Riveria made her way to the Hermes Familia home, her mind heavy with the weight of recent events. As she approached the entrance, Hermes himself greeted her, a solemn expression on his usually jovial face.
"Nine Hell," he said softly.
"Hermes. I apologize for showing up without prior notice. I have some business to discuss."
"You're here for Asfi's keepsake, presumably?"
Riveria nodded, her expression unreadable. "Yes, Lord Hermes. I understand she left them to Bell Cranel, the new Perseus."
Hermes led Riveria inside, guiding her to a room where Asfi's possessions were neatly arranged. Among the various magical items, Riveria's eyes were drawn to a pair of winged sandals – Asfi's Talaria. Riveria picked them up and placed them on her lap as she sat down on a nearby chair, her head bowed in prayer.
Hermes placed a comforting hand on Riveria's shoulder. "Asfi has always been a very...driven individual. She's always had a strong sense of duty. Even when I'd first taken her in as a member of my Familia, she was never one to let others do things for her."
Riveria took a deep breath, composing herself. "No, she wasn't. She always did things her own way, didn't she?" She recalled all the times that Asfi had gone out of her way to help her, whether it was on her request or not. The young adventurer's steadfast dedication to her calling had made her a valuable friend and ally. Now she was gone.
Hermes looked out the window, gazing up at the clear blue sky. "Asfi is...was a very special person to me. I will not forget what she did for us, Nine Hell. Nor will I forget the sacrifices of your comrades."
Riveria tightened her grip on the Talaria, her hands trembling as tears threatened to spill from her eyes.
"I'm not one to get emotional, Lord Hermes, but that boy has changed me. I've started to feel again, to let my guard down. After all the losses we've suffered, this new generation is giving us hope for the future. I feel so privileged to have known such a wonderful child."
"How do you feel about Bell now, Nine Hell? After everything that's happened?"
"I don't dislike him, if that's what you mean." Riveria spoke with conviction in her voice, her golden eyes filled with resolve. "If anything, I feel more respect for him now than ever before."
"Is that so?" Hermes turned his gaze away from the window, locking eyes with the high elf.
"The boy has proven himself worthy of my respect," Riveria said, her voice thick with emotion. "And if the prophecy is true, then he will be the one to save us all."
"Is that it? Do you simply respect him now?" Hermes asked gently, his eyes narrowing as he searched Riveria's face.
"I won't deny it is far more than respect," Riveria confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. "My heart races whenever I see him."
Hermes nodded in understanding, his expression filled with compassion. "I see. Well, I can certainly understand how you feel."
Riveria looked up at Hermes, her eyes filled with anguish.
"I've had many suitors in my time, but none ever interested me. He is different, Lord Hermes. He is special."
"Indeed, he is," Hermes agreed. "Indeed he is. He's had a profound effect on you hasn't he? Just like the Sword Princess. I've heard quite a lot about you two recently."
Riveria was startled at the mention of Aiz. "Aiz...she feels the same way about him, doesn't she?"
"If the rumours are to be believed," Hermes said with a shrug.
"I can't believe it, I've let my emotions control me and not the other way around. This isn't like me. My instincts told me to keep away from the boy, to not get too close, but I couldn't resist his charms," Riveria mused as she realized how much she had fallen for the white-haired rabbit. "And now, I've ruined everything between Aiz and Bell Cranel. How could I be so selfish?"
Hermes shook his head. "Don't be so hard on yourself, Nine Hell. The heart wants what the heart wants. You can't help who you fall in love with."
"Love..." Riveria whispered the word as if it were a forbidden secret.
Hermes smiled, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "You know, Bell lacks someone like you in his harem: someone motherly and wise. I can't think of a better woman to guide him along his path."
Riveria blinked in confusion. "Harem? What do you mean by that?"
"Isn't it obvious, Nine Hell? Bell Cranel is building a harem," Hermes stated with a knowing grin. "He just doesn't know it yet. He has the heart of a hero, after all, and heroes always have a harem."
Riveria scoffed in disbelief. "Surely you jest, Lord Hermes."
"I assure you, Nine Hell, I am deadly serious," Hermes insisted, his expression solemn.
"A harem? How ridiculous. And immoral."
As Riveria gathered the rest of Asfi's belongings, she couldn't help but consider Hermes' words.
"I shall take my leave now, Lord Hermes. I have much to do. Thank you for your hospitality."
As Riveria made her way out of the building, she felt her resolve growing stronger.
Riveria took Bell by the hand and led him towards the city's outer wall.
"Where are we going?" he asked as they walked.
"Somewhere secluded. Somewhere we won't be disturbed," Riveria replied, "but don't get the wrong impression though, Bell Cranel, this is not an invitation to elope with me."
Bell blinked in surprise, his face reddening. "I wasn't thinking that!"
"Good, because that is not my intention. You are the new Perseus now, Bell Cranel. You have a long way to go yet."
"Oh...right."
They soon arrived on top of the city's outer wall, where Riveria let go of Bell's hand and turned to face him, holding a pair of Perseus's Talaria.
"Bell Cranel, these sandals allowed Asfi Al Andromeda to fly," Riveria explained, her voice tinged with both sadness and hope. "If you're to become the new Perseus, you must master their power."
Bell hesitated for a moment before taking the Talaria from Riveria. He put them on, a determined look on his face.
"I'll do my best," he said, "but I can't make any promises."
Riveria smiled at Bell's courageous resolve. "Good, because there is a lot riding on your success. The fate of Orario rests in your hands. It's time to spread your wings, Bell Cranel."
"Okay, so... now what?"
"Focus your mind on the sandals," Riveria instructed. "Imagine yourself lifting off the ground, light as a feather."
Bell closed his eyes, concentrating on the Talaria. But nothing happened.
"Try again, Bell Cranel. Focus harder. Imagine yourself floating off the ground," Riveria urged.
But Bell just couldn't seem to get the hang of it. After several more attempts, he was getting frustrated.
"It's no good, Lady Riveria. I'm just not good enough. I'm useless."
"So, you're giving up? You disappoint me, Bell Cranel."
Her stern words cut through Bell like a knife.
"I-I'm sorry," he stammered, lowering his head in shame. "But it's the truth!"
"Bell Cranel, this is a pitiful display. You're a hero. Act like one."
"But what can I do? I'm just a weak and useless little rabbit!" Bell shouted back, tears welling up in his eyes. "I can't fly like Perseus, and I can't protect anyone! I'm not strong enough!"
"Don't wallow in pathetic self-pity, Bell Cranel. Stop your moping and strengthen your resolve. If you won't get off your backside, then I'm done with you."
"Sorry..." Bell said dejectedly.
Riveria sighed, running a hand through her emerald hair. "What happened to the boy who charged fearlessly at the Minotaur without hesitation? That is the boy I wish to see now, Bell Cranel. Not this weak, pathetic excuse for a so-called adventurer"
"Lady Riveria...I'm sorry I disappointed you."
"The one you should apologise to is Asfi Al Andromeda, not me."
Bell flinched as if he'd been slapped.
"Bell Cranel, will you allow yourself to be caged by your limitations? Or will you push past them and achieve the impossible?" Riveria questioned, her voice rising with passion.
"I...I don't know," Bell admitted.
"You don't know? You pusillaminous fool. Your indecisiveness is what holds you back, Bell Cranel. The one who dithers can never become a hero."
Bell let out a sigh of frustration. "This isn't going to work. I should just give up now."
Riveria grabbed Bell by the shoulders, her emerald eyes boring into his. "Do not give me that, Bell Cranel. Look at me and tell me that you want to quit. Did the heroes in the tales you read about as a little boy give up when the going got tough? No, that's right, they didn't. So pick yourself up. Or have I misjudged you? Did Asfi Al Andromeda die in vain? Perhaps you're not worthy of Aiz after all. You're just a frightened little boy."
Bell gazed up at Riveria's determined face, unable to look away. Her fierce gaze filled him with determination.
"No! I'm not giving up!"
"Good," Riveria said, smiling down at Bell. "Now that's what I wanted to hear. I know you can do this, Bell Cranel."
Bell took a deep breath and steeled his resolve.
"I-I'll try," Bell stammered, his voice full of uncertainty.
"The time for doubt is over. Do what you were born to do!" Riveria encouraged.
"I..." Bell closed his eyes, focusing his mind on the Talaria. He felt a tingling sensation in his feet, a feeling of weightlessness. Slowly, he began to rise, his feet leaving the ground as the sandals' magic took hold. A grin spread across his face as he hovered a few inches above the earth.
"I'm doing it, Riveria!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with childlike wonder. "I'm really flying!"
Riveria allowed herself a small smile, pride swelling in her chest. "Good, Bell Cranel. Now, try to move forward, but take it slow—"
Before she could finish her sentence, Bell's eyes snapped open, and he shot forward like an arrow released from a bow. The sudden acceleration caught him off guard, and he flailed his arms, trying to regain control.
"Bell Cranel, slow down! Slow down!" Riveria cried, but it was too late.
Bell was already careening out of control, speeding through the sky at breakneck speeds., his trajectory erratic and unpredictable. He narrowly avoided crashing into a tree, only to find himself hurtling directly towards Riveria.
Riveria's eyes widened in shock as she realized what was about to happen. She braced herself, but there was no time to move out of the way. Bell collided with her, sending them both tumbling to the ground in a tangle of limbs.
Bell landed on top of Riveria, their limbs tangled together in a heap. He quickly realized that his hand had found its way onto her chest, causing his eyes to widen in shock and embarrassment.
"Oh, um, sorry!" Bell stammered, hastily removing his hand as he scrambled to get off her.
Riveria let out a sigh, her expression exasperated as she pushed Bell off of her and got to her feet. She brushed herself off, shaking her head in disbelief.
"Seriously, Bell Cranel, how'd you even manage that? You've perfected the lucky pervert trope to an art form."
"Um, I..." Bell stammered, his face beet red as he stared down at his feet in shame.
Riveria placed her hand on his shoulder and gave him a reassuring smile. "But because it's you, I shall forgive you. However, I'll have to punish you later. On a bed."
"A-a bed?" Bell replied, his eyes wide with shock.
Riveria chuckled, her voice filled with mirth. "Yes, Bell Cranel, a bed. But first, we must teach you how to fly properly. Because, if I'm being honest, your current performance is utterly dismal. Let's start again, shall we?"
"Yeah, I'll try. This is way harder than I thought."
Riveria couldn't help but chuckle at his innocence. "Good, now focus. Keep your mind calm and clear."
Bell nodded, closing his eyes and concentrating on the Talaria once more.
Riveria watched as Bell slowly rose into the air, his movements steady and controlled.
"Remember, you can never be a hero if you can't even fly without crashing."
Bell nodded, determined to improve. "Right. I'm ready, Lady Riveria."
He took a deep breath, focusing on the winged sandals once more. With a gentle push, he lifted off the ground, hovering a few feet above the earth. This time, he moved forward at a slower, more controlled pace, managing to avoid any obstacles in his path.
Riveria watched him with a mixture of pride and relief. "Much better, Bell. Keep it up."
As Bell continued to practice, Riveria's thoughts drifted to Asfi, the fallen Perseus. She wondered what Asfi would think of Bell, the adventurer chosen to take on her mantle. Despite the awkward start to their training, Riveria couldn't help but feel hopeful that Bell might just be the hero they needed to defeat Medusa and avenge Asfi's sacrifice.
Riveria watched from the sidelines as Bell trained with the Talaria. He had come a long way since their first session, mastering the winged sandals' power and gaining full control over his flight.
Bell landed gracefully on the ground, a confident grin on his face. Riveria approached him, a proud smile gracing her features.
"Impressive, Bell Cranel," she praised. "Your diligence and determination is truly astonishing."
"Thanks to your teachings, Lady Riveria," Bell replied, humbly.
"Yes, but I was a bit curt though, wasn't I? Forgive me for my harsh words that day."
Bell shook his head. "No, you were right. I needed that push to get me going."
"Indeed, but you still have a long way to go before you're ready to face Medusa."
"I know, but I'll get there," Bell said, his voice filled with confidence.
Riveria nodded in agreement, a smirk crossing her face. "If Asfi Al Andromeda could see you now, she would be so proud of you."
At the mention of Asfi, Bell's expression sobered. He looked down at the Talaria, a determined glint in his eyes.
"I promise I won't let her sacrifice be in vain," he said.
Riveria placed her hand on Bell's shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I know you won't. Now, let's continue your training."
Bell looked up at her, a mischievous smile tugging at his lips. "Actually, I have an idea."
"Oh? And what would that be?" Riveria asked, a note of amusement in her voice.
"W-W-W-Would you c-care... t-t-to join me?"
Riveria blinked in surprise at his suggestion, not expecting such an invitation from Bell.
"Join you? You mean like..."
Bell cleared his throat before answering, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "Well, um, you could...uh..."
Riveria raised an eyebrow expectantly as she waited for him to continue.
Bell took a deep breath and then blurted out the words, "Riveria-sama! Please let me carry you!"
Before Riveria could react, Bell swept her off her feet, cradling her in his arms as he took to the sky. She let out a surprised gasp, instinctively wrapping her arms around his neck.
"Bell Cranel, what do you think you're doing?" she demanded, her voice a mix of shock and amusement.
"Um...flying?" Bell answered sheepishly.
"I can see that, Bell Cranel. I mean, why did you suddenly decide to carry me in this manner? We are not eloping, are we?"
"E-E-Eloping? No! Of course not!" Bell stammered. "I just wanted to...um...I just wanted to hold you like this."
"Hmmm, I see. Well then, I'm not entirely against it."
As they flew through the air, Riveria found herself relaxing in Bell's arms.
He soared higher, the moonlight bathing them in its gentle glow. Riveria found herself captivated by the sight of Orario sprawled out beneath them, the city lights twinkling like stars.
As they flew, Bell held her close, his arms strong and secure around her. Riveria could feel the warmth of his body, the steady beat of his heart. Her own heart raced, a fluttering sensation filling her chest.
She looked up at him, her emerald eyes meeting his crimson ones. In that moment, everything else seemed to fade away. It was just the two of them, soaring through the night sky, lost in each other's presence.
Bell's gaze softened, a tender smile gracing his features. "Lady Riveria, I..."
He trailed off, seeming to lose himself in her eyes. Riveria felt a blush creep onto her cheeks, her heart hammering against her ribcage. She could sense the desire between them, an electric tension crackling in the air.
As they descended to the ground, Riveria knew what she wanted — what she had desired ever since the moment she had laid eyes on him. But before she could act on her desires, Bell gently set her down on solid ground. She looked up at him with a mixture of disappointment and longing.
"Bell Cranel..." she whispered.
Bell gazed down at her with an intense expression on his face. "Riveria."
Hearing him say her name sent a shiver down Riveria's spine. She licked her lips unconsciously, her mouth suddenly dry.
Bell reached out and cupped her cheek in his hand, his touch sending a jolt of pleasure through her body. Her skin burned where he touched her, the fire spreading throughout her entire body.
Without warning, Bell pulled her into his arms once more, his lips claiming hers in a passionate kiss. Riveria melted into his embrace, losing herself in the sweet taste of his mouth. He kissed her with a fierce intensity, his lips moving against hers in a sensual rhythm. Then, she suddenly pulled away.
"Bell Cranel, this just isn't right. It isn't fair on Aiz." Riveria said, guilt weighing heavily on her heart.
"What's wrong?" Bell asked, confused by her sudden change in demeanor.
"You aren't being faithful to Aiz."
"I'm not?" Bell asked.
"No, you aren't," Riveria stated, matter-of-factly. "You haven't been faithful to her ever since I entered the picture."
"Honestly, I had no idea Miss Aiz felt that way about me."
"You should have known. She's been in love with you for a long time," Riveria responded with a hint of amusement in her voice. "Now that we are both after you, there can be only one winner."
"Riveria, I...I didn't know."
"Well now you do."
Bell frowned thoughtfully as he contemplated Riveria's words. "What would you have me do?"
"Make a choice, Bell Cranel. Between the two of us."
"I don't know if I can choose. You both mean so much to me."
Riveria narrowed her eyes at him, her expression serious. "You must choose, Bell Cranel. It's either me or Aiz."
Bell felt torn, his heart pulled in two directions. He cared deeply for both Aiz and Riveria, but he knew he couldn't keep stringing them along. It wasn't fair to either of them.
"I...I need some time to think," Bell said, his voice filled with uncertainty.
Riveria nodded, her expression softening. "I understand, Bell Cranel. Take all the time you need."
She turned to leave, but Bell reached out and grabbed her hand, stopping her in her tracks.
"Wait, Riveria," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
She looked back at him, her emerald eyes searching his face.
"I...I don't want to lose you," Bell admitted, his voice cracking with emotion.
Riveria's heart skipped a beat at his words. She knew she shouldn't get her hopes up, but she couldn't help the warmth that spread through her chest.
"You won't lose me, Bell Cranel," she assured him. "No matter what you decide, I will always be here for you."
Bell nodded, a grateful smile tugging at his lips. "Thank you, Riveria."
She gave his hand a gentle squeeze before releasing it. "Now, go and think things through. I'll be waiting for your answer."
With that, Riveria turned and walked away, leaving Bell alone with his thoughts. He watched her go, his heart heavy with the weight of the decision he had to make.
He knew he couldn't keep both Aiz and Riveria waiting forever. He had to choose, and soon. But how could he possibly choose between two women he cared for so deeply?
Bell sighed, running a hand through his white hair. He had a lot of soul-searching to do, and he knew it wouldn't be easy. But he owed it to both Aiz and Riveria to be honest with himself and with them.
As he stood there, lost in thought, a sudden realization hit him. No matter what he decided, someone was going to get hurt. The thought made his heart ache, but he knew there was no way around it.
He just hoped that, in the end, he would make the right choice - not just for himself, but for everyone involved.
Riveria Ljos Alf, Finn Deimne, and Gareth Landrock, three esteemed leaders of the Loki Familia, convened in the captain's office within the ornate Twilight Manor. Their perilous mission to defeat the monstrous Medusa was fast approaching. As the room filled with tension, Finn broke the silence.
"Riveria," he inquired, "Isn't it true that Bell Cranel is hiding here?"
Riveria hesitated, attempting to maintain her composure. "I'm not sure what you're implying."
Finn narrowed his eyes, sensing her reluctance. "Riveria, please. I'm aware that you've been concealing him within these walls."
Riveria raised an eyebrow, feigning ignorance. "And what leads you to believe that?"
"Riveria, we've known each other for too long," Finn said with a sigh. "You're a terrible liar. Bell Cranel mysteriously disappears, and suddenly, this enigmatic blonde elven princess appears out of nowhere. It's not rocket science to connect the dots."
With a heavy sigh, Riveria finally conceded. "Alright, Finn. Yes, Bell Cranel is here."
Finn's expression softened, and he asked, "Why didn't you confide in us, Riveria? This isn't like you."
"I apologize, Finn," Riveria admitted. "I didn't want to risk endangering the new Perseus by revealing his presence to others."
"We're your comrades, Riveria," Finn said, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We could have collaborated to protect Bell. Cranel"
"Lefiya can be unpredictable, Finn," Riveria worriedly explained. "If she discovers Bell Cranel is here, there's no telling what she might do."
Finn chuckled and teased, "That boy has certainly made an impression on you, hasn't he?"
Riveria smiled, blushing at the thought of Bell. "Please, Finn, stop teasing me."
"Riveria, be honest with me: how do you really feel about him?" Finn asked, his curiosity piqued.
"I..." Riveria trailed off, unsure of how to answer his question.
"Come on, you can tell me," Finn coaxed with a smirk on his face.
Riveria took a deep breath and then confessed, "I...I'm fond of him! Is that so strange?"
Finn chuckled and shook his head. "Not at all. In fact, it's not surprising. Bell Cranel is a remarkable young man, Riveria. He's handsome, strong, and noble. It's only natural that you'd fall for him."
"But what about Aiz? Shouldn't he be with her?" Riveria wondered out loud.
"Perhaps he's just not interested in her as he used to be. Maybe he needs someone new," Finn mused.
Riveria's expression grew conflicted. "I'm not sure, Finn. I'm afraid that my selfish actions may have put a wedge between them. I've ruined everything for her."
"Do you really believe that?" Finn asked.
Riveria shrugged helplessly. "I don't know!"
Finn nodded, understanding Riveria's predicament. Gazing at her with kind blue eyes, he remarked, "I'd never thought I'd see the day, Riveria. The once aloof, cold, and cynical high elf has transformed into a lovesick maiden. Bell Cranel must truly be something special."
Riveria sighed wistfully, her eyes glazing over. "Yes, he's extraordinary. I've never met anyone like him before."
Finn laughed, trying to lighten the mood. "Indeed. But don't let Aiz overhear you saying that. She might throw a fit."
Riveria frowned, closing one eye. "I'm not so sure. I suspect that Aiz already knows of my feelings for that boy. And my attraction to him. After all, she's been in love with Bell Cranel for quite some time now."
Gareth, who had been listening quietly, finally chimed in, unable to contain himself any longer. "Riveria, you're a very, very, very late bloomer. No wonder you're so lovesick!"
Riveria's cheeks flushed an even deeper shade of red, but she couldn't deny Gareth's words. They were true.
"The real question is," Gareth continued, grinning mischievously, "has the new heir to the high elf throne been conceived yet? A baby would be just the thing to brighten up my old, weary eyes."
Riveria's face turned beet red, her embarrassment reaching new heights. "You insolent dwarf! How dare you!"
Gareth burst into laughter as he tried to dodge the irate high elf, who was now in hot pursuit.
"Are you going to be an actual mama? Will the elves have a new prince or princess?" Gareth teased, dodging Riveria's attempts to smack him over the head with her staff.
Finn smiled, amused by their antics. He could sense that Bell Cranel's arrival would change the Loki Familia forever.
"That boy certainly brings out the best in Riveria," Finn thought, observing her unusually fiery expression.
"I'm sorry to disappoint you both, but my chastity still remains intact." Riveria growled, her flushed face growing even redder.
"Not for long, I'm sure," Gareth retorted, still laughing. "Just think of the wedding night with Bell Cranel. I imagine you'll be pregnant within the week."
"Be quiet, you insufferable dwarf!"
"Hey, hey, what's all this commotion I hear about Riveria's impending pregnancy?" Loki asked, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Nothing, Loki, we're just having a bit of fun," Finn explained, trying to quell Loki's curiosity.
"Come on, Finn! Don't be a spoil-sport!" Loki pleaded, eager to tease Riveria further.
"Enough!" Riveria exclaimed, ending her teasing. "We have more pressing matters to discuss than my love life."
"Very well," Finn conceded, deciding to return to the topic at hand.
Riveria glared at Gareth, but she stopped chasing him and composed herself.
Finn turned his attention to Riveria and asked, "Riveria, in your judgment, is Bell Cranel ready for the expedition?"
"I believe so, Finn. He's come a long way since his arrival here in Orario. Even when he had nothing, he refused to give up, and I think that's the greatest testament to his character." Riveria paused for a moment, collecting her thoughts before continuing, "His courage and dedication inspire me, Finn. Bell Cranel is stronger now, both physically and mentally. I have every confidence that he's prepared to tackle whatever dangers may lie ahead on this expedition."
Gareth stroked his beard and hummed in thought.
Finn nodded, taking in Riveria's assessment of Bell's readiness. "Very well, Riveria. If you believe Bell is prepared, then I trust your judgment."
Gareth, who had been quietly contemplating, finally spoke up. "Riveria, I must ask: What do you think Ais's reaction will be when she discovers the truth about Bell's disguise?"
Riveria's expression grew somber. "I fear Ais may not take the news well, Gareth. Her feelings for Bell run deep, and learning of his deception, even if it was for his own protection, could be a bitter pill for her to swallow."
Finn sighed, understanding the gravity of the situation. "We'll have to handle this delicately. The last thing we need is discord within our ranks on the eve of such a critical mission."
Riveria nodded in agreement. "I'll speak with Ais privately and explain the situation to her. Hopefully, she'll understand the necessity of our actions."
Gareth chuckled, attempting to lighten the mood. "Well, at least we know one thing for certain: Lefiya is going to have a field day with this information."
Riveria rolled her eyes, imagining the young elf's reaction. "Lefiya's jealousy knows no bounds. I can already picture her bombarding me with endless questions about Bell Cranel's disguise."
Finn smiled, appreciating Gareth's effort to ease the tension. "Let's focus on the task at hand. We have an expedition to prepare for, and a monster to slay. Bell Cranel's true identity must remain a secret until the time is right."
Riveria and Gareth nodded in agreement, understanding the importance of keeping Bell's true identity a closely guarded secret. As they concluded their meeting, the three familia members left the captain's office, each of them weighed down by the burden of responsibility on their shoulders.
Bell Cranel stood in awe as he gazed upon the divine armaments laid out before him. The Hestia Knife, a faithful companion throughout his adventures, seemed to pale in comparison to the legendary weapons that now beckoned to him. Hermes, the messenger god, stepped forward, his eyes twinkling with mischief and purpose.
"Bell Cranel," Hermes began, his voice resonating with an otherworldly authority, "the time has come for you to wield the weapons of the gods themselves. These holy relics have seen battles in the heavens, and now, they shall aid you in your quest to vanquish the monstrous Medusa."
Hermes gestured towards a magnificent sickle-shaped long-sword, its blade gleaming with an ethereal light. "Behold, the Harpe," he declared, "the very weapon used to depose the mighty Cronus. Its edge is sharp enough to cleave through the toughest of hides, and its divine essence will grant you strength beyond measure."
Bell reached out tentatively, his fingers trembling as they wrapped around the Harpe's hilt. As he lifted the sword, a surge of power coursed through his veins, and he felt an unbreakable connection to the weapon, as if it had been forged specifically for him.
Hermes smiled approvingly as he watched Bell test out the Harpe's weight and balance.
"Good, good," Hermes said, nodding his approval. "You're a natural."
Next, Hermes presented a polished shield, its surface so reflective that it seemed to capture and bend the very light around it. "And this," the god continued, "is a shield imbued with the power to deflect Medusa's petrifying gaze. It will serve as your bulwark against her deadly stare, ensuring that you remain unscathed in the heat of battle. We have named it Lampas, the bringer of light into darkness"
Bell took the shield, marveling at its perfect balance and the intricate engravings that adorned its surface. He could feel the ancient magic thrumming within the metal, a testament to the divine craftsmanship that had gone into its creation.
"How do you feel, Bell Cranel?" Hermes inquired, a knowing gleam in his eyes.
"I...I feel powerful," Bell stammered, his voice filled with awe.
Hermes chuckled, his expression filled with mirth. "That is because you are destined for greatness, Bell Cranel. These holy relics have been entrusted to you, and only you, to defeat the monstrous Medusa. If you fail, then there is no force on Earth that can stop Medusa."
Bell gripped the Harpe and Lampas tightly, his resolve strengthening as Hermes' dire warning echoed in his ears.
Bell nodded solemnly, accepting his burden.
Riveria watched from the sidelines, her heart swelling with pride and admiration for the young man she had come to love. Sensing her presence, Bell looked up at her, his crimson eyes filled with determination.
"Lady Riveria," he said, his voice laced with conviction, "I swear on my honor that I will not fail. I will defeat Medusa and bring peace back to Orario."
Riveria smiled at him, her expression filled with tenderness and affection. "The fate of the entire world is in your hands, Bell Cranel," she whispered. "But, I promise you, I will never leave your side. I will follow you to the bitter end. This I swear."
Hermes grinned at the exchange, noting Riveria's obvious affections for Bell. "Bell Cranel," Hermes mused, "you are truly blessed to have such a powerful ally by your side."
Bell's eyes widened at Hermes' words, his cheeks flushing a brilliant red as he realized what Hermes was implying. "Lady Riveria...I..." he stammered, struggling to find the right words.
Riveria chuckled at Bell's flustered reaction, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Do not worry, Bell Cranel," she assured him. "You can rely on me."
"I know I can, Riveria. I trust you completely."
Hermes smirked in amusement as he watched Riveria's face turn an even deeper shade of red.
"Then it is settled," Hermes announced, his eyes twinkling with mischief and mirth.
Hermes then placed a hand on Bell's shoulder, his eyes gleaming with a mix of solemnity and anticipation. "Bell Cranel, there is one more thing you must know about these divine weapons," he said, his voice low and urgent.
Bell looked up at the god, his heart racing with a sense of destiny. "What is it, Lord Hermes?" he asked, his grip tightening on the Harpe.
"The Harpe, powerful as it may be, cannot defeat Medusa on its own," Hermes explained, his gaze locked with Bell's. "To truly vanquish this monstrous foe, you must unite the Harpe with the Light Bond Shield, a divine artifact that can only be wielded by those whose hearts are pure and whose love is true."
Bell's eyes widened, and he glanced over at Riveria, who stood nearby, her expression a mix of surprise and understanding. "The Light Bond Shield?" he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper.
Hermes nodded, a knowing smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Yes, Bell. The Light Bond Shield is a manifestation of the unbreakable bond between two souls, a love so powerful that it can overcome even the darkest of evils. And I believe that you and Riveria possess just such a bond."
Bell and Riveria exchanged a meaningful look, both of them suddenly aware of the significance of Hermes' words.
"Me and Lady Riveria..." Bell said softly, trailing off as he tried to process this revelation.
"Yes," Hermes confirmed, his gaze never wavering from Bell's. "Her love for you and your love for her. Only by joining these two forces together can you hope to defeat Medusa."
Bell gulped nervously, his heart pounding in his chest as he contemplated Hermes' words. Riveria stood silent and unmoving, her face flushed with emotion as she struggled to keep her composure.
"Bell Cranel," Riveria whispered, her voice shaking slightly with emotion. "I..."
Before she could finish her sentence, Bell wrapped her in a tight embrace, holding her close as he tried to calm both their hearts.
Hermes chuckled quietly to himself, observing their passionate display with satisfaction. "You see?" he murmured. "True love conquers all."
Riveria melted into Bell's arms, surrendering herself to the warmth of his embrace and the comfort of his presence. She trembled slightly in Bell's arms, unable to contain her emotions any longer. "Bell Cranel..." she murmured, her voice choked with tears.
As her heart fluttered wildly in her chest, Riveria made up her mind. Stepping forward, she took Bell's hand in hers and gazed into his crimson eyes.
"Bell Cranel," she whispered again, "I've decided that I would like to have a child of my own, some day. And if that day should ever come, will you be at my side? When you're older, of course!"
Bell was startled by Riveria's sudden proposal, but he couldn't deny the deep affection and longing he felt for the beautiful high elf. "Lady Riveria," he began hesitantly, "I would be honored."
Riveria smiled up at him, her emerald eyes sparkling with joy and love. "Thank you, Bell Cranel," she said, squeezing his hand gently.
Hermes watched the scene unfold with a contented sigh, his mission accomplished. "Bell Cranel," he called out, interrupting the tender moment between Riveria and Bell, "are you ready for the task at hand?"
Bell nodded solemnly, gripping Riveria's hand tightly in his own as he faced Hermes. "Yes, Lord Hermes," he replied, his voice brimming with confidence and determination.
Hermes smiled, a glimmer of pride and satisfaction in his eyes. "Then go forth, Bell Cranel, and embrace your destiny. The gods themselves have chosen you for this task, and with Riveria at your side, I have no doubt that you will emerge victorious."
Bell blushed as he turned his attention back to the Harpe and Lampas in his hands. With a determined expression on his face, he vowed once more, "I want to be a hero, like in the stories my grandpa used read to me. I can't let them down. I have to defeat Medusa and save Orario."
Hermes nodded his approval, satisfied that Bell was prepared to undertake such a daunting task. "Then it is time," the god announced, his voice booming with authority. "Bell Cranel, rise and take your place among the ranks of the chosen heroes, for this is your moment of destiny!"
Riveria watched as Hermes led Bell away, her heart filled with an intense mixture of pride, affection, and fierce protectiveness.