Bell wakes up, his body numb, a sharp groan escaping his lips as pain shoots through him. He feels something heavy on his arm and turns to find Hestia sleeping beside him, her head resting gently against his arm. As his memories start to return, his mind flashes back to the events that led him here—the battle, the injuries, and the relief of being saved. His eyes scans the room, the quiet stillness of the space surrounding him.
But as he takes in his surroundings, one thought lingers in his mind, the Sword Princess, Ais, who had been there, is no longer around.
He gently nudged the Goddess awake, his voice barely above a whisper. "Kami-sama.."
Her eyes fluttered open, and upon seeing him awake, a wave of relief washed over her face. "B-Bell-kun..? You're awake!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with worry and sadness.
She quickly sat up, her expression softening as she took in his condition. "I was so scared... I thought I might lose you," Hestia confessed, her voice trembling slightly, betraying the deep concern she'd been holding in.
Bell, still weak, gave a faint, reassuring smile, his voice hoarse as he spoke. "I'm okay... Just a little sore." He tried to sit up but winced from the pain, feeling the lingering effects of his injuries.
Hestia immediately placed a hand on his chest, gently urging him back down. "No, Bell, you need to rest. Please, just lie back down," she insisted, her eyes never leaving him, her concern evident.
Bell closed his eyes, allowing himself to relax into the bed, grateful for her presence. "I'm sorry... for worrying you," he murmured, his voice quiet but sincere.
Hestia smiled softly, brushing a strand of hair from his forehead. "Don't apologize... I'm just glad you're awake. I'm here, Bell-kun, always."
"Haha... Thank you, Goddess Hestia," Bell said quietly, his voice still raspy from his recent ordeal. He gave a weak but sincere smile, appreciating the care she had shown him.
"Uhmm... Goddess?" Bell asked hesitantly, his eyes drifting to her. Hestia raised an eyebrow, her expression softening as she anticipated his question.
"What is it, Bell-kun?" she replied gently, her tone full of warmth.
Bell took a breath, gathering his strength before speaking again. "Can you update my status, please?" he asked.
Hestia looked at him for a moment, her expression thoughtful. She understood the weight of his request. "Of course, Bell-kun," she said, her voice reassuring. She gently placed a hand on his, her gaze soft but unwavering. "I'll help you. You've been through so much, but you're not alone. I'll always be by your side." Bell smiled weakly, his heart full of gratitude as he nodded in agreement, knowing that with Hestia's support, he could continue to grow stronger.
Hestia glanced around to make sure no one was around before quickly locking the door and drawing the curtains. She then looked down at Bell, who was still lying face down on the bed.
Taking a small blade, she pricked her finger, the blood beading at the tip. Carefully, she positioned herself over Bell and let a drop of blood fall onto him, activating his status.
A soft glow surrounded Bell, signaling the update, and Hestia stepped back to observe. Everything was as it should be—his status had been successfully updated. She looked down at him, relieved that the process had gone smoothly.
Name: Bell Cranel
Level: 1
Race: Human
Familia: Hestia Familia
Strength: I 98 - H 122
Endurance: H 121 - G 156
Dexterity: I 96 - H120
Agility: H 119 - H 167
Magic: I 0
Skills:
[ Vereath Aevum ]
(Eternal Ascension)
Effect:
Accelerates the growth of a focused stat based on activity (strength in combat, agility when running). The growth speed depends on the situation.
If the user enters intense concentration, all stats can grow rapidly. In addition it also enhances the users over all power providing a power boost, but losing focus ends the effect.
MAGIC:
Hestia's eyes lingered on the new skill, her earlier worry turning into frustration. "How much of a beating did you take this time?!" she said, giving Bell a light slap on the back.
"Ow—Goddess, calm down!" Bell yelped, sitting up and waving his hands. "I'm okay, really!"
Hestia put her hands on her hips, her face softening with relief and concern. "You call this okay? You were out for hours! Do you know how worried I was?"
Bell looked down, guilt clear on his face. "I'm sorry… I'll do better next time."
Hestia sighed and sat beside him. She placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, her tone soft and caring. "Bell-kun, I know you're trying your best, but you don't have to push yourself so much. You're already doing great."
Bell glanced at her, surprised by her kindness. "I just… I want to get stronger," he said quietly.
Hestia's expression softened even more. "And you will. But strength takes time, Bell. You've already grown so much. Just promise me you'll take care of yourself, okay?"
He nodded, feeling reassured. "I promise."
She smiled and pulled out the parchment with his updated status. "Here, take a look," she said, handing it to him.
Bell read through the sheet, his eyes widening when he saw the new skill. "Vereath Aevum?" he said, tilting his head. "What's this?"
Hestia's pride showed as she explained, "It's a new skill you earned. It helps the stat you're using grow faster, like strength when you're fighting or agility when you're running. If you focus really hard, all your stats can grow faster. But if you lose focus, it stops. Got it?"
Bell nodded, his excitement clear. "That's amazing… Thank you, Goddess. I'll use it well."
Hestia gently smoothed his hair. "I know you will, Bell-kun. Just remember, I'm here for you, always."
Bell smiled, his resolve stronger than ever. "I won't let you down."
Feeling rested, Bell and Hestia decided it was time to leave. After thanking the healers for their help, they stepped out into the bustling streets of Orario, the sunlight warm on their faces.
On their way home, Bell paused for a moment. "Goddess, can we stop by the Guild? I want to thank Eina for her help."
Hestia smiled gently. "Of course, Bell-kun. It's important to show appreciation."
They made their way to the Guild, weaving through the lively crowd. Inside, the usual buzz of adventurers and staff filled the air. Bell's eyes scanned the room until he spotted Eina at her desk, focused on a stack of papers.
"Eina-san!" Bell called out, his voice bright.
Eina looked up, her face lighting up as she saw him. "Bell!" She quickly stood and walked over, her expression a mix of relief and sternness. "You're alright! I've been so worried about you!"
Bell gave her an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry, Eina-san. I didn't mean to make you worry."
Eina crossed her arms, tilting her head slightly like a scolding big sister. "What were you thinking, taking on something so dangerous? You have to be more careful!"
Hestia stepped in with a playful grin. "See? I'm not the only one saying it!"
Bell rubbed the back of his neck, laughing nervously. "I'll be more careful, I promise."
Eina softened, reaching out to ruffle his hair affectionately. "You better be, or I'll have to keep an even closer eye on you." Her tone was warm, a mixture of teasing and genuine care.
Bell smiled, feeling a familiar comfort in her presence. "Thank you, Eina-san. For everything."
Eina's expression turned gentle as she placed a hand on his shoulder. "That's what I'm here for, Bell. Now go home and get some proper rest, okay?"
After a few more exchanges, Bell and Hestia said their goodbyes and left the Guild. Walking through the streets, Bell felt a deep sense of gratitude for the people in his life. With their support, he was ready to keep moving forward.
-Hostess of Fertility-
Bell stepped into the warm, familiar atmosphere of the Hostess of Fertility, his stomach grumbling after a day of recovery. The smell of freshly cooked food wafted through the air, and he couldn't help but smile. It was a good feeling to be in a place like this after a tough time.
Syr, standing behind the counter, noticed him immediately. "Bell-san! You're back!" she said, her cheerful tone making him feel welcome right away.
"Yeah, I thought I'd grab something to eat," Bell replied with a tired smile. "How's everything?"
"Busy as usual, but nothing I can't handle," Syr said, wiping her hands on her apron as she turned to the kitchen. "Mama Mia's been yelling all day." she added while giggling.
Bell chuckled at the mention of Mama Mia. "That woman really knows how to keep this place lively, huh?"
"She sure does," Syr replied with a laugh. "Always shouting about how things need to be done her way."
Just then, Mama Mia herself appeared from the kitchen, bustling with energy as usual. She stopped by the counter and shot Bell a wink. "I hear that you got injured fighting a minotaur. How're you feeling, kid?"
"Getting better," Bell answered, taking a seat. "Still sore, but I'm hanging in there."
Syr surprised, she asked "Is that true Bell-san?" rubbing the back of his head he replied with a nod.
Mama Mia grinned. "I'm sure you'll bounce back in no time. Fighting a minotaur as a fresh level one, you got some balls kid I'll give you that!" She gave a playful smack on his back, making him flinch a little. "Now, what can I get ya?"
Bell smiled awkwardly, "Then what about one of your specials please!"
"Alright, alright," Mama Mia said, rolling her eyes with a grin before turning back to the kitchen. "Let's get you something nice to eat. Syr, take care of him."
Syr nodded and went to work preparing the meal. Bell watched her, noticing how focused she was, though there was always a hint of cheer in her eyes. "Thanks for the food, Syr," he said sincerely.
"Of course! It's my job," Syr replied with a smile, though her tone was warm and friendly.
As Bell ate, he couldn't help but notice how cozy the place felt-between Syr's welcoming demeanor and Mama Mia's loud but affectionate(but scary) energy, it was hard not to feel at home. The food was delicious, just like always, and Bell felt his tension start to melt away.
After finishing his meal, Bell stood up to leave. "Thanks again, Syr, Mama Mia! I'll be sure to come back."
"You're always welcome, Bell-kun," Syr said, waving him off.
Mama Mia called from the kitchen, "Come back again Kid! Spends lots of money here again! Hahaha" hearing her laughter all the way from the kitchen brought a smile to Bell's face
Bell laughed, waving back as he left. "I'll try, Mama Mia!"
As he exited, Bell turned around to see the Loki Familia heading toward the diner, likely to eat. Unfamiliar with any of their members, Bell continued on his way, walking past them as they entered the Hostess of Fertility.
As he walked by, he couldn't help but glance at them, his eyes briefly meeting those of the Sword Princess, Ais Wallenstein. For a moment, their gazes locked, and Bell felt his heart skip a beat. She gave him a small but bright smile before disappearing inside, her golden hair shimmering under the dim light.
Bell quickly looked away, feeling a little embarrassed at the unexpected moment. "That was... weird," he mumbled to himself, shaking off the brief interaction before continuing down the street.
.
.
"That was Bell Cranel, right?" asked the high elf, Riveria —who was tying a drunk wolf man, shoving a cloth in his mouth as he continues to protest against the high elf— glancing at Ais.
Ais nodded, her eyes still on the door where Bell had just exited. She pouted, a small frown on her face as she muttered under her breath, "I didn't even get to talk to him properly."
Riveria watched her, a soft smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. "You seem a little disappointed," she said teasingly.
Ais's cheeks flushed as she crossed her arms, huffing softly. "It's not like that.." she insisted, her voice a little flustered. "I just... wanted to talk to him."
Riveria chuckled, clearly amused by Ais's reaction. "Uh-huh, sure. Just remember, there's no need to pout," she teased gently.
Ais, still pouting, sighed and turned away, clearly trying to hide her embarrassment. "I'm not pouting!" she grumbled, though her soft expression said otherwise.
.
.
━━━ 𝓓𝓾𝓷𝓰𝓮𝓸𝓷 ━━━ 5th floor
The next day..
"Ha!" Bell shouted, his blade piercing through the eye of the Frog Shooter. With a swift flick, the creature's body faded into dust with a whoosh, leaving behind the familiar glimmer of a magic stone.
Bell quickly grabbed the magic stone, slipping it into his bag before continuing down the winding path of the dungeon. His pace was steady as he fought through each encounter. Clank! The sound of steel striking steel echoed as Bell and the Kobold clashed, each deflecting the other's blows.
Focusing his mind, Bell felt his skill, Vereath Aevum, activate. With newfound speed, he lunged toward the Kobold, but the creature unexpectedly surged forward. Bell, not expecting the sudden action, failed to block in time, and the Kobold's strike grazed him. Regaining his focus, Bell adjusted his stance without hesitation and brought his dagger down in a swift arc. The Kobold's head hit the dungeon floor with a dull thud.
Phew... Bell exhaled, his breath heavier than he expected. He was starting to feel the weight of his exhaustion. Bell's footsteps echoed in the quiet of the dungeon as he descended deeper into its depths. The winding corridors seemed to stretch on endlessly, but he pressed forward, determined. After what felt like an eternity of fighting, he finally arrived at the 6th floor. His eyes scanned the area, the air felt heavier here, he thought as he remembered what Eina taught him, The War Shadow is the strongest monster found on the 6th floor, it's also known as the "Rookie killer"."
He gripped his dagger tightly, the chill in the air reminding him that this was a crucial point in his journey. The 6th floor was known for its tougher monsters, and Bell knew he had to be extra cautious. He walked cautiously, keeping his guard up, but a gnawing sense of unease settled in. Why aren't there any monsters? he wondered. Is this a trap? Is the dungeon playing tricks on me? His thoughts swirled as he continued forward, the silence oppressive.
As he neared what appeared to be a dead end, Bell hesitated, considering turning back. Suddenly, the sound of something unsettling echoed through the air.
"Crack! Rumble..."
Bell whipped his head around, eyes widening in horror as he saw the walls begin to crack. Black ooze poured from the fissures, seeping down the stone like some vile liquid. The ooze began to take shape, forming into a tall, menacing shadow with jagged claws. In the center of the shadow's face, a glowing red orb flickered, casting an eerie light across the dungeon.
His eyes widened "War Shadow!"
.
.
"This is bad..." Bell muttered quietly to himself, feeling the blood drip from his fingertips as he gripped his dagger tightly. He had taken down one of the monsters, but it hadn't been enough. Another one appeared—then another, and soon, he was surrounded.
His heart raced. These creatures, with their glowing red orbs and sharp claws, were no joke. He couldn't afford to make a mistake now.
What the hell is going on? Bell thought, scanning his surroundings. The walls were leaking black ooze, the shadows taking form right in front of him. This is the horrors of the Dungeon.. He had heard about it. The dungeon felt like it had a mind of its own.
His breath hitched slightly, he knew that he needed to activate his skill again so, he forced himself to focus. Stay calm. You can do this. The thought helped, but he knew he couldn't just stand there. His body was already tired from the previous fights, but there was no choice but to keep moving.
The monsters were getting closer. Bell tightened his grip on the dagger, preparing for the worst. He wasn't going down without a fight.
The first War Shadow lunged at him, its claws slashing through the air with terrifying speed. Bell dodged to the side just in time, the air whooshing past his ear grazing it a little. He quickly retaliated, slashing at the monster's arm with his dagger. The blade made contact, but the creature barely flinched. It growled, clearly angered, before swiping again. (Author: Can War Shadows even talk) Damn it! Bell thought as he leaped backward, narrowly avoiding the claws. His body was exhausted.
The second monster moved in, its glowing red eyes locked on him. Bell quickly turned to face it, but it was already too close. He swung his dagger, aiming for its chest, but the monster caught the blade with its claws. forcing him to use all of his strength to free his weapon and with a kick to the War Shadow's face he finally got it free. Before he could react, a third monster appeared from the shadows, lunging at his side. Bell instinctively sidestepped, but the creature's claws caught him across his chest, ripping through his armor, for a moment, he stumbled, barely keeping his footing. Focus! Bell forced himself to take a deep breath. His heart was pounding really fast, but he needed to keep calm. He took a deep breath and assessed the situation, he figured that the monster's weakness was probably its red orb in its face.
With his remaining strength, he spun around, using the momentum to slash at the first monster's head. The creature shrieked as the dagger sank into its skull, collapsing into dust with a faint "fwoosh." But Bell had no time to celebrate. The second monster's claws shot forward, and he barely blocked the blow with his dagger, the impact sending a jolt of pain through his arm.
Another monster came from the left, aiming to flank him. Bell, thinking fast, used the dagger to parry its claws, then pivoted on his foot and delivered a swift kick to its chest, knocking it back. His focus sharpened as he realized the opening he needed. His skill getting tested to it's limit, he felt himself grow stronger and with one more swing—this time with more force—struck the second monster's glowing orb in its face, shattering it. The monster crumpled to the floor, fading into dust.
Two down, one left... Bell thought, his breath ragged as he faced the last monster. It was bigger, stronger, its claws sharper. It growled menacingly, its red orb glowing brighter as it crouched, preparing to attack.
Bell's grip tightened on his dagger. He couldn't afford to make another mistake.
The monster charged, but Bell was ready. He dodged its first swipe, spinning behind it and thrusting his dagger into its back. The creature screeched in pain, but it didn't fall. Bell yanked the dagger free and attacked again, this time aiming for the creature's side. The monster howled, but with one final slash, its magic crystal shattered.
It collapsed to the ground, fading into dust like the others. With a "clank," the War Shadow dropped an item—its claw. Bell crouched down, picking it up and inspecting it. Though it lacked a proper handle, he decided to use it as another dagger. He didn't want to risk being left without a weapon, so he carefully attached the claw to a makeshift grip. Bell stood, panting heavily, his body aching from the fight. He had won, but it wasn't without cost. He wiped the sweat from his brow, looking around at the carnage. The dungeon was silent again.
I can't keep going like this... Bell thought, his exhaustion catching up to him. He didn't have much time before the next wave of monsters would come. Bell took a shaky breath, his heart calming down.
I need to get back..
Bell gripped his dagger tightly, knowing he couldn't afford to rest for too long. There were more challenges ahead.
.
.
Nearing the exit of the 6th floor, Bell suddenly stopped, hearing familiar voices in the distance. It was Ais and her companions, the Amazoness sisters, Tiona and Tione. They were talking as they made their way through the dungeon.
"Oh, by the way, who was that boy you carried, Ais?" Tiona asked, her voice cheerful but full of curiosity.
Ais responded in her usual calm tone, though there was a subtle change in her expression. "His name's Bell. He was the one who fought the Minotaur..."
Tione, the older Amazoness, raised an eyebrow and teased, "You carried him, huh? Was he really that hurt?"
Ais's voice softened, tinged with a hint of sadness. "He was... really hurt. All because I didn't make it in time..."
Tiona, noticing Ais's change in mood, immediately tried to lighten the atmosphere. "Aw, don't worry, Ais! What matters is that he made it out alive! Plus, it was our fault that the Minotaur got loose, not yours!" Her tone was reassuring, and she gave Ais a playful nudge.
Ais's eyes lingered on the ground for a moment before she replied quietly, "Thank you, Tiona... But still..."
Sensing Ais needed a change of subject, Tione quickly shifted the conversation. "So... What do you wanna eat when we get back?"
Ais's mood lightened a bit, and she answered quickly, "Jagamarukun."
Bell quickly stepped back against to avoid being seen, just as he stepped back he accidentally stepped on a loose piece of stone, making a loud clink! Ais, Tiona, and Tione turned in his direction, all three looking a little surprised to see him there. Ais's face softened, a small smile forming.
"Bell?" Ais asked, stepping toward him with curiosity in her eyes.
-𝓓𝓪𝓷𝓶𝓪𝓬𝓱𝓲-