Hey, I'm here with a new chapter!

nekoshiroinu, Andersen is one I'm considering. Again, it would usually depend on the situation on to which hero Bell contracts. At least until a certain point where he just gets all of them, but that's really at the end of the story.

Gwynx, a little dark? I actually am not sure how it feels dark. But glad you love it anyway.

AnimeFan13579, Good point on the part with the divinity. It's actually something I sort of hinted before. The dungeon throws random shit at Bell as he is a source of divinity through Heracles. But because it is different from Arcanum, the reaction isn't as big, but still there.

GhostEist, he doesn't have Magic Circuits. So the answer would be no.

codywhite162, thanks dude.

Bachi the cat, wowz, congrats on getting Morgan. Getting a spook is good, but you already have Np2 Morgan, so I call that a win.

So yeah, here's the new chapter.

XXX

With Hestia, the goddess was on her way to the Guild.

Bell had yet to return, and as far as she knew, the boy would only spend a day in the dungeon at most at his current level.

Aside from that one time, he had never stayed out more than one night and would return the next day.

Furthermore, Hestia always made it a point to ask him approximately when he'd be back.

They were supposed to be back by the end of the day they went in.

The goddess of the hearth clenched her fists. She had to be overthinking things.

Bell was the heir to the Throne of Heroes. He had the powers of the legendary Heroic Spirits from Pan-Human History.

Despite knowing that, Hestia just couldn't help but worry.

Soon, the twin tailed goddess reached the Guild, and she quickly spotted the familiar half-elf at the reception.

Hestia quickly walked over, "Hey! Advisor-kun!"

Eina perked up when she heard the familiar voice, and she blinked, "Lady Hestia?"

The half-elf stood up and smiled, "How can I help you?"

The goddess quickly got in front of her, "Have you seen Bell-kun or his party members?"

Eina blinked, "Bell-kun? No, not really."

Hestia frowned, "So they haven't been by here..."

She quickly caught on, "Wait, they haven't returned from the dungeon?"

The goddess shook her head, "No, they haven't."

Eina furrowed her brows, "Bell-kun said they'd be entering the middle floors today... You don't think..."

Hestia nodded, "Yes, even if he's gone to the Middle Floors, he should be back by now."

The half-elf nodded, "He did say he would only be going to the 14th floor at most."

The goddess looked down, before staring up at Eina, "I want to issue a quest. The main objective is to search for Bell and his party."

Eina nodded, "Understood, I'll get it arranged now on the urgent list."

The half-elf quickly went to work, and Hestia was about to ask how she could help, only for a familiar voice to reach her ears.

"Hestia!"

The goddess turned, and she blinked when she saw the Japanese God of Thunder and Sword at the door, flanked by two Eastern looking adventurers.

Hestia blinked when she saw the solemn look on his face, "Take?"

A short while later, Hermes walked into the Guild with Asfi by his side.

The blue haired woman sighed, "Now why are we here again?"

The god of messengers chuckled, "Hey, there are a few good places to get information in Orario. Pubs and the like are good and all, but once in a while you get to find something interesting here too."

Asfi sighed again, "Sure... sure."

She fully knew her patron god was simply lazing around, going wherever he felt like going.

In the beginning, perhaps Hermes would've actually worked to gather information. But now that they had a full blown network?

He had the time and energy to run around fooling around, be it with women or whatever catches his eyes.

And today just happened to be the latter.

The god blinked when he noticed a quest to be filled on the urgent pile.

Hermes walked up to it, and his lips curved upwards, "What luck..."

He let out a quiet chuckle, "The Fates are on my side today, it would seem."

The Greek god of mischief took the sheet of paper off the wall, "Asfi, I have a job for you."

The blue haired woman blinked, "Huh?"

Hermes smiled as he walked towards the receptionist, "Too late, it's already done."

Asfi tried to chase after the god to refuse, but the god of messengers was nothing if not fast on his feet.

(Linebreak)

Meanwhile, back in Hestia's church, Takemikazuchi had explained what Mikoto had told him.

Hestia had also asked for Hephaestus and Miach for help, which led to them being in the church too.

Miach looked at Takemikazuchi's Children, "So basically, you used Bell and his party and dumped the monsters after you on them."

Takemikazuchi lowered his head, "I cannot apologize enough for what they've done... They were desperate, but still..."

Hephaestus kept silent, simply because she couldn't trust herself to speak considering it involved Welf, who could very well be considered her favorite Child.

Hestia faced the altar of the church, "Normally... normally, I wouldn't be worried. Bell-kun is the heir to the Throne of Heroes. But it is also his first run into the middle floors, it is also his first time leading a party of only three members into uncharted territory for them."

She turned to look at them, "You were desperate to save your own... I cannot blame you for doing that, even if it was Bell-kun and his party. But if they don't make it back..."

Hestia took a deep breath, before turning to face them, "Please... help me bring them back."

Mikoto stood forward, "I promise you, Lady Hestia. I cannot possibly atone for what we have done, but we will do whatever it takes to bring them back."

Ouka let out a deep breath, "I shall do the same."

The goddess of the hearth nodded, "Thank you."

Hephaestus spoke up for the first time since Takemikazuchi told them everything, "We say we want to form a search party... But Hestia, most, if not all of my combat-ready members have gone with Loki's kids further down the dungeon."

Miach nodded, "And I only have Naaza, and you know how much she can do."

Hestia nodded, "I know, and I'm not asking Naaza-kun to help if she cannot. I won't ask of the impossible."

Takemikazuchi folded his arms, "On my end, only Ouka and Mikoto are actually qualified. Unfortunate as it is, the others will only slow them down. If we push it, Chigusa can make it as a supporter."

The goddess of the hearth nodded, "That's why I also put up a quest for the Guild. Hopefully someone picks it up."

"AND PICK IT UP I HAVE!"

A familiar, and not to mention annoying voice reached their ears, and everyone turned to see Hermes with Asfi by his side at the door.

The Greek god of messengers grinned, holding up the paper for the quest, "I saw your request on the board."

Hestia blinked, "Hermes? What are you doing here?"

Hermes chuckled, "Well, I heard you were in a pinch, I can't exactly let a dear friend be when she's in trouble, no?"

Hephaestus snorted, "A dear friend? The only thing tying you two together is the fact that we're from the same pantheon. But that doesn't matter at all here now, does it?"

Miach nodded, "That is true, as far as I know, you rarely, if ever, spoke to Hestia ever since we all came down from Tenkai."

Takemikazuchi sighed and shook his head, "Some friend you are..."

Hermes grimaced, "Wow... Harsh much?"

The god of messengers shook his head, "But I am serious. I really do want to help you, Hestia. That is not a lie."

He sneakily wrapped an arm around Asfi who stood next to him, "To that end, I'll be bringing Asfi with me on our search. She's the captain of my Familia, not to mention, she's our ace, possibly the best member of my team."

Asfi blinked, and her head snapped to her patron god, "Wait what?!"

Hermes grinned, and although he was looking at Hestia, the woman knew the smile was directed at her, "I'd bring more of my Familia, but unfortunately they're all on a mission."

Takemikazuchi looked at Hestia, "What do you think, Hestia? You think you can trust him?"

The goddess of the hearth looked at her alleged nephew, and she sighed, "I honestly don't think I have much of a choice. We'll need as much help as we can get."

She looked at Asfi, "I know your child is strong, so if you can help me, I will be very grateful."

Asfi was almost taken aback by the sincerity in Hestia's voice, and she nodded, "Very well, I shall do my best."

Hermes grinned, "Then it's settled then!"

Takemikazuchi hummed, before he looked at his Children, "Alright, time is of the essence! Mikoto, Ouka, Chigusa! Get whatever you need and meet here as soon as possible!"

Hestia nodded, "If possible, I want to start tonight."

The group started to discuss their preparations, and Asfi took the chance to pull Hermes to a side, squatting down behind the seats.

The god of messengers looked at his trusty captain with amused eyes, "What's wrong, Asfi? We were getting to the good part, ya know?"

Asfi almost glared at him, "You said. You would bring me. Along. Are you-"

Hermes cut her off with a smile, "Yep, I'm coming along."

The young woman almost faltered, but she managed to not yell, "But a god going into the dungeon is against the law!"

Hermes' grin widened, "Of course. But that also means we'll be fine as long as no one finds out. I'll be sure to keep to myself, okay?"

Asfi gaped, before she hung her head in resignation, "I knew you were planning something..."

The god of messengers laughed softly, "Well, I'll be counting on you on that part, okay?"

The captain of the Hermes Familia nodded tiredly, "Okay..."

"I'M COMING TO!"

Hestia's voice reached their ears, and both of them jumped when the goddess' face suddenly appeared beside them.

Hermes jumped, "H-Hestia?!"

Hestia turned and sat down on the seat, "I'm coming to, okay?"

The god of thieves tried to reason with her, "H-hold on, it's forbidden for a goddess to enter the dungeon, you shouldn't be so rash-"

The goddess gave him a blank stare, "We'll be fine as long as no one finds out. Right?"

Asfi sighed, "She's got you there."

Hermes sighed, "Hestia, you don't have a reason to risk going in. I have something I need to do."

Hestia stared at him firmly, "Of course I have a reason! Bell-kun is in trouble, I know we have a team ready, but I just can't sit here and do nothing!"

Hephaestus' eyes softened, "Hestia..."

The twin tailed goddess looked at her best friend/niece, "Don't try to stop me. Please."

The goddess of the forge sighed, "I can't stop you even if I wanted to, remember?"

She looked at Hermes, "This is on you, by the way."

Hermes smiled dryly, "That seems to be the case, doesn't it?"

The god nodded, "Alright, since we have a change of plans, I'll have to make some preparations myself, I'll see you back here later, alright?"

Hestia nodded, "Gotcha."

Hermes turned and walked out of the church, and as soon as he did, he asked, "Asfi, with two Level 2 adventurers, do you think you can protect both Hestia and myself?"

Asfi paused, before she answered, "It depends on how far we plan to go. The upper floors, without a doubt. The middle floors... those ones are a bit hard to say."

The item maker knew her limits, and she could definitely protect both god and goddess if she went all out.

But then again, no one could predict what would happen when two gods entered the dungeon.

Hermes nodded, "I guess that makes sense. Guess we'll have to pay a friend a visit..." 'I just hope Freya doesn't get pissed.'

A short moment later, Hermes and Asfi were in the Hostess of Fertility.

They now stood in one of the private rooms of the pub with all of the staff of the establishment, Mia having closed the store and delayed their opening time for the night shift.

Mia stared at the pair with a intimidating gaze, "Come again?"

Hermes smiled, "Well, Bell Cranel's in a bit of trouble. So we're forming a search party to look for him."

Chloe sighed, "Getting a pass parade thrown on him on his first trip down to the middle floors... what luck..."

The owner of the pub scowled, "And what does that have to do with you? What does that have to do with us?"

Mia ignored the looks from her employees, and instead stared firmly at Hermes.

The god of messengers grinned, "I just want to borrow one of your girls to help us out, Ryuu, specifically."

The owner of the establishment maintained her gaze at the god, "So you believe you would need Ryuu of all people. It is that bad."

Hermes nodded, "It is. Worst case scenario, Bell and his party will die. I made a promise with Hestia to save her child, if you allow Ryuu to come with us... I will owe you a favor, any favor."

Mia hummed, before closed her eyes, "Wait outside with the Perseus, Hermes. I'll give you my answer in a bit."

The god couldn't quite tell what the dwarf was thinking, but he could sort of tell that she was giving it serious thought, if not torn on whether she should help.

Hermes decided to stay there no longer, and stood up, "Very well. I really hope you can help us, Mia."

He turned and beckoned his captain to follow her out, the door clicking shut quietly as they left the room.

After a short moment, Ryuu spoke up, "Mama Mia, I want to take a few-"

"Can it, you dumb elf."

Mia cut her off, her eyes still closed.

Ryuu closed her mouth, and despite maintaining a poker face, anyone in the room could tell she wasn't happy at all.

Lunoire decided to speak up, "Mama Mia, we know Bell isn't weak. But regardless, a pass parade isn't a small matter."

Mia's brows furrowed, "I know that."

Anya spoke up as well, "At least send one of us-nya."

The dwarf almost shot them down, only for Syr to speak up, "Mama Mia, I hope you can at least send one of them down too. Please."

Mia looked at the silver haired girl, and for a brief moment, the dwarf saw the divine power behind her eyes.

Syr held her gaze, "Please."

The dwarf was almost taken aback, and she sighed, "Fine. What kind of boss would I be if I left one of my employees to die?"

Mia looked at the women around her, "But only Ryuu and Anya will go. It's only the middle floors, the two of you should be enough, right?"

Ryuu's expression brightened, and she nodded, "Definitely."

Anya beamed, "Of course-nya!"

The dwarf nodded, "Good, now get going. Time probably isn't on our side."

The two shared a look, and both elf and cat-person quickly headed for their room.

Mia glanced at everyone else, "The rest of you, get back to work. We'll open in half an hour."

Lunoire and Chloe quickly got back to preparing for the night, leaving Mia and Syr in the room.

The dwarf looked at her, "Is he that important to you?"

Syr just nodded, "Yes, he is."

Mia furrowed his brows, "I see."

The dwarf sighed and walked towards the door, "Get back to work. We can talk about this another time."

Syr smiled, "Of course, and thank you."

Mia just walked out of the room, heading for the kitchen.

The silver haired girl glanced down out of the tinted windows, where Hermes and Asfi could be seen waiting outside, "Hermes..."

Her lips thinned, "If you're up to something..."

If Hermes did anything to Bell, there would be hell to pay.

A short while later, Hestia, Hermes, Asfi, Ouka, Mikoto and Chigusa stood before Babel.

The two gods both had a cloak on, with Hestia wearing a pair of glasses and a hat, while Hermes simply swapped his hat for a dirty green helmet.

Hestia looked at the group, "Alright, are we ready?"

The adventurers of Takemikazuchi's familia nodded, while Hermes spoke up cheerfully, "We're still short on two people on this end, so-"

"No need, we're here."

The group turned to see the two waitresses from the Hostess. Or at least, Hestia, Hermes and Asfi did.

Ryuu wore a white sleeveless top and green bloomers, covered by a green cloak. She also had a mask that covered her mouth.

As for Anya, she was less secretive about her identity and wore what looked like a standard adventurer outfit.

Ouka asked, "Who are you?"

Ryuu looked at him, recognizing that he was the captain of the Takemikazuchi Familia, and by extension, the one who dumped the pass parade on Bell, "It is none of your concern. We're only here to help rescue Bell Cranel and his party."

The man narrowed his eyes, and he opened his mouth to retort, only for Hermes to stand between them with a smile, "Now now, we're all here for the same reason."

Hestia nodded, "We don't have much time. If we're all ready, then let us depart."

Everyone nodded, both Ryuu and Ouka deciding to simply ignore each other as they descended the stairs into the dungeon.

(Linebreak)

With Bell and co, the trio made their way through the floor.

Bell had used the last potion in Lili's bag, leaving him with more energy to navigate the floor.

However, the last fight had also taken its toll on Lili and Welf.

Now, the trio stood before a large wall, a rainbow-colored aura surrounding it.

Welf blinked, "Guys, is this...?"

Lili nodded, "Yes, the Great Wall of Sorrow."

Bell looked around, "Looks like we're clear, let's hurry and move on."

The pair nodded, but as soon as they took a few steps forward, the room shook.

Welf and Lili's faces paled, the former speaking, "You've gotta be kidding me..."

The walls trembled, and cracks started to appear.

Bell gritted his teeth, "Run. NOW!"

He broke into a dash, pulling both Lili and Welf with him.

The cracks increased, and pieces of the wall started to fall off.

Bell cursed and hefted Welf on his shoulders, "Sorry Welf!"

The redhead grunted in discomfort from the sudden change, "I'm good!"

Lili, on the other hand, just did her best to keep pace with Bell, knowing full well if she slowed down a bit, she'd drag the other two down.

The three quickly covered half of the distance between them and the entrance to the 18th floor.

But unfortunately, none of them realized just how much the dungeon had it out for them.

The cracks increased, and more parts of the wall fell, revealing a giant face.

Welf's eyes widened in fear, "Oh shit..."

The giant, the Goliath gave a loud roar, and Bell cursed under his breath as he tried to run faster.

The distance between them and the exit decreased as they ran, but the Goliath quickly spotted the trio, and it wasn't about to let its prey escape.

It broke out of the wall, and quickly grabbed hold of the pieces of rubble on the ground.

Welf's eyes widened again, "Oh no... Bell! MOVE!"

The giant swung its arm, flinging the rubble at the three, and Bell turned his head when he heard the sound of the wind.

His eyes widened, and in a split second, the boy made his decision.

In the next instant, Welf and Lili both found themselves on the ground, and a loud boom reached their ears.

Lili groaned as she regained her bearings, until she realized what had happened, "BELL-SAMA!"

The pair looked around, spotting the giant piece of rubble, the piece of the wall having broken to pieces, but presumably also burying Bell underneath.

"Load: HERACLES!"

Until they heard the shout as the rubble exploded, revealing Bell bruised but relatively unscathed.

Welf let out a breath in relief, "Bell..."

The boy stared at the Goliath, the giant approaching them quickly, and he spoke, "Welf, Lili, get to the exit."

Lili blinked, "Bell-sama? What are you saying?!"

Bell narrowed his eyes as he summoned the nameless golden axe in his hand, "We don't have much time. The exit is behind us, but the moment all of us turn around, it will strike. I'll protect the two of you, so get moving."

The prum glared at him, "Then what about you?! You can't possibly-"

"I'll be fine. Once you two get out, I'll run."

Bell cut her off, and Welf got the hint, "Lil Lili, let's go. We'll only hold him back here."

The blacksmith quickly pulled the girl back, and this time, she reluctantly followed.

As soon as the two turned for the exit, the Goliath roared and charged.

But this time, Bell was ready.

The boy dashed forward, almost shooting himself forward like a bullet, and he swung the axe.

The Monster Rex growled as it blocked the swing, the axe sinking into the skin of the giant.

But as soon as it happened, the Goliath swung its other arm at Bell, forcing the boy to let go of the axe to dodge.

Bell landed on the ground, as the Goliath plucked the axe off and dropped it to the ground before stomping on it.

The boy narrowed his eyes, "This feels like I'm David, fighting against the Goliath."

Normally he would've been excited, but the circumstances simply didn't allow it.

At the same time, he also felt his back grow warm, power brewing in his body, yet also holding back as he simply didn't have enough Mind.

No, Bell knew he didn't have enough energy to even swap to a different Heroic Spirit, much less contract a new one.

Despite having used the potion, once he released his hold on Heracles' powers, that was it.

The boy glanced back briefly, and Welf and Lili were almost there.

Good, that meant he could run after he held the monster back for a bit more.

However, just as he looked back, so did the Goliath notice the two adventurers nearing the exit.

It couldn't allow that to happen.

As soon as Bell turned to face the beast once more, his eyes widened when he spotted the giant grabbing a handful of rubble.

Then, it threw.

Bell cursed, as he leaped into action. But he knew, he couldn't make it.

Not as he was, so he pushed himself further.

"SET: NINE LIVES!"

Power flowed through his veins once more, as the toll on his mind increased.

But the boy pushed through with sheer willpower, and he vanished.

At the same time, the flying pieces of rubble all shattered to bits, before the Goliath felt a hard blow to its face, sending it toppling over to the ground.

Unfortunately, the blow wasn't enough to kill the Monster Rex. It was enough to stagger it, but that was all.

Bell simply didn't have enough Mind or stamina to use the Noble Phantasm to its fullest.

That also meant that whatever energy he had left to hold onto Heracles' powers was gone, and the power of the ancient Greek hero left his body.

The boy fell to one knee as he panted heavily, glancing back to see Welf and Lili at the exit.

Welf yelled, "BELL! COME ON!"

Bell nodded tiredly, and he forced himself to move, stumbling as he did his best to run.

The Goliath roared as it got to its feet, but Bell was nothing if not fast on his feet, and whilst exhausted, he didn't have to carry a grown man this time.

The boy quickly reached the exit, "Come on!"

But before Welf and Lili could respond, a shadow covered them, and Bell glanced back just in time to see the piece of rubble before them.

Then he knew no more.

(Linebreak)

Some time later, Bell groaned as he opened his eyes, "Ugh... w-where..."

The boy grimaced as the light entered his eyes, and he took the time to get adjusted to his surroundings, only to realise he was in a room.

No, not a room.

The ceiling was made of cloth. He was in a tent.

Bell looked around, "What...?"

He quickly noticed Welf and Lili next to him, both covered in a blanket and patched up with bandages and dressings.

The boy looked down and noticed that he was the same, except he had thrown the blanket off.

Bell furrowed his eyes. The last thing he remembered was the rubble the Goliath had thrown at them, and everything went blank.

"Oh, you're awake."

A familiar voice reached his ears, and Bell blinked as he looked at where the voice had come from.

Only to notice a familiar looking blonde, wearing a white top with black sleeves.

Bell blinked again, "Ais... Wallenstein...?"

The blonde swordswoman regarded him, "How do you feel?"

The boy nodded, "I feel okay, good even. Wait... Why are you-"

Ais hummed, "We're on an expedition, or well, was. We're just taking a break here before we head back to the surface."

Bell blinked, before he nodded slowly, "I... I see..."

The Sword Princess studied him, and the boy felt his face grew hot when he realized how intensely she was staring at him.

Bell stuttered, "I-is there something wrong?"

Ais didn't avert her gaze, "How did you get so strong?"

The boy blinked, "Huh?"

The blonde almost furrowed her brows, "In less than three months, you are here. On the 18th floor. How?"

Bell blinked again, before he rubbed the back of his head, "I... honestly am not sure how to answer you."

Ais stayed silent, allowing him to continue.

The boy spoke again, this time almost jokingly, "I guess I just trained really hard?"

The swordswoman hummed, "You summoned spirits."

That got the boy's attention, and Bell almost snapped his head at her, "What?"

Ais stared at him, "You summoned spirits. No, it felt like you became one. Like a half spirit."

Bell almost panicked, "W-wait! What are you talking about?"

The blonde noticed his change in demeanor, and she leaned forward, "Is that how you became so strong? You summoned those spirits to help you?"

Ais pushed on, "Tell me. Please."

"I think that's enough, Ais."

The two turned to see Riveria at the entrance of the tent, and Bell gaped, "Y-you're... RIVERIA?!"

The high elf smiled almost amusedly, "Yes, that would be me."

The boy shot to his feet, "It's an honor to meet the Nine Hells!"

Riveria almost chuckled, "Is that so? I'm happy to hear that."

She looked at Ais, before back at Bell, "Since you're awake, mind following me? Our leader would like to have a word with you."

Bell blinked, "O-oh... Sure, I guess."

Riveria nodded, "You should follow us too, Ais. We can continue your conversation with the others."

A short walk later, Bell stood in a larger tent, faced with Finn, Gareth and Riveria, while Ais stood at a side.

The boy lowered his head, "Thank you very much for helping us. We would've died there from the Goliath if not for your help."

Gareth laughed, "I believe you are mistaken, young man. We didn't help you, you escaped on your own ability."

Finn nodded, "We simply found you at the entrance of this floor, and couldn't leave you to bleed out."

Bell nodded, "Even so, it doesn't change the fact that you have helped my party, and I cannot be any more grateful for that."

The captain of the Loki Familia nodded, "In that case, we shall accept your gratitude. For now, consider yourselves our guest until we finish our preparations to head back to the surface. After that, you can join us on our way back."

The boy nodded, "Thank you very much."

Gareth chuckled, "A polite one, aren't you?"

He walked over and patted on the boy's back, and Bell almost stumbled, much to everyone's surprise.

But Gareth's grin just widened, "To think you came all the way down here on your first trip! Ballsy one, eh?"

Bell's smile turned forced, "I mean... we were sort of forced to... We got pass paraded, and we lost most of our supplies and fell down to the 15th floor..."

Riveria hummed, "I see, that's why you decided to come all the way to the 18th floor."

Finn nodded, "A wise decision, albeit risky. But I suppose that is the way of us adventurers."

The two other senior adventurers just nodded.

Bell blinked at their words, before he found himself smiling, "But still... I can't believe I'm talking to all of you like this..."

Finn raised an amused eyebrow, "Oh? And what is there not to believe?"

Bell's smile widened slightly, and he grew a bit embarrassed, "I mean... Finn-san, you're sort of like a modern day hero. I guess you can say you're someone I look up to?"

That caught them by surprise, and Riveria asked, "Oh? Is that so?"

The boy chuckled sheepishly, his face slightly red, "I-I mean... his title 'Braver' can also mean 'Hero', right? And what with his reputation..."

Gareth laughed, "Coming from you, I'd say that's the best compliment you can get, yeah Finn?"

The prum chuckled, "Indeed. If the Heir to the Throne of Heroes sees me in that manner, well, that would make me really happy."

Bell just chuckled sheepishly, before he asked, "Oh, and since we're here, do you mind if I ask you something?"

Finn nodded, "Of course, what is it?"

The boy spoke, "Did your parents give you your name?"

The tent quieted down, and both Gareth and Riveria glanced at Finn carefully.

The prum fell silent, and Bell blinked, "I'm sorry... Did I say something wrong?"

Finn closed his eyes, and he opened them, "No, you did not. And no, my parents did not give me this name. I chose it myself."

The prum's answer surprised his three comrades, even Ais.

But before they could voice their expressions, Finn continued, "Why do you ask, Bell Cranel?"

The boy blinked, before he rubbed the back of his neck, "This will sound ridiculous, but umm, did you happen to choose that name from the prum's Fianna Knights?"

Silence befell upon them, and after a while, Bell felt uncomfortable.

Until Finn laughed.

The prum laughed, "I suppose I have been found out! To answer your question, Cranel-san, yes, I did take inspiration from the Legend of the Fianna Knights in choosing my name."

Bell's face brightened, "I knew it! I honestly love that story! In fact, you remind me exactly of Finn from that legend!"

Finn blinked, before he smiled, "That was the idea, and I'm happy to hear that from you."

Gareth laughed, and Riveria folded her arms, "Well well, I never would have thought someone other than Finn would like that story."

Bell's face beamed with excitement, "Of course I would! I mean, I want to be a hero myself-!"

He caught himself, and he quickly shrunk down, "I-I mean... Umm..."

Finn chuckled, "Bell Cranel, I believe you and I can be good friends. See, I also want to become a hero too. So you can say we pretty much share the same goals."

Bell just giggled, "I mean, Finn-san, you've already become one, haven't you?"

The prum shook his head with a smile, "No, not yet. I-"

"Now now, you can continue your conversation some other time alone, I believe our princess is dying from waiting."

Riveria spoke up, and the pair glanced at Ais, who was patiently waiting.

Finn chuckled, "Well, I suppose we got ahead of ourselves there, didn't we?'

Gareth snorted, "No shit."

The high elf spoke up, "Bell Cranel, I believe our dear Ais was pushing you to tell her about your explosive growth. If you don't mind, would you be willing to share it with us?"

Bell blinked, and he glanced around, noting Ais' expectant expression and the curious ones on the other three.

Finn spoke up, "It's fine if you do not want to tell us. Honestly speaking, we shouldn't even be asking, but as you can see, we are quite curious."

Riveria nodded, "At the very least, we promise not to reveal it to anyone."

The boy hummed, before he nodded, "I guess I can, considering you did help me and my friends in our time of need. But I'm not sure if it will help any of you, if at all."

Ais spoke up, "I don't mind."

Bell nodded, "As you would've already probably heard, I have the ability to take on the powers of ancient legendary heroes forgotten to time."

The four nodded, and Bell continued, "That includes their powers and memories."

Finn nodded, "I see, I would assume that also includes technique, skills and abilities in general?"

The boy nodded, "As far as my current body can handle, yes."

Riveria hummed, "I can sort of understand. Like Lefiya, you would have to obtain these powers gradually, and the more you obtain, the stronger you become."

Bell nodded, "In addition to my Falna's growth, yes."

Ais spoke up, "Is it something I can learn too?"

The boy opened his mouth to speak, only for Gareth to cut him off, "Most likely not, lass. Abilities like these tend to be unique to the user only. Despite your... heritage, I seriously doubt you could do the same."

Bell blinked, "Heritage?"

Riveria sighed, "That... is something only she can tell."

Ais looked at him, "I'm half spirit, that's why I could see the spirits you summoned."

Bell blinked, "I... I see..."

Finn nodded, "At any rate, I believe we have gone far off topic."

He looked at Bell, "Take the time to rest up. We'll most probably be staying around on this floor for a few more days, once we've finished our preparations, we'll head up for the surface in two groups, you can join the second group."

The boy nodded, before he blinked at the prum's words, "Wait... Two groups?"

Bell's eyes widened, "Oh! You plan on using one group to clear off the floors so the second group can follow after without much trouble?"

Finn smiled amusedly, almost impressed by his deduction, "Yes, that would be the idea."

The boy nodded, "Anyways, thanks again for helping us."

Gareth chuckled, "Well it'd be bad if we left you here without help."

Finn nodded, "Definitely. For now, take the chance to explore the floor, I believe Ais would be happy to show you around?"

The blonde nodded, "Okay."

Bell's eyes widened, "I-It's fine! You don't have to go through all the trouble-"

Ais looked at him, "It's okay."

Riveria almost sighed, quickly seeing through the girl's intentions, before she spoke up, "Bell Cranel, let's leave that for now, okay?"

Bell blinked again, and he nodded, "O-okay..."

Finn nodded, "That's all I wanted to talk about. You can continue using that tent with your friends while we're here, I'll let you know when we're ready to head up."

The boy nodded, "Got it, thanks again."

The prum chuckled, "Don't worry about it."

Bell took that as the cue to leave, "I'll leave you to it then?"

The three senior members of the Loki Familia nodded, and Bell turned to leave the tent.

Ais did the same, and the two stepped out of the tent.

As soon as they did, Bell found himself face to face with two very familiar looking Amazonesses.

"Oh! You're awake, Argonaut-kun!"

The boy blinked when the shorter of the twins leaned towards him, "E-eh?"

Ais blinked when she saw the twins, "Tiona, Tione?"

Tione looked at the blonde, "You done talking with the captain and the others?"

The blonde nodded, "Yes, I was about to show him around."

Tiona's eyes gleamed, "Oh! Then can I join? I've been wanting to meet you, Argonaut-kun!"

Bell blinked, "Argonaut? Are you talking about me?"

Tione sighed, "Don't worry about it, it's just something this idiot came up with."

Tiona puffed her cheeks at her twin, "Hey! It's not something I came up with, okay?"

She looked at Bell, "See, we saw your fight against that minotaur, and well, it reminded me a lot of the Argonaut, so..."

Bell's eyes widened, "Oh."

A giddy smile quickly formed on his face, "I see... I see..."

Bell giggled, "I guess it would seem like it! I mean! I was wearing armor forged by a Crozzo, and I had a lightning weapon!"

Tione stared at him, "Oh no... not another one..."

Tiona, on the other hand, grew more excited, "Wait?! You know the story I'm talking about?! AND YOU HAD ARMOR FORGED BY A CROZZO?!"

Bell nodded with a big smile, "YES!"

The Amazoness beamed, "THEN YOU REALLY ARE JUST LIKE THE ARGONAUT! ARGONAUT-KUN!"

The boy laughed, "I KNOW RIGHT?! IT'S AMAZING!"

Before the two could continue, Tione stepped between them, "Okay, stop! That's enough heroic bullshit for the day."

Bell was almost taken aback by her reaction, and he lowered his head, "Sorry, I got carried away."

Tiona scoffed, "Don't apologize, Argonaut-kun! Tiona's just being an idiot!"

She ignored the look from her sister, and instead pulled on Bell's arm, "Anyway! Can you show me that axe? I can show you my Urga!"

The boy blinked again, "Uhmm, sure?"

Tiona beamed, "Great! Let's go!"

She pulled him along, and the boy quickly found that he couldn't quite compete against the power of a Level 5, as he was quickly dragged away.

Tione sighed, "That idiot..."

She looked at Ais, "Come on, we should follow them before something bad happens."

The blonde just nodded, and the two followed after Bell and Tiona.

A short while later, in Tiona and Tione's shared tent, the boy marvelled as he studied the Urga.

Bell looked at it, "Woah... This is adamantite, isn't it?"

Tiona giggled, "It is! Good spot!"

The boy nodded, and he handed the double bladed sword back to the Amazoness.

Bell nodded, "Alright, my turn, I guess."

Tiona beamed, "Yes, show me!"

Tiona and Ais looked with interest, as Bell held his hand out, "Load: Sakata Kintoki."

The air around him gave way, and the two level 5s and one level 6 watched in slight surprise at the sudden change in pressure the boy gave out.

Tione narrowed her eyes, it felt like a Level Up, but at the same time, different.

Ais, on the other hand, was more intrigued, and determined to learn if she could do it.

Tiona, however, was more excited than the other two, "WOW! You feel so different now! What did you do?!"

Bell smiled, "I took on the powers of one of the heroes I inherited. This is one of them."

The boy summoned the Golden Eater, and held it out to Tiona, "Here, this is the Golden Eater."

The three women could easily feel the magic radiating from the sword, and Tione asked, "Is it a magic sword?"

Bell shook his head, "No, it's different, but it does allow me to use magic, I suppose."

Tiona grabbed on to the axe, and when Bell let go, the Amazoness was surprised by how much it actually weighed.

The girl gave it a few swings, "Wow... This... This feels a whole lot better than my Urga!"

Tione snorted, "If you let your smith hear that, he's gonna have a field day."

Tiona looked at her sister, "But it's the truth! Look! It has enough weight, and it's perfectly balanced!"

The older of the twins opened her mouth to retort, but before she could, the younger twin looked at Bell, "But how can you even use this? It's okay for me, but like a Level 2 shouldn't be able to even lift it."

Bell chuckled, "That's where my ability comes in. The Golden Eater is a weapon I inherited, but because I inherited the abilities of Sakata Kintoki, I also gained his strength to hold the axe."

Tione raised an eyebrow, "But that means you'll be stronger than a Level 2, possibly a Level 3."

The boy nodded, "Something like that, yes."

The older twin hummed, "I see, now that's interesting."

Ais stepped forward, "Can I try holding it?"

Bell nodded, "Sure, go ahead."

The blonde approached the younger Amazoness, and Tiona handed her the axe.

As soon as Ais wrapped her fingers around the hilt, her eyes widened.

A series of images flashed in her mind, but they were all too fast for her to make sense of it.

And then all she could feel was pain.

The axe fell to the ground, and Ais fell to her knees, grunting as she held her head in pain.

Tiona quickly knelt beside her, "Ais?! Are you okay?"

Tione looked at the boy, "What happened?"

Bell quickly dispelled the axe, and he stared at the blonde in confusion, "I... I don't know... It's never done that before."

Ais raised a hand, "I.. I'm fine..."

Tione asked her, "Are you sure?"

Tiona helped her stand up, and the blonde nodded, "Yes."

Ais looked at Bell, "How..."

Bell blinked, "Huh?"

The blonde furrowed her brows, "How are you still yourself?"

XXX

That's the end of the chapter.

The next one will see Bell exploring Rivira, and so on so forth.

Read and review please. Until the next one.