Hello everyone, a new chapter is now released for the story. I hope you all enjoy it, and as always, I wish you all a great day.
Word Count: 9,902
Chapter 17
Bell waited in the empty hall for a couple minutes, his door was closed but his vision was filled with the memory that had been burned into his mind.
It was a strange image, Ryu topless sitting on him. But what he focused on, was the emptiness in her eyes. The lack of any emotion present, that… worried him. 'Should I have even left her alone to change? I…' He remembered how she didn't blush at all when she exposed herself.
The door next to him cracked open, "Alright Bell." Ryu exited, her rough traveling tunic back on. He could see the embarrassment etched into her eyes.
He gave a soft smile, "H…. How are you feeling? Anyway, I can help?"
Ryu seemed to think on it for a few seconds, "I'm… just processing everything. I…" Slowly she reached out, almost hesitantly but grasped his hand. "I… think I'll be alright… in time. I'm… sorry."
Bell gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. "It's alright to feel terrible… especially after what you learned. So, just… take your time alright?" Bell took a breath struggling with what to say.
Fortunately, or not, both of their stomachs complained at the abuse they had taken the previous day. Ryu's ears turned a shade darker. "Well… Haruhime did say Breakfast would be ready soon." Bell commented trying to push the day forward.
"Breakfast… yeah. I could use some, it could be a good… opportunity to get my mind off darker thoughts." Ryu commented but didn't start moving.
Bell watched for a few seconds; her sky-blue eyes seemed to be drilling a hole into the floor. Bell leaned forward and gave a quick kiss to her forehead, giving his best attempt at a bright smile when Ryu glanced at him.
Despite the obvious dark thoughts that clouded Ryu's mind, she gave a small smile herself.
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The pair sat at a table way too large for the Familia. Food could be smelled coming from the kitchen, but other than that they were alone. Their chairs were moved slightly closer than every other chair. Only five minutes had passed since Haruhime let them know, 'She's probably still letting everyone know.'
Silence was the only sound besides the occasional clacking of a pan. Neither had anything to say to the other, not at the moment at least.
Hestia was the first to enter, "Ah! I'm glad to see the two of you." Bell noticed how she refrained from asking how they were, it must have been obvious.
Still, Bell gave a small smile, "Morning." Hestia practically skipped to the head of the table; Bell caught her glancing at Ryu as she moved.
Bell did the same, he could tell her mind was racing towards darker thoughts. He squeezed her hand slightly, "Are you sure you want to be down here at the moment?" Bell whispered, catching Ryu's attention.
She returned the squeeze and nodded. "I… am. It won't do any… good to be locked in a room. Besides…" Her ears turned a shade of scarlet, "I… think it would be best… to stay next to you."
Bell opened his mouth to answer, but the door was opened as Lili marched in. She glanced at Ryu, gave a quick nod, and sat down. Bell gave her a small smile but quickly returned his focus to his partner.
'How… can I help? I…' Bell's mind raced as Welf entered the room, he looked tired. As he approached to sit across from Bell. He gave him a thumbs up and a wide smile, "Morning Bell. You know, I think I might have found a solution to you somehow always breaking the armor I make you."
Bell looked at the wide smile and gave Ryu's hand a squeeze. "Oh? Well, I look forward to putting it to the test." Bell half-joked, causing Welf to grimace.
Welf shook his head, "I… would rather you not test it that much, but I suppose it will be necessary." Welf placed a hand on his chin as he sat and started mumbling something about infused alloys.
Bell shook his head, using his thumb to rub the back of Ryu's hand. "Where's Haruhime?" She was the only one missing from the Familia.
Welf shrugged, "Not sure, but she'll be here soon."
Hestia was lost in her own mind as she stared into the open space, Lili was slumped in her chair staring at her empty plate.
Bell continued glancing around, and he realized something was off, and he started to form an idea. "Haruhime-dono is coming, she'll be here in a minute."
Mikoto exited the kitchen holding two plates of food, she placed them in front of Ryu and Bell. "Ah, Mikoto, thank you. It's good to see you. How'd yesterday go?" Bell asked as he nudged Ryu's leg with his.
Without any hesitation, she picked up the fork, looked around then set it back down. Mikoto gave a small bow and seemed to think for a moment. "I'm glad you're safe, both of you, but yesterday was routine. Nothing different about the dungeon."
Welf's eyes widened, then sighed. Bell gave a small smile, "Oh. I thought you were with Chigusa buying gifts for Ouka."
Mikoto raised an eyebrow, "No… I was helping…"
The door opened slowly drawing Bell's focus. Haruhime entered, a gentle smile on her face. A few seconds later, another figure entered the hall. One Bell didn't expect, "Eina! What are you doing here?" Bell half froze in terror; he fully expected to be given a lecture about something he missed.
His shout seemed to draw Hestia out of her stupor. "Did you not tell him?" Hestia stood, "Bell. Let me introduce you to our newest Familia members then. Eina Tulle."
Eina's ears turned crimson, as she gave a small bow. "I… look forward to working with you."
Mikoto nodded to Haruhime, who started moving to the kitchen. "Yesterday I was with Eina-san in the dungeon. She's rather proficient with her knowledge, but as she is still new to it we thought it would be safer to have someone with her. Especially with…"
Hestia spoke up, breaking Mikoto's stream of words. "Let's put that on hold until we are done eating. Just as they have much to tell us, we have several things to tell them." Hestia leaned back in her chair, as Haruhime left the kitchen holding two more plates of food.
Eina hesitated but sat down, "Umm… Miss Ryu. Can… I ask you for a favor?"
Ryu stirred from her mental turmoil for a second, "Yes… Oh sure, what is it?"
Seeing how Ryu reacted, Eina hesitated, but she nodded and pushed herself to ask. "Well… I've heard you are amazing at concurrent casting… while Mikoto and Lady Riveria have shown me and helped coach me… I was hoping that you might have a couple of tips to help… well not cause an Ignis Fatuus."
Ryu looked at the half-elf, "I… can try to teach what I was taught… but if you already received coaching from Lady Riveria… she already knows almost everything I could offer you."
The last of the food was brought out, with Mikoto and Haruhime taking their seats. "Honestly Lady Ryu…" Haruhime started as she closed her eyes. "I… would also like to learn. With how long… my chants are it could be useful. I… won't always have someone there to protect me as I cast."
Ryu nodded; her attitude seemed to brighten slightly as she focused on one particular thing. "Concurrent Casting takes… a long time to get right, so… don't expect immediate results. But I'll see what I can do." Ryu's face was neutral, but Bell saw her ears shift slightly.
Bell felt a small smile show on his face, 'Maybe… this will help Ryu, or at least keep her mind busy on other ideas.'
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Breakfast was delicious as usual, and Bell would be lying if he said he didn't miss the flavors. But time passed slowly for Bell as they ate due to his worry about Ryu mixing with his pending conversations with Hestia and the rest of the Familia.
Bell took a deep breath, as he stood with an empty plate. Ryu looked at him, to him she looked fragile at the moment. "I'll be right back." He gave her a calm smile, which she returned with a small nod.
He felt her eyes on him for a few seconds as he moved the attached kitchen, a shiver ran through his spine. He placed the dish in the sink and took a deep breath, "Hopefully… the others can keep an eye on Ryu for a little bit… or perhaps she should join me to speak with Goddess…"
He grabbed both sides of his head and shook his head. 'No… she needs to be supported by the others… even if it will be hard.'
Slowly Bell entered the dining hall, Ryu was the first to glance in his direction. He gave her a sad but warm smile, "Right. Here is what I think we should do today." He scratched his chin slightly; it felt a little awkward trying to take charge after being absent for over a month.
Hestia gave him a small smile. So, he continued, "I need to discuss a few items of importance with Goddess. In the meantime, Ryu… can you help them get started with the concurrent casting training?"
Ryu watched him for a long second, almost asking him to take that back. But ultimately, she nodded, "I… can try."
Bell gave her a warm smile, "That's all I ask." He turned to face the rest of the Familia. "Once I'm done talking with Goddess, I want a detailed description of what we've missed. I heard a few things just walking through the city."
He glanced at Mikoto, "Mikoto, would you be willing to help or to also take the lessons from Ryu? I know you've been practicing already, so having your point of view and feeling might help things progress."
Mikoto bowed sharply, "Of course Bell-dono. I'm still a novice at the art. So, getting the opportunity to learn from someone truly proficient will be a great opportunity."
Bell wanted to chuckle but held it in. "Good. Welf… Lili, I don't have anything in particular for you." He gave a soft smile to both of them. "But I trust the two of you can think of something." He clapped his hands, "Alright, for now, that's about it. I plan on spending the next couple of days getting my level up, so Ryu after all the talking is over would you be willing to spare some more time to spar with me? It will be a good opportunity for you to get used to your level as well."
Bell took a breath, and before Ryu could respond he continued. "Ryu… I know I'm asking a lot of you right now; I won't force you to do anything." He glanced out to the rest of the Familia, "That goes for all of you as well. I'm… still a complete novice in this department. So, please be patient with me as I try to take this role."
Bell gave a quick bow and held it for a pair of seconds, when he lifted his head all he saw was grinning and or smirking faces. Even Ryu, despite everything, had a small smile of her own. He returned it with a small one of his own. "Goddess… if you would."
At that Hestia stood, "Good luck everyone." She spoke as she started making her way towards the door. With Bell following directly behind her.
Before he left the room, he turned to look at his family. "It truly is good to see you all again."
This time Welf raised a hand and silently shooed him away. Bell felt a few tears forming, but he turned before they could be seen.
Bell took a deep breath as he started following Hestia towards her office. "Goddess, why don't you go ahead. I need to grab something. I'll meet you in your office."
Hestia turned her head, her deep blue eyes digging into him. After a moment she smiled and nodded, "Alright."
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Bell stood in front of Hestia's desk, he felt too nervous to sit properly. "Here you go, Goddess. This… I… Goddess Astraea had this in her possession that had been left for me." Bell slipped the folded letter from his grandfather onto the desk and slid it over.
Hestia eyed Bell for a second, "Oh? And how would they have known it would get to you?"
Bell took a deep breath, "It's… from my grandfather… or as most others would know him, God Zeus."
Hestia nearly jumped out of her chair as she processed those words. "Goddess?"
Hestia shook her head, "Sorry… I'm just surprised to hear his name… here." Hestia halfway glared at him, as if judging him slightly. She sighed and leaned back in her chair and stared at the ceiling, "Things are never easy with you, are they?"
Bell couldn't help but lower his head slightly, "I… suppose not."
They sat in silence for a minute, eventually Hestia lowered her gaze back to Bell. "Bell… why don't you give me a brief summary of that letter?"
Bell hesitated, and Hestia seemed to notice the hesitancy. "Bell?"
Bell sighed deeply and decided to take a seat in a chair, "Well… a very short summary… it talks about my lineage and how I was… created… and why I'm… no longer a true human…"
Bell felt a hint of frustration passes through him, but he suppressed it before it was obvious. Hestia quickly glanced at the letter, "Bell… All I can say is that learning this doesn't change anything. You think you are no longer human right?"
Bell hesitated but nodded, Hestia stood and started walking around the desk. "I won't sugarcoat anything about the situation, due to how it will affect you. But Bell, you might not be a pure human, but were you berthed from humans?"
Bell nodded, so Hestia continued. "You've acted as if you were a pure human before you learned this right?" Again, Bell nodded. "Then why are you second-guessing that now? From my point of view, you're still a human. You just have some extra potential, think about it this way."
Hestia took a breath then continued, "What about Welf? Do you consider him human?"
Bell didn't hesitate, "I do."
Hestia nodded and walked around behind Bell and hugged him. "Well, he has the blood of a spirit running through him. His situation isn't all that different from yours in that case."
Bell was going to argue the differences but gave up, "I…"
Hestia tightened her grip around him. "Sure, you might have changed a little, but you've also changed greatly before even learning about this. I still remember the wide-eyed boy who begged for my blessing with the dreams of starting a harem."
Bell blushed and lowered his head even more. "I… understand… I don't know if I'll accept it… but I understand."
After a few seconds, he felt Hestia pull away. "Good. Now, I have to know. Have there been any other changes that you've noticed?"
Bell hesitated but nodded. "Besides the 'off feeling,' you've mentioned…" Bell stopped, 'Wait… does that mean… no surely not…' He shook his head, "There has been one other thing."
Hestia didn't rush him, so he took a deep breath. "I… have a pool of Arcanum…" Bell caught her eyes widened by a fraction of an inch. "I… can't consciously control it… but I have used it once. While we were at the village Goddess Astraea was staying at, I managed it…"
Bell paused for a second, "It… seemed to react to my will. I didn't want something to happen, and it didn't… I… was left with symptoms of a mind down in the aftermath but… other than that, I'm fine."
Hestia, fully sitting in her chair, tapped her desk lightly, seeming lost in her thoughts for a second. "Alright Bell, I think I understand what's going on." Bell finally noticed that the light-hearted side of his Goddess was gone. "For now, all I can say is be extremely careful. From that letter Astraea left you, you might be a perfect target for that creature, as are every god and goddess. The only difference is that we will have a degree of protection as we can return to Tenkai."
Bell nodded, but he noticed his Goddess seemed to be looking past him blankly at the wall. "Goddess?"
Hestia shook her head, "Sorry… I was just trying to remember something. Was there anything else?"
Bell thought for a moment, "The only… other thing that could be worth noting. While I can't remember the details… I know I had a dream… something from my perspective… but it wasn't me."
Bell had his eyes closed tightly trying to remember, but he just couldn't. "Bell…" Hestia's voice broke his focus on trying to remember. "Why don't you keep a journal or something next to you at all times… that way if something like that happens again you can quickly note down what you remember."
Bell nodded, "That's reasonable… I suppose the same for Ryu in that case, she seemed to have a dream. She was whispering Argo…. Goddess… when she said that… it… felt familiar like a long-forgotten memory… I."
He shook his head, "It explains in that letter… but a soul was forced into my body when I was in the womb… I think… that's why."
Hestia gritted her teeth for a moment then sighed. "I'll… read that letter later. Bell… I have something I need to confess to you. Remember how I told you I wanted to tell you something?"
Bell only nodded; he had an idea of where this was going. Hestia opened a drawer in her desk and pulled out an update sheet, Bell saw that it was his, but it was different. "Bell… I'm sorry for hiding it from you for so long… I… you've had a skill since your first encounter with the minotaur."
Hestia slid the sheet over and let him look at the skill, "Liaris Freese…" He read the description. "I… see… I had suspected something along these lines, but why tell me now?"
Hestia lowered her head, "Ryu… she told me what you were thinking… about how you felt unfit to be a captain…" Hestia took a breath, "Bell… they all know the truth…" Bell stood sharply, his chair slid back an inch. "Bell. Don't be angry at them… I forced them all to swear to never tell you or anyone else."
"Why." Bell let the single word hang in the air as he glanced out the single window, he could see Ryu kneeling over the pair of Haruhime and Eina. A magic circle under her feet, 'She's casting something. Healing?'
"Bell… I didn't tell you for one main reason. Realistically tell me this, at that point if someone had asked you how you were growing so quickly, would you have told them? For example, Aiz when she was training you. If she asked, would you have told her?" Hestia's words shot through his skull, but he took a deep breath.
After a moment, "I… think I would've."
Hestia moved to stand beside him. "And what if she told Loki about it? Do you think Loki would want that potential outside of her Familia?"
Bell didn't have an answer. "I don't know Goddess. I… think there is only one that knows but they were sent back to Tenkai. Goddess Ishtar used a status thief to view my back, she seemed to be stunned when she saw it."
"Bell," Hestia whispered, then focused on where he was looking. "That's the reason I hadn't told you. I… was scared that someone would force you to leave me… and as time passed, I had grown so used to not telling you."
Bell for a brief second felt like slamming his head into a wall. But he resigned himself to a sigh. "Alright… I don't agree with your decision, but I understand it… so… the only real reason I've accomplished anything… was due to a skill…"
Hestia didn't respond to his quiet inquiry; she didn't have to. 'No… that's not the case. It helped to accelerate it… but no.'
Bell took a breath in and let it out. "Well… do you want to join the others in the yard?"
He could see a wide smile grow on her face. "Yes! I… think that would be for the best."
X
Ryu looked at the three adventurers that stood in front of her. They were about twenty feet away and about ten feet from each other. 'Remember how you were taught…' Ryu closed her eyes, then her voice echoed out. "Before we get started, I'm not a great teacher. I tend to go too far, so I… might push you too far. I just want to make that clear before we get started."
Her mind raced to darker thoughts the instant she stopped speaking, 'Goddess… I…'
Eina nodded, "I understand." Ryu heard her take a deep breath.
She glanced over to Haruhime who had a soft smile and nodded. "Right, so the first question. What is concurrent casting?"
Eina hesitated but spoke up, "The ability to cast while doing other things, such as running."
Ryu felt cold despite the sunny weather. "You are technically correct, alright. What stops most people from learning such an essential skill for an adventurer?"
Haruhime spoke up quietly, "I can see a couple of reasons. The first that comes to mind, mages are often… protected by others. This allows them to focus only on their magic. The second, and less so I believe, is the time it takes to learn as you stated earlier."
Ryu could see a glimmer of… something in Haruhime's eyes. 'Disappointment or shame." Ryu thought, "Those are both good reasons and correct answers, however, what I was thinking of was…" she had to pause for a moment to gather her thoughts, she just felt so tired. "It's a block in our minds, by that I mean you have to actively focus on too many things at once causing a catastrophic failure."
Ryu took a breath, her eyes flicked to a window she thought she saw movement in. "There are two paths to learn concurrent casting. First, the version most mages will learn, having your chanting become second nature. This allows you to focus on other things while you instinctively chant."
Eina's ears twitched slightly, but Ryu ignored it for now. "The other is much harder to accomplish. Learning to move without thinking about it. This allows you to focus purely on the amount of mind and the myriad of other things that could draw your focus."
"Now, are there any questions before we start practicing?" Ryu asked and looked at Eina who seemed to have something on her mind.
Eina bowed, "I do. How about you? Which method do you use?"
Ryu had to think for a second. "Mostly… the first I was taught… or well forced to learn to chant instinctively. After that I had started trying to learn the second… but I never got around to it."
Mikoto shifted, "I've… seen your concurrent cast against the Goliath. Are you saying that was the main thing?" Mikoto looked doubtful and Ryu could understand why.
Ryu nodded, "It was. You just have to remember I've had years to practice that. Both against monsters… and people…" Ryu shivered, she remembered for the briefest of seconds the dark ages. "For a long time, I would never have been able to do that."
Mikoto bowed, "I… understand sorry for interrupting. Please continue."
Ryu sighed, "I had asked if there were any questions, Haruhime?"
Haruhime shook her head in the negative, "Alright…" Ryu glanced around and found a suitable target. A lone large stone that stood separate from everything else. "Right, Mikoto, this will probably be easy based on what I've seen you do in the war games. So, I'll add some extra challenges to yours."
She glanced at Haruhime, "You only have supportive magic, right?"
Haruhime nodded, her long fox ears flickering. "That is correct Lady Ryu." Ryu could see her tail shifting from side to side.
"Understood. For now, when you practice, focus on casting it on either Mikoto or myself. As Mikoto is more used to the boost I imagine." Ryu turned to face Eina, "What type of magic do you have?"
Eina shifted, "Offensive… although, I can control where it goes by moving my hand or wand."
Ryu raised an eyebrow, "Alright can you give a demonstration? Cast and hit that lone rock and try twisting in a loop."
Eina flinched, "I… don't think I have that much control, but I'll try." Eina took a deep breath and started chanting.
A crane made of pure ice lanced out of the tip of her wand, Eina waved her wand in the air and the crane moved to follow the same path. Ryu got the idea of her magic, "Try to loop it by moving the wand in a circle pattern."
Eina did her best, but she couldn't get her hand to contort properly. So instead, she sent it flying towards the wall of the house.
Without thinking Ryu dashed and smacked it out of the air. She wasn't expecting it to explode into icy shards. She winced, but her higher level and magic resistance prevented any actual damage. Ryu sighed and looked at her hand, it felt… slightly numb. That numbness forced her to remember what happened last night.
Her… numbness.
"Lady Ryu!" Haruhime shouted, forcing her mind to snap to attention.
Ryu glanced over to see Haruhime jogging towards her. She gave a false smile, "It's alright, I just didn't want to have my lessons damage the Familia home."
Ryu clenched her hand, already the numbness was fading. Ryu noticed the shards of ice impaling the ground, 'I see…'
Ryu started approaching the group and Haruhime seemed to instinctively reach her hand out to grab Ryu's and look it over. Without thinking Ryu pulled her hand away, she could see the slightest of hurts in Haruhime's eyes.
"I'm alright Haruhime. Sorry… I… well. Elves don't like to be touched… with very rare exceptions. Don't think badly of yourself, it's… not your fault. If anything, it's mine and my upbringing." Ryu could see Haruhime's ears shift downward slightly.
Still, Haruhime bowed, "Al…right if you say so. But are you sure you're alright?"
Ryu felt bad about her… haphephobia, so she raised her hand so Haruhime could see it. "I am Haruhime. Between my level and my magic resistance development ability, it's alright."
Eina looked petrified at what happened, Ryu wanted to chuckle but with everything that happened she couldn't manage it. "Right. I think I get the basics of your magic." Ryu noticed that Mikoto seemed to be looking at her with… admiration. "So, a question, can you use your wand to control it so long as it's in your hand or touching you?"
Eina shifted uncomfortably, "So… long as I'm touching it, it can be used as the focus."
Ryu forced a half smile on her face, "Perfect. Then I have something else to add to your lessons."
Eina looked at her in confusion, but Ryu spoke. "Toss me your wand real quick." Eina complied and did as she was asked. "So. When you control your crane is it a conscious decision or is it automatic when you move your hand?"
"Automatic as far as I can tell. I still have to decide on where it goes, so it's hard to say for sure." Eina spoke, confirming Ryu's suspension.
She started twirling the wand around her hand, "So… you'll also be learning this. It might look simple, but it's not. Especially if you are going to be doing this while in the dungeon."
Ryu flicked the wand, and it twirled around her thumb in a looping motion, Eina's eyes widened in understanding. "I see."
"Right, back to the main topic for this lesson. Eina, for now, you are going to be casting and targeting that rock. Use as minimum mind as possible, the more mind you channel the more damage you take if you fail." Ryu ordered and Eina nodded. "Remember, for now, try to learn your chant better than the back of your hand. That is the first step, what are your capabilities right now?"
Eina shifted, "I can… walk. But that sets a serious strain on my focus."
Ryu nodded, "Tell me. Do you focus on walking in your daily life? Like every step you take." Eina shook her head in the negative, "Then why are you focusing on that when you are casting?"
Ryu turned her attention, as Eina thought, to Mikoto. "As you are more practiced, you are going to be running but I'll also throw rocks for you to avoid. Starting off slowly although I might accidentally use too much force. Are you alright with that?"
Mikoto bowed, "I am. Ryu-dono."
"Haruhime. You will be starting by walking, and if you feel that's easier start jogging." Ryu ordered, she reached down and grabbed a rock that fit perfectly into the palm of her hand. "Alright, time to get started."
Ryu jumped backwards, as three voices spoke. The moment the first word left Mikoto's mouth the rock was already flying through the air. Ryu did her best to hold back, but even then, she wasn't used to the strength her new level brought. She guessed that she threw it with the strength of an average level 3.
Mikoto's eyes widened as she was forced to bend backward, still, she managed to keep focus and started running around the open courtyard.
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Ryu's mind burned from several expenditures of mind, overall she had cast her Noah Heal seven times in the last hour. Each time she spent more than she knew she needed to, but it would've felt wrong not to.
"How's everyone doing?" A voice she longed to hear again, despite it having only been a short time, broke through the air. Her head snapped to see Bell and Goddess Hestia walking towards the group.
Eina and Haruhime were sprawled across the ground, Mikoto was standing but she was rubbing at her head. She had been lucky and only had a single Ignis Fatuus.
Ryu couldn't help the smile that showed on her face as she quickly walked towards her love. "Not… bad. This is going to be a long process, but I believe they can achieve the beginner level soon. Mikoto could probably get to the advanced level soon as well."
She wanted to reach out for his hand but held herself back, "That's good to hear. Why don't the three of you go ahead and take a break." He turned to Ryu, "Are you feeling up to sparing now or later?"
She sighed, "I… think I can manage now if you want." She felt exhausted from everything, 'Despite everything… I… would rather just sleep the rest of the day away.'
She silently spoke, and she noticed Bell tilt his head very slightly. "Ryu… We'll keep it short alright. That way you can rest some more." He gave her a soft smile, and that smile seemed to siphon some of her exhaustion away.
Still, she only gave a small nod, Mikoto stood up straight after a few seconds. "I… have to see this."
Hestia nodded, "I think it will be good to see." She glanced at the two prone figures. "Mikoto, why don't you go get Welf and Lili, why not have everyone here."
Ryu could feel her ears starting to burn, but she did her best to keep a straight face. "Well… Mikoto, if Welf is in the forge like I expect. Grab a couple of the dull swords as well." Bell spoke but kept his eyes on Ryu. Those calm and gentle ruby eyes seemed to draw her in.
Mikoto bowed, "As you wish Bell-dono."
Hestia eyed Bell for a moment. "Why would you want the dull swords?"
"If we are to spar with our actual weapons, that raises the risk of one of us getting injured. Plus, we will be still unused to our levels and might put more strength than intended into it. Also… Ryu, don't you need to get one of those blades repaired?" Bell flicked his eyes towards Hestia for a moment, then back to Ryu.
Ryu hung her head in shame. 'How… could I have forgotten… the last gift from…' Her head pounded at her failure to remember. But she kept a straight face. "Yes… that's correct. I'm surprised you remembered."
She felt a warm hand land on the top of her head, "It's alright Ryu. With everything that has happened, it's only reasonable. I don't know why I remember, it just clicked as I thought about using dummy weapons." She felt a little embarrassed at the affectionate touch, especially after he started rustling her hair.
Ryu could see Hestia smirking out of the corner of her eye. So slowly she pretended to swat the hand away, despite wanting the opposite. Despite the shame and regret it would've brought, a small part wished that things would've continued last night. 'His warmth… is almost… addictive.' She realized, when Bell didn't remove his hand at the false swatting, "Well… until they get here I… am going to rest."
She sat in the sun-warmed grass, despite the days growing shorter it was still warm. It took a second for her to realize that Bell sat down next to her, his hand still on her head. She looked up to see a wide smile on his face, she sighed and resigned herself to the embarrassment. Which only grew as Haruhime started giggling.
X
Haruhime stood off to the side, nobody seemed to notice but she had snuck off and got two of the high potions they had just in case.
She stared at both Bell and Ryu; they stood in the center of the grassy patch they had been practicing on earlier. Their poses were mirrored, swords held at shoulder level. The match had started a few seconds prior, but neither had moved.
Well, that wasn't the entire truth, she did notice that Bell's right foot shifted a few inches as Ryu's left did the same.
She could hear some impatient tapping from her left, Lili… the only person not to accept the pair. Lili opened her mouth to speak then it happened, Bell dashed at speeds Haruhime could only see as a blur. Ryu stood there and slashed her blunted weapon in anticipation.
The sound of metal colliding echoed throughout the courtyards. Haruhime heard Mikoto gasp, "A near-perfect block…"
Haruhime had seen it as well, Ryu had used the flat of the blade and forced the majority of Bell's momentum into the air, preventing her some strain.
Ryu responded with a powerful kick, forcing Bell to jump back leaving himself open. Ryu took that opening and jumped at him with a slash, the soft thump of dull metal hitting clothed flesh could be heard. Bell's left bicep had been struck causing Bell to wince.
This happened in just over a second, and Haruhime had to strain her eyes to keep up with everything.
Still, Bell wasn't idle, as he twisted and sent a punch that connected with Ryu's right forearm. Forcing Ryu to let go of the weapon with her right hand.
Ryu responded with a left-handed thrust.
Bell's blade glanced the blow off with a loud screeching sound, as metal rubbed against metal.
Bell twisted his blade to the side allowing the weapon to slip into Ryu's guard.
Ryu's right hand caught Bell's left wrist and strained to stop it.
The Bell smiled, Ryu raised an eyebrow and Ryu fell as her legs were swiped from under her.
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Over an hour passed, and they seemed evenly matched to Haruhime. Mokoto provided some commentary as Bell and Ryu took a break. "Bell-dono is a good portion stronger than Ryu-dono. But she has a significant experience advantage, which can add a lot."
Haruhime understood, "So… if it was a real fight. It probably would've been over with the first strike?" Haruhime asked softly, and Mikoto nodded in confirmation.
"His arm likely would've been broken at best or…" Mikoto stopped, but Haruhime didn't need her to finish the statement.
Still, Haruhime clapped as they approached. "How are the two of you feeling, need any potions? How about some water?" Haruhime asked quickly, but Bell shook his head.
"Thank you Haruhime, but we're alright. This has been a near-daily routine for the last two weeks." Bell gave her a soft smile, then focused on Ryu. "Ryu… I know I said this while we were traveling but think you can continue with that?"
Ryu seemed to hesitate, but after a second nodded. "I'll… try."
'What is he talking about?' Haruhime couldn't help but wonder as Ryu sat on the ground in front of them and closed her eyes. Bell sat next to her and grabbed her hand, one that Haruhime noticed was shaking.
She could see Lili roll her eyes, but Haruhime didn't mind. Her attention was snapped to Ryu as she started chanting. A soft forest green, with specs of white, a magic circle appearing beneath Ryu, Haruhime thought it was beautiful.
It wasn't the same as Noah Heal, it was a different spell. What was strange to Haruhime, Ryu seemed to struggle to cast the spell. 'What's… going on there?' She silently asked.
Ryu started to falter and Haruhime thought an Ignis Fatuus would happen, but at a gentle squeeze of Bell's hand, she managed to finish the spell.
White light washed over everyone in the Familia, and the dull aching that Haruhime had felt from her training faded leaving her to feel refreshed. She noticed that Eina and Mikoto seemed to sigh in relief as well.
Then the small bruise that was forming on Bell's cheek faded. 'Did she always have this magic? Or…' Haruhime wanted to ask, but figured now wouldn't be the best time.
Even as the spell pulsed out, and the circle faded Ryu seemed to slump forward in exhaustion causing Bell to catch her.
It was so subtle that she doubted that everyone besides Bell and Goddess Hestia noticed, but Haruhime for a second saw tears forming in the elf's eyes.
Haruhime smiled widely and bowed, "I… Thank you, Lady Ryu."
Ryu blinked at her blindly then blushed a little bit. Her eyes darted to the ground. "It… was nothing."
Haruhime could tell that wasn't true but didn't bring it up. Instead, she just gave a smile, "Here… to the both of you." She held out two cups, and when they accepted, she poured them both some water out of a jug that was sitting next to her.
X
Ryu's mind felt numb after casting that magic. It was much easier than when she had first tried, but with her mind already traced on darker thoughts it proved almost too much.
Still, she let a small smile be seen as Haruhime poured her some water. Haruhime's tail wagged slightly at her smile, "Thank you… Haruhime." Taking a sip of the water sent a chill down her spine, it was cold despite the warmer weather.
She focused on that sensation as she took another sip, she was content to just sit in the grass and do nothing else for the rest of the day, despite it still only being about noon.
A cough from Hestia forced her attention to return back to the world around her. "As fun as that was to watch, and as much as I hate to disrupt the atmosphere here. I… have to know what happened to the two of you. Especially… to Bell about three weeks ago."
Ryu could see her deep blue eyes drilling holes straight through Bell. Bell could only scratch the back of his head. "Ryu… I suppose if you're ready we can tell them about our travels." Ryu only nodded; she would let him take the lead. 'I'll adjust what I tell based on what he reveals… I really hope he doesn't reveal anything too embarrassing.'
Bell took a deep breath and opened his mouth to speak. "Alright, but to set some ground rules first. There are going to be a couple of things I… won't tell you. The majority of it though I don't mind."
Ryu breathed a sigh of relief and noticed several eyes turn to her. But when she focused on them, they returned their attention back to Bell. "Right… so, in short. For two weeks we traveled north, encountering a few animals but that was about it. When we reached the border between the forest and the mountains, we heard a scream."
Ryu unconsciously tightened her grip on Bell's hand, but she listened all the same, glad he didn't reveal that she had walked in on him. Or… "Without any hesitation, Ryu here darted quickly towards the scream, with me following right behind her."
She felt her ear twitch at the phrasing, "What we saw… surprised us, an Amphisbaena was spitting fire around the forest. The scream, well that came from Lady Astraea, the same one we had gone to find."
Bell nudged her to pick up the story. So, Ryu took a deep breath, "We… fought the monster…"
"And by that, she means she distracted the monster as I got Lady Astraea to safety." Bell injected but remained silent as Ryu continued.
"Right… so I distracted the monster when I was about to get burned by their breath, I felt the shock through the air…." Ryu continued to tell their story.
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The fight was explained simply after that, up until Ryu admitted to being distracted by Astraea's shout. After that she refused to continue, so Bell squeezed her hand and picked up the story.
Bell took a breath, "I… felt my skill activate, time seemed to slow considerably. Left with no other option I… shoved Ryu out of the way from the monster's bite."
Ryu felt Bell shiver for a second, "Well… I couldn't make it out of the way in time and I felt the jaws close around my body."
There was a collective gasp from everyone around, except Welf. "Why didn't you just use the magic sword I lent you?"
Bell moved and scratched the back of his head. "Up until then… I didn't think it was necessary, from what Eina had told me it was weaker than the one you all fought…" Bell sighed, "I did end up pulling it out of my pouch after I felt the pain. I stabbed it into its snout and let the magic flow out. Each pulse unfortunately also shocked me. Well… until it died and turned to ash."
Bell shivered visibly, "I'll tell you, getting shocked like that isn't something I would recommend." Ryu realized that he was trying to lighten the mood, but he failed.
Eina looked like she was about to faint, as did Haruhime, Hestia, and Lili. "How… are you even alive?" Eina's voice broke the silence.
Bell shook his head, "Based… on what I remember and what I was told… I don't think I survived. Ryu… had cast her magic over and over until she collapsed from a mind down." Bell turned to focus on Ryu. So many questions ran through her mind, but she didn't get the opportunity to ask them.
"Lady Astraea… in that letter I told you the most important pieces that couldn't wait until later… one thing she said, is that she used her Arcanum to bring me back." Bell had spoken in a whisper, he was shaking.
Ryu could feel the tears building, as she wrapped her free arm around Bell and squeezed tightly. She heard Bell groan slightly, but he didn't try to resist. "I think… that was what awoke that change."
X
Bell only patted Ryu on the back, it hadn't been easy to admit that, but he knew it was important and relevant to what he was saying.
It took a handful of reassurances that he was alright. He could feel eyes on him, so he raised his voice, "Goddess… could you explain the changes on my falna to everyone."
Hestia after a shaking moment nodded, and she explained while Bell tried to comfort his partner. "Bell… is what we call a 'Divine Touched' human. Which in the grand scheme of things for Bell's future hopefully… won't change much."
Bell raised an eyebrow towards Hestia, but she completely ignored it and continued. "I… cannot say with absolute certainty that is the truth, but more what I… instinctually can guess at." As Hestia spoke her certainty faded, and she seemed to second guess herself.
"Either way, despite this sudden change. As far as I can tell… I am still me, so that shouldn't change anything. Alright?" Bell looked at each and every member of the Familia, they all slowly nodded. "Good… Now, while we were traveling through the city I heard some interesting things. What exactly happened while I was gone? I know you gave me the rough explanation of it."
Bell turned towards Eina, "And… Eina…" He did his best to put on a kind smile, "What happened that caused you to become an adventurer?"
Eina looked down; in something Bell would equate to shame. "I… didn't really have an option. I… was fired from the guild because they thought I was… falsifying documents."
Bell narrowed his eyebrows, "Is it safe to assume mine, because of how fast I level?"
Eina nodded, "That's correct." She turned her emerald eyes to look at Bell, "While it was a drastic change in my way of life, I can't say I hate it. Plus, all the knowledge I know can still be… mostly useful." Eina sighed, looked at the gathered Familia, "Well… I suppose I should go first."
Bell listened as Eina gave a short summary of events, ranging from her first dive to a few days ago when she dived down deeper than Eina would've advised Bell to.
"I see… That Dungeon Lizard is something to note, I assume you reported it? If I remember correctly, Lord Ouranos keeps the dungeon somewhat in check." Ryu had calmed down enough that she was listening, and reacting to what was said, but her mood seemed… muted to Bell. He held her hand tightly as they sat on the grass, even as she seemed to be staring at a specific patch of grass. 'Ryu…'
Eina nodded, "We did… but that was after what they went through." She nodded at the rest of the Familia.
Welf cleared his throat and nodded, "Yeah… like I told you we went on a mini expedition to gather funds, and much like Eina… we also encountered an irregular. It was an ice version of a Fire Bird. But that wasn't the real concerning part. The floor had changed layout, not by a massive degree… but it did."
Bell glanced at all of the Familia members, "I see… has there been anyone that has explored the differences?"
Lili shook her head, "Not that we've heard of at least. The Familia that would normally do such a thing would be Hermes Familia or Loki Familia. But both have been busy it seems."
Bell focused his gaze on Lili for a moment and nodded. "I understand." Bell glanced up to the clear blue sky, it had been a few hours. "Tomorrow, I'm heading to the guild. I need to let them know about my level up and also the official… transfer of Ryu to Hestia Familia."
He returned his gaze down to Lili, "Lili. What would it require to transfer funds from one Familia to another? I… was given two symbols of other Familia's with the instructions to transfer whatever is available to Hestia Familia."
Lili shook her head, "It depends on the Familia. But for the most part, at least of what Lili knows. You just need their medallion with their symbol." Lili seemed to focus on Bell for a moment, "Master Bell… what Familia emblems do you have?"
Bell hesitated for only a second. Then nodded, "Right… well the first is given to me by Goddess Astraea." Lili nodded, seeming to have expected that. "The other… well that's a bit more complicated. It was given indirectly by… my grandpa."
Lili only seemed confused, but Bell stopped her from speaking by continuing, "It… was the Zeus Familia emblem…"
The entire courtyard was silent, the first to react was Eina. "Wait wait wait, did you say Zeus Familia? Like… THE Zeus Familia?"
Bell nodded, "After… well it doesn't matter but yes. I was raised by Zeus. From… what I've learned, I am a child of a member of Zeus Familia and Hera Familia."
Again, the area was silent, everyone had heard of them. The two strongest Familia's in history, the two that defeat two of the three great quests. Bell shifted slightly uncomfortable, "I… feel like I will need to speak to Lord Ouranos directly for that one… I know… the remnants of them did terrible things. Even if it was for a good reason, they were still awful…"
Bell shivered involuntarily as he remembered what Astraea had told him about Alfia. He also noticed Ryu flinched slightly, he rubbed the back of her hand with his thumb.
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Talks wrapped up quickly after that, there wasn't much that needed to be said. So, Bell helped Ryu back to Bed and sat with her. "Ryu… I'm sorry for pushing you today."
She only shook her head, "No… Bell it's alright. I… think it was probably for the best. Get all… the bad news out in a single go." Ryu had her eyes closed, but a faint smile was showing on her face.
"Maybe… Do you want anything? Food, water, that sort of thing." Bell was ready to get almost anything for his mentally exhausted partner.
But Ryu shook her head, "No… I think I'm going to try to get… some more sleep." Her ears turned a shade of crimson, "Bell… I do have a small favor… to ask though."
"I'll do it." Bell answered immediately. He wouldn't care right now, 'After how hard I know I pushed her, even if she denies it… teaching, sparing, and all the talking right after learning of Lady Astraea's situation.'
Ryu chuckled, "You… should be careful with answering without waiting to hear what was wanted." Ryu opened her eyes and Bell could see several emotions playing through the clear sky-blue eyes. "Can… you embrace me as I fall asleep? I… don't… want to be alone… when I fall asleep."
It was a simple request, "Of course." Bell responded immediately, he chuckled lightly as he got into the bed and wrapped his arms around Ryu.
"What's… so funny?" Ryu asked lightly, an obvious hint of false frustration in her voice.
Bell just squeezed her tightly, "Nothing… I am just starting to think we both need something like this to sleep now."
Ryu didn't respond, she didn't need to. Her reaction was obvious as her ear turned from crimson to a bright red. Bell could almost feel the warmth radiating off of it. Still, he relaxed and waited.
Over an hour passed until Ryu eventually fell asleep. Her breathing grew easier, and her body grew limp. With but a single exception, she had clamped her hand around Bell's hand and was refusing to let go. So, despite the hundred tasks that he was sure he had to finish, he followed his partner and fell asleep.
X
Welf sighed as he walked down one of the main streets of Orario. For some reason, it had once again fallen to him to speak to Mia. But… he didn't mind honesty, he could easily tell that Ryu seemed to barely be holding herself together, and Bell was busy doing what he could to comfort her.
"Still… seeing them sparring like that…" Despite being a level 2, he could barely keep up with the rapid exchange of blows. He glanced up noting the position of the sun, "It's probably starting to get close to the dinner rush." Welf picked up the pace, turning his walking into a jog.
Welf took a deep breath as the Hostess' doors came into view. With a tiny bit of hesitation, Welf climbed the couple of stairs and pushed on the doors. The twin doors slid silently open, revealing the Hostess with about ten customers in the building. 'Good, I managed to get here before the dinner rush.'
Luniore approached, "Are you eating or confirming the reservation you placed the last time you were here?"
Welf nodded, "Just confirming, is Mama Mia available?"
Luniore showed him to the bar, "Wait here, if I remember correctly, she is preparing for the rush."
Welf sat and waited, despite everything he had experienced in the dungeon. This somehow seemed more terrifying. "It's about damn time!" A shout could be heard from the back. Welf silently sighed and waited. Fortunately or not, he didn't have to wait long.
Mia came from a door set into the back wall; her head immediately turned to look at him. Welf felt a nervous sweat run down his back but did his best to remain calm. "Afternoon Mama Mia." Welf managed out.
Mia approached, until she was just on the other side of the bar. "So, you want to finally confirm your reservation? When?"
"In three days. It will give them both to rest after their trip and… recover from other things." Welf spoke clearly despite feeling like a cornered mouse.
Mia raised a single eyebrow, "Is that so?" Welf nodded without thinking. "That's not a lot of notice, although I suppose I expected that. Still, I would've preferred five days…"
Welf had an ominous feeling, but he didn't get a chance to speak as Mia slapped her hand on the counter. "I got it. For such a short notice, I'll still go through with the reservation. But… you are going to be washing dishes during the rush." Welf hesitated, "Am I understood?" Mia had a bright smile on her face like she was doing him a favor.
Welf's will to resist crumbled away, "Alright…" he sighed and hung his head.
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Hours passed, and the rush hadn't ended until nearly ten pm. Welf was both mentally and physically exhausted, "Who… knew washing… dishes could be so… tiring." He muttered as he started the process of walking back home.
He knew that the employees were made of strong stuff, but he couldn't believe that not a single one didn't look exhausted. Even Syr, who he was told didn't have a blessing, looked fine.
He stretched and heard his back pop, he let out a sigh of relief. "Finally…"
The gates of Hearth Manor came into view, the lights were on like a warm fire welcoming his return. Without any hesitation he entered, Haruhime was standing there with a soft smile on her face. "You look exhausted. What happened? Did you eat anything? If not, I can prepare something real quick."
Welf shook his head, "I'm alright, fortunately, food was provided. Mama Mia had requested that I stay and do some work for such short notice for renting out the pub."
Haruhime gave a small bow, "Well… get some sleep."
Welf didn't even want to walk that far, but he nodded and forced his body up to his bed and collapsed without changing. He was asleep in a matter of seconds.
X
Haruhime moved around the Manor finishing all the tasks that she couldn't due to the training earlier. Fortunately, she had grown quite adept at such matters after so long doing them.
Her mind burned due to the strain of learning to concurrent cast despite having been healed, but more importantly, she felt like she really didn't have any talent at it. 'I… wish I could be more helpful, or at the very least defend myself…' But no, they had tried many different techniques and weapons. None of them helped, she was simply far too clumsy to make practical use of anything.
"Still… I should be happy I can do anything helpful, even if it's just my sorcery." She glanced out the window, as she cleaned off the last shelf that needed it today. It was a cloudless night, allowing the stars to shine beautifully and the near-quarter moon was glowing brightly high in the sky.
She felt a spark of excitement at the display, so despite her mind and body telling her to head to bed she instead left and sat in the courtyard. The same one where she learned how Ryu felt.
A soft smile grew on her face, "I… really am glad he chose you." She truly meant it, despite wanting a relationship herself she knew that it would never happen. "How could it… when…" she clutched at her heart and sighed.
An hour passed as the stars ignored her racing heart, all of them shone quietly… all except one. As a star shot through the sky, she remembered a custom… one she had long abandoned having given hope on her life.
But she had a new purpose, a new family, and a new life. She watched until the star vanished from sight, she closed her eyes and made a wish. 'I wish… for them to be happy. No matter what happens. That's… all I ask.'
"There you are Haruhime-dono. I was worried when you never came to the room." Mikoto's voice echoed over the courtyard, Haruhime opened her eyes glancing around at the stars and moon.
Haruhime stood and bowed, "Sorry Mikoto-san... I had some work to finish that I couldn't get to earlier." Haruhime straightened her back and put a smile on her face. "Go ahead, get some sleep… I'll be back there soon. I… just want to look at the stars a bit longer."
Mikoto watched her curiously, "Haruhime…" The drop in honorifics sent a shiver down Haruhime's spine.
Haruhime shook her head, "No… It's alright Mikoto. I…" Haruhime hesitated even as her tail shifted, "Let's go Mikoto… I think I do need to get some rest… I'm not… thinking clearly at the moment."
Haruhime smiled once again, but despite her best effort, she couldn't control the single tear that ran down her cheek. After a moment, she moved into the Manor as Mikoto followed her.
Review Responses:
meth0d: I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Blazeburn006: I admit there was a couple things I probably should've done better, but I am satisfied with the interaction with Ryu and Bell after she learned the truth.
pix25: Yeah...
Ryusaki: I... well thank you. As for Freya, we'll have to see. I know what I did in the original version, and I am debating on following through with that but with more... severity. As for Aiz... well, lets just say I might have an idea or two.
lonewolf1986: I'm glad you are enjoying it, despite it being similar to the original. As for word count... yeah, I didn't expect to exceed the original so soon.