.' Said Hestia, not taking her eyes off Ais, getting an unseen nod from Syr.
Ryuu later returned with two glasses of water with a lemon wedge on top. Hestia looked at the drink owlishly.
'This is what you drink?' Asked Hestia.
Ais simply nodded.
'You don't speak very much, do you?' Questioned Hestia.
Ais simply shrugged, causing Hestia to bristle slightly.
"She is too aloof! It is like she might drift away in the wind and not even realise it." Thought Hestia.
As the food came out, Hestia's eyes narrowed to slits once again.
'Please enjoy, our chef sends his regards.' Said Syr.
'Do they now?' Asked Hestia sourly.
Syr smiled and left the two to their meals. Hestia shelved her suspicion for the moment as she felt her stomach groan at the smell of the food. Taking her first bite, Hestia's suspicion was instantly confirmed, and she started to eat with gusto. Halfway through her meal, Hestia looked up to see Ais had finished her meal already and was sipping her water.
'Eh! How did you finish so quickly?' Asked Hestia in disbelief.
'It was good.' Said Ais simply.
Hestia nodded in agreement, before going back to her meal. As Hestia finished up, she noted the crowd was thinning out. Ryuu came out a bit later and collected their dishes, before Syr returned with a slice of vanilla cream cake for both of them
'Shouldn't you be going soon?' Asked Hestia, as she took a bite out of her cake.
'No.' Said Ais simply.
Hestia honestly didn't know what to make of Ais. She had not interacted with the girl before today. Earlier in the day was the first time she had met her, with the girl ordering four potato snacks and later handing her a letter, before walking off. Hestia knew she was a member of Loki's Familia, and Loki and Hestia did not get along, but it seemed like none of this mattered to Ais. Hestia honestly even wondered if Ais knew who she was from how vacant she seemed. While Hestia had these thoughts, she failed to notice that the pub was now almost empty, and that Ais had eaten her cake slice without her noticing.
'I would like to introduce you to your chef for the night.' Said Syr, returning to the table and collecting their dishes, once Hestia had finished her piece.
'Why do I have the feeling that I already know the chef?' Asked Hestia.
'I don't know what you mean. This chef has only been here since yesterday.' Said Syr.
Ais and Hestia followed Syr as she led them to the counter, only to see a white-haired boy washing a dish, which he handed to Ryuu.
'I knew it was you, Bell!' Exclaimed Hestia, causing Bell to drop the plate.
Luckily for Bell, Ryuu quicky caught the plate.
'Ah, Ryuu, thank you so much! Mama Mia would have been so angry with me.' Said Bell, grasping Ryuu's hand which held the plate.
'B-Bell.' Stammered Ryuu, a small blush on her face.
'Aha! I knew you were hunting for an Elf!' Exclaimed Hestia.
'Huh?' Stammered Bell, releasing Ryuu's hand and letting her calm down.
'Well then, now that everyone has met, I would like to ask for our payment for today's meal.' Said Syr.
'I thought it was covered?' Asked Hestia.
'It was, as long as we can all come to an agreement.' Said Syr.
'What do you mean, Syr?' Asked Bell, drying his hands as he approached the group.
'Everyone here has protected, wanted to protect, or is able to protect Bell, and since we all like Bell helping out here, and since his cooking is so good, we want to give Bell all the help he needs to survive in the Dungeon. Otherwise, we won't ever get to taste his cooking again.' Said Syr.
'You were the chef?' Asked Ais.
Bell nodded.
'It was delicious.' Said Ais, causing Bell to smile, even as a small blush crept onto his face.
'Thank you.' Said Bell.
'So what is this help you want?' Asked Hestia, trying to break up the moment.
'I would like you, Bell's Goddess, to give permission for Miss Ais Wallenstein to help train him, while also letting him work here when he is not in the dungeon.' Proposed Syr.
'Why would Ais Wallenstein want to help my Bell?' Asked Hestia suspiciously.
'Because Bell will be allowed to prepare three meals for her every day free of charge for her services.' Said Syr.
'I accept.' Said Ais, getting Hestia to slam her head on the table.
'That was quick!' Exclaimed Hestia, bouncing back up in shock.
Hestia then started to get a strange tingle in her neck.
'Wait a minute, are you the one who set all of this up?' Asked Hestia, looking at Syr.
'Maybe.' Said Syr.
'Why?' Asked Hestia, narrowing her eyes.
'I like Bell, same as you, right?' Asked Syr.
Hestia stammered as she fought down her blush, while also trying to reign in her indignation.
'I see no problem then. I will come by for breakfast tomorrow.' Said Ais, before walking off.
'You should probably head home with your Goddess too, Bell, oh, but don't forget your equipment.' Said Syr, handing Bell his bag of purchases, leaving a light touch on his hand as she handed them to him, causing him to blush, which made Syr giggle.
'What are those?' Asked Hestia suspiciously.
'We helped Bell buy some weapons and armour. Syr also helped get him a discount.' Explained Ryuu, back to her usual calm self.
'W-why?' Asked Hestia.
'Because… we are his friends.' Said Ryuu quietly.
Hestia seemed to puff out her chest for a minute, before sighing.
'I see… come on, Bell, let's go home.' Said Hestia, holding a hand towards Bell.
Bell took the hand happily, holding his purchases in his other hand.
'Thank you for your help today, Ryuu. Syr… thanks as well, but I wish you would be a bit more upfront sometimes.' Said Bell.
'Where is the fun in that?' Questioned Syr, causing Bell to laugh.
'Come on Goddess, let's go home.' Said Bell, as the two members of the Hestia Familia left.
'I thought you had planned to have me help train Bell.' Said Ryuu, once they were alone.
'Oh Ryuu, I wouldn't make you do anything you don't want to. If you want to help Bell, you can, but I don't want to rush you. That being said, I want to make sure he is ready for everything ahead of him.' Said Syr.
'Bell is lucky to have you looking out for him.' Said Ryuu.
'He is. Although, when did you start calling him Bell? Also, it seemed like he was very thankful to you for catching that dish, so much so that he held your hand in thanks.' Asked Syr.
'Goodnight, Syr.' Said Ryuu, leaving as quickly as she could.
Syr clapped her hands together and tilted her head to the side.
"Oh Bell, you are truly so much fun to be around." Thought Syr.