Their embrace gradually came to an end, though neither truly wanted to let go. The vibrant fireworks had faded, leaving the world quiet under a starry sky. The late hour reminded them it was time to return to their Familias, but parting felt heavier than either had expected.
Bell stood up first, brushing off his pants before extending his hand to Ais. "Here," he said softly, his cheeks tinged with pink.
Ais hesitated for a moment, her gaze lingering on his outstretched hand before finally placing hers in his. "Thank you," she whispered, her blush matching his. Bell's grip was warm as he helped her to her feet.
As they descended from the walls of Orario, Ais glanced at Bell and broke the silence She wanted to tease him! "Bell... why do you get so flustered around me?" Her voice carried a teasing edge, but her expression was curious.
Bell's face immediately went red. "Wha—flustered? Me? No way! You're imagining things!" He waved his hands dramatically, nearly tripping over a loose stone in his haste to deny it.
Ais chuckled softly, a rare sound that sent Bell's heart racing. "You're blushing again," she pointed out, her golden eyes gleaming with amusement, a small smile tugging at her lips.
Bell groaned, burying his face in his hands. "It's not fair..." he mumbled, his voice muffled.
Ais tilted her head curiously. "What's not fair?"
Peeking through his fingers, Bell's voice softened, tinged with both embarrassment and sincerity. "You're... you're just too beautiful. Like, how can I not be flustered?"
Ais's teasing smile faltered for a second, her cheeks turning bright red as his words sank in. "Oh..." was all Ais managed to say, her voice quiet, almost lost in the gentle breeze that passed between them.
Bell immediately panicked, his hands flailing like a startled bird. "I-I mean, not that it's a bad thing! It's just—uh—you know what, forget I said that!" He turned his face away, practically steaming with embarrassment, his thoughts racing.Why did I say that? Why?!
Ais stared at him, her golden eyes softening as a light blush colored her cheeks. There was a pause, a moment that stretched between them, before she spoke again. Her voice was soft, almost shy, but it carried a warmth that melted Bell's anxiety.
"Thank you, Bell," she said, a small, heartfelt smile gracing her lips.
Bell froze in place, his heart skipping a beat—or maybe three or four.. He turned back to her, his expression shifting from panic to something more serious. His crimson eyes held hers, unwavering despite the pink tint still spread across his face.
"Ais," he began, "I promise, I'll get stronger. Strong enough to protect you. To save you."
Ais stopped walking, her steps faltering as his words sank in. Her breath caught, and for a moment, the night seemed to hold its breath with her. She turned to him, her golden eyes searching his face as if trying to understand the depth of his resolve.
"Bell..." she murmured, her voice barely audible, trembling slightly. Her lips parted as though she wanted to say more, but the weight of his words left her momentarily speechless.
Bell took a step closer, his hand twitching as though he wanted to reach out to her but didn't quite dare. "I mean it," he said, his tone firm but gentle. "No matter what happens, I'll be there for you. Always."
Ais blinked, her gaze locked onto his. She didn't know what to say, didn't know how to respond to such pure, unwavering determination. Her heart, usually so calm and controlled, was suddenly racing in a way she didn't understand. The silence stretched between them again, filled with unspoken emotions and the quiet crackle of distant fireworks. Finally, Ais found her voice, though it was a whisper. "Bell... You're really something else."
Bell's face flushed even deeper, and he scratched the back of his head nervously. "I-I'm not sure if that's a compliment..." he muttered.
Ais chuckled softly, "ahh~"he'd fallen in love with her cute giggles."It is," she said simply, her smile small but genuine.
She hesitated for a moment before stepping closer, her golden eyes shining with something Bell couldn't quite place. "Bell," she said, her tone soft but resolute, "If I ever need help... if I ever call your name... you'll come, right?"
Without missing a beat, Bell nodded, his eyes filled with conviction. "Always. No matter where you are or what's happening, I'll be there."
Ais felt her heart skip a beat, her chest tightening in a way that was both unfamiliar and comforting. She nodded in return, her voice steady despite the emotions swirling inside her. "Then... I'll protect you too. Just call my name, and I'll come."
Bell's eyes widened, He smiled, his earlier embarrassment giving way to something deeper, something more meaningful. "It's a promise," he said softly.
The two stood there for a moment, the world around them fading into the background as they shared a quiet understanding. Then, as if on cue, a massive firework burst into the sky above, painting their faces in shimmering hues of gold and red.
And in that fleeting moment, neither of them felt alone ever again. Eventually they parted into different paths, not knowing when or where they'll see each other again.
-Twilight Manor-
Upon arriving at the Twilight Manor, Ais pushed open the large doors and stepped inside, her usual calm expression quickly giving way to mild surprise. She was greeted by an unexpected sight—a sobbing Red-Haired Goddess clinging to the nearest piece of furniture, her wails echoing dramatically through the entry hall.
Riveria stood just behind the distressed goddess, her expression one of exasperation, a hand pressed against her forehead as though warding off an impending headache, telling the god "Enough already Loki."
"Why, Ais? Why didn't you tell me where you were going?!" Loki bawled, throwing her arms in the air as though the world had wronged her. "I've been worried sick! And now you come back looking all glowy! What happened? Did something happen? Was it that brat that Riveria told me about?!"
Ais blinked, unsure how to respond, her golden eyes shifting to Riveria for guidance.
Riveria sighed, her tone calm but edged with weariness. "Ignore her dramatics, Ais. She's been like this all evening. Where were you?"
"I went to see the fireworks," Ais replied simply, her gaze steady despite the chaos in front of her.
"The fireworks?!" Loki's tears dried almost instantly, her expression morphing into one of suspicion as she leaned forward. "With who?! Don't tell me—was ithim?!"
Riveria pinched the bridge of her nose. "Loki, please."
Ais tilted her head slightly, confused by Loki's sudden interrogation. "It was with Bell," she admitted honestly.
Loki let out a shriek, throwing herself onto the floor dramatically. "Itwashim! My rival! That bunny-eared brat is stealing my Ais-tan! Riveria, do something! WAhh!" she wailed.
Riveria rolled her eyes, muttering under her breath, "Why do I even bother?" She turned to Ais, offering her a small, apologetic smile. "Don't let her antics bother you. You should get some rest, it's been a long night."
Ais nodded, offering a faint smile in return. "Goodnight, Riveria.. and thank you.." which made Riveria's lips twitch upwards. "You're welcome, Ais."
As Ais started up the stairs, Loki suddenly sprang to her feet, her hands on her hips. "Wait just a minute! I'm not done here! Ais-tan, you owe me an explanation! Did that brat try anything funny? Did he confess? Did you—"
Riveria promptly grabbed Loki by the collar, dragging her back. "That's enough, Loki. Let the girl sleep."
"But Riveriaaa—!" Loki whined, her protests fading as she was hauled away.
Ais, meanwhile, continued up the stairs, her expression unchanging save for the faintest hint of a smile tugging at her lips. She was used to Loki's antics, but tonight, the memory of fireworks and Bell's words filled her mind, warming her heart in a way she couldn't quite explain.
-Church-
Bell arrived at the crumbling old church, the familiar creak of its doors greeting him as he stepped inside. The quiet was comforting, but a sense of unease crept in as he headed toward the basement door. He stopped short, staring at the lock, still bolted as he had left it earlier that day.
His brow furrowed. "Hestia-sama hasn't come home yet?" he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.
With a sigh, he unlocked the door and stepped into the cozy space they called home. The small, warm room felt emptier than usual without his goddess's vibrant presence. Bell set his bag down, making his way over to his makeshift closet. He then changed into more comfortable clothes, his body sore from the day's events. The thought of brushing his teeth crossed his mind, but the exhaustion weighing him down. With a tired groan, he flopped onto his modest bed, staring at the wooden beams of the ceiling above.
As the quiet settled in, the memories of the night began to replay in his mind. "Ais.."her smile under the fireworks, her soft voice thanking him, and that moment when she asked him if he'd save her—all of it felt like a dream. Bell's cheeks turned pink as he buried his face into his pillow as he remembered his own words. "I said some embarrassing stuff, didn't I?" he mumbled to himself, his voice muffled.
But even as he thought that, a small, shy smile crept onto his lips. He had seen a side of Ais that few ever did, and that alone made his heart race.
Before he knew it, his heavy eyelids began to close, and sleep overtook him. The last thing on his mind before drifting into slumber was Ais's golden eyes and her words lingering in the air like a promise yet to be fulfilled.
.
.
Bell groaned softly as he opened his eyes, blinking against the morning light that streamed through the cracks in the church's walls. Stretching his arms above his head, he let out a satisfied sigh. "That was the best sleep I've had in... ever," he mumbled to himself, still half-dreaming.
Rubbing his eyes, he sat up, glancing around the small basement room. His relaxed smile faltered as he noticed the absence of his goddess. "Still not home?" he muttered,. Shaking his head, he tried to push the worry aside.
He shuffled over to the small sink, brushing his teeth while stealing a glance at himself in the cracked mirror. "Another day," he said, his voice low and steady, as if bracing himself for whatever challenges awaited him.
Bell quickly geared up, his armor snug and his trusty knife secured at his side. Stepping out into the crisp morning air, Bell took a deep breath. The city of Orario was alive and bustling as adventurers and merchants began their first day of the new year. Bell's thoughts drifted briefly to the events of the night before—Ais's smile, the fireworks, and the warmth of their shared moments.
With renewed determination, he adjusted his grip on his bag and headed toward the tower, ready to dive back into the dungeon. Today would be another step toward his dream, and though the path might be uncertain, Bell was ready to face it head-on.
-Dungeon-
Bell made his way through the familiar corridors of the dungeon, his footsteps steady as he ventured deeper into the fifth floor. The low hum of the dungeon echoed around him, the constant sound of distant footsteps and shifting shadows reminding him that the dungeon's alive and was watching his every move.
Stopping for a moment, Bell took a deep breath, his hand resting on the hilt of his dagger. It was a rare occurrence—taking things slow—but after the last few chaotic adventures, Bell knew it was time for a break. He had promised his god that he would stay safe, and Bell intended to honor that promise by avoiding unnecessary risks today, especially when she's not even home.
He glanced around the cavernous floor, his eyes scanning for any movement. The fifth floor was home to several monsters, including Goblins, Kobolds, and Dungeon Lizards. Today, however, Bell felt oddly at peace. His focus was sharp, and he was in no rush to make a name for himself. He was determined to clear each area carefully, watching his surroundings and taking down each monster with measured strikes.
As he made his way through the narrow passages, Bell spotted a group of Kobolds ahead of him. They were huddled together, seemingly unaware of his presence. He crouched down low, calculating the best way to approach. His hand tightened on his dagger, his feet barely making a sound as he crept closer.
Utilizing his skill, he focused his mind, and in one swift motion, Bell struck, his dagger finding its mark and dropping the first Kobold before the others even had a chance to react. He followed up with two quick slashes, cutting down the second and third before the last one could even raise its claws.
Panting slightly, Bell straightened up, wiping a bead of sweat from his forehead. He'd kept his movements precise, not overexerting himself. "That went smoothly," he muttered, watching the creatures fade away one by one.
Bell continued deeper into the 5th floor of the dungeon, keeping to his pace. His thoughts wandered to his god, Hestia, and his promise to her—to be patient and steady as he forged his path to greatness. The dungeon wasn't going anywhere. He had all the time in the world. Today, he was simply taking his time to grow stronger, bit by bit.
Bell crept carefully along the stone corridor, his boots silent against the cold floor. The faint glow of magic-stone sconces cast flickering shadows on the walls. His heart pounded as he approached a small, dimly lit room on the fifth floor. The air was thick with tension, and muffled voices drifted through the silence.
Pressing himself against the wall, he crouched low to remain out of sight, his ears straining to catch every word. As he peeked around the corner, his eyes widened.
Two men stood near a large, iron-barred cage. Within it, a monster stirred restlessly, its guttural growls echoing faintly in the chamber. Bell's breath hitched as the creature let out a sudden roar, slamming against the bars of its confinement.
"A cage?" Bell's thoughts raced.Why is there a monster in a cage?He leaned in slightly to get a better look but froze as the sharp sound of footsteps broke the silence.
"Are we all prepared?" a gruff voice asked.
"Yes, Boss," one of the men replied. "We just finished feeding it the magic stones. It'll get real nasty soon."
"Well, well." The leader approached the cage, his cruel grin illuminated by the dim light. He stared directly into the monster's eyes, which glowed faintly as it lay slumped in exhaustion. "Kill lots of people, okay?" he muttered, a sinister chuckle escaping his lips.
Turning on his heel, he waved dismissively. "Wrap it up!"
With a nod, the subordinates began to cover the cage, carefully disguising it under heavy cloth. Bell stayed frozen, his pulse racing. He needed to act, and so he did.
Bell retreated slowly, careful not to make a sound. Each step felt heavier than the last, but he didn't dare rush. Only when he was far enough away, certain no one had noticed him, did he allow himself to exhale. He leaned against the cold wall of the corridor and sank to the floor, his heart pounding in his chest.
"I should inform Eina-san," he muttered to himself, forcing his breathing to steady. The thought gave him purpose, and he pushed himself back to his feet. His mind cleared as he focused, and he felt the familiar rush of his skill activating—his body felt lighter, sharper.
Time was against him. He sprinted through the dungeon, cutting down every foe that dared to block his path. Each strike was precise, each movement fueled by urgency. The halls blurred around him as his sole focus became reaching the surface.
At last, the dungeon's exit came into view. Bursting into the bright sunlight of Orario, Bell didn't slow down. He weaved through the bustling crowd of adventurers, his crimson eyes scanning for clear paths as he raced toward the guild.
Arriving at the guild, Bell's eyes quickly found Eina among the busy staff. Without hesitation, he approached her, his urgency clear in his expression.
"Eina-san," he said, his voice firm but low, "I need to speak with you. Privately."
Eina blinked in surprise at the sudden request, her pen pausing mid-stroke. "Bell-kun? Is something wrong?" she asked, her brow furrowing with concern.
"Please," he insisted, glancing around at the bustling hall.
Sensing the weight behind his words, Eina set her things down and stood. "Alright," she said, motioning for him to follow. She led him through the guild's corridors to her small office, shutting the door behind them to ensure their conversation would remain confidential.
As they took their seats, Eina wasted no time. Her emerald eyes locked onto Bell, her voice calm but firm. "Bell-kun, what's going on? You look shaken."
Bell clenched his fists, steadying himself before speaking. "I... I saw something on the fifth floor," he began, his voice low but urgent. "There were these men—adventurers, I think—and they had a monster caged."
Eina's eyes widened slightly, but she said nothing, waiting for him to continue.
"They were feeding it magic stones," Bell explained, his words quick and deliberate. "From what I overheard, they're planning to release it here, on the surface. The leader said something about wanting it to 'kill lots of people.'"
Eina's face turned pale, her expression hardening as the gravity of Bell's report set in. "Feeding it magic stones..." she muttered, her gaze shifting to the desk as she pieced the implications together. "Bell-kun, this is serious. If what you're saying is true, they're trying to artificially strengthen the monster to make it even more dangerous."
Bell nodded. "That's why I came straight to you. We need to stop them before they can bring it to the surface."
Eina smiled warmly, her admiration for Bell's determination shining through. "Bell-kun," she began, her voice soft yet firm, "I truly appreciate your effort to inform me about this."
Bell opened his mouth to respond, but Eina raised a hand, cutting him off gently. "However, as your advisor, I can't let you get involved in this matter."
Bell's shoulders slumped, his gaze falling to the floor. "I... I understand," he muttered.
Noticing his downcast expression, Eina's tone softened further. "Don't worry, Bell-kun! The guild will inform the Ganesha Familia—they're the best at handling situations like this. Leave it to them."
Bell hesitated for a moment but then lifted his head. Her reassurance made him feel a bit better. "Thank you, Eina-san," he said with a small, grateful smile before excusing himself from her office.
After exchanging the magic stones he had collected, Bell left the guild and began his walk home. Along the way, something caught his eye—a small bookshop nestled between larger buildings. His inner child awakened with excitement, and he stepped inside.
The shop was cozy and filled with shelves stacked high with books. Bell browsed through the selection, his fingers tracing over the spines, but he couldn't find anything he hadn't already read. Just as he was about to leave, a familiar voice called out.
"Bell-san!"
He turned to see Syr standing a few steps away, holding a book in her hands. "Syr-san! What are you doing here?" Bell asked, surprised.
Syr smiled warmly. "I could ask you the same thing. What brings you here?"
Bell rubbed the back of his neck, a hint of embarrassment in his tone. "Hehe... I was just looking for something to read."
Syr giggled at his bashfulness. Without another word, she held out a book to him. Bell glanced at the cover—it was unfamiliar, unlike anything he'd read before.
Before he could properly thank her, Syr had already turned and walked away, leaving the shop. Bell stood there, staring after her, the book in his hands. "Thank you..." he murmured softly, a small smile forming on his lips.
Bell couldn't wait until he got home to start reading. The curiosity bubbling inside him was too strong. Clutching the book tightly, he stepped out of the shop and scanned the streets.
On his way, the enticing aroma of roasted meat and freshly baked bread caught his attention. He stopped by a food stall, purchasing a warm skewer of grilled vegetables and meat along with a small loaf of bread. The simple meal felt comforting, and it gave him the perfect excuse to find somewhere quiet to sit and read.
And he knew just the place.
Bell made his way to the city walls, his footsteps light but steady as he climbed the familiar stairs. The higher he went, the more the sounds of Orario faded into the background, replaced by a gentle breeze that carried the faint scent of stone and greenery.
At last, he arrived at the spot where he and Ais had once sat—a quiet corner overlooking the sprawling city. The memory brought a faint warmth to his chest, though he quickly pushed it aside, focusing on the moment.
He settled down on one of the corners of the wall, the stone cool beneath him. Pulling out the book Syr had given him, he placed it on his lap and let out a small sigh of contentment. The breeze rustled the pages slightly as he opened it, his eyes drawn to the first lines.
Here, surrounded by the vast view of Orario and the peace of the high vantage point, Bell began to read, the world around him momentarily forgotten.
Let's start
What is magic to me?
Something I've always desired and yearned to use just once, something great in a vague sense.
What is magic for me?
It's a power, to encourage my weak self. The power of a hero to cut open a path.
What is the nature of magic for me?
It's a flame, Strong, fierce, and hot. A flame that never dies out.. An immortal flame.
What do I ask for magic?
To become stronger.
Is that all you want?
To save her.. To become a hero, strong enough to save her from all.
.
.
How childish of you.
But that's who I/You am.
But that's who I/You am.
"Ngggh," Bell groaned as he opened his eyes. "What was that? Did I fall asleep?"
Panic surged through him as he realized it was already night. Without a second thought, he shut the book in his hands and dashed down the stairs.
"Goddess should be home by now," he thought, picking up speed.
When he arrived home, he noticed the door was already unlocked. His heart raced as he cautiously opened it and stepped inside. There she was—Hestia, his goddess—sitting at the edge of the bed.
"Goddess?" Bell called softly.
Her eyes immediately met his, widening in surprise. "Bell! Where have you been?!" she exclaimed, rushing toward him and wrapping him in a tight hug.
"I... I was reading a book," Bell admitted sheepishly, his face turning red.
Hestia narrowed her eyes at him, as if checking to see if he was lying. When she realized he wasn't, a soft chuckle escaped her lips. Bell just rubbing the back of his neck in response.
"Bell-kun," Hestia called gently.
"Yes, Goddess?" Bell replied, his curiosity piqued.
Hestia gestured for him to sit beside her. As he moved closer, she placed a large, ornate box in front of them.
"Bell," she began, her voice carrying a mix of pride and tenderness, "this is the reason why I was gone for a couple of days."
She opened the box, revealing a stunning black knife. Its sleek surface shimmered faintly, with intricate hieroglyphics carved along its length. Bell's eyes widened in awe, but confusion quickly followed. Where did she get this? How did she manage to acquire something so extraordinary?
Before he could voice his questions, Hestia spoke again, answering his unspoken thoughts. "I asked my friend Hephaistos for a favor," she explained with a small smile.
As Hestia ran her fingers over the blade, the carved hieroglyphics began to glow faintly, pulsating with a mysterious energy.
"This is my way of helping you, Bell," she said, her voice soft yet resolute. "I'll always be with you, even in your toughest battles."
Bell stared at the knife, overwhelmed by the weight of her gesture. He could feel the love and trust she had imbued into this gift, and it left him momentarily speechless.
After a few moments of silence, Bell finally found his voice. "Goddess... thank you. I don't know how I can ever repay you for this."
Hestia beamed at him, her usual playful demeanor returning as she ruffled his hair. "Silly Bell-kun, just keep being you. That's all the thanks I need."
Suddenly, the glowing hieroglyphics dimmed, and Hestia's face grew serious. "This knife isn't just any weapon, Bell. It's bound to my blessing, and it will grow stronger as you do. But be careful—it reacts to your emotions. You must wield it with focus and determination, or it could become unstable."
Bell nodded firmly, determination flickering in his ruby-red eyes. "I'll do my best, Goddess. I won't let you down."
Hestia smiled warmly, "Now come here, I'll update your stats." as she puts away the sword and the box, and with a nod Bell took of his shirt, and laid down on the bed.
Name:Bell Cranel
Level:1
Race:Human
Familia:Hestia Familia
Strength: H 122 - G 276
Endurance: H 156 - G 254
Dexterity:H120 - G 243
Agility:H 167 - F 302
Magic: I 0
Skills:
[ Vereath Aevum ]
(Eternal Ascension)
Effect:
Accelerates the growth of a focused stat based on activity (strength in combat, agility when running). The growth speed depends on the situation.
If the user enters intense concentration, all stats can grow rapidly. In addition it also enhances the users over all power providing a power boost, but losing focus ends the effect.
[ Heroic Desire ]
Effect:
In the heat of battle or at moments of peak emotional intensity, the user's heroic will ignites, manifesting as an aura of unstoppable resolve. This ability doesn't shield the user from harm but instead turns every wound or setback into a source of power.
The stronger the desire, the more potent the effect, manifesting as a radiant aura that temporarily neutralizes curses including charms, and enhances allies.
MAGIC:
[ Firebolt ]
.
.
After lying down for five minutes, Bell couldn't help but grow restless. Turning his head slightly, he called out nervously, "Goddess, is it done?"
The words barely left his mouth before he felt an ominous chill run down his spine.
Hestia's voice boomed through the room, her tone a mix of fury and disbelief. "What have you been doing while I was gone?! A new ability? And magic?!"
Before Bell could respond, she marched over, her hands already raised. "Unbelievable!"
Smack! Smack! Smack!
Hestia's palm landed on his back repeatedly, not hard enough to hurt but enough to make him flinch with each strike.
"Wahhh! I'm sorry, Goddess!" Bell cried out, frantically trying to shield himself.
"You've been pushing yourself too hard again, haven't you?! Do you have any idea how worried I was?!" Hestia yelled, though her slaps started to lose their intensity, replaced by a pout as she crossed her arms.
Bell sat up, scratching his head sheepishly. "I just... I wanted to get stronger for you and—" "Oops, I almost said Ais's name!"
"For me?" Hestia's eyes softened, and her pout faded, replaced by a mix of exasperation and affection. "Bell-kun, I don't need you to push yourself to the point of collapsing just for me. You're already enough."
Bell's cheeks turned a faint shade of pink. "But I want to protect you, Goddess. I don't want to let you down."
Hestia sighed, shaking her head. "You're too sweet for your own good sometimes." She plopped down next to him and gave him a firm hug. "Just promise me you won't overdo it, okay? You don't have to bear the weight of the world on your shoulders alone."
Bell hesitated before nodding, feeling the warmth of her embrace ease his guilt. "I promise, Goddess."
"Good," Hestia said, finally pulling away with a grin. "But don't think I'll forget about this! You're on dish duty for a week!"
"Ah, come on!" Bell groaned, slumping dramatically, which earned him a giggle from his goddess.
-DΔΠMΛCHI-