Did she get held up with something?"
Lingering around the Central Fountain outside the guild and dungeon entrance by the base of Babel Tower, one would see a familiar black-haired elf looking around in worry. Looking down and fixing her dress, one that she switched today than wearing her usual white and light blue outfit.
Instead, she had decided to take into her friend's advice along with another person's encouragement to be bold and break out of her meek shell. She was fixing herself by pressing and adjusting the ends of her skirt and dusting off her leggings.
She had kept her white and gold tights on from her other outfit. But wore black and white heels to stand out a bit. Though making sure that it would match with the top portion of her outfit. Her dress like top was that of blue and gold colors.
The linings towards her skirt were laced with gold patterns. Around her stomach was what looked like a hip accessory, being brown and gold around the edges. However, it was part of the design to the dress given by the buttons it had and was lined with the other buttons on the dress.
Looking down at her waist at the dress, she did get flustered as it made her feel she was wearing a corset or something that emphasized her chest. Filvis quickly fixed her small, ruffled tie accessory and adjusted the matching blue and gold cape over her shoulders to try and cover herself a bit.
As she then moved on to fix the blue cuffs that wer attached to her black sleeves and gloves, she heard a voice nearby. Her elven ears perked as she picked up the worried tone and self-questioning if she was late to meet her. Turning to the side, she smiled and waved one hand in the air.
There, her red eyes meet with dark blue ones. A cheerful smile was sent her way as she now saw the incoming elf with golden yellow hair, contrast to her dark black, with a smile on her face as she stopped in front of her.
"S-Sorry I'm late Filvis! A-Oh wow! That dress is lovely on you! When did you get it?" The blonde elf asked as she circled around Filvis. As she whimpered and looked around herself and clutched the ends of her skirt in her embarrassment.
"L-Lefiya! C-Could you please stop making a scene. A-And I had this for a while now. J-Just thought I should change up my clothes now and then." She said as Lefiya stopped. Looking shocked until she smiled and poked at Filvis's cheek.
"Could it be? My cute Filvis is finally breaking out of her meek shell? How bold~" Lefiya teased until her ear was pulled and felt Filvis poking her sides rather harshly. Wincing and laughing at the jabs and ticklish feeling poking at her stomach's sides as she let out a few pain and yet joyful giggles.
"Fine~ Fine~ Okay I'm sorry. But this is all so new to me. Are you taking my advice now about being more bold?" Lefiya said, smiling at her friend as she fixed herself before joining her as they walked away from the Central Fountain and out onto the bustling streets.
"W-Well, yes actually. I-I'm going to try my best to change myself. E-Ever since meeting Mr. Bell, I have this feeling that, maybe things will be for the better if I apply myself more." Filvis said with a flustered look, before smacking herself lightly. Snapping her eyes open and now had a determined look as Lefiya was smiling, though had a concerned look when she saw Filvis's eyes.
"I-I see. He really did leave quite an impression on you did he?"
"Y-Yes! And since meeting him, my curse hasn't been affecting me as much!" Filvis said with sparkles in her eyes as Lefiya's eyes widened in surprise. Stopping in the middle of the street and then patting down her friend who looked confused.
"L-Lefiya?"
"N-Nothing happened to you? Nothing bad? And not much?" Lefiya asked a slew of questions as she looked around Lefiya once again as Filvis waved her hands and shook her head.
"N-Nothing too bad or dangerous like before. Sure, there's been times where I've tripped or got my outfits caught in something or started to tear. And things falling on top of my head. But it isn't as bad as before like monster hoards in the dungeon or falling into dangerous pitfalls and causing others injuries!"
"Honestly that curse of yours is quite odd. How does it seem to bring you bad luck like that in the past."
"I don't know~ B-But it's been lessening a lot more and even some of my familia members even talk to me now!" Filvis said as she smiled brightly. Letting out a goofy laugh as she swayed in place like a gleeful child as Lefiya patted her head.
"Well that's good! Though they should've already talked to you before despite your misfortunate curse. But, enough of that! Today let's enjoy it while we can before our Familia's work us to the bone!"
"Yes! To the cafe for sweets and some relaxation!" Filvis cheered along with Lefiya as the two walked side by side in stride. Smiling and looking determine to enjoy the day off they had together before they would need to get back to the dungeon for their Familia's own task for them.
Shortly after, they found a nice quaint cafe to start their day off at and entered. Taking a table for two at one of their booths on the inside. Served a cup of water for now as the waitress handed them each a menu to look over and decide what to order. The waitress left the two, allowing them time to take in the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the cafe while they browsed at the menu's selection of food and drinks.
"Ahhh~ This is it. So peaceful and relaxing. And the interior almost reminds me of our home forest's cafes that were built inside the trees." Lefiya cooed and sighed. Slumping back into the booth's cushioned seats as Filvis was also at ease and relaxed herself. Lazily browsing at the menu with a smile on her face.
"I wish we could have a week of vacation to ourselves. Maybe visit some of the lavish hotsprings I heard Lord Dian was renovating. Or maybe some time at the beaches of Melen with Miss Tiona and Tione and the others."
"Oh gods above that would be a dream. Here's hoping that Miss Tiona actually does go through her threat for Captain Finn and he allows us some time off." Lefiya said as both she and Filvis toasted and brought their glasses of water together before drinking them.
The waitress had returned, and both placed their orders for their drinks and food. Now waiting for them to come, they passed the time talking about how things have been for each other and if anything else came up that was interesting to the other.
Lefiya was surprised that Flivis was busy in the dungeon as well. According to her best friend, her god, Dionysus, wanted his members to search for some rare materials and ores in the dungeon for decoration pieces to craft and decorate their home. Along with pushing her to try and connect more with the other members in her Familia now that he's noticed her becoming bold.
She was relieved to hear that one of her Familia members would occasionally dive with her into the dungeon. This person by the name of Aura Moriel, seemed to at least try to get along with Filvis. As she was her Familia's Vice Captain and was usually free.
Though part of Lefiya felt that this Aura woman was still distant towards Filvis. But she couldn't bring herself to tell her concerns when she saw Filvis's happy smile at her small progress. It felt like she would be kicking a puppy if she said anything.
'Hopefully she can make some progress with her Familia. Even if she has a bit of bad luck here and there with her curse. I wonder if she could maybe be more spontaneous and bolder like Mister Cranel.' She thought before her eyes snapped open and blinked.
'Right! Gah! How could I forget, me and Filvis are an option for his hand in marriage! D-Do I tell her this? Would the news change her? A-And how would it work out? W-Would we be technically married together as well?' Lefiya thought as she was now shifting her body and biting her finger in thought.
"Lefiya!"
"Ah!"
"Are you alright? You suddenly looked worried and now fidgeting in your seat just now." Filvis called her attention as Lefiya brought her finger away from her lips and cleaned her bit of drool with a napkin from the table and composed herself.
"Y-Yeah. I was just thinking how you would be like if you took Mister Cranel's lead and be a bit more spontaneous and bolder." Lefiya admitted as Filvis blushed and shook her head repeatedly. Now worrying Lefiya if she was going to lose her head like that.
"N-No! I-I couldn't bring myself to be that bold like Mr. Bell! T-Though...it's tempting to maybe, take a bit of his likeness to help myself. B-But I can't see myself jumping the lead and be blunt and spontaneous as him." She admitted as her ears were now red and her eyes were in swirls.
"W-What if...you had the opportunity to actually take some of him for yourself." Lefiya muttered a bit quietly. Though was startled when Filvis's hands slammed on the table and leaned forward at her. Face completely flushed red and ears burning to the point steam was coming out of them and their waters now steaming.
"T-T-T-T-T-Take...Take him!? W-What are you implying Lefiya!" Filvis whispered to her in a embarrassed and harsh tone. Reclining back to her seat and cupping her cheeks to try and calm herself as her mind now plagued by the now incoming thoughts due to Lefiya's words.
"N-Nothing whatever you're thinking!"
"Then what is it. Because the way you said it now has me thinking that you want me to take him l-like some sort of lustful Amazon women!" She whispered harshly. Though after she said that, in Lefiya's mind, she had pictured what Filvis would look like in Amazonian attire and pinched her thighs to control her emotions.
"I-I meant..like the possibility you might...marry him one day sooner than expected?" Lefiya squeaked out as Filvis had her mouth a gape and didn't move. Not even when the waitress came back and set their meals down and left. A full minute had gone by before Filvis choked out and sucked in her lips and looked at her again.
"P-Pardon?"
"I had...only learned about this a few days ago after a dungeon dive with Miss Aiz and the twins along with Alicia and Aki. Tione had left and came back after meeting up with Mister Hedin Selland, or rather, Bell's father, to catch up." Lefiya began as she now started to poke at her food with a fork and slowly eat it.
"It was apparent she visited him to keep in touch with Mister Cranel as since we've been busy, and Tiona has been wanting to go with him in the dungeon again. And when she came back she had word that not only did Mister Cranel recently leveled up. But apparently that he, along with Lady Riveria are searching for potential wives for Mister Bell. A-And you and me, apparently are one of his few top approvals for his hand in marriage." She said as she quickly ate a bite of her food as Filvis looked embarrassed, but oddly giddy and anxious.
"I-I have his father's approval? D-Does he know about me and my curse? Why would he approve of me?"
"Filvis! Come on now, remember not to put yourself down! You're making good progress about breaking out of your shell and to be more courageous. You'll relapse again if you second guess yourself."
"S-Sorry! But I can't wrap my head around it. I-I'm a bit thrilled and anxious at the idea I would be a candidate for Mr. Bell's hand. But I don't understand it, there's probably noble women or prettier women than me that'll be perfect for him. A-and I can see you and Mr. Bell working wonderfully!" She said as that caused Lefiya to choke on her food and roughly swallow. Blushing at Filvis's praise.
"I-I think that you and Mister Cranel would be perfect together! E-Even though you haven't had much interactions with one another, and that's partly on me and him."
"Wait how?"
"From what Miss Tione mentioned later on in the bath with us, apparently while his Familia was busy for a bit and he was looking for a Supporter, which became a new member in his Familia. He did say that he was going to invite and ask you if you would join him in a few dungeon dives and maybe join his party. Or...crew? I don't know the difference what he means by that." She said as Filvis whimpered and rested her head on the cafe's table.
"By the forest I could have joined Mr. Bell in the dungeon and got to know him better~"
"Y-You still can! I can give a letter to Freya Familia to give to Mister Cranel about where your Familia home is and he can invite you!" Lefiya said as Filvis looked up at her, eyes watery and sniffling.
"You mean it?"
"Yes! And I mean what I said, I think you can have a chance to grow out of your shell and could fit well with Mister Cranel! You two look like a sort of opposites attract type couple. His white hair with your dark black. Your pure white and princess appearance to his rugged and childlike look. Along the fact you two share the same eye color, by looks alone you two seem perfect. And not to mention how he seems to treat everyone with such kindness and respect." Lefiya began as she then went to a rambling and muttering on how Filvis and Bell seemed like a perfect couple.
She didn't even notice the odd feeling on her cheek over and over until she winced at her nose being suddenly flicked and her face forcefully turned to the side by Filvis. Her attention now faced at the doors to the cafe as both she and Filvis poked around the booth they were at and gasped.
There by the entrance was Bell Cranel himself. Talking to another waiter as he looked anxious and looked around the cafe. He was wearing a black button up shirt that looked a bit big on him, yet somehow fitted well. Along with a pair of dark blue pants and brown boots on and a red tie he fixed around his neck.
"Mister Cranel/Bell?" Both elves muttered as they saw the waiter now grabbing two menus from the front little stand by the doors and began to lead him towards them. Both snapping their eyes open and hiding back into their booth eating and trying to not notice him coming over.
From Lefiya's view, she was thankful that the waiter was blocking her from Bell as he led him to the booth behind them. They were panicking more as the waiter left him with both menus and left. She questioned why he was here and had two menus, until she remembered what Tione said a few days prior to today and remembered that she brought up her and Filvis's candidacy of marriage.
"L-L-Lefiya! Why is Mr. Bell here!?"
"Shh! Relax and keep your voice down! A-And I think I know why he's here. But promise me, that no matter what you see or hear, do not look down on yourself and that you still have a chance to get to know him better!"
"What does that have to do with-"
"Promise me!" Lefiya whispered harshly as Filvis nodded quickly. Watching Lefiya peek over from the booth and then back to her seat.
"Okay, there's one other thing I forgot to mention. Someone had already confessed to Mister Cranel and is...c-courting him." Lefiya said as Filvis blushed and let out a muffled squeal and tightened her fists together.
"And I think why he's here is maybe to...s-set this as a date. With also discussing with his...g-g-girlfriend, about the situation he is in due to now being part of the royal family. I think he wants to make it clear that she wouldn't be the only woman to court him."
"I-I see why you made me promise your words. B-But...do you know who is courting Mr. Bell?"
"Apparently, the bold woman that confessed her love to him and is now the first to date Mister Cranel, is Syr Flova. I think Miss Tione's words and date advice she's read before in the past might've been true after all. The way to a man's heart is through his stomach." Lefiya said, shivering and now wondering if Tione's "romantic" advice might be true. Including which of how a woman can "amplify" her frontal figure.
"H-Her!? But isn't she the one Hostess girl that creates poisons to anything she cooks?"
"Apparently Mister Cranel is immune to her infamous cooking. Rumors have it that he has an abyss for a stomach and could eat mountains of large meats in seconds." She whispered back to Filvis and both elves peeked once again over their booth to see Bell enthralled by the menu and looking nervous. Fidgeting and turning over the booth to see the doors of the cafe.
"H-He looks rather cute when he's flustered like that. I never would have thought that Mr. Bell could be nervous considering how bold and blunt he is." Filvis said in awe while peeking at Bell. Her cheeks flushed at the sight of how cute he was when looking worried and anxious.
Yet what took her attention away was when the doors to the cafe opened and immediately saw Bell's head peeking over behind him. Her eyes traced over to the door and gasped. Lefiya soon followed her actions as both elven women saw Syr entering the cafe.
If Filvis was compared to being a princess from Lefiya's complements just now. She was just a princess, while Syr was a goddess in their eyes and with how she looked. Wearing a beautiful white and light grey dress that hugged her upper body quite well. Emphasizing her chest and atracting quite the attention with how the high collar of her dress was creating a path down her neck to where a bit of her cleavage peeked out.
Her hips wrapped around a light grey cloth wrapping that soon turned the snug fitted dress of her upper body, to now that of a flowing and elegant long skirt. Swaying with every stride in her step and shake of her hips. And though it was long to reach halfway to her calfs, they showed off her legs quite well with the skirt cut along the sides to allow a passing glimpse of her legs to be shown. Such porcelain and creamy smooth if people were lucky enough to see them, and the small little thigh accessory she wore underneath. A black and purple band in color, to complement the light purple short heels she wore as they made a small 'clack' noise with each step she came closer and closer to Bell's booth.
Filvis let out a small eep as she then ducked back into her booth and pulled Lefiya inside as well. Her face flushed when she saw Syr's eyes, as they were aimed towards Bell's face. She couldn't mistake it, for a split second, Syr was looking into her own eyes and smiled at her with such a teasing and confidant look in them.
"She saw!"
"Shh! Let's just listen in and stay quiet! Maybe she just saw us and won't say anything." Lefiya said as she pushed her plate over to Filvis's side and moved over next to her from under the table. Both girl's ears perked and leaned back to the cushions of the booth to get a better listen as Syr was seated and both of them now talking.
"*Giggle* I take it you like my dress Bell?"
"S-Sorry. It's just, you're breathtaking. Even more than usual." Bell admitted with flushed cheeks on his face as Syr became scarlet by his blunt and romantic complement. Fiddling with her ponytail as she blinked rapidly and peeked back at him.
"Y-You're quite breathtaking too. A-and I kinda wanted to make an impression fo-for our first...date." Syr said as both teens squealed in the booth at even saying or admitting this was their first date. Bell had to cover part of his face as he felt too hot and embarrassed when she said that.
"I erm...I well. I do want to c-consider this as our f-first date. But I wanted it to be somewhere fancier. I kinda panicked and went to Ryu for advice of what to do and she told me you've been wanting to visit this place for a while." He said, muttering and smiled at how happy Syr was when he mentioned Ryu's help in this.
"Well, at least you're trying for me. And now have my expectations set higher for our next date!"
"N-Next!?" Bell, Lefiya and Filvis said in surprise. Though the two elves sharply whispered it to themselves, but their startled cries were heard by a smirking barmaid sitting in front of them as she leaned forward with her chin resting on her hands on the table.
"Yup! Though you don't have to worry about making things too fancy. Just think of what you think would be a good date idea and we can do it. Then the next one I can think of what to do if you like." Syr said as Bell nodded. His eyes widened as he then leaned forward closer to Syr as his hands were close to hers.
"B-Before that! Um..I just, just wanted to make sure about this." Bell said as he sucked in his lips and swallowed the lump he felt in his throat as he looked at Syr's hands now resting near his. His fingers drumming on the table as his eyes darted around the area.
I may, have to take more wives. Due to being part of the Elven Alf Royal family now. I know I mentioned this before, and I sound repetitive. I just want to make sure if you were okay with it. B-But if you aren't, then say the word and I'll try and convince gramps and granny to-"
With a single act, Bell's nervousness and ramblings were silenced by Syr. Who leaned forward a bit and pecked his lips. His eyes widened at the sudden kiss, and he dared not to clench his hand as he felt her dainty fingers intertwined with his on the table.
Lefiya and Filvis had decided to be bold and take the time to peek over above their booth for a quick look as to why Bell became silent, only to flush red and immediately went back down. Squealing and flushed like a tomato as they instinctively held each other's hands and muffled their screams and squeals. Covering their faces and felt their ears burning at such what their kind would consider to be a lewd scene in public.
Bell could only have his jaw slightly hanging open as soon as Syr pulled herself away. Blushing and rolling her thumb across his knuckles.
"Bell. I know that this is, weird. For the both of us. And I know how much you love me and how I love you too. But, i-it's odd for me to admit this even though I've thought about it since you first told me in the pub. I think, I can accept you loving other people too." Syr admitted. Causing Lefiya to mentally cheer in her head and hold Filvis tighter while the dark-haired elf blushed and tried her hardest not to squeak out a surprised noise.
"A-are you sure about this Syr?"
"I-I'm sure. No! Yes! I'm one hundred percent sure of it! B-But, please bear with me at times where I might be jealous or worried okay! I know you love me just as much as the other girls you might take into your heart. Though...c-can I be a bit more selfish in loving you?" She asked, embarrassed and covering her face a bit with her other hand while peeping through her fingers to see Bell.
"Erm..I was...actually going to ask if it was okay if I can be selfish too." Bell admitted. Face brightly red as Syr leaned forward and looked into his red eyes with her silver-grey ones.
"T-Then, here's what I want from you then!"
"O-Okay!"
"I-I don't know how your new grandparents would put me in the status, but please consider me your first wife! E-Even if you have to marry an Elf back in their home forest for a ceremony to officiate it, s-she's your second wife!"
"I-I won't belittle or insult anyone I love in terms of ranking or status! I-I'll love you all I swear!"
"N-No I don't mean like that! I-I mean...that..I just want to remind you...that I'm your first okay?"
"O-Okay! I-erm...I think I get what you mean. I-Is there anything else?"
"Erm...umm...Ah! F-For your other w-wives, d-do you mind if I have some in mind for you to marry when the time comes?"
"I-I don't mind and Pops would have to look at them to help make a decision. B-But I'm surprised...you wanted to pick w-who I would date or marry." Bell said, face now returning to its normal color as he tried to calm himself further by taking a drink of his water.
"Well, you know about them quite a while now. I want you to marry Ryu and Helun!"
PFFFFFFTTTTT!!!!*
Though Syr could only see Bell now spewing out his water to the side and chocking profoundly and gasping for air. She did not see that Filvis and Lefiya did the same thing. Only much worse as now from the shock after drinking, tears escaped from their eyes and had to clean their noses and chins from the excess spewing out and liquid escaping through their noses.
"S-S-She wants another Elf to marry him so soon!? I had figured she would be the demanding type!" Lefiya said looking at the cushion seat behind her and her ears twitching and red. Looking over at Filvis and panicked at how the girl was nearly close to fainting on the spot.
"A-A-Another Elf...and 'Nameless' from his own Familia. More confident than me. And with such bodies that would please his highness in his chambers. S-S-Should I practice...t-t-the elven methods to seduce a man..."
"Filvis!" Lefiya said as she shook her best friend back to some sense. Flushing and shutting her eyes tightly. Hoping that what she heard her mutter was just delusions or some mistake on her hearing.
Clearing his throat now. He looked back at Syr who was flushed with embaressment and face with worry after his somewhat chocking fit. He blinked a few times before swallowing another drink of water and looked at her in surprise.
"I can understand why you said Ryu. B-But Helun too? N-Not that there's anything wrong with her or anything!" He said quickly as to not insinuate it was a bad idea. Or to make it seem that Helun wasn't pretty or attractive.
'Syr...Ryu and Helun~ NO! Not now brain! Stop thinking that! I'm on a date with Syr and we're having an important talk about this relationship! Lose those thoughts me! Lose them until your heart is ready for that step-I SAID UNTIL MY HEART IS READY! NOT MY HORMONS OR LITTLE ME!' He yelled to himself in his head, now plagued with faint visions and thoughts of Syr and the girls in a large bed before him.
"Well, why wouldn't I choose them! They're my best friends in the world! And the though of us being together in each other lives now thanks to you, gives me some reassurance and happy that we'll always be together." Syr said, a soft smile on her face as she brought her hands together over her heart. Making Bell smile and lean on his arm at the sight of her happy.
"Plus, call it as a means of assurance for Ryu. So that she'll find happiness one day and not wait years before she can find a love one. She's...a bit weird when it comes to romance. I don't know if it's an Elf's romance or not. But she has this...idea about when would be the time to confess or propose."
"An Elf's romance...ohh! Yeah, Grandad Larfal mentioned that in one of the letters he wrote back to me about Elven customs to courting. She said something about a full moon lit night and a tree?"
"Yes! I mean, I get her dreams and desires to be confessed by your love one. But she's taking it all too slow! Get this, back before you came in, she said if she did find a man, they would spend years getting to know one another first before even touching hands!"
"Hehehe! Yeah I can see how she's a bit weird. But love is a odd thing too. It can take years, or even a day to fall for. And for elves, I guess they don't have to worry about it like other races since they live longer." Bell laughed as Syr pouted and smacked the table lightly.
"Still! I wanna see Ryu smile and walk down the aisle soon before I get old, wrinkly and have a hunch back! I wanna see the cute babies she would have and be an Auntie! T-Though...would I be a stepmother if we do marry?"
"I-I'm not too sure. But I'd doubt you'll have a hunch back. You'll still be beautiful even if you grow older."
"Glad to know you learn how to complement a girl when they say stuff about age~ But also, for Helun, you need to take responsibility mister!" Syr said as she leaned forward with a leer in her eyes. Making Bell back up as Syr went over the table and stared into his eyes with a pout on her face.
"W-What did I do?"
"I heard about what you and Helun did in the hospital after you recovered. You grapsed her lovingly and proposed to her first." Syr said with a false tone of anger, but Bell was none the wiser. The ones who caught the playful tone, were right behind her. Though worried now on who exactly is Bell marrying first.
"That-I was our for four days without your cooking! I wasn't thinking right! A-And yeah...I do owe it to Helun as she did take it quite seriously. B-But she rejected me for now and said that we at least start out as friends!"
"Hmph! Well it's good she fixed that mistake you made. But you break her heart then I will make you pay for it! No meals from me for a month and you'd better be prepared to drain your wallet dry after the date's I'll set up if she cries."
"NONE OF YOUR COOKING FOR A MONTH!? BUT I'LL DIE OF MALNUTRITION!"
"Then you better not break her heart. And lastly-"
"Lastly? First she ask him if she can be selfish with him. Along the fact she be considered his first. Then suggesting two women for him to love and marry!? I had no idea Syr was such a selfish girl in love." Lefiya whispered as she was tempted to peek over the booth to see how Bell was reacting to his love's selfish demands of him.
"Erm. T-This can ether be before or after. But, c-could we have, a separate wedding?" Syr said. Covering her lips with her fingers as she looked away beet red. Making Bell blink a few times in wonder as he leaned forward. Making Syr recline back into her seat as she felt Bell's gaze at her.
"Before. Or after your grandparents throw you your first marriage to celebrate our union. I-I'd like it if we could have one. With just a small gathering and somewhere private. I've pictured what my wedding would be like someday. And I don't do well with large events alone. Being the maid, well that makes it more anxious since the spotlight would be on me." Syr said as Bell walked out of his place in the booth and came over to her side.
"B-Bell? Is everything-EEP!" Syr squealed as Bell came closer to her, and lifted her legs up gently over his as he seated himself next to her. She blushed as she felt his hands caressing and gliding over her legs until she was seated on top his lap. His eyes looking up to hers as she felt his hands wrapped around her hips. And felt his kiss on her lips, even if it was for a second.
"If you want another wedding. Then let's do it. If you feel it wasn't right to your vision. We'll have another. We can have a hundred weddings until it's right for you. So long as it makes you happy. And I'll get to see you looking beautiful every time we have our wedding done again and again." Bell said as he gazed lovingly into her eyes. Bringing his hand up and wiping away the tears in her eyes as she covered her lips with one hand while the other rested on his shoulder.
"Bell..."
"A hundred weddings?!" Filvis couldn't take it anymore. Her curiosity and heart couldn't take any more invigorating talks of romance going on between them. She startled the couple as she looked over from her side of the booth. Her face red and eyes swirling in panic as both Bell and Syr looked up to see the flustered Elf.
"F-Filvis?!"
"Ahhh! I-I am so sorry Mister Cranel!"
"Oh! You're that elf from Loki's Familia! What are you two doing here." Syr asked in a false surprise tone. Watching as Filvis left her own booth with Lefiya in tow. Dragged by the arm as both of them sat down across from Bell and Syr in their booth.
"I apologize for Filvis Mister Cranel! We were minding our own business and relaxing. Since we finally got a day off from our Familia's and Captain Finn's work demands for my Familia. We heard you and Miss Syr talking and...well we got a bit curious as to why you were here."
"H-Hey! It's fine. You two couldn't have known I was going to be here anyways. And you were relaxing so it must've been quite the surprise for you. Also, come on Lefiya can't you address me normally?"
"S-Sorry Mr. Bell! B-But since word of you now being part of the Alf Royal Family, it's difficult for us to address you without proper respect. T-Though I'm still trying, I admit it's hard to say your name without a formal greeting or name to add." Filvis said as both elves bowed their heads at Bell, who sighed and rubbed his eyes with his fingers as Syr giggled at his torment of his name.
"I take it even if I gave you both an order to call me something more familiar then you'd ignore it?"
"Yes!" Filvis and Lefiya said in unison. Making Syr laugh even more as Bell groaned and looked at them with a dull stare.
"Ugh! Then can I at least ask you get use to the idea to possibly adress me casually every now and then? Being formal with me feels weird~ It's almost annoying as being compared to a rabbit."
"Hmm..I can't exactly promise anything, but I can certainly try!" Filvis said with such vigor and enthusiasm. Her fist pumping with determination. Though she became meek as Bell blinked a few times and looked closely at her.
"That's a new dress isn't it? It looks pretty good on you Filvis! What, decide a change of pace?" Bell said as he sat back down and smiled at the dark-haired elf. Grinning and crossing his arms as Syr leaned in closer to him and looked at Filvis with a smile. Though a glint in her eye was seen by her and Lefiya.
"Y-Yes! I decided that, maybe I could take things slow and better myself. So that way, I could be a lot more like you Mr. Bell!"
"Baby steps then Filvis. And come on now, there's no need to be like me. You're fine as you are, but I suppose I can understand you want to improve yourself. So, best I can give you is luck and a bit of advice."
"Advice?"
"Sort of? I don't think it'll help much but its more of a saying I had back when I was still training as a kid. I had always wanted to be a hero like Argonaut or Sinbad or Alibaba. Like in old legends and stories. But, an old fossil that was helping me train at the time said I'd be a copycat if I tried to be like them." Bell said as he looked up at the ceiling with a reminiscent smile on his face.
"Erm...well you were just a child back then. So I suppose there was some acceptance to at last trying to be like your favorite heroes." Lefiya said with a flustered look. Looking away and sucking her lips.
'Geez, it's a bit embarrassing. Even more that I'm somewhat the same as I want to become like Miss Aiz and Lady Riveria.' She though. Now seeing that she and Bell had some similarities about being like their role models or heroes they looked up to.
'Though, if his teacher said he would be a copycat by doing that. Then what sort of advice did he give Mister Cranel to change that? He doesn't seem like any of those heroes he mentioned. Then again, I'm no expert on heroes like Tiona is.'
"So that got me thinking for a few days until I'd pass out from tring to think more about it."
"*Giggle* You passed out from over thinking?"
"Come on Syr~ I was only like six or seven! I can't help it if I was an idiot."
"But don't you admit that you are an idiot?"
"Damn straight! But I'm your idiot." Bell said as he brought her closer and patted her hair. Resting her head on the crook of his neck and kept stroking through her silver hair as he was in thought. Not even embarrassed the fact that Syr was now giggling and running her hands across his chest. Or the fact he had an audience watching this right across from him.
"Now where was I? Ah, yeah. So I ended up wondering what he meant by that until I read some of those stories again and dreamt about being like them. And I guess, in those dreams and that old fossil's words sort of hit me. Because I couldn't dream myself at all as being like those heroes."
"Ergo, you couldn't see yourself as a hero? Or couldn't dream about becoming like them?"
"You're right on the Valis on that Filvis. I never saw myself in those dreams at all. Just blurs and images of those heroes, but never me. And that had me thinking what was I doing wrong or why I can't see myself in my own dreams. Then it came to me, I wasn't like those heroes. I'm just me."
Bell then pointed at Filvis and was staring at the two elves with a widened grin. They couldn't help but shiver and felt their cheeks were turning warm as he stared at them with such fire and intensity in his eyes.
"Find your own way! That's what that old fossil taught me about growing up. There's no right or wrong way to grow and get stronger. But in the end its up to you to decide what kind of person you want to be."
"And you wanted to become who you are now today right? An adventurer that's in pursuit of exploring and having as many adventures as you can anywhere?" Lefiya said with a smile on her face as Bell laughed.
"You forgot to mention an idiot in persuit of romance and adventure wherever he goes! But yeah! Though I'm still not done growing up yet, so who knows what kind of guy I'll be down the line. But that's then, this is now, and I can decide what to be. But for now, I'm on a date with Syr!"
"Oh! Say why not make this a double date! It could be fun with more involved and give you some practice for later?" Syr suggested as both elven girls 'EEped' at such an offer. More so to what Syr insinuated them to be on a date, though neither of them could refuse or deny such the idea of them together.
"Really? Well...I don't mind it! It could be fun and more is merrier. Though it's up to them." Bell said as he looked down to Syr before looking back at Filvis and Lefiya. Tilting his head a bit and smiled.
"A-Are you sure you want us to tag along Mister Cranel?"
"Come on! Please be more casual! And I'm not forcing you two, its only if you want."
"I-I-I say it could be fun! Y-Yeah, let's do it. T-Though I don't particularly know what to do in this situation, so please take care of us!" Filvis said as she bowed her head respectfully. Unknowst to all of them, Syr's smile came softly upon her face. Her eyes started back at the cafe doors where a shadow of a person was looking inside the cafe. Nodding her head as one of her eyes quickly shifted to purple and then back to grey.
"Don't worry! Leave it to me to guide ourselves on a fun double date outing together!" Syr said proudly at herself as she had one arm in the air and her hand across her heart. Bell then clapped and applauded at Syr while Filvis joined in with the applause as Lefiya was still flustered at being involved in this date idea.
"W-Well, then what should we do after we pay the bill? Any ideas Miss Syr?" Lefiya asked as Syr went into a thinking position before she snapped her fingers and pointed at Filvis's dress with a gleem in her eyes.
"Shopping! Since Filvis wants to change and grow, nothing says change than a new wardrobe! And we can get some for you too Bell! And you can see how I look in new dresses."
"Ohh! That's a good idea Syr! I could use your opinion on what to wear since mostly I wear anything thats loose and fits me fine. Pops and Uncle Hogni are the ones that help me with clothes. But according to Lili I have this odd knack for picking clothes for other people pretty good."
"I-I like it! I think with your help, this'll get me closer to gaining some confidence in myself. Thank you for your help and I'm in your care Miss Syr. Mr. Bell!"
"M-Maybe a new outfit would be nice. And maybe I could get better opinions on what to wear and mix up my wardrobe now. Along with help picking what to changed about what to wear when going in dungeon dives." Lefiya said as she twittled with her fingers sheepishly.
"Oh! You just reminded me Lefiya! I was actually wanting you to joing my crew Filvis but I never got the place your Familia home is at. Sorry, I've been kinda busy and I kept hearing how Lefiya was busy with dives to visit her and the others at Loki's to ask where you lived." Bell said as he rubbed the back of his head in embaressment, causing Filvis to freeze up with what he said.
"Y-You want me to join you in the dungeon?"
"Of course! It's always fun to go on an adventure with friends and other people! Plus you seem like you'll have more fun with a crew around to laugh and fight together. What do you say? Wanna join my crew?" Bell said as he handed his arm out in front of her.
Filvis was blinking fast and blushing. She turned her head quickly to Lefiya, who only saw her friend smiling and nudging her head towards Bell's hand. Then her gaze was set to Syr across from her, wondering what her response would be and worried it might be interfering with their relationship.
But to her surprise, she recieved a nod from Syr and saw her head nudging towards Bell. A cheeky smile on her lips as she moved her mouth to for words but not a sound escaped her lips. Filvis read how her mouth was moving as she covered her side so Bell wouldn't see what she was 'saying'.
"It's okay! Say yes Filvis!"
"T-T-Then yes! I-I'll join your-"
"WHERE IS THAT FUCKING RABBIT CUNT! I KNOW HE'S IN THERE! GET YOUR ASS OUT!" A loud obnoxious voice cried out the cafe. Causing all inside to let out a startled noise or fall off their chairs or from their booths. Filvis grabbed onto Bell's hand by reaction and Bell was sent tumbling along with Filvis on the floor as Syr crashed on top of his body and held him tightly.
"A-are you three okay!?"
"Y-Yeah Lefiya! We're fine..."
"Bell! Oh I'm sorry!"
"D-Don't worry. And why does that voice sound irritating and annoying to me again!? Where have I heard-"
"GET OUT HERE YOU RABBIT SON OF A BITCH! YOU MADE ME LOSE MY PLACE IN SOMA'S FAMILIA AND NOW I'M BANNED FROM ENTERING THERE AGAIN! SO STOP WITH FUCKING YOUR WHORE OF A WOMAN IN THERE AND COME OUT AND FACE US!"
"""..."""
Silence ensuded the cafe for that moment. As none dared to even move even an inch after Bell stood up and gently seated Syr and Filvis back in the booth. People in the cafe and the staff felt as though something demonic was pressing down upon their very sould and swore Bell's eyes grew darker red after what that man had said about his date.
"Syr...I'll be right back. Eat on ahead with out me, it shoudn't take too long." Bell said with a kind smile aimed at Syr before he tapped the shoulder of a nearby waiter. Startling the poor staff member but surprising him as Bell took out a sack of Valis from his back pocket and pointed at his booth.
"This is for our and our guest's food. If they ordered anything else could you kindly being it to them soon."
"Y-Yes sir right away!"
"Could I trouble you for my order to place them in to-go boxes. I feel that I won't be able to finish it all in one sitting after I assist you with this...particular issue outside."
"N-No worries, we'll have them ready for you when you return."
"Thank you very much. Oh, and could I trouble you to bring me your most used and rusted looking knife you have in the kitchen if you have one?" Bell said that sent shiveres down everyone's spine, and the staff looking at him as if he was the devil himself.
"I-I'm terribly sorry sir, but we don't have any rusted kitchen wear on us. If we did, we-we would have thrown it out and replaced it. I-I do believe, if you're looking for damaged silverware, we have a chipped and sharp spoon we use to break ice for our drinks. W-Would that suit you?"
"Hmmm...a spoon you say? Yes that would be much better. Here, for you and for the silverwear I'll be using." Bell said as he handed the waiter with another sack of Valis, though smaller than what he gave to him before as another staff member came out the kitchen and handed him the spoon.
"S-Sir! Might I ask what you intend to do with that man and the spoon?" The staff asked, as they all felt the air grow colder as Bell slowly turned his head back to see them.
"I intend to teach that moronic idiot a thorough lesson about talking profanity and insults in public. Since last time I tried to, "discuss" with him about that nasty habit, he apparently didn't listen. So, as they say when trying to boast about something, one should put their balls in their mouth and back it up." He said simplicity, making every man and woman inside shriek and cross their legs as he left the cafe.
Silence ensued the cafe for a while after he left, only to return to somewhat normality and continuing on their business as there was no sounds of torture. occuring.
"D-Do you think Mister Cranel will be alright?" Lefiya said as Syr crossed her legs and took a drink through a straw in her glass as she looked at the two elves.
"He's fine. I have faith in him. Though I worry he'll get his nice outfit ruined with those people's blood." Syr said with a worried and saddened tone. Sighing and resting her chin on her hand as both elves could only sweat drop at what she was worried about.
"Though, while he's away. I believe it's time for us to have a small chat now. Wouldn't you agree?" Syr said as now both girls felt another shiver down their necks. Feeling as though they had to sit properly with how Syr was looking at them. Such cold and calculating eyes starting at each of them as her hand was under her chin.
"Though I can forgive you two about eavesdropping in on mine and Bell's talk about our current predicament. Or rather, his worries of our relationship for the future. I would be lying if I were to say that this whole arrange marriage and offerings for his hand doesn't, at the very least, annoy me."
"T-Then why did you-"
"Stop." Syr cut Lefiya off before she could even question her. Watching the orange-blonde haired elf suck in her lips and nodded her head.
"However, I also can't exactly stop Bell or how this situation's importance is for him and his family now. Knowing him especially, I can tell there are others he loves. Maybe not like how we love each other. But after observing people for years as a hobby, one can tell when the signs are there for romance to bloom." She said as her gaze shifted to Filvis's eyes as the girl flinched.
"Even though he has candidates for his hand in marriage, some that I even known for years or closely due to my work. I want to know, if they're serious about loving Bell. Not just for his looks. Not for his status. And not for his...seed." Syr chocked out to say as that caused the three of them to blush before returning back to the point.
"Filvis, I want to know exactly if you're serious about Bell and what your feelings are for him. If it's admiration then that's fine, but don't think that is enough to think I'll let you date-"
"I-It's not just that!" Filvis squeaked out as her hands gripped at the table's edge.
"Then, what is it you see in Bell after meeting him a few times now?" Syr asked back, watching the girl's eyes shadowed over her hair. But what she wasn't expecting, was teardrops falling from her face onto the table now.
"H-He just, makes me feel happy. It's like, he gives off this warm, fuzzy feeling whenever you're around him. Telling you that even if the worse is to happen, that everything is fine! H-He's had a rough past and yet still smiles and continues on with gusto and a charismatic bravado. S-Something I wish I could have had."
"Filvis..." Lefiya said as she watched her friend cross her arms and cling onto her shoulders. Looking at Syr who now had widened her eyes at the determined and serious look on her face. Yet still fighting herself to hold back her tears and crying like a child.
"I know we haven't spent much time together unlike you, but I do care about him. I want to be someone that's courageous and tackles anything thrown their way. I want to have fun and go on adventures with Lefiya, Mr. Bell and any other friends I can make. E-Even though it hasn't been long, my heart is telling me to at least try for it! Like Mr. Bell says about romance and adventure, it's the same thing with love, it can happen anywhere and anytime and can be an amazing experience filled with laughs and tears. And I will have that romantic adventure even if you disapprove!"
Syr could only stare at Filvis with an awed expression on her face. Lefiya's eyes widened and felt immense pride for her friend, and mass worry as Syr's expression was hidden with her hair shadowing over her face. Seeing the barmaid's shoulders trembling worried her, but what scared her more was how serious and focused Filvis's eyes were. Staring at Syr.
"*Pfft!* Gehe-Hehehehehe! Hahahahaha!" Both elves blinked and slumped down into their seats when they heard it. They saw it. And they coudln't even believe that at a time like this, after what she brought onto them. Syr was laughing and fighting back to control herself from losing it and clinging to her sides.
"Y-You're laughing!? After what you put us through just now?!"
"*Gasp* H-Hehehe. S-Sorry! I-I just wanted to see if you were taking this seriously and had real feelings for Bell. I-I didn't expect for Filvis to be so dramatic and passionate about her confession. Ahh~ After setting this up I'm glad it was worth it."
"W-Wait...you set this up? T-The meeting here? A-And Bell fighting-"
"The meet up I had the idea after Tione and Tiona came by the pub a few days ago and talked about your outing with Filvis here. I thought it would kill a few birds with one stone if me and Bell had our date and talked about this relationship here. While bringing you two to get involved and get me the opportunity to see if you both were interested and took Bell's hand in marriage seriously."
"B-But then, the guy outside-"
"Come now Miss Lefiya, it's Bell's first date. You think his father wouldn't at least be curious? He was having a panic fit at the Hostess with Hogni and a few others about what he should do when observing us. He and I talked and well, we used one another to help the situation more. I'd see if two of his selected candidates were serious to *ahem* court Bell. And he keeps an eye on us from afar today." Syr said as she relaxed herself back into the cushioned seats of the booth.
"Apologies for making it seem I was acting harsh there Miss Fil-PFFT! G-Ghehehe! Y-You're so red!" Lefiya then turned and choked a little as she saw Filvis was red faced. Top to bottom and had steam escaping from her ears and looking down at the table.
PFFFFFFFT!*
"L-Lefiya!"
"S-Sorry! I-I-I-It's just...geeeckh!" Lefiya stuttered as she choked on her own laughter. Much to Filvis's dismay at two girls laughing how serious she became and made an embarrassment out of herself when it was merely a test.
"S-S-Sorry if I got too passionate! But wouldn't you two do the same?!" She tried to argue back.
"Oh I would do far more than what you did. But again, I'm sorry. And just because you have my approval doesn't mean you should get far ahead of me now. You still have to make the effort to win his heart too. And you'll be dealing with my Helun and Ryu!" Syr said proudly as she shook Filvis's hand. As the elf's expression turned to a soft smile, though her grip matched Syr's as now a spark flashed between them.
"May the best woman win."
"Wouldn't that mean that I win as well if I've gained a piece of his heart then Miss Syr?"
"Ohh~ Feisty one aren't you? Are you sure she's been shy all this time Miss Lefiya?"
"I-I'm at a loss here."
"I'm back Syr~ Lefiya! Filvis!" Bells voice rang across the cafe, making the staff freeze once more as the girls turned their heads to see Bell with a small towel and wiping his hands. Blinking as they didn't see him in any harm, and not so much a speck of blood on his body aside a small bit of droplets on his face.
"That was rather quick! D-Did you-"
"No I didn't kill him. And this isn't mine. It's from when he tried to sucker punch me and miss and spat in my face. So I forced him to punch himself and step on one of his kneecaps. I don't know how he's still standing since Soma's." Bell muttered the last part as he wiped off the small splatter of blood from his face and sat back down with Syr.
"P-Pardon me sir, but your meals have arrived and are ready to go."
"Ah, thank you. Come to think of it, can you set them down at the far end? I got here quicker than I expected so might as well enjoy the meal, that fine with you Syr?"
"Nope~! That's fine!"
"A-Ah, alright then. B-But...do we have to worry about that man again? A-And if I can be so bold to ask, w-what did you do to him?" The waiter asked as Bell gestured to him to come closer. He cupped his ears over his mouth and to the man's ear and whispered.
Even with their good hearing, Lefiya and Filvis couldn't tell what it was Bell said to the waiter. But the horrified and dead expression on his face scared them and thought best to forget trying to wonder what Bell did. As the man pulled himself away from Bell, who smiled at him, the man looked at Syr with a worried expression.
"I-I don't know whether to say congratulations on finding someone that would stand for you, or be worried at what he would do in case the worse happens ma'am." He said as he shivered and shook like a leaf while Syr giggled and wrapped her arms around one of Bell's.
"I say you should be jealous at what he would do to me in the bedroom~"
"SYR!/Miss Syr!"