DANMACHI COLLECTION

by APTX1412

Fanfic collection of Danmachi. The story is not mine. Each chapter is not related to the other chapters. Author credits will appear in the story.

14. Ashkar44 - The Rebirth Of Zeus Familia

The Rebirth Of The Zeus Familia

By : Ashkar44

...

Summary

At age 10 Bell does something that pushes Zeus to reveal Bell's origin to him. See a glimpse of how this changed Bell as a person, and the impact it would have when he finally arrived in Orario as the Captain of the Zeus Familia! Another 'two-shot' lol BellXHaruhime this time!

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Chapter 01: Prologue

A few hours outside of Orario, an old man with a white beard and mustache sat on his back porch in a rocking chair looking in the direction Orario was. The farmland that he and his grandson called their own was fairly vast for this area.

If you would have told this man he would be in this situation only eleven years ago, he would have laughed in your face. There was no way he would believe he would fall so low as to be living in such a place. Not to mention, he would never give up trying to peep on that many girls, women, and Goddesses.

That just isn't how Zeus rolled.

But in all honesty, he loved his life now. It was a much simpler time now. He would never get over the loss of all his children, but he tried to take solace in the fact he was raising the last member of his familia.

Zeus had loved his adoptive grandson's parents as if they were his own. He still couldn't pinpoint what he loved so much about Bell's father. The man was nothing like him, especially when it came to women.

Zeus couldn't get him to peep on a single woman or Goddess his entire time in the guild, even when he started dating Bell's mother, the man wouldn't even peep on her. He was what everyone would call a gentleman so it still baffled Zeus why he loved that boy so much.

Bell's mother was just as big a conundrum as his father. There was hardly a woman Zeus didn't want to get a peek at the goods from. Bell's mother though, even though she was gorgeous, Zeus saw her as the daughter he always wanted from the moment he recruited her.

It didn't surprise Zeus one bit when those two fell in love, got married, or had a child. He knew those two were destined for greatness. Oh, how wrong and right he was. Both of them were legends in their own right, but together, they were unstoppable. Well, almost...

Zeus still tried not to think about that too much. He wasn't entirely sure he would tell Bell about his parents when he was 14 as he meant to do from the start. He didn't know if putting that burden on someone so young would even be a good idea.

The only way Zeus ever planned to start his familia again was if Bell wanted to join it. Without the only bond left to his old familia to take up the mantle of Captain like his father, Zeus didn't want to restart the familia.

Even if Bell agreed eventually, he would need him to get very strong before they could step foot in Orario again. Zeus could go back if he liked, he wasn't banished or exiled from Orario, they just ran him out of town. But without a Captain that was at least level 6, they would just run him out again or exile him forever.

It was still a bitter pill to swallow after all he had done for Orario to see them simply sending him packing. If anyone deserved vengeance, it was Bell's parents. They were the kindest people Zeus had ever met, mortal or God. However, all of them had laughed at him and sent him running before they could do something worse than run him out of town.

Bell would have to be a minimum of level 6 if Zeus ever wanted to go through with this. He knew that would take a lot of years if it even happened at all. Some people just weren't meant to be adventurers and they leveled much slower and capped much lower than others.

Bell could absolutely be one of those people who train day and night, goes to the dungeon regularly, and never gets past level 2 or 3 no matter how hard he tries. Zeus doubted that though.

Bell's parents were exceptional themselves. His father was the best swordsman Zeus had ever seen. His skill with two blades was unmatched. It was one of the reasons he made it from a new recruit to Captain of the Zeus familia in only two years.

His mother, Zeus had never seen something so deadly look so graceful. She was a swordswoman as well, but a magical swordswoman. She used her speed, agility, and light, large katana to zip around the dungeon cutting up the small fries while chanting her magic to finish off the big guy. It was like watching the world's most beautiful poem suddenly turn into a destruction spell.

This is what made it hard for Zeus to believe that Bell would be some low bar human who would never pass level 2 or 3. If Zeus had to guess, he would bet on Bell being seen as a hero by most, and their worst nightmare by the rest.

Zeus wanted to let the boy be a kid while he could so he hadn't started training him other than reading him hero stories. However, Zeus noticed the kid was incredibly agile for his age and faster than any kid of 10 should be. His footwork was also impressive for his age. If Zeus didn't know better, he would think he started training him already.

Zeus looked into the cabin under the desk through the window. The chest that had been sitting there since he moved here almost taunted him. It held the little bit that was left to remind Zeus and Bell of his parents. The rest was in Orario, and it wouldn't be worth the risk to get it.

The only equipment of theirs Zeus could find when he had the stomach to go was his father's main hand weapon, their armor, and the weapon Bell's father had made for his mother. Everything else was small knickknacks and clothing he hastily threw in the chest.

Their weapons should have shown more than anything that those two belonged together. Not only did they both use swords, but neither one was from anywhere near the Far East, and yet, they both favored the Katana. How two people from the other end of the world ended up favoring that kind of weapon is still a mystery.

"HELP! HELP!"

Zeus could reminisce no more as he heard a boy yelling from the front of his house. He got up and around the front as fast as his old bones allowed to see one of the villager's children running right up to him.

"What's wrong, child?"

"It's Bell!"

Now Zeus is panicking a bit. Bell is known to get into as much mischief as any child, but this child before him seems borderline hysterical. All the young boy had to do what say a few more words and Zeus was in full-blown panic mode.

"Goblins! T-Ten Goblins came out of the woods! Bell told me to run for help while he held them off! H-He's all alone out there!"

Zeus took off running faster than he ever had in his long life. One Goblin would be nearly impossible for a boy of 10 to defeat, there was no way he could defeat 10 of them alone.

As Zeus ran across the field and into the forest, he couldn't stop thinking of what to do to save Bell. He couldn't let the last piece of his familia and his beloved grandson die. He didn't care if he had to use Arcanum to save him. He'd deal with Ouranos if he needed to himself.

When he finally made it to where the boy said Bell was holding them off, his heart dropped. He didn't see a single Goblin or Bell, but it reeked of blood. If they killed him and carried him off, Zeus would never be able to find him, and that just might break him for good.

He stumbled into the clearing, willing his legs to continue. His heart didn't want to continue and find Bell either, but he had to find him. He stumbled across something that took him by surprise, a magic stone.

Zeus followed the blood trail through the clearing and came across two more magic stones. It looked as if he found somewhat of a trail and picked up his pace a bit. He saw more magic stones, and then, he found him.

Zeus saw Bell lying in the clearing. He wasn't sure if he was alive or dead, but he was there. He was covered in blood and there were four magic stones around him. Zeus rushed over to the boy and cradle him in his arms. He didn't know what he would do if he lost Bell as well.

"Bell! Bell! Wake up, please!"

Bell's eyes did flutter open at Zeus' voice, and Bell gave his grandfather the goofiest grin Zeus had ever seen before saying to him.

"I protected everyone just like you taught me, grandpa..."

That was all Bell managed to get out before his eyes closed again. Zeus was at least happy to see the boy still breathing, he just looked exhausted. Zeus could understand why. He still couldn't figure out how Bell killed 10 Goblins by himself at age 10. The more baffling part was that Zeus was checking Bell for injuries but found none. The boy didn't have a single scratch on him.

Zeus lifted the boy up in his arms to carry him back to the cabin. He didn't realize the entire village had made it out to the clearing until he turned to head back. They all looked very concerned and very grateful when looking at Bell.

"He's alright, just exhausted. I'll take him home and let him rest."

Zeus assured the villagers, but before he could walk away, a man stepped forward.

"Please, we will help! It is the least we can do after what Bell just did for this village!"

"There will be no need fo-"

"But we must! Y-You can go get him settled and we will make sure to bring something for him to eat when he awakens at least!"

"Very well, I thank you for your kindness. I'll take him to get cleaned up and rest."

Zeus carried Bell back to the house, got him out of his blood-soaked clothes, cleaned him, and got him into bed to rest. It also gave Zeus confirmation, the boy didn't have a scratch on him. A 10-year-old somehow fought 10 Goblins without a Falna and defeat all of them without them laying a finger on him.

Perhaps it was already time to have this chat with Bell and it was destiny he bring the Zeus Familia back. If the boy could do that without a Falna, imagine what he would have done with one. Not to mention, with how much the boy loves heroes. He would be trying to save everyone every chance he got with or without a Falna.

But Bell needed to know what having that Falna meant so it was either tell him all of it or nothing. He knew from the one-sentence the boy said, he'd have an easier time peeping on Artemis than getting that boy to stop trying to be a hero.

The knock on the door startled him, but what was behind it even more so. He expected it to be the man from earlier with some food, and he wasn't wrong. However, he did not expect the line of villagers behind him waiting with food as well.

"While I appreciate the food for Bell, I don't think he can eat all this."

Zeus let out a little chuckle. It looked like half the village was in front of his house, at least.

"We can set up the feast for Bell while he rests a bit."

"I'm not sure when Bell is going to-"

"Grandpa..."

Zeus never finished as he heard Bell groan his name. He smiled again, that boy sure was tough for his age. He looked back at the villager before saying.

"Go ahead and set up. I'll go see if he is well enough to come out for a bit."

As Zeus shut the door, he noticed those not carrying food had benches and tables in their hands. He marveled at Bell on his way toward the bed. The boy was only 10 and he was drawing entire villages to him with his actions already.

"I'm right here, Bell." Zeus sat down, took his hand, and stroked his hair with the other. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm fine, grandpa." the look Zeus gave him made him expand on his answer and be a little more truthful. "I'm fine, I promise. I'm a little sore and tired, but other than that I'm alright."

"That's great to hear, Bell."

"Grandpa, you should have seen me! I remembered everything you read to me in those stories and I-"

"Bell, I want to hear all about how you managed to defeat those Goblins, but we can talk about that tomorrow. There are some people here who would like to see you and say thank you. Would that be alright with you?"

"Why would people want to thank me, grandpa?"

"Bell, you saved this whole village. You are their hero."

Bell opened and closed his mouth to say something, but couldn't find the words. Zeus simply smiled and helped Bell out of bed and over to the door. Bell didn't look like he needed help, but he was going to do it anyway.

They spent the rest of the evening going from table to table. Talking with everyone it seemed. He wanted to talk to Bell about his parents but wasn't going to take this away from the boy. Regardless of what Bell decided to do, what Zeus was going to tell him would be a burden one way or another. He'd at least give him this night to be everyone's hero.

Zeus let Bell sleep in as long as he wanted the next day. The boy was usually up before the sun, but he needed the rest. It shouldn't have surprised Zeus that Bell awoke shortly after the sun had appeared. They ate their breakfast once Bell had woken up sufficiently, and sat down for the long-anticipated talk.

"You know I'm proud of what you did yesterday, right?" Bell nodded. "Good, but what I'm wondering is exactly how you managed to do that?"

"I remembered all those battles you told me about in those hero stories. How the hero would always dodge, roll, or parry evildoers attacks! I did the same thing! I didn't think it would work so well!"

Now Zeus' mind is going a thousand miles an hour. Not only is he wondering if Bell somehow learned fighting techniques just by hearing them, but he had an even bigger question and felt stupid for not thinking of it earlier.

"Bell... You don't have a weapon. How exactly did you kill those Goblins."

Bell went from excited and happy to shy and blushing almost instantly. Now, Zeus was truly interested in his answer.

"I... I umm, I used the only thing I had... a shovel."

Zeus was stunned for a moment, but not for long as he let out a great roar of laughter that could probably be heard by every villager within a few miles of them. To think that the boy had not only somehow defeated 10 Goblins at age 10, but had done so with a shovel was simply incredible.

"I... I'm sorry, Bell. That-That is just too funny! A shovel?! I mean, a shovel?! I can't wait to see what you can do with a real weapon in your hand!"

Zeus went back to laughing, but Bell's eyes went wide. He hoped more than anything his grandpa meant he would find someone to train him. He wanted to be a hero like in the stories more than anything!

"Does that... Does that mean you're not mad at me?"

"I'm not happy you put yourself in so much danger, Bell." Bell's head dropped but perked back up at his next words. "However, considering who your parents were, it doesn't surprise me in the least."

Bell's grandfather never spoke about his parents except to tell Bell that they loved him, and wished they were here with him. The possibility he might tell him more grabbed all of his attention. Zeus sighed when he saw that expression knowing he couldn't wait to do this.

"Truthfully, I wanted to wait until you were older to tell you this, but after what you did yesterday. I have a feeling I need to tell you this now. I'll never forget the day I met your parents. Both of them left an impression on me that I would never forget..."

"But grandpa, wouldn't you have-"

Zeus already knew what he was going to ask. The boy was smart for his age and picked up on his wording quickly.

"Just let me explain Bell, then you may ask anything you wish."

Once Zeus saw Bell nod, he continued.

"Your father, Brandon Cranel, he had a very unique look for a human just as you do. He had the same white hair you do, it was even styled the same, but he had bright green eyes. They almost looked like emeralds..."

Bell notices his grandfather staring off into space as if he is reliving this again.

"And your mother, Ella Vaylia, by the Gods, she was beautiful. Blonde hair that looked like a river of gold." Zeus finally looked at him and pointed right into his eye. "And bright red eyes that looked like rubies, just like yours. I knew there was something special about her when my first instinct wasn't to wonder what was under her clothes!"

Zeus couldn't help but laugh at the memory again. Even Bell managed to chuckle at that. He might be young, but he knew full well how big of a perv his grandfather was.

"They were my children, but not as you might think Bell. In truth, they were my children because I was their God. They were the Captain and Vice-Captain of my familia... The Zeus Familia..."

Zeus saw the moment the boy realized what that meant. No matter where you went in the world, the tale of the fall of the Zeus Familia was well known. Zeus, however, did not expect what Bell said to come out of his mouth.

"Then I will honor my parents and make the Zeus Familia the most powerful in Orario once again!"

Zeus wanted to be shocked, but he wasn't. Bell was exactly like his parents. The perfect mix of both, from his looks to his character. That's even why he ended up with the name Bell. That isn't exactly a common name for a human after all, but it was a perfect combination of his parents' first names.

"Bell, it isn't that simple... I wish it was, but it isn't."

"Of course it is! Give me your blessing, and when I'm older, we can return to Orario!"

"Bell, you know that there are other Familias in Orario who would make sure that could never happen. Now that you know who I truly am, I am going to be honest with you from now on. I never intended to restart my familia unless you wanted to be the Captain..."

Zeus holds up his hand to stop Bell from saying whatever he was about to say.

"However, there is much more to this story than you or any others know. It is not pretty, and it was the reason I wanted to wait until you were older. I'm still not sure I should be telling you some of what I need to since you are still only 10. After this tale, if you still wish to follow this path, it must be done a certain way or we will never succeed."

Zeus put a hand on his shoulder to reassure the boy.

"I promise that we will return to Orario one day, but first you must be strong enough to deal with the threat being Captain of the Zeus Familia would entail. It will take a lot of years until then and a lot of hard work on your part. There will be things you disagree with me about, but you must listen to what I say. I am only going to do things that will help you either now or in the future. There is a lot more evil in the world than what we read in those stories, and a lot of it will be directed at you if you wish for this to happen."

"I want to hear it, grandpa."

Zeus shouldn't have been surprised by Bell's calm reply, but this time he was. And so Zeus started his tale. Most of it he was happy to tell Bell. Watching the boy's face light up with glee when he told him about his parents' meeting, their adventures, victories, and especially about his birth.

No one had any idea that Ella was pregnant with Bell when they fought the Leviathan. They found out after they got back. Bell looked even more excited when Zeus told him about his mother and father during pregnancy and particularly when he told Bell how he looked so much like both of them that is how they came up with his name.

After that though, the tale turned to one he didn't think he should be telling a 10-year-old. It had Evil Familias in it, a terrible Black Dragon, other familias refusing to help after Zeus begged them, his parent's death, and finally, Zeus' last plea to finish off the severely wounded dragon so his children didn't die for nothing.

When the tale ended, Zeus couldn't read Bell other than the fact he wanted to cry. The tears were there but stubbornly refused to fall. He was worried about telling someone so young something so traumatizing.

However, Bell wiped his eyes, turned around on his chair, and lifted his shirt up for Zeus to see his exposed back before saying.

"Tell me what we need to do, grandpa..."

---

3 Years Later...

Bell was on his way back to his house to meet with his grandpa. He had been in the tiny town square helping fix a few things. He still tended to his and his grandfather's land, but having a Falna had more advantages than being called an adventurer.

He was faster, stronger, and more quick-witted than anyone around here. Fighting monsters didn't just make you faster and stronger, it also made you think faster so you didn't make a mistake.

Bell always wanted to be a hero, but he never thought he'd actually get to be one. It never once entered his mind, if he ever was one, that it would be so young. He was still only 13, but he had killed so many monsters attacking villages around the area that everyone in the farming villages knew who he was.

It was hard not to think of that as he had to wave at every single person he came across on his walk home. He, unfortunately, didn't get to make it home though as he saw his grandfather. He was being his usual pervy self probably. It was the only explanation Bell could think of as to why he was peeking over a fence at the moment.

Bell shook his head and made it over to his grandfather quietly so the old man didn't notice him. Bell picked him up and moved him into the street before he even knew what was going on. Instead of being scared of being moved so far so quickly, Zeus complained.

"Come on, Bell! It was just about to get good!"

"Stopping trying to peep in on Helen. The woman has to put up with enough from you, grandfather."

"Oh come on, Bell! You know that's why I left you with her when I went back to Orario! I had to come see that beauty again! She's the looker of this village!"

Bell started dragging Zeus along toward their farm. He didn't wait long to ask him about why he was heading to see him.

"So I heard you had something for me to do grandfather?"

"I miss it when you called me grandpa!" Bell's look told him to get on with it and lose the pout. "I got word there is a tribe of Goblins setting up along the road to Orario a few hours from here. They are ambushing people headed to Orario. They haven't got wind of it in the city yet so you are clear to get rid of the Goblins. Also, I have a surprise for you when you return that I'll tell you about when I update your status."

Bell only waited for Zeus to hand him the location of the tribe before taking off in that direction. Bell realized when he looked at the map, Zeus meant a few hours normally. Bell could move much faster than a horse and could run for a lot longer.

He had to slow down his pace so he would arrive when night time was starting to set in. It would be much easier to sneak around and find them in the dark and they were usually more active then.

Bell didn't need to look very hard for the tribe as they were rather loud, at least to him they were. He was sure someone without a Falna wouldn't have heard them, but he did.

When he finally came across their camp, he was a little surprised by their numbers. There were thirty of them by his count. That wasn't going to deter him from his mission though. This may have terrified him when he was 10, but that was 3 years ago.

He had the bravery to face 10 Goblins with no Falna and a shovel for a weapon then. Now, 3 years had passed. Bell had real weapons now, and he was well into level 3. He could fight ten times this amount of Goblins and come out on top easily.

With his speed, he dispatched the Goblins around the perimeter quickly. He moved around the camp like a ghost dispatching them left and right. The monsters had no idea what was going on until there were only six of them left, and by then, it was far too late.

Bell had been so focused on eliminating these Goblins, he didn't pick up the conversation he could hear going on now as he retrieved the Goblins magic stones. It wasn't close by normal standards, but Bell could hear a considerably farther distance than most because of his Falna and level.

"Come on Aryn! You know you want a turn too. What could be the harm in it?!"

"She's worth five times more as a virgin you idiot. Instead of splitting 100 million valis, we'd be getting 100 million each! What's so hard to understand about that?!"

"20 million is more than enough considering! Come on, man. When are you ever going to get to say you fucked a Princess?! Everyone else is already willing to take the hit to there coin purse! What if we let you go first?!"

"I suppose it would be great to say I had a Princess once in my life and took her cherry."

"That's the spirit! We already set up camp. I'm a man of my word, you can have her first. Just don't be too rough with her." the disgusting man had the nerve to chuckle. "The four of us want a turn with her too and it won't be very fun if she is beaten to hell and back before we start!"

Bell was so disgusted by what he was hearing, he froze when he got closer to their conversation. He knew from his grandfather's tale and some personal experience traveling a bit that some people were just as, if not more, evil as mindless monsters. He had never heard something so downright evil pour from a man's mouth before though.

Bell had felt anger plenty of times in his life, but this is the first time he experienced rage. Not only were these evil men already holding a princess captive, but they were also going to defile her then sell her.

If there was one type of person heroes saved more than anyone else, it was Princesses. The number of stories about the hero rescuing the Princess probably equaled all other types of rescues by a hero combined.

This Princess already needed to be rescued, but these men planned to do far worse to her than just that. Bell wasn't going to let any of that happen. They may have already taken her, but they wouldn't do any more than that. He stepped out of the trees into view for the two who turned their back on him.

"You're not going to do anything to the Princess!"

Bell said that loud enough that the three other men they were talking about probably heard him as well. Both men turned around and laughed when they saw Bell.

"You think you're going to stop us, kid?"

"Release the Princess at once!"

"I suggest you run along before we add you to the caravan, boy."

"This is your last chance. Release the Princess and anyone else you have captive and go on your way!"

"Or what?"

Both men pulled out their swords and took a step toward Bell. He did not want to do this, not even to men this vile, but now he had no choice. His voice came out as cold as an arctic wind.

"Or I'll rid this world of your evil."

Both men stopped for a moment at the coldness in his voice, but only to chuckle. The moment they took another step, Bell disappeared from their sight. The three men in the back who came running after the noise saw it first.

The man who was closer to Bell saw his friend's head fall to the ground and blood spray his face before he realized his friend had been decapitated. He looked near the falling body and saw the boy with a katana in his hand. It was much bigger than a normal katana and he honestly had no idea how a kid could wield a weapon so large.

Unfortunately for that man, he took way too much time processing what had just happened and Bell disappeared again. He reappeared right in front of the man, and he felt a liquid start to seep out of his mouth and pressure in his throat.

He looked down to see a katana sticking through the back of his neck. Bell had his right hand grasping his blade, but his left hand was extended over the man's shoulder. The three who came running froze when he dispatched their friends so fast and now they were perfectly lined up.

"I told you to leave."

That was the last thing the man heard before everything went black.

*LIGHTNING BOLT*

The white bolt shot from Bell's fingertip and went straight through all three men. They immediately fell backward and didn't get back up. Bell removed his katana from the man and looked around.

First, he looked back at the three farther away. It looked like they simply fell asleep and that was all. When Bell looked down and to his right, he saw the blood coming out of the man's neck, mouth, and nose.

Bell looked away but ended up staring at the severed head of the body to his left. When he looked away again, all he saw was the rest of the corpse and a huge blood pool. Bell's next reaction was inevitable.

He vomited everywhere and started to shake uncontrollably.

He was shaking so bad, he cleaned all the blood off his blade from the action before it dropped from his hand. At some point, he ended up on his knees and he was pretty sure he was crying.

Bell had no idea how much time had passed, but he cleared his nose enough and took a few deep breaths to compose himself. He had gotten it pretty well under control when his mind started working again and a single thought stuck out from the rest.

'Oh no! The Princess!'

Bell gathered enough of his wits to realize that the Princess was still probably locked up somewhere and under no circumstances should she see what he just did. Luckily, the fighting took place a little distance from the actual camp.

Bell grabbed the bodies and moved them as fast as he could. He didn't want to spend one extra second with any of them in his arms. Once he had hidden them farther in the woods, he made his way toward the camp.

"Princess?!"

Bell waited a moment as he walked closer and closer to the camp. He still didn't hear a single noise yet.

"Princess!"

Instead of asking as though she might not be there, Bell said it loud and firm this time. The extra effort seemed to pay off.

"In here..."

Bell isn't sure he would have heard that if he didn't have a Falna. Not only was it not said loud, but it was also in the farther cart from him. There were only two, which shows how quiet that was said.

He runs to the back of the cart and looks inside the canvas cover. Sitting on a bench with chains around her wrists and ankles, and those chained to the floor, is certainly what you could only describe as a Princess.

'She's even more beautiful than the Princesses in the stories!'

Bell couldn't have kept that from his mind if he tried. She was definitely the most beautiful girl he had ever seen. He hadn't seen much of the world, but he did visit quite a few villages around the area. None of the girls of any age looked like her in those villages. Unfortunately for him, that thought wasn't as private as he believed.

"T-Thank y-you..."

Bell not only heard that but saw the blush creep up her cheeks. He was a bit embarrassed she heard him say that, but it was worth it as he looked at the Princess.

'She's even cuter when she's blushing!'

Bell watched her turn a deeper shade of red and realized he couldn't keep his thoughts to himself in this Princess's presence. Then he realized she was still chained in the back and he was ogling her.

That sounded like something his grandfather would do so he quickly jumped in the back of the cart, grabbed the cuffs around her wrists, and broke them apart with his strength. He quickly did the ones on her ankles and she was finally free.

Now, Bell realized how close he was and she was even more beautiful up close. His words left him for a moment as he stared into those beautiful emerald eyes. He finally composed himself and asked.

"Are you alright?"

The Princess rubbed her wrists then bent down to rub her ankles. When she finally looked up to answer, she was inches from Bell's face and said.

"I am now... my hero!"

Bell was so surprised she threw her arms around his neck, even he couldn't react fast enough to avoid it. He did hug her back and how could he not? She was breathtaking, but he didn't feel like a hero at the moment.

"I'm not sure how much of a hero I was tonight, but I'm glad your safe now."

"You saved me, you're my hero."

"Yeah, but I..."

Bell didn't want to say it. He still wasn't sure how to process what he just did, but apparently, he didn't have to.

"I know, I heard your whole conversation. You warned them plenty of times after hearing what they planned to do to me. They would have killed you if you didn't. The world is a much better place with you still in it instead of them."

"But... you don't even know me..."

Bell wasn't sure what to believe from this Princess. It still didn't feel right even if it was him or them.

"I know you went to great lengths to save someone you don't even know. That's all I need to know about you."

The smile she sent his way almost cleared his mind. It was the most radiant thing he had ever witnessed. He couldn't help the small smile that was sent back at her before he said.

"I'm Bell, by the way. Bell Cranel."

She extends her hand to shake Bell's, but even in this state of mind, he clearly remembers his hero stories. He takes her hand but doesn't shake it. He turns it over, brings it to his lips, and places a kiss on the back of it. The Princess looks away and blushes again. It was still the cutest thing he had ever seen.

"I'm Haruhime. Sanjouno Haruhime. It's nice to meet you, Bell Cranel."

Even her name was beautiful. He could tell by the way she introduced herself that she was from the Far East. Bell took a liking to their culture just as his parents had, and it went beyond simply wielding a katana.

Then a thought occurred to him, he'd probably have to find a way to get her back to the Far East and he had no idea how to do that.

"The pleasure is all mine, Princess. My village is a couple of hours away from here. If it is alright with you, we can go there and figure out how to get you back home."

Even only being 13, Bell immediately noticed her mood drop to rock bottom. Everything that was just bright and radiant about her turned down and sad. He realized why when she spoke.

"I was exiled from my home because they said I ate an offering to the Gods. My father gave me to those men to get me out of his lands. I don't have a home to go back too."

Bell was about to get really angry for a second. The thought of a father doing that to his daughter was maddening, but he didn't give in to it when he noticed her wording.

"They said you ate it? Did you not do it?"

"I don't remember doing it, but one of the men said they saw me doing it."

"And your father just believed them over you?!"

Haruhime was a little shocked at how angry Bell sounded. Why would he be so angry about her getting banished?

"It's ok, Bell. I've accepted my punishment. I'll just have to find somewhere to start over again."

"Well... If you want... I mean... you don't have to... that is..." Bell let out a huff. He did interact with girls a lot before and he's been listening to his pervy grandfather since he was eight, but this girl was so beautiful, he was having trouble speaking sometimes. "You could just... come stay with us. It's just me and my grandfather. Although you're so beautiful it might be a good idea to keep you away from my grandfather..."

Bell hadn't realized that came out until he was done. He surely couldn't think straight around this beautiful, blonde-haired, emerald-eyed, Renart. She was blushing at him again too, but instead of looking away at the ground, she was kind of staring at him. It wasn't full-on, but it was much different than a few minutes ago.

"If I wouldn't be a burden, I'd like to try..."

"I'm not sure the life of a farmer would suit a Princess, but we can always find you something to do in the village if you don't like farming."

Haruhime smiled another radiant smile and Bell realized he had completely forgotten about the five men he just killed. This girl had the most calming effect on Bell he had ever felt. He had no idea what that meant, but he liked it.

They took the cart she wasn't being kept in and the other horses. It took them a few hours to get back. Bell wasn't sure how well a former Princess would do at farming, but he was looking forward to what she ended up doing.

They arrived back at the farm, and Zeus looked shocked at what Bell brought back with him. Not only horses and a cart but a blonde-haired Renart that unnerved him how much she reminded him of Ella.

"Here I was going to welcome you back with your surprise, but it looks like you have some explaining to do first Bell."

"How about that surprise, grandfather? I could use a good moment before we discuss what happened."

"Very well, I'll give in this time. I have a way for you to get stronger since you have outgrown the monsters out in the world."

"How... How are you going to do that, grandfather?"

"I made a deal. Did you know, Bell, there is more than one entrance into the dungeon?"

"W-What?!"

"There's five actually, but the guild only knows about two. Well, they know about three now. I made a deal with Ouranos to let you in the dungeon but you'll have to take the entrance I show you, and you must have the key with you. You will also have to do missions for Ouranos from time to time."

"That's great grandfather!"

"We can talk about the rest later. Now, why don't you properly introduce me to this young beauty here Bell?"

Bell wanted to be embarrassed, but for some reason, his grandfather wasn't leering at Haruhime like an old creep. That might have been the biggest surprise of the day.

"Of course, grandfather. This is Princess Haruhime. Princess, this is my grandfather."

"It's just Haruhime. I'm no longer-"

"Oh! Finally got to save a Princess like a True Hero, huh, Bell?! Did you get the kiss you always imagined after you saved her?!"

"Grandfather! D-Don't say things like that!"

Now it was Bell's turn to blush. He should have known his grandfather would say something like that. The old man's mind was never far from the gutter. Well, in truth, it wasn't far from a bed, not a gutter.

He was so embarrassed by his grandfather right now. He already made a big enough fool of himself in front of Haruhime not being able to keep his thoughts to himself. When he looked over at her, she was blushing again, but she was looking over at him. He knew he had to say something to her.

"I'm sorry about my grandfather, he's an old per-"

Bell did not get to finish as a look of determination crossed Haruhime's face before she took a step toward Bell, wrapped her arms around his neck, and kissed him right on the lips. To say Bell was shocked would be an understatement.

He was too high up on cloud nine at the moment to truly be shocked though. Haruhime's lips were so soft. Bell had no idea what he was doing because he had never kissed anyone before. The only thing he could think to do is what he read in his stories.

He put his left hand on her waist and his right hand on the side of her face. Bell felt Haruhime relax once he finally touched her as well, but didn't see her leg lifting off the ground.

When she finally broke the kiss, Bell couldn't do anything but stare into those beautiful emerald eyes. It only lasted a minute though before Haruhime blushed and looked away before saying.

"S-Sorry! I know it probably wasn't very good. I've... I've never... never done that before."

Bell wanted to blush again, but he held himself back. Not only was that Haruhime's first kiss, but it was his as well, and he couldn't have asked for a more memorable first kiss. Well, he supposes his grandfather could not be staring at them right now.

"I-It's alright. It was... It was my first... my first kiss a-as well, and it was... it was perfect!"

Haruhime couldn't keep her eyes off her young hero. She knew then what she wanted to do, and if farming was a part of that, she would learn. However, she wanted to help him be an even greater hero than he already was. She was sure he would be the greatest hero this world has ever seen, or maybe she was already a little biased.

"Bell..." Haruhime took his hands again never breaking eye contact, and Bell swears he sees the plea in her eyes before she continues. "I want... I want to... I want to join your Familia, and help you become the greatest hero ever!"

Bell wanted to say yes immediately, but his brain was solely focused on the adorable look on Haruhime's face and nothing came out. It wasn't Bell, however, that answered Haruhime. It was Zeus.

"There's a lot that goes with joining this familia then normal, young Princess. Let's sit down and talk about it to make sure this is what you want..."

All three of them made their way into the house, and it didn't escape Zeus' eyes that Bell and Haruhime never let go of each other's hands. He would have to make sure to have many more 'talks' with Bell about the lovely female gender!

---

3 Years Later...

Bell was getting ready in his room when his grandfather burst into the room like a hurricane. It probably would have startled Bell, but he heard his grandfather coming from a mile away. There was no need for a Falna to hear something as loud as a stampede.

"Bell! Are you sure about this? There's still time to change your mind!"

"I've never been more sure about anything in this world, grandfather."

"But Bell! You have a true chance at every man's dream! Are you really going to give that up?"

"Absolutely."

"But! You haven't even seen the beauties of this world yet! And when you go to Orario, there will be women beautiful beyond your imagination! At least wait until then to decide!"

"I've seen more than enough, grandfather. There is no reason to wait when I know this is the right thing to do."

"By the Gods, my boy! You truly are just like your father. Only two men I've ever met who might actually be able to pull off having a harem and you both stick to one woman! I'll never understand you!"

"That's because you are an old pervert who hasn't truly loved another as I do and my father before me."

"See, just like your old man! That's something I'd expect to come out of his mouth!" Zeus had a good chuckle at that before turning a bit serious. "You know, you both do remind me of them. It's like seeing your parents reborn right in front of my eyes. You even look similar."

Zeus chuckled again at the irony. Bell raised his eyebrow not realizing where his grandfather was going with this. Zeus noticed and couldn't believe he had to explain. The boy hadn't forgotten a thing Zeus told him about his parents except this apparently.

"Your father had white hair." Zeus ruffles his head to Bell's annoyance. "Your mother had red eyes." he points to his own ruby eyes. "Tell me Bell, what color was your mother's hair and your father's eyes?"

"Mother's hair was blonde, you said it looked like a river of gold. Father's eyes were bright green, like shining emeralds you said."

"Now tell me my white-haired, ruby-eyed, grandson. Do you happen to know anyone around here with golden blonde hair and emerald green eyes?"

When Bell's eyes widen in shock after he realized who he was describing, Zeus couldn't hold back a chuckle. He couldn't believe Bell had never put that together.

"Haruhime..."

"Yes! That's the one, I'm assuming you know her pretty well?"

Bell hit his grandfather's arm playfully, but in truth, it did hurt a bit. Bell had no idea how far he had come in 6 years. Well, he did. He had seen his last status update. Zeus took the somewhat light atmosphere now around to poke some more fun at Bell.

"I can already picture it now! A little white-haired, green-eyed boy running around chasing his golden-haired, ruby eyed sister around! Your children will be like your parent's twins!"

If his grandfather would have said something like that 3 years ago when he met Haruhime, he'd be as red as a tomato right now. However, this wasn't 3 years ago. He had kissed Haruhime more times than he could count, and they even fooled around a bit. They had never done that but they had done other things.

It probably didn't hurt that his grandfather was the most perverted man he could possibly imagine. Listening to him prattle on about women since Bell was 8 years old had him almost numb to that kind of teasing now. When Bell spoke, Zeus knew for certain this kind of teasing wouldn't work anymore on him.

"Yeah..." Bell had a smile on his face. "It will be nice, but we both agreed it's too dangerous for that right now so you're going to have to wait to become a great grandfather."

Bell really solidified Zeus' belief when he chuckled and slapped him on the shoulder after that.

"Now, come on, old man. It's time for me to get married."

Bell goes to step away, but Zeus grabs him by the shoulder and spins Bell toward him. He looks dead serious before he says.

"You sure I can't change your mind? A harem, Bell! A harem!"

"I should leave you here you pervy old man..." Bell chuckles again but looks seriously at his grandfather. "I'll never meet anyone as beautiful, on the inside and out, as Haruhime is."

"Alright, alright..." Zeus surprises Bell by bringing him in for a hug. He hasn't done that in a long time. "I'm happy for you Bell. Truly, I am, and I know they'd be happy for you too."

Bell starts to tear up a bit at his grandfather's words. He may have only known his parents for the first few months of his life, but he knew for certain they would have loved Haruhime.

Ever since she started training with Bell and accompanying him around to other villages, she had become even more popular than he was. He wished he could show everyone how far she had really come but now wasn't the time. In a couple of years, everyone would not only know how kind his soon to be wife is but also, how strong she is.

"Thank you, grandpa..." Bell cleared his tears and smiled at his grandfather once again. "Now, no more stalling, it's time for me to marry a woman so perfect, I couldn't have dreamed her up!"

---

2 Years Later...

Today was the day Bell had been waiting for since he was 10 years old. They were finally heading to Orario. The last eight years had gone by faster than he thought they ever would, but also seemed to drag. He knew it was just his impatience, but he couldn't wait to get to Orario.

Bell knew when people found out what level he was, there would be many questions. He was pretty sure when they found out what level Haruhime was, there would be a lot of questions. Luckily, his grandfather's deal with Ouranos meant they didn't have to answer any of them.

His impatience was for more than finally getting to Orario and restarting the Zeus Familia. He was anxious to see a great many people who had no idea who he was. The highest up on that list being Finn, Riveria, and Gareth from the Loki Familia. The supposed 'best friends' of his parents outside the Zeus Familia.

Yeah, he had a lot he wanted to say to them.

Unfortunately for him, he had to keep it rather mellow as to not upset his grandfather. He had to play nice with the Loki Familia and Freya Familia. That didn't mean he had to act nice or couldn't give them a warning. He only had to act until they tried something, and he knew the power-hungry Goddesses of those Familias would eventually.

Bell knew he'd get too angry if he kept thinking about that, but luckily for him, a very distinct sound caught his attention. Sound was a bad word considering it was a series of noises that made up this sound. Calming melody would work better when Bell thought about what it did to him.

Bell could pick them out anywhere. The soft clack of the heels, the rubbing sound the greaves make, the swish of the fabric in the wind hitting the sheathe, the click of the chain holding the shoulder armor, and the way the wind respectfully passed by her instead of slamming into her.

He turned to look at his beautiful wife. No matter how many days, hours, or minutes he spent with Haruhime, every time he saw her, it was like the first time all over again. He knows there is no one more beautiful than her and probably never will be again.

And now, after all this time, she just gets more and more beautiful.

When he first met her, she was only wearing a red kimono and sandals. Now, she still had on a red kimono, but it wasn't the same one and she looked nothing like when she came here.

She had on black scaled greaves with a heel instead of sandals that went all the way up to mid-thigh. Her red kimono only came down to meet her greaves and had pink sakura petals wrapping around it. On the back, was the symbol for the Zeus Familia in all black. A fist with a lightning bolt on each side.

The sakura petals formed a circle around the symbol as if they were framing it. On her hip rested her katana, she could not wield two as Bell did, but she got very good with one. She had a black scaled shoulder armor that was held on by a dark grey colored chain. She looked every inch the adventurer, and once you knew where the outfit came from, you'd know why.

Everything Haruhime is wearing used to belong to Bell's mother.

Whether it was fate or something else, it felt right. Bell's mother not only loved the culture of the Far East, but she and Haruhime were also the exact same size. They were both barely over five feet and only a few pounds over a hundred. Haruhime even took a liking to the katana after them trying a bunch of different weapons for her.

Haruhime wasn't the Magic Swordswoman that Zeus told Bell his mother was, but she could definitely hold her own. Haruhime was more of a mage than anything, but she had magic that enhanced her physical attack power and speed.

Plus, she had been training with Bell since the morning after she first arrived here. She had gotten very fast in that time.

Haruhime had finally come beside him and he did what he always did. Bell put his hands on her waist, pulled her close, and kissed her. The people running around getting everything prepared didn't even pay them any mind. Bell never thought so many would want to accompany them to Orario.

At first, they would all awww and sigh. It even led to a story about Bell and Haruhime. The Hero who saved the Princess who turned into a Hero herself to be worthy of her true love. It was flattering to hear people tell a story like that about you.

Now though, enough time had passed and everyone was used to their antics. Bell had gotten a little too into that kiss and slipped his tongue in her mouth. He had to break away when he heard that small moan she let out. They were in a much too public place for that, but he was sure of one thing.

He would never get tired of kissing her, of that, he was certain.

Bell leaned his forehead down to hers until they were touching. He looked her deep in her eyes and saw everything she wanted to say. He knew she could see it too, but there was one thing that needs to be said out loud.

"Are you ready to start our new adventure?"

---

So there is the first chapter... I wonder what you guys thought of it? I've always wanted to do this kind of DanMachi fanfic where Bell was OP and brought the Zeus Familia back to Orario... You are probably wondering how Bell is already OP when all he really did was kill some Goblins right? lol... Well, below is Bell and Haruhime's status sheets and you can see what I mean when I tag it OP Bell and OP Haruhime... and remember, I skipped basically their entire leveling up until now... That is 8 years of training for Bell, and five for Haruhime... I know you'll question Haruhime's level so remember to read Bell's sheet first and look at the skill under Liaris Freese... I also always change the way Haruhime's magic works, which you should know by now lol... This is just part 1 to get Bell's background going and his relationship. The next chapter is them in Orario and the initial setting up of the story. I'll be posting that after I do a little editing. Remember that I wrote this a long time ago, and while I'm still not a great writer, I've gotten a lot better since I did write this.

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Bell Cranel (Level 8)

BASIC ABILITIES

Strength - SS 1099

Defense - SS 1099

Dexterity - SSS 1175

Agility - SSSS 1250

Magic - S 970

Luck - S

Immunity - SS

MAGIC

Lightning Bolt - Swift Strike Magic (No Chant) - Can be cast from a finger as a line attack or called from the heavens at a single target dealing more damage

Quick as the Wind - Electricity Enchantment Magic that doubles the casters speed and agility for up to one minute per caster level - the spell is drains the users mind constantly while active - Chant - O' God of the Sky and Heavens. Grant me the speed to swiftly defeat my foes. Quick as the Wind!

Lightning Storm - Wide Area Attack Magic. Electricity Element - Calls down a storm of lightning bolts in an area - Chant - Power of the Heavens. Bring down your judgment upon my foes. Answer my call and send forth your power. Release your wrath upon this realm. For I call down, the power of the God of Gods. Lightning Storm!

SKILLS

Liaris Freese - Rapid Growth - Desire and Willpower results in continued and stronger growth rate

Heroic Inspiration - Desire and Willpower of Rapid Growth rubs off on user's allies - Anyone considered an ally of skills user will be inspired to stand next to skills user as a hero and as a result, gains more excelia when fighting with skill holder

Argonaut - Charge counterattack - Up to 8-minute charge (1 min/level) - increases the power of next attack or spell depending on how long it is charged for - cannot be interrupted unless the user is somehow rendered unconscious

Vengeance - Heavily increases user's attack power against a certain type of monster - Bell's applies to Dragons - Effects rise based on the user's emotions toward monster type

Dragon Slayer - Heavily increases all abilities when fighting Dragon type monsters - Can make user stronger than their actual level when fighting Dragons

Imitate Magic - user may cast any spell they can memorize the chant for and have seen used - spell effectiveness is based on the level of the caster user observes the spell from - 20% effectiveness per level (maximum 100% effectiveness) - the user does not need to know caster's level

Concurrent Chanting - Allows caster to fight and/or move around while casting a spell - Makes being interrupted a much higher probability.

---

Haruhime (Level 5)

BASIC ABILITIES

Strength - B 790

Defense - A 851

Dexterity - A 895

Agility - A 895

Magic - S 985

Immunity - C

MAGIC

Uchide no Kozuchi - Level Boosting Magic that can be used on one target, other than the caster - Target does not gain as much Excelia when under its effects, that excelia is consumed by the caster - Lasts for 15 minutes and must wait 10 minutes after its effects wear off before it can be cast on the same target again - Chant - Grow. That power and that vessel. Breadth of wealth and breadth of wishes. Until the bell tolls, bring forth glory and illusion. Grow. Confine divine offerings within this body. This golden light bestowed from above. Into the hammer and into the ground, may it bestow good fortune upon you. Grow!

Kokonoe - Enchantment Magic that allows Haruhime to grow up to nine tails - By connecting this word to Haruhime's Uchide no Kozuchi she is able to cast it on one target per tail - Chant - Kokonoe. Beloved snow. Beloved crimson. Beloved white light. Please let me be beside you. this love I have found at the end of two thousand nights. My name is Magic Fox. Former destroyer. My name is Ancient Song. Former dreamer. For you who beat your wings like a bird, I shall allow the nine spirits to dwell in me. Echo, song of gold, sacred poem of Tamamo. White face, golden fur, king of nine tails. Oh, tails of the auspicious beast, consume all, grant all wishes - (second spell chant here) - Dance!

Light Heal - Area Healing Magic that cures minor cuts and wounds - Effects mimic a low level healing potion - Chant - O' Fox Spirit of Healing, bless me with your light to heal these souls. Light Heal!

Spirit Heal - Healing Magic that surrounds the target in a light similar to Uchide no Kozuchi - Effects mimic an elixir - Chant - King of Nine Tails, destroyer, ancient song, dreamer, and healer. Grant me the power for your healing spirit to dwell within me. Remove all traces of pain and fatigue through this vessel. Spirit Heal!

Bafu Inari - Area Enhancement Magic that raises speed, agility, and defense of the targets - Need one tail per target being buffed passed two targets - Chant - Her name is Inari, Goddess of the Fox Spirits. Bring forth your speed and protection to safeguard your allies. Inari, Goddess of my power, use me as your vessel to grant your strength to those it will serve. Bafu Inari!

Kitsune Blitz - Physical Enhancement Magic - Higher level version of Bafu Inari but only affects the caster - Caster sprouts ten tails that imbue the caster with the speed, power, and agility of the Ten-Tailed Kitsune Goddess, Inari - Chant - They call me Kitsune. They call me Goddess. My power comes from the name Inari. I am the Destroyer and the Creator. Grant me the power and wrath of Inari. Kitsune Blitz!

SKILLS

Mikuzumenohou - Increases the effects of Haruhime's magic and improves mind usage.

Mage - Improves power, widens effect range, and makes mind usage more efficient. Creates magic circles under the user that support the magic.

Spirit Healing - Automatic mind regeneration. Begins regenerating mind at a small rate after use of a magic spell.

Gentle Touch - Increases effectiveness of all Healing Spells of the user.

Concurrent Chanting - Allows caster to fight and/or move around while casting a spell - Makes being interrupted a much higher probability.

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Chapter 02: Arrival in Orario

Bell wasn't surprised that he and his traveling companions were let into Orario so easily. The coin that Ouranos gave Zeus for entry was mighty handy. Even though they had two wagons full of people and cargo, the men at the front gate only peeked in the back and that was it.

Next thing Bell and Haruhime knew, they were inside the walls of Orario headed toward the old Zeus Familia Manor. Bell knew most powerful familia homes had a name like the Twilight Manor or Folkvangr, but Bell refused to call his new home what his grandfather did.

No way in hell would he call it, Beautiful Babes Resort!

He still wasn't quite sure what to name it, but he still had time for that. When they finally arrived, he shouldn't have been surprised at either the appearance of the home or its location.

It looked like a perfect replica of what his grandfather told him the temple atop Mt. Olympus looked like. The only difference being there were walls behind the pillars instead of it being open.

The location was also no surprise to Bell. It was in the southeastern part of Orario perfectly in between Babel and the Entertainment District. Bell had no doubt Zeus planned that from the beginning.

Zeus had told Bell all about the Ishtar Familia. He had no desire whatsoever to go to the Entertainment District for its services, but he knew Lady Ishtar hated Freya. It might be worth it to go see if they could potentially be allies.

Right now though, Bell needed to get everyone settled before he and Haruhime headed to Guild Headquarters. Bell didn't believe so many people wanted to come with them simply to be servants, but that is exactly what happened.

Bell doesn't think he'll ever forget walking out to start loading up and seeing twenty people loading up the wagons intent on coming with them. He still wrote that off as Haruhime's doing. He didn't think they ever met anyone who didn't love Haruhime.

Bell was glad to see that Ouranos had the place cleaned when he unlocked the door. He didn't want these people to have to go to work the moment they got here. This way they could get settled and learn the lay of the place today.

Once Bell and Haruhime showed everyone where they would be staying, they went to find their room. Bell's palms were starting to get sweaty and he started to lose the nerve to go into the room when they finally arrived before the door.

This is the room his parents used to occupy and now he would live in it with his wife. He couldn't even push the door open until Haruhime grabbed is hand, intertwined their fingers, and gave him a kiss on the cheek. That was all the courage he needed to push it open.

When he first stepped in, he noticed how enormous this room was. It was easily as big as their entire farmhouse. There was plenty of furniture in the room as he scanned it.

Bell saw a couch, a couple of chairs, two desks pushed together, a large canopy bed, and a nightstand on each side of the bed. Both nightstands held a lamp. The nightstand closest to Bell and Haruhime also had a picture frame but it was angled away from them. The other nightstand held a mirror on it.

Once he finally took that in, his eyes landed on the spot he wanted to look at first but wasn't sure he could contain himself. The moment he looked at the windowsill with the padded bench and pillows, he felt himself fighting not to cry.

That was the place his grandfather told him his mother and father used to sing to him and read stories, not only when his mother was pregnant with him, but right after he was born as well. He started walking toward it but had to look away before he broke down.

It didn't help.

He was finally at the point where he could see what the picture in the picture frame was, and he froze when he saw it. It was a picture of his mother sitting on that same windowsill, smiling, cradling her belly while his father had his lips pressed against her belly. A huge smile on his face as well.

Bell doubts there is a willpower, mortal or God, that could stop his tears from falling and his certainly wasn't up to the task. His vision went blurry with tears, but he felt Haruhime wrap her arms around his waist and bury her head in the crook of his neck.

"We can do this later Bell. You don't have to-"

"No..."

He barely spoke loud enough to interrupt Haruhime. Bell takes a deep breath in through his nose and out his mouth. He wipes away his tears before taking another deep breath in and out. He now looks completely composed.

"No, I'm the Captain of the Zeus Familia, and we have too much to do today for me to fall apart..."

"We can come back here when we finish then Bell. You don't have to do this right now."

Bell turned to his side so he was completely facing Haruhime and wrapped her up in his arms. The look of love and devotion he always gave her made her smile as it always did.

"I can do anything if I have you with me, Haruhime." Bell captured her lips for a moment. "No matter what I do in my life, good or bad, victory or failure. My greatest accomplishment will always be being loved by you, becoming your husband, and one day calling you the mother of my children."

Now it was Haruhime's turn to cry. There was never any doubt in her mind she was the luckiest woman to ever live. To think she would not only meet someone like Bell but be blessed enough to hold his true love and devotion was something she couldn't have dreamed up no matter how many stories she read.

She was only twenty years old, trained by the greatest Hero to ever exist, and she had been married to that man for two years now. Even fairytales didn't turn out this good.

"I am the lucky one, my love..."

Haruhime captured his lips once more. She would never get enough of that as long as she lived. It wasn't long before both were calm, relaxed, and ready to explore the rest of the room.

The only other things in the room, other than the furniture, were two doors on the left wall. Bell opened the first door and saw a very large and fancy bathroom. Haruhime, and even Bell, were both excited as it was done in the style of a bathhouse from the Far East with some custom touches his parents no doubt added.

After they explored that room for a moment, they went to the other door. When Bell opened it, it was immediately apparent it was a closet. Everything hanging on the left looked like it used to belong to his mother, and everything on the right looked like it used to belong to his father.

His father's side had very little compared to his mother's. There were a lot of shirts, a few pairs of pants, a couple of pairs of shorts, and a few suits. Bell's mother's side, on the other hand, was almost overflowing.

Zeus told them both that his mother loved clothes, Bell had no idea it was this bad even if he was told it was. There were so many kimonos, dresses, shirts, shoes, skirts, and accessories, it was almost overwhelming to Bell's senses.

Haruhime's face lit up with a bright smile at seeing all of the clothing. She loved the clothes Bell gave her that used to belong to his mother. She imagined she'd love everything in here as well. She knew it was true when she started looking through them. She couldn't wait for a party so she could wear one of these dresses.

Bell was smiling as well, but his eyes focused on the far wall in the closet. There were two mannequins there that he knew what they were for. They were perfectly formed to hold both of their armors and their weapons.

Bell was tempted to take off his and put it on there to see what it looked like but he knew he didn't have time for that. He needed to get to the guild soon if this long first day was going to happen according to plan. He walked over to Haruhime and took her hand, knowing she'd be browsing all day if he didn't.

"I promise love. You can spend all day tomorrow looking through the clothes. First, though, we have things we need to do."

Haruhime definitely pouted, but she came along anyway. She knew he was right, but she couldn't help herself. It always amazed her how perfect his mother's fashion sense mirrored her own. She knew she could lose herself in the closet for weeks if Bell allowed it.

She was definitely excited to see the rest of Orario though. It didn't dampen her mood when they left the room behind them and headed toward the Guild. It wasn't too far from where their home was located so it didn't take long to get there.

Bell and Haruhime both looked around like a couple of tourists. It was one thing to hear about Orario, but it was a completely different thing to experience it first hand. There were so many different types of people, shops, merchandise, and food. It was a wonder they made it to the Guild instead of wandering off down any number of the streets.

When they finally did make it into the Guild, it wasn't too crowded. There weren't any open windows to see a receptionist at, but it wasn't packed by any means. That was a little surprising to Bell. He figured this early in the morning is when Adventurers would come to get advice before going in the dungeon.

He did grow up a farmer and normally rose before the sun so he could understand others not wanting to wake up so early. They only had to stand there for a couple of minutes before a window opened up.

Bell was glad they could move out of line. There were a lot of people staring at them while they waited, and he didn't like the looks some of them were giving Haruhime.

He supposed it could have been their armor. It was pretty eye-catching, but it still didn't ease him. He did not like it when men stared at his wife.

He wasn't an idiot, he knew she was incredibly beautiful. He had never met anyone who came close to her in looks alone. When you found out she was even more beautiful on the inside, it was impossible not to love her more. Doesn't mean he liked others looking at her though, even if he knew it was inevitable.

"Greetings and welcome to the guild. My name is Eina Tulle. How may I help you today?"

Now, it was Haruhime's turn to roll her eyes. The moment this elf looked at her husband, she blushed like a teenager in love. Haruhime had thought she'd grown used to this, but apparently, she hadn't. She immediately latched on to Bell's arm and she heard him chuckle at her possessive behavior before he said.

"It's nice to meet you, Ms. Eina. I'm Bell, Bell Cranel. This is my wife, San-"

Haruhime cuts him off and extends her hand. She knew how he was about to introduce her, and she wanted to smack him for not listening to her. Bell thinking his last name wasn't good enough for her because she used to be a Princess always irked her. His last name was her most prized possession, next to Bell himself.

"Haruhime Cranel. It is nice to meet you, Eina."

She knows she squeezed a little too tight, especially given she was level 5, but there was no helping it. If there was one thing in this world she would never give up, it was Bell. At one point, she was alright sharing him.

Living with Zeus would do that to a girl under almost any circumstances. However, when you got to know Bell. It was almost a natural reaction to want to share someone who loved so truly.

Now though, after having him all to herself for over five years, she wanted to be selfish. She knew there'd be more beautiful women in Orario than in the villages, but if this elf was anything to go by, there was going to be a lot more than she expected.

Eina shook her hand a bit when she pulled it back and flexed it a couple of times to make sure nothing was broken. That girl had a very strong grip.

Bell chuckled again and wrapped his arm around Haruhime. He thought she had finally known there was no other for him, but apparently not. Eina was cute don't get him wrong, but she wasn't Haruhime.

No one was.

"It is nice to meet you both. How may I be of service today?"

"I'm sorry it ended up being you who waited on us as I'm afraid you are about to be doing a lot of paperwork." Bell chuckled as he pulled out a stack of documents from his tunic. "I'm here to re-open my Familia's accounts, re-register my Familia, name myself Captain, and my wife Vice-Captain."

Eina Tulle was completely perplexed. She had never even heard of a Familia having to do all of that. There was a procedure for it, but it had never been done because normally, Familias who fell were banished or exiled and they couldn't return.

"May I ask, what familia you speak of?"

"The Zeus Familia."

Bell said that louder on purpose. He wanted more than just Eina to hear that the Zeus Familia was back. It would spread the word quicker and hopefully give them some new recruits to choose from.

Bell had no intention of it just being himself and Haruhime. He had gotten powerful, but they needed more people. Hopefully, their next stop would gain them the one person they hoped would join them.

"T-The Z-Zeus Familia?!"

Apparently, there was no need for him to say that louder. Eina had basically shouted it at the top of her lungs. She immediately looked apologetic, but he wanted to thank her, not be mad at her.

"Yes, the Zeus Familia. I know that will require approval you can't give yourself, but if you look at the first document. It is permission, that is signed and sealed by Lord Ouranos himself, giving you authority to fill in all the paperwork needed without having to seek approval from himself or your Guild Leader."

As Eina read the document, she turned paler by the second. This incredibly cute boy was not kidding. These were orders and instructions to re-register the Zeus Familia as an active Familia in Orario. Not only that but also giving Bell control of all of their former assets.

'I'm going to be signing my name and making history with it!'

That thought is what turned Eina white as a ghost. She was always meticulous with her paperwork, but she would need to go the extra ten miles here. People would be talking about this for years and she couldn't mess anything up on her end.

"I-I'll get r-right on it!"

Eina went to turn away and start, but Bell caught her attention before she could.

"Do you know how long it will be until everything is in order and you can give me the clearance of the bounty?"

"There are some papers you need to fill out yourselves, but that won't take very long. It should take me about twenty to thirty minutes to finish everything up with this document. It says here you are close to level and we won't be requiring you to fill in that part of your own documents until you level. When you do level, please come bring your filled out status records back and we will release it at that time."

"Thank you, Ms. Eina, and sorry again for putting you through all this paperwork."

Eina blushed again, she couldn't help it. She knew from experience that liking an adventurer was risky. Bell, however, was extremely handsome and gave off an aura of protection she had never felt before. It truly wasn't a bother either. She is about to be a part of history.

"It's my pleasure." She hands both of them a few documents. "Please, fill these out and explore the Guild Hall if you like. I'll call you both over when I'm finished with this paperwork."

Haruhime filled out the paperwork, but Bell could tell there was something else on her mind. She was writing like she was angry and kept glancing over at Eina. He had no idea what was causing her to act this way.

Haruhime, for her part, couldn't shake the feelings of jealousy and possessiveness she was feeling right now. Every girl they came across at all the villages fawned over Bell so she had gotten used to it, but none of those girls came close to how beautiful Eina was.

The few elves they encountered out in the world were all males, and Haruhime never cared much for them. She usually had a soft spot for everyone, but those elves thought they were better than everyone. She couldn't get passed their prejudice to like them at all.

The more she thought, the harder she gripped her pen. Just glancing around the Guild Hall she saw everyone woman in here was at least good looking, if not beautiful.

She was sure it was about to break when she felt Bell put a hand on top of hers. His touch calmed her immediately and she gazed up at him.

"What's wrong, my love?"

She knew then how stupid she was being. Even his voice was filled with love for her when he was concerned about her.

"It's nothing... I'm just being stupid."

"Hey..." Bell seemed to finally pick up on why she was acting this way and grabbed her chin to face him. "You are mine and I am yours, forever. There is no one here more beautiful than you, on the inside or the outside. If you're worried they don't know I'm yours..."

Bell leaned down and took her lips in a passionate kiss. Bell barely remembered he was inside the Guild Hall when his tongue slipped into her mouth. It was only after a few minutes he got his wits about him and broke away.

He knew there was no way people didn't witness that. They were making out like they were back in the forest with no one around. Haruhime was finally smiling that radiant one he loved to see on her face. He kissed the back of her hand for a little more assurance and went back to his paperwork.

Once they finished filling out what they needed to, they both strolled around the Guild Hall. Haruhime seemed to be back to her usual self and Bell was glad for that. He couldn't stand to see her doing anything but smiling.

Eina was true to her word and finished in only twenty minutes. They went over all the paperwork to make sure everything was correct. After a few minutes, the Zeus Familia was officially re-registered in Orario. Finally, Eina handed him two sealed scrolls.

"The first document is your registration and deed. We do have a copy, but please do not lose it. They are quite expensive to replace. The other scroll is the cleared bounty that was agreed upon. The funds have been taken out of your account already."

Bell and Haruhime thanked Eina one last time and headed out of the Guild Hall toward their next stop. They were greeted the moment they stepped out of the Guild Hall, and Bell wanted to roll his eyes. He never fully trusted this man.

"Hey Bell, Princess!"

"Lord Hermes. To what do I owe this visit?"

In truth, Lord Hermes had done a lot for the Zeus Familia, and his grandfather used his services quite often as well. However, there was always something about Lord Hermes that seemed off to Bell, and he couldn't bring himself to fully trust him.

"Come now Bell! You know you can simply call me Hermes!" Even Hermes caught Bell's eye roll he couldn't hide this time. "Anyway... I came to let you know everything is in place. Your three guests should be arriving not long after you do so you can have that chat you wished for. I must warn you though, they will not be alone."

"Thank you, Lord Hermes. My wife and I will make our way there now."

"As always, it is a pleasure to serve you, my Prince, my Princess."

"I'm not..."

Bell and Haruhime both started to object, but Hermes was already gone before they could finish. Haruhime might have been a Princess once, but Bell hated it when he called him Prince. It's true he married a Princess, but she didn't like being called one. Not anymore, and she only let Bell get away with it every once in awhile nowadays.

The walk for Bell and Haruhime to their next stop was not a very long one. The inn they are looking for was the place of employment their recruit worked in. Not that the woman knew she was a hopeful recruit for the Zeus Familia. She honestly had no idea they knew, not only who she was, but also that they had already talked to her Goddess and gotten her approval.

It only took about ten minutes for both of them to arrive at the Hostess of Fertility. While they had always planned on having this chat, they timed their arrival in Orario after Hermes had learned their other guests' schedules.

They also had no idea about Bell or that he would be there to have a little chat with them. He wanted to catch them completely by surprise to see how they would react. Despite Hermes warning, it didn't matter how many of their familia came with them. Bell could take out that entire familia if he so desired, he was that strong now.

Bell knew he couldn't, grandfather's orders, at least for now. Very few things enraged Bell that wasn't the One-Eyed Black Dragon, but a few Familias could also be on that list. When they finally entered the inn, they were greeted by a cute, silver-haired, silver-eyed waitress.

"Welcome to the Hostess of Fertility. My name is Syr. Will it just be the two of you today?"

Her greeting was friendly and professional, but neither Bell nor Haruhime missed how she only glanced at Haruhime while only really speaking to Bell. This time though, Haruhime didn't get possessive or jealous.

Haruhime knew Bell thought it was because of him, but that was never the issue. In truth, she got like that sometimes because she knew she wasn't good enough for Bell. At least, that is how she saw it.

Perhaps it was living with Zeus the last five years, but Haruhime absolutely believed Zeus when he said Bell could have a man's dream. She was sure he was the only person actually capable of truly loving more than one woman.

However, for some reason still elusive to her, he had chosen her and no one else. It was true she had gotten stronger, much stronger than she ever believed she could be, but she knew that was Bell's doing.

He could have had anyone with him the last five years and they would be as strong as her, maybe even stronger. She thought one day he might figure that out, especially when they arrived in Orario.

However, that didn't happen, quite the opposite. Bell, being his perfect self, showed her there was no one else and made sure as many people who could see it would, the moment he saw her doubt.

He was doing it right now. Clinging to her like she was the one who would leave at any moment. Even when he answers Syr's question, he was trying to put her at ease.

"Yes, just me and my wife."

The girl finally looked at her for more than a glance and smiled. If anyone understood staring at Bell, it was Haruhime. She'd never met a more handsome boy in her life when she first met him. Now, he was even better looking and filled out, unlike he was when they met.

"Please, follow me..."

"If it's possible, could you seat us in a section that Ryuu serves?" Syr turned around and gave Bell a confused expression. "If it's not possible, could you tell her we would like to speak with her when she gets a moment?"

"May I ask what business you have with Ryuu?"

"I'm sorry. It's personal. I don't mind if she allows you to listen to our conversation, but she is the one who must make that decision. I won't speak of it to you unless she allows it."

Syr nods her head at Bell and he can see some of the mistrust leave her eyes. She still didn't trust him but wasn't completely suspicious of him either. They are led to a table near the bar and kitchen, Syr set the menus down and tells them she'd be with them soon.

They looked over the menu and then took in the inn. It was only about half full, but they had expected that. The place had only been open for a couple of hours, but it would start to fill up soon. They only got to figure out their order and glance around before their server came.

She was a green-haired, blue-eyed elf, and they both had no doubt this was the woman they were looking for, Ryuu. Goddess Astraea had been very descriptive of her, and she fits that description perfectly. They both knew she normally had blonde hair, but if she liked it, she could keep it green they didn't care.

She was nothing but professional at first, taking their order and placing it with the kitchen. When she brought back their drinks, that is when she took a seat across from them and Syr joined her.

Neither Bell nor Haruhime knew the relationship these two shared, but Bell wasn't too keen on it, whatever it was. Knowing who really owned this place made him weary of just about all the employees.

"My friend, Syr, said you wished to speak with me regarding something personal?"

"We did. Perhaps somewhere more private might be fitting in case someone overhears our conversation? I'll let you be the one to decide that, Gale."

Bell said it loud enough so only Ryuu could hear it. Well, Haruhime could as well, she was a higher level than Ryuu and even closer than she was. Bell could tell Syr didn't hear him, but Ryuu's entire body tensed when he called her that name. He held his hands up to show he wasn't a threat.

"I'm not here to cause trouble. The opposite in fact, but if you can't take my word for it." Bell reaches in his tunic and pulls out a scroll. "This is a scroll from your Goddess. It's sealed so I have no idea what's in it, but she said you might want to read it before hearing what I have to say."

Ryuu reached for the scroll the moment she saw the seal. There was no mistaking it was her Goddess's seal. She hadn't seen it in years, but she would never forget it.

She didn't even move. She simply broke the seal and started reading the scroll. Bell and Haruhime just sat patiently holding hands, waiting for her to finish. It looked like Syr was reading along with Ryuu.

Bell wanted to say something since it looked like Ryuu hadn't noticed and never told her she could. Ryuu's expressions changed his mind. He had heard Ryuu was as stoic as they come, but she was tearing up worse by the second as she read that scroll.

By the time she finished it, she had shed a few tears. She rolled the scroll back up, put it in her apron, stood, and surprised everyone at the table by hugging Bell and Haruhime. They had both encountered elves before and knew they weren't very keen on letting others touch them.

They both awkwardly returned the hug before Ryuu stepped back, composed herself, and retook her seat. The look of shock on Syr's face would have made them both laugh if the air in the room was different at the moment.

"Thank you... thank you both. You have no idea how much what you did means."

"As we said, we're not sure what was in your letter so we don't know how much you know. I'm not really sure what order to do this in, but let's start with the happy news I suppose."

It was Haruhime this time that reached into her kimono and pulled out a sealed scroll. She handed it across the table for Ryuu to take before she explained what it was.

"That is the order from the guild, signed by the Guild Leader Royman Mardeel and Lord Ouranos, dismissing all charges against you and clearing your bounty from the Guild Ledgers."

Ryuu's mouth opened in shock before breaking the seal and reading it for herself. She was never one to cry, but tears were building again as she read it. Bell took the silence as his cue to add.

"It means you can return to the dungeon or join a familia, but much more importantly, you don't have to hide yourself anymore. No more looking over your shoulder anymore, Ryuu."

Bell started to get the idea of Ryuu and Syr's relationship when the silver-haired girl hugged Ryuu and started crying when she heard that. He still didn't like it, she no doubt worked in someway with Freya, but they could work around their friendship if it came to that.

"SYR! RYUU! STOP CHATTING UP THE CUSTOMERS WHILE THEIR FOOD IS GETTING COLD!"

Syr and Ryuu immediately were brought back to the moment by Mia's yelling. Bell couldn't hold his scowl at the interruption. Mia Grande, former captain of the Freya Familia, just thinking of her made his blood boil.

Bell couldn't lose it here or more importantly... yet. There were still guests he was waiting on so he schooled his features quickly. He couldn't let his emotions get the best of him. It was good those two snapped up to grab their food.

It gave Bell a moment to breathe and calm down. Haruhime had a lot to do with that. She could calm him down from anything. All it took was her dainty little hand to grab his and it washed over him like a wave. His wife was amazing.

Ryuu returned alone with their dishes and they did look delicious. It was a shame he never planned on stepping foot in here again after today unless he had to. Luckily, there were plenty of inns scattered across Orario.

"My Goddess said you were going to ask me something, and I should consider it. What were you going to ask?"

Bell was surprised she asked. He assumed she'd want to digest what she already heard before talking about it, but he was certainly pleased to get it out of the way now so she had more time to think about it.

"We did, but first we never did introduce ourselves. My name is Bell Cranel, and this is my wife, Haruhime Cranel."

Bell was going to continue but a look crossed Ryuu's face he was not expecting recognition. It was the last thing he expected to see on her face simply by introducing himself and Haruhime.

"When I was a little girl, I used to hear stories about a hero who wielded two weapons named Brandon Cranel. He fought alongside his wife, a powerful magic swordswoman herself named Ella Vaylia. Are... Are you?..."

Honestly, Bell didn't need to let her say that much when it dawned on him that Ryuu had heard of his parents. It simply never occurred to him other people would know about them even if Zeus told him they were exceptional adventurers.

"Yes, I am their son. I just returned to Orario today to re-register the Zeus Familia. Like my father, I am the Captain and my wife, Haruhime, is the Vice-Captain. We would both like it very much if you would consider joining the Zeus Familia."

Ryuu was opening and closing her mouth trying to say something but nothing came out. She was floored by their offer but wasn't sure what to say. Haruhime reached across the table and squeezed her hand for support. Surprisingly, Ryuu squeezed it back as a thank you before Haruhime said.

"We don't need an answer this minute. We just arrived and aren't going anywhere. It also comes with the stipulation that, if you do join, you can not discuss familia business with your friend Syr. We have no problem if you are friends with the girl, she seems nice. However, Freya owns this establishment and she is no friend of the Zeus Familia."

That is when Bell stepped in so Ryuu had time to think it over.

"We know this is a lot to drop on you at once. Take your time and think it over. As Haruhime said, we aren't going anywhere and the Zeus Familia Home isn't hard to find. Come on by whenever you want to talk about it."

Ryuu gave them a nod before walking off back to work. Bell could see her lost in thought and felt bad she would be distracted all day. Haruhime's musical giggle brought him back to the present.

"Still can't bring yourself to call it, Beautiful Babes Resort?"

Bell groaned and rubbed his face with his hands. He still couldn't believe that even if he knew the kind of man Zeus was.

"I'm never letting Grandfather name anything again and... I still have no idea what to name our new home..."

"You'll figure it out, you always do..."

Haruhime patted his hand, kissed his cheek, then dug into her food. She was rather hungry. They started well before the sun rose to get to Orario first thing in the morning. Bell did the same, and by the time they were done eating, their other guests had arrived.

This conversation was going to be much different though. The only thing that would be similar to their conversation with Ryuu would be that they didn't know it was going to happen.

Bell had the perfect idea of how to get their attention. He was hoping for a particular reaction from them, but he'd settle for just about anything.

"My love..." Haruhime looked at Bell and saw him standing with a huge smile on his face, his hand extended to her. "May I have this dance?..."

"But there's no..."

"Don't worry, I'll make some for us."

This made Haruhime grin even wider than Bell. Things like this are what she cherished the most. Even Heroes in stories didn't do things this romantic, but Bell did for her. She took his hand and he led her right into the middle of the room.

No one, in the almost full inn, was paying attention to them when they first got there. Bell took Haruhime in his arms and started to hum. He hummed until they got a good rhythm and then he opened his mouth.

Half the eyes in the room snapped to them immediately when Bell began to sing. Haruhime had taken to humming while Bell sang, and all eyes had turned to them less than a minute into their dance.

Bell was aware he was intentionally keeping his back to the Loki Familia members in the tavern so he could surprise them at the end. However, the only other thing he knew at that moment was Haruhime as they stared at each other.

This was both their favorite song, and from one of their favorite books. They both loved hero stories more than almost anything, but this one was special for both of them.

When they finally finished, and Bell got his kiss from the Princess. He looked directly at the Loki Familia table and saw the three he wanted to speak with pale immediately.

His grandfather had always said he sang like his father. He thought that might get a good reaction out of Gareth, Finn, and Riveria. He certainly wasn't disappointed. He was a little shocked at the applause and one of the Amazons from the Loki Familia jumping up and down screaming...

"THAT WAS THE SONG FROM ARGONAUT!"

This gave Bell the opening to approach their table, and he reveled in the three executives still being speechless. It looked as if more color had drained from their faces, in fact.

"I'm glad to hear someone knows their stories as well as my wife and I do."

While Bell held an unnatural, and almost detrimental, grudge against Finn, Gareth, Riveria, and Loki, none of these other members were there when everything went down with his parents. He didn't really have a problem with any of them.

"Of course! I love the Argonaut tale! It is my favorite one of them all! I'm..."

Tiona never got to finish as Bell pointed right at her and surprised everyone at the table as he pointed at each of them as he went.

"You're Tiona Hiryute, Tione Hiryute, Anakitty Autumn, Raul Nord, Lefiya Virdis, Bête Loga, and Ais Wallenstein. Highest ranking members of the Loki Familia. Well, except those three over there."

They all looked over at their executives for answers when Bell pointed at them, but now all they saw were their pale expressions. Finally, it was Finn who spoke. It was barely above a whisper and sounded almost scared.

"I-It can't b-be... y-you're d-dead..."

"Are you trying to figure out which one you feel more guilty about Braver? Is it my father's hair that turns you white as a ghost?" Bell turns toward the High Elf at the table. "Perhaps it is my mother's eyes that do it for you, Nine Hells?..."

At this point, all the other members of the Loki Familia are lost. However, Bête doesn't like the way this white-haired little punk is talking to his Captain. He stands up from his chair abruptly before angrily saying.

"Who the hell do you think you are you littl-"

Bête never got to finish. Everyone was so focused on Bell, they didn't see Haruhime move. She was the same level or higher as everyone here except the three executives, but they were all too focused on Bell to catch her anyway.

Only Bell saw her move, and he loved it when her protective side came out. Haruhime was the gentlest soul he had ever known, but when you threatened or disrespected her family, she showed what she was capable of.

She was no longer the loving embrace of mother nature, she was mother nature's wrath and fury. A relentless storm ready to uplift any tree or capsize any ship.

"THAT IS MY HUSBAND AND CAPTAIN! YOU WILL SHOW HIM THE RESPECT HE DESERVES, PUPPY DOG!"

The katana now resting across Bête's throat punctuated her message. Bête was about to open his mouth, but Finn pulled him down in his seat before he could. It was only then Haruhime returned to Bell's side.

"I thought you might have heard already, but in case you didn't, I wanted to come to introduce myself. My name is Bell Cranel, son of Brandon Cranel and Ella Vaylia, and this is my wife, Haruhime Cranel. I am the Captain of the newly re-registered Zeus Familia."

Bell nearly shouted that as he said it. He wanted to make sure as many people heard again, especially Mia. He wanted her to run back to Freya and tell her the Zeus Familia was back. He'd give her more to tell her before this was over though.

Nearly everyone at the table went pale when they heard that. Even if they weren't present, they all know of the downfall of the Zeus Familia. Only two people reacted differently.

Bête scoffed, not impressed by this new Captain. Ais Wallenstein's eyes widened to an almost comical level as she stared at Bell.

"I'm going to make this perfectly clear..." Bell makes sure they all hear him even though he is looking at Finn, Gareth, and Riveria. "My God has made a deal with Lord Ouranos that we are to keep the peace and make no moves against the Loki or Freya Familias. I will uphold that deal as my God wishes. However..."

The air grows heavier and anyone not level five feels a very real fear of death creep into their minds as the aura around Bell almost seemed to flicker from pure white to pitch black.

"If either of your Goddesses or any of your familia members make a move against my family. I will not hesitate to end your entire familia! I only came to this corrupt, backstabbing city to get strong enough to kill that piece of shit, One-Eyed, Black Dragon that took my parents from me. You three stood by and did nothing when your strength added to theirs would have ended that Dragon for good seventeen years ago!"

Bell was damn near losing it by now and only Haruhime's presence was keeping him from drawing his weapons in anger. When someone else finally spoke, it was Riveria, who had nearly composed herself.

"We failed them then, but we can help you now. We can make up fo-"

Riveria wasn't able to finish as a cruel laugh echoed through the inn. It was honestly terrifying in how devoid of emotion it was. It was unbelievable the same voice had just sung so beautifully only a few minutes ago.

"You think I could ever trust the LOKI FAMILIA?!" Bell takes a few deep breaths and glances around the table to look at every one. "I don't trust you three, and I never will. I have nothing against your other members. They were not present when you betrayed my parents, but they take their orders from you three."

Haruhime's calming presence has him back to his normal self, thankfully. He's not sure all the Gods and Goddess could help this world if she was ever taken from him. He would tear it asunder.

"I can't trust those taking orders from you so I'll decline your help. You want to help me? Stay out of my way, and leave my family alone." He looks at the bar, right at Mia. "Tell your master the same as well, Mia Grande. Freya and her dogs better stay out of my way."

Bell intertwines his fingers with Haruhime and leaves the bar in silence. It isn't until they step out the door that ninety-five percent of the occupants let out the breath they were holding. Bête recovered faster than most before standing again.

"Captain! How are you just going to let that punk talk to us like that! Why'd you stop me?!"

Finn has recovered enough from seeing a dead man walking to give Bête an incredulous stare. One giant negative to Bête Loga was his inability to gauge someone's fighting strength when he was angry.

"Of course you didn't feel it... You would have realized-"

"Realized what?!"

Bête was getting impatient and so was Finn.

"That he could have done it." Bête growled for him to get to the point. "He could have wiped us all out. He wasn't bluffing when he said he would end our entire familia..." Finn gulped, his thumb hadn't throbbed this bad ever. "I-I'm fairly certain that Bell Cranel is more powerful than The King."

Everyone's eyes widened when Finn said that and not just the Loki Familia. It was still silent other than Finn's voice so everyone in the inn heard that. Even Mia gulped before not hiding the fact she was going out the back door.

All around the inn people were now whispering to each other about what just happened. They all had different expressions ranging from terrified to awe. They were all so engrossed in their own thoughts and conversations that no one bothered to look at Ais.

The girl was pretty stoic and only really cared about one thing. She was never one to show any emotion, but right now if you looked into her eyes. You would see the gears spinning finally as they try to solve a problem that just sprung up and hindered her goals.

Bell and Haruhime had exited the Hostess of Fertility and headed to their next destination. This one was a hit or miss. The familia could be in the dungeon and they might have to come back, but then they could just visit one of the smith Familias to kill some time. There was still a lot to do.

They had to walk past Babel to get to Temporary Residence Townhouse. When Bell saw the name of the Familia's home. He realized why Zeus thought their home's name was suitable. Very few of these Gods and Goddesses had a very good naming sense.

He felt her staring at him again. He struggled not to give her the finger. He really shouldn't give away that he knows she is watching him. It would probably happen eventually, but best to put it off until he couldn't contain it anymore.

He was happy to see so many food stalls on the way. The downside to being level 8, he had to eat a lot of food. It wasn't too outrageous but he needed to eat constantly. They made it there quickly after a few snacks, and Bell started to get excited. He hoped they were in, it would be a good surprise to witness.

Haruhime stands off to the side while Bell walks up to the door. He knocks on it and waits. He doesn't have to wait for long.

A man with shoulder-length black hair with two purple ties holding it out of his face answers the door. He has on traditional Far East clothing, black eyes, and a kind look on his face. Bell is certain he knows who this is. Haruhime had described him many times. Bell bows before saying.

"It is an honor to meet you, Lord Takemikazuchi. My name is Bell Cranel. I was wondering if your familia members were in?"

"They are. May I ask what this is about?"

"I have a surprise for them. I was hoping they were all here for it."

"They are currently in the Dojo. Would you like to come in?"

"By any chance, could you bring them here?"

Lord Takemikazuchi gives him a strange look before bowing his head slightly and closing the door. It was only a couple of minutes later when the doors opened again. Bell saw five people in front of him now, one of them was Lord Takemikazuchi.

This was his first time laying eyes on them, but he felt like he knew them already. He could even pick them out from the descriptions Haruhime had given him over the years in her stories about them.

There was no doubt these four were Ouka, Chigusa, Asuka, and Haruhime's best friend, Mikoto. He wanted to hug them if he was being honest, but they already looked confused enough.

"Greetings, Takemikazuchi Familia. My name is Bell Cranel."

He makes sure to look at everyone one of them as he greets them. Even if they didn't know it, he'd protect them all as best he could for what they did for Haruhime. As if destiny had a hand in it, it was Mikoto who asked.

"Lord Take said you had a surprise for us?"

Bell noticed her hand naturally drift toward her katana. He liked her already. No one should ever feel one hundred percent safe in Orario, true allies were very hard to come by.

"I do..." Bell can't help the wide grin he now has. He honestly might look a little crazy. "I believe that all of you know my wife..."

Bell steps aside and motions to his right. The whole familia is confused by his words until the next person steps into the doorway. All their jaws drop, Lord Takemikazuchi included, when they see Haruhime, and it leaves them speechless.

All it takes is for Haruhime to open her arms and give them that smile Bell loves to see. Bell heard Mikoto whisper her name then rush into her arms. She was followed closely by the rest of her familia and even their God.

Bell had seen some terrible things and done some things he wasn't proud of doing. It made him desensitized to most things, but this. This kind of reunion wanted to bring tears to his eyes.

Bell wanted to laugh when they finally broke their embrace and they all truly looked at what Haruhime was wearing. She was actually dressed very similar to Mikoto, but her gear was obviously leagues better. The questions came fast and no one really finished one before another was asked.

"Haruhime, how did you?..."

"Where have you?..."

"When did you?..."

"What are you?..."

Finally, Lord Take stepped in to calm down his familia members. He was excited to see her again as well, but everyone needed to sit down and relax. A proper conversation was in order.

"Calm down... calm down." They always did listen. "Let's go inside and have a seat. Then, everyone can ask their questions of Haruhime in a calm manner so she may actually answer some of them."

The familia members faces burned in shame as Lord Take said that. The God, for his part, said it with a smile. Bell chuckled and Haruhime giggled, it reminded her when they were children.

Lord Take led them to the sitting room, Bell at his side. The rest of his familia members were clinging to Haruhime so he had to be host to Bell for now. Taking in his appearance, it wouldn't be hard to bring up a topic he might enjoy.

The young man obviously wielded a katana. Whether it was two or one was a spare, he had no idea, but that was the easy starting point. His armor looked somewhat modeled after samurai armor. It had other designs that looked custom but at first glance that is what it looked like.

Not to mention, it looked to be made of some black scale he had never seen any armor made from. He was dressed as the most fearsome Far Eastern Warrior Take had ever seen. However, he had white hair, red eyes, and pale skin... so he looked absolutely nothing like someone from the Far East.

"I like your katana, Bell. Do you enjoy the culture of the Far East?"

"I do, Lord Takemik-"

"Just call me Take, Bell. My whole name is a mouthful."

"As you wish, Lord Take. I do enjoy the culture there. Both of my parents enjoyed it, and it so happens I ended up marrying a Princess from there." Bell couldn't help but grin at Haruhime. "I'd say my interest in Far Eastern culture has paid off. And I want to thank you." He bows slightly while they walk. "These weapons belonged to my father. It means a great deal that someone such as yourself appreciates them, Lord Take."

The place wasn't very big and that was all the conversation they needed to have before arriving in the sitting room. They all sat down and waited for the tea to be served. Once they had that out of the way, they started their conversation in earnest.

They knew about Haruhime being given to those men but didn't find out about it until she had already been sent away. Haruhime teared up a bit realizing they were going to try and save her if they could.

Then she told them about Bell. How he saved her from those men. How he offered to give her a home. How he trained her. How they traveled the countryside defeating monsters for villages, and finally about their wedding two years ago.

Haruhime had read so many hero stories, she was very good at telling them. By the time she was done, everyone knew what hero story was now Haruhime's favorite, Bell's. They had all noticed he was very composed, but he turned red as a tomato when Haruhime gushed about him singing to her.

Bell was very grateful for Mikoto's last question. He needed to talk about the other reason they were here other than a reunion, and it was why Haruhime left some out of her original story. Plus, he needed to go back to his normal shade of white.

"Wait, if you killed monsters and trained. Are you already in a Familia?"

"We are. It is also part of the reason we came to see you today. We were hoping to form an alliance with your familia..." Bell stops them when most are about to agree immediately. "However, an alliance with us will more than likely bring you danger as well."

They all look at him puzzled, but it is Haruhime that speaks up next.

"Bell is the Captain, and I am the Vice-Captain... of the Zeus Familia..."

Bell sees them not able to reply and takes the opportunity to explain further.

"We would offer you all the protection that comes with an alliance of very close friends, but that will also mean gaining some enemies, namely Loki and Freya. While Freya is almost a certainty, Loki might wise up and leave us alone. Having those two Familias as possible enemies is something you really need to think about. You know where our home is now, stop by after you talk about it."

Bell and Haruhime stand to take their leave for the day. Takemikazuchi Familia does the same, but they are all a bit stunned. Bell figured he might as well get all the shocking developments out there so he doesn't kill them later. He slides two pieces of paper on the table.

"That first one is the donation Haruhime made in the name of the Takemikazuchi Familia to your shrine back home. That second paper is a list of tailors and seamstresses in the clothing district. We will be throwing a party in the not so far off future. Unlike most of the other Familias who are getting an invite for their God or Goddess plus one, we wanted to invite your entire familia. You can go to those shops for your outfits and we will take care of the cost."

"Thank you, Bell, Haruhime. We will be looking forward to your party."

All the rest were still stunned so it fell to their God to say their thanks. Bell was just glad they hadn't looked at the donation paper yet. He had a feeling they wouldn't be able to leave this place if they had.

With a quick bow and a promise to come to see them again soon, Bell and Haruhime made their way back onto the streets of Orario. They had been at the Takemikazuchi Familia home much longer than they planned on. There was no way Bell was going to cut their reunion short. Haruhime could have stayed until morning and he would have been fine with that.

"So beautiful, what do you want to do next? Hephaestus Familia, food, Goibniu Familia, Dian Cecht Familia, Blue Pharmacy, then home or are you hungry and want to get food and change our order from there?"

"I could eat, but I'm not starving. Perhaps we should head to some of the shops first to see if we can make a contract with some of them?"

"If that is the case, why don't we head to see Lady Hephaestus if she is in? We can just stop at some food stalls and snack. I can't have you fill up too much, I have plans for you tonight."

Haruhime couldn't help herself, that twinkle in his eye made her. She pressed herself right up against him and looked into those beautiful ruby eyes.

"Oh? Do you miss me that much, my love? Couldn't have me since we were traveling with so many people that you had to make a special night for us?"

"While that is true, it isn't what I meant." Bell chuckled at Haruhime's cute tilt of her head. "I saw you eyeing those dresses of my mother's so... I had one of the servants who came with us go make dinner reservations for us at that fancy restaurant grandfather told us about."

Haruhime didn't need to close any distance, she was right in Bell's face pressed up against him. She pressed her lips to his and got lost in those lips, as she always did when they kissed.

It wasn't until someone walking by said "Get a room!" that they finally broke apart. This was nothing new to them. They always seemed to forget where they were when they kissed.

It was just much different in Orario then the villages they were used to. In the villages, everyone was either used to it or there were so few people they rarely got seen.

"Now I'm tempted to put the rest of this off until tomorrow. I need to make sure I look beautiful enough for you to take me out tonight."

Bell laughed at her, he still didn't understand Haruhime sometimes. He tucked the hair that escaped behind her ear and stared into those beautiful emerald eyes.

"I'd say you could go in your pajamas and still be the most beautiful woman to ever exist. However, we both know I'd never let anyone else see you in your pajamas."

"You do enjoy my pajamas, don't you my love?"

"Mmm, there is very little in this world I enjoy more. I'm looking forward to seeing you in them tonight after all that traveling and missing out on them."

Bell was certainly not lying. While Haruhime was obviously from the Far East and her choices certainly reflected that, everything from her clothing to her weapons and armor were decidedly Far Eastern.

However, her choice of bedclothes was not at all inspired by the Far East. Not that Bell would know, but he assumed what she wore to bed was more along the lines of what those who worked in the Entertainment District wore.

Just thinking about seeing his beautiful wife climbing into their bed wearing those once more made him move to capture her lips once more. Before he could, he felt a finger pressed against his lips stopping him from proceeding. He did pout a little when he saw Haruhime stopping him, she giggled at that before saying.

"Patience, husband. You're not going to deny your wife a romantic night out on the town, are you?" Bell shook his head but the pout was still there. "Good, then stop distracting me so we can finish up and get ready for our date!"

Haruhime gives him a quick peck on the cheek, takes his hand, and starts walking toward their next stop. Bell wanted to pout some more, but the thought of Haruhime all dressed up to go out tonight had him following Haruhime without any protest.

They stopped at a few food stalls and tried some different things. They both enjoyed trying foods neither had ever heard of before. Haruhime knew she wouldn't get to cook much anymore, but she was determined to at least learn to make a few of these new dishes.

Haruhime had pictured being Bell's wife from almost the moment she had met him. She always assumed she would be like any of the other wives married to a man from a village, but that did not happen.

She would honestly be happy right now if she was nothing more than his supportive wife at home who cooked dinner, did the laundry, and helped him relax after a day in the dungeon. However, that would make her a serious liability in this city, if she was that weak.

Haruhime still got those normal moments with Bell though, even if she was more than his wife. Thinking about dinner tonight was one of those moments. They would be nothing more than a husband and wife enjoying a night out.

The thought brought a smile to her face as they rode the lift up to the floor Lady Hephaestus had her office on. Although, judging from the stares they started getting as they approached Babel, a lot of people already knew who they were.

That might make dinner a little less private, but didn't mean it wouldn't still be special. Haruhime gripped Bell's arm and leaned her head on his shoulder. Bell put his arm around her and dropped a kiss on the top of her head.

Haruhime didn't know what would happen in Orario, but she knew she'd be happy as long as she had Bell.

THE END