Didn't expect the story I made on a whim to get so much likes. Thank you all. The first 4 chapters were all preplanned and written in advance so I got to pump those out fairly quick, but I wont be able to pump them out every day like before since I've decided to continue with the story like this. Hope you enjoy.
Chapter 6: Reunion
Bell walked through Orario's bustling streets, his mind replaying the chaos of Monsterphilia. The city had mostly returned to normal, though whispers and theories about the incident still circulated among its inhabitants.
"Those monsters weren't like anything I've seen before," he mused, passing by merchants repairing their damaged stalls. "Even Miss Tiona and Miss Tione seemed surprised by that flower creature's strength."
The aftermath had brought both comedy and controversy. The image of the god Ganesha's public apology remained fresh in everyone's minds. The muscular deity had burst onto the stage wearing nothing but a loincloth and his signature elephant mask, striking increasingly ridiculous poses while tears streamed down his trunk.
"WOOOOO! GANESHA IS VERY SORRY!" he had bellowed, dropping to his knees and flexing his muscles in apparent anguish. "GANESHA TAKES FULL RESPONSIBILITY!" Each declaration was accompanied by an even more elaborate pose, until his own Familia members had to drag him off stage before he could attempt a headstand.
But beneath the theatrical apology lay darker implications. Bell had overheard experienced adventurers discussing how the attacking monsters bore little resemblance to known Dungeon species. The timing seemed too convenient - striking during the one festival where monsters roaming the streets wouldn't immediately raise alarms.
"Someone must have planned this," Bell thought, his hand unconsciously touching the hilt of his black sword. "But why target a public festival? What were they trying to accomplish?"
The questions nagged at him as he watched the city's recovery efforts. Merchants haggled over replacement materials, children helped sweep debris from the streets, and life in Orario continued its relentless pace forward. Yet underneath the routine, an undercurrent of unease remained. If these monsters weren't from the Dungeon or Ganesha Familia's stables, where had they come from? And more importantly - would they strike again?
Bell shook his head, letting out a heavy sigh. "I probably shouldn't be wondering about these things right now, after what happened at Monsterphilia. Especially after that meeting..."The memory of yesterday's meeting surfaced clear in his mind.
Bell and Lefiya had stood before the gathered leadership of Loki Familia in the captain's office, an elegant room befitting one of Orario's strongest organizations.
Finn Deimne sat behind his mahogany desk, his youthful face bearing a warm smile despite the gravity of the situation. Though barely reaching Bell's chest in height, the prum's presence commanded respect, his neat blonde hair and sharp blue eyes reflecting decades of leadership experience.
"Welcome, Bell, Lefiya. Please, make yourselves comfortable," Finn gestured to the chairs before his desk.
To his right stood Riveria Ljos Alf, the Nine Hell of the Familia. Her long green hair cascaded down her back, marking her high elf heritage. Her emerald eyes held both wisdom and concern as she studied the pair.
"We heard quite the tale about yesterday's events," Riveria said, her melodic voice carrying a hint of steel.
Gareth Landrock leaned against the wall, his sturdy dwarven frame and graying beard giving him the air of a battle-hardened warrior. His arms were crossed over his chest, but his eyes held a glimmer of interest. "Aye, not every day we hear about magic that can tear apart a monster that gave even our twins trouble."
Bell and Lefiya exchanged nervous glances as they stood before the Familia leadership. Their shoulders tensed under the weight of those experienced gazes.
Finn's lips curved into a gentle smile. "There's no need to be so nervous. You both look like rabbits caught in a hunter's trap."
"S-sorry, Captain." Bell shifted his weight from one foot to the other.
"The situation was quite irregular," Finn continued, his fingers laced together on the desk. "We'll need to investigate what happened at Monsterphilia more thoroughly. But for now, I just wanted to leave a few words."
Bell's ruby eyes blinked in confusion. "A few words?"
"Yes. First, I want to thank you for your work yesterday. You protected not only our Familia members but also many citizens."
"Oh." Bell ducked his head, a faint blush coloring his cheeks. "Thank you, but I only did what anyone would have done."
Finn's expression shifted subtly, his eyes narrowing just slightly. "I also heard about the magic you used to deal with the monster. From what Tiona and Tione reported..."
"Captain, I can explain-" Lefiya stepped forward, but Finn raised a hand.
"Please wait, Lefiya." His tone remained gentle but firm. He turned back to Bell. "While Loki hasn't shared any concrete details with us about your abilities, the eyewitness reports suggest your magic has immense destructive potential. However, it seems you don't have much control over it. Would you say that's accurate?"
Bell's shoulders slumped, his gaze dropping to the floor. "Yes, sir. That's... correct."
"Captain, please wait!" Lefiya stepped forward again, her voice stronger this time. "Bell was only trying to protect me and the others. He didn't have a choice in that situation."
Riveria's emerald eyes softened as she regarded her student. "While that may be true this time, Lefiya, you must understand our position. A power of that magnitude that cannot be reliably controlled poses significant risks."
"Especially for such a young adventurer," she added, her gaze shifting to Bell.
Gareth straightened from his position against the wall. "If you're asking my opinion, the lad made a brave choice. Faced with protecting his comrades, he didn't hesitate." He stroked his beard thoughtfully. "But I can't deny the wisdom in what Finn and Riveria are saying."
"Wellll..." Loki drawled from her perch on the windowsill, where she'd been unusually quiet. "I've got mixed feelings about the whole thing too, but what our Finn is trying to say is..." She pointed at Bell. "Don't use that magic when others are around you. Simple as that."
Lefiya blinked, color rising to her cheeks as anger flickered across her features for the first time since the meeting began. "Are you saying Bell is a danger to us?"
"Lefiya," Finn's voice was gentle but firm. "I apologize if this makes you uncomfortable, but yes, I agree with Loki's assessment." He leaned forward slightly. "I can see you've grown quite attached to Bell since becoming his instructor, and I'm pleased to see such bonds forming within our Familia. However, this is a separate matter entirely."
Bell studied Finn's face as the captain spoke. Though a light smile still graced his features, his eyes remained sharp and serious - the eyes of a commander who had led countless expeditions and kept his people alive through careful planning and calculated risks. In that moment, Bell understood that despite Finn's friendly demeanor, he was fundamentally a realist who wouldn't gamble with unknown risks for his Familia's safety. He would only act when he had obtained every possibility of victory first, only taking risks only if he truly had no other option.
A smile crept across Bell's face, catching everyone in the room off guard. Finn's eyebrows rose slightly, while Riveria and Gareth exchanged puzzled glances.
"Was something funny?" Finn asked, his tone curious rather than offended.
Bell quickly shook his head. "No, I'm sorry for smiling at such a serious moment. It's just... your answer actually relieved me, Captain."
"Relieved you?"
"Yes." Bell's ruby eyes met Finn's blue ones directly. "Because now I know that if I ever lose control, if I ever become a danger to others, you'll stop me. No matter what." His voice carried absolute conviction. "Someone as skilled as you, Captain - you wouldn't hesitate to deal with me if necessary."
Lefiya's eyes widened. "Bell, what are you saying?!"
"Having a person capable of stopping that power... it just made me feel happy." Bell dipped his chin slightly, pale hair falling across his face. "So I agree with everything you've said. I'll never use that magic around others unless it becomes absolutely necessary."
Gareth released a quiet whistle. "Now that's not the response I was expecting."
"Quite," Riveria said softly, studying Bell with renewed interest.
Finn settled back into his seat, his polite smile transforming into a genuine one. "You're more intriguing than I thought, Bell Cranell."
The flashback faded from Bell's mind as he continued walking through Orario's streets. His muscles still ached, reminding him of Finn's order to take a few days off from Dungeon exploration. Though he'd initially wanted to protest, his body's condition made him grateful for the respite.
Despite maintaining a strong front for Lefiya's sake, Bell's condition had been just as severe as hers - perhaps even worse, according to Amid Teasanare, the silver-haired nurse of Dian Cecht Familia. Her violet eyes had narrowed with concern when Bell refused treatment until she'd seen to Lefiya first.
"You're being foolish," Amid had said, her clinical tone carrying an edge of frustration. "Your injuries require immediate attention."
But Bell wouldn't budge. "Please, Miss Amid."
The nurse's lips had pressed into a thin line, but something in Bell's determined expression made her relent. She'd treated Lefiya first, her healing magic flowing through the unconscious elf.
When it was finally Bell's turn, Amid's eyes widened at the extent of his injuries. His body bore countless wounds - not from the monster's attacks, but from within. His own magic had ravaged his flesh, tearing through muscle and tissue like a wild beast breaking free of its cage.
"This..." Amid's usual professional demeanor cracked as she examined him. "This level of magical backlash could damage your soul if continued." Her violet eyes met his ruby ones with grave intensity. "As a doctor, I can only recommend one course of action - never use this magic again. Even I cannot heal a damaged soul."
Bell's expression softened as he recalled Amid's stern warning. The silver-haired healer's words had carried genuine concern beneath her professional exterior. He'd bowed deeply, thanking her for both the treatment and advice.
"I understand, Miss Amid. I'll be more careful."
What he hadn't mentioned was the peculiar nature of his body. The monster blood that coursed through his veins - a "gift" inherited from "that dragon" granted him extraordinary regenerative abilities. While other adventurers might have spent weeks recovering from such severe magical backlash, Bell's body had already begun mending itself even before Amid's healing magic took effect.
The combination of his innate recovery and Amid's expert treatment had worked wonders. Within days, the internal damage had knitted itself back together, leaving only occasional muscle twinges as reminders of the ordeal. Even those minor aches were fading faster than normal, his traits working tirelessly to restore his body to peak condition.
In the pristine halls of Dian Cecht Familia's clinic, Amid Teasanare's violet eyes narrowed as she examined Bell's rapidly healing wounds. The silver-haired nurse had expected weeks of recovery, yet his body showed remarkable progress after just a few days.
"This doesn't make sense." Amid pressed her fingers against Bell's shoulder, where a particularly severe magical burn had been. "The tissue damage should still be extensive, but it's almost completely healed."
Bell shifted uncomfortably under her scrutiny. "Maybe your healing magic is just really effective, Miss Amid?"
"Don't try to flatter me." She crossed her arms, her white coat rustling with the movement. "I know exactly how effective my magic is. This is something else entirely."
"Well..." Bell's ruby eyes darted to the window.
"Look at me when I'm speaking to you." Amid's tone carried the authority of someone used to dealing with difficult patients. "As your healer, I need to understand what's happening with your body. How are you healing this quickly?"
Bell scratched his cheek, a nervous habit he'd never quite shaken. "It's complicated, Miss Amid. Let's just say I've always been a fast healer."
"Always been-" Amid's brow furrowed. "That's not an answer, Mr. Bell."
"I know." Bell offered an apologetic smile. "And I'm truly grateful for your care. But there are some things I can't explain right now."
Amid stared at him for a long moment, her professional demeanor warring with obvious curiosity. Finally, she sighed and made a note on her clipboard. "Very well. But if these accelerated healing properties ever change or cause complications, you will tell me immediately. Understood?"
"Yes, Miss Amid. Thank you!"
Bell nodded and left the clinic.
The sun warmed his face as he shook away the lingering memory of his conversation with Amid. While others might have taken the recommended rest seriously, Bell's mind already turned toward productive ways to spend his time.
His feet carried him toward the Guild building, where adventurers gathered to check the quest board. The familiar routine reminded him of traveling with his family, taking on monster hunting jobs or gathering rare materials in distant lands. Those experiences had taught him the value of staying busy, even during supposed rest periods.
The Guild's main hall buzzed with the usual morning activity - adventurers comparing notes, guild workers shuffling papers, the scratch of quills recording the day's business. Bell had just started toward the quest board when a feminine voice caught his attention.
"Excuse me, are you Bell Cranell?"
He turned to find a girl with chocolate brown hair and oval glasses regarding him with professional curiosity. Her Guild uniform was impeccably pressed, marking her as one of the organization's advisors.
Bell furrowed his brows, not recognizing her. "Yes, that's me. Did you need something?"
"My name is Eina Tulle, a Guild advisor." She gave a slight bow before producing a sealed letter from her desk. "This was left for you."
"For me?" Bell accepted the letter with obvious confusion.
"Yes. A…cloaked figure asked me to deliver it specifically to someone matching your name description - white hair and red eyes." Eina offered a polite nod before turning away, leaving Bell staring at the mysterious envelope in his hands.
Bell broke the wax seal and unfolded the letter with careful fingers. His ruby eyes scanned the first line, written in familiar messy handwriting:
"Heeey, Bell~! Still doin well and great?"
His shoulders slumped as he let out a heavy sigh. Of course it would be from him. Who else writes like this?
"Gramps..." Bell muttered under his breath, already imagining the old man's mischievous grin as he'd penned these words.
"It's been what, three months since we last saw each other? Time sure flies when you're having fun! Speaking of fun, I hear you've been quite busy lately - joining Loki's group of all places! That crazy goddess still as flat as ever? And getting involved in that whole Monsterphilia mess too! Kids these days, always finding trouble..."
Bell's eyes widened as he read each line, his grip on the paper tightening.
I haven't told anyone where I went after leaving...
The letter continued in Zeus's characteristic playful tone:
"Now don't make that surprised face - you know this old man has his ways of keeping tabs on his favorite grandson! I'm currently off in the eastern side in the continent but I left the letter to "him" since he said he was heading to Orario so say hi to that guy as well!"
Bell's brow furrowed as he read the mention of "him" in Zeus's letter. For a moment, confusion crossed his features before understanding dawned in his ruby eyes.
There was really only one person that Bell knew in their family who would carry messages for his grandfather.
The letter continued in Zeus's messy scrawl:
"Anyway, I hope you're having the time of your life in Orario! That city's got everything a young man could want - adventure, danger, and most importantly... beautiful ladies! Though I hear the food's gotten more expensive lately. Maybe I should visit sometime and check on my favorite bars there..."
"But well, jokes aside, Bell, this old man believes Orario will give you experiences like nothing else. The friends you make there, the battles you fight - they'll shape who you become. Just remember what I taught you about being a hero! And try not get into any trouble with some cuties while you're there!
A soft smile spread across Bell's face as he read his grandfather's encouraging words. Despite Zeus's tone, genuine warmth radiated from every line. Then his eyes caught something scribbled at the bottom of the page:
"P.S. - Speaking of cuties, I hear you've been spending ALL your time with an adorable elf girl! That's my grandson! Following in your grandpa's footsteps already! Make sure to introduce her to this old man sometime~ I've got SO many stories to tell her.."
"GRAMPS!" Bell's shout echoed through the Guild hall, his face burning bright red. Several adventurers turned to stare as he frantically crumpled the letter, trying to hide the embarrassing postscript.
How does he even know about Lefiya?!
His grandfather's ghostly laughter seemed to echo in his ears, along with memories of Zeus's countless "lessons" about women that Bell had tried so hard to forget.
Bell's fingers paused before releasing the crumpled letter into the nearest waste bin. Something felt off about the envelope's weight. He smoothed out the thick paper and peered inside, discovering a small brass key wrapped in another note.
The key was old but well-maintained, its teeth showing signs of careful preservation. The accompanying note contained a series of directions written in the same messy handwriting:
"North District, past the old fountain, third alley on the right. Look for the door with the lightning bolt mark."
Bell turned the key over in his palm, studying its worn surface. His grandfather never did anything without purpose, no matter how random his actions might seem. If Zeus had gone through the trouble of getting this to him, it had to be important.
Tucking both key and directions into his pocket, Bell headed toward the North District. The morning sun cast long shadows across Orario's streets as he walked, his footsteps echoing off the cobblestones.
"Mmmm~!"
Lefiya's delighted squeal filled the cozy interior of Wishe Cafe as she took another bite of the strawberry shortcake before her. The light, airy texture melted on her tongue, bringing back memories of childhood treats shared with family in the welcoming forest she once called home.
"You've gotten even better than before, Uncle Wale!"
Her eyes sparkled with pure joy as she savored each bite. The cafe's warm wooden interior, decorated with intricate elven carvings and hanging plants, created the perfect atmosphere for enjoying such delicate sweets.
Wale paused in his cleaning, a knowing smile crossing his weathered features as he watched his niece's enthusiastic reaction. His skilled hands continued their methodical wiping of tables while his green eyes sparkled with amusement. It had been nearly two months since Lefiya's last visit, her duties as an adventurer and instructor keeping her away from his establishment.
"I see your sweet tooth hasn't changed at all," he commented, his voice carrying the musical lilt common to elves from their forest. "Though you used to be much more shy about it."
Lefiya's pointed ears twitched slightly as a blush colored her cheeks, but she didn't let embarrassment stop her from taking another bite. The cafe's reputation among elven patrons was well-earned - Wale's mastery of traditional forest recipes combined with his innovative twists had made Wishe a beloved destination in Orario's North District.
Three years had passed since Lefiya first stumbled upon her uncle's cafe in Orario. The memory remained vivid - her shock at discovering Wale had established himself in the city after his occasional visits to their forest village. Back then, she'd been a nervous newcomer to Orario, still adjusting to life outside the sheltered embrace of the School District.
Now the cafe felt like an extension of home. Lefiya knew every worn groove in the wooden counter, each carefully tended plant that reminded patrons of the forest, and precisely which seat offered the best view of Wale's masterful dessert preparation. She'd grown comfortable enough to critique his new recipes, though they rarely needed improvement.
"Remember how you used to peek around corners when you first came here?" Wale set down his cleaning cloth and leaned against the counter. "You wouldn't even order directly - always whispering what you wanted while hiding behind Lady Riveria."
Lefiya paused mid-bite, her fork hovering as she recalled those early days. "I was overwhelmed by everything in Orario back then. Finding you here was such a surprise - I didn't know how to act."
"And now look at you." Wale's eyes crinkled with pride. "A confident adventurer of Loki Familia, eating my entire stock of strawberry shortcake without a trace of hesitation."
Lefiya's cheeks flushed deeper at her uncle's teasing, but she couldn't deny her enthusiasm for his desserts. Her fork clinked against the plate as she savored another perfectly balanced bite of cake and cream.
Wale finished wiping down the last table, his movements carrying the practiced grace common to elven folk. "Would you like something to drink in the back? I just got a fresh shipment of tea leaves from the forest."
"Something sweet?" Lefiya's eyes lit up hopefully.
Her uncle rolled his eyes. "Of course you'd want something sweet. Haven't you had enough sugar for one afternoon?" Despite his words, his tone held nothing but affection. "Very well, I'll see what I can find."
As Wale disappeared through the curtained doorway to the back room, Lefiya turned her attention back to her beloved shortcake. The afternoon sun streaming through the windows cast a warm glow across the dessert, making the fresh strawberries glisten.
Lefiya's fork paused halfway to her mouth as she recalled the grueling training session from earlier that day. After several days of recovery from her injuries during the Monsterphilia incident, she'd finally returned to her regular magical training with Riveria. The High Elf had shown no mercy in making up for lost time.
"Lady Riveria was especially strict today," Lefiya murmured, her body still aching from the intense magical drills. She'd spent hours practicing rapid chanting and releasing her magic, a exercise designed to improve her concentration and Mind reserves by even the slightest amount.
By the end of the session, Lefiya had collapsed onto the training ground, her magic nearly depleted. Even Riveria had seemed impressed by her endurance, though that hadn't stopped her from assigning extra homework on ancient magical theory.
"Your chant speed is improving," Riveria had noted before departing. "But your stamina still needs work. We'll continue this pace tomorrow."
Those words had sent a shiver down Lefiya's spine. She'd barely managed to drag herself to her uncle's cafe afterward, desperate for the revitalizing power of his sweets. The strawberry shortcake was already working its magic, each bite helping to restore her depleted energy.
"At least the training is paying off," she mused between bites. Her magical output had increased significantly since joining Loki Familia, thanks largely to Riveria's ruthless but effective teaching methods. Even today's harsh session would ultimately make her stronger.
Still, her body protested at the mere thought of tomorrow's training. Lefiya eyed the remaining cake with determination. She would need every bit of sugar-fueled energy to face another day under Riveria's exacting tutelage.
"Mmm, but a good dessert really does make for a good day," she sighed contentedly, speaking her thoughts aloud in the empty cafe.
"Couldn't agree more."
"…Eh?"
Lefiya froze mid-bite, her fork suspended in the air. That voice - she hadn't heard anyone enter the cafe. Her pointed ears hadn't caught the sound of the door opening or footsteps approaching. Yet somehow, impossibly, a presence now sat beside her.
She whirled around to find a massive figure occupying the neighboring seat. A dark cloak obscured most of his features, but even seated, his bulk dwarfed her slight frame. Somehow, this giant of a man had appeared without making a sound.
The man's massive frame seemed to fill the entire cafe, his presence radiating an aura that made the air feel thick and heavy. A wild red beard peeked out from beneath his hood, matching the casual smile that played across what little was visible of his face. Even seated, his height and bulk appeared almost supernatural - rivaling or perhaps even exceeding Gareth Landrock's impressive stature.
Lefiya's mouth opened and closed several times, her words caught in her throat. The sheer pressure emanating from this stranger left her feeling like a small animal before a predator, despite his seemingly relaxed demeanor.
"The strawberry shortcake here..." The man's deep voice rolled through the cafe like distant thunder. "Still as good as I remember. Wale hasn't lost his touch."
He gestured at her half-eaten dessert with a massive hand that could probably crush stone. Though his tone remained friendly, almost conversational, Lefiya found herself unable to form a coherent response. Her fingers trembled slightly against her fork.
"Been quite a while since I visited Wishe," he continued, either oblivious to or choosing to ignore her discomfort. "But these treats are definitely still exquisite. Some things never change, thankfully."
The casual way he spoke about the cafe, as if he were a regular customer, contrasted sharply with his overwhelming presence. Lefiya wanted to ask how he knew her uncle, how he'd managed to enter so silently, why he was here - but the questions remained locked behind her paralyzed tongue.
This pressure... she thought, her magical senses tingling. It's not just his size. There's something else about him…
Wale emerged from the back room carrying a steaming pot of tea, only to stop short at the sight before him. His usual composed expression flickered with surprise before settling into weary exasperation.
"Hey, seriously…When did you get back to Orario?" Wale set the tea service down with practiced grace.
The massive man's deep chuckle filled the cafe. "Just a little while ago. Had some errands to run here." His gaze shifted to Lefiya. "Wanted to see the face of that disciple of mine I haven't seen in a while."
"Is it ok for you to walk around so openly?" Wale's tone carried a bit of concern but mostly skeptical. "Given your Familia's... current situation."
"Ah, don't worry about the small things." The man waved one massive hand dismissively, his casual smile never wavering. "Those days are long past now."
Finding her voice at last, Lefiya turned to her uncle. "…Uncle Wale, who is he?"
"Ah, that's right." Wale's expression softened with understanding. "You wouldn't know him, would you? You only joined Loki Familia three years ago." He gestured toward their imposing guest. "This man retired from adventuring over fifteen years ago."
"Fifteen years…?!" Lefiya's eyes widened as she stared at the cloaked figure with new appreciation.
She had sensed he was likely an adventurer given his overwhelming presence, but hearing he'd retired so long ago caught her completely off guard. "That's... that's before I was even..."
"Makes me sound ancient when you put it that way," the man laughed, his beard twitching with amusement beneath his hood.
The massive man's eyes studied Lefiya carefully, taking in her delicate elven features and striking orange hair. A flash of recognition crossed his partially hidden face as he connected the pieces in his mind.
"Ah, so you're from the clown bunch?" His deep voice carried a note of interest. "The elf who was with my disciple, yeah? That shitty messenger mentioned something about that."
Lefiya's dark blue eyes widened as realization struck. Images of a certain white-haired boy flooded her mind "You mean... Bell?"
A broad grin split the man's beard. "The very same." He straightened in his chair, his massive frame somehow seeming even larger. "Name's Zald. As you heard, I'm an old adventurer, and that kid's master." He extended one of his massive hands toward her. "Nice to meet you, little lady."
Bell navigated the winding streets of Orario's North District, his grandfather's cryptic instructions guiding his steps. The further he ventured, the narrower and darker the alleys became, until he found himself standing before a weathered door marked with a familiar symbol - a thunderbolt, just as the letter had described.
With a mixture of anticipation and trepidation, Bell inserted the brass key into the lock. It turned smoothly, and as the door swung open, a waft of delicious aromas greeted him. The scent of simmering meat and fragrant spices filled his nostrils, instantly making his mouth water.
"You're later than I expected, kiddo." a deep, gruff voice called out from within.
Bell stepped inside cautiously, his eyes adjusting to the dim interior. There, standing in a small kitchen area and wearing an apron that seemed comically small on his massive frame, was a man he knew all too well
His uncle, Zald.
The red-haired giant turned to face him, his beard twitching with amusement. Scars crisscrossed his weathered face, each one a testament to the countless battles he'd fought. Even in the domestic setting, Zald's presence filled the room, his aura as imposing as ever.
"Uncle Zald?!"Bell's voice was a mixture of surprise and confusion. "What are you doing here in Orario?!"
Zald's booming laughter echoed off the walls. "What, can't an old man visit his favorite nephew? Well, I've got a few reasons but I'll get to them later." He gestured toward the simmering pot on the stove. "Thought I'd whip up some of your favorite stew for now."
Bell's stomach growled in response, reminding him of the countless meals he'd shared with his uncle during their training sessions. Zald's cooking skills were as legendary as his prowess on the battlefield.
But before Bell could respond, a soft rustling sound drew his attention to the other side of the room. There, sitting on a worn sofa with a look of utter bewilderment on her face, was none other than Lefiya Viridis.
"L-Lefiya?!" Bell sputtered, his eyes widening "What are you doing here?"
The elven girl's pointed ears twitched nervously as she met his gaze. "I... I could ask you the same thing," she managed, her cheeks flushing a delicate pink.
Zald's chuckle rumbled through the room. stirred the pot with a ladle that looked tiny in his massive hand. "I ran into this little lady at a cafe, I used to visit. Since she's been been looking after our kiddo, thought she could join in for a meal."
Bell's mind reeled as he tried to process the bizarre situation. His uncle, who he hadn't seen in months, was casually cooking in a hidden room in Orario while chatting with his new friend in his Familia. It was like something out of a fever dream.
"I... I don't even know where to begin…" he admitted, running a hand through his white hair.
Lefiya nodded in agreement, her own expression a mirror of his confusion. "Your uncle is…um….not what I expected," she said darting her eyes back and forth.
Zald's laughter boomed out again. "I get that a lot. Though maybe not as much as that shitty geezer or Alfia." he grinned, his teeth flashing in the dim light. "Now, why don't you two have a seat? The food almost ready, and we have a lot to discuss."
Bell and Lefiya exchanged a glance, their shared bewilderment momentarily overriding the awkwardness of the situation. With a shrug, Bell made his way over to the sofa, sinking down beside his elven friend.
The small room filled with the mouthwatering aromas of simmering stews, roasted meats, and fragrant spices as Zald laid out a veritable feast upon the worn wooden table. Lefiya's eyes widened at the sheer variety of dishes, each one looking more delectable than the last. Vibrant colors and enticing scents mingled together, creating a sensory symphony that made her stomach rumble in anticipation.
"Wow..." she breathed, taking in the spread before her. "I've never seen such a diverse array of food in one place."
Zald chuckled, his massive frame looming over the table as he set down the final platter. "I've picked up a few tricks in my travels," he said with a wink. "When you've been around as long as I have, you learn to appreciate the flavors of different lands."
Bell, already reaching for a steaming bowl of stew, grinned up at his uncle. "I've missed your cooking," he admitted, inhaling the rich aroma of tender meat and savory broth. "It's been so long since I had a meal from you."
The red-haired giant ruffled his nephew's hair. "Well, dig in then! No point in letting it get cold."
Lefiya hesitated for a moment, unsure where to begin. Her gaze flitted from a platter of perfectly seared fish, its skin crispy and golden, to a bowl of colorful vegetables tossed in a fragrant herb sauce. Finally, she settled on a dish of succulent roasted meat, its juices pooling on the plate in a tantalizing manner.
As she took her first bite, Lefiya's eyes fluttered closed in bliss. The meat practically melted on her tongue, its flavors complex and layered. A hint of smoky sweetness gave way to a subtle spiciness that warmed her from within.
"This is incredible," she murmured, savoring each morsel. "I've never tasted anything quite like it."
Zald grinned, clearly pleased by her reaction. "That's a specialty from the far eastern lands," he explained, gesturing with his fork. "They have a way with spices there that's unlike anything else."
Bell, meanwhile, was happily slurping down his stew, a look of contentment on his face. "I remember this one," he said between bites. "You made it for me after my first successful hunt."
"And you nearly choked on it in a rush." Zald laughed, his eyes twinkling.
As the meal progressed, Lefiya found herself sampling a bit of everything, each dish offering a new and exciting flavor profile. The fish was flaky and tender, with a delicate seasoning that enhanced its natural taste. The vegetables were crisp and fresh, their colors vibrant against the dark wooden table.
As the last of the dishes were put away, Bell, Lefiya, and Zald settled back onto the worn sofa, their stomachs full and their spirits high. The small room felt cozy and intimate, the lingering aromas of the meal still hanging in the air.
Bell turned to his uncle, his ruby eyes shining with curiosity. "Uncle Zald, I'm really happy to see you, but what brings you to Orario? And what is this place?"
Zald leaned back, his massive frame causing the sofa to creak slightly. "Well, there are a couple of reasons. First and foremost, I wanted to see you." He grinned, his beard twitching. "Heard from a little birdie that you'd just arrived in the city."
Bell's brow furrowed. "A little birdie? Who told you I was here?"
The red-haired giant waved a hand dismissively. "Don't worry about that guy. Just someone keeping an eye out for you."
Lefiya watched the exchange, her own curiosity piqued.
Zald continued, "The second reason is that I need to have a chat with some of the higher-ups in the Guild. The shitty geezer asked me to pass along a message to Ouranos."
Lefiya's eyes widened. "L-lord Ouranos? The one who oversees everything in Orario and the Dungeon?"
Zald nodded, his expression turning serious. "The very same. I'll be in the city for a few days until that's taken care of. Then I need to head back and check on the Valley."
Bell shifted uncomfortably, suddenly very interested in the pattern of the sofa cushions. Lefiya glanced between the two, sensing an unspoken tension.
"Mr. Zald, um just how do you know a god like Ouranos?" she asked, her voice filled with wonder.
Zald turned to her, his eyebrows raised. "Has kiddo not told you yet?" He looked at his nephew.
Bell scratched his cheek, a sheepish look on his face. "I sort of...forgot to mention it," he admitted.
Zald shrugged, leaning back against the sofa. "Ah, it's a story that's long past for Orario now. Wouldn't matter much to most folks these days." He turned his gaze to Lefiya, his eyes twinkling. "I know the old god well enough because my old Familia used to work with him. I was an executive in the old Zeus Familia, back in the day."
Lefiya's eyes widened, her mouth falling open in shock. "Z-Zeus Familia?" she stammered, her mind racing to process the information. "You mean THE Zeus Familia? One of the two strongest Familias that ruled Orario for over a thousand years?"
Zald nodded, a wistful smile playing on his lips. "The very same. 'Course, that was before Loki and Freya's brats took over our spots, what, fifteen years ago now?"
Lefiya's mind whirled with the implications. She had heard the stories, of course. How Zeus Familia and Hera Familia had fallen to the Black Dragon, their members scattered to the winds or worse. "But I thought... I mean, everyone says Zeus Familia was wiped out. That there weren't any survivors."
The red-haired giant chuckled, the sound rumbling deep in his chest. "Yeah, that's the official story. Makes for a better tale, I suppose. But as you can see," he gestured to himself, "some of us are still kicking around."
Lefiya turned to Bell, her eyes wide with realization. "Then you... you're related to Zeus Familia? And Hera Familia?"
Bell scratched the back of his head. "Ah, yeah. I guess I am."
"Why didn't you say anything?!" Lefiya demanded, her voice rising in pitch. "This is huge, Bell! They're legends in the adventuring world!"
Bell held up his hands in surrender. "No, wait! I didn't think it mattered that much! I mean, it's not like I was actually part of those Familias. I'm just, you know, related to some of their members."
Zald nodded, his expression turning serious. "The kid's right, little lady. No matter our story, the current era is for the people of today, not the ghosts of the past." He fixed Lefiya with a steady gaze. "Don't think about it too deeply. Bell's here to make his own path, not to live in the shadow of what came before."
Lefiya coughed lightly, her cheeks still flushed with embarrassment at her outburst. "I apologize, Mr. Zald. I didn't mean to get carried away."
Zald waved off her apology with a chuckle. "Nah, it's fine. It's understandable to be curious." He leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees. "But to answer the other question, this place is one of our old secret bases."
Bell's eyes widened. "Secret bases? In Orario?"
The red-haired giant nodded. "We had a few of them scattered around the city, back in the day. The Guild never managed to get their hands on them when we disbanded."
"So that's why it feels so hidden," Lefiya mused, glancing around the cozy room.
Zald reached into his pocket and pulled out a set of keys, tossing them to Bell. "I figured you might need a place like this, kiddo. Somewhere to store materials, grab a bite, or train in private."
Bell caught the keys, a grin spreading across his face. "Thanks, Uncle! This is amazing!"
The giant leaned back, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Of course, if you two need a room to be alone together, this place works for that too."
Both Bell and Lefiya's faces turned a deep shade of crimson. "W-what?!" they sputtered in unison.
"Uncle Zald, it's not like that!" Bell protested, waving his hands frantically.
Lefiya nodded vigorously. "Y-yes, we're just friends! And I'm his mentor!"
Zald's booming laughter filled the room. "Relax, you two. I'm just messing with you." He winked, his beard twitching "Though if you really wanted to try, I wouldn't be against it."
"Uncle!" Bell groaned.
Lefiya's ears twitched, her blush deepening. "Mr. Zald, please don't joke about such things!"
The giant held up his hands in surrender, still chuckling. "Alright, alright. I'll stop teasing you." He leaned forward, his expression turning serious. "But in all honesty, this place is yours to use as you see fit, Bell."
The red-haired giant rose from the sofa, his expression turning solemn. Lefiya glanced between the two, her brow furrowed in confusion at the sudden shift in atmosphere.
"There's one more reason I came to Orario at this time," Zald said, his voice low and serious.
Bell's eyes widened for a moment before a smile spread across his face. "This is so like you, Uncle," he said, shaking his head.
Lefiya turned to him, her ears twitching with curiosity. "W-what do you mean, Bell? What's going on?"
Zald chuckled, his gaze never leaving his nephew. "The kid knows me well, little lady. It's been four months since we last saw each other, and I need to see how far he's come since then."
Lefiya's mouth dropped open, her eyes nearly bulging out of their sockets. "W-whhaaaaa?!" she exclaimed, her voice rising several octaves. "Y-you mean like a test? A fight?!"
Bell stood up, his hands resting lightly on the hilts of his twin blades. "Of course, Uncle," he said, his voice steady and determined. "I want to show you how much I've grown as your student."
Zald grinned, his teeth flashing in the dim light of the room. "That's the spirit, kiddo. Let's see if you can keep up a little better than before with me."