Eirlys hovered in the twilight of consciousness, feeling connected to her mother's heartbeat. She was gripped by a new kind of fear—a primal terror that seemed to echo through her entire being. She reached out to connect with her unborn self within Riveria, feeling a mix of comforting warmth and distress. It left her with a deep sense of foreboding as she was acutely aware that her mother was in grave danger.
"Eirlys-san, is something wrong?" Loki's voice quivered.
"Mother's in danger. We need to act now."
She could sense Riveria fighting for her life, that of herself, and her future daughter. There was still time, but there wasn't much.
A few more heartbeats passed, Eirlys straining to maintain the connection between herself and her mother.
"Wait, my Riveria's in danger? How d'ya know?" Loki exclaimed in an alarmed tone.
"It's the Inoborna Ljos," Eirlys explained quickly.
"The what?" Loki asked, puzzled.
"The Unborn Light. It's linked to me, manifesting because of the danger surrounding my mother and everyone else."
"And what about my Bell-kun?" Hestia voiced the concern they were all thinking.
"I don't know, Hestia. I really do not know," Eirlys whispered. "But whatever happens, I need you all to trust me. Our future depends on it."
Loki frowned. "Inoborna Ljos... ancient magic tied to unborn children?"
"Yes," Eirlys confirmed. "It creates a radiant light that can heal wounds and dispel dark magic. But it can only activate if I'm strong enough from within my mother."
The Goddesses shared a glance. The room was silent for a few moments before Loki spoke up.
"Alright then. So what d'ya need us to do?"
Eirlys felt the goddesses' hands close around her own.
"You need to reach them in the Dungeon," Eirlys said firmly. "They can't do this alone."
Loki glanced at Hestia before returning her gaze to Eirlys. "But the Dungeon's been sealed."
Eirlys reached out once more, feeling for her mother. She felt her presence and even her thoughts and emotions. It was faint, but it was there.
"Stay strong, Mama, like you always are," Eirlys whispered. Her other self could hear her; she was sure of it. "Just hold on a little longer."
She had no doubt that her mother would stay alive until she was born.
Loki grinned, mischief dancing at the edges of her smile despite the seriousness of the situation. "So what are we waiting for? We got kids to save, and I ain't lettin' no stone wall stop me! Riveria-mama, I will feel up those voluptuous breasts of yours once more, so don't go dyin' on me!"
"B-Bell-kun! Everyone...!" Hestia stuttered.
Eirlys took a deep breath. They could do this. She knew they could.
Eirlys felt a rush of relief mixed with lingering anxiety. "Thank you," she whispered. "For Mama. For Papa. And for the future."
Hestia beamed. "Leave it to us, Eirlys-chan!"
Eirlys nodded firmly and turned to Loki. "Be careful."
"Oh yeah." Loki smirked. "Let's do this, itty-bitty shrimpy!"
"You got it, tiny tits!" Hestia shot back with a grin.
They were the exact same, weren't they?
With a shared nod of understanding and purpose, Loki and Hestia prepared to embark on a journey fraught with peril but driven by love and an unyielding resolve to protect their own.
Eirlys reached out as far as she could, feeling herself reconnect with her mother's body.
And as Eirlys' spirit began to fade back into the temporal flow, she sent one final message to her unborn self: Hold on just a little longer; help is coming.
---
The dungeon crackled with an eerie silence as Tyratryx's laughter echoed through the clearing. Bell's heart pounded, eyes scanning the twisted expressions of his comrades. Ais, Tiona, Lefiya—all of them were advancing on Riveria, their movements jerky and unnatural.
Riveria's voice trembled. "Bell, please forgive me, but the Light Bond Shield is our only chance."
"No!" Bell's shout cut through the tension. "You can't. It'll kill you—and our child."
"I'm open to suggestions," Riveria replied, her tone stern. "But it appears we're out of options."
Bell gritted his teeth, fighting back a frustrated scream. His thoughts raced as he searched his mind for some way to stall, to buy them more time. He found nothing.
A flicker of defiance shone in Riveria's eyes, but it quickly turned to sorrow. She gripped her staff tightly, struggling against the rising panic. Her gaze met Bell's, pleading for another solution.
Ais's sword gleamed in the dim light as she closed in. "I... can't... stop..."
Finn's spear hovered inches from Riveria's chest, his muscles straining with futile resistance. "Bell Cranel... it's all up to you now!"
Bell stepped forward, placing himself between Riveria and their friends. He clenched his fists, feeling helpless yet resolute. "Show yourself, Medusa!"
"That is not my name!!" a voice hissed from the shadows. "Medusa is the weakling I used to be, but I have been reborn as Tyratryx."
Bell scanned the shadows for the source of the voice. "Tell them to stand down, Tyratryx!" he demanded.
"Why?" the voice spat. "Because you love your friends so much?"
Bell felt his temper flare. "Yes, I do!"
A harsh laugh echoed through the darkness. "You can never win, Bell. You'll never save them now."
"Liar!" Bell screamed. "I will not give up! I'll defeat you and save everyone! Come face me!"
Tyratryx's laughter rang out once again, sending a shiver down Bell's spine. "Anytime, Bell. I'll be waiting for you at the top of my castle, so meet me there soon. If you can, that is!"
Bell knew they had no idea where the entrance to her castle was.
"I won't play your games," he responded through gritted teeth. "Let them go!"
"Now why would I do a thing like that, Bell, my love?" The voice was mocking, almost teasing. "You will all feel the true power of Tyratryx."
"Even with all that power, you're scared to face me yourself?" Bell taunted. "Why? Are you afraid I'll kill you?"
"You? Kill me?" She laughed. "You couldn't even hurt a fly, even if the fly gave you a chance."
"It's not too late," Bell pleaded, his voice dropping to a whisper. "I beg you, please don't do this."
Riveria's grip tightened on her staff, ready to defy Bell's plea. "Bell—"
"No," Bell insisted, his voice firm but gentle. He turned to face their approaching comrades. "Fight it! I know you're stronger than this!"
Lefiya's hands shook as she aimed a spell at Riveria. "I'm so sorry, Riveria-sama!" she whispered through gritted teeth.
Bell extended his arms, trying to shield Riveria with his own body. "Remember who you are! You're Loki Familia! A band of heroes that always stood against the darkness! That has to count for something, right? Right!? I know you can overcome this!"
He watched them struggle against the dark magic, their faces contorting with conflicting emotions. He took a tentative step forward, reaching out with a trembling hand.
Ais hesitated, her sword wavering for a moment before pushing forward again under Tyratryx's control.
Tiona screamed, tears streaming down her face as she struggled against invisible chains binding her actions.
Desperation fueled Bell's resolve as he faced Tyratryx once more. "Medusa, please, I'm begging you! Just stop! Think!"
A burst of manic laughter echoed through the cavern, its sibilant tones filled with mirth and menace.
"Oh, Bell." Tyratryx giggled. "Medusa and Tyratryx are one and the same. I became Tyratryx once the Dungeon chose me. The Dungeon's song is the only one I can hear, beckoning me to make war on all of you. The Dungeon wants all of you parasites dead."
"Do not," Bell pleaded. "Do not do this! Don't take away everything I have worked so hard to build!"
Tyratryx did not answer, and her silence was deafening.
Bell fell to his knees. "Medusa... for all your evil, I'll never abandon a damsel in distress. Never!"
A sharp intake of breath emanated from the darkness, followed by a slow exhale. Tyratryx chuckled softly as Bell looked on helplessly, his gaze shifting between his companions and the shadows.
"Ljos Alf Nine Hell," she said. "I will not stop at nothing until everything that's yours is mine."
With a single word, Ais raised her sword high, ready to strike. Tiona's Urga quivered as she pressed it against Bell's exposed neck.
Lefiya's fingers shook as she whispered the words of her incantation.
"Then, Medusa, if I have to defeat you in order to save you, so be it."
Bell felt the last shreds of hope evaporate as he stood to face his friends once more. Riveria had closed her eyes and lowered her head, her expression a mask of resignation. He gritted his teeth, his resolve strengthened by a lifetime of heroism and compassion.
A flash of determination lit up Bell's eyes as he took a deep breath. He placed a hand on Riveria's belly and looked into her eyes.
"We'll find a way," he whispered. "I promise."
Riveria's mind raced, her body trembling with the enormity of the moment. She had to protect Bell, their child, and her friends.
In the middle of her inner struggle, she felt a soft whisper touching her thoughts like a warm breeze on a summer day. It was clear and comforting, as if it had been sent just for her, giving her a much-needed moment of peace in the middle of all the chaos.
"Mother, use me. I'll protect you."
Am I going mad? Riveria pondered. The thought of insanity was more than she could bear in this situation.
"Mother, it's me. I'm with you right now."
"Who are you?!"
"Your unborn daughter."
Riveria's eyes widened. It was the spirit of her unborn daughter. Her breath caught in her throat as she processed the message. This was no ordinary plea—it was a lifeline. Her child's voice echoed within her, gentle yet unwavering.
"Stop this foolishness! You're just an embryo!" Riveria exclaimed aloud but mentally she added: "You shouldn't be able to speak like this."
"I have no voice of my own, Mama. I can only talk to you through our bond. But that bond transcends time. A time when your daughter has grown up."
Riveria found comfort in those words and trusted the connection. "Very well, my child. We will do this together."
Riveria clung to the warmth within her belly as a profound sense of purpose and understanding washed over her.
A surge of ancient magic stirred within Riveria, one she had never felt before. A soft, golden light began to emanate from her belly, spreading warmth through her veins. The light grew brighter, enveloping her in a radiant aura that pulsed with life. She recognized it as Inoborna Ljos, an ancient ability borrowing strength from her unborn daughter.
She straightened, feeling Bell's hand still on her belly, his touch grounding her. "Bell," she whispered, her voice steadying with newfound resolve. "I have a way."
He looked at her with a mixture of hope and desperation. "Riveria?"
"Trust me," she said, her voice carrying an authority that brooked no argument.
Bell nodded, stepping back but keeping close enough to shield her if necessary.
Riveria closed her eyes and reached deep within herself, calling upon the bond with her unborn daughter. A luminescent aura began to envelop her, growing brighter and stronger with each passing second. The magic felt ancient and powerful—like the very essence of life itself.
Ais and the others halted in their tracks, their movements stuttering as if battling invisible chains. Tyratryx's mocking smile faltered for a moment as she sensed the shift in power.
"What is this?" Tyratryx hissed, eyes narrowing.
Riveria opened her eyes, now glowing with radiant energy. "This ends now," she declared.
A barrier of pure light expanded from Riveria, pushing back against the dark influence controlling their friends. The light was warm and soothing yet held an unyielding strength that repelled Tyratryx's malevolence.
Ais gasped as clarity returned to her eyes. "Riveria…"
The others followed suit, shaking off Tyratryx's control one by one.
Tyratryx snarled in frustration but did not retreat. Instead, she seemed to be calculating a new strategy.
Riveria held firm, feeling the unwavering support of both Bell and their unborn daughter flowing through her. She knew they still faced formidable odds but for now—they had a fighting chance.
With Bell by her side and their companions freed from Tyratryx's grasp, Riveria felt hope rekindle within her heart.
"Riveria Ljos Alf, you have interceded in my affairs for the final time. And now I will make your home on the surface pay dearly."
Riveria stared into the darkness where Tyratryx stood with a defiance that was unmatched.
"I will end your tyranny and bring the light of justice back to the surface."
"I have the means, the capabilities of striking your home of Alf's Royal Forest. Your people, the High Elves, will suffer for your repeated interference."
Riveria tensed, preparing herself for an attack. "I will not allow you to lay a single claw on my home."
"Who said anything about laying a claw on your home? I have far-reaching weapons, weapons you can't even imagine that will make your home burn."
"You're a monster, Tyratryx!"
"Thank you. That's the nicest thing anyone's ever said to me." Tyratryx chuckled.
"I will defeat you," Riveria stated calmly, "or I will die trying."
Tyratryx remained silent for a moment before responding. "I have no doubt you will try and die. Now then, Alf's Royal Forest will burn."
"Don't underestimate me, Tyratryx. You will not lay a single claw on my people or the people of Orario," Riveria promised.
"You have no idea how wrong you are. You really don't."
"Tyratryx," Riveria warned. "Do not underestimate me. I may be pregnant, but I will not hesitate to fight you with everything I have."
"But alas, my dear elf, it will not be enough. Not nearly enough."
Riveria gritted her teeth. "I am Riveria Ljos Alf, and I will defeat you."
---
Tyratryx seethed with rage within the confines of her dark, towering castle. Her plans had been meticulous, her traps laid with the precision of a master tactician. Yet once again, Riveria Ljos Alf had thwarted her, wielding ancient magic that Tyratryx had not foreseen.
The castle's cold stone walls seemed to tremble with her fury. She paced back and forth, her cloak swirling around her like a dark storm cloud. Her eyes blazed with an unnatural light, casting eerie shadows in the dimly lit chamber.
As she fumed, one of her loyal Gorgon-Spawn slithered into the room, its scales shimmering with an oily sheen. It bowed low before its queen, awaiting her command.
"Is everything prepared?" Tyratryx demanded, her voice a venomous hiss.
"The first missile weapons systems have reached the surface, my queen," the creature reported.
A sinister smile crept across Tyratryx's face. "Excellent," she purred. "Prepare to launch an attack immediately. Set the coordinates for Alf's Royal Forest."
The Gorgon-Spawn nodded and slithered away to carry out her orders.
Tyratryx moved to a dark corner of the room where a large map of Orario and its surroundings was unfurled across a table. Her eyes scanned the locations marked with precise detail: Alf's Royal Forest and Twilight Manor—the heart of Loki Familia.
She raised her hands, dark energy crackling at her fingertips as she chanted an incantation. The air around her shimmered with malevolent power as she connected with the missile systems now primed for launch.
"First," she whispered, focusing on Alf's Royal Forest. "I will rain death and destruction on your people, Nine Hell. Your people will suffer firsthand for your audacity to stand against me!"
With a wave of her hand, she sent the command. In distant launch sites hidden deep within the earth, missiles roared to life, their deadly payloads aimed at the lush expanse of Alf's Royal Forest.
"And then," she continued, her eyes gleaming with sadistic delight as she turned her attention to Twilight Manor. "I will destroy your precious Familia."
A second command was issued, and another volley of missiles ignited their engines, their trajectories set for Twilight Manor.
Tyratryx stood back, watching the dark magic-fueled screens displaying the progress of the missiles. She savoured the carnage that was about to fall innocents. Thousands of people will die.
Her expression was cold and cruel as she relished the thought of Riveria and her Familia suffering the consequences of their defiance.
"Nine Hell, your people are going to the first to feel the full force of my latest explosive ballistic technology. It will be a sight to behold."
"You are no queen, Tyratryx. You're a monster," Riveria whispered into the void, hoping the serpentine fiend could hear her. "How dare you launch an attack on my people!"
"Oh, and I'll hit your Familia's home of Twilight Manor too, just because I can."
"I will bring you down," Riveria stated with a cold certainty that chilled even her own blood. "I will do everything I can to bring you down."
"I'll even show you the devastation unfold live," Tyratryx offered with a menacing hiss. "This will be a spectacle to die for, Nine Hell."
The warmth of Bell's hand on her belly grounded her, but an unsettling feeling began to creep in. Invisible screens appeared all around the party displaying various locations of Orario. They were essentially connected by video feed with the missile attack.
Riveria watched in horror as a barrage of missiles soared through the air, their fiery trails burning bright against the darkness of the night sky.
"No," she whispered, her hand instinctively clutching Bell's arm as she felt his body tense beside her. "This cannot be happening."
Tyratryx's laughter echoed through the cavern as the missiles screamed through the air, closing in on their targets with devastating speed and force. Riveria could only watch in despair as the missiles struck Alf's Royal Forest, blasting through trees and homes with a deafening roar. Flames engulfed the once-lush landscape, consuming everything in their path with destructive fury. Massive fires erupted, consuming ancient trees that had stood for millennia. The flames roared hungrily, devouring the sacred forest and sending plumes of smoke spiraling into the sky.
In the midst of the chaos, Riveria spotted a small group of Elves frantically attempting to escape the devastation. But it was no use: they were trapped between the blazing inferno and a collapsed tunnel entrance. They cowered together, their faces contorted in terror as the flames drew closer and closer.
Eirlys's emotions surged through their bond like a tidal wave. Fear, sorrow, anger—all intermingled and amplified within Riveria's mind. She could feel Eirlys's spirit reaching out to her with a desperate plea for protection and solace.
"Mama," Eirlys's voice trembled within Riveria's thoughts. "Our home… it's burning."
"I'm so sorry, Eirlys." Riveria's heart ached with grief and rage, but she forced herself to remain calm. "I promise we will do everything we can to make this right."
Riveria knew Eirlys understood, and she could feel her unborn daughter's spirit lending her strength and comfort in return.
Then the earth shuddered violently beneath their feet. A deafening roar filled the air as the first missiles struck Twilight Manor. Riveria's breath caught in her throat as she saw explosions rip through the heart of Loki Familia's stronghold. The proud walls crumbled like sand towers, falling and flames consuming everything in their path. Her mind was a storm of emotions, each explosion resonating like a dagger in her heart. She clung to Bell, drawing on his strength to ground her.
"Mama," Eirlys whispered. "Are you all right?"
Riveria didn't know how to respond to such a question. The pain was almost unbearable.
Riveria squeezed her eyes shut against the searing images on display all around them, willing herself to maintain her composure.
"Stop this!" Riveria commanded, her voice barely a whisper. "Do you not see the evil you are inflicting upon my people? My Familia?"
"Of course I do," Tyratryx cooed. "And it is beautiful."
Tears stung Riveria's eyes as she struggled to control her emotions. "Please," she begged, her voice faltering. "Spare them."
"I do not know the meaning of pity."
Riveria was speechless as she watched the Elves' last moments unfold in horrific detail. Their screams filled the air as the flames consumed them, their bodies reduced to ashes in a matter of seconds.
Riveria sank to her knees, her eyes fixed on the gruesome scene before her. Tears streamed down her cheeks as the reality of what had happened settled in.
"You are a monster!"
Bell desperately tried to comfort her. "Riveria..." he whispered as he tried to embrace her, but Riveria pushed him away as she sat in shock.
Riveria shook her head as the reality of the situation set in.
"Medusa..." Bell said. "Why have you done this?"
"Why? Why? Because that Nine Hell bitch keeps getting in my way! Because you refuse to be mine! Because you turned your back on me!"
"There was no need to do that," Bell said quietly. "All of this death and for what?"
"It's what the choir demands," Tyratryx hissed.
"What does that even mean?" Bell cried out, his voice filled with pain. "Why did you have to kill all those innocent people?"
"I am not finished yet," Tyratryx proclaimed. "There are no innocent High Elves. I will wipe your kind off the face of the Earth, Ljos Alf! I will destroy your entire race and all evidence that they ever existed at all! The world will be bereft of Celdia's kin! And I will never, ever allow your child to be born into this world!"
"You're insane," Riveria whispered in disbelief. "What is this madness?"
"And what was the name of your old friend? Aina, wasn't it? Do not think she can escape my wrath."
Riveria looked up sharply, her eyes blazing with anger and sorrow. "Do not even dare to speak her name! You will not lay a claw on her!"
"I'll kill her. I'll kill her and her daughters and force you to watch them die! I will crush your Familia and everyone you love! Your kingdom will fall and be buried in ashes and forgotten!"
"Medusa!" Bell yelled into the darkness. "Please! Just stop!"
"And you, Bell Cranel, if you do not want me, I do not want you either. You will perish along with Ljos Alf and her kind. Such is the company you keep!"
"Enough!" Riveria cried out in anguish. "Enough is enough! You've gone too far this time, Medusa! I will not rest until I put an end to you, you maniac! I will rid the world of your tyranny for all time!"
The cavern fell silent for a moment before Tyratryx's reply came.
"Launch the second volley of missiles," Tyratryx instructed in a sickly sweet voice. "Target all remaining settlements."
"NO!" Riveria screamed in horror. "Do not do this!"
"Did you make up with your father, Ljos Alf? You won't get a chance to now because there is a very high likelihood he will be dead in due course."
Riveria struggled to find her voice amidst the turmoil of emotions coursing through her. "Father... Aina... I beg of you... survive... and wait for me..."
Tyratryx laughed cruelly as more missiles launched from the hidden tunnels just outside Orario, streaking toward their targets with terrifying speed and accuracy. Riveria could only watch in horror as the missiles found their marks, unleashing a rain of destruction upon her remaining brethren. Homes and temples were reduced to rubble, their inhabitants annihilated in an instant.
---
Loki and Hestia watched from a distance, their faces etched with horror and helplessness. "No," Loki whispered, her voice barely audible over the chaos. "This can't be happening."
"Loki," Hestia said softly, her eyes filling with tears. "I can't stand by and watch this!"
Loki hesitated for a moment before placing a reassuring hand on Hestia's shoulder.
Hestia's eyes filled with tears as she clung to Loki, both goddesses powerless to stop the destruction unfolding before them.
As the missiles continued to rain down upon Alf's Royal Forest and Twilight Manor, Loki gritted her teeth and clenched her fists in rage. "We can't just stand by and do nothing!"
"It's no use," Hestia replied sadly. "Only Bell-kun can stop Medusa."
"I don't give a damn! If that dumbass kid can't stop that wretched serpent, then I will! I'll beat some sense into that head of hers!"
"It's not enough, Loki!" Hestia exclaimed. "The Dungeon is still sealed and there's no way of reaching them without the orichalcum doors opening!"
Loki paused for a moment before determination set in her features. "Well, then I guess I'll have to bust open those damn doors myself!"
"Wait, what!?" Hestia yelped as Loki grabbed her hand and began sprinting toward Babel Tower. "There's no way we can do that!"
"Watch me," Loki retorted as she ran. "That's our Familia and our home we're talkin' about."
Hestia struggled to keep up with Loki's long strides, her heart pounding as she processed the gravity of their situation. "Loki, are you crazy?!"
"Maybe I am, but I ain't lettin' my Familia or Riveria die like this!"
They reached the massive structure of Babel Tower, its imposing walls seeming to stretch into the heavens above. Loki wasted no time, running past the first set of doors and heading straight for the Dungeon beyond.
"You're serious about this?" Hestia gasped as they approached the next set of doors.
"As serious as can be." Loki replied, a fierce gleam in her eyes.
Before Hestia could protest any further, Loki leaped toward the imposing doors, her body crackling with energy as she channeled every ounce of her divine power.
"Th-That's not allowed!" Hestia shrieked as Loki unleashed a powerful blast, obliterating the doors with a single strike.
The two goddesses stood before the smoking ruins of the doors, their faces etched with shock and disbelief at what they had just done.
"Wait!" Eirlys exclaimed, running to catch up with them. "It's dangerous to go alone. You're not going anywhere without me!"
Loki glanced back at Eirlys, a mixture of surprise and respect on her face. "Are you sure about this, silver Riveria? Once we enter the Dungeon, there's no turnin' back."
Eirlys met Loki's gaze with an unwavering determination that rivaled her mother's. "I'm sure."
Loki grinned and slapped Eirlys on the back. "Alright then. Let's do this!"
The three women rushed forward, their spirits soaring as they stepped into the unknown. The Dungeon was still sealed, but they would not stop until they reached Riveria and Bell's side.
---
Riveria's knees buckled under the weight of the shared grief and anguish. Tears streamed down her face as she clutched at Bell for support. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her close as she sobbed uncontrollably.
Riveria's body trembled as the weight of the destruction settled on her shoulders. The images of Alf's Royal Forest burning, her people screaming in agony, and the heart of Loki Familia reduced to rubble played on an endless loop in her mind. Her breath came in ragged gasps, each one a struggle against the crushing despair threatening to overwhelm her.
Bell's arms around her offered a small measure of comfort, but it was not enough to staunch the torrent of grief. Her eyes, brimming with tears, searched for something—anything—to anchor herself to reality.
Ais stepped forward, her expression resolute despite the turmoil around them. Without a word, she took Riveria's hand in hers, the warmth of her grip a stark contrast to the cold dread gnawing at Riveria's heart.
"I swear," Ais's voice was steady and filled with an unwavering resolve. "I'll make her pay for this."
Riveria looked into Ais's eyes, finding a fierce determination there that mirrored her own. Ais's presence, combined with Bell's comforting hold on her other hand, created a small sanctuary amidst the chaos. She drew strength from them both, their support kindling a spark of hope within her.
She squeezed their hands tightly, her knuckles white from the force of her grip. The tears still flowed freely down her cheeks, but they were now mingled with a newfound resolve. She would not let Tyratryx's atrocities go unanswered.
"We will stop her," Riveria whispered, her voice trembling but firm. "Together."
Ais nodded, her golden eyes burning with intensity. "Yes. We will."
Bell tightened his hold on Riveria's hand, his own expression mirroring the determination of his companions. "We won't let this stand," he vowed.
The bond between them strengthened in that moment, an unspoken promise forged in the crucible of shared pain and resolve. They were not alone in this fight; they had each other and the strength of their united will.
Riveria took a deep breath, steadying herself as she drew on the strength of those around her. She would not let Tyratryx break her spirit. She would fight with every ounce of power she possessed to protect those she loved and to bring justice to those who had fallen.
As she stood there, flanked by Bell and Ais, Riveria felt a renewed sense of purpose wash over her. Together, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead and bring an end to Tyratryx's reign of terror.
And as they prepared to move forward, Riveria knew that with Bell and Ais by her side, there was nothing they could not overcome.
Bell vows to protect both Riveria and their child, no matter what - he holds Riveria in his arms, and they share an impassioned kiss.
Riveria felt the warmth of Bell's embrace, a stark contrast to the icy dread that had settled in her heart. His arms were firm yet tender, providing a sanctuary in the midst of the chaos that surrounded them. She looked up into his eyes, finding a mixture of determination and vulnerability there that mirrored her own tumultuous emotions.
"Riveria," Bell's voice was steady, filled with an unwavering resolve that cut through the darkness. "I vow to protect you and our child, no matter what."
His words resonated deeply within her, a promise that ignited a flicker of hope amidst the despair. Riveria's heart swelled with a complex blend of love and sorrow, the weight of their situation pressing heavily upon her but tempered by Bell's unyielding commitment.
She reached up, her fingers trembling as they brushed against his cheek. "Bell... I don't know what we would do without you," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the lingering echoes of destruction.
Bell's grip tightened slightly, his gaze never wavering from hers. "We'll get through this together," he assured her, his voice carrying a strength that belied his youthful appearance. "I won't let anything happen to either of you."
In that moment, surrounded by the remnants of their shattered world, Riveria felt an overwhelming surge of emotion. The bond between them was unbreakable, forged in the fires of their shared struggles and strengthened by their love for one another.
With a soft sob, Riveria leaned in closer, her lips meeting Bell's in an impassioned kiss. It was a kiss filled with desperation and hope, a silent promise to stand by each other no matter what challenges lay ahead. The world around them seemed to fade away as they poured their hearts into that single moment of connection.
Bell's hand cradled the back of her head gently, deepening the kiss as if to reaffirm his vow with every fiber of his being. Riveria felt the intensity of his emotions mirrored in her own response, their souls intertwining in a dance of love and determination.
When they finally pulled apart, both were breathless but resolute. Riveria rested her forehead against Bell's, drawing strength from their shared intimacy.
"Thank you," she whispered, her voice filled with gratitude and love.
Bell nodded, his eyes shining with unwavering determination. "We'll face this together," he repeated softly. "All three of us."
Riveria took a deep breath, feeling a renewed sense of purpose wash over her. With Bell by her side and their child growing within her, she knew they could overcome any obstacle that stood in their way.
"Oh my, w-we kissed in front of everyone!" she said red-faced. "A-an elf should never do anything so s-scandalous!"
Bell chuckled softly, a warm smile playing across his lips. "Don't worry about it," he assured her. "I think we needed that."
Riveria nodded, her blush deepening as she struggled to regain her composure. Bell placed his hand under her chin.
"Bell, what have I brought upon my people?" Riveria cried out. "How am I supposed to protect my remaining Elven brethren when we're still trapped in this blasted Dungeon?"
"Riveria-san... you are not to blame for all this. Nobody thought Medusa would go this low." Bell's expression hardened.
"But, people will say I provoked her!" Riveria's voice trembled.
"You provoked her by not letting her have her way? By not letting her make me her sex slave? By resisting her tyranny? By saving everyone's lives? I'm sure many would be grateful to you," Bell retorted.
Riveria lowered her head, shame and guilt washing over her once more. "I wish I could have prevented this," she whispered, her voice heavy with anguish.
"So do I. If anyone is to blame, it's me for not being stronger, it's me letting Medusa be consumed by the darkness. So don't put all of this burden on yourself."
"But..." Riveria's voice trailed off as the reality of the situation weighed upon her once more. She swallowed hard, fighting back the tears that threatened to fall.
"Medusa chose this path on her own volition. She didn't have to. But she did anyway, out of hatred, jealousy and maliciousness. What happened today was not your fault, Riveria, so don't you dare take responsibility for her actions."
Riveria remained silent, the conflicting emotions raging within her threatening to overwhelm her once more.
"I'm not the strong, stoic queen everyone thinks I am. I am weak on the inside." Riveria said.
"You are the strongest person I have ever known, Riveria-san. The strongest and toughest. Even after all this, you still managed to keep going. That is true strength." Bell stroked her hair gently.
Riveria blinked back tears as the emotions she had been holding in finally bubbled to the surface. She leaned into Bell's touch, allowing herself to be comforted by his presence.
"Riveria-san," Bell said as he placed his hand on Riveria's belly. "I vow to protect both you and our child no matter what. And it's okay to cry. I mean, I'm the biggest crybaby ever, so don't try to put on a strong facade in front of me."
Riveria nodded, unable to speak as tears streamed down her cheeks. Bell held her close, enveloping her in a warm embrace as she allowed herself to be vulnerable for the first time in years.
Riveria wiped her tears away as she drew on Bell's strength, feeling his unwavering support and compassion flowing through their bond. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the journey ahead.
"Bell.... I love you." Riveria said.
"And I love you too, Riveria-san." Bell said.
They stood in silence for a moment, their thoughts and emotions intertwined. A wave of exhaustion washed over Riveria, and she allowed herself to be held by Bell as the weight of the day's events finally sank in.
In Bell's arms, Riveria felt safe and protected, a small shelter amidst the darkness that surrounded them. As she clung to him, she knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together and emerge victorious.
"And you lot, what are you looking at?" Riveria said, regaining her stern composure as everyone watched them, all of them moved to tears.
"A-ah, sorry, Riveria-sama..." Tiona mumbled apologetically as she rubbed the tears from her eyes. "I just couldn't help but be moved by the bond between you two. I just wish I was you right now!"
Riveria frowned, her expression a mixture of embarrassment and annoyance. "S-such insolence! Show some respect for your elders!" she retorted.
"Sorry..." Tiona replied sheepishly, bowing her head in shame.
Ais smiled at the scene before her, her eyes filled with a mixture of concern and affection for Riveria and Bell.
"You are a queen, Riveria," Finn said solemnly as he placed a hand on Riveria's shoulder. "And you are carrying royalty within you. I trust your judgment."
"Finn-sama..." Riveria whispered as she felt her emotions welling up once again.
"Medusa must be stopped, no matter what," Finn continued. "I'll follow your lead on this one."
Riveria nodded, drawing strength from Finn's words and the support of those around her. "Thank you, Finn." she managed to say.
"Ahahahaha! Turns out the stuffy old elf is a big softy on the inside!" Gareth proclaimed as he gave Riveria a playful pat on the back.
Riveria shot him a glare but said nothing as she held back more tears.
"Let's do this together, Riveria-sama!" Tione declared with a fiery determination in her eyes. "We'll defeat Tyratryx and make her pay for everything she's done!"
The rest of the party nodded in agreement, their resolve resounding through the cavern.
"Bell-sama, how come you're never like that with me?" Lili whispered in a tearful tone. "I can be soft and vulnerable too! And you're always so cold and distant with me! Marry me too! And let's have a baby!"
"Ahh, Lili..." Bell stammered awkwardly as he tried to find the right words.
"I always thought you were a bit of a psycho, old hag," Bete said. "But even I can't deny your commitment to our cause."
Riveria did not have the energy to berate the werewolf for his remarks. Instead, she simply sighed and shook her head in resignation.
"Isn't this so romantic! Riveria-sama is so lucky to have a man like Bell-sama!" Haruhime mused, her eyes shining with admiration and envy. "I want such a man too!"
"Heh. Aren't you jealous?" Aisha said playfully as she nudged the renard.
"Indeed. I am so, so envious of Riveria-sama," Haruhime admitted, her cheeks flushed pink with embarrassment. "Bell-sama is such a perfect gentleman."
Riveria felt the collective resolve of her companions surrounding her, a palpable force that bolstered her spirit. She took a deep breath, allowing herself to soak in their support. The weight of her responsibility still pressed heavily on her shoulders, but she no longer bore it alone.
"Thank you, everyone," Riveria said, her voice steadying. "We will stop Tyratryx together. We will bring justice to those who have fallen and protect those who remain."
Ais stepped forward, her golden eyes unwavering. "We'll fight by your side, Riveria. Whatever it takes."
Riveria nodded, feeling the sincerity in Ais's words. "I know you will. And I trust each of you with my life."
Finn's hand remained on her shoulder, his presence a grounding force. "We'll need a solid plan," he said, ever the tactician.
"Agreed," Riveria replied. "We can't afford any missteps."
Tiona and Tione exchanged determined glances, their usual playful demeanor replaced by a steely resolve. Gareth's playful pat on the back still lingered as a comforting gesture.
"Lili, Haruhime, stay close," Riveria instructed. "We need everyone to be at their best."
Lili's tearful expression shifted to one of determination. "Yes, Riveria-sama."
Haruhime nodded eagerly, her admiration for Bell still evident but now focused into resolve.
"Let's move out," Riveria commanded, her voice carrying the authority of a leader born anew.
As they prepared to venture deeper into the Dungeon, Bell stayed close to Riveria's side. She felt his unwavering support like a constant heartbeat next to hers.
With a final glance at their surroundings—now marked by the signs of recent conflict—Riveria led the group forward. Each step was measured and purposeful, every movement a testament to their shared resolve.
They walked together into the unknown depths of the Dungeon, united by a bond forged in struggle and strengthened by love and friendship.
And in that unity, Riveria found hope.
The chapter ended with them moving as one cohesive unit, ready to face whatever lay ahead with renewed determination and unwavering trust in one another.
Their journey continued.