Man, those few weeks of nights really knocked me around. I'll be on a more stable daytime roster for the next three months though, so I should be back to some more consistent updates/new chapters.
We're also halfway to me doing three updates a month at this stage which is good for me, since I just finished chapter 60 yesterday, and have done more than half of 61 at this stage.
I'm feeling myself slow down from a Danmachi writing perspective though and I think there were a few factors there at play. Anime ending for one, nights, and a drop off in new stories/new chapters coming out.
Fulland of Water and Light was great to get some more Bell/Horn content though, and as you will see in this chapter, I'm going to be highlighting Horn a lot more, especially given the whole Syr/Freya/Horn dynamic, and Bell's current relationship with them all.
I'll say it again, if anyone wants to start writing a story, especially one featuring Syr (or Horn, or Heith), I'd be happy to help bounce some ideas around, and even help proofread things if it gets things going. I know it can be tough going from reading to writing, but everyone has to start somewhere.
One good thing is the official translation for LN 19 is out, so I'll have that to read soon, but otherwise, I'm always looking for more Danmachi fics to read.
Well, either way, we're one step closer to the big fight, but in this chapter at least, we get a bit more of a glimpse into Laurier. It's tricky because in the LN, Bell saved her and got the suspension bridge effect, so she's easy to write as a character that has simply fallen for Bell, but at least through my story, there will be a bit more build up to it. She will still think very highly of him, but I doubt I'll be able to reach full fangirl, since she has started as his friend.
Either way, let me know what you think and enjoy.
SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan.
Previously:
Bell's training with Ais would intensify, while Lili and Laurier would start their new roles as employees at the Hostess of Fertility. Hedin would take Lili to the Soma Familia and have her deity open her Falna for a conversion, while paying off the fee for her conversion and a status update. Ryuu and Bell would enter the Dungeon again for training, with Ryuu deciding to join Bell in his daily training routine, while planning out their next few lessons. The Gulliver Brothers would visit the Loki Familia, with Loki revealing her discussion with Freya and letting Finn know of the plan for them to join the next expedition, but not without a trial battle first. Laurier would learn of her Familia embarking on a mission from her Captain, with the members of Hermes Familia heading to the twenty-fourth floor, while Laurier would prepare for her first day in a party with Bell and Lili.
Disclaimer – I don't own anything from the Danmachi light novel/anime/manga/games. All I own are my original characters and plot twists.
'Talking'
"Thinking"
*expression*
Flashback
Magic
Chapter 25 – Intertwined emotions
'So that detestable woman is playing nice now.' Commented a bronze skinned woman, raising a golden pipe to her lips and taking a small breath in, having just been told of the supposed coalition between Freya and Loki Familia.
'What should we do then, Lady Ishtar?' Asked a grey-haired Amazoness.
'Isn't it obvious, Samira? Freya wants to show her worth, so we will simply show that she is in fact nothing before the might of our Familia. We will go on our own expedition. Should we happen to encounter the Captain of the Freya Familia along the way and take them out, it would only be collateral damage as we show our true power.' Declared the tanned Goddess.
'You mean you want us to use all of our resources?' Asked Samira, sparing a glance to a blonde girl who had a pair of fox ears on the top of her head.
'Yes. Just because Loki's doll managed to level up, we are still stronger yet.' Commented Ishtar, only for a croaking laughter to ring out.
'Don't worry, Lady Ishtar, I can take care of that ugly little thing.' Chuckled an irregular figure, which possessed a large frog-like face.
'Go then, make preparations and show the might of Ishtar Familia!' Ordered the Goddess, causing the numerous women gathered in the room to bow.
-line break-
'Arde left the Familia?' Asked a middle-aged man with raccoon ears and a tail.
'Yes, and as per Master Soma, we are not to interact with her again. However, should a former disgruntled client of Arde get a hold of her, we could of course claim any spoils afterwards given they would have been gained while a member of our Familia.' Commented Zanis, his eyes hidden behind the shine of his glasses.
'Do what you want, I'm not interested in any of this. It's a mistake trying to find a loophole in Master Soma's order.' Commented a bearded dwarf, who drained the last of the wine in his goblet, before walking off.
'Chandra never seems to be interested in anything beyond alcohol.' Sighed Zanis with a sardonic smile.
'We'll be fine, I know where to find her last adventurer. He got humiliated by that white-haired kid before, so he should be easy to send after them.' Grinned the Raccoon-person.
'Then I will leave it in your hands, Canoe.' Intoned Zanis coolly, before walking off himself.
-line break-
'Are you sure it is okay to leave Finn?' Asked Ais, as she and Riveria walked towards the Hostess of Fertility.
'Gareth is with him, and I doubt Tione will sit idly by if Finn is actually in any danger. Besides, don't you have your own worries to sort out?' Pointed out Riveria, causing the blonde to nod.
Ais mentally frowned. Just as things had started to get on track with her training with Bell, the next expedition had been announced. It was big news when the Loki Familia went on an expedition, but with members of Freya and Hephaestus Familia joining them also, it was massive news. It would still be a few days from now, but that is why Ais had decided to find Bell now and let him know in advance, so they could get as much time together as possible before leaving.
For training.
Riveria stared as Ais seemed to stop in place for a second, an inscrutable expression on her normally blank face, before she continued walking again.
'Something on your mind, Ais?' Asked Riveria.
'It's fine, we're here now.' Replied Ais with a small shake of her head, as the pair reached the Hostess of Fertility.
Riveria sighed, closing one of her eyes in frustration. This newer Ais certainly kept her on her toes. Compared to how she was only a few weeks ago, Ais was practically having erratic mood swings by comparison. Riveria was no stranger to these things, having dealt with numerous rowdy teenagers at this stage, but them coming from Ais was catching her off guard more often than not.
'Oh Miss Ais, you brought Miss Riveria as well today.' Greeted Syr, walking over to the two.
'Is Bell here?' Asked Ais, only for Syr to give her a small smile.
'Sorry, Bell is going into the Dungeon today with his new party.' Explained Syr, causing Ais' lips to quirk into a frown.
'Will he be here tomorrow?' Asked Ais, only for Syr to frown this time.
'Unfortunately not, it seems Bell will need to be venturing into the Dungeon quite often over the next few days to raise funds for his new party.' Elaborated Syr.
Ais felt her shoulders sag slightly, giving a small nod of resignation.
'And how are you Miss Riveria?' Asked Syr, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
'I am well, thank you. May we trouble you to be seated? Since we have not managed to find what we came for today, I believe a good meal should help lift Ais' spirits.' Replied Riveria, getting a nod from Syr.
'Of course, please follow me. Now seating two!' Called Syr, leading the two to a table.
'And how is Miss Viridis, if I may ask? She hasn't come back since her last visit; it's almost like something has scared her off.' Inquired Syr, as the two took their seats.
'She has been spending some time with a member of the Dionysus Familia. I've given her permission to train in the Dungeon with her for a period each day, in between her studies and training with Ais. Understandably, this means she is short on time and has been having all of her meals at Twilight Manor.' Explained Riveria, causing the girl to nod.
'Well, it is good to hear she is working hard, but no one works harder than Bell of course. After what Miss Ais did to him in her training, I felt my heart nearly leap out of my chest.' Teased Syr, only for the Swordswoman to look down at her lap.
'Oh?' Muttered Riveria, only for Ais to keep her gaze down.
'But Bell was up and about afterwards and back in the Dungeon a few hours later.' Added Syr, only for Ais to look up in surprise.
'He went into the Dungeon after our training?' Asked Ais in surprise, only for Syr to smile and puff her chest out slightly.
'Of course, Bell is a very hard worker after all. Enough about Bell though, or I will never get your orders if we keep talking about him.' Declared Syr, looking between the pair.
'I will have a garden salad with some grilled fowl with a drink of Alv water.' Listed Riveria, with Syr nodding.
'I'll have…' Muttered Ais, going silent for a while.
'Your usual?' Prompted Syr, causing Ais to get an idea.
'No. Bell's usual.' Decided Ais, causing Syr to giggle.
'Of course, it'll be right out.' Informed Syr, her lips quirking in amusement as she spotted Riveria's raised eyebrow and Ais' slightly pink cheeks.
'Are you going to be okay on our expedition? You seemed flat on our last trip.' Commented Riveria.
'I… wasn't aware I would feel that way. I will prepare this time.' Explained Ais.
'We will be going for longer this time.' Pointed out Riveria, causing Ais to nod.
'I know.' Nodded Ais, causing Riveria to hum to herself in amusement, as the pair lapsed into a small silence, broken only when their waitress returned with their meals.
'Here we are, one garden salad with grilled fowl with a drink of Alv water and Bell's usual order, pasta and a glass of water.' Announced Syr, as she placed the dishes down in front of their respective owners.
'For someone who cooks such surprising meals, this looks quite plain.' Appraised Riveria, looking at Ais' order.
'Bell's order is a simple one and the cheapest thing on our menu, not everyone is a member of the famous Loki Familia after all.' Retorted Syr, causing Riveria to nod.
'It looks good.' Commented Ais, before taking a fork and trying a mouthful.
'Of course, Mama Mia prepared it specially for you, she always does the same for Bell and you asked for his order, so this is it.' Explained Syr.
'It seems Bell has won all of you over then, even Ais too.' Commented Riveria, as the pink hue on Ais' cheeks returned, the swordswoman trying to hide it as she took another forkful of pasta into her partially filled mouth.
'Give it enough time and I'm sure he'll win you over too. Enjoy your meal.' Quipped Syr, before walking off.
-line break-
'I've been meaning to ask, is there a plan for the day?' Asked Laurier, as she, Bell, and Lili, stepped onto the tenth floor, the mist reaching their ankles in a moment.
'I was just thinking we could practice working on our teamwork on the tenth floor for a while and depending on how many drop items we have, go down to the eleventh after, or plan to do so tomorrow. I'm not sure how strong the two of you are either, so this would be a good chance to see how we can all fight together in the best manner.' Replied Bell.
'Well that's not a terrible plan… but how long can we stay down here fighting monsters until we need a break?' Questioned Laurier.
'I made us all lunch and we can always go back to the ninth floor to rest for a bit if we need to… so I think we could manage most of the day.' Answered Bell thoughtfully, causing Laurier's eyes to widen slightly.
'Are you joking?' Asked Laurier.
'No… how long were we down here for last time, Lili?' Asked Bell, causing the Prum to start as she recalled the memory of that day.
'Almost six hours, although we did descend to the fifteenth floor, so if the plan is to stay on the tenth floor, Master Bell could likely manage double that time.' Appraised Lili, causing Laurier to look at her oddly.
'I think you are overvaluing my contribution to the party.' Commented Laurier.
'Actually, Lili removed everything except for Master Bell from the equation. As Master Bell said, Lili does not know your capabilities either, but Lili knows Master Bell's.' Explained Lili, causing Laurier to look at her strangely.
'So you mean to say Bell could stay by himself on the tenth floor for half a day?' Questioned Laurier.
'Exactly.' Nodded Lili, causing Laurier's expression to shift.
'Is she exaggerating?' Asked Laurier, holding out a single shred of hope that Bell was not as mind-bogglingly ridiculous as Lili had portrayed him.
'Well, I think it sounds about right.' Admitted Bell sheepishly, scratching the back of his neck.
'Why don't we try and find some monsters then, I think I will feel more comfortable witnessing this for myself?' Suggested Laurier, getting a pair of shrugs.
'Sure, I should probably relax my presence then.' Explained Bell, before the area seemed to get colder around the group.
'What happened?' Asked Laurier, her nerves tensing up in an instant, her delicate eyes darting around carefully, expecting a foe to jump out at them.
'Ah, I was using my intent to exert a presence to scare off monsters. Sorry I didn't warn you; it would probably be a surprise with me dropping it so suddenly.' Apologised Bell.
'Presence? Is that why nothing attacked us this whole way?' Asked Laurier in awe.
'Of course, it isn't possible to walk all this way without seeing any monsters on pure luck. Maybe if Lili had a Malboro stink pouch, it would be possible to see the same effect, but the smell would be obvious.' Commented Lili.
Laurier genuinely found herself questioning her sanity at this point. Was this boy really that special? Rumours aside, Laurier had yet to actually witness Bell in action, but that would change as a trio of muscular Orcs approached the group.
'Why don't I deal with these so you can see how I fight?' Offered Bell, causing Laurier's jaw to drop.
'By yourself?' Questioned Laurier, but Bell had already shot off.
An Orc was by no means a weak monster, having enough strength to knock out even a level two adventurer if they managed to score a direct hit. While Bell was an adventurer of this strength on paper, the next few seconds had Laurier questioning if she and Bell were really both level two adventurers. The white-haired boy blitzed forwards, reaching the first Orc in a second. The Orc's Achillies tendon was severed before the back of its knee was stabbed, dropping it to the ground. Bell then leapt up into the air, his feet briefly touching the green monster's mid-back, before pushing off again, swinging his right arm in a reverse knife edge chop, his brown blade slicing through the air, before beheading the Orc easily, the severed head dropping to the ground.
'Did that really just happen?' Gasped Laurier in awe, only to see Bell had leapt off the deceased Orc, landing on the back of another Orc, stabbing his multicoloured blade into its back to hold him in place, before the brown knife stabbed the Orc in the brain, the weapon angled up from the entry point in the base of its skull.
The third Orc seemed to only just realise its two allies had been bested, causing it to swing a landform club towards Bell. Bell dashed forwards, using his forearm guard to push the Orc's arm slightly off to the side, before leaping upwards, both blades raised, the two blades stabbed into either side of the Orc's neck a moment later, followed by a quick twitch of the wrist, which sliced the head clean off.
Bell walked back over to the pair, while Lili dashed forward to harvest the Orc Hide from the one Orc left behind.
'So what did you think?' Asked Bell, seeing Laurier's stunned expression.
'You're amazing!' Gasped Laurier, causing Bell to blink in surprise.
'W-What? That wasn't anything special.' Muttered Bell bashfully, rubbing the back of his head in embarrassment.
'No. That was special. I couldn't even believe my eyes. Are you really a level two like me?' Asked Laurier.
'Well, I'm sure I'm still level two right now, but I haven't had my status updated for a few days now. I don't think I've done anything to level up yet.' Admitted Bell.
'Are you sure you even want me in your party, I can't do anything even close to that?' Asked Laurier, feeling a hint of insecurity creep up on her, despite her mission.
'Only if you want to be. I wouldn't want you to be uncomfortable, I can talk to Syr about it if you want.' Replied Bell softly, causing the girl to look up at him.
'That's not what I mean, aren't I a burden at this point? At least Lili is an experienced supporter… I… don't offer much.' Muttered Laurier.
'You do though. If I have you and Lili with me, I can unleash my real power. It's hard for me to get motivated to fight by myself in the Dungeon, but if I am helping someone or protecting someone, everything is better. My senses are sharper, and my moves are more targeted.' Explained Bell.
'Is that because I am an Elf?' Asked Laurier flatly, causing Bell to clear his throat.
'No, it was the same with Lili, Horn, and even Ryuu. If I am with someone, I fight that little bit better. It is also freeing to have someone watching my back, so I can properly focus on what is in front of me.' Answered Bell.
'That must be hard for you, being the only member of your Familia then.' Appraised Laurier.
'I guess… but I don't feel alone when I'm with you, Lili, or the others.' Confessed Bell and Laurier finally felt it.
The cold she had noticed when Bell had stopped repelling the monsters was absent, as a warmth surrounded her. Laurier noted Lili seemed to hum to herself pleasantly as well, no doubt feeling the same sensation.
They were safe with Bell.
Laurier's delicate features softened as she smiled.
'Then I will do my best to support you as a member of your party. Please be patient with me.' Declared Laurier, causing Bell to smile.
'Of course.' Agreed Bell easily.
"Maybe this will be a good job after all." Thought Laurier, finding for once that she didn't mind that her patron deity had given her this assignment.
-line break-
The trio emerged from the Dungeon as the sun cast a long shadow across the bustling city.
'That was only ten hours it seems.' Commented Lili.
'Maybe we need to bring another bag then, since I don't think there is any more space in that one.' Suggested Bell, seeing Lili's gigantic bag was already full to the brim.
'We should probably go turn everything in first and work out how much we earned before we think about purchasing things.' Suggested Lili.
The trio entered the Guild and Bell spotted Eina quickly, taking a moment to let the group know he would speak to her as he walked off, before Laurier and Lili went to exchange their items. Laurier and Lili both felt a pair of eyes on them in that moment, but the intent wasn't clear. The pair made their way to the exchange, where Misha was waiting.
'Oh, are you the new members of Bell's party?' Asked Misha curiously.
'I thought you had been in a party with Bell before.' Commented Laurier, turning to Lili.
'I was disguising myself… as an Elf.' Admitted Lili, causing Misha to look at her curiously.
'Really?' Questioned Laurier, causing the shorter girl to nod.
'You know, that reminds me, Eina actually became Bell's Guild Adviser because he requested an Elf… well, that and other reasons I suppose.' Muttered Misha thoughtfully, causing Laurier to sigh.
'I suppose that's fine, Bell is quite the kind person.' Commented Laurier.
'He's really got a way with Elves though it seems. Eina won't tell me anything, but I know there is at least one more Elf he is friends with. It's one thing with Eina, but Elves are usually on the mean side… ah, I'm sorry, not to say that you are mean! I just mean that Elves do act a certain way and Eina is really nice, not to say that Sophie isn't nice either, but ugh…' Rambled Misha, becoming progressively more anxious, until she ended with her chin on the desk and her hands on top of her head, as she forcefully shut her mouth.
'Are you okay, Misha?' Asked Bell, as he walked over to the group, with Eina coming from the worker's side.
'Misha has a habit of letting her mouth run loose, looks like that is what happened if I'm not mistaken.' Appraised Eina, recognising the expression when her friend had let her mouth run.
'Misha was just saying how kind you were.' Covered Laurier, causing the pink-haired girl to look at her gratefully.
'I see. I don't think I have seen you before though, are you the newest member of Bell's party?' Appraised Eina.
'Yes, I am Laurier Swall of the Hermes Familia.' Greeted Laurier, placing her hand on her chest as she did so.
'I didn't know the Hermes Familia worked with other Familia very much.' Commented Eina.
'The Hermes Familia works with many different Familia, our information gathering services are even made use of by the Guild. If you mean exploring the Dungeon with other Familia, there is usually little need for us to do such a thing.' Replied Laurier, causing Eina to nod.
'Indeed. Well, why don't we process your items for you. It sounds like you had a relatively unexciting day for once.' Continued Eina, causing Laurier to blink in surprise.
'That was… an unexciting day?' Questioned Laurier, causing Eina to smile.
'For an ordinary adventurer, I imagine not, but Bell not running into any Infant Dragons, or any of the other middle floor monsters, or an irregular, is practically a quiet day for Bell.' Explained Eina, causing Bell to look off to the side with a complicated expression.
'I told you; it isn't like I am looking for them… the Dungeon has it out for me.' Muttered Bell, causing Eina to sigh.
'And as I keep telling you, that is not a thing. The Dungeon is unpredictable yes, but it does not target specific adventurers. Your higher rate of encounters is because you are going to floors before you should be.' Chided Eina, causing Bell to pout slightly, making the adviser stop her tirade and let out a weak giggle.
'Honestly Bell, I'm just trying to look out for you here.' Sighed Eina.
'That's okay, we will look out for him also.' Interjected Laurier, with Lili nodding in agreement, causing Eina to beam at her.
'Thank you, Bell is truly a handful at times, but I'll feel more reassured knowing he isn't going in there alone anymore.' Eina thanked Laurier genuinely, causing the Elf to raise an eyebrow.
'That being said, it is more of us actually looking at him, since Bell doesn't seem to need much help as things stand.' Continued Laurier, causing Eina to shake her head softly.
'Today, sure. As I said though, the Dungeon is unpredictable. Please also don't let your guard down, even with how unbelievably amazing Bell may seem to be at the moment, all it takes is one irregular event to take out even the strongest adventurer. Enough chit-chat though, we should finish exchanging your items so you can get some rest. Bell tells me you will all be going into the Dungeon daily for the next few days.' Retorted Eina, before helping Misha process the items and stones, missing as Lili lowered her head.
'Well, we are taking things slow at least.' Piped in Bell, causing Eina to look at him with narrowed eyes.
'I fear your definition of slow doesn't match mine, Bell. Less than two months and you've already been to the middle floors. That is the opposite of slow.' Countered Eina, causing Bell to chuckle weakly.
The items were then processed quickly after that, before the final tally was announced.
'One hundred and fifty thousand… I suppose given how long you were down there, even the deeper upper floors can be lucrative.' Muttered Eina appraisingly, before looking up at Bell.
'The usual split then?' Inquired Eina, getting a nod from Bell.
Misha and Eina then sorted out the payment before placing three tied sacks on the counter.
'Thanks, we'll see you tomorrow then.' Declared Bell, picking up one of the sacks and putting it in his bag, before picking up the other two.
'Here you go.' Continued Bell, offering the two to Lili and Laurier.
Lili took her bag with a quiet, but genuine, whisper of thanks, while Laurier stared at the bag in confusion.
'This isn't a fair split, you should have a bigger share.' Commented Laurier, making no move to take the bag.
'I don't think so. Having you and Lili means I can fight better and leave less drop items behind, so I think this is plenty fair.' Insisted Bell, bringing the bag closer to Laurier.
The Elf scrutinised Bell. It'd be easier for her to accept if he was only doing this because she was an Elf and he happened to like them, but the fact that he had also given Lili an equal share and that his Guild Adviser had expected this painted an entirely different picture.
This boy was extremely kind.
Laurier felt herself frown internally.
Why was a boy this kind being looked into by her deity and Familia? Her tasks in the past had been to get blackmail information. This boy wouldn't need anyone to blackmail him. A sob story and some misdirection would easily cause him to be led into a plot against his will, with the boy being none the wiser. Laurier noticed the small girl beside her, recalling the first time the two had literally run into each other, she had been trying to steal from the boy.
Was this the role Laurier was supposed to fill? Keep him safe from the ploys of others? Wasn't she also one of these ploys?
"I was never told to do anything other than join him though… was I?" Realised Laurier, causing her to have a different line of thought appear.
"Is Bell someone important to Lord Hermes?" Wondered Laurier, before hearing Bell clear his throat slightly.
'Uh, Laurier, can you please take it already, I'll need to get going to prepare dinner for my Goddess.' Requested Bell.
The Elf cupped her hands out and Bell deposited the bag of valis into it, giving a small smile as he did so.
'I'll see you both tomorrow.' Said Bell cheerfully, before leaving.
'Is he really that innocent?' Wondered Laurier aloud.
'He is, which is why he needs people looking out for him. Please don't take advantage of him.' Answered Eina, causing the girl to look at her.
'I won't… but others will.' Started Laurier, only for Lili to speak up.
'Lili won't allow it! Lili was one of those people… but Master Bell is one of a kind and he shouldn't need to compromise himself because of the greed of others.' Declared Lili, causing Laurier to look at her in surprise.
'That's kind of ironic coming from you.' Commented Laurier, causing the girl to flush slightly.
'Lili has turned over a new leaf, a new life. Lili will be there for Master Bell.' Responded Lili firmly.
'Then I guess I will need to also.' Agreed Laurier.
-line break-
Freya idly curled a strand of her hair, a pleased smile on her face. Things looked very promising at the moment. There were always plots afoot, it was Orario after all. She herself was someone who plotted on occasion, but right now, it seemed all of the major elements were accounted for. There was one thing that caused Freya's smile to dim slightly, recalling her meeting with Loki at Twilight Manor quite a few days ago now.
Those flower monsters were irregulars.
Someone was plotting something dangerous.
While Freya didn't doubt Loki's detective prowess, other than her own Familia, Loki Familia didn't really have enemies. Even Freya had her own minor thorn in the form of Ishtar Familia, but it was akin to a fly buzzing around the head of a lion. Freya knew it was there, but the energy to crush the annoyance was not worth it. Even the newest blip on her radar, the members of Soma Familia, barely registered as a threat and only through extension of a plot against Bell's newest supporter. Bell could defeat the entire Familia by himself Freya suspected, given he could endure training with both Ais and Ryuu in the same day, and have enough energy to then delve into the Dungeon. A Familia of drunkards would hardly pose a threat to a hero. Freya did always have the option of sending someone to join Bell, but her options were limited. Horn would have been an ideal choice, but it seemed the girl remained conflicted. Freya had no desire to upset her children, so she put that thought aside. Ottar was also not available, preparing his trial for Bell.
Freya shifted so her cheek now rested on her clenched fist, her elbow against the armrest of her throne. She had truly hoped Bell would have come to seek her Familia out before now, but it seemed between Ryuu, Ais, and Eina, Bell didn't need much in the way of guidance.
Freya mentally pouted, he also hadn't come by to cook with her either. Freya couldn't fault him for this. It seemed Bell still thought differently of the Goddesses, and she at least saw he was happy when cooking with Syr, but Freya also wanted to see that side of Bell in a different setting.
Freya sighed, resigning herself to a little bit of a wait. There was only so much she could rush Bell along to his destination in life and she truly did enjoy his journey. There was hardly a day where Bell didn't do something that made her genuinely happy, with even his most simple interactions.
Ah, there it was. Bell had been in the Dungeon today, so she hadn't seen him as much.
She missed him.
It was late in the evening now, most of her Familia having retired for the day, which meant she had a chance to do something on her own. Freya stood from her throne and made for her own private kitchen she had put together a few days after she had met Bell. Her cooking had initially started out quite hazardously, but Freya took pride that it had improved to the point that she didn't need to put the fan on every time she cooked nowadays, no longer burning a simple piece of bread anymore. Meat and vegetables were a different story, however. Freya decided to set her goal low today, not knowing if she would actually get a hold of Bell tomorrow, before he ventured into the Dungeon. Once she had gotten him to agree to a regular arrangement, she would really start to step things up.
Freya pulled off her gloves and set to work. It took her less time than before, likely because now she had an idea of what she needed to do. Almost as though Freya knew it would happen sooner or later, Horn entered the kitchen and noticed Freya was cooking.
'Horn, would you mind tasting this for me?' Asked Freya, placing a sandwich on a plate on the table for the girl.
Horn walked over to the plate with a hint of trepidation, already cursing a certain white-haired boy in her thoughts, before taking the sandwich and biting into it. Horn blinked, then blinked again before she chewed.
"It's good…" Thought Horn.
'How is it?' Asked Freya.
'It's… very nice.' Replied Horn, before feeling her senses overload at what happened next.
Freya smiled at her. An innocent smile. One without desire, lust, teasing. A simple, innocent smile filled with happiness. The war of love and hate inside her intensified. She was so happy in this moment, and she knew exactly who had caused it. Why wasn't she the one who had made this happen? In a way though, she had made it happen also, but Horn knew it wasn't the same thing.
'Lady Freya, may I have that status update later tonight?' Requested Horn, causing Freya to smile at her.
'I would be delighted to.' Replied Freya, even as Horn's heart raised.
That smile was for Horn. It wasn't because of anything he had done. Freya was happy with Horn right now, which meant Horn was ecstatic.
'Just give me a few more minutes then, would you mind preparing a bath for me for later as well?' Continued Freya, getting a small bow from Horn, who went to fulfil her task.
Freya smiled as she finished her sandwiches and wrapped them up before placing them in the magic stone powered fridge for tomorrow. Grabbing her gloves, but not putting them back on, Freya made her way back to her room. Horn was waiting at the foot of her throne, a piece of paper in hand, as well as a ceremonial dagger. The Goddess sat down and took the items, while Horn opened the top of her dress and let it fall to her waist, exposing her back to the Goddess. Horn felt her Goddess' delicate fingers on her back, causing her entire form to tremble. It had been such a long time since Horn's status had been last updated and consequently, felt the touch of her Goddess. It remained as intoxicatingly pleasant as it was the first time. The hand withdrew and the Goddess pricked her finger on the dagger, before her finger accessed the blessing on her followers back. Horn's form trembled, as her Goddess looked through her status. It had been a while now, meaning the update was equally long in duration. Horn's eyes closed as she let herself fall into the sensation, her thoughts becoming hazy, before she felt her Goddess' finger still.
That had never happened before.
Horn counted the seconds until the update resumed. Four seconds. Horn had no idea what could have caused her Goddess to pause for four seconds. A Goddess who frequently gave in to whim after whim, impulse after impulse. A four second pause was inconceivable to the attendant of said Goddess.
'All done.' Announced Freya, a hint of curiosity in her tone.
Horn dressed herself, already missing the touch of her Goddess, observing her Goddess as she filled in the status update, before holding it out to her. Horn took the paper and ran her eyes along the page, not expecting to see anything particularly of note, before her eyes stilled. Horn's head tilted slightly upwards to see her Goddess looking at her in interest.
It had become a game of chicken at this point. Both wanted to ask the other of the status, but neither knew how to start. Of course, the impulsive Goddess would be the first to speak, but again, that there had been any pause at all was extremely noteworthy.
'Is this why you requested to never have to fulfil a task such as the one from before again?' Asked Freya, a single finger running along her delicate cheek absent-mindedly.
Horn gripped the status sheet slightly tighter. What could she say?
'Possibly.' Admitted Horn, causing Freya to tilt her head to the side slightly.
'Are you even uncertain of your uncertainty?' Asked Freya curiously.
To Freya, her Familia were monochrome, always made up of one colour only. While they were all unique and beautiful in their own ways, they were always straightforward, blindingly so. Horn's request had been the most surprising on that one day, not asking for power, fame, kindness, love. No, Horn had requested to be her. The Goddess herself. She saw only her Goddess as a pinnacle of perfection, not seeking any other interaction with anyone. Horn was happy to be the Goddess' attendant. Horn aspired to be Freya, or at least an imitation of her. Perhaps that is why things had come to this. Horn knew of her interest in a certain boy, both as Freya and as Syr. Horn, as her doppelgänger, had possibly been exposed to the same dilemma, but with a different outcome it seemed.
Freya loved Bell. Syr loved Bell.
Horn disliked Bell. Horn also liked Bell.
'I don't know what to say.' Admitted Horn.
'I have already seen it all, why don't you speak your heart to let yourself understand your thoughts?' Suggested Freya.
'You are the most perfect Goddess. A true representation of divinity and perfection. Immaculate and without flaw, even the most precious jewel pales before your beauty. Yet because of… him… you spend less and less time as the pristine deity that you are… humbling yourself to our level, all for… him… it is a slight on your purity, something that seeks to taint the untaintable.' Ranted Horn stiffly, fighting herself with each word that passed through her lips, but accepting that to lie to her Goddess right now would be to directly defy her.
Horn's shoulders were tense, and her hands were just a hair breadth away from forming clenched fists.
'And yet?' Interjected Freya, causing Horn to slump.
'He makes you happy. He makes Syr happy. He does it without the desire of your touch. He… makes you happy unselfishly… and I hate him for that! He makes your happy without any desire of his own. He does what even I cannot, and he smiles. He finds flaws, but even turns them into strengths. He holds no ill will and acts generously to all. He is naïve! It is maddening that he has no idea of the power he holds, and he does nothing with it! He has something that every member of your Familia is fighting for on a daily basis and doesn't even seem to recognise the privileged nature of such a thing. He is a natural demon who charms others with appearances while giving in full-heartedly to his ego. The very sight of him induces anger and his ignorance is not cute in the slightest. It is an insult that he remains so self-depreciating, a slight against you for the interest you show in him! Constantly degrading and downplaying himself from a false sense of modesty. Yet he is somehow genuine in all of this, fumbling through life, charming even a Goddess of Beauty, yet still trying to charm any and all. Mortal or deity, it matters not.' Continued Horn, her voicing sounding equal parts defeated and yet angered.
'So tell me then, Horn, what do you truly want of him?' Asked Freya, a hint of eagerness in her eyes, as she awaited the response.
'I want him to disappear… to leave and never come back… but I don't want him to be harmed. I would be happy for him to simply be locked up and hidden away, never to charm another again. To stop him from trying to blemish you in any way… but I still want you to be happy… and I know that he makes you happy… but he has no right to… yet he reaches you in a way that even I am unable to… I just… want him to go away, so everything can return to how things were before.' Sighed Horn, her shoulders hunched over, and her head hung.
'I see, although truly I don't. I understand the dilemma, but I cannot understand why it exists. From my point of view, the answer is simple, but I am not you, Horn. You will need to come to your own understanding in time and please do speak to me about it if you wish. Thank you for speaking so honestly, I shall cleanse myself and then sleep, please see to it that my garments are ready for me, Syr will need to leave early in the morning.' Spoke Freya, as she stood and walked to the bathroom.
Horn bowed as her Goddess vacated the room, before preparing to complete her requested task. She spared a glance at the partially crumpled paper in her hands, before placing it down on the nearby desk, as she went to gather her Goddess' clothes. Finished with her task, Horn picked up her status update again and took it to her room. She sat on her bed and stared at it until she knew it was time to return to her Goddess. Placing the paper on the bed, Horn walked away, the bright moonlight illuminating the sheet of paper.
Horn
Level Two
Strength: H-122 - H-124
Endurance: I-94 - H-100
Dexterity: G-227 - G-239
Agility: H-180 - H-190
Magic: S-998 - S-999
Sacred Treasure: D
Magic:
(Vana Seith)
Transformation magic.
Allows one to become the Goddess Freya.
Senses are shared between the user and the Goddess. One's emotions and thoughts can be heard by the other.
Chant: Unreachable stairway, forbidden gate, today, this day, my body will exceed the heavenly law, empty soul, unworthy desire, descend in order of this traded true name, daughter of the gods
Skill:
(Dea Charta)
(Vanadis Schul)
(Dilemma of Duality)
Conflicted feelings rebalance stats based on emotions.
Mental clarity provides overall mild status boost.
Strong unified feelings provide large boost to all capabilities for duration that feelings remain unified.