So, I'm currently writing chapter 24 now. I paused for a bit after I had written chapter 23 and read the rest of SO first, but now I'm writing again. I really do start to roll out my new plot points after chapter 12, which is by design, as I always intended for the first 11 chapters to really be a prologue/lead up to the change in Bell, Syr, Ais, Ryuu, and Hestia, and lay out the roadmap of Bell's ongoing progress, in order to ease readers into the story.
Some examples of which will be the fact that I am using Laurier and Horn far earlier and I will modify his relationship with Lefiya too (Ais and Riveria also, as well as their dynamics with Bell and Lefiya). I've also unintentionally changed his party and changed the dynamic in the Hephaestus Familia a bit, but I think it is for the better, because this way we will get more of Tsubaki and Hephaestus. The Freya Familia is also going to be an interesting beast to tackle. Ottar is easy enough and I have some ideas for the Gulliver brothers, while Heith and Hedin will have important roles, Heith more so *hint hint*. I haven't got any ideas for Hogni yet, but Allen is the toughest, so I'll see how that goes. Horn is just going to be fun to be honest, two chapters of Horn and I'm already smiling at how much I can do with her later on in the story.
Danmachi season 5 is now confirmed with the first episode coming out on 03/11/24.
As I promised, if I got enough patrons I would do monthly updates for this story, so I will, but the spoiler will be pretty close. My spoiler is in chapter 12 which will be my November update and I doubt the Anime will reach that point in 3-4 episodes so the story would be spoiling the anime. If that is the case, I would advise people who don't want to be spoiled to wait until the December update, as I'm pretty confident they should reach the spoiler by December. My best guess would be they get to it around episode 6, 7, or 8 in the new season, which should be by December.
Again, for those of you who have read ahead, either through my pat reon, or the free snippets I've been posting on discord, or anyone who already knows, or simply doesn't mind being spoiled, read on and enjoy when chapter 12 drops and tell me what you think. I just want to give the option for people not to be spoiled, as even though I already knew the spoiler, reading it in the LN was such a dramatic moment and I wouldn't want to take that away from anyone.
Lastly, again an extra scene in this chapter compared to the free version on pat reon, but a smaller one this time.
Enjoy!
SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan.
Previously:
Bell would go and buy some mind restoring potions from the Blue Pharmacy while also letting Naaza know of his magic and that he had not been in the Dungeon recently. Getting some advice about potions, Bell went and spoke to Eina, before venturing into the Dungeon and practicing his magic, before leaving and debriefing with Eina. Returning to the Hostess of Fertility briefly, Syr would have Bell try her newest sandwich, before he and Syr would choose supplies for the dinner for the Goddesses. Elsewhere, Ais would speak with her former mentor, Riveria, and try to understand what made a good student and a good teacher, noting the differences between herself and Bell, before being reassured by Riveria to do what she thought was right.
Disclaimer – I don't own anything from the Danmachi light novel/anime/manga/games. All I own are my original characters and plot twists.
'Talking'
"Thinking"
*expression*
Flashback
Magic
Chapter 8 – Dinner with divinity
Bell had been working in the kitchen for an hour and a half already when Hestia arrived.
'Bell? Are you in the kitchen?' Asked Hestia, as she entered their home and took off her sandals.
'Yes, just a minute, Goddess!' Called Bell from the kitchen, before the sound of running water was heard.
As Hestia made her way into their living room, Bell emerged from the kitchen, drying his hands on a washcloth.
'How was your day today?' Asked Hestia.
'Ah, I got to practice my magic today with Miss Ais and then tried it out in the Dungeon.' Said Bell.
'So you went back into the Dungeon again?' Queried Hestia, getting a nod from Bell.
'Yeah, but just for a few hours because I wanted to have enough time to make dinner.' Explained Bell.
'Well then do you have a minute now; we should update your status before dinner time?' Asked Hestia.
'Sure, nothing is cooking now and I'm resting a few things.' Said Bell, before putting the washcloth down and taking his shirt off, before lying down on the bed.
Hestia made her way over to Bell and took her seat on his lower back as she removed her gloves, before pricking her finger.
'You've gotten a lot better at moving through the Dungeon.' Commented Hestia, as she observed his experiences, while she updated his Falna.
'Well I've had some training now, so I've gotten better.' Said Bell, causing Hestia to give a small smile.
'I'm glad your training is going well, how has Wallen-wh… *cough* Miss Wallenstein been?' Asked Hestia reluctantly.
'She apologised to me today for what happened with the Minotaur.' Replied Bell.
'Why did she apologise?' Asked Hestia in confusion.
'Ah… oh, I guess I never did tell you… the night I went into the Dungeon and cleared out the first four floors… I was embarrassed because of something one of the Loki Familia said about me… Miss Ais wanted to apologise to me because only Miss Riveria stood up for me, even though Miss Ais didn't agree with what was said.' Explained Bell.
'Miss Riveria? Riveria Ljos Alf? Honestly Bell, what is it with you and Elves? That waitress, your adviser, and now the High Elf Princess?' Grumbled Hestia, causing Bell to splutter out incomprehensible sounds.
'She was just defending me, I've never even spoken to her.' Said Bell, after a few moments of trying to pull himself together.
'Well at the rate you're going we'll see.' Whispered Hestia, before the light of the Falna faded.
'All done, here is your new status, Bell.' Said Hestia, after she had slid off his back, grabbed a piece of paper, and quickly filled it in, before holding it out to the boy.
Bell put on his shirt before taking the piece of paper and reading through it.
Bell Cranel
Level One
Strength: B-725 - A-805
Endurance: B-798 - A-815
Dexterity: A-824 - S-901
Agility: A-888 - S-925
Magic: I-0 - E-420
Magic:
(Firebolt)
• Swift-Strike Magic
Skills ( - )
'What do you think, Goddess?' Asked Bell, after reviewing his new status.
'Well, compared with your previous update, not much of an increase this time around, but your magic stat has gone up more than four hundred points.' Said Hestia.
'Yeah, I was practicing magic with Miss Ais today and didn't get hit as much today in the Dungeon either, since I don't have to get too close with my magic.' Explained Bell with a nod.
'Well, I'm not going to complain about you not getting injured so much anymore. My poor heart can't take seeing you coming in hurt every day.' Said Hestia sadly.
'Sorry Goddess, I'll try my best not to worry you so much.' Apologised Bell as he bowed his head, only for Hestia to raise his head back up with her hands on either side of his face.
'I know there will be times where you get hurt, Bell, I just hope it isn't so often. I know you will get stronger, but until then, it worries me when you come back injured.' Said Hestia tenderly, causing Bell to blush slightly.
'I understand, Goddess. I will make sure to avoid getting hurt as much as possible.' Declared Bell, causing Hestia to smile.
'Well, with that done, I better let you get back to cooking, do you want a hand?' Asked Hestia, releasing his face.
'No, that's okay, Goddess. Considering what I got in return, it wouldn't be fair if I don't do at least this much.' Said Bell, before heading back into the kitchen.
It was about an hour later that there was a knock on the door. Since Bell was in the kitchen, Hestia decided to answer the door, setting down her book on the sofa, having a good suspicion as to who it was, since they didn't really have visitors anyway.
'Ah, Hestia, how are you?' Greeted Freya, appearing mostly covered up with a robe, only her face largely being visible.
'Freya… please, come inside.' Said Hestia after a moment, moving to the side and gesturing for Freya to enter.
'How gracious of you. I do apologise for the imposition on such little notice.' Said Freya.
'Nonsense. It is thanks to you that my dear Bell is not being injured so much anymore. It would be rude to not offer at least some hospitality.' Said Hestia, causing Freya's eyes to widen slightly.
'Oh? So, was the magic Bell learned helpful? I must admit, I am excited to see it for myself.' Queried Freya, as Hestia led her to the table.
'It was, but if that is the case, I will not spoil the surprise for you, please have a seat, I will let Bell know you are here.' Said Hestia, as she gestured to a seat for the Goddess of Beauty.
Despite not entertaining much, Hestia Familia did at least have four simple wooden chairs at the table. Despite herself, Hestia felt a twinge of embarrassment, imagining what kind of opulent furniture Freya must have. Hestia made her way into the kitchen and saw Bell was pulling out a rack of lamb from the oven.
'Bell, Freya is here.' Said Hestia.
'Ah, I'm almost done, the pie just needs to rest for a bit, please go and sit Goddess, I will bring the food out shortly.' Said Bell, sending Hestia back.
'I will be waiting for you then.' Said Hestia, before going back to Freya.
The diminutive Goddess sat on the chair opposite Freya and stared at the Goddess.
'So Hestia, you never did answer my question, how are you?' Asked Freya, resting her chin on her steepled fingers.
'Fine. Bell is improving very quickly.' Said Hestia curtly.
'While I don't mind talking about Bell, I meant you specifically, Hestia. As I understand, you are working at a stand in the shopping district.' Said Freya, causing Hestia to flinch.
'Who told you that?' Asked Hestia.
'Many people. I'm curious, are you doing so to immerse yourself among the mortals and enjoy new experiences? It seems the children enjoy spending time playing with you, I'm actually quite envious.' Said Freya, surprising Hestia.
'What do you mean?' Asked Hestia.
'I also wish I could experience things like that, but alas, beauty does have its drawbacks.' Answered Freya with a small smile.
Hestia clicked her teeth in irritation at the perceived slight, before taking a moment to think on what the Goddess of Beauty had said.
'You're envious? Do you not have an unlimited number of… playmates?' Countered Hestia.
'A toy which does not change over time will eventually become boring. Is that not why we descended to see the mortals who are so good at changing in such a short amount of time?' Retorted Freya.
'So what, now that you are bored with the thousands at your beck and call you've turned your eyes elsewhere?' Asked Hestia with narrowed eyes.
'Please Hestia, no need to alarm yourself, I have no intention of stealing Bell away from you.' Said Freya, causing Hestia to gasp at the direct statement.
'What do you mean you have no intention of stealing Bell, he is a very special boy?' Asked Hestia, gritting her teeth as she said it.
'I agree. That is why I do not want to steal him. I want to see what he becomes and help him if you will allow it.' Explained Freya, rendering Hestia speechless.
'Why?' Asked Hestia after some time.
'It is as you said, he is very special.' Said Freya.
'So do you intend for Bell to be your new playmate then?' Asked Hestia with narrowed eyes.
'In a way. I find him very interesting. A boy full of surprises who is constantly changing. Does that not sound like it would be exciting to watch?' Conceded Freya.
'But you don't plan to steal him away or charm him… why?' Asked Hestia, finding she was growing increasingly frustrated with how vague Freya was being.
'Don't you think if the children you played with every day listened to whatever you said, you would find yourself bored after a while? Unlike the Gods and Goddesses, the mortals are much more interesting, don't you think? A child wanting to reach the domain of the deities, doesn't that sound like something exciting?' Asked Freya in turn, frustrating Hestia.
'Can't you just get to the point already?' Asked Hestia, placing her hands on the table to calm herself.
'As I said, Bell is very special. I wish to keep a close eye on him and help him, so I would like us to be friends if possible.' Said Freya with a small smile, surprising Hestia.
'…and if I were to say no, what would you do?' Challenged Hestia.
'I would not steal him from you… but I would of course ignore your wishes and still help him anyway.' Admitted Freya, leaning back into her chair, causing Hestia to sigh.
'I think I preferred when I was just uncomfortable around you because I didn't know what you were thinking. This honesty is worse.' Moaned Hestia.
'Oh my, but your honesty is one of the reasons I like you so much, Hestia.' Said Freya in amusement, bringing her left hand to her mouth.
'What do you mean he wants to reach the domain of the deities though?' Asked Hestia, recalling what Freya had said.
'Oh my, I do believe I've given away a secret I shouldn't have.' Said Freya, before lowering her hand.
'I would not want to ruin the surprise, but as I said, Bell is very special, and I am a Goddess of many things after all. War, fertility, magic which can be used to perceive and shape the future, sex, as you so clearly pointed out, but also, love. Let's just say there are many things about Bell that interest me. Today however, I simply came for his cooking.' Said Freya with a smile.
'Sorry for the wait.' Said Bell, entering with a large metal tray.
Hestia held her words and thoughts as Bell came out of the kitchen, bringing out their food. Bell made a few more trips, returning with the rest of the dishes.
'I've left desert in the kitchen until it is time for it.' Said Bell.
Looking over the table, Bell had prepared a few different meals. There was the rack of lamb accompanied with some seasoned oven roasted vegetables. Some freshly steamed carrots and green beans beside them for sweetness. Accompanying this was a potato salad, fresh rice and two types of sauces including a red wine sauce and a spicy mustard sauce. As an alternative to the meat, Bell had also made some pasta with a tomato-based sauce and shaved parmesan. Lastly, for beverages, Bell had brought some red wine and freshly made ice tea for a non-alcoholic option. Bell placed a plate and cutlery in front of both Freya and Hestia, before stepping back from the table.
'This looks wonderful, Bell; I hope you did not spend too much of your time preparing it.' Commented Freya.
'If I didn't do at least this much I wouldn't be able to face you after what you gave me.' Said Bell, causing Freya to smile.
'Ah, yes, Hestia tells me that your magic has been quite helpful. I am so looking forward to seeing it. Perhaps we could see it before desert?' Suggested Freya.
'Of course, please just let me know when you would like to see it.' Said Bell, before walking away.
'Bell, will you not be joining us yourself?' Asked Freya, causing the boy to pause.
'W-what?' Stammered Bell.
'Do you not share your meals with Hestia? I would not want you acting differently simply because I am here, and I certainly wouldn't want you to be uncomfortable in your own home.' Said Freya.
'Are you sure?' Asked Bell, looking down at the floor.
'I believe I did ask for you both your food and your company, Bell. It would please me if you would join us as well.' Said Freya.
Bell spared a glance to his Goddess, who didn't know what to make of the situation and shrugged. Bell went back to the kitchen and returned with another plate and cutlery for himself and sat at the middle of the table between the two Goddesses. Given the size of the table, everything was in reach, but Bell attended to the two Goddesses first and served their food for them, before taking a small portion for himself.
'The food is truly delicious, Bell. For an adventurer, this sort of skill is uncommon, I'm curious to hear of how you've developed it.' Complimented Freya, as she paused in her eating.
'Oh, I've been cooking for a few years now. It was one of the things I was good at when I was younger, as I wasn't very good with the more physical tasks when I was growing up.' Said Bell.
'Oh? To enter the Dungeon as you do though, there is a certain strength required to enter the unknown so bravely.' Praised Freya.
'Thank you for your kind words, Goddess Freya.' Said Bell, causing Freya's smile to shrink.
'If I may make a selfish request of you, Bell. While we are enjoying this dinner today as equals, I would be pleased if you could simply call me Freya. I am sure Hestia would not mind you doing so either.' Said Freya.
Bell looked down at his lap for a moment, before turning to Hestia.
'Yes, you can also call me Hestia of course as well.' Said Hestia with a nod.
'Then I will… thank you… Freya and Hestia.' Said Bell quietly, causing Freya to smile wider.
'Splendid.' Said Freya, before resuming her meal.
Hestia narrowed her eyes on the Goddess of Beauty, trying to work out what her angle was. The three would make idle small talk throughout dinner, with Freya mostly asking Bell about his experiences in the city, taking great interest in his training and time at the Hostess of Fertility.
'Have you ever considered if you want to do something other than being an adventurer, Bell?' Asked Freya.
'What do you mean?' Asked Bell.
'It seems you have other avenues which bring you pleasure and joy, so why do you wish to continue pursuing the Dungeon?' Asked Freya.
'…It's kind of embarrassing really.' Mumbled Bell.
'Bell, I have seen many people enter the Dungeon, including the members of my own Familia, I will not judge your reasons, I am simply curious. You may ask Hestia yourself, but one of the things I truly value is honesty.' Said Freya kindly, providing Bell time to respond.
'When I was younger, my grandfather would read me stories about heroes. I always wanted to be like the heroes in those books.' Admitted Bell, getting a smile from Freya.
'That sounds like a wonderful ambition. I suspect it may be a difficult venture though, are you sure that is something you want to pursue?' Asked Freya.
'Of course! I have great respect for all of those heroes. What they accomplished in their lives was amazing. Conquering evil and saving others.' Said Bell passionately, causing Freya to let out a small giggle.
'I see. As someone who is not too familiar with heroes, the people the heroes would save, what would happen to them?' Asked Freya, causing Bell to blush.
'They would join the heroes on their journeys and sometimes fall in love with them.' Revealed Bell.
'I see. Is that what you would hope for as well? Are you pursing heroism for love?' Asked Freya.
'N-no… not anymore.' Admitted Bell, causing Hestia to look at him.
'So you mean you don't plan to go into the Dungeon to meet girls anymore?' Asked Hestia in surprise, before catching herself at what she said.
Bell blushed and sank further into his seat, causing Freya to laugh.
'Please don't feel embarrassed for my sake, I am also a Goddess of Love, I think pursuing love is also a worthwhile goal.' Said Freya, causing Bell to look up at her in surprise.
'I still want love and I… I am… er, pursuing heroism, but they aren't the same thing anymore. I want to be a hero because I want to be a hero, I want to save others for the sake of saving others, and I want to meet lots of girls along the way as well.' Said Bell.
'I see. So, you have become truer to your desires, is that what you are saying?' Asked Freya.
'Yes. I came to Orario because my grandfather told me to pursue being a hero, saving girls, and forming a harem, but I wasn't chasing things for the right reason… after something happened to me in the Dungeon, I realised I wasn't giving it my all, but now I am.' Said Bell firmly.
'A harem? That is a curious desire, how did you come to that?' Asked Freya, causing Bell to stammer for a moment.
'My grandfather said real men try to make a harem.' Admitted Bell.
'Hah! That sounds like something those perverts Zeus, or Hermes would say.' Interjected Hestia.
'That kind of attitude does sound like something Odin would approve of… Loki as well. I'm surprised you ended up with Hestia in the end.' Said Freya in amusement.
There was a moment of silence at this, as both Hestia and Bell recalled how their relationship started as one of necessity, before Bell spoke up again.
'Hestia is the kindness Goddess I've ever met, I'm happy to be a part of her Familia.' Said Bell, causing Hestia to blush.
'And what if someone else came up to you and offered you everything you ever wanted; power, money, women? Would you leave Hestia behind then?' Asked Freya, looking at Hestia as she asked the question.
'Absolutely not!' Said Bell, causing Hestia's heart to throb.
'An excellent answer. One who is swayed easily by honeyed words could never be a hero, or have a harem for that matter.' Commented Freya.
Bell smiled awkwardly at this and proceeded to turn his focus back to his meal. Freya maintained her gaze on Hestia, with the Loli Goddess meeting her eyes. The Goddess of Beauty was seemingly giving her a pointed look, causing Hestia to realise why Freya had decided not to steal Bell.
'F-Freya, if you don't mind me asking, could you tell me about your Familia?' Asked Bell, sending a shy sideways glance at the Goddess.
'Oh? Don't tell me you want to join and leave Hestia behind; I will be greatly disappointed if that is the case after what we just discussed.' Teased Freya.
'N-No, I was just curious… I… haven't had much experience with people in other Familia. I've really only met some of the people in the Loki Familia and Miach Familia.' Clarified Bell.
'Well, I would be happy for you to come by and visit if you'd like, since Hestia and I are friends after all. I'm surprised you haven't seen anyone from the Hephaestus family though, she is Hestia's closest friend after all.' Said Freya.
'Uh, I hassled Hephaestus a bit too much before meeting Bell.' Admitted Hestia, looking off to the side, as she scratched her cheek in embarrassment.
'Ah, I see. Well, I can tell you about my Familia then. As I'm sure you know, my Familia and Loki's Familia's are the two strongest. As harsh as it may sound though, I don't think you would enjoy my Familia very much.' Said Freya.
'What do you mean?' Asked Bell.
'Well, Bell, there would be no time for things like cooking in my Familia, unless you were to completely abandon your dream of becoming a hero. My Familia is made up of two groups of people really, warriors and healers. There is not much overlap. Perhaps one of my children who had attempted to pursue the path of a warrior who is now my greatest healer would be the best example. Heith wanted to become a warrior and made it to level four, but then she found her limits and decided to become one of the greatest healers instead. Now she is the second greatest healer in the world second only to Dian Cecht's Silver Saint Airmid, who is regarded as the greatest healer, as well as the best prosthesis maker, and one of the greatest potion makers in the world. Unfortunately, though, despite her level and reputation, Heith does not go on adventures anymore. As someone like you who seems to want to pursue many goals, it would be difficult for you to grow in my Familia.' Explained Freya.
'Isn't that kind of sad?' Asked Bell.
'In a way, but some people like focusing their efforts in only one domain. It takes someone special to want to be great in many domains.' Said Freya with a shrug.
'But wouldn't she miss adventuring then? To get to level four… wouldn't it be hard to just stop all of a sudden?' Asked Bell.
'Well, if you'd like, I'm happy for you to come and speak to her some time and ask her. Unfortunately, given she is our best healer, she is quite busy.' Offered Freya.
'What about the other people then, the warriors?' Asked Bell.
'Ah, well, you did meet my strongest that day. Ottar, he is also known as the King and widely regarded as the strongest and remains the only level seven there is today.' Said Freya.
Bell stared at his plate at this, deep in thought.
"Level seven… even Miss Ais is only level five right now." Thought Bell.
'What happens after that… I mean, after level seven, how much further can he go?' Asked Bell.
'Well, there has been a level eight adventurer once and even a level nine, but there has never been anyone who has reached beyond this. That being said, there was once a level seven who could go beyond the limit of levels and even match the level nine adventurer. I will say though, no one has ever seen a level ten before… perhaps the heroes of old may have been the equivalent of this, but this is all speculation really. I must admit, heroes were not something that interested me personally, but perhaps you may have some insight there.' Explained Freya.
'I see… thank you for letting me know.' Said Bell with a small smile.
'Don't think too hard, Bell, you are still growing and there is no harm in enjoying yourself on the path to achieving your goals. Time is much more precious to mortals, so don't waste or sacrifice yours without finding enjoyment in your life.' Advised Freya.
'I know, I want to get stronger, but I enjoy spending time with those close to me as well.' Admitted Bell.
'Oh, other than Hestia, who have you grown close to?' Asked Freya curiously.
'Ah, well, I don't have a lot of people yet, but Miss Ais and the others at the Hostess of Fertility are very nice and helpful to me as well. Not to say that you aren't nice and helpful also, Freya, just that this is only the second time I've spent time with you.' Said Bell nervously, looking down at his lap.
'Please be at ease, I will not be offended, but perhaps we could spend more time together in the future, especially if you would like to meet those in my Familia. Would you mind telling me your thoughts on your friends? I must admit, even I am curious of hearing about the Sword Princess.' Requested Freya.
'W-well, I don't want to talk about someone behind their back, but I will say that Miss Ais is very curious and seems to really want to help me get stronger… I don't know why, since I'm basically a nobody, but she is giving up her time for me which I am very thankful of.' Said Bell, causing Freya to frown.
'Bell, do you know how many people I've sat down and had dinner with like this?' Asked Freya, causing Bell to look up at her again.
'No.' Replied Bell.
'This is the first time. So please do not call yourself a nobody, unless you are saying my judgement is also wrong.' Said Freya.
'Sorry, I never meant to say that you were wrong.' Apologised Bell.
'Tell me about the other people in your life please.' Requested Freya, changing the topic.
'Ah, that's right, you said the people at the Hostess of Fertility were your friends, didn't you?' Recalled Bell.
'Friends? You have friends outside of the Gods and Goddesses?' Interjected Hestia.
'Indeed I do, of course they are all women though. As I said to Bell before, I have not been able to have an engaging conversation with a man for some time.' Commented Freya.
'Ah, well they are all very nice there as well. It has been fun trying to make things to their taste as well. They all work very hard too.' Said Bell.
'Well tell me then, who stands out the most, I won't tell?' Requested Freya with a wink.
'Ah, well I think it would have to be Syr then.' Said Bell, getting Hestia to look at him.
'Is that the waitress with light grey hair?' Asked Hestia, causing Bell to turn to her.
'Yes. I know you probably didn't get the best first impression of her, I think that's one of her faults really, she likes games too much maybe.' Admitted Bell.
'Oh? So does she stand out because of her faults?' Asked Freya curiously.
'No, nothing like that. I just meant that Syr takes some getting used to, especially for someone who misses things like me, but I know I can always trust her, even if I don't know what she is planning sometimes.' Explained Bell, turning to Freya again.
'Forgive me, but that seems like you have an odd opinion of her.' Commented Freya.
'S-sorry, maybe I'm not explaining it well. I'm just more comfortable when people are direct with me and it is hard to know what Syr is up to, but I know she is always looking out for me, even if she might be doing something sneaky at the same time.' Said Bell, looking down again.
'How amusing. So, you know you don't know what is going on, but simply go along with it because you trust her?' Asked Freya seeking clarification.
'Y-Yeah, is that bad?' Asked Bell, looking up at Freya again, only to see a small smile on her face.
'Not at all. I'm just surprised you trust someone so fully after only knowing them for a short time.' Commented Freya.
'Bell, you are too naïve sometimes, but that is also part of your charm I suppose.' Sighed Hestia with a small smile.
'What of the others?' Asked Freya.
'Well, I think Mama Mia is the same, but a bit more direct. I can tell she really cares about everyone there and doesn't want any harm to come to them either. I'm really grateful she let me stay there for a bit as well, even though the place only hires women.' Answered Bell.
'I see. Is there anyone else you've spent much time with? I imagine you've spent some time with the others too.' Continued Freya.
'Ah, well Ryuu is also usually there when Syr gets us into trouble. I feel like Ryuu is like me and trusts Syr, but never knows what she is thinking either.' Said Bell.
'So you've found a kindred spirit then?' Asked Freya.
'Ah, I don't know. I don't know very much about Ryuu, but I feel like there is something… something there that I can't explain.' Admitted Bell.
'Ryuu, that's the Elf, isn't it?' Asked Hestia with narrowed eyes.
'It's not like that! I just mean… it seems like something is not right… I don't know how to explain it, I just feel like she needs help with something.' Said Bell, causing Freya to raise an eyebrow.
'Well Bell, this sounds like a surprisingly perceptive observation for someone who says they don't know what is going on.' Commented Freya.
'Uh, that part is more with Syr, she is better at hiding things I feel. With Ryuu, it seems like she is also hiding something, but not as well as Syr…' Said Bell thoughtfully.
'Well, I feel everyone has something to hide, not everyone can be as honest as Hestia, but that is one of her virtues after all. Hestia is known among the deities for her kindness and honesty, well that and her rivalry with Loki, as well as a certain physical characteristic as well.' Commented Freya in amusement.
'What rivalry? I'm better than Loki!' Protested Hestia, slamming a hand on the table in indignation, causing Freya to giggle.
'Oh, look at the time though. Bell, would you be happy to show me your magic now, I must be leaving soon?' Requested Freya.
'Of course, should we go outside then? I can't really show it indoors.' Suggested Bell.
'Yes, that will be fine, you don't seem to have many neighbours, so I'm sure it should not cause much of a disturbance.' Agreed Freya.
'Fine, fine, come on, Bell, then we can have desert and wrap things up, I'm getting tired.' Sighed Hestia.
'There is that honesty again, ufufu.' Laughed Freya, as the three stepped outside.
'Um, I will do it now, please watch closely.' Annouced Bell, pointing his right arm upwards.
'Firebolt.' Said Bell as the beam of electrified fire shot into the air.
'How wonderful and fitting. Fire is one of Hestia's domains after all. Although I am curious as to the lightning aspect. You wouldn't happen to admire Thor by any chance, do you?' Asked Freya.
'Uh, not really.' Said Bell honestly.
'I see. Are you able to use both hands at the same time?' Asked Freya curiously.
'N-No, or at least I don't think so, I haven't tried to though, but I have used both hands to cast it.' Admitted Bell.
'I see. Well, perhaps you can, I don't think you should limit yourself and if anyone can manipulate fire so skilfully, it would make sense that it would be Hestia's Familia. Thank you for indulging me, Bell, we can return now.' Said Freya.
The three returned to the indoor area, with Bell heading to the kitchen and coming back with the pie.
'For dessert I made an apple pie, I hope you like it.' Said Bell, finding he was much less nervous than when the night had started, but still keen to get an opinion.
'Ah, it is delicious. Did you add a secret ingredient perhaps?' Asked Freya, after she had sampled her piece.
'I did, cinnamon.' Admitted Bell, getting a laugh from Freya.
'I see, I would love to have you teach me some time. Perhaps on a day when you don't feel like adventuring, you could entertain me. Although I think I have taken advantage of much of your hospitality today. Thank you for allowing me to enjoy this time with you, Hestia. I hope we can meet again under such pleasant circumstances.' Said Freya to Bell, before turning to Hestia towards the end.
'Yes. I do believe we will be seeing more of each other in the future.' Replied Hestia through pursed lips, causing Freya to smile.
'Well, I will depart for now, good night.' Said Freya, as she stood up.
'W-wait, Freya, are you going to go alone?' Asked Bell.
'Perhaps, did you want to escort me home?' Asked Freya in amusement.
'Well, I don't think it is right to leave a lady to walk home alone late at night.' Admitted Bell, scratching the back of his neck.
'I see, how chivalrous of you. I would love to take you up on your offer, but you've already spent so much time at my expense today, I wouldn't feel right taking any more. Besides, I did not plan to walk home alone anyway.' Revealed Freya, as she opened the door and stepped outside.
Bell and Hestia walked to the door and watched as Freya made her way towards a large figure, who Bell was able to make out as the Boaz he had met during their last encounter.
'King.' Mumbled Bell, as Freya gave them a parting wave and left with the large man.
'*Fuah*, I'm exhausted. Bell, please let me know before you invite any more Goddesses over.' Groaned Hestia.
'I will, Hestia, uh I mean Goddess.' Replied Bell absentmindedly.
'Bell… I wouldn't mind if you wanted to call me Hestia all the time.' Said Hestia with a small blush.
'Uh… I'll try to remember that… Hestia.' Said Bell bashfully, even as Hestia beamed at him.
'Although I'm not sure how to feel about how close you are getting to Freya, or that she has now given you a standing invitation to spend time with her. Ah Bell, what am I going to do with you?' Sighed Hestia dramatically.
'Sorry, H-Hestia, I guess helping girls is my weakness.' Stammered Bell.
'Well all right then, but I'm watching you and any other Elf you meet at this point.' Said Hestia, turning Bell into a spluttering mess.
'I better go to bed now.' Said Bell, heading to the bathroom.
"Freya… are you really that honest with your endgame?" Thought Hestia suspiciously.
-line break-
'Was your dinner to your liking, Milady.' Asked Ottar.
'Indeed it was. I enjoyed myself a great deal.' Said Freya, as the pair walked through the night.
'That being said, Ottar, I would like your assistance with some things in the future.' Said Freya.
'Whatever you wish, Milady.' Said Ottar.
'Should that boy ever come by to Folkvangr, please allow him entry and alert me immediately. Furthermore, should he request training, the opportunity to speak with Heith, or simply asks for access to the kitchen, please see to it that he receives these things.' Said Freya.
'Are you expecting him to come by? Should I make preparations?' Asked Ottar.
'Not at this stage just yet, but in the near future I believe it is a possibility.' Said Freya.
'And of the others?' Asked Ottar.
'Please do not bring things to their attention, however, ensure that he does not die no matter what. He may struggle, he may be hurt, and he may tire, but he is not allowed to perish, is that clear?' Asked Freya.
'Completely, Milady.' Said Ottar.