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!)

35. Triumphs, Failures, and Promises

Oh boy, we're back ladies and gentlemen, and for a chapter I'm very excited about. A lot's going to happen in this chapter, and I do mean a lot, and I think I've got a few doozies for you all. But enough of my yammering. Let's get to it!

I do not own Danmachi

---

He was practically bouncing as he looked out to the sea, a blinding smile playing upon his lips.

"Easy there, kid. Bouncing around the docks isn't going to make the ship ready any faster."

He turned and saw a much bigger man heading his way with a smile on his own.

"Sorry, Ajax, I'm just really excited."

"I'll bet. When I asked you if you wanted to come along you were packing so quickly that I had to remind you that you didn't actually answer."

The smaller man blushed.

"Sorry. I guess even after all these years a part of me is still a kid at heart."

"No problem with that," Ajax said. "In fact that's preferable when compared to me who feels age creeping up on me."

"Oh stop that. You may be in your mid-forties now, but you don't look a day over twenty-eight."

"Says the kid who looks like an eighteen year-old."

The younger man laughed.

"I guess you got me there," the younger of the two went silent for a moment. "He'll be fifty-five now, almost fifty-six. I bet he doesn't look even close to it though," he said, a softer smile now on his lips.

Ajax stared down at his companion for a moment before chuckling.

"Guess I don't need to ask if you're going to be happy to see your old captain again."

The younger adventurer blushed.

"Of course I'll be happy to see him," he stated, pouting a bit.

Ajax laughed.

"Fair enough. But which one are you more excited to see again, your old captain or Orario?"

His companion fidgeted a bit.

"Well, Orario was always home, but it's the people that make it home."

Ajax laughed again.

"Nice dodge, kid," he replied, getting another pout. "Well, with any luck we'll arrive in time for this tournament that I'm hearing so much about."

The younger adventurer's smile returned in full force.

"I hope so. It would be great to return to Orario in style. Declaring that the Zeus and Hera familias were back for all the world to see."

Ajax affectionately rubbed his head.

"Couldn't agree more kid, so let's keep our fingers crossed."

His younger companion smiled even more brightly and held up his hands, showing his crossed fingers.

---

With the day now over the Hestia familia and their companions all rushed to the Hearthfire Manor, hoping that nothing else had happened since they had left.

The return trip took a great deal of time though, courtesy of the crowded streets and excited people they encountered along the way. This time, Achilles's intimidating size was simply not enough and, if anything, worked against them as many recognized him and began to swarm around their group. This problem was only exaggerated when the others in the entourage were also recognized and began to swarm them as well.

This all led to a very annoying two hour long process where those within the group, namely Achilles, Riveria, and Bell, were asked many questions, including some very personal ones, much to their embarrassment. However, questions weren't the only issue as the people that swarmed them also began to get very touchy feely; squeezing muscles, stroking hair, and overall being far too affectionate.

Their companions were irritated by this, both because it was preventing them from getting to their destination and because more than a few were jealous. It had taken only a split second for Lili to react when the first woman stroked Bell's hair in a very suggestive manner, and the prum began screaming at her. Meanwhile Ryuu and Aiz had been giving death glares to every woman and man that dared to approach their rabbit.

Achilles and Riveria weren't doing much better, and were finding it very hard to be civil with the people who decided they had a right to put their hands on them. Ironically, it was actually because of this that the group was finally able to get home as one woman, perhaps because she wanted to say she had felt up an elven princess reached over and grabbed a handful of Riveria's breast.

Magic suddenly blasted forth, sending much of the crowd flying as Riveria, blushing and giving the entire crowd a glare that turned bowels to water, screamed out.

"Enough!"

That ended the situation and the entourage quickly departed, leaving behind the overly affectionate crowd. That was lucky for the crowd since Achilles, upon seeing the way Riveria was holding her arm over her chest and quickly putting two and two together, was ready to rip limbs from sockets.

Finally arriving at their destination, everyone quickly made their way into the manor where Hestia was speaking with Gareth and Bete, smiling.

"Thank you two so much for your help, but you really didn't need to help with the clean up, you're already doing so much by just being here to guard the place," she said.

"We were happy to help, Hestia-sama," Gareth said with a smile. "Besides, compared to the challenges we've faced, this was nothing. I might even go so far as to say it was a nice change of pace."

"Tsk, wouldn't go that far, but it definitely wasn't hard," Bete added.

"Well thank you, regardless," she said.

"We're back, Hestia-sama," Bell called.

"Bell-kun!" Hestia cried, rushing over to him and hugging him. "You did so well in your fight! Congratulations!"

"Thank you, Hestia-sama," Bell said smiling.

"You let it get far too close, Rabbit," Bete said, stepping forward. "If you had lost I would have kicked your ass!"

"Be nice, Bete. Shakti isn't the captain of her familia for nothing," Gareth said. "Well done, Bell-san."

"Thank you very much," the young man replied.

"How were things here?" Achilles asked, jumping in.

Things were silent for a second as Bete eyed his challenger, and for a moment everyone wondered if he was going to make a scene. However, after a second or two, he 'tsked' and rolled his eyes.

Seeing that no issue was going to rise, Hestia proceeded.

"Things were fine. No sign of another attack nor any sign of Revis. We've cleaned up as best as we can. I contacted the Goibniu familia as well and they were willing to send out someone tomorrow to inspect it and give us an estimate on repairs."

"Good. Hopefully things won't be too expensive," Achilles said.

Bell's head dropped in shame, which was immediately noticed.

"Bell-kun, you'd better not be thinking something like 'I should have tried to do less damage'," Hestia warned.

He blushed as that was exactly what he had been thinking.

"Bell-kun, you were defending both your home and your familia, so there's absolutely no reason to feel guilty," his goddess stated.

"I-I'm not so sure. I lost control during the fight. Maybe if I hadn't I wouldn't have done so much damage to our home."

While the others tried to assure Bell that it was okay, Ouka, Chigusa, Haruhime, and Achilles, having actually witnessed what Bell was like when he lost control, were quiet and thinking on what they'd seen.

Please, Bell, please don't turn on yourself for my weakness, Haruhime pleaded.

Achilles, seeing that Bell, despite all the assurances, didn't seem to feel better, decided it was time to jump in.

"I for one think, nay, know, that it's good you lost control," he stated.

Everyone turned to him, but it was his son that he focused on.

"How could that be good?" Bell asked.

"Well, had you not, your new skill might not have activated and while its a bit messy, as the manor can attest to, I think it's safe to say that it gave you the power needed to overcome a very strong opponent."

Bell looked a bit uneasy about this as the topic of his new skill still not sitting well with him.

"Bell," Achilles said, taking a knee in front of him. "Your new skill isn't malevolent or evil, how you use it determines that, and today you used it to stop someone threatening your familia and to save Haruhime. I'd say that is a pretty benevolent way of using it. I also think it played a part in you saving Naaza today so that's at least two," he held up two fingers. "Saves you have under your belt courtesy of the power it gave you."

Bell stared at his father for a moment, then turned to Naaza, who smiled at him, then Haruhime who, after a moment, did likewise, putting all her affection and kindness into the smile.

That finally did the trick and Bell smiled. It wasn't his million valis smile, but it did allow his fear to burn away.

"Alright. I guess when you put it like that," he finally said.

"There's my boy," Achilles said, ruffling his hair and standing up.

With that resolved and everyone feeling a bit better, Tiona, who had been barely able to restrain herself, finally burst.

"So what's this new skill of yours!" she asked.

"Well um…" Bell began rubbing the back of his head.

"Tiona, that's a bit rude," Riveria chided.

"Why? They keep talking about it and I want to know what it is and what it does. It sounds cool!" she said excitedly.

In all honesty, they all wanted to know, especially Finn who, upon hearing how it had allowed the Hestia captain to go toe-to-toe with someone his familia had difficulty with, was eager to learn more.

"Well, it's kind of a enhancement skill, I guess you could say," Bell replied. "Dad actually said it's like your Hell Finegas spell, Finn-san."

That caught the prum by a bit of surprise.

"Is that so?" he asked, genuinely curious now.

Bell nodded.

"Interesting. Maybe I can help you with it then," he offered, smiling.

"I'd appreciate that," Bell said, smiling back.

Many skeptical eyes stared down at Finn, namely Achilles, Riveria, and Aiz, but he had long since mastered his own poker face.

"Well, it's been a long day," Hephaestus said, noting the tension and hoping to prevent any possible issue from arising. "So why don't we all-."

The sound of the gate bell ringing stopped her.

"I swear if that's more fawning fans I'm going to lose it," Achilles said, making his way towards the front door.

Everyone watched him open it and then freeze.

"Are you fucking shitting me?"

"What is it, Achilles-kun?" Hestia asked.

"More fans?" Riveria asked, frowning and putting her arm back over her chest.

"I wish," he said, turning to them. "It's the Freya familia."

Everyone frowned.

"Freya's kids are here?" Loki asked, her eyes opening a bit.

"Yep, and they aren't alone. Given the size and the way she's wrapped up, it appears that their beloved goddess has joined them," he answered.

"Freya's here too?" Hestia asked, now even more concerned as she rushed over.

"It appears so."

Hestia and the other deities rushed over to the front door and found that, indeed, every Freya executive was waiting by the gate, along with a wrapped up figure that, even from this distance, they could tell was Freya.

"Want me to tell them to leave?" Achilles asked.

Hestia sighed.

"As much as I want to say yes, it's probably best I say no. Go let them in," she said.

He nodded, and began trudging over to the gate while the others prepared as best they could for their surprise, and quite frankly unwelcome, guests.

Upon arriving at the gate, his hand latched to his sword, he pointed his eyes at the goddess before him.

"Good evening, Achilles," Freya greeted, smiling pleasantly at him.

"This sight would normally be construed as an act of war," Achilles replied, ignoring the pleasantries.

Freya laughed lightly.

"I suppose you're right, but conflict is the last thing I want," she assured him.

"Then why are you and your little kiddies here?" Achilles demanded.

"I heard that your home was attacked," she replied, her playful tone gone.

His frown deepened.

"You're spying on us."

She laughed again, this time more heartedly.

"You already knew I was watching you, Bell, and Haruhime, but it's not like I need to spy on you to hear of this attack. News of it is already spreading through the city. By morning everyone will know."

"Hm," he hummed. "You're probably right. That doesn't mean I'm exactly keen on the idea of being watched or of your brats barging into my home."

Said 'brats' glared and barely held back growls, but Freya kept smiling.

"That's why I'm not going to barge in, but ask to be let in," she said softly.

"Like your kids would allow us to say no," Achilles threw back before he opened the gate.

"Thank you, Achilles-kun."

"Thank me by not trying anything while you're here," he said.

Achilles and the Freya familia made the short trip back to the Hearthfire Manor and were immediately greeted by the sight of the other deities standing in front of their children, all of whom had their eyes downcast. This did not include Bell who was standing front and center.

"Bell-kun," Freya greeted, genuine joy and relief in her voice as she went up to him and placed a hand on his cheek, much to everyone's distaste. "I'm so glad to see you're alright. When I heard that you were involved in an attack on your home I was so worried."

"Thank you, Freya, I appreciate your concern," he replied civilly. "As you can see, I'm totally alright."

"Of which I'm profoundly grateful. And what of Haruhime? I was told that she was also involved in the attack."

The room tensed at the mention of the renard and Achilles was prepared to step in, if need be, to prevent Freya from trying anything. However, after a moment, said golden fox stepped forward and bowed to the goddess.

"Good evening, Freya-sama," she greeted.

"Haruhime," Freya cooed gently. She reached out and lifted the young woman's head, causing everyone but Achilles and Bell to freeze, while the two in question grabbed their weapons, which in turn caused the Freya familia to do the same. However, Freya either didn't notice or willfully ignored all this. "I'm so glad to see you're alright," she continued, looking into the renard's wide emeralds before suddenly pulling the young woman into a hug.

Haruhime blushed terribly as her face was pressed into the goddess's generous bosom.

"I don't know what I'd do if I lost you either, my dearest Haruhime. Seeing you safe now brings warmth to my heart."

"I-I," Haruhime's eyes were spinning.

Freya, smiling, pulled back and then, while Haruhime was trying to recover, leant down and kissed her forehead.

That was finally too much for Haruhime who finally fainted, being quickly caught by Bell.

Freya laughed.

"Still so innocent," she said wistfully, hand on her cheek as she watched Bell try to wake her up.

"Sheesh, did you just come here to embarrass Haruhime?" Hestia asked.

"Not at all. I just wanted to make sure Bell and Haruhime were alright. That, and offer to pay for the repairs."

"You want to pay for repairs?" Hestia asked.

"Of course. It's the least I could do for my dearly beloved."

Everyone's frowns deepened.

"Thank you, Freya, but no thanks," Hestia said.

The Freya familia frowned and looked ready to attack after that denial, but Freya simply looked down at her fellow goddess curiously.

"Whyever not?"

"I don't like the idea of being in debt to you," the goddess of the hearth replied.

"It wouldn't be a debt though, but a gift. I wouldn't ask you to repay it."

"You really think we'll believe that? After everything?"

Freya thought for a moment, knowing that, given their lack of trust in her, they weren't about to put themselves in the position of owing her anything. However, the intelligent woman that she was, she found a way to work this to her favor.

"Very well. Then, if I ask for something in return, will you allow me to pay for the repairs?" she inquired.

"Depends on what you're asking for," Hestia stated, knowing full well the sort of things Freya would want.

"Oh, it's nothing too great. I just want to spend some time with my dearest Haruhime."

Everyone, including the now awakened renard, blinked.

"Meaning?" Hestia pressed.

"I'd like her to join my for a meal and some small talk tomorrow during Achilles's fight tomorrow. That would be more than enough payment," Freya said.

"You want us to allow you to be alone with Haruhime?" Achilles growled, looking ready to permanently veto that idea.

"Why not?" Freya asked, already knowing the answer.

"Are you serious?" Achilles asked. "You really think we'll allow you to be alone with Haruhime and give you the chance to kidnap her again or Charm her?"

"I hardly kidnapped her Achilles, I merely asked Ottar to escort her to me for a quick chat." Achilles growled again. "Besides that, I would never Charm my dear Haruhime. I've learned that it's best to get you three to come to me. More...fun, that way," she explained.

"Was that supposed to put us at ease?" Achilles asked.

Freya laughed again.

"I'm just being honest."

"I'm not sure you even know the meaning of the word," Achilles threw back.

Freya's smile finally dropped and she stared up into his eyes.

Those cold eyes again. What is happening? Why are you looking at me like that, Achilles?

"I-I'll do it!"

The goddess turned to Haruhime.

"Haruhime...are you sure?" Bell asked, looking very unsure.

"I am...if it helps our familia, I will meet with Freya-sama," she turned her emeralds towards the goddess of beauty. "But if you try anything, I'll leave immediately," she warned.

Freya's smile returned.

Though she doesn't have the power of Achilles or Bell, her strength is formidable in its own way.

"Wonderful. I can't wait, my deare. There's so much I want to know about you, but I will restrain myself until tomorrow. Until then," she went over, leant down, and kissed Haruhime's cheek. "That will have to do."

Haruhime blushed, but remained strong, which greatly pleased Freya.

"Well, I won't take up any more of your time. Goodnight everyone. Sleep well. And good luck tomorrow, Achilles, I eagerly await your fight," the goddess finished, giving one last smile and wave.

Freya and her familia departed, letting everyone finally breathe.

"That woman," Achilles growled.

"Are you really sure about this, Haruhime?" Bell asked again, still concerned.

"I am. I know Freya-sama's not to be trusted, but if this allows me the chance to help my familia then I am more than willing to go through with it."

That didn't exactly put anyone at ease, but it did warm their hearts to see her wanting so much to help those she cared about.

"Alright, but don't be afraid to tell us if you want out or if anything seems amiss. We'll support you no matter what and be there in a heartbeat if that pervy goddess tries anything," Hestia declared, immediately getting many affirmations.

Haruhime smiled.

"I will. Thank you."

---

Bell's hand was on his door as he prepared to get some much needed rest when he heard his name being called.

Turning, he found Haruhime before him.

"What is it, Haruhime? Is this about Freya?" he asked quickly.

She shook her head.

"No, but thank you for your concern. No, I am here to do what we discussed earlier."

"Discussed earlier?" he questioned.

"The...the massage," she told him, red coming to her cheeks.

He blinked.

"That's...while I certainly appreciate that, Haruhime, you don't need to do that. I'm sure I'll be fine after some sleep."

"Please, Bell-sama. I want to," she replied, her voice sure, but kind.

"Well...if you're sure," he said, rubbing the back of his head.

She smiled and held up a bottle.

"I even brought my best oil," she said.

"Uh," his cheeks became a bit redder. "Then, I suppose there's no point standing here. Please come in," he said, signally for her to come in.

"Thank you."

The two entered his room. Haruhime, nervous, but a bit gidding at getting this far, took a deep breath.

"Alright, remove your shirt and lay on the bed," she instructed.

"W-What?"

She giggled.

"I can't give you a proper massage if you're in your clothes, Bell-sama," she informed him.

Bell's blush grew, but after a moment, and reminding himself that he had gone further with Aisha, he took a deep breath himself and pulled off his shirt.

Now, Haruhime may have vowed to fight for Bell, and this had given her more confidence, but she hadn't suddenly become some succubus or mistress of the night, so seeing him remove his shirt and getting an eye full of his toned chest wasn't exactly easy on her and her face exploded into scarlet. Luckily for her, Bell didn't see this and simply went over to his bed and laid down.

Taking a moment to ensure she didn't faint, Haruhime made her way over, climbed into the bed above him and placed her knees on both sides of his torso.

"Don't be afraid to tell me if something feels off or if there's a spot you'd like me to focus on," she said as calmly as she could.

"Alright," he replied.

Taking her oil, she put some into her hands and rubbed them before, with one final deep breath, bringing them down onto her beloved's skin.

Bell jumped.

"Is something wrong?! Did I hurt you?!" she asked, terribly worried.

"N-No!" he replied. "I was just a bit surprised and…"

"And?"

"And it's warmer than I thought," he admitted.

"Oh. Yes. The oil has a wonderful warming effect that Aisha and the other girls loved," Haruhime said, smiling.

I don't think it has anything to do with the oil, Bell thought.

Haruhime began her ministrations, her hands gliding over Bell's skin and, almost immediately his eyes closed and he groaned.

"Are you alright?" she asked, this time with less alarm.

"Mhmm. It feels nice," he admitted.

Her smile grew and her tail began to wag.

"I'm glad."

She continued her massage, working through his tired muscles and slowly turning him into a puddle of relief beneath her, even getting him to occasionally moan in pleasure or relief.

"How are you feeling, Bell-sama?" she asked, her voice coming out as a whisper.

"Wonderful," he responded, his voice just as quiet as hers.

She was about to respond when an idea struck her mind.

Maybe I can be just a bit bolder.

Without a word, Haruhime leaned down and pressed her chest against his back. He, naturally, tensed and his previously closed eyes shot open, but before he could ask her what she was doing, she placed her lips next to his ear and said.

"I'm so glad to hear that, Bell. To know that I'm making you feel good is the greatest pleasure for me. There's nothing I want more than to make your life as happy as possible. I would do anything for you and your happiness."

Bell managed to turn his red face around enough to look at her, but was utterly silent, which served her just fine as she smiled at him, then leaned down and kissed his cheek.

"Anything," she repeated.

She got off of him and then got off the bed. She retrieved his shirt as he slowly got up himself, and handed it to him.

"T-Thank you," he said, still very much blushing.

"You're welcome, Bell-sama. If you ever wish for another massage or need anything else, I'll be overjoyed to help you," she said, beaming.

"I-I'll keep that in mind," he responded, his face even redder now.

"Good. Then I'll bid you goodnight, Bell-sama."

"G-Good night, Haruhime."

She bowed and departed, leaving behind a stunned Bell to deal with his thundering heart.

The renard left her love's room and silently made her way back to her room. She entered quietly, made her way over to her bed, then her face burst into blinding scarlet a moment before she fainted and fell into her bed.

---

Outside the halls of the Hearthfire Manor, a much different story was playing out. Just as Freya had said, the news of the attack on the Hestia familia home spread through the city. The worry and fear that had been so successfully silenced by of the tournament, quietly began to sink its teeth back into the heart of the city. However, its hold was not total yet, for the excitement of the next day's great challenge still held great sway over the hearts and minds of the city's residents. Combined with strong drink, good food, an unhealthy amount of gambling, and many a romp in the Pleasure District, the fear could not make much headway. But it was there and ready to strike, injecting its poison into the heart of the city. All it needed was one more incident to remind everyone that even a tournament as grand as this one could not hold back terror for long.

---

The crowd was going wild as the most anticipated fight so far, was just around the corner.

This also meant that it was time for Haruhime to join Freya for what everyone hoped really was just a lunch. Not that they believed it would be.

"I'm leaving now, everyone," she announced.

They all gave her worried looks, but nodded.

"We'll be right here if anything happens, Haruhime," Bell said.

"Try and avoid her eyes if possible. She's got a lot of tricks, but if you avoid her Charm that takes her biggest one off the table," Hestia advised.

Haruhime nodded, listening to all the advice.

"Thank you, everyone. I promise I'll do my best to be safe."

They all nodded again, trusting her word before giving her one final goodbye.

Departing from her familia, Haruhime took a breath and made her way towards where the goddess of beauty was viewing the tournament.

She followed the directions she was given and instantly knew she had arrived at the correct location when she was met with the sight of Freya's great boaz captain.

"Welcome, Haruhime Sanjouno. Thank you for accepting my lady's invitation."

"I would thank her for giving it, but I do not want to be disingenuous. She and you both know I am very much concerned about this meeting," she replied.

He nodded.

"Trust is earned, I only ask that you are open enough to listen to my lady. I promise you, you will not be disappointed."

His words sounded so genuine to the renard and, odd as it sounds given that he had effectively kidnapped her, she trusted him, at least with regards to this.

"We shall see, Ottar-sama," she said.

He let her inside and she was a bit surprised to find the room was dark, with even the sunlight being restrained by heavy currents.

"I'm so glad you came, my dearest Haruhime."

She turned and immediately found her eyes meeting those of the goddess of beauty.

Haruhime's eyes widened and she quickly turned away.

A soft laugh met her ears and she found her chin softly being turned to face the goddess again.

"I will not use my Charm on you, Haruhime. As much as I want you, I want you and my two other beloved's to come to me. Charming you would ruin that. Now, will you sit with me?" Freya asked.

Taking a moment to steady her breath, Haruhime nodded, earning a brighter smile from the goddess before her.

"Wonderful. Come."

Freya took her seat, gesturing for Haruhime to take the seat next to her which, after a moment, the fox girl did.

"I assume you're wondering why the room is so dark," Freya continued.

"I-I was wondering," Haruhime admitted.

"There are two reasons. One: I don't wish to garner the attention of the entire stadium while I sit here," Freya explained. "And two," she held up two fingers before she gently ran her fingers across her skin. "I have a very soft complexion. The sun, as nice as it is to feel on the skin, would damage this pale skin of mine."

Haruhime nodded, understanding better than most. She knew how a pale complexion could be very highly prized from her previous line of work. It wasn't for everyone of course. Many positively fell over themselves for the darker complexion of someone like Aisha, but a true pale beauty could fetch a high price.

"But that's enough about me," Freya continued. "I want to hear about you, first and foremost being how you are. You weren't hurt in the attack, were you?"

"Well…" Haruhime began, wondering if she should reveal what happened. It didn't seem like a problem to her, as long as she didn't address the reason for the attack, but she knew that Freya was clever and could use information in ways that she herself never could. Even so, she was an honest young woman and so answered honestly. "I was briefly captured by the intruder. She had her hand around my throat and threatened me to try and get Bell-sama to cooperate."

Freya frowned, as did Ottar, though Haruhime did not see that, which was probably for her best.

"That is most upsetting to hear," the goddess said. "Would you like Ottar to guard you? I'm sure he would be more than happy to."

"N-No, it's quite alright, Freya-sama. That won't be necessary. Bell-sama saved me and dealt with the intruder so I have absolutely no reason to doubt he can protect me and the rest of my familia."

Freya's frown disappeared as the mention of Bell and his rescue allowed her to smile again.

"He is quite something, isn't he?" she said.

Haruhime, despite the situation, smiled as well.

"He is."

Now in a better mood, Freya reached out her hand and gently moved Haruhime's golden locks to the side so she could examine her neck.

"I don't see any bruising," the goddess said.

"Riveria-sama healed me afterwards, so I'm alright now," Haruhime replied.

The mention of the elf caused Freya's frown to return.

"Riveria Ljos Alf. She's quite close to your familia, isn't she?"

Haruhime did not fail to notice the tonal shift.

"I-I suppose so. All the Loki familia are," she said, trying to deflect.

"Yet she's closer, isn't she? Very close, and to my Achilles, isn't she?" Haruhime began to sweat. "Just as, if not even closer than Aiz Wallenstein is to my Bell, isn't she?" the goddess pressed.

Haruhime did not respond, as her heart thundered too terribly for a response.

"Come now, Haruhime, you can tell me. I'm just curious is all," Freya said, with a smile.

Haruhime, as gentle, innocent, and good-natured as she was, knew that wasn't the truth.

"Y-You'd have to ask, Riveria-sama," she finally managed.

Freya's smile actually grew at that.

"You wouldn't be hiding something from me, would you be, Haruhime? Some secret?"

"I am hiding many secrets from you, Freya-sama," Haruhime replied instantly, surprising all three of them. However, the fox quickly got over her shock and pressed on. "As a member of the Hestia familia, it is my duty to keep our secrets safe and that includes whatever may or may not be happening between Achilles and Riveria. If you wish to learn the truth of their situation, you will need to ask them."

Freya stared at Haruhime, processing the renard's words and the strength behind them, before she burst out laughing.

"Oh my dear, you truly are something!" she declared happily. "Whenever I think I've got you backed into a corner you push back so delightfully! I simply can't get enough of it."

"I would prefer you not put me in situations where I need to push back, Freya-sama," Haruhime stated.

"Understandable," Freya responded. "However, I can't promise that I won't continue to try and do so, not when your reactions are so wonderful and allow me to see that inner fire of yours," she finished, stroking Haruhime's cheek.

Haruhime didn't respond, she simply looked back at the goddess. This was fine for Freya who soon after pulled back.

"However, it appears that it's time for Achilles's big fight. So, let's watch, shall we?"

Haruhime's eyes widened as she had forgotten about his fight due to the woman before her. Now that she was reminded, she turned to the arena, alongside Freya, and silently wished Achilles luck.

Oh my dear, he doesn't need luck. There's no way that my Olympian will lose to Loki's children. Not when I'm watching, elven princess be damned.

---

"We're finally here ladies and gentlemen! The fight we've all been salivating for! The fight that will eclipse all other fights up to now! It's time to see if the Loki familia can topple the Olympian from his perch at the top!"

The city shook as cheers roared through its streets towards the heavens.

"So no more waiting! Let's get started! Bring em out!"

One of the gates into the arena opened and the three Loki familia members walked out, looking tense, but ready for action.

"You know them already, but I'll introduce our challenged anyway. Bete Loga, the 'Vanargand'; Tione Hiryute, the 'Jormungand', and Tiona Hiryute, the 'Amazon'! Let them feel the love, people!"

Applause and cheers rained down on the three as they made their way towards the center of the amphitheater.

"And their challenger, the great, the powerful, the king of Olympus himself, Achilles Caesar!"

The ex-captain walked out of the gate to truly deafening noise. The very air shook as the city greeted the challenger, desperate to finally get things started and see what these four living legends were capable of.

"So," Bete said, once Achilles had reached them. "This some sort of test or something? See if we're ready to take up the mantle or whatever?"

Achilles smiled, but shook his head.

"I wish it was that benevolent. No, this is more of a 'clearing the air' thing," he told them.

The three were confused.

"Clearing the air?" Bete questioned.

Achilles nodded.

"You three have issues with my and I have issues with you three. I suspect that you haven't forgiven me for my threat, and I haven't forgiven you for those little orders you forced on our mutual companion," he explained, earning a frown from each of them. "As such, I thought this would be a good opportunity for us to work through our issues in the most direct way possible."

So that's what this is about, Riveria thought from the crowd. This thought was parroted by her nearby familia, along with the Hestia familia. However, these were the only ones who understood and the rest of the city, including a certain goddess of beauty, were left completely in the dark.

What threat did Achilles issue? Was it against the Loki familia? If so, what could have inspired that? She knew of several potential reasons, but the one that pleased her most was the idea that it was for her sake. I'll have to ask him later, she thought with a smile. But what are these orders, I wonder. He obviously isn't pleased with them. And 'mutual companion'?

Freya was a clever woman, so it did not take her long to figure out who that meant and her eyes turned to a certain elf who, from the looks of it, knew exactly what he was talking about.

What are you playing at, girl? You're acting far too familiar with my Achilles and that's a very dangerous position to be in given that your little Sword Princess has already taken far too much of my Bell's affection.

While Freya glared at the elven princess, the scene below continued.

The two amazon sisters shared a look, not really sure what to make of what they were being told by the adventurer in front of them. Bete, however, simply continued to stare at the human, his eyes and frown unmoving.

"Tch, guess that works just as well for a reason as any other. Been wanting to give you a good kick to the head since the day you barged in," he stated.

Achilles smirked.

"And I've been wanting to yank that tail of yours ever since you first opened your mouth, so I guess we'll both be happy by the end."

Bete's frown deepened, but he didn't say anything, just got into position to prepare for the coming fight.

Tione and Tiona, while still a bit confused about the situation, eventually just shrugged and joined the werewolf in getting ready.

"Looks like we're ready," Achilles said, getting ready himself.

"You heard him ladies and gentlemen! Time to get this party started! Three two one! Go!"

The three Loki members all rushed towards the Olympian the moment the announcement reached their ears, which said mountain resident expected.

"Lightning Steps."

With his newly gained speed, Achilles dodged Bete's kick towards his head, bending backwards and spinning under the attack to get behind the werewolf. However, he did not attack him, but instead focused on the two amazons right behind him.

Lashing out, he surprised Tione, who managed to block his strike, but was forced back by the strength of the blow, allowing him to focus on Tiona. He blocked her strike as well, then grabbed her arm. However, before he could do anything else, Bete attacked again, aiming to bring a kick down upon the top of the Olympian's cranium. Achilles managed to block this with his sword, though the force did make him grit his teeth, before very quickly focusing back on Tiona, lifting his leg and booting her across the arena.

Bete wasn't just sitting still while Achilles dealt with the amazon in front of him. With the Olympian's focus now shifted, he quickly spun in the air and brought his other leg around to aim for Achilles's unprotected jaw. The ex-captain noticed this, but didn't have time to dodge, so instead he brought his arm to block.

The kick was solid and both sent Achilles back and left a painful spot of his arm to remember it by. However, Achilles didn't have time to worry about this, as Tione was upon him again, looking ready to skewer him with her kukri knives. He quickly blocked her attack, before throwing his elbow back to smash Bete in the jaw and remove the werewolf for a moment. That done, he counter-attacked Tione, using his strength to force her knives down then pommel striking her in the face hard enough to send her flying like her sister.

Speaking of which, Tiona was back in the game and rushing him like a woman possessed.

She swung at him with all her might, and he did likewise, meeting her upward swing with a downward one.

The swords' positions and his superior strength gave him the edge and allowed him to force her weapon down, much like he did with her sister, however, before he could capitalize on this, Bete came flying back at him, aiming a spinning kick straight for his head.

He spun around and managed to dodge the attack, but only just barely, and he could quite noticeably feel the wind grazing his cheek as the foot and leg passed him.

Looking to regain some of the momentum that seemed to be getting sapped from him by his young adversaries, Achilles jabbed at the still soaring Bete, aiming a thrust that would pierce right through the middle of his skull.

Bete threw his head to the side to avoid the jab, but even his incredible speed couldn't get him off scott-free, and he soon felt the blade cut along his cheek in a bloody hello.

This small victory for Achilles was soon met by the vicious counter-attack of Bete's amazonian comrades who joined forces to come at the ex-captain like a flaming battering ram.

If Achilles had enough time to think in that moment, he would have been very glad for his speed as it was the only thing that allowed him to block the onslaught of the sisters. His relief was short-lived though as Bete reappeared behind him, aiming a kick that, should it connect, would risk shattering his spine.

Knowing this, Achilles once again put his arm up to block the attack. He succeeded, but Bete's kicks were infamous for a reason and he could feel his adamatine armguard pressing into his flesh as the metal bent under the weight of Bete's attack. Worse yet, the T&T sisters were still before him, looking more than ready to take advantage of his current state.

Not bad kiddos, he thought.

Just as the two ladies of the Loki familia were about to connect their strikes, he leapt into the air, backflipping over their attacks, surprising all three of them, which provided him just enough time to land, and retreat some distance to regain his bearings.

Not bad at all, he complimented, even as the three rushed towards him again. However…

Pushing off the ground with enough strength to send up a wall of sand, Achilles shot like an unholy arrow at his opponents.

Bete was the only one fast enough to react, stopping himself in time to bring up the most rudimentary defense. However, he was not Achilles's target, and the Olympian simply shot past him towards the amazonian sisters.

Tione and Tiona were utterly unprepared for Achilles to appear in front of them, or more accurately, next to them, his hands pressing to their faces as he not only stopped them midstride, but proceeded to throw them back the way the came with enough force to send them crashing against the arena walls.

Not quite good enough, he finished, smiling as he turned towards the stunned Bete.

---

He's holding his own, Riveria thought as she watched the man who earned her heart, battle her comrades-in-arms.

I suppose that's not too surprising. He is a level seven and has enough skill to match them. Even so, it is a bit startling that he can hold his own against three of the best fighters in Orario.

She watched as the ex-captain managed to grab Bete's leg and then threw him at Tione, causing the two to go tumbling across the sand while Tiona was forced to take on the Olympian alone.

It really would have been a terrible challenge to defeat him if he had decided to go through with his threat, she recognized, thinking back to not so distant events. I'm glad that it never came to that, she thought, letting out a breath of relief.

A few paces away, her captain was anything but relieved.

He's this powerful? Finn asked himself as he watched Achilles battle the three. He really is as dangerous as I thought he was, maybe even more so, he thought, his worry growing. And he might not even be the greatest threat a year from now, his eyes turned to a familiar splattering of white.

Bell was restraining himself, wanting to cheer for all four of those currently fighting, but feeling it would be taking sides if he called out any name. Instead, he simply watched, fists clenched as he awaited the results.

It might not even be a year from now. He's become a level five in less than a year, how far will he come in the next six months? How has he grown so quickly? No one's been able to advance this quickly, not even Aiz. Does he have some sort of skill that allows him to grow more quickly? the pallum wondered, afraid that this was exactly the case and what that would mean for the white-haired young man a few paces away, his familia, the city, and the world at large.

Freya smiled as she watched the fight.

"He's quite something, isn't he?" she said to her companion.

"He is," Haruhime readily admitted, watching the display with mouth agape. "I know how strong the Loki familia is, so for him to be able to fight them so well is...amazing."

"Indeed. My Achilles is quite the powerful adventurer. Well beyond the common rabble and even greater than Loki's very best children."

"I wouldn't say that," Haruhime said. "They are certainly challenging him, and I can tell he's giving his all."

"I very much doubt that, my dear. Children such as these could never force him to go all out," Freya replied.

Haruhime turned to her.

"It is unwise to underestimate what people are capable of, Freya-sama."

The stern way the renard said that caught the attention of the goddess, who turned back to the fox girl and met her eyes. Seeing the firm, unwavering emeralds before her, Freya smiled.

"Quite right my dear. One never knows what treasures they'll find hidden amongst the sand and stones. You and Bell-kun are proof of that."

Haruhime held her gaze for a moment, before nodding. Whether this was as thanks for agreeing or simply as a courtesy was impossible to tell. However, Freya did not turn her gaze from the young woman before her and kept her gaze solidly upon her.

So strong-willed, at least when she wants to be. And so beautiful. I can't wait for when we are all together and I finally get the chance to hear her sing.

The goddess was snapped back to reality when her vixen princess suddenly gasped and covered her mouth with her hands.

Confused, Freya turned her gaze back to the fight and her eyes widened.

---

Achilles mentally cursed as pain shot through him. Tione had surprised him by throwing one of her knives at him. Normally he would have been able to dodge or even grab it out of the air, but he was pinned by Tiona, so couldn't stop the blade from embedding itself into the upper left part of his torso, right under the shoulder. This, in turn, gave Tiona enough of an opening to force his sword aside and give him a not-so-nice cut from his left hip to his right shoulder. Even then, the onslaught wasn't over as the two amazons jumped aside as Bete appeared behind him and delivered a kick to his back that sent him flying across the arena.

Ow, Achilles thought as he picked himself back up. They're starting to gain the edge.

That bit of recognition was both a bit troubling and quite the heartening bit of information. Sure, he was getting beat by some kids, but these kids were the next generation; the ones who would take up the mantle when he was done.

Still, he smiled. I'm not done yet.

Neither were his opponents who were on their way to give him another dose of their bitter medicine.

Running at the three youngsters, Achilles dodged under one of Bete's kicks, before heading for the two amazon sisters. They attacked him, but he dodged, then counterattacked, striking out at Tione and using his strength to send her flying back across the arena. However, this action cost him as Tiona was upon him immediately, slashing out with her Urga and giving him yet another nice long cut to remember her by.

A terrible pain then rocked through his skull as Bete reappeared behind him and kicked him across the back of the head.

The Olympian nearly tumbled over at this hit, his eyes spinning, his ears ringing, and his head thundering terribly.

Okay...he thought, trying to focus. They're officially kicking my ass.

After a few moments, he managed to stop the spinning, ringing, and thundering enough to focus. It was then that he noticed he wasn't still under attack.

Looking around, he found both his attackers had distanced themselves instead of pressing their advantage.

Why would they…? he turned his eyes until they landed on the third member of their familia, or more accurately, her fist which was now an inch away from smashing his face. Oh.

Tione's fist slammed into his nose, shattering it and sending a spray of blood into the air. He didn't have time to be worried about this though as the amazon, who now looked like a vengeful goddess as her eyes glared at him, continued her attack.

She only had one of her knives now, but she used it to great devastation, slashing and cutting him again and again, his only respite from its bite being her fist coming around to break his bones.

Hit after hit he took, his skeleton breaking more and more with each hit as his skin gained more and more cuts.

Alright, I've had enough of this, Achilles thought.

Grabbing his sword by both the end of the blade, and the handle, he threw up his arms as Tione came down with her knife, looking like she intended to embed the blade into his forehead.

The counter work and he managed to both stop her attack, and force her arm back behind her head.

Tione growled, but Achilles wasn't looking to capture her, he was looking to incapacitate her. So, a moment later, he threw his head forehead, cracking it against hers hard enough to have both them reeling, before he let her go. He proceeded to grab the back of her head, slam her face into his knee, then slash her with his sword.

A little revenge for the beating you just gave me, he thought before he took a page out of Bell's book and jumped in the air to give her a double kick that sent her crashing into the wall at the other end of the arena.

He still had two other Loki familia to deal with though, and the first up was Tione's dear sister.

She slashed at him, and he barely managed to block the attack since he was still recovering from her sister's onslaught.

She threw another overhead slash at him, this one strong enough to force him back a few paces, however, once again, she did not press him.

Knowing now what this meant, Achilles shot his head around, trying to prepare for the next attack, but it was too late.

Bete was already behind him and not a second later he connected a devastating kick to his back.

The force of Bete's attack, lifted Achilles off his and forced the air from his lungs. A half second later he was flying towards an eager Tiona.

Shit, he cursed. His eyes then caught sight of a still very angry Tione rushing towards him to join her sister. Fuck.

Tione reached her sister's side just in time to lift her leg up and throw it at his chest. Tiona, still smiling, did likewise, but towards his face. Their years together showed at that moment as their kicks hit at the exact same time, crushing his already broken nose and ribcage and sending him flying backwards into the arena wall.

The whole city fell silent as Achilles crashed into the arena wall. They all knew that the attack had been meant to end the fight. The coordination and power behind it made sure everyone understood that. Plus, from the look of the three Loki familia, they didn't have much left in their tanks.

Bete, Tione, and Tiona were all breathing heavily and bleeding from their own set of wounds. This was, undoubtedly, one of the hardest fights they had ever fought. However, they were still standing, which was more than could be said for Achilles.

A few seconds after he crashed into the arena wall, Achilles's body fell down, crashing into sand with a less than stellar 'thud'.

Ow, he thought.

---

Up in the stands, many watched to see what would happen next.

They did it, Riveria thought, seeing the collapsed Olympian. She was proud of them, of course, this was a major accomplishment after all, but she couldn't exactly find it in herself to be happy that her object of affection had received a beating.

I hope he's okay, Bell thought, wanting to both cheer for his friends and rush over to help his downed father.

They won. They actually did. He's actually been defeated by mortal hands, Finn thought, trying to reassure himself. There's no way he could get up from that. That would lay the Behemonth low, he told himself. Yet, his thumb continued to throb.

Get up, Achilles, Freya demanded, her grip on her chair so tight her knuckles had turned white. You will not be defeated by these children!

"Is he alright?"

Freya turned and found Haruhime looking incredibly worried.

"Of course he is, my dear," the goddess replied, smiling. "He's survived much worse than this."

Haruhime looked at her, not looking the least bit assured.

"I just don't like seeing him in pain."

Freya's smile grew.

"Such a sweet thing you are, my dearest Haruhime," she cooed, reaching out to stroke her cheek.

Haruhime allowed for the sign of affection, but the moment she saw something out of the corner of her eye, she shifted back to the arena.

Freya's eyes immediately followed and her smile gained an excited tint.

---

Groaning, Achilles slowly, and very painfully, got up again, spitting out a mouthful of blood once he stood back up.

His three opponents looked a bit freaked out that he could still manage to get up after that beating, but quickly got in fighting position.

"Looks like I need to switch things up a bit," Achilles said out loud.

He flipped his sword around then shoved it into the ground.

Everyone wondered what he was doing as he shifted his stance and brought his hands up in front of him.

Shit, Finn cursed.

Down in the sandy pit, Achilles took a deep breath and then declared.

"Make me faster than even the gods. Lightning Steps."

Bete, Tione, and Tiona all stared at their opponent, ready for whatever he was going to throw at them. Or so they thought.

In the blink of an eye, Achilles was before Bete, the werewolf blinked, but didn't allow himself to be startled as he swung a kick around at his opponent, sure he would stop him in his tracks. Only to miss by a hair.

How did he…? he wasn't allowed to finish that thought as Achilles swung a lightning clad fist and cracked him in the jaw, before disappearing again and slamming two kidney punches into his back.

As Bete gasped, Tione and Tiona attacked Achilles, swinging at him, just as confident that they would connect as Bete had been. But, just like their comrade, they missed by the tiniest of margins, allowing Achilles to counter-attack ferociously, punching Tione in the gut, then backhanding Tiona.

Everyone watched as Achilles, who had looked so close to defeat, suddenly turned the tables on his three young opponents.

---

"What's going on?" Lefiya asked, terribly confused. "He looked on his last legs. It looked like they had won."

"Achilles is a renown swordsman," Riveria began, pulling all attention to her. "One of the very best the world has ever seen and perhaps the single greatest swordsman alive. Some have even called him 'the Sword Hero Reborn'. However, swordsmanship is not the limit of his fighting skills. He's also a fantastic mage, and an excellent martial artist. He never allowed his arsenal to be limited thus allowing someone to form an effective counter to him."

"But Bete-san, Tione-san, and Tiona-san are excellent in hand-to-hand combat too, as we just saw," Lefiya pointed out.

"Indeed. They are beyond exceptional," Riveria agreed, even as she watched Achilles continued to beat on her subordinates. "However there's one important detail that explains the current situation. One I've already mentioned."

Lefiya and the others looked confused for a moment before Finn gave the answer.

"His sword," he said.

Riveria nodded.

"As excellent as his swordsmanship is, it comes with one drawback. It limits Achilles's most important ability. His speed."

"His speed?" Lefiya questioned, still not quite getting it yet.

"Yes. As used to his sword as he is, it basically being an extension of his arm at this point, it does decrease his speed by just a bit, that's why Bete, Tione, and Tiona could match him when they worked together. They could use their coordination to trap or hold him, then get hits in. That's why he put it down. To end their ability to trap him. To match his speed. He dropped his sword to gain that 'just a bit' back."

The young adventurers began to put the pieces together.

"He's going to win…" Aiz said.

"Because now every attack Bete, Tione, and Tiona throw at him now will be just a split second too slow," Riveria finished.

---

Achilles watched as attack after attack passed by him, missing by a hair, before he countered and moved on.

He could see their confusion and alarm. They had been so close just a few moments ago. So close to victory, and now it was slipping away and they didn't know why.

Time to finish this, he thought, feeling a bit bad.

Dodging another kick from Bete, the wind tickling his cheek, he focused on the two sisters looking desperate to finally land a hit.

Kicking off the ground with all the strength he could muster, his body screaming at him when he did so, he grabbed the two by their faces and dragged them away from their lupine companion. Getting far enough away, he cracked their heads together then, with a cry, he threw them against the ground, sending up two pillars of sand and creating two craters on either side of him.

Hoping that was enough to deal with the amazons, he refocused on Bete who was already upon him.

This time, he allowed the werewolf's kick to connect, bringing his arm up to block, before quickly grabbing the leg.

"Raaa!" the Olympian roared, swinging around and throwing Bete against the ground.

Bete groaned as pain shot through his entire body, but he was still conscious, a fact that his challenger well knew.

Kicking the Loki fighter up off the ground, Achilles grabbed his throat then took off again.

Bete grit his teeth as they flew through the air, before he felt himself being slammed against a hard surface.

"Gah!" he cried out as his back met the stadium wall.

Achilles, backed up a step then cocked a fist back.

You did well, Bete Loga, he thought before he launched himself at the young man, putting every ounce of his remaining strength into the punch he threw at Bete's stomach.

Bete's eyes widened as all the air in his lungs was forced out and he all but bent in half at the force of the blow.

Achilles took a step back and a moment later, Bete fell to his knees and collapsed.

The Olympian looked at the downed adventurer, then turned to check if his other two opponents remained where he left them. Seeing no angry amazons rushing him, he sighed.

"But I am a stubborn asshole," he said out loud.

"It's over!" Ibri roared.

The world quaked as the city cheered.

"I have never, in all my life, seen a fight half as magnificent as that! I can't believe it! I thought it was over when they kicked him against the wall, but he turned it around! Somehow the Olympian managed to turn things around on three of the most powerful adventurers Orario has ever seen!" The cheers somehow got louder. "But you all saw it here ladies and gentlemen! The living legend reasserted himself at the top of Orario's hierarchy, and we got to see him do it!"

"I can't believe it," Lefiya said in shock.

"I'm quite surprised myself," Riveria admitted. "But we shouldn't feel bad. This simply shows how much more we can all grow."

Finn, however, wasn't comforted in the least.

He defeated them. He took down three of our familia's strongest fighters and is still standing, he thought as his thumb throbbed, sending waves of pain through his arm.

Not far away, in a hidden box, Haruhime sighed in relief.

"Thank goodness it's over," she said.

"And with Achilles as victor," Freya said, smiling triumphantly.

"I'm just happy they all don't have to hurt each other any more."

"You truly are such a sweet thing," Freya said, gently stroking her cheek again. "It makes you even lovelier, and makes me wish we had more time together, but I did say that our time would be limited to Achilles's fight, so I won't keep you any longer."

"Ah yes. I should get back to the others," Haruhime said, getting up. "Thank you for your invitation, Freya-sama," she said bowing.

"Thank you for accepting it. I hope one day it won't require me having to make a deal with Hestia for you to come visit me," the goddess replied.

"Perhaps, Freya-sama," Haruhime replied.

"I'll escort you out," Ottar said.

With that, Haruhime departed, leaving a smiling Freya behind.

Oh Achilles, I can't wait for your next big fight.

---

Everything hurts, Achilles thought as he used his magnetism to pull his sword back to him. But I've got one more thing to do.

Holding in a groan, Achilles bent down and picked up the unconscious Bete before, as gently as he could, throwing him on his back.

"What's this?" Ibri asked as he watched Achilles carry Bete over to where Tione and Tiona lay unconscious. Upon reaching them, the ex-captain bent down again, this time unable to hold in the groan, and picked them up as well, putting them on his back. "Well I'll be! Despite his own injuries, Achilles Caesar is helping his opponents to the healers! Now that is sportsmanship, ladies and gentlemen!"

A more gentle applause met Achilles's ears as he made his way over to the exit, a group of Ganesha familia members, meeting him part way there.

"We can help," one offered.

"I got them. Just make sure the beds and healers are ready," Achilles said.

The adventurer smiled and nodded, running off to make sure things were ready for the very tired and beat up former captain.

Finally exiting the arena, Achilles dragged himself over to the beds and handed the young adventurers on his back over to the healers who gently put them in beds and began working. The last one to have this done was Bete, who Achilles gently put down himself, before turning to head for a bed himself.

"Hey."

Achilles turned back around to see a now conscious Bete.

"You got us pretty good," he said.

"Barely. You three almost had me," Achilles replied.

"Next time we will. We'll kick your butt into next week."

Achilles chuckled, even though it hurt.

"I look forward to it," he said.

He held his hand out to the young man who stared at it for a moment before smiling and shaking it.

"You're still an ass though," Bete said.

"And you're still a tsundere mutt," Achilles replied.

The two broke apart and Achilles made his way over to a bed and fell into it. Neither he, nor Bete cared that there was still an entire staff of healers and Ganesha familia members around them who had seen that entire scene and were going to spread what they'd seen to the whole city. Well, they didn't care at that moment. They were in quite a lot pain after all.

---

"Hahaha! Pay up assholes!" Mord demanded, laughing as he took many bags of money off the tables.

"I can't believe he beat all three of them," one of the losers groaned.

"Yeah, I'm stunned. What kind of monster is that guy?" another asked.

"The monster that just made me filthy rich!" Mord boasted.

"Oh shut it, Mord! At the very least you should pay for our next round," someone demanded.

"Hell no! This money's for me and I'm going to celebrate my winnings my way!" Mord replied.

Off in a corner of the bar, a ground of adventurers were frowning as they watched the scene before them, but unlike the ones who had just lost their money, it had nothing to do with a bet.

"He won," a young woman said, shock and anger in her voice.

"Bete-sama, Tione-sama, and Tiona-sama, all defeated," another said, the same unhappy mixture in their voice.

"We can't let this stand," a third said, only bitterness ringing through his voice.

The leader of this group nodded.

"Yes. We've waited long enough," he said.

"It's time?" the woman asked.

The leader nodded.

"Time to go rabbit hunting."

---

"I'll be back soon!" Bell called, waving goodbye to his familia as he ran off, a list of everyone's snack requests in his hand.

Making his way through the arena and into the darkening streets of Orario. He occasionally paused on his journey to find the requested snacks for his familia in order to return a greeting or give gratitude to those he passed, but nothing stopped him for long, until a familiar, small voice called out to him.

"Fina!" he called happily, seeing the young girl approaching him.

"Bell, I need you to come with me!" she declared, the unmistakable edge of desperation in her voice.

"What's wrong, Fina?" he asked, instantly alarmed.

Realizing what she'd done, the young girl's eyes widened before she rapidly shook her head.

"Nothing! Nothing at all! There's just something I want to show you," she said, giving him the fakest smile he'd ever seen.

This all worried Bell a great deal, but he knew that whatever was bothering her was serious by the way she was acting, so he played along.

"Okay," he said, giving her a reassuring smile. "Lead the way."

The poor girl looked both relieved and horrified that he'd agreed, but after a moment, she nodded and turned around.

"This way," she said.

Bell followed, his hand falling to his knife as he prepared for whatever was to come.

The two made their way to an alley then began to weave their way through more and ever darker back streets.

Each second that passed made Bell's worry grow and his grip tighten, until they finally reached a dark, open courtyard.

Before he could do anything, Fina was suddenly grabbed by a hooded figure who placed a knife to her throat as she screamed.

"Let her go!" Bell demanded, pulling out the Hestia knife and preparing to attack.

"Drop the knife, Bell Cranel."

Bell looked towards the voice and found another cloaked figure walking out of the shadows, a knife pressed against Rye's neck.

"Rye!" the young hero screamed.

"I'm sorry Bell!" the boy cried, looking so angry and desperate.

"Drop the knife, Bell Cranel, and any other weapons you have. I won't ask again," the cloaked figure demanded, pressing the knife harder against Rye's throat.

Bell grit his teeth and briefly wondered if he could save Fina and Rye without risking their safety, but the appearance of more than a dozen hooded and cloaked figures ended this line of thinking.

"Fine," he relented, dropping the Hestia knife, before pulling out Hakugen and likewise dropping it.

The moment he did so, a pair of chains wrapped around his arms and pulled tightly, opening him wide and making him a grand target.

He turned his head and found four more cloaked figures, two on each chain, holding him and preventing him from escaping or fighting back.

"How heroic of you," the cloaked figure holding Rye said, before tossing the boy aside to one of his subordinates. "We were worried for a while that these kids actually meant nothing to you and you would just charge us, but it looks like all that time spying on you really paid off."

"What do you want?" Bell asked, glaring at the cloaked figure as he approached.

"Simple," he said, before he grabbed Bell's face and growled. "To force you to learn your place, rabbit."

Now mere inches away from his assailant, Bell could see his face and recognized it.

"I know you," he said despite the hand. "You're a Loki familia member."

That seemed to surprise and alarm some of the attackers but the man before him didn't seem too bothered and simply nodded and pulled his hood down.

"You're right, not that it matters. It's not like you'll be telling anyone who we are after this. I'm Bjorn Norse, 'the Ironhide'," he introduced.

"But why are you doing this? We're allies," Bell said confused.

"No we are not!" Bjorn roared. "You've just been stealing our leaders' time. Time that we, their familia deserve!" Those around him nodded. "Why should you, an outsider, get so much time with our leaders, huh? What's so special about you? I've heard about you quite a bit about you. Heard that, just a few months ago, no one in the whole city knew your name. That you were some sniveling nobody worth less than dirt!" he spat on the ground. "And now you're training with our Sword Princess. Getting a privilege that even we don't get, all while the city applauds you and shouts out your name?! No, that's unacceptable. You don't deserve that, especially not when you're some monster loving freak that nearly destroyed the city!"

Bell listened to the rant without a word, he simply took in the words and sight of mortals at their worst. Of a human being warped by jealousy and fear.

"Then do what you want," he said, his voice calm, but stern. "But let them go," he demanded, looking at the children.

"Oh we will," Bjorn vowed. "But only after we're done giving you what you deserve. And we'll have to cut out their tongues too so they don't talk."

Now Bell was angry.

"Don't you dare lay a finger on them," he growled.

Bjorn sneered down at the Hestia captain, ready to mock him when he noticed that Bell was getting a bit closer. He turned his eyes and found the four adventurers holding Bell were struggling and losing ground to the young man before him.

Disgusted and even more enraged, Bjorn turned back to Bell then lifted his fist and punched Bell hard across the face.

That stopped Bell, at least for the moment, allowing Bjorn the chance to signal for two more of his conspirators to grab the chains.

"I'll do what I please and you're going to be a good little rabbit and just stand there and let me skin you."

Bell spat out some blood, then looked up at Bjorn.

The Loki member froze.

What the fuck are those eyes? he asked himself as his body began to shake.

Feeling himself shake and feeling the fear in his heart, a new rage roared to life within him, and he glared down at Bell as his fist tightened.

"You monster!"

He punched Bell again, then again, and again, cracking him across the jaw, then punching his stomach, then smashing a fist into his ribcage.

"You fucking freak! You monster loving degenerate! You don't deserve to be trained by our captain. By Gareth or Riveria! You don't deserve our Sword Princess!"

He slammed both his fists down onto Bell's head, forcing his body to bow.

Bjorn huffed and caught his breath, listening to the encouragement around him for a moment and growing a smile. That was until Bell decided to speak again.

"I believe that's Aiz's decision," he said, looking back up at Bjorn, looking completely unaffected by his beating.

This shocked all his attackers as well as Fina and Rye. They knew he was a level five and wasn't to be taken lightly, of course, but this was ridiculous.

That's right you bastards! He's a hero! A real hero! Heroes don't bow to punks like you! Rye thought, cheering on Bell silently, knowing he would get out of this.

Bjorn stared down at his prey that seemed more like a predator with ever growing contempt.

I hate those fucking eyes.

"She doesn't need to sully herself with you. She's already been forced to deal with you for too long. So, I'll deal with you myself and free her of you," he said.

He pulled out a knife and pressed it under Bell's eye.

"Starting with those, dis...gusting eyes."

Bjorn pulled back just enough to manage a thrust into Bell's left eye.

"How's that feel, rabbit?" Bjorn mocked as he wiggled the blade. "How's it feel to get skull-fucked?"

Bell remained utterly silent, his remaining eye simply glaring at Bjorn, scaring and enraging him all the more.

"Fucking freak," Bjorn growled as he pushed harder into Bell's eye socket until the blade scrape against Bell's skull. Feeling the bone, Bjorn finally pulled back before backhanding Bell with the hilt of the knife.

"How do you like that, rabbit?!" he cried, laughing maniacally. "Still gonna act tough now?!"

For a time, Bell was silent as blood dripped down his now ruined eye socket, and Bjorn thought he'd broken the rabbit, only for Bell to say.

"Is that all you've got?"

Bjorn and his conspirators jaws dropped.

"How...How can you still be so resistant?"

"Because I can take it," Bell said immediately. "If it's for those I care about, I can take anything."

None of his attackers knew how to respond to that. His conviction was, for them, both terrifying and enraging. Perhaps had they had more time, they would have figured out some comeback to his words, but they weren't given the chance.

"How dare you."

Everyone turned and a few immediately pissed themselves at seeing who it was.

"Ottar," Bjorn said.

---

Ottar silently made his way out of his lady's box. She had informed him that Bell was on the move and, per his duties, he followed after the boy.

Making his way secretly through the arena to the top, he began to search the crowds for his lady's beloved. His sharp eyes and Bell's snow-white hair made finding the young man easy and he prepared to follow when he noticed Bell suddenly being stopped by a young girl.

That's one of the children from the orphanage Syr visits, he thought.

This didn't mean too much to him until the two suddenly disappeared into an alley.

His eyes narrowed and he jumped to a building across the street to follow.

He trailed them, but the alleys and the quick, almost desperate movement of the little girl made it difficult to keep sight of them and soon, despite his speed and skill, he'd lost them.

Where did they go?

He began to search far and wide, checking every nook and cranny he knew of, but came up with nothing.

Even the most street savvy child would not know how to lose me. This isn't a harmless rendezvous, he realized.

Closing his eyes, he focused on listening, tuning out the background noise and sought for anything out of the ordinary. That's when he heard it. The sound of a fight, nay, a one-sided beating.

"How do you like that, rabbit?!" a male voice said, his voice filled with venom and condescension. "Still gonna act tough now?!"

Ottar's eyes opened, then narrowed in terrible rage. A moment later, he was moving again.

Within seconds, he had found the source of the sounds and when he did, his blood boiled and his skin steamed.

He was about to jump in and slaughter them all, when he saw the two captured children.

That's why, he realized. He was protecting them.

He took a moment to give silent praise towards Bell and his heroic spirit, but a moment later his rage returned, even more terrible as he realized these creatures before him had used hostages to capture the heroic spirit before him. The heroic spirit and his lady's beloved.

UNFORGIVABLE!

Attacking so quickly, none of those below even knew what was happening, he attacked those holding the children, slaughtering them like pigs and putting the children under his arm before pulling back. That done, he officially made his present known.

"How dare you."

Everyone turned and a few immediately pissed themselves at seeing who it was.

"Ottar," the man before Bell said, dropping the knife.

"You have used underhanded means to capture and torture my lady's beloved. You will suffer terribly for your crimes," Ottar said, his terrible visage causing many of the conspirators to lose control of their legs and fall over.

"I-I didn't sign up for this!" one of them cried and turned to flee. However, the moment he turned around, Ottar appeared before him, sword in hand, and cleaved him in two, long ways, causing the children under his arm to scream.

"None of you will escape your fate," he stated.

Bjorn was terrified. This was totally unexpected. They had been focused on making sure Achilles and the Hestia familia were busy, not the King. However, his situation went from bad to worse as he heard his familia behind him cry out.

He spun around, only to find a hand around his throat and himself lifted off the ground.

"Ottar," Bell called.

Seeing his lady's love suddenly free of his captors and holding his assailant by the throat was surprising to the King, but only for a moment, and the shadow of a smile grew on his lips.

He could have escaped at any time, he was simply protecting the children.

"Yes, Bell Cranel?"

"Thank you for rescuing Fina and Rye. I am in your debt. However, would you please take them to safety?" Bell requested.

Ottar was confused and the children in his arms seemed horrified, while the conspirators looked confused and relieved.

"Are you sure? I can deal with this lot in mere moments," the boaz replied.

"I'm sure. Fina and Rye's safety is my main concern. As for this lot," Bell's grip tightened on Bjorn's throat. "They. Are. Mine. Also Fina and Rye don't need to be here to see what comes next."

The rage and promise within those terrible words made the conspirators who had been so relieved mere moments ago understand that they weren't lucky or saved. No. They were screwed. Completely, unquestionably, and totally, fucked.

Ottar was once more surprised by the young man before him, but soon smiled again.

"Very well, Bell Cranel. I shall take them to safety and get your familia," he said.

"Thank you," Bell said.

Not a second later Ottar was gone, leaving Bell alone with his attackers.

Bjorn began to choke and claw at the hand around his throat as it tightened.

"You put Fina and Rye in danger," Bell growled. "I hope you're ready to pay for that."

With a roar that shook the walls, Bell threw Bjorn across the courtyard, breaking the wall with the conspirator's body.

The Loki attackers looked at the ruins, which was a terrible mistake as Bell wasn't about to give them a fair chance to respond. Within milliseconds, Bell was before the conspirators who had held him, knives in hand, and began to dice them up like vegetables.

The chain-holders cried out, but could do nothing else as Bell cut through them so quickly that they couldn't even reach for their weapons. The other attackers, now refocused on their former prey, grabbed their weapons, but it was of no use, Bell simply appeared before each of them, his vengeful eyes freezing their bodies, before he cut them to ribbons, leaving their dismantled bodies strewn across the ground.

One by one, they all fell. Oh, Bell didn't kill them, he wasn't a killer and even now, he showed restraint, but that didn't mean he was merciful. None of his captors would leave without many scars to remember this night, along with nightmares that would haunt them until their dying days, however near or far into the future that was.

Finally he finished with them, leaving behind more than a dozen destroyed bodies, not including the three Ottar had killed.

Covered in blood both his own and his captors', Bell strode over to where Bjorn was trying desperately to get up. Once he was over him and the Loki familia member saw him, he thrust his foot against his throat, pinning him down and cutting off his air again.

"Attacking me is one thing. You could have challenged me or even ambushed me and I would have been able to forgive you. But you brought in people I care about. Children, I care about. That is unforgivable."

"Go...to…" Bjorn choked. "He...ll...you...monster!" he cried out as best as he could.

Bell did not respond, at least not verbally, he simply began to press down harder on Bjorn's throat.

A flash of light suddenly appeared behind him and he turned to find Achilles now in the courtyard, lightning travelling all over his skin and unsheathed sword in his hand.

Achilles immediately found Bell and what he saw was like a sword to the heart.

"Bell!"

He rushed his son, wrapping him in his arms.

"Hi Dad," Bell greeted, his vengeful voice gone, replaced by an exhausted one.

Achilles pulled back, and looked his son over, finding his wounds including his now empty eye socket.

He grit his teeth as tears filled his eyes, before he shook them off and began chanting. A moment later, green healing magic poured from his hands allowing him to begin healing his son.

"Bell! Achilles!"

Achilles ignored the voices as Aiz, Riveria, and the rest of the Loki familia arrived, carrying the Hestia familia.

"Hello everyone," Bell greeted with the same tired voice, though this time he managed to smile at them from over Achilles's shoulder.

Everyone froze at seeing him, and some nearly threw up as the sight of his empty eye socket was revealed to them.

"Sorry I didn't get the snacks," he joked.

"BELL!" his entire familia and many of the Loki familia cried out as they rushed him.

"Let Riveria through!" Achilles demanded. "I need her to fix his eye!"

As distraught as they all were, they immediately did so, unable to stand the sight of their poor captain a moment longer. Not a second later, Riveria was before Bell, chanting and beginning the process of regenerating Bell's eye.

"W-What happened….What," Hestia looked around at the terrible scene before them. "What is this?" she asked.

"Yeah, who are these bastards," Welf growled, grabbing his sword.

"Let's find out," Finn said, moving over to one of the downed conspirators and lifting their hood. "Gunnhild?"

"C-Captain," the woman replied, blood dripping from her mouth.

"What was that?"

Finn turned and found his eyes meeting Achilles's, who had turned and was now looking at him with an aura that demanded answers and demanded them now.

He wasn't alone as the Loki familia executives had also heard the name called, and had turned to their captain with wide eyes.

"What did you just say, Finn?" Achilles demanded, finally breaking away from his son and striding over to the prum and the wounded woman.

Finn remained silent, his thumb sending waves of pain through him as he knew what was to come. The only thing that could.

He was saved from having to be the one to answer as Aiz suddenly rushed over and picked up the woman who groaned in pain.

"Gunnhild Kattegat," she said, shock and anger in her voice. "You were behind this?"

"S-Sword Princess," Gunnhild replied, unable to say more.

"They're members of your familia," Achilles said, his eyes looking ready to consume Finn. "Your familia attacked...Bell."

"They...what?"

All eyes turned to the new voice, discovering that Ottar had returned, along with his terrible rage.

"These are Loki familia?" he asked, staring down at Finn, his eyes the stuff of nightmares and his voice enough for Gunnhild, still in Aiz's hand, to release her bowels.

"This is no concern of yours, Ottar," Finn tried to throw back.

"Answer him," Achilles demanded.

Finn turned his eyes toward Achilles, wanting to repeat himself, but knowing that facing the two enraged level sevens, as well as the Hestia familia behind him, was not a good idea.

"Yes. Gunnhild here is a member of the Loki familia."

The courtyard fell silent as the King and the Ottar glared down upon the Braver.

"Why...in all that is good...would you familia...attack...my boy?" Achilles demanded.

"They were angry."

All eyes shifted to Bell who, thankfully, was now fully healed including his eye.

"About what?" Achilles pressed, being as calm as he could be as the last thing he wanted to do right now was yell at his son.

"They were mad that we," Bell gestured to his familia. "Were getting so much time with all of you," he signalled to the Loki executives. "Even more time than they were getting. They were also scared because of the explosion I caused over the city."

They all took this in silence, contemplating what he said, but soon becoming even more enraged the more they thought about it.

"Jealousy and fear," Achilles finally said. "That's what this is about? That's why my SON'S EYE WAS GOUGED OUT!" he roared, before quickly shifting his eyes back to Finn. "Is that what the Loki familia stands for? What it's made up of? Envious cowards?"

"Careful, Achilles," Finn growled.

"Why should I be, Braver," Achilles spat. "Who knows how far they were going to take it. Actually, let's ask one of them," he yanked Gunnhild from Aiz. "How far were you going to take this attack? Were you just trying to teach Bell 'a lesson' or were you going for the kill?"

The rage within the courtyard somehow grew even more intense at that, namely amongst the Hestia familia who looked ready to tear the woman and her fellow attackers apart now. However, the worst, besides Achilles, was unquestionably Aiz, who, at the thought of her beloved's death at the hands of her own familia, had her hand wrapped so tightly around her sword that her knuckles cracked and burst, causing blood to begin dripping down her fingers.

"I-I-I...w-we…" of course Gunnhild couldn't exactly respond in the face of such terrible fury.

"That's enough, Achilles!" Finn stated.

"Is it?!" Achilles threw back, throwing Gunnhild to the ground. "I don't think I've gone near far enough! But sure, let's focus elsewhere, on you, for starters. Why didn't you know about this? I'll give you the benefit of the doubt and say you didn't help plan it, but you didn't know about it? Didn't even have an inkling? You...one of the most intelligent and renowned strategists in the world, didn't know what his familia was going to do? How incompetent are you?!"

This was too far for Finn and he roared back.

"You are the last person in the world who gets to say that to me after what your familia did!"

Everything went silent.

"What does that mean?" Achilles asked.

"Finn." The two captains turned to Riveria who looked at her captain with pleading eyes. "Don't."

"No, he needs to hear this. He needs to understand not to throw stones," Finn told her before his eyes returned to Achilles. "Zald and Alfia."

Achilles blinked.

"What about Zald and Alfia?"

"You weren't the only one to survive fighting the Dragon."

Achilles was silent for a moment, as if he was wondering if he was in a dream or had misheard.

"What the hell are you talking about?" he eventually demanded.

"You weren't the only one to survive the fight. A couple of days after you fled, Zald and Alfia appeared at the gates. Apparently during the fight, they were caught under some debris, hiding them from the Dragon and saving their lives," Finn explained.

"That's," Achilles paused, not believing his ears. "That's ridiculous. I can't tell you how many times I've heard people refer to me as 'the only person to survive the One-Eyed Black Dragon', a title I hate and wish with all my heart wasn't true! If those two survived then that doesn't make any sense!"

"That's probably because, in a way, they didn't really survive," Finn replied.

"What the fuck does that mean?" Achilles growled.

"Finn!" Riveria cried out, even more desperately. "Not now. Not like this."

"I'm sorry, Riveria, but it's too late," her captain replied before turning back to Achilles. "I say that because the fight with the Dragon changed them. Maybe it drove them mad, or maybe it just revealed what they were always like deep down, but to say they 'survived' the fight with the Dragon isn't quite true."

"Get. To. The fucking. Point!" Achilles roared.

"They left shortly after you did and disappeared just like you did. However, a few years later, they returned with a god named Erebus and in command of an entire Evilus army. That army had one goal. Destroy Orario and bring about an age of darkness."

Things were silent for a single, terrible moment, as Achilles took in Finn's words. Then a familiar and terrible crackling coursed through the air.

"I understand that you're pissed at me, Finn," Achilles said levelly, even as lightning danced over his skin. "And I get it. Truly I do," he continued, drawing closer to the prum, who readied his spear. "I've been a righteous asshole on numerous occasions. A real cruel son of a bitch. I deserve the anger. But to lie about my familia and the Hera familia is not something I'm about to permit."

"It's not a lie," Finn spat back.

"Of course it's a lie. The very idea of it is ludicrous," Achilles growled. "The idea that my familia, my family, would try to destroy Orario is so ludicrous I'd be laughing if it wasn't such a disgusting fiction!"

Many instinctively backed away from the former head of the Zeus familia, his rage making even the Loki familia tremble a bit. Finn, however, replied calmly.

"If you don't believe me, why don't you ask Ryuu Lion? She fought Alfia."

Achilles stopped. Then he turned.

"Ryuu...what is he talking about?"

Pain and regret filled every inch of Ryuu's face and she could not meet his eyes.

"It's…" she began, but stopped.

"It's…?" Achilles pressed.

"It's true," she confessed. "All of it. Alfia and Zald both did join an Evilus and attempt to destroy Orario, and I did fight Alfia. It's one of the reasons I was so weary of you when you arrived. Knowing you were in the same familia as them...I was afraid and angry."

Every ounce of strength in Achilles's body evaporated.

"That...that can't be. They...they wouldn't-."

"They did," Finn cut him off. "Together with Erebus they attempted to destroy Orario and bring about an age of darkness."

Silence fell over the courtyard as Achilles's mind became overwhelmed by this information.

"W-Where are they? I...I need to talk to them. I need to confront them! I am going to demand they tell me what they were thinking! What the fuck they were doing! I'm going to get answers! Where are th-!"

"They're dead," Finn answered.

Achilles stopped again, this time everyone present could swear they heard his heart break.

"Ottar killed Zald and Alfia committed suicide after being defeated by the Astraea familia."

Silence. For what seemed like eternity, there was nothing but silence. Then, from the deepest reaches of despair, a choking sound forced its way past Achilles's lips.

"I…" he choked again. "I need to take a walk. I…" another choke. "I need to think about this. I...I…."

He couldn't finish, he simply turned and fled into the darkness of the city.

"Achilles!" Riveria called before her eyes turned to Finn. "You heartless wretch."

"He needed to hear it and I am under no obligation to hide the truth, especially not to him."

She glared at her captain for a moment longer, before she turned again and ran after Achilles.

Finn sighed. He knew what he had done wasn't exactly right and had earned him some serious ire, but it needed to be done. That's what he thought up until the moment the fist met his face.

Everyone's jaw dropped as they watched Finn fly through the air and crash into a wall, courtesy of none other than Bell Cranel.

Finn got up and wiped the blood from his lip, before looking at his attacker.

"Why did you do that, Bell Cranel?" he asked, mostly out of curiosity, but also with a bit of anger.

"Because you deserve it for what you did," Bell stated, his eyes staring down at the prum.

"What, telling him the truth?" Finn bit back.

"Telling him the truth out of spite," Bell countered.

Finn frowned, but said nothing, partly because he didn't feel like he needed to defend himself and partly because he really couldn't. Bell was right.

"You know, Finn Deimne, I always try to find the best in people," Bell continued once it became apparent the Loki captain wasn't going to respond. "I'm not always successful, I admit. There are some people who are so cruel or selfish that I can't see any goodness within them. I don't think you're one of those people. In fact, when I look at you I see so much that I admire and respect," Bell admitted, pulling everyone in more as they wondered where he was going, Finn primary amongst them. "You're strong. Determined. Very intelligent, and I can tell you care a great deal about your familia. As such, I think you're a great leader and respect you a great deal."

Everyone shared looks, surprised, even stunned by his confession, but feeling like this wasn't the end.

"You know, back when Wiene and the others were on the surface, I was prepared to tell you about them."

That really surprised everyone, but they still kept silent.

"However, Hermes-sama stopped me, and now I'm glad he did," Bell continued. "He told me how you wouldn't have tried to help them. That you would have destroyed them all the same, in spite of their intelligence and their dream. That these things wouldn't matter to you, not if it risked your own goal."

Finn frowned, seeing now where this was going.

"I didn't believe him at the time, or maybe I just didn't want to believe him. I wanted to believe you would help. That the person I respected would help them. But I see now that he was right. You would never have helped."

Something about the way that Bell said that stung Finn and he actually turned his eyes away for a moment in shame.

"Most wouldn't have," he managed to point out.

"That doesn't make you right," Bell threw back instantly. "Especially when you're most certainly not 'most'."

The shame returned, stronger, and Finn's eyes fell further, but Bell wasn't done.

"I understand your goal, Finn. Truly, I understand what you're trying to do, and, in some ways, it makes me respect and admire you even more. But if there's one thing that I don't like about it, it is the way that it consumes you. The way that your goal can turn the people around you into means to an end. People like Lili. People like Wiene. Maybe it's not my place to speak on this. It's probably not. I certainly have flaws of my own, so maybe I shouldn't throw stones, but if your goals put the people I care about in harm's way, I will act, and I promise you, I don't care how noble or admirable your goal is at that point. You will learn the same lesson that they all did tonight," he gestured towards his defeated foes. "Never...put those I love in danger."

For what seemed like an eternity, there was no sound. Not even the sound of breathing. Just utter silence as the words fell upon Finn who, despite his own convictions could not help the feeling of crushing disappointment that seemed to be weighing on his shoulders.

"He had a responsibility to control them," he finally managed, more than a tad desperately. "To not allow Zald and Alfia to become what they did."

"Then you should punish me too," Bell replied calmly.

Everyone was confused.

"Why would you need to be punished?" Finn asked.

"Because I didn't stop Auntie Alfia and Uncle Zald."

Every jaw dropped.

"What?" Finn asked.

"They weren't really my aunt and uncle, I just called them that," Bell stated. "But I loved them dearly. You told Dad that they disappeared after they left Orario, but that's not really true since I know where they were. They were in my village with me and my grandpa. And, in case you think I'm lying or covering for my dad. Uncle Zald was about yay high," he held his arm up high. "Had dark brown hair, scars on his face, and wore black armor. He also really liked to eat. Aunt Alfia was this tall," he moved his hand. "Had silver hair, wore a dark dress, had this emerald necklace that I loved to pay with, and different colored eyes. She also complained a lot about 'noise'," he finished.

Silence remained as no one knew how to respond to this. What could they say? Here was Bell Cranel, saying he was effectively family to the people that attempted to destroy Orario and who had nearly killed many of the people in the courtyard.

"Aunt Alfia would read me stories and Uncle Zald would tell me about his adventurers when he wasn't training. Uncle Zald was the first person I really looked up to outside of storybooks and my grandpa and Aunt Alfia, as embarrassing as it is to admit, was my first crush and I thought she was the most beautiful woman in the world. I adored them so much and every day they were with us, I treasured," Bell said all of this with his million valis smile that seemed to shine, even in the darkness of night. "Then, one day, they told us they were leaving," his smile dropped away. "We both knew something was wrong and pressed them, but they wouldn't tell us. They simply told us they were happy they got to spend so much time with us and that they wished us nothing but safety and happiness. Then they left. So, Finn Deimne, if you want to blame anyone, blame me for failing to stop them. For failing to convince them to stay," he finished.

Finn stared into his ruby eyes, trying to find some response, but discovering none.

"If you cannot do that. If you think that would be unwarranted or unjust, then you have no right to blame my father and it's probably time to reevaluate your thoughts and positions," Bell stated.

This was the last thing he said before he turned around and followed after his father and Riveria.

---

"Achilles!" Riveria called.

She received no answer, which made her all the more desperate to find him.

Rushing through the alleys, she continued to call out to him and search everywhere.

"Achilles!" she cried out, hoping that the sinking feeling in her gut wasn't right.

"Riveria."

Her head spun around.

There he was, his back against a wall, sword propped up beside him, his head on his arms as his eyes looked into nothingness.

"Achilles," she said, relieved.

She went to him and got to her knees in front of him.

"Achilles?" she called gently.

"I'm a failure," he said suddenly. "All I do is fail. I failed Alfia and Zald. I failed Briseis. I failed my familia. I failed Orario and the world. I failed you. I failed Aiz. I failed Bell."

She wanted to deny this. Deny it fervently and then comfort him. All her instincts were screaming at her to do this, especially given the cold, dead way he had said it, but Riveria couldn't help but take note of the last three names he said.

"How could you have possibly failed me, Aiz, and Bell?" she asked.

To her shock, she was rewarded for her question with a sad smile.

"You'll hate me."

Riveria froze at those ominous and oh-so familiar words.

"W-Why would I hate you?"

He continued to smile at her, though the sadness and despair within his eyes grew until it seemed like she would drown in their misery.

"You remember the explosion over the city?" he asked her.

"Y-Yes," she admitted, her fear growing even greater.

"Bell tried to kill me because I did something disgusting and which proves how much of a failure I really am."

"W-What," she didn't know if she wanted to finish, but she needed to know. "What did you do?"

"I told him that, if there was a risk his love for Aiz would drag him into a fight with the Dragon, that I would remove her as a threat by killing her."

Shock filled every corner of Riveria's being as she heard those words. But the shock was not alone as before she even knew it, anger joined it, flashing through her eyes as the threat to her ward, nay, her daughter in all but blood, filled her with fury, if but for a moment before confusion and despair snuffed it out again. But, for the lightning warrior, it was enough.

"See," Achilles said with a sad, yet satisfied smile. "You hate me."

She had no words in response, still reeling as she was, this statement only added to her disheveled mind, a fact that Achilles used this to his advantage.

He flipped his sword around, so that the handle was near her right hand. Then, after gently removing her staff from her hand and putting it to the side, he placed his sword in her hand, wrapped her fingers around it, then brought the blade to his neck.

"Kill me, Riveria. End my cycle of failure and free the world from all the horrors I've wrought."

Her heart stopped, all sadness, confusion, and anger forgotten, replaced by one emotion. Horror.

"W-What?"

He just continued to smile at her.

"Kill me, Riveria, and free the world from my failures."

She couldn't speak. She could barely breathe. Barely think! Yet, her hand did not move, beyond its constant shaking, and the sword remained against his neck, pressed into his flesh.

Then, likely due to her shaking hand, the blade cut into his skin, filling her eyes with the startling red of his blood.

That finally snapped her out of her terrified stupor and she blinked then looked down at the sword in her hand. Her eyes turned furious and she pulled back and threw the sword into the darkness with a cry.

Achilles watched the sword fly, but before he could ask her what she was doing, she slapped him with a terrible crack.

"How dare you?" she said, her voice furious and broken at the same time. She slapped him again. "How dare you?!" Another resounding crack. "How fucking dare you?!"

She continued to slap him furiously.

"How dare you ask that of me?! How dare you use my feelings for you like this?!"

Achilles simply took her attacks and berating in silence, his head and eyes falling as his desperation turned to shame.

Riveria had her hand raised for another slap when she saw this and it broke her heart all over again.

Dropping her hand, she instead raised both her arms and pulled Achilles into the tightest hug she could manage.

"You're not a failure, Achilles," she assured him. "You're not."

"Yes I-."

"No you are not!" she shouted, in no mood for his self-loathing words. "You became the leader of your familia and led them to a golden age. You defeated two of the most terrible monsters in the world and survived the third. I have seen the kindness and love you've given to your friends and family, Bell especially. You are one of the greatest fighters, historians, and even dancers the world has ever seen!" she declared, allowing herself a quick chuckle and smile before she pressed her forehead against his and continued. "You are not a failure Achilles. You haven't always succeeded in what you meant to. You have failed in the past, but that is not the same as being a failure. In fact, the way you are acting now, is proof you are not one. You are so kind, and love your friends, familia, and family so much that you unfairly burden yourself with sins that either aren't yours or don't exist. A failure doesn't do that. A failure doesn't burden themselves with such responsibility and pain, they simply flee from it."

"I did flee though, Riveria. The moment I realized what I was to Freya, I fled," he countered.

"Because you were in pain. Distraught at the loss of your familia and at the realization of Freya's cruelty. Maybe that was a failure, but from that failure, you grew. You learned, and, I'll remind you, if not for that failure, you might not have the relationship you currently have with Bell."

In spite of himself, Achilles smiled at that, though it lasted only a moment.

"But I failed with you. I could have seen how you felt. We could have been together if I hadn't been so blind or run away like a coward."

"I'm not dead am I?" Riveria questioned. "There's still time for that, if that's what you want, but there certainly won't be if you do what you just asked of me."

Once more, the Olympian went silent, his mind taking it all in before finally coming to one conclusion.

"I really am a fool, aren't I?" he finally asked her, giving her an apologetic smile.

She smiled back and kissed his forehead.

"Sometimes, yes. Very much so. But you're my fool. And Bell's fool. And your familia's fool, and many other people's fool. And we all wouldn't have it any other way."

Achilles laughed, the pain in both his body and the air finally dissipating as he did so.

"Heaven above, I'll never understand why you care for someone as ludicrous as me, Riveria," he said, his head falling to her chest as his arms wrapped around her waist.

She laughed.

"Well, it's good for you then that you don't need to understand why."

"I suppose you're right," he conceded.

The two went quiet, relief and warmth flowing through them as the trauma of recent revelations, at least for now, disappeared.

"Dad!"

The two broke apart and looked up to find Bell running towards them.

"Dad! There you are. I was really worried," Bell said rushing over to them.

"I'm sorry," Achilles replied, getting up before pulling Bell into a hug. "I just needed some time to think. Well, and to have Riveria knock some sense into me."

Bell was clearly confused by this, but didn't feel the need to press the matter, instead hugging his father back while Riveria looked on with a smile.

"Come on," Achilles said a little while later. "Let's go back to the others. I've worried them for long enough."

Bell and Riveria nodded. Before they got going, Achilles held out his hand and used his magnetism to pull his sword back to him.

Bell looked confused and Achilles smiled sadly.

"Just me being ridiculous," he said, before rubbing Bell's hair and pressing on.

---

The three returned, finding the Loki and Hestia familia had taken separate corners of the courtyard, except for Aiz who had placed herself with the Hestia familia. Ottar was also still present and off in his own corner, still looking like he wanted to kill someone, but remaining quiet. However, there was a new group of people amongst them, those being Shakti and numerous members of the Ganesha familia and the Guild.

"Achilles!" Hestia cried when she saw him and the others return.

The Hestia familia all rushed over to the three and Achilles smiled apologetically.

"I'm sorry for worrying all of you," he said.

"There's absolutely nothing to apologize for. That news must have been very shocking for you and combined with all this," Hestia responded, gesturing to the mess of a scene. "I don't think any of us can blame you for reacting poorly."

"Even so, I'm sorry," Achilles said.

None of them really felt that an apology was necessary, but to make him feel better they all accepted it with a hug, which signaled to Shakti that she could now approach.

"Evening Achilles-san. Bell-san. Riveria-san," she greeted.

The three nodded and returned the greeting.

"I know tonight has been beyond stressful for you all, but I must ask some questions of you so that we have a full picture of what happened."

Again, they nodded and Bell, knowing he was the center of this, stepped forward.

"I'll answer all your questions as best I can," he said.

"Thank you," Shakti said. "Then let's start from the beginning.

And so Bell told them what happened, starting with his departure to get everyone snacks, before delving into how Fina suddenly appeared and asked him to follow her, then his capture and finally the arrival of Ottar, his escape, and retaliation.

All through this the anger, sadness, and nausea reappeared, and many had trouble keeping quiet as Bell detailed what happened. Finally he finished giving his side and Shakti nodded.

"That seems to fit with what we've gathered. I am very sorry this has happened to you, Bell-san. We should have done more to ensure this couldn't happen," she apologized.

"This wasn't your fault, Shakti-san. They were smart enough to use Fina and Rye against me and to bring me someplace out of sight. I suspect they worked very hard to get around your extra security measures so I don't blame you, your familia, or the Guild," Bell responded.

"Thank you, Bell-san, I appreciate that, but I swear to do better."

"You had better. My lady's fury is already assured to be terrible and swift," Ottar stated, entering the conversation.

"It is not wise to threaten either my familia or the Guild, Ottar-san," Shakti warned. "I will let it pass since you rescued Bell-san and the children, but do not think my good will is infinite."

The boaz's frown deepened, but he remained silent.

"I'll have some of my familia escort you back home," Shakti offered.

"Thank you, Shakti-san," Bell replied, not really wanting to trouble any more people than he already felt he was, but knowing that his familia wasn't about to allow him to say no.

Shakti called to her familia and instantly a dozen Ganesha members surrounded them and, with one final word of thanks from all the Hestia familia, they departed.

"Bell!"

Everyone stopped as a golden blur suddenly rushed the young man, alarming the Ganesha familia until they saw Aiz desperately hug Bell.

"I'm so sorry this happened," she said.

"It's okay. I don't blame you or your familia," he said, wrapping his arms around her.

"Even so, I...I can't…"

"Aiz?"

"I can't lose you," she said quietly.

His eyes widened at hearing this, but after a moment, he smiled and pulled her more tightly against him as his head fell to her shoulder.

"You won't. I promise," he vowed.

She nodded into his shoulder before she finally let him go.

"Stay safe," she said.

"I will," he replied, giving her a gentle smile.

Not far away from the two, their respective adoptive parents shared a look and gave their partners tired smiles.

Stay safe, Riveria silently repeated towards Achilles.

I will, Achilles repeated back.

The Hestia familia, along with their escort turned back around and departed, leaving behind the mess in the courtyard and many a concerned adventurer.

"Alright, Finn, I need to have a talk with you," Shakti said once they were gone.

The prum captain simply nodded.

---

Finn sat in his room, exhausted and worn down in ways he hadn't been in a long time.

This has been one of the worst nights I've ever had to deal with, he thought. And worse yet, a lot of it's my fault.

His face fell into his hands as the weight over everything came down upon him again.

I'm really the asshole here, aren't I?

He sighed again and rubbed his face, feeling his weariness, which was already mind numbing, somehow grow.

A knock at the door made him look up.

A thousand valis it's Riveria or Aiz, here to tear me a new one for everything.

"Captain?"

He blinked.

Well, looks like I owe myself a thousand valis.

He got up from his seat and went to his door, opening it to reveal Tione.

"Evening, Tione," he greeted, doing his best to smile.

It didn't convince the amazon whose frown deepened at seeing the poor attempt.

"Do you mind if I come in?" she asked.

"Uh...sure. No problem. Please," he moved aside.

"Thank you," she said as he closed the door.

"So, is there something I can help you with?" he asked, still trying to hold the smile.

"I didn't come here to ask for something I needed, I came here to ask what you needed."

Her words, mixed with the seriousness in her voice surprised him.

"What I needed?"

"Captain, you're not fooling me with that smile. Didn't for even a second."

His smile finally dropped, but a second later a dry laugh passed through his throat.

"I suppose I wouldn't be able to trick you. You know me too well," he said.

"Captain, if there's something I can help you with, please tell me. I'll do whatever I can."

His smile came back at that, but only for a moment.

"I appreciate that, Tione, I really do, but this is something I need to deal with," he said.

"You don't need to take on Achilles alone," she assured him, taking a step towards him.

"It's not that...well...not really that," he said.

"What do you mean?"

He was silent for a moment, before asking.

"Tell me, Tione, and please be honest. I'm the asshole in this whole mess, aren't I?"

"Captain! No! Of course not! You could never…"

"Tione," he cut her off. "I asked you to be honest."

Now it was the amazon who fell silent. She didn't want to say anything negative towards her dear captain. The very idea churned her stomach. But he had asked her to be honest, and she could never deny a request from him, let alone one so personal.

"You have been...a bit more...zealous lately," she finally confessed.

He nodded before his head fell.

"I thought so," he said, his voice sounding more exhausted than she'd ever heard it.

"But I understand why!" she quickly stated.

"Do you because I'm not sure I do?"

That stopped her.

"Captain?"

He sighed as he retook his seat.

"I've always tried to do what I thought was the best, smartest thing to do in any situation. For me. For our familia. For Orario, and for my people. However, I've always had people behind me when I made my decisions. People I trusted and who trusted me."

"You still do!" she desperately assured him.

"Do I?" he asked. "Half our familia thinks I'm going too far and now...now I think they might be right," he confessed.

"Captain."

"Tione, I appreciate you standing up for me, believe me I do a great deal, but I'm worried I'm letting my fear override my judgment."

"That can't be right! You're the Braver! Fear can't override your judgment."

He laughed again.

"That's the thing about bravery, it's the overcoming of fear, not a lack of it. The fear is still there, just suppressed. However, it looks like with the arrival of Achilles, the fear is having its day in the sun."

"Captain...what about Achilles scares you so much? Sure he's powerful, but we've dealt with powerful before," Tione asked, trying to understand.

"You're right, we've dealt with powerful before, hell we've dealt with things more powerful than him at this point. But, it's not just his power. It's his intelligence, his adaptability, his stubborn refusal to stay down, let alone die. You don't become the captain of one of, if not the greatest familia in history, just by being powerful. And that's what scares me. The fact that I know he's far more dangerous than either Zald or Alfia, maybe both of them combined. That he, by himself could raise up a calamity to match or even surpass what they did seven years ago. That idea, that terrible thought, that soul freezing belief, I think is why I'm so afraid of him. Why, I'm falling apart like I am."

His head fell in shame, feeling like all his failures were falling upon him in an instant, and would crush him into dust.

Then, it was all gone. All the shame and the crushing feeling of failure. Gone, in an instant. Replaced by a heavenly warmth.

"That's why you need to turn to us," Tione said gently, her arms wrapped tightly around us. "We can be your shield and your support for those times of doubt and fear, you just need to trust us."

"T-Tione?"

She pulled back and gave him a smile so wonderful that heat filled his cheeks.

"I understand how you feel, Finn. That feeling of the world coming down around you. That feeling of being so afraid that you can't even take a step. I understand it, and I'm sorry that you've had to deal with it alone."

"Y-You don't need to apologize," he said.

"But I do, both to my captain and the man I love. I shouldn't have let either of those go through that alone. So, please forgive me for failing you."

Finn was silent for some time, unsure of how to respond to the apology or the girl currently giving him a smile so warm it was turning his cheeks red. However, he did after a time, manage to regain enough of his wits to respond.

"Please don't apologize, Tione. If there's anyone who needs to apologize, it's me for not trusting you and the others. I got so wrapped up in my own head I turned on or turned away those I should trust the most. For that, I'm sorry."

Her smile grew and she placed a soft hand on his cheek.

"If you believe you've done something wrong, that means you know what you need to do next," she said.

He chuckled and nodded.

"Yeah, I guess I do."

"Good," she said, standing up straight. "Then get some rest, you'll need it for what you're going to do tomorrow!" she declared.

She turned to leave and her hand was on the door when Finn called out.

"Tione!"

She turned, giving her captain a curious look.

"Yes?"

"Would…" his cheeks began to really burn. "I haven't had dinner yet, kind of been held up in my room since what happened. So...would you…" he took a deep breath. "Would you like to have dinner with me?" he finally managed.

Tione was silent for a moment, and Finn actually wondered if he was about to get denied, but then he looked up and saw her sparkling eyes and the barely controlled bouncing she was currently doing.

"I would love nothing more," she said, barely keeping her voice level.

He smiled.

"Then...um...let's go down to the mess hall and pick something up," he said, getting up from his chair.

"Yes! Let's!" Tione cried, before covering her mouth, which caused him to chuckle again.

---

Freya stared down at her dearly beloved Bell, but instead of her usual smile at seeing his sparkling soul, she had a deep frown on her face.

"My lady," came the voice of her most loyal service.

"You have done exceptionally well, Ottar. I cannot even begin to tell you how much of my goodwill and love you have earned tonight for rescuing my Bell from those fiends. Whatever you desire you shall have, simply name it."

"Hearing those words from you and knowing I have served you well are more than enough reward for me, my lady. I live to serve you and to know I have done so well is the highest honor."

Her smile returned and she turned just enough to give him a warm, tender look.

"You truly are remarkable, Ottar. I am so lucky to have you."

He looked up, his eyes containing no small amount of surprise at hearing those words, but, after a moment, he smiled back at his goddess and bowed his head again.

"Thank you, my lady. I consider myself the luckiest mortal in the world at being by your side and having so much of your trust."

She continued to look upon her servant with affection as she allowed herself a moment to be grateful for him. However, her gratitude eventually passed as the matter at hand returned to the forefront of her mind.

"Now, tell me what have you learned?" she asked.

His smile disappeared as his rage returned.

"I have learned a great deal, my lady, including the identity of the attackers."

She stared down at her servant with cold, expectant eyes.

"Oh?"

---

The Hestia familia returned home in complete silence, not evening noting the many stares they were receiving from the crowds of people they passed.

"Thank you very much," Hestia said to their Ganesha escorts.

"Of course, Hestia-sama. We are happy to help, especially after everything," the leader said.

She smiled and thanked them again, before wishing them a safe return home.

That done, they all made their way inside.

Immediately upon entering, all their allied familia and Astraea rushed them.

"Are you all alright?!" Take asked, checking them over. "You all disappeared so quickly after Ottar arrived and we've been hearing terrible rumors."

"It's...complicated," Hestia said.

All the other deities and their children looked at each other, confused and disconcerted by those words. The confusion and anxiety was put on hold though as Achilles came forward and placed himself before Astraea.

"Is something wrong, Achilles-san?" she asked, looking up at him.

Without a word, he got on his knees and pressed his head against the ground.

"It appears I and my familia have hurt you and your familia and caused you undue grief. On behalf of the Zeus familia, I give my sincerest and fullest apology."

Everyone that hadn't been a part of the incident that night was stunned and looked towards those that had been, looking for answers.

Hestia sighed then began to tell them what happened.

Their friends listened with increasing shock, horror, and sadness as the story was told, all the while Achilles kept his head pressed to the floor before the goddess of justice.

"I see," Astraea said upon hearing the story. She turned her gaze to the still bowing Achilles and her eyes grew sad as her fists tightened. "Achilles, please lift your head," she requested.

He did so, though he remained kneeling.

"I can't accept your apology," she said.

A knife stabbed many hearts that heard that, but Achilles simply nodded.

"I understand," he said, his voice devoid of all emotion.

"No," Astraea shook her head. "No you don't," she turned away from him and looked at everyone. "There's something I need to tell you all. Something I swore to keep a secret, but which I feel is unjust to do so at this moment."

"What is it, Astraea-sama?" Ryuu asked.

"The truth about Erebus's attack on Orario," the goddess responded. "So we should all probably get comfortable."

---

Achilles listened without saying a word. Even as the news shocked his familia more and more, he remained utterly silent as Astraea explained everything. Finally, she finished and everyone turned to him.

"I see," he said, his voice unnervingly stoic.

He got up from the chair then bowed to the goddess.

"Thank you for telling me this, Astraea-sama. You didn't need to and even broke a promise to do so. Truly, thank you."

"Sometimes promises need to be broken, I think," she replied gently, staring at the adventurer with understanding and compassion.

"Perhaps," he replied. "But now, if you'll all forgive me, I have a lot to think about and I tend to do my best thinking when I'm smoking. So," he bowed again, then departed, leaving behind a group of very worried adventurers and deities.

Everyone watched him go, worried and wondering what would happen next.

"What should we do?" Haruhime asked, worry resounding through her voice.

"I'm not sure there's anything we can do," Hestia admitted. "There's only one person here, I think, that might be able to get through to him right now."

All eyes turned to that one.

Bell nodded and got up to follow his father.

Achilles leaned against the wall of the manor, smoking silently.

"I was expecting you'd come," he said to his son upon hearing the backdoor open.

"I didn't want you to be alone," Bell responded.

Achilles turned and gave him a small, but still sad smile.

"Thank you."

Bell placed himself next to the ex-captain and waited patiently for him to speak again.

"This whole thing's a real mess," he finally said.

Bell nodded.

"It is," he agreed.

Things went quiet for a moment again, but not for as long as Achilles spoke again.

"I feel like a failure, Bell. I know you, Riveria, and the others will disagree, but I still feel that way. I failed to kill the Dragon, then ran when my familia needed me the most. Worse, I did it because of a woman," he took a deep drag from his pipe. "I don't think I can simply move on. Not without some recompense."

"What kind of recompense?" Bell asked, anxiety filling his heart.

"Do you have your knife on you?"

Bell did not like the way this was going.

"Y-Yeah," he admitted.

Achilles held out his hand.

"Mind if I borrow it?"

Bell did not want to say yes.

"Bell. Please."

Bell gave his father a pleading look, but the calm, unwavering eyes his father gave back to him were not something he could deny, so he sighed and pulled out the Hestia knife before placing it in his hand.

"Thank you. Now, would you be so kind as it hit it with your Firebolt?"

"Dad!" Bell cried.

"I'm sorry Bell. I know this is unfair to ask of you, but please, please, do this for me. It will let me move forward without regret."

Bell grit his teeth, wanting so badly to say no. To snatch his knife and hide it away where his father would never find it, but he didn't.

"Promise?" he asked.

Achilles's smile returned, this time brighter.

"I promise," he vowed.

Bell still hated the situation and glared at his father for a moment before finally holding up his hand.

"Firebolt!"

The spell hit the knife, but to the surprise of them both, it didn't simply heat the blade, but surrounded it and seemed to extend it out.*

"Well, I wasn't expecting that," Achilles said, holding up the knife. "But you should probably keep this in mind for the future."

Bell nodded as he marvelled at the flame-enhanced blade.

"You should probably turn away for this," Achilles said, snapping him back to the current situation.

"I'll be alright," Bell replied sternly.

Achilles sighed, knowing he wasn't going to convince his son.

"Then I will simply apologize," he said.

Those were his last words before he held up his forearm. Then, without missing a beat or showing a moment of hesitation, he pressed the flaming blade to his skin.

A disgusting sizzling sound and the smell of burning flesh filled the air and made Bell want to vomit. However, he would have to endure as Achilles pulled the blade back, switched hands, then did likewise to his other forearm.

"There," Achilles said, holding up his arm.

He then discharged the magic on the knife, wiped it off, then handed it back to Bell who looked extremely reluctant to take it back.

"I'm sorry Bell, but I needed to do that."

"Why? Why did you need to do that?" his son asked.

"Two reasons. One: punishment for my failures, in this case," he held up his forearms. "Alfia and Zald specifically. More importantly, it's a reminder or more accurately, a promise."

"A promise of what?"

"I failed with Alfia and Zald. I will not fail with you. These scars will be a permanent reminder that I refuse to ever fail you like I did them."

Tears filled Bell's eyes before he threw himself into his father's arms, who instantly wrapped his arms around his son.

"I-I promise too. I will always be there so that you never feel like a failure again."

Now tears filled Achilles's eyes as he pulled Bell closer.

"Thank you, Bell. Thank you. I love you so much."

"I love you too."

The two held each other for a time, simply basking in their bond and relief as Achilles's sense of failure finally perished for good.

Eventually the time came to break apart, and though they both had red, tear-stained eyes, they both smiled genuinely at each other.

"I love you, Bell. I always will."

"I love you too, and I'll always be there for you as well."

Achilles reached out and gently stroked his hair before turning towards the door.

"I think it's time for us to go inside," he said.

"Yeah," Bell agreed.

The two re-entered the manor where they found the others waiting for them

"Has everything been resolved?" Hestia asked.

"As best as it can be," Achilles said.

"Good," she replied as smiles of relief grew all around them. "Then let's get something cold on those arms."

---

Holy hell! That was a monster! This might actually be the longest chapter now, I don't know yet, but goodness was there a lot to it. This was another one of those chapters I thought about splitting, but there was so much I wanted to get to, plus I did tell you guys last chapter that this one was a big, important one, so I powered through and made it one, BIG chapter.

Anyway, I certainly hope you guys enjoyed the chapter. I really tried to add things you guys seemed to want, like Zald and Alfia, while trying to correct things like my treatment of Finn. I know I make mistakes, so please, tell me what you thought as I am very eager to hear back from you this time around.

I am still open to suggestions, and have received a few from people. I'll see if I can't work them in, though it may take time to properly find a way to do so, so I hope you'll be patient with me.

But, enough of that, I've yammered on quite long enough. So, with all this said, I will bid you all a fine farewell, so, until next time, bye for now!

*I know this is for the Argo Vesta, but within this story I'm simply going to say that this "Vesta Knife" is simply a weaker version of the Argo Vesta and is a sort of prototype for Bell's special attack. I hope you all can forgive this creative license/change up.