(Author - Edited a part where it was mention that Ais was a level 6. In the first chapters I stated that she and the two Amazon's were level 5's)
(Author - I don't know how but the chapter got deleted for som reason.)
-
-7th floor-
HAA!" Bell let out a shout as his blade cleaved through the final needle rabbit. The sharp clang of steel echoed in the dimly lit corridor, followed by the soft crackling of the defeated monster turning to ash. Sweat dripped from his brow, but a small, triumphant smile crossed his face as he watched the magic stone glint briefly in the dust before disappearing.
Sliding his sword back into its sheath, Bell turned to his companion, Lili, who stood a few steps behind him.
"Lili? How far should we go down today?" Bell asked, as he wiped the sweat off his forehead with the back of his hand.
Lili met his gaze , her face showing a slight fatigue as they have been in the dungeon for a while now. "Hmm... The lowest we can go is floor 9," she replied.
"Floor 9, huh?" Bell repeated as he nodding thoughtfully. His gaze briefly wandered down the dim tunnel ahead, its faintly glowing walls revealing the jagged pathway that would lead them deeper.
Lili adjusted the straps of her oversized backpack and shrugged her shoulders. "We don't have the equipment to go any lower. The monsters past floor 9 are a lot stronger, and you don't want to risk running into something we can't handle."
Bell glanced at her, nodding in agreement. "You're right," he admitted. Despite his eagerness, he knew better than to argue. Lili knows the dungeon more than him, so it was better to just trust her guidance.
"We should keep moving," Lili said, gesturing to the narrow pathway ahead. "This route will take us to the 8th floor. We'll keep pushing forward until we reach the 9th."
Bell straightened his posture, his exhaustion giving way to excitement. "Understood!" he replied, his voice brimming with energy.
As they descended deeper into the dungeon, the air grew heavier, and Bell could sense the presence of monsters nearby. He instinctively tightened his grip on the hilt of his sword and with a soft "shing!" sound, he unsheathed his blade, its steel catching the dim light. Each step brought them closer to the next floor, where danger awaited.
-8th floor-
As Bell and Lili set foot on the 8th floor, the air grew heavy with tension. The dim glow of the dungeon walls barely illuminated the area, casting long, eerie shadows across the jagged stone floor. Ahead of them stood a cluster of killer ants, their grotesque mandibles clicking in unison. Their glowing red eyes locked onto the adventurers, filled with bloodlust.
The ants let out a high-pitched screech, signaling the start of their attack as they approached in waves.
"Lili!" Bell called out to his companion.
"I'll cover you, Bell-sama!" Lili replied, already reaching for the throwing knives strapped to her belt.
Bell steadied his breath, taking the stance Ais had drilled into him. He focused on the movements of the ants, waiting for the right moment.
One of the killer ants lunged at him, its mandibles snapping viciously. Bell countered with a swift downward swing of his blade, splitting the ant cleanly in half. The creature's body crumpled to the ground with a sickening thud, but its death initiated the others into action.
An echo of screeches erupted as the remaining ants charged all at once.
Bell gritted his teeth, darting and weaving through their attacks. His blade moved with precision, deflecting mandibles and slashing at any opening he could find. Despite his efforts, one of the ants managed to graze his side, tearing through his shirt and leaving a stinging wound.
"Bell-sama!" Lili's voice cut through the chaos. Before the ant could press its advantage, a well-aimed throwing knife embedded itself in its head, killing it instantly.
"Thanks, Lili!" Bell shouted, stepping back toward her.
He raised his palm, flames beginning to crackle at his fingertips. "Fire..— BOLT!" he roared, releasing a bolt of fire. The flames engulfed the advancing ants, their screeches turning into wails of agony as they burned to ashes.
Bell let out a brief sigh of relief, but it was short-lived. The ground beneath them seemed to rumble slightly as another wave of ants poured out from the dark tunnels ahead. Their numbers were overwhelming, a relentless tide of mandibles and rage.
Lili glanced at Bell, her expression sharp but resolute. "Bell-sama, There's more coming!"
With a nod of understanding, Bell tightened his grip on his sword and charged forward.
The killer ants lunged at him in a frenzy, their sharp mandibles aiming to crush him. Bell met their strikes head-on, blocking their attacks with his blade. Each clash sent a sting of pain all the way into his bones, but he refused to falter.
Using a trick Ais had taught him, Bell spun on his heel to counter the knockback of their blows, his blade slicing cleanly through the exposed bodies of two ants. Without missing a beat, he dashed forward, slashing at another ant mid-lunge and cutting it down before it could react.
Lili stayed at his back, her throwing knives flying with precision, keeping the swarm at bay. "Keep going, Bell-sama! We're thinning their numbers!"
Bell's breath came in heavy pants, his body aching from the relentless battle. But he couldn't afford to stop. The lessons, the training, everything he had learned, pushed him to keep moving, to keep fighting.
One final ant screeched, lunging at him with ferocity. Bell sidestepped, bringing his blade down in a powerful arc. The ant split in two, its body collapsing lifelessly to the ground.
Silence fell over the chamber, broken only by Bell's ragged breathing. He lowered his blade, glancing back at Lili, who gave him a nod of approval.
"Well done, Bell-sama," she said, a faint smile on her lips despite the exhaustion in her voice.
Bell managed a weak grin in return. "Thanks, Lili. I couldn't have done it without you."
The battle was over, and the ground was scattered with pieces of the defeated killer ants. Among the remains, small glowing magic stones sparkled faintly under the dungeon's light. Lili's eyes lit up at the sight, and she hummed happily while picking them up, placing each one carefully into her bag.
Bell stood nearby, touching the small graze on his side. Despite the hordes of killer ants, the injury he got wasn't that serious, and he smiled to himself, clenching his fists.I'm getting stronger.
He looked over at Lili, who was now holding out the stones she'd collected. Her cheerful smile and bright eyes made her joy clear.
"Good work, Bell-sama!" she said proudly.
Bell laughed softly and nodded. "You too, Lili. Thanks for covering me out there."
Lili blushed slightly at the praise but puffed up her chest. "That's my job as your supporter, Bell-sama!"
Bell glanced around the quiet room, now free of danger. The tension from earlier had faded, leaving a sense of peace. "Let's head back to the surface," he said, his voice calm but tired.
"Mm!" Lili agreed, securing her bag tightly with the magic stones safely inside.
...
Arriving at the guild, Bell and Lili carefully counted the valis they had earned from their latest dungeon expedition. After tallying the amount, they agreed to split it evenly, fifty-fifty. Lili had initially protested, insisting on a forty-seventy split in Bell's favor, arguing that he had taken on most of the risk during their battles. However, Bell adamantly refused, his expression resolute. He reminded her that she had saved him on multiple occasions during their adventure, and that her support as his porter had been invaluable. An equal split, he reasoned, was the only fair outcome. Lili reluctantly conceded, though her gratitude shone through her usual sharp demeanor.
After they exchanged goodbyes, Bell watched the prum as she slipped into the bustling crowd of adventurers and merchants. Her small figure quickly disappeared amidst the sea of people, leaving Bell standing alone.
With some time left in the day, Bell decided against returning to the abandoned church where he lived with Hestia. Lazing around did not appeal to him when he could use the opportunity to improve himself. Determined to make the most of his free time, he headed toward the city walls, a quiet area he often visited to train and reflect.
When Bell arrived at his usual spot, he glanced around, scanning the area. A flicker of disappointment crossed his face as he muttered under his breath, "Ais... Looks like she's not here."
Letting out a small sigh, he set his gear and bag down on the smooth stone floor, the faint echoes of the bustling city distant in his ears. Stretching his arms above his head and rolling his shoulders, he began to warm up his body. His routine was precise, each movement carefully executed to loosen his muscles and prepare for the grueling training ahead.
Once his body was ready, Bell launched into his drills. He started with one hundred push-ups, his arms straining as he pushed his body off the ground again and again. Sweat dripped from his brow as he moved on to a one-kilometer run, sprinting to a distant marker and back as fast as his legs would carry him. Without pausing for breath, he dropped to the ground for one hundred sit-ups, his core burning with exertion.
Bell repeated the cycle over and over, his body growing heavier with each round. His shirt clung to his skin, drenched in sweat, and his breath came in ragged gasps. Despite the fatigue weighing on him, he pushed himself further, his determination unyielding. By the time exhaustion overtook him, his muscles trembled with overuse.
Deciding he needed a moment to cool off, Bell removed his sweat-soaked shirt and let the breeze brush against his heated skin. Picking up his sword, he moved on to practicing his swings. Each strike of his blade was deliberate, his focus honed on perfecting his form. His movements were sharp and precise at first, but as fatigue set in, his swings grew heavier, and his form began to falter. Still, he refused to stop, gritting his teeth as his arms screamed for rest.
Finally, his strength gave out, and Bell dropped to the ground, landing on his rear with an unintentional "Oww" slipping from his lips. He sat there for a moment, catching his breath as the sun dipped lower in the sky. The golden light of dusk bathed the city in warmth, and Bell took it as a sign to call it a day.
After packing up his gear, he began his journey home. The walk was quiet and peaceful, the streets of Orario starting to calm as evening settled in. When he reached the church, Bell opened the door to find a familiar figure waiting for him. A pair of azure eyes lit up as soon as she saw him.
-Church-
"Bell! You're finally home!" Hestia called out, her voice filled with warmth and relief.
"I'm home, Hestia-sama," Bell replied with a tired but genuine smile.
"You must be exhausted," she said, concern etched on her face.
"It's been a long day," he admitted, his weariness evident in his tone.
"How about we update your status, and then you can head to bed?" Hestia suggested, her voice soft and gentle.
"That sounds good," Bell replied, giving her a thumbs-up.
He made his way to his bed, peeling off his shirt before lying down. Hestia climbed onto the bed beside him, her hands glowing faintly as she began to update his status. The warmth of her magic on his back was soothing, and Bell let out a content sigh, feeling the fatigue of the day slowly fade away.
Name:Bell Cranel
Level:1
Race:Human
Familia:Hestia Familia
Strength: C 607 - C 643
Endurance: C 645 - C 664
Dexterity: E 440 - 467
Agility: C 604 - C 634
Magic: G 297 - F 329
Skills:
[ Vereath Aevum ]
(Eternal Ascension)
Effect:
Accelerates the growth of a focused stat based on activity (strength in combat, agility when running). The growth speed depends on the situation.
If the user enters intense concentration, all stats can grow rapidly. In addition it also enhances the users over all power providing a power boost, but losing focus ends the effect.
[ Heroic Desire ]
Effect:
In the heat of battle or at moments of peak emotional intensity, the user's heroic will ignites, manifesting as an aura of unstoppable resolve. This ability doesn't shield the user from harm but instead turns every wound or setback into a source of power.
The stronger the desire, the more potent the effect, manifesting as a radiant aura that temporarily neutralizes curses including charms, and enhances allies.
MAGIC:
[ Firebolt ]
"Here's your status, Bell!" Hestia said cheerfully, handing him the piece of paper where she had transferred the updated information. She beamed, proud of his steady progress as an adventurer.
Bell took the paper from her, his eyes scanning the numbers and letters that reflected his hard work and effort. "Oh... Heaehe" he murmured softly, his tired brain barely registering the details. Before Hestia could tease him for his lack of reaction, she noticed his breathing had already evened out. The paper slipped from his hand as sleep overtook him.
Hestia's expression softened as she looked at the now-sleeping boy. His face, peaceful and unguarded, reminded her of how hard he had worked that day. A gentle smile spread across her lips as she leaned down to pick up the fallen paper and set it aside.
"Rest well, Bell-kun," she whispered, her voice tender. Pulling the covers up, she tucked him in under the covers carefully, ensuring he was warm and comfortable.
The goddess stepped back for a moment, contemplating the night ahead. The single bed in their small home was meant for Bell, although they shared it most of the time, she had no intention of waking him for her own comfort. Turning off the lights, she moved quietly to the couch and lay down. The couch was old and lumpy, its springs poking at her back, but it didn't bother her. She stared at the dark ceiling for a while, thinking about how far Bell had come since they first met. The boy who once seemed so fragile had grown stronger with each passing day, though she knew his journey had only just begun.
Despite the discomfort of her makeshift bed, Hestia closed her eyes, soothed by the thought that Bell was resting peacefully. Slowly, she drifted off to sleep.
-Second Day of Training-
"Clang!"
"Ting!"
"Thud!"
The sharp, rhythmic sounds of steel clashing reverberated through the open space, breaking the stillness of the morning air.
"HAAAAAAAA!" Bell roared, his voice echoing with determination as he kicked off the ground. With every ounce of strength in his body, he tightened his grip on his weapon and delivered a ferocious downward swing aimed at his sparring partner. The force behind the strike sent a dull tremor through the air as the blade struck the stone floor with a resounding "Clang!"
Before he could recover, a sudden gust of wind brushed past him, making the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. Alarmed, Bell turned his head just in time to meet a pair of golden eyes. Ais Wallenstein stood poised, her expression calm yet focused, her movements almost too fast for him to follow.
"BwuaGH!"
Bell cried out as her scabbard found its mark, striking him squarely in the abdomen. The impact forced the air from his lungs, and he staggered back, clutching his midsection with trembling hands. His vision blurred for a moment as the pain coursed through his body.
"CouGH, cougH!"Bell gasped, his breaths ragged and uneven. The strike had been precise, leaving no room for him to regain his footing. Realizing his lapse in focus, he quickly raised his head, his instincts screaming at him to prepare for the next move.
But it was already too late.
A flash of movement caught his eye—a blur of Ais's boot aimed directly at him. Bell barely had time to register the attack before the kick connected with brutal efficiency. His vision went white as the impact sent him flying into the floor with a heavy "Thud!"
"Bell!" Ais's voice carried an unusual edge of concern as she hurried to his side. The sight of him sprawled on the ground stirred something unfamiliar in her chest—a pang of worry she couldn't quite place. Kneeling beside him, she carefully adjusted his position, lifting him into a more dignified pose. She didn't want him to wake up embarrassed. Gently, she carried him into the shade, her movements deliberate as she leaned him against the sturdy parapets of the city walls.
Ais sat down beside him, her golden eyes studying his sleeping face. He looked peaceful now, the lines of exertion and pain softened by rest. A stray lock of white hair had fallen over his closed eyes, and without thinking, she reached out to brush it aside. Her fingertips grazed his skin, warm from the sun and exertion, and she paused, letting her hand linger against his cheek.
He's so determined... always pushing himself so hard. Her lips curved into a small, almost imperceptible smile, the kind that rarely graced her face. A faint blush bloomed across her cheeks as she realized how close she was to him. A gust of wind swept through, stirring the quiet around them, and to her surprise "wahh!", Bell's head lolled to the side, coming to rest gently on her shoulder.
Ais froze, her heart skipping a beat as her blush deepened. She glanced down at him, his face inches from hers, his expression so serene. Her thoughts began to spiral.
Bell... You've been working so hard. Too hard, maybe... How did you grow so fast.. You're amazing. She bit her lip, her hand trembling slightly as she reached up to pet his hair. It was soft under her touch, and as her fingers combed through the silken strands, she found herself relaxing. A sense of calm washed over her, quieting the storm of emotions she often struggled to understand.
Meanwhile, mini-Ais was busily braiding the loose strands of Bell's hair at the back. she worked with a purpose, a sense of duty even, and determination!, tying small, uneven plaits while Ais's actual hand continued its gentle, rhythmic motion. The thought amused her, and a faint giggle escaped her lips.
He's so... helpless like this, but still... It's strange... I feel at ease, Is this what it feels to have a hero? Imagining a day where Bell will finally save her from her dark flames.. Hehe.. she giggled just from the thought of Bell coming to save her.
Unable to resist the warmth blooming in her chest, Ais leaned her head against his neck, closing her eyes briefly. His steady breathing and the faint scent of the outdoors clinging to him soothed her in a way she didn't expect. Without thinking, she wrapped an arm around him, holding him close as though shielding him from the world.
Her other hand continued to stroke his hair, her touch featherlight. She could feel her own breathing slow, syncing with his. The moment felt timeless—just the two of them, hidden in their little corner of the world.
Her body moved on its own, a quiet, almost instinctual gesture she couldn't stop. Leaning in closer, she placed a soft kiss on Bell's cheek. The touch was fleeting but sent a wave of warmth rushing through her, her heart pounding like a drum in her chest. As the realization of what she had just done hit her, her face flushed a deep, vibrant red.
"Eep!"
Ais pulled back slightly, her hands trembling as she cupped her burning cheeks. What... what am I doing? Her thoughts raced, an unfamiliar mixture of embarrassment and something tender stirring within her. She stole a glance at Bell's sleeping face, half-afraid he might have woken up, but he remained peacefully unaware, his head still resting on her shoulder.
Her lips parted slightly as she tried to make sense of her actions, but no words came.I hope... you're dreaming about something nice, Bell, she thought, her chest tightening with an emotion she couldn't understand. Her gaze softened as she resumed stroking his hair, her blush refusing to fade.
As the warmth of the moment settled over her, her thoughts began to blur, her body relaxing. The steady rise and fall of Bell's breathing seemed to pull her into a shared rhythm, and the quiet comfort of his presence lulled her further.
Her eyes grew heavier, the world around her dimming. Ais's hold on him became gentler but remained firm, as though she was afraid to let go even in sleep. Resting her head against him once more, her thoughts grew hazy, and she whispered silently into the cool air, "You've been working so hard... You deserve to rest."
And with that, she drifted off, the faintest smile lingering on her lips, the weight of her earlier embarrassment replaced by a peaceful contentment she hadn't felt in a long time.
...
"Nghh..." Bell mumbled, shifting slightly as his body started to wake up. A faint heaviness pressed against him, and he blinked groggily, trying to make sense of it.
"So heavy..." he muttered, his voice still thick with sleep. His surroundings slowly came into focus, and warmth on his neck made him freeze.
"Mh... Bell..."
His breath caught. That soft voice, so familiar yet so unlike her usual tone, sent a jolt through him.
"A-Ais!?" he whispered sharply, his eyes snapping open fully. What he saw made his heart skip a beat. Ais was leaning against him, her face resting peacefully on his neck.
"Mhhn..."she murmured again, her grip on him tightening as if seeking more comfort in her sleep or perhaps hugging a certain bunny in her dream.
Bell's face turned a deep shade of red. He couldn't move, his mind racing to process the situation. Ais Wallenstein—the Ais Wallenstein—was asleep on him. Her golden hair cascaded around her like a silky curtain, and her usually sharp expression was soft and serene.
He hesitated for a moment, then lifted his hand cautiously. His fingers trembled as he brushed a strand of hair away from her face, tucking it gently behind her ear. The simple action made his heart flutter.
She's so beautiful... he thought, unable to tear his gaze away.
As he watched her, Bell noticed the faint shadows under her eyes and the way her breathing seemed so steady now. She must be exhausted. Her Familia's expeditions are so demanding.
Before he could dwell on it further, he felt something tug at his side. Glancing down, he realized Ais's arm was wrapped around him, her hand clutching the fabric of his tunic. His blush deepened as she shifted slightly, pulling herself closer to him, her head nuzzling against his neck.
Bell's heart felt like it might explode. He didn't know whether to laugh, panic, or simply enjoy the moment. She's hugging me... What do I even do?
He let out a shaky breath, trying desperately to calm his racing thoughts. Ais looked so peaceful, so content, that he couldn't bring himself to disturb her. The sight of her like this, so calm and gentle, made his chest tighten with an unfamiliar warmth.
After a moment of hesitation, Bell slowly wrapped one arm around her waist, his movements careful and deliberate. His fingers brushed against the soft fabric of her outfit as he gently pulled her closer. She didn't stir, her head still resting against his shoulder, her breathing steady and soft.
Bell swallowed hard, his cheeks burning. With his other hand trembling slightly, he reached up toward her golden hair. He paused, unsure if he should continue, but the silky strands swayed lightly in the breeze, almost inviting his touch. Taking a quiet breath, he let his hand settle gently on her head.
Her hair was soft—softer than he had imagined. Slowly, he began to pet it, his fingers combing carefully through the strands. The simple motion was soothing, and despite his initial nervousness, he found himself relaxing as he continued.
Ais sighed faintly in her sleep, her grip on his tunic tightening as she nestled closer to him. Her head shifted slightly, pressing more firmly against his neck, and Bell felt his heart skip a beat.
"She's really not waking up..." he whispered to himself, his voice barely audible. A small smile crept onto his lips as he looked down at her, her expression serene and unguarded.
As his hand moved gently through her hair, Bell couldn't help but think, She looks so different like this... so peaceful. It's like she's not the Sword Princess that everyone knows, but she was just.. Ais Wallenstein.
The moment felt surreal, like something out of a dream, but Bell didn't want it to end. The warmth of her body against his, the softness of her hair beneath his fingers, and the calm rhythm of her breathing all filled him with a quiet contentment.
Bell leaned his head back slightly, letting his eyes drift closed for a moment. His hand continued its gentle motions through Ais's hair, the soothing rhythm calming his own restless thoughts. His other arm held her close, feeling the steady rise and fall of her breathing against him. As his gaze wandered toward the distant mountains, a familiar tune surfaced in his mind, one he hadn't thought about since his grandfather had passed away.
"Hm-hmm... hmm-hmm... humm..."
The soft hum escaped his lips instinctively, the notes gentle and low. It was the song his grandfather used to sing during quieter times, a melody filled with warmth and love, as if it carried the strength of the bond they'd shared. Without realizing it, Bell's humming grew steadier, filling the quiet air around them with a serene lullaby.
Ais stirred slightly in her sleep, her golden hair brushing against his fingers as she shifted. Bell paused for a moment, his heart skipping at the sight of her expression softening further. Her eyelids fluttered faintly, and she let out a small, sleepy murmur.
"...Mnhh..."
Her voice was faint, tinged with drowsiness. She seemed reluctant to wake fully, as though unwilling to part from the warmth surrounding her. Slowly, her hold around Bell's waist tightened, her body nestling closer against his.
Bell felt his chest tighten, his heart pounding in a mix of nerves and tenderness. "Cute..." he whispered under his breath, the word slipping out before he could stop himself. His blush deepened, but he couldn't take his eyes off her.
Ais didn't respond, her head shifting slightly as she pressed into his shoulder. Bell's hand resumed combing through her hair, his fingers threading carefully through the silky strands. The motion seemed to soothe her, her breathing steadying once more.
Bell couldn't help but smile, his other arm still securely around her waist, holding her close. "Ais, it's time to wake up," he murmured softly, his voice warm and gentle.
"Mhhhn?" The girl stirred slightly, her brow furrowing as she felt the soft poke of a finger against her cheek. Slowly, she fluttered her eyes open, her vision adjusting to the light. What she saw made her heart race, a pair of warm rubellite eyes staring down at her with a bright, tender smile.
"Bell...?" she murmured, her voice still groggy from sleep.
"Good morning, Ais," Bell chuckled lightly, his tone teasing yet kind. "Did you sleep well?"
"Wha—did I... fall asleep?" Ais blinked, the realization dawning on her as she glanced around and took in their position.
"You sure did!" Bell teased, his hand moving to gently petting her hair. His grin widened as he saw her face quickly flush a deep red, the rosy tint spreading to the tips of her ears.
"Ah, I—uhm..." Ais stammered, suddenly all too aware of their closeness. Her arms were still loosely wrapped around his waist, and she could feel the steady beat of his heart through their touch. She tried to pull back slightly, but her body hesitated, unwilling to break the warm connection between them.
Bell's smile softened as he watched her, his hand pausing its playful motions in her hair. "It's okay," he said quietly, his voice carrying a gentle reassurance. "You looked so peaceful. I didn't want to disturb you earlier."
Ais's blush deepened as she averted her gaze, her golden eyes darting away from his. "I... didn't mean to fall asleep like that," she mumbled, her voice barely above a whisper. "I was just... comfortable."
Bell's heart skipped a beat at her words, his cheeks turning a shade of pink. "I'm... glad you felt comfortable," he said softly, his voice brimming with sincerity.
Then, with a small teasing grin, he added, "You're really clingy when you're asleep."
"Eep!"
Ais squealed, her golden eyes widening in shock. The sound caught Bell off guard, and he couldn't help but think,Did she just squeal? That's so cute.
"I-I... I'm sorry," she stammered, clearly flustered. "I probably made you uncomfortable..." Her arms, which had been loosely wrapped around his waist, started to pull away, but Bell quickly spoke up.
"N-not at all!" he blurted out, his voice unsteady.
Ais hesitated, her gaze lifting to meet his. "Really?" she asked softly, her golden eyes searching his for sincerity.
"M-Mhm!" Bell nodded quickly, his face bright red. "I... I liked it."
Ais's blush deepened to the point where her entire face felt like it was on fire.
Bell immediately realized how his words sounded and began to panic. "Wait—no, I didn't mean it like that!" he stammered, waving his free hand in front of him. "I mean... you looked really cute! And—wait—no, that's not what I meant either! I—uh—"
Ais stared at him, her blush still vibrant as his frantic attempts to explain only made him seem more flustered. Despite herself, she felt a small smile tugging at her lips, her earlier embarrassment softening into something lighter.
"You... liked it?" she asked again, her voice quiet but steady this time, her gaze fixed on him.
Bell froze, his mouth opening and closing like a fish as he struggled to find the right words. Finally, he sighed and scratched the back of his head, his cheeks still flaming. "Y-yeah," he admitted sheepishly. "I guess I did."
He loved it.
Ais's smile grew a little wider, her earlier nervousness giving way to a gentle warmth. "Then... Would you like to stay like this a little longer?" she said softly, her arms once again resting lightly around his waist.
Bell froze, his wide eyes locked onto Ais as her soft question lingered in the air. His heart pounded so loudly he was sure she could hear it. Her golden eyes looked up at him, shy but full of warmth, and it made his chest feel tight in the best way possible.
"W-would I like to...?"
What am I saying, of course I'd like to!
The words spun in his head, but his lips couldn't form anything coherent. Before he could overthink it, he nodded, his blush creeping all the way to the tips of his ears. "Y-yeah... I'd like that."
Ais's lips curved into a gentle smile, the kind that made Bell's heart flutter like it was ready to take off.
Badump!
how can she be this cute!
Her arms slid back around his waist as if they were made to rest there, and she let out the softest sigh. It was a sound that Bell couldn't help but find adorable. She rested her head on his shoulder, her golden hair tickling his cheek, carrying the faint scent of fresh flowers.
Bell gulped, his free hand once again finding its way to her hair, his fingers threading through the silky strands. The soft motion made her relax further, and he felt her lean just a little more into him.
"Thank you," Ais murmured, her voice so soft it blended with the gentle breeze.
Bell blinked, his gaze lowering to the golden-haired girl nestled against him. "F-for what?" he asked, his voice trembling slightly, his blush deepening.
"Oh—uhm..." Ais's cheeks turned a delicate pink as she hesitated, her fingers lightly gripping his shirt. She glanced away, suddenly finding the distant mountains very interesting. "For... letting me stay like this," she finally managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper.
Bell felt his heart skip a beat, the sincerity in her words hitting him like a soft, warm wave. "O-oh, I mean... it's no problem," he stammered, scratching the back of his head awkwardly. "it makes me feel...relaxed."
Ais's eyes widened slightly at his words, and her blush deepened. She ducked her head, trying to hide the growing redness on her face. "It-it does?" she asked, her voice almost inaudible.
Bell's mind scrambled for a response as he nervously rubbed the back of his neck. "Y-yeah," he admitted, his words rushed. "I mean, it's... nice. You're... um... really warm."
You can't say that to a girl, Bell!
Ais's lips curved into the faintest smile, though she kept her face turned away. "You're warm too," she whispered, her grip on his shirt tightening just a little.
Badump!
The quiet between them grew, but it wasn't awkward, it was a peaceful, comforting kind of silence. Bell felt his nerves start to settle, his hand instinctively resuming its gentle motions through her hair.
Ais peeked up at him from beneath her lashes, her golden eyes shimmering with a mix of emotions she didn't fully understand.
"Bell," she began hesitantly, "you... make me feel safe."
Bell froze at her words, his heart thudding loudly in his chest. "I-I do?" he asked, his voice cracking slightly.
Ais nodded, her blush still prominent as she averted her gaze. "Mhm... I don't know why, but... I feel calm when I'm with you."
Bell didn't know how to respond but a soft smile spread across his face as he looked down at her, his hand pausing briefly in her hair before continuing its soothing rhythm.
"I'm... glad," he said quietly. "I want you to feel safe, Ais.."
Her heart fluttered at his words, and she couldn't stop the small, shy smile that formed on her lips. She rested her head more comfortably against his shoulder, her fingers loosening their hold on his shirt but still lingering there, as if she didn't want to let go.
This warmth... I don't want it to end, Ais thought, her golden eyes drifting shut once again as a peaceful calm washed over her.
...
"Hehehe." A soft giggle escaped Ais's lips as she buried her face in Bell's chest, the sound muffled but undeniably sweet.
"Ais?" Bell's voice wavered, his heart skipping a beat at her unexpected action.
She didn't respond right away, instead letting the moment linger. Her giggles subsided, and she gave a content sigh. Finally, feeling satisfied and recharged, Ais gently pulled back. Her golden eyes sparkled, and a cute smile graced her face as she looked up at him.
"It's getting late..." she said softly, tilting her head slightly as her gaze drifted to the horizon. The sky was painted in warm hues of orange and pink, signaling the approaching evening.
Bell nodded. "Mmn." He stood up first, brushing himself off before looking down at her. Their eyes met, and his heart raced when he noticed the gentle glow on her face, framed perfectly by the sunset.
"Shall we go home?" he asked, extending his hand toward her with a kind smile.
Ais's cheeks tinged pink at his gesture, her smile growing a little brighter. Without hesitation, she placed her smaller hand in his. The warmth of his touch made her heart flutter as he helped her to her feet.
As she stood, Ais took a moment to steady herself, her hand lingering in his for just a moment longer than necessary. "Thank you," she said softly, her voice almost a whisper, but the sincerity in her tone was unmistakable.
Bell scratched the back of his head shyly, his cheeks dusted pink. "I-It's only natural.."
Together, they began walking toward the city, the fading sunlight casting long shadows on the ground. For a while, neither of them spoke, the comfortable silence filled only by the soft crunch of their footsteps on the stone path.
Every so often, Bell would sneak a glance at Ais from the corner of his eye, marveling at the peaceful expression on her face. The soft glow of the streetlights and the faint colors of twilight seemed to frame her perfectly, making his heart race. Meanwhile, Ais occasionally peeked at Bell, her golden eyes catching the way his rubellite ones reflected the warm evening light. She felt her heart flutter, lighter than it had in a long time.
As they neared the food district, Ais's fingers brushed lightly against Bell's arm, making him jump slightly and look at her in surprise. She tilted her head, her lips curving into a gentle smile. "Would you like to eat something?" she asked, her voice soft yet inviting.
Before Bell could respond, a loud growl echoed from his stomach.
Both of them froze, the sound lingering awkwardly in the quiet.
Bell's face turned crimson, his hands shooting up to cover his embarrassed expression. "I-I... uh..." He struggled to find his words, his voice faltering as his mind raced. Finally, he blurted out, "I would like to eat!"
Ais's eyes widened in surprise before her lips quirked into a soft giggle, her hand delicately covering her mouth as she laughed. "You don't have to be so shy about it," she said, her voice tinged with amusement.
"I wasn't—I mean, I didn't—" Bell stammered, his blush deepening. He scratched the back of his head nervously, his heart pounding from both the embarrassment and Ais's adorable giggle.
Ais stepped a little closer, her golden eyes shining with a rare, playful glint. "Come on, let's find something good to eat. My treat," she said softly, tilting her head in that endearing way that always made Bell's heart skip a beat.
"W-wait, your treat?" Bell blinked in surprise, his voice pitching slightly higher than he intended.
She nodded, her expression remaining calm, but the faint pink dusting her cheeks betrayed her shyness. "You've always been the one paying," she explained. "It's my turn to take care of you this time."
Bell opened his mouth to protest "But-"
"Hmmph!"She started to pout..
Realizing he couldn't argue with her, Bell's face reddened as he looked away, his hand rising to scratch the back of his neck awkwardly.
"T-thank you... Ais," he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.
Ais's lips curled into a soft, satisfied smile. She gave a small nod, her golden eyes sparkling in the dimming light. "You're welcome," she replied softly.
Bell hesitated for a moment before glancing at her. "S-so... what are we going to eat?" he asked, trying to push past his nervousness.
"Hehehe.. Jagamarukun!" Ais declared proudly, her voice a little louder than usual. Her cheeks flushed lightly, but there was a spark of excitement in her expression that made Bell blink in surprise.
"Jagamarukun...?" Bell repeated, tilting his head.
Ais nodded firmly, her golden eyes shining with enthusiasm. "It's my favorite."
Bell couldn't help but smile at her sudden burst of energy. "Alright, jagamarukun it is," he said with a soft chuckle.
The two of them walked side by side toward the bustling city streets, their steps steady and in sync. The growing twilight wrapped around them in hues of gold and pink, casting long shadows and a soft glow over their surroundings.
Bell stole a quick glance at Ais from the corner of his eye, marveling at how serene yet lively she looked, her excitement for something as simple as jagamarukun bringing a smile to his face. He could still feel the lingering heat in his cheeks, but somehow, the thought of them eating together again made him remember the New Year's Festival all over again.
Meanwhile, Ais's heart felt a little lighter. She was happy, in a way she rarely let herself feel and only Bell made her feel like this. The thought of enjoying her favorite snack with Bell by her side filled her with a quiet sense of joy.
As the sound of the city grew louder, Ais glanced at Bell, her lips curling into the faintest smile. "Let's get there before they close," she said, her pace quickening slightly.
Bell chuckled, jogging a little to catch up. "Wait up!"
...
-Final Day of Training-
The sun had barely risen, painting the sky in hues of orange and gold, as Bell arrived at their usual training spot. Determined to make the most of their last session before Ais left for the Loki Familia's expedition, he dove into his routine with renewed vigor.
Push-ups, sit-ups, jogging—he pushed his body to its limits, sweat dripping down his brow as his heart raced. "Haa... Haa..." Bell exhaled heavily, wiping his forehead with the back of his hand. He had just finished his workout and was now pacing slightly, waiting anxiously for her arrival.
The minutes ticked by, each one feeling longer than the last. Just as he was about to wonder if she might be late, the sound of soft, measured footsteps reached his ears. His head snapped up, and his ruby-red eyes brightened as he saw her approaching from the distance.
Ais, clad in her usual training attire, seemed to glow in the morning light, her golden hair catching the sun's rays.
"...Bell?" Her voice was gentle, a faint note of surprise woven into her tone.
Bell grinned, standing a little straighter. "Good morning, Ais!" he greeted warmly, his voice carrying a slight tremor from his earlier exertion.
"You're here early," she observed, her golden eyes scanning his form.
Bell scratched the back of his head sheepishly, a nervous chuckle escaping his lips. "Yeah... I wanted to maximize the time we have left," he admitted, his cheeks tinged pink.
Ais stepped closer to him, her gaze unwavering as she took in his disheveled state. His shirt clung to his damp skin, and his messy hair stuck out at odd angles from his intense workout. She tilted her head slightly, studying him with an unreadable expression before a faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips.
"Uh... Ais?" Bell stammered, his blush deepening as she closed the distance between them. "W-what's wrong?"
Without a word, Ais raised her hand, her delicate fingers brushing through his unruly hair. She gently smoothed it down, her touch soft and deliberate. Bell froze, his heart pounding loudly in his chest.
"There," she said quietly, her smile growing just a fraction. "It was messy."
Bell swallowed hard, trying to will his face to cool down. "T-thanks..." he managed, his voice barely audible.
Ais stepped back, her expression calm but her eyes holding a faint warmth. "Shall we start, then?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.
"O-oh! Yes!" Bell replied, snapping out of his daze. He quickly grabbed his sword and assumed a ready stance, though his flushed face betrayed the effect her small act of kindness had on him.
Ais mirrored his stance, drawing her scabbard with fluid grace. The gentle morning breeze flowed through their hair as they locked eyes, and charged at each other.
...
"Gah!"
Bell dropped to one knee, the weight of his frustration bearing down on him. His breathing was ragged, his chest rising and falling as beads of sweat dripped from his face onto the stone floor below. He gritted his teeth, his knuckles turning white as they gripped the hilt of his sword. Despite days of intense training, he still couldn't land a single hit.
Why...? Why can't I hit her?
Gripping his knee for support, Bell forced himself to stand. His legs trembled slightly, but his resolve was stronger than his body's complaints. He tightened his grip on his weapon and steadied his breathing, raising his sword once more. Across from him, Ais stood calmly, her golden eyes watching him with a mixture of curiosity and confusion.
I can't stop here. I won't let her down.
The frustration he felt moments ago transformed into determination. He replayed every lesson, every correction, and every word of encouragement she had given him over the past few days. This wasn't just about proving himself; it was about showing Ais that her efforts in training him hadn't been wasted.
Bell's ruby-red eyes ignited with newfound focus, their intensity catching Ais's attention. For a moment, their gazes locked, and the air between them grew charged.
He felt lighter—faster—as if something had finally clicked into place.
Without warning, Bell launched himself forward, his sudden burst of speed startling Ais. For the first time, she hesitated, her guard faltering slightly as Bell swung his sword with every ounce of strength he could muster.
The blade whistled through the air, missing its mark by a hair's breadth as Ais dodged gracefully to the side. Her heart skipped a beat—not from fear but from surprise.He's faster...
Before she could fully regain her footing, Bell was already moving again. His attacks came in rapid succession, each one more precise than the last. His footwork was sharper, his movements more fluid, and his stance more stable.
Ais found herself smiling. He's learning...
For someone at level one, his efforts were nothing short of remarkable. Bell wasn't just swinging aimlessly anymore. He was reading her movements, adjusting his strikes, and leaving fewer openings for her to exploit. It was clear he had absorbed everything she had taught him, and now, he was putting it all into practice.
But even so, she was still Ais Wallenstein—a level five adventurer.
She sidestepped another of his attacks, pivoting gracefully as her golden hair swayed with the motion. Bell adjusted mid-swing, bringing his blade back around in a feint before striking low. Ais barely blocked the blow, her smile growing wider. He's improved so much...
Bell's chest heaved, but his eyes never wavered. He was giving it his all, and it showed.
"Good, Bell," Ais said softly, her voice carrying an undertone of pride. "Show me more."
Encouraged by her words, Bell gritted his teeth and pushed forward once more.
...
"BWUAGH!"
A flying kick sent Bell tumbling backward, landing flat on the ground with a groan. He winced, his body aching not just from the impact but from days of relentless training.
"Haa..." He let out a long sigh, lying still for a moment. This time, however, frustration didn't flood him—just a twinge of disappointment. He knew what this meant. The training was over. Ais would leave soon for her expedition.
Gritting his teeth, Bell forced himself to sit up despite the protests of his tired body. As he did, he noticed Ais approaching, her golden eyes filled with worry.
"Bell, are you okay!?" she asked, her voice soft but laced with concern.
"I'll be fine!" Bell replied quickly, trying to sound more confident than he felt. He started brushing off the dust clinging to his clothes, but before he could finish, Ais knelt down in front of him.
"A-Ais?" he stammered, his cheeks turning pink.
She didn't answer at first. Instead, she tilted her head slightly, inspecting him with an almost childlike curiosity. Then, without a word, her hand reached out and gently ruffled his hair.
"H-Huh?" Bell blinked, confused. "U-uhm... Ais?"
"Hmm?" she hummed absentmindedly, her fingers lightly combing through his hair as if smoothing it out—or trying to, at least.
Bell couldn't help but notice how close she was, her serene expression tinged with a faint blush. It made his heart race.
"What... what are you doing?" he asked softly.
"O-Oh!" Ais froze for a moment, her hand pausing mid-motion. She pulled it back quickly, her own cheeks turning red. "I-I was just... fixing your hair," she said, her voice slightly higher than usual.
Bell blinked again. "Fixing... my hair?"
Ais nodded quickly, trying to look composed, though the light dusting of pink on her face betrayed her. In truth, she just wanted a reason to play with his hair.
Bell ran a hand through his now even messier hair and let out a laugh. "Pfft... Hahaha!"
"HmPH!" Ais's cheeks puffed up in an adorable pout. "Why are you laughing!?"
"I'm not—I'm just—!" Bell tried to stifle his laughter, but it only made her frown deepen. Before he could explain, she leaned forward and pinched both of his cheeks.
"Take this!" she huffed, tugging on them lightly.
"Ow-ow! Ais! Shtop! I'm showwy!" Bell cried, his voice muffled as he tried to wiggle free.
"Hmph!" With a final tug, Ais released his now-swollen cheeks and crossed her arms, turning her back to him. "That's what you get," she muttered, still pouting.
"Ais?" Bell called out softly, rubbing his sore cheeks. But she didn't answer, only letting out a small "Hmph!"
Bell's heart sank. She's really upset... I have to fix this.
He took a step closer to her. "Ais, I'm sorry," he said earnestly.
Still, she didn't budge. Her arms remained crossed as she kept her back to him.
Plan B, Bell thought.
He leaned in slightly, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "How about we get some jagamarukun after this?"
Ais's ears twitched at the word, and her golden eyes peeked over her shoulder, though her pout remained. "Y-you can't bribe me with jagamarukun..." she murmured, but the hint of interest in her tone was undeniable.
Bell smiled. Okay, progress. Now for Plan C.
Taking a deep breath, he stepped in front of her, meeting her gaze directly. "I'm really sorry, Ais," he said, his tone sincere. "I wasn't laughing at you.. I was just enjoying our time together... before you leave."
Ais's eyes widened, her pout fading.
"I'm going to.. miss you," Bell admitted, his ruby-red eyes soft with emotion. "Stay safe on your expedition... okay?"
The Sword Princess stared at him, her cheeks gradually turning a deep red. For a moment, she was speechless. His words carried such warmth, so different from what she was used to hearing.
Bell offered her a small, bright smile, the kind that made her heart skip a beat.
Finally, Ais nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'll... be careful. And Bell..."
"Y-yeah?" he asked, his voice hitching slightly.
"I'll miss you too."
Bell's eyes widened in surprise, his heart skipping a beat as her words sank in. His cheeks flushed a deep red, mirroring Ais's rosy complexion.
Ais, noticing his reaction, quickly turned away, fumbling with her equipment to hide the warmth spreading across her face. "L-let's... let's go get jagamarukun now," she stammered, her voice a little higher than usual.
Bell couldn't help but chuckle softly, a fond smile tugging at his lips as he rubbed the back of his neck.She's so cute when she's flustered...he thought, trailing after her.
...
The two walked side by side, the tension from moments ago slowly replaced by a quiet, comfortable atmosphere. Before long, they were standing at a stall, each holding a freshly made jagamarukun.
"Here," Ais said softly, offering to pay for both of theirs.
"Are you sure?" Bell asked, hesitant.
She gave him a small nod, her golden eyes meeting his for a brief moment. "It's my treat this time," she said firmly, though the faint blush on her cheeks lingered.
As they ate together, Bell found himself glancing at Ais more than his food, marveling at how serene and happy she looked. She wasn't the aloof Sword Princess everyone admired—she was just Ais, and he cherished this side of her.
When they finished their jagamarukun, the tower of Babel loomed nearby, signaling their parting point. Ais turned to Bell, her usual calm demeanor softening into something gentler.
"Thank you for training with me," she said quietly, her fingers brushing against her scabbard. "You've worked hard, Bell."
"And thank you for teaching me," Bell replied, his voice earnest. "I'll keep getting stronger so that... so that one day, I can stand beside you."
Ais's cheeks flushed a soft pink, and she gave Bell a small, almost shy smile. "I'll be waiting, my hero.." she murmured, the last two words barely audible.
Bell's heart fluttered at her words, but before he could respond, Ais took a step forward and pulled him into a tight hug. The warmth of her embrace caught him by surprise, and for a moment, all he could do was stand there, holding her. Her arms were around him, holding him like she didn't want to let go.
"I'll be leaving now," Ais whispered softly, her voice muffled against his chest. "I'll miss you, Bell."
His breath caught in his throat. Bell hesitated, then wrapped his arms around her, holding her close in return.
"I'll miss you too, Ais..." he said quietly, his voice filled with sincerity. He knew the dangers she would face on the expedition, and the thought of her being so far away made his chest tighten.
For a few moments, neither of them moved, as if they both wished they could hold onto this moment forever. Then, slowly, Ais pulled away, her hands lingering on his shoulders for just a moment longer than necessary. She looked up at him with soft, golden eyes, a hint of warmth in her gaze.
"Be safe, Bell. And don't push yourself too hard," she said, her tone gentle but firm.
Bell nodded, his face softening as he smiled. "I'll be waiting for you too, Ais. When you get back, I'll show you how much stronger I've become."
Ais smiled, a small, knowing smile that made his heart skip a beat. "I'll hold you to that, Bell," she said, her voice light but filled with warmth.
Before he could say anything else, she turned and walked toward the tower of Babel where the Loki Familia gathered, her golden hair shimmering in the sunlight. Bell stood there for a moment, watching her go, his heart ached with the thought of her leaving. he knew he'd be waiting for her return—stronger, and ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
-𝐃𝐔𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐎𝐍-