Days had passed since Bell's recovery from his incident during Monsterphilia. Along with the incident many elves in Orario now call 'The Leveling Royal Reunion' of the Alf Forest Royal Family. In which word was now spread and confirmed true, that a human is now part of the Elven Royal family.
Bell Cranel, officially declared by King Larfal and Queen Anistasia Ljos Alf, to now be their official grandchild. The son of Hedin Selland and Riveria Ljos Alf. Their union hidden from the royal family, but due to troubling marriage and the disbelief of Riveria having sired a human than that of even a half-elf, tore her to leave her husband and child.
The story was quite the tale to be told. Especially given how manipulative and persuasive Queen Anistasia was in writing it, became quite a sad romantic story for many to have heard it. Attracting quite the attention to Bell, Hedin and Riveria.
The Princess of Elves now having to deal with more marriage suitors and annoying men begging to marry her. Claiming to be a better husband than Hedin, which would prompt them to get sent to the hospital from the Loki Familia.
Hedin, was seen rather in an odd lighting so to speak. The past few days after Anistasias' departure, many elves seemed to see him as a bridge of sorts to breaking the stereotypical issue of elves claiming to be superior to all. He had many women try to comfort him and even flirt with him in public. Which would even make him blush, and cause Bell to rescue him from such needy woman.
And Bell himself, had to deal with the multitude of marriage proposals given to him in the mail from elves and familias in Orario. However, that was swiftly stopped with the aid of Freya, his new grandmother and Hedin. He did enjoy the more friendly attituded the elves seemed to give and display around Orario.
Sadly, now a days he had the company of Helun by his side now in the dungeon. Which wasn't a bother to him, never could she be a bother in his eyes. But it did feel a bit lonely every now and then. More so given now with the relations of the Royal Family with his goddess Freya and Hedin, she was called more often now to assist Freya.
"What's got you down in the dumps Bell?"
In the guild hall, Bell had been waiting for his Valis exchange to be wrapped up. Though given the amount he brought with him alone on this current dungeon run it would be a while. As the counter of his Valis said it would be a while, he decided to wait on one of the guild's sofas to kill time.
What brought him back from his lingering thoughts, was Misha as he tapped on his shoulders and caused him to suddenly jolt. Looking behind him as he gave a tired smile to the kind reception woman who smiled back.
"Sorry, didn't see you there Misha. I've kinda been lost in thoughts lately. Feeling a bit weirded out coming here alone."
"Ahh...I get it. Miss your pops and the others joining you in the dungeon dives huh?" She said as she took the sofa chair across from him and sat down. Laughing a bit as he rubbed the back of his head and looked away sheepishly.
"I'd be lying if I denied that. It just feels...a bit too lonely ya know? But, I understand their roles in the Familia. Especially with Pops and Helun now have to sort out paperwork and forms given to Lady Freya thanks to Granny."
"My god, I still can't believe you're now technically a prince to a kingdom. And to elves of all that. Eina had a mental breakdown when she had to accept it. But tell me, is it true that she was picked to be one of your wives?"
"Unfortunately, yes, but Pops was absolutely livid at that suggestion. It took about two hours for him to convince Granny to make her a concubine and not a wife." Bell said as a shiver came down his spine at the thought of Eina becoming his wife.
Though while a part of him didn't mind it per say, but given how sadistic and strict she is, being married to her would be somewhat hell. Worse than his new grandpa's threat of being without sex for over a hundred years in comparison.
"Isn't that the same thing? Though more demeaning and less romantic?" Misha asked as Bell shrugged as he looked up to the ceiling of the guild.
"I don't know about that. Elves view of concubines and royalty is different than the norm I would imagine. Though Granny wants at least one of her family members to be an option to take as a wife. Apparently, her mom was part of their royal court and tutors, so they want to keep them close like family."
"And I take it your Pops is dealing with all that arrange marriage deals and documents they're sending his way."
"Yup, and hence why I've been doing solo dungeon dives. He's part of the deciding factor of who's a good option for me. I feel like he's doing it for humor but also a bit to get back at me to find a good woman for him." Bell said as that earned Misha to laugh loudly and wipe a tear from her eye.
"Better find a good woman for him before he find's you your future bride. But, if you're lonely in the dungeons, why not hire a supporter?" Misha suggested as she now had Bell's attention. Now sitting cross-legged on the sofa and looked at her.
"What's a supporter?"
"They're kinda like the name implies. Supporters help adventurers in the dungeon. Being it carrying drops and magic crystals. Assisting in battled and navigating through the dungeon floors. Even some are capable to heal and enhance the party with magic or abilities they might have."
"Ohhh~"
"And depending on the supporter, they can be available to join you majority of days or even make an exclusive contract with you. That way you're never alone in the dungeon floors. Though, knowing you it'll be a great way to expand your friends."
"Alright! That settles it! I'll find a supporter to join my party!" Bell exclaimed as he shot out from his place on the couch and smiled. Misha then stood up from her seat and walked over with Bell to the counter as she went behind it and grabbed a few stacks of papers with some adventurers' pictures on them.
"I can sort out some potential Supporters for you if you want. Though many are contract based and some might not want to join you after just leveling up so keep that in mind. In the meantime, why not see about your armor, I notice a few dings and some scratch marks on it. Maybe it's time for a replacement?"
"Hehe! Thanks for the help Misha. And yeah, after I get my Valis I should swing by to Phae's for some better armor by this guy that made it. I also have something to do while searching for some of his new gear."
"Bell Cranel! Your Valis is ready."
"Oh, lucky timing. Guess Rose is finished with counting up your drops. Have fun vising Hephaestus's shops!"
"Thanks a lot Misha!" Bell said as he hurried to the cashier's desk and proceeded to collect his earnings from the dungeon. Unknowist to him or Misha, the short cloaked individual listening in to their conversation was nearby. And the slyful smirk and gaze they were giving to Bell.
All the while Bell made his way towards Hephaestus' office, back at Folkvangr, Hedin was having his own issues to deal with. Having spent most of his day and still currently busy aiding in his goddess's paperwork. Hedin felt a headache coming soon to him no thanks to said goddess and her Attendant.
Conducting Freya's workload was the easier part of his day as with Helun's help. However, with being part of the Royal Family, meant having to deal with the paperwork and letters coming in from them Alf Forest in regards about Bell and scheduled visits from his new in-laws.
The worse part of this was what now caused Helun and Freya to become frantic and throwing papers left and right across the room...
"Why in Tenkai would that woman even offer this one to MY ODR! She's too old for heaven's sake!"
"My lady, this gets worse and worse the more we look into these files and stacks! Another noble from Alf sent a marriage proposal involving his own wife and daughter! She's only eleven! What was that bastard even thinking!?"
Hedin sighed as he was now observing the stacks of paper on his desk in Freya's office as the two women bickered and were baffled at the letters and profiles of various people.
Yes, the majority of Hedin's time as of lately has been sorting through the various marriage proposals sent by Queen Anistasia and King Larfal for Bell. As per agreement, he was to oversee and select the potential candidates and mail them back to the Queen for her side of the selection process.
"This would go much quicker if the two of you would stop and help me actually select and set aside the ones to send back to her majesty. Why you both have to panic and be frantic about random strangers is beneath my understanding." Hedin said as he stamped another profile of a candidate for Bell's hand with a large red X and set it aside.
"He's your son and My ODR Hedin! Even if we have to agree with that bitch of a Queen about their laws and customs, I want the finest and perfect women I deem fit to even date our Bell! And then maybe they might seem fit to have his hand in marriage for his harem!"
Freya said as she and Helun slammed their hands onto Hedin's desk. Almost knocking the papers over if he hadn't set his hands and a paperweight onto them before they came marching over him. And soon he pulled a stack of papers closer to him as Helun leaned in closer with her flushed face.
"I-It's bad enough I might be dealing with Miss Tiona, Lefiya and Filvis for Bell's attention! And you expect me to just choose any harlot after Bell's status and fame now!? As far as I'm concerned, they're all worthless for Bell's hand for a relationship!"
"Yes...YEEEESSS! Well said Helun! Even if you have those two from Loki's and that one from Dion's Familia, you must defend our Bell as if he were your own!" Freya said in glee as she was praising the young girl, all while Hedin stamped another profile with a rejection mark. Earning the women to now scold at him.
"And you're still judging these worthless options!?" They both shouted as Hedin stamped another and paused as he looked up to them. They way his glasses now shined white before revealing his piercing red orbs sent a chill throughout their bodies.
"While I understand both your frustrations about Bell's new status and implications and responsibilities that come with it. I can't half ass this. For one, her majesty WILL notice if I didn't put any effort to this. Two, I have to read everything sent by The Faes about their background, if they have any ulterior motives for the kingdom or to our very own familia." He said with a cold tone that caused the two to back away as he set aside the recent reject and took another file and observed it.
"And third, I'm seeing if any of these are even worth it for Bell. I'm taking into account of their age, their personality, skills, hobbies, status and schooling if they're right for him. That woman may be his grandmother now and is eager for him to begin dating, but he's my son. I don't want him to feel forced into marriage straight away, I want him to develop a connection with them." Hedin said as Helun and Freya's hearts were touched by the cold elf's warm attitude for Bell's concern and future.
"Why else would I say you spend more time with him Helun? And yet here you are assisting instead of having gone with him to the dungeon. And this isn't the first time. You've been spending less time with him these past ten days." He spoke with no remorse, as Helun now was on the ground on her hands and knees with an arrow seeming to have pierced her.
"I-It's true...Lately our Lady has had too much paperwork and meetings. Along with our shifts at the Hostess. I've been assisting her at them and helping her prepare for Lord Ganesha's Party coming soon in preparation for the Denatus. He must be having fun with Miss Tiona and the others..."
"You're fortunate that Loki Familia is in the midst of preparing for their next large scale dungeon dive. So they need all of their adventurers to earn Valis and start making preparations to explore the Deep Floors." Hedin said as he moved another file over to him, and this time actually marking it with an O shape stamp in green and setting it aside elsewhere.
This caused the girls to then look at the small stack of papers he recently placed aside and looked through them all. Each having a green stamp opposed to the several dozen piles of papers marked in red.
"These are the women you find appropriate for Bell's hand? Hmm...well, you are being thorough. But, some of these come from random elven families not even from the kingdom. And some of them aren't even elves."
"Apparently my goddess, her majesty didn't want the normality of selecting a bride for Bell. Rather she wanted a variety of women from him from different parts of the world. If you had been paying attention, you would notice."
"What I apparently noticed now from this...is that some of these options you approved of are men!" Helun screeched, causing Freya to nearly turn her head so fast that a cracking sound echoed the room as she grabbed the stack and looked through the papers until she came across two profiles.
"T-These two are men? B-But they look so feminine! Wait...I've heard of these two before. The fanous bounty hunter dubbed The Free-Form Tricky Spinner, Bridget. Huh...by the appearance he's changed quite a lot, his old outfit was that of a priestess. And this one...yes this one was part of the Twelve Paladins of Charlemagne. A fearsome warrior with plenty of tricks up his sleeve."
"Why would you approve of these two for Bell!? D-D-Does...does Bell swing that way!? Is he both!?" Helun asked as he face was completely red. Her eyes now spinning and a trickle of blood escaping her nose slowly at the thought of these two men with Bell.
Freya however, was now face first on the floor with a puddle of blood seeping around her head and steam coming off her face. Her legs were crossed with one another. Hedin paused before looking back up to Helun.
"Actually, Bell approved of those two himself."
"E-EHHHH!?"
"That was my initial reaction when he said he wouldn't mind getting to meet them and know them better. I tried to ask..if he prefers...them. But he says it's not about what or how they're born as those matters. Rather is the character of the person." Hedin explained as Helun then wiped off the blood from her nose and blinked in confusion as Freya was now somewhat normal and looked at Hedin.
"He says that if he found love in someone, it wouldn't be due to their sex or body. Rather how they are as a person. If they're kind, loving and a person he can see spending all his days and time with. Slowly and relaxed or spending it in a rush of passion and adventure, then that's the kind of person he would be happy with." Hedin said as he blinked hard as he wiped away the few tears forming from the corners of his eyes, thought making it seem as he was rubbing them from fatigue.
"While...I don't know Bell's preference in a partner. Or if he has any at all. I will support his decisions and take his feelings into account for arranging these proposals and setting up their meetings if they each choose to get to know one another." Hedin said as Helun looked like she wanted to cry from hearing such a romantic telling.
"I swear that boy is just a spontaneous love child isn't he. Nearly gave me a fright." Freya muttered as Hedin smirked and continued on his work.
"Welcome to my life now Lady Freya. But, some things to note: one, that file on Miss Bridget. Read carefully about her background and you'll see why you must have been confused." Hedin said as Helun looked at the file for Bridget, and a sad look came on her face as she continued to read.
"There are some things in this world that force others to change Helun. Keep in mind next time you help with observing these. And another thing, in that same pile...there's one that I had no choice but to accept it less we're prepared for a war." Hedin said bitterly as Freya took over the files and flipped to the last one in the stack.
Her face instantly scowled as she nearly ripped the paper apart with her single hand and almost crushed the other papers in the other.
"Why on earth did you approve of that moronic elf receptionist from the guild. Because of her I have to make an excuse and story as to why Bell Leveled Up so quickly with a buyable excuse."
"The Tulle Family have been part of the Royal Court. They're close with the king and queen and they decided to want to make it official. Though...if everything else false she's the last resort. I'll be lucky enough if the Queen would accept my proposal to make her a whorish concubine for Bell."
"The sadist? The woman that never takes a day off and crushes the spirit of exciting new adventurers in the dungeon...Marrying Bell?! I can't-I don't-even...I don't even know where to begin with this!?" Helun said, baffled that Eina was an option to marry Bell.
"Honestly I do wish she's only used as a last resort. However, I was fortunate enough that they sent profiles on her family members. I accepted them without hesitation and even more so when I read their profiles." Hedin said as he waited for Freya to sort out the stack again and pulled out two forms and placed them down on the desk.
"I didn't know the sadist had a sister, and an adventurer at that too. One from the Baldur Class...ahh that takes me back. My own son now off teaching aspiring students. I'm surprised she's stationed here in the Orario Branch instead of the main District." Freya said as she was looking over the profile of Eina's apparent sister, Nina Tulle.
Helun scooted closer to the goddess as she got a good look at the photo of Nina. Appearing to be a mature girl, a half elf at that. Her long hair ending with a single braid by her lower back as it draped down further. Wearing the Baldur Class uniform neatly with the excepting of a very long tie.
"Hmph...looks can be deceiving my lady. How do we know she's not just as a sadist as her sister."
"She's thirteen Helun. And while she's related to that idiot, they haven't really meet in person. They've only been contacted through their exchanges in letters, and they rarely see each other as Baldur Class's adventurers are undertaken to other specified staff members of the guild." Hedin chimed in as that earned Helun to look in surprise at the photo.
Baffled that this mature looking half elf sister of Eina was actually two years younger than Bell and herself. She was blinking and kept looking back from the photo to Hedin, who threw a wad of crumpled paper at her head.
"Yes. That's her age. And she isn't a sadist. I requested the Faes assistance in doing a very thorough background check and interview about her. What's she like with others, classes, skills and goals. She's that of her age, unsure of what to do for her future. But she is shown to be king and passionate about her studies and responsibilities. Similar to Eina, but its apparent she knows when to rest and relax." He said, earning Freya a sigh of relief as he handed the file back to Hedin and picked the other one up.
"Well going by what I read, and where she's studying, so far she's one of the few on the list that are within my acceptable parameters for Bell to mingle and meet with. Though, I'm surprise that their own mother is one you accepted."
"Her mother!?"
"While she is part of why that idiot elf is such a stricter for rules, she honestly prefers to be free spirited and relaxed. The Faes's investigation of where Eina's sadist nature...apparently came from their human father when she caught the two of them 'experimenting' one night in bed, not noticing her."
"Ohhh~ Sounds very kinky for an elf to practice. And poor little Eina now traumatized and enforcing said sadistic actions shown by dear daddy."
"You'd be surprised how elves can get kinky...given with Fortuna.." Hedin muttered as a chill went down her spine at uttering that certain elf that he's been seeing more often in the streets or around the guild.
"Be honest with me Hedin, from all that you've seen Bell with and the various adventurers in Orario, who's got your approval sofar. Aside these files you've approved of." Freya asked as she leaned over the desk and set the stack of papers down in front of him.
He paused as he set aside the stack he was currently going through and set the stamp and feather down. Looking up to his goddess as he then relaxed back into the chair he was sitting in. Pausing for a moment to look up at the ceiling before he let out a sigh and returned his gaze to the two women in the room.
"Based on my time around Bell and the people I've seen and know around Orario. There are currently nine possible candidates that have my approval somewhat." He said as now that caught the girls attention more. Nine potential rivals for them.
"Unfortunately, I can't count you entirely on the list Lady Freya, as you would technically take up three slots." He said, making the goddess pout and whine. But she knew the valid reason as she turned to see Helun looking intently at him.
"The first, being the obvious is Tiona Hiyrute from Loki Familia. While the two of them act like complete morons and idiots only caring about adventures in the dungeon. I cannot deny the close chemistry they have with each other. Nearly inseparable when dungeon running together. Though each of our familias keep them from interacting now a days with our vast schedules."
Freya couldn't deny Hedin's reasoning. As she too saw how brightly their souls lit up when they were together. Practically shining like the sun and at times, she swore she could see their souls laughing and holding one another close.
"The second, actually being from Dionysus Familia, Filvis Challia. Odd perhaps, due to them not interacting with each other. But it's shown that Filvis does have admiration for Bell. And is rather shy and flustered to try to get close. Bell is somewhat a beacon for her. A desire and goal to grow outside her shell given reports of The Faes spy network."
"Despite her unusual curse I take it? She still thrives to be closer to Bell." Freya stated as Hedin nodded.
"Yes. When I contacted her majesty about Filvis's situation regarding contact with others, the Kingdom's R department apparently found that Bell was completely immune to her curse when I told him about the bet that wench made. What's more fascinating, is that the curse is not only sentient, but it is absolutely terrified." Hedin said as that made Freya's eyes widened and Helun somewhat lost.
"I-its a sentient curse? And terrified?"
"I don't know the exact details. But from what the reports given about her recent activities around another candidate, is that this curse of hers, simplified to bring others bad luck or misfortune, hasn't been active at all. Only small minor misfortunes here and there, but nothing like how it was described to bring travesty and death."
"D-Do you think Bell did something to the curse when he took Filvis's hand?" Helun asked as both adults looked at her. Hedin simply closed his eyes while Freya was looking lost in thought and trying to think and rationalize everything she heard.
"I-It could be possible in theory. But why would it be afraid of Bell?"
"Perhaps...it was because of his own Luck. After his status was updated and he wanted the development skill Luck, I noticed it wasn't at the starting point for new leveled adventurers with the skill. Instead of being at I, it was at Rank C." Hedin said as Freya and Helun's eyes widened, and jaws dropped.
"Now, this could just be speculation and hypothesizing a bit on my part. But what if this curse's weakness is that of someone with a higher luck than the bearer. More so, if that luck is what it feeds on, then what would happen if the curse came across someone who has bullshit luck?" Hedin asked, not really to them as they were busy listening to his words.
"He already got a dragon's head after two, three weeks in Orario? The drops? The Silverback's arm and hide? And those skills he has, especially the new one. It could very well defy normality and be that of how damned lucky he is. That's why, I believe the curse is absolutely terrified of Bell."
"I-Is that why you have her as second for your approval?"
"Not particularly. Its more, that she has a chance of now living freely without such burdens. Even though she's shy and meek of her own self-confidence, I know that Bell would gently guide her to becoming closer to everyone. And in that guidance, I can foresee him falling for her."
"And you say you aren't a romantic."
"I was in love once my lady."
"Erm..umm...Hedin. W-Were exactly am I on the rankings for Bell's hand!" Helun said, anxious to know her and her goddess's place for Bell's heart. Her face became flushed once again as she bit her lower lip.
Freya smiled proudly at the girl and now looked at Hedin with anxious and glee in her amythest eyes.
"Sadly, I rank you and Lady Feya and your shared alter at number four. Though I was a bit bias at first on my original draft of picks for Bell. But I had to observe everything and see how Bell interacted with the candidates. While you are in the top five and I have given you my blessing to pursuit some relations with him, sadly you stated yourself earlier you're overworked and don't spend much time." He said as both women fell to their knees and a small dark clould loomed over their heads.
"Who's number three!?" Freya whined as she gave a pout.
"Oh, That was a tough decision actually, but you'll be happy to know it is Ryu Lion that has my third approval for Bell. And rather aside from Tiona, currently she is second running to being the closest to him." Hedin said as he pushed up his glasses as Freya now bounced up and down with a gleeful look and small squeal escaping her lips.
"Yes! Yes! YYEESSS!!! Good job Ryu! You're number three and number two closest to his heart! Good~ Job~ Ryuu~!" Freya chimed as she bounced and danced a little. Happy that it was her friend that was closest to Bell, not even minding the fact that she was behind her in rankings.
"Yes...I suppose she is fortunate to be so close. I've noticed that Miss Ryu does smile more often when Bell frequents you ladies at the Hostess. And they do talk a lot and he often have her join him for his meals. Making Mia happy for the extra money. Along with the way she acts when she makes a blunder is honestly entertaining."
"Ohhh noooo~ Is she still trying to commit Far Eastern Suicide when she makes a fool out of herself!? Or if someone points her faults at cooking!?" Helun said now worried of her friend's habbit when she was embarassed or felt ashamed.
"Yes. And she won't move on anything else unless she injures herself with a wooden trey. Though it always fails. I've already listed you Helun, so the fifth of the potential candidates is another of Loki's Children. Lefiya Viridis, originally I wanted nothing for her to do with Bell."
"Because she's your ex-wife's new mentor and successor in magic?"
"Yes Helun. But, I had to be mature about it and not see that wrench in young Viridis. I saw her as her own instead of that embarrassment of a princess. In many ways she is somewhat similar to Bell. Driven. Determined and willing to learn more. And while she's responsible enough to be levelheaded, there are those moments of where her age comes about. Particularly similar with Filvis, her inability to truly accept her emotions for Bell."
"Ahhh~ So shes a little tsundere! How cuuuutteeee!" Freya gushed.
"So...if those are the Top Five for your approval, then what of the other four? Are they not as high as the others you listed sofar?"
After Helun's question, Hedin placed his hand under his chin. Humming to himself and thinking as he adjusted his position and now had his chin resting on his hands on the desk. Opening his eyes as he looked at the two with a thoughtful look in his eyes.
"I wouldn't disregard them as not highly connected with Bell. But rather I haven't seen too many interactions with him due to our work. So I had sought them out personally and asked them about Bell subtly given how its public knowledge at this point I'm his father and part of the royal family now."
"I see, so you wanted to judge them in person and see how they answered or acted like."
"Indeed. The next one I would rank at sixth is...rather peculiar. Given the situation that caused them to meet that is and along the fact they also assisted me in finding another potential candidate."
"Peculiar? How is-no...it couldn't be..." Freya muttered as her eyes leered at Hedin. Sighing in response to his goddess's gaze and nodded his head. Her teeth now clenching as she let out deep breaths filled with rage and denial in her throat. Taking a minute to soon calm down and look at Hedin with a scowl.
"She's one of the girls from Ishtar's District, isn't she?"
"Two of them are my goddess. Though if it's any better, they aren't like the rest of Ishtar's children and whores. Rather, they're more akin to Bell's innocent nature. Especially number seven given her case and situation in Ishtar's." Hedin explained which caused Freya to blink and look in surprise.
Knowing Ishtar's plans for her downfall, she knew that bitch was ruthless in her business. Not even caring much for her own children unless it impacts her own plans in any way. But to hear that her children were different than that of the whores and prostitutes lingering in the pleasure district or those fighting idiots in the Berbas. It intrigued her.
"Number six is an amazoness by the name Lena Tally, recently she leveled up to Level 3 and works part time at a bar/brothel Bell visits to talk with the workers. The Midnight Veil. She's rather a cheerful one, similar to Tiona in attitude, and their shared issues about their body in comparison to other amazons."
"An innocent Amazon in Ishtar's familia? That's quite humorous actually."
"She's about sixteen, a year older than Bell. But it was apparent that she did have a small crush on that mutt from Loki's. However due to the talks with Bell and her co-workers she grew out of it. Now her focus is more on Bell, I do worry if her past habits of trying to seduce that mutt will actually work on that idiot."
"Ahhh right, I had seen one or two instances of her immediately proposing to him or say that she's pregnant with her child. But, Bell might be a bit blunt and oblivious, but he isn't that dumb." Freya said, reassuring Hedin somewhat as he still planned to have a talk with Bell in case that were to happen.
"And then with her, lead to the interesting candidate. Number seven, only known by name and a brief description from Lena, is Haruhime Sanjouno. A Renard from the Far East, and thanks to some of the Faes spy network, she's friends with the children of God Takemikazushi. Currently, though what I've found she's said to be a prostitute in training, she's oddly the most expensive one in Ishtar's familia." Hedin said as now that peeked Freya's interest.
"A new prostitute far from home and yet fetches for millions of Valis? That doesn't add up. Even if that whore Ishtar would spread her legs for some quick Valis and half decent pleasure, the bitch is not an idiot."
"I thought something similar to that as well. And it was thanks to Lena I learned that while she is training to become a prostitute, she's still a virgin." Hedin said as that made Freya blink in surprise and Helun's eyes to go wide to reveal both of them.
"Apparently the sight of male skin and even a man's collarbone is enough to make her faint. Men and customers would then complain if it wasn't for Ishtar's capable amazoness Big Sister, Aisha to take over."
"*Snicker* My my, a shy courtesan in Ishtar's. Oh that's so hilarious and oddly sweet. I say you should alter your list now Hedin, as I'm approving this one. I want to see how cute and shy she gets with Bell. And maybe we might see him flustered like he was with Helun in the hospital."
"M-My lady!"
"Still...I say the best course for this one, is that you inform her majesty about my approval for her and that she send her spies into Ishtar's' and learn more about her. I bet she has something planned for the girl." Freya said in a serious tone as Hedin nodded and began to write a letter.
"This might take time as Ishtar has been hiding a few things lately from what Lena has said. Even though my connections to Ishtar's and the Pleasure district are maybe two, three people at max, even they have their limits to finding out what she could be plotting."
"Erm...Hedin. What was it about this girl aside Lena's talk that made you seem interested to selecting her for Bell?" Helun asked as she raised her hand a little.
"Hmm...well, given Lena's word and talks with Haruhime. It would sound like she is interested in adventures and stories. Similar to Bell, as oddly they both enjoy tales of old. Like Argonaut and the story of Alibaba and The Legend of Sinbad. To top that off, it appears she is the more skilled one of Ishtar's children with house chores and is listed as a supporter." Hedin said as though he was listing off capable traits as before, but something told Helun that wasn't the entire truth.
"Is that all that gets your approval?" She asked with a blank look as Hedin's glasses became white as he stopped his writing for a moment to look at Helun. Meeting her own blank face with his more serious blank one.
"...After knowing and watching over that idiot son of mine. Let's just say, I somewhat know what his taste in woman are like. And she breaks those traits in strides..." He said as he continued on to writing the letter. Ignoring Helun's hands slamming on the desk and leaning in closer to his face.
"What are they!? What kind of women does Bell like!? No, scratch that! What kind of woman is this Haruhime!? Is she average looking? Gorgeous? Small? Is she a tall Renard!?" Helun asked in anger and panic as Freya was now trying to calm her down.
"Does she have big breast!? Because me and my lady have that in stock! Wait...is Bell an ass man!? Thighs!?"
"Oookaaay! Ease up Helun. Breathe in through the nose, then out through the mouth. You look like you were gonna pass out due to lack of oxygen." Freya said as she had a handle on her shoulders and caused her to stay still. Listening as the girl took her words in and now calming her nerves.
"I'm not telling you ether my lady."
S L A M !*
"BULLSHIT!" Freya roared as she was glaring hard at Hedin, veins were forming and pulsing from her forehead. And her eyes dialaiting and twitching as Hedin looked at her plainly.
"You're not the first to ask me that. If I can refuse her majesty's demands to know Bell's preference in woman then sad to say I can refuse you."
"Then tell us what the eighth and ninth candidates for Bell's heart already!" They exclaimed as Hedin finished up the letter and sealed it in an envelope.
"Heith is actually ranked eighth in the listings. If there had been more interactions with her and Bell I could picture her higher on my list. But even after her years with us I'm unsure how they would be as a couple. Rather, they appear to be somewhat of an older sister, younger brother type of relation."
"Hmmm...I don't want to say that's a low position for her. But given how violent she can be, yeah I can question how would they work as a couple." Helun said as she pondered about Heith in a relationship.
Through the years and time spent together in the familia. Heith has had the reputation of injuring others for their stupidity and could be crass at times. More so if Airmid was around or in the same room as her.
But ever since Bell arrived, her attitude has changed for the better. Considering how he was worried for her own health and pressure people put on her since she's a healer. That made her feel relaxed and at ease with others. And now people were being considerate to her and giving her thanks, and less sever injuries were now shown to her as they were careful now a days in the dungeons.
"And the ninth is Mama Mia." Hedin said as that froze both girls in place. Their skin, and practically their whole body grew to a pale state that one would assume they were now lifelike doodles pulled from paper.
"What?"
"Yes. Rather it actually makes sense. Both of them get along well enough. He does know how to make her happy in the pub and treats her fine. She's even grown soft on her and the other girls working for her. Considering she's given "Syr" some time off too and some of the others days off now." Hedin said pausing as he now saw bricks falling on top of the women as the soon fell to their knees.
"B-B-but...I-I-Isn't she...a-a bit.."
"SHE'S TOO OLD FOR HIM! THAT HAG IS PRACTICALLY A MOTHER! IS BELL INTO MOTHER'S? IS HE A MILF MAN!?" Freya said, broken from her shocked state and now horrified picturing Bell with an older, muscular dwarf milf.
What was worse for them, was that they could actually see it happening!
Soon they pictured the nightmare of Mia and Bell together. Years from now, both of them in front of the Hostess of Fertility. And the girls there too in front, holding up bundles of babies and other kids of various ages around them.
With Bell, looking older and more handsome with his arm around Mia as there was a lot of kids around them or on their shoulders, having faces that were a mix of the both of them or one of the other!
"You do know that was a joke right?" Hedin said as now both of them were face first on the floor. Hedin having to hold in his laughter as both girls groaned and got up, glaring at him. But it was worth it to see the look of horror on their faces.
"You bastard! You made us see something so horrible and nightmare enducing!" Helun said as she had tears in her eyes from the pain and horror she pictured in her head.
"It's both of your fault for falling for such stupidity. But...sadly the ninth option is worse than Mia. Actually, I would have preferred Mia to be the final candidate closest to Bell. Yet, the real one is so much worse..." Hedin muttered as he stood up from his chair and walked across the room.
Moving over to a chalkboard that was littered with papers hanging from it and writings. To flipping it over and revealing papers and pictures of Eina and a PRO/CON graph on it. And Freya and Helun swore that there was a graph and math problems written on the board as well while Hedin pointed to it with one hand gripping on his head.
"I've done every research about her as possible. Seen how they act, her hobbies, her taste in men and even double checked on the math!"
"H-How does math even constitute-"
"BUT STILL! The pros of her outweigh the cons she has! Sad to say it, but logistically and by technicality...she's a potential candidate for Bell's hand and so far, the closest to actually take him!" Hedin yelled as now their attention was fully focused.
"How is she closest to Bell!? They hate each other!" Helun screech as Hedin then pointed to one side of the board and began to explain.
"Despite how they are, honestly its more she hates his carefree attitude! He's got no real problems aside how restricting she is trying to be with him. Take that away and they could have a normal relationship! Plus, given the fact majority of this list has adventurers, she's the only one that's not an adventurer. She has a normal job with reasonable hours and plenty of free time. Meaning that's time she could spend on the child before Bell would come home late or early!"
"We need to stop her! We need to have Eina removed as a possible candidate! Or at the very least have Bell marry her sister and only use Eina as a concubine!" Freya said as Hedin slammed the board again. As it spun and then stopped, which the board now read: Operation SADIST SILENCER.
"Then you both are going to help me convince the Queen to get rid of her on the list and at the very least support the idea of her sister to be Bell's wife! I don't care if technically she'd be an in-law. I won't ever call that saidst my daughter-in-law! Let's stop that woman from marrying Bell off to a sadist!"
"HELL YEAH!"
Knock Knock*
"Hey Pops! You in here? Ottar said you, Lady Freya and Helun were inside here doing some paperwork. I'm back from the dungeon and doing some errands early and brought you something to eat!"
All three of their heads soon turned to the door. Eyes widened at the sound of Bell's voice coming from it. Turing their heads to look back at one another before they ran around the room trying to clean up. Hedin kicking the chalkboard across the room till it hit the wall and covered it with some of the curtains.
"POPS!? What was that!?"
"Nothing! I just...I-"
"It's nothing Bell he just fell down some stairs!" Helun said, panicking as she now had some papers of male proposals she needed to burn and or hide.
"B-But there's no stairs inside this office!" What happened to pops!?"
"O-Oh well..."
"It's nothing Bell. I just walked into the desk without looking and dropped some paperweights."
"Okay, I'm coming in!"
Before they could even get the place cleaned up and Freya and Helun time enough to burn some proposals and papers. Bell kicked in the door, nearly breaking the wall where the door slammed and walked inside.
He was carrying some rather tall items wrapped in cloths as he walked over to Hedin's desk and set them down. Smiling as he looked over around the room and sighed.
"Maaannn...Granny's really pushing me for great grandkids huh? You know you don't have to do them all Pops. I could take a break from dungeon diving and look over them and tell Granny no to them." Bell offered as he was then meet with a light chop atop his head.
"While that would be a big help, unfortunately there's rules to these proposals. And as your..."
"Dad."
"Parent, in this situation, I am responsible for any future partners that could be good for you to spend your life with." Hedin said, a bit flustered at the very thought to call him as his Dad still. He didn't leave the smug smirks on Freya's and Helun's face unchecked as he lightly leered at the two.
"Well just promise me that you, Helun and Frey take care of yourselves and get rest. I figured you must've been tired, so after I stopped by at Phae's I went to Mia's to pick up some lunches for the three of you."
"Why were you at Phae's Bell? And Frey?~" Freya asked sweetly, though to Helun and Hedin they could feel the jealousy rolling off her tongue.
"Oh! I wanted to thank her for making the knife for me. So I went to visit her with gifts as a thanks and to see if that one guy she mentioned that made my armor was in. And she said that it was a cute nickname for you and that I give it a try." Bell said as Freya was mentally crying in joy at the nickname.
'Phae you beautiful redheaded bitch with big tits I love you right now!' Freya thought as she wanted to cry and now began to think of other nicknames she wanted Bell to call her.
"Do you not like it?" Bell asked.
"No no! I love it! And thank you for the food Bell. Care to join us while we take a break to eat?" Freya asked as Helun saw the look in her eye and widened. Now smiling in glee as this was the perfect opportunity to get closer with Bell and begin their plan to help Hedin.
"Oh! Thanks actually. Though, while I kinda ate I wouldn't mind joining you. I needed a break after all the searching I was doing after Phae's." Bell said as he then dragged over the other desk into the room and connected it with Hedin's.
Helun and Bell then began to clear the desks of paperwork and pens. And settled the chairs around the desk together as Bell was now looking across from Hedin with Freya and Helun on the sides as they opened their lunches. Bursting with fine cooked meals and the smell filled the air with the savory scents of cooked meals.
While Bell joined in their meal as they enjoyed the cooking of Mia and the Hostess girls. It came to the attention of Hedin and Freya what Bell said to them earlier and got them to think: What was Bell searching for?
"Bell, what was it you were searching for? New armor? I did recall that your current set was getting a bit damaged. But you do have the other one that Lady Freya bought for you for your dinner after the Baptism." Hedin asked as Bell was in the middle of chewing on some food feed to him by Helun.
"Ah..that! *Gulp* See, I know that you told me you guys would be busy a lot more. And sometimes Helun too. So Misha suggested I try to find a supporter to join me in the dungeon. That way I can have a bigger crew to make our adventures more fun when we go diving!" Bell said with a smile as Freya and Hedin smiled, and a bit surprised to see him actually taking an advisor's advice.
"An advisor, hmm that's not a bad idea. While we do have some of our own, they're part of our group that earns us some funding. Though I'm surprised that sadist wasn't in. Normally if she advised you something, you ignore it." Freya said as Bell was now in the middle of feeding Helun.
"For one, it's Eina. She'll probably tell me to look through a list, be careful about them, be realistic and accept the fact that it might just be only temporary. She's such a downer. Thankfully she's off attendant duty for a while." Bell said as Hedin smirked at the suffering Eina must be going through due to her incident and inability to shut her mouth about Bell's Level Up.
"As much as I hate to admit it, but that could be the case Bell. Supporters are often temporary." Freya said as Bell leaned on the table and rested his chin on his palm. Looking up with a smile on his face.
"Maybe, but that's why I wanna look for them myself and see if they're different. Something tells me that the one I meet that will agree to travel with me, will stick by my side thick and thin." He said with a honest and hopeful tone. Excited and in wonder who he would find in Orario that can just tell him they're the one for his crew.
"If you're set to search for some. Early mornings when the dungeon opens is the better time. They're often around the entrance or guild looking for a party or any adventurers needing a hand in the dungeon." Hedin said as Bell blinked a few times before looking at him with glee.
"Thanks for the tip Pops! Guess I'll be waking up bright and early for the dungeon!"
"You better if you are serious about it. And I don't want to catch you staying up all night ether reading your books, writing and doodling in them or catch you sneaking in a midnight snack!"
"Ffffiiiiinnnneee~ I promise I'll bathe and go to bed early." Bell whined as they continued on their lunch and soon later, Bell did keep his word. As by eight o'clock he was already in bed and fell straight asleep. Even as Hedin came by to check he was knocked out to even noticed him being shaken.
Sound asleep snoring with his arms sprawled out on the bed. Chest rising up and down and a snot bubble shrinking and growing.
"You'll be looking into everything about this supporter he'll eventually meet, won't you?" Heidn asked as soon as he left out of Bells room. Not even bothering to turn to his right to see Freya and Ottar against the wall.
"Supporters have been getting robbed or reportedly demanding more money from the guild as of lately. Even our own supporters have reported issues of nearly being mugged and or stolen from. Though, it was a lot worse for those foolish to rob us." Ottar said as he recalled breaking a few of the assailants himself.
"Particularly, it's the issue with Soma's children. The look in their greedy little eyes. It would appear that Soma's new batch is about to be ready soon. And all his children want a taste of it, even the bad batches from the results of it." Freya said as her eyes leered and let a sigh as she turned to look at Hedin.
"I'll send in the report to the Queen for her spies in the city to keep watch on Soma and if Bell comes into partnering with a supporter soon." Hedin said as he turned to meet Freya's gaze, confused as to why she would be smiling.
"You know what strikes me odd? How much we've all changed withing just the short time of two months." She began as Ottar and Hedin realized what she meant and couldn't blame her.
Before Bell came, they were the top Familia in Orario that only cared for her and were often cold hearted and usually didn't fraternize with others. Or each other for that matter. But because of Bell, they saw growth in more ways than one.
Growth in unity and alliance with one another.
More motivation and moral.
Laughters and even smiles given to one another in the manor.
Their weaker members now stronger, and more this month close to leveling up or have already leveled up around the time Bell did.
"I really wonder, what is it about Bell that causes such changes and events to unravel so wildly and sporadically. Yet he never seems to lose that smile of his when faced with all these changes that shake Orario."
"Well...he is just a child still. Maybe he might not know the reason. But, is it that bad that we've all changed and grown different than before?" Hedin asked as Freya turned her back and looked out the window. Seeing Orario lit with lights and the stars shining in the sky.
"No, it's a wonderful feeling to experience change for you all. It fills me with joy, beyond even a goddess's comprehension."
Night soon came about, and just as it came so did it end. Woken up to a dimly lit glare of the sun's early weak rays hitting Bell's face. He opened his eyes and blinked until he sprung out of bed. Excited as he opened the window to only be meet with a view of a foggy Orario and a chill in the open.
Not letting a little thing as the weather to let down his mood, he prepared himself for today's goal. Brushing his teeth while he hurried to gather his clothes and armor set. Quickly putting it on as he checked his belongings and made sure his knife was on him.
He looked himself in the mirror, doing one last check as he inspected his small side pouch at his hip for emergency items such as potions, health and mana, antidotes, a magic storage bag for the magic crystals and a small stash of snacks for later. He smiled, slapping his cheeks a few times before smiling back at his reflection, and soon ran out the door of his room.
Leaving a note behind for Hedin and the others of his plan and set it beside the desk by the front door of the manor. Running out of it with glee and a smile on his face as he raced down the empty streets. Shop attendants prepping for business early morning. Until he was now at the Central Plaza of Orario.
Staring up at the tower of Babel and smiled as he looked at it. Pointing his finger at the very top before clenching his fist and bringing it back down. Looking around he noticed alot of diffrent adventurers going in, and saw some of them with large bags on their backs and walking with other adventurers and parties into the dungeon.
"Hmm...Pops was right, guess this is the best time to find my new crew member! Alright, lets see if I can find the one that'll join my crew." Bell whispered to himself, excited as his eyes gazed around to look for anyone catching his interest.
"Mister Adventurer! Mister Adventurer! Are you in need of a supporter?"
Upon hearing those words, Bell's eyes widened in glee. Spinning around quickly as it created a gust of wind. Causing the person behind him to let out an "EEK" as he was then confused. Blinking as he didn't see anyone and looked both ways until he felt something poke his belly?
"S-Sorry about startling you Mister Adventurer! Down here."
Hearing the soft, feminine voice again, Bell looked down and his eyes widened as he looked at the person that called for him. Seeing her now rubbing one eye with her finger and got a good look at her face and size. Baffled how someone that small could carry a large sack he didn't notice till now.
She was wearing a tanned cloak with her hood up. And underneath that was another hood she wore, in a light velvet color that brought his attention to her perfectly framed face with such chestnut-colored hair and eyes, almost looking like gold to him.
Her face a bit pale, but added more to her looks as she finished wiping away her eye and outstretched her hand. Noticing now how gentle and small they were, as well as her slim legs and feet that poked out of her tight robe she wore.
"I overheard you were in need of a supporter just now! I'm Liliruca Arde, will you take me in as your supporter for today?" She asked with a sweet tone, making Bell's eyes widened as he looked at her.
Time seemed to stop for him. As everything else could be considered nothing to his eyes. His vision focused on just her. His ears draining any noise around them. All that he could see now, was just her and her alone as she smiled back at him. Staring into his eyes with hers.
Bell could only reach for her hand with his.
Slowly moving it to grasp hers in a light handshake. Before gently intertwining his fingers with her gloved ones. Careful as to not squeeze too hard, as he felt her hands were so dainty and fragile. They were tiny in comparison to his hands, and yet they felt soft and warm to him.
"W-Will you, come with me?"