Cherreads

Chapter 9 - chapter 9

Morning light shone through the window and onto the face of Koukin, stirring her awake. With a groan, she rose herself up to sit on her bed and gave a stretch, followed by a yawn, the blanket falling off her torso to reveal her tanned naked chest to the world.

Normally she would have bedwear on but she found herself enjoying sleeping with minimal, very minimal, clothing on. For a very good reason in her opinion.

Koukin got out of her bed, showing she only wore dark panties as her night attire, and took in a long deep breath. She exhaled smoothly and found herself smiling at the action.

No chest pains, shortness of breath, dizziness, or even a small cough.

She was for all intents and purposes a perfectly healthy woman.

A fact that nearly brought her to tears when she realized it. No longer did she have to be fretted over by her companions. No longer did she have to worry about a bloody and painful coughing fit. No longer did she have to limit herself to the sidelines. Now she could join a fight, rather than just plan for it.

The thought brought a smile to her face. She was brought to this world to experience a new grasp on life, a life her original self couldn't experience. A life of health and potential.

The sky's the limit in this new world and already Koukin intended to enjoy it the best she could. Though that wasn't the only thing she intended to do in this world. She knew of some things when being called to this world, knowledge that she found herself suddenly obtaining without prompt or practice. Things such as writing or reading the common language as well as speaking it.

There were also bits of knowledge that puzzled her a great deal. Some info on figures of the past that no longer live. Or even the three great quests. Why she had this knowledge alongside the basics puzzled her.

It was worth investigating at some point and she does intend to ask her fellow summoned allies what knowledge they were given upon their summoning.

Until then though, first things first.

She moved to a closet that contained some of her new clothes. She managed to find some similar clothes to what she wore in her old world, granted they were far more conservative than what she'd like but it was still nice to find them nonetheless.

She had to follow up with that amazon shopkeeper on replicating her wears at some point. If her wardrobe does well, the familia will have a nice bit of supplementary income in addition to their dungeon diving.

Her strategists mindset always thought ahead, always prepared, always ready.

Her clothing dawned, she left her room to face the day. Only for her attention to be drawn to the end of the hallway. She had chosen one of the rooms upstairs as hers. Believing it easier to notify or inform either her captain or Goddess at a given notice.

At the end of the hallway was Arue staring outside the window. She was wearing her usual mage wear and signature eyepatch.

Koukin grew curious and went over to her and stared out the window. Arue noticed her presence but gave no motion to greet her.

Not when something facilitating was happening outside.

Koukin stared out the window as well and saw what drew Arue's attention.

Bell stared at his opponent with renewed focus, his heart aflame with adrenaline. Beside him were Hana and Chitoge, who stood in ready battle stances, clothed, armored, and armed against the opponent they were fighting.

Takeru patiently waited ahead of them, dressed in her attire and loosely wielding a wooden sword in her hand. She was standing nonchalantly and openly, inviting the trio in front of her to attack her.

Given that, even at this distance, Koukin could make out the grim and dirt on their clothes as well as the red welts from newly formed bruises on their bodies. Koukin would be correct to assume this wasn't the first time they attacked and failed given Takeru had not a speck of dust on her.

Even still, they tried again.

Chitoge lunged out first with a cry, Bell following behind her. She launched a series of blows at Takeru, who dodged and weaved each strike with contemptuous ease, even tapping aside Chitoge's gauntleted fists, not as a means of avoiding them but because she could and Chitoge knew it and it spurred her to attack more aggressively.

Suddenly, Chitoge leapt up into the air, showing remarkable acrobatics, and flipped over Takeru.

If it was meant to distract her, it failed.

She met Bell's inevitable charge, who used Chitoge's sudden action as a faint and hoped to capitalize on it.

Wooden dagger met wooden sword, as Bell hoped to use his speed to his advantage. Takeru responded by closing in gradually into Bell's space until eventually he couldn't bring his weapons about properly. She reversed her grip on her sword and thrust the pommel into Bell's chest, knocking him back and drawing a wheezing cry out of him.

Takeru, without looking, suddenly stabbed behind herself. Hearing a cry and a similar wheeze, she knew she landed her strike true. A glance back confirmed this as Chitoge laid on the ground behind her, nursing her stomach.

Takeru felt someone grab her arm suddenly, right at her blind spot.

'Good. She got the timing right.' Takeru thought.

Hana attempted a textbook shoulder throw, aiming to flatten Takeru on the ground. Unfortunately, she was dealing with an experienced combatant who slipped out of holds better than the one she was in.

Takeru pivoted her hips just as Hana lifted her, and rather than landing on her back as intended, Takeru landed feet first facing Hana, who looked at her with wide eyes.

The swordswoman did give her much time after that, seizing the initiative, Takeru swung her sword up as fast and as powerful as she could, aiming at Hana's head.

The eccentric girl saw the attack coming and could only watch with widening eyes as it drew closer.

Before stopping just a fraction of an inch from its target.

Hana felt the gust of pressured air pass over her, she could practically taste the power in the strike.

She didn't want to imagine the damage that could have done.

Takeru stared at her with a stern expression as if waiting for something obvious from her.

"I yield," said Hana.

Takeru's expression changed into something more gentle. She removed her wooden sword from Hana's head and gave her a nod, "Well done," she said, "that was the best attempt you three did so far,"

They had been sparring for a little over an hour and Takeru had beaten them handedly every single time. Whenever she won, she would point out where they went wrong and offer any advice she could give before restarting the spar again.

An effective training method…though a bit brutal.

Bell rose up slowly, nursing his stomach, groaning all the while.

Chitoge was little better.

"Like I told Hana," Takeru said, "that was your best attempt yet. You still need to work on the obvious weaknesses I have previously said."

She pointed at Hana, "Your opponent, monster or otherwise, will not give you a stable target to toss about. Adjust yourself to your opponent and they couldn't escape your grasp even if they tried."

She pointed at Chitoge, "Rushing head on only works when your opponent isn't expecting or anticipating it. Vary your attacks that don't simply require a head on approach."

She pointed at Bell, "Bell, your abilities with a dagger are decent but you lack a fundamental skill in using such blades. Close quarters are the emphasis with such weapons. Do not wield them like swords. Shorten the distance of your attack to use them effectively."

With her piece said, Takeru turned and walked to the house, "trainings' over. Wash up and rest up, we still have to eat breakfast today," she ended.

Bell, Chitoge, and Hana aided each other in getting themselves up before leaning on each other and stumbling their way back inside.

Not one comment passed between them but they all had small smiles on their faces. It was harsh and brutal training to be sure.

But all that effort only stoked the flames of their hearts all the hotter.

Eventually the Hestia familia sat in the lower lounge room, eating plates of eggs and toast.

Bell, Hana, and Chitoge all had taken their showers, changed their clothes, and were resting up well after such a session. Chitoge more so given how she practically inhaled the food in front of her the second it was presented.

Bell, though tired and bruised, couldn't keep the smile off his face. When he woke up this morning to do some morning training, he hadn't expected to run into Takeru outside. She was doing her own morning training as well, an old habit she had in her old world. When he saw her practice for a bit, he eventually found the courage to ask her to train him.

To his surprise, she agreed readily, happy to offer her knowledge to a new and admittedly enthusiastic student.

Later on, while she was teaching Bell better ways to use his dagger, they were joined by Chitoge and Hana. They too woke up early to do some early morning training. Takeru offered them to join her and Bell and the two agreed with enthusiasm.

That enthusiasm didn't last very long.

After showing them what she could, given their diverse fighting styles, Takeru decided to put them through a test.

Rapid sparring, is what she called it. Come at her again and again until they could land a clean blow on her.

Bell was concerned about hurting her, given it was three on one. Takeru almost felt insulted if she were honest but told Bell not to worry and simply come at her.

Chitoge was more than happy to oblige, always happy to show someone what she was capable of. She wasn't, however, capable enough, and was soundly defeated.

Hana tried to go against her, herself. Only to find that Takeru's martial art skills were far greater. Definitely so when she was thrown on her shoulders with her legs hanging by her head.

Last to attack was Bell, who finally saw Takeru as the experienced warrior she was. A warrior much stronger than any of them. Though he did try his best to land a strike of his own, he was eventually brought down himself with a single strike of her sword.

Again they would get up and again they would get knocked down. Trying harder and harder each time. It wasn't long before eventually the trio would strategize, with Bell taking the lead.

His ideas would start simple, before eventually becoming more and more cunning. Chitoge and Hana listened to their summoner and captain readily, glad that someone was thinking of something other than "attack like mad."

None of the plans worked but it gave Bell some better confidence in his skills to lead and to better understand his familia members abilities.

He still had a long way to go to become an effective captain but small steps were still progress.

"Still no sign of the Goddess?" Arue asked.

Koukin shook her head, "No," she replied, "we haven't received any word besides the message she sent us last night."

Last night, a member of the Hermes familia delivered a written message from Hestia.

I'm gonna be staying with a friend tonight. Don't wait up! I'll be home tomorrow! -Your dearest Hestia

It ended with a rather cute drawing of the Goddess, pigtails and all.

Wherever she was, she was at least in hopeful company.

Koukin decided to move the topic to the side for now and focus on something else. Namely what was the plan for everyone today.

"Bell," she said, bringing the boy's attention to her, "curiously, what's the plan for today?"

Bell thought for a moment, his first response was going to be more dungeon exploring but after a second thought he decided against it.

They had been going in and out of the dungeon constantly for the last few days. It was probably time for a change up.

Only nothing sprung immediately to mind, so instead he decided to take a much more simpler route.

"I was thinking that," started Bell, "maybe today could be a free day for everyone."

Everyone listened to their captain's words, curious.

Bell continued, "It's just that we've been working hard in the dungeon for the last few days and I think we could use a break from it," he gave everyone an honest smile, "so for today, let's do whatever we want."

The rest of the familia stared at their captain, none more so than Arue and Hana, who moved to his side and checked up on him.

Hana put her hand on Bell's forehead, "No sign of fever it seems," she said.

Arue was behind Bell, poking at his head and looking over his hair, "I don't see any bruises up here and given his fidgeting, no sign of a concussion."

Which was a miracle given the training he endured.

Bell was flustered at the attention he was receiving from his first two allies. Did he say something weird?

The remainder of the familia looked on with a mix of curious and bemused expressions. An unexpected breakfast show.

Eventually Arue and Hana backed off and returned to their seats. Confused looks still present on their faces.

Bell was confused too, which was why his question shouldn't have surprised anyone, "What was that about? Did I say something wrong?"

Hana and Arue shared a look before turning to look back at Bell, "Forgive us Bell," began Arue, "it's just a surprise hearing you offer a free day away from the dungeon."

Hana stepped into the conversation, "Ever since we arrived here, we've gone into the dungeon almost every day."

Bell wanted to argue but thought about it for a moment and found himself unable to say anything in return.

"We thought it was all you knew," Arue said.

"That you had some compulsion to keep going down into the dungeon," said Hana.

"I thought you were cursed at some point to always want to go down there,"

"I would argue it was more like an addiction."

Bell turned red under their words. Was he really that bad? Did he go into the dungeon that much?

Maybe he needed a hobby.

"Alright that's enough," Koukin gently but firmly interrupted, "our captain constantly went into the dungeon in an attempt to keep the familia afloat. Now that we're growing nicely, he doesn't need to go down the dungeon nearly as much."

Bell wanted to add that he was still planning on going into the dungeon pretty regularly but decided that now wouldn't be appropriate to mention it.

Koukin gave a huff before continuing, "Honestly, it's not like he would want to go into the dungeon every day if he could, right?" she turned her attention to her captain, who was looking away nervously.

"Bell," Koukin started, "you wouldn't actually go into the dungeon every day if you could, right?"

Bell sweated all the more from her question and under her gaze, followed by the gazes of the rest of the familia.

His continued silence was all the answer they needed.

Koukin rubbed the bridge of her nose. Her captain had qualities she both liked and disliked. This one was just crazy.

It was just another trait in her captain's growing collection of quirks and qualities.

Back to the matter at hand.

"Bell," Koukin said, bringing his attention back to her, "Today I wish to go over those 'lessons' we discussed last night."

Bell was puzzled at first before remembering the offer Koukin gave him. To teach him how to lead better.

Bell gave her a smile and a nod, looking forward to what she could teach.

Arue had a sudden smile on her face and Bell immediately felt dread pile inside him.

That was a cunning smile.

"My my my," Arue said, "giving our captain some 'private' lessons are you. I thought you were stoic type at first but," she did a pose with her sole crimson eye peeking through her fingers, "you show your true form before us now!"

'True form? What?' Koukin was flummoxed by Arue's sudden announcement. She didn't know exactly what she was talking about but she knew she didn't much care for it.

"Whatever ridiculous fantasy you're imagining. I can assure you it's untrue," Koukin said with some exasperation.

Arue, being a member of the Crimson Demons, was not done with her gesticulation. Posing yet again she replied, "You may say that now but eventually those 'lessons' will start including 'examples,' some of which you may provide 'yourself' as a key subject."

Koukin finally caught on to what she was saying, she blushed at the fantisful description Arue was describing.

Time to nip that in the bud.

"You're being ridiculous!" she exclaimed, "I'm only teaching Bell on how to be a better leader. I have experience in leading myself as well as working with some of the greatest leaders I ever knew."

Arue was not done with her clear and evident teasing, though she admits to being impressed by Koukin's initiative in offering to teach Bell, she still wanted to keep this little game going.

"I have seen this before, nay," she said with a flourish, "read this many times in reliable books. The situations are far too similar. The circumstances and motivations can't be ignored!"

"If by reliable books, you mean fictional books and I've already said my motivations for the matter with not ulterior motives."

"If it happens enough in fiction, it is only a statistical certainty in reality!

"Whose reality? Your logic is flawed!"

"It is a certainty of a Crimson Demon!"

"I want a source for this crazy logic you're spouting! A source!"

"Is my word not enough?"

"Not even by the barest of margins!"

Bell watched the two go back and forth with this argument. Wondering if he should do or say something to intervene before this gets out of control.

He glanced at the rest of the familia to see their reactions to this and was even more surprised by what he saw.

Chitoge, Hana, and Takeru were staring at the argument transfixed while continuing to eat their breakfast, as if the ongoing argument was a show of sorts.

Which Bell supposed it was, in its own way.

This continued for some time until eventually both parties grew tired of it. Arue gave a nonchalant apology and Koukin gave an idle wave of the hand in acceptance and they both finished their meals.

Eventually they discussed their plans.

Hana and Arue were both going to an art store they spotted while out shopping. Arue desired proper writing papers and ink while Hana wanted to pick up some drawing and painting supplies for herself.

Hana expressed her need and desire to paint rather passionately, saying she wanted to illustrate some of their experiences in the dungeon.

Bell wouldn't say it out loud, given his nature, but Hana sounded adorable expressing her need to draw and paint.

Arue was far more reserved, only saying she had some ideas for some stories she wanted to write down.

Not mentioning that they were stories she had previously written in her other life.

Bell was curious about the ideas and asked what she planned to write. She explained that it would ruin the surprise her work would invoke and asked him to be patient.

Bell let the matter go and asked the rest what they planned to do.

Chitoge gave a shrug and only said, "Whatever I feel like."

Takeru, though, added something that put a pin in Koukin's plans for Bell, with it igniting her curiosity.

"I would like to check out this 'Monsterphilia' I heard about yesterday," she had heard about it in passing while finding a weapon for herself.

After a general explanation, Koukin changed her and Bell's plans for one on the move. When asked why by her captain, she explained.

"A great opportunity to study monsters we will inevitably face in the dungeon one day. We should not pass this up."

Chitoge threw her own two valis in and said that there was a festival alongside the event and said that's where she'd be if they went.

So it was decided, Bell, Koukin, Takeru, and Chitoge would be going to Monsterphilia for the festivities and info gathering about the monsters, while Arue and Hana would be heading to the shopping district to get some art and writing supplies.

The matter settled, they finished their meals, gathered some funds for each of them, and headed out. Ready to face the excitement the day had in store for them.

They were unprepared for just how exciting it would be.

Hestia stared at the item before her, though not a Goddess of the forge or craft of any kind, she could certainly appreciate the feat of artistry and metalwork before her.

On a table lay a knife. Black in color and rather simple in nature. It was short to be sure but it possessed an edge that Hestia wouldn't dream of touching, she almost felt like staring at it would cut her. She knew it wouldn't and perhaps she was being over dramatic.

Still though, there was no mistaking the object in front of her. She could feel the energy it was giving off, it was a power she was familiar with that only she and other Gods could detect.

Divine energy from a divine weapon.

Crafted by the smith Goddess herself.

"It's amazing Hephaestus!" exclaimed Hestia with a smile, leaning over the table to get an even better look.

The smith Goddess smiled at her friend's enthusiasm. She really was proud of this work, it required a bit more effort than what she usually put in her works but Hestia had been specific on what kind of weapon she wanted for her child.

"My child is growing fast, real fast, and he needs a weapon that can match his speed! Please Hephaestus!"

Hephaestus had every right to say no but the earnestness of Hestia's request struck her deep. This was a genuine request from a Goddess who loved her child very much. She could empathize with that, she too would do anything for her precious children if they needed it.

Also Hestia performed a dogeza in front of her for several hours, both at the party and back at her home.

Takemikazuchi should never have taught her that, she'll charge him double the next time his children needed a new weapon. See if that doesn't teach him.

"There's just one final thing left to do," Hephaestus said, "run your finger over the length of it."

Hestia removed a glove and did so, trusting her dear friend.

As she finished the task, she felt a slight tug from within herself. It was brief and barely noticeable but Hestia could pick it up. Before she raised any question to ask, she saw glowing hieroglyphic runes appear on the knife.

It only lasted a few seconds but Hestia knew of the power in the symbols inscribed.

Hephaestus really outdid herself.

"There," the smith Goddess said, "It just needed a little bit of your divine energy to finish it up," she gave Hestia a forge warm smile, "congratulations Hestia, your child has a quality knife that will grow alongside him."

Hestia was so happy, so excited that she could barely stand in place.

Hephaestus saw her friend practically vibrate in place and thought it best to move things along.

"Here, let me wrap this thing up for you so you can give it to that child of yours," she said, beginning to sheath the blade and wrap it in travel cloth.

Hestia nodded, her excitement practically unbound, "Yes!" she exclaimed, "I'll get this to Bell as fast as possible!"

"Give it to him whenever you like," replied Hephaestus, "Just remember what you owe me for this and this time you can't wiggle out of this."

Hestia nodded, if she had any worries about the price for such a weapon, she didn't show it.

This was her gift to her first child, someone who was willing to give her a chance at being their Goddess.

Price be damned in face of a Goddess's love.

Bell and company were walking down the street ready to head to the event at the coliseum.

He was curious at what he would see there, new monsters he would one day face in the dungeon to be sure. But what else?

Adventurers attempting to train such beasts.

Large crowds cheering at the spectacle.

An array of stands set up to sell goods and food for the event.

These were some of the questions that were at the surface of his mind, with many more besides. He was a curious and excitable soul to be sure. Hestia often said it was one of his best traits.

Koukin glanced at her captain as they walked down the road together. Taking in his enthusiasm for what was sure to be an interesting time.

She had initially wanted to set the day up and teach him some general basics in decision making as well as basic strategy, but this was a unique opportunity in its own right. With this event they could plan ahead for what they would eventually face in the dungeon. It would also allow her to think up new variations on what lesson plans she'd had for Bell.

She gave another glance at her summoner and captain, a gleam in her eye that told of harsh things to come in his future. Her GO lesson plan was growing by the second.

Bell pretended that the stare he could feel on him didn't bring a chill up his spine. He knew who was staring at him and he didn't want to look at her lest he see something that would really scare him, given the feeling.

He already had one strange gaze he could feel on his back when he went out most days. Having another one and from his own familia might be too much.

Takeru gave no details away on what she thought of the event they were about to see. She of course agreed to the opportunity to study new foes they were bound to face. A part of her hoped that she might get lucky and face a monster down herself.

It was very unlikely, she admits. Given that the event is heavily regulated by the Ganesha familia. Still, one could hope.

Speaking of hope, she too turned her attention to her now captain, her gaze one more curious than anything else.

When he had asked her to train him she accepted of course, knowing that her summoner lacked any martial training besides what he was able to gain during his time as the sole familia member.

Which still wasn't much to be honest.

Still, she gladly trained him the best way she could. Inviting him to spar with her so she could best understand his capabilities. He at first was nervous, having never fought another person before and was nervous of hurting her.

She would have been insulted were it not for the sheer sincerity in the boy's words.

But she quickly assured him that it wasn't 'her' he should be worried about, especially after knocking him back a good distance to show the difference in their strength.

After that, training began in earnest and soon not alone.

Chitoge and Hana appeared later, noticing the noise outside and went to investigate. Upon finding out about the training, both of them spoke of wanting to join in.

Takeru accepted and then the training began in earnest.

Initially they attacked her individually, letting each other have a chance at bringing her down. It wasn't long until they realized that 'that' was an act of futility. Sure enough, they wised up and started coming at her as a group, sloppy at first but eventually becoming more and more coordinated with each attempt.

The end result was Takeru still standing victorious, while the other three were left bruised and exhausted.

It was enough to now know what she was working with. Chitoge was a talented fighter to be sure but she needed to focus her strikes more alongside her aggression. Hana, she could tell, had not much experience in combat besides her own trips in fighting monsters in the dungeon.

Then there was Bell.

For starters, she could tell despite his experience already acquired in the dungeon. Bell was still a novice fighter at best. During their sparring sessions, she noticed he had almost no guard, he never capitalized on moments of opportunity, he had barely any knowledge in blade work, and he was almost too timid to fight her.

That changed however, During the course of his training.

As they continued to spar, she noticed him picking up where he faltered, the mistakes he made were rarely ever made twice, and she could tell he was becoming more and more reticent in fighting her.

He did not have much talent but that was made up with his potential.

She had a feeling he would grow into an impressive warrior one day. As she stared at his back, she imagined the growth he will no doubt go through as an adventure and as a warrior.

Bell shivered all the more when he felt an additional stare directed at him, this time from his other companion. Did he do something wrong? Were they angry at him?

Now there's a third gaze aimed at him!

Chitoge stared at her shivering and nervous captain, wondering what was wrong. Was he getting sick or something? Was he more injured from the sparring than he let on?

"Nya! White hair! White hair! Come here!"

Bell and the others turned and saw a brown haired cat girl waving at them from the Hostess of Fertility.

"Come here, nya! I need to tell you somethin, nya!"

Bell had no reason to refuse and the urgency/ enthusiasm she had made him all the more curious. As such, he made his way over to her with his familia trailing behind him, their curiosity also peaked by the exuberant cat girl.

"Here white hair, nya," she held out a purple purse to him, "Take this, nya. To silly Syr, nya!" she stated to him quickly.

Bell was at a loss at what just happened. She called him over, gave him a purse, and mentioned something about Syr? So much just happened.

Not to mention the 'nyas'.

The rest of his group looked equally bewildered and suddenly the brown-haired girl pointed at Koukin suddenly with open astonishment.

"Nya!" she exclaimed, "Another big breasted girl by your side. Was one not enough, nya!? Syr has no chance now," she leaned forward, looking directly at Koukin's chest with amazement and wonder , "they're bigger than the other girls' too, nya."

Koukin will admit that she was caught wrong footed by the girl's sudden proclamation. And honestly had no idea how to respond. In her old life, she had dealt with similar words and even flirtations quite often and she usually was able to put them out of her mind or put those who said them down coldly.

This cat girl before her was an outlier though. Especially with all those 'nyas'.

A hand came from behind the girl and gave her a quick chop to the top of her head, drawing a pained "Nya!!" before she collapsed into unconsciousness.

Before the girl hit the ground though, the same hand caught her by the back of her uniform and held her in place.

Bell saw that it was an elf, a woman in fact. She had the signature elf traits, long pointed ears, angled and gorgeous facial features, and a lithe body that was well complimented by the uniform she wore. She also possessed light green hair and sky blue eyes.

"Anya," she said, looking down at the unconscious girl in her hand, "You need to be more clear with your words when asking a favor in addition," her eyes narrowed a bit in disapproval and she gave the girl a shake, "Mia doesn't tolerate when customers harass us and same can be said of us harassing them."

The cat girl regained consciousness then and looked extremely nervous all the sudden. Practically shaking like a leaf in the elf's grip.

The elf turned her attention to Bell and the others, "Please excuse my friend's rudeness, she is a very…expressive person," she said, "But to get things back on to what she meant to say earlier. I'm sure you know Syr, is that correct Mr Cranell?"

Bell nodded.

She continued, "Well she went off to see Monsterphilia and neglected to take her purse with her. I would take it to her myself but we are busy at the moment. I would appreciate it if you could return it to her."

Bell stared at the elf for a moment, a bit transfixed on how good she looked in that uniform, before sense finally prevailed.

"Sure," he said, "we were just heading down there to check it out in any case."

The elf nodded in thanks before turning around and entering the pub, dragging Anya along all the while.

Bell turned to his party and said, "Hope you guys don't mind, Syr is a bit of a friend of mine."

They all gave simple shrugs in nonchalance, "It is as you say," begin Takeru, "we were heading there in the first place. Does us no harm in helping her out."

Koukin and Chitoge both nod, an agreeable statement.

Bell smiled at them in thanks and together they continued down the road.

Chitoge walked closer to Bell and asked, "Hey Bell, you saw how good that elf looked right?"

Bell blushed but gave no verbal answer, his reaction was all Chitoge needed anyway.

"I know right," she said, bringing a hand to her chin in thought, "I thought that an elf wouldn't look good at all. Not like that anyway."

Bell turned to her bewildered, elves were practically famous for their beauty and Chitoge didn't think so?

"I mean really," she continued, "goes to show the thought process that went into that uniform if it compliments an elf's beauty so well," she gave a hum of appreciation for the design, "they have my praise, whoever designed it."

Bell stared at her. She was talking about the uniform and how it complimented the elf's beauty.

Bell did recall she mentioned something about designing clothing at some point in her past life. Guess habits traveled over.

"Hmm? Why are you looking at me like that?" Chitoge asked with a tilt of her head.

Bell quickly looked forward,"Nothing. Just thinking," he said.

This got him a raised eyebrow from Chitoge, "Uh-huh," she said, "while looking at me? Something on your mind?"

Bell had to think of something to say. Should he tell the truth? Should he lie? While he was busy thinking of a response, Chitoge narrowed her gaze even further, putting more scrutiny upon him and making him even more nervous.

Eventually though, the pressure became too much and he blurted out a thought.

"I just thought it was interesting how knowledgeable you are about fashion and thought you could teach me a thing or two on how to dress nicely!"

His face was atomic red when he finished, how embarrassing. He could have worded that a whole lot better and without raising his voice.

He thought Chitoge thought him a weirdo now with his response but her reply was the opposite of what Bell thought.

"Huh? That it?" she asked with less of a glare and more a look that Bell just stated the obvious, "Well thanks for the compliment and sure I'll give you tips on style. You do look like you need it."

Her words said, Chitoge walked ahead of Bell with long strides, overtaking him and leaving him behind with the others. Bell breathed out a sigh of relief, glad he didn't say anything to offend her or make him look like a fool.

He went back to walking alongside the others, with Chitoge being the one ahead of them this time.

Chitoge was glad she was ahead of the party then for she was doing her best to stop the flattered heat she could feel tingling her ears.

Not many commented on her sense of fashion and it was a source of pride for her. She thought it nice to hear a compliment about her stylings since she was summoned.

'He's not a bad guy at all.'

With that thought, she and the rest of the group went on, heading to the stadium where the festival was held in earnest. Hoping to enjoy all it could offer.

And find this 'Syr' person while they were at it.

Upon arriving at the festival, they were bombarded on all sides by the sheer energy of the place.

Crowds of people walking left and right, street stands offering trinkets, games, and food, and even some street music was playing here and there.

The main attraction though was at the stadium where the party found out too late that an event was already happening and that they would have to wait until the next show time.

This did not deter them in exploring what they could in this energized environment. In addition to keeping an eye out for Syr of course.

Bell wondered how they were going to even find her in this cacophony of people. It certainly wasn't going to be an easy task by the looks of things.

But there was still some fun to be had while they looked.

Koukin found a stand of caramel apples that attracted her by their look alone. She positively glowed when she took a bite.

Takeru found a stand that held a game from the east. A fishing game where you capture fish out of the water with a thin paper net of some sort. Takeru dominated the game with little trouble. So much so that the stand owner practically begged her to take a prize of her choice so he could still do business with other guests, most of whom were scared to approach the intensely focused woman. Takeru elected to take a pair of charms that caught her attention. One was an artistic render of a tsunami wave, the other a rendition of a spiraling flame.

Chitoge herself couldn't stay at one stand long enough to count as a visit. Seemingly running and occasionally jumping from one place to another. Whether it was playing a game or eating food, Chitoge was determined to get the most she could out of this visit.

Bell was happy to see his familia member having a good time, he himself was just enjoying the atmosphere of the place so much. It reminded him that there was still so much of this city to experience for himself. It made him all the more glad that he came here.

He was however caught off guard by what happened next.

"Bell!"

An exclamation, followed by a sudden tackle to his torso that nearly took him off his feet. He looked down to see familiar black hair tied into pigtails with ribbons Bell remembered buying for a certain someone.

That certain someone looked up to him just then and Bell saw who it obviously was

"Goddess!" Bell exclaimed, surprised to see her, "What are you doing here?"

Hestia smiled at Bell and hugged him tighter, making him blush red, "I was on my way home from a friend's place when I got caught up in the festivities. I looked around for a quicker way home and what do I find?" she gave a toothy smile, "I find my adorable Bell in the crowd and couldn't resist the urge to reunite with you."

Bell was happy to see his Goddess again and glad she was here in good spirits. He noticed something was wrapped around her, travel cloth that was wrapped securely and tight.

He tried not to notice how it was wrapped in a way that had the cloth go between her breasts, which had the effect of enhancing them somewhat.

'Try not to stare. Try not to stare!'

Hestia gave no notice of his curious gaze, or if she did, she didn't mind at all. She had more important things to do right now anyway.

…but that could wait after some time through the festival with her favorite child.

A perfect time for a date!

With a smile, the Goddess of the hearth takes Bell's hands with her own, "Hey Bell! How about you take your precious Goddess on a date today?"

Bell fumbled with his words at this new development, eventually managing to put some words together, "G-Goddess is now a good time for that and isn't that so sudden after coming back?"

Hestia shook her head, "It's the best time Bell! A festival is all around us, it's a nice day, and the rest of the familia are enjoying themselves. So why don't we?"

Bell tried to say something to that but stopped. His Goddess had a point. What was there to be worried about, they planned to come here after all anyway. Might as well enjoy the most they can.

Bell then remembered the purse he promised to bring to Syr and started to fret about that.

Thankfully, someone came to remedy that.

"You and the Goddess can enjoy the festivities yourselves if you want."

Takeru came by Bell's side looking at him and the Goddess with a smile, "I imagine it's been some time since you two had some personal time with one another."

Bell wouldn't call it 'personal time' but held his tongue nonetheless after thinking about it for a bit.

It had been a while since he just spent some time with the Goddess. Just sitting, talking, and laughing with each other. They were good times and he found himself missing it a bit.

He looked at Takeru, a question on his lips but she held up a hand to stop him, "You needn't worry about your friend," she said, "we'll keep an eye out and find you if we see her."

Bell nodded in gratitude and said, "Thank you Takeru. Please let the others know as well."

Takeru nodded in return, "No need to worry about that. I'll be sure to let them know."

With a smile and a nod of thanks, Bell and his Goddess went off on their 'outing' as Bell would call it, or 'date' if Hestia had her way.

Either way, they were sure to have fun.

She had to be quick about this. No time to indulge in her usual fancies or dilly dally. Especially since she left her associate with the bill and left without saying much in the way of a word.

That action alone would bring suspicion and curiosity but during their meeting, her guest guessed her interests right off the bat. She would assume naturally that her leaving was because she wanted to follow up on her 'interest'.

In a way it was, though it was definitely more out of the 'way' as it were.

This may seem a little too much but when she saw 'him' again. His white hair, his red eyes, and his soul.

By the Heavens, what a soul.

She couldn't fight back the temptation any longer. She had to do something, to see something, to experience something. She wanted that person, that boy more than anything.

But she knew she couldn't take him just yet. He still had so much to do before she took him into her graces, into her arms.

And someday, into her bedside.

For now though, what she was doing right now, deep inside where the Ganesha familia kept their monsters for the event in the arena, would do for now.

She walked past cages, each with a monster taken from the dungeon. Whether it was a lowly goblin, a piggish orc, or even a rare jack bird. Ganesha familia gathered a wide, varied collection of monsters.

But only one caught her eye just then.

At the far end of the area, was a large cage containing a monster that would be perfect for her plans.

She need only open the cage and get close enough.

"Hey you over there! Stop where you are!"

A voice exclaimed from behind her and she smiled ever so slyly.

"Whatever is the problem?" she asked, "Am I not supposed to be here?"

She hears the person's footsteps approach quickly from behind her. Their frustration, evident in their stride, "Obviously," they said, or she, now that they were much closer for her to hear, "we have warning signs and guards outside this room. How did you get past them?"

The figure turned to face the Ganesha familia member and reached up to remove the hood of the cloak she wore, "I have my ways. Ways that don't need explaining," she said.

The guard saw the visage revealed and suddenly stood stock still. A wave of euphoria washed over her and clouded her senses and mind in a smothering embrace.

'What was she doing here again? Who was this beautiful person before her? What did she want? Could I give it to her? Could I give her anything?'

These questions came to her suddenly and came to her in constant waves. As if her whole mind was focused solely on pleasing the person before them.

"Are you the guard for this area?" the question sounded so simple and almost playful but to the guard, it sounded like the most precious question anyone could ask and she was obliged to answer.

"Yes," she said, her tone dull, as if in a trance, "I'm in charge of overseeing the monsters before and after their time in the arena. As per Ganesha's orders."

The stranger smiled at her and the guard felt like she was gifted the world's treasures just then, "Then you have a key to all of these cages?" the stranger asked.

She must answer, "Yes I do," she reaches down to her side and holds up a large ring of keys, "Would you like them?"

The stranger smiled at her before walking up to her and lifting a hand to caress her cheek.

The guard felt as if a great wish was fulfilled, one she never knew she wanted until receiving it.

"Can you free the monsters then and when you're done, sleep and forget everything that just happened.

A deep portion of the guard wanted to scream in protest but was overcomed by the irresistible desire to serve, to grant this beautiful being's wish.

And so she did, she went to every cage and unlocked them. Finally finishing with the large cage the stranger was staring at. Her task done, she collapses in dreamless sleep.

Even with all the cages open, none of the monsters made a move to leave them. It was as if they were in a trance.

A trance not too dissimilar to the guards as it were.

"Be free and run amok," the stranger said with a commanding wave of her arm and sure enough the creatures left their cages in a run, making a b-line towards the exit.

The stranger turned her gaze behind her and locked eyes with the monster that was in the largest cage.

A silverback.

The creature paused in its momentum to leave, to follow the orders given to it by this stranger. Who seemed to wield a power it couldn't understand.

The stranger made a beckoning gesture with her hand and the large monster found itself leaning down closer to her.

The stranger reached a hand out and rubbed the monster's face, just above a large protruding fang. Just then, by that one moment of contact, the silverback was dedicated to this stranger. If she ordered it to rip out its own core, it would do so without hesitation or doubt.

But that wasn't what was ordered of him, in fact, it sounded more like a request to the beast's ears.

"There is a particular person out there. One that I want you to see to. He is young, with white hair and red eyes, traveling with a short Goddess. Find him. Fight him," were her words.

The silverback gave no confirmation on receiving the orders. It merely stood back up and continued towards the exit with thunderous steps.

The stranger smiled as it left. She knew the orders would be followed. She had absolute confidence about that.

With her objective complete, she donned her hood again again and fixed her robes into place before leaving the area.

A smile held behind her concealed face.

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