"Hmm~ Hmm~Daaa Dum Da!" Bell hummed a merry tune as he was walking with Hedin. Holding a sheet of paper in his hands tightly as he and Hedin made their way towards the guild. Normally, Hedin would be annoyed with the sound of his humming and merry tune and his lax attitude. But he couldn't deny that he was like that at one point.
Considering he was now a freshly new Level 2 adventurer; he allowed his son to be happy about the bragging rights he would obtain from this.
"While I can understand your happiness and eager to rub it in that sadist's face. Remember what we told you if they ask about Wild Child."
"Yeah...a development skill that randomly acts up that even Lady Freya doesn't know exactly. But while we can hide that, shouldn't we be worried about my other new skill?" Bell asked as he looked down at his status sheet in hand and looked at the skills.
"Not particularly, though it has potential to be an exploited skill for wealth and materials. The rarity of the items are registered to be very low odds. So, you should be safe from the hassle it could cause. The secondary part can be seen as a bonus for surviving the depths of the dungeon.
Bell smiled as he looked up at Hedin and rolled the paper up and held it back into his hand as they saw the guild hall in view.
"Still...one day I wanna test my idea out with Delicious in Dungeon!" Bell said as his hair was roughly ruffled and now pulled next to Hedin and held in a mock choke hold.
"You and your stomach...Keep that up and your alias will have to do something about gluttony or food. Or in worst case, be something about your looks as a rabbit." Hedin said as he felt Bell stiffen and heard a small growl from the boy.
"I need to ask Lady Freya or Miss Hephaestus to help give me a good name when they do their naming thing for the new level ups."
"*Sigh* You can try, but don't get your hopes up. The gods have very poor taste in naming things. Dare I say they're just as bad as that armor you bought."
"Oh! Thanks for reminding me pops, I gotta see Hephaestius shop to find that smith that made my armor." Bell said as Hedin looked at him with a curious gaze.
"Why do you need to go? For help with the name or to order an extra set of armor?"
"Well...both yeah. But I also wanted to give my thanks for the weapon Lady Freya commissioned for me. And also to keep a promise I made to her." Bell asked as Hedin looked at him with a blank face.
"So you're going to talk some sense into that smith that made your armor to coming up with better names?"
"Not really but you do bring up a good point! I'll do that, but first, I gotta smack some sense into him about holding back. Phae said he's talented and could make better weapons and armor if he wasn't so stubborn and stupid."
"Like you're one to talk! You're compleately stubborn and stupid!" Hedin yelled as he pulled on Bell's ear. Earning Bell to do the same to Hedin's cheeks as the two playfuly fought as they were still walking.
"Exactally! I know I'm stubborn! But you admitted sometimes I'm a damn genius! And I'm the only one in the party to be allowed to be stupidly stubborn! I don't want this Welf guy to be another idiot unless hes good!"
Pausing as he released Bell from his hold, making the boy drop. He blinked as he looked confused by what he just said.
"You want him in the party?"
"Owww...Well...I'm not an idiot pops. There's gonna be times where you and the others will be busy or off on some mission or quest. So, I thought maybe having a big party and crew of friends wouldn't be that bad." Bell said, though noticing by his tone, Hedin heard the dejected tone in his voice and sadness mixed in.
"Tired of us already?"
"Now look who's stupid! But, things are bound to happen where you guys will be off and I'll be alone. So, is it wrong to have more friends to adventure with?" Bell said as he got back up and dusted off his back. His eyes widened when he felt his head wrapped around Hedin's arm and his hair ruffled.
"You're not alone anymore Bell. Though, there's truth that we'll be off doing something, but that doesn't mean we'll be gone forever. And no, it's not wrong to make more friends, just be smart about it." Hedin said as he quickly let go and hurried inside the guild. Annoyed as he felt Bell's smirk on his face.
Inside the guild however, Bell and Hedin were meet with mass panic from the elves inside and adventurers lined up at each station for help with their trades or meetings. Both surprised at this as the usual guild hall they were used to, was now a large mess.
"Woah...what's with all the elves? I mean, I know I see a couple inside but this is looking alot like a village full of them! Heck...even maybe a familia full of elves."
"Bell, stay close and don't lose me. We'll just push through to the front to deliver the sheet and then we'll be off. Something doesn't feel right." Hedin said as he grabbed onto Bell's arm and dragged him alongside. Pushing a few elves and other adventueres as the restless crowd seemed to be more towards the front.
What caught Hedin's eye was that they were all asking only the Elven staff of the guild questions pertaining the status of the Royal Family and about Lady Riveria. Scowling at the mention lingers of Riveria, he looked elsewhere and saw a pink haired receptionist just finished with assisting another adventurer.
"Pardon me, you miss!" Hedin said as the pink haired receptionist looked and saw him coming towards her. Dragging along Bell towards her as her eyes lit up and smiled. While Bell felt as though he could finally breathe from the crowd, he smiled and now dragged Hedin to the counter.
"Hey Misha! You doing alright in this hell?"
"Hehe~! Well if it isn't the reputable slayer of Eina! Yea-Well...I'm managing somehow. I kinda feel bad for Eina and the other elven staff. The elves have been anxious the past two days now. And even Orario's elves are mostly worried if they're forced to leave."
"I've heard nothing from our familia's elves. But just now I did hear some rumors regarding about that wench and the Royal Family. Any particular reason why?" Hedin asked as Misha closed her eyes and hummed.
"Well...I don't know all the details about it. But they are looking for someone. The Royal Family came all this way with their small personal army and guards to meet these people and have an audience with Reveria. For proof of something. Other than that, nothing else comes to mind."
"Well, hopefully things can get back to normal soon. Me and pops will be out of your hair and out of this mess now. We just wanted to submit my status sheet to you guys." Bell said as he handed the paper to Misha as she looked at it.
Bell smirked as her eyes widened at the sight of it, to then meeting his with her own smile and glee.
"Oh gods! Congratulations Bell! And in barely under two months!? You broke the Sword Princess's record!"
"SHHHH!" Bell and Hedin shushed her as she closed her eyes and had her hand over her lips. Looking back and forth around them. And the trio sighed as the elves were far too busy worrying over the rumors and talking about louder than they were.
"Ma'am while congratulations are to be expected, please don't spout out others privacy. Will this be all or do we need to sign a few things to clarify proof?" Hedin said as Misha began packing away Bell's info in a sealed envelope and shuffled around the desk.
"Well no, I can make note and delivere this to out boss to store in his record. Though...sadly I have to inform Eina of this news. I was supposed to be an advisor to new adventurers..."
"But that sadist can never learn to relax...*SIIIIIIIIIGGGGGGHHHHHH* Let's get this over with..." Bell groaned as he leaned over the counter and looked to his right, seeing Eina trying to calm down the crowd she was attending.
"You guys might wanna cover your ears, or not. This could be funny."
"I'm curious what you'll call her this time. I only heard word of what you said to her during your mishap at Monsterphilia.
"And I wanna see the look of Eina's face when you call her!"
Bell smiled back at the two of them as he turned back to look at Eina. Cupping his hands around his mouth as he then inhaled a deep breath of air. Pausing as he exhaled and craked his neck before finally calling her over.
"HEY! STUPID FOUR EYED SADIST! STOP FLIRTING AND EYE FUCKING YOUR DESK AND THAT HAREM OF ELVES IN FRONT OF YOU! YOU'RE ON THE CLOCK, NOT ON YOUR TIME OFF TO SEDUCE AND TORTURE MEN FOR SICK PLEASURE!" Bell roared as the crowds of elves now stood in silence and looked at Bell, before looking at Eina and now backed away.
They backed quite far away as some even were up against the guild walls or hid behind the furniture around the building and whatever potted plants were around. As Eina's face was now flushed completely red in embarrassment and anger at Bell.
"Bell Cranel...for the last time...I'M NOT A SADIST!"
"HEAR THAT!? SHE DIDN'T DENY ABOUT THE EYE FUCKING AND SEXUAL ACTS SHE'LL INFLICT UPON YOU ALL! AVOID THE SADIST!~" Bell chimed as that earned many of the elves, both male and female and in-between to look at her in horror. While some actually looked tempted by the sound of it.
"Shut it! Stay right there! I actually need you for something relating to this mess!" Eina grumbled as she walked her way towards Bell, who looked pale and now Misha and Hedin ready to guard Bell. Though Misha's was less intimidating as she had a stapler and a ink bottle ready to throw while Hedin had his staff at the ready.
"You will do nothing, asside from observing his recent status sheet. Sign the papers as proof of submission. And then we'll be on our way." Hedin scowled as Eina flinched, though her leer didn't falter as she took the file from Misha and looked at it.
For a few seconds, she said nothing. Rather her face was that similar to a gaping fish as she looked up from the paper to them. And then back down to double check it.
"H-H-HUUUUHHH!? LEVEL 2!? IN ONLY A MONTH AND THREE WEEKS!?" Eina bellowed in shock. Earning Hedin, Bell and Misha to face palm themselves. And soon followed by her other co-workers and then the sounds of papers to fall on the floor.
"Idiot...absolute idiot sadist! Does privacy mean so little to you!?" Bell said as he was clutching the air, his hands aimed at Eina's neck.
"You wretched slut! Can you keep that whorish mouth of yours shut instead of spouting out shit and sucking dick! Misha! Can I sue the shit out of Royman for this wench's whorish mouth and spewing private information like a whore begging for dick!"
"Eina you idiot! You might call me an idiot sometimes but even I have common sense and know when to stop messing around!"
Bell, Hedin and Misha chastised the baffled elf receptionist as she then realized her folly. Looking around the fact that she announced a new Level Holder. And one that now broke Aiz Wallenstein's previous record of the Fastest Level Up in Orario. The only thing she could even do was cover her reddened face.
"Eina, we'll be having a meeting to discuss your apparent "habits" as of late. Rest assured Mister Hedin she will receive the most satisfactory punishment for breaching the trust and privacy of our dear adventurers." Royman said as he was coming from behind Eina, snatching the file in her hand as he looked at Bell and Hedin.
"Though, regarding what she wanted you both for, is related to this mass issue amongst our kind and him." He said to Hedin, referring to Bell as only secondary to the issue at hand. Which Hedin didn't take too kindly and leered at the fat potbellied elf.
"If Bell is indeed part of this, then I don't think you should be taking that tone with me. Now spill it. My patience is wearing thin by the second you keep wasting and what this wench spilled from her whore mouth." Hedin said, pulling Bell close and glaring at the two guild elves.
Royman was now sweating under Hedin's gaze as he swallowed a lump in his throat. Coughing for a moment as he stepped forward.
"It would appear that Lady Riveria and Loki would like an audience with you amongst the Royal Family. As they're staying at said Familia at this moment. Reason as for why they're staying and why they've come has to do with Lady Riveria, and upon word from her, this incident reguards to both of you about some...unsavory rumors..." He said as Hedin's eyes widened for a moment before looking at the fat elf with a dull look.
"Ooohhhh! You mean about Ma's secret marriage and divorce with Pops here and me being their first grandkid?" Bell said, completely missing the tension in the air as all elves' jaws dropped or even fainted at what he said.
"Bell! Can't you pay attention! And why are you saying as though this isn't a big deal!" Eina exclaimed as she slammed her hands on the counter.
"The Elven Royal Family is very strict about marriages withing their line! Especially if it's been kept secret! I don't know if this is even true or not, but with you spewing nonsense or bluntly talking about these rumors as though they were true, there will be huge consequences!"
"This coming from the one that invaded my privacy and practically announced it to the whole world?" Bell countered as one could see the comically large arrow piercing through Eina's body. Along with a giant rock seeming to have fallen from nowhere and made her slam her head on the counter.
"Welp, looks like we can't avoid this. C'mon pops! To Loki's we go!"
"And just what makes you think we should even attend to this meeting? Even if it's from the Roya Family, that wench is trying to drag us down with her." Hedin said as he scowled and crossed his arms. Already predicting what would come if they attended.
"The fact that we can embarrass Riveria in front of her parents for one." Bell said as that made Hedin twitch and looked rather interested at those words and the idea coming into play.
"Plus~ there's still the fact that Lady Riveria still owes me two more favors, essentially, making her my bitch. And I could pass those onto you to make her do anything embarrassing or admit anything~!" Bell chimed in as Hedin's pupils shrank, but his menacing grin on his face grew wider with every second.
"And, we can rub it in her and her so called "daughter's" face the fact that I broke their record in front of Loki's familia. Making ours look better while theirs look like shit." Bell said as he was then hoisted up in the air and now placed on Hedin's shoulders. While the now scary yet proud looking elf crossed his arms in excitement.
"YOU! SLUT LIPPED ELF SADIST! ESCORT TO LOKI'S! I WANNA BE THERE FIVE MINUTES AGO! GHEHEHEHEHE-HAHAHAHAHAHAH!" Hedin roared in laughter as he turned around to head off to the exit. The other elves looked wide eyed at the appearing father son duo as Eina now hurried off to chase after them. Begging them for mercy and to not cause trouble.
However, trouble was already amidst here in Orario.
Two days ago, the arrival of the Elven Royal Family nearly caused quite the bit of chaos in Orario. Mainly, for the elves and half-elf citizens in the city. The sight of seeing nearly fifty of the Royals' own army, along with their strongest guards, The Faes, surrounding their carriage.
May took this as a sign something was to befall upon their people. A war perhaps? A need to secure the family from a band or country trying to assault and kill their beloved king and his kinsmen.
When many saw that the family was headed to the Loki Familia's manor, they suspected this was more of a issue to their beloved Lady Riveria. Calm and ease rested in the citizen's minds as the thought: If they are at the Loki Familia, then nothing should be the matter. They are at the strongest familia's home. No need for cause and worry.
Oh, how foolish those elves were.
So very, very, very foolish to assume peace and ease was to come to the Royal Family.
For the moment the Royal's camp rested on the grounds of Loki's manor. The sight of the king and queen brought joy to the familia's local elves and brought many outsiders to come and try to get a glimpse of the family.
From the carriage, came first a tired tall looking man with jade color hair and eyes. Though it would appear that even in elven standards he is getting old. As few streaks of white could be seen on his long mane of hair, yet it was still promptly kept well with a golden thorn crown he wore on his head.
Waiting by the door of the carriage, he held his arm to assist the other inside to come out. Looking as though she was an elder sister to Lady Riveria herself, there was much distinction in comparison of the two.
Her emerald hair tied in a high ponytail, showing her grey colored eyes from the black veil she wore on her head. Though left enough open space for all to see her eyes and beauty. Wearing a dress that could be interpreted as a combatant style look, having to be seen as more of a blue-green color with white taking over the sleeves and lower half of the dress.
Glittered and donning golden accents around the dress, particularly at the bottom skirt of it and around the sides of the blue-green overcoat of it. Many of the citizens and members of the Loki familia had to control themselves of where their eyes looked, as for this beauty of a woman had the ample chest to compete with some of the more ravenous goddesses in Orario.
These were the respected King and Queen of the Royal Family. Rulers of the Alf Royal Forest and ruler of the vast elven race. King Larfal Ljos Alf, and his first betrothed and faithful wife Anistasia Dwyn Alf.
Riveria Ljos Alf's father and mother. Making her the Princess of Elves.
The first few moments were awe taking silence. Seeing the rulers walk toward's the familia's front gates. However, what surprised them was her majesty telling her husband to wait with the other guards as she stepped forward at the gate, inhaling a breath of air, before bellowing what could be considered unbecoming of a Queen.
"RIVERIA LJOS ALF! BRING YOUR COWARDLY ARSE OUT HERE AND FACE YOUR MOTHER YOU IRRISPONSIBLE TWAT! DON'T YOU DARE THINK YOUR FAMILIA CAN HIDE YOU FROM ME! I DEMAND ANSWERS AND BY YOUR FLAT CHESTED PERVERT OF A GODDESS, I WILL RIP THEM FROM YOUR LYING TOUNGE! WHERE ARE THEY!? WHERE IS MY GRANDCHILD AND HOW COULD YOU ELOPE WITHOUT INVITING ME OR YOUR PRECIOUS FATHER!"
For the past two days till now, the Loki Familia has been fighting a damn war with the Royal Army and the Faes. Trying to minimize the damage and the breechings of their walls from an enraged mother. Spewing curses and slanders at her own daughter from the outside. While many of the elven citizens and adventurers pleaded and tried to talk sense to their queen.
All while the king looked at the citizens with pity and was remained on the sidelines. Rather comfortably to add as he watched his own wife beating upon the doors of the manor using other adventurers and their weapons like a battering ram.
"Dear, please do try to minimize the corpses you'll leave. And for heavens sakes come get some rest! The Faes and the guards can handle them for you while you recuperate." Larfal said as he set aside the paper he was reading and tilted his head to the side.
Narrowly avoiding another unconscious body as the stomping of his tired and angry wife came closer to him and then sat next to him on the set chair provided by their guards as ten of them came in place for his wife.
"Hmph! If she believes her familia can survive my rage, then they are sourly mistaken to think this will tire me to retreating! Can you believe her Lar! I know she's rebellious and doesn't wish to rule yet. She gets that from both of us, but to have a secret family and not have us in her life!?"
"Now dear, remember these are merely rumors. You know she still cares about us to still write back. And if they were, would you think she kept silent about it if there wasn't a dire reason to keep silent about it?"
"...I suppose you're right. But this is a first for me and you! For the kingdom! We would be facing with the biggest change. Our nation would have a blood related child in the royal family to be part in the succession! Which could mean all the more reason Riveria should think and prepare herself to take over someday!" Anistatia said as her husband meerly raised a single eyebrow up at his wife.
"Why do I get the feeling that's only secondary to what you believe this rumor to be important."
"It might as well be! Think! If she had a child, that would make us grandparents! Me! A grandmother that never got to know her sweet and cute grandchild after so many years!? What are they like? Do they take after her husband or herself? And should we set them up marrage partners and spoil them!?"
"Dear please! Calm yourself! You're becoming quite frantic!"
"T-This is just...sort of coming to me without warning Lar. I mean, our kingdom has no shortings to a potential sucessor with what your years of going about sleeping or taking in women or other's wives..."
"You know I love you most and you are my first."
"Yes! Damn straight! No other woman can even come close to me! But...after Riveria was born..." Anistasia said only to suddenly stop. Looking down at her stomach and placing a hand over it. Rubbing it softly till she clutched at her own dress.
"Is it wrong...to want to have more into our family?" She asked as Larfal scooted closer to his wife. Cupping her cheeks with his hand and pressed his forehead to her. Wiping away the single tear falling from her left eye as he shook his head.
"No..it isn't. Though I wish that could be possible. But with what happened during her birth, we were lucky our little princess was born healthy and safe. At times, I wish we could've had more, given her companionship to her own siblings we could have given."
"But alas...the complications. I-I'm sorry Lar, b-but this here and now, it's giving me that motherly feeling when we were rasing our little girl." Anistasia said as she sniffled and parted ways with her husband. Both now holding hands as they continued to watch their men fight and trying to break through the doors.
"Perhaps we should allow the men to rest. If nothing else, Riveria found a good place to live. Two days in and they still haven't budge with all that you've thrown at them." Larfal said as the sounds of shuffling dirt and grass came closer. Both him and his wife turned to see a tall blonde haired elf looking rather malicious.
But what was offsetting seeing this menacing smiling elf, was the rather happy and admittadly adorable child on his shoulders as they looked at the doors to Loki Familia's manor.
"Oh! You're trying to get inside the manor then old man? Miss?" The boy asked as both king and queen blinked and nodded their heads.
"Given the fact that you've sent half their weaker members unconscious or beaten to a pulp. I'm quite impressed the Queen of Elves has the strength of half the army. Your skills and rumors of you hold truth." The blonde-haired elf said as he bowed, just as the boy soon hopped off and now faced the doors to the manor.
"T-Thank you..erm?"
"Oh! Sorry sir, ma'am! We were sent from the guild to come here. And I have some people to visit here to let them know I've recovered after an incident four days ago. I'm Bell Cranel! And this here is my Pops!"
"Hedin Selland, pleasure to meet you your Heineses. Now, I believe we can assist you both. Though my lady, you should be ready to storm inside if you wish to fetch who you're seeking." Hedin said as Anistasia looked at him with a puzzled look before he turned to Bell.
"Alright...Bell?" Hedin said as Bell smiled. As they watched him walk calmly a few feet ahead before looking at the doors. Inhaling a breath in, and then relaxing himself and breathed out.
"HEY! ORGA! LEFIYA! TIONE! I MADE IT BACK ALIVE AND IN ONE PIECE! COME ON OUT! IT FEELS LIKE WEEKS SINCE I'VE SEEN YOU!" He yelled, causing the royal army to stop as well as the members of the Loki familia to look at him. Soon they heard a loud rumbling coming from the doors.
Next thing they knew, the members of Loki Familia were blown away from their post as well as the doors themselves off the hinges. And there they could see only a brown blur before watching as the boy was knocked to the ground groaning and laughing a bit in pain.
"GAaaaahhh! Argo! You're alive! Thank the gods you're alive Argo!" The members of the Loki famila could only watch in shock, as Tiona was now straddling Bell and nuzzling against his cheek. All while she was squeezing the ever-living air out of his body.
"N-Niccee...to se you too Tiona! A-Ah! A-And Argo? W-What happened to W-White hair?"
"Oh! Well that was cus I was reading Argonaut lately and it popped into my head that he sounds a bit like you. Going off on adventures and slaying cool monsters. So that's what I decided to nickname you now! And don't judge me! You called me Orna like the Fortune Teller and Storyteller of Argonaut too!"
"One, I was eating and had crepes in my mouth when I called you. Buuuut...now that you mention it...I like it! And yeah! I should call you Orna too! Me and you! Argo and Orna! The tale of two adventurers in the pursuit of exploring and romance!"
"Yeah-hahaha! Yes! I love it! We'll be an undefeated duo of romantic dungeon adventures!" Tiona said as he brought Bell up on his feet as they then preceded to dance around each other and laugh. (Think Chainsaw Man Denji and Power Dance)
Mister Cranel! I-I'm glad to s-see that you're doing well and recovered! You had us worried there! W-We tried to visit you in the hospital, but it appeared that your familia didn't want you disturbed while you were unconscious!" Lefiya said as she was dragged out to the yard by a frantic Filvis who was flushed red and soon hid behind her.
"You too! C'mon Lefiya! We're all friends here! Just call me by my name or even give me a nickname if you want! Same to you Filvis! Hope you girls were alright!" Bell said as he stopped his little jig with Tiona as he waved hello at the two elves.
While Lefiya looking relived and calmed herself at addressing Bell in front of the King and Queen. Filvis could only blush and slowly step aside from behind Lefiya and bow.
"I-I don't know if I can find a proper nickname for you yet. B-But I'll try! S-So, sorry! But please for now let me address you as Mr. Bell!" She said as she whimpered. Only to be patted on the head by Lefiya as Bell gave a small chuckle.
"Well, alright. I can wait till you get use to it. So, where's your sis Orna? Oh! Is she off making her first bold move as a woman to that midget?" Bell said as Tiona shook her head and sighed.
"Sadly no, her chance was taken by our idiot goddess panicking and being used as a meat shield to protect Mama-" As Tiona explained, suddenly a gust of wind came through the four teens and shielded their eyes. They looked back to the opened doors at the fading dust cloud.
To then hear the horrifying screams of agony and begging coming from the manor's halls.
It was evident that the screams came from deeper and above the upper floors of the manor. Windows suddenly breaking and bodies falling from out of them. Furniture flying through the windows and even parts of the wall of the building.
It was then on when Tiona and the other members of the familia now were trying to find some cover as they saw Bete first coming crashing through the wall of the second floor. Then Gareth. A few minutes soon they saw a battered and ruffled Tione dragging a unconscious Finn.
Bell could only blink as the screams and sounds of fighting continued. All the while Hedin, Tiona, Tione, Lefiya, Filvis and even Larfal were soon behind him. The girls having their hands on his shoulders and arms. Fully accepting the fact to use him as a meat shield just in case. And Larfal hiding behind Hedin.
It was then soon, there was silence. And the sound of something being dragged against the floor was growing louder and louder. Along with the sounds of heavy breathing and grunting. Now stepping outside the manor, was Queen Anestasia herself.
Dragging the battered and savagely beaten Loki. Towed away by that strap of cloth she called a shirt or bra that was almost torn to shreds in her left. And in her right hand, though who looked relatively unscathed compared to Loki, having her ass up and face on the floor as she was dragged.
Evident that even the pure white portion of her outfit, her rear end was marked bright red, and whimpers and teardrops trailed soon behind her body. Riveria, the Princess of Elves, had the worst of it once people saw the state she was on.
Anistatsia then tossed Loki aside, and soon dragged her daughter to her feet. But was pointless as she was heled like a cat being grabbed by the back of their neck. The girls of Loki familia, plus Filvis, shivered in horror and covered their own butts after seeing Riveria crying and sniffling.
"It was only a matter of time before I would punish you for hiding something this big from your father and me. Now, here's what's going to happen daughter. You are going to find your ex-husband and your son. Bring them over here. Present them to me PROPPERLY. And after I meet them, your punishment will continue." She said in a stoic tone that sent shivers to nearly everyone's spine.
"B-B-But...m-m-mother..."
"No excuses! You will bring them to me here now! I don't care if they are or aren't your husband and son! I want to know, who is it that these rumors tell them to be! And I'll see for myself if it's true or not!"
"B-B-But...they're right there." Riveria said as she weakly raised her trembling hand and pointed to Bell and Hedin. Making Anistasia look at the two that arrived earlier and was part responsible to her attack on Loki and now having her daughter in her hand.
She blinked. And then looked at Hedin. Then to Bell. Then back to her hanging daughter in her right hand.
Hedin. Bell. Riveria.
Hedin. Bell. Riveria.
Riveria. Hedin. Bell
Over and over did this process continue. Before finally returning her gaze at her daughter. She now turned her around to show her rear and place her daughter over her knee. Before now scaring Bell and the others as she viciously kept smacking and slapping Riveria's ass.
"You lying twat! This better teach you to hide your marriage and my grandchild from me! You claim he's not yours! LOOK AT THAT ADDORABLE LITTLE BUNNY! The blonde, white hair from your husband and his red eyes. Along with your face when you were adorable! How dare you even think to even leave them!"
Bell's eye twitched at the word 'bunny' and was about to get her attention. But not before an idea came to mind and turned to Hedin and Larfal and smirked at them. Hedin then grew a grin on his face and nodded back to Bell. Who cleared his voice before speaking.
"*Ahmm* EH!? What!? She's your mom Mama? So...that makes you my grandma! How!? You look younger than mama does!" Bell exclaimed in a mocking tone that passed on for genuine surprise. Well, surprised how Riveria was getting her ass kicked/spanked and the fact that the woman was younger looking than her.
Riveria's suffering seemed to have stopped just as Anistasia was about to use one of her dress's strap belts to smack her daughter's ass. As she then looked at Bell with widened eyes. Making her drop the belt in her hand and toss Riveria aside like some trash and immediatly went to smother the boy in her chest and squeal.
"OHHH! You're too cute! Yes, I am your grandmother sweetie! I'm Anistasia Ljos Alf. And I'm this idiot's mother." She said while thumbing back to her whimpering daughter that was trying ti get up off the floor.
"Sooo...then that makes the old man there my grandpa?"
"Yup! Indeed that does. Wait...do, you know who we are by any chance? Or, has my idiot of a daughter told you anything about her parents?" She asked worriedly as she released the boy and waved her hands around him. Frantic about if she was rushing things and scaring him, while mentally preparing worse for her daughter if she didn't so much mention them once.
"Well...All I can remember her talking about how her dad is old and worries about her. And that once she said that she dreaded the idea of him coming here to show her pictures of men for marriages. Though...with how she is with Pops I think I heard her saying that was better than marrying Pops." Bell said the last part in a dejected and sad tone. Causing Anistasia to slowly turn to her daughter, eyes gleaming and a red aura enveloping around her as she gently hugged the boy.
"Riveria...how could you say that when your son was around? And is the idea of us wanting to help you find a husband so dreadful?" She said in a sickenly sweet tone that sent shivers up to everyone's spine as Hedin was now on his knees and trying to hide his cackling.
"I said no such thing! And how are you so idiotic to believe these lies!" Riveria bit back as now her mother was glaring back at her.
"Don't you try to play devil's advocate with me! And quite hypocritical of you to call me idiotic when all those times you were an idiot and foolish when you were younger! Trying to sneak off the palace. Your pitiful attempts to sneak off outside the forest! EVEN TRYING TO GROW YOUR BREAST FASTER WHEN YOU HIT PUBERTY!"
"You didn't have to say that part! And besides, every female elf in my year at that time did it too! Not all of us can be blessed with those sagging udders of yours when you were younger and now!"
"That's because I'm not like most elves that are too stuck up and have yew branches shoved up their asses or taints! And how dare you call them saggy! These babies are firm and in their prime! Milk jugs and perfect! Even if you now have a decent rack on you, I bet you couldn't even satisfy your ex-husband well enough!"
"Like he could ever satisfy me!"
"Then why is it that you were able to have a child Riveria! He clearly was doing you well right to have one! Maybe you're the one that's incompetent in bed!"
"Stop making it sound like I'm a whore! And I can choose to bed who I want! I'm just waiting for a better man than that pathetic one on his knees!"
"SO YOU'VE REVERTED BACK TO BEING A VIRGIN THEN!? WITH YOUR ATTITUDE AND THAT STAFF OF YOURS SHOVED UP YOUR ASS YOU'LL BE LUCKY TO EVEN GET LAID BEFORE YOU START GETTING GREY HAIRS AND CROWS FEET!"
Before the mother and daughter duo could begin their catfight, the sound of Hedin's cackling and coughing caught their ears. As they all turned to see Hedin being aided by Larfal upright. As he was wheezing and coughing with a smile on his face. Wiping away a few tears and some saliva that dribbled down his chin.
"G-Gods above...th-this is the funniest thing I-I've witnessed since Allen's first few years in the familia! By the gods you look absolutely foolish!" Hedin said as he laughed again. This time earning Larfal to join a little as he tried to muffle his own laughter.
"Dear!/Daddy!" Anistasia and Riveria cried out as they were shocked and miffed that their husband and father were laughing at their expense. Blinking, it was apparent that all the elves and adventurers around them were struggling to hold their own laughs. The only exceptions were that of the elves of their own royal guard, Lefiya, Revis, Tiona and Bell.
"S-Sorry my love...but, given what the truth is. This whole ordeal with you two is quite amusing." Larfal said as he smiled at the pouting of his wife and daughter as he cleared his throat. Gesturing for them to look at Hedin.
"Given by what Hedin Selland has explained while you two were having one of your little spats, sad to say dear but this young man isn't Riveria's child." Larfal said as he now sighed at how teary eyed and the whimpering moan coming from his wife as he now squeezed the boy harder.
"B-B-But Lar! Look at him! He's just as cute when Riveria was a teeny baby! And his eyes and hair could've come from his dad!"
"Dear...did you completely miss his ears?"
Blinking. Anistasia then picked up Bell to the point his legs were now dangling in the air. His body turned and twisted by her as she carefully inspected him. Squinting her eyes as she turned him to his sides and looked intently at his ears. His apparent non-elf ears.
"But-"
"Sorry...that was kinda me pulling one on Miss Riveria." Bell interrupted her as she looked at him in confusion.
"While I don't know their relationship in the past, given how they despise and loathe each other-"
"Damn straight!"
"I wasn't gonna let her bad mouth pops. And I didn't like how snobby she was about rules of elves and some crap about thinking Filvis over here was cursed. So, I made a bet with her and if she lost, she would be my bitch!" Bell exclaimed, freezing nearly every single elf in the area and all of the Loki familia.
"It was to do any request you asked for me! And only for three times!" Riveria said, flustered and red in anger and embarrassment in front of her family.
"And yet you were still moronic enough to take my kid's bet and lost piss poorly!" Hedin countered as he smirked while crossing his arms and Larfal shook his head and gave a dull look towards her daughter.
"So she lost, and I thought that as my first request that she would accept any rumors told about her! And the rumor about me, Pops and her once being a family was already lingering around. My bet made her say it was one hundred percent true!" Bell said as he blinked. Looking now at the frozen still woman and looked a bit sheepish and embarrassed.
"But...I can see now that this must've been a hassle for you both. My bad."
"You're JUST apologizing right now! And for THAT alone!?" Lefiya and Filvis asked in shock as during his arrival they counted the dozen times that he and Hedin looked foolish and wronged the sanctity of the royal family.
"One thing I have to ask, why do you call that man Pops? Though the resemblance is uncanny, he isn't your real father? Elves tend to have the more dominant genes, so any child birthed by an elf would show some traits. But you're human." Anistasia said as she then lowered Bell back down as he watched the boy look back at Hedin.
"Blood doesn't make you family, or anyone family sometimes. We might not be blood related, but Pops will always be my Pops!" Bell said smiling back at the woman. Somehow tugging the heartstrings of those around him as they swore, they saw a golden aura and flowers floating around him.
"That settles it..." Anistasia said as she came close to the boy once again. Gently hugging him this time as she had a serious look on her face and saw everyone around.
"I've only met this boy for barely an hour and I'm making him my grandson. And if anything were to happen to him, I will kill everyone and then myself." She said with a serious look in her eyes as all elves, even Hedin and Larfal looked at her with widened eyes and dropped jaws.
"EHHH!?!"
"My lady you can't be serious!?"
"A human now in line for the Roya Family's throne! Unacceptable!"
"MOTHER!? What is going on in that thick head of yours?" Riveria exclaimed as she was then sent back to the ground, this time with a large smoking lump on her head and her body now indented to the ground.
"I'm dead serious. Anyone else questions my decision to have this precious child and his father into my family as my grandson and son-in-law?" She said with a growl as she hugged Bell closer. Making all elves stand straight and looking up to the sky.
"No your majesty! We're very sorry for questioning your decision!"
"Dear! Please think this through. I know how this might've been a chance to have-"
"This is happening Lar! We're going to accept this boy as Riveria's love child along with his father into the family! And if you so much as try to persuade me to think this over again, then say hello to Blue Balls for the next hundred years!" She roared as that made the king stiffen and almost cross his legs at the mention of blue balls.
"And don't even think about going around to fuck other woman to get off! I will cock block the shit out of you and string your balls tight and drag you to the castle if I find out you were in the middle of fucking a man's wife!"
"...Yes dear..." He said as many men shivered and cried at the sound of torment their king now had to suffer if he decided to be rational with his wife.
"That's better! Now, come say hi to out new grandson Bell! And I'll begin forming the necessities to put him in line for the throne and write letters to inform the palace back home of my new grandson!" Anistasia said as she let go of Bell and headed inside the carrage to prepare several letters as the old king now stood in front of him, obvious that he was awkward and new to this situation as Hedin joined in.
"Soo..erm...sorry this is just happening all too suddenly. I am King Larfal Ljos Alf, and I guess...that makes me your granddad now."
"Bell Cranel. And that's my pops Hedin. Making us, your grandkid and son-in-law now. W-Well...yeah okay I can see why this is a bit embarrassing for you. But, let's just put aside any stuffy formalities and try to get to know one another slowly for now. I think we'll get used to it."
"While my son is crass and has the little understanding of the situation, I must agree Mr. Ljos Alf. Let's stop with these formalities and talk like common men. Though...being part of the family via your daughter on paper as my ex-wife is a bit distasteful, it changes nothing for me or Bell."
Larfal blinked his eyes in surprise at how Hedin was acting with Bell and taking in this situation they're now in. More so on the fact that Hedin was allowing Bell to touch him as though he wasn't scared or even annoyed due to the difference they are in race.
"Erm...alright then. I know my wife can be a bit spontaneous. So you'll have to get use to her now suddenly dropping by to check in or talk with your goddess about Bell Cranel. She is a bit protective with children."
"Oh! So maybe we'll get along quicker then if she acts anything like him. But...was the part of her threatening you necessary?" Hedin shivered at the thought of the king's punishment as the elder elf nodded and sighed.
"You have no idea how many women suffered when they were the one's to suggest a night with me while my wife was in the same room."
"Wait...if you're married, then why do you sleep with other woman? Isn't that an abuse of your power?" Bell asked as he crossed his arms and tilted his head to the side looking confused. Humming and thinking hard at what this meant for elves.
"Erm...Mr. Bell...it's actually encouraged by the kingdom's law to bed other woman at home." Filvis said as she, Lefiya and Tiona came closer to the three men and joined in. Though in Tiona's case, she was more curious about that as well and wanted to give her sister some space for her and the unconscious Finn to be closer.
"Let me explain, see, in the past when our race was few in numbers, it was more of an act to keep our race's legacy on. There were few men during the past due to several wars with humans and other races that the act of procreation was seen as a need in the worst case should happen." Lefiya began to explain as Bell and Tiona nodded their heads in understanding.
"You are correct Miss Viridis, back then the King of Alf's Forest was considered the strongest of all elves. And was thought to be one able to sire such fine heirs and children. Hence, with such ability to have their heirs become strong, the act of freely reproducing with other women was enabled for not only our race's survival, but to benifit the kingdom with strong elves capable of magic and strength."
"But wait...why hasn't that law or accord been abolished or put to rest. Now a days there's not a real need for it right?" Tiona asked with her hand raised as Bell saw and then did the same. Until Hedin put both of their hands down and lightly chopped their heads.
"W-Well...I don't know if it's used in other elven kingdoms. But it's still there as a precaution for other things aside war. Such to say...if the king were dying and left the country with no ruler due to having no wife, then his children from the various women would be part of a selection to become the next king. Or act as a security measure if many of the king's heirs died in battle or adventures, or were sick with illness." Lefiya said, though a bit flushed at the thought for keeping such a decree still active.
"Wow...my shitty gramps would've loved to be in your position. Though, if he heard I was now part of your line and potential heir, he would've done everything he can to get me to make a harem..." Bell said dejected and annoyed at the thought of his grandpa.
"Shitty gramps?" Tiona, Lefiya, Filvis and Larfal asked as Bell blinked and waved his arms towards Larfal.
"O-Oh! No I didn't mean you granddad Lar! I mean my old grandpa. See...he was the one that got me interested in adventuring and the idea of travels. I'd always love the stories he'd tell me as a kid. But, he was a shitty teacher about it. He had me do some intense training that left me bedridden for days and would always say it's my duty to make a harem."
"I-I see..B-But it sounds like he really was looking out for you and wanted you to do great! And the way you talked about him reading you stories, you must really love him." Filvis said as Bell looked at her. She blinked and became frantic as his smile looked sad and saw tears in the corner of his eyes.
"Yeah...well...I did I suppose. He might've been a crappy trainer and a perv. But I loved the old man. Sadly...he's no longer among the living."
"A-Ah! I-I-I'm so sorry Mr. Bell for bringing it-"
"Come now Filvis, it's fine. I've had time to grieve and mourn. It happened months ago before I came here. But knowing the old man, he wouldn't want me to be all mopey. Instead, he'd want me to celebrate and take it in stride about my adventures I have with you all now!" Bell said with a cheeky grin as Tiona smiled at him.
"Well...I suppose I can understand why your grandfather was like that for you. But you saw what he was trying to prepare you for. I'd have liked to meet him someday, if he hadn't passed on. Heh, he sounds quite the fool. Wanting a harem."
"Yup! Shitty gramps was an idiot. The first thing he told me when talking about Orario, was ways to pick up girls in the dungeon! Jeez. Though I wouldn't mind later on meeting that someone someday." Bell said as that caught the girls' interest but were all startled when the carriage doors were kicked off and out came Anistasia running towards him and clutching his shoulders.
"You're seeking to court someone!? NOW!? Oh heavens this is too sudden! The potential of me becoming a great grandmother when I'm so young!?" She said in a panic as the girls and Larfal were in a frantic at her sudden worries.
"I LOVE IT! I'll help you out dear grandson! Guards! Faes! Seek out the guild for potential suitors for my grandson as soon as possible! Use our spies from other countries! Find some around his age! Maybe older or some where he can wait a few years for or a couple age of difference! No more than maybe three to six years apart!"
"Dear!"
"Your majesty!"
"Bell's Granny!/Grandma!"
The group exclaimed as they were about to try and talk some sense to the woman, if it wasn't for Hedin calling their attention.
"Your majesty, while I understand the procedures of seeing out potential suitor's for the royal family, do not that this precious idiot is MY son." Hedin said as he gazed at the woman, now looking coldly at him.
"Therefore, it shouldn't just fall under you to decide who would be a good partner for him."
"I see...fine! I'll be sending you the list and profiles of any potential partners I find and research about! And if you see any then you do the same!" Anistasia said as Hedin nodded, both having a twinkle in their eyes before they firmly shook one another's hand.
"Agreeable. Though there is one currently in the running to be a potential wife for him. As Bell himself even boldly asked her to marry him when he awoke from the hospital." Hedin said as now Anistasia's face became that of a kid in a candy store, while the three girls in the group froze and looked at Bell, who was that akin to a tomato.
"Don't lie Pops! Did you forget to take your pills for your dementia again!? And you three, it's taken out of context I swear! I was in the hospital for four days without food! When Helun brought some over I was too happy and spouted without thinking I swear!"
Bell explained as the three girls let out an internal sigh of relief. Though for Anistasia, she completely ignored his explanation and now pressing her hands into her cheeks and squealed in delight.
"*Pant*...*Pant* F-Finally! H-How is it that you were wa-walking! But were so far ahead of me!?" Bell, Hedin and Larfal turned to see a tired Eina now crouching a little and resting her hands on her knees. Breathing heavily as sweat was shining on her face.
"D-Did you cause t-trouble al-EEEE! Y-Y-Your majesties! I-I'm sorry for arriving late!"
"Hm? Ahhh...You're from the Tulle Family, correct? Eina. I recall your mother teaching my daughter when she was younger."
"Did you also have relations with her family members?"
"Yes...though that one was thanks to your grandmother and getting into the liquor storage too much during one of the festivities about...forty years ago I believe."
"I find that the fact the Sadist is related to you that way, simultaneously hilarious and pity with how she must've been raised." Hedin commented as Eina looked worried and confused as to why Bell and Hedin were talking to the King so casually, while the Queen was now talking to Tiona, Lefiya and Filvis with a notepad in hand and scribbling down notes with such speed.
"Y-Your majesty, I apologize if Bell Cranel and Mister Selland caused any troubles-"
"Ah! Is that Aina's child! Perfect! My how much you've grown! Yess...yes indeed! You have your mother's hips and breast that's for sure! In a few years you could become somewhat a decent rival for my own tits!"
"M-My QUEEN! Please stop touching my chest!"
"Nope! I'm getting the measurements right and seeing if you're worthy to be a potential candidate!"
"C-candidate for what?"
"Why to become a sutior for my grandson and potential wife for him!" She said without hesitation, as Eina's mind shut down and blinked before she felt the woman's hands off her body and ass.
"Y-Your grandson?"
"Yup! See that adorable white-haired boy with red eyes next to his father! Bell Cranel, he's my grandson now and I'm making a list of potential suitors I find here in Orario before I leave soon!" Anistasia said as she went around now to see any members of her own race in the piles of bodies around the yard and seeing if any of her female Faes or guards were interested.
Eina was at a complete loss. Lefiya and Filvis were panicking as they saw that her eyes rolled to the back of her head and now looked completely white. It was only after a few moments of silence before the final straw broke her back and mind.
"YOU'VE ONLY MEET THE KING AND QUEEN AND NOW YOU'RE PART OF THEIR FAMILY!? FIRST IT'S YOU BECOMING LEVEL 2 AFTER BARELY TWO MONTHS IN AND NOW OUR QUEEN IS LOOKING FOR WIVES AND PARTNERS FOR YOU!? WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED!!?"
"... ... ... ... ... ..."
"God. Damnit. Idiot Sadist..." Bell and Hedin muttered as now they felt various eyes on the both of them. Mostly in shock and surprise. And few of them with envious and angry glares and stares. Though the feeling of pride and joy at Bell's accomplishment did ease the boy. As he was then tackled to the ground by two elves and an amazon.
"LEVEL TWO! Congratulations Argo/Mr. Bell/ That fast!?" Tiona, Filvis and Lefiya spoke about and now piled on the boy with many questions and congratulations before their voices were just another set in a sea of words now floating in the air around the yard of Loki Familia's manor.
The conscious adventurers joyful that someone finally leveled up was a large step in their way of life. The envy of some that wished it was easy to level up that quickly. And a certain blonde looking at the boy in amazement and wanting, were just one of the many hectic moments that happened today when now meeting his new family members.