So I had some trouble with this chapter. This was originally supposed to be part of Chapter 5 but it kinda of ballooned into its own chapter.

Also for some reason I feel like something is missing or incomplete. I honestly feel discontent with this chapter right now. However I decided to release it and see what you all think about it.

Also as a note; I am not sure if it is mentioned but Bell's growth skill is going to be slower than in the cannon since this one boosts multiple people.

So let me know what you think in the reviews.

Alright So that is everything this time;

Author's Note: If you would like to support me please consider supporting my Pat reon (zscreatorstudio) or remove the spaces below for the link:

w w w . pat reon . c o m (/) zscreatorstudio

Feel free to message me with questions.

Any support is much appreciated. Bell of the Darkness and A Light Amidst the Darkness will continue to be published for everyone's enjoyment. I will NEVER EVER hold these stories behind a paywall.

As a warning this story is for Mature audiences only.


Caught:

It had been two months since Ais first met Bell. Normally, she was able to sneak away when the adults were busy with some other tasks. However, as she returned to Twilight Manor, she found Riveria standing on the steps of the main hall, her gaze piercing as she waited for her charge's arrival.

The quest Ais and Bell selected today took longer than expected. This delay caused them to return well past what was normal. As such Ais's absence drew Riveria's attention. As she was being glared at by Riviera, Ais felt her heart race as she approached the stern elf, bracing herself for a lecture and potential punishment.

"Well, Ais. Do you care to explain where you have been?" Riveria asked sternly, her eyes fixed on Ais who now stood frozen at the entrance of the mansion.

Ais hesitated for a moment before responding, "I was in the Dungeon."

Riveria's glare intensified and her eyebrows twitched as she grabbed Ais by the arm, dragging her into one of the spare rooms in the mansion. After finding a suitable room, Riveria began her lecture.

"Ais, you know better than to venture into the Dungeon alone. It's dangerous." Her voice was sharp and filled with concern.

"But I wasn't..." Ais started to explain, but Mini-Ais, quickly clamped a hand over her mouth and shakes her head frantically, recalling Alfia's warning about keeping her training secret.

"You weren't what?" Riveria pressed, cornering Ais against the wall and glaring down at her.

Ais shrank back, remembering Alfia's words about the interference of other familia members. "Nothing," she responded meekly.

"I see. Very Well" Riveria nodded. As she began her lecture, while thinking:

Is it possible that Ais went into the Dungeon with someone else?

If so, who could it be?

I would definitely know if it was someone from our familia.

But if it is someone outside of our familia, who could it be?

Ais does not have any close relationships within or outside of our familia

I'll have to investigate this further later on.

Ais always seems to leave well before breakfast.

I'll follow her tomorrow to gather more information.

Once I have a better understanding of the situation, I can come up with a plan.

Next Morning:

Ais felt a sense of unease as she left Twilight Manor, her steps quickened and heart raced as she wandered the bustling streets of Orario. Her senses were on high alert, constantly looking over her shoulder for any signs of danger. While she could not see anyone, Ais couldn't shake the feeling that someone was following her.

Sure enough, trailing behind her at a safe distance was Riveria, her eyes trained on Ais's every move. Riveria had a sinking feeling in her stomach, as she watched as Ais move through the crowded streets.

As Ais reached her destination, a chill ran down Riveria's spine. She watched from the shadows as Bell and Alfia opened the gate for Ais. The sight of the trio together sent a shock through Riveria's body. Her eyes widened and her jaw dropped in disbelief. Riveria's mind whirled with questions, each one fighting for her attention.

HOWW!

How does Ais even know about them?

Why?

What could possibly convince Alfia to accept Ais?

How long has this alliance been going on?

But then, it struck her:

If Ais accepted Bell, then perhaps she had found someone to help her overcome her desire for revenge.

I have to make sure this works.

I am so worried about Ais. Her having a friend is a wonderful.

And Bell…if their friendship can make up for even a fraction of the pain and suffering, he has had to endured, it will be worth it.

Riveria quickly thinks of who else could accompany the duo into the Dungeon. It had to be someone close in experience level but not connected to their past.

Aki. Yes, she would be perfect. Not only would it give Ais another friend, but Aki is completely unrelated to their past. Surely Bell would accept her too, since he seems to have accepted Ais.

With a determined nod, Riveria turns and heads back towards Twilight Manor, to talk to Aki about her request.

" It's settled then. We can meet Ais and Bell there," she says to herself with a small smile.

Preparing to set a plan in motion, Riveria couldn't help but feel hopeful that this unexpected turn of events could lead to something truly positive for all of them.

At Midnight Garden:

Alfia let out a frustrated huff, her brow twitching in annoyance. "So that nagging granny elf finally figured it out and followed blondie," she muttered. "So much for keeping it a secret." Her eyes narrowed as she watched the retreating figure of Riveria.

"I can't say I expected it to stay secret forever," Alfia said with resignation. "I suppose she will try to approach them in the Dungeon. It's up to Bell to decide what to do about her." With a dismissive wave of her hand, Alfia turned her back on Riveria, her mind already shifting to the task at hand.

The training session for Ais and Bell was far more intense than usual, it was as if Alfia was channeling her frustration into their regimen. Her movements were swift and precise, her expression determined as she pushed them beyond their limits. Every strike seemed to carry an extra weight than their previous sessions. The intensity of the training was severe enough that they went through double the number of potions when compared to previous trainings.

Crossed Paths:

It had been two months since Bell's first dive into the Dungeon. He had made substantial progress both in the Dungeon and in his status. He was now able to routinely beat the monsters on the 9th floor. After Alfia learned of his attempt to fight his first orc, she thoroughly impressed upon what she considered the foolishness of that decision.

The majority of Bell's status was rapidly approaching A rank, and adults were now considering whether Bell would be able to break past the S tier limit. His highest stats, Endurance and Agility, were on the cusp of reaching the limit of S. The rest of his status ranged in the A-B range, with Magic being the closest to reaching the S mark.

As usual the group selected the Quest:

Practice Material:

There is a blacksmith that needs Materials from the Upper Floors.

Adventurers will acquire the following drop items:

3 X War Shadow Finger Blades

3 X Killer Ant Mandibles (I made this one up)

10 X Needle Rabbit Tusks

1 X Orc Hide

Guild Reward: 75,000 Valis to be split between party members.

Today, the group consisted of Bell, Ais, Ryuu, and Alise. They had accepted a quest to retrieve practice materials at the request of a blacksmith. They made a quick descent to the relevant floors. They were in the process of acquiring the materials when they heard footsteps approaching from the way they had just come. Alise and Ryuu were the first to respond, sensing a human presence and placing themselves between it and the others. Bell and Ais, hearing their movement, turned around while keeping an eye out for monsters.

As they waited in the corridor, the sound of approaching footsteps grew louder until two figures emerged from the shadows. One was a tall high-elf with long emerald hair cascading down her back, while the other was an average-height cat girl with sleek black hair. Alise and Ryuu visibly relaxed at their presence, but Ais's face stiffened while Bell's face twisted in anger.

"Hello, Lady Riveria," Alise greeted with her usual bright smile. "What can we do for you today?"

"I was hoping to speak with both Bell and Ais," Riveria replied, taken aback by seeing two members of the Astraea familia alongside Bell and Ais. She then noticed the animosity emanating from Bell toward her.

As soon as he heard his name escape from Riveria's lips, Bell's face contorted and his eyes flashed angrily as he spat a response:

"What do you want, PRINCESS Ljos ALF?"

"Bell, you should be more res—" Ryuu started to speak but was immediately silenced by Bell's interruption.

"I am not being disrespectful. I am simply using her title, aren't I, PRINCESS Ljos ALF?" Bell glared at Riveria, as his anger continued to mount.

Riveria met Bell's glare with a calm, measured look, though a flicker of hurt crossed her eyes. As the reality of her misplaced hope dawned on her, a feeling of saddness settled into her chest tightening like a vise.

Ais, usually composed, now openly fretted about Bell's change in demeanor. Meanwhile, Mini-Ais ran around, trying to find a way to help. She glanced frantically between the duo, her hands waving in desperation.

Riveria smiled gently at Bell, her voice careful as she tried to navigate the conversation delicately;

"Indeed," she replied, "I am a princess. But there is no need for formalities with me, Bell..."

"Only my friends call me Bell. To you, Princess Ljos Alf, I am Captain Cranel." Bell's tone was cold and formal as his eyes narrowed with anger as he addressed Riveria.

Alise and Ryuu were frozen in shock by the change in Bell's demeanor, while Riveria tried to maintain a brave front despite feeling heartbroken over this turn in the conversation. Things had turned out far from how she had hoped they would be between them. To think their relationship would be reduced to this.

"Alright, Captain Cranel. I wanted to discuss something important regarding your party with Ais. I've been concerned about her solo trips into the Dungeon. When I discovered that you were involved in those excursions, I felt compelled to talk to you and suggest adding one more member to your team. Aki is a new addition to our familia, and I believe it would be beneficial for both her and Ais to work together with you," Riveria explained.

Bell's expression hardened, his eyes narrowing. "You mean with orders from the mighty and honorable princess to stab me in the back at the first opportunity? That sounds like something straight out of a plan from the esteemed Loki familia." His tone dripped with disdain as he spat out the name "Loki familia," glaring fiercely at Riveria.

"Mr. Cranel! You are being terrible to Lady—" Ryuu began, her voice quivering with emotion.

"Shut up, Ryuu. You don't know anything," Bell snapped back, his anger pulsing through every word. Ryuu trembled, hurt flashing in her eyes while Bell's own eyes widened in shock as he realized what he had just said as his emotions continued to get away from him.

Before the tension could escalate any further, Alise stepped in, her eyes flashing;

CONK.

In one swift motion, Alise rapped Bell on the top of his head. He looked up at her, surprise and confusion mingling in his eyes. Disappointment etched into her features, she gazed down at him before.

Thunk.

Alise pulled Bell into a tight hug, pressing his face against her breastplate. He struggled against her hold, still quivering with rage. Despite his anger, he couldn't help but eventually surrender to the comfort of Alise's embrace. Her voice was soft, yet firm, as she spoke:

"I don't know what's going on between you and Lady Riveria, but it's not fair to take your anger out on Lyon. I won't tell you how to feel, but please don't direct your anger towards people who are trying to help."

Shame and remorse washed over Bell as his temper began to dissipate. He realized that he had lashed out at someone who had shown him nothing but kindness since they first met. Despite their rocky start, Ryuu had been nothing but helpful and sincere in her attempts to make amends. The realization made Bell's face soften slightly, thinking about Ryuu's earnest efforts.

Eventually, Bell's trembling subsided, and he pulled away from the hug, feeling calmer thanks to Alise's intervention. He glanced at Ryuu, her expression a mix of hurt and concern. Bell took a deep breath, his voice steadier now.

"I am sorry. My emotions got the best of me. I promise to try harder in the future," Bell said, his voice sincere as he turned to face Ryuu, who had previously frozen stiff, twitched at being addressed.

Ryuu took a deep breath, her posture relaxing slightly, before she responded; "Thank you, Mr. Cranel. I accept your apology. I know this is not your usual behavior, and I can't even begin to imagine what could have triggered it."

"There is incredibly bad blood between our families," Riveria added, her voice filled with shame and regret.

Bell's eyes flashed with anger. "Ha! Is that what you call it? Your wretched..."

"All right, Bell," Alise said, gently tapping him on the nose to bring him back to reality. "Now, what are your honest thoughts about having Anakitty join our party?"

Bell took a deep breath, his eyes narrowing as he gathered his thoughts. He understood the distinction between what he wanted to do and what he should do. The lessons from Alfia about responsibility and future planning kept circling in his mind. Finally, he looked at Riveria, his voice strained as he nearly spat out her title. "Princess Ljos Alf, I have one question and one condition before I can consider your request further."

Riveria's eyes flickered with a glimmer of hope. "What are they, Captain Cranel?"

"First of all, whose idea was this? And secondly, the condition, I have is that Aki swears before Lord Erebus that she has no intention of harming me. As long as that is met, I will accept her as a member of our party. She can also accompany Ais during her training at Midnight Garden," Bell responded as his face tightened into a scowl, betraying his true feelings towards the situation.

"I came up with this plan on my own; no one else was involved. And the second condition will not be an issue." Riveria replied, her voice steady despite the tension, as she gently nudged Aki forward.

The young cat girl, who had been lingering behind Riveria, stepped forward hesitantly. Aki glanced at Bell, her eyes reflecting a nervous determination. Her usually cheerful demeanor was subdued, clearly affected by receiving such a hostile reaction. Bell's eyes turned to Aki, scrutinizing her with a mixture of suspicion and distrust.

Bell finally nodded, his expression though still severe, softened slightly as he looked at Aki. "Very well. If Aki is willing to meet that condition, then I will accept her into our party."

Riveria's shoulders relaxed, a small sigh escaping her lips. "Thank you, Captain Cranel. I am sure that they will be no problem."

Aki cleared her throat, the sound small but full of nerves. She took a tentative step forward, her eyes flicking from Riveria to Bell.

"Uhm, hi. I'm Anakitty Autumn. Nice to meet you," she said, her voice wavering slightly as she offered a hesitant smile. She glanced back at Riveria, who gave her a reassuring nod.

Bell, still casting a wary look at Riveria, responded with a measured tone. "Hello, Anakitty. I'm Bell Cranel, Captain of the Erebus Familia. Despite what I said to Princess Ljos Alf, you can call me Bell."

Aki's relief was palpable, though her nerves didn't completely settle; "Oh, okay. Well, if it's alright with you, I would like to join your party."

Bell's expression remained serious as he considered her request. "As I said, I will have to discuss it with my god first and see if you meet the requirements. If so, then I will be fine with it. What do you say, Ais?"

Ais looked up from where she had been anxiously fidgeting.

"I agree," she said quietly. Beside her, Mini-Ais wrung her hands nervously, her face reflecting the tension that had been building since the conversation began.

"Okay, then Anakitty, you can come Ais to Midnight Garden tomorrow. We'll decide what to do from there," Bell said, his tone firm but edged with a hint of weary resignation.

"I'm on it!" Aki responded, her voice brightening with newfound enthusiasm. She nodded eagerly as her tail swished back and forth.

Bell's expression softened just a fraction as he sighed. "Ais and I have a quest to complete, but I'll see you tomorrow, Anakitty."

Riveria gave a nod of understanding. "I'll leave as well. Ais, we'll talk later. I'll continue training Anakitty on a different path so as not to interfere." With that, Riveria turned and led Aki away, their footsteps fading down the corridor.

As the tension that had hung in the air dissipated, Bell let out a deep sigh of relief.

"Let's get this quest over with. I just want to go home," he said wearily, rubbing his temples as if trying to erase the strain of the day.

Alise nodded as she spoke "We have most of the materials we need already. The only thing left is adamantine plus some monster drops of Needle Rabbits tusks and an Orc Hide."

Bell's spirits lifted slightly at the prospect of finishing their mission soon. "Great! Let's head down to the 10th floor and retrieve that orc hide. We can gather the Adamantite on the 10th as well and get the Needle Rabbit Tusks on the way back. What do you think Ais?"

Ais, her voice carrying the faintest trace of uncertainty after the earlier argument, responded, "Um, yes, that sounds fine."

Without waiting for further confirmation, Bell strode purposefully towards the entrance to the ninth floor. His pace was brisk, and he did not glance back to check if the others were following. Ais scrambled to catch up with Bell's quick stride, her footsteps echoing in the corridor. Alise and Ryu exchanged a glance, a silent understanding passing between them. The group pressed on, each step carrying them closer to their goals and the challenges awaiting them in the Dungeon.

10th floor

As the group descended, luck seemed to favor them. Needle Rabbits appeared frequently, allowing them to gather the remaining tusks needed for their quests. This left only two items to collect: adamantine and Orc Hide. Bell's demeanor had shifted since their encounter with Riveria. His attacks grew more aggressive, often prioritizing offense over defense. Reckless charges left him with injuries that could have been avoided. Ryu and Alise found themselves protecting him, softening up monsters before Bell could engage.

Upon making their way to one of the known Adamantite deposit on the 10th floor a deafening roar echoed through the mist, drawing Bell and Ais's attention. Emerging from the hazy shroud were a dozen monstrous shapes, their guttural roars filling the air.

"GAWRGAWRGAWR!"

The ground trembled with each thudding step as the large silhouettes grew closer, the mist swirling around them and obscuring their full view. The approaching horde of orcs was unmistakable.

"Ryuu, Alise, let us take one," Bell called out, locking eyes with Ais, who nodded in agreement.

"You've grown a lot, Bell. We'll handle the rest while you go head-to-head with your opponent," Alise responded confidently, stepping back alongside Ryuu to give Bell and Ais room to fight.

The lead orc charged forward towards Bell and Ais with a roar, swinging its massive club. Meanwhile, Alise and Ryuu faced the remaining orcs, their teamwork evident in the way they moved together. Alise's swordsmanship and Ryuu's swift strikes kept the orcs at bay, preventing them from overwhelming Bell and Ais. The duo then began to easily cut down the orcs after allowing one through.

Bell darted to the side, narrowly avoiding the orc's initial blow. He countered with a strike to the orc's leg, but its thick hide absorbed much of the impact, leaving behind a gash on the orc's leg. Ais moved and her sword flashed as she took aim at the orc's leg, causing it to stumble as her sword bit into its leg and caused it to totter slightly.

Bell's focus narrowed to his opponent. The orc snarled, swinging its club with brute force. Bell ducked under the swing, slashing at the orc's exposed leg. The creature stumbled but quickly regained its footing, bellowing in rage.

Bell pressed the attack, each strike more aggressive than the last, his form growing reckless. The orc's counterattack was fierce, and Bell's lack of defense left him vulnerable.

A sweeping blow he couldn't fully evade struck him, sending a jolt of pain searing through his side. Several of his ribs cracked under the force, his shoulder popped, and his vision blurred for a heartbeat. He staggered back, struggling to breathe as the agony radiated through his chest.

"Bell!" Ais shouted, her voice sharp with urgency. She sprang into action, without hesitation, she slashed at the orc's leg, her blade a blur of steel as it connected with the orc's thick hide, diverting its attention away from Bell.

Gritting his teeth against the pain, Bell forced himself upright. He could feel the bones grinding in his chest with each ragged breath, but he pushed the sensation aside. Switching his sword to his uninjured hand, Bell charged forward, his sword aimed at the creature's center.

The orc turned back to him, its tusked mouth twisted into a snarl. It swung its massive weapon in a wide arc, but Bell was ready. He ducked low, the club whooshing over his head, and in one fluid motion, he thrust his sword upward. The steel bit deep into the orc's chest, piercing through muscle and bone until finally hitting its magic stone.

The creature let out a gurgling cry, its eyes wide with shock and fury. For a moment, the orc stood frozen, as if refusing to believe it had been bested. Then, with a final, shuddering breath, it crumbled into ash, leaving nothing but a cloud of dust in the space it had occupied.

Bell staggered back, his vision swimming as the adrenaline began to fade. He could feel the full weight of his injuries now. He glanced at the pile of ash that and let out a weary sigh. The road ahead was long, and this was just the beginning.

Ais seeing the monster burst into ash, turned to Bell, concern etched on her face. "Are you alright?" she asked, her voice steady despite the tension.

Bell nodded, panting heavily. "Yeah, I'm fine," he replied, though the throbbing pain in his shoulder and ribs told a different story. In addition, he breathing had become labored.

With the immediate threat neutralized, Alise and Ryuu regrouped with them.

"Bell, drink this now. We need to find that adamantine and get out of here," Alise said, shoving a potion bottle Bell's un injured hand after he sheathed his sword.

"Sure. Sorry about that," Bell replied, downing the potion. The liquid's healing properties started working immediately, dulling the pain and mending his both his ribs and shoulder.

Ryuu's eyes scanned the surroundings, her senses on high alert. "We should move quickly. There could be more of them."

Alise nodded. "The adamantine deposit is not far from here. Let's get what we need and return."

Bell straightened, the potion's effects giving him a second wind. "Lead the way."

After the rematch with the orc, Bell and Ais were able to complete the quest by going to one of the known Adamantite deposits on the 10th floor. After that the group returns to the surface and exchanges their magic stones and materials to complete the quest.

Return Trip

As the group emerged from the depths and returned to the surface, a cool breeze swept through their hair. Bell, his mind still reeling from the journey, set off toward Midnight Garden with Alise close at his side.

Alise cast a glance at Bell's tense posture. "Care to explain what that was all about?"

Bell remained silent, biting his lip as memories threatened to overwhelm him. A shiver ran up his spine, his body trembling as he tried to suppress it all.

Alise, sensing his distress, gently wrapped her arm around him in an attempt to comfort him.

"I won't push," she said softly, "but I'm here if you ever want to talk about it."

"Thanks, Alise," Bell managed to say after taking a shaky breath, though he was still biting his lip suppress the emotions bubbling inside him. Bell forced a small smile and leaned into her touch, grateful for her understanding and support.

Concern flickered across Alise's face as she looked at him. Then, an idea seemed to dawn on her.

"Hey Bell, do you mind coming with me for a little bit?" she asked gently.

"Uh, sure," Bell responded, trying not to sound too eager.

"Great. Come on then." Alise reached out and grabbed Bell's hand. He immediately felt a rush of warmth and a light blush creeping up his cheeks as he followed her.

They walked through the bustling streets until Alise led them to a great bell tower that towered over the majority of the city. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm golden glow over everything it touched. Bell couldn't help but feel awestruck by the beauty of it all.

"This is my favorite spot in the city," Alise said, her voice soft and full of wonder. "You can see everything from up here."

Bell smiled, grateful for this unexpected adventure with his friend.

Once they reached the top of the enclosed tower, Alise let go of Bell's hand and turned to face him with a small smile. "This is one of my favorite spots in all of Orario," she said, gesturing to the view in front of them.

Bell followed her gaze and was met with a breathtaking sight. The bustling streets below were filled with adventurers, merchants, and civilians going about their daily lives. The vibrant cityscape was truly a sight to behold.

"Wow," Bell breathed out, completely awestruck.

"I come here whenever I need some time alone to think," Alise said as she looked out the doors to the balcony around the tower.

As they stepped out onto the balcony, a gust of wind blew through the bell tower, causing Alise's hair to whip around her face. The sun caught her hair in just the right way, turning it into a stream of fire. Bell couldn't help but stare at her in awe. In that moment, she looked as beautiful as any of the goddesses Bell had seen walking the street. A single thought crossed his mind:

"Alise is so beautiful."

The mere thought of Alise's beauty sent a wave of heat rushing to Bell's cheeks. He before he was able to let his mind wander further, Alise's voice broke through his thoughts.

"Hey, are you okay?" she asked, her eyes turning to him.

Bell could feel his face growing even redder as he tried to play it off. "Yeah, I'm fine," he stammered, avoiding direct eye contact.

"You're blushing so much," she teased, a smirk playing on her lips. "Were you thinking something naughty just now? Maybe you are more of a rabbit than—"

"Nononononono," Bell stammered, his cheeks flushing a deep crimson. "It wasn't naughty at all; you were just so beautiful that it took my breath away."

Alise's emerald eyes widened in surprise. Before she could think further, she pulled Bell into a tight hug, practically smothering him. Her own face turned the same shade of scarlet as her fiery red hair. Panic fluttered inside her as she thought, "EPP. Bell just said I was beautiful. AH. WHY is my FACE SO RED? Why does it feel so hot? Why does this always happen when Bell compliments me?"

"Hghasgha," Bell tried to speak, only to be muffled by Alise's hug. A fleeting thought crossed his mind: "Damn this stupid breastplate. It's so cold."

For the potion of being hugged, he couldn't help but notice the way her delicate features glowed in the soft light of the sun. As his heart fluttered, he was now grateful for the armor that prevented Alise from feeling the hammering in his chest. For a moment, they stood there, wrapped in each other's warmth, the world around them fading into the background.

After several minutes of struggling to regain control over her emotions, Alise finally released Bell from her tight grip. She took a deep breath before speaking.

"You know, Bell, you were quite the flirt just now," Alise said with a playful tone. "Calling a girl beautiful and saying she took your breath away. Don't you go breaking hearts and becoming a playboy now. You're on track to be a real charmer."

Bell blushed and gently rubbed his cheek where Alise had poked him. "I wasn't trying to be a playboy. I was just telling the truth."

A warm flush spread across Alise's cheeks, but she hurriedly changed the subject. "I wanted to bring you here because it's one of my favorite places."

"I see. What makes it so special to you?" Bell asked

"I've always been drawn to high places, and this one is especially breathtaking. Not only is it elevated, but it also offers a stunning view of the entire city. Come, I'll show you." Alise led Bell around the balcony of the tower.

As they walked round the balcony, they were greeted with a breathtaking scene. Babel towered above them in all its splendor, its intricate architecture reaching towards the sky. Below, the city buzzed with life as people rushed through the cobbled streets, their colorful clothing blending together in a vibrant tapestry. The setting sun cast a warm golden light over everything, creating shadows that danced and swirled on the ground.

Alise's heart swelled with joy as she took in the view with Bell by her side. This was why she loved this place - for its ability to provide a sense of peace and beauty amidst the chaos of everyday life.

Bell's voice broke through the peaceful moment. "This is beautiful."

Alise nodded; her eyes sparkling. "It is. Sometimes, when everything feels overwhelming, coming here reminds me of the beauty in the world. It helps me find my balance."

Bell looked at her as he nodded ack. "Thank you for sharing this with me, Alise. It means a lot."

They stood there in comfortable silence, the city spread out before them, a reminder of the adventures yet to come and the bond they were forming. Alise can only smile in agreement as she gazes out over the city, her eyes practically glowing with happiness. A melody escapes her lips as she starts to hum along with the sounds of the city below.

As dawn unfolds, the city stirs,

Stone and spire, a world it conjures,

Streets alive with morning's song,

Chasing dreams where shadows throng.

Lanterns glow with the evening breeze,

Every corner holds a piece,

Of tales spun in the whispers deep,

Of the city's restless beat.

City lights, and dreams so grand,

Spire and tower mark the land,

Every heartbeat, every sigh,

City life's a lullaby.

Through the clamor and the sound,

Find the rhythm all around,

In the beauty, there's a spark,

City lights illuminate the dark.

Cobblestone paths and market cheer,

Gathered folk from far and near,

Inn and hall and minstrel's song,

Beneath the moonlight, all belong.

Echoes of a bard's old tale,

In the rush, we all prevail,

Stories written in the night,

In this vibrant, endless sight.

City lights, and dreams so grand,

Spire and tower mark the land,

Every heartbeat, every sigh,

City life's a lullaby.

Through the clamor and the sound,

Find the rhythm all around,

In the beauty, there's a spark,

City lights illuminate the dark.

From dawn's first light to twilight's gold,

The city's tales are brave and bold,

In every square, in every lane,

Feel the pulse of joy and pain.

City lights, and dreams so grand,

Spire and tower mark the land,

Every heartbeat, every sigh,

City life's a lullaby.

Through the clamor and the sound,

Find the rhythm all around,

In the beauty, there's a spark,

City lights illuminate the dark.

In the city's endless grace,

Find your moment, find your place,

Let the lights guide you tonight,

In the city's ancient light.

Bell's eyes widened in awe as he listened to the enchanting melody of Alise's voice. He stood motionless, completely captivated by the sound. The notes floated through the air, weaving a spell that held him entranced.

"teehee. Bell, you look positively silly right now. Were you that entranced by my singing?" Alise teased, her laughter like a gentle chime.

"Yes, I was. It was the most beautiful voice I've ever heard, aside from my mama's," Bell confessed, as he smiled bashfully.

"YOU!" Alise exclaimed playfully, pulling Bell into another hug. Her own blush deepened, "We should probably head back before Alfia scolds us."

Bell's expression shifted to a nervous gulp at the mention of their strict familia leader. "You're right. Thank you for showing me this place, Alise."

With one last longing glance at the panoramic view from the bell tower, Bell and Alise descended. They navigated the bustling streets of their familia's home, their steps in sync. The day's light gave way to the evening's shadows, and the city's vibrant energy surrounded them. The sounds of the street faded as they continued their journey, the promise of future adventures lingering in their minds.

Twilight Manor

The sun was dipping towards late afternoon as Riveria and Aki returned to Twilight Manor. Riveria, intent on advancing Aki's Dungeon training, guiding her with ease. After hours of navigating the labyrinthine depths, they finally made their way back to the manor.

As they rested, Riveria's mind wandered to the approaching conversation with Ais. The task of addressing Ais's involvement with Bell and the Astraea familia weighed on her. She needed to understand the full extent of Ais's interest and intentions.

By late afternoon, as shadows lengthened and the day edged into evening, Ais arrived at the manor and made her way to Riveria's room. The two women settled into their chairs, a silence enveloping them as they faced each other. Riveria broke the quiet with a gentle, yet probing question.

"Tell me, Ais. How long have you been venturing into the Dungeon with Bell and the Astraea girls?"

Ais curled up, hugging her knees to her chest. "About two months," she replied, her voice soft but steady.

"I see. How did you come to know about them? And what prompted you to join them?" Riveria asked, her curiosity evident as she pondered Ais's response

Ais's voice wavered slightly. "I overheard the others discussing Zald and Alfia's encounter with a dragon. You know my wish; I felt I had to meet them."

Riveria furrowed her brow, her expression a mix of confusion and curiosity. "I understand. But why did you feel the need to keep it a secret?"

Ais's gaze shifted, her fingers fidgeting in her lap, as she explained quietly. "Alfia warned me that you and the others might try to intervene if you found out,"

Riveria sighed, crossing her arms over her chest. "I see. And what do you think of them?"

Ais hesitated, her eyes searching for the right words. "Alfia is… scary sometimes, especially during training. Zald is stern but fair."

Riveria nodded, encouraging her to continue. "And Bell?"

Ais took a deep breath, her voice softening as she spoke. "Bell is…." A slight smile touched her lips as she spoke, this did not go unnoticed by Riveria, as Ais paused to think about Bell.

The room fell into silence as Riveria waited for Ais to continue. The nature of her sentiment was clear, and Riveria understood that Bell's influence on had become significant for Ais. The two women sat in silence as Ais wrestled with her thoughts, trying to find the right words. At last, she met Riveria's gaze as she spoke

"Bell is kind," Ais began, her voice steady, "He always puts others before himself and never hesitates to help those in need. He's incredibly brave and determined, even in the face of danger. On one of our first Dungeon dives, I was about to be struck by a frog shooter. Bell threw his sword to take it down, but another monster got him in the process."

Her voice grew softer as she recounted the memory while Riveria nodded thoughtfully, processing Ais' words, "I see and what about the other girls? The Astraea familia girls you both were with today."

Ais' expression turns thoughtful once again as she considers the question. "Alise is kind and caring, always looking out for both of us. Ryuu is quiet but she is also always looking out us."

As Ais speaks about each member of the Astraea familia, a small smile tugs at the corners of Riveria's lips as she speaks. Her voice is calm and gentle, giving Ais a sense of comfort and reassurance.

"I believe it's safe to say that you have found yourself a good set friends," she says, her eyes meeting Ais's with understanding.

Ais nods in agreement, grateful that Riveria didn't not appear angry or disapproving of her friendship with Bell and his familia. She had worried that they might try to stop her from being involved with him.

"Now, there are a few more things I would like to discuss with you," Riveria continues, causing Ais to start sweating nervously. Even Mini-Ais seems to freeze in place from Riveria's intense look.

As Ais turned her attention fully towards Riveria, the elf's expression softened. "I believe it would be best to keep this from Loki and Finn for the time being," she began. Her voice was laced with a hint of caution and concern.

Ais furrowed her brow in confusion. "Why? Alfia said the same thing. Why won't they take it well? And why did Bell react like that when he saw you?"

Riveria let out a weary sigh before answering. "You don't need to know everything, but just understand that our familia never really got along with Zeus and Hera's familias." She hesitated before adding, "Bell has every right to hate us for what happened, but that has nothing to do with you. So, you don't have to worry about it."

As Riveria finished her sentence, her mind suddenly flashed back to a time in the past

Flashback Starts

A chorus of screams and shouts echoing across the city.

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The sounds of battle.

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The stench of smoke and burning flesh.

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"What is going on? "

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"Lord Ganesha, What happened? "

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A church engulfed in flames.

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"Damn it, why would you possibly do this?" an enraged voice screams at the person across from her

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I am so sorry…

My friend….

I never thought…

Hicc…

Hic..

I am sorry…

I am sorry…

I am sorry Me…..

Flashback Ends

Riviera finally managed to pull herself out of the dark, haunting memories and return to the present, only to find Ais gazing at her with genuine concern etched on her delicate features.

With a shuddering breath, Riviera slows her racing heart and places a comforting hand on Ais's head, gently stroking the girl's soft hair. Her touch was tender and reassuring, as if trying to mend any hidden wounds.

"Sorry for worrying you, dear Ais. It's nothing for you to fret over, just some of my lingering regrets," she explains, her voice filled with regret and longing.

Ais couldn't help pouting in annoyance, when Riviera petted her as if she were a child, but at the same time, she couldn't deny the warmth and comfort that came with the touch. They remain in this position for several minutes until a bell signals dinner is ready for their family.

The Midnight Garden:

The following day, Aki and Ais arrived at the Midnight Garden. Aki answered Erebus's question without hesitation, passing the test. With this, she was granted the right to join Bell and Ais in the Dungeon as part of their party.

Alfia wasted no time, subjecting Aki to the same rigorous training that the others had endured. The exercises were intense, designed to push them all to their limits. Aki, however, strove to meet each challenge head-on. The hours passed quickly, filled with the sound of clashing swords and heavy breaths, each of them growing stronger for what lay ahead.

As the training drew to a close, members of the Astraea Familia arrived. Their presence signaled a shift in the day's purpose. They were here to train, but also to accompany Bell into the Dungeon. Lyra and Iska would join the group today.

Before leaving the Midnight Garden, Ais and Aki would left ahead of the others, avoiding the attention that traveling through the city with Bell might attract. The plan was simple: meet at the Guild, choose a quest, and then begin their descent into the Dungeon.

Later, Bell and his companions arrived at the Guild Hall, the stone building standing as a testament to the countless adventurers who had passed through its doors. They moved with purpose to the Dispatch Quest board, their eyes scanning the available quests. As they did, Ais and Aki rejoined them, their expressions calm and focused as though searching for their own quest.

Together, they reviewed the quests, each option representing a new challenge and a new danger. From the board Bell selected the following quest and held it out for the others to examine:

Trader's Request:

A well-known trader has placed an order for a large quantity of magic stones. Given the volume of the request the Guild will start to run short on available inventory after this fulfillment. As such the task is acquire a large volume of magic stones from the 5th through the 10th Floor. Preference will be given to adventurers that can clear the lowest floor requirements.

Quest Requirements: 100 pounds of magic stones

Guild Reward: 150,000 Valis to be split between party members.

Bell pulled a quest from the board, the parchment crinkling slightly in his hands as he examined it. His eyes scanned the details before he turned it to the others, who each gave a nod of agreement. Ais's eyes gleamed with anticipation, at the thought of facing more monsters than usual clearly excited her.

With the decision made, Bell walked over to the Guild receptionist to officially accept the quest. The process was swift, a brief exchange that barely interrupted the group's momentum. Quest in hand, they made their way to the Dungeon entrance, the weight of what lay ahead settling over them like a familiar cloak.

As they began their descent into the Dungeon's depths, Bell broke the silence with a plan. "I think we should head directly to the 10th floor," he suggested, his voice steady. "They will have the largest magic stones. What do you all think?"

"I like it," Ais said immediately, her eagerness to dive into battle evident.

Aki hesitated for a moment before speaking, her voice measured. "I've trained down to the 9th floor with Lady Riveria. The 10th will be new territory for me, but Lady Riveria said I could handle it with a strong group." She glanced at Bell, watching his reaction carefully. His expression remained neutral, though his brow twitched slightly at the mention of Riveria.

"No need to worry about that," Iska said with a fierce grin. "We may not be as strong as Lady Riveria, but we can handle these chumps."

Lyra nodded in agreement as she spoke "Yeah, don't worry. We'll keep an eye on you if you need help."

"Thank you," Aki replied, bowing her head slightly in gratitude.

"Alright then, that's the plan," Bell confirmed.

With that, the group continued their descent into the Dungeon, the dim light from above fading as they ventured deeper.

During the Descent (7th Floor)

As the group descended deeper into the Dungeon, the tension of constant battle slowly eased, leaving a quiet lull in its wake. Aki, sensing the opportunity, remembered what Riveria had told her about trying to connect with her new companions, especially Bell.

"Hey, Bell," Aki began, her voice breaking the silence as they gathered the last of the magic stones from the defeated Killer Ants. "Why did you become an adventurer?"

Bell paused for a moment; his expression thoughtful as he answered; "I HAVE TO become stronger because I have a wish. I have to become stronger to fulfill it."

Ais, who had been silently collecting stones, froze at his words. Her hand stopped mid-reach as she turned to look at him, her gaze suddenly intense. Bell, feeling the weight of her stare, turned around, his nerves tightening under the scrutiny.

"What is it, Ais?" he asked, his voice betraying a hint of nervousness.

"Bell," Ais said, her eyes locked onto his, "what is your wish?"

Bell hesitated and before he could respond, a high-pitched screech echoed through the cavern.

SCREEEEEEEEEEEEE…

A several Killer Ants descended upon them, cutting off any chance of further conversation.

"Ais, I'll tell you on our next break!" Bell shouted as he drew his weapon. Ais and Aki immediately moved to his side, weapons drawn, while Iska and Lyra observed them.

The battle was swift, their earlier coordination paying off as they dispatched the Killer Ants with practiced efficiency. As the last of the ants fell, silence returned, broken only by the sound of their breathing. The group regrouped, exchanging brief glances before continuing their descent, each step bringing them closer to whatever awaited on the lower floors.

During the Descent (9th Floor)

The group settled into a small room on the 9th Floor, just shy of the entrance to the 10th. The walls were rough, the air damp, but it offered a brief respite from the constant threat of monsters. They damaged the walls and floor, a precaution to prevent any monsters from spawning while they took a break for a quick snack.

As they prepared a quick snack, Bell felt a familiar sensation—a set of eyes boring into him. Turning, he found Ais staring at him once again, her gaze unwavering. He sighed, realizing Ais wasn't going to let go of the question she had asked earlier.

"Ais," Bell began, his tone resigned but gentle, "do you still want me to answer your question about my wish?"

Ais's head bobbed up and down vigorously, almost comically.

"Pft," Lyra stifled a laugh, amused by the earnestness of Ais's response.

"Hehehe," Iska giggled, finding the normally stoic Ais's nodding endearing.

Bell sighed again, closing his eyes momentarily to gather his thoughts. When he opened them, there was a quiet resolve in his voice.

"I want to kill the One-Eyed Black Dragon."

The room fell silent. Iska and Lyra froze, their easy smiles vanishing as they fully grasped the enormity of Bell's words. They knew the legends, the terrifying stories of what had happened to the Zeus and Hera Familias. The bar Bell had set for himself was unimaginably high.

Aki, too, was stunned. She had heard whispers from her parents about the horror that the One-Eyed Black Dragon must have been to defeat the once-great Zeus and Hera Familias. It was a monster spoken of in hushed tones, a creature of nightmares. The dread apocalypse.

But it was Ais who seemed most affected. At the mention of the One-Eyed Black Dragon, her body went rigid, her face losing its color. Her heart seemed to stop for a moment before it began to hammer in her chest, a torrent of thoughts rushing through her mind. Bell is like me, she realized, the words echoing in her thoughts.

"Why?" Ais croaked out, her voice unsteady, as she tried to understand.

Bell's eyes softened as he answered, the weight of his past pressing down on him. "My father was a member of the Zeus Familia, and my mother was part of the Hera Familia, though she was a non-combatant. When the Familias went to face the One-Eyed Black Dragon, my father was part of the expedition to kill it. But he, along with most of members, died in the attempt."

A melancholic look crossed Bell's face as he finished speaking, his gaze distant as if he could see the memories playing out before him. The room remained silent, each member of the group processing the gravity of Bell's wish. Ais stared at Bell, her own thoughts a storm of emotions.

For the first time, she felt a connection to someone who understood the weight of such a burden. The air in the room felt heavy, charged with the unspoken emotions hanging between them. Ais, despite the turmoil roiling within her, was the first to break the silence.

"So, you want revenge?" she asked, her voice steady, though her own heart trembled with the question.

Bell's expression tightened slightly, the corners of his mouth twisting as he considered his response. "I can't deny that it's crossed my mind," he admitted, "but that's not my main reason for wanting to kill it."

"Then what is?" Ais pressed, her inner self latching onto his words, desperate for understanding.

Bell hesitated, glancing at each of the girls before him.

"Promise not to laugh?" he asked, his tone almost shy.

The women nodded in unison; their expressions sincere.

"I want to be a hero," Bell said, the words coming out with a hint of sheepishness. "A hero who protects people. The reason I want to kill the One-Eyed Black Dragon is so that no one else has to go through what I did."

For a moment, there was a stunned silence. Then, Iska stood up, her expression serious as she said: "Bell"

Bell swallowed hard, a nervous lump forming in his throat. "Yes, Iska?" he asked, his voice edged with uncertainty.

"That is so WONDERFUL!" Iska suddenly exclaimed, her serious expression melting into one of pure joy as she threw herself at Bell, pulling him into a bear hug and wrapping herself around him.

"PGFHFHGD—" Bell's words were muffled as Iska's embrace nearly smothered him, his face turning beet red as he struggled to breathe. He was acutely aware of her chest pressing against his face, and the color in his cheeks deepened.

While Bell was caught in Iska's enthusiastic hug, Lyra chimed in, her tone playful; "Damn, Bell, talk about being ambitious."

The tension in the room eased, the heavy atmosphere lightening as Iska finally released Bell, who took a deep breath, trying to regain his composure. Ais, still quiet, watched him closely, her own thoughts racing.

After Iska finally released Bell from her enthusiastic embrace, Lyra stepped forward with a smirk and gave him a light pat on the back..

"You survived," she teased, her tone lighthearted,

Bell, still flushed from the unexpected hug, managed a sheepish smile.

"Barely," he replied, trying to regain his composure.

Ais, however, remained silent, her gaze distant as she processed everything that had transpired. Her thoughts were a storm of emotions, but outwardly, she gave no indication of what she was feeling. Aki, standing nearby, seemed similarly contemplative. The only sign of her thoughts was the slight twitching of her tail as it swayed back and forth.

The group quickly finished their snack, the atmosphere settling into a more focused calm.

The group finished its snack and proceeded to the 10th floor. They were able to acquire the number of magic stones that the quest required and were even able to acquire an excess. Having completed the quest, the group returns to the surface without issue. As they reached the surface and emerged from the Dungeon. There was a collective sigh of relief as they took in the familiar sights of the city above, their task completed.
Twilight Manor (Ais's Room)

After completing the quest, Ais returned to Twilight Manor, and retreated to her room.

Once inside her room, Ais closed the door behind her and leaned against it for a moment, as if the solid wood could somehow steady the whirlwind of thoughts in her head. She crossed the room and, without bothering to remove her gear, curled up on her bed. The soft mattress offered little comfort as she pulled her knees to her chest, trying to make sense of everything that had happened.

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"Bell wants to be a hero."

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The words echoed in her mind, repeating over and over until they blurred into a single, overwhelming thought. She had known of Bell's determination, his drive so much like her own, but hearing him say it so plainly had struck something deep within her.

Ais tightened her grip around her knees, her body curling further into itself. Her golden eyes stared blankly at the wall, but she wasn't really seeing it. Instead, her thoughts spun in circles, caught between the past and the future, between her own desires and the stark reality of the world they lived in.

She couldn't shake the image of Bell's face as he had spoken those words—how serious he had been, how much it had meant to him. It was a kind of determination she understood all too well, a fire that burned with a purpose so strong that it consumed everything else. And yet there was no blackness in Bell's heart when he spoke of slaying the OEBD.

As the minutes ticked by, the exhaustion from the day's events began to catch up with her. The weight of her thoughts, combined with the physical toll of the Dungeon, made her limbs feel heavy, her eyelids drooping despite the turmoil in her mind.

Slowly, her breathing evened out, and her thoughts, once spinning chaotically, began to slow. Ais remained curled up on the bed as sleep overtook her, pulling her into a dreamless slumber. The last thought that passed through her mind before darkness claimed her was of Bell, and the hero he wished to become.

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Dream 1

Golden eyes watched her father's back as he swung his sword.

The young girl was sitting in her mother's lap in the shade of a tree as the sun's rays filtered through the canopy.

Her father always seemed embarrassed by people watching him practice, so he didn't like doing it in front of others. But whenever her mother coaxed him to let her watch, he would always give in. After his initial embarrassment, he would soon become focused in his practice as her mother watched him with a gentle smile. And Ais's cheeks would flush at the sight that always captivated her.

She couldn't keep up with the blurred blade as her father swung. But she could still tell how beautiful his techniques were. She could remember the sword's melody whenever she wanted to simply by closing her eyes.

She loved seeing her father's techniques.

She knew that her father's sword was used for hurting things. And the flash of an unhesitating sword calling forth a mist was a scary thought to her. But that was a sword for saving everyone.

A sword to protect her mother.

When she thought of that, she was proud of her father. She aspired to be like him.

He was the hero she dreamed of. The swordsman her mother loved.

Finally, after finishing his training, he came back to the shade of the tree,

She beamed at him as he approached, and he returned her smile, the wind blowing his hair.

"Ais"

He said her name as he held out the sheathed blade to her.

After a moment of wide-eyed hesitation, she took the sword in both her hand

It had profound weight, but it also felt comfortable to her.

"Ais"

Turning to face the voice from behind, she saw her mother smiling at her as well.

Almost as if telling her to follow her father, her mother raised her arm, and held up a single finger, and made a sound.

"_"

Along with the sound, Ais felt a tender breeze embracing her body. She trembled, giggling as the the wind's whispers tickled her.

Her mother broke into a smile and wrapped her arms around her and the wind.

"I'll always be with you"

This person. And me.

She nodded at her mother's word. She nodded over and over again as she smiled…

As she basked in the warmth of her father and mother, happiness filled her.

The sword was calling her closer and the wind was smiling so gently at her.

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Dream 2

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The screams of men and women,

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The roar of monsters,

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The shaking earth.

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The stench of blood.

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Ais saw the backs of her mother and father leaving her behind as the raced out of the manor.

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Ais felt a crushing weight of terror grip heart as she followed her parents to the front door.

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The sight before her was one of horror.

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The city was engulfed in flames. Buildings that once stood tall were now crumbling ruins, their walls devoured by fire.

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Smoke blotted out the sky, casting a suffocating haze over the destruction.

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The air was thick with the stench of burning wood and scorched earth.

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As Ais took in the scene, she heard the great the flapping of wings.

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As she turned towards the center of the city she saw IT.

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A symbol of annihilation.

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A great black dragon.

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Its wings spread wide, blocking out the light and casting an ominous shadow over the city.

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Its roar, a deafening proclamation of destruction, shook the very ground beneath her.

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The image of the dragon, a symbol of annihilation, loomed large in her mind, seared into her memory as the world around her fell into chaos.

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And that was where her memories cut out.

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Dream 3

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A girl was crying.

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Her voice quivered as sobs racked her body and tears streamed down her face as she gazed up at the gray sky.

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A flood of emotions wracked her body. The hole that had been torn in her heart dragged her down into a swirl of dark emotions that left her body feeling unbearable cold.

Despair.

Loss.

Suffering,

Rage.

Hatred.

As the sun rose and set again and again.

Time marched on without her.

The people she loved would no longer hug her.

Her happiness would never come back.

Her cries and wails for help went unanswered.

Her Hero never appeared.

"Wouldn't it be nice if you meet a wonderful partner too." Her mother's warm words now rang hollow in the girl's heart.

"I hope that someday, you find a hero- your hero." Her father's word sounded like a fairy tale that would never come true.

For all the promises of her parents, a hero that would save her had never existed in the first place. As soon as the girl realized this ice encased her heart. An enteral wall of ice that would never melt guarded it.

As the girl's heart froze all emotion vanished from her face, leaving her face like that of a doll's and eyes of sharpened steel, She came to a realization;

That if there were no heroes to save her than she must save herself.

That wait for a hero would not save her mother,

That waiting for a hero would never bring back what was lost.

That waiting for a hero would never make IT pay.

The maelstrom of the girl's emotions settled into one direction

REVENGE.

As the girl's emotions settled, she realized that she would need something for it:

"I want power."

That was the first thing she had said meeting the crimson-haired goddess, the prum hero, the great dwarf warrior, and the high elf mage.