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!)

36. Justice, Love, and Nightmares

Welcome back everyone! Last chapter was a big one wasn't it? A lot happened and a lot was revealed. Thank you all for your reviews and messages, that were greatly appreciated and helpful. On the note of the reviews though, just to be clear, yes, I know canonically, Alfia is Bell's biological aunt. However, that information came out after I began this story, which focuses heavily on Bell's parentage. As such, within this story Alfia is "aunt" or "auntie" not his actual aunt. His parents will be revealed in time.

Now, with that said it's time to get to our next chapter and see what happens next. So, let's get to it.

I do not own Danmachi

---

The news of the attack on Bell was spreading through the city like fire and the good-natured air that the Guild, the Ganesha familia, and so many others had worked so hard to build was beginning to burn away. True, many didn't know Bell and some even celebrated what they saw as a necessary comeuppance towards the rising star, yet even they did not like the mood that this newest attack had created. Some began to wonder if the Hestia familia or Bell Cranel himself was cursed, though, interestingly enough, a few of those who suggested that had found themselves silenced by Aisha, Mord, Naaza, and most terrifying of all, Mia and the employees of the Hostess of Fertility. Even so, the happy carefree air created by the tournament was gone and many wondered if it could be brought back.

Within the walls of the Hearthfire Manor, these concerns were of little consequence at the moment, if they were even acknowledged.

"You think we can check on them now?" Welf asked.

Bell and Achilles had disappeared over an hour ago to try and calm down and let the last vestiges of the day finally drop away, and the Hestia familia had been wanting to check on them for a while. They weren't quite anxious, they knew the two would be alright, but they did want to see if there was anything the two needed and were more than ready to give them both their full support. However, Hestia had restrained them, knowing they both needed some time alone.

"I think we can now," she finally relented.

The Hestia familia and co. all got up and made their upstairs and towards Bell's room.

"Bell?" Hestia called, knocking on his door.

No response.

Everyone shared looks before Hestia gently pushed open the door.

"Bell?" she called again.

She stopped, smiled, then turned to everyone and slowly pushed the door open to reveal what she was seeing.

Bell and Achilles were on Bell's bed, the former on the latter's chest, and both sound asleep, with Achilles having one arm wrapped around Bell protectively and the other holding a book.

As the others smiled, Hestia tiptoed towards the bed and gently took the book from Achilles and checked to see what it was.

She had to stifle a laugh at seeing it. She tiptoed back to the others and showed them the title.

The World's Greatest Heroes: From the Argonaut to the Sword Hero

Everyone smiled or chuckled, making sure to stifle them as best as they could before Hestia, still smiling, went over to Bell's desk and put the book down before silently making her way out and closing the door.

"Looks like they'll be fine," Hephaestus said, smiling as well.

Hestia nodded.

"Indeed," she agreed. "You're all welcome to stay tonight. Even with the damage I think we have enough space."

"I think that's a wonderful idea," Take said.

"I agree," Miach said.

Agreements were quick and unanimous and soon enough, everyone was splitting up to head to different rooms, though not all were doing so alone. Ouka and Chigusa, hand-in-hand, went off to their own room. Welf and Hephaestus did likewise. Ryuu and Astraea also went together as they had been staying in the same room since the goddess's arrival in an attempt to catch-up on lost time. The most interesting group-up, however, came when Hestia approached Lili, Haruhime, and Mikoto.

"Why don't you three stay with me tonight? I've got the biggest room and it'll be nice to have girls' night after all this drama from our boys."

The three looked at each other, a bit surprised by the offer, but after a moment, they smiled, turned back to their goddess and nodded.

"Good. I'll get the wine," Hestia said.

---

The summons from the Guild came as quickly as expected.

Actually, I'm surprised they didn't make us have the meeting immediately. Maybe they wanted to make sure they had all the information before we were called in so they could crucify us, Finn thought as he sat in Loki's office, waiting for everyone to arrive.

Soon enough the others began to flow in, the last being Aiz and Riveria, both of whom looked anything but happy with him.

"The Guild has summoned us, as expected," Loki stated, looking nearly as tired as Finn. "And I don't think being late will be well received this time. So let's get going."

Everyone got up to leave, but Finn called out.

"Wait! There's something I need to say."

Everyone turned to him, and the frowns on Aiz and Riveria's faces deepened.

"More accurately," Finn continued. "I need to apologize."

The frowns disappeared as surprise came to the forefront on not only Aiz and Riveria's face, but on the other faces as well, minus Tione, who smiled and quietly encouraged her captain.

"Ever since Achilles came back, I've felt my fear grow more and more each day," he began. "I was afraid of having a repeat of seven years ago or something even worse happening, and with each new incident my fear grew. That's not fair, I know. Achilles is not Zald or Alfia, I know that, but I had this desperate need to ensure that he didn't become like them or something even worse. So, bit by bit, my paranoia, and I'll admit, my anger turned me further against him. Achilles isn't always the easiest guy to get along with." Everyone was willing to agree to that. "In time, even Bell Cranel was added into my paranoia. The fear of him fulfilling Achilles's 'prophecy' so to speak, about the Dragon and the Level Ten Theory, being the basis. All this to say, I was wrong. It took a punch to the face to make me realize I was wrong," he joked, getting a few smiles. "But I was wrong. So, I wanted to apologize to you all, especially to you Riveria, and to you, Aiz, for allowing my own fear to rule me and for forgetting to truly trust you all."

He finished by bowing before all of them and waited for a response.

"Thank you, Finn," Riveria said, stepping forward. "For explaining yourself and for your apology."

"Does that mean you forgive me?" he asked, straightening up.

She nodded.

"Yes. On one condition."

"What's that?"

"You also apologize to Achilles," she said.

He nodded.

"Done."

The elf smiled at her captain.

"Good. I never wanted to fight with you, Finn."

"Neither did I with you," he replied.

With their relationship now fixed or at least on the mend, Finn turned to Aiz.

"Will you accept my apology?" he asked the Sword Princess.

"Yes. On one condition," she said, repeating Riveria's words.

"Name it."

"You rescind your threat to Bell," she said, barely restraining herself enough not to make it come off as a demand.

"Done," he said instantly.

The tension in Aiz's body finally fell away and for the first time in a while, she smiled at her captain.

"Thank you," she said.

With that, the last of the worry and tension fell away and the Loki familia as a whole smiled, except for Bete of course.

"Well it looks like we're finally starting to act like a familia again, which is good because we're going to need to have each other's backs for what we're about to walk into," Loki stated.

Everyone nodded and after a few glances around at each other and a few more smiles, everyone felt ready to take on whatever happened.

"Alright, let's get going!" the goddess declared.

The Loki familia began to file out, but Aiz quickly stopped Finn before he did so.

"What's up Aiz?" he asked.

"He really is a good person. I know we can trust him," she said, with there being absolutely no way for Finn to mistake who she meant.

He smiled at her.

"You really are in love with him, aren't you?"

Finn was then treated to the magnificent and amusing sight of Aiz getting nice and red as her eyes turned away from him. However, after a moment, she turned her eyes back and nodded.

"I am."

Finn laughed.

"Well, don't keep him waiting forever, you hear me? Take it from someone who's waited far too long himself," her captain told her before making his way out.

Aiz watched him go, before she smiled and nodded again.

"I won't," she promised.

---

The trip to the Guild had been, at best, awkward, at worst, tense and even a tad frightening.

The city evidentantly knew which familia had attacked Bell the previous night and while most looked little more than confused or concerned, there were those among the crowd who did not seem to appreciate the Loki familia at the moment.

It's almost funny how quickly trust and good will can be lost. I bet someone could save the world, but a year later find themselves hated by that very world, Finn noted. Still, they have every right to be afraid and angry. This should have never happened, and I'm going to make sure it never does again.

The Loki familia arrived at the Guild, somehow even angrier than they were before at the conspirators in their familia. This only increased when they actually entered.

"Fucking shit," Bete cursed.

The Guild was filled to the brim with people asking questions, desperate for information, or just all around pestering the Guild employees.

"Have there been any more attacks?" someone asked.

"We have no report of any more attacks," Eina said as calmly as possible, though it was clear she was on her last legs.

"Why should we trust you? Wasn't the Guild supposed to have upped security? How could you let this happen? I heard some kid was killed last night?"

Eina froze. Everyone, at this point, knew who had been targeted, and hearing the person in front of her claim that 'some kid' had been killed, made her heart stop.

Riveria, seeing this, frowned.

Suddenly, a loud flash of light and loud bang shook and blinded the hall, causing everything to stop.

"Enough," the elven princess demanded.

No one in the Guild knew how to respond, which served Riveria just fine.

"We're here to see Royman and Ouranos-sama," Finn said, silently thanking Riveria for ending the insanity.

"Right this way!" Eina declared, eagerly taking the chance to get away from people before her and the terrible thoughts they were putting in her head.

The Loki familia made their way through the crowd, picking up some of the whispers and glares as they passed.

They made their way into the back of the Guild, Eina all but running to get away from the crowd.

"Royman and Ouranos-sama are already waiting for you, along with Ganesha-sama and the members of his familia who were involved with the incident last night. Freya-sama and her familia are also here and are in a very foul mood. From what I gather, Freya-sama has been making demands since she arrived, specifically with regards to the punishment of your...of the prisoners," Eina explained as they walked.

"Joy. I knew she was going to be pissed, but I was hoping we could resolve all this without her input," Loki growled.

"This is as far as I go," Eina said once they reached Ouranos's chamber.

The Loki familia all gave their thanks as they entered the chamber, except for Riveria, who stopped next to the half-elf.

"Bell's alright," she swore.

Eina looked Riveria in the eyes, hopeful tears soon filling her own.

"Really?" she asked.

"I promise," Riveria stated.

"I-I heard there were casualties," Eina said.

"There were, courtesy of Ottar."

"A-And I heard t-they...I heard they mutilated Bell."

Riveria looked down upon the young woman, not truly wanting to answer, but knowing both that Eina would not be comforted until she knew and that the young half-elf would know if she was lying.

"I had to regenerate his left eye," she admitted, causing Eina to gasp. "He also had more than a few broken bones, but he's completely healed now, of that I promise you, Eina. He's fine."

Hearing how the young man who'd earned her heart had been tortured and mutilated hurt Eina in a way that she wasn't sure she had ever been before. Her heart ached and she so desperately wanted to cry. However, knowing that he was alive and well filled her with such a relief that it managed to battle the negative emotions back. Finally, she managed a deep breath and calmly met Riveria's eyes.

"Thank you, Riveria-sama, for telling me."

The Nine Hells smiled at her then nodded.

"Of course, Eina."

"Well, you'd best get in there and I'd best get back to work," the half-elf stated, her confidence back at full strength and looking ready for whatever the world had prepared for her.

"You're right. I'll see you later," Riveria said.

The two separated and Riveria quickly caught up with her familia, with Finn giving her a knowing look and smile before they all entered Ouranos's chamber.

---

The god of the city was where he always was, sitting above them all. At the base of his throne was Royman, looking incredibly tired and frustrated. Not far from the Guild head was Ganesha and the members of his familia who they'd seen the night before, Shakti being the most prevalent amongst them. At the moment though, all were focused, not on the arriving Loki familia, but the bloodthirsty Freya familia.

"I want their heads," Freya said, in a voice both cold and tired. It was clear this was not the first time she had made this demand. "Give them to me, Ouranos. I won't be satisfied with anything less."

"I have told you, Freya, I will not hand over the prisoners so you can torture and slaughter them, especially not before the whole truth of the matter is revealed," Ouranos responded, in his usual, stonish voice, though most could detect a hint of irritation.

Freya was about to go at him again, when Ottar spoke.

"My lady, the Loki familia."

Freya's head shot to the approaching trickster and her children.

"Loki," she said, her voice unnerving frigid, so much so that most of the mortals in the room felt a shiver go up their spines.

"Morning, Freya," the redheaded goddess greeted.

"Morning? Is that all you have to say for yourself?"

"What do you want me to say? A few of my kids did something that pisses me off nearly as much as it does you," Loki responded.

"Oh I doubt that very much," Freya stated. Had her voice not been so lovely it would have come across as a growl.

"Well you shouldn't. You think I'm happy that some of my children went and attacked your rabbit? The captain of an allied familia who's been quite helpful in quite a few ways since we met him? Without that kid, that big oaf, Achilles would be under your thrall." Freya's glare somehow intensified. "Which wouldn't exactly be good for me. So, I definitely don't want that kid dead. And because of my stupid kiddies the Guild, half of the other familias, and the entire city are pissed at my familia. That's not a fun place to be in, in case you couldn't figure that out. And that's all before we get to the fact that there's no way I'm not leaving here without some sort of punishment from Ouranos there."

"No punishments will be doled out until I am sure of all the information," Ouranos stated, causing everyone to turn to him. "In order to achieve that end, we are awaiting the arrival of the Hestia familia."

The mention of her beloved's familia seemed to finally calm Freya enough to not look like she was ready to eat the hearts of everyone in the room, though everyone knew that if she found even one scratch on Bell upon his arrival, it would all come back and worse than before.

"I don't know what else you need to know, Ouranos. Shakti herself reported what happened, and it matched perfectly with what Ottar said. My Bell was attacked by members of the Loki familia," her venomous eyes turned to the familia. "Who kidnapped two children in order to capture him with the express intent of torturing and murdering him. All that should be more than enough to punish these attackers."

Not far from the goddess, someone twitched at hearing, 'My Bell'. Someone with blonde hair.

"I will be the one to decide that," Ouranos responded.

Freya's eyes regained a furious glint.

"Did you forget what this tournament was for?" she asked. "This is to ease away the fear and tension in the city in order to protect MY Bell," she reminded him. "To pay him back for all that he has done for you and your little monsters, excuse me, 'Xenos'."

The blonde twitched again at the more forceful claiming of the young man.

Ouranos's frown somehow deepened as he actually returned her glare.

"Calm yourself, Freya," he demanded.

Freya did not look keen on doing that, and continued to glare at the god of the city.

"Listen to him, Freya. This is not a fight you want or can really win," Loki said.

Freya turned to her.

"You do not get to make demands of me, Loki."

"I'm giving you some advice, you lust-crazy woman," Loki threw back.

"Really? Because it sounds to me like you'd like me to point my ire at you."

"Send your ire wherever you want, there's only so much you can do. What? Are you going to go to war with me? Here and now?"

"I went to war for my Bell once before, and for quite a bit less than what your familia did."

"He's not your Bell!"

All eyes turned to the unexpected voice.

Aiz? Riveria wondered as she saw her ward glare at the goddess.

Freya's eyes turned to the Sword Princess and, seeing who it was, her eyes narrowed again.

"Is that so?" the goddess asked.

"It is," Aiz stated defiantly.

Freya's face scrunched up into the nearest to a sneer her beauty would allow.

"You think because of his infatuation with you, that you have his heart, Aiz Wallenstein? That he's yours to claim? Don't make me laugh. You are just a simple girl that happened to rescue him once in the Dungeon. You're nothing special."

Aiz's look changed, after hearing Freya's words, but not in the way the goddess had expected. Her eyes widened, her mouth opened a bit in clear surprise, and her face flushed while, inside her chest, her heart thundered out of control.

"I-Infatuation?"

Freya's glare dropped as she gave Aiz a confused look. This lasted a moment before she put two and two together and laughed.

"You don't know. You really don't," she laughed. "I knew you were a simple girl, but even I apparently underestimated just how simple you are."

Aiz heard none of this, nor took notice of the many looks she was getting as she, instead, fell into her own world.

Bell...Bell actually loves-.

"They're here," Ouranos announced.

Many heads shot towards the entrance, none faster than Aiz's.

He actually does...He…

Euphoria filled Aiz as she practically burst with anticipation. Everything else was forgotten as she had just one thought.

I need to tell him.

All around the Sword Princess her familia shared looks, most being extremely pleased with what was clearly happening before them, with the noticeable exception of a certain elf and werewolf.

It's not how I wanted her to discover his feelings, but if it finally gets them together, I won't complain, Riveria thought, smiling at her daughter-figure as she began to practically bounce. At least we can say something joyous and beautiful came from this whole mess.

The Hestia familia finally entered the chamber, Hestia at the front, followed by Achilles. However, Bell was noticeably not taking the lead.

Where is he? Aiz wondered desperately, wanting to tell him as soon as possible. This was noticed by Riveria, who leaned into her ear.

"They're probably surrounding him for protection," she whispered. "And it's probably best you wait to talk to him. You two can have a moment immediately afterwards, I promise."

Aiz looked at her then, regaining her smile, she nodded and calmed down.

"My apologies for keeping you waiting, Ouranos," Hestia said humbly to the god above her.

"It is fine, Hestia, I know things have been stressful for you and your familia. However, with you here, we can begin," the god of the city replied. "Bell Cranel, step forward."

The Hestia familia parted and their captain walked out from amongst their ranks and towards Ouranos, before he bowed.

"Good morning, Our-."

He was stopped when he was all but tackled by a warm, feminine body.

Achilles grabbed his sword as he glared at said body, while her familia grabbed their own weapons, ready to intercept him should he act aggressively.

"I'm so glad you're safe," Freya said, gently stroking his hair, even as she forced his head into her breasts.

Bell could not help the blush he was getting now as even his training with Aisha left him unprepared for this sudden assault.

"Freya," a booming voice called. "Let him go."

She turned and glared at Ouranos.

"Surely you won't be so cruel to deny me a moment with him," she responded.

His frown deepened and he returned her glare, but relented, knowing full-well that it would be easier on them all if he gave her this.

Pleased with her victory, Freya immediately turned back to Bell, who had finally managed to pull himself free of her cleavage and was looking up at her with a red face and wide-eyes.

She smiled adoringly at him and stroked his cheek.

"I'm so glad you're alright. When Ottar told me what happened," she paused as the hand on Bell's cheek turned into a fist before shifting back to caressing him. "It was too much. But to see you now, untouched and whole," she brought her other hand up so that her two hands were under his eyes, as she stared at them like them were precious jewels. "Brings me joy I'll never be able to truly describe."

She finished by leaning down, making everyone tense again, only to press her forehead against his and gently rub it affectionately against his, her eyes never once leaving his.

"T-Thank you, Freya," Bell managed to reply. "I appreciate that you care so much. I also wanted to thank you and Ottar. If not for his aid, I'm not sure what would happen."

Everyone could feel how much Freya enjoyed hearing that. How overjoyed she was that he was thanking her. That he was indebted to her. They could feel her tingling and it made them shiver.

"I am so happy he was able to be of service to you, my dearest Bell," Freya said, shooting a quick glance to the side.

Aiz glared at her, knowing that those words weren't a slip of the tongue.

"He was," Bell conceded, not failing to know what his words meant. "And I will be happy to discuss some way to repay you." Another tingle ran up Freya's body as she thought up many different and wonderful ways he could do that. "But for now, Ouranos-sama wishes to speak with me."

Though that did dampen her mood a bit, after all she wanted to spend more time with her dearest Bell, it did not dampen them much, and she readily pulled back and, with a smile, she nodded.

"You're right. We'll talk more after this...meeting, is concluded," she said sultrily.

Bell took a deep breath and prepared to turn back Ouranos, only to feel something warm on his cheek.

Turning just a bit, he saw Freya kissing his cheek, her eyes closed as she held it for far too long, only pulling back when she knew everyone had seen her.

She gave him one final smile, and rejoined her familia.

Achilles growled as he watched the goddess depart his son, and he was not alone as it seemed half the chamber was sending the goddess of beauty, death glares.

"Now then," Ouranos said, his voice clearly indicating that he would not allow any more interruptions. "We have heard a great deal of what happened from Shakti and Ottar, but I want to hear the events from you, Bell Cranel, before I make a judgment."

Getting over his embarrassment, Bell nodded and began to relay what happened.

"It all started when I went to go get snacks for everyone during the tournament. I had made my way out of the Coliseum and onto the streets when a young girl I know named Fina, approached me and asked me to follow her. I knew right away that something was wrong, but she tried to act as if nothing was wrong and I, being worried for her, agreed to follow her," he began.

Despite the fact that they all knew how this story ended, many in the chamber could not help but feel tenser as he spoke.

"We weaved our way through the streets and back alleys until we reached a dark courtyard. Once there, Fina was snatched up by someone in a cloak and I grabbed my knife. The leader of the group, Bjorn, demanded I drop my weapons and revealed that they had kidnapped another child I know, a boy named Rye. They pressed a knife to both their throats and so I laid down my weapons."

Freya's frown had returned with a vengeance and her eyes turned furious.

Using such underhanded tactics against him, all because they knew they didn't stand a chance in a fair fight.

"I see," Ouranos said, looking down upon Bell, his own expression gaining a darker tint. "I understand that the next part might be difficult for you, Bell Cranel, but I must ask that you give as much detail as you can."

Many in the room did not like that, knowing already what 'details' they were likely to be reminded of, but Bell himself simply nodded, almost as if the next part was of little concern.

"After I dropped my weapons, chains wrapped around my arms to hold me in place. Bjorn then handed Rye off to one of the other attackers and approached me. I asked what they wanted and he said, 'To put you in your place, rabbit"."

Numerous growls were heard, but Bell pressed on.

"It was then that I recognized Bjorn, though I didn't know his name. He then revealed who he was as well as his motive."

"That being?" Ouranos questioned.

"He and the other attackers were angry about the special treatment I and my familia was receiving from the Loki familia's leadership. That we were 'stealing' time that they, the attackers, deserved."

Most of the Loki familia felt a tinge of guilt at this, especially Finn.

If I had just given my own familia more of my own attention things would have been so different, he thought, as he silently vowed to do better.

"Bjorn went on to vent his anger at me. Degrading me and insulting me. Saying that it was unacceptable that I was getting such a privilege," Bell continued.

"What did he say, exactly?" Freya cut in, her gloved hands tightly gripping her arms as she looked upon her beloved.

"That is inconsequential," Ouranos stated, trying to shut her down.

She turned her furious eyes to him.

"I want to hear it. Besides, you asked for details," she stated, warning him not to try and stop her.

Ouranos, begrudgingly, accepted this and turned back to Bell and nodded.

"Bjorn went into how a few months ago I was a nobody. A sniveling nobody worth less than dirt. That I was getting the privilege of training with Aiz, which even they didn't have. He finished by saying that I was a…"

He stopped, not wanting to finish. This was not only because this particular moment was actually a bit painful for him, but also because he knew that many within the room would react poorly.

"That you were a...what?" Freya asked, trying her best to sound gentle to him, but being unable to completely restrain her rage.

He sighed.

"That I was a monster loving freak that nearly destroyed the city."

Freya's eyes widened and filled with a rage that would send most to their knees as they simultaneously soiled themselves. Those terrible eyes shot back to Ouranos with an almost audible demand.

I want their heads!

She was not alone in her rage as a familiar, but still unnerving crackling filled the air as lightning danced along Achilles's skin. Off with the Loki familia, the entirety of the familia showed disdain at those words, but none greater than Aiz.

I am the one who decides who I train with! I am the one who says who is worthy. I was the one who offered to train him in the first place. I initiated it and for selfish reasons. Because I wanted to learn how he was growing so quickly. It's so wrong to say that he didn't deserve my time. He's…, her internal rant started as a smile appeared. He's more than worthy. He's more worthy than anyone. He's so kind. So strong. And so good. If anything, I don't deserve him. But, she looked at him with adoring eyes. He doesn't think so. He actually thinks I am worthy.

Bell felt her eyes and turned.

Catching his eyes, her smile grew and she poured as much of her still silent love into her eyes to try and tell him how she felt.

Bell blushed, though he wasn't completely sure why.

W-What is that look she is giving me? he wondered.

"That was a disgusting thing to say."

Snapping back to Ouranos who seemed unhappy with the insults along with everyone else, but ready to move on.

"Not that anyone would believe such venom, but I will say, Bell Cranel, that those insults do not reflect your character in the least. You have shown yourself to be a kind-hearted young man with a generous soul. Only fools would say otherwise."

Bell smiled and bowed.

"Thank you, Ouranos-sama."

Ouranos bent his head an inch, sending his own respect back at the young man, before pressing on.

"Now, what else happened?"

Bell lost his smile and continued.

"I told them that they could do what they wanted, but to release Fina and Rye. Bjorn said they would, but only after giving me what I deserved and cutting out their tongues."

Many growls reached Bell's ears.

"That enraged me," he admitted. "And I told him not to lay a finger on them. His response was to punch me in the face."

More growls.

"After that Bjorn froze for a moment and looked afraid, before he called me a monster and attacked me."

Most were focused on the detail of Bell's torture, which was understandable, but Achilles's, while certainly furious at hearing what had happened to his son, was focused on the little detail that came right before.

His new skill activated, he recognized. That would certainly make someone want to shit themselves.

"He called me a freak. A monster loving degenerate and that I didn't deserve to be trained by Finn, Gareth, Riveria, or Aiz. I responded by saying it was Aiz's decision whether or not I deserved it."

Aiz's smile returned and she gave a small nod in agreement. Next to her, Riveria smiled.

And now she finally understands why he would single her out from all of us, she thought, pleased and a little grateful that her dense ward finally knew how the young man before them felt about her.

Bell, however, was not so joyful at the moment, as his frown deepened.

"Bjorn responded by saying, Aiz didn't need to sully herself with me. That she'd already been forced to deal with me for too long and that he'd deal with me himself. That he'd free Aiz of me."

Instantly all of Aiz's happiness evaporated, replaced with rage and fear.

I don't ever want to be free of him! How could they think I thought so little of him? How could I feel anything but what I do? she asked as her fists tightened.

But Bell wasn't done. Not by a long shot.

"He pulled out a knife and said, 'Starting with those disgusting eyes'. He then pushed the knife into my left eye and asked me, 'How's that feel, rabbit? How's it feel to be...', pardon my language, Ouranos-sama," Bell stated quickly. "'How's it feel to be...skull-fucked?'"

It was a good thing that Bjorn Norse was not in the chamber at that moment because the wrathful eyes he would be receiving would have killed him dozens of times over.

I will tear their intestines out with rusty spoons and feed them to monsters in front of their dying eyes! Freya vowed.

The crackling around Achilles intensified and the former Zeus captain was barely restraining himself enough to not shoot off a bolt of lightning in the chamber. The rest of the Hestia familia was much the same, except for Haruhime who was simply horrified and wanted desperately to go over and comfort her beloved captain, but stopped herself, though only by vowing to herself to comfort him later.

The Loki familia was little better. The respect, admiration, and friendship they had with the Hestia captain made hearing such words fill them with disgust, made worse by the fact that it was a member of their familia that had said them. Aiz, of course, was the worst and was about to rush over to him herself, when a hand fell on her shoulder.

"Soon," Riveria promise, looking more than a little upset herself.

This was one of those times that Aiz wanted to disobey her, but seeing her motherly superior looking at her with understanding did cool her enough to nod and stop herself, if only barely.

"That is vulgar and repulsive," Ouranos said. "I am sorry that you had to go through that."

"It's alright, Ouranos-sama. Riveria healed my eye and it's good as new," Bell responded, smiling more in the hope of easing the rage he felt in the room than because he was genuinely alright.

Many eyes turned to the elf, including Hestia, the Hestia familia, and her own familia, all of whom gave her thankful looks and bows or, in Tiona's case, hugging her from behind and smiling at her.

Riveria smiled and returned all the thankful looks, until she felt one that she was not expecting.

Turning her eyes, she found Freya's eyes upon her.

For a brief moment, she froze, worried that the goddess may be trying to Charm her, but this lasted but a moment as Freya closed her eyes and bowed just enough for Riveria to see.

Well, that's unexpected, the elf said.

Surprised though she was, Riveria returned the gesture and Freya turned away.

You have my gratitude for restoring my Bell, Riveria Ljos Alf, but don't think for a moment that this means I will not punish you if you decide to continue pursuing my Achilles.

"Please continue," Ouranos said.

"Bjorn then pulled out his knife, hit me one more time and taunted me some more, asking me if I was still going to act tough now. I responded by," Bell paused and to the confusion of all, he scratched his cheek in embarrassment. "Saying, 'Is that all you've got?'."

Silence. Then, a few blinks, followed by more silence.

"You responded by saying, 'Is that all you've got?'?" Ouranos questioned.

Bell nodded, even more embarrassed.

"Yes, Ouranos-sama."

"That's an interesting response to the situation you found yourself in," the god pointed out.

"I suppose so," the young man responded, still scratching his cheek.

A few paces away, Freya was now beaming.

Magnificent. Beaten and mutilated, he showed more strength than all those worthless cowards combined. Oh, Bell, you are such a delightful morsel. Each time I get a taste of you, it's always something new and even more delicious. I swear you are like the world's greatest addiction. I will never get used to you and your surprises, she thought, her body shaking with all the tingles that passed through her.

While the others were not so enraptured as the goddess of beauty, they did take some pleasure in Bell's response.

That's my boy, Achilles thought as his lightning finally dissipated.

So, freaking, cool! Hestia thought as pride filled her for her dear captain.

Way to go, little bro, Welf added to the thoughts.

He really is quite the character, Finn noted with a chuckle.

Bell, Aiz thought as she looked upon her beloved. I was right. If anyone doesn't deserve someone, it's me with you. But, she placed a hand over her heart. If you're willing to accept me, I do everything I can to make sure you never regret it.

"Is this when Ottar arrived?" Ouranos asked, bringing them all back.

"Yes," Bell answered, happy to be moving on from what he considered an embarrassing moment. "Shortly after Ottar appeared, having already rescued Fina and Rye before I or the Loki familia even knew he was there."

Ouranos nodded.

"I was informed that you requested he not help you with the conspirators, but simply deliver the children to safety? Is this correct?"

"Yes, Ouranos-sama. I understand now that this was unwise, if not downright inappropriate of me but I wanted Fina and Rye safe and…" a deep look of shame filled his features. "I wanted to deal with them myself," he confessed.

"I see," Ouranos said as the others in the room looked upon Bell with concern, knowing what he was thinking. "It was unwise for you to take on your attackers by yourself, especially in your state." Bell's head fell more. "However. Your concern for the children is admirable and, I think it's fair to say, had Ottar aided you, far more of the conspirators would have been killed."

Ottar did not reply, but it was clear from his posture and burning eyes that he wasn't going to deny this would have been the case.

"So, seeing as you did not butcher your attackers, allowing us a chance to more fully investigate, I will let your actions slide," the god of the city replied.

"Thank you, Ouranos-sama," Bell said as he bowed.

"Now, seeing as it appears we have a full picture of the events, I can finally make a judgment upon this situation."

His eyes turned upon the Loki familia.

"Loki, while I am under the belief that neither you nor any of your children currently with you had anything to do with this attack nor knew anything of it. However, that is part of the problem. Your oversight of your own familia allowed this incident to occur. Though it ended better than most would have hoped for that does not minimize your failure. As such I must punish you seriously."

Loki nodded.

"Yeah, I understand."

Freya smiled, glad to see her rival punished for the crimes against her dearly beloved. However, she forgot that said dearly beloved was still present and did not have a history of staying silent when he saw something he disagreed with.

"Excuse me, Ouranos-sama."

The god of the city turned his eyes to the young man before him.

"Yes, Bell Cranel?"

"I'd like to ask you to be lenient with them."

That surprised most in the chamber, including Ouranos who quirked a brow.

"I understand that you are friends with those present, but their oversight caused a major incident that cannot be ignored."

Bell nodded.

"I understand that. I don't ask that they receive no punishment, but I believe that it wouldn't be just for them to be fully punished for Bjorn and the others. Perhaps I'm odd for how I think, but if we're all guilty of the crimes done by those we're somehow affiliated with, then wouldn't that mean we're all condemned?"

"Hm," Ouranos replied, taking a moment to think. "I understand your position, and will even point out that it is not so odd. As I see it, your position is not so much different from Achilles's position with regards to the Xenos."

Bell thought on the last time he was in this chamber and what his father had said, then smiled, quickly turning and meeting Achilles's eyes who, likewise, was smiling. The two shared a brief moment before focusing back on the god above them.

"However, responsibility still lies with the leadership of an organization. Without responsibility, power is just chaos and destruction. That said, I will take your request to heart," Ouranos said.

Bell bowed gratefully.

Ouranos turned back to the Loki familia.

"It appears you are even more in this young man's debt," he began, getting nothing but silent agreement from the trickster familia. "I expect his generosity to be repaid, but at this moment, it is time for my judgment. Loki, you and your familia will be stripped of all your winnings you have won thus far from the tournament. I will keep this to just your familia earnings and not any personal earnings seeing as I'm holding your familia responsible. You will also pay an additional ten million valis fine. Thirdly, you will submit to a complete evaluation by the Guild and Ganesha familia. They will investigate your familia and interview every member to see if there are more conspirators hiding away and to discover if there is any more of the resentment that Bell Cranel described in his retelling. Lastly, you will be issued a mission in the future and will answer the call, no matter the inconvenience."

"You got it," Loki said, doing her best not to smile. Her familia was not so successful in hiding their happiness and relief at the punishment. And why wouldn't they find it difficult? Immediately following the attack, some of them had worried their familia would be disbanded. Perhaps that was unreasonable, but at the same time, it didn't seem completely out of the question given the seriousness of both the incident and the timing. With the tournament going on, the Guild was prepared to come down hard on any trouble-makers as the whole point of the tournament was to help people forget their troubles and lift the city's spirits. At the very least, it seemed likely they would be fined into debt. This punishment was beyond what they had hoped for, and they knew who they had to thank, repeatedly, for this mercy.

Freya scowled.

This is beyond lenient. It's a smack on the wrist, she thought, but her anger lasted but a moment as a smile appeared and her eyes turned. But I suppose it's not so bad. Not after he made his strength known again. So, I'll let it pass, but only if I get something I want.

"Ouranos," she said, stepping forward.

All eyes turned to her.

"What is it, Freya? Are you displeased with this ruling?" the god asked.

"Not so much," she replied, earning some surprise. "But seeing how generous you are being with the Loki familia, I was hoping you would be a tad generous with me as well and give me something that I want."

"I'm not giving you the prisoners," he said forcefully, tired of this 'request'.

"Oh no," Freya returned with a small laugh. "That's not what I want. There's something far more important I'd like. Something I think you'll actually agree to."

"What is it?" Ouranos asked, staring down at her with skeptical eyes.

"I would like to request that Bell be placed under my protection."

The response was immediate.

"That's not going to fucking happen!" Achilles roared, the rest of the Hestia familia right behind him.

"Bell has been attacked twice in two days. In both cases he was seriously injured, was he not?" Freya replied, stopping Achilles and the others, as guilt and fear replaced their anger. "I don't blame you at all, Achilles, but even you can't be everywhere at once, as we've seen. If he's with me I can have my entire familia protecting him."

"I'm not handing him over to you!" Hestia cried.

"Why? Because you don't like me?" Freya asked. "You won't protect your dear captain simply because you don't care for me?"

"That's not the issue and you know it," Hestia growled.

"Then what is it? My request is entirely logical, if a tad selfish on my part. I want to protect my dear Bell and where is he going to be safer in this entire city than with me?" More than a few were ready to argue with her on how 'safe' he would be. "Ganesha familia has the most members, but no one on Ottar's par, and, no offense to you or your captain, Ganesha, but Bell has already proven he's stronger than Shakti, so the protection he'd receive would be limited regardless."

Ganesha and Shakti frowned, but said nothing.

"The other option is Loki and her familia and...well...I don't think I need to say why that would be an unwise choice...at least until the Guild can confirm there aren't more conspirators hiding within the Twilight Manor."

The Loki familia glared at her, but also remained silent.

"So the best option is with me. He'll be the safest person in the whole city. No one but the suicidal would try to get him with me. It's a win-win situation. Bell's safe and I'm satisfied, which I assure you all, you want me to be satisfied, especially now."

Everyone outside the Freya familia were prepared to argue with her and give her a piece of their minds, but their objections all ended by one person and one sentence.

"I'll do it."

Everything stopped.

"Bell?" Hestia called.

He turned to her and smiled.

"It's okay, Hestia-sama," he said, before turning back to Freya. "I'll do it. For one night," he said holding up a finger. "As repayment for Ottar's help. Is that satisfactory for you, Freya-sama?"

The goddess of beauty was tingling and had to hold in a shudder at hearing the power in his voice.

"Is it out of the question to make it two days?" she asked, barely stopping her voice from shaking. Bell just stared at her and she chuckled. "Very well. One night with me. I can accept that."

No one knew what to do. No one in the Hestia or Loki familia wanted Bell to be with Freya, alone, for any length of time, let alone for an entire night. Even Ganesha and Shakti seemed completely opposed to the idea. But he had agreed and done so for a reason they couldn't find it within themselves to argue with, thus ending the discussion.

"Very well, it seems an agreement has been made," Ouranos said.

"It does indeed," Freya said triumphantly.

"Now, we turn to the matter of the prisoners," the god said, his voice turning darker while those around him gained a darker tint to their eyes. "I think it would only be fair to ask you first, Bell Cranel, what you would like to happen."

"I've been thinking about that for a while, actually," Bell told him. "Part of me is furious at them for what they did. Putting Fina and Rye in danger like that. Threatening them. It makes my blood boil." No one failed to notice how he didn't mention any of his own injuries. "And it makes me want to ask for the harshest punishment possible."

Many within the Hestia and Loki familia shared looks, not liking where this was going. This was, after all, their dear, sweet Bell. He wasn't vengeful, brutal, or bloodthirsty.

At least not most of the time, Achilles thought, his heart sinking into his stomach.

Freya, however, was delighted with his words, thinking that she was going to get to see the ones who dared hurt her precious bunny, thoroughly punished. However, if anyone was taking score, then this would have been another point against her in the game of truly knowing Bell.

"But that's not who I am," Bell continued, easing away the tension in the room. "I'm not the kind of person who wants revenge or to needlessly inflict pain. I sometimes lose my temper, I admit, but I do try and control it. So, I came up with an idea that I'm hoping you'll agree with, Ouranos-sama."

"And what is this idea?"

"Let me fight them in the Coliseum as a tournament fight. Me versus all of them. That way the entire city can see them punished without losing the high spirits this tournament was meant for. I'll even go without my weapons and armor to make it a fair fight."

How fascinating and absolutely wonderful, Freya thought, loving the idea. Sure, it wasn't the brutal death she wanted to inflict upon the conspirators, but that wasn't necessarily out of the question either. Maimings and death were not exactly rare in arena fights and if Bell's temper flared up again, she might really get everything she wanted from the meeting and more.

"Are you sure you wish to do this without your equipment, Bell-san?" Ganesha asked, finally deciding to speak. "This would be, as you say, their punishment, so it's not truly necessary to give them a fair fight and, given they will outnumber you nearly twenty-to-one, I don't think anyone would blame you if you wanted your weapons and armor."

"Thank you for your concern, Ganesha-sama, but I think I need to do this without my equipment. This fight needs to be a spectacle. Something as big as possible to get everyone's spirits up. That's really what I'm concerned about. People are scared, we saw it on our way here, and given my part in creating that fear, I think it's my duty to help alleviate it."

Almost everyone wanted to disagree with that statement and assure the young man that he was not to blame for the tension currently suffocating the city, but they knew it was pointless. He felt responsible and they weren't going to convince him otherwise.

"Very well," Ouranos stated, getting everyone's attention again. "I shall permit this fight, assuming there are no objections." There wasn't. "Ganesha, inform your familia of this new development and move all fights back so that he may fight today, assuming that's alright with you, Bell Cranel?"

"I was actually going to request that, Ouranos-sama. This needs to be dealt with as quickly as possible," Bell replied.

"Agreed. Now, unless there are any objections, I will conclude this meeting."

There were many things, many people wanted to say on the subjects brought up today, but none could find the words or the voice to speak them. As such, the meeting was concluded and the familias began to file out.

However, despite the fact that her familia was moving to leave as well, a certain Sword Princess was frozen.

Aiz was heartbroken and had been since hearing Bell concede to Freya's request. That concession hurt like few things had. So much so that she lost her voice and didn't manage to call out to Bell so she could to talk with him, before he and his familia departed.

"It's alright." Aiz turned to Riveria who gave her a sympathetic smile. "You can talk to him later."

Aiz nodded, but her heart still felt heavy.

"He's spending the night with Freya," she said sadly.

"Reluctantly," Riveria pointed out. "He feels he owes her a debt because of the help Ottar gave him and he's the kind of person to repay a kindness and as quickly as possible. It's very clear he did not agree to her request because he truly wished to."

That let Aiz smile again and she nodded towards her motherly figure.

"There's a smile. Now come on, it's probably going to take a while to get to the Coliseum and, cruel as it might sound, I'm rather look forward to seeing Bell kick Bjorn's ass."

Aiz nodded again, eager herself, and the two made to join their familia by the exit.

"Aiz Wallenstein."

Everyone turned in surprise towards the god sitting above them.

"Yes, Ouranos-sama?" the young woman asked, staring up at the stern face of the city's god.

"Treat him well."

Everyone blinked.

"I'm sorry?" she asked.

"Treat Bell Cranel well. He's a good man and has gone above and beyond for me in the past. I do not wish to see someone of his character suffer," Ouranos explained.

Almost every jaw dropped.

That's...beyond unexpected, Riveria thought.

Ouranos is giving praise to young Bell Cranel? Well, I suppose if there's anyone who deserves his praise, it would be that young man, Ganesha thought, smiling.

However, as stated, it was 'almost' everyone who felt their jaw dropped. There was one noticeable exception.

Aiz stared at the god above her, then smiled and nodded with conviction.

"I will," she vowed.

A nearly invisible smile grew on Ouranos's lips.

"Good."

That was the end of their conversation and Aiz turned to rejoin her familia, a startled Riveria quickly following after her while a smiling god watched their departure.

I wish you could be here to see this, my love. These two are quite something, Ouranos thought as Aiz and her familia departed his chamber.

---

Ganesha had done his job well as it had taken barely more than an hour for the entire city to learn of Bell's fight with the Loki familia members who had attacked him.

"I heard that there were like twenty of them," one man at a bar said.

"I heard he's taking them on with no weapons or armor!" another declared.

"No way, that be suicide," a woman said.

"I heard they were mostly low level adventurers, but even then that seems like a death wish to me," another agreed.

"Hey Mord, what do you think of all of this?"

The gruff adventurer who sat nearby looked at the speaker for a moment, then got up. He made his way over to the table and then slammed a bag of money onto the table.

"250,000 valis says the Rabbit Foot beats all of them. No weapons. No armor," he stated.

A few quick looks later, the bar was abuzz with excitement.

"Oh you're on!"

"You must be insane to bet that much money, but I'll happily take it from you!"

"50,000 valis on the Loki familia!"

"25,000 on Loki!"

More and more bets came in, the vast majority going to the Loki familia, though a few people, seeing Mord's absolute confidence, wisely decided to side with him and bet on the rabbit of Hestia familia

Kick their asses, Little Rookie, Mord thought.

---

The sound of an excitement and the roar of the crowd could be heard even from the deepest part of the Coliseum.

"Can so many people really be cheering for our execution?" one of the Loki conspirators asked.

"We don't know that's what's about to happen," another conspirator said desperately, looking absolutely terrified.

"Why else would they have brought us here? This is a public execution," the first replied.

"It's probably more than that," Bjorn said, snapping all attention. "If they were just going to execute us they would just do it in the square or something. But we were brought to the Coliseum. It's likely that we're here to be executed under the guise of a fight. They probably have someone like Ottar lined up for us," he explained darkly.

"I don't want to die!" the second conspirator said, quickly being joined by others. "I just wanted to vent a bit!"

"Your fates are in the hands of your challenger."

They all turned to find Shakti all-but glaring at them alongside two dozen other Ganesha familia members, all ready to escort the Loki conspirators to the arena.

"So, who's our executioner? Ottar? Allen Fromel? Or maybe you guys thought it would be ironic if one of our familia did it," Bjorn said with disgust. "So, is it our captain? Maybe Tione, she's probably pissed enough to tear us apart. Or maybe you're forcing our Sword Princess to do it."

"As far as I'm aware, Aiz Wallenstein is furious at all of you and would have jumped at the chance to punish you had we offered it," Shakti said, saddening and terrifying most of the conspirators. "However, if you must know, Bell Cranel will be your challenger."

That got their attention and, for the first time since coming to the Coliseum, they felt a bit of hope.

"The monster is fighting us?" Bjorn asked.

Shakti's frown deepened.

"He specifically asked Ouranos-sama himself to deal with you. He even offered to fight you all, unarmed and unarmored to make it a fair fight."

The conspirators' hope grew and some even began to smile, though Bjorn wasn't one of them.

He's underestimating us. Thinks that because he's a level five he can beat us easily. Well, fine. He wants to fight 'fair', that's his crutch, not ours. Let him be all 'noble', won't matter if it gives us the chance to escape here.

"If we win, do we get to leave here alive?" he asked.

"That's possible," Shakti said.

Now the conspirators were almost excited. They had a chance now, or so they believed.

"Alright," Bjorn said, finally smiling himself. "Then let's get this show on the road."

It was clear that neither Shakti, nor any of her familia appreciated the conspirators' sudden eagerness, but they kept silent and escorted them out towards the arena.

---

"Alright ladies and gentlemen, it's finally here! Our special event for today! Bell Cranel vs. the Loki familia members who attacked him last night!" Ibri declared.

The crowd seemed eager, though it was clear that they didn't have the same energy they had the previous few days. This wasn't just because of the fear and tension caused by the attack however; many were simply curious to see what was going to happen. Everyone knew that this could end as an execution, but what they didn't know was whether or not Bell would turn it into one.

"What do you think is going to happen?" Haruhime asked Achilles.

"I think Bell's going to beat them badly," he replied.

"And after that?" she asked, her voice shaking a bit.

"After that...well," he turned and gave her a reassuring smile. "He did say he wasn't that kind of person. Besides, if he really wanted to make them suffer, he could have just let Ottar have at them. Nothing Bell could come up with would match that boar's furiosity."

Despite that last part, Haruhime smiled, feeling a bit better, if still a bit worried

Just do whatever you think is truly right, Bell, Achilles thought.

"It looks like everything's ready to go!" Ibri continued. "So, let's get going! Please welcome or, you know...don't if you don't feel like it, the Loki familia attackers!"

Seventeen people walked out into the arena to a chorus of boos, jeers, and very limited clapping. Not that they cared. They weren't there for applause, but for the chance to escape.

"Led by Bjorn Norse, this group here kidnapped two orphans in order to trap Bell Cranel and inflict grievous injuries upon him."

More and louder booing met this information and Bjorn growled.

Asshole, he cursed.

"However, they are getting the chance today to escape punishment if they can defeat their challenger, and former victim, Bell Cranel!"

The jeers ended and immediately turned into cheers and applause as, at the other end of the Coliseum, Bell walked out.

He wasn't wearing any of his armor and he was clearly lacking any sort of weapons. He wasn't even wearing his usual tan coat, instead going with only his black shirt and pants which, unbeknownst to him, was earning him points with many of the ladies of the city, and even a few of the men.

"As you can see, Bell Cranel is not wearing any armor or carrying any weapons. He willingly gave them up so as to make this a fair fight!" Ibri explained.

Sounds of talking filled the air, alongside the cheers as many were surprised or concerned about this development, even if it sounded like it would make the fight more interesting.

The idiot really is coming in here naked, Bjorn said with a smile while his fingers tightened around his sword.

"If we attack him all at once we can overwhelm him and get out of this alive," Bjorn said to his fellow conspirators. They all nodded and many smiled, eager and ready to both save themselves and get another crack at the rabbit who had ruined everything.

"Now, I think we've waited long enough, so let's get ready to rumble!" The crowd, even more excited now, cheered. "Three!" Ibri held up three fingers. "Two!" he dropped a finger. "One! Begin!"

The Loki familia charged, weapons ready and all with the same goal in mind. Destroy Bell.

Bell watched calmly as the Loki familia drew near, almost appearing bored. Then, when they were too close to dodge, he held up both hands.

"Firebolt!"

To the shock of all, two Firebolts shot out, one from each hand, at the charging Loki familia.

"Since when can he do that?!" Hestia asked.

"I have no idea, though I can't say I'm complaining," Welf added, smiling in pleasant surprise.

Looks like that practice with his magic is paying off, Achilles thought. The power behind those Firebolts was definitely less than his normal one, but in this case it's more than effective, he noted, giving an approving smile to his boy.

The conspirators had no time to react as the spells slammed into them, sending half a dozen of them flying.

Bjorn and the other attackers either slowed or outright stopped as more than a third of their number were blown away.

How could he?! Bjorn thought before turning to his target, just in time to see the Hestia captain's fist appear before his face.

Bjorn went flying across the arena, leaving Bell to deal with the rest of his attackers.

Two of the conspirators, having regained their wits, lashed out at Bell with swords, only for him to duck under the blades. Then, faster than they could hope to react to, he jumped and spun around in the air before kicking one of them so hard that they crashed into the second and they both fell to the ground like stones.

Two more out of the fight. Bell dodged a strike from a battleaxe that attempted to cleave him in half at the waist. The cleaving attempt was wide though, and left his attacker wide open so, taking the opportunity, he rushed in and slammed his fist into their jaw, smashing it and sending them crashing, unconscious to the ground.

He didn't have time to celebrate though, as a spearwoman came rushing at him from behind and thrusted at his back. Spinning gracefully, the spearpoint passed him harmlessly. However, deciding it was time for him to get a weapon, he grabbed the weapon with one hand, before using his other to break the end off. Now armed with an improvised knife, he quickly turned on the shocked woman and charged her, ramming his elbow into her stomach hard enough to empty her stomach and sending her flying over the sandy ground in a similar fashion to how Bjorn was.

Speaking of the conspirator leader, he was picking himself up after the nasty hit to the face and spat out blood.

Bastard freak, he mentally growled. He looked up and found that Bell was quickly dealing with the remainder of his fellow conspirators. How? I know he's a level five, but he's tearing through us like paper. Is there really that much of a difference between us and him?

The idea that there might be was absolutely infuriating and he grabbed his weapon and rushed back towards Bell.

The Hestia captain had dealt with two more of his former tormentors, one with a hit to the neck, another with a kick to the head, leaving only four more besides Bjorn.

He quickly checked and found the Ironsides coming straight for him, just as expected.

I'm saving you for last, the Rabbit Foot thought.

Dodging a few more strikes from the remaining attackers, he backflipped through the air and held out his hand.

"Firebolt!"

The spell sent the two closest two him flying, leaving only Bjorn and two others.

"You two flank him!" Bjorn ordered, as he charged.

Too desperate to do anything but follow his orders, the two remaining attackers ran wide, trying to get behind Bell. As they did so, Bjorn got within range and engaged his former captive.

He slashed, feinted, and thrust at Bell over and over again, each time having no effect on the young man before him. Naturally, this did not help with Bjorn's already erupting temper.

"Just stay still so I can kill you, monster!"

He thrust again, this time aiming directly for Bell's heart. The sword drew closer and closer, until it was mere millimeters away, almost as if Bell had decided to grant Bjorn's demand. For the briefest moment, Bjorn dared wished this, hoping that maybe his words had stunned Bell just long enough for him to end the monstrous captain. Then, before he could even blink, Bell spun around again, got behind him, grabbed him with both hands, and used his own momentum to throw him at one of the conspirators who had gotten behind the Hestia captain.

As Bjorn crashed into one of his few remaining allies, they other continued forward, looking to succeed where his leader had failed.

She cried out as she brought a halberd down towards his head. He easily dodged it, then simply gave her a kick that sent her flying against the arena wall, knocking her out of the fight.

Bjorn slowly got up, his eyes quickly finding that the ally he had crashed into was down.

Fucking worthless, he thought as he got up, only to find Bell before him.

"Now it's just you and me," Bell said.

Bjorn, wide-eyed, cast his eyes around and found, to his horror, that the Hestia captain was telling the truth. Everyone else was down; Bell had cut through almost twenty of them like a hot knife through butter.

Bjorn grit his teeth.

"This isn't over!" he roared, striking out.

Bell dodged. Then he dodged again. Finally, on the third strike, Bell decided he'd played around long enough and grabbed his wrist.

Bjorn looked at his caught wrist then tried to pull back. Finding he couldn't, he turned back to Bell and, teeth bared, prepared to throw a punch, only to have Bell suddenly break his wrist.

"Ah!" he cried, dropping his sword.

However, a broken wrist was the least of his worries as it was Bell's turn to attack.

The first punch broke Bjorn's jaw. The second, at least three ribs. The third, another two ribs. Over and over Bell punched, kicked, and all around wailed on Bjorn, breaking so many bones it was a wonder the Ironside's could still stand. Finally though, an uppercut sent him flying into the air and onto his back, leaving him utterly at his mercy.

Shit, Bjorn thought.

Then it got worse.

The sound of bells filled his ears as they rang through the air and he managed to look up to find Bell's hand was now glowing.

Shit!

He tried to get up, but he was too broken. Even if he had the strength, not a moment after the bells began to ring, he was forced back to the ground as Bell's foot landed on his chest.

"You put two people I care about in harm's way," Bell said, his voice cold and unforgiving.

Bjorn groaned, but did not respond.

"You threatened them just so you could get at me. I find that unforgivable," Bell continued.

He raised his hand and pointed it at Bjorn.

"And part of me wants to kill you."

---

The city had gone silent. From the Coliseum to Daedelus Street, from the Pleasure District to the Guild, everyone stopped and waited to see what the young captain would do.

Bell, Eina thought, hand over her heart as she pleaded with him not to do it.

Little Rookie, Mord thought, understanding where the kid was coming from, but not wanting him to go down that path.

Bell-dono. You're more honorable than that, Mikoto thought.

You're too sweet, Bell. Don't let these bastards taint you, Aisha requested.

Bell-sama. Don't. Don't be like them, Lili begged, memories of her previous familia filling her head.

This isn't you Bell. Put your hand down, Welf silently asked his little brother.

Come on Rabbit, back down. It's better to be a stupid fluffy bunny, then a bloody wolf, Bete thought.

Argonaut, Tiona thought, her hands tightened into fists.

You're not like me, Bell. You don't need to fall into vengeance like I did. Let it go, Ryuu nearly cried out.

Don't do it Bell. The world needs a hero. It needs you to be that hero, Hermes thought.

You're a hero, Bell-sama. Like the ones from the stories we love. Please, please put your hand down, Haruhime desperately asked.

Bell. Please. Please don't, Hestia begged.

No. Please. He's not like that. He doesn't have a black flame like me. He's better than that. He's good. Gentle. Strong. Stronger than I am. Please, please don't let him do this, Aiz prayed.

Do it, Freya demanded, smiling as she stared down at her beloved.

Do what you think is right Bell. Always, Achilles told him wordlessly.

---

Bell stared down at Bjorn as the bells continued to ring, his hand never wavering as it pointed at the conspirator's head.

"Do...do it...monster," Bjorn spat out. "Show them...show them what you really are."

Bell stared at him silently, then said.

"I'm not like you. And I'm not what you think I am. I'm not a monster."

He lifted his arm over his head.

"Firebolt."

The Argonaut enhanced Firebolt shot into the air, flying high above the city before exploding like a firework.

Every eye in the city widened at the absolutely beautiful display and for just a moment, all was silent.

Then a roar of cheers and applause shook the whole city as it seemed like everyone joined in.

Bell, however, ignored it all and simply turned back to Bjorn.

"I am many things, Bjorn Norse, but I'm not the monster you think I am."

With that, he lifted his foot and began making his way out of the arena.

"It's over! Bell Cranel has won an absolute and spectacular victory!" Ibri roared. "A nearly twenty-on-one fight and he defeated them all like it was nothing, then again, what else could we have expected from one of the city's rising stars!"

All over said city, people were sighing in relief. Eina was getting a pat on the shoulder from Misha. Hermes was sitting in his chair, smiling. Lili looked relieved, but a bit annoyed that her captain made them worry. Tiona was jumping for joy and for once her sister was allowing it. Ryuu fell into her chair and took a few deep breaths to calm her heart, but was smiling. Hestia and Haruhime were nearly in tears, as their relief turned to joy at knowing their precious captain was still the man they loved and untainted by darkness. Finally, Achilles simply smiled as he watched his son and nodded.

Glad to see even now that you're making your own decision. Never give that up, Bell. Do what you think is right. Always.

There was only one who was disappointed, but only marginally.

Pity, I would have liked to see those cretins die, Freya thought. But, that sweet, indomitable spirit more than makes up for it, and tonight, I get to enjoy it to the fullest, she thought, growing a smile overflowing with desire.

---

Bell exited the arena, only to find Finn propped up against the wall in front of him.

"Finn-san?"

The Loki captain turned to him. He was smiling, but it wasn't what Bell would call a true smile. It wasn't happy or excited, but sad and was clearly very nervous.

"Hello Bell-san," he greeted.

"Is there something I can help you with?" Bell asked.

"No no, that's not why I'm here," Finn replied. "I'm here to apologize."

"Apologize?"

"Yes, for my actions towards you and Achilles. I've been extremely unfair to both of you and let my fear and paranoia cloud my judgment. As such," he bowed. "I beg your forgiveness."

Bell was silent, unsure of how to reply for a moment, but only a moment.

"Does this have anything to do with what happened with Alfia and Zald?" he asked.

Finn raised himself and nodded.

"I was afraid of a repeat of what happened seven years ago. That's the closest Orario has ever come to falling and knowing that someone just as strong as those two, if not stronger, was in the city, well...as much as I hate myself for it, it made me afraid. Not much of a 'Braver', am I?" he said, his voice filled with shame.

"I see," Bell said. "And I understand where you're coming from. There have been plenty of times in my life where I've felt fear so overpowering that it made thinking impossible. As such, I forgive you, Finn."

Finn finally smile for real and bowed.

"Thank you, Bell Cranel.

"However, may I make one request?" Bell continued.

"What is it?" Finn asked, curious.

"Stop denying her and yourself happiness."

Finn blinked in surprise, but not long afterwards, he laughed and scratched his cheek.

"I may already be working on that," he confessed.

Bell smiled and nodded.

"Good."

---

"Hi everyone!" Bell called, smiling as he ran to his familia.

"Bell!" they cried.

Hestia was the first to reach him and immediately pulled him into a hug.

"You had us worried there for a second," she said.

"I'm sorry," he apologized, still smiling. "I guess I was still pretty angry."

"That looked like more than anger, Bell-sama," Lili stated. "But, since you didn't do it, I guess you can be forgiven for scaring us."

"Thank you, Lili," he replied.

"Still, it'd be nice if you didn't go worrying us like that again," Welf threw in.

"I think I can do that," his captain replied before pulling away from Hestia. "Now, I'll be back soon."

Everyone looked at him confused.

"Back? Where are you going?" Hestia asked.

"I still need to get you guys your snacks," he answered simply. "I still have the list right here. See," he pulled a piece of paper out of his pocket. "So, I'll be right back."

Bell then flashed them a smile that legitimately stunned them. They were used to his million valis smiles at this point, beloved though they were. This however, was somehow even brighter and might have been called blinding.

A ten million valis smile. He's telling us that things are alright now, Achilles figured out, now smiling himself.

Bell ran through the stands as his familia watched him go, all of them slowly coming to the same realization as Achilles and finding themselves happier than ever to have him in their lives.

As Bell departed the Coliseum, a pair of eyes followed him out.

He truly is a worthy man, the amazon thought as a smile grew under her mask.

---

Bell made his way through the streets, smiling brightly as he searched for everyone's snacks.

"Good job, Rabbit Foot!"

He turned and found a middle-aged man giving him a thumbs up.

He waved in thanks and prepared to move on.

"You sure showed them!"

This time it was a young man, maybe a couple years older than him, smiling at him along with his friends.

Again, Bell waved to show his appreciation, though this time a bit of red dusted his cheeks.

He found the first shop where Mikoto's requested snack, cream pan, could be found.

"Well look who it is!" the owner announced happily, pulling all attention to him, then moving it to Bell. "Bell Cranel himself. To what do I owe this honor?"

Bell scratched his cheek.

"Um, I'm here to pick up some cream pan for my friend, Mikoto," he replied.

"Oh Mikoto, sweet girl. Loves our original flavor and the green tea flavor. Hold on just one second."

The owner moved away from the counter for a moment before coming back a moment later with a bag.

"Here you go. I put a little extra for you," the owner said with a smile.

"How much do I owe you?" Bell asked.

"Owe me? Kiddo, these are on the house!"

"What? No no, I couldn't accept that. Please let me pay for them!" Bell pleaded.

"How could I look my sweet wife in the eyes if I didn't give you these treats after all you've been through?"

Bell fidgeted for a moment, before trying again.

"I least let me pay for half. That way we meet in the middle and both feel like we got something out of it."

The owner was surprised by his insistence, but after seeing Bell's pleading eyes, he laughed and nodded.

"You're a good kid. Only want to get what you've earned for yourself. I respect that. Alright, we'll meet in the middle, that'll mean you owe six hundred valis, since I said I added a little extra and I refuse to accept payment for those."

Bells smiled and happily took out the money and paid for the cream pan.

"You're a good kid, Bell Cranel, don't let anyone tell you otherwise," the owner told him.

Bell beamed at him and nodded before thanking him and departing to find the rest of his familia's snacks.

This was not the last incident like this, as at each store and stall he went to, he was given kind words by the merchant or owner, and more than once, he found himself arguing over paying again. Not only that, but every time he moved through the streets he received well wishes, congratulations, and even a few moments where someone asked to shake his hand, all of which left him both elated and terribly embarrassed.

Finally, he arrived at his last stop, Haruhime's request, an icy.

Given the nature of her snack, hers had to come last, or else he risked it melting before he returned. Luckily, it was on the way back and relatively easy to find.

"Ah, the Rabbit Foot himself has come to my cart!" the owner, an eccentric looking elf declared. "And what can I get for you, champ?"

Feeling his blush returning, Bell quickly stated.

"One cherry icy, please."

"One cherry icy, coming right up."

As the elf began to work, the other people in line began to surround him.

"That was really incredible what you did there," another elf said.

"Yeah. I knew high level adventurers were in another league, but to be able to defeat so many people so easily, that's crazy," the chienthrope added.

"You were so cool!" a little girl cried out.

Bell's blush grew, but he managed to thank them all for their kind words.

"Here you go, champ! One cherry icy!"

Bell reached for his purse and the eccentric elf looked ready to deny him.

"Please," Bell quickly said. "I won't feel right if I don't pay for it."

Like the other merchants and owners Bell had dealt with, the elf was surprised, but only for a moment, before he smiled and accepted payment.

"Thank you," Bell said.

"No no, champ, thank you. For doing what you do and showing this city that you can be both kick ass and kind!" the elf replied, smiling.

Bell blushed, but smiled back before thanking him again and departing.

---

Bell began making his way back to the Coliseum, still receiving kind words along the way.

"Looks like you've got a fan club now, Bell."

He turned and found a familiar amazon a couple paces away.

"Aisha!" he greeted, smiling at her. "How are you? I've been meaning to visit, but things have been kind of...hectic."

"Crazy, you mean. And yeah, they have. Here, let me help you," she said, offering to take some of the snacks off his hands.

"Oh, thank you," he replied. "So how are you? We've haven't gotten the chance to talk since my Dad barged into the Pleasure District."

"That seems like such a long time ago," Aisha said with a chuckle. "I've been fine. But how have you been, really?" she asked, her voice clearly revealing her concern.

"I'm...good. I know that seems a bit odd, given everything that's happened, but really, I'm good. Great even," he said. "Bad things have happened, but the worst has been avoided and in many ways things have improved. Things that might have been left hidden have come to light and allowed for things to...I don't know. Progress? Heal? I don't know. I just know that I'm glad that things are working out."

While Aisha didn't know the particulars of what he was talking about, she didn't really need to. She understood just fine where he was coming from, and was happy that, in spite of all the shit the world was throwing at him, he was still going strong and smiling.

"I'm glad. I'd hate for my favorite little rabbit to feel down. Then again, if you did, that would give me the chance to cheer you up," she said seductively.

His blush returned, but not as harshly as with the earlier praise and it didn't stop him from smiling for even a second. If anything, it seemed to make his smile grow.

"Thanks Aisha."

He's growing more and more each day. Even now, he's becoming more manly. If he keeps it up though, I'm not going to be able to restrain myself, she thought.

The two made their way inside the Coliseum and found his familia who, while more than happy at his return, were not so pleased to see his amazon companion.

"Don't worry, I just wanted to say hello and help him deliver these," Aisha stated, holding up the snacks. "Now that I've done that, I'll be heading out."

She handed over the snacks to their respective eaters, then backed up.

"Take care, Bell," she said.

"I will. You take care as well. I'll stop by to visit sometime soon," he said.

The Hestia familia stopped their snacking.

"Then I have something to look forward to," Aisha said, not failing to notice the way his familia, namely most of the women of his familia had reacted.

Deciding to risk their ire and be a little devious, she quickly bent down and kissed his cheek.

"See you soon!" she called, waving as she quickly retreated from the hive she'd just stirred up.

Bell touched his cheek, his cheeks a bit warm, but still smiling, before he remembered where he was and a shiver went up his spine.

"Bell," came the unnerving voices of a goddess, a pallum, and an elf.

---

The hours had slipped by as the tournament continued. It had to go later due to everything that had happened, including Bell's special event, but finally the closing fight ended and Ibri called out one final time for the day.

"And there you have it ladies and gentlemen! The final fight of the day! Wasn't today something!" Cheers and applause gave him the agreement he was looking for. "It's really amazing to me how each time I think we've found the peak of excitement and greatness, something new comes along and proves me wrong. Not that I'm complaining. It just shows how much excitement and awesomeness there is in the world! Speaking of which, it's time for today's challenges and I've got a really good one to start off with. A special request from two amazons we all know quite well. Tione Hiyrute, 'the Jormungand' and Tione Hiyrute, 'the Amazon' challenge all four of the Gulliver brothers to battle!"

That got the city riled up and excited chatter began to be shared.

"We got the idea from you," Tiona said merrily, looking at Achilles. "After you challenged the three of us, I figured it wouldn't be out of the question to make another request like it, so I asked Tione if she was in, and she agreed!"

"Mostly because I want to kick some Freya familia ass, but also to get her off my back," Tione added, getting a 'hey' from her sister.

Their combined group laughed and felt a bit of the eagerness the crowd was feeling now.

More fights came in and people listened intently, but none reached the level of excitement the first one did. That was, until, the last fight was announced.

"Now here's one I know everyone's going to want to see. It looks like one of our visitors was quite impressed with today's main event. Bache Kalif of the newly arrived Kali familia, challenges Bell Cranel to battle!"

As the city made the expected noise, all eyes turned to Bell who looked even more surprised than them.

"Have you met this woman, Bell?" Achilles asked.

"No," Bell replied, shaking his head. "At least not that I recall."

"It's likely she's interested in you."

Their eyes shifted to a frowning Tione.

"Bache is Argana's sister, the one you fought, Achilles," she explained, getting a nod. "She probably saw how well you were doing in the tournament and thought she'd give you a 'test run' herself."

There was something about the way she said 'test run' that no one liked, especially the ladies after a certain white rabbit.

"C'mon Tione, Bache's not like Argana," Tiona stated.

"Maybe not, but she's still an amazon and when an amazon sees a man she likes, she goes for him," Tione replied, giving a quick glance to Aiz.

"You make it sound like it would be better if Bell-dono lost the fight with this, Bache Kalif," Mikoto said.

"It would probably be wiser to simply not fight her at all, but I know you won't want to do that. But, if you want me to be perfectly honest, it would probably be better that he did lose this one. Unless of course you want a level six amazon tailing you for the rest of your life," Tione finished.

As many ladies growled at the announcement of a new, potential rival, Bell just chuckled, though one could tell it was a bit forced.

"Well, if I lose I lose. That's fine, but I wouldn't feel right if I didn't give it my all," he said.

Tione nodded in understanding.

That may get you in deeper than you want to go though, she noted to herself.

---

The time had finally come for Bell to depart and fulfill his promise to Freya.

"I'm off," he said.

"Are you sure about this Bell-kun? I promise that we're all more than willing to stand up to Freya if you want to back out," Hestia said.

"Thank you, Hestia-sama, but I'm fine. I just think of this as a way to pay back Ottar for saving Fina and Rye. Besides, I'll be back in the morning," he assured her.

It didn't help much, but she nodded and hugged him.

"Stay safe," Achilles said.

"Don't be afraid to come back if she starts doing anything you're not comfortable with. We'll take whatever she throws at us," Welf said.

"Don't fall for any of her feminine wiles, Bell-sama! You deserve better than her!" Lili added.

"Take care, Bell-dono."

"Keep your knife on you at all times," Ryuu stated.

"Ryuu," Bell chided, though he couldn't help but smile.

"Please, Bell-sama, no matter what, come back to us safely," Haruhime requested, her voice trembling a bit.

He smiled gently at her and took her hand. Lifting it up, he held it in front of their faces before wrapping his pinky around hers.

"Pinky promise," he said.

She smiled, now confident that things would go well.

"I'll see you guys tomorrow," Bell said, before giving them a final wave and heading towards Freya's requested location. The Tower of Babel.

Night had fallen, which served Bell well for the purposes of not being recognized. Where the darkness failed him in hiding himself, the distractions of food, alcohol, socializing, and sex served him in its place, pulling away any attention that might have been sent his way, allowing him to reach the Tower without issue.

He went towards the elevators, one of the rare occasions he did so, given he tended to go down, not up, when reaching Babel. Luckily he found them empty as he suspected that anyone who had any business in the Tower had long since departed to join the merriment within the city.

Finding the very top button, he pressed it and began to long climb up.

He took a few deep breaths as he went up, trying to calm his evermore racing heart.

It's okay. Nothing's going to happen. She just wants to protect you. That's all. Of course, she doesn't think you need protecting from her, he pointed out to himself. But it's alright. It's just one night. You can survive one night. No problem. Just a few hours, most of which will be spent sleeping.

He felt a bit calmer after that, and just in time as the elevator dinged and the door opened to reveal Ottar.

"Thank you for coming, Bell Cranel," he greeted.

"Thank you for having me," Bell returned before stepping out of the elevator.

The two made their way down a richly decorated hall until they reached a set of ornated doors.

Looks like they replaced them since the last time I was here, he thought.

"My lady is waiting for you inside," Ottar said.

Bell nodded and opened the door, before slowly making his way inside.

"No need to be shy, Bell, do come in."

He turned and saw Freya sitting on a few paces away and smiling at him.

"Good evening, Freya-sama," he greeted, bowing.

"Oh no need for the formalities, Bell-kun. We're well beyond that," she replied, her voice like smooth silk.

"I suppose we are," he agreed.

"Would you like something to eat or perhaps to drink?" she asked, gesturing to a table covered in delicacies that Bell had never seen.

"As tempting as that is, I'm not hungry. But thank you."

"I didn't spike them with an aphrodisiac, if that's what you're worried about."

He blushed lightly, but shook his head.

"I wouldn't expect you to use a tactic like that," he said.

"Oh, and what tactic would you expect me to use, my dearest Bell?" she asked as she drew closer.

"I'm not sure," he admitted. "But I do know that you're very intelligent, Freya. Something as simple as an aphrodisiac is beneath you."

"I'm glad you think so. And you're right. While I do have my Charm, when it comes to you, I've learned it's far more rewarding to try and gain your affections, how did you put it? 'the old fashioned way'?"

"I...I believe those were the words I used, yes," he replied.

"No one has ever demanded that of me, you know. Not in all my millennia has a single person, divine or mortal, told me that I had to earn their affections like any other woman," she said, clearly pleased.

"To be fair to them, they weren't immune to Charm."

Her smile grew.

"So you really are immune. I admit I've been tempted to try, but never actually have. Do you mind if I test it now?"

Bell froze.

"I-I...I don't think..."

She laughed before staring down at him adoringly and placing her hands on his cheeks.

"Oh you are just too much, Bell! So powerful and strong of spirit, yet still so adorably innocent! Makes me just want to eat you up!" she punctuated this by bringing her face up to his and rubbing her nose against his. "I won't try to Charm you, I promise," she said as she pulled back. "As I've said, I want you to come to me. Also, if I tried to compel you now and failed you would leave immediately and I don't want that."

Bell was too focused on calming his breath and racing heart to respond.

"No, there's only one thing I'd like to request you do tonight," she continued.

"What's that?" he managed to ask.

"Sleep next to me tonight," she answered, looking like desire personified.

"W-What?"

"Sleep next to me tonight. Just sleep. That's all. Snuggle up with me in bed and I will be beyond satisfied and you won't have to worry about me raising an issue over those Loki children or making other demands. Just one night under the covers with me."

That did not sound like a good idea to Bell, in part, if not especially, because it was what Freya wanted, which usually meant one should avoid giving it to her, if possible.

I can't trust her, not after all she's done, he thought. But I also can't hate her after all she's done, he added, thinking of the War Game and the Ishtar familia. And if this is what she wants in exchange for Ottar's help and not causing everyone else issues, then I can accept it.

"Alright," he agreed, looking into her sparkling eyes.

Her smile sent tingles through his body.

"Excellent," she said, her voice unfiltered, delightful sin.

Freya began to strip and immediately Bell, wide-eyed and face like an inferno, spun around.

"W-What are you doing?!"

"What do you mean, Bell? I'm getting ready for bed."

"Then why are you s-striping?"

"I always sleep naked," she answered as if it was the most natural thing in the world. "I find it to be the most comfortable way to sleep." Bell didn't respond, which caused her to laugh. "Come now, Bell. I know I'm not the first naked woman you've seen, even if I wish I was."

"T-That's not the point! How am I supposed to sleep in the same bed with you if you're naked?!"

"It won't matter if you're naked too."

His heart almost stopped.

"I...I…" he made a choking noise.

Then he felt her press against his back.

"Please Bell. Won't you do this for me? Just for tonight. We won't do anything you don't want to. I promise," she said, whispering the last part into his ear.

He wanted to say no. He wanted to run out of the room and flee all the way back to the Hestia familia, but he had gone too far now. There was no telling what Freya would do if he left. He had to do this for everyone. To keep them safe and out of harm's way.

But is that the only reason I'm doing this? he wondered to himself.

Conviction filled him as his mind pushed back.

Yes. Yes it is. I love Aiz and...he paused. And?

The image of a golden fox came to his mind.

His heart began to pound in his chest.

"Bell?" Freya called.

Snapped back to reality, he took a deep breath, calmed his mind, and made his decision.

"Alright," he said again.

He could practically hear her smile.

"Thank you, Bell," she whispered into his ear. "Now come," she said, pulling away from him. "You must be exhausted. Let's head to bed."

He followed after her, doing his absolute best to not look directly at her until they both reached the bed.

"Uh uh uh. Clothes," she said.

He gulped, then slowly began to remove his clothes. First his coat fell, then his shirt was removed as well as his pants. He moved to his socks, praying she wouldn't ask for his final article.

"Underwear too," she cooed.

His fists tightened for a moment, before loosening as he sighed.

Reaching the hem of his underwear, he pulled them down, leaving him fully exposed.

Freya's eyes bore into him like never before. He felt like he was going to burst into flames due to the intensity of her gaze.

"You are a work of art, Bell. A sculpture of absolute beauty. To see you now, like this, will always be a memory I treasure."

"T-Thank you," he replied quietly, though Freya could tell he was just being polite.

"Come," she said, reaching out to him. "Join me."

He did so, quickly climbing under the covers before he was pulled up against Freya so that everything from their toes to their chests were pressed against each other.

"Now, isn't that cozy?"

He didn't respond.

"Come now Bell, surely this isn't so bad? Am I that repulsive to you?"

"That's not it," he said, his voice still quiet.

"Then what is it?" she asked.

He fell silent again, but this time Freya could tell it was because he was thinking, not simply uncomfortable.

"What do you see when you look at me?" he said suddenly.

The question surprised her, but she took a moment to think on it before making a reply.

"I see a brave, strong man. Someone who stands above the rest, shining like a beacon for all the world to see. I see a shiny star, burning brightly through the dark sky of mediocrity. I see excellence, power, and heroism."

This time, his reply was immediate.

"But do you see me?" he asked. "Do you see, Bell Cranel?"

She fell silent. For all her intelligence and cleverness, she didn't know how to answer.

"If you want to win my heart, Freya," he continued, seeing she wouldn't answer. "You need to see me. Not the record-holder. Not my aura. Not the beacon shining in the dark. Just me. With all my strengths and weaknesses. All my vices and virtues, and everything else that doesn't fit those boxes. See me, for me."

She stared down at him for a time, processing his words, knowing full-well her usual replies would do her no good. No, she needed to give him the right answer, and there was only one right answer.

"Will you let me try?" she asked. "Will you let me try to see the real you?"

His answer was a single, firm nod.

She smiled, this time without the desire, and leant down to gently kiss his forehead.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome. We should probably get some sleep now," he said.

She nodded and a moment later they both closed their eyes.

The two almost immediately fell to sleep, comfortable in each other's arms and both needing their rest for the day to come. Freya would receive this rest as her dreams were filled with joyous images and pleasant delights that made her smile in her sleep. However Bell would receive no rest that night.

He had only one dream that entire night. One dream that seemed to last an eternity. It was a simple dream, and yet left him feeling anxiety, then fear, then terror.

He saw nothing, only a blackness so profound that it seemed to make night itself tremble before it. But this blackness was not empty. No, it was not empty, though he wished desperately that it was. He knew that it was empty from what he heard in the distance, something that was getting louder with each passing moment. The sound of flapping wings that belonged to a beast that Bell knew was worse than any other. The wings of the Dragon.

---

End.

Well...that was a whole lot longer than I thought it was going to be. Geez, what happened with this chapter? First I was like, "Oh it's going to be nine thousand words", then I was like, "It'll probably be ten to eleven thousand". Now look at it! Yeesh, this one wasn't supposed to be this long. It was supposed to be a quick follow up to the previous monster. Well, whatever, this is how things turned out, so it's fine.

Anywho, what did you guys think? Did I go too far with the Freya stuff? Did you think Riveria and Aiz were too forgiving to Finn? Was Ouranos out of character? Well, tell me if you thought so, along with any other thoughts, good or bad you might have.

With that, I hope you guys enjoyed, and it's time for me to bid you farewell. So, until next time, bye for now.