Previously:
Bell would have dinner at the Hostess of Fertility, speaking with Syr about his concerns of the day, receiving reassurance from Ryuu and Mama Mia as well. Ais would finish her battle with Udaeus, before she and Riveria headed up, paying a visit to the Hostess of Fertility upon reaching the surface, barely missing Bell, and making plans to come back in the morning. Ais would have Loki update her status where it was revealed she had achieved a feat enabling her to level up. Bell would return home, with Hestia waking late at night. The pair would update Bell's status and later read through the book they had purchased on their date, with Hestia noting it was written by an author named Frigg, before sleeping beside Bell. Bell would head to the Hostess of Fertility in the morning, preparing breakfast for Syr and himself, only for Ais and Riveria to also arrive, causing him to make some pancakes for them as well, setting aside some for Ryuu also. Ryuu would be out shopping for supplies with Chloe, when Riveria would track her down and request to speak with her. Later that day, Ais and Bell would resume their training, with Ais telling Bell of the events in Rivira and her fight with Udaeus, before the pair would engage in some nap training.
Disclaimer – I don't own anything from the Danmachi light novel/anime/manga/games. All I own are my original characters and plot twists.
'Talking'
"Thinking"
*expression*
Flashback
Magic
Chapter 21 – Denial
Hestia found herself waking at an odd hour again. It only now caught up with her that she hadn't been to the Jagamarukun stand for almost a week and was supposed to start working at the Hephaestus shop today. The twin tailed Goddess quickly pulled on her new work attire and ran to the store. After a stern reprimand, Hestia started her first shift at a bona fide Hephaestus Familia weapon shop.
'I was wondering if you would remember or not. Have a lot of fun on your date?' Asked Hephaestus, coming by to see Hestia during her lunch break, the two sitting outside a small café, Hephaestus having a black coffee, while Hestia drank some peppermint tea.
'You know I wouldn't go back on my word. I've changed. I just… lost track of time and was really tired. I woke up in the evening yesterday and missed out on a whole day with my Bell.' Whined Hestia, before remembering something.
'Ah, I still haven't picked up Bell's knife yet!' Exclaimed Hestia, causing Hephaestus to laugh.
'After you finish up here, come by and I will give it to you, but if I hear you skipped out on your Jagamarukun shift to give it to Bell…' Warned Hephaestus, causing Hestia to gulp.
'It's fine, he isn't going into the Dungeon right now anyway.' Muttered Hestia, causing Hephaestus to look at her curiously.
'What is he doing?' Asked Hephaestus.
'He is doing some training… but I think he needs a party. He's gone down to the fifteenth floor now; it's only going to get tougher from here for him.' Confessed Hestia.
Hephestus hummed as she sipped her bitter drink.
'Well, we did have conditions on the knife if you remember… but I'm having a bit of trouble there myself. Tsubaki met Bell first, so now she's giving Welf a hard time. If I try and have Welf party with Bell now, it would be forced. At this rate, Tsubaki might agree to party with him just to spend time with him.' Sighed Hephaestus, palming her cheek.
'I never thought you could have troubles like that in a Familia.' Commented Hestia, only for Hephaestus to give a dry laugh.
'Well, one person doesn't really count as a Familia, you know? In the purest sense, yes, you have a Familia, but a Familia requires more than one member.' Explained Hephaestus.
'I'm trying, but I can't just pick anyone and also, no one wants to join my Familia either.' Whined Hestia.
'I don't think putting up signs in the park and trying to recruit people who visit your Jagamarukun stand counts as trying… but I will admit, it is not easy at the start. At some point, you are going to have to make use of Bell. If for nothing else, as a recruiter. He is your Captain and the banner of your Familia.' Explained Hephaestus.
'I see… I will think of something then.' Mumbled Hestia.
-line break-
'Ah, Miss Tsubaki, Bell has been waiting for you.' Greeted Syr, as Chloe led the woman to the bar.
'Sword Princess? You go here too?' Asked Tsubaki, spotting Ais sitting at the counter.
'Of course, Miss Ais is Bell's second most regular customer.' Explained Syr proudly, with the girl nodding.
'Who's the first?' Asked Tsubaki, sitting beside Ais.
'Why me of course.' Giggled Syr, before heading off to the kitchen.
'Ah, Miss Tsubaki, you made it!' Greeted Bell, coming out of the kitchen with Ais' meal, setting it down in front of her.
'What happened to Big Sis Tsubaki?' Whined Tsubaki, only for Bell to shake his head.
'I'm sorry, in hours I need to be professional. If you come back outside of business hours though, I can maybe then.' Apologised Bell, causing Tsubaki to laugh.
'Ah well, I guess I can accept that.' Chuckled Tsubaki.
'I didn't know you had a sister, Bell. Isn't that something I should know as your girlfriend?' Teased Syr, causing Bell to blush.
'Syr.' Whined Bell piteously, causing Tsubaki to laugh.
'Here I thought I had first dibs; you already have a girlfriend.' Pouted Tsubaki good naturedly.
'Sorry Miss Tsubaki, it's not a joke to say that I'm first, and second is already taken, maybe even third, who can say. You can get in line though.' Teased Syr, causing Tsubaki's one eye to widen.
'So you really are starting a harem, I thought Lady Hephaestus was pulling my leg?' Asked Tsubaki curiously.
'W-wha, why was Goddess Hephaestus saying that?' Asked Bell, his face turning red as Ais looked up from her meal.
'Apparently Lady Demeter saw you on your little date with your Goddess. Goddesses love to gossip.' Commented Tsubaki.
'I'll have your food out shortly.' Muttered Bell, before heading back into the kitchen, even as Syr giggled away.
'So, are you really on board with your boyfriend looking at other girls?' Asked Tsubaki.
'Oh Miss Tsubaki, you're so funny. What made you think I wasn't looking for other girls as well?' Teased Syr, causing Tsubaki to slap the table in amusement.
'Ah, I need to come here more often, dinner and a show. How come Chloe's been keeping this from me?' Asked Tsubaki.
'Because I knew you'd be hypnotised by Bell's cute behind too and never leave.' Chimed in Chloe, carrying a tray to the kitchen.
'What about you, Sword Princess? You got your eyes on your personal chef too?' Asked Tsubaki, only for Ais to blush slightly and look off to the side, causing Tsubaki to start laughing again.
'Next you'll tell me he got to everyone here.' Joked Tsubaki, only for Ryuu to drop a glass.
'Damn it, Ryuu, that's coming out of your pay. Focus on your job!' Shouted Mama Mia from the kitchen, causing the Elf to stammer a quiet apology before getting a broom.
'Maybe you should wait until you try Bell's food for yourself. I'll be back later. Don't worry, Bell custom makes the orders for his guests.' Explained Syr, before heading off to seat another customer.
A few minutes later, Bell came out with a plate filled with multiple skewers of barbecued meat, along with a few skewers of barbequed capsicum, onions, and mushrooms. There was a spicy garlic dipping sauce and a bowl of fried chips with chili salsa over them. Bell then came out with two drinks, one a hearty ale, and the other a yoghurt drink.
'Well, I usually go for bigger portions, but this is just my kind of thing.' Appraised Tsubaki, before taking a meat skewer and sliding a piece off with her teeth.
'Ah, I didn't expect so much heat. This is really good!' Complimented Tsubaki, causing Bell to smile.
'I'm glad. Your knife was really useful, so I hope this is at least something to make up for that.' Stated Bell, only for Tsubaki to laugh.
'Don't worry, I haven't been entertained like this in ages, well worth one day's work.' Laughed Tsubaki, waving off Bell's concern.
'Thank you for dinner, Bell.' Mumbled Ais, as the boy came to collect her plate.
'Of course, I'll bring something nice for breakfast tomorrow.' Whispered Bell quietly, causing Ais to nod, a small smile on her face, before leaving.
The blonde would make her way home and seek out her mentor. She had questions which needed answers now. Finding Riveria in her study, Ais would politely knock on the door and wait.
'Yes, come in.' Called Riveria after a moment, which Ais took as her cue to enter.
'Ais? How can I help you?' Asked Riveria.
'I was hoping to ask for your advice. My strength is taking more time to get comfortable with. I keep knocking Bell out. Is there something I can do to prevent that or help him recover? Also, what is a harem?' Asked Ais, causing Riveria to drop the pen she had been holding.
'Those… are two very different questions… would you mind explaining what happened today?' Asked Riveria.
Ais nodded and explained how their training had gone, the most successful venture being the nap training, as Ais otherwise knocked Bell out in a hit each time they sparred.
'I may have some idea, but before that, where did the other question come from?' Asked Riveria, unsure how a training led to a harem.
'At dinner, Miss Tsubaki said she had overheard from some of the Goddesses that Bell was starting a harem. Miss Syr said she was already his first girlfriend to Tsubaki and that maybe he had a second and third already.' Elaborated Ais.
Riveria blinked at this piece of information. Numerous dots suddenly connected. Loki had been telling the truth. Ryuu may very well be one of Bell's girlfriends. Ais was interested in Bell, perhaps more than a student and she had an awkward talk coming up. Loki was telling the truth! Loki said Bell was also after her…
Ais watched as Riveria's eyes raced, before they stilled a moment later, Riveria gave a small cough and decided to answer Ais.
'Well, I might have a way to help with both of those queries… I need to ask though, Ais… what do you think of Bell?' Asked Riveria.
'He is very kind. I think he is unsuitable for the life of an adventurer, but he is growing rapidly. He is largely alone, and it is only through help from others that he is managing so far. I… I don't want him to get hurt… he should be surrounded by a mundane life, filled with kindness and happiness… but he is pursuing a goal which makes him venture into the Dungeon.' Answered Ais thoughtfully, causing Riveria to hum.
'I see.' Muttered Riveria, rubbing her delicate chin thoughtfully.
'Then I might have a suggestion for you.' Spoke Riveria, a hint of mischief in her eyes.
-line break-
'Bell, I'm home at last!' Cheered Hestia, entering their shared abode, only to see Bell had fallen asleep on the couch waiting for her.
Hestia sighed. She really was out of sync with Bell these past few days, but she would make sure to get on the same page as him soon. Hestia took a blanket and draped it over him, running her fingers through his hair.
'I won't let you down, Bell.' Whispered Hestia, tucking the divine knife under her pillow, before lying in bed, her gaze on Bell who slept with a small smile.
'Good night, Bell.' Muttered Hestia, before her eyes closed as well.
It passed like a blink and Hestia awoke, only to see Bell had already left. It wasn't even that late, the morning rays of light only just appearing, but it seemed Bell had snuck out early.
'Bell you dummy.' Sighed Hestia, before closing her eyes, hoping for another hour of sleep.
One thing that confused Hestia though, as she drifted between wakefulness and sleep, why did their home smell like blueberries?
-line break-
Bell had made sure to wake up early that morning, having taken some fresh blueberries home the night before, in order to prepare some muffins for breakfast. He had mentally timed the cooking muffins, not wanting to set a timer, which might inadvertently wake his Goddess. Packing the muffins away, Bell quickly secured his equipment and headed off to meet with Ais, dashing through Orario.
Bell had just turned the corner, only to feel a body collide into him.
'Oh, I'm so sorry.' Apologised Bell, extending his hand out to the girl who had just landed on her bottom.
'Are you all right?' Asked Bell, causing the girl to look up at him in surprise.
'Ah, s-sorry.' Apologised Bell, noticing the girl was an Elf and starting to withdraw his hand, only for the girl to reach forward and grasp his hand.
'No, I'm sorry, I wasn't looking properly when turning that corner.' Apologised the girl with a small blush.
Bell helped the girl up, before pulling his hand back and looking away sheepishly.
"What's this, is he not used to women?" Thought the Elf, as the boy searched his pockets for a small towel, which he offered to her.
"Wait, he looks a bit familiar." Thought the Elf.
'Ah, that's right, you were that boy who Miss Ais took to the Dian Cecht Familia at the end of Monsterphilia!' Exclaimed the girl.
'Uh yeah… have we met before?' Asked Bell in confusion, before seeming to recognise her.
'Oh… you're with the Loki Familia, aren't you?' Asked Bell hesitantly.
'What's that supposed to mean?' Huffed the Elf.
'Well, there was that time when I was around some people from the Loki Familia before…' Mumbled Bell in annoyance, looking off to the side.
'Well?' Asked the Elf expectantly.
'Your Familia made fun of me.' Finished Bell, causing the Elf's eyes to widen.
'We wouldn't do that!' Protested the Elf.
'Well only Miss Riveria defended me… and I know Miss Ais didn't agree with what was being said about me… but the rest of you didn't say anything and most of you were laughing.' Countered Bell firmly.
'Oh… you are the boy that Bete was making fun of when he was drunk.' Winced the girl, now realising why she recognised the boy who had run away that night.
'Wait, how do you know what Miss Ais was thinking?' Asked the Elf, narrowing her eyes suspiciously.
'She apologised about it afterwards. I told her it wasn't her fault… and he had a point about me being weak… but I'm not going to stay weak!' Declared Bell, causing the girl to involuntarily take a step back.
'Do you mean Bete's words encouraged you?' Asked the Elf in confusion.
'*tch* Not at all, I'm motivated to be the very best I can and achieve my goals, it was just a reminder of how much harder I need to work.' Scoffed Bell in irritation.
'Oh, that reminds me! Do you know where Miss Ais might be?' Asked the Elf.
'Uh…' Mumbled Bell, remembering that Ais had specifically asked him to make sure no one other than Riveria found out about his training.
'I need to go, sorry!' Apologised Bell, before turning off and running away, leaving the girl stunned.
'Get back here!' Shouted the girl, chasing after him, but found his speed was far too impressive for what she expected of a level one adventurer.
She was starting to lose him, which caused her to act recklessly.
'Unleashed streak of light, bow limbs of the holy tree. You are an expert of the bow. Shoot, sniper of the fairies. Penetrate arrow of absolute accuracy. Arcs Ray!' Chanted the Elf as she ran, before releasing a single beam of light that was homing in on Bell.
'You've got to be kidding me!' Shouted Bell, turning around momentarily and trying to avoid the attack, only to find it was following him.
Bell grunted and grabbed on to a wall fixture before vaulting himself upwards and dropping down behind a wooden crate. Using the wooden crate as a decoy, the blast detonated, causing the girl to stop running and realise what she had done.
'I hope he is okay.' Muttered the Elf, a twinge of guilt running through her, before she saw the head of white run out of the dust.
'I'll get you this time!' Declared the girl, chasing after him again.
Bell saw her preparing to chant again and decided running was only going to cause more problems and doubled-back. Before the girl could realise what had happened, Bell had wrapped one arm around her waist and the other over her mouth, before leaping up to a rooftop, the pair remaining crouched to remain out of sight.
'What were you thinking? You could have hurt someone other than me using magic in town like that.' Hissed Bell.
The girl prepared to spit out an angry retort, only for the boy to shush her.
'Wait! I don't want anyone to realise we are up here.' Whispered Bell, causing the Elf's eyes to widen as she realised she was at his mercy, her form pressed up against his.
"Oh no, is he going to do unspeakable things to me against my will, like bind and gag me before touching me all over… my ears… what if he does something to my ears… marking them forever!" Thought the Elf rapidly, only for the sound of people down below them to reach her ears, the group grumbling about a few things, before dispersing.
Bell sighed before releasing her.
'There, at least this way you shouldn't get into trouble.' Spoke Bell tiredly.
The girl blinked, not quite realising what had happened, before realising she was blushing furiously.
'How could you just manhandle me like that?' Hissed the girl quietly.
'Would you have preferred I let people realise you had blasted a magic attack in the middle of town? You could have gotten a fine, or even worse, been locked up!' Countered Bell, confusing the girl.
'You were worried for me? Even though I was the one attacking you?' Asked the girl in incredulity.
'Well I'm guessing you must be a friend of Miss Ais; I don't want to cause her any trouble.' Explained Bell, causing the girl to pout internally.
'So you wouldn't have helped me if I wasn't a friend of Miss Ais?' Asked the Elf sourly.
'No, I still would have helped you even if you weren't, I don't want to cause anyone any trouble. I just want to get stronger so I can protect others. So of course I'd have to protect a pretty girl, even if it was that girl's fault she was in danger in the first place.' Admitted Bell.
"He thinks I am pretty?" Thought the girl.
'Y-you playboy!' Spluttered the girl, surprising Bell.
'That's what you took away from what I said?' Asked Bell incredulously.
'You were trying to feel me up, weren't you?' Accused Elf.
'I would never do something like that!' Declared Bell as he stood up, causing the girl to recoil.
'S-Sorry… I don't think that is what you were trying to do… really… ah, I never introduced myself, did I? I am Lefiya Viridis, sorry for all of that.' Apologised Lefiya, feeling cowed at how upset Bell seemed to be at her accusation.
Bell sighed and sat back down on the ground.
'I'm Bell Cranel. I would say it is nice to meet you, but we didn't exactly get off on the right foot.' Admitted Bell, causing the Elf to wince.
The two sat on the roof for a moment, Bell trying to calm his breathing and nerves, while Lefiya fiddled with her hands in embarrassment.
'Oh, did you say you were Lefiya? Miss Ais said you are the second most skilled magic user in your Familia after Miss Riveria.' Exclaimed Bell.
'Miss Ais said that?' Asked Lefiya in surprise.
'Yep, she said you are really skilled with your magic. I mean, I guess I saw it for myself now, it was a lot more destructive than my magic.' Continued Bell.
'You have magic?' Asked Lefiya.
'Well that's why I was asking Miss Ais about magic. She said someone like you, or Miss Riveria would be able to help me with my magic, but didn't think she would be able to get you to help.' Admitted Bell, before realising he had let slip that he had magic again.
'Miss Ais really thought my magic is that strong?' Asked Lefiya quietly.
'Yeah… ah, I'm going to be late now!' Gasped Bell, jumping back to his feet.
'Where are you going?' Asked Lefiya, standing to her feet as well.
'I need to go find Miss Ais, she is waiting for me.' Replied Bell, only for the Elf to grab his forearm before he could leave.
'Wait, let me come with you!' Pleaded the girl.
'Why?' Asked Bell suspiciously.
'Well, if Miss Ais really thinks I can help… I might be willing to teach you some things about magic.' Mumbled Lefiya, only to find herself swept off her feet.
'Okay then, but we need to go now, we can't keep Miss Ais waiting.' Declared Bell, before shooting off towards the edge of the city.
'P-put me down this instant, have you no shame!' Spluttered Lefiya.
'We're going to be late! I'm sorry I'm touching an Elf again, but we need to hurry.' Rationalised Bell, picking up speed.
'You know, it isn't all Elves that don't like being touched.' Whispered Lefiya, having expected Bell not to hear this.
'Well I guess you did already accept my hand, but it's not like that makes me think you'd be happy with me holding you like this, so please just bear with it for now.' Added Bell, causing the Elf to go completely red, both at his words, and at the realisation that he was cradling her to his chest.
In no time at all, the pair reached their destination, made evident as a blonde-haired swordswoman was waiting for them on the roof of the walls around Orario.
'Bell… and… Lefiya?' Said Ais slowly.
'Sorry Miss Ais, I ran into Miss Lefiya and there was a bit of a misunderstanding, so I brought her along for today.' Apologised Bell, setting the Elf down.
'Today? How long have you been meeting Miss Ais in secret for?' Asked Lefiya in outrage.
Ais started to panic, holding her head in worry, thinking of the trouble she would get in with Finn and Gareth, and even though Riveria had some idea, she wouldn't be able to stop her from being punished.
'It's only been a few times now, and it hasn't been for free either, I've been making her meals for every day of training as well. Oh, that reminds me, I made some muffins for today, but they might have gotten a bit roughed up from the trip here.' Explained Bell, before rummaging through a small pack he had tied to his waist.
'They are… well… were, blueberry muffins.' Sighed Bell, seeing his muffins looked more like a crumble now.
'Ah, I'm sorry Miss Ais, it's my fault.' Apologised Lefiya, bowing her head.
'It's fine.' Muttered Ais, sighing in relief.
'I can make it up to you at lunch today, I'll be working today as well.' Added Bell brightly, causing Ais to smile.
'What's this? You're planning a date with Miss Ais right in front of me?' Asked Lefiya in outrage.
'It isn't a date; I always make Miss Ais lunch when I am working.' Retorted Bell defensively, with Ais nodding in support of the statement.
'Then I want to try this lunch as well, you could be slipping potions into Miss Ais' food or something, to make her do what you say!' Accused Lefiya, confusing Bell.
"Or make her fall in love with you." Added Lefiya mentally, thinking that wouldn't be a bad idea herself.
'I wouldn't do that… but if you think I am slipping potions into Miss Ais' food, why would you want some as well?' Asked Bell, causing the girl to blush.
'I need to protect Miss Ais!' Retorted Lefiya hotly.
'Fine with me I guess.' Shrugged Bell, causing the Elf to puff out her cheeks.
"Playboy!" Thought Lefiya.
Ais walked over to the two, before taking most of a what was once a muffin and sitting down, with Bell following suit.
'What are you doing Miss Ais?' Asked Lefiya, as the blonde took a piece of the muffin and chewed it slowly.
'Even damaged like this, Bell's food is always good.' Rationalised Ais, popping another chunk of muffin into her mouth.
'At least let me check it first.' Protested Lefiya, before having a piece as well, only for her mouth to explode in flavour.
'Yeah, I guess the texture is kind of ruined like this, but it should still taste fine.' Added Bell, taking a piece as well.
'H-How can you eat Miss Ais' breakfast so casually like that?' Asked Lefiya indignantly.
'We both need to eat to train.' Interjected Ais, with Bell nodding.
'Then I will train too.' Decided Lefiya, taking another chunk of muffin, internally enjoying the lightness of the pastry.
'Are you sure? It's kind of painful sometimes.' Admitted Bell, causing Lefiya's mind to derail.
"What kind of training are they doing?" Thought Lefiya, before her mind conjured up whips and chains being used in impure ways.
'Oh, I learned a new technique to help with that.' Intoned Ais with a small smile.
'I'm looking forward to seeing it.' Commented Bell with a nod, neither noticing Lefiya's mind descending into complete and utter degeneracy.
The three would then finish off the muffins, before Bell dusted himself off and stood in front of Ais, who had picked up her sheath.
'Ready?' Asked Ais, getting a nod, before she shot at Bell.
The boy parried the first attack with his knife with the dark brown sheen, before slashing out with his two-toned green and blue knife. Ais backstepped and looked at the knife.
'Is that the knife you had before?' Asked Ais, not having had a good chance to look at them yesterday.
'Ah, well when my two knives broke… I didn't want to lose them, so I had Miss Tsubaki weld them back together into one knife. I know it is probably better to get a new knife eventually… but I'm not ready to let go of them now.' Admitted Bell.
'Why?' Interjected Lefiya curiously.
'Because Syr and Ryuu found them for me.' Answered Bell, before Ais charged back in again.
Lefiya seemed to think something over for a bit, before hearing a thud and noticing Ais had knocked Bell out cold. There was a small glint in Ais' eye as she sat down beside Bell, before placing his head on her lap.
'M-Miss Ais, what are you doing?' Asked Lefiya, seeing the swordswoman patting his hair gently.
'Riveria told me this is a technique to help people recover faster.' Explained Ais, causing Lefiya to grind her teeth.
"What are you teaching Miss Ais, Lady Riveria?" Thought Lefiya in indignation, before mustering up the nerve to sit opposite Ais.
'Then let me do this, Miss Ais is too important to do something like that for this boy.' Said Lefiya, shifting Bell's head over to her lap.
Ais had the expression of someone who had just had their puppy stolen, but it didn't last long, as Bell started to stir moments later.
'W-What are you doing?' Asked Bell, looking up and seeing Lefiya was looking down on him, before she squealed and pushed him off her lap.
'I couldn't let you use Miss Ais' lap like that!' Huffed Lefiya, even as the boy groaned from having his face shoved to the floor.
A glint in her eye, Ais quickly shifted Bell's head back on her lap.
'It's okay, I don't mind doing this, especially since it will help you recover faster.' Explained Ais softly, causing Lefiya to pout.
'I think I am ready now, Miss Ais.' Muttered Bell, pushing himself up, with Ais allowing him to do so reluctantly.
The two would then face off again and Ais would come at Bell with a speed that surprised the Elf, with the boy being able to keep up for a while, before a few seconds later, he was knocked out again.
'M-Miss Ais, you don't need to do that.' Protested Lefiya weakly, only for Ais to narrow her eyes at her.
'You didn't do it properly and it took more time out of the training, just leave this to me, Lefiya.' Admonished Ais seriously, with the illusion of seriousness being broken a second later as she smiled serenely down at Bell, brushing his soft hair all the while.
'Kuuu.' Trembled Lefiya, only for the human boy to wake moments later.
'I can help too! You said you had magic, right?' Shouted Lefiya before the pair could start sparring again.
Ais sent Bell an admonishing look, causing him to scratch his head in embarrassment.
'Lefiya, you have to promise to keep his magic a secret.' Ordered Ais firmly.
'Yes, of course Miss Ais.' Replied the Elf quickly.
'Fine then.' Nodded Ais, before going to sit off to the side.
'Okay then, show me your magic.' Demanded Lefiya.
'Okay, but it is really fast, are you ready?' Asked Bell.
'Yes, I will observe it closely.' Asserted Lefiya, only for Bell to lift his hand and moments later, cause her jaw to drop.
'Firebolt.' Said Bell, as a ball of electrified flames shot into the sky.
'… where was the chant?' Asked Lefiya quietly.
'Uh, it doesn't have one.' Replied Bell, as a breeze passed between the two, utter silence reigning on the roof.
'Unjust! Horrible! Absolutely unfair!' Growled Lefiya, stamping her feet on the ground.
'Ah… I'm sorry?' Apologised Bell uncertainly, looking to Ais, who looked as aloof as usual, but also didn't seem to know why Lefiya was upset.
'Is that it?' Asked Lefiya, after she gave a small cough.
'Well, I can push it through my daggers and make it explode on impact, that's how I beat the Sword Stag and Troll, but my old knives broke when I did that.' Explained Bell, holding up his two-toned knife.
'That's because you need a proper conduit. You can't just push magic into things and expect everything to work out.' Explained Lefiya.
'Do you think I could do it without a weapon?' Asked Bell.
'What do you mean?' Asked Lefiya.
'Like push it into my hand or something?' Asked Bell.
'Well, there are ways to change how your magic works, but the original form won't change. Magic is based on a set of rules, so an ice attack will always be an ice attack. You can change the amount of ice, the temperature, or the speed of it, but it will always be ice.' Lectured Lefiya.
'Miss Ais! Can I try something with you?' Asked Bell, causing Lefiya to fume.
'Have you no shame? I'm in the middle of a lesson!' Ranted Lefiya.
'Ah, but I didn't want to hurt you by accident.' Admitted Bell.
'*Hmph* I can handle whatever you throw at me, I'm level three you know.' Huffed Lefiya, causing Bell to gasp in surprise.
'I didn't know you were so strong, Miss Lefiya! Okay then, here I come.' Replied Bell eagerly.
While Lefiya preened slightly at the compliment, she quickly noticed Bell charging at her.
'Firebolt.' Chanted Bell, thrusting his arms behind him, causing two electrified trails of fire to blast him forward.
'Hieeee!' Squealed Lefiya, before Bell's form collided with hers, the pair both being knocked out on impact.
-line break-
'Ugh, what happened?' Asked Lefiya, rubbing her forehead, her eyes clenched shut.
'Uh, I'm sorry Miss Lefiya, I knocked us both out by accident.' Apologised Bell.
'Since you are both awake now, we should stop here for now.' Said Ais, her voice sounding extremely close to Lefiya.
Snapping her eyes open, Lefiya saw Ais looking down at her and realised something.
"MISS AIS IS GIVING ME A LAP PILLOW!" Screamed Lefiya internally, before realising Bell's voice also sounded close.
Turning her head back slightly, she saw a tuft of white hair.
"Damn him, this was supposed to be my special moment!" Ranted Lefiya, before Bell sat up.
'I'll see you for lunch later today, Miss Ais, you too as well if you want to, Miss Lefiya.' Said Bell, before hopping off.
"Ah, alone at last." Sighed Lefiya in bliss, before feeling Ais shift slightly.
'Are you ready to go back now, Lefiya?' Asked Ais.
"NO!" Thought Lefiya furiously, before mentally sighing.
'Yes, Miss Ais.' Thought Lefiya, before sitting up.
'Before we go back to Twilight Manor, I need to ask again that we keep this training a secret.' Cautioned Ais.
'I won't say anything, Miss Ais, you have my word, but only if I can ask you one question.' Intoned Lefiya carefully, getting a nod from Ais as she turned to face her.
'Why are you training that human boy, really?' Asked Lefiya.
'I want to help that boy. He has a goal and is pushing himself very hard… and… he reminds me… I want to make sure he succeeds in his goals and there isn't anyone else who can help him.' Answered Ais.
'Miss Ais is really kind.' Sighed Lefiya.
'I also want to train him for selfish reasons… I was hoping to know how he is growing so fast; he is level two already in less than a month.' Added Ais.
'Oh wow that's… impossible! Level two? That boy was level two?' Nodded Lefiya easily, before her mind fully processed what Ais had said.
'Yes, I wouldn't be surprised if he even becomes level three in a few more weeks. He is training very hard and growing stronger very quickly.' Admitted Ais, causing an arrow to strike Lefiya's heart with the words "level three" on it.
'Then can you please train me as well?' Begged Lefiya, only for Ais to nod.
"Ah, training with Miss Ais, I'm so happy!" Mentally squealed Lefiya.
'We can meet up in the mornings here every day.' Advised Ais, even while Lefiya dreamily nodded, lost in her own fantasies.
The two then made their way back to Twilight Manor, only to find there were some mutterings when the pair arrived.
"I wonder what's going on." Thought Lefiya, only to find Riveria standing right in front of them as they entered the manor.
'Lefiya… why did you use your magic in town today?' Asked Riveria coldly, causing the Elf to panic.
"Guh, did that human rat me out?" Thought Lefiya in nervousness.
'Now you might be wondering how I know this, well, as it turns out, Shakti recognised the pattern of the damage of your attack after what happened at Monsterphilia. So, do you have anything to say to defend yourself?' Asked Riveria, winding up to deliver her punishment.
'No.' Admitted Lefiya quietly.
Even if Lefiya did reveal she had been chasing Bell, that would then mean revealing the training with him, which was the one thing Ais had asked her not to do. That aside, she was the one in the wrong for using her magic anyway.
'How could you do such a foolish thing, Lefiya? Are you a simple-minded child? Using a dangerous magic in the middle of town. What possible reason could you have for doing something so reckless? This goes beyond a fit of childish loss of control. Someone could have been hurt. From now on, you will be on lockdown for one week. You are not allowed to leave the manor without my permission and if I find out you've snuck out, I will double your punishment. If you are going to behave like a reckless child, I will treat you like one.' Admonished Riveria.
"Curfew? Permission? Then this means… no lap pillows with Miss Ais! Unfair!" Mentally cried Lefiya, feeling her tongue slip out before her mind could process her words and advise her what she was about to say was an absolutely terrible idea.
'Everyone is a child compared to you!' Cried Lefiya, before her mind processed what she said.
Finn dropped the cup of tea he was holding, having been seated in the living room, letting Riveria deliver her punishment on her apprentice first, before planning to resolve the matter, but even he wasn't expecting that response. Ais blinked in surprise and involuntarily took a step away from Lefiya. Lefiya's expression slowly twisted into regret, before shifting to horror.
'I see… so you have chosen death.' Said Riveria.
'Harbinger of the end, the white snow.' Chanted Riveria, causing Lefiya to pale and run away, slamming the doors to the manor open as she ran towards the gate.
'I didn't mean it, Lady Riveria!' Screamed Lefiya as she ran away.
'Blow with the wind before the twilight.' Continued Riveria, causing Finn to jump up and move to stop Riveria.
'Closing light, the freezing land.' Continued Riveria, a small smile on her face as she noticed Lefiya leap over the gates and continue running.
Riveria stopped chanting and looked at the nervous Finn.
'You didn't really think I would do something like that, did you? That would make me a hypocrite.' Laughed Riveria.
'Well, you sure had me fooled.' Sighed Finn.
'Ais, go find Lefiya and bring her back. She can have a bit of time to relax, but I expect you both back before dinner.' Instructed Riveria, getting a nod from Ais.
-line break-
Bell was working away in the kitchen beside May, when Syr popped her head in.
'Bell, you've got guests.' Said Syr.
'How is it looking outside?' Asked Bell.
'Not too much more now.' Appraised Syr.
'Ok then, can you tell them I'll be out in fifteen minutes?' Asked Bell, causing Syr to nod.
'He'll just be a little bit, Miss Ais and… it is Miss Viridis, isn't it?' Asked Syr, as she spoke to Ais and the trembling Elf.
'It might as well be dead meat at this point. It is all that stupid human's fault.' Mumbled Lefiya.
'Ara? Who are you talking about?' Asked Syr, causing a chill to run down Lefiya's spine, making her think Riveria was there, only to see a smiling waitress with her eyes closed.
'Lefiya said something wrong to Riveria.' Explained Ais, causing the Elf to whimper.
'And why is that someone else's fault?' Asked Syr.
'Because that boy monopolised Miss Ais' time and training and then there was lap pillows and *grr* it's all his fault! He filled my mind with impure thoughts and then I had them taken away from me… even though he was trying to protect me and held me so carefully… not like I enjoyed it or anything.' Ranted Lefiya.
'I see, well let me seat you for now, Bell will be out shortly, Miss Ais.' Decided Syr, keeping her eyes closed as she led the pair to a table which seated six.
'Are you okay, Lefiya?' Asked Ais, once the pair had sat down, sitting beside Lefiya.
'No, I won't be able to train with you anymore now.' Whimpered Lefiya.
'You can still train with me… we just won't be able to train together.' Spoke Ais consolingly.
'S-so that boy will get you all to himself… and your lap pillows.' Muttered Lefiya, before feeling her thighs heat up.
'You won't let him take advantage of you though, right? Since I can't offer my lap now instead of yours.' Asked Lefiya.
'It's fine, I found it relaxing.' Admitted Ais, causing Lefiya to mentally pout that Ais seemed to enjoy spending time with the boy.
'Here you are.' Announced Syr, returning with a pair of plates, surprising the two.
'We didn't order yet.' Protested Lefiya.
'Oh, Bell always knows what to make for his special customers.' Explained Syr, opening her eyes and staring at Lefiya unblinkingly, unnerving the Elf.
'Well he's got a lot of nerve just assuming things like that… even though it looks really good.' Mumbled Lefiya, looking down at her meal, which was a fresh garden salad with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing, topped with a few pieces of thickly sliced blocks of cheese, with croutons on the top, and some strips of venison on the side, sprinkled with a pinch of sea salt.
Taking a small bite of the venison and following it up with some of the salad, Lefiya licked her lips slightly.
'It's so good… but it's nothing special.' Muttered Lefiya with a small blush.
'Hmm? I think Bell's cooking is delicious, do you disagree?' Asked Syr, causing Lefiya to flinch.
'Well, I don't think it is something worthy of Miss Ais.' Stammered Lefiya, not noticing the tick mark appearing on Syr's forehead.
'Miss Ais, would you mind letting Bell know that I will also be joining you for lunch and I think Ryuu is in the storeroom, if you could also let her know. I would love to get acquainted with Miss Viridis in the meantime.' Requested Syr, causing the girl to nod as she went to the kitchen, while the waitress removed her apron and set it on the chair in front of her, before seating herself opposite the Elf.
'Miss Viridis, I think complimenting someone directly and offering them praise is the best way to do things. I don't think backhanded compliments are the right way to praise someone. You can understand that, right?' Asked Syr.
'W-What do you mean? I said it was good, it's just nothing to get so excited over, even if he made it just for me.' Faltered Lefiya.
'Miss Viridis… I hate Tsunderes. I think a refusal to acknowledge one's feelings is a terrible thing. I think people who can't be honest about their feelings to those they care about don't deserve to have someone special in life… don't you agree?' Pressed Syr, her unblinking visage starting to send alarm bells ringing in the Elf's head.
'Uh, I don't know what you are talking about.' Mumbled Lefiya, looking off to the side.
'There you are, Bell and Ryuu. Thank you for getting them Miss Ais.' Said Syr, as Bell placed down a few plates, the first in front of Syr, before placing a plate down to his left and the last in front of him as he sat down.
'Ah it is nice to see you again, Miss Elf.' Greeted Lefiya, noticing Ryuu sitting beside them.
'You may call me Ryuu, I do not prefer to be known as simply an Elf.' Advised Ryuu in a clipped tone, causing the girl to stammer an apology.
'Wait… Ryuu… and Syr…' Whispered Lefiya, before remembering what Bell said about his knife.
"He really is a playboy!" Thought Lefiya.
The group would then start to eat their respective meals, with Lefiya sending a glance every now and again at Bell, receiving a glance from Syr in turn.
'Bell, why don't you give Miss Ais some of your salmon, it looks like she wants to try it?' Suggested Syr.
Ais blushed at being caught, having already finished her grilled chicken breast which had been covered in a rich mushroom sauce. Bell's salmon was instead coated in a lemon and garlic sauce.
Bell obliged and cut a piece off and made to place it in Ais' plate for her, only for Syr to interject.
'Bell, you can't put it in Miss Ais' plate, you will ruin the taste with the different sauces.' Admonished Syr.
'Uh, then uh… what should I do?' Asked Bell.
'You should offer Miss Ais the piece directly, so she can get a proper taste.' Advised Syr, causing Lefiya to fume.
"This girl is trying to steal an indirect kiss from Miss Ais for that boy! How dare she?" Thought Lefiya angrily.
As the fork neared Ais' lips, Lefiya struck out with a kick under the table, aiming for the human boy, only to find her foot had met a boot rather than bone.
'Ara? Are you feeling okay, Miss Viridis, you seem restless?' Asked Syr, her eyes boring a hole into the Elf, her entire form trembling as she felt an oppressive pressure on her.
'U-uh, I'm fine, I should leave and apologise to Miss Riveria.' Stammered Lefiya, standing up abruptly, causing the table to shake and causing the piece of food from Bell's fork to fall into Ais' plate.
'Oh dear, now look at what's happened. Well, I guess it can't be helped.' Sighed Syr, even as Ais picked up her fork and ate the piece of fish, giving a small smile either way.
'Why do you need to apologise to Miss Riveria?' Asked Bell.
'Lefiya accidentally called her old.' Revealed Ais quickly, causing Lefiya to look at her in betrayal.
'Old? Isn't she in her twenties or something, she doesn't look old at all?' Questioned Bell.
'Oh Bell, you really do like your Elves, don't you? Planning to butter up Miss Riveria now of all people.' Teased Syr.
'B-but she doesn't look old at all!' Protested Bell, causing Syr to giggle.
"Bell… likes Elves… aha! He is after me… uh…" Thought Lefiya triumphantly, before her brain shut down as the memories of the day hit her all at once, recalling how much close contact she had with Bell today.
'Excuse me, I need to leave now. I will see you back at the manor later tonight, Miss Ais. T-Thank you for the food.' Squeaked out Lefiya, before she left in a hurry.
The Thousand Elf ran home, her legs pounding as much as her face and heart were at the moment.
"Stupid playboy Elf fetishist. Ah, but he is going after Miss Ais too and that other human girl Syr is helping him. The worst! Enemy of all women. I'll never forgive him… even if he was really considerate to me today… and helped me get some extra training with Miss Ais… and made me lunch… guh… damn that playboy." Thought Lefiya, before running through the Loki Familia entirely, bypassing even the expectant Riveria, who was surprised at the act, having expected the Elf to return full of apologies.
Lefiya stayed in her room all day, hiding her form under her blanket on her bed, not even going down for dinner. It was after the chatter had died down for an hour or so, a knock was heard on her door.
'Lefiya, it is me.' Announced Ais, causing the Elf to quickly open the door and usher the girl in.
'What are you doing here, Miss Ais?' Asked Lefiya.
'Well, Riveria had told me your punishment for today was going to be no dinner… since I went out and had dinner at the Hostess of Fertility, I told Bell, and he made you this.' Explained Ais, handing her a small bento box with a pair of wooden chopsticks.
'I checked with Riveria, she said we can train after your afternoon lectures, so we can get started tomorrow. Thank you for keeping Bell's secret.' Finished Ais, before she left, closing the door behind her.
Lefiya felt her stomach growl, remembering how good her lunch had been, and saw a small variety of all the food from lunch, grilled chicken and salmon covered in differing sauces, some sliced venison and what looked like a small deep fried pastry that the scary waitress had been eating, as well as a salad and some egg rolls. Lefiya took a bit of the salmon first and felt her face break out into a smile.
"That stupid… considerate… Elf fetishising playboy… who is an amazing cook… kuh!" Thought Lefiya, mixed feelings warring inside her, as she enjoyed her meal.
"I won't lose to Miss Ais!" Thought Lefiya, before realising what she had thought.
'I won't lose Miss Ais to you! It's not like I want you too now!' Shouted Lefiya, before covering her mouth.
"Damn you… Bell Cranel… this isn't over!" Thought Lefiya, before deciding to go to sleep and let her thoughts rest.