Heroes

by The Four Crosses

A powerful figure has returned to Orario seeking Bell. What does this person want? What will happen to Bell and all those around him? How will the gods react, and, more importantly, what will they uncover upon their return? (My not so grand return to Fanfiction is here!)

34. Tournament - Bloodlust

Hello good people and dearest readers, we're back for the third part of our tournament and we've got a few big fights planned and a few other goodies as well. Not to get you all too excited, but this chapter required three full pages of planning when normal chapters take about one-and-a-half or two. However, I think you guys are really going to enjoy this one, so, without further ado, let's get into it.

I do not own Danmachi

---

A lone figure hid as they looked down at the Hearthfire Manor, watching and waiting for the one thing they needed to happen. Finally, after a many hours waiting, the doors of the manor opened and the figure watched as every member of its familia exited its doors.

The figure eyed the familia as they made their way into the crowded streets, making sure they never risked exposing themselves until they were absolutely sure that they were well and truly gone.

Achilles has left manor. Now we can begin the search.

The figure departed to inform their infiltrator.

---

The Hestia familia made their way through the overwhelmingly crowded streets towards the Coliseum.

"This is ridiculous!" Hestia cried as they were surrounded on all sides by people.

"It'd be even worse if we didn't have Achilles here to force our way through!" Welf called back over the noise of the crowd.

"Happy to help," Achilles said, smiling as he continued parting the people before their group.

They continued to push through the crowds when, all of sudden, a familiar, gentle voice called out.

"Oh no!"

Everyone managed to hear this and turned to find Haruhime checking her clothes.

"What is it, Haruhime?" Bell asked.

"I have forgotten my purse! I was sure I had it!" she cried.

"That's okay. If there's anything you want we can certainly cover you," Bell offered.

"I wouldn't feel right doing that, even it I paid you back the moment we got home," she responded.

"Well then I'll just quickly head back and get it," Achilles said, ready to jump off using Lightning Steps.

"I couldn't ask that of you either, especially since you're the first fight today and I wouldn't want you to be late," Haruhime replied. "I'll just head back and get it."

"That may be a bit difficult," Achilles said, his eyes scanning the crowd.

The others seemed to agree and Haruhime was quite intimidated by the sight of the sea of people who, even now, were quite irritated that they had stopped in the middle of the road.

"I have an idea." Everyone turned to Bell as he bent down and put his hands behind him. "I'll carry you back myself. I'm the second fastest so we should manage to make it in time for Dad's fight and you won't have to fight the crowds."

Haruhime's face burst into flames.

"B-Bell-sama...I-."

"Come on, Haruhime, the more time we waste the later we'll be," Bell stated, smiling.

Haruhime still wanted to argue, but she knew he was right. Also, the idea of spending some time alone with Bell, pressed up against her back was really too tempting to ignore.

I did say I'd fight for him, she thought.

"Very well," she said more firmly before climbing onto his back, ignoring the strange, cold tingle that was climbing up her back.

"Alright. We'll see you guys at the Coliseum! Hang on Haruhime," Bell said, the fox girl wrapping her arms tightly around him and pressing herself fully against him a moment before he jumped into the air over the crowd, getting a few noises of surprise and fascination before he disappeared.

Achilles watched them go, smiling.

Well done, Haruhime.

"That dirty fox."

He turned and found Hestia and Lili scowling, while Ryuu looked off in the distance with a frown.

"Using some made-up excuse to be alone with Bell," the goddess continued.

Achilles rolled his eyes.

"She wasn't lying, she simply made a mistake. Plus, there's no way she could have known that Bell would make that offer," he said.

"But she accepted it readily enough once it was offered!" Hestia countered.

"As would you, Lili, and Ryuu had you been in the same position," Achilles threw back, making the three ladies blush, even as they admitted to themselves he was totally right. "Come on, I've got an Amazon to fight," he said.

The group continued on towards the Coliseum. Upon arriving, they stopped by the entrance.

"This is where I have to leave you guys. I'll see you guys after I beat this, Argana girl," Achilles said confidently.

"Good luck, Achilles-kun, not that I think you need," Hestia said, now smiling.

"Don't beat her too quickly. Remember, this is a tournament. People want to see great fights, so just knocking her down will bore them and make you lose points," Welf joked.

Achilles laughed.

"I promise not to completely crush her. I'll save that for Allen and his ilk."

Though that temporarily made them frown, they all nodded, looking forward to that fight.

"Well, have fun watching. See you guys shortly," Achilles finished, bringing back the smiles as he headed towards his designated area.

---

The Hestia familia made their way up through the Coliseum to their spot where they found the Loki, Hephaestus, Miach, and Takemikazuchi familia already seated.

"Morning everyone!" Hestia greeted.

"Morning, Chibi," Loki replied alongside her other gods, before she noticed that more than just Achilles was gone. "Where's the rabbit and the fox?" she asked.

"Oh, Haruhime forgot her purse, the silly girl, and Bell escorted her back because of the crowds."

"Ah, crowds have been pretty crazy with all the people coming to see the fights. Still, I wouldn't mind spending some alone time with that renard. She's got some good features to her," Loki said, gaining a lustful look.

Numerous people sighed and pinched the bridge of their noses with Riveria smacking the back of her goddess's head.

"Hey! What was that for?!"

"Read the room, Loki," Hephaestus said.

Loki looked around and noticed the numerous jealous looks, including from Hestia and quickly realized what she did wrong.

"Sorry…"she apologized, but seeing this had little effect on Hestia's mood, she went a step forward. "Well, personally, I think your 'features' are even better!" she declared before very brazenly grabbing Hestia's chest.

"Loki!" Hestia cried, fighting to get the trickster goddess off her, which she managed to do after a brief scuffle, before slapping her.

"What?" Loki asked, her cheek now red. "Just speaking the truth. You've shoved those puppies in my face enough time that one might think you were offering them to me."

The two goddesses began to argue, causing Riveria to pinch the bridge of her nose. However, hidden beneath her hand, she smiled.

Well isn't this an interesting development? She cares enough to try and cheer her up. Can't say I'm displeased by that growth. Now if only she could find a better way of doing it, she thought, sighing again, though ending it with a chuckle.

"Ladies and gentlemen!" Ibri declared, pulling everyone out of the Loki-Hestia scene and to the arena. "Welcome to our third day of the tournament! Are you excited!" Cheers shook the city and deafened its occupants. "As you should be, especially since we have such a great fight to start us off today! Speaking of which, it's time to get started! Introducing, our challenger for today. Newly arrived from the nation of Telskruya, please welcome the co-captain of the Kali familia and level six, Argana Kalif!"

Cheers and applause greeted the amazon as she walked into the arena, a few whistles joining them, though these only seemed to annoy her.

"Truth be told, I don't think this adventurer needs an introduction, but I'm going to do it anyway. Please give your love to this living legend. The former captain of the mythic Zeus familia. The King of Olympus. Destroyer of the most terrible monsters. The first level seven in history and the newest powerhouse to join the Hestia familia! Achilles Caesar!"

One might have wondered if the world itself shook at that sound that greeted Achilles as he walked into the arena. Countless people covered their ears in an attempt to try and limit the noise while, ironically, adding to it themselves.

Hell of an entrance, Achilles thought as he made his way towards his opponent in the middle of the sandy pit.

"So, you're this legendary captain?" Argana said, looking him over. "Well, you certainly seem big enough."

He quirked a brow.

"Thank you?" he replied.

"You can thank me by showing me your strength," she said, getting in a stance.

"I suppose so, just don't come complaining to me if things don't go how you planned," Achilles returned, pulling his sword out and taking a stance himself.

"Looks like they're both ready, and we've all waited long enough as it is, so! Three. Two One. Begin!"

Argana immediately launched herself at Achilles, but that was what he had expected, given her demeanor, and easily brought his sword up to block a kick she sent to his head.

She smiled.

"Well, you're certainly fast," she readily admitted, pleased. "But let's see what else you've got!"

She brought her other leg up to kick him in the chest, but was once again blocked, this time by his free arm. However, the kick did allow her to put some distance between them, which she immediately used to get a running start for another attack.

She jumped into the air and spun, building up momentum before she brought the leg down with all her might.

Achilles nonchalantly brought his hand up and caught her foot, not in the least bit perturbed by the shockwave that passed over him once he did so.

Argana, surprised by the ease of his response, wasn't prepared for him to grab her foot and then suddenly throw her against the ground hard enough to force all the air from her lungs. That wasn't the end of it as he then kicked her across the arena, gently laying his sword on his shoulder.

"You're powerful, Argana Kalif, but you're at least a decade away from actually being a threat to me," he responded calmly.

In the distance, Argana picked herself up and, feeling something drip from her mouth, she wiped it and looked down, discovering it to be blood.

She smiled.

He's just as strong as I heard, she thought, her eyes turning back to her opponent. Sorry, Finn, but it looks like someone else is in the running for my affections.

Now thoroughly invigorated, she charged Achilles again, eager for more.

---

Up in the stands, Tione and Tiona watched with shock.

"He's batting her away so easily," Tione said, her voice shaking in disbelief. "I could barely match her yet he's knocking her around like a doll."

Riveria turned to the amazon, understanding the despair she must be feeling.

"That doesn't mean you're weak, Tione. You've done and survived more than almost anyone in the world, Achilles is simply one of the very few that has survived more. Comparing yourself to him isn't fair to yourself. In time, you too will become just as strong," she assured.

"I hope so! It'll be great to kick that much butt!" Tiona cuts in, flexing.

Tione rolled her eyes, but smiled regardless, allowing for the tense atmosphere to dissipate.

---

Argana threw a set of punches at Achilles, which he easily dodged before sending a jab from his sword at her head. She dodged this as well, but not as completely as he had done with her attacks, and she discovered that she now had a long cut across her ribs.

She jumped back, checked her torso, then smiled.

"You are something," she complimented. "But why the limited response? Surely you can do more than this?"

"It's not much of a show if I just beat you into the dirt," he responded.

"Oh? You think you can take me down that easily?"

He looked at her, his eyes eerily calm, before he tossed his sword in the air.

The move surprised her and she blinked. That proved to be a grace mistake as, the moment her eyes reopened, he was right before her.

Eyes wide, she brought her arms up to block her face and torso. This served Achilles just fine as he struck lower, punching her in the stomach and forcing every ounce of air out of her lungs and nearly bending her in half.

However, Argana wasn't a level six or co-captain of her familia for nothing and she managed, with fiery eyes, to force herself up so she could take a couple of swings at Achilles. He dodged these even more easily than her previous attacks, then, before she could stop him, he got behind her and delivered two punches to her kidneys.

She gasped as the force sent her a few inches off the ground.

Achilles watched her lift into the air and briefly wondered if he should continue the show. After a moment though, he decided that doing so would be unnecessarily cruel, and so chose to finish the fight.

Catching the amazon in midair, he wrapped his arms around her neck and put her in a choke-hold.

Argana began to desperately struggle against his arms, but found them even stronger than hers and thus they wouldn't even budge despite her pouring all her strength into getting them off. Getting more desperate by the moment, she lashed out and kicked his thighs and shins with all her might, yet he continued to stand firm.

There's no way he's not feeling that! His legs should be busted in half or pulverized to dust! How tough is this guy?!

Those were the last thoughts she managed as the hold finally did its work and forced her into unconsciousness.

Feeling her go lack in his arms, and knowing full-well it wasn't an act, Achilles deposited her on the ground.

"Ow," he said, finally getting the chance to rub his terribly aching thighs and shins.

"And it's over!" Ibri cried. "Achilles Caesar reinforces his legend with what appeared to be an easy victory. Truly this is the great captain of the Zeus familia!"

Cheers go up, but Achilles largely ignores them, instead focusing on the Ganesha familia members coming out to pick up the down amazon.

"Now, let's see what our judges have to say with regards to points. We'll do ladies first here, so what do our judges give to our challenger from across the sea?"

Five judges hold up their signs and Ibri nods approvingly.

"Five extra personal points are awarded to Argana Kalif for her attempt to overcome the legend before us! Now, what do they say for our victor, the Olympian himself?"

This time, only four signs went up, but Ibri seemed to understand.

"Four points are awarded to Achilles Caesar. Can't say I really blame them. When you're that strong you make everything look so effortless!"

Achilles rolled his eyes.

Wasn't effortless to get here, but I'll call it fair once I get my legs healed, he thought, as he began to make his way towards the healing area.

---

After getting his wounds healed and checking his opponent to ensure he didn't accidentally take it too far, Achilles made his way up into the stands.

"You kicked her butt!"

Achilles jumped when Tiona suddenly appeared before him, beaming so brightly it was nearly blinding.

"You just wailed on her, over and over again! It was awesome!" she continued.

Achilles wasn't sure how to respond to that, but he was luckily saved by a familiar elf.

"Tiona, while I'm sure he appreciates you excitement at his victory, let him breathe," Riveria chided softly.

"Hehe, sorry," she apologized, scratching the back of her head.

"It's quite alright, just a bit unexpected," he replied.

Tiona smiled, but allowed him to return to make his way over to his familia. The moment he did, a question arose.

"Bell and Haruhime haven't arrived yet?" he asked.

His familia shook their heads.

"No, and I'm beginning to get worried. Sure there's crowds, but as we saw that Bell could simply jump over them and I can't imagine that it would take Haruhime that long to find her purse," Hestia said, frowning.

Achilles grew a frown of his own as worry began to gnaw at him.

Then, as if to fulfill all their darkest worries, a pair of familiar voices called out to them.

"Achilles!"

Everyone turned and found Ouka and Chigusa rushing towards them.

Weren't they house sitting? Achilles thought, his worry turning to fear as he rushed over to them.

"What is it?" he quickly asked.

Completely out of breath, Ouka managed to get out the message that he and Chigusa had sought so desperately to deliver.

"Hearthfire Manor...is under attack!"

---

The two landed in front of the Hearthfire Manor, and Bell gently put her down.

"Are you alright? It wasn't too uncomfortable for you, was it?" he asked.

Haruhime smiled and shook her head.

"No, Bell-sama. In fact it was remarkably smooth. Thank you for doing this."

"Of course," he replied, smiling. "Now let's go get your purse."

She smiled back and nodded and the two made their way inside.

"Do you think we should tell Ouka and Chigusa we're here?" Haruhime asked once inside.

"It's probably for the best that we do, so we don't startle them, but I'll handle it. You can go get your purse," he replied.

"Thank you, Bell-sama."

After giving him a smile, she departed to go get her purse, leaving Bell to find their house-sitters and tell them they were there.

Walking into the living room, he called out.

"Ouka? Chigusa?"

A startled sound went up and he turned to see Chigusa sitting rather oddly on the couch, looking at him with a positively burning face.

Bell wondered what this was about when Ouka sat up, looking nearly as red.

Wait, from the way he's sitting up she should be on his lap…

His face heated up.

"I'm so sorry," he quickly apologized.

"No, we should be the one's apologizing," Ouka said, gently moving Chigusa over so he could stand up and fix himself. "Given our new relationship we thought we'd take advantage of the time alone," he explained, clearly very embarrassed. "I'm very sorry," he added, bowing.

"No, no, it's fine!" Bell quickly responded, holding up his hands. "I'm very happy for you both and I promise we'll be gone soon."

"We'll?" Ouka questioned while Chigusa's embarrassment got even worse at the idea that someone else had caught them.

"Haruhime forgot her purse and we came back to quickly grab her purse. That's all. We'll be out of your hair in just a minute or two."

Ouka seemed to appreciate this. Even if he was going to be embarrassed for a while, he did really want to spend time with his new paramour.

"Alright. Thank you, Bell-."

A scream ripped through the house.

The three jumped and not a split second later, Bell's eyes widened as he recognized the voice.

"Haruhime!" he cried, running towards the sound.

Rushing as quickly as he could, Hestia knife in hand, he made his way towards Haruhime's room, but stopped right before it when he discovered a scene that made his heart stop and blood run cold.

"I was told the manor was empty. I suppose it doesn't matter, as long as it's not Achilles," Revis said, her hand squeezing Haruhime's throat as she held her in the air.

"Revis," Bell growled, his grip tightening. "Let her go!"

"I will once she answers my question."

"What question?" Bell asked.

"Where are the items?" the redhead asked.

"The items?"

Before Bell could reply, Ouka and Chigusa appeared, weapons at the ready.

"Who the hell is that?" Ouka growled, grip tightening on his axe.

"More pests," Revis said, her eyes and voice as cold as ice. "I repeat. Where are the items that Enyo desires?"

"Items?" Chigusa questioned, clearly confused, and Bell suspected that Ouka was much the same.

"They're not here. Now let Haruhime go!" Bell demanded.

Revis did not reply immediately, instead staring coldly at Bell. After a few moments of this, she moved around so that Haruhime was now in front of her, sword pressed against the renard's neck.

"If neither she, nor you, tell me where the items are, then I will kill you all, starting with this girl."

Time stopped and all went quiet for a time.

"Ouka. Chigusa," Bell finally called, his voice low and, to the surprise of all, now colder than even Revis's.

"Yeah?" Ouka replied, uneasy by this new tone.

"Take Chigusa and leave," Bell ordered.

"What?!" Ouka asked, while an equally shocked Chigusa turned to the white-haired boy.

"She's far beyond you and I don't want you hurt or worse. Run to the Coliseum and get the others," the Rabbit Foot continued, his voice growing even colder.

"What about you?" Ouka asked.

"I'll hold her until you all make it back," Bell replied.

"Bell, we can't let you do that," Ouka said, silent agreement coming from Chigusa.

"Go," Bell ordered.

"Bell-."

"Go!" he roared. "I don't want to lose friends, especially not when there's something I can do to prevent that! Go! Go find my dad and the others! I'll hold her off until then."

Once again shocked into silence, the two quickly gave each other looks and decided that, while they didn't like it, hated it in fact, they would follow his wishes.

"Alright, we'll get the others, but don't you dare die," Ouka counter-demanded.

"I won't," Bell assured.

The two quickly departed, leaving Bell, Revis, and Haruhime alone.

"It won't matter if they find the Olympian, I'll be done here by then. However, I will say it was clever of you to lie in order to hide the existence of the items," Revis said, though if it was a compliment it certainly didn't sound like one.

"I did lie, but not to try and hide the items. I lied when I said I would hold you," Bell stated, taking a step towards Revis. "I'm not going to hold you. Someone who threatens the people I care about doesn't get off that easily. No, I'm not going to hold you. I'm going to kill you."

Bell then looked into Revis's eyes.

She froze.

Those eyes. They're like mine.

In her shock, Revis dropped her sword from Haruhime's neck an inch. That was all Bell needed.

"Raaaaawr!"

The roar made both women jump, but it was only Revis who had to worry as Bell was suddenly before her, his new, terrible eyes boring into her even as his hand reached out and latched onto her face, before he threw her on the ground, skull first, with enough force to crack it.

The force actually made her skull rattle, but she didn't have much time to think on this fact as Bell lifted her head and brought her up to within an inch of his face before sending a monstrous growl at her.

What is he? Revis wondered.

Though the questions were flying through her head, she knew, for the moment, she needed to get on better footing and deal with the man or thing before her. Knowing this, she pulled her sword back and sent a strike at one of his changed eyes, only to be shocked when a tint of annoyance entered them and he suddenly threw her at the wall.

The force of the throw made her crack the stone upon impact, and the angle caused her to bounce off and fly down the hall with all the dignity of a dropped sack of potatoes.

Either regaining some of his senses or deciding he had enough time to check, Bell turned to Haruhime.

"Are you alright?" he asked, checking her over.

"I'm," she coughed as she grabbed her throat. "I'm fine, Bell-sa-."

His eyes, she thought, shock rocking her as the rubies she loved had transformed into something new and terrible. Something monstrous.

Before Bell could inquire what was wrong or check her further, the sound of movement caught his attention and he turned back to Revis, bearing his teeth.

"Haruhime, I'll hold her off. You go find someplace to hide or go find help," he ordered.

"Bell-."

"Now!" he roared before he flew at Revis who did likewise with him.

The force of their attacks when they clashed sent wind roaring through the hall, shattering windows, shaking the doors, and nearly bowling Haruhime over.

She watched for a moment, barely able to see anything as the two powerhouses moved with such insane speed that it threatened to give her a headache. Part of her wanted to stay. To help. Maybe to use her magic and give Bell and edge over the woman he was fighting. However, she realized that in the chaos of battle she might fail to do so, or worse yet, empower Revis herself.* As such, and though it pained her, she picked herself up and, giving her beloved one last look, she ran off to try and find help.

Bell and Revis smashed against each other over and over, tearing through the halls of the Hearthfire Manor and leaving them in ruin as both actively attempted to end the person or thing before them.

"What are you?" Revis asked as their blades locked again.

"I could ask you the same thing," Bell growled before he used both his knives to force her sword down then elbowed her in the face.

The hit sent her tumbling back a step or two and likely broke her nose, no small feat by itself, but she didn't have time to register that potential as Bell struck out again, slashing his black knife at her with what appeared to be the intent to take off the top of her head.

She pulled back, causing the attack to mostly miss. However, it did not entirely fail to hit its mark and she found her eyes narrowing as the blade cut a long line from just under her mouth, leaving a bloody frown just under it.

Irritated by the attack, she countered, slashing upward with her sword, the force of which was too much for Bell to stop and she managed a cut across his lower left, before his armor managed to stop it, taking the rest of the blow and earning itself a long, deep streak.

However, if Revis had been irritated by her injury, Bell, perhaps due to his already enraged state, was positively furious at his.

Attacking again with both of his knives, he was blocked by her sword, only to force it down again, but this time he released Hakugen so he could grab her arm and hold it in place. Then, before she could tug her arm free, he swung the Hestia knife around and stabbed her in the upper arm, shoving the blade so deep that the hilt pushed firmly into her muscle and pinned the arm to her torso. This also meant the blade had gone all the way through her arm, pierced both her skin and her ribs, and was now lodged quite snuggly into her lung.

Revis grunted, but once more, Bell was hardly finished.

With his main weapon now introducing itself to Revis's respiratory system, Bell's free hand pulled back, and grabbed her head.

Crying out with all his rage, Bell pushed himself off the ground with all the force he could muster and launched himself at the nearby wall. He slammed Revis's head against with such force that he put a crater in the wall, before pulling her back and slamming her against it again. But he wasn't looking to crack her head like a walnut. No, he was looking to turn her face into jam.

Turning his eyes down the hall, he suddenly took off, his grip holding Revis in the exact same position the whole way, meaning that Revis had the unfortunate experience of feeling her skin being ripped off as she was effectively super rug burned across the wall.

Bell ran all the way to the end of the hall, leaving a horrid red streak behind him, before he roared again, spun around a full three hundred and sixty degrees and threw Revis through the wall into one of the rooms.

Luckily this particular room was one of the extra guests rooms, so nothing personal was damaged, though the room was in shambles.

Bell strode in, his breathing heavy and his blood-red eyes boring down on his prey.

Revis, for her part, had managed to get to a kneeling position and had, somehow, managed to hold onto her sword.

What is this man? she asked herself as she looked up into those bloodthirsty, slitted eyes.

Before she could even hope to find an answer to that, she was snapped back to reality by Bell viciously tearing his knife out of her arm and spinning it around in his hand so the point was pointing directly at her head.

"Never threaten those I care about," he said darkly.

She did not respond, which was fine for him. He simply pulled back before thrusting the blade at her head, aiming to embed it in her brain.

However, bloodied as she was, Revis wasn't about to simply roll over and die, so, once the knife was too far along to stop, she dodged to the side, then counterattacked using her own blade, slicing him deeply across his right arm.

As he grunted in pain, she jumped up, spun on her toes and gave him a bit of the treatment she had received by kicking him straight through the wall into the adjacent room.

That done, she immediately jumped through the window, and fled into the city towards the safehouse.

Today was a failure, she thought as her blood dripped over the city. Though, she thought back to the young man she had just battled and smiled. Perhaps not entirely.

---

Bell jumped up and immediately flew back into the room. His head shifted quickly back and forth, looking for his opponent. Finding her nowhere, his eyes eventually found the broken window and realized what had happened.

His rage erupted worse than ever and he bared his teeth as his blood began to boil.

"RAAAAAA!"

"Bell!"

His eyes turned and he found Achilles before him looking at him with terrified eyes.

He blinked.

"Dad?" he asked, his rage burning away.

"Bell," Achilles sighed in relief. After hearing from Ouka, seeing the damage, then hearing that scream, he had feared the worse. However, his relief died a quick death as he looked down. "Bell!"

Bell jumped, then seeing his father's eyes, he looked down.

Revis's sword had cut extremely deep, so deep in fact that she had nearly taken his arm off and his right arm now remained attached by little more than a flap of skin.

"Oh," Bell said as if he didn't really understand what he was looking at.

Dropping his sword, Achilles rushed over to him and quickly began chanting, and soon he was pouring all his might into a healing spell.

"Bell!"

Bell looked up and found Aiz now in the ruined doorway.

"Aiz? What are you doing here?" he asked.

"We heard that you were under attack and rushed to y-," the Sword Princess finally noticed his arm and stopped.

"Oh. Thank you very much," Bell replied, his voice sounding as if he was in a daze.

That's extremely disconcerting, Achilles noted, though he didn't even think of stopping his spell.

"Bell! Aiz! Achilles!" called the familiar voice of Riveria.

"In here," Bell called with the same, distant voice.

Riveria and the rest of the Loki familia appeared, shocked by the damage to the home, before shifting to Bell and Achilles by proxy.

"Riveria, help me with this!" Achilles pleaded.

It was then that the elf noticed Bell's arm and, wide-eyes, immediately ran over and began healing Bell's arm.

The others stood silently, taking in the scene with a mixture of shock and concern, before Riveria and Achilles finally pulled back, revealing Bell's fully healed arm.

Checking it over and flexing his fingers, Bell smiled then turned to his two healers.

"Thank you," he said genuinely.

The sound of more people bursting into the home caught everyone's attention.

"Bell!" Hestia called.

"Up here, Hestia-sama!" he called back.

A few moments later the sound of many feet drew closer.

"Holy shit," Welf said from the hall.

A moment later, Hestia rushed in and, seeing her captain, she immediately rushed over to him.

"Bell!" she cried, hugging him tightly.

"Hello, Hestia-sama," he returned smiling. "I'm sorry I worried you."

Off to the side, Achilles breathed a sigh of relief.

Thank heaven we fixed his arm before they arrived. I'm not sure how any of them would have reacted to that.

The others soon, rushed in and quickly joined Hestia in hugging Bell before checking him over.

"I'm fine. I promise. Dad and Riveria-san patched me up," he told them.

The Hestia familia turned to them and Hestia finally broke away so she could face them.

"Thank you," she said, her voice shaking and her eyes full of barely restrained tears. "Thank you," she repeated, bowing.

"That's not necessary, Hestia-sama. Truly, I'm more than happy to help," Riveria said.

"Even so," Hestia replied, standing up. "Once more you've come to the aid of my familia. I don't know how to repay you, but I consider you a true friend to both myself and my familia. As such, if you ever need anything, please do not be afraid to ask. You are always welcome here."

No one failed to note the significance of that, given recent events, but neither did they comment, they simply allowed Riveria to smile and bow.

"Thank you, Hestia-sama. I am glad I have earned such a level of trust."

Nodding, Hestia turned back to Bell to check him over again, allowing Finn to finally ask the question he needed answered.

"Who attacked you?"

Bell's smile dropped and a shiver went up everyone's spine as his eyes turned cold.

"Revis," he answered.

Bell, Hestia and a few others thought, looking at the young man who had spoken with such viciousness.

Aiz, quite alarmed herself at Bell's tone, scowled at the name and her hand tightened around the handle of her sword.

"Damn it."

Eyes shifted to Achilles.

"Dad?" Bell questioned once he noted the distressed look on the older man's face.

"I'm sorry, Bell," Achilles stated, anger and misery in his voice. "If I had dealt with her in the Dungeon this wouldn't have happened."

"Dad," Bell called gently, now understanding. "This isn't your fault."

"Quite right. You went above and beyond with regards to Revis," Riveria added, a few more voices joining in to agree.

"I don't think I can believe that," Achilles replied, looking down in shame.

A few worried looks were shared, before his goddess stepped forward.

"Then believe this," Hestia said. "We're going to deal with her. One way or another we're going to put her out of commission," she stated resolutely.

The confidence in her voice, along with the vow, allowed Achilles to pull back from his feelings of failure, instead focusing on the future and the possibility of making a correction.

"Right," he said firmly, nodding to his goddess who, glad to see him out of his stupor, smiled and nodded back.

"We'll be right there beside you when the time comes to end this war with her and her allies," Riveria stated, getting numerous calls of agreement from her familia.

"I'll personally make sure she never hurts you again," Aiz vowed, looking towards Bell.

"Get in line, Aiz," Achilles said.

"No."

Everyone turned back to Bell.

"She invaded my own and attacked and threatened my familia," he growled. "She's mine."

The cold statement left no room for argument and caused all the anxiety everyone had been feeling to return and solidify in their stomachs.

Bell-sama, Haruhime thought, guilt now eating at her as she felt it was her and her weakness that caused this reaction.

Achilles stared down at the young man next to him, just as concerned as everyone else, but not wanting this new dark cloud to hang over them.

"Well, we'll see when we get there," he said, snapping everyone's attention to him. "For now though, I'll go back to the Coliseum and tell them that Bell's fight with Shakti is off."

Everyone was about to nod, when Bell jumped in.

"No."

Again, eyes shifted to him.

"Don't cancel the fight," he continued. "I'm still up for it."

"Are you sure, Bell-dono?" Mikoto asked.

"We'd all understand if you wanted to back out and rest. No one would blame you or think less of you. Hell, I think most of us expect you need it after what happened," Welf said, getting many nods of agreement.

"I'm fine. Really," Bell promised with a smile. "I just need a health and mind potion and I'll be ready to go. Besides, I was looking forward to Naaza's fight and we'll need all the money we can get to repair the manor."

You think we care about money when a few minutes ago your arm was hanging on by a thread? Achilles mentally asked, a bit perturbed and quite alarmed by his son's nonchalant response.

"Well…" Hestia said, not looking like she liked the idea at all. "If you're sure."

Bell smiled at her.

"Positive."

After securing the manor, Finn offered to leave a few of his familia behind to guard the home, which Hestia gratefully accepted. Gareth and Bete both volunteered, though the werewolf made Bell promise not to lose his fight in exchange, which Bell did with a smile. Hestia also stayed behind so that she could take stock of the damage and figure out what needed to be replaced and repaired. She took a moment to take Lili aside and ordered the prum to stop the fight between Bell and Shakti if it appeared that his fight with Revis was still negatively affecting him, which Lili was happy to do. With that done, Hestia gave Bell one more very tight hug.

"Please be safe, Bell-kun," she pleaded.

"I will be," he promised, hugging her back.

They pulled back and he gave her his million valis smile before rejoining the others who were departing.

Hestia watched him and then a moment later the group departed, jumping into the air to make it over the crowds so they could arrive at the Coliseum in time.

Please Bell. Please be safe, Hestia begged, holding her hands tightly over her heart.

---

They arrived at the Coliseum, dropping down in one of the few clear areas, startling the passerbys.

"We'd best hurry if we don't want to risk missing Naaza's fight," Welf said, getting off Achilles's back, while Haruhime, Lili, and Mikoto did likewise with Aiz, Tiona, and Tione respectively, having been carried there to ensure they all arrived on time.

"Right. Let's get going," Bell said, prompting them all to rush as quickly as they could back to their spot in the Coliseum.

Luckily the sight of the numerous powerful adventurers, obviously in a hurry, encouraged people to let them through and they managed to make their way to their spot quickly, finding the Miach, Take, and Hephaestus familia, along with Loki herself, sitting and looking worried.

Ouka was the first to spot them, having been waiting impatiently for their return.

"Bell-san!" he called.

The others all turned and, seeing most of the Hestia and Loki familia, they quickly shot out of their seats and made their way over to them.

"Are you alright?" Ouka asked, checking over the young man.

Bell smiled and held up his hands.

"I'm fine, Ouka-san, I swear. I had a few injuries, but my dad and Riveria-san both patched me up."

Said adventurers both frowned, the recent sight once again playing in their minds. They shared a look, but kept quiet.

"I'm so sorry for abandoning you, Bell-san. That was beyond cowardly," Ouka stated, bowing, Chigusa soon following after.

"Ouka-san," Bell said gently. "I told you to. Ordered you, in fact. Rather harshly as I remember. You didn't abandon me, you went and got help, which was the best thing you could do given who I was fighting," he assured.

"Was it Revis?" Loki jumped in.

Bell nodded, his formerly gentle smiling dropping.

"It was," he confirmed.

"What possible reason could she have for attacking the Hearthfire Manor?" Hephaestus asked.

"Doesn't matter," Bell stated, his cold tone returning and surprising Hephaestus and the others just as it had his familia. "She will not get another chance to threaten my familia."

Looks were shared again as this was not a side of Bell that anyone could fathom or cared to see.

Bell, Aiz said, her fists tightening as her heart sank lower.

Please, Bell-sama, don't let anger fill your heart. Not for me, Haruhime silently pleaded.

Achilles was also not enjoying this side of Bell, but for a different reason then the others.

That's the same voice he had after I threatened Aiz, he recognized, a knife stabbing his heart at the memory.

Unable to bear the pain any longer and wanting to shift everyone's attention away from their Bell-related worry, he jumped in.

"It could be that she wanted revenge," he suggested, successfully catching the others' attention. "I did cut off her arm after all. That usually inspires a pretty good motive."

Hephaestus and many of the others seemed fine with this potential explanation. Loki and her familia, of course, knew of potentially greater motive, but kept silent.

"You do have a way of ticking people off," Loki joked.

Achilles, jumping at the chance to lighten the mood, chuckled.

"It's one of my many skills."

Earning a few chuckles from that, the tension dissipated some, even if it was not completely gone.

"Did we miss Naaza-san's fight?" Bell asked, finally changing the subject.

"No. In fact, her fight is the one right after this," Miach said, smiling.

"Good," Bell sighed in relief. "I would have hated to miss it."

That was the end of things, at least for now, though everyone knew things would have to be brought up again eventually. However, for now, they all sat down and got ready for the young dog-girl's fight.

---

"Are you all having fun?!" Ibri cried, getting a boisterous response. "I'm glad. Today's been filled with so many excellent fights I'm practically buzzing. And guess what? It's time for another one! This time, we have the captain of Miach familia, Naaza Erisius, the 'Miyal Hound' herself. She challenged Alto, the 'Knife Eared' of the Belenus familia. Let's give them a proper welcome!"

The crowd cheered as the two adventurers approached each other.

Naaza had exchanged her baggier clothes for a lighter, more flexible outfit that seemed to be garnering some attention from the men in the crowd.

Hearing the sound of skin tightening around cloth, Achilles turned and found Miach frowning and his hand tightening around his arm in an attempt to control himself.

Hm, maybe the feelings aren't one-sided after all, Achilles noted with a smile.

Across from Naaza stood, Alto.

First thing anyone noticed was that he was an elf, and had a fair complexion. Unlike his opponent, he wore a pretty heavy set of armor. Steel greaves, armguards, gauntlets, helmet, and chestplate. He also carried a medium sized steel shield on his left arm and held a spear in his right hand. All in all, he looked nearly the opposite of the image one would normally think of when the idea of an elf popped into their mind.

However, it's not necessarily bad for this fight. He probably did some research on Naaza and came up with a plan with how to fight her. He probably realized he would be at a disadvantage with speed and that she would do everything she could to keep her distance, being an archer and all. So, instead, he'll focus on defense until she runs out of arrows, which then puts the advantage in his hands. The spear will also give him enough reach for a proper counterattack if he tries it, Achilles analyzed, hoping that the young woman would be able to slip a few shots between the armor plates so that she wouldn't have to risk a head-to-head confrontation.

"So," Alto began. "Is that weirdo still going on about her dreams?"

Up in the stands, Cassandra shrank at his words, earning many a frown and causing Daphne to pull her into a hug.

"I always thought she was a real oddball. I mean sure, she's cute, I could understand that much of why Apollo-sama wanted her, but geez, all her talk of 'seeing things' really did drive one crazy," he continued.

Not a single one of those who sat around the Miach familia failed to understand precisely why Naaza wanted to fight this guy now.

Naaza, for her part, simply stared at the elf.

"What? Got nothing to say? No choice words to defend your new familia member?" he mocked.

She pulled her bow off her back and grabbed an arrow from her quiver and knocked it.

"I'm going to enjoy making you look like a pin cushion."

His mocking smile finally dropped and he got himself into a fighting stance.

"Looks like they're ready folks. So let's get started! Three. Two. One. Begin!"

Naaza immediately jumped back, pulled her string back and let it loose at her opponent. This proved to have been wise as Alto had charged forward the moment the fight had begun, likely looking to end it quickly by going on an all out assault from the beginning. Instead, he was forced to bring his shield up to block the arrow, a notable 'clang' ringing through the air as it was deflected.

Using her newly acquired time, Naaza gained her wanted distance from her opponent and began to run, moving to get behind him.

The elf, seeing this, turned on his spot and blocked two more arrows, one towards his head, another towards his thigh.

Naaza began to run around the arena, taking shots at her opponent and looking for a weakness. However, given how much easier it was for him to shift his position than it was for her to run around him, she failed to find any to exploit.

Soon enough, the elf smiled, thinking that she was simply wasting ammunition and soon she would have to confront him in hand-to-hand combat.

"Is that all you've got, mutt?!"

Naaza didn't respond and instead simply grabbed another arrow.

Alto, smiling, got his shield ready again and prepared to receive the arrow.

Naaza loosed the arrow and it flew through the air before crashing into the elf's shield. However, unlike the previous arrows which had simply clang off, this one burst into a cloud of smoke.

A smoke arrow? he thought in shock. She's distracting me. Which means she's trying to get behind me!

He spun himself around and prepared for another attack, but it never came, at least not from that direction.

His only warning was the sound of whistling before he felt two sharp points force their way directly into the unguarded part of his back.

"Gah!" he cried, falling to his knees as his spear slipped from his hand.

Managing to turn himself around, despite the pain, Alto held up his shield, but was shocked when he found Naaza herself running straight towards him. He barely had enough time to grab the shield with both hands before Naaza jumped, landed on his shield, then used it as a springboard to launch herself in the air. Once in the air, she spun around, aimed her bow at him again, and let loose two more arrows.

Twisted around as he was, her opponent did manage to block the arrows, but at the cost of losing his footing and nearly falling over.

His eyes quickly moved back to Naaza who was rushing towards him again, perhaps to finally send him tumbling to the ground and putting him at her mercy. However, the elf was not out of the fight yet and as the dog-girl ran towards him, he reached down and pulled out a pair of throwing knives that he then threw at the oncoming Naaza.

Unprepared for this, Naaza barely managed to bring her arm up to block the knife coming straight for her head. Her silver arm deflected the blow, but the second knife found its mark and embedded itself in her hip.

She hissed, but had not no time to deal with the blade as Alto, having picked up his spear, was now counter-charging her.

He thrust at her, and she dodged, then dodged again the second time he did so. She quickly grew irritated by being on the back foot and, upon his third thrust, she reached her left arm up and grabbed the shaft in midair before using her right arm to shatter the staff and remove spearpoint from the rest of the weapon.

The elf, eyes wide, had little time to prepare a defense, as Naaza took her newly acquired weapon and threw it at him. He lifted his shield to block the attack, but this left him clueless to the young woman's movements.

Moving quickly, Naaza dropped to her knee, grabbed an arrow and slammed it into one of his feet.

"Aah!" he cried as his legs gave out under him and he fell on his butt.

Naaza was not done though. She kicked his shield hard enough to send him crashing onto his back before moving to his side and kicking the shield again, this time to move it out of the way so she could place a foot on his chest and point her bow and two arrows directly at his head.

"Yield," she demanded.

In pain and with very few options at this point, he, after a few seconds, held up his hand.

"I-I yield."

"Naaza Erisius has done it!" Ibri cried out. "She has won her challenge and showed us that the Miach familia is not to be trifled with!"

Cheers and applause erupted from the crowd, with even the shy Cassandra happily clapping for her captain.

Naaza, for her part, having gained her victory, took her foot off the ex-Apollo member and said.

"Don't harass Cassandra again. Or Daphne either," she warned before she turned and left.

Alto growled and tried to pick himself back up, but the pain he was feeling made that difficult, if not impossible.

You fucking bitch.

Reaching for another of his throwing knives, he pulled it out carefully, so as not to attract her attention, before, with hateful eyes, throwing it at the back of her head.

The crowd gasped and Miach jumped out of his seat.

"Naaza!"

The dog-girl turned and blinked.

In front of her eyes was a knife, but it was still and being held in a hand. Following the hand, she found Bell suddenly in front of her.

"Bell-san?" she asked, confused and wondering what was going on.

He didn't respond. Instead, he turned towards her former opponent and strode up to him.

Alto, for his part, wondered how the hell the human had appeared there so quickly. One moment the knife was a few inches from finding its target, the next it was being held in the now bleeding fingers of the white-haired Hestia captain.

This confusion was quickly set aside as said captain made his way towards the downed elf, who began to scoot his way in fear. But he couldn't get away, especially not after he saw those eyes.

"Don't. Ever. Try that again," Bell stated, his blood-colored eyes boring down on the elf with terrible force.

Alto could not respond, which was fine for Bell, who simply threw the knife down, which proved to be the undoing of the last of Alto's courage and bodily control as he promptly fell over again.

Bell walked back and rejoined Naaza.

"Come on, let's get you to the healers," he said.

Not knowing what else to do, Naaza simply nodded and followed after him.

Everyone watched the two depart, and all thinking the same thing.

How did he do that? Achilles wondered. Even I didn't see him. Is this the power of his new skill?

---

The two made their way into the healing area where the healers immediately began working on Naaza.

"Thank you, Bell-san," Naaza said as the healers cast their spells.

He smiled.

"No need to thank me, I was just looking out for a friend."

She nodded again, though her mind was now playing catch up and she wondered how he could have possibly appeared next to her in time to stop the knife.

"Naaza!"

The two adventurers turned to see Miach and her familia running towards them as fast as they could.

"Miach-sama. Daphne. Cassandra," she said.

"Are you alright?" her god asked.

"I'm fine," she replied, standing up to show her now healed body.

She froze as her god wrapped her in a tight hug, a breath of relief passing by her ear.

"Thank heaven," he said.

The relief in his voice, mixed with the hug, caused her to blush but, feeling a bit bold, and being quite happy if her tail was any indication, she soon returned it.

Her two familia members smiled, before shifting their attention to the one who had saved their captain.

"Thank you, Bell-san," Daphne said.

"Y-Yes! Thank you so much!" Cassandra added.

"As I told Naaza, no need to thank me. I was just looking out for a friend," Bell said, still smiling.

"No, it's far more than that," Miach said, finally pulling back away from Naaza. "You protected someone very dear to us and saved her from an underhanded attack. For that I am in your debt."

The god then bowed which dreadfully embarrassed Bell.

"Please, Miach-sama, don't bow!" he pleaded. "Not only do I really think it's no big deal, but, if anything, it's simply a small repayment for all the trouble I caused you in the past."

"Bell," Miach said gently, smiling at the young man. "I already told you that wasn't your fault and I will, as such, not consider this major act a repayment since there's nothing to repay."

"Even so," Bell said, scratching his cheek. "When I realized what he was doing, I just reacted. I couldn't let another person I care about get hurt."

The tone he used made them all share a look, wondering what they were missing as that was the sense it gave them. Even so, they could understand his position and decided that, after such an act, it would be rude to press him.

"Very well, Bell, but be sure I will find a way to repay this kindness."

Bell wanted to continue to argue, but seeing the determined looks of the god and his familia, he realized he wasn't going to win this one and conceded.

---

"Well then," Ibri continued once Naaza and Bell disappeared and he had regained his bearings. "I think I speak for all of us when I say that 'Knife Ears' here went much too far right there." A chorus of boos and jeers met him, and down in the arena, Atlo had a group of Ganesha familia members surrounded him and cart him off. "I for one think that his actions disqualify him from receiving any points, but let's see what our judges say." Everyone turned to the judges, many of whom were nodding. Eina and Misha went further and held their arms up in an 'X' formation. "Looks like they agree. As such, our sore loser will receive no points from this round. Not for himself and not for his familia." A few people cheered at this. "But speaking of points, I think we should see what our judges feel our victor deserves." Seven judges held up their signs and while many wondered if Naaza had been awarded those points, in part because of the attack, none felt inclined to speak up against them. "Seven points! Seven extra points for our courageous archer! Let's give her a round of applause!" His request was instantly met as the crowd applauded and cheered.

"However!" he declared. "I think there's one other person who deserves points in this situation. Our courageous archer's rescuer! The Rabbit Foot himself, Bell Cranel!"

Surprising though the announcement was, no one could really say they disagreed with the suggestion and a few began to give out verbal support.

"He jumped in so quickly, I didn't even see him! A true friend and hero right there, ladies and gentlemen! So, personally, I think we should ask our judges if they're willing to give him a few extra personal points as a reward and a big thank you from Orario itself. What do you all think?" Cheers and applause burst forth again and it seemed it was unanimous. "Alright, alright! Looks like we're in agreement! So, what say our judges?"

Eina, naturally, was the first to raise her sign up, all but ripping her arms out of their sockets at the speed and height she threw it up. Misha, chuckling, soon followed along with six other judges.

"Eight additional points are awarded to Bell Cranel for his selfless, grand deed! Every single one deserved!"

More cheers greeted this announcement, with many giving their agreement.

---

Up in the stands, Haruhime was smiling brightly.

"It's nice to see everyone appreciating Bell-sama," she said.

"It is. He deserves the appreciation and acknowledgement," Mikoto said, smiling next to her.

"Lili still wonders how he did that. One moment he was here, the next he was there, holding the knife," the young prum added.

"Yeah, I had to do a double-take when I saw him there. Damn good thing though, given what that slimeball did," Welf added, getting many nods.

"I'm just glad they're both safe," Haruhime said, her hands over her heart.

"As am I," Achilles agreed.

Riveria, who was sitting beside him, noticed the stilted way he said that and turned, finding him looking at where Bell had disappeared with a furrowed brow.

"Is something wrong?" she asked.

He turned to her.

"I didn't see him."

"What?"

"I didn't see him," he repeated, this time with a great deal of emphasis.

Her jaw dropped a bit.

"He...he was that fast?"

"Either that or my old age is finally getting to my eyes," Achilles replied.

That was more than a bit surprising, given who she was talking to, but it wasn't necessarily a bad thing.

"Perhaps his adrenaline was still running high from his fight with Revis?" she offered.

"Maybe, but I don't think so. I think it's his new skill," Achilles said.

"New skill?" she asked.

It was asked innocently, both knew that, but the frown on his face quickly made her understand he wasn't going to answer.

"It's not my place to tell you what it is, but it's certainly powerful. More importantly, I fully believe if it got out what it was many people would not take too kindly to it."

She nodded.

"I understand."

Her hand was suddenly taken with his and given an affectionate squeeze.

"I do trust you, Riveria, but I just want to protect Bell," he assured her.

She smiled.

"I understand," she repeated, but this time with a sweet tone.

"Bell!"

The two, along with the others, turned to see Bell returning from the healing area, a smile on his face, but also looking a bit worried.

"Hi guys," he greeted.

"That was awesome Bell," Welf said.

"Truly amazing," Mikoto seconded while the others added their own agreement.

Bell seemed surprised by the positive reaction.

"You're not mad?" he asked.

"Why would we be mad?" Achilles asked.

"Well, it wasn't my fight. I could have got in trouble for interfering," he replied.

"The Guild wasn't going to punish you for protecting a contestant and friend, not unless they wanted the whole city to turn on them," the older man pointed out, going over to his son. "Besides, if they were going to, they would have punished me when I jumped in with Gareth."

"I guess you're right. Still, I figured you'd all be mad at me, especially after what just happened."

Things went silent for a moment as they thought about this. They could see why he might think that. The whole idea of 'putting himself in danger' or something like that.

"Bell, you jumped in to save a friend. While I think I speak for all of us when I say that while we're not exactly happy when you put yourself in danger, we can't begin to tell you how proud of you we are when that heroic spirit of yours shines through," his father stated. said warmly, her eyes staring up at him.

"Definitely!" Welf stated.

"I, too, am very proud," Mikoto said.

"It's inspiring if anything, and makes me glad I'm a part of this familia," Ryuu said, smiling.

"Very glad," Haruhime joined, smiling as well.

"Lili's gotten used to you worry us, but at least this time it was for a good reason," Lili said, trying to be a bit stricter, but the smile on her face ruined any chance that was taken seriously.

"Guys," Bell said, looking at all of them before smiling.

Everyone got a warm and fuzzy feeling at the show of affection, including Aiz, who watched from the side, smiling.

He does have a good familia, she thought.

Suddenly, their eyes met, her gold to his rubies and he smiled brightly at her.

The warmth she now understood to be her love for him returned in full force, as did the question she had asked herself not so long ago.

Could he really feel the same way about me?

Electricity began to run through her veins, making her feel antsy and desperate to act.

I need to ask him. I need to find out.

She stepped forward, ready to request a moment alone, when another voice jumped in.

"You should probably get ready, Bell. Your fight with Shakti isn't that far away," Achilles said, unknowingly taking the wind right out of Aiz's sails.

"Right," Bell said, remembering his own fight. "I'll see you guys soon!"

"Good luck, Bell-sama!" Haruhime called, smiling at her rescuer.

The others did the same, but Aiz couldn't manage to, instead reaching out her arm longingly towards her beloved.

Wait...I need to talk to you, she thought as she watched him leave.

"Aiz?"

She turned to see Tiona looking at her curiously.

"What's wrong?"

Aiz didn't respond immediately, instead shooting her head back to where she last saw Bell, before sighing and turning back to Tiona.

"I just...wanted to talk to him," she said.

Tiona cocked her head in confusion.

"About what?" she asked innocently.

"Something...personal."

Off a few paces away, two older adventurers, having heard her words, turned their heads.

Could it be? Riveria thought, looking at her ward.

She turned and saw Achilles looking at the young woman as well. Feeling the elf's eyes, he turned and raised an eyebrow as he wondered the same thing.

She smiled and shrugged. He smiled and rolled his eyes before shifting his gaze back to the arena.

---

"It's finally time, ladies and gentlemen! The fight I think all of us have been waiting for! The battle of captains! In this corner is my very own captain, the 'Ankusha' herself, Shakti Varma!"

The crowd eagerly greeted the azul captain as she walked out, her own ankusha in her hand and her whip by her side, looking calm and ready for battle.

"And on the other side of the arena is our heroic captain of the Hestia familia! The 'Rabbit Foot', Bell Cranel!"

The cheers grew as Bell approached, his knives at the ready, and looking just as ready for the fight as his opponent.

"Good afternoon, Bell-san," Shakti greeted.

"Good afternoon, Shakti-san," he returned, giving her a smile.

"I hope you are not upset with me for issuing this challenge."

"Not at all," he assured. "I am a bit surprised though and I hope I haven't done anything to upset you."

"No, of course not," she assured him. "It was simply a matter of respect and curiosity. You've earned my respect with your many deeds and attitude and, combined with your strength, I found myself curious to see what you were capable of."

"Thank you very much for your kind words. Hearing that from someone as great as you is really something. I am honored to be able to get the chance to fight you and will do my best to not disappoint."

She smiled.

"I'm sure you will."

"Now that's how you greet your opponent! With mutual respect and admiration! If I wasn't excited before, I certainly am now, so let's get this fight going!" Ibri announced, practically bouncing on his spot. "Three. Two. One! Begin!"

Bell immediately rushed at Shakti, but the Ganesha captain was prepared and dodged the first strike he made with his Hestia knife, before blocking the second from Hakugen, all while cheers roared from the crowd.

The two stuck out and clashed against each other again and again to the sounds of the crowd. It quickly became apparent to Shakti, however, that she was on the back foot.

He's faster than me, she recognized, not terribly surprised.

Understanding this, she skillfully dodged a slash from Bell, before countering. This time though, she feinted a strike with her ankusha so when Bell moved to counter, she quickly pulled back, then kicked him square in the chest.

The force of the kick bent his chestplate and fulfilled its purpose of sending Bell back and giving her some space.

Now with some distance, Shakti grabbed her whip and quickly unfurled it, before casting it out. It soon wrapped around Bell's leg and, before he could manage any sort of defense or counter, she spun on her heel and pulled.

Bell was soon flying through the air and a few seconds later, he felt the whip release him, sending him crashing against the side of the arena.

He crashed with such force and speed that he actually bounced off the wall, then hit it again before finally falling to the ground, almost like Shakti had been using him a skipping stone.

He groaned as he began picking himself up. However, knowing that his opponent wasn't about to let up after such a successful attack, he looked up and, sure enough, she was running straight towards him.

Jumping to his feet, he managed to get himself into position and prepare himself for her attack just in time.

She struck out with her elephant goad, thrusting and slashing at him with a speed few could match. He managed to dodge, but with his back against the wall, he knew he needed to act.

So, when she struck out again, he blocked her bullhook, forcing it to the side and leaving her just open enough to throw a punch that connected with her face.

The blow wasn't a particularly strong one, and it wasn't supposed to be, it was only met as a distraction for his actual attack.

Jumping into the air, Bell lifted himself up into a horizontal position and then, using his arms to push off the wall, he kicked out both his legs with all his might.

The double kick hit its mark and Shakti was sent flying all the way to the other side of the arena.

I was right, he is a worthy opponent, Shakti thought as she picked herself up, her body aching.

Her eyes quickly caught sight of Bell rushing towards her.

Moving quickly, she wrapped the end of her whip around her ankusha. That done, she swung the improvised weapon around, aiming directly for Bell.

Surprised by the new weapon, Bell barely managed to pull his head back in time to prevent a mortal wound. However, he did not completely escape injury as the blade cut across his cheek and nose, leaving a long red streak to remember it by.

Shakti quickly brought the whip back around and this time brought it under his arm. The moment the whip made contact with his armpit, it shifted direction and swung around, wrapping itself around Bell before crashing into his chestplate, shattering it, and forcing the hook into his sternum.

"Ah," he growled.

The wound wasn't deep, but it served Shakti's purpose and she quickly shifted around and then, with a cry, she pulled the whip over her shoulder with all her might.

Once more Bell found himself being lifted into the air, this time even higher, before crashing down into the arena sands with bone crushing force.

He grit his teeth as his entire skeleton shook at the force, but he was skill conscious and still in good enough shape to keep fighting. This was fortunate as a shadow appeared over him.

Opening his eyes, he found Shakti above him, her leg lifted into the air.

Eyes wide, he barely rolled to the side in time as her leg crashed down.

The force of her kick was great enough to create a shockwave and send him flying through the air a few feet. This proved a bit fortunate as it gave him just enough time to lift his arm and call out his spell.

"Firebolt!"

Shakti brought her weapon to block the attack, but found herself forced back by its force, allowing enough time for Bell to get back up.

Not wanting to lose her advantage, she threw the ankusha straight at his head. He dodged then rushed towards her. In response, she pulled on her whip, stopping the hooked weapon and causing it to turn back, aiming straight for Bell's back.

However, to her surprise, and the surprise of much of the crowd, he suddenly stopped his mad rush towards her and spun around on his heel, causing the elephant goad to pass by him harmlessly. He then reached out, grabbed it out of the air then, before Shakti could release her whip, he pulled it towards him using every ounce of his strength.

Now it was Shakti who was flying through the air as Bell cocked his fist back. Had she not been such an experienced adventurer herself, she likely wouldn't have managed to bring her arms up to guard her in time and received the blow straight to her face. As it was, her arms took the hit, shattering upon impact, before she was sent crashing into the wall of the arena.

Groaning as she fell from the crater made by her body, Shakti found herself being immediately forced back against the wall, this time with a knife to her neck while Bell looked straight into her eyes, his black knife pointing directly at her head.

"Yield," he commanded.

The Ganesha captain was silent for a moment, perhaps due to the pain, perhaps due to the position she was in, or perhaps a mixture of both. However, she, in spite of her pain, she managed a smile and held up her hand.

"I yield."

"It's over! I can't believe it! Bell Cranel has gained victory!" Ibri cried, his voice containing legitimate shock at seeing his captain defeated.

Roaring cheers and thunderous applause filled the air as Bell pulled back and smiled at his former opponent.

"Thank you, Shakti-san. That was a great fight."

"Indeed, though a bit more painful than I would have wished," she replied, still smiling.

He laughed lightly, scratching his cheek.

"You got me pretty good a few times," he added.

"And yet you still came out on top. Well done, Bell Cranel. Now, would you mind helping me towards the healers? My entire body feels like an elephant sat on it."

Bell readily helped her towards the healers until members of her familia arrived to help them both towards the exit.

"That was a truly magnificent fight! I'm not even sure magnificent is a strong enough word! Still, a bit in shock myself since I know how tough my captain is. But I guess that just tells us that the captain of Hestia familia really is a rising star in the city!"

He fell silent for a moment to allow more cheers and applause.

"But now it's time for the judges to award their points! We'll start with my captain. So, what do you say, judges?"

Seven signs were held up.

"Seven extra points to my captain for being such a good sport and badass! Nice! Now, what about the victor, Bell Cranel?"

Once more, seven signs were held up.

"And seven points for Bell Cranel, for showing us his growing strength and friendly demeanor! I don't disagree at all, if anything, I think they both deserve the full ten points, but that's just me! But let's give them both one more big hand!"

His request was once again granted and the city showered their love onto the two exiting captains.

---

A short time later Bell, now without his chestplate, made his way back towards his familia.

"Bell!"

Bell smiled and waved at his familia

"Congratulations, Bell-san," Ryuu said, smiling at him.

"Well done, Bell-dono," Mikoto said.

"You had us worried there for a moment," Welf said.

Bell laughed.

"I was worried myself a few times. Flying through the air isn't as much fun as it sounds," he joked.

"Well don't worry, I've got a spare set of armor waiting for you," Welf said. "But that special order isn't quite ready. I swear though, it'll be done before the end of the tournament."

"Thanks, Welf."

"Good job, Bell," Achilles said, rubbing his head affectionately.

"Thanks, Dad."

"Looks like I'm going to have to train you better at dealing with ranged weapons though," the ex-captain said.

"Be nice, Achilles. Let him enjoy his victory," Riveria chided.

Achilles laughed, but nodded.

"Alright. Come on Bell, I think you deserve the chance to finally sit."

Bell nodded gratefully, taking the seat next to Haruhime and sighing in relief.

"Are you alright, Bell-sama?" she asked.

"Just a bit sore and tired. The healers really helped, but I think I'll need a full night's rest before I'm back at my best."

That made Haruhime a bit sad. She knew it wasn't serious, but she didn't like him to be in any sort of pain and discomfort. Thinking for a moment, she wondered what she could do to make him feel better. An idea quickly appeared in her mind. One that made her blush.

I-I couldn't...could I?

However, she then remembered her vow and she felt her resolve grow.

"If you'd like, Bell-sama," she said, her voice steady and unwavering. "I could give you a massage later."

He blinked.

"What?"

"To help with the soreness. I learned during my time in the Ishtar familia and I've been told I'm very good."

He blinked again and for a few moments, things were silent.

"I'd...I'd appreciate that. Thank you, Haruhime."

She smiled.

"Of course. Nothing makes me happier than helping you, Bell."

The sudden use of his name without the honorific, made him blush lightly as it felt so much more personal and tender.

"And there you have it folks! The last fight of the day!"

The two jumped a bit and turned back to the arena.

"Wow, today was another great one, wasn't it?" Ibri asked, getting an affirmative response for the city. "But now it's time for us to find out who has challenged who for our fights tomorrow, so let's hear the challenges!"

Remembering where they were, both Bell and Haruhime felt their cheeks grow warm, having realized they had fallen into their own little world.

The challenges rolled on, with none quite as great as the previous days' challenges, until a familiar name popped up.

"Oh ho, now here's a great one that I'm sure we're all going to enjoy! Achilles himself has issued a challenge." The Hestia familia and company shifted their eyes to Achilles, who grew a smile that was both eager and vicious. "Achilles Caesar, the Olympian himself, has issued a challenge! And this one isn't much of a surprise, in my opinion. He challenges Allen Fromel, the 'Vana Freya'!"

Now understanding why he was smiling like that a few of those he was sitting with grew their own eager and vicious smiles, looking forward to the butt-kicking he was going to dole out.

"Don't kill him. I wouldn't want you to get in trouble over that alley-cat," Riveria said, smiling.

Achilles chuckled.

"Fine, fine. But only because you asked."

Their smiles grew, and a few around them chuckled, now even more eager for the fight.

"Wait, wait. Hold on everyone!" Ibri said, holding up his hand. "I've just received word that Allen Fromel has denied Achilles's challenge! I'm also being told that the Freya familia will deny any challenge from the Hestia familia!"

Confusion passed through their entire section.

"What the hell?" Achilles asked, his mind running around trying to figure out what that meant.

"That's unexpected," Riveria said.

"Yeah, and troubling."

"Well, um, since Achilles has had his challenge denied I have been given the all clear to allow him to offer up another challenge to whomever he wishes in exchange," Ibri announced, seeming a bit confused himself.

"Anyone but the Freya familia," Achilles pointed out.

"Do you have anyone else in mind?" Riveria asked.

He thought for a moment when an idea popped into his mind.

"Actually, there is a challenge I think I should offer."

Should offer? she thought.

"Well then, go to Ibri and tell him. I'm sure whoever you have in mind will get him and the city excited," she said.

Achilles nodded and got up, heading for the announcer's box.

I wonder who he has in mind, she thought.

A few minutes passed before Ibri leaned down to receive Achilles's new challenge. When he heard it, he looked confused then double-checked with the person who confirmed that he had heard correctly. The confusion then turned to surprise and then to excitement.

"Wow, we've got a very special challenge for you all! In fact, I'm almost mad because I'm not sure how we'll be able to top this one! Achilles Caesar has issued his alternative challenge and none of you are going to want to miss this one, I assure you! He challenges Bete Loga, the 'Vanargand'; Tione Hiryute, the 'Jormungand', and Tiona Hiryute, the 'Amazon' to a three-on-one battle!"

Riveria's eyes widened.

"What?"

The whole city, after getting over their own surprise, went absolutely mad. Cheering, roaring their approval and frothing at the mouth with excitement.

Riveria turned to her familia who seemed just as shocked as she was.

Why would he issue a challenge like that? Challenging one of them wouldn't be so shocking. He'd probably view it as a test or something like that. But all three?

Her thoughts momentarily stopped when she saw Achilles returning.

He retook his spot next to her quietly, as if he had not just something that raised quite a few questions.

"Achilles…"

"This is something I need to do," he stated.

She was silent for a moment.

"Why?"

He turned to her.

"To clear the air."

She processed that for a time, wondering what it meant, before the pieces began to fall into place.

"Oh," she said once she figured it out.

"Don't worry," he said, growing a smile. "I won't beat them up too badly."

She laughed.

"Forgive me, Achilles, but if it's you versus those three, I'm betting on them."

He placed a hand over his heart and gave her a shocked look.

"Ah, and here I thought you had confidence in me."

She laughed again.

"Not as much as I have in them."

"Well then, we'll see who's the fool tomorrow, won't we?" he said, crossing his arms and pretending to pout.

"I suppose we will," she agreed.

---

Freya smiled from her personal box in the Coliseum and watched as Bell made his way out of the arena, battered, but smiling.

Soon he may be able to take on even Ottar, she thought, turning her eyes to her captain. Still, her smile faltered. I do not appreciate that Ganesha's little girl dared to cut his adorable face. Maybe I should punish her, she wondered, but quickly discarded that idea. No, it would be unwise to risk conflict with the Ganesha familia and their Guild allies. Besides, Bell would likely be upset and I need to fully gain his trust so that he'll come to me.

She sipped her wine as she let her mind wander towards fantasies of the future.

Hm, it's going to be so wonderful, she thought as she pictured the four of them all together doing a mixture of activities, though focusing most of her imagination on one particular activity.

Delicious, she thought as her body began to tingle.

Her mind then turned to another matter regarding her dearly beloved. She had noticed he had arrived late to the Coliseum and his armor looked damaged upon his arrival. That had piqued her curiosity and she wondered what might have happened, especially when she took note of Achilles's and Haruhime's worried looks.

Hm, did something happen? she wondered, her eyes narrowing for a moment.

"Achilles Caesar, the Olympian himself, has issued a challenge! And this one isn't much of a surprise, in my opinion. He challenges Allen Fromel, the 'Vana Freya'!"

The announcement pulled Freya back from her thoughts and she smiled.

"Ottar," she said in her usual silken voice.

"I'll ensure he remembers, my lady," her captain responded, departing to go and speak with her vice-captain.

I'm sorry, my dear Achilles, but I have my own challenge in mind and I don't want it spoiled.

Not long after, Ottar returned.

"He responded as ordered and will give the announcer the message."

Her smile grew.

"Thank you, Ottar."

He bowed.

"Of course my lady."

"Wait, wait. Hold on everyone! I've just received word that Allen Fromel has denied Achilles's challenge! I'm also being told that the Freya familia will deny any challenge from the Hestia familia!"

She watched the confusion over her beloveds' faces, even as she reveled in her increased eagerness at the thought of her own challenge.

Don't worry, Achilles, you'll have your chance soon enough, she vowed.

She watched as her Olympian departed from his group and went to the announcer to give an alternative challenge.

She soon found herself surprised, but pleasantly so, when he provided his alternative.

"Well well," she said out loud. "Looks like Achilles has an interesting show for us."

Ottar turned to his goddess, curious for a moment before the announcer returned.

"Wow, we've got a very special challenge for you all! In fact, I'm almost mad because I'm not sure how we'll be able to top this one! Achilles Caesar has issued his alternative challenge and none of you are going to want to miss this one, I assure you! He challenges Bete Loga, the 'Vanargand'; Tione Hiryute, the 'Jormungand', and Tiona Hiryute, the 'Amazon' to a three-on-one battle!"

Cheers and overwhelming excitement shook the city and even Freya could not help but smile more eagerly at the announcement.

"Quite the interesting challenge, wouldn't you say?" she asked Ottar.

"Indeed, my lady. I wonder if something brought this on."

"As do I," she readily admitted. "A challenge like that isn't given simply, especially not from Achilles who so very rarely felt the need to show off."

"Except with you, my lady," Ottar pointed out.

Her smile grew and she gave him an adoring look.

"You're right. Except with me."

For a few moments the pleasure of the thought that her dear Olympian was trying to impress her played delightfully along her veins, but that delight stopped when her eyes refocused on said object of affection.

What's this? she asked herself as she took in the sight of Achilles and Riveria talking.

There was something there that didn't sit right with her. She knew they were friends, had been for a long time, but what she saw didn't look like friends. No, it seemed like…

More than that.

She continued to watch them, but things once more changed when her Achilles, feeling her eyes, turned to her.

She actually froze when their eyes met. Gone was the usual, hidden warmth within them. That special look he gave her, even under all his fiery scorn. Instead, the look he was giving her was more akin to a child sitting in a boring class than it was a look of affection.

Her breath caught as he gave her one final action that sent her reeling. He rolled his eyes at her, then refocused on the elf beside him.

What is going on? Freya asked herself, her mind so confused it came out, even mentally, as more of a demand.

She refocused her gaze onto the elf next to her Achilles and her eyes narrowed.

What are you playing at, girl?

Before she could further contemplate that, Ottar called out to her.

"My lady."

She glared Riveria for a moment longer before finally turning to her captain.

"We've just received word that Hearthfire Manor was attacked and both Bell and Haruhime were involved."

She frowned.

"Oh?"

---

Doneso.

Sheesh, another monster of a chapter that I did not expect to be this long. I originally thought it was going to be less than 10,000. Welp, whatever, can't say I'm disappointed. But what about you guys? Were you disappointed? Did you like it? Please share your thoughts as well as any suggestions you might have, I'd love to hear from you.

Oh boy, I can't wait for next chapter. I've got a lot planned. It's going to be a big chapter, a lot of which I think is going to come as a total shock to all of you. Normally I don't like to hype for fear of raising your expectations too high, but I am just that excited. Next one's going to be a biggy.

Anyway, enough teasing. Thank you all, once again, for joining me for our story and I will see you all next time. Until then, bye for now.

*Note:

I'm not sure if this is how Haruhime's level up ability works. From its description and what we see in the show/game, it appears to be an area effect, which seems to suggest at least the potential of the wrong person or persons receiving a boost, but I apologize if I'm wrong.