Chapter 1
The Sword Princess Strikes
The sun was currently hanging in the middle of the sky.
Heading north towards the Main Street from the Skyscraper facilities.
An open air coffee shop was facing the large street with more figures of residents
than Adventurers. Under the clear and bright sun rays, numerous customers were
currently talking and laughing.
Among the many umbrellas that produced shade, Bell and Lili were sitting together
across the white table.
“Then, there are already no problems from the side of <Soma’s Familia>?”
“Yes. Lili will probably be treated as if she had died.”
It was the following day after Bell and Lili had reformed their team.
In order to confirm the current situation that Lili was facing, Bell was currently
accepting her explanation.
“Anyways, if I am treated as dead, there is no longer any need for me to have any
relationship with the <Soma’s Familia>. They will also not take initiative to find
me. How should I put it, I have already become something that doesn’t exist.”
So it will not give any trouble to Bell-sama, Lili said with a smile.
Letting her bangs disappear from when she had her disguise, it was finally revealed.
Her pair of round eyes and adorable face entered his gaze, Bell’s had a bit of a
shadow between her brow.
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“It’s fine if the matter is about me…… but that, won’t Lili mind about being dead
or something”
“I am grateful to your intentions, Bell-sama. But it is still better to make a decisive
point. Anyways, Lili does not have any relatives already……As long as Bell-sama
knows about Lili’s existence, Lili is satisfied.”
Bell did not continue to inquire this towards Lili, who seems to be saying this from
the bottom of her heart.
It feels that the act that had become her largest wound had firmly ended in her
heart.
“If Lili says so, then so be it. But, not revealing to the people from <Soma’s
Familia> right? The truth about Lili being still alive.”
“Although I can’t say definitely say for sure, but all traces related to Lili had been
cleared out in the past two days. To the extent where there is no need to worry……
And, anyways, Lili has this.”
Petari, Lili stroked her head. Originally what was not a deep chestnut color hair
also moved towards the ground, then a pair of cat ears moved adorably left and
right. Her pupil was a luminous golden color.
[Cinder Ella]
Under Lili’s specialty transformation magic, her current appearance looks like a
beastman child. Although her appearance remains the same, you could definitely
not tell that she was from the Hobbit race.
Under the premise of this ability, there was no possibility for others to link her to
<Liliruca Arde>. Bell, himself, was also shocked when he was aware of this
presence of this magic.
“That, if you say so……”
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“Yes, there are no problems. Even if there was a tiny possibility, I will not allow
Bell-sama to worry about it.
There is no need to mention that again. Bell smiled wryly and calmed down.
This way, Lili will no longer be involved in any disputes. Even if she became like
this, she should still be able to help out.
Truthfully, after listening to the fact that Lili almost died, what he felt was anger
and remorse. It was a violent anger towards the people who do not treat people as
people, and the remorse of him not being able to do anything.
However, Lili’s situation should not be blamed upon <Soma’s Familia>. For the
sake of discussion, having revenge right now is what will cause a fatal disaster
from the prime criminal.
Anyway, since Lili was fine, it was okay. Bell drove out the complex feelings in
his mind and concluded it like this.
The gap between them had been filled.
Perhaps not completely, but the distance between them had indeed shortened, to
the extent that both sides were able to hold each other’s hand.
From now on, they will restart once again. Bell could not help but revealed a smile.
“……Bell-sama.”
“Nnn, what?”
“Bell-sama, is this really okay?”
“Eh?”
“To just forgive Lili like this?”
However, on the contrary from Bell, Lili’s face was shrouded in mist, and stared at
Bell with eyes, as if she was seeking for reliance.
“But Lili lied to Bell-sama, oh? Not only did I use Bell-sama’s good intentions,
and I even betrayed you in the end?”
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“……”
“And, I secretly hid the money and did not return it. If you forgive Lili just like this,
then……”
This was the reason why the relationship with Lili had not been completely
straightened out.
Self-blame. Guilt. The desire for atonement.
Lili was currently being tormented by the crimes she committed. Bell did not even
remember how many times he was apologized to.
Lili had lost her entire wealth from what happened a few days ago. The money and
items she kept after exchanging for money, and also the Gnome’s gems was all
stolen by her companions in the <Soma’s Familia>. It seems that she felt guilty
that she did not have anything to compensate me. Inside her heart, there was a
layer of self-loathing.
It does not matter, even if I had repeated said this, Lili’s expression did not
improve. It would be better to say that after each time, she would become even
more depressed. Perhaps she was desiring a painful punishment.
These things were something no one had asked for……Bell thought as if he
admitted defeat.
In short, it was difficult.
Naturally, there was no need to blame yourself, like those people who praised and
spoke beautiful words, it may feel a little bit like preaching.
Towards everything that had happened, they were still standing in the spectator’s
view.
While I looked at Lili, who buried her face, I tried to think of a way to remove her
guilt. While Bell was thinking about the best solution to solve this problem……At
this time, reinforcements had finally arrive.
“Hey~, Bell-kun!”
“Ah, Kami-sama!”
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I stood up when I heard the young voice that was directed towards me. As
expected, Hestia’s figure appeared in the coffee shop.
A petite body that was comparable with Lili passed through the lively crowd and
appeared in front of Bell and Lili.
“Sorry, did you wait long?”
“That’s not a problem. Rather than that, I’m the one that feels sorry. I had to
disturb your work……”
“It does not matter about my side. Compared to that……Is this her?”
“Ah, yes. This is the child that I mentioned before……”
“I…I am called Liliruca Arde. N…Nice to met you.”
Towards the gaze that was thrown to her, Lili hurriedly stood up from her chair
and bowed.
Hestia coming here was what she had proposed by herself.
Her intentions were clear. That is, she wanted to use her own eyes to confirm the
Supporter that had a relationship with her own <Familia>’s member.
If she was not fancied by the Goddess, Lili and Bell’s team would likely be forced
to disband. Lili, who understood this point in advance, had a nervous expression
towards Hestia.
However, at this time, Bell seemed to have remembered something and muttered
“ah”.
“This is not good. I did not prepare a chair for Kami-sama……”
“……! What, don’t worry about it! There are so many customers, there should not
be a spare chair right? Okay, after Bell-kun sits down, let me sit on your lap!”
“Ahaha, Kami-sama can also make such a joke. Please wait, I’ll make a request
this to a person from this shop.”
Bell smiled and left. An innocent and pure child’s smile.
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Hanging on the side, Hestia temporarily stopped her actions. Then her twintails
shrunk instantly.
Towards the sad atmosphere that floated around, Lili could not conceal her puzzled
expression.
“……I…Isn’t this for the best. In the beginning, I planned to exclude Bell, there is
no problem at all.”
“Ha, ha.”
With a slightly stiff cheeks that were dyed crimson, Hestia sat on Bell’s seat.
Lili also imitated and sat down.
“Then, let’s end this quickly. That child will return swiftly. There is no need for
self-introductions, right? You probably already heard about me from Bell-kun?”
“Y…Yes.”
When Lili had noticed that the topic’s initiative was already stolen away from the
very beginning, it was already slightly late.
Even compared to Lili, who was a hobbit and looked young, Hestia was not
inferior in terms of innocence and loveliness. It really was wavering between a
young girl and a young child.
However, on the contrary, it was because of that imbalance that placed further
emphasis on her overly perfect appearance.
It was not only adorable, but it also gives of an awe-inspiring feeling. As if it was
looking at body that had two contradictory beautiful appearance being present.
Bathed by the sunlight that passed through the parasols, the pitched-black smooth
hair looked a little more glamorous.
“Let me hear the truth. Supporter-kun, will you still continue to be petty?”
“——“
Towards this blunt inquiry that directly questioned the core of the problem, Lili
was shaken.
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Hestia’s expressions and eye remained the same. Only that the divinity beside her
had rapidly increased.
Lili knew that she was being probed. Everything was completely seen through.
There was no stronger evidence than her name not being called out. Considering
everything that she did to Bell, this was natural. First, she had to determine
whether she could trust this hobbit.
Thus, Lili had to tell the truth without any lies.
“I won’t. Lili had already been helped by Bell-sama. I already do not want to do
anything that betrays that person.”
Their sight intersected. Both sides did not have any means to look away. The
surrounding bustling sound gradually faded away.
In front of a God, you cannot lie.
She did not know where she heard this sentence, but it was true. Lili understood
that from the Goddess’s eyes, which seem to see through everything, in front of her.
As long as she wanted to, she could probably see through all the lies from the
people of the Lower World.
“……Yes, I understand. That sentence I will tentatively believe it.”
The longest time period for Lili had just ended.
While she was holding back the impulse from releasing the accumulated air in her
lungs out, she slowly relaxed the strength of her shoulders.
“Supporter-kun, I care deeply about Bell. To the extent that even if I have to
place my eyes into the ocean, I will still not feel any pain. As my first dependent, I
do not wish to lose him. That is my heartfelt truth.
Hestia took an interval to breath, then she continued.
Lili was caught off guard, and she quickly made a listening position.
“Inquiring about you from Bell-kun was to understand your situation. Of course, I
will also include your thieving activities.”
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“……”
“I have never thought of sympathizing with you, after all, since everything had
ended. Thus I will not say anything overboard……Only.”
The next part was the main topic, it seems like Hestia had accumulated her
advantage for the following words.
“If you make the same mistakes again, and you put that child at risk again……I
will not easily let you go.”
——Lili’s body became stiff.
In that instant, she did not even remember how to breathe.
I forgot. The girl in front of her, was an existence known as <God> that surpassed
the humans.
Towards the superior existence that have the power to completely turn this city into
dust instantly, Lili had completely forgotten this fact because she took too much
for granted.
Her deep blue eyes pierced through her and her heart began to stir and twist
together. Since she was supported by her unwavering will, Lili stared directly in
front and opened her mouth.
“……Lili swears. She will not do such things again. Whether it is for Bell-sama or
to Hestia-sama……But more important, is to Lili herself.”
In the street that knew nothing about the situation, the cheerful atmosphere
continued to flow.
Towards the time that the two of them silently looked at each other, Hestia closed
her eyes and declared the end.
She, pa pa, blinked her eyes as if she was sending out a gaze that was saying <I
understand>. On Lili’s side, she finally could not hold it any longer and she
released her strength. It seems like she was about to topple down onto the table any
moment.
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Hestia, who was repeated being told by her, placed her arms to hold up her
voluptuous chest in silence. She frowned all of a sudden. After demonstrating that
they lack nothing, she issued out a cornered moan. Lili felt that the atmosphere was
bad and curled up her body.
“……Supporter-kun, I’ll directly say it.”
“Y…Yes.”
“I hate you. I hope that you will not pester Bell-kun.”
“!”
While Lili opened her eyes, she continued to speak.
“That is obvious. Ever since I heard the details about the situation, my impression
of you is the worst. You used Bell’s nice personality to deceive him on the whim,
and now you simply wanted to get involved with him by just turning your wrist.
What kind of purpose do you have, you evil thieving cat.”
Due to <Cinder Ella>, the animal ears, that were born, suddenly shuddered.
Although the argument was subtly justified, but it feels that something was wrong.
Lili thought while she sweated.
“In the end, what have you been doing in the first place? You showed such a
gloomy expression from the beginning. Look at it, won’t it cause this side to also
become depressed.”
It was almost as if she had said that looking at your face, I do not even have the
appetite to eat.
Hestia’s eyes became even sharper, and her words still did not end.
“In general, you must have considered about Bell-kun’s feelings, right?”
“!”
“Why do I know? Fueh, because it was a similar face to mine when I stand in front
of a mirror. Ahhhhh, this is really annoying, I do not want you to stay beside Bellkun
at all!”
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Finally, a formless fluctuation began to rise behind Hestia.
Looking at the surrounding guests widening their eyes and suddenly pulling away,
Lili felt that she was about to cry.
“You have been helped by the gentle Bell-kun, and said that you will turn a new
leaf. In the end, you will use that child’s gentleness and get him involve in trouble
again next time, right?”
“!?”
“That child obviously did not request you to do anything, but you are already
overwhelmed by guiltiness. If you let me say it, that is simply acting like a spoiled
child. What a nasty person, you.”
Hestia’s speech gradually became more sinister.
After waiting for her gaze to stabilize, she watched the petite Hobbit that was not
able to even sob.
“If that’s the case, I’ll fulfill your request. I’ll replace Bell-kun to acquit you. I’ll
tell you in advance that you do not have the right to refuse. Just like <God’s
Judgment>, it is just fine if you are to be proud.”
Fuahh, Hestia, who issued this nasal sound, leaned back onto the chair.
Aside from nodding stiffly, there was nothing that the apprehensive Lili could
do. No that is incorrect, why not say that since this was declared by her, who was
Bell’s Main Goddess, she did not know what kind of mood to have.
Lili anxiously waited for the next moment.
On Hestia’s side, she was clenching her teeth, Gugigi, while revealing a painful
expression……Shortly after, she sighed and the words accompanied with it poured
out.
“Please take care of Bell-kun.”
“……Eh?”
She could not help but leak out a “Busu” strange sound, Hestia continued to speak.
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“First, this is not for you. I have heard many things from that child and I’ve
become more and more worried about him. Rather, I am convinced……that he
would eventually be cheated, this kind of feeling.”
“……”
“So I can only request you. Please be careful to not let anything suspicious get
wrapped up to him. In short, you are responsible to follow him.”
This time, Lili was really surprised. Her thoughts stirred as if she wanted to say
something, yet she could not open her mouth.
Because she was not permitted to reply by those eyes in front of her.
“In the end, I originally did not intend to use arrogant words such as judging you.
Even if it is the Gods right now, they will not play this kind of thing. Just forget
about your guilt, whether you forgive yourself or not, it is your own problem.”
Do not ask Bell to help you search for this type of thing, Hestia said with a
powerful tone.
“I feel that I owe that child a lot, so until I feel satisfied, I will continue to repay
my debt of gratitude. This is also obviously natural. That is sincerity, but there are
also limits. If you wish to turn over a new leaf, then use your actions to prove it.
The words she said all at once had finally concluded here.
Listening to the intentions of the somewhat bitter Goddess, Lili dropped her head.
The Goddess Hestia gave Lili a chance. It was even to the extent of deep
compassion.
She was very generous. At the same time, she was also a God.
What she had said out just now was probably the true feelings that she could not
conceal. Basically, she still permitted Lili to stay around Bell’s side.
Giving compassion to everyone, and requesting her to protect him.
While Lili was thankful to that warmth, she stared at Hestia and bowed down
toward her.
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Between the two of them, it seems like the spring-water that originated from the
forest was silently flowing out.
“Sorry, I’ve made you wait so long!”
“……I’ll allow you to join the team. That child’s protection is up to you. Although
I said that, do not do anything exceeding what is proper.”
“Ha?”
Towards the dreary warning of Hestia that broke the silence, Lili was stunned.
Before she could ask about the true meaning, Bell came back holding a chair.
Towards Bell, who was constantly apologizing and could not make any comment,
Hestia only took his arm and pulled him to her side.
“——What”
“Kami-sama……?”
“Then once again……Nice to meet you, Supporter-kun. Looks like MY Bell-kun
had bothered you.”
Hestia had emphasized on the <MY>. It seems that the surrounding atmosphere
had completely changed, just like a tiger that was guarding her own territory. She
used her eyes to convey the meaning of if you dare to attack, I’ll eat you.
Towards Hestia, who had her contained her cheeks from twitching, Lili was
surprised.
She is a God. She was a divinely being, an noble existence that was worthy of
reverence.
However on top of that, she was still a child.
No, it was better to say—— An enemy.
Lili’s head was filled with a wave of anger towards her, who pulled Bell’s arm to
her side, and specially drew the line in front of Bell as revenge.
Although Lili also had feelings similar to loyalty to her, but this was another matter.
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Pashi! She used both her hands to pull the other arm of Bell over.
Towards the sharp glare of Hestia that was filled with malicious intent, Lili directly
sent it back.
“There is no such thing. I had always made Bell-sama, who treated Lili gently,
worry instead.”
“……”
On one side, it was a young girl. On the other side, it was also a young girl.
Upholding an innocent and cute child-like appearance, both of them revealed their
women’s face and stared at each other.
Between them, who were both unable to reach the floor while sitting on a chair,
Bachibachi, sparks were flying around.
(K…Kami-sama AHHHHHHHH!?)
Due to his arm being squeezed by the twin valleys in this very situation, Bell did
not even know what was happening in front of him. He was in extreme panic.
In the skirmish between the petite individuals, the Goddess won.
“Ku, she indeed lives up as a God-sama……! Looks like her boobs are not only a
decoration……!”
“Do you have something you want to say, Supporter-kun……?”
“About that, Lili. The matter about the future……”
After the battle, Bell began to speak.
Each sat back onto their respective chairs once they calmed down. This time, it
was Lili’s golden eyes that looked amazed as she stared at him.
“Lili right now, her headquarters……Do you have a place to live yet?”
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32
“Yes. Although it was not just for a day or two, I had always been changing
between inns.”
Looking at Lili, who did not reveal embarrassed smile, Bell secretly hinted towards
Hestia.
Although she still let out a sound as if she was unwilling, but she did nod her head.
“Lili, if you don’t mind……do you want to come to our headquarters?”
“……Eh?”
“Why not say, why don’t you join <Hestia’s Familia>? Although only Kami-sama
and I are in it.”
Lili already cannot return to <Soma’s Familia>, even Bell knew this.
Then why not just simply be straightforward, he thought. Compared to letting her
live by herself, why not accept her over. Rather, this was Bell’s wish.
Hestia, who had already seen through Lili, did not object, the only thing that was
left was for Lili to nod.
“……Hestia-sama, is this okay? Isn’t Hestia-sama, to Lili……”
“Fu, Fuah……Don’t be mistaken, okay? Even if it is a person that I hate, letting a
child without a home alone is related to my very existence. Until you find work, I
can temporarily take care of you.
Towards the red-faced Goddess, who was not being truthful, Bell could only let out
a wry smile.
After Lili let out a warm smile towards this scene, she slowly shook her head.
“I am extremely grateful, Bell-sama, Hestia-sama. Just having this, Lili feels that it
is enough.
“Eh……W…Why?”
“Lili feels uneased if Lili continues to indulge in the gentleness from the two of
you……After all, Lili is still a member of the <Soma’s Familia>”
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Revealing a faint smile towards the dumbfounded Bell, she stretched her hand
beyond her back.
Towards her back that was probably still engraved by her <Status>, Hestia frowned.
“Lili, who is still a member of <Soma’s Familia> cannot go to Bell-sama’s
headquarters. If the fact that Lili had entered Bell-sama’s headquarters is exposed,
then it will bring unnecessary trouble to the two of you. Lili absolutely cannot
tolerate such a thing to happen.”
“T…Towards that kind of thing, I……”
Bell, who refused to give up, attempted to persuade her, but he seemed to have
remembered something and closed his mouth.
This was not a single person’s problem. There was indeed a possibility of dragging
in the entire Familia.
Bell painfully closed his eyes, and then he looked at Hestia, who was thinking
about something.
“Supporter-kun, the condition for leaving <Soma’s Familia>, no, is leaving
banned? Did your Main God say anything?”
“Although Soma-sama did not express anything about it clearly……But probably,
a large amount of money is necessary.
“Money, is it……”
Following the amount of members, money was another resource that the <Hestia’s
Familia> overwhelmingly lack.
Although Bell had made remarkable progress towards the situation in the dungeon,
and they had earned far more than a month ago, but after all, it was still half-baked.
At most, they could only bring out around 100, 000 Varisu.
Moreover, even if the two of them had the ability to pay off the fee for leaving the
Familia, Lili will also never accept it.
“Then, leaving the <Familia> is such a troubling thing……? From the people that I
know, there are people who have left a <Familia>……”
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“It depends on the Main God. If there is an God that is willing to accept the
application, then there are also Gods that ignore it.”
Leaving a <Familia>, not only will it bring trouble to the person that was leaving,
but it will also bring trouble to the other <Familia> that they were leaving for. The
best example was disclosing information.
No matter how indulgent the God was, only the ones that manage their factions
minimally will do it. In most cases, the Gods hate members leaving.
“Your acquaintance may also have a secret that could not be told to anyone”
After Hestia had glanced at Lili after saying this, Bell also understood what they
were talking about.
Just like Lili, leaving while they still belonged to the faction——It was a state of
escape. They became a wild cat, a homeless Adventurers.
Putting aside boss Mia, who was already forgiven by the God, from <Mistress of
Abundance>, including Seal, whose history was extremely vague, perhaps it was
also like that.
Even if they do not ask, you could still see it. The people standing in that situation
have very difficult lives.
“……Even if it is a person that was unwilling to join the <Familia> they are still
not forgiven?”
“A noble’s child is a noble, a farmer’s child is a farmer. It is simply like that, Bellsama.”
A child born from between members, that child must also have a duty to join the
<Familia>.
From a God’s perspective, the moment this crystal was created, it had already
become the responsibilities of the party involved, even if the child was not willing
and argued back, nothing will change.
Speaking irresponsibly, this was already something that the Gods have no
connection to.
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The permit of leaving, it ultimately still belongs to the God. Having a kind god
determines everything.
If your luck was bad, some gods may request large sums of money. Some gods
may forcibly give difficult problems to you and watch the developments while
smirking.
Bell stared at Lili, who was smiling, with a mixed expression.
“If I do not get the assistance of Soma, I will not be able to change the
<Grace>……Updating will also become impossible.”
“So it’ll become like this……”
“But, you aren’t preparing to go on like this, right? You are planning to look for
opportunities?”
“Yes. Although it is impossible right now, I plan to meet Soma-sama when the
timing is ripe. Whether he will accept is still……”
The conversation suddenly stopped. Everybody revealed an expression filled with
myriad of thoughts.
The warm light seemed to shine nervously and Bell asked a question towards Lili.
“Then Lili, what are you planning to do later? Are you planning to find an inn
alone……”
Actually there is a shop that I frequently go to……Ah, Lili said it a bit wrong, but
in short, there is a generous Gnome grandpa. I plan to stay there for a period of
time. Ah, I will of course work? I plan to not use my transformation in order to be
truly recognized by my efforts.”
There was no trauma inside the speedy response of Lili. Bell, who understood her
determination, calmed down.
(Next time, I should also explain it a bit to Eina-san……)
It was ashamed to say, if Eina did not help about the problem regarding <Soma’s
Familia>, there will have been little progress.
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Originally, the guild will not interfere with the <Familia>’s problems unless it was
a significant case.
They are the managers of Orario and absolutely not the charitable organization for
Adventurers and Supporters.
The guild will assist the Adventurers. This was all to increase the efficiency of
recovering interest from the Dungeon, and they will certainly not manage personal
problems about Adventurers and Supporters.
Is he relying too much on Eina’s intimacy and kindness, Bell thought while he
used a hand to press his temple.
“Hey hey, don’t force yourself, is it really okay? If it doesn’t work out, I can
introduce you to the place that I work?”
“No, no. Towards the mistake regarding the method of using Magic Stone ignition
device and causing a huge explosion in daytime at the shop, Lili politely refuse
about this action. Please allow Lili to solemnly decline.”
“How do you know about this!?”
“Although I only accidentally heard about it from the surrounding noise, due to the
mischief of the Loli Goddess, the rumor of the natural disaster at North Main Street
is already very famous……”
“WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!? Don’t say anymore in front of
Bell-kun AHHHHHHHHH!”
“Muguuu!?”
But isn’t it fine, Bell thought.
If it was for the noisy girl in front of his eyes, he was still willing to lower his
white head no matter how many times.
Bell continued to look at Lili, who finally showed her real smile, and he, too,
revealed a smile.
× × ×
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I was currently walking on the <Adventurer’s Street> in the North-West Main
Street Area.
After separating with Kami-sama, I prepared to head over to the guild headquarters.
I was thinking about reporting to Eina-san and then talk about the situation
regarding the <Soma’s Familia>.
It was already time for the shops to open. Looks like today, the shops on both sides
of the street were also very lively.
This street that Adventurers frequently walked upon was almost packed with shops.
If you look further ahead, you can see numerous buildings had a very majestic
style. For example, there is the accessory shop that decorated the entrance
elegantly and the item shop that was constructed with sturdy gray stones. Even the
arrangement of goods in the display window, all of them seem to be very high
quality.
Looking around, did they temporarily stop the Adventurer’s work today? The
figure of the demi-humans, that often removed their defense gear and wore light
equipment, were currently shopping around the street. It looks like there were
many teams that gathered here and moved forward. It seems like they were
laughing at an interesting topic.
This isn’t bad. I was a little jealous towards the scene of the comrades, that
explores the dungeon together and shopping with each other.
Shortly after, what appeared on the street was a large temple, no it was the
Pantheon.
I headed towards the courtyard with the white pillars that connected to the guild
headquarters.
Another reason why I came at this time was because it was right before noon——It
is the time that most Adventurers were beginning their Dungeon Exploration——
The white marble lobby was extraordinarily wide. There were completely no peers
that I had to originally shove out of the way and I quickly found Eina-san.
“……?”
There was already an earlier guest located at the reception window of Eina-san.
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An Adventurer that was holding an item wrapped with white cloth and was
discussing something over the counter.
I only saw one side talking carefully and the expression of a seriously thinking
Eina-san on the other. I did not pay much attention to that person and headed over.
I looked at the long golden hair slightly and quickly walked over.
Shortly before I was close to the front, Eina-san noticed me. Her jade-colored eyes
opened in shock.
Then, as if the reaction was followed.
The person, who had her back facing to me, slowly turned around.
(……Eh?)
Her long golden hair swayed, and in the middle , a pair of clear golden eyes were
exposed.
Slender jaw and slender neck. Her tender white skin completely did not match her
female race. It was simply beautiful.
With an appearance that does not lose to a Goddess, I, who suddenly showed up,
was slightly surprised.
Aizu……Wallen…stein-san.
The three of us completely forgot to issue out a sound and our postures were
completely fixed at the scene.
“……”
“……”
“……”
Mostly my and Wallenstein-san’s gaze intersected, Eina-san’s was looking at both
sides crisscrossing.
I could not breathe normally. My head was completely blank due to the pair of
golden eyes staring at me.
39
The lengthy silence continued.
I, with an unmoving face, slowly turned my body to the right and faced away from
them.
Eh, the instant an unknown whisper was leaked out, I began to run with all my
strength to the exit.
“B…Bell-kun!? Please wait!”
Ignoring Eina-san’s discouraged voice, I ran and ran and ran.
Kicking hard onto the white marble floor, I swung my arms greatly and looked
straight ahead at the entrance to the headquarters.
——Why…Why would that person go find Eina-san!?
——What on earth had happened!?
My neck and face, followed by the ears were all being dyed red in a ferocious
momentum, I continued to accelerate based on my instinct.
Just when the confusion reached the limits, I passed through the courtyard and
attempted to leave this place.
But at the next moment, a godspeed wind passed by closely.
Surpassing me, and then in the form of blocking my way, a golden hair person
appeared in front of me.
“——Huh!?”
My eyes widened to their limits and I could not break and collided with her.
“Bell-kun, Wallenstein!?”
While hearing Eina-san’s footstep constantly approaching, I continued to close my
eyes forcibly……Then I noticed it did not hurt.
Ha, I opened my eyes, my abdomen and back was completely wrapped by slender
arms, as if I was being supported through a hug.
40
I lifted my head stunned, that person was currently looking at me.
“……Sorry, are you alright?”
“——S…Sorry!?”
My face had turned to a higher level of red, and I left her by jumping backwards.
Even the sudden assault completely obliterated my momentum and sense of
violation, but was I being hugged earlier?
My heart was, patapata, and the beating could not stop. At the same time, I felt
shocked by these series of unimaginable developments.
“What are you doing! Don’t you know it is extremely rude to suddenly run
away!?”
“S…Sorry, Eina-san……”
Although I could only reflexively apologize to Eina-san, who came over scolding
in front of me, but my gaze still stayed on Wallenstein-san’s body.
The instant her gaze intersected with mine, I looked away in panic. I asked Einasan
unclearly.
“T…That…Th…This…What is this situation……!?”
“Ha……Wallenstein seems to be looking for Bell-kun for something.”
“Eh!?”
I sighed while looking confused, Eina-san told me the bare minimum about the
matter.
I reflexively turned away and Wallenstein-san opened the item that was wrapped in
the cloth.
What was exposed was a jade-colored hand armor.
I stared.
41
“She picked this up in the Dungeon and said she wanted to directly hand it back to
you. That’s why Wallenstein came over to talk with me?”
While Eina-san was talking, I was completely stunned once again.
This hand armor, it was something I dropped when I was being constantly attacked
by Monsters on the 10th floor. At that time, I was desperately trying to head to
Lili’s side and it became harder and harder to recover it……
Then I noticed. At that time, the person who lent a helping hand to me must have
been this person.
“……Bell-kun, then you two can talk about it on your own.”
“Eh!?”
Towards the words that was disclosed by my ear, I looked over at Eina-san.
While doing clumsy actions I whispered back to her and tried to appeal.
“P…Please wait Eina-san!? I beg you, I beg you to stay here ……! I will
die……!?”
“What are you saying, you are a man, right. The words that you must say are
enormous, so you must convey them by yourself. Understood?”
Good luck, Eina-san whispered as she placed her face nearby.
Towards her care that probably wanted us to be alone for my sake, I could only cry.
I could only watch the figure that headed back as if I was an abandoned animal.
“……About that, this.”
“!”
I was being talked to, I turned around and quickly accepted the hand armor that
was handed over.
Wallenstein-san, who was a bit shorter compared to my height, continued to stare
at this side.
My entire body became a red statue and as usual, I could not speak.
42
“Sorry.”
“Eh……?”
“It was my fault about the Minotaur that I defeated. I have given you lots of trouble
and also caused you to suffer many injuries……I always wanted to apologize.
Sorry.”
Looking at her bowing her to me, I held my breath. The current state seems as if
the raised voice was like a lie.
“N…No! It was my fault for running stupidly down the Dungeon floors.
Wallenstein-san, you are completely not at fault!? Rather, you should be my savior,
who helped me! If we have to talk about who has to apologize, it should be me,
who ran away without thanking you……S…Sorry!”
I shook my head and felt slightly disoriented. In short, I must pour out all the
words that I did not say.
Up till now, I was not only panicking, but I was also embarrassed due to this
person apologizing.
“That, I wanted to say, so……”
I, who had his entire face become extremely hot, desperately tried to finished the
words that I must convey, and finally, finally let out the sound.
“Thank you for helping me so many times……I am really grateful!”
With a very impressive momentum, I bowed.
My trembling eyes reflected the stone patterns on my feet, and the sweat on my
forehead passed through my nose and fell onto the ground.
The bustling sounds of the overflowing street seem very far away, only my
heartbeat sounds were echoing loudly.
I remained fixed like that for 10 seconds.
I tried my best and finally returned to my original posture.
Wallenstein-san, who was slightly staring at me, was surely exposing a slight smile.
43
“~~~~~~~~~~~!”
Gahahaha, while I issued this strange noise, my entire face was red as if I was
going to spray out fire.
As if I was trying to escape from her smile and bowed down my head, I covered
my eyes with my bangs.
Without the same degree as my chest, my back also felt hot and it was unbearable.
“…….”
“……”
The conversation had stopped.
Whether it was me or Wallenstein-san, we both did not talk. Only the time
continued to flow.
During this time, don’t mention about Adventurers, but not even a child walked
past this place. In the center of this spacious courtyard in front of the guild
headquarters, we remained silent. Aside from standing there, we could not do
anything.
“……Your Dungeon Exploration, you’re still working hard?”
“Y…Yes!?”
The voice that came over made me raise my face.
With a faint expression, Wallenstein continued to speak.
“It seems that you’ve already reached the 10th floor……Amazing.”
“N…Not at all, it is thanks to the help of many people, or rather, I am completely
still not good enough!? My goal is still completely out of reach……!”
Because of the sudden praises by the person I’m longing for, I immediately entered
a state of panic again.
I , kurukuru, turned my hands while, fufu, moving my hands.
44
“My fighting methods too, perhaps it is because of my personality or that I’m an
amateur, I will often make strange actions and almost get killed by Monsters. Even
though I know that I must become stronger, but it is completely impossible and
extremely chaotic, that……!?”
Just like a brake failure, illogical words were blurted out from my mouth. What am
I doing, am I trying to be humble or trying to be modest.
“……”
Wallenstein-san only continued to stare at me, who had completely lost my
calmness.
Shortly after, she seems to be considering something seriously and closed her jaw.
I, who had my thoughts intertwined, soon noticed her expression and I inquired
timidly while my face was still in a burning state.
“T…That……What…What is it?”
Wallenstein-san, who remained quiet, glanced at me. It was already a few seconds
after she revealed an hesitant look.
She also timidly picked her next sentence.
“If that’s the case……Want me to teach you?”
“……Eh?”
“……Fighting methods. Nobody is teaching you, right?”
It took a considerably long time before I understood the meaning of the request.
I widened my eyes. My thoughts were completely bewildered.
“W…What, W…Why would you do such a thing……!?”
“……Because you seem to want to become stronger. I, too, know that feeling.”
Following the apology, Wallenstein once again suddenly said this.
After being shocked by her, it would be strange if I could calm myself down.
45
Let this person to teach my fighting methods? Allowing the person, who I was
constantly pursuing and longing for, to teach me?
Can I really do that?
Is there really no mistake?
I, who was completely immature, will have contact with this person.
Speaking of which, problems regarding <Familia> should——.
My head had many questions revolving around. However, I knew that all of them
were camouflage to cover the truth.
I want to talk with this person, I want to know her, I want to laugh together with
her and I want to share time together with her.
These feelings of longing, the idiotic-like huge passion. Even if it was only for a
while, I still want to stay together with her. This came from the bottom of my heart.
The longing inside my heart seems to be tearing apart. Towards the answer that
was already decided, I was just constantly thinking, exploring and blindly troubling
myself.
× × ×
“……”
Towards Bell, who was seriously thinking about it with a boiling red face, Aizu
could only quietly stare at him.
Aizu did not lie about the reason she said earlier. She felt some resonance from the
words that Bell had said, this was the truth.
However, of course, it was not completely filled with good intentions. There was
also some calculations and plans.
The first time she sensed something was wrong was with the Silverback.
Followed by him entering the 10th floor.
46
From Aizu’s own experience, Bell’s growth curve was showing <Growth> results
that did not match this short period of time.
Since the encounter with the Minotaur, the inexperienced and rookie Adventurer
actually made an impressively leap which captured Aizu’s interest.
(I want to know……)
I want to know about Bell’s secret about his <Growth>. I want to investigate it
clearly.
For herself.
The reason why she would initiate and request him to teach him was related to this
intention.
“Although if I accept it, I’ll feel bad about it……No, but, it is a rare
goodwill……”
“……”
At the same time, perhaps, she felt a bit of guilt.
Towards the boy that believed the proposal was purely kindness, her chest began to
hurt.
Aizu wordlessly lowered her sight from Bell, who was holding his head and
muttering.
And held the handle of the sword at her waist tightly.
As if she wanted to cut off her own confusion.
“……T…Then… Wallen…stein-san……”
She raised her sight.
The white haired boy, with a fever-like face and those straightforward eyes, made
her lower her head again.
“A…About teaching…P…Please take care of me!”
47
I have to compensate him.
I must respond to his expectations. As an apology from the guilt inside her heart.
Aizu thought as she looked at the crimson eyes.
“……Yes. Please to…meet you.”
48
49
Chapter 1
The Sword Princess Strikes
The sun was currently hanging in the middle of the sky.
Heading north towards the Main Street from the Skyscraper facilities.
An open air coffee shop was facing the large street with more figures of residents
than Adventurers. Under the clear and bright sun rays, numerous customers were
currently talking and laughing.
Among the many umbrellas that produced shade, Bell and Lili were sitting together
across the white table.
“Then, there are already no problems from the side of <Soma’s Familia>?”
“Yes. Lili will probably be treated as if she had died.”
It was the following day after Bell and Lili had reformed their team.
In order to confirm the current situation that Lili was facing, Bell was currently
accepting her explanation.
“Anyways, if I am treated as dead, there is no longer any need for me to have any
relationship with the <Soma’s Familia>. They will also not take initiative to find
me. How should I put it, I have already become something that doesn’t exist.”
So it will not give any trouble to Bell-sama, Lili said with a smile.
Letting her bangs disappear from when she had her disguise, it was finally revealed.
Her pair of round eyes and adorable face entered his gaze, Bell’s had a bit of a
shadow between her brow.
19
“It’s fine if the matter is about me…… but that, won’t Lili mind about being dead
or something”
“I am grateful to your intentions, Bell-sama. But it is still better to make a decisive
point. Anyways, Lili does not have any relatives already……As long as Bell-sama
knows about Lili’s existence, Lili is satisfied.”
Bell did not continue to inquire this towards Lili, who seems to be saying this from
the bottom of her heart.
It feels that the act that had become her largest wound had firmly ended in her
heart.
“If Lili says so, then so be it. But, not revealing to the people from <Soma’s
Familia> right? The truth about Lili being still alive.”
“Although I can’t say definitely say for sure, but all traces related to Lili had been
cleared out in the past two days. To the extent where there is no need to worry……
And, anyways, Lili has this.”
Petari, Lili stroked her head. Originally what was not a deep chestnut color hair
also moved towards the ground, then a pair of cat ears moved adorably left and
right. Her pupil was a luminous golden color.
[Cinder Ella]
Under Lili’s specialty transformation magic, her current appearance looks like a
beastman child. Although her appearance remains the same, you could definitely
not tell that she was from the Hobbit race.
Under the premise of this ability, there was no possibility for others to link her to
<Liliruca Arde>. Bell, himself, was also shocked when he was aware of this
presence of this magic.
“That, if you say so……”
20
“Yes, there are no problems. Even if there was a tiny possibility, I will not allow
Bell-sama to worry about it.
There is no need to mention that again. Bell smiled wryly and calmed down.
This way, Lili will no longer be involved in any disputes. Even if she became like
this, she should still be able to help out.
Truthfully, after listening to the fact that Lili almost died, what he felt was anger
and remorse. It was a violent anger towards the people who do not treat people as
people, and the remorse of him not being able to do anything.
However, Lili’s situation should not be blamed upon <Soma’s Familia>. For the
sake of discussion, having revenge right now is what will cause a fatal disaster
from the prime criminal.
Anyway, since Lili was fine, it was okay. Bell drove out the complex feelings in
his mind and concluded it like this.
The gap between them had been filled.
Perhaps not completely, but the distance between them had indeed shortened, to
the extent that both sides were able to hold each other’s hand.
From now on, they will restart once again. Bell could not help but revealed a smile.
“……Bell-sama.”
“Nnn, what?”
“Bell-sama, is this really okay?”
“Eh?”
“To just forgive Lili like this?”
However, on the contrary from Bell, Lili’s face was shrouded in mist, and stared at
Bell with eyes, as if she was seeking for reliance.
“But Lili lied to Bell-sama, oh? Not only did I use Bell-sama’s good intentions,
and I even betrayed you in the end?”
21
“……”
“And, I secretly hid the money and did not return it. If you forgive Lili just like this,
then……”
This was the reason why the relationship with Lili had not been completely
straightened out.
Self-blame. Guilt. The desire for atonement.
Lili was currently being tormented by the crimes she committed. Bell did not even
remember how many times he was apologized to.
Lili had lost her entire wealth from what happened a few days ago. The money and
items she kept after exchanging for money, and also the Gnome’s gems was all
stolen by her companions in the <Soma’s Familia>. It seems that she felt guilty
that she did not have anything to compensate me. Inside her heart, there was a
layer of self-loathing.
It does not matter, even if I had repeated said this, Lili’s expression did not
improve. It would be better to say that after each time, she would become even
more depressed. Perhaps she was desiring a painful punishment.
These things were something no one had asked for……Bell thought as if he
admitted defeat.
In short, it was difficult.
Naturally, there was no need to blame yourself, like those people who praised and
spoke beautiful words, it may feel a little bit like preaching.
Towards everything that had happened, they were still standing in the spectator’s
view.
While I looked at Lili, who buried her face, I tried to think of a way to remove her
guilt. While Bell was thinking about the best solution to solve this problem……At
this time, reinforcements had finally arrive.
“Hey~, Bell-kun!”
“Ah, Kami-sama!”
22
I stood up when I heard the young voice that was directed towards me. As
expected, Hestia’s figure appeared in the coffee shop.
A petite body that was comparable with Lili passed through the lively crowd and
appeared in front of Bell and Lili.
“Sorry, did you wait long?”
“That’s not a problem. Rather than that, I’m the one that feels sorry. I had to
disturb your work……”
“It does not matter about my side. Compared to that……Is this her?”
“Ah, yes. This is the child that I mentioned before……”
“I…I am called Liliruca Arde. N…Nice to met you.”
Towards the gaze that was thrown to her, Lili hurriedly stood up from her chair
and bowed.
Hestia coming here was what she had proposed by herself.
Her intentions were clear. That is, she wanted to use her own eyes to confirm the
Supporter that had a relationship with her own <Familia>’s member.
If she was not fancied by the Goddess, Lili and Bell’s team would likely be forced
to disband. Lili, who understood this point in advance, had a nervous expression
towards Hestia.
However, at this time, Bell seemed to have remembered something and muttered
“ah”.
“This is not good. I did not prepare a chair for Kami-sama……”
“……! What, don’t worry about it! There are so many customers, there should not
be a spare chair right? Okay, after Bell-kun sits down, let me sit on your lap!”
“Ahaha, Kami-sama can also make such a joke. Please wait, I’ll make a request
this to a person from this shop.”
Bell smiled and left. An innocent and pure child’s smile.
23
Hanging on the side, Hestia temporarily stopped her actions. Then her twintails
shrunk instantly.
Towards the sad atmosphere that floated around, Lili could not conceal her puzzled
expression.
“……I…Isn’t this for the best. In the beginning, I planned to exclude Bell, there is
no problem at all.”
“Ha, ha.”
With a slightly stiff cheeks that were dyed crimson, Hestia sat on Bell’s seat.
Lili also imitated and sat down.
“Then, let’s end this quickly. That child will return swiftly. There is no need for
self-introductions, right? You probably already heard about me from Bell-kun?”
“Y…Yes.”
When Lili had noticed that the topic’s initiative was already stolen away from the
very beginning, it was already slightly late.
Even compared to Lili, who was a hobbit and looked young, Hestia was not
inferior in terms of innocence and loveliness. It really was wavering between a
young girl and a young child.
However, on the contrary, it was because of that imbalance that placed further
emphasis on her overly perfect appearance.
It was not only adorable, but it also gives of an awe-inspiring feeling. As if it was
looking at body that had two contradictory beautiful appearance being present.
Bathed by the sunlight that passed through the parasols, the pitched-black smooth
hair looked a little more glamorous.
“Let me hear the truth. Supporter-kun, will you still continue to be petty?”
“——“
Towards this blunt inquiry that directly questioned the core of the problem, Lili
was shaken.
24
Hestia’s expressions and eye remained the same. Only that the divinity beside her
had rapidly increased.
Lili knew that she was being probed. Everything was completely seen through.
There was no stronger evidence than her name not being called out. Considering
everything that she did to Bell, this was natural. First, she had to determine
whether she could trust this hobbit.
Thus, Lili had to tell the truth without any lies.
“I won’t. Lili had already been helped by Bell-sama. I already do not want to do
anything that betrays that person.”
Their sight intersected. Both sides did not have any means to look away. The
surrounding bustling sound gradually faded away.
In front of a God, you cannot lie.
She did not know where she heard this sentence, but it was true. Lili understood
that from the Goddess’s eyes, which seem to see through everything, in front of her.
As long as she wanted to, she could probably see through all the lies from the
people of the Lower World.
“……Yes, I understand. That sentence I will tentatively believe it.”
The longest time period for Lili had just ended.
While she was holding back the impulse from releasing the accumulated air in her
lungs out, she slowly relaxed the strength of her shoulders.
“Supporter-kun, I care deeply about Bell. To the extent that even if I have to
place my eyes into the ocean, I will still not feel any pain. As my first dependent, I
do not wish to lose him. That is my heartfelt truth.
Hestia took an interval to breath, then she continued.
Lili was caught off guard, and she quickly made a listening position.
“Inquiring about you from Bell-kun was to understand your situation. Of course, I
will also include your thieving activities.”
25
“……”
“I have never thought of sympathizing with you, after all, since everything had
ended. Thus I will not say anything overboard……Only.”
The next part was the main topic, it seems like Hestia had accumulated her
advantage for the following words.
“If you make the same mistakes again, and you put that child at risk again……I
will not easily let you go.”
——Lili’s body became stiff.
In that instant, she did not even remember how to breathe.
I forgot. The girl in front of her, was an existence known as <God> that surpassed
the humans.
Towards the superior existence that have the power to completely turn this city into
dust instantly, Lili had completely forgotten this fact because she took too much
for granted.
Her deep blue eyes pierced through her and her heart began to stir and twist
together. Since she was supported by her unwavering will, Lili stared directly in
front and opened her mouth.
“……Lili swears. She will not do such things again. Whether it is for Bell-sama or
to Hestia-sama……But more important, is to Lili herself.”
In the street that knew nothing about the situation, the cheerful atmosphere
continued to flow.
Towards the time that the two of them silently looked at each other, Hestia closed
her eyes and declared the end.
She, pa pa, blinked her eyes as if she was sending out a gaze that was saying <I
understand>. On Lili’s side, she finally could not hold it any longer and she
released her strength. It seems like she was about to topple down onto the table any
moment.
26
Hestia, who was repeated being told by her, placed her arms to hold up her
voluptuous chest in silence. She frowned all of a sudden. After demonstrating that
they lack nothing, she issued out a cornered moan. Lili felt that the atmosphere was
bad and curled up her body.
“……Supporter-kun, I’ll directly say it.”
“Y…Yes.”
“I hate you. I hope that you will not pester Bell-kun.”
“!”
While Lili opened her eyes, she continued to speak.
“That is obvious. Ever since I heard the details about the situation, my impression
of you is the worst. You used Bell’s nice personality to deceive him on the whim,
and now you simply wanted to get involved with him by just turning your wrist.
What kind of purpose do you have, you evil thieving cat.”
Due to <Cinder Ella>, the animal ears, that were born, suddenly shuddered.
Although the argument was subtly justified, but it feels that something was wrong.
Lili thought while she sweated.
“In the end, what have you been doing in the first place? You showed such a
gloomy expression from the beginning. Look at it, won’t it cause this side to also
become depressed.”
It was almost as if she had said that looking at your face, I do not even have the
appetite to eat.
Hestia’s eyes became even sharper, and her words still did not end.
“In general, you must have considered about Bell-kun’s feelings, right?”
“!”
“Why do I know? Fueh, because it was a similar face to mine when I stand in front
of a mirror. Ahhhhh, this is really annoying, I do not want you to stay beside Bellkun
at all!”
27
Finally, a formless fluctuation began to rise behind Hestia.
Looking at the surrounding guests widening their eyes and suddenly pulling away,
Lili felt that she was about to cry.
“You have been helped by the gentle Bell-kun, and said that you will turn a new
leaf. In the end, you will use that child’s gentleness and get him involve in trouble
again next time, right?”
“!?”
“That child obviously did not request you to do anything, but you are already
overwhelmed by guiltiness. If you let me say it, that is simply acting like a spoiled
child. What a nasty person, you.”
Hestia’s speech gradually became more sinister.
After waiting for her gaze to stabilize, she watched the petite Hobbit that was not
able to even sob.
“If that’s the case, I’ll fulfill your request. I’ll replace Bell-kun to acquit you. I’ll
tell you in advance that you do not have the right to refuse. Just like <God’s
Judgment>, it is just fine if you are to be proud.”
Fuahh, Hestia, who issued this nasal sound, leaned back onto the chair.
Aside from nodding stiffly, there was nothing that the apprehensive Lili could
do. No that is incorrect, why not say that since this was declared by her, who was
Bell’s Main Goddess, she did not know what kind of mood to have.
Lili anxiously waited for the next moment.
On Hestia’s side, she was clenching her teeth, Gugigi, while revealing a painful
expression……Shortly after, she sighed and the words accompanied with it poured
out.
“Please take care of Bell-kun.”
“……Eh?”
She could not help but leak out a “Busu” strange sound, Hestia continued to speak.
28
“First, this is not for you. I have heard many things from that child and I’ve
become more and more worried about him. Rather, I am convinced……that he
would eventually be cheated, this kind of feeling.”
“……”
“So I can only request you. Please be careful to not let anything suspicious get
wrapped up to him. In short, you are responsible to follow him.”
This time, Lili was really surprised. Her thoughts stirred as if she wanted to say
something, yet she could not open her mouth.
Because she was not permitted to reply by those eyes in front of her.
“In the end, I originally did not intend to use arrogant words such as judging you.
Even if it is the Gods right now, they will not play this kind of thing. Just forget
about your guilt, whether you forgive yourself or not, it is your own problem.”
Do not ask Bell to help you search for this type of thing, Hestia said with a
powerful tone.
“I feel that I owe that child a lot, so until I feel satisfied, I will continue to repay
my debt of gratitude. This is also obviously natural. That is sincerity, but there are
also limits. If you wish to turn over a new leaf, then use your actions to prove it.
The words she said all at once had finally concluded here.
Listening to the intentions of the somewhat bitter Goddess, Lili dropped her head.
The Goddess Hestia gave Lili a chance. It was even to the extent of deep
compassion.
She was very generous. At the same time, she was also a God.
What she had said out just now was probably the true feelings that she could not
conceal. Basically, she still permitted Lili to stay around Bell’s side.
Giving compassion to everyone, and requesting her to protect him.
While Lili was thankful to that warmth, she stared at Hestia and bowed down
toward her.
29
Between the two of them, it seems like the spring-water that originated from the
forest was silently flowing out.
“Sorry, I’ve made you wait so long!”
“……I’ll allow you to join the team. That child’s protection is up to you. Although
I said that, do not do anything exceeding what is proper.”
“Ha?”
Towards the dreary warning of Hestia that broke the silence, Lili was stunned.
Before she could ask about the true meaning, Bell came back holding a chair.
Towards Bell, who was constantly apologizing and could not make any comment,
Hestia only took his arm and pulled him to her side.
“——What”
“Kami-sama……?”
“Then once again……Nice to meet you, Supporter-kun. Looks like MY Bell-kun
had bothered you.”
Hestia had emphasized on the <MY>. It seems that the surrounding atmosphere
had completely changed, just like a tiger that was guarding her own territory. She
used her eyes to convey the meaning of if you dare to attack, I’ll eat you.
Towards Hestia, who had her contained her cheeks from twitching, Lili was
surprised.
She is a God. She was a divinely being, an noble existence that was worthy of
reverence.
However on top of that, she was still a child.
No, it was better to say—— An enemy.
Lili’s head was filled with a wave of anger towards her, who pulled Bell’s arm to
her side, and specially drew the line in front of Bell as revenge.
Although Lili also had feelings similar to loyalty to her, but this was another matter.
30
Pashi! She used both her hands to pull the other arm of Bell over.
Towards the sharp glare of Hestia that was filled with malicious intent, Lili directly
sent it back.
“There is no such thing. I had always made Bell-sama, who treated Lili gently,
worry instead.”
“……”
On one side, it was a young girl. On the other side, it was also a young girl.
Upholding an innocent and cute child-like appearance, both of them revealed their
women’s face and stared at each other.
Between them, who were both unable to reach the floor while sitting on a chair,
Bachibachi, sparks were flying around.
(K…Kami-sama AHHHHHHHH!?)
Due to his arm being squeezed by the twin valleys in this very situation, Bell did
not even know what was happening in front of him. He was in extreme panic.
In the skirmish between the petite individuals, the Goddess won.
“Ku, she indeed lives up as a God-sama……! Looks like her boobs are not only a
decoration……!”
“Do you have something you want to say, Supporter-kun……?”
“About that, Lili. The matter about the future……”
After the battle, Bell began to speak.
Each sat back onto their respective chairs once they calmed down. This time, it
was Lili’s golden eyes that looked amazed as she stared at him.
“Lili right now, her headquarters……Do you have a place to live yet?”
31
32
“Yes. Although it was not just for a day or two, I had always been changing
between inns.”
Looking at Lili, who did not reveal embarrassed smile, Bell secretly hinted towards
Hestia.
Although she still let out a sound as if she was unwilling, but she did nod her head.
“Lili, if you don’t mind……do you want to come to our headquarters?”
“……Eh?”
“Why not say, why don’t you join <Hestia’s Familia>? Although only Kami-sama
and I are in it.”
Lili already cannot return to <Soma’s Familia>, even Bell knew this.
Then why not just simply be straightforward, he thought. Compared to letting her
live by herself, why not accept her over. Rather, this was Bell’s wish.
Hestia, who had already seen through Lili, did not object, the only thing that was
left was for Lili to nod.
“……Hestia-sama, is this okay? Isn’t Hestia-sama, to Lili……”
“Fu, Fuah……Don’t be mistaken, okay? Even if it is a person that I hate, letting a
child without a home alone is related to my very existence. Until you find work, I
can temporarily take care of you.
Towards the red-faced Goddess, who was not being truthful, Bell could only let out
a wry smile.
After Lili let out a warm smile towards this scene, she slowly shook her head.
“I am extremely grateful, Bell-sama, Hestia-sama. Just having this, Lili feels that it
is enough.
“Eh……W…Why?”
“Lili feels uneased if Lili continues to indulge in the gentleness from the two of
you……After all, Lili is still a member of the <Soma’s Familia>”
33
Revealing a faint smile towards the dumbfounded Bell, she stretched her hand
beyond her back.
Towards her back that was probably still engraved by her <Status>, Hestia frowned.
“Lili, who is still a member of <Soma’s Familia> cannot go to Bell-sama’s
headquarters. If the fact that Lili had entered Bell-sama’s headquarters is exposed,
then it will bring unnecessary trouble to the two of you. Lili absolutely cannot
tolerate such a thing to happen.”
“T…Towards that kind of thing, I……”
Bell, who refused to give up, attempted to persuade her, but he seemed to have
remembered something and closed his mouth.
This was not a single person’s problem. There was indeed a possibility of dragging
in the entire Familia.
Bell painfully closed his eyes, and then he looked at Hestia, who was thinking
about something.
“Supporter-kun, the condition for leaving <Soma’s Familia>, no, is leaving
banned? Did your Main God say anything?”
“Although Soma-sama did not express anything about it clearly……But probably,
a large amount of money is necessary.
“Money, is it……”
Following the amount of members, money was another resource that the <Hestia’s
Familia> overwhelmingly lack.
Although Bell had made remarkable progress towards the situation in the dungeon,
and they had earned far more than a month ago, but after all, it was still half-baked.
At most, they could only bring out around 100, 000 Varisu.
Moreover, even if the two of them had the ability to pay off the fee for leaving the
Familia, Lili will also never accept it.
“Then, leaving the <Familia> is such a troubling thing……? From the people that I
know, there are people who have left a <Familia>……”
34
“It depends on the Main God. If there is an God that is willing to accept the
application, then there are also Gods that ignore it.”
Leaving a <Familia>, not only will it bring trouble to the person that was leaving,
but it will also bring trouble to the other <Familia> that they were leaving for. The
best example was disclosing information.
No matter how indulgent the God was, only the ones that manage their factions
minimally will do it. In most cases, the Gods hate members leaving.
“Your acquaintance may also have a secret that could not be told to anyone”
After Hestia had glanced at Lili after saying this, Bell also understood what they
were talking about.
Just like Lili, leaving while they still belonged to the faction——It was a state of
escape. They became a wild cat, a homeless Adventurers.
Putting aside boss Mia, who was already forgiven by the God, from <Mistress of
Abundance>, including Seal, whose history was extremely vague, perhaps it was
also like that.
Even if they do not ask, you could still see it. The people standing in that situation
have very difficult lives.
“……Even if it is a person that was unwilling to join the <Familia> they are still
not forgiven?”
“A noble’s child is a noble, a farmer’s child is a farmer. It is simply like that, Bellsama.”
A child born from between members, that child must also have a duty to join the
<Familia>.
From a God’s perspective, the moment this crystal was created, it had already
become the responsibilities of the party involved, even if the child was not willing
and argued back, nothing will change.
Speaking irresponsibly, this was already something that the Gods have no
connection to.
35
The permit of leaving, it ultimately still belongs to the God. Having a kind god
determines everything.
If your luck was bad, some gods may request large sums of money. Some gods
may forcibly give difficult problems to you and watch the developments while
smirking.
Bell stared at Lili, who was smiling, with a mixed expression.
“If I do not get the assistance of Soma, I will not be able to change the
<Grace>……Updating will also become impossible.”
“So it’ll become like this……”
“But, you aren’t preparing to go on like this, right? You are planning to look for
opportunities?”
“Yes. Although it is impossible right now, I plan to meet Soma-sama when the
timing is ripe. Whether he will accept is still……”
The conversation suddenly stopped. Everybody revealed an expression filled with
myriad of thoughts.
The warm light seemed to shine nervously and Bell asked a question towards Lili.
“Then Lili, what are you planning to do later? Are you planning to find an inn
alone……”
Actually there is a shop that I frequently go to……Ah, Lili said it a bit wrong, but
in short, there is a generous Gnome grandpa. I plan to stay there for a period of
time. Ah, I will of course work? I plan to not use my transformation in order to be
truly recognized by my efforts.”
There was no trauma inside the speedy response of Lili. Bell, who understood her
determination, calmed down.
(Next time, I should also explain it a bit to Eina-san……)
It was ashamed to say, if Eina did not help about the problem regarding <Soma’s
Familia>, there will have been little progress.
36
Originally, the guild will not interfere with the <Familia>’s problems unless it was
a significant case.
They are the managers of Orario and absolutely not the charitable organization for
Adventurers and Supporters.
The guild will assist the Adventurers. This was all to increase the efficiency of
recovering interest from the Dungeon, and they will certainly not manage personal
problems about Adventurers and Supporters.
Is he relying too much on Eina’s intimacy and kindness, Bell thought while he
used a hand to press his temple.
“Hey hey, don’t force yourself, is it really okay? If it doesn’t work out, I can
introduce you to the place that I work?”
“No, no. Towards the mistake regarding the method of using Magic Stone ignition
device and causing a huge explosion in daytime at the shop, Lili politely refuse
about this action. Please allow Lili to solemnly decline.”
“How do you know about this!?”
“Although I only accidentally heard about it from the surrounding noise, due to the
mischief of the Loli Goddess, the rumor of the natural disaster at North Main Street
is already very famous……”
“WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!? Don’t say anymore in front of
Bell-kun AHHHHHHHHH!”
“Muguuu!?”
But isn’t it fine, Bell thought.
If it was for the noisy girl in front of his eyes, he was still willing to lower his
white head no matter how many times.
Bell continued to look at Lili, who finally showed her real smile, and he, too,
revealed a smile.
× × ×
37
I was currently walking on the <Adventurer’s Street> in the North-West Main
Street Area.
After separating with Kami-sama, I prepared to head over to the guild headquarters.
I was thinking about reporting to Eina-san and then talk about the situation
regarding the <Soma’s Familia>.
It was already time for the shops to open. Looks like today, the shops on both sides
of the street were also very lively.
This street that Adventurers frequently walked upon was almost packed with shops.
If you look further ahead, you can see numerous buildings had a very majestic
style. For example, there is the accessory shop that decorated the entrance
elegantly and the item shop that was constructed with sturdy gray stones. Even the
arrangement of goods in the display window, all of them seem to be very high
quality.
Looking around, did they temporarily stop the Adventurer’s work today? The
figure of the demi-humans, that often removed their defense gear and wore light
equipment, were currently shopping around the street. It looks like there were
many teams that gathered here and moved forward. It seems like they were
laughing at an interesting topic.
This isn’t bad. I was a little jealous towards the scene of the comrades, that
explores the dungeon together and shopping with each other.
Shortly after, what appeared on the street was a large temple, no it was the
Pantheon.
I headed towards the courtyard with the white pillars that connected to the guild
headquarters.
Another reason why I came at this time was because it was right before noon——It
is the time that most Adventurers were beginning their Dungeon Exploration——
The white marble lobby was extraordinarily wide. There were completely no peers
that I had to originally shove out of the way and I quickly found Eina-san.
“……?”
There was already an earlier guest located at the reception window of Eina-san.
38
An Adventurer that was holding an item wrapped with white cloth and was
discussing something over the counter.
I only saw one side talking carefully and the expression of a seriously thinking
Eina-san on the other. I did not pay much attention to that person and headed over.
I looked at the long golden hair slightly and quickly walked over.
Shortly before I was close to the front, Eina-san noticed me. Her jade-colored eyes
opened in shock.
Then, as if the reaction was followed.
The person, who had her back facing to me, slowly turned around.
(……Eh?)
Her long golden hair swayed, and in the middle , a pair of clear golden eyes were
exposed.
Slender jaw and slender neck. Her tender white skin completely did not match her
female race. It was simply beautiful.
With an appearance that does not lose to a Goddess, I, who suddenly showed up,
was slightly surprised.
Aizu……Wallen…stein-san.
The three of us completely forgot to issue out a sound and our postures were
completely fixed at the scene.
“……”
“……”
“……”
Mostly my and Wallenstein-san’s gaze intersected, Eina-san’s was looking at both
sides crisscrossing.
I could not breathe normally. My head was completely blank due to the pair of
golden eyes staring at me.
39
The lengthy silence continued.
I, with an unmoving face, slowly turned my body to the right and faced away from
them.
Eh, the instant an unknown whisper was leaked out, I began to run with all my
strength to the exit.
“B…Bell-kun!? Please wait!”
Ignoring Eina-san’s discouraged voice, I ran and ran and ran.
Kicking hard onto the white marble floor, I swung my arms greatly and looked
straight ahead at the entrance to the headquarters.
——Why…Why would that person go find Eina-san!?
——What on earth had happened!?
My neck and face, followed by the ears were all being dyed red in a ferocious
momentum, I continued to accelerate based on my instinct.
Just when the confusion reached the limits, I passed through the courtyard and
attempted to leave this place.
But at the next moment, a godspeed wind passed by closely.
Surpassing me, and then in the form of blocking my way, a golden hair person
appeared in front of me.
“——Huh!?”
My eyes widened to their limits and I could not break and collided with her.
“Bell-kun, Wallenstein!?”
While hearing Eina-san’s footstep constantly approaching, I continued to close my
eyes forcibly……Then I noticed it did not hurt.
Ha, I opened my eyes, my abdomen and back was completely wrapped by slender
arms, as if I was being supported through a hug.
40
I lifted my head stunned, that person was currently looking at me.
“……Sorry, are you alright?”
“——S…Sorry!?”
My face had turned to a higher level of red, and I left her by jumping backwards.
Even the sudden assault completely obliterated my momentum and sense of
violation, but was I being hugged earlier?
My heart was, patapata, and the beating could not stop. At the same time, I felt
shocked by these series of unimaginable developments.
“What are you doing! Don’t you know it is extremely rude to suddenly run
away!?”
“S…Sorry, Eina-san……”
Although I could only reflexively apologize to Eina-san, who came over scolding
in front of me, but my gaze still stayed on Wallenstein-san’s body.
The instant her gaze intersected with mine, I looked away in panic. I asked Einasan
unclearly.
“T…That…Th…This…What is this situation……!?”
“Ha……Wallenstein seems to be looking for Bell-kun for something.”
“Eh!?”
I sighed while looking confused, Eina-san told me the bare minimum about the
matter.
I reflexively turned away and Wallenstein-san opened the item that was wrapped in
the cloth.
What was exposed was a jade-colored hand armor.
I stared.
41
“She picked this up in the Dungeon and said she wanted to directly hand it back to
you. That’s why Wallenstein came over to talk with me?”
While Eina-san was talking, I was completely stunned once again.
This hand armor, it was something I dropped when I was being constantly attacked
by Monsters on the 10th floor. At that time, I was desperately trying to head to
Lili’s side and it became harder and harder to recover it……
Then I noticed. At that time, the person who lent a helping hand to me must have
been this person.
“……Bell-kun, then you two can talk about it on your own.”
“Eh!?”
Towards the words that was disclosed by my ear, I looked over at Eina-san.
While doing clumsy actions I whispered back to her and tried to appeal.
“P…Please wait Eina-san!? I beg you, I beg you to stay here ……! I will
die……!?”
“What are you saying, you are a man, right. The words that you must say are
enormous, so you must convey them by yourself. Understood?”
Good luck, Eina-san whispered as she placed her face nearby.
Towards her care that probably wanted us to be alone for my sake, I could only cry.
I could only watch the figure that headed back as if I was an abandoned animal.
“……About that, this.”
“!”
I was being talked to, I turned around and quickly accepted the hand armor that
was handed over.
Wallenstein-san, who was a bit shorter compared to my height, continued to stare
at this side.
My entire body became a red statue and as usual, I could not speak.
42
“Sorry.”
“Eh……?”
“It was my fault about the Minotaur that I defeated. I have given you lots of trouble
and also caused you to suffer many injuries……I always wanted to apologize.
Sorry.”
Looking at her bowing her to me, I held my breath. The current state seems as if
the raised voice was like a lie.
“N…No! It was my fault for running stupidly down the Dungeon floors.
Wallenstein-san, you are completely not at fault!? Rather, you should be my savior,
who helped me! If we have to talk about who has to apologize, it should be me,
who ran away without thanking you……S…Sorry!”
I shook my head and felt slightly disoriented. In short, I must pour out all the
words that I did not say.
Up till now, I was not only panicking, but I was also embarrassed due to this
person apologizing.
“That, I wanted to say, so……”
I, who had his entire face become extremely hot, desperately tried to finished the
words that I must convey, and finally, finally let out the sound.
“Thank you for helping me so many times……I am really grateful!”
With a very impressive momentum, I bowed.
My trembling eyes reflected the stone patterns on my feet, and the sweat on my
forehead passed through my nose and fell onto the ground.
The bustling sounds of the overflowing street seem very far away, only my
heartbeat sounds were echoing loudly.
I remained fixed like that for 10 seconds.
I tried my best and finally returned to my original posture.
Wallenstein-san, who was slightly staring at me, was surely exposing a slight smile.
43
“~~~~~~~~~~~!”
Gahahaha, while I issued this strange noise, my entire face was red as if I was
going to spray out fire.
As if I was trying to escape from her smile and bowed down my head, I covered
my eyes with my bangs.
Without the same degree as my chest, my back also felt hot and it was unbearable.
“…….”
“……”
The conversation had stopped.
Whether it was me or Wallenstein-san, we both did not talk. Only the time
continued to flow.
During this time, don’t mention about Adventurers, but not even a child walked
past this place. In the center of this spacious courtyard in front of the guild
headquarters, we remained silent. Aside from standing there, we could not do
anything.
“……Your Dungeon Exploration, you’re still working hard?”
“Y…Yes!?”
The voice that came over made me raise my face.
With a faint expression, Wallenstein continued to speak.
“It seems that you’ve already reached the 10th floor……Amazing.”
“N…Not at all, it is thanks to the help of many people, or rather, I am completely
still not good enough!? My goal is still completely out of reach……!”
Because of the sudden praises by the person I’m longing for, I immediately entered
a state of panic again.
I , kurukuru, turned my hands while, fufu, moving my hands.
44
“My fighting methods too, perhaps it is because of my personality or that I’m an
amateur, I will often make strange actions and almost get killed by Monsters. Even
though I know that I must become stronger, but it is completely impossible and
extremely chaotic, that……!?”
Just like a brake failure, illogical words were blurted out from my mouth. What am
I doing, am I trying to be humble or trying to be modest.
“……”
Wallenstein-san only continued to stare at me, who had completely lost my
calmness.
Shortly after, she seems to be considering something seriously and closed her jaw.
I, who had my thoughts intertwined, soon noticed her expression and I inquired
timidly while my face was still in a burning state.
“T…That……What…What is it?”
Wallenstein-san, who remained quiet, glanced at me. It was already a few seconds
after she revealed an hesitant look.
She also timidly picked her next sentence.
“If that’s the case……Want me to teach you?”
“……Eh?”
“……Fighting methods. Nobody is teaching you, right?”
It took a considerably long time before I understood the meaning of the request.
I widened my eyes. My thoughts were completely bewildered.
“W…What, W…Why would you do such a thing……!?”
“……Because you seem to want to become stronger. I, too, know that feeling.”
Following the apology, Wallenstein once again suddenly said this.
After being shocked by her, it would be strange if I could calm myself down.
45
Let this person to teach my fighting methods? Allowing the person, who I was
constantly pursuing and longing for, to teach me?
Can I really do that?
Is there really no mistake?
I, who was completely immature, will have contact with this person.
Speaking of which, problems regarding <Familia> should——.
My head had many questions revolving around. However, I knew that all of them
were camouflage to cover the truth.
I want to talk with this person, I want to know her, I want to laugh together with
her and I want to share time together with her.
These feelings of longing, the idiotic-like huge passion. Even if it was only for a
while, I still want to stay together with her. This came from the bottom of my heart.
The longing inside my heart seems to be tearing apart. Towards the answer that
was already decided, I was just constantly thinking, exploring and blindly troubling
myself.
× × ×
“……”
Towards Bell, who was seriously thinking about it with a boiling red face, Aizu
could only quietly stare at him.
Aizu did not lie about the reason she said earlier. She felt some resonance from the
words that Bell had said, this was the truth.
However, of course, it was not completely filled with good intentions. There was
also some calculations and plans.
The first time she sensed something was wrong was with the Silverback.
Followed by him entering the 10th floor.
46
From Aizu’s own experience, Bell’s growth curve was showing <Growth> results
that did not match this short period of time.
Since the encounter with the Minotaur, the inexperienced and rookie Adventurer
actually made an impressively leap which captured Aizu’s interest.
(I want to know……)
I want to know about Bell’s secret about his <Growth>. I want to investigate it
clearly.
For herself.
The reason why she would initiate and request him to teach him was related to this
intention.
“Although if I accept it, I’ll feel bad about it……No, but, it is a rare
goodwill……”
“……”
At the same time, perhaps, she felt a bit of guilt.
Towards the boy that believed the proposal was purely kindness, her chest began to
hurt.
Aizu wordlessly lowered her sight from Bell, who was holding his head and
muttering.
And held the handle of the sword at her waist tightly.
As if she wanted to cut off her own confusion.
“……T…Then… Wallen…stein-san……”
She raised her sight.
The white haired boy, with a fever-like face and those straightforward eyes, made
her lower her head again.
“A…About teaching…P…Please take care of me!”
47
I have to compensate him.
I must respond to his expectations. As an apology from the guilt inside her heart.
Aizu thought as she looked at the crimson eyes.
“……Yes. Please to…meet you.”
48
49
