The Last Hero

by Kirisaki Yuu

Bell arrives at Orario with Zeus,as the sole member of the Zeus familia. How will this rather different Bell, uncover his tale. He won't be majorly OP, but he will be the protagonist which seems strong enough already. Also, the first few chapters are kinda bad ;(.

13. Chapter 13: Heroes are Fated to Suffer

TLH Chapter 14: Heroes are Fated to Suffer

A/N: Yo wys. If you've been wondering where I've been uh, well strike.

My bro [an unknown author who only select few of you r privy to] hasn't uploaded for a while. So until they update, I wasn't planning on either. But you can thank your friend Abusive for asking me to anyways.

I hope you like the chapter, do let me know how it is.

Forgive me for any SPaG errors.

Oh and update to other series are coming don't worry.

Tata~

---

The Last Hero

---

The events led him to have his lunch in silence while ignoring the smug grin Zeus kept.

The question floated about in his mind but he simply attempted to brush it off.

Did he love her?

No

He didn't- at least not yet, what the future held, even he didn't know.

He wasn't some snot-nosed schoolboy who'd fall for someone that quick, and physical desire and emotional attraction were two different things.

He knew he desired her, he'd be a fool just like Finn to deny that. Alas, not even he could deny the physical urges and though he had tried to restrain himself from giving in to temptation, his willpower didn't suffice.

He wouldn't condemn her for it, he brought this upon himself after all.

But he didn't feel love for her as a person just yet.

Well, whatever happens in the future is not going to hinder my plans now.

And if on the off chance, she had fallen for him first, then, he'd try his wholehearted best to reciprocate. Bell's nature dictated he do it.

...Though, he could be doing better without Zeus' annoying presence.

"If you don't wipe that smile off your face, I'll shove an entire potato into your throat." He spoke without sparing a glance at his grandfather.

"Oh my, is that what you did last night? Shove things into people's mouths?" Zeus grinned; as always pursuing his desire to make Bell into a harem protagonist. The previous night's events probably winded his sails even further.

Sure it took him a couple of months, which was longer than it took Zeus when he first came to Orario, but it was progress.

"But I thought you would've gone for someone like Loki's high elf, Riveria was it?"

Bell gave him an amused look, "and wait a hundred years for her to get over the shame of holding hands? Yeah right." His response was accompanied by a dull prodding at his food, "besides this time had…circumstances. It's not likely I was going for her but things happened and well…"

"And then collision theory took place!" Zeus laughed.

"Grandpa no."

"Some big bangs going off!"

"Jeez no!"

"How was it? Did you do the classic? Or did she spice things up? She seems to have that experience anyway! She probably took the lead, didn't she? It's okay Bell, a man can be the supporting pillar or the dominating shadow." Zeus teased, his analogy quickly growing crazier with each sentence.

Promptly realising how the situation was degrading, Bell stood up, "I am not gonna talk about my sex life with you, so, I'm heading out."

" This is what we came for, no need to be shy! Go forth, I encourage you! Forge. That. Harem!" Zeus laughed boisterously.

Perhaps it was a mistake to tell the maids that they could clean his room in the morning without worrying much about him.

But it wasn't like he expected them to be gossiping about it!

He had built rapport with them, why would they go off and talk about it like that?!

"I'm gonna go head off to the dungeon for a bit." Bell informed his grandfather, "I'm going to come back in a couple of days so until then, please…for the love of yourself…behave."

"Oh, of course, I will," Zeus grinned mischievously, his divine talent at being perverse flaring within him. "I always behave."

"..."

A momentary glance was all Bell spared before he turned back around; thinking better than to waste any more energy on the buffoon of a God he 'worshipped'.

2 days…

All it took was 2 days…

For his world to be flipped upside down.

---

The Last Hero

---

Traversing the depths of the dungeon wasn't very difficult. Having collected his weapons from Tsubaki, he made his way towards the Babel Tower, meandering amongst the stalls and browsing in general, even if he had no intention to buy anything.

As always he felt eyes watching him.

…Freya's eyes watching him.

And it bothered him… bothered him a lot.

He was no fool; Bell knew of his strength, but he knew that there was no way in hell that he could even hope to defeat Ottarl right now. That big oaf could crush him. At best, he'd be able to take an arm off but that accomplished nothing in the long run.

Not until I get stronger.

To become stronger…that's why he went to the dungeon.

Not for the riches.

Not for the fame.

Not for some dumb desire to become a hero.

But he went there to grow.

To be better than him yesterday.

To surpass his projection of tomorrow; and then get what he needs.

Bell had his own goals, and while one may have expected Zeus to push him towards becoming a hero, surprisingly the man didn't. Whether he knew something that Bell did not or simply wanted him to live his own life, Bell didn't know.

Making it to the 30th floor was quite easy for him at his level; jumping past the weaker monsters he needed but one stroke of his blade to end their life.

His swiftness ended a minotaur's roar within the second it started.

His strength overrode the charms of any mermaid.

Almost in a mindless drill racing to the bottom, Bell annihilated everything in his path.

The bastardly Afancs appeared out of nowhere in an attempt to claim his life.

"Rona fall."

And off went its head.

His eyes were drawn to their weak points as a result of rigorous education on their anatomy. So long as he was faster, he could reach them before they could realise.

And so long as his blade was as sharply honed as his spirit; he'd be able to cut through them with ease.

Of course, this didn't mean that no-one could stop him, many did, with their horns, hoofs and whatnot.

Yet the true difficulties of the lower floors were never individual monsters but rather their numbers. The monsters grew more intelligent the further down one went, and with that it meant monsters learnt to group up and fight together which posed a problem because of their increasing strength.

But what of it?

Still he used his lightning blade to purge those who came to him.

…

And as he continued his endless slaughter…

"LEFIYA WATCH OUT!"

---

The Last Hero

---

Ais…was worried.

Lefiya could tell. Immediately.

And even though she took pride in being called one of The Senki's few friends; it didn't take any skill to spot the obvious- albeit subtle- frown adorning the ice princess.

"Tiona…is this really going to work?" She asked worriedly, hugging her staff closer to herself.

Admittedly…it was a concerning idea.

"Pssh, Ais! Of course it would! I'm not stupid." The amazoness waved around a pouch that was…leaking quite a lot actually. "Besides, we got two level 5s and a super duper pooper level 3 mage, we can tough it out."

"Somehow I don't find myself appreciating her words." Lefiya muttered before refocusing her attention on her idol. Plucking the very fruits of her tree of courage she swallowed a void before adding, "But…if…if Ais san is alright with it then…I can try."

Despite her attempt at sounding confident, her voice came out somewhat dry and broken, for which she couldn't help but curse herself to no end.

"Atta girl," Tiona chuckled before taking the casing off and unleashing a…somewhat putrid smell.

"Grr…"

"Oh there we go, a monster already!" Tiona laughed before grabbing her urga. "Now then, Lefiya, the entire plan is for you to masterfully support us so when Riveria takes you on the next expedition she can go 'Wowzer, I never expected that of you, I'm so impressed'."

"T-Tiona san, please Riveria sama would never speak like that!" Lefiya grabbed her wand harder.

"Uh…the monsters are really piling on…" Ais brought their attention back to the situation unfolding in front of them, though she too was just about ready to jump into action.

"Oh well, we'll be fine."

…

…

…

"We…we…are not gonna be fine." Tiona huffed out, in between her breaths of having to deal with the nigh endless siege of monsters. "How many have you killed Ais?"

The Sword Princess-elegantly- drove down onto the tiger like monster, her blade burrowed itself straight through the beast's forehead, before leaving behind nothing but its gem.

Even through this onslaught the two vanguards forced any and all monsters at bay, until Lefiya could synchronise herself with them.

Lefiya's previous fear was that she hadn't been down to a floor so deep, and although the 35th floor was somewhere she had somewhat traversed, the entire responsibility of supporting two of the strongest in her familia was a bit harder than she had expected. Her eyes could barely keep up with their movement and by the time she had finished any of her chants, the pair had already finished mowing down a small pack of monsters.

Her efforts felt in vain, her chant wouldn't even come out fast enough. She struggled to initiate a spell which could truly help the two of her friends.

Level 5 they may be.

Experts they may be.

But they were still prone to making errors, and while they protected her from the ever increasing numbers of monsters, she was left to fight the fear inside herself.

So deep in her thoughts she was, that she had failed to notice the Lylf that had snuck up on her. A small error that had slipped past their guards by tactically taking a detour.

Ais's eyes widened as their front broke, her hesitance creating a gap for a few monsters to sneak past their hold…and as her head spun around…

…

"LEFIYA WATCH OUT!"

---

His powerful magic thrummed alive, vibrating the very molecules in the air as…

"ZAP!"

The world slowed to a crawl.

Nothing dared to move, as the screams of Lefiya's allies seemingly stretched. His unique constitution boosting his already impressive perception.

Level 5 they may be.

Experts they may be.

…But they were not as fast as Thunder itself.

His powerful foot pushed against the ground; his well-built and compact calves bulged as the blue lightning scorched the hard dungeon soil…leaving their burn marks. A surge of energy that shot him forth.

His dash was trained yet uncontrolled. Almost as though it was a reflex to run and save the woman, responding quicker than anyone else.

'Remember Bell, there is no hero without a maiden to support him. A pillar of hope must first be able to claim that he had saved the damsel in distress.

He covered half the distance in the time the elf's eyes could pool even a bit with tears.

He held his blades without even meaning to.

'Why do you think we evacuate the women first in any danger Bell? They are the pillars of society. With no women, there'd be no mother who would ever be able to give birth to the next hero.'

Pushing forward at maximum speed, Bell broke past the limits of any level 5 in the world; reaching a realm which was simply impossible for a soul of his capabilities.

But he did so anyway.

His potent blood pumped through his blood vessels; pouring oxygen into every cell. He forced the shackles placed upon them to rip.

'GO! Save the Woman! Make her fall in love with you! Be Greedy Bell, being greedy means you still care about those around you! You have lost a lot, but giving up is not allowed. You don't wish to be a hero? That's fine, be a warrior instead.'

As though he had glanced at the falna and scoffed, he did what no normal human would ever be able to do.

For he was Bell Cranel.

Reaching the elf at a speed none of them had expected, He drew upon his blade.

"13 paths of the moon…" The argentate lustre of his blade gleamed with power, announcing its entrance as it left the sheath.

"11th path…" His arm stretched sideways, in the opposite direction. One reaching for the elf, the other pulling his blade back as much as his triceps allowed.

"Draconic…Flux!"

And with a deft swing, his sword went; flying faster than the monsters could realise. An arc of devastating speed, drew a silverish hue with an afterimage of the blade.

Instantly beheading any of the monsters at the exact proximity of the girl. His lightning burning the ones his sword could not. One swing dealt a catastrophic force against the monsters that made it past.

…

A pile of dust blew into the sky, with the elf secured in his arms, he landed on the toes of his feet.

…

"...are you alright?" He asked the elf, though he was pretty sure that she was unscathed.

…

"...ert." she muttered, her ears reddening by the second.

"Huh?"

"P…p-p-pervert!" She exclaimed as she drew her wand and…

"Ough," Bell felt the stick slam against his cheek, though it didn't hurt as much, it did successfully make him let go of the elf.

A cross formed on his forehead, annoyed that he has to deal with such behaviour.

Right, you tend to forget that most elves aren't like Riveria.

---

"Pfft." Tiona burst out laughing, as though the monsters in front of them had all but disappeared.

"I'm never fucking saving another elf again." Bell snarled, before throwing one of his swords at the Liger about to jump at Tiona, "focus!"

…

…

"Bell…forgive her already." Ais nudged at her white haired childhood friend.

"Pfft…"

Bell rolled his eyes ignoring Tiona's childish giggle, "How do you expect me to forgive her when she's still giving me the stink eye? After I literally saved her life."

"It's because you touched me human!"

"Ah yes apologies for that, I should've just let that monster bite your head off." Bell sighed.

First that guild employee and now her…saving elves is really a pain in the ass.

"Whatever I don't care about pansies," Bell waved off Lefiya, "what are you doing here Ais nee?"

"I'm…here to kill…the monsters?" Ais tilted her head, slightly confused as to why he asked such a question.

Bell snorted, "I know that. I'm asking why are you in a party like this? I get expeditions, but I'd dig you as a solo type."

"Ehhh…but why? Ais usually fights together with us." Tiona hugged Bell's arm, pressing it straight into her chest…cutting board chest, "hey I had a question, when are you gonna make us some food again? I wanna eat!"

"Tiona san, please get away from that lecherous man, who knows what he might try to do to you!" Lefiya huffed.

"I'm really beginning to regret not letting you die." Bell commented harshly before turning to Ais expecting an answer for his previous question.

"Lefiya is afraid of deeper floors." Ais replied before pouting, something Bell hadn't seen for quite some time, "Bell stop being mean to Lefiya."

"Ais san…"

Bell sighed, alas, if it was her requesting it he'd have no choice. Though, their discussion would have to wait.

Even if he would love for nothing more than to deal with the itty bitty annoying elf, the monsters would not simply sit there waiting. Their initial fear had made them think twice before pouncing on the group, but their instincts had ultimately won.

"Ais nee."

"Mm?"

Bell grinned as he brandished his sword, "We haven't fought together in a while…what do you say we show how great we work together?"

"...Sure."

"Alright!" Bell ran forward, with Ais following closely behind, her winds embracing her blade, tugging Bell's coat a bit back to keep them at the same rate.

Her blade, desperate, seemingly glowed almost as though it had found a renewed sharpness.

"Vampir's Rona Fall!"

"Lil Rafaga!"

And with clean sweeps, the two mowed down every single monster present.

Their harmonious movements left no gaps for any monsters to attack, though they did slip up sometimes, perhaps due to how long it had been since they fought together, but they immediately recovered.

Honing both their coordination and execution, with a single thrust of her rapier, a monster fell.

With a slash of his blade, another monster fell.

…

…

"Hmm…your style has changed quite a lot," Bell commented as if sheathed his swords, "Thankfully, we both knew to adapt."

"Mm, you've improved."

The two continued chatting, though it was mostly Bell, seemingly having forgotten the other two that were present with them.

And as the surge of monsters died, another surge rose…

Not of monsters… but of jealousy…particularly in a certain elf.

"What's your deal anyways?!" Lefiya hissed, interrupting the two. "You come out of nowhere, touch me with your…filthy hands, and then you suddenly act as if you're chummy with Ais san!"

Honestly, the confusion he felt continuously increased with this elf. She had a problem if he saved her.

She had a problem if he talked to her.

She had a problem if he talked with Ais.

What the hell girl? Who asked you, why do you care so m-

Bell's eyes widened in realisation, having been trained to be quick on the uptake [Zeus to be credited], he could quickly decipher the cause of the elf's jealousy.

A confirming glance at Tiona, who simply responded with a sly grin, told him everything he needed to know.

This girl…is totally head over heels for Ais.

Bell held back a chuckle before he planned his response, "Who am I, you say?" Bell began speaking, holding a pretentious tone as if to scream how much more superior he is. "I am Ais's boyfriend obviously."

…

"...What?" Lefiya replied.

"...What?"

Though Bell never had a particular preference at ruining people's day, watching the elf's face slowly light up red as though there were flames underneath her skin was…somewhat entertaining.

"What's a boyfriend?" Ais asked, breaking the tension.

Damn it.

"Uh, it's someone you really like to spend time with and they are male, you hold their hands and go on lunches and stuff." Bell explained; hoping that her usual confusion may give a chance to win this.

And a chance he got.

"Oh," Ais smiled, "Well, I've bathed with Bell already so I guess he is my boyfriend." She offered her hand.

"B-B-Bathed?!"

Bell grinned at said opportunity, taking off his glove and grabbing Ais's hand, feeling the impossibly soft skin in his hand gave him a pause.

How the hell does she keep these so soft when all she does is swing her sword?

But he refocused upon the elf, who by now began to release steam from her ears, comically becoming so red that her features were becoming indistinguishable, "Looky here, hot, unprotected, skin-to-skin hand holding."

"Hawawawa…" Lefiya began to back away, stepping upon the uneven ground of the dungeon before finally…

"Lefiya!" Tiona slid to catch her fallen friend, though remembered the incident that occurred not two minutes ago, and dodged to let her fall onto the ground.

Mirth danced evidently in Bell's eyes and it didn't take much from Tiona to decipher his intentions.

They looked right into each other's eyes, one with a grin and the other with a smirk, both thinking the same thing…

'No way, he/she likes to mess with elves too!'

And thus, a fabulous friendship flourished right under the confused gaze of the War Princess.

---

When Bell said he was going in for two days, most would consider it a joke.

Some would take it as a show of mental fortitude.

While some unfortunate fools…would know the truth, and know he was far from kidding.

The Guild had to constantly push the familias to go for expeditions, uncharted territory or not, they had to send reminder after reminder after reminder after which finally the familias would go and carry out the expedition.

It wasn't too much of a concern, as the familias needed for expeditions were some of the mid upper to absolute upper echelon of the city anyways.

But Bell, first class he may be, had no reason to go down for so long.

…

Or so his little alliance had believed.

And yet…he did it anyway…not just two days either, he spent two nights and came back on the afternoon of the third day's afternoon.

Why?

Because he's Bell Cranel.

Lefiya and the others had to leave soon after…Bell's prank, after all, they had gone down there to help train the young elf, and her being unconscious was far from helpful.

And now he had come back, perhaps running around scaring some newbies by accident, but…it was hard to care much for the detailing of the 1st floor. They would have to get used life in the depths eventually.

As the first ray of sunlight in 3 whole days rained upon him, however weak the setting sun's light even was, Bell couldn't help but appreciate the natural source of warmth.

Having spent his time dealing with monsters that'd continuously appear out of nowhere, in the dark crypt of the dungeon…it was…understandably pleasant and refreshing after all the tiring work he did.

However…

"Oh my, you sure seem worn out." A voice brought him out of his bliss.

Vermillion hair invaded his vision, along with the subtle and distinct scent of metals. He had to admit, the smell was growing on him.

"Have you been in the dungeon the whole day?" Hephaestus asked, her single visible brow furrowing.

"Ah Hephaestus sama, Greetings." Bell waved, "And yeah, let's say it was a whole day." He added with air quotation marks.

"You make it sound as though it wasn't." She folded her arms, her bountiful chest spilling over her arms.

"Well, it was more like…three days."

Hephaestus's lips thinned, her matte black gloves rubbing against each other as she resisted the urge to pull his ear.

"And pray tell, what in the world could have spurred you to go spend three WHOLE days in that place?" Her voice was laced with the irritation that she didn't bother to hide.

"Well…at night you see, I have dreams." Bell held his own hand, "Dreams where there is a monster in the dungeon, that cries out to me. It keeps begging me to come visit it, how lonely it feels. How it's so scary there."

"Bell…"

"And how much it needs a toothbrush because holy Zeus, do minotaurs have a stinky mouth." Bell finished, a cheeky grin making itself at home on his face.

"You…" Hephaestus stopped herself, though she was not his Goddess, she ultimately cared enough to actually worry for him, "Why do you push yourself this far?"

"I have a job to finish."

Hephaestus's eyes softened a bit. Admittedly, she was a bit worried about which job he was referring to.

But either of the two seemed considerably dangerous.

It's not as though she had any particular attachments to Bell, hell he wasn't even in the familia. But he was someone respectable.

Childish and simply reckless at times but not a fool. There was not a single moment where his stubbornness hadn't won. He cared deeply for allies and would fiercely defend his God.

Very few could say that they have lifted a deity up by the throat and choked him to get a point across. Even less so of those that lived afterwards.

He cared a lot more for the people than one would think, considering how many people he had working for him, all of whom were helped from Daedalus street-more notoriously known as 'The Crime Street'.

His unique charm couldn't help but draw people to him, divine or not.

"Either way, where are you headed to?" Bell brought her focus back.

"To the stall we set up. I have a drop off for some equipment they asked for."

Bell grinned before bowing dramatically, "Then do allow me, my fair lady, to accompany you there."

And of course…

Hephaestus let out a smile, "Well then why not?"

He was a gentleman.

---

If he were to define Hephaestus's beauty in one word…

…he wouldn't be able to.

A Goddess of the forge- one would expect a woman of a harsh constitution. Rough and perhaps dough eyed, with bulging muscles and callous filled hands.

Yet that couldn't have been further from the truth.

A tapestry of ethereal features, Hephaestus was no crude musclehead but rather a paragon of stunning allure. A testament to true beauty, one who supersedes Freya herself (at least in his eyes).

Though, in all honesty, just about everyone was better than Freya.

Her impeccable physique sculpted with a healthy mix of hard muscles and softness, created a proportionate amount of meat where there needed to be.

Her curvaceous body was something that always tested Bell's limits, him just barely being able to avoid looking at her.

He had manners; and knew better than to objectify women for their physical assets.

Alas, her gracefully proportioned hips that swayed with every step she took commanded his attention, pressing against the black trousers she always wore.

"-ell… Bell?"

"Hm?" Bell snapped out of his stupor.

"Are you okay? You seem kind of distracted."

Bell bit his tongue to bring his control back to himself before replying, "Uh yeah. Sorry."

Stupid Bell. Dumb, idiot me, since when did you stoop to your grandfather's level? Stop oogling her.

"Anyways, did you say something about a stall?"

"Well yeah it's a festival tonight." Hephaestus stated as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

"...festival?" Bell repeated in bewilderment.

"Bell? Are you sure you're okay? Have you not taken a single look around you?" Hephaestus turned, landing a worried gaze on Bell.

…

…Wait…

Looking around him, it was as if the world had finally rendered for him, row after row of different stalls.

Vendors setting up their produce and getting ready to sell.

How did I not notice this before?

"Oh…" Bell dumbly responded, now finding Hephaestus's concern to be entirely justified…from her perspective at least.

It took just one second for Bell to realise why he hadn't realised what was happening in the world around him, and another second for him to explode into a redness-rivalling the short scarlet hair that Hephaestus had- as he began to berate himself repeatedly for letting his body get the better of him.

Hephaestus approached closer, much to his dismay, her single eye wavering in concern as she looked up at him. "My gosh look at how red you became…are you perhaps ill?" She leaned in, with the box she was carrying acting as a support for her chest mounds.

Hephaestus you are not HELPING!

"Uh yeah I'm okay." Bell forced himself to look away from the mounds of hers that sat upon the crate, "Just…tired I think."

"This is why I say you need to tone it down a bit." Hephaestus sighed; an adorable pout decorating her divine face. "If you overwork yourself at this rate, you'll collapse! You need to slow down!" She more or less commanded before walking again.

Not having it in him to reject her command, not anymore at least, Bell at least walked beside her to prevent his…wandering eyes from getting too much candy. Admiring beauty had its limits and he knew better than to be a creep.

Instead he put them to good work to see the new changes that came with the festival; the various items of festivities lined the streets. Children were already out and about, playing with each other as they ran through the busy streets. Neighbourhood ladies talking amongst themselves, and various adventurers in armour lounging about in various cafe's.

It…was a nice sight.

A peaceful one, unlike the ones he was used to.

'So you can smile like that.'

"You seem happy." Hephaestus's words drew him out of his dazed wonder, but he dared not look in her direction. Entirely settled in giving Hephaestus the respect she deserves.

"I am."

"Did the place you stay at before not have this sort of event?"

Seemingly thinking twice about his response, "It did. Some places me and gramps stopped at had events and celebrations like this. But…man, Orario really is the centre of the world huh."

His words sounded cryptic, though from his wandering eyes, Hephaestus could guess what he was referring to.

"Indeed, it really is a melting pot." She agreed. The city being a place where many of various heritages gathered. No one was more special than the other, all visitors coming for the festival.

"Well except for those elves." Bell snickered.

"Ah yes, they don't like to leave their forests much do they?"

"They don't like you going there either," Bell added, "Had to learn that one first hand."

"...No…don't tell me, did you actually try to enter one of them?" Hephaestus paused before chuckling, shaking her head at the image of Bell taunting a group of elves. "Which one? Wishe Forest?"

"...Alf forest."

"The elven royals?! Oh my you certainly are brave." Hephaestus continued, remembering the rumours of the…rather rough hospitality that the High elves were known to show.

"Oh don't get me wrong, I entered and stayed there for a couple of months."

"WHAT?"

"Well, initially they were rather aggressive. They jumped out with bow and arrow ready…so I just electrocuted them to death's door." Bell shrugged, as if his actions were insignificant.

"..."

"Then, they tried to act haughty once I splashed them with some healing potions, which mind you are rather difficult to get outside of Orario, so, I broke their arms until one of them caved in and agreed to lead me to the forest's entrance."

"You are no longer welcome there are you?"

"Never was." Bell grinned smugly.

"Bell, that's not an accomplishment, stop smiling like that." Hephaestus let out an exasperated sigh, "You'd better not mention in front of any elf in the city otherwise…"

"Otherwise they will viciously attack me, I know." Bell shrugged.

It wasn't as though he didn't really care, but it's not like any elf in the city posed much of a threat to him anyways. Besides, the only elf other than Riveria that could potentially harm him and actually care about his actions would probably be Hedin.

But his head is shoved too far up Freya's ass to hear anything I say so that's fine.

"Alright then, we are here." Hephaestus declared, before setting down a crate full of small weapons and trinkets that she'd sell.

"A bit odd to sell weapons in a festival isn't it?" Bell asked, as he set his crate beside hers.

"Yeah well, Dian Cecht is going to sell potions. Soma-"

"Better not be selling wine."

"No actually," Hephaestus finished, "he said he's going to sell…grape juice and snacks like cookies."

"That's…literally wine. Also what kind of combination is that?"

"I don't know, the fact that Soma is going to come out of his room in itself is weird enough to not really care about that."

"Ah, I should take my leave. I should probably clean up before the festival."

"Right, thank you for your help." Hephaestus smiled warmly at him, before seemingly remembering something. "Hey Bell?"

"Yeah?"

"...I've been hearing a rumour for the past couple days but…what's this about you dating the sword princess?"

---

To say Bell came back home a bit pale was an understatement.

He had joked a little with that elf just to mess with her, and now, he's been played.

Not another rumour…please Zeus!

"I'm hom-"

And there she was.

The sword princess, in all her glory and silver armour, biting down on a jagamarukun.

"Hey Bell." She greeted amid her small nibbles.

"...What are you doing here Ais nee?"

"Tione said boyfriends and girlfriends live together. Like her and the captain, so I'm here."

"Right…of course she said that." Bell facepalmed, "What has gramps said about this?"

"He laughed and gave me a hug." She continued biting the jagamarukuns.

"...Ais nee, you are going back to your familia home."

"Just Ais is fine, I'm not that much older than you." She replied completely ignoring his words.

Bell smiled mischievously before replying with a joke he used to often make, "Respectfully? You are literally 1016 years old. The fact that I call you Ais nee instead of Ais baa san is already something you should be thankful for. Good God even Riveria probably gives you a bow."

But Ais didn't laugh.

Had this been in the past, Ais would've chased Bell up and down the mountain trying to get him to take it back. Yet this time…

"Ais? Have you not told them yet?"

She didn't respond, but the shiver and sudden change in her attitude spoke loud enough. Her demeanour shifting so quickly being the biggest sign of her sensitivity at times.

Well…when a man fuck's up. He's gotta own up to it.

And so, Bell plopped himself down next to her, groaning due to the throbbing in his leg.

"Long day?" Ais asked, her mood seemingly still in the dumps.

"Long days…I'm sorry." He paused, hoping for a response, but sensing her confusion, "About the age thing. I…thought it was known by now."

"...Should I have told them by now?" Ais asked with uncertainty in her voice.

"It's completely your decision." Bell looked up, the dull grey ceiling seeming rather representative of how quickly he killed the mood, " At the end of the day, it's not a secret I should divulge."

"..."

*Sigh* I guess I really did hit a sore spot.

Ais…was unlike any other woman. It was one hundred percent true to say she was an entirely unique entity in the entire world, not just because of her heritage, but also because…she was the most vulnerable and helpless little child there could be.

People thought of her as an ice queen, but that just wasn't right. She just…didn't know how to express herself. Her mind too young and innocent to full comprehend the things she felt, the meaning of her actions and relationships she was a part of when she was existing in an entirely wrong point in time.

Ais Waldstein was never meant to be here.

Yet she was, and to top it all off, she had that black and murky flame of hatred for the One Eyed Black Dragon. The flame which contrastingly to it's nature, took away all light when it burnt at its brightest. With all that going for her, no wonder her social skills would be lacking.

Bell had seen it a few times, he could understand just how much pressure she felt…just how hopeless she could become.

Alas, her desire for revenge meant she never fully developed, never really learnt how to feel. In a sense, he was quite like her…except he had people he trusted and didn't quite face the exact same situation as her, having experienced his life when he was meant to.

"Come on then." Bell suddenly spoke, realising his thoughts lasted long enough for her to finish her jagamarukun. "Let's do what I did before to help you out."

Since I'm the only one that can help her.

Bell gently grabbed her head, before lying her down. Her head resting on his thigh, as a lap pillow, before he began to run his fingers through her golden hair and softly scratching her scalp.

"Now, speak to me. You know there isn't a single time when I ever judged you. I never will. Let it out." He whispered, his eyes looking at hers tenderly.

Ais hesitated, as per usual, but then her lips quivered. A crack in the tough walls that she had built around her heart. She shook in fright…

Just like when he consoled her with her nightmares of the Black Dragon…

Just like when he listened to her worries for her mother…

Just like when he reassured her when she had lost control for the first time.

Bell, for all intents and purposes, was willing to be rude to anyone. He held no respect for others that didn't deserve it, and wouldn't even show any respect to Ouranos…unless he was in the wrong.

But with Ais? He was willing to protect her. Another person that was dear to him.

"I-" She began, "I'm scared…"

He didn't speak, allowing her to continue at her own pace.

"I…what if they think of me differently?" Ais whimpered, tears gathering at the corner of her eyes, "I…think about telling them. Everyday. But then I end up…dreaming. Seeing things…how they refuse to talk to me. How they might push me to the side…How they might no longer see me as an equal…but…"

"As an abnormality?" Bell finished sensing her struggles, his never ceasing the relaxing motion on her head.

"Mm…"

"I think…you found a wonderful familia," Bell smiled at her. The sword princess's amber eyes widening at his words, "You clearly care for them…and they care for you."

"..."

"I don't think they'd do any of that to you. Of course, you will continue to worry. It's natural, but…I don't think the Loki Familia is a place where you'd be pushed aside."

"How do you-"

"Come on Ais," Bell chuckled, his hand stopping before cupping one side of her cheek, "Do you think I of all people would stay uninformed of the Loki Familia member's pasts?"

"...That makes sense."

"Of course it does," he smiled, "I'm me. But going back…everyone has issues. They have worries, concerns and despite how many may act, they all care for each other, especially if you are in a familia. Even that little puppy, he cares for you guys a lot."

"..."

Give her a minute.

"Bete?"

Attagirl.

"That's correct, that wolf has experienced some things…and so has about 80% of the top Familia's members. You can always choose to live in a world of what ifs, but each of those thoughts will shackle you and prevent you from reaching out. It's worrying to say, but…it's those emotions that drive us to be the stronger ones right?"

"...Mm."

"Sure your case might be a bit more unique but they won't judge you for it Ais, have faith in them… If they did, I'd be hitting them until their face resembled a tomato."

"...Even the girls?"

"That elf would stand no chance of survival if that's who you mean."

"...But you shouldn't hit a girl?"

"Under normal circumstances. But for you? I'd slay however many pricky elves you need." He winked, giving her shoulder a supportive pat.

The two stopped conversing after that, enjoying each others company, something they didn't have in quite some time.

It was always a wonder for Ais, since the very beginning Bell's presence had always calmed her. Something about him just resonated with her.

He always supported her, was wise and had always given her head pats and lap pillows. Comforting her when she cried.

She knew his parents died from the One-Eyed Black Dragon, a fact that she used only to fuel her desire for revenge against it even more.

He had been her pillar in many situations, just his memory alone and now that he was with her in this room, his scent and warmth felt like a blanket around her…protecting her from every big bad monster out there.

His scent…

His smell…

"Bell, you stink!"

---

The Last Hero

---

Bell in his time had been to many festivals.

Small celebrations in random villages.

The yearly offering to Demeter.

The Alf remembrance [though he forcefully inserted himself into that one].

Funnily enough, they tried to poison him in the Alf forest, Unfortunately for them, Bell's constitution was simply too strong for any poison they could come up with, and once more leaving them hopeless.

But all in all, festivals were always fun. When out with another person, it was even better.

And so, he was now out at night with Ais. Having spent the last few hours at home, he found it a bit odd how Zeus hadn't returned yet.

He asked the maids around and even they didn't know.

Either way, he shrugged off his lack of presence, considering Zeus was probably doing something stupid…once more.

And frankly, I'd rather not deal with that.

No. He would rather enjoy some down time with Ais, watch her win the jagamarukun eating competition and just explore unbothered.

"Arerere…is that Bell kun I see there?"

…explore.

"Oh my! What a miracle! Ruffle my jimmies! It really is Bell kun."

…unbothered.

"Hey! Bell kun! It is I, your bes-"

"Shut up Hermes!" Bell cut him off jumping at the man, grabbing his face and smashing him into the ground, rubble flying into the air haphazardly. "God you are such an annoying pest."

From the crater, Hermes raised a wobbly thumbs up, "Great…to see you too."

Bell glared at the pile that was worth less than a yamicha and silently grabbed Hermes' thumb.

"Great to see you too. Allow me to greet you."

Snap

"IYAAAAAAAA!"

…

"Hahaha it's always nice to see you Bell." Hermes wiped the blood leaking from the back of his head, "and you Ais. You've grown more and more beautiful each passing day."

"...Mm."

"I hope the two of you have been enjoying yourselves?"

"We were, until, you came along." Bell snapped, giving Hermes the stink eye.

"Oh my, you're gonna make me cry Bell kun." Hermes sniffled pitifully, covering his eyes.

"Bell, you shouldn't be so mean to a God."

"Ais?!"

Hermes suddenly did a 180, looking at Ais with upturned eyes, "Kenki! As expected, you are so gracious! You truly live up to your title, so generous. So magnanimous. So-"

"Ok, ok, we get it." Asfi cut her patron deity off, blushing red at the looks they were getting from the people passing by. From their perspectives, it'd seem as if Hermes was confessing to Ais after all.

She glanced over to Bell- the boy looking at Hermes with a perturbed expression, "Sorry Bell, we just came by to say hi. We'll take our leave now."

Without waiting for an answer from anyone, she unceremoniously picked up Hermes like a sack of potatoes and disappeared from their sight, leaving behind an annoyed Bell and a mildly confused Ais.

"Why was he praising me so much?" Ais asked, tilting her in confusion.

"I don't know Ais, maybe he's in love with you."

"...Oh."

For the first time ever, I actually appreciate her bland responses.

"But we are meant to be a couple…does that mean I'm cheating on you?"

Oh for God's sake!

"Or does that mean that me and Hermes sama are a couple?"

For the love of Zeus! NO!

"Ais, he has Asfi. So unfortunately, you're stuck with me." Bell tried to bring a premature end to the girl's wandering questions. As much as he didn't mind Ais being all cute and lost, he really didn't want her to be involved with Hermes.

Not that he particularly minded, since he only claimed Ais as his girlfriend only to make Lefiya regret it, but, Hermes of all people was a hard pass.

"I don't mind."

"Eh?" Bell turned to the girl, confused.

Ais let out a smile. Small but definitely an upward curve.

"I feel at peace with you…" Ais replied, glancing towards the boy, "you know me completely, even better than Riveria."

Well this wasn't what I expected.

Ais never spoke out about anything, besides training. But the two shared an uncanny understanding between themselves.

Perhaps, it was due to the fact that they shared a common nemesis.

Perhaps, it was because they both knew the pain of losing their parents.

Perhaps, it was the fact that vengeance was a common goal in their minds.

Ais felt that connection, a thousand years in the future. A bond that she didn't think she could make with anyone this far away from where she was meant to be.

Bell never judged. Bell never hurt her. Bell protected her.

Even if she had a higher status than him right now, she knew it was a matter of time before he reaches her. After all, it isn't easy to reach level 4 outside with no dungeon.

'Could he have been going to the dungeon somehow?'

It was a question she often wondered.

How could he grow so fast with nothing to provide him the excelia with?

The monsters outside of the dungeon were known to be weaker- providing less excelia than one would ideally want. That's why majority of the people outside of Orario don't get any higher than level 2.

Even in Orario, majority of the city was at most level 2, anything beyond only meant that they were the top 1%. Yet, Bell grew outside, in a few years, he grew rather fast.

"Come on then, let's get going." Bell called out to her, extending a hand.

Ais nodded before wrapping her hand around his warm one.

She normally didn't like taking a day off, finding the surface festivities rather tedious and unavailing. There was no point to celebrating like this, when she could be getting stronger.

Yet, now she was with him, and for some reason the celebrations didn't seem as much of a waste.

It was as if her world gained colour when he was with her. The tiny activities seemed much more enjoyable, something that even compared to a tasty jagamarukun.

The snacks tasted a little sweeter, and the echoes of the laughing children felt more heartwarming.

"Mm."

That night, the world watched, as it lamented the path it's final hero would have to walk.

The spirits shed crystal tears in the depressive nature, as the Earth let out silent wails of regret at the foreseen future.

Yet, the streets of Orario remained bustling, the mortals of the world not yet aware of the tragedy that'd befall them. A pair of great spirits walked hand in hand, smiling in each other's company.

---

"Say Bell."

"Hm?"

Ais rubbed her thumb over his gloves hand as they walked, "why do you wear this glove?"

"...Is there any issue?"

Ais shook her head, "I'm just…curious. I don't remember seeing this before."

"Hm-hm, so it seems that Ais is interested in me? Oh my, I can hear the hearts of thousands shattering."

"What?"

"Don't worry about it." Bell sighed, not finding it the least bit odd that she didn't get it. "Come let's go and see the next stall. I can see quite a few people gathering over there."

Bell pointed towards a massive crowd gathered by a stage. It seemed as if whatever was going to happen, hadn't started yet, so they'd been just in time for it.

Ais wordlessly followed him, still holding onto his hand. Noticing that he'd avoided the question.

They shifted through the gaggle of people, making it near to the front to see exactly what it was that brought in such a massive crowd.

Oh fuck me! It's this guy again!

"Ladies and Gentlemen! Are you ready for the special event of the night?!" Hermes shouted into a microphone, his voice booming and reaching even towards the back of the streets.

People stopping in their paths to pay attention to what he had to say.

A loud chorus of cheers resounded, responding with a similar level of enthusiasm as Hermes.

Suddenly I don't feel like seeing this spectacle anymore.

Regrettably for Bell, Ais was rooted to her spot, paying close attention to the clown disguised as a God.

Guess we have no choice…

Bell sighed before returning his attention to Hermes. As much as he would hate to continue on listening to Hermes, he didn't want to really rob Ais of her fun.

It was good in a certain way too, if she could see how much useless crap Hermes spouts, then it'd make her avoid him in the future.

"Tonight is the night for a test. One that is holds such monumental value, than not even ten pairs of Asfi's panties can compare! Are you r- Ough!"

"Stop doing that!" Asfi reprimanded her patron deity, blushing red.

"Argh…that smarts." Hermes rubbed the bump on his head, receiving a response in the form of a peal of laughter.

Heh, does he think no-one knows what he is trying to do?

It was clearly a way for him to make everything seem normal and even make that comedic act to loosen everyone's guards.

Hermes had a tendency to act like that when it came to public events. Though this kind of act was almost always followed by something annoying.

"Anyways, the event today is one that mirrors the legends, I reveal to you! Ex-Caliburn!" He roared as he removed the tarp they covered a stand.

That's…

In a rectangular pillar, stood a blade.

A spear- no an arrow.

One that he was well aware of.

Why is that here?

The blue length ran long, with a sharp bladed tip. A weapon that made the spirits huddle towards it.

Divine weapon.

A weapon that had been produced from the very soul of a God.

Many deities possessed these.

The spear of thunder, belonging to Zeus.

The hammer of forging flames, belonging to Hephaestus.

The blade of afterlife, belonging to Odin.

Each and every one of these weapons were the preferred weapons of the Gods that they represented.

A figment of imagination and utter power, these weapons were not something any blacksmith could ever forge- no matter how talented they were.

Regardless of them being human or Divine.

The only way to make them, was for a God to possess a strong will that'd summon it.

A weapon so strong, that it could destroy the very worlds if they were to be used by their designated deity.

This was a weapon amongst them.

One capable of slaying any beast.

One that never lost its target once fired.

One that couldn't be stopped by anything.

The arrow of Orion.

Belonging to the Goddess of the Hunt.

"Artemis…" Bell whispered, seeing the familiar weapon.

"Bell?"

"It's nothing Ais." He instinctively dismissed her.

He could tell she heard what he accidentally spoke out. After all, she was a high level adventurer too.

"Now! This weapon is the final prize of all the games! He who pulls this out, will win an all expense paid seven days vacation to the Jormundar Hot Springs!" Hermes cheered, "and they can keep the weapon!"

His attempt at riling up the people worked, not that it was any of Bell's business. He was indeed curious as to why that spear was here.

It's not enough for me to care much.

"Oh and I forgot to mention, in the Jormundar Hot Springs, they have recently introduced a premium flavour of jagamarukuns, which you will have an all you can eat buffet for!"

Immediately Bell felt Ais tighten her grip on his hand.

Oh…shit.

He paled remembering the addiction Ais seemingly had to these potato snacks.

Ais no! It's a trap!

"Oh and you will be able to receive a six month supply of all you can eat Jagamarukun pass from any stall in Orario!"

Hermes you bastard!

"A-Ais…my hand hurts." Bell whispered, feeling her practically crushing his hand.

"Bell." She turned to her friend, her eyes blazing with determination. "We must try."

"Ais b-"

Ais moved, dragging Bell along. Effortlessly making it to the front of the crowd.

Ah who am I kidding? Trouble will never leave me alone.

Resigning to his fate, Bell allowed Ais to take him up the stage to meet Hermes.

"Oh it seems that we have our first contestant." Hermes grinned, seeing that his plan to lure Ais and Bell to him worked.

"Oh he is…"

"The first contestant is the one and only Ice Queen that has stolen the hearts of all the men! She's strong as she's beautiful- Senki, Ais Wallenstein!"

Overdramatic much?

"Oh? It seems she brought someone with her." Hermes mentioned before exaggerating a gasp, "oh my, what a surprise! It's Bell Cranel!"

Hermes jumped at the chance, moving closer to Ais in blinding speeds and practically shoving the mic into her face, "Miss Wallenstein, if you don't mind me asking, why are you arms interlinked with his? Are you perhaps in a sort of situation that we are not aware of?!"

Ais no!

"We are a cou-"

Before she could finish her sentence, Bell covered her mouth, preventing a single word coming out her mouth.

"We are childhood friends." Bell replied in Ais's stead before glaring at Hermes, "now can we just get to the arrow part please?"

Hermes beamed, giving a smile that Bell's fist itch to be driven into his mug.

Unfortunately, he couldn't do that now, so he bore it.

"Righteo then! Now, since I know you are quite a chivalrous man, Bell. I assume you'll allow the ladies to try before you?"

Hmm…I don't like where this is going.

"Ladies? There's only Ai-"

"I'm here too." Someone declared pridefully.

Bell turned to meet the voice, coming to a halt from his earlier line of thought.

Haa…just when I thought I had it bad.

"Oh my fan-fucking-tastic luck, why do you hate me so?" Bell cursed out loud.

"Tch, barbaric language fitting of a man like you. I knew you were the wrong person for Ais San." Lefiya huffed, crossing her arms over her chest.

Bell rolled his eyes at Lefiya, "I can understand this ungrateful elf showing up…but why are you here Riveria?"

He looked besides the young elf to eye the older elven princess. The woman stood with her staff and green robe as if nothing was wrong, smiling at him.

"Well well, Cranel san. Congratulations on your…relationship with Ais." Riveria greeted stiffly.

Uhh…what?

"What?"

"You know I was quite shocked when I received the news…that you are dating Ais. Even still," she smiled once more, though this time she spoke with a noticeable edge, "I'm sure you are going to be a great couple."

"R-riveria Sama?! You can't let this mongrel keep Ais san! Who knows what he'll do?"

Lefiya had initially brought Riveria to help bring back Ais, knowing how close the woman was to Ais. She was a higher than Bell too.

When she had revealed it to the princess, the temperature of the room noticeably dropped, as ice began forming on the books. With this, she had thought that Riveria would for certain try to bring back her "daughter".

Yet, she doesn't seem to be trying to do that at this point.

"Haa…woman I'm not even gonna try to ask what's up. Can you just…try and pull the arrow already?"

Dealing with Hermes is enough, I'll deal with her hissy fit later.

Honestly, he really regretted messing with this elf at the time. The momentary joy of seeing Lefiya pass out was dwarfed by the whole shenanigan of him "dating" Ais.

Even if she didn't mind, which she unfortunately chose to clarify, he wasn't ready for something like with her yet.

"Ais, how about you show them how it's done. Why don't you go and pull on that thing?"

"Mm."

Ais went forward unbothered by the gaze of the audience in front of her. With a hand, she resolutely gripped the arrow sticking up from the pillar…

"Hng…" she pulled with all her might.

To no avail.

Her eyes widened in shock as she grabbed the long handle of the spear looking arrow with her other hand as well and pulled with all her might.

…

Nothing.

"How…is this possible?" She couldn't help but ask, feeling dejected at her inability to lift it up.

"Oh my, what a shame. It seems the Kenki was not enough this time, though she gave it a mighty attempt. A round of applause for Ais Wallenstein!" Hermes announced as a chorus of claps came from the equally baffled crowd.

It didn't do anything to mend Ais's crestfallen expression but it was needed for appearances.

Bell didn't offer any words of encouragement, knowing she was more or less disconsolate right now, probably thinking of herself as too weak.

She didn't know that these weapons had conditions to be used, but for now he chose to keep that to himself.

Instead he silently looked over to Lefiya, shaking his head for her to go try it.

It seemed like she was about to say something, but she held it back. She marched over to the arrow, stomping on Bell's foot on the way but missing it.

"Heh, you missed." He taunted as she grit her teeth and continued walking.

Just like Ais, she too tried with all her might. Her frail arms tried pulling with all it had, her falna boosting her strength but failing to get the weapon to respond.

"Oh no, even the fairy magician of the Loki familia failed, could there be a single person who can lift this?!"

Lefiya too left, but unlike Ais she wasn't too dejected. After all, if Ais had physical failed to lift it, she knew she had no hope in being able to do so.

She instead turned her attention to Bell who stood silently looking at Riveria.

"Are you gonna go?" Bell asked, the elven princess having recomposed herself from her previous…juvenile behaviour.

"No…I don't think I'll be able to lift that." Riveria shook her head, "I am a mage, and I have prioritised my status as such, so I don't think it'll be possible."

Bell nodded before calmly making his way to the podium.

"Hmph, foolish human, if Ais san couldn't lift it, what gave you the idea that you could?" Lefiya sneered, mocking Bell. He was quickly growing tired of her haughty attitude, one that would probably not be fixed even if he beat her up.

"Lefiya!" Riveria chastised her disciple but said no more, as if to add a silent agreement.

"Haa…"Bell sighed, shaking his head without looking back. He went forwards, shooting Hermes a quick glare.

"Oh my, what a vicious glare you are giving me Bell kun."

"Save the drivel." Bell shot back before looking at Hermes with concerned eyes, "has the situation become this desperate? To rely on this? You couldn't even come directly to me?"

"... Unfortunately yes." Hermes replied but gave a look of 'We'll talk later.'

"You ask where I get the confidence to raise this even though Ais couldn't?" Bell addressed Lefiya again, grasping the arrow in one hand and looking back at Lefiya, "it's obvious why I do…"

With a swift pull, the arrow left the ground. Thunder crackled in the sky as it struck where Bell stood. He raised his arm with the arrow to meet the lightning bolt as it collided with the tip, before being absorbed into the blade.

The stunning spectacle left all the witnesses awestruck and in silence, bringing nearby pedestrians to a halt at the sight of a man covered in lightning. Bell grinned at Lefiya's dumbfounded face before speaking,

"I'm stronger than Ais. That's why."

He knew this may have been a blow to Ais' ego, but he couldn't prioritise that. Though he looked forward with a smile, he worried internally, wondering what exactly could have happened for her to rely on this weapon.

Divine weapons were powerful after all, and even the Gods that possessed them, didn't bring them out willy nilly. When they descended down from Tenkai, these weapons became 'locked' to a part of their soul, which under normal circumstances would not be able to bring it out. Though Ouranos had given a concession, the powers were to be heavily limited, lest they wish to destroy the world.

"It seems you ended up being the one huh…" A new voice spoke from behind Lefiya, yet it wasn't unknown to him.

How could I not know, after all this time.

He moved towards the back, away from the people's sight and in the curious look of the three women there.

Walking with slow steps, Bell came to a halt in front of the curtain that was draped over what the others presumed was a statue.

"You know how it is with me…trouble never leaves me alone." Bell chuckled, pitying himself.

"Well for one with a reputation such as yours, it is rightly earnt." The womanly voice replied, as the curtain was 'pushed' away from the person it was covering to reveal her.

"Regardless of me and my pitiful self…it's been a while, Artemis." Bell greeted, approaching the blue haired woman who had now come out of her "hiding" spot.

Her celestial beauty the same as ever, Artemis remained exactly how he remembered her being.

Inexplicably bold and absolutely untamed- something he appreciated a great ton.

When he met her for the first time, the nearly feral looks in her eyes had told him of almost everything about her character.

Unyielding and fervently independent, Artemis was the hunter Goddess of the moon that was…a man hater to say the least.

Considering she pulled a blade towards him the second he met her.

She was exactly like Gramps described her…batshit crazy.

Regardless of first impressions, after an extended period, Artemis had mellowed out to Bell somewhat. Well, enough to not pull a sword on him at first sight.

"Did you perhaps miss me?" Artemis teased, mirth dancing in her emerald eyes.

"All too much." Bell responded, before pulling the woman into a tight hug.

"W-well, good then. I'm here." Artemis blushed.

Unfortunate that she can tease others but can't handle being teased by others.

Artemis fixed a loose strand of her long blue locks before gazing at his hand, which held the weapon.

"So…you are the wielder of the arrow huh…"

"[The Arrow of Orion]." Bell declared the name much to Artemis's astonishment, a note of interest from the others.

"How did you-"

"How did I know?" Bell cut her off, smirking towards her, "Well if it wasn't from you practically manifesting me as [Orion] everytime you called me that. I know a divine weapon when I see one."

"Uh, are they going to acknowledge our presence or…"

"It's fine Lefiya, they seem to be having a re-unitement." Riveria shook her head, before smiling again at Bell, "well, it seems you certainly are…favoured by women."

"Favoured?" Artemis repeated confused, before giggling, "you are mistaken, I am a virgin Goddess."

"...Oh."

"Oh indeed." Bell mocked, grinning at Riveria, "to assume such a thing…what a perverted elf."

"HOW DARE YOU?!"

Ah great, the elf trooper has been revived.

"I-I didn't mean it like that." Riveria replied all flustered, not that Bell minded her words before.

"Now Bell, while I don't mind you teasing your…friends. We do have much to talk about." Artemis tried to discreetly draw Bell away from the others.

"Hm-hm, let's go to the manor," he nodded, turning to address his blond childhood friend, "Ais, you go back with your familia."

"But-"

While Bell appreciated the particular enjoyment in seeing Lefiya feel the pain from Ais going with him, he would also like to clear up any misunderstandings. As well as, remove the risk of any future ones happening.

"Ais I was joking, we aren't a couple." He broke the unfortunate truth, a fact that came as a surprise to Riveria and Lefiya.

"We aren't?"

"You aren't?"

"I made that joke to get revenge on that bratty elf." Bell gave Lefiya the stink eye, before rolling it back to Artemis, "I didn't expect it to spread everywhere. Haa…so that's that, go back with them Ais. To be a couple you need to Love someone, which is a requirement that hasn't been met for you yet."

He could see the gears turning in Ais' head before she nodded.

It was honestly cute how air headed she could be sometimes, and it was even cuter since he knew exactly when her head blanked.

Though he didn't exactly have the time to appreciate her adorableness that didn't change in so many years. Instead, he took his leave with Artemis in tow.

The bustling streets were filled with people of various races out and about to enjoy the festivities. Stalls with games, food and other fun activities made for a rather dazzling sight. A sight not completely foreign to Artemis but on a much larger scale than she was used to.

"Artemis, come into this alley." Bell instructed, but didn't wait for her to respond, as he moved through it by himself.

He wasn't being cold, but simply knew what type of person she was. If he was to even attempt and coddle her, he'd wake up at night with an arrow aimed right at his face.

Respect.

Respect meant a lot to Artemis, not just for her status, but for her actions. It wasn't people's reverence that she wanted, as she already had her familia for that.

She didn't wish to be worshipped and separated from people, but rather wanted them to think of her as a dependable figure and give her respect.

Artemis was a protector, a deity that loved women and despised men. Not because she preferred them sexually, but simply because she didn't have a particularly…stellar experience with men.

Due to those reasons, Bell didn't dare to even treat her as some weak damsel, despite his nature, he instead allowed her to move freely. Something she appreciates and reciprocates on a regular basis.

"I may not be an expert of Orario's geography," Artemis began, walking with hastened steps next to Bell, her eyes wandering around to explore the dilapidated brick walls next to her, "but this does not seem like the way to the Olympian Manor."

"You're correct. That's because I lied back there." Bell fearlessly admitted.

"Ah right, that trick of yours was always annoying." Artemis sighed, "in all the history of God's existence, I have never once heard of such a thing, yet, you managed to pull it off…

Lying to a God that is."

The deities that had descended to Gekai had sealed their powers, but they hadn't abandoned the essence of their Godhood.

Basic abilities like detectors' lies were readily activated at all times in the lower world. No mortal would ever be able to lie to a God, though they ideally, shouldn't have a reason to do so to begin with.

…Yet Bell did it anyway.

"Either way, I had my suspicions about it." Artemis shrugged, somewhat used to his tricks.

"You did?"

"Of course, after all, Hermes was right there. I know for a fact, just how much you despise that guy."

Bell's face contorted in slight disgust, "Rightfully so, did you see what drama he started today?"

"True. I was aware that he appreciated theatrics, but to do that in this situation? It was somewhat inconceivable how foolish he was.."

"He was a fucking idiot is what he was." Bell cursed in anger, disregarding Artemis' attempt at not being crude, "he knows Freya is in the city. That there are other Gods, that may not have the best of relations with you, and he still threw your divine weapon into the street as if it was Excalibur."

Artemis, currently stood in a fragile position after all. It was preferable, if any activities of this sort were to be carried out in utter secrecy. She was a wandering Goddess, but even she had people that were hostile to her.

But nooooo~ why would anyone ever try to protect the deity here, when they can literally throw them into the fire?!

"I'm taking you to have an emergency audience with Ouranos. Considering your state and Hermes' recent activities, it's plenty clear that he is not trustworthy."

"Ah yes Ouranos, a better pick than Zeus." Artemis agreed.

"Right. Hermes' captain, Asfi Al Andromeda will probably be on our tail soon, if she isn't already. Though, she will not be able to enter the prayer room without being detected by Fels so no need to worry, well so long as Fels doesn't let her in. However, we must pick up our pace, before he finds a way to obstruct us."

Bell slinked through the streets, reaching the abandoned parts of Orario. The empty streets looked as though it was home to some ancient civilisation. Broken walls, shattered window panes were strung around everywhere. An area so unstable, not even a rat would dare to live here.

It was truly eye opening for Bell when he first came here, and he was sure Artemis was sharing that same sentiment.

The ever-so-wonderful Orario.

Sold as being the city of dreams. This was the place where every ambitious person wants to come to, in an effort to 'get rich'. Rumours of prosperity always spreads throughout the world, it's powerful adventurers hailed as literal heroes outside the city.

Yet, the sight in front of her…was but only one of the many dark sides the city had. Places where, no person lived, simply because of how bad its state was.

Artemis felt a pang of pain as she walked past a decayed church, it's spires crumbling into dust, flying away like the fleeting faith of the worshippers of the Gods. It really made one question the point of being a God.

Being a person of faith was something that joined people together, their collective worshipping of any deity making them allies.

There was no unity under religiousness anymore, the deities that descended had ultimately separated the followers into even stricter factions.

The very same people that were brothers of church, were now at each other's throats screaming death, just because their patron deities weren't on the best terms.

'This is why I hate the descent of us Gods…though, I can't be a hypocrite since I came as well.'

Disregarding the broken structures, Bell and Artemis turned into an alley with a dead-end.

"What are we doing here Bell? There's nowhere to go."

"Oh there is, just give me a second." Bell grinned, leaping up to press a brick in the wall.

The wall gave a distinct 'click' being followed by the rumbling of its opening. A passage opening in a place where there was once nothing.

Dark, the hall was a pathway of abyssal darkness, where there was no light at the end of the tunnel.

'Oookay then, definitely not foreboding…at all.' Artemis thought, her hesitance to enter the tunnel rather apparent to Bell.

It wasn't that Artemis was afraid of the dark no- rather, that was a preposterous concept given her domain over the moon, which shone as the sole source of light besides the stars in the dark night.

Her main issue was due to the oozing sense of…entrapment. A sudden feeling that made her think that if she entered once, she'd be trapped for the rest of eternity.

Unable to find a way out, forever, swallowed by the black walls of the hall.

"I know you feel on edge." Bell suddenly began, his voice making her jolt in surprise. "The hall is simply enchanted that way to prevent any person from entering, if they came across it by accident."

"..."

"Don't get me wrong, it's rare for it to happen, but weird coincidences can always happen. This enchantment is crucial not just for any civilian's safety, but also to ensure absolute secrecy for the way to reach Ouranos."

"But…aren't you showing me this?"

"I trust you obviously." Bell raised an eyebrow as he replied, an attempt to ease her worries, grabbing her hand.

She feels…weird. As if she's afraid of these kind of things.

Not to insult Artemis's intelligence…but she was often the type to jump into danger head first.

It was just the type of person she was, always head strong and believing that she can tackle any trouble in the world.

Yet, this Artemis was acting…strange.

For a God's will to be expressed through their divine weapon, they'd return to Tenkai practically as soon as they used it. So how is she still here? Is it under the limit?

The number of questions in Bell's mind kept increasing. An everflowing torrent of questions crashing against his mind, various hypothesis popping up as he silently marched towards Ouranos.

"Artemis, where is your familia?"

"!"

A pressing issue that was on Bell's mind. He could understand everyone else, but there was no way in hell, Artemis's captain, Rethusa would allow her Goddess to come to Orario by herself.

Though he was currently regretting his choice of asking her about it, given her distressed expression, he had thought it'd be better to know about. Feeling like he had accidentally rubbed salt into the wounds of his dear old friend, he decided to drop the matter…for now.

He could more or less guess exactly what had happened to her captain and even the rest of her familia. However, he needed to hear it from her mouth. His doubts had been wrong before, so he wished for them to be wrong this time around too.

He needed that auditory confirmation because as things were going?

The arrow in his hand was getting heavier and heavier. The overwhelming burden of it. The stakes that'd be at risk.

All of it felt like it was beginning to weigh him down.

Haaa… I shouldn't have gone to that darn festival.

…

"Welcome, Artemis."

The woman in question bowed respectfully, "It has been a while, my liege."

"Good evening to you too, Bell Cranel."

"...Good evening."

Ouranos quirked an eyebrow at Bell's averse greeting, but made a point to not ask him about it. The boy typically did come in with a complaint about something, but this time, it seemed he already somewhat knew the severity of the issue.

"I'm assuming you know what is happening?" Artemis began, somberly looking at the deity, who kept the dungeon at bay.

Ouranos curtly nodded, "You have my condolences for the tragedy that has occurred. Losing your children in such a…horrific manner is something that no-one should have to go through." Ouranos turned his head to look at Bell- who paid him no mind- "Truly…to no one."

"I hadn't wanted to rely upon the adventurers of Orario but it quickly became a situation where I had no choice but to do so." Artemis smiled self-mockingly, "I had truly allowed my hubris to take over, to believe that my children alone could take on such a…vile being, was truly fatuous of me."

"And now it has cost your familia."

Seeing Artemis cringe under Ouranos's announcement, Bell made an attempt to glare at the deity on his throne. Yet, he made no attempt to verbally chide the God, well aware that such moral considerations had no need to be made, when the words were true.

"Actually…Rethusa is still alive." Artemis piped up, "Which explains my haste. My lord, I'm sure you are aware of the potential disaster that can arise with that monster on the loose. I beg of you…please assist me in taking it down."

"...So she says Bell. Are you up to the task?" Ouranos turned to Bell, the white haired teen already gripping the spear with all his might. Had it not been a divine weapon, linked to the very soul of a deity, it may have already cracked under the pressure from his ever tightening hold.

"Is that an order?"

"..."

"You know I take orders from No one but you and Gramps." He added, anger swelling in his mind as he heard the faint footsteps that he recognised.

"Oh my, awfully heartless of you isn't it Bell?" An annoying voice spoke up, immediately tempting Bell to throw the arrow at the direction it came from. "Is that really how you treat your lover?"

"And I thought I told you to get fu-"

"Bell Cranel!" Fels chastised, not allowing the teen to sully the prayer room with his curses.

"No! I've had enough! Why did you allow him to come?!" Bell seethed, pointing at Hermes, his voice cracking under the strain of his tearing patience. "You know, exactly what type of guy he is. He will make this already bad situation even worse! All in a dumb fit to make me a hero. One that I refuse to become!"

"...He's a crucial person in this mission." Ouranos calmly replied, well accepting of the teen's tantrum. Though even he agreed that it was well justified, he knew that complaining about it had no benefit.

"A crucial person? He threw Artemis's divine weapon onto a darn podium."

But Ouranos remained headstrong. The usefulness of Hermes was simply too great for them to ignore this time around after all. Ouranos was aware that Bell knew that too, given how the boy was biting back his response, not allowing his emotions to control his actions.

"Hermes."

"Yes my lord?"

"Stop antagonising him." Ouranos commanded, deciding to allow the boy some reprieve, "It's not forbidden for a God to love a mortal, but it only makes missions like this harder to deal with."

Ouranos had long since known the special bond that the Captain of the Zeus familia shared with Artemis. Though they had been rather subtle about it, and hid it from everyone, Hermes had accidentally caught them together sharing a kiss.

Ouranos didn't mind it, but Hermes had made a point to tell everyone he could about it.

Zeus found out, and promptly congratulated his grandson on achieving something not even the Gods could.

Rethusa began chasing Bell around with a sword.

Ganesha laughed for an entire day, screaming nonsensical praises to him.

…While Ouranos added a silent prayer for the boy along with his usual prayers to the dungeon.

"It is an order, Bell Cranel." Ouranos informed the boy, gripping the edge of his arm rest.

"We have arranged for three Wyverns to be your flying transport. The main goal is to perhaps rescue the captain of the Artemis Familia, Rethusa and hopefully, end the monster."

"Um…while I do not doubt Bell's abilities, will he be alone?" Artemis asked, a bit concerned.

"Well, you can always involve the Takemikazuchi Familia." Hermes suggested with a smug grin.

"I refuse."

Exactly for it to get shot down.

"Takemikazuchi's Familia?" Artemis tilted her head, her hair swaying with it.

"A familia I undertook as my vassals." Bell informed, "They are much too weak right now. It's not something they can handle."

"Oh? But were you not planning on fighting 'Her' with their assistance? I find the scales quite more favourable here." Hermes egged on.

"There is nothing favourable here, since we have no clue on what we are dealing with." Bell shot back, not even glancing towards Hermes. "What we do know is that it can kill level twos, which is plenty dangerous for Takemikazuchi familia."

It had taken him a little while, but he did manage to recompose himself.

"I will ask for suitable assistance to be provided to you. For now, go and prepare." Ouranos commanded, immediately glancing at Artemis, "Go with him. You shall meet with Hermes tomorrow at dawn. Make sure to be discreet."

"Yes sire." Artemis bowed, before leaving with Bell, the boy not willing to remain in the room for another second.

Ouranos remained silent, before pinching his nose. "Haa…why do you do this?"

"Whatever do you mean?" Hermes asked innocently smiling.

"I have no intention of meddling in your childish games." Ouranos reminded, "You may do as you wish, so long as the world and Orario is not endangered. However, please bear in mind, he's still a teen."

"He has shown remarkable restraint and maturity for someone of his age, but due to your…past together, he finds it harder to keep himself composed with you. Hermes, I implore you to keep his history in mind when you act. Because in the off chance that a time comes, where he draws his blade against you..." He didn't finish the sentence, feeling that his message had already been delivered.

This time in particular, Ouranos did not issue a command but rather a request.

"...I'll keep it in mind."

…

Bell made quick work to avoid the streets, running his path home jumping from roof to roof. The sun had fully set, allowing the dazzling nightly moon to make itself known. A fresh breeze blowing past him.

Artemis clung onto his neck, his arms gently set under her knees and back. He allowed the woman to pull herself towards him, to share his warmth.

They didn't take long to reach the Olympian Manor, jumping past its gates and landing on the courtyard unnoticed.

"I'll take you to my room. Feel free to freshen up, while I go talk to Gramps."

"But-"

"Artemis, you're tired." Bell held her shoulder, "You have journeyed for a long time most probably. I know it's difficult to rest with the current situation, and Gods, I can't even begin to imagine the pain you are feeling right now. However, you cannot allow yourself to be weakened."

Seeing his insistence, Artemis nodded, unable to tell him of her actual "situation" and instead listened to him.

After being led by Bell quietly, he guided her to the bathroom first before making his way to his Grandfather's room.

Knock Knock

"Come in, Bell."

"Good evening, I have some news." Bell informed, cutting straight to the chase.

"Oh? What is it?"

"Artemis is here."

Zeus's expression immediately lit up, as he stood up from his chair, "Oh that's great news! You must be very happy," he grinned cheekily, "you must be quite excited to see the girl after so long."

Bell understood his grandfather's thrilled response.

Perhaps, he too would've reacted like that…had it not been for the weapon in his hand reminding him of it's heavy existence.

"Gramps, I-" Bell stuttered, feeling his worry begin to boil over once more, as it had threatened to do so many times in his life, "Her familia is dead."

"..."

Zeus's expression fell, instead morphing into one of disbelief and worry. Panic shot through him, his eyes widening in shock.

He felt his mouth move once or twice, an attempt to utter anything out the millions of questions that was passing through his mind.

But no sound came out.

Nothing did.

There was nothing he could do.

No help he could provide. This wasn't a situation that any amounts of words could fix.

He should know, after all, he'd been in the exact same position before.

In the end, he could only shut his mouth. Silence being the only form of response he could give.

"She's…being weird." Bell began again, understanding his grandfather's plight, "she came because she knew Rethusa was still alive."

"!"

"But Gramps, I just can't understand…" Bell looked up at his grandfather, looking into the older man's wisened eyes for any sort of answer, "how did she bring out her divine weapon?"

…

Bell left his grandfather's room after discussing and informing him of the journey they had to make the next morning.

Zeus understood and decided to hold down the fort while Bell went and carried out his duty.

Bell walked back to his room, feeling more exhausted than ever before. Perhaps, it was due to him being in the dungeon for consecutive days…or maybe, the whole situation was simply too stressful for a teenager.

I need to really lay down for a bit.

And so, he opened the doors to see…

"Who the hell are you?" Aisha shouted, her blade drawn.

"I should be asking the same thing to you!" Artemis similarly replied, her bow held right at Aisha.

Ok, then no more laying down.

"Haaa…."

Both women snapped their eyes to Bell, his entrance a welcome one so long as he provided the right answers.

Though Aisha didn't care as much, she had simply thought of Artemis as an intruder. The latter's opinion of Aisha however…

"Bell do you know who this is?" Aisha asked, seeing that Bell hadn't reacted the same way she had.

It was evident that Artemis was not an intruder.

"Bell, who is this harlot, that's dressed in such a disgusting way?" Artemis asked, having more words in her than the latter did.

"I guess it's right for me to explain." Bell muttered, rubbing the back of his head in annoyance. "First of all, Artemis lower your weapon please."

The woman glared at him for a few more seconds, but ultimately complied, taking the arrow out of the notched bow.

"Who is she?" She demanded again.

"Well introductions are in order, Aisha," he turned to the woman, trying to not let his mind distract conjure up some…undesirable images right now, "this is Artemis, my uh, Lover."

"Lover?" Aisha repeated with a raised eyebrow, "I didn't know you had lovers."

"Well that's because I didn't tell you. Hell I told no one about Artemis, granted it was a two way request since neither of us felt comfortable with everyone knowing but oh well." Bell then turned to Artemis, seeing her somewhat fuming expression, he mulled over his words to give everything a second consideration.

Don't mistake him, it wasn't as though he was planning on lying to her. It was just that he didn't want to make the already pissed Artemis, even more pissed.

I mean, Aisha is a complex matter to explain. Hell, I don't even know what she is to me at this point!

"This is Aisha, my…uh," Bell turned to Aisha in confusion, "What are we?"

"Friends with benefits."

"EXCUSE ME?!"

Not good, why did I trust Aisha?

"No no, I mean that is kind of what we are but not exactly," Bell fumbled over his words, his earlier planning seemingly getting thrown out the window as he prepared himself for an earful.

Or an arrow up his ass.

…

"Ok so she raped you?" Artemis asked, having calmed down a lot more than before.

Somehow, in some weird way, he managed to explain his and Aisha's history. His joke when taking the protection of Haruhime into account, and all the events up to now.

"Well, I mean kind of? But then it became consensual mid way through and well…" Bell deflated, his shoulders sagging already, "I don't even know how to explain this anymore."

"Don't get me wrong Bell, I was aware you were going to have other women in your life. After all, seeing who your grandfather is…its kind of became obvious it would happen." Artemis replied, "So I'm not exactly mad…not anymore at least. I'm just trying to understand the situation."

"Yeah, I get it." Bell nodded, before he continued answering her questions.

He was going to be absolutely transparent with her, that much he already knew. After all, he'd prefer not to lie, especially to one of his lovers.

Though, their conversation soon transitioned to what was happening tomorrow. Aisha had no clue about any of this, and while Bell trusted Aisha enough, he also didn't want to risk putting her in any unnecessary danger with Hermes being involved in it all.

Bell didn't exactly know what he was up against, only knowing the barest of details. Yet, as soon as Aisha heard the plans for him to leave the city for a little bit…

"I'm coming."

"Aisha?!"

"That's final." Aisha crossed her arms under her ample bosom, her desire to accompany him coming more from practicality than anything else. "Besides, I really won't have anything to do."

"Uh, how about protecting Haruhime?"

"If I was enough to protect her, I wouldn't have come to you to begin with!" Aisha validly pointed out. Her nonchalant and composed arguments had repeatedly shut down anything Bell conjured up.

There was no reason for her to stay in Orario, and she would be strong enough to survive given that she was a level four. In the end, Bell could do nothing but sigh heavily.

It was a risk to leave Haruhime alone but bringing her on the trip was equally as risky. They were leaving in secrecy so at the very least, Bell's lack of presence wouldn't be discovered.

"Come on now," Aisha stood up, grabbing the bottom part of her chest strap and pulling it up. "It's time to sleep."

"A-Aisha?"

"Aisha san?!"

Aisha glanced at the two prudes next to her blasé look as she stripped her top and loose pants. She smirked before looking at Bell with upturned eyes.

"Why are you so surprised? There isn't anything you haven't seen before." She shrugged, a teasing glint in her eyes as she looked between Bell and Artemis.

Bell seemed to be bewildered rather than embarrassed, though the same couldn't be said about Artemis.

The pale skin of the woman- that was usually a direct contrast to Aisha's rich umber brown skin- became tinted in red, resembling a tomato more than an actual human. Artemis looked away almost immediately, her divine nature forbidding her to steal any glances.

Grinning, Aisha reached out, grabbing a fist full of Bell's shirt and before he could move, ripped it off him unceremoniously.

"Oh no! My shirt!"

Aisha didn't stop, moving and tearing his pants off as well.

"Oh no! My pants!"

Aisha went for the next article of clothing. However, Bell had reached out and grabbed her forearm. His grip, not strong enough to hurt her, but to stop her.

The woman looked at him inquisitively.

Bell shook his head, "Artemis looks like she's about to pass out."

The woman had kept quiet the entire time. Enough for Aisha to forget about her presence.

She sat with spinning eyes, flushed so red as if all the blood in her body had shot up to her face.

She looked right about a second away from leaving the Gekai voluntarily.

"Tch, how can she be so innocent? All I did was take your clothes off."

Aisha unwillingly backed down, deciding to show some consideration to Artemis. Though she made sure to express her annoyance with a deep huff.

"You're going to pay me back for this later." Aisha crossed her arms under her full bust. The flesh mounds rising under the makeshift platform of her arms.

Bell nodded thankfully. He understood Aisha's needs, but he couldn't take that into consideration and put Artemis through the torture of it.

She was his lover, perhaps, in a greater priority than Aisha. He didn't want her to be sidelined, but when he thought about everything Artemis has likely been through very recently, he suddenly felt it'd be unfair to do such a thing with Aisha.

Thus, they prepared to sleep, the bed being large enough to accommodate the three of them and some.

Aisha had a force of habit of sleeping naked, courtesy of the nights she had spent, too tired to get redressed after dealing with her 'clients'.

Or simply not being bothered to do that.

Bell lay in the middle with the two woman holding onto him from either sides.

This…tonight is gonna be hard to sleep.

From one side, his arm had been enraptured with the dark and shapely breasts of Aisha's. Whilst on the other side, Artemis' slightly smaller, but no less divine breasts held onto his other arm.

Artemis hugged his arm tightly, as if he was the anchor to this world for her. Something he couldn't help but frown about.

I shouldn't doubt her…but she isn't lying to me is she?

Bell knew very well just what kind of person Artemis was.

Especially, how possessive she was over him. She had all the restraints in the world to not lash out on him on the spot for anything, but when they were by themselves?

She held a public hearing with the stars in the night sky to hear exactly who that woman he was talking to was.

And now she accepted Aisha as if it was nothing? Even justifying his actions by herself?

…That didn't fit Artemis' image.

Something was off. He could tell, after all, he was her lover. But he couldn't find within himself to doubt her in such a way.

I'll have to figure it out in the morning.

He was hopeful that he was mistaken.

Even if Bell's gut instinct was never wrong. He hoped…

Just this once, it was wrong.

The next day couldn't have arrived sooner for Bell. Visions of what he could be forced to do flashed by his unconscious mind. His dreams plagued by the endless taunting of his darker side.

His arms were a bit more than just sore, but it wasn't something he'd complain about.

Sure, Aisha and Artemis practically cut off all the blood flow in them, to the point that they had become two shades lighter than the rest of his body.

"Good morning, how- ooh…those don't look good." Zeus recoiled, seeing the veins practically throbbing in Bell's arms.

"Good morning." Bell replied, struggling to sip on his coffee. The mug jittering as he raised it with a shaky hand.

"Women?"

"Women."

Zeus nodded, backing off from any more questioning. Instead, he chose to go get breakfast for himself.

It wasn't like Bell could get him anything right now anyways.

The boy continued to enjoy his peace, drinking a healing potion to assist with the coffee.

He doubted if it would even help, the throb in his arms not leaving yet.

"Good morning." Aisha greeted.

Immediately, pain shot through his right arm.

"Good morning."

Immediately, pain shot through his left arm.

"...Good morning." Bell replied, getting up from his seat, "would you like some breakfast?"

"Yes please." Artemis nodded, sitting down stiffly.

Bell didn't call into question any events prior to last night. He mentioned neither her murmurs nor her nightmares.

He knew why.

Zeus knew why.

Although Zeus had suffered through the same fate, perhaps even a greater despair in comparison to her, he didn't offer any support.

No amount of support.

No amount of consolation.

No amount of sweet nothings could ever help the pain she was going through. The only possible medication to help mend her wounded heart, would be the warm embrace of Bell.

How he wished to just hold her and forget about the rest of the world. He wished to pull her in, feel the small of her back and wash away all her sorrows. Bell wanted to smash right through the gates of heaven, disregarding any celestial that threatened to stand in his way and mauling his way to her familia, who died so valiantly trying to rid this world of one of it's countless disasters, and bring them right back to her.

Yet, he didn't do anything.

Artemis hadn't come back for comfort. She didn't come back to request help from her lover.

She came for a fighter.

One who would finish the journey that her familia had started. Perhaps, save her captain who could still be alive.

And so, Bell would be just that. He was her shield and her sword, and as he was supposed to do, he would fight and put an end to the heinous creature that tore her familia from her.

---

Having eaten, they all prepared themselves, going towards the chosen location to meet up with Ganesha and Hermes.

They had all put on cloaks, to prevent any watchful eyes overseeing their departure. After all, no one needed to know where they were headed off to.

Reaching Ganesha, Bell noted the presence of two cloaked people beside them, presumably female from their stances, but returned his gaze to the elephant masked God.

"Good morning young Bell." Ganesha for once calmly greeted, "how are you on this fine morning?"

"...I'm fine." Bell replied curtly, glancing at the two behind the deity of the people, "Hermes left early?"

"Yes. We did have only 3 dragons available for you, I'm honestly…quite ashamed I couldn't assist anymore." Ganesha rubbed the back of his head, before coughing to reset, "However, these two beautiful ladies are going to be the plus ones…or uh, plus two in your journey."

The two women dropped their hoods, having been addressed by Ganesha.

"Ganesha sama…" Bell's eyes widened at seeing the two women. Back up of the highest quality.

Shakti and Kaguya.

By all means, Ganesha was an admirable deity. Sure, he had somewhat of a bombastic personality, but that was paired with perhaps the most upstanding qualities a being could have.

Ganesha was one of two protectors of Orario, who's familia was dedicated to protecting the people of the city. Bell held nothing but respect for the man, regardless of how clownish he could be.

Yet for him to ask his captain to come on a journey with Bell…it showed exactly how much importance Ganesha was giving their mission and for someone who is Artemis' lover, he couldn't appreciate it more.

"I hope we work together well, Cranel san." Shakti gently smiled, her hair flowing in the wind.

"And I hope you don't go on a frenzy." Kaguya gingerly jabbed.

Bell didn't have the energy to fire a shot back at her, instead relying on a low grunt as his only response.

"Thank you for all the help Ganesha Sama. Trust me, this favour will not be forgotten." Bell promised, his fist on his chest.

The deity didn't have to even say another word as his body acknowledged the truth in Bell's words.

Bell silently approached the first wyvern, petting it on the bridge of its nose.

His eyes stared into the monster's amber eyes, conversing his intentions and needs directly to it. He could've exerted his control over it and asserted his dominance, forcing the monster to bow to his control.

But that just wasn't needed. Not for Bell.

A soft screech left the Maws of the wyvern as it lowered itself and allowed him to get on.

"Wha-" Aisha couldn't help but mutter.

Wyverns were considered the lower class of dragons. After all, the sheer difference in their abilities them made it seem a bit foolish to put them on the same scale.

Though, they were known for their temperament and pride being the same. Wyverns- who were aware of their lacking status- simply took to being just one below dragons. They were notoriously known for not bowing their heads to anyone, let alone a human.

Even when tamed, they'd typically only respond to their trainers' command, having been taught to be non-hostile to humans, this meant Shakti's presence had a double purpose. Though they wouldn't harm people, they would be defiant at every chance they had.

Yet, Bell had made one completely submit to him. Simply by him looking into its eyes, the dragon chose to accept Bell as it's better.

The ladies by his side took the sight as one of many things that were unique to Bell, all except for Artemis, who casually wandered to the first dragon and claimed her tightly deserved seat.

"What are you guys waiting for?" She turned to ask.

"Are we going to ignore how he made the wyvern lower itself?"

"Oh," Artemis oh'd in acknowledgement, before shrugging, "Bell does things like that sometimes."

…

That sounds like good enough explanation.

Bell wouldn't even ask for her to explain in further detail. Instead, he gave a look to the other two wyverns, who met his eyes and lowered themselves too.

…

Bell and Artemis alternated in their flying in the weeks long journey. Despite the concept of having to just sit there and guide a dragon as they went, flying was surprisingly a tiring job. Plus, the wyverns didn't necessarily have infinite stamina, thus, they'd often make stops for the wyverns to rest up and for meals. Not that Bell minded the journey that much.

That, and Bell appreciated being able to hold Artemis after so long. He wrapped his arms around her slim waist and conveniently placed his head on top of hers.

Travelling for extended periods was as Bell ever-so-eloquently put it… 'a pain in the freaking ass'. Especially with their altitude and speed, he could barely keep his eyes open against the headwind.

It certainly didn't help the journey was on saddles on top of literal wyverns at like 5000 feet in the sky from where if they were to fall, even they would undoubtedly die.

This meant for a serious level of peril, where shifting around a bit too much spelled their doom.

Not scary in the slightest.

Their group had seemed to have been made for the purpose of quality rather than quantity, giving them a solid five whole people to work with.

…Against possibly the most deadly monster in existence at the moment. Not bad at all.

What's the worst that can happen?

This ultimately left Aisha to be riding on her own, a fate which was indeed pitiful given how due to headwinds being so strong that it was impossible to hear anything from more than 10 feet away.

Even for a second class adventurer.

Regardless they charged forth, making haste to their Destination and moving fast due to unexpected enthusiasm from the wyverns themselves!

"Honestly what is up with these guys?" Shakti asked aloud, "they never put this much effort into anything."

"Who knows."

"To make things worse they don't seem to even be getting tired any time soon."

"Who knows." Kaguya blandly replied.

"...Are you lesbian?"

Kaguya snorted this time, before replying, "Who knows." Then relying on chuckling, "I'm joking. Where I'm from they would've chopped my neck off for being lesbian."

"Oh, so you were paying attention." Shakti rolled her eyes dramatically.

"Of course I was, I just felt like…pardon my language, pissing you off a little." She giggled once more, her childish antics being one Shakti was quite familiar with. "But no, in all seriousness, I don't know why the wyverns are behaving in this way. I have heard they can be quite…temperamental."

"To put it lightly, yes."

"I believe it could be due to him." Kaguya suggested, soon the pair looked forward to the first wyvern.

Bell sat upright with the helm gripped tightly in his hands. Due to his larger frame, Artemis sat in front of him, leaning onto his chest and seemingly resting, without a care in the world.

The pairing was something the pair found quite an odd sight. Artemis was well known for detesting men.

As one of the three virgin Goddesses, she was one that particularly found men to be mere savages that think with nothing but their "lower brain".

Or do Kaguya had been told by Astraea. Shakti hadn't heard as much, but pretty much knew that in short, Artemis didn't like men.

Which raised the question,

Why was she so comfortable with Bell?

She was snoozing away in his arms, as if she was perfectly safe. Admittedly, Bell was the perfect guard one could ask for, his honed techniques and strengths being something that few could challenge.

Yet, it simply didn't make sense why Artemis would allow him to even hold her like that. Did they perhaps have a deeper connection?

"He truly is an astonishing man." Shakti began, drawing Kaguya out of her internal droning.

"I beg your pardon?"

"Bell Cranel." Shakti clarified, "he is quite the warrior no? I mean I'm sure you've seen his performance in the war game. He practically raised hell against them. His impressive tenacity drove him to maul them to the ground, even though he was bleeding bad, he ignored it and stood to prove his point."

"Zeus Familia is not dead yet."

"Yes. He didn't allow any slander to the name of Zeus Sama, and yet, his techniques are movements with such grace that one would think he's merely dancing." Shakti praised, thinking back to the moment Bell cut Hyakinthos's arm off.

The fluidity of his blade had become akin to water, calm yet deadly sharp, cutting across before his body could even realise what had happened. Manoeuvring around the battlefield and battling any that dared to stand against him.

A perfect swing, one that had been made for the use of cutting whatever was in front of him, seeing him move made Shakti feel as though he could cut a mountain if he so willed.

In terms of numbers, she was sure that she was bigger than him. After all, he did become a level 5 not too long ago.

Yet after seeing him fight, with a reduced status, she began to doubt whether she would be able to defeat him.

"On top of all of that, he easily made the wyverns completely listen to his command."

"My oh my, Shakti San." Kaguya interjected, a hand covering her mouth, "if I didn't know any better, I'd start to think that you're falling for him."

"Wha-"

"I mean to pay that much attention to him, to any man in general actually, is something I've never seen you do."

"Haa…it seems I forgot to remember the type of woman you are." Shakti facepalmed, regretting that she ever began speaking.

Kaguya chuckled evilly, her usually sing song voice sounding somewhat demonic, "I apologize Shakti San, but you were just…sooooo open."

'I need something to get this woman to change the topic.'

"You were adorable! L-Oh?" Kaguya cut herself off, "Why is he pointing down?"

'Oh yes.'

Without any care for anyone else's preparation, the wyverns dive down, ignoring Shakti's pull and following Bell's command, almost speeding towards the ground vertically. Aisha's cheer resounded with care as if she was excited for this.

'Oh no!'

Though they weren't initially prepared, Shakti and Kaguya prepared themselves for a rough landing.

Artemis…not so much.

"AAAAAHHHHH!" Her shrill scream reached their ears, despite the air blowing past them.

---

The Last Hero

---

"This is abuse." Bell spoke up in indignation.

"It's called a punishment." Artemis shot back.

"I have committed no crimes…except being handsome."

"Lying to a Goddess is strictly forbidden!" Artemis couldn't help but chuckle, before notching her bow to fire a blunt arrow right into his chest.

Currently, by Artemis's demand, Bell sat with his palms under his knees, unable to move them.

His punishment was to serve as an punching bag, bow and arrow version for Artemis.

It wasn't as though they were wasting their time, it just so happened that Kaguya and Shakti 'volunteered' to make dinner and Aisha to set up the beds.

Yup. Volunteered. Artemis by no means forced them to do so with her glares.

'What an absurd preposition.'

"Why did you have to do a death dive like that?! Couldn't we have descended normally?!" Artemis notched another arrow to fire.

"But you looked so vulnerable. How was I meant to resi-Ow!" Bell cried out in mock pain.

The arrows did nothing to him really. After all, they were blunted. The cries of pain were just an attempt of Bell's to help calm Artemis's rage quicker.

Unfortunately, he had forgotten that Artemis was a master bow user, using her insurmountable precision, she hit him in the exact spot over and over…and over again. Stacking the damage on eventually.

"Besides, look, we managed to save a mother and child from monsters!"

"And then you decided to be a cheapskate and not give them that much food." Artemis delivered her accusation with yet another arrow.

"Artemis, we had enough food to feed all of us for three whole days. Now, we have two meals worth left, I think you gave more than enough food to two people."

When is her quiver going to go empty?!

Artemis continued to give Bell the stink eye, but once Aisha came and told her about dinner, she decided to give Bell respite.

From Bell's request, Aisha hadn't mentioned anything about their relationship to Shakti and Kaguya.

Artemis regardless, had a reputation to maintain, one that couldn't be put at risk by the admittance of hers and Bell's romantic involvement.

Having to cover for the scarce food supply, they had rely on foraging and taking whatever mother nature could provide. Thankfully however, both Artemis and Bell had spent extended periods of time outside in the wilderness, so hunting for game and picking edible plants wasn't much of a difficult task.

As they sat to eat, it became apparent that the women besides Artemis had some questions about the events prior that day.

"Soo…what was with the monster stampede today?" Aisha asked, in her usual bluntness.

Hearing her abrupt yet, not unwelcome question Bell nodded appreciatively.

"It's part of the investigations that we are in charge of. Part of the fact that there has been an unnatural quantity of those monsters roaming the surface. It's the basis of our current investigation, and it was the same for many familias before this." Artemis informed.

Shakti however raised an eyebrow, leaning in, "If multiple familias prior to us had already investigated this, then why are we going?"

Artemis hesitated on answering, not wanting to mention the poor fate of the familias that had ventured out. Not when her own shared the fate most likely.

"They are dead." Bell outright told them.

"Bell!" Artemis chastised, even if she was aware that he'd simply confirmed the truth.

Bell shook his head," We are going for a fight, Artemis. No point in sugar coating anything here." His words, seemingly definitive as though he was condemning them to that fate, "Listen, all the familias that had searched this issue reached the same final point. [Elsus Ruins]. Are any of you familiar with the location?"

Taking the collective silence as a response from the group, Bell resumed his explanation,

" According to ancient tales, and tomes found about, the Elsus Ruins is the location where the Great Spirits had sealed a monster that they could not have defeated. A monster, who's purpose in creation was for carnage and destruction. Nothing but that."

"[Antares]." Artemis whispered the name, talking in tandem with Bell, her hands quivering in plain sight. "It's a giant monster that has ridiculous regenerative capabilities…amongst other things. It was so powerful in fact, that in the end there was no choice but to seal it in those ruins, in hopes that there'd one day be people strong enough to take it down."

"How did you find out about the monster?"

"It's because my familia was among the ones that tried to go to Elsus Ruins."

"Then that means…" Kaguya didn't dare to finish the question, taking the cringe from Artemis as a visual response to her question.

"Not…all of them." Bell spoke, this time with hope, "From what we know, Artemis's captain, Rethusa is still alive. Though her connection to Artemis's falna is weakened, she is indeed still in this world, . Our goal is for the annihilation of Antares, before it can do any significant harm to the Gekai. As a plus however, if we are able to rescue Rethusa, then that's great."

Thankfully, none of the women were naive enough to question why saving Rethusa wasn't the primary goal. Though, they had to wonder right?

"But still, you seem to know a lot about Antares, Bell san." Shakti mentioned, noticing how he had kept the conversation going despite not having fought alongside Artemis.

"You seem to forget who my grandfather is." Bell shrugged, taking a spoonful of the stew they were eating, "Besides, I went to the Elsus Ruins a couple of years ago."

"You did what?"

"Did I stutter?" Bell rolled his eyes, giving Kaguya a sparing glance, "It was precisely to check if the seal on Antares had fully come undone or not."

"But why would you go to fight something that even the Great Spirits couldn't kill?"

"The great spirits weren't able to kill Antares because it roughly matched them in power. Killing it would undoubtedly require one of them to sacrifice themselves, which they couldn't afford to do due to the imbalances in the world at the time." Bell began, taking another mouthful of stew in, "The Antares we are going to be facing is one that is extremely weak in comparison. Years of being sealed hasn't done it any favours, especially from the long duration of it. It's certainly trying to recuperate its full power, but that's why we are planning on striking before it gets to do that. Of course, that also means that if we let it recover too much...we are dead."

The conversation ended there naturally, Bell and Artemis silently ate, allowing Aisha and the others to slowly digest the information that they had dropped onto them.

Bell was waiting precisely until they got relatively close to the ruins before explaining the situation. Mainly, to avoid them worrying about their pace of travelling.

In reality, Bell couldn't understand how Rethusa was possibly still alive. The entirety of the ruins would have been crawling with monsters, and there was no way in hell, Rethusa hadn't jumped into the fight with her familia.

How was it even possible that Rethusa was still alive after so many days, and the rest were dead?

No matter how irrational it may be, Rethusa would surely try to exact revenge for her fallen familia members.

It made no sense. None at all.

Yet, Bell couldn't find it in himself to vocalise his concerns and questions to Artemis. She had already gone through enough, her behaviour had also shown considerable change, a concept that should have been impossible to the deities.

If only things were easier to understand…

---

"My…God…" Kaguya murmured, seeing the true extent of Antares's damage.

They had departed early in the morning, predictably with more haste than usual as they realised there was life riding on the line.

In all fairness, it had been rather apparent that if Rethusa was truly alive, then she was in a safe position rather than constantly fighting for her life. She was a level 3 warrior, and there just wasn't any way possible that she was still in the midst of combat.

As they approached the ruins, the wyverns suddenly stopped, refusing to go any further. Just on the periphery of a forest, that had lost its colour.

A deadland where the spirits that nourished it, had perished. The trees in a greyish scale, could no longer photosynthesise, despite the bright sun shining head on. The branches are paper thin, unable to bear the weight of any fruit that may be borne. A land that had turned against nature's order, distorted by the unnatural beast that syphoned its strength.

The terrain was no longer friendly to any crop, no matter how resilient, it was as though the life of everything in the area had been sucked away, in a desperate attempt to feed that monster.

The wyverns may have been tamed to carry out every order of the humans, but even they had a survival instinct. If seeing the place wasn't enough, the aura of death that was coming from the place was a surefire indication that if they were to enter this location…

They'd die.

Bell understood this sentiment very well, communicating with the wyverns, he rubbed the underside of their maws to ease their worries.

They voiced their concerns for him with quiet growls, insisting that he were to return with them. Tamed dragons were a kind of birds in the skies after all.

But he couldn't.

Not when he had such an important job to carry out.

Bell advised the dragons to wait further out, hidden from the human eye. If they were to detect something was amiss, then they were to immediately head back to Orario.

An instruction that the 3 beasts followed.

It was still a marvellous sight that these monsters followed Bell's words, but they didn't have the time to question it anymore.

Bell, who would usually find the mood to crack a mean joke of confidence at a time like this, remained quiet this time. His grave eyes looking at the region with particular distaste.

They were all aware of what they were about to face, knowing well that the Hermes familia was already on the inner side of the forest towards the ruins themselves, waiting for them.

"We'll meet up with Hermes familia inside. The specifics have already been decided, and they will act as decoys. The rest of us will pincer through the main corridor of Elsus Ruins. We cannot stop for any reason whatsoever, otherwise, we'll risk getting overrun."

Bell turned his eyes towards Artemis. Concern evident in his eyes, but the woman simply nodded gently at him giving him a reassuring nod.

"Don't worry, I'll be able to keep up."

"That's not what I'm worried about…" Bell stopped himself, shaking his head. "We're going to go in now."

"Are we going to be fine by ourselves?"

"We have no choice but to be, we can't exactly bring too many people from Orario with us, we cannot risk too many people." Bell shrugged, jumping down to the lower ground, entering the internal parts of the dungeon. It was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore the smell of rotting life, however, the group was aware that it would quickly be the least of their concerns.

Kaguya looked around and eyed the dead branches with a trace of a disappointment, "May the divinity bless you with vitality." She quickly prayed, being reminded of her own home.

The luscious greenery was one of the few things she didn't mind about the accursed place, and the current visage of the forest was quickly creating a sense of foreboding for what they were about to face.

Thanks to the outer gates being open by just a little gap, not many monsters came outside. Dispatching quickly of the stragglers, Bell entered through the gap left, insinuating for the women to follow them.

The ancient stones cracked under his footstep, lightning coursing through his eyes unconsciously.

He knew it immediately.

He was unwelcome.

The hallowed shrine had once been the home for pillars and idols of deities meant for the worship of the holy. Yet, now they had stepped onto impure territory, where nature's worst resided.

The holy grounds quivered as a deafening roar shook everything up.

The tempestuous call of hatred; it stirred at the age old memory of the nemesis it had once faced, now the similar presence predictably coming to stop it once more.

Antares let loose of it's deathly aura, intimidating even the first class adventurers, it imposed it's mighty spirit onto the pitiful followers of Gods.

"Careful." Bell pulled Artemis in by the waist, "It knows we are here."

Artemis, however, for her part offered no response.

"Oh thank God, you're finally here." Asfi made a hasty entrance, her winged boots allowing her to pass over the ravines that were crawling with the spawns of Antares.

"Sorry for the late arrival."

Not wanting to waste any time, Asfi cut the pleasantries, simply giving a nod of acknowledgement to the people besides Bell. "We've prepared charged loads all the way to the inner gate, however, beyond that…"

"It's plenty." Bell shook his head, "The rest of the way we'll have to carve through ourselves."

Though he said that, the number of monsters was increasing, the never ending hordes was getting ridiculous. Bell could see many members of the Hermes familia trying to dispatch of the monsters, yet they remained unsuccessful.

Each monster they cut up, was replaced by two more along with their absurd regeneration, it was obvious they'd be run over very soon.

"Did you guys not set up camp?" Bell asked, Asfi as they all ran towards the pillar by which majority of the Hermes familia was fighting. In a swarming mass of monsters, their forces were quickly dwindling, and despite that, Hermes stood with a brave look on his face.

"We did, but due to the later arrival of you guys, we had to come in and begin culling them a bit to try and help." Asfi sighed, her arms sagging by her side, "and as you can see…we've been very successful."

Bell pat Asfi's shoulder sympathetically, but turned to face forward wordlessly. Something was instilling a sense of worry into him. He couldn't quite put a finger on it, but his gut instinct told him he was not going to like what was going to happen.

"Bell, good you're here." Hermes nodded, for once having the tact to save his jokes for later, before he glanced towards Artemis, "Good to see you too, Artemis."

"..."

The silence was not unnoticed, but they chose to not say anything.

"Are we ready? We're going to head in as soon as possible."

"Wait, what do you mean 'we'?" Asfi asked surprised, "Hermes sama you can't possibly be serious."

"What's safer according to you Asfi? One big bad monster, or hundred thousand creepy crawlies?" Hermes retorted, showing his logic. "Besides, the quicker we go in, the quicker these guys can retreat."

"But that'd be sealing our retreat." Shakti pointed out a bit alarmed. After all, it'd be practically impossible for them to fight out of the ruins with Antares on their heels.

"If we don't manage to kill Antares…" Hermes shook his head, "We may as well not bother to go out."

Bell squinted his eyes at that remark.

That surely didn't make sense. Even if they failed to beat Antares, if the world was at imminent risk then Ouranos would respond by sending the strongest of Orario without a doubt.

Their party was already very strong, but that didn't mean Ottarl wouldn't be a better weapon. Then again...Antares could not be defeated by just anything.

Bell's eyes wandered down to the arrow of Orion in his hand, the seemingly reassuring glow coming from the weapon helped him keep composed.

"Let's go."

Asfi nodded, before taking some sort of transponder and bringing it up to her mouth, " ACTIVATING BOMB CHARGES."

The alert was meant for her familia to clear out just in case they were in the vicinity of the explosives.

As expected, many of them retreated into a tighter pack, getting out of the way of the blast. As soon as she was satisfied, Asfi pressed the trigger for the series of explosions to go off.

High explosives detonated, blowing monster bits into the sky as a path cleared for them to take.

"Come on!" Bell charged, pulling Artemis in his arms.

Her sudden silence was quickly becoming worrying but once more, he didn't ask too many questions.

They charged through as the other Hermes familia members quickly withdrew, taking their leave from the outer ring of Elsus Ruins.

The path was quickly closing up, with the emergence of new monsters. Bringing out his arm, "Flow freely, my body is the clouds, ZAP."

The bolt of thunder shot out, crackling against the antiquated sentinel pillars that crumbled to crush his enemies below. His party, not holding back equally rushed to meet the monsters with their righteous capabilities. Using their impressive power to cleave their path open.

Kaguya and Shakti were not fully aware of what they were really up against, but as they entered the tunnel, they felt the ruins themselves come alive, the ground below their feet no longer under neutral control but under the direct manipulation of Antares.

Threading through the arduous passage, they neared the inner gate to the sanctum where Antares was recovering. Passing by the bodies of the past, the timelines mingled as visages of old but not forgotten wars resurfaced. Ancient traces of destruction that tainted the holy walls of the passage.

Hidden in plain sight, was the spirit essence of the battle they had waged. The remnants recognising the thunder that had returned.

Bell let out another bolt of thunder to break through the door, ignoring the palpation of his heart.

"ZAP!"

"Agh!" Artemis cried out, unable to hold the pain back any longer.

"Artemis?!"

And the sight revealed was one that'd be imprinted in Bell's mind for the rest of his life.

A wasteland of gigantic proportions, the inner area was all but small. The shattered visage of the shrines reminded them of the hatred for Gods that Antares harboured. A great hall, marred with bodies and a fog that threatened to choke you.

Statues of deities on each side of the hall, remained decapitated. The fierce lashing out of Antares breaking apart all of history that resulted from a fit of rage that was befitting of a monster such as it.

Then Bell saw it.

A primordial evil.

A disaster with few equals.

A monster that bordered the boundaries of physical and unholy.

A terrible abomination that stood on its crooked legs. It's draconian arms stretching out, widening into claws that threatened to snap one in half. Jet black as the darkness it was borne of.

Red light ominously highlighting it's edges, a foretold premonition that Bell simply couldn't have avoided.

"No…no way…" Shakti paled, staring at the centre jewel that stood on the head of the crystalline body.

Words couldn't even begin to describe the horror that Aisha and the others shared, as the beast let loose yet another nigh demonic roar.

A shout that'd tear into their hearts and create seeds of fear.

As a pillar of white rose into the sky, dense and powerful. It's activation, a challenge to the direct order of reality.

Culpable devastation that had no place in neither Tenkai nor Gekai.

From the heart of Artemis…trapped in the crystalline, rose a beam of ascension, yet as her body remained trapped…

Arose a new moon.

…

…

"Artemis…why?"

---

A/N; and that's a wrap.

I know, cucked you a little, but 20k words man give it a rest. Sorry, next chapter is pretty much done though, alas, I shan't upload until my friend uploads. Though if ppl get too antsy well...we'll see to it later.

Bless.