A new year and one year to the day I published chapter 1. This story has received so much of my attention this previous year that it has already reached a ridiculous number of chapters (more than any of my other stories). I just finished writing chapter 49 and will be revising my chapter 50 and 51 (Apollo party) chapters shortly. So, in one year, I have written over 300K words for this story.

Over 100K words published already, over 1000 followers and just under 1000 favourites.
I thank you all for your support and hope you continue to enjoy it, especially since I will be doing two updates a month for this story going into the new year.

As an aside, I don't normally recommend songs in particular when reading fanfiction, but both as I was writing this chapter and also when reading it, Runnin' by Adam Lambert fits very well with the part with Ais at the end. It takes about two full playthroughs to cover the whole part and it should be started when Udaeus appears. Don't have to listen to it, but I think it also fits the theme of the battle.

Enjoy!

SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan.

Previously:
Bell would be introduced to Tsubaki by Chloe and Anya, commissioning the blacksmith to make a pair of knives for him. Hestia and Hephaestus would finish making Bell's divine knife, with Hestia eagerly planning to set up a date with Bell to give him the knife afterwards. In an undisclosed location, the god Hermes would read through a newspaper depicting Bell's defense of Hestia, Syr, and Ryuu, mentioning the fact to Bell's grandfather, before deciding to head back to Orario, sending word ahead to his Familia. Eina would take Bell to go shopping for armour the next day, with Bell noticing a gaze on him as they walked to Babel Tower. In the tower, Freya would decide to test Bell's ability to sense her, requesting Horn to journey into the Dungeon with him.

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 18 – Running

'Miss Eina, why do I need a robe and shirt made out of Salamander Wool?' Asked Bell, as the pair looked around for more magical garments.

'Why don't I answer that question with a question of my own? Bell, are you going to go below the twelfth floor in the near future?' Asked Eina with a sickly-sweet smile.

Bell felt a bead of sweat roll down the side of his face. It seemed Eina didn't know everything, but she knew enough and was almost daring Bell to deny what he had been up to. Fearing the tongue lashing he would likely have to endure, if not now, then in the future, Bell sighed and settled for honesty.

'Probably.' Admitted Bell, causing Eina to nod.

'Then Salamander Wool is essential. To endure the Hellhounds, Salamander Wool is one of the requirements for most adventurers to explore beyond the thirteenth floor. I've told you already about the War Shadows and Killer Ants being killers of level one adventurers, but Hellhounds are the killers of level two adventurers. As I told you before, their flames are extremely potent that even a level two would be reduced to cinders if they take a direct hit without any protection.' Lectured Eina.

The pair would continue shopping after purchasing a full set of clothing of Salamander Wool, making Bell inwardly thankful he had found that Jack Bird, as his reserves were just halved buying the garments alone. Luckily, the purpose of today was for Bell to be able to dive even deeper into the Dungeon, so he would recoup the cost in time. After purchasing the Salamander Wool, Eina led Bell to an armour shop. Bell found a similar set of armour to the one he had previously, before finding a new addition, a steel pouch which he could clip to his waist and be used to store his potions. After how much he was roughed around by the monsters at Monsterphilia, Bell wanted to make sure his potions didn't have a chance of breaking and if he was going to be facing monsters from the middle floors more often, he needed to be prepared. Bell noted however, that this new armour set had knee, shoulder, and forearm guards, but nothing on his lower legs. Scrounging around for a bit, Bell found a pair of black shin guards with silver accents at the bottom of the barrel. Bell thought they must have been quite old, based on the layer of dust at the bottom of the barrel, but the shin guards themselves looked pristine.

'Bell, I found something!' Exclaimed Eina, before seeing Bell had his hands full already.

'Ah, you already found a set of armour, I was too slow it seems.' Commented Eina somewhat regretfully.

'Ah, I'm sorry Miss Eina, especially after taking up your time like this.' Apologised Bell, only for Eina to look the armour over curiously.

'That looks like armour from two different sets though.' Commented Eina.

'Well, without my weapons, I've been using more punches and kicks, so covering those areas up helps them serve as both a defensive and offensive option.' Explained Bell, causing Eina to blink in surprise.

The half-Elf smiled, catching Bell off guard.

'I almost feel left out here. You're already thinking like a seasoned adventurer, Bell. You might not need me much longer at this rate.' Sighed Eina, only for Bell's next words to cause her to smile.

'I will always need you, Miss Eina! There is no telling what I might come up against in the Dungeon and I know you will always be there to help me learn.' Protested Bell.

'I see… and is that just because I am an Elf?' Teased Eina.

'Miss Eina is Miss Eina, it doesn't matter if you are an Elf or not, I will always need you!' Declared Bell, causing the girl to blush.

'Bell, if you keep saying things like that, I might really believe that you love me, or did you forget what you said that time?' Teased Eina, looking at Bell out of the side of her eye.

Bell blinked, recalling after Eina had provided him some encouragement following his brush with the Minotaur, he had told her he loved her. He of course hadn't meant it in a romantic way at the time, suspecting Eina was simply teasing him, but she was behaving differently today.

'Come on, Bell, let's go pay for your equipment.' Declared Eina, pulling Bell out of his thoughts.

As Bell carried his purchases out of the store, Eina stayed back for a moment and told Bell to wait for her. Bell patiently waited outside, his arms holding the box with his armour, only to see a flash of yellow.

'Ah, is that you, Lili?' Asked Bell, catching the small Elf off guard.

Walking over to the boy, the Elf gave a small bow.

'How do you do, Master adventurer?' Asked Lili, before spotting the box in his hands.

'So you have purchased some armour, have you?' Continued Lili, with Bell squatting down slightly to show the items inside to her.

Lili's eyes quickly evaluated the items and their cost. At most, it would have cost thirty thousand valis in her opinion. For an adventurer who could crush Killer Ants with his bare limbs, it was nothing more than a paperweight in her opinion.

'I see. Were you unable to find appropriate armour? This does seem quite light and fragile in this one's opinion.' Appraised Lili.

'No, I usually use light armour, I try to focus on speed and agility in the Dungeon.' Explained Bell, causing the girl to blink.

'This one finds that comment quite humorous. Does this mean you will be entering the Dungeon in the coming days?' Asked Lili, wondering to herself why she was even asking.

'Yes, I'm going to go and pick up my weapons later today, but I was planning to test them out tomorrow.' Explained Bell.

'Your weapons? Are they not your fists?' Asked Lili, causing Bell to look at her in confusion.

'No, I normally use knives.' Admitted Bell.

Lili's mind seemed to have a small mental break, evidenced by her furrowed brows and small scowl, before her face returned to an expression of neutrality.

'Would Master adventurer require the services of this one then?' Asked Lili.

'Sure, if you aren't too busy.' Replied Bell easily.

'This one finds your attempt at humour poor. I will meet you at the fountain tomorrow morning then.' Sighed Lili, before leaving.

'Another Elf, Bell?' Asked Eina as she arrived, spotting the blonde hair, and pointed ears as Lili walked away.

'That was the supporter from the other day.' Explained Bell.

'Oh yes, I recognise her, since that is how I found out you had gone to at least the tenth floor. From now on, when you return from the Dungeon, I want to know exactly what floor you've gone down too. You said you will always need me, but I can't help you if I don't know what floors you are exploring.' Pointed out Eina, causing Bell to nod.

'Okay then, I promise I will let you know.' Agreed Bell, causing Eina to smile.

'Good, then here is your present.' Said Eina happily, presenting a jade-coloured arm protector to him.

'Please accept this from me as your punishment.' Continued Eina.

'Wha? What do you mean?' Asked Bell in confusion, causing Eina to sigh.

'I don't want you go to floors above your level, so you don't get hurt. So, if you aren't going to listen to me either way, I at least want you to be as well-equipped as you can be, otherwise there are a lot of people who will be upset if you don't come back.' Explained Eina vaguely.

'Well at least let me make something for you the next time you come to the Hostess of Fertility.' Offered Bell, only for Eina to wag her finger at him admonishingly.

'No negotiation, this is your punishment.' Chided Eina, causing Bell to smile.

'Okay then.' Agreed Bell, causing Eina to smile.

'Ah, actually, Miss Eina, I kind of forgot the way, do you know where Miss Tsubaki's shop is so I can pick up my knives?' Asked Bell, causing the Elf to raise an eyebrow in surprise.

'Miss Tsubaki? Who is that?' Asked Eina.

'Ah, I think she is a blacksmith.' Answered Bell, causing Eina to blink at him owlishly.

'Bell, are you telling me you ordered multiple weapons from Tsubaki Collbrande?' Queried Eina, her eyes studying Bell intently.

'Well I didn't catch her last name, but maybe.' Admitted Bell, causing Eina to exhale in amusement.

'I see… follow me then.' Sighed Eina, much to Bell's confusion.

The pair made their way to Tsubaki's shop quickly, surprising Bell at how easily Eina had found the place.

Bell knocked before entering, causing Eina to raise an eyebrow. Bell walked up the stairs with Eina beside him, before they spotted Tsubaki at her anvil, appraising a two-toned knife.

'I was wondering when you would show up.' Commented Tsubaki, before spotting the Elf beside Bell and the crate in his hands.

'Done some shopping?' Asked Tsubaki.

'Yes, I had to buy some armour, my old armour was destroyed as well.' Admitted Bell.

'From the monsters or your magic?' Asked Tsubaki curiously.

'A bit of both.' Confessed Bell, causing Tsubaki to whistle.

'Man, I hope these things hold up then, but let me know if they need a repair.' Advised Tsubaki, before walking over to Bell and inspecting the box of armour.

Her eyes seemed to gleam in amusement, before opening wide, as she dug into the box and pulled out the black shin guards. Tsubaki laughed, causing Bell to frown as she returned the shin guards to the box.

'What's wrong with my armour?' Asked Bell defensively, causing Tsubaki to wave him off.

'Oh it's nothing, anyway, here are your knives.' Announced Tsubaki, holding two knives up to Bell.

The first knife was fifty centimetres from hilt to tip, with a handguard of ten centimetres. The blade was a dark brown and slightly curved, still somewhat resembling the fang it had been forged from, but now looking more suitable as a weapon for an adventurer to use. The hilt was a bone white, but had grooves through it to allow Bell to grip it comfortably.

The second was Bell's previously dual, now single, blades, which had been reforged. One side remained a brilliant silver while the other was a deep green, the two mixing slightly down the centre, creating an almost wavy pattern down to the hilt. The blade was now slightly shorter, being only twenty centimetres compared to its previous twenty-five, but the hilt was now an extra ten centimetres in length.

'This way your magic hopefully won't cause as much of a kickback when you use it, those blades had guards that weren't made for channelling anything. At least this way you shouldn't burn yourself to a crisp. That being said, a blade that's been reforged once already probably won't take something like that again, so try to avoid it if you can, but if it'll save your life, do what you gotta do.' Shrugged Tsubaki, causing Bell to smile.

'Thank you, Miss Tsubaki!' Said Bell happily, only for Tsubaki to tut at him.

'You know what to say.' Teased Tsubaki.

'T-Thank you… Big Sis Tsubaki.' Whispered Bell, causing Tsubaki to beam.

'Okay then, off you go.' Encouraged Tsubaki, only for Bell to shake his head.

'I will be going into the Dungeon tomorrow, so is it okay if you come to the Hostess of Fertility the day after.' Requested Bell, causing Tsubaki to blink.

'Oh? I thought that was a joke, you really going to hand feed me something?' Teased Tsubaki, only for Bell to blush.

'Well I can't just accept these for free. We had an agreement after all.' Muttered Bell, causing Tsubaki to smile.

'Sure, I'll come by for dinner in two days. You better send Chloe to come find me or I might lose track of time and completely forget. Off you go now.' Agreed Tsubaki easily, gesturing for them to leave.

'Oh, and when you have a chance, look at the bottom left corner of the shin guard.' Added Tsubaki, before picking up her hammer again.

As Eina and Bell left, Eina turned to Bell with a smirk.

'Big Sis Tsubaki? So… I'm guessing you don't know that is the Captain of the Hephaestus Familia then?' Commented Eina casually.

'Huh? I thought that was Chloe's friend… eh! The Captain!' Squeaked Bell, causing Eina to raise a hand to her lips and start giggling.

'I wonder what she meant about the shin guard though?' Pondered Eina, raising a finger to her chin.

'I'll have a look at them later and let you know. I need to walk you home now, Miss Eina. I planned to see my Goddess this evening and I will need to drop my armour and weapons off first.' Informed Bell, causing Eina to nod.

'It is getting late. I had fun today though, maybe we can do it again sometime, you know, without you having done something wrong beforehand to earn my wrath.' Joked Eina, causing Bell to chuckle weakly.

'I'll try. Thank you for helping me today though, Miss Eina.' Replied Bell with a small smile, causing Eina to smile in turn.

'In that case, can you do something for me? When we aren't at the guild, can you call me Eina?' Asked Eina.

'I… I'll try to remember, Eina.' Stammered Bell, causing Eina to smile, before raising a finger to his face.

'Only outside of the Guild though. I am Miss Eina at the Guild, got it?' Warned Eina, getting a quick nod from Bell, making her giggle.

'I'm glad, that makes me happy.' Finished Eina, causing Bell's mind to calm.

"I got to see a new side of… Eina today." Thought Bell.

-line break-

'Hello, Hestia, you look different today.' Greeted Freya, dressed up in her robe, hiding her voluptuous form.

'Freya and Hephaestus? You'll make Loki start rumours being seen together like that.' Joked Hestia.

'I think you've done a fine job starting rumours yourself. What's this I hear that you are going on a date with Bell, I thought you were simply going to explore the town?' Queried Hephaestus, crossing her arms under her bust, her eyes running up and down Hestia's form.

'A new dress, your hair is down, and is that perfume too? What exactly are you planning, Hestia?' Asked Hephaestus, causing Hestia to panic.

'W-What do you mean, I'm not expecting anything super romantic to happen today!' Stammered Hestia.

'Oh my, I think Hestia is going on a date after all.' Commented Freya in amusement.

'It seems I will need to accompany you as a guardian.' Added Hephaestus, before Freya spoke again.

'Well, perhaps. I did want to let you know of something though, Hestia. One of my children needs to gather something from the Dungeon, I've asked them to accompany Bell tomorrow. Do please let him know on your date tonight.' Requested Freya, before turning to leave.

Hestia got a glint in her eye, before reaching for Freya's hood.

'Oh my, what have you done Hestia?' Asked Freya in amusement, before a crowd of people swarmed Freya, dragging Hephaestus along as well.

Hestia grinned before running off.

"Forgive me Bell for doing something so unsightly, but I will have you to myself at least for this evening!" Thought Hestia, before spotting Bell waiting at the fountain.

'Ah, Goddess, there you are.' Greeted Bell with a wave.

'Bell!' Cried Hestia in happiness, lunging at Bell with a tackle, wrapping him up in a hug.

'I missed you!' Exclaimed Hestia, causing Bell to pat her on the head, making her hum in satisfaction.

'Oh, so this is the exclusive member of the Hestia Familia. He does look like a cutie, doesn't he?' Commented a busty goddess, with honey coloured hair and orange eyes.

'Demeter! What are you doing here?' Asked Hestia nervously.

'Well, you didn't think you could just tell us you were going on a date without us following to see the special boy. Then when you used Freya as a distraction, it was clear where you were going?' Explained Demeter.

'What do you mean, "used Goddess Freya as a distraction"?' Asked Bell, causing Hestia to panic.

'Ah, Hestia outed Freya in the streets, causing a crowd to swarm her. Oh my, what is with that look?' Explained Demeter, before seeing Bell frown at Hestia, who looked away in guilt.

'Goddess, that was rude of you, you know how hard it is for Goddess Freya to walk around in public.' Admonished Bell, causing the small Goddess to shrink even further in on herself.

'Oh my, it seems Loki was right, you truly are an adorable white bunny, even being considerate of Freya's feelings.' Squealed Demeter, before grabbing Bell and tucking him into her bosom, the other Goddesses with her also patting him on the head.

"Is this it?" Thought Bell nervously, seeing spots enter his vision as his oxygen supply was swiftly cut off.

Bell eventually escaped the embrace, gasping for air on his hands and knees.

'I almost died, but that's okay I suppose.' Sighed Bell, only for Hestia to huff, causing him to stand up quickly.

'If you want a Goddess, I am right here you know!' Grunted Hestia, causing Bell to apologise.

'Ah, sorry Goddess, you're right.' Apologised Bell, causing Hestia's eyes to open wide.

'I'm sorry Goddesses, but I agreed to escort Goddess Hestia today, please let us be on our way. Also, if anyone does see Goddess Freya, do apologise to her for me, I will do the same if I see her again.' Bowed Bell, stunning the group of Goddesses, as well as Hestia.

'Oh my, so this is what it takes to unlock the romantic side of the shut-in Goddess. Very well then, enjoy your time together and I will personally pass on your message to Freya.' Replied Demeter, with the other Goddesses beside her waving at Bell as well.

'Thank you.' Nodded Bell, before taking Hestia's hand and leading her away.

Demeter watched on in amusement, before making her way to a nearby café. Climbing the stairs to the higher level, the Goddess of the Harvest took a seat with three other Goddesses.

'That was indeed an experience.' Commented Demeter, causing Hephaestus to sigh.

'I guess I was worried about nothing.' Mumbled Hephaestus, sitting across from Demeter, her hands interlaced with her chin resting on top of it.

'Told you, boy is the whitest rabbit around there is.' Chimed in Loki, taking a glug of a bottle of wine, one leg raised on the chair, as she rested her chin on her knee.

'Oh yes, before I forget, Freya, the boy apologised for Hestia's actions.' Informed Demeter, turning her head to the left, looking at the silver haired Goddess in amusement.

'Of course he would, Bell is a truly special child.' Agreed Freya, causing Loki to click her tongue.

'Fine, I have to ask, why aren't you trying to take him?' Asked Loki.

'Whoever says I haven't? Although if you mean in the literal sense, if Bell did belong to one of our Familia, can you be sure he would still be the same person he is now?' Questioned Freya.

'Fine, whatever, the kid's a saint, can we move on?' Grumbled Loki, causing Freya to laugh.

'Well, I'm not so sure about that, as I understand it, he wants a harem.' Revealed Freya, catching all of the Goddesses by surprise.

'So you mean he is going to go after my Ais and Riveria after all!' Exclaimed Loki in fear, slamming her wine bottle on the table.

'Well, Tsubaki might be glad to hear that.' Mumbled Hephaestus.

'Oh my, maybe I should have held him closely for a bit longer and maybe I would have been on the date as well.' Commented Demeter.

'Fine, I'll make sure to speak to Ais and Riveria when they get back, I've got business to discuss, this isn't a fun girl's night.' Interjected Loki, giving a vigorous shake of her head.

'Well then, Loki, what did you want to speak with us about?' Asked Freya pleasantly.

'I wanted to ask for your help. I would have left you out, Freya, because I can't stand the sight of you, charming every man, woman, and their dog, but it seems you've learned to play nice… I need help.' Revealed Loki.

'I already spoke with Demeter and Hephaestus about provisions and smiths, but I could use a bit more help.' Continued Loki.

'And what is it that you need from me?' Asked Freya coolly, causing Loki to grit her teeth.

'I know you have a healer on par with Dian Cecht's Silver Saint… the thing… that killed Ganesha's child… your child supposedly can heal someone even from the brink of death, right?' Asked Loki, causing Freya to smile.

'Of course, I am quite proud of Heith, but she is not for rent unfortunately. Heith has a constant role as the leader of the Andhrímnir, I cannot dispense with Heith without a truly significant reason, not just insurance on a trip to the Dungeon. However, if it is protection you need, the Gulliver Brothers would be quite happy to assist you with the caveat that they would like to test the so-called "Hero of the Prum race".' Offered Freya, causing Loki to sigh.

'I'll have to check with Finn, but it can probably be arranged.' Admitted Loki, causing Freya to quirk a delicate eyebrow.

'I never could have imagined you reaching out for help like this, Loki.' Commented Freya.

'Let's just say I'm a bit concerned… there is some other stuff in the background, some funny business from Monsterphilia, plus maybe more, so I'm already spread thin as it is.' Retorted Loki, causing Freya to look at her knowingly.

'I see. Well then, if that is all, I will bid you three farewell for now.' Declared Freya, standing up.

'Yeah, yeah, go chase the rabbit.' Muttered Loki dismissively, causing Freya to smile.

'Chase? My dear Loki, I don't need to chase anyone, you should know this.' Replied Freya in amusement, causing Loki to grumble.

'Freya's changed.' Muttered Loki.

'So has Hestia.' Added Hephaestus.

'Oh my, all this for a boy? I wonder what is happening on that date then.' Commented Demeter in amusement.

-line break-

'I'm really sorry Bell.' Apologised Hestia again, causing Bell to sigh.

'I know Goddess, but all of this just to spend time with me?' Questioned Bell.

The pair had spent the past few minutes walking around town, before Hestia broke down and apologised, sensing Bell's disappointment.

'I haven't gotten to spend time with you lately.' Whined Hestia, causing Bell to smile.

'I know, I'm sorry about that, but we can always spend time together at home.' Apologised Bell, causing Hestia to sigh.

'I know, but I thought it would be fun if we could go exploring together. You are new to Orario, and I've not been out much before.' Admitted Hestia, causing Bell to smile.

'Well come on then, let's get going.' Encouraged Bell, grabbing Hestia's hand and pulling her along.

'Yes!' Agreed Hestia, feeling happiness bloom in her chest.

The pair would make their way through Orario, focusing more on the less popular areas. Moving outside of the main shopping districts, the pair would come across many smaller speciality stores. The duo eventually came across a bookstore, with Hestia eagerly running into the store, Bell trailing behind her. As Hestia inspected the shelves, Bell smiled, catching her off guard.

'What is it?' Asked Hestia curiously, patting herself down quickly.

'You really like to read, don't you?' Asked Bell, causing Hestia to blush.

'S-so?' Asked Hestia, causing Bell to laugh.

'I just meant I like being read to, but mostly stories about heroes, maybe we can find a book to read together.' Suggested Bell, causing Hestia to beam.

'Leave it to me then!' Declared Hestia, giving Bell's a thumbs up as she scoured the shelves.

Bell watched as Hestia searched her way through the shelves, trying to find a hero story. Much to her rapidly growing dismay, she couldn't find one. Bell smiled at how hard Hestia was trying, before helping her look as well. A few stories jumped out at Bell, but none that he thought Hestia would enjoy reading until he found an odd one, which he hadn't heard of before.

'What about this one?' Asked Bell curiously, pulling the book out and showing it to Hestia.

'The rise and fall of the Fairy Valkyrie… I've never heard of that before.' Commented Hestia, with Bell nodding in turn.

'Me neither.' Admitted Bell, causing Hestia to grab the book and leaf through it.

'Uh-huh, and the fact that the main character is an Elf had nothing to do with it?' Asked Hestia suspiciously, only for Bell to blush.

'I didn't know that, I just thought I hadn't heard of a story like this before.' Mumbled Bell, causing Hestia to giggle.

'Okay Bell, but I'm going to have to keep an extra close eye on you when you are around Ryuu, Eina, or Miss Riveria if you keep this up.' Teased Hestia.

Bell pouted, causing Hestia to giggle, before the pair purchased the book and continued on their way. The pair eventually arrived at a small, raised section of Orario, looking across the shopping district. The lights of the various establishments glittering along the horizon, creating a landscape similar to the stars in the sky.

'Let's come back here again another time, maybe with some nice food I can prepare, and we can have a picnic.' Suggested Bell with a smile, causing Hestia's heart to lighten.

'Yes, I would like that.' Agreed Hestia with a smile, before looking back out across the landscape.

'Freya wanted me to tell you one of her Familia will be joining you on your trip to the Dungeon tomorrow, is that okay with you?' Asked Hestia, her smile shrinking slightly.

'Hm? I guess I don't really have a problem with it. I hope I don't let them down.' Answered Bell easily, causing Hestia to sigh.

'Really Bell, you never change it seems. I know it hasn't been long, but you are truly an exceptional person, everyone seems to think so too.' Commented Hestia.

'And for some reason everyone seems to think negatively of you even though you are the kindest Goddess by far. I don't mind what other people think, I only care about what people important to me think.' Countered Bell, causing Hestia to blush.

Mustering up the courage, Hestia reached over and interlaced her fingers with Bell's own.

'Then I think that you are an amazing person, and I am so happy I met you that day.' Whispered Hestia tenderly.

'Me too, Hestia.' Replied Bell softly, causing the Goddess to turn crimson.

'W-We should go back soon *yawn* it's getting late.' Suggested Hestia, feeling the exhaustion of the past few days catch up with her, compounded with her excitement from the date.

'Sure, stay close to me.' Agreed Bell, tucking the Goddess against his side, the dozing Hestia resting her head against his chest, as he led the pair home.

Bell noticed on the way back that Hestia had fallen asleep completely and picked her up, carrying her in a bridal carry again. Bell thought he felt a pair of eyes on him, but felt it was not aimed at him, but rather, someone near him. Looking over his shoulder, Bell felt the gaze disappear a moment later and continued on his way.

-line break-

A certain blonde Elf felt something shift in the air as she backed off, having felt an observer of her own. Lili had been trailing after Bell once he told her he had planned to pick up weapons. Hoping to catch a glimpse before their trip to the Dungeon. She had been unable to spot them and instead, had settled for following him, only to see him seemingly on a date with another Goddess. As the pair wrapped up their date though, she felt it. Like a little pinprick at the base of her spine, she jolted and quickly made a hasty retreat.

'We're watching you. Don't play around too much.' Whispered a voice beside Lili's ear, causing her to flinch as she leapt away.

The form was already fading into the darkness, all Lili saw, was a silvery-grey eye, staring at her unblinkingly, before it disappeared.

-line break-

'Finn, Riveria, can I ask a favour?' Asked Ais, surprising the group.

Ais had been relentless. Annihilating monsters like they were insects. Barely speaking a word and only speaking when spoken too. Throughout this all though, Riveria retained hope that Ais wouldn't self-destruct. It wasn't her normal rage. This was a rage with purpose. What the purpose was, Riveria was unsure.

'I would like to stay behind. I don't need any food or water. I won't be long, and I don't want to bother anyone… please.' Requested Ais softly, her eyes looking down as she stood before Finn and Riveria.

Riveria studied Ais. She looked upset, but not angry. There was an underlying hint of determination in her voice, her expression looking just the tiniest bit hopeful.

'I would like to support this request of Ais. Can you consider it, Finn?' Added Riveria, surprising all members of the Loki Familia.

'My role is to look after the entire party. Leaving Ais behind is a poor decision based on logical thinking. I cannot move based on parental feelings alone.' Rationalised Finn.

'Then I will supervise Ais.' Replied Riveria simply.

Finn closed his eyes, giving a small smile in amusement.

'Okay then, I will allow it.' Conceded Finn, surprising the other members of the team.

'Eh! Finn, persuade her not to!' Whined Tiona.

'It is not like anything bad can happen to Ais with Riveria alongside her. If anything, it is us that would be in danger without our healer.' Commented Finn, causing Tione to huff.

'I won't pick up the slack with attacking and healing if Ais stays.' Pouted Tione.

'Eh? Miss Ais… you are going to stay behind?' Asked Lefiya in disbelief.

'Yes… sorry for being selfish.' Apologised Ais, causing Lefiya to tremble.

'Then please let me stay behind as well, I will support you!' Declared Lefiya hopefully.

'Oh, me too then! Great idea, Lefiya!' Added Tiona, raising Urga the Second into the air.

'We don't have supplies for more people to stay behind.' Interjected Tione, causing the two to become teary-eyed, making Ais feel bad for them.

'So, what is the real reason you want to let Ais stay behind?' Asked Finn, as the pair watched the younger members of their Familia bicker.

'Ais needs this. I am unsure why, but she does. If she is going to self-destruct, should it not happen in controlled circumstances?' Countered Riveria, only for Finn to smirk.

'Is she going to self-destruct? The two of us have seen Ais do so before, this doesn't feel like one of those times.' Commented Finn, to which Riveria nodded.

'I agree, but that doesn't mean I understand this behaviour either. Do you not agree a less self-destructive Ais is better?' Retorted Riveria, causing Finn to chuckle.

'I see. I will leave her in your hands then… but I would like to have a report of what happens when you return.' Relented Finn, causing Riveria to nod.

'Of course.' Agreed Riveria.

'I will leave you what you need, but if that woman appears again, be careful. I am leaving Ais' fate in your hands, so take responsibility for whatever happens next.' Warned Finn.

'Of course, thank you… and I apologise for the selfish request.' Said Riveria, getting a nod from Finn, who started heading for the exit.

The others followed until only Tiona remained behind.

'Tiona, we're leaving, come on.' Called Tione, the group already far away from the trio of Tiona, Ais, and Riveria.

'I will go on ahead then.' Mumbled Tiona quietly.

'Yes… I'm sorry.' Apologised Ais again, bowing her head, only for Tiona to flick her forehead.

'There, all forgiven. Make sure you come back up soon; we'll be waiting for you!' Finished Tiona brightly with a big smile, before heading off as well.

'Thank you, Riveria.' Whispered Ais, once the group had left.

'Tell me one thing, Ais, what are you planning? I thought you would want to go back home to see your student after what happened.' Intoned Riveria softly.

'I do… but I will have good news to report back.' Replied Ais, confusing Riveria, until the ground started to shake.

'Don't tell me…' Mumbled Riveria in disbelief.

Riveria thought that Ais had changed, no longer mindlessly pursuing strength, having found other things to focus on with her friends within the Loki Familia and now her student. Riveria almost cursed herself for believing her ward had changed, until her words came back to her.

"Good news… to report back…" Pondered Riveria, sparing a glance at Ais and seeing her usual determination, but it was tempered.

When Ais was in the Dungeon, she usually made no move to look after herself, only seeing the destruction of the opponent in front of her, throwing herself in recklessly. This time though, Riveria could see the desire for carnage, but there was another desire hidden within. It was foreign to Riveria to see this expression on Ais' face. It wasn't pride, personal or otherwise that was motivating her right now. It was something else. Desire. A plain desire, but one Riveria couldn't identify. Knowing Ais for years now, she had never seen this intent before. It seemed like she wanted to accomplish this feat for someone else. It was confusing to Riveria, but she couldn't say that it was unwelcome. This Ais though, could she handle the task ahead of her? The reckless Ais would have a calculated chance, she may struggle, and get hurt, but she may win. This new Ais though. One with a measure of control. Would this Ais fall short?

Riveria looked up as a large, black, skeletal head appeared, in between two skeletal hands,. The two hands ripped apart the womb of the Dungeon, which birthed the Black Skeleton Lord every three months on the dot, the Monster Rex of the thirty-seventh floor, floor boss Udaeus.

The creature was the stuff of nightmares, blackened bones that gave off an eerie sheen were all that made up its form. A pair of horns protruded from a skull filled with serrated teeth and empty eye sockets that had small red flames within. A fleshless ribcage contained a large magical stone, while a bony pelvis was partially rooted to the ground, a spiny bone tail emerging from the top of the pelvis. Towering over the two adventurers at its full height of ten metres, Udaeus stared down at them menacingly.

'I will do this myself.' Whispered Ais, causing Riveria's eyes to widen.

'You intend to do this all by yourself?' Questioned Riveria, watching as the girl approached the monster.

'It'll be fine, I'll end this quickly.' Muttered Ais, drawing her sword, even as Udaeus extended a bone black claw towards her.

'Awaken, Tempest.' Intoned Ais quietly, air currents swirling around her body, forming an armour of wind around her.

The hand struck only air, Ais' speed also having been boosted by the armour, allowing her to zip forward with a ferocious speed. The stone beneath her feet turned from chunks to shards, the sheer pressure from Ais' steps pulverising the stone. Ais shifted her gaze to the purple lump hidden within the ribs. Udaeus' magic stone gleamed with a sickening light, the only true weakness of the monster. Ais leapt into the air and twisted, her arm extended out in front of her, hoping to pierce the stone and bring the fight to an end, only for something truly frustrating to happen.

"It moved." Thought Ais in annoyance, as the fifth rib of Udaeus shifted upwards, redirecting Ais' strike, and protecting the monster's heart from being struck.

Ais was close. She knew that. Unfortunately, Udaeus knew it too. Ais swiftly retreated as a mass of black bone, five metres in length, erupted from the ground. The Lance of Udaeus, a long range attack the Monster Rex could create which could normally quell hordes of adventurers. Ais avoided the attack, but as the ground was split, hundreds more sharp spines were unearthed. Udaeus was in fact a sitting duck, but that did not mean it was powerless. It was not wrong to say that the monster was the floor itself. It had no lower body, but the floor was almost an extension of its body. Wave after wave of jagged spines emerged from the ground, with Ais leaping away seconds before each eruption, until she came face to face with the monster again. The twisted bony visage seemed to smirk, as it raised its right arm, preparing to slam it down on Ais. The blonde frowned and her eyes swivelled to the shimmering mass of purple located within the joint. Udaeus didn't have ligaments to connect its bones together and instead used magic. Numerous purple masses, glowing the same iridescent colour as its magic stone, made up the space between key joints. Ais mentally traced the largest ones. Wrist, elbow, shoulder.

Shoulder.

Ais' eyes hardened, and she shot off like a bullet from a gun. Udaeus raised its arm and Ais' gaze followed it, never letting that speck of purple escape her gaze. Even as the arm slammed down, Ais leapt into the air. Suddenly, mid-jump, Ais was propelled forward, her wind carrying her through the sky like a messenger of heaven. Her thin blade gleamed as it was sheathed in a curtain of verdant wind on both sides.

'Tempest!' Roared Ais again, her wind becoming angry as her sword sliced downwards.

A large thud was heard and even Riveria didn't know what to say.

'Amazing…' Gasped Riveria, as the entire right arm of Udaeus was separated from its body.

Flaming pupils glared at the airborne blonde. An insect had harmed it. Unacceptable. A large spike erupted from the ground, seeking to skewer the still floating swordswoman. Ais directed her wind and pushed herself to the side. Udaeus shifted its vengeful eyes towards the blonde who was now on its other side. Roaring loudly, Udaeus seemed to be ready to defy Ais until the end, but it was not foolish. Dozens of large black spires of bone erupted around Udaeus' form, shielding it from attack while it tried to recover. In addition, the ground opened wide, resembling a piece of Swiss cheese, with Spartoi emerging from each hole in the ground.

Ais knew what it was doing.

Stalling.

Ais wouldn't let it succeed in its goal, as her wind raged around her, before she blasted through the air like a bullet. The pillars of bone shattered against the force of Ais' sword, bringing her closer and closer to the large monster, only for Spartoi to emerge from the pillars, almost as though they had burrowed their way through from the ground. Ais let her focus slip for a second, as dozens of Spartoi tried to dogpile her, before her wind flared, blasting the Spartoi to bone chips. Ais was now almost within striking distance, only for a structure that dwarfed all the other pillars to erupt from the ground.

"That isn't a pillar!" Thought Ais in surprise, as the single remaining hand of Udaeus gripped what looked like a hilt.

Riveria was stunned. She had been fighting off some of the Spartoi which had been summoned to attack Ais, beating them back with her staff as she chanted, when Udaeus had created something neither had ever seen before. A sword of its own. The black monster swung with a speed that took both of them by surprise. Ais shifted her Ariel to the side, meaning she was not struck directly, but Desperate, her thin rapier with the special property of Durandal, made contact with the unfathomable blade of Udaeus. The impact was staggering. Ais wondered if this is what Udaeus felt when she had dismembered its arm. Ais landed on the ground in a crouch, skidding back. Reaching with her other arm, Ais confirmed her right arm was still attached to her body. It was numb though. Ais lifted her right arm up with her left, only for her arm to fall back down. Ais looked at her left arm. She still had one working arm. Ais pried the sword out of her right hand and held it in her left.

"It doesn't matter what arm I use; I only need to strike." Resolved Ais.

Ais was normally right-handed, but she could use her left if needed. It wouldn't be as skilled as her right, but skill was not what she needed now. Power. Speed. Magic. That was what she required. Finesse was good, but it was not her goal.

Ais charged, watching as Udaeus lifted its arm off the ground. The Spartoi which had been summoned had all been crushed. Riveria had even been blown back a few metres.

'Tempest.' Muttered Ais, her wind picking up around her again.

Udaeus seemed to sense its opponent was about to attack again. Giving a devilish grin, Udaeus prepared to defeat its opponent. One near miss had almost crushed its enemy. One hit was all it needed. The blonde girl switched the hand which held her sword. Udaeus' smirk widened. Its target was wounded. The human was injured, it was obvious. So why did it walk with such strength? Why did its knees not wobble? It started running. The pest that had invaded its domain was running!

'UOOOOOOOOOOO!' Groaned the monster of the floor.

Spartoi popped out of the ground like ants, all trying to stop Ais' advance. The swordswoman cut them down without mercy, but also without anger. Determination. That was all Udaeus could see in the eyes of its attacker.

Riveria watched on in similar surprise. She had planned to at least heal the girl, even if she didn't allow her to intervene, but then Ais had risen. It was abnormal, wielding her sword with her other hand. This was not something Ais had done. Of course, both of her arms were equally strong, but the left was not as well trained.

"One hit. One hit is all I need." Decided Ais, marching on resolutely, her blade awkwardly, but accurately, cutting down the Spartoi which tried to halt her progress.

Ais saw her goal in front of her.

Ais started to dash forward. In the literal and figurative sense, running towards her goal.

"I will be stronger! I will not lose here!" Thought Ais resolutely, her green tinged wind surrounding her and shredding the Spartoi even before they could meet her blade.

Udaeus roared back in defiance, summoning even more Spartoi, but they were quickly reduced to dust, as Ais' wind raged harder in response. Flecks of green and black paved the path to Ais' goal. The throbbing mass of purple was in her sights. Nothing was allowed to break her gaze. The large black blade of Udaeus was raised high into the air, but Ais was ready this time. Ariel raged around her, not letting anything get in her way.

Running. Ais was running now.

Udaeus felt something foreign in that moment. Fear. That fear quickly gave way to anger as the skeletal demon brought its blade down. Ais rocketed through the air. The blade was going to miss, both adventurer and monster realised this fact. Ais extended her arm, ready to end this battle, only for Udaeus to prove it wasn't going to go down without a fight, shifting its arm into the path of Ais' attack. The right elbow of Udaeus was struck, the arm dropping to the ground, as the swordswoman was pushed back, landing in a backwards skid. Ais' attack hadn't been strong enough to dismember the limb, but it was now numb like Ais' own. It would recover though, so Ais pushed on. Spartoi were nothing to her, temporary distractions at best, but each step became just that little bit slower. Udaeus and Ais both knew, this was a battle of attrition. Ais was in the lead now though, one arm to Udaeus' zero at the moment. That would change though if Ais didn't run.

So Ais ran.

The Spartoi didn't even have a chance to meet Ais' blade, as the currents of wind blew them away. Ais sprinted through the Spartoi, their bone fragments not even registering under her boot as she ran. Seeing only her goal in front of her, Ais attacked.

Udaeus felt desperate. It was a foreign feeling. The bony arm intercepted again, but a smaller joint was hit, and the outcome was different.

A wrist was shattered, and a sword was snapped.

Both belonged to Udaeus.

Ais smiled. A tiny smile. An almost unnoticeable smile.

Ais saw victory, it was only a matter of time now.