Judicial Heart

by ExoriosGhoul

What would happen if Ryu ended up saving Bell while on her way to visit the grave on the 18th floor? How would this change effect the future of the series? This is something I hope to explore with you all. Some important things to note prior, Bell is a year older and has a stronger sense of Justice. Some characters will act slightly different.

2. Chapter 2 Separation

Hey everyone, a new chapter for Judicial Heart is now out. I just wanted to say thank you for the positive reception on the previous chapter. I hope everyone that enjoyed the first, will continue to enjoy and support this series. Thank you again. -EG

Word Count: 21,026

Chapter 2 Separation

Eina flinched at the sound of a loud thunderous boom. She glanced out of the guild building only just noticing how dark it had gotten. She sighed, at this rate, she probably would have to walk home in the rain.

She shifted a fresh set of documents, the recent report of the fellow rookie adventurers Bell had saved the day prior, as well as the description of the elf that saved him. For whatever reason, that description tickled a portion of her memory.

She strained to remember but it was gone, she was certain she had seen or heard of someone fitting that description. She was certain it was while she was still a student. Another crack of thunder caused her half-elven ears to ring. She glanced around the empty guild hall. Rose stood at the exchange counter staring off into space.

"Eina! What's wrong? You worried about your boyfriend?" A female asked, her high-pitched voice seemed to almost echo through the building.

The sudden sound caused Eina to flinch, sending all the documents she had prepared for Bell's lesson the next day flying over the counter and onto the floor. "Misha…" Eina spoke in a soft tone.

Eina watched Misha in the corner of her eye, her pink hair seemed to lose some of its luster. "I'm… only kidding Eina. Here let me pick those up for you."

Eina sighed and rubbed the bridge of her nose. "No, it's fine Misha. I was debating lessons for him. He seems to be determined to go beyond what I recommend, even if his general growth might be slightly faster than normal." She went around the counter and started collecting the papers before Misha could start.

Misha took a deep breath and sighed. "Why are you so invested in helping this one rookie? With your talents, you could probably help many more adventurers."

Eina, having collected the last paper, stood and shook her head. "No… I don't think I could, not with how much you and almost everyone else slack off." She noticed Misha wince at that, "No… it might have only been a couple of weeks but he almost feels like a little brother. I… can't really explain it more than that."

She started organizing the papers again, as Miash tiptoed around Eina. "Well, just be careful. I don't want a repeat of the last time you started getting close to…"

Misha was cut off as Eina started speaking, "I… know. But, I can't help myself. I believe he will be alright though, especially if what he says is true and he's going to start taking my lessons more seriously."

Misha sighed, but with an upbeat attitude, she gave Eina a thumbs up. "Alright! I'll believe in your judgment." Misha left Eina to her work leaving the half-elf alone in the watching the counter.

"And this is exactly what I meant." Eina sighed, but really she didn't mind Misha's antics. She glanced out the windows of the guild hall, the downpour didn't look like it would end anytime soon.

"Bell…" She muttered she couldn't explain it. But she had a feeling he was doing something extremely reckless. She glanced down at the topmost document again, it was a map of the 6th Floor. She had already memorized it, but having a physical version would help Bell learn every nook and cranny of the floor. She wouldn't allow him to go so far unless he proved he knew what to expect.

X

Bell woke with a pounding headache and his entire body felt sore, he felt like he was hit by a carriage three times. Only for the carriage owner to show mercy and toss a weak healing potion on him. Taking a deep breath burned, sending him into a coughing fit. Each cough felt like a kobold was punching his chest. It took nearly a full minute for the cough to stop.

He realized that he was lying in Hestia's bed, and judging by the thin streaks of light piercing through the cracks in the roof it was a little bit until noon. Those Same cracks let a few drops fall in the center of their home. 'I'm… going to need to do something about that.' He tried to shift his left arm upwards only to find a handful of bandages wrapped around it.

Memories started flashing, how he had gone into the dungeon completely unprepared just to let off some frustration. His body felt abused, and he supposed it had been. Two dungeon trips in a single day with no armor, getting into a conflict with a much stronger adventurer even if it was the right thing to do.

His left hand hurt the most, if he remembered correctly that was the one with the broken finger. It happened when he failed to completely block or avoid a dungeon lizard's lunge. He sighed, "I… need to get moving. Need to thank Lord Miach and pay for that meal."

The thought of sitting up sapped away his energy, but he knew he had to start. It took a tremendous effort, but he managed to get into a sitting position. But the effort sent spikes of pain down his back. "Oh right, I was slammed into the dungeon wall by a frog shooter."

He stretched through the pain. "Alright, time to get moving." He couldn't help as a groan escaped his lips as he shifted and stood. He looked down at his scrawny frame, bandages were wrapped around his stomach, left knee, and right forearm. He also noticed that he was only in his underwear.

He blushed a tiny bit at that realization, "I suppose that makes sense." Every movement felt difficult, but he all most like he moved a touch faster than he should, it was just barely noticeable but he was certain of it.

He groaned as he slipped a pair of pants over his bandaged knee, then he slipped on a black long-sleeved shirt. The effort it took, left him feeling a constant twinge of pain. He was sweating, and breathing harder than he should. He sighed and before he left, noticed the update sheet on the side table.

He glanced over the stat changes, "That makes sense as to why it feels slightly off. I wonder why… I'm growing so quickly all of a sudden." He noticed a small note on the bottom of the page.

Bell started reading it aloud. "Bell, sorry I won't be there when you awaken. Remember what Miach said to take it easy alright? Also, I know it's sudden, but Ganesha is holding a party and I'm going to be attending it. There is a friend I want to talk to. Depending on how things go, I might not be home for a couple of days. Remember to be careful, and you'll be in my thoughts. Hestia."

"Right, it might be a little out of the way. But first things first, I have to pay for that meal." He slipped on his boots, attached the sword to his belt, and took off.

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.

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As it turned out, he had to limp most of the way to the Hostess. "Potions sure are great, but they aren't perfect," Bell whispered, he was still grateful or he would probably be stuck in bed for a few days. The pain in his knee was the worst part. Every step sent a spark of pain through his leg and up his chest.

He stood outside the Hostess taking a few deep breaths, he knew what he had to do, but that didn't make it any easier. The business seemed closed, but he could hear the sound of chairs clattering across the floor. A pair of muffled voices could be heard but not understood.

With one last breath, he knocked on the door. All noise inside stopped immediately, it took nearly a minute before a black hair cat girl peeked her head out the door. "Nya! It's white hair!"

Bell couldn't help but scratch the back of his head, he wasn't positive but he felt like two or three more sets of eyes were watching him. "Well, nya, what do you want?" Her shorter black hair shifted as her ears waggled a bit. He could see her sharp green eyes watching him.

"I… wanted to apologize for last. And also… pay for the meal." He gave a short bow and held it. He could almost swear he heard swishing and a soft purring sound which confused him greatly. Still bowed, he spoke. "Is Mama Mia here? I wish to apologize to her directly."

"Hmmm, Well let nya go see. Don't go anywhere." The cat girl voiced. He kept his head down, for more than a minute until to his surprise he heard a voice.

"What are you doing boy? Stand up straight, you're an adventurer, not an elbow." Straightening up caused his back to flare for a second. He looked straight at the owner's face who had a mildly annoyed look in her eyes.

"Sorry, I just…" Bell started to explain but was cut off by Mia.

Mia held out a hand, "Listen, boy, it's alright. Your meal was already paid for. If it hadn't been, I would've dragged you from wherever you call home." Mia's eyes observed him carefully, then nodded. "Come on in, let's talk."

Without waiting for a reply, Mia turned and entered the Hostess once more. Bell stood there for a second, partially stunned. But got moving very quickly, he had a feeling it wouldn't be wise to keep her waiting. He was right about to take the first step in, "Well? What are you waiting for?" The gruff voice of Mia rang through the doors.

Bell jumped, "R…Right sorry!" He winced as he jumped up the stairs to enter. As he entered, he could see every waitress besides the one who rescued him and Syr. "Pardon me." Speaking softly with a slight bow. But he didn't hesitate, so he rushed after the trailing apron strings as they rounded a corner in the back behind the bar.

He gulped, nodded, and followed doing his best to hide his limp. First, he was thrown out like trash, he didn't want to appear any weaker. He moved halfway through the establishment and he could tell he wasn't very convincing.

Around the corner was a surprisingly large kitchen, with three cooking areas with an employee he hadn't seen before. Another catgirl was running around preparing for a presumably large lunch rush. There was a section to wash dishes and a large storage area. But more importantly to Bell, there was another door, currently open.

Bell didn't hesitate, he was already too far in to leave now. Besides, he wouldn't forgive himself if he up and left. He took a deep breath and walked out the door.

The sun glared, as his senses in that tiny portion of time had adjusted to the lower light level, blinding him for a fraction of a second. He squinted but continued walking, there was a small walled-off courtyard. A pair of trees sat towards the center. Grass covered the majority of the ground in the area and a single bench sat next to the wall of the Hostess. It was probably only a twenty by twenty foot area but it felt like a peaceful area.

Mia stood next to one of the trees, "Come here." He didn't complain instead he walked over still trying to conceal the limp. "So what happened?"

Bell was a little confused, "About what?"

Mia shook her head. "Why did you explode on that Wolf? Don't get me wrong, he deserved it and Loki already paid the fee for disrupting my business."

Bell lowered his head fractionally, "Sorry for the trouble. I… he…" Bell was having trouble finding his words, so he gave up and just started to explain.

"The day before yesterday. I was saved by an elf in the dungeon." Bell thought he saw Mia's eyebrow twitching. "After they saved me I lost consciousness, I gained from the context of his rambling what happened." He took a breath, to calm his nerves. Just remembering was starting to get him frustrated again. "The elf asked another to help heal me, the other being Nine Hells Riveria. I… just couldn't sit there and listen to him berate and verbally attack the elf… it didn't help that they were right there."

Mia sighed, "Boy… what's your name?"

Bell shifted uncontrollably, head still lowered like a naughty child who got caught doing something they shouldn't have. "Bell… Cranel, and before you said the meal was already paid for? Who was it? I… it was stupid of me not to pay and I don't want someone to have to."

Bell felt a slight pressure in the air, then a slight pain in his forehead. "Ow!" He took a step back holding his forehead.

Mia was looking at him, one brow raised. "Bell… Cranel was it? I won't forget that. Now look at me and not the ground. Don't you know that it's rude?" Bell looked up, meeting the lady's fierce brown eyes. But, he could see a hint of kindness in them. "Better. Listen, it was stupid of you to do that, and judging by how you're walking you got injured again afterward. But… idiots like you usually die young with lofty ideas about being heroes."

Mia's eyebrow twitched when he shuffled slightly at the word heroes. She sighed but continued. "Having those ideals isn't necessarily a bad thing… especially in modern times, but just be careful with them. Alright?"

'She's… not encouraging me, but neither is she belittling my dream.' Those thoughts passed through Bell's mind quickly and he thought he had a general idea of her personality. Strict but kind, still not dismissing his dream put a smile on his face. "I understand!"

Mia nodded, letting a tiny smile show on her face. "Now to answer your question. The one who paid for your dinner was…"

Mia was cut off by the sound of shattering dishes. She sighed, "Ryu you useless elf! That's coming out of your paycheck!" Mia glanced down at Bell. "I'll be right back."

Bell could only stand there stunned for a moment, by the time he recovered Mia was already through the door in the back of the building. He wanted to interfere, to say something but he couldn't. So, he waited with a degree of regret at his inaction.

X

Ryu had been doing the dishes. Anya had avoided doing them again, so it fell to her. As a result, she could hear snippets of the conversation that was taking place just outside the still-open door. As usual, Mia was giving advice without directly saying it.

Then she heard Bell speak, nearly shouting his understanding. She could already see the smile that was on his face, that thought hurt a bit. But she ignored it at least for a second, but that image of him smiling had distracted her enough that she snapped a plate in half.

She panicked and jumped at the cracking sound. Her elbow ended up hitting the rack of drying dishes. Sending them all onto the ground, shattering the majority of them. She heard Mia yell, "Ryu you useless elf! That's coming out of your paycheck!"

It took less than a minute for Mia to enter from the back door, Ryu had just knelt down to start picking up the shards. "Ryu…" Mia's voice halted her hand an inch from the largest shard.

Ryu didn't look at Mia, "Yes… Mama Mia? I'll clean this up immediately."

Mia moved closer and, before Ryu could slap their hand away, picked Ryu up forcing her to stand. "Mama Mia?"

Mia only sighed, "Come on, have you forgotten everything? We have a broom and pan for that. You might be able to heal yourself, but that doesn't mean I want you to cut your hands. Go get the broom and pan." To Ryu, it felt like her voice was… subdued. Tired even.

She only nodded and walked past the open door. She forced her eyes not to shift towards the shock of white hair that she knew stood in the courtyard. She retrieved the items from one of the small storage doors and returned to the shattered remains.

It took less than a minute for all the shards to be swept up and thrown in the trash. Ryu couldn't help but sigh at another one of her failures. 'Really… I can't even do the dishes without destroying something?' Her mind forced her to think.

Mia glanced at the pile of broken ceramics in the trash, "Ryu… What's wrong with you? You haven't acted like this in… years."

Ryu could see the hint of concern in the dwarf's brown eyes. She lowered her head, "I'm sorry Mama… I don't know."

Mia could only sigh, "Come on out to the courtyard with me." She took three steps, then shouted. "Anya you lazy cat, get over here and finish the dishes like you were supposed to!"

Ryu flinched at the sudden volume but slowly followed Mia as she exited through the pub's back door. She noticed that Bell seemed to fidget a bit with nervous energy. "Right Bell, now back to answer your question. Ryu here was the one who decided to cover your meal."

Ryu felt her ears twitch when Mia spoke. Truth be told she didn't want him to know about that. She had already guessed about his nature, from the small bits she had observed him and what Syr told her last night.

"Miss… Ryu was it?" He seemed to fidget, before reaching behind him and holding out a small pouch, "You shouldn't have needed to pay for that." He bowed to her, she couldn't understand why. "Please, take this. It's the valis for the meal."

Ryu took a step backward, "Please… don't bow like that. I… don't deserve respect like that, and I'm not going to take your money. From what I was told, you got injured for my sake."

She could see the stubborn determination in his eyes. "That's not the only thing I need to give you." He reached towards the same pouch with the other hand, he pulled out a magic stone. Her eyes widened in recognition. "Please… take this back, it belongs to you. I… it wouldn't feel right to take something like this."

Ryu felt a brief flare of anger, but it was gone instantly when she noticed the sincerity in his eyes. She was also conscious of Mia standing there watching the two of them. "Bell… I can't… like I said before… take it. It's yours." She could see his determination to continue disagreeing, so she tried a different tactic to convince him. "Listen… on my way down, I passed by a group of adventurers and you know what they told me?"

Bell was silent, she could see confusion in his eyes. "They told me that you purposely drew that Minotaur away from them. They could tell that you were even newer than they were." That wasn't exactly the truth, but there was enough truth in the statement that she didn't feel bad for lying. "So, take it as a… reward for your bravery."

She turned to Mia, "Mama… if that's everything?"

Mia shook her head, "Not yet."

Bell shook his head as well. "I… didn't do that for a reward. I did it because it's what was right. If I were to die at least it could be helping others survive." He tensed his fist around the crystal tight enough that his knuckles turned a shade paler, "That… is what I believe in, that is…"

Ryu flared with anger and sadness as she moved and slapped him. Bell went flying before he could finish the statement, he crumpled to the ground unconscious. "Mama… I…"

Ryu heard Mia sigh again beside her. "Ryu… Go heal him. I understand why you did that, most people would just take advantage, but…" Mia paused for only a second, "Why are you so volatile when he is involved?"

Ryu shivered, she really didn't want to explain it again but judging by the look in Mia's eyes she wasn't going to be able to be evasive and not answer. So she sighed, "He… reminds me of someone who was once very special to me." She hoped that she didn't need to explain more than that.

Mia nodded, "I understand. But if they remind you of someone special, is that how you really want to be treating them?" Before she could respond, she held out a hand to prevent her from speaking. "Don't answer that. Just think about it. Now go heal him and I'll get Syr to watch over him for now."

Mia turned to leave, and Ryu couldn't stop them. She could only lower her head, pondering what they had said. She stood there for a full minute before remembering that she was told to heal him. She took the four paces it took to reach him and observed his body, she noticed a few details she had missed prior. 'Bandages?' She could see one wrapped around a portion of his neck, it had slipped off a bit and revealed a faded bruise. There was another on his left hand, and it was just her guess, but several more under his clothing.

She sighed, "What did you do after you left last night?" Still, she knelt down and placed a bare hand over his forehead, nearly touching them, and started chanting. A wave of healing energy washed over his body, after a few seconds he could see the bruise fading. 'Why… am I able to touch him without hesitation? It's… not just because of their resemblance, I'm sure of that now.'

She sighed and sat down in the grass next to his unconscious body. She glanced at how he was just crumpled on the ground, after a moment of hesitation she adjusted his body to be lying flat on the ground. Satisfied with that, she glanced up at the clear blue sky and waited for Syr to arrive.

X

Bell woke with a start, all his pain was gone. Still, he didn't sit up, it felt like he was resting on a cloud. "Wh…at happ…ened?" He managed, his eyes slowly shifting open. His view was almost entirely blocked by a face with light gray hair hovering over him.

He tried to shoot up when a voice started giggling. "Truly Bell? You are an interesting one." A soft hand was placed over his chest, "Now, now, no need to be embarrassed. Nobody will see you here." Syr's voice washed over him. For some reason, it was strangely soothing.

Bell didn't know what to say about what happened, so he asked a different question. "Why… don't I feel any pain?"

Syr giggled again, "Well after Ryu knocked you out. She used her healing magic on you and watched over you until I arrived." Bell felt her slender fingers running through his hair.

He couldn't help as a blush spread across his face. "I… see."

He could see Syr's eyes widen and fill with amusement. She leaned down and whispered in a voice so low, he had to strain to hear. "Oh, my Bell. Do you wish Ryu was the one here? Did you fall for our elf?"

Bell's blush exploded, and his pale face which was already tinged red became full crimson. He sat up despite Syr's protest. "N….n…no why would you think that!" He nearly shouted.

Syr skooched a tiny bit closer and held a finger up to her lips, "Shhhh." She pointed towards the Hostess, "They all have sharp hearing. If you yell like that, they might figure things out. Also… I can tell you're lying."

Bell inched further away, he spoke, but in a lower voice. "No… I don't know what you're talking about."

Syr only giggled lightly. "Alright, you keep telling yourself that." Syr shifted back to look up at the clear blue sky, "It really is a nice day today. What are your plans today?"

Bell shifted, 'Am I so easy to read?' But he ignored the thought and focused on the question at hand. He glanced up to see where the sun was to gauge time, 'Hmm so it's almost one?' He realized how long he had been knocked out. He could only sigh. "Well, it's too late to dive into the dungeon, fortunately, I wasn't planning on it. Not after last night. So, I think I'll visit someone I know and then prepare myself for the dungeon lessons my advisor throws at me." He couldn't help but chuckle at the thought, he would absolutely make sure he didn't tell Einar about last night. A part of him was worried about the consequences if Eina found out.

"I see…" Syr stood, "Well. Now that you're awake, I suppose I should get back to work. Mama will already be unhappy with how long it took. Honestly, we didn't realize just how hard Ryu hit you." She took a pair of steps to the back door.

"Wait! Syr…" Bell called out searching the area for the coin pouch.

Syr turned to face Bell. "Yes?" She asked sweetly.

Bell found it, stood, and walked over to it. "Here, can you give this to Ryu for me? She refused to accept it when I tried earlier." He moved closer and held out the small pouch. The sound of a few coins could be heard inside.

Syr tilted her head adorably, "What is it?"

Bell sighed, "The price of the meal I… didn't pay for last night. I was told she paid for it and… that isn't right."

Syr giggled for a third time. "Alright, I'll see what I can do. Under one circumstance." Bell raised an eyebrow but nodded for her to continue. "When you have a little bit more money, come back and request for Ryu. Due to her… nature, she doesn't get many requests."

Bell blushed, and he hesitated. 'With how expensive it is here, I don't know if I will be able to afford to come here often. Although with my most recent update, I should be able to travel deeper and earn more.' After that second of deliberation, he smiled softly and nodded, "I… think I can do that. I don't know how often I will be able to though."

Syr smiled and wrapped him in a hug. This caused his fading blush to return. "Thank you, Bell. I know it'll be hard for the both of you, but who knows…" She pulled a tiny bit closer so she could whisper directly in his ear. "You know Bell… Ryu has been more energetic since she ran into you. She's my best friend… and all I want is what's best for her."

Syr pulled away quickly, snatched the pouch out of his hand, and with a small smile she darted back into the Hostess. All of this took place before Bell could properly react, so he took a minute and just sat on the lone bench. It was made of stone and looked like it hadn't been used in a long time.

He took a dozen deep breaths, then a dozen more just trying to calm the swell of emotions. Many of which he didn't recognize. The main one he felt was joy or happiness, something that had seemed to be missing for a while. Besides brief spurts like when Hestia took him in.

He smiled and looked up at the sky for a few minutes, watching a handful of clouds slowly drift by. "I… suppose I should get moving. I… don't want to burden Mama Mia with my presence here." So, he stood and forced himself to leave the surprisingly quiet courtyard.

It was a little awkward moving through the Hostess, as they were now fully open for business. But fortunately, everyone seemed to be too busy to give him any real attention. He did notice Mia watching him, so he gave her a small smile. She only returned a nod, he thought he noticed Ryu watching him but he glanced at her as she was facing away from him.

He took a single step outside, and the noise seemed to assault his ears. He had grown used to the peaceful nature of that courtyard, which stunned him for a second. But he quickly adapted and started moving through the crowd.

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Bell hastily traveled through the crowd of people, he couldn't help but shake the feeling he was being watched. He glanced around, but couldn't find a source "Am I… just being paranoid?" He quietly whispered to himself.

His guard remained heightened as he turned down a few side streets. 'Let's see… Blue Pharmacy should be around here.'

Out of the corner of his eye, something caught his attention. A pallum seemed to be rushing down an alleyway in the distance. They were wearing a white robe with a hood, that was currently down showing a mop of chestnut brown hair.

He waited and watched for a minute, just in case they were running from something specific. But no, they didn't seem to be followed by anything. So he released a breath of relief as he continued walking down the side street.

It only took another minute when the sign labeling a shop revealed itself. "There it is." Despite having been there a couple of times, if he wasn't careful he would lose his way. He had no reason to hesitate as he approached the main door. There was an open sigh sitting in front so he just pushed the door open.

The Blue Pharmacy had no customers, Naza sat behind the counter against the far wall. Glass display cases filled the vast majority of the available space in the small area. At least a hundred potions of various colors and vibrancy were peppered around the cases.

They seemed to be sorted by type and then price. More mundane potions towards the door that were a strange orange color. Near the counter were the red and blue potions. Their were more vibrant the colors the closer they were to eye level, in an attempt to hide the cheap options.

A small bell rang over Bell's head as he entered. A voice caught his attention. "Welcome!" He glanced at Naza who was sitting, her tail seemed to be wagging slightly. "Ah, Bell. How can I help you today? Did you finally develop magic? If so, I have a decent deal on mind potions."

He winced at her sales pitch, mostly because he wanted to accept it. But he couldn't mostly due to not having any magic. That fact hurt a tiny bit, he'd always wanted magic. "Sorry Naza, not yet. Is Lord Miach available? I just wanted to thank him."

Naza's droopy eyes seemed to fall slightly, and even her tail stopped moving revealing her disappointment. "That's a shame. But let me go check, wait there for a moment." She stood and started walking into the back room.

Bell simply waited patiently, he did however look at the prices for health potions. He sighed, 'Well not getting any of those. They are almost double my available funds. I… wish I would've gathered the stones from last night.' From what he could remember, which wasn't much as he was so focused on his frustration at the time, he probably would've been able to afford two moderate-quality potions. He cursed his stupidity again, 'Such a waste when I can't afford to be too wasteful.'

Bell could hear approaching footsteps so he forced his mind back to the matter at hand, and a moment later Miach rounded the door. "Ah Bell, I'm glad you're up and moving. I didn't expect that. Not after whatever happened last night."

Bell nervously scratched the back of his head, "Well… it was difficult, but I got healed not that long ago. So that made it significantly easier." So, he took the moment after he finished speaking to bow to the kind god. "I just wanted to thank you. I don't remember how, but I assume you were the one to put me into the bed. I know Goddess wouldn't have been able to."

Miach took a step forward and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Bell, don't bow to me. I just helped a friend, there is no reason to be thankful. If the situation was reversed, I know you would've done the same if not more."

Bell hesitated but raised his head. "Lord Miach…" He reached for another pouch, he padded it, and realized something was missing. 'The stone… I never picked it back up after I was knocked unconscious.' He sighed internally, 'That's probably for the best even if it's a shame.' He ignored the disappointment and grabbed the other pouch in his hip pouch. "I know it's not enough to cover the potion or potions you used, but please accept it."

He held out a small pouch, it contained the last of his funds. Miach shook his head, "No, Bell keep it. I know your Familia is in a similar state as ours. So keep the valis and use them for something else."

Bell shook his head, 'First Ryu refused, and now

Lord Miach.' He noticed Naza's tail twitching in frustration. "I'm sorry Lord Miach, but I can't accept that. If what you say is true, then I double want you to take it." Miach was about to speak, but Bell continued before he could. "Please forgive my rudeness, but I insist. If you don't take it, then I'll give it to Naza who looks like they really want to take it."

Miach sighed, "Fine. You're stubborn, that's good at least for the dungeon. I'll take it on one condition." He held up a single finger for emphasis.

Bell nodded, "Alright. What's your condition?"

Miach smiled slightly, his eyes glimmered slightly. "Bell, I'll only take this money. If you accept a 50% discount on the next potion you purchase."

Naza gaped behind Miach, and Bell could only sigh. "Alright, fine. But I'm buying the cheapest option you have available." Naza seemed to be clutching at her heart.

Miach's eyes narrowed a tiny bit but he sighed. "Alright, a deal is a deal." He slowly grabbed the pouch, he seemed to hesitate for a moment. Like he wanted to say or do something, but he didn't. He took the coin pouch and slipped it into his robe.

Bell bowed again, "Thank you Lord Miach, but unfortunately, I have to go. I got lessons in a couple of hours."

He turned to leave but Miach called out to him. "Bell…" He turned to face the overly kind god. "Just be careful in the dungeon alright? You never know what can happen. Especially seeing your condition last night."

Bell smiled at them, "I will do my best. Have a good day Naza, Lord Miach." and before they could say anything back he was already outside of the door.

He moved quickly, back up the many side streets. "What am I going to do for the next handful of hours?" Eina would expect him at six, it was just about to hit two. "So… almost four hours. I could enter the dungeon, but I don't have my pouches to carry things."

He quickly calculated the time it would take to run home, grab the pouches, and run to the dungeon. "It would probably take about half an hour, but realistically what else am I going to do with my time?" So despite his words to Syr and Miach'w warning he decided to do just that.

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.

The first three floors blazed through in the blink of an eye, he was moving so much faster than before. He had only encountered three goblins and a single lone Kobold which felt odd to Bell. He gathered the crystals, he wasn't going to be in for long so he would gather as much as possible.

'Those numbers for my update this Morning. Was that change so extreme? Or do I just feel much faster due to no longer hurting?' He thought for a moment as his elven short sword lopped off the head of an approaching goblin. "Maybe a bit of both honestly." He said with a small sigh.

Despite having accepted the loss of the minotaur crystal, it was still a shame that he wouldn't be able to return it to them. A thought crossed his mind as he flipped backward out of the reach of a kobold's attempt to bite him. 'I'm such an idiot. Why didn't I just turn the crystal in and give them the money for it? She probably wouldn't have accepted it, but still.'

He felt like an idiot for not thinking of such a simple idea before. Bell stabbed it through the chest of a fifth goblin in a small pack. It felt wrong how easy it felt to kill these creatures. "Not even three days ago, I doubt I would've been able to. Why… did I start to grow so quickly so suddenly?"

There were numerous possibilities, but the easiest was that he unlocked a skill and Hestia was hiding it. "Depending on the specifics I wouldn't blame her. But I would still like to know. It's a shame I don't know anyone who could read the glyphs on my back."

He transitioned to focusing more on the enemies that peppered the area in front of him. 'Three kobolds?' Before they had a chance to react, he dashed forward, lopping off the arm of the first, and rotating to decapitate the second.

To him, the kobolds seemed to react much slower than before. So, noticing that he moved quickly and eliminated the other two in less than a second. After collecting the stones, he glanced at his weapon; he couldn't help but notice the slightest dulling of the blade. "I'll need to get this weapon sharpened soon."

Three hours had passed quickly, Bell for the first time really listened to Eina's words. He didn't go any deeper, he couldn't really until he got some armor. With a sigh at the shortness of the dive he started making his way towards the surface.

.

.

.

"So, fifteen kobold crystals and twenty-two goblin crystals." The guild employee was a werewolf with red hair, she checked them over before releasing a handful of coins. It was almost double what he gave to Syr for the meal.

He let out a small smile, "Thank you."

The werewolf sighed, "Of course. Oh right, Eina has been expecting you to show up soon. So, if you want to wait over there," She pointed towards a small cluster of benches. "She should be out soon."

Bell gave a small bow and did as he was told, he had arrived about half an hour early, but he didn't mind. The time gave him a moment to prepare for the lessons he knew were rapidly approaching.

He didn't get to wait the full half hour, ten minutes later he noticed Eina moving towards him. She had a small smile on her face… which wasn't a good thing when it came to lessons. He stood, held his head downcast slightly but accepted his fate.

"Bell! I'm glad you actually made it on time today. It will be an important one." Eina's smile didn't falter even the tone of her voice felt… happy.

'Just like every other lesson. Got it.' He silently thought before he bowed slightly. He was truly thankful for her lessons; he was confident he would've already been dead without them. "Very well Eina. If that's the case I look forward to it."

He gave a small smile and bowed. This seemed to throw Eina off a tiny bit. "B…Bell, does this mean that you are really going to take the lesson seriously?" Bell nodded, "Alright… well follow me. I had prepared a private room for the lesson."

X

For some reason, Ryu had felt off the majority of the day. It was obvious to everyone who knew her that something was bothering her. She sighed and tried to do the dishes again during the downtime between lunch and dinner. But failed as she snapped three plates in half.

Ryu jumped at the sudden prodding of her side. She glanced over to see her best friend. "Syr… please don't surprise me like that. I might have swung." She returned her attention to the broken dish between her hands.

She noticed Syr smiling. "Wow… Bell must've really gotten to you. What happened?" She was practically bouncing in place, her happy and energetic mood almost seemed infectious.

Despite Ryu not being in a great mindset she slowly started speaking. "Well… he wanted to give me money for not paying for his meal, which I was responsible for. Then he tried to give a magic stone back to me when I told him to keep it as… payment for his bravery, he just stated that it was the right thing to do."

Ryu started to tighten her grip on the already broken plate, and a series of cracks started to spread through the fragile plate. "You know he told me after that?"

Ryu noticed that Syr was slowly trying to move her hands to the trash can. "Come now, at least throw the broken plate away before you actually do manage to cut yourself." It took a great deal of effort, but she managed to relax her grip as the many shards fell into the trash. "Let's go out back, for now, business is slow right now so it would be fine. I'll take the blame if Mama gets angry."

Ryu wanted nothing more than to resist and stay stubborn trying to finish the task she had. But she always did have a weakness for Syr. So, she sighed and nodded before being half dragged out the back door.

The sun was high in the sky, but not in the middle of its passage. 'Two… no three?' Ryu silently thought as she was dragged towards the lone bench.

Syr leaned over and smiled at her, "Now sit and continue."

Ryu obeyed, despite her nature yelling at her to get back to work, to keep busy, to not let her mind wander. She knew that if she had too much downtime her mind would start wandering towards things she would rather not remember.

Ryu stared up at the trio of clouds floating through the air. "He… said that… he didn't do it for any rewards. If he were to die… it would be at least helping someone." She could feel a single tear beginning to form. She hastily blinked it away and glanced downwards only to see Syr staring at the ground with a serious expression.

"Syr…" Ryu quietly muttered. The seriousness in that expression was something Ryu had never seen before.

Syr blinked and all the seriousness was gone, and usually cheerful demeanor was back. "Sorry, Ryu. I was just debating something. What happened next?"

Ryu hesitated, the sharp change in temperament was startling, but she nodded and continued. "After he made that… declaration I grew angry at his willingness to sacrifice himself and I hit him. Knocking him out, I… he already had injuries from the night before."

Ryu held her head down, she felt bad for hitting him. An image of someone else appeared before her eyes unwarranted. She started rubbing her eyes trying to clear the image. She felt Syr grab her hand stopping her, "Syr…"

Syr let go of her hand and crossed her arms. "Why do you think he's like that? Also… do we know what Familia he belongs to?"

Ryu didn't know either, so she just shook her head. As she did, she noticed a purple object glimmering in the grass only a couple of feet away. "That isn't…" She stood and moved towards it as if drawn in by the shade of purple.

The light reflected off the crystal and seemed to sparkle deep within the crystal's core. She sighed, "He was so determined to return the crystal to me… and here it is now." She leaned over and slowly clutched the crystal in one hand. A portion of her wanted nothing more than to crush the magic stone.

She glanced at it again, now that the sun was directly on it, she confirmed her suspension. 'There is an inner glow… why is that? That…' She also noticed that it was a tad bit warmer than other magic crystals she had held before although that could just be explained by sitting in the sun.

She sighed and turned noticing the slight smile on Syr's face. "What?" She asked before tucking it into a pocket of her uniform.

Syr just giggled a bit, "Well… looks like he got what he wanted after all."

Ryu just sighed. "No… I don't plan on keeping it. I'll force him to take it and exchange it next time I see him." She clenched her fist; her knuckles cracked a tiny bit.

Syr continued giggling, "What is this going to be some skit between the two of you?"

Ryu for some reason she could explain blushed lightly and shook her head in the negative. "No. Even if I have to force him to swallow the crystal. He is taking it."

Syr tilted her head to the side, seeming to barely contain her laughter. "If you do that…, how will he turn the stone in?"

Ryu just stared at Syr for a long moment before sighing. "No… you're right, I'll just have to sneak it onto his person."

Syr couldn't hold the laughter in anymore. "Ryu… you do… realize how… immature you're… being about this right?"

Ryu crossed her arms; she didn't see what Syr was laughing about. "I don't see what is so funny. I gave the crystal to him. He tried to return it to me, but even if I wanted to. I couldn't exchange it."

Syr's eyes seemed to sparkle with mirth. "I know… after you sneak it into his pocket or whatever when he realizes… he'll just leave it as a tip the next time he comes. Then this can continue for months until the crystal is lost or broken." She started to chuckle again, and Ryu watched her.

Ryu eventually sighed, "Whatever Syr. I need to try to finish the dishes."

Syr stood hastily, "Wait Ryu don't be like that. I was only joking! Besides, you never answered my question!" Syr shouted as she followed Ryu back into the building.

.

.

.

Ryu felt exhausted, not from the work. It was Syr, the entire day she didn't let the idea go. Over and over she would joke about the idea. But finally, she could be alone in her room. She opened the door and noticed something was off. More specifically, sitting on her nightstand there was a small pouch with a note underneath it.

Ryu clenched her fist, it looked identical to the one Bell had tried to give her before. "Surely he wouldn't have." She picked up the pouch and heard the sound of coins. Before she got angry she read the note.

…

Ryu, Bell was insistent I give you this. Truth be told I agree, you shouldn't have paid for his meal. But what's done is done. So I took his pouch with the task to give it to you. I knew you wouldn't accept it, so I'm leaving it here. Enjoy the money, Ryu.

P.S. Keep up the good work, even though I know it can be hard. I have faith that the future will be better than the past.

Your friend, Syr

…

Ryu sighed, defeated her emotions swelled but she forced them down. She distracted herself by dumping the small pouch onto the nightstand. Taking a moment to count the coins she groaned. It was nearly double what the price of the meal was. "He… probably was planning on paying nearly double as an apology for not paying last night."

She sighed again, scooped the coins back into the pouch, and left it sitting on the night table. She stripped out of her waitress garb and slipped into her sleepwear. Shortly after she collapsed onto the small bed and closed her eyes.

Ryu's mind kept shifting between memories of her former allies, both good and bad. Then to Bell who reminded her so strongly of her former captain. She couldn't help but chuckle. "What would you all think of my situation? Would you all curse me for living while you all didn't? Would you punish my freedom? Would you simply tease me like Syr does? If… only I could know." Her mind slowly shifted to sleep.

X

Bell glanced at the clock, it was almost ten at night and Eina didn't look like she was going to finish anytime soon. "Eina…"

Eina flinched, as she was about to flip a page over to continue. "Yes, Bell? Did you have a question about the Frog Shooter?" She had just finished describing the monster in extreme detail.

Bell scratched the back of his head and chuckled lightly. "No… I was just wondering if you had looked at the time?"

Eina shifted her head. "No… why?" She turned and checked the small clock on the wall. "Oh… sh… right. I still have so much I need to cover." She seemed to start panicking a little before taking a deep breath. "Right Bell. I need you to take this test for me to approve you to head deeper. You need to score at least a 90 on it alright? Even then I will Only Approve You To Floor 6. Do you understand? Starting on floor 7, Killer Ants start spawning, and. You. Are. Not. Ready. Do I make myself clear?"

Bell winced at the sharp increase in the volume of her voice. Not only that she repeatedly tapped his chest with every word towards the end. "Yes! I understand!"

Eina shifted ten books on the small table over and opened a small folder. She took a slip of paper out and slid it over towards Bell. "I'll be back in twenty minutes. You have until then to finish."

Bell glanced over the first section of questions, and he gulped. There were fifty questions, some were about floor layout, but most were based on the monsters and their pattern of attacks. Another was a list of drop items, and he would have to select what were actual drop items and put them in order of rarity.

Eina stood, "Right, and the time starts…. NOW!" She shouted encouragingly, a smile on her face. At least that's how it sounded to Bell. After so many lessons, he could tell the difference.

Bell grabbed the pen sitting next to a pile of notes. He could take a look, but he knew Eina would scramble the questions around so it would require more of his memory instead of notes. He barely noticed Eina leave the room as he started writing out the answer to the first question.

'Question One: How long is a Frog Shooter's tongue?' He smiled and wrote the answer. Having experienced what, he did last night he hadn't needed Eina to tell him earlier in the lesson. But all the same, he was thankful all the same for the confirmation.

Question Two: What is the best tactic to destroy a War Shadow?' Again, an answer he knew. He was starting to feel confident about the outcome of this test.

.

.

.

Bell had just finished the last answer when the door opened, his hand had started cramping five minutes prior, but he didn't let that stop him. Eina peered her head inside and smiled. "Times Up."

X

Eina wasn't sure if Bell would be able to answer all the questions in time. It was a combination of his knowledge and his ability to remember her lessons under pressure. Was her tactic a little unfair? Maybe, but she would stand by it. One's ability to remain calm and remember vital information without any true preparation was key.

She had also shuffled the questions around, as a representation that you never knew what the dungeon could throw at you. Again, she thought this idea was justified. Sure, the dungeon would keep at least some of its patterns, but it wasn't all that unusual for it to throw an unknown at someone.

Eina sighed as she walked down the hall containing the private rooms. She needed something to drink after talking for almost four hours straight. As she rounded the corner, she noticed Rose was still standing at the exchange halfway dozing off. 'Shouldn't her replacement have shown up an hour ago?' Eina quietly wondered but decided not to ask, she was already tired enough.

She paused at the water dispenser, smiled lightly, and grabbed another cup. She poured two and started making her way back. She had taken her time walking back and forth, in reality only seventeen minutes passed before she cracked the door open.

Bell looked mentally exhausted as he held his hand lightly, gently massaging it. 'Looks like it's cramped.' Her eyes glanced the page over from the door. She couldn't help a smile that appeared. "Times up."

Bell groaned as he leaned back in the chair he occupied in the small room. He looked at her and smiled widely, "Looks like I just finished in time then. Although, I'm not confident about the results but… it was an interesting challenge."

Enia walked smoothly through the door, closing it behind her with her foot. "Right, first here is a drink." Placing the cup on the wooden table produced a small clopping sound.

She sat opposite from Bell like usual and slid the page over towards herself. She quickly skimmed over the papers as Bell took a large drink of water. 'Hmmm, interesting.' She flicked her eyes upwards towards Bell, she could see the exhaustion clearly on his face. "Bell, why don't you go ahead and head home."

Bell fidgeted a tiny bit, "You're not going to tell me how I scored?" She could see his bunny-like features droop slightly in sadness. It made her want to pat him on the head.

Still, she shook her head. "No. It'll take time to grade, besides you already look exhausted. Go ahead. I'll be fine but stop by in the morning so I can let you know the results." Eina flicked her sharp eyes back to the paper. 'Compared to when we started a couple of weeks ago, his handwriting certainly has improved.'

She noticed Bell hadn't moved yet. "What's wrong?"

Bell scratched the back of his head. "Well… I was wondering if you wanted someone to guard you on your way home. It's already late and…"

Bell didn't finish his statement, and they sat there for a moment before Eina felt a chuckle bursting free. "No, you're nice to offer. But I'll be alright. Go get some rest, if you go to the dungeon tomorrow, you'll need it."

Bell sighed but nodded. "Alright. If you say so. Have a good night, Eina." He stood and moved out the door. Gave a small bow and smile as he closed the door behind him.

Eina watched the door for a couple of minutes. Then refocused her attention on the test. "Alright Bell, let's see how you did." She glanced over the first question, "Correct, but not how I'd phrase it."

X

Bell stood outside the closed door for a moment, debating if he should wait and make sure Eina got home safely. He shook his head, 'No that would just be creepy.' With his decision made, he made his way out. Although reluctantly.

The moment he stepped outside the guild building, his stomach rumbled loudly. "Right…" He scratched his head slightly, "I… didn't eat anything. What's available at this time?" His mind immediately jumped to the Hostess, but he shook his head. "No… I have a feeling that… wouldn't be a good idea."

He pondered for a minute, "No… I need to save my money. If I remember correctly, Goddess should've gotten some food. I'll just make something, then head to bed."

With his mind made up, he started moving. He took only five steps down the main road when he felt a pair of eyes watching him. He shifted around to find them, but no… there was nothing. He wasn't an expert, but it didn't feel hostile. With his white hair, he knew he stood out, "Maybe that's… all it is." The sensation lasted only a minute and then it was gone.

He sighed and made a quick pace back home. He was careful not to take a straight path to his home. He instead took several side paths, covered in moss and puddles filling every crack in the stone paving. 'That's right. It rained last night. Did that happen while I was raging through the dungeon?' He let his mind wander, and he almost missed the set of eyes again.

He glanced over quickly and saw an elf had been following him. They darted away, so Bell didn't get a great view. All he saw was long hair and pointed ears in the slightly darker alley. He was tempted to go after them and question why they were following him. But ultimately, he decided not to, 'Judging by how fast they moved… They are absolutely stronger than me. Level 2 or 3 I would have to guess.'

That brought to mind Ryu, 'How strong is she?' He sighed inwardly. 'There isn't any point in wondering.' Again, his stomach complained due to feeling abandoned. He rubbed it silently and continued moving. But this time he moved quicker, the entire way back he didn't feel any more eyes on him.

"I'm Home!" He called out, already knowing there shouldn't be an answer. He paced through the basement, took a quick shower, and looked at what was available in the cupboard. Truth be told there wasn't much, there was a half loaf of bread that was still good and a healthy portion of dried meat.

He didn't complain, it was better than having nothing and living on the streets. Just in case he checked the magic stone fridge. It was empty as well. "After the dungeon tomorrow, I really need to go shopping." He made himself a small list of items to get and tucked it into his pouch.

After a quick filling but bland meal of a dried meat sandwich he went to bed. He lay on the couch looking up at the basement ceiling. "I… wonder if I will ever get any magic." He sighed, there wasn't any point in worrying about something he couldn't control. He was exhausted just like Eina said, he closed his eyes, and it didn't take long for him to fall asleep. "I… hope… you're safe… Goddess."

…

Bell dashed down the never-ending maze-like tunnels of the dungeon. He could hear the stomping of a large monster behind him. It took five of his frantic paces to match one of the monsters.

He knew he couldn't keep the pace up for long. His lungs were already burning from the effort. He groaned out a small cry. In the far distance he could see a group of novice adventurers, he had no choice. He knew they would be slaughtered if he didn't do anything. 'If… only I had… magic to do something.' His mind told him as he ran.

He darted to the left at full pace as the tunnel split. It finally happened after the reckless turn down an empty hell. His legs buckled sending him stumbling to the ground. He groaned, his legs burned and shook from the effort so far. He took a quick glance, and a giant fur-covered fist slammed him into the ground causing him to cough up blood.

He was three inches embedded into the ground, he felt his lung collapse and sternum snap. Then the minotaur's hoof slammed into his heart, and the ground beneath him caved and sent him flying into a deep dark abyss. It was cold, not a hint of warmth existed as he fell.

…

Bell awoke with a small jerk. He felt like he was falling. He was panting, he rubbed his forehead lightly only to find it covered in sweat. His other hand rubbed at the phantom pain in his chest. "Really… a nightmare?" He groaned out. He sat up and his back felt stiff, he could've used the bed as Hestia wasn't here to claim it, but it just felt wrong.

He rubbed at his chest instinctively, checking for injuries he knew weren't going to be there. He breathed out a sigh of relief even as his heart pounded with adrenaline. He shook his head, "I… need to get ready for today."

He stood, and his back and hips felt stiff. "Maybe I should consider getting something else to sleep on." It didn't matter he couldn't afford anything anyway, not at the moment at least. So, he took another shower, to clean the sweat from the nightmare away.

He looked at his reflection in a mirror as he slipped his shirt on. His slender frame matched his young-looking face. His messy white hair was damp with water, he shook his head like a dog sending the last few clinging drops flying across the room.

With one last look in the mirror, he headed out. The sun was just peaking over the massive stone walls that encircled the entire city. "Hmm… it might be a little too early to go see Eina. Depending on how late she was up, I might as well go check."

To his best estimate, it was just past six in the morning. They did have a magic stone clock in the basement, but they haven't been able to spare a stone to power it. "Maybe that's something we can afford soon." He started jogging, he was careful to keep an eye out for anyone that would be following him. Fortunately, or not, there was no sign of anybody.

Bell glanced at the guild building; it was absolutely packed with adventurers of many different strengths. 'Probably trying to talk before going into the dungeon.' He glanced over the swarm of people. There was almost every race you could Imagine. People in heavy or lighter armor. Mages in robes, there were several dozen elves.

Bell sighed, 'It's a shame to always adventure alone. But there isn't much we can do at the moment.' It took almost an hour to get to the front of the line.

Eina looked tired but brightened up when Bell stepped up. "Ah Bell! How are you this morning? Did you get plenty of sleep last night?"

Bell nodded, "Yeah… for the most part. How are you doing?" He shifted a bit; he was excited to get back into the dungeon.

Eina gave him a once over, "You know… I would feel much more at peace if you had armor. You know what, why don't you save some money and in a week, I'll show you some cheaper shops. Do we have a deal?"

Bell scratched the back of his head, "Sure… Eina if you wouldn't mind."

Eina seemed to beam a bright smile at him. "Right. Now I'm sure you just want to learn the results of your test." Bell hesitated for a moment but nodded after a moment. "Well, I have good news, you scored a ninety-three on it. Just be careful alright. One last thing I have to… know before I give my one hundred percent approval." She leaned in close and whispered the last condition. "You don't need to be specific. But do you have at least one stat at H?"

Bell thought for a moment, normally it was forbidden to speak of your status to anyone. But he could make an exception for his advisor. He leaned in close himself and whispered his response. "Yes, Eina. Like you said… I can't be specific. But yes, all of my stats are in the H range." That wasn't exactly the truth, but he couldn't say his exact totals.

He noticed Eina looked surprised then relaxed just a bit, then leaned back and spoke at a normal volume. "Right… that's great to hear, and with that knowledge, I approve your adventures down to floor six. Just… be careful yeah? Especially without anyone watching your back."

Bell glanced down towards the floor, "I understand, regardless for now… I'll be extra careful. Thank you again, Eina." He gave a small bow and turned to leave. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed that Eina seemed to hesitate like she wanted to say something. But she didn't. Instead, she gave a small smile and called for the next person to approach.

The city felt quiet as he exited the guild like there was some sort of anticipation for some event. Bell shook his head to clear his thoughts, and quickly moved towards the tower and the dungeon.

.

.

.

Bell jumped over a reckless swing from a Kobold's clawed hand, Bell twisted as he landed avoiding another strike from a second Kobold. He jumped back two feet and slashed, removing the hand of the first Kobold. It squealed in pain as the second Kobold tried to snap its jaws around Bell's wrist.

In a single motion, he brought the elven short sword down, decapitating the second and kicking the first sending it flying back five feet. Before it could recover Bell jumped and stabbed it through the skull killing it instantly.

Bell wiped a little sweat from his forehead, only now noticing the scratch on his left forearm. "When… Did I get that?" He asked quietly, it wasn't bleeding, fortunately. He didn't have any healing potions, so he had to be careful.

Bell removed the stones, finding a single claw sitting on the ground. "Oh! Nice, a drop item." he picked it up and placed it in a separate pouch from the small stones he had been collecting.

In the distance, he could see the stairs down to the sixth floor. Despite his need to grow stronger to obtain his ideals, he hesitated. He didn't have any armor, and he knew Frog Shooters and War Shadows started spawning.

'That elf though… the way they begged…' Bell remembered the words Bete had said, he shook his head to clear his thoughts. "Right, I need to grow stronger. That way I can help those who have helped me. I… need to be able to hold out my hand to those who have yet to seek help."

He took the first step down towards the sixth floor. The dungeon itself seemed to be watching Bell as he descended, as he felt like something was watching him. But no matter how hard he looked or glanced around; he never saw anything. So, he ignored the sensation and pushed through the feelings of uncertainty.

The sixth floor, Bell had been here before. But he didn't remember it very well. He was in such a blind focused anger that he didn't even notice last time. But this time was different, he was calm, and he had Eina's lessons to fall back on.

"Let's see… there should be a straight tunnel with two splits immediately to the left." He muttered as he took the last step. He spotted the two tunnels. "I wouldn't call that immediate, but close enough." They were about thirty feet then eighty feet ahead.

He turned down the first tunnel, but he didn't have a great sense of direction or a perfect memory. Eina had pounded the layout into his skull so much that he could almost draw a map. He stopped twenty feet into the tunnel, the slightest movement caused him to pause.

He kept the short sword loose in its sheath, he focused his eyes on the location the slightest discoloration revealed his first opponent. 'A War Shadow.' He thought, he drew the sword completely and took another step before the inky void launched at him.

'Fast!' He thought as he was forced to bend over backward to avoid the razor-like claws. In that same movement, he jumped off the ground with his hands avoiding another swing. Bell retaliated by taking a swing that connected with the shadow's head. It shifted avoiding the majority of the damage, but screeched as the blade nicked the red orb that represented its eye.

That second it took to recoil, Bell pounced slamming the edge down the center of its head, splitting the red orb down the center. He stood straight, took a deep breath, and glanced to the left looking further towards the direction he was already moving.

At that moment, a tongue wrapped around his leg from the tunnel entrance. He didn't have the chance to react as his feet were pulled out from under him and his head slammed into the ground. His vision bruised, and it took a second for him to recollect his senses.

He contracted the muscles in his core, pulling himself into a sitting position, Bell slashed downward and missed his feet by inches but severed the slimy tongue. Without any hesitation, Bell jumped to his feet and stabbed down on its one large eye. Twice more before it stopped moving, breathing a sigh of relief he stood.

He listened and looked around carefully before nodding. He didn't see or hear anything else, so he cut into the Frog Shooter and pulled the magic stone out after a couple of seconds. If not for Eina's lessons he wasn't sure how long it would've taken to find it otherwise.

He found the magic stone for the War Shadow partially exposed in the center of its chest. 'Are all the magic stones in the center of the torso? What about monsters that are larger or are serpentine?' He shrugged and put the idea away for a future question to ask Eina.

"Alright… I need to be more cautious going forward." Bell took a deep breath and focused more as he continued exploring the floor.

X

Hestia watched all of her fellow deities' meander in the banquet hall of the Ganesha Familia home. Truthfully, she hated being there, but she needed to talk to someone in specific. She spent the last day thinking about how best to apologize and ask for a favor.

Hestia had grabbed a small plate of food; it had a mirage of various flavors. If Ganesha should allow it, she would hope to take some back to her child. "Bell…" She muttered his name. She was conflicted, she was happy that he had a real drive to push forward, to chase his ideals. But she was cautious about the entire scenario around it.

'Cor Iustitiae.' She thought the name of the skill, not wanting to risk speaking and having someone overhear her and start questioning her about it. 'The ability to grow rapidly based on his heroic ideals. He really is such a child.' She couldn't help but let a small smile spread across her face. 'But he is my child. I wouldn't have him any other way.'

A few gods seemed to notice the smile on her face and started whispering around. She immediately panicked and went to get another plate to avoid the whispers. She knew what the majority of the other deities thought of her choices. She did her best to ignore them, although one Goddess in particular always annoyed her. "Shrimp! What a surprise to see the likes of you in a place like this!"

Hestia didn't even need to turn to see who it was. "Evening Loki. How are you tonight?" She turned to see a goddess with sharp narrow eyes, and shorter light red hair pulled back. She was wearing a very fancy black dress that didn't fit her figure in the slightest.

Loki's face scrunched in annoyance, "Who are you and what did you do to the shrimp?"

Hestia wanted to laugh but resisted the urge. "Come on washboard, don't speak like that. We are guests here and I would prefer to make a positive impression in my first real public appearance." She smiled sweetly,

Loki's face turned red, and she was about to say something, but the entire hall gasped. Hestia turned her focus on the source, another pain. 'Freya… What is she doing here? From what I've heard she rarely makes a public appearance.'

Loki's attention was immediately drawn to the divine beauty. Freya had a soft smile on her face as she ignored the vast majority of the gods that ogled her, she was also moving straight towards herself and Loki. Hestia couldn't help but gulp as Freya seemed to look straight at her.

Loki took a step forward, "Freya! How are you doing? You have been around to any event lately." Loki was practically bouncing as she spoke to the Goddess of Beauty who was wearing an expensive-looking dress that revealed all of her curves in just the right ways. It was a pale white that nearly matched the smooth color of her skin.

Freya smiled sweetly, but Hestia could've sworn that her eyebrow twitched when Loki spoke. "Ah, Loki. I'm glad to have heard that your expedition went well." Freya's perfectly shaped hand pushed the stands of her silver hair behind her ear.

Loki just smiled, "It went about as well as expected. Exploring so deep and whatnot."

"Hestia dear, I heard you have an interesting child now?" Hestia took a step back as Freya spoke.

Loki looked between the two and crossed her arms across her chest. "Now Freya, why would you be interested in her child? I haven't heard anything about them."

'Well… you probably have.' Hestia thought but didn't voice her thoughts.

Freya placed her arms under her chest and sighed. "Loki, you've always been so nosy. But that's something interesting about you at least. Hestia, you have nothing to worry about. I'm just making conversation about an observation I've had."

Freya looked at her, seeming to have noticed how nervous Hestia seemed to be. "It seems that my presence has made you uncomfortable, Hestia. If that's the case I'll see myself out. Have a good night both of you." Without any further words, Freya turned back towards the entrance and started making her way out.

Hestia breathed deeply, when she heard Loki speak in a whisper. "Hestia… just a warning. Be careful around her alright. She… has a tendency to take children that interest her. I hope I don't need to explain any more."

Loki sighed, and rubbed the back of her head. "I haven't had enough alcohol for this yet."

Loki started wandering off towards the section that contained alcohol. "Maybe…" Hestia shook her head, causing her twin tails to go flying.

She glanced around the crowd for a minute, simply listening as the various deities gossip about many different things. She spotted Hermes off in the distance, 'Was he looking at me?' Her mind raced but before she could think too much about that. She spotted someone, a Goddess with brilliant flame red hair.

Hestia took a deep breath. 'Right… now or never.' Before her nerve could falter she approached the Goddess. "Hephaestus!"

She heard a heavy sigh from the Goddess. "Hestia… before you say anything. No, I don't have any money I can give you."

Hestia flinched. "Listen Hephaestus. I'm truly sorry about that… Do you have a moment to talk in private?"

Hephaestus single exposed eye rolled. "Fine, but you better make it worth It." She started walking down one of the hallways. Her nice crimson dress rippled like the fires of her forge.

Hestia didn't hesitate, she was honestly surprised that she would listen at all. Especially with how Hestia knew she acted when she first descended. 'This is… promising, but I can get my hopes up. I…' Hestia followed for several minutes in silence. The sound of their footfalls was the only sound between them. There were many sounds around them, whether it be drunken gods or Ganesha Familia members running around answering requests.

Eventually, they left the main building and walked to the side of the building where there was no other souls to be seen. At that moment Hephaestus turned to face her. Her one eye narrowed, "Well… what is it you want?"

X

Hephaestus watched and waited for Hestia's response. The only reason she had agreed to this conversation was the sincerity in Hestia's eyes when she apologized. 'I'm guessing she has found a child and that child was the cause of this change? When she first descended, she just leeched off my Familia and stayed cooped up reading all day.'

Hephaestus didn't have to wait long. "First…" Hestia bowed deeply, nearly bent at a ninety-degree angle, "I want to really apologize properly. How I acted before was inexcusable, and I know that tarnished our friendship. Honestly, I should be thanking you for removing me from your home, otherwise I never would've found my child."

Hephaestus nodded slightly, "I expected you found a child based on your change in behavior. Now, what's the actual thing you want?"

Hephaestus noticed Hestia flinch and then take a few deep breaths. "Hephaestus…" She bowed even deeper, "Please… please make a weapon For my child." Hephaestus started to grow angry but before she could snap at the small goddess, Hestia continued. "Please… let me explain before you get angry. I know I'm not asking for any simple thing, and I'm willing to sign a contract of repayment with you."

Hephaestus forced her anger to ebb away, as she took a deep breath. "Fine… explain. But just so you know depending on your reasoning I might have to cut all ties with you. Like you said. This is no small thing."

Hestia stood from her bow, and looked Hephaestus directly in the eye. "I know. My child, Bell, is growing… far too quickly. He is driven by his ideals even more than most. His ideals are going to lead him down a brutal path, and… I'm scared for him. He needs something that he can rely on even in the most desperate of situations."

Hestia took a deep breath. "I… all I want is for him to be safe." Hephaestus watched Hestia reach into a fold of her dress and pull out a piece of paper. "If you want proof of how fast he is growing… Here are his updated stats after a single day. It was a hard day and he spent the majority of the day and night in the dungeon. But here…"

Hestia held out the paper, Hephaestus had to admit that she was curious, so she took the slip and glanced it over. (1)

…

Name: Bell Cranel

Race: Human

Age: 15

Stats:

Strength: I84-G257 Endurance: I27-H186 Dexterity: H104-G285 Agility: H180-F337 Magic: I0

…

Hephaestus gapped at the changes in stats, 'That wasn't rapid growth it was growing in leaps and bounds. That sort of growth is dangerous though, and if what Hestia said is true, I don't have a reason to think she would lie, other than this Bell… well he'll have a massive potential going forward even if he doesn't have any innate talent.'

Hephaestus was about to say something, but Hestia continued before she could. "Hephaestus… as for a contract, I will repay you… even if it takes a millennia. I'll do whatever you want, I'll even work in your shops without wages to pay it off."

Hephaestus glanced down at the smaller goddess and she could see determination in Hestia's eyes. 'She's telling the truth.' Hephaestus opened her mouth to speak. "Before I make my decision, I've got to know…" She folded the paper back up and handed it back to Hestia, who slowly accepted it. "You said he's driven by his ideals? Dangerous ideals, what are they?"

Hestia showed a bit of concern on her face but spoke smoothly all the same. "He wants to be a hero… a beacon of hope to those around him. Someone that those around him can rely on, and most concerning of all… he has admitted that he would be willing to sacrifice himself so others can live. He's already nearly done so before he even had his massive jump in stats."

Hephaestus already had made her decision, but seeing the tears forming in Hestia's eyes finalized her decision. She sighed, "Fine Hestia I'll do it." Without any other word, she started walking away from the Ganesha Familia home.

Her mind ran back to another Familia… one that had been wiped out long ago. 'Maybe… just maybe this can be the catalyst for a better future. I wonder… will Hestia Familia be able to replace them in due time? Being led by such a captain it wouldn't be impossible.' She let those thoughts run through her mind as she marched towards her home, the sound of soft footsteps following behind her.

X

Hestia was speechless, she had taken a massive gamble and it seemed to have paid off. She had spoken nothing but the truth, even for a moment let her emotions get the best of her. But despite the initial frustration she felt from her best friend, she had agreed to help. That meant more to Hestia than she would admit to Hephaestus.

Currently, they were walking down one of the main streets of Orario, it was night time but the hundreds of magic stone lights were all lit glowing their ethereal blue-gray light. She looked at the lights and found the way they shone was pleasing to her eyes.

"Hestia." Hephaestus spoke suddenly, breaking her enraptured state.

"Yes?" She responded, forcing her focus was return to her friend.

Hephaestus turned to face Hestia, she hadn't realized they had traveled the entire distance in silence. She was currently standing outside the Hephaestus Familia home. "How are you feeling? Energy wise that is?"

Hestia thought for a few seconds, but the answer was a simple one. "I feel alright, honestly."

A smile showed on Hephaestus' face, "Good, that's good to hear. Come on, follow me in." Hestia's only reply was to have a smile on her face.

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"So… what type of weapon does the child use?" Hephaestus had asked rolling her shoulders as they entered her office.

Hestia thought for a moment, "He was using a dagger but it got shattered, he decided to have something with a little more reach and found a short sword that had worked. But I don't think he finds it a great match. He likes to be quick."

Hestia watched as Hephaestus walked around circling the room as if in thought. "What's the length of the short sword blade? And how tall is Bell? The sheet said he was fifteen so he will likely grow a bit taller."

Hestia had to measure it out in her mind, but after a minute she spoke. "The short sword was about thirty-six inches for the entire length so, probably thirty inches. Bell is about five and a half feet tall."

Hephaestus seemed to nod, "That could be a reason for Bell to be a little unsatisfied. The blade is a little too long for his body. I have an idea, let me get changed and we can get started."

Hestia stared at Hephaestus, "Wait… does that mean you're going to make it yourself?"

Hephaestus sighed, "Yes, I'm not going to go to one of my children for a deal between us. But you're going to help me in the process. You understand?"

Hestia nodded excitedly, "Yes I do! Thank you, Hephaestus!" Hestia felt ecstatic about the thought the Smith goddess herself was going to make Bell a weapon.

Hephaestus looked her over, "Just to be clear. I can't use any of my Arcanum to make the weapon. So it won't be anywhere near the best I've made."

"That doesn't matter, I know it'll turn out great regardless." Hestia was practically bouncing in excitement.

A small smile grew on Hephaestus' face, "We'll see about that. Now wait here, I'll be right back." Hestia noticed her glance at her. "Let… me see if I can find anything appropriate for you to wear. That…" She vaguely waved at Hestia. "Isn't any suitable clothing for smithing."

Hestia glanced down at her body, she was wearing a simple white dress with a light blue coat. "Hmmm… true. This is my only good outfit, it would be a shame to ruin it."

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.

Hestia looked at her new outfit, it felt a bit tight, especially around her chest but she didn't let that bother her. It was a red outfit that ran down to her mid thighs, with white accents. But the heavy apron, made of a dark brown leather, took away from the outfit a little. She also had a thick pair of dark brown gloves. "So… what's the first step?" Hestia asked, trying to ask casually.

Hephaestus now in a white button up shirt sat behind her desk in the office. The moon was high in the sky peaking through the window set behind the desk. "After all those millenniums you watched me, did you never pay attention?" Hephaestus sighed, "Well first things first. We need to plan."

Hestia looked at her and tilted her head, "Alright, so are you planning the design and materials that'll be used?"

Hephaestus smiled slightly, "Yes… although I already have the materials in mind. Since I don't have the strength to work with things like pure Adamantine, a softer metal will have to work. But Yes. What style of short sword is he using and do you know if he likes that style?"

Hestia pondered for a moment, "It's of elven origin and a single-edged weapon. As for if he likes that style…" Hestia shrugged, "I'm not sure. Although it is funny." Hephaestus raised an eyebrow clearly waiting for an explanation. So Hestia cleared her throat and did her best to stand like a proud mother. "He is in love with an elf. One that saved him."

Hephaestus chuckled, "Well I'll make sure to keep that in mind." Hestia watched the smith pull out a large piece of paper and a few art supplies. She dipped a pen into a small ink well and started drawing out the general idea of the weapon. "Well, style aside. I'm going to make the weapon twenty-eight inches long, with a twenty-two inch blade. It'll be a little shorter but be easier to maneuver in the dungeon."

Hestia watched in surprise as even as Hephaestus spoke, the rough shape of a single edged weapon was painted onto the paper. "Twenty-two inches feels a bit strange for the blade of a weapon."

Hephaestus nodded, "It's a little unorthodox, but not that strange. Normally twenty inches is what classifies the starting length for a short sword." She continued speaking without any difficulty even as she drew numbers next to specific portions of the outline of the weapon.

"I see. I think." Hestia muttered, she could guess what the various numbers represented. "So those numbers you jotted down are going to be the dimensions?"

"That's correct, considering the length of the bladed portion it needs to be proportioned properly. It would probably be alright even if it wasn't, but my pride wouldn't allow that." Hephaestus spoke and tilted her head looking at the paper. "The thing is making a good weapon that'll help a rookie as well as a veteran is a tricky problem."

Hestia nodded, so she watched in silence. Hephaestus sighed, put the pen onto a clean stone slab, and crumpled up the drawing. "Wait… why…"

Hephaestus looked at Hestia, "If I'm going to make you a weapon for your child, I'm going to keep making tweaks until I'm satisfied. And that one didn't feel right for the child's needs."

Hestia sighed inwardly, 'How could I forget how much of a perfectionist Hephaestus is when it comes to smithing.' Still, she put a smile on her face, she was thankful all the same.

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The sun was just beginning to peek through the window in the back of the room. Hephaestus had gone through dozens of slightly different designs and specifications. Hestia looked at the final design. It was almost the exact same as the original, except the numbers were slightly different. "Alright… this feels right. Now are you ready for the fun part?"

Hestia was just excited to be able to help. All she had done over the last five hours was make comments and answer questions. "I am!"

"Good." Hephaestus stood and moved toward a wall to Hestia's left. She took a single hammer off the wall; it was a black gray handle and head. One side of the head was what looked like a jagged set of purple crystals.

Hestia heard a click when the hammer was removed, and the wall started moving slowly revealing a modest room with a forge in the center, a few barrels off to the side. An entire wall filled with tools, including fifty different hammers of various sizes and proportions. There was a large anvil next to the forge, against the far wall was a series of rock clumps in a dozen different colors. She didn't have any idea where to start, despite having spent so much time with Hephaestus.

"Hestia, take that igniting rock and place it in the empty socket next to the anvil." Hephaestus pointed out a small red glowing rock that was currently sitting on the anvil.

Hestia nodded, and poked the rock, testing the temperature of it despite still wearing the gloves. So she did as she was asked and picked the glowing stone up and looked for the socket to place it into. It took a handful of seconds, but she found it and placed it into the socket. Hestia jumped back as the forge jumped to life immediately without any warning.

"Oh… sorry, forgot to warn you about that. Come here really quick." Hephaestus spoke in a loud voice drawing Hestia's attention.

Hestia took a deep breath, trying to ease the mini heart attack she just suffered. "What's… next?" She asked as she approached Hephaestus who was picking up the various rocks on the far wall.

"Now the metal. Depending on which one you choose will depend on the price." Hephaestus placed the rock back down. It took Hestia an embarrassing moment to realize they were raw clumps of metal waiting to be worked.

Hestia shifted, "Wait… you want me to pick?"

Hephaestus nodded, "That's right. All are different grades of Mythril. You will need to pick; I know you can't tell the slight differences in quality, but I have faith in you." Hephaestus patted Hestia on the back and went to start collecting the tools she would need.

Hestia panicked, pacing from side to side. She glanced at the five choices; all were a white with the slightest hint of blue. She looked at each and noticed that two were shinier, two were duller in color and one was set between the two. She didn't know the difference so her guess would be a blind one.

Hestia noticed that Hephaestus had just carried the last tool closer to the forger and was standing there waiting. Hestia had decision paralysis, she didn't want to make Hephaestus wait, so she chose the lone one.

As she walked back, she noticed Hephaestus smiling. 'Did I make the wrong choice?' She silently questioned. "Here you go… Hephaestus. I… didn't know which one to pick so I went down the middle between them."

Hephaestus nodded, "Well none were a bad choice, it was just the purity of the metal." Hephaestus picked up the metal and eyed it. "Looks like you chose correctly. The brighter ones have a bit of Iron in them. So, it's not a bad choice, as it would help the striking strength of the weapon, but detrimental to the Mythril's natural capabilities."

Hephaestus took a breath and continued, "The duller ones had bits of Adamantine mixed in. Which further harmed the properties of Mythril, but in exchange made it significantly more durable. You…" She lightly tossed the ore into the air. "Managed to choose the purest of the three, Mythril isn't bad for weapons, but its durability isn't great, its strength is channeling magic through the metal. Mages generally want their staff made out of Mythril for example."

Hestia felt disappointed in her choice. "That would be nice, but Bell doesn't have any magic and I… don't think he will get any."

Hestia felt a hand land on her head, so she glanced at Hephaestus who had a soft smile. "You never know for sure. Besides, if you're worried about the durability, that won't be a problem with what I have in mind."

Hestia backed away but found herself smiling. "I see. No, you're right, why be pessimistic. He has wanted magic so badly… I'm sure he will get at least one at some point." She rocked side to side. "So… what's your plan?"

Hephaestus' smile didn't falter. "Give me a couple of your hairs. I know that sounds strange…"

Without any hesitation, Hestia reached up and pulled a few out. She winced slightly but held out her hand with a couple of strands. "Alright… what else?"

Hephaestus was speechless for a second but could only chuckle. "Right, well now I'm going to tie them around the Mythril and we can get started officially."

Hestia watched Hephaestus take a deep breath and tie the couple strands around the ore. Then she placed the clump of metal onto a small plate and pushed it into the fire of the forge. The hairs instantly burned, Hestia watched in surprise as they sparked with Arcanum, the power of the gods, it also released an acrid smoke that burned the inside of Hestia's nose.

A few minutes passed, and the metal glowed a cherry red. 'That was fast! I'm no expert but I would've thought the metal would take longer to get hot.' Hestia glanced at the igniting rock, 'I'm willing to bet that rock does more than ignite the forge.'

"Hestia." Hestia snapped her focus to Hephaestus who was holding out a tool with two concave parts at one end, and a pair of two-foot-long handles at the other. Hestia guessed looking at it that you can squeeze the handles together to close the concave portion, her first comparison was a set of tongs that she used at work. "You're going to have to grab the metal with this and hold it steady on the anvil."

Hestia smiled, "Alright! I understand." For some reason, she felt so excited to be able to help. 'Helping a goddess of the forge make something how many can claim that!' Her mind raced but simmered down when Hephaestus looked ready to pick up a heavy-looking hammer.

Hephaestus glanced at Hestia, "Alright. Are you ready? Remember done flinch when I strike down. The handles are long enough that you won't have to worry. Go ahead and pull it out of the forge with those tongs." Hestia gulped and nodded.

Hestia approached the forge, the heat radiating off of it made her feel like her eyebrows would burn off. Fortunately, the heavy gloves she was wearing protected her hands. 'I am a Goddess of the Hearth. I can handle this much heat at least.' She thought building up her courage.

Hestia grabbed the heated metal with the tongs. Placing the cherry red metal on the flat portion of the anvil, and in a single swift motion Hephaestus grabbed the hammer with both hands and struck downward. Hestia did her best not to flinch, the impact sent a painful vibration up her arms.

Hestia looked down at the metal, it was shimmering a tiny bit and look a smidge flatter. Before she could think about it too long, Hephaestus struck again. This sent another vibration through her arms. This time she also noticed sparks flying off the metal, many would've landed on her, but the heavy apron prevented that.

This repeated twenty more times, before Hephaestus spoke. "Not bad Hestia, here put it back into the forge with the tongs."

Hestia was sweating from the heat, but she managed to grab the rapidly cooling Mythril and placed it back into the forge. She took a deep breath and looked at Hephaestus, "You know… this isn't all that bad."

Hephaestus chuckled, "We'll see if you can keep that attitude up in a few hours."

Hestia groaned; her arms were starting to ache from the vibrations that ran through the tongs into her. "That's… alright. I'll do whatever it takes."

Hephaestus chuckled, "You must really care about this child." It was an obvious statement, so she couldn't deny it.

Hestia nodded quickly, then looked at the forge she could feel a light blush on her cheeks. "It's funny, as a pure Goddess I never thought I would want a family. Bell… almost feels like a son to me at this point, and I've only known of his existence for…" She paused to make sure she was correct. "Seventeen days. Do you have anyone like that in your Familia?"

To Hestia's surprise, Hephaestus blushed a tiny bit. "Yes… oh looks like the metal is ready. Go ahead, Hestia."

Hestia couldn't help but chuckle, as Hephaestus picked up the hammer. "Alright Hephaestus…"

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.

Hours passed, and slowly the pair flattened the metal into a flat surface. "So… does that mean you start making it into a weapon?" Hestia asked as she felt lightheaded from staying up so long, she didn't even know what time it was, and the temperature. Earlier Hephaestus called a Familia member in to bring them some water, so she wasn't dehydrated.

Hephaestus chuckled, "Oh no Hestia. This is only the beginning, now we have to fold the metal. That'll help strengthen it." Hephaestus glanced at the flat piece of hot metal. "I'll say we probably got a handful of more hours in the forge before I can start making it into a proper weapon."

Hestia wanted to complain, but she remembered why she was doing this in the first place. 'Bell…' She nodded vigorously. "Right, let's get started then."

Hephaestus smiled, and picked up a different hammer to the one she was wielding earlier. "Right, now… I need you to do something. Can you put a single drop of your blood on the metal, then again, each time we fold the metal?"

Hestia nodded, although it was a strange request. Still, she trusted Hephaestus, so she did as she was asked. She grabbed a needle and pricked her finger letting a single drop of blood fall onto the red-hot metal.

Hephaestus nodded, "Thank you for trusting me with this. Now place it on the corner of the anvil while it's still hot." Hestia carefully maneuvered the metal onto the edge and Hephaestus hammered at it, bending it. This continued until the metal was flat back on itself. "Now back into the forge."

Hestia nodded, "Understood!"

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Hestia's eyes shot open at the sound of an explosion of steam. She frantically looked around; she was lying on the floor in the corner of the forge room. 'When…' Hephaestus was holding the tongs, she had been using recently, it looked like she was holding something in one of the barrels a few feet away from the forge.

She sat up and Hephaestus must've noticed. "Ah good you're awake. Sorry, I didn't expect you to pass out. Can you stand?"

Hestia obliged and tried to stand, she felt lightheaded, but it was easily manageable. "How… long was I asleep for?"

"Asleep would be a generous term. But only for an hour. Here come take a look." Hephaestus returned her focus to the tongs and pulled the object out.

Hestia's eyes widened as the white metal was pulled out from the barrel. The metal was in a rough blade shape and seemed to have a soft bluish shimmer. "Hephaestus that!" Hestia could see a strange mixture of pride and shame in the smith's eye.

"Yes Hestia, now it's time to make this hunk of metal into a weapon. Go drink some water and we can continue." Hephaestus ordered before taking to a grinding wheel.

Hestia listened, she suspected she had fainted from exhaustion, heat and not taking in enough water. She drank deeply from the large cup that sat on a small table.

She turned back and could see Hephaestus looking at the half-formed weapon. "Is… everything alright?" Hestia asked as she approached, she'd never seen such an expression on Hephaestus.

Hephaestus nodded, "Yes… it's just that since I descended, this might be both the best and worst weapon I've made." Hephaestus took her eyes off the metal and looked at Hestia. "Alright, go ahead and start working the grind wheel. I'll grind into proper form."

Hestia looked at the grinding wheel, it was a simple-looking device. A wheel attached to a seat with a place to put your feet. By pushing with your legs, you can rotate the wheel. She had seen Hephaestus use something similar enough times to get the idea. Truthfully, she was happy it wasn't going to be using her upper body, it felt like her arms would fall off at any moment.

The wheel started spinning slowly at first, but it built up speed. "Good now maintain that pace." Hephaestus told her, and she placed the metal up to the wheel and started grinding down to refine the shape.

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Hestia was there for more than an hour. Just when her legs were about to give out, Hephaestus stood straightening her back with a groan. She glanced at the weapon and smiled. "Good. I don't see any imperfections. Next, he needs to make a hilt, a small cross guard, and any decorations."

Hestia nearly fell off the wheel, when Hephaestus said they weren't done yet. "What… time is it?"

Hephaestus stared at the closed door, "Hmm… around six pm."

Hestia sighed, "Do you think we will be done by tomorrow morning?"

Hephaestus tilted her head slightly, "Hmmm… should be why got plans?"

Hestia half nodded, "Nothing set in stone… but I was hoping to go to Monsterphilia with Bell."

Hephaestus nodded, "Right… I forgot about that. Well, if we are going to get this done in time. We better get to work then."

Hephaestus laughed as Hestia groaned. "You knew this wasn't going to be a quick process. To be honest we are moving significantly faster than I expected."

That helped to lift Hestia's spirit a bit, "Right so… Hilt or cross guard first?"

X

Bell opened the door to the basement; he didn't shout that he was home. He sighed… he felt lonely without Hestia around their home. He placed a set of groceries on the counter in the kitchen, it hadn't been cheap. But with the extra money he made from diving deeper, it didn't hurt nearly as much.

He quickly put the food away in their appropriate spots and sighed. He wasn't feeling hungry, so he took the opportunity to clean up the dust that had gathered in the basement. After that, he took a quick shower and laid on the couch staring up at the ceiling. "When will you be back Goddess?"

He lay there for over an hour, just replaying the day's events in his head. "I wonder why they were bringing monsters up on those cranes." He thought for a moment but remembered that tomorrow was Monsterphilia. "Right… Goddess wanted to go to that event."

He turned and closed his eyes. "I… also haven't… stopped by the Hostess… I should probably… do that soon. I… did make that promise… after all."

He was tired mentally from Eina's lessons, and physically exhausted from exploring the dungeon. But no matter how much he tried or how long he waited… sleep just seemed to escape his grasp. The small clock on the wall revealed that it was just after three in the morning, he had replaced the small stone powering it. it only took a small goblin stone. "Sleep… What a pleasant idea."

Another hour trickled by, and he realized why he couldn't sleep. A small part was he didn't want to have another nightmare, the other which was the majority of the reason was that he hadn't heard from his Goddess in a handful of days. That concerned him, he knew that Hestia was at least still descended as his blessing was still intact. But she wasn't physically strong, "Could she have been nabbed? No… that would be outrageous, no mortal would do such a thing." At least that's what he whispered to himself, but he knew that was a lie.

When the clock trickled to four, he gave up on sleeping and stood. He didn't feel too exhausted anymore, so he stood and made his way to the kitchen. "I suppose I can make an extremely early breakfast."

Bell sighed, he had to hold himself back from making a portion for Hestia. "Why am I so affected now?"

He ate slowly, by the time he was finished it was already five. "Alright… I'm just going to head into the city."

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Despite it being so early, the city was swarming. Thousands of people were traveling up and down the main streets. Food stalls and gift stalls were already open. He took a glance at several, but having just eaten he wasn't very hungry, and he didn't have enough spare money to buy any of the inflated gifts.

Although one did catch his attention, it was a pendant with a sword pointing downward, the cross guard had a wing motif. He didn't know why, but it interested him. It almost reminded him of something he had seen once before. He struggled to find the answer for a long minute, and that hesitation caused the vendor to notice him looking at the pendant.

"Has this pendant caught your attention? I will say it's a very nice choice and a beautiful gift for someone you care about." Bell took in the seller; it was a male elf standing a little taller than Bell. He had a cheerful smile, with shoulder-length blonde hair and green eyes. The elf lifted the pendant so Bell could take a closer look at it. He was wearing dark blue gloves, his general outfit was colorful with splashes of green, blue, and white. To top it off he was wearing a darker blue hat.

Bell glanced over it; the detailed work was incredible. But he had a question before he got too interested in it. "Can I ask a couple of questions about the pendant?"

The elf smiled, "Of course, ask away."

"Do you know why it looks… familiar? It's like something I saw years ago, but the memory is fuzzy." Bell asked, closing his eyes and trying to remember.

The elf just sighed, "Sorry… I wouldn't know that. It was something one of my Familia members made and told me to put it out for sale during the festival."

Bell nodded and opened his eyes. He didn't recognize the elf, so he shrugged. "How much is it?" There was a strange feeling. Like something was drawing him to it.

The elf's smile spread. "First, might I know your name? Here I'll go first, my name is Thane Hire."

Bell shifted slightly, 'Where have I heard this before? Well, it doesn't matter.' He hesitated for a second, "Bell… Cranel."

Bell noticed the elf eye him over, then the smile spread. "I see… well I could let it go for three thousand valis."

Bell glanced at the item over again, he wasn't an expert, but he could tell by the quality of the item's craft that it should be much more expensive. "I see… are you sure? That looks much more valuable than three thousand."

Thane nodded, "I am… so are you wanting to buy it?"

Bell looked down at the item, then back up to Thane. "Alright… Like you said, this could be a good gift." Bell did his best to smile despite knowing that he had been suckered into buying it.

Thane's smile only widened as Bell dropped a few coins into their hands. "Alright, Bell here you go." Thane then leaned over and whispered conspiratorially. "You should wear it for the time being. I hear that people enjoy gifts more when it's something the other person has been wearing."

Bell didn't believe that in the slightest, but he decided to humor the elf and slip it on around his neck. As he did, it almost seemed to radiate warmth for a second before growing cool to the touch again. "We'll see about that. I hope you have a profitable day. I'm sure it'll be a busy one."

Thane grinned, "Oh I'm sure it will be. Have a good day, Bell." Thane's eyes seemed to twinkle slightly but turned to talk to another customer before Bell could say anything.

Bell sighed, tucking the amulet under his shirt, and started moving into the crowded street once more. He took a hundred steps and was forced to stop. He felt like he was being watched. Taking a quick glance around didn't reveal anything. The sensation was starting to frustrate him, but he continued to move.

.

.

.

Hours had passed, with Bell wandering around the city. Nothing else really caught his attention. "Hey… White Hair nya." A voice called out to him. One he vaguely recognized. He took a look around and realized where he was.

He saw the building standing proudly next to him. "Dinya't Ignya me. White hair nya!" The voice grew louder, and he turned to see the brown-haired cat girl standing waving at him. He looked to see the sign, Hostess of Fertility.

He quietly sighed; he hadn't been ignoring this place's existence. It would be more accurate to say he was giving the business some space after the scene he caused. He gave a small smile, scratched at the back of his head, and moved towards the cat girl. "I'm… sorry. I didn't realize where I was."

The cat girl huffed and placed her hands on her hips. "Well… Nya. I have a favor to ask nya." (2)

Bell looked at the cat girl, 'Is it necessary to say Nya so much?' He shook his head to clear the thought away. "Alright… What's this favor? Also, do you mind if I ask your name?"

Her tail flicked sharply as if swatting a fly. But a smile spread widely across their face. "Well… nya's name is Anya… nya. Anya knyaws your frienyadly with Syr the silly girl. She abonyadonyard us to enjoy the fesnyaval. Canya takes her the coinya pouch she left? Nya. I knyaw you're frienyadly with her. Afternya all she gave you the nyamous lap pillow."

Bell had to work his mind rapidly to try to understand what Anya was saying. He… just couldn't. His confusion must've been obvious as her tail seemed to stiffen. Fortunately, someone else spoke up before he could comment. "Anya, he's never going to understand you if you don't speak clearly."

Ryu walked around the corner, met his eyes, and looked away. 'She must still be mad about what I said before.' Bell thought, a slight bit of embarrassment filled him at remembering. He wanted to apologize for what happened, but he wasn't able to. He also noticed her clutching at something inside her waitress's uniform.

Ryu sighed, "Bell… What Anya is asking is if you would be willing to find Syr and take her coin purse to her. She forgot it here last night, and she didn't abandon us. She scheduled the day off a while ago."

"Well, obviously nya. That's what I said to Ryu, nya. You're pretty dumnya." Anya's tail flicked from side to side, waiting for a response.

Ryu only sighed, "Well Bell? Could you do this for us? I know Syr would appreciate it."

Bell scratched the back of his head, "I can… but are you sure you would want me to do that? Truth be told, I was just debating on going to the dungeon for a while."

Ryu nodded slightly, "I'm sure it won't be a problem. Judging… how you've acted since I met you. I know you wouldn't steal it. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised to find you putting money into her purse."

Anya held out a small purse with a light purple hue to it. "Here you… go White Hair, nya."

Bell hadn't exactly accepted, but he sighed. "Alright, I'll take a look around. If I can't find her in a couple of hours, I'll just come back and return it. Alright?"

Ryu gave the tiniest of smiles that faded quickly. "We appreciate it, Bell. May luck be on your side." She turned and left entering into the Hostess properly. Bell blushed slightly seeing the tiny smile. So, he was unable to respond.

He noticed Anya was waving her hand in front of his face. "White Hair! You'll Nyaver finyad your pray distracted like that Nya." A smirk spread across Anya's face, "Looks like Nya got new teasing material! Nya." She halfway shouted stunning Bell, before she darted back into the Hostess. "Nya Ryu! Nya's got a questionya for you!"

Bell couldn't help but let a small smile spread across his face at the way Anya acted. "Well…" he muttered lightly, "Looks like I turned into a delivery person." He half chuckled but didn't mind. A part of him… just wanted to be helpful to others.

.

.

.

Bell had been searching for more than an hour, and yet there had been no signs of the waitress. "Should… I just head back. If she needs the money, she probably would've already headed back to retrieve it… or it's a possibility that she thinks she left it at one of the stalls."

"Bell!" A voice called out to him. He turned, and to his surprise, Hestia was running towards him with a smile and was waving wildly.

A smile spread across his face; relief filled him. It had been so long since he saw Hestia, that he had started to think something had happened to her. He let some of the tension leave his muscles. "Goddess…" He spoke as Hestia wrapped him in a tight hug.

"Bell! How are you? Are you alright? Did you eat alright? Why does it look like you haven't slept at all while I was gone?" Hestia started barraging him with questions as she backed away from his embrace.

"Goddess… I'm alright, I'm just glad you're alright. I was starting to grow worried." Bell confessed his mind; he noticed a bit of regret in her eyes.

Hestia gave a slight bow, "I'm sorry, Bell. I… didn't think I was going to be gone for so long. I thought… I would've been back yesterday." Hestia twirled around so he could see she was alright.

"Alright… Goddess." Bell noticed something that was wrapped over her left shoulder. "Goddess, what's that?" It was a longer object wrapped in a black cloth.

Hestia's smile widened, "It's my gift to you, but for now, let's enjoy the festival. It looks like it's only just getting started." Hestia started moving towards the closest stand.

"Wait… Goddess. I should let you know. I'm going to be looking for someone as we go around." Bell thought it would be wise to let his Goddess know.

Hestia's smile turned into a teasing one. "Oh? Are you looking around for that special elf that saved you?"

Bell could feel a light blush forming on his face. "N…no." He silently cursed his stuttering. "No… Goddess. It's a waitress for a tavern I visited. The others asked me to find her and deliver her coin purse to her, as she had forgotten it."

Hestia raised a single eyebrow. "That seems very… inefficient. But knowing your nature. I doubted you could've refused. Alright then!" Hestia pumped her fist and gave a thumbs up, "I'll help you search for her. What does she look like?"

Bell scratched his chin, "Well… a little shorter than I am, about a year or two older. She has shorter light gray hair and eyes." Bell paused for a moment to think if there was anything else specific. "The few times I've seen her, she had her hair tied back, and… she usually seems to have a calm smile on her face."

Hestia seemed to twitch, "My Bell… have you fallen for another girl? You were… very descriptive." She chuckled, as Bell started to panic. "I mean… you were talking about having a harem. But you know what… so long as you are happy, and they are taken care of and don't mind. I don't really care."

Bell's slight blush erupted into a dark shade of crimson. "Goddess! It's… not like that alright?"

Hestia just padded him on the arm, "Sure sure Bell. Alright, let's get moving!"

.

.

.

Almost another full hour passed by as Hestia half dragged Bell to the many different stalls. He occasionally felt eyes fall onto his back, he did his best to ignore them. But it was growing harder and harder to ignore. "Hey Goddess… why don't we get one of those each and take a small break." Bell pointed out a small stand selling crepes.

His Goddess' face broke out into a fresh smile, "Alright!" Bell wanted to chuckle at how excited she was over every small object.

It only took a few moments to order the desserts, watching as it was made only seemed to cause Hestia to grow more excited with each passing moment.

They sat in a small clear patch of grass with the Colosseum in the distance. Bell knew from all the walking around that's where all the real entertainment was taking place. Hestia was practically bouncing as she took the first bite. She cupped her cheek with her free hand. 'She almost looks like a chipmunk with her cheeks stuffed.' Without any warning, his mind jumped to another thought. 'Why… Why do I keep getting the feeling of being watched? Why would anyone be watching me?'

He noticed Hestia looked right at him, "Bell… are you not going to try it at least? I know sweets aren't normally your favorite thing, but it's sweet of you to get one with me."

Bell hadn't even realized that Hestia had always finished hers and he hadn't even taken a single bite. "Sorry… I just got something on my mind." He took a bite, the sweet flavor was almost overpowering. But he would admit that it wasn't bad.

Hestia looked at him, "What's on your mind?" Hestia seemed to notice something. "Here let me get that for you." She tore the napkin that was wrapped around her crepe and leaned over wiping at his face.

Bell blushed but didn't back away. It took a few moments until Hestia was finished wiping at his cheek. "God…dess."

Hestia only chuckled lightly, "Now… are you going to tell me what's on your mind?"

Bell nodded, "Right… sorry. It's just for the last few days… I almost always feel like I'm being watched." Hestia opened her mouth to say something but was cut off by a scream coming from near the Colosseum. Bell immediately jumped to his feet and drew his elven short sword putting himself between the scream and Hestia.

A massive white gorilla was pacing back and forth, it also seemed to be sniffing the air as if it was looking for something. Bell had no idea what monster it was, but he could tell it was powerful.

Hestia grabbed his free hand, "Bell… what is that?"

Bell shook his head, "I don't know. It's probably a monster from a lower floor." He took his eyes off the gorilla and glanced at his Goddess. "You've got to get moving Goddess. I don't see any other adventurers in the immediate area, but I'm sure they will be here soon."

Hestia gripped hand tighter, "No… I'm not leaving unless you physically force me."

A roar, a loud one… Bell started to feel faint, it wasn't as loud or carried as much force. But it was enough to remind him of the Minotaur. He felt his knees starting to shake a little. He glanced back toward the Colosseum and his eyes widened in panic. It was charging straight towards them; the monster was ignoring everything else. Several stalls were crushed in its wake.

Bell didn't think, he acted on his instinctual panic. He picked up Hestia and started running.

X

Ryu stood next to the counter of the Hostess; she had a terrible headache. Anya wouldn't stop pestering her with questions, claiming she saw Bell blushing as Ryu walked away. 'I swear… if Anya says something like that again…'

It had been a fairly slow day for Ryu, to her surprise and to Mia's there wasn't much traffic in the business. 'I suspect they are all waiting until the events at the Colosseum are over.'

Still, she stood straight and still, waiting for any customers. The door was thrown open, and Syr ran in panting. She was wearing a light sundress, "Syr… I know you are worried about your coin purse…"

Ryu was cut off, as Syr spoke in a half shout. "Ryu! Please… I need you to go… Bell… he was being chased… by a massive white… gorilla."

Ryu's eyes instantly narrowed, 'A silverback?' Ryu took a step forward. "Syr what happened?"

Syr shook her head, "I… saw Bell in the festival near the colosseum… he was talking to who I think… was his Goddess… I was about to go say hello when… a scream pierced the air… that gorilla started running straight towards… Bell. He picked up his Goddess… and started running." Ryu was fidgeting as Syr spoke between gasps of air. "They… started running towards Daedalus…"

Ryu nodded, "Alright… let Mia know." In a single movement, she threw off her apron and the head adornment and bolted outside the door like a gale-force wind.

Ryu knew the strengths of a silverback, 'There's no way a fresh adventurer can handle that…' The moment that she was outside she leaped into the air landing on the roof of the closest building and started moving. 'Why… am I… so worked up? Why…'

A/N:

(1) I forgot to add falna from one of the dives. My bad. I edited the first chapter to the same stats. Sorry if that confused anyone.

(2) To much Nya? Let me know.

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Review Responses:

HildeVonKron: I apricate the kind words, like I said, this one will just be whenever I finish a chapter. Also thank you for reading Sylphid's. Freya will be interesting in this series I foresee. While I don't have everything planned out, I do have a rough idea up until a point.

Karlos1234ify: Cool

BreadStickBruce: Thanks

Blazeburn006: Ignored due to fat fingering.

Guest (Blazeburn006 second review): I know I already gave you your response to the review, but here this is. Bell's skill is indeed mainly driven by Heroic Ideals but also his sense of justice. So... if something happens to that sense of justice... well yeah. I'm trying to play more into the idea of Ryu's depression in this series as opposed to Sylphid's where it all takes place after everything happens. Thanks for the kind words on combat. As for the Hostess scene, it was a fun one to write, and yes Bell didn't even know her name until this chapter. Syr and Ryu can be fun to write. With Ryu being depressed and Syr being more of an upbeat person.

PainfulShock: Cool

pix25: Thanks

SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan: The changes are going to be a tricky beast in later chapters, and I might struggle to keep them similar enough to be recognizable. Hope you continue to read.

Guest: So first I'm hoping this is a joke review, because it's just feels like a troll. But just in case I will respond seriously. Fist Bell's magic, I have plans and won't spoil. As for him being good at everything, I would find that just boring to write. He is only 15, he might have had a slightly different upbringing but it's still Bell. I'm just going to ignore what you said about the Minotaur, because that is just stupid. So for the PTSD stuff, I do have plenty planned for the future.

Dman4869: Bell and Ryu! That was kind of the idea, that way characters that grow close to Bell don't just fall off after an arch or two. Yes, that is a core aspect of Bell I find, in canon if Bete was insulting Aiz he wouldn't have just sat there like a potato. Glad you enjoyed.

Pixie Duck: Things will change, but after a certain point thing will change drastically. As for Emerald Promise, I understand that. It's a series I kind of want to rewrite from the start as aspects I did enjoy in it that I have taken/will take into this series further down the line. Riveria/Bell is an interesting combo that is hard to make work. But the stories where it does work, I really enjoy the pairing. The elven princess and her rabbit.

KaddyD: Glad you enjoyed it.

Larro44-LL: Ryu is always an interesting character for me to write. I personally HATE canon Hestia, so having her play a role more of a mother I think will be a good thing.