Olivier swung her sword down with cool precision, the saber cutting the orc's head off near cleanly. She watched it try to lift an arm to attack, only to pause as signals to its body were rendered null by the loss of its cranium. Soon it burst into ash and a magic stone fell aimlessly upon the ground.
Olivier didn't move to retrieve it, instead she turned out of the way of another attack and swung her saber again, only cutting the neck of the orc's neck this time, which burst open like a demented fountain. It tried to follow up its attack but its strength was greatly diminished by the loss of blood. Olivier turned from it just as it fell to its knees and tried to reach out to her, she walked out of its range and moved on to her next opponents, not seeing her kill eventually collapse and soon burst into ash.
A short way from her, Kallen was dancing between her opponent's with a lethal grace. Her kodachi and hand crossbow moving with calculating motions. She wasn't fighting orc's like Olivier, rather her opponents were the ever crafty imps. Who were using the tall grass of the twelfth floor to obscure themselves and launch guerilla attacks.
Unfortunately for them, Kallen was adept to such strategies herself and used the tall grass of the mist-laden floor to her advantage as well.
She raised her hand crossbow up from a gap between grasses and shot a bolt, impaling the head of an imp right in its temple. She moved again and cut the back of the neck of another imp with a reverse gripped slash of her sword. Another imp tried to jump at her through the grass but Kallen raised her crossbow and shot it just as it began its leap, making its body whip back in the air like an abused puppet in the wind.
Orcs and imps were hardly the only monsters to be careful of when on this floor, the vast area above the misty land was testament of that. Where winged creatures flew about and chose their moment to strike down upon the heads of any unexpecting adventurer.
Such flying creatures were not having such luck, as their attempts at any aerial attacks were cut short by careful but quickly placed shots by an archer standing tall on a rock outcropping in the middle of where the two fighters were.
Mildred took sight of six bad bats flying too close to Kallen and quickly acted. An arrow was notched in her bow and launched in less time than it took for one to blink. She did this another four times and each of her shots struck home. She turned her head up and saw six more bad bats circling overhead. Despite seeing them clearly, she didn't fire just yet.
She prepared four arrows in her off hand, with one held forward by her fingers and ready to notch. Her other hand raised the wooden bow up, a modest thing that didn't seem right in the hands of someone so skilled.
Still, she made do.
"Just a little bit more," she muttered, her eyes focused behind the mask and goggles she wore. When she saw that they just made it within her range, moreso her weapon's range, she acted.
Knocking an arrow, she lined her shot, not at all bothered by the other arrows she held as she drew back the string.
"Cawww," she cried softly, as if imitating a bird, and let loose her shot before immediately knocking another arrow and shooting, and another, and another.
Four arrows, four shots, four hits, four dead, and two left.
She drew out only one arrow next and lined her shot up, taking only a second longer than she did with the previous shots, and fired.
The arrow flew up and Mildred saw it pierce and go through the top part of the first bad bat's head, before continuing on to the monster behind it and lodging itself right into the creature's chest.
Mildred watched with some pride as all the monsters in the air broke apart into ash as they fell down, the arrows that were in their bodies continuing the descent to the ground.
She made a satisfied sound before looking at the bow in her hand and frowned. The bowstring was looking a little roughed up, with fibers sticking out here and there along its length.
"Sorry," she said, "you've been good but you got stuck with someone as rough as me as your user," she reached down to one of her small side satchels on her waist, drawing out a new bowstring, "try to endure me for a little longer."
In a few short motions, Mildred removed the frayed bowstring and replaced it with the new one. An action that would take even a professional archer a few minutes to complete.
Mildred got it done in a few seconds.
Once she was done and satisfied with her work she looked down to where her comrades were fighting, "You two alright down there?" she asked, "I can lend you both an eye if you need it."
Kallen and Olivier made their way to the outcropping of rocks where Mildred stood. They had retrieved the magic stones as well as any drop items from their kills and were making their way to the archer.
They weren't tired, far from it, but there were no monsters coming at them in the immediate vicinity so they had a chance to collect and discuss.
"I'd appreciate it if you didn't," commented Olivier, "those eyes and that mastery with the bow would ruin any chance of fun I could have against the beasts down here."
"Same with me," Kallen commented, "not to sound rude but I want to grow strong myself. Even if these things don't put up much of a challenge, they're still better than the monsters on the upper floors," she gave Mildred a wry smile, "I can only imagine how bored you are of the monsters down here."
Mildred shrugged, "Do I wish I could test my skills on better game?" she asked, "Yes. Am I dissatisfied with things down here?" she shook her head, her blonde locks flying, "No, because," she gestured around her, "I'm in a fantasy land and fighting monsters that only existed in make believe stories. How could I get bored of that?"
Neither of her two companions had a comment on that and both soon just nodded and came to stand near the archer, looking around at their surroundings.
The silence was nice after a good fight and gave the trio of warriors time to appreciate their surroundings. Whatever part of their surroundings that wasn't covered by thick mist.
"So," began Kallen, "you think Bell is having a good time right now?"
Her question drew glances from her two companions and Olivier replied with a raised brow, "I do believe our 'captain' should be more than fine right now. They left happily enough at least."
Mildred gave a snort, "I think you mean Chitoge and Ibuki left happily enough," she said, "our captain left with them looking nervous as all get-out."
Olivier snorted her amusement but gave no comment to that, "They should have enough energy to enjoy their day at least," she said, "they only stayed with us until the tenth floor and were doing significantly well for themselves with our aid as well."
"That's not a surprise," Kallen said, leaning back on a large boulder, "a party of six with our skills made this trip too easy and I think the others knew that too. Hardly any one of us broke a sweat until we split."
"Indeed," agreed Olivier, "probably for the best. I imagine their date would be awkward if they smelled like sweat, blood, and the dungeon."
Mildred laughed at that, "Hahaha! I don't know, could be a good conversation starter at least."
"Could end a few too," commented Kallen with a grin, "I'm sure the three went back to the Guild, dropped off the magic stones they earned, and took a quick shower there. They were smart in renting a locker there just for the day."
"I suppose," Olivier said, looking around at their surroundings, "still, I find it strange that they chose this time to go on a date. Especially since we have a journey to go on in the next few days."
Mildred shrugged, "You can't spend all your time focusing on one big thing," she took out one of here arrows and removed the arrowhead, "you gotta enjoy the little things as well," as if to punctuate this, she began to reach around to her back with the arrow and scratch her back, drawing a pleased sound from the archer, "Ohhh! That's the spot. That's been bothering me since we arrived down here,"
Kallen snorted at the sight of the master class archer scratching her back with one of her arrows. Mildred was definitely a unique person as Kallen had found out.
When in combat, this woman was as cold and calculating like a hawk on the hunt, with eyes to match if not rival one. When not fighting, she was a frank individual who said things by how she saw them, blunt but accurate honesty.
"I suppose," Olivier said, "at the very least, I hope the date could result in our comrades' boost in status, should things go well."
Kallen made a choking sound at those words, surprised to hear them coming from such a militant woman.
Olivier quirked an eyebrow at the red-head, "Something the matter, Kallen?" she asked.
Kallen had red on her cheeks when she replied, "Sorry, it's just I was surprised. I didn't expect you to say something like that."
Olivier wondered what she was talking about before realizing what it was and gave a light chortle of laughter, "I suppose it is strange for someone like me to say that," she said, "nevertheless, it is the truth. Should the date go well, I have no doubt one of them may take Bell for the night," she paused, thinking, "though I guess it's possible that both could have him. His time with Hana and Elbia certainly speaks to that possibility."
"Nah, I doubt it," Mildred said, "Those two ladies strike me as the type that prefer one on one. Doubt they experiment with a threesome now."
Kallen's face got even redder as the conversation went on.
"What do you think?" asked Mildred to Olivier, "Think you'll ask him out or jump his bones one night?"
Olivier closed her eyes in thought before answering, "Difficult to say. Tempting as utilizing our shared skill is, I would rather decide on what to do until after our journey."
Mildred nodded, "Makes sense," she said, "might do the same myself. I really want to see how Bell performs when he reaches down there. I've seen him fight. He's impressive but-"
"But you'd rather see him facing a more challenging foe," finished Olivier, "to get a better measure of his real strength."
"Yep," confirmed Mildred, "call me old fashioned, but I prefer my bedmate to be hearty enough to keep up with me. Didn't have much luck in that department in my old world, so I hope that it can be different in this one," she grinned, "maybe Bell is just the kind of man I'm looking for, after a fashion."
Olivier nodded, "True, I feel similarly," she said, "in my old world, romance and intimacy were…far from my mind, so to speak. Even when I was approached by a few brave individuals, they didn't measure up to what I was looking for in a partner. In both strength and resolve," she looked out over the misty landscape, "here's hoping that our captain will be different."
Kallen looked between the two, frankly shocked by the conversation they were having.
She imagined these martial and disciplined individuals were more focused on combat or militant talks, not whether or not to be intimate with someone.
"How about you, Kallen?" Mildred suddenly asked, "When are you gonna ask for the…'special boost'."
"Wha-why are you asking me all of a sudden?!" Kallen flushed at the question.
"You've been here longer than us," answered Olivier, "I'm frankly surprised you haven't taken the initiative yourself. You struck me as someone who's quite bold."
"I'm not that bold!" exclaimed Kallen, "It's just that," she trailed off, rubbing the back of her head, "that kind of stuff is just…difficult for me okay," she gave a sigh before huffing, crossing her arms, "I was intimate with only one other person in my life and even then…it just didn't work out."
She recalled the person she followed along in his crusade, the person who inspired her, who gave her and her people hope.
And who she loved, if only for a seemingly short time.
Kallen didn't dwell on those memories of past regrets. Even if she didn't end up with that person, she still lived a full and amazing life and now she had another one to live out. With good company at that.
"Bell is an amazing person," Kallen said, "and I want to approach him in my own time, okay," she sighed, thinking about it, "which is hard when you have a whole familia that also wants to get close to him."
Olivier raised an eyebrow at Kallen's words, as if the girls said something ridiculous, "Really? Is that it?" she asked.
Kallen blinked at her and was surprised to see Mildred shaking her head at her and sighing as if disappointed.
"Out of all the things that could obstruct you," Olivier said, walking over to Kallen, "competition amongst our allies was not one of them," she began to slowly walk towards the red-head, "already a few of our compatriots are closer to Bell and have even been intimate with him," she got closer to Kallen and the former rebel fighter found herself backing up, "you all seem to agree to share him, a miraculous feat, but quite a few of you have the same problem when it comes to approaching him."
Kallen found her back pressing against the boulder she was previously leaning on. With nowhere to go, Olivier Armstrong got close enough to Kallen that the two could nearly feel each other's breath. Olivier placed an outstretched hand beside Kallen's head and leaned forward, nearly pressing her forehead against hers.
Kallen had no idea how this happened or what exactly led to this but she knew that she was completely out of her depth. Briefly, she looked to the side at Mildred, who sat down with her legs crossed and an amused smile on her face.
'No help from her then!' Kallen screamed internally.
"Boldness," Olivier said, her warm breath tickling Kallen's lips, "you need to take the initiative like those around you have. You want to date? Ask him. You want a hug? Ask him. You want a kiss? Ask him. You want a night of passion?" she leaned back and swiped the arm that rested on the boulder to the side, "Then jump him when he least expects it! Take charge and claim what you want!"
"That took a crazy turn!" Mildred exclaimed as she watched Kallen's shock.
"This is crazy in general!" Kallen shouted back.
Olivier regained her previous ice-cold and pragmatic demeanor, "If you are waiting for him to make a move though," she said, "that too is acceptable, just be sure to at least drop hints to let him know you're interested."
"Why are you so calm about that one?" Kallen asked, now perplexed.
"Bell is definitely a work in progress when it comes to taking initiative himself," explained Olivier, "our vice-captain told me as much. He's getting better but needs to be dropped hints," she paused, thinking, "heavy hints. From what I've gathered, our dear captain can be a bit dense."
"And skittish too," commented Mildred with a grin, "he still can't look at me directly for very long before turning into a blushing mess and running off," she hummed in her throat, recalling something, "or jumping off. He really does act like a rabbit, doesn't he?"
"He probably can't look at you for long because you're practically wearing a bikini everyday," Kallen deadpanned, staring at the archer's risqué attire, "it amazes me you can wear that at all."
Mildred snorted at Kallen's words, "Please, there are adventures in the city that wear just as much as I do," she laughed, "hell, some even less. Just the way the world is. You should try it."
Kallen shook her head rapidly, "No way," she gestured to her own garment, it was slightly different from what she wore when she was summoned, but it still had the pragmatic air about it like her old rebel clothing did, "these clothes are enough for me. Especially," she trailed off and took out her kodachi, sliding the edge along her side. Her clothing didn't even nick, "since clothes here are far more sturdy than in my last world."
"Yet you still wear some armor," Olivier added, pointing out her arm guards.
Kallen nodded and tapped one of her arm guards with the back of her blade, "A little extra protection goes a long way. Can't just rely on durable fabrics."
Both archer and militant nodded, agreeing with the statement.
"Well still," Mildred said, standing up, "you should try something daring once in a while," she stretched her arms back, loosening the joints but emphasizing her gorgeous muscular body and generous chest, "but definitely not now. Especially since we have some rude guests coming to greet us."
Kallen and Olivier turned and followed Mildred's gaze. They saw, even through the thick mist, a horde of monsters, their red eyes glowing ominously through the damp air.
Kallen leaned off the boulder and checked her weapons, making sure her hand crossbow was loaded. "Looks like a big one this time," she said, "how many of them do you think there are?"
Olivier drew out her saber, taking a powerful stance as she surveyed the enemy, "Difficult to say but somewhere between forty and fifty."
"Forty eight," Mildred corrected, her bow prepped and arrow notched, with a few more held in her hand below their fletches, "orcs and imps, with a hard-armored here and there. No flying enemies though. All the pity."
She got some of her best challenges out of shooting the flying ones, the ones on the ground were so slow and cumbersome she could empty half her quiver in one before it even began to act.
Though that just might be because she was a master weapon martial artist.
"Regardless, let's get to it," Olivier said, ready to battle, "let's be sure to have a good story for our captain when we get back."
"Won't be much of a story," added Kallen, readying herself, "won't be much left of these things either."
The horde of monsters soon made their way towards the three. Ready to savage and destroy them with evil vigor.
As the trio robbed the horde of such notion, they did hope for one thing.
That Bell and the others were enjoying their date.
"Hmmmm…I'm just not sure," Chitoge said, rubbing a hand to her chin. the red bow on her head twitching like a pair of rabbit ears.
"Yeah…this is…weird. Thought for sure this would have turned out better, given where we are, but now?" Ibuki cocked her body to the side, her long ponytail trailing behind with the motion, "now I think we were probably a little too enthusiastic about this."
Chitoge nodded her agreement but continued studying what was in front of her. Her fashion and design sense at odds with her pragmatic sense. This problem before her was certainly a difficult one to solve.
After a moment though, she decided. Elven clothes just don't look good on Bell!
"Chitoge. Ibuki," Bell wheezed, tugging at the high collar that was maybe a little too tight for his neck, "I can't breathe," he shuffled a bit in place, the pants a little too thin at the waist, "I can barely move."
Chitoge waved at Bell, gesturing to the fitting room behind him, "Go ahead, Bell," she said, "sorry to put ya through this. Thought for sure we'd find something good for you here."
Bell would have waved off her apologies, had the shirt and suit combo he wore not limit his movement. Instead, he just smiled awkwardly and walked/waddled back to the changing room, eager to return to his original clothes.
Since leaving the dungeon, Bell, Ibuki, and Chitoge had been out and about in Orario's shopping district. Looking around for any new clothes that would suit Bell for a fresh wardrobe change.
And maybe get themselves something nice as well.
Bell soon emerged from the changing room, wearing his normal clothes and rubbing at his neck with clear signs of relief.
"I…don't think elf clothes are right for me," he said awkwardly, "even the ones that did fit well on me didn't look right."
Chitoge nodded, "Yeah," she agreed, "sorry about that. Thought for sure you could have pulled the look off," she shrugged, "my mistake."
Bell waved off her apology, "It's alright," he said, "it was nice of you to try anyway. I was curious about how'd I look in it anyway," he laughed awkwardly, "now I know."
Ibuki laughed brightly, finding the whole situation funny, "Well we tried and that's all that matters," she said, "now let's go somewhere else. I don't think the store manager is gonna tolerate us for much longer."
The three turned to see a sharply dressed elf with his arms crossed and tapping a finger on one of his arms. He arched an eyebrow at them and the expression seemed to say 'Are you going to buy something, or waste more time in my store?'
Soon the three left the store, under the gaze of a few curious elven customers.
"Well," Ibuki began, crossing her arms behind her head, "where to next."
"I don't know," Chitoge said, looking at Bell and what he was carrying, "How about it, Bell? Think you're up for another store?"
Bell looked at the bag in his hand. In it were some clothes that they had picked out for him at some earlier stores. There weren't many but that was mostly because of the selection that was available. Apparently they chose a poor time to come shopping because of some 'early day deals' or something sale event.
Still, he didn't want to cut things short now. Not that he'd say it out loud but he was actually enjoying shopping with his two companions. They were so fun to watch as they perused the stores, their eyes glinting at the unique styles and designs of the clothing. Bell recalled seeing Ibuki looking at a very nice looking dress but she left the store downtrodden. When asked, she looked sheepishly at her muscular thighs and well curved hips and said.
"I may be a little too built to wear that."
Her meek reply garnered two different reactions. Bell gave her a comforting smile and a few encouraging words.
Chitoge on the other hand…
"'Thicc thighs ruin the prize', huh?" she said with a grin.
Ibuki's counter reaction was to pull at the blonde's cheeks, tears of embarrassed frustration in the corners of her eyes. Chitoge likewise reciprocated.
Bell had to stop the two before they made any more of a scene, but judging by the amused smiles from nearby passerbys, it was an amusing sight rather than a bothersome one.
"Let's check out one more store," he said with a smile, "after that, we'll get something to eat, my treat."
The two shared a look and nodded before moving to walk alongside Bell, "Well if our captain is treating, let's spoil ourselves, eh Ibuki?" Chitoge commented with a smile.
"Huh?" Bell intelligently asked.
Ibuki smiled and nodded her head, making her long ponytail bob with glee, "I was thinking something fancy. Oh! Like a four star restaurant!" she replied.
"Eh?!" Bell intelligently panicked.
"Why stop there?" Chitoge asked with a clear look of mischievous joy in her eyes, "let's try one of those five star restaurants in the more ritzy part of the city. Maybe even a six star one."
"There are restaurants like that?!" Bell exclaimed, now fearing for his coin purse and all that he earned to fill it.
Ibuki patted the side of his panicked head, "We're just kidding, Bell," she said with a laugh, "relax. You really are too gullible, you know."
Bell exhaled a sigh of relief and chuckled softly, not refuting her words.
Chitoge nudged his side, "Yeah, learn to spot a lie every now and then," she said, "maybe at least a fib or two."
"Sorry," Bell found himself saying.
"And don't apologize," chided Chitoge, "we should be the one to apologize, not you, not that we would for a joke," she looked to Ibuki, "we were joking, right?"
"Yes!" Ibuki exclaimed, giving Chitoge a nudge, "Don't give our captain another panic attack. We'll just get something nice to eat after this last store. Maybe that pub with the weird name? The one with that waitress always staring at you."
"Which waitress is that?" Bell asked, actually surprised. He had noticed some gazes on him whenever he was in there.
Though he always did feel someone watching him whenever he was out in the city too…even now.
"That Syr woman or that Ryuu chick?" Chitoge asked, "I've caught them sneaking peeks at Bell every now and then but I've always watched something else whenever we go there with Elbia."
"You mean with that cat-girl waitress?" asked Ibuki, a smile on her face, "yeah, the black-haired one tries to avoid us whenever we bring Elbia. I swear that tail of hers just has it out for that waitress."
"W-wait! Back to who was staring at me," Bell interrupted, "Syr and Miss Ryuu have been staring at me? Why? Did I do something wrong?"
Ibuki and Chitoge stared at Bell for a moment before looking at each other. Then as one, they sighed and walked ahead of him, shaking their heads and shrugging their shoulders.
"Really captain," Ibuki said, her tone almost pitying, "after Koukin, Hana, and Elbia. I thought for sure you'd pick up on stuff like this."
"Can't be helped," Chitoge said, "sometimes the cute ones need a little push to get started," she suddenly realized what she said and grew red, "w-w-wait! Let me rephrase that!"
Bell just watched as his two companions, now dates, swiftly became a duo in their own hilarious world. As they continued on, Bell put some thought into what they said about Syr and Ryuu.
'Have they really been watching me?' he thought , 'wonder why?'
He had a few guesses but surely that was-
He stopped when something caught his eye and he called over to the others, "Ibuki, Chitoge, look at this!"
The two turned to see Bell looking at a shop that had passed in the midst of their 'discussion'. It was another clothing store but it seemed different then the others they visited. Which was strange considering that it looked like any other they visited today, albeit not as fancy as some. Still there was something different about it, Bell just couldn't put his finger on it.
Still, looking through the display glass outside, one thing was for certain, this store definitely prioritized variety over speciality. A welcomed change to be sure.
"Well this looks neat," Ibuki commented, "never seen this store when I go out shopping."
Chitoge was beside her, looking inside as well, "Same," she said, "think it's new?"
Ibuki tilted her head, thinking, "I wanna say yes," she replied, "but I don't think so. Everything looks like it's been set up and stationed here for a good amount of time."
"Maybe it's just been here and we haven't noticed?" supplied Bell, "it doesn't look as flashy on the outside like some of the shops we visited. Maybe we just didn't notice it because of that?"
"Yeah," Chitoge agreed, looking at the exterior and seeing its rather mundane design aesthetic, "that's got to be it. The outside looks so plain that it's easily ignored," she looked inside again, "which is a shame because they definitely have some good wears in there."
Ibuki looked closer inside, "Yeah you're right," she said, "I see some interesting clothes in there and some exotic stuff too," she looked to her friends, "ya wanna go in?"
Bell looked into the store as well, seeing the clothing and the few customers that were already in there. It definitely wasn't as busy as some of the other outfitters they had visited but that was a good thing in truth. Less crowds meant less competition and less eyes on him whenever he came out of a changing room with new attire he wanted to try on.
"Got no complaint from me, sis," Chitoge said, "Bell?"
"Let's give it a shot," he said, a smile on his face, "could be interesting."
"Then let's go!" Ibuki declared, walking forward to the entrance.
"Ibuki wait!" Bell called, noticing something again.
Too late, Ibuki walked headfirst into the glass door, hitting it with a loud bang that drew the eyes of the customers inside.
Ibuki gave a groan and clutched at her forehead, her face turning red from embarrassment. Bell didn't say anything but moved to the door and slid it open, gesturing for the girls to walk through and apologizing to the customers inside for the brief disturbance.
Chitoge and Ibuki walked through with the former looking at her friend with a smile, "Still haven't figured out that automated doors aren't a thing here yet, huh?"
Ibuki wanted to stomp her foot at the words directed at her, "I can't help it!" she said, "they look so similar that I barely notice the handle!"
"Well," replied Chitoge, "let's try to end this day without you crashing into another," she chuckled, "hate to end the day with five, huh sis?"
"Shut up!"
Together the three browsed the store until they eventually found a few selections of clothing they were interested in. Bell tried his selection on first and was happy to find that they were well received by his dates. Chitoge and Ibuki both found things they were interested in and moved to the changing rooms while Bell waited.
Bell looked around the store as he waited for his companions to change. He wasn't entirely sure but he felt as if some of the staff were focusing a little too much on him, but whenever he looked over his shoulder he would see the staff just going about their business.
When he turned away, he felt gazes return to his back, the sensation making him feel like he should worry about a knife being in it at some point.
'Did I do something wrong?' he internally asked himself , 'Did I offend someone at some point and now they're following me?!'
Before he could dwell on the matter any further, once again, the gazes he felt disappeared, which surprised him. He hadn't turned to look at who it could be this time. Had something changed?
Then a familiar voice rang through the shop, two of them actually.
"C'mon Ryuu! This store has an insane variety of clothing! We're bound to find you some clothes that you'll like and that'll look cute on you to boot!"
"S-Syr! This is a bit much, don't you think? And 'cute' isn't something that…fits well on me."
Bell looked over at the entrance to see the familiar faces of Syr and Ryuu from the 'Hostess of Fertility'. More accurately he saw Syr dragging along a thoroughly flushed Ryuu into the store, the elf looking embarrassed by either the open contact Syr was subjecting her to, or at what her dear friend had said.
Likely both.
Syr's gray eyes spotted Bell and a surprised but joyous smile came over her features. Ryuu followed her gaze and her features grew more embarrassed at seeing a familiar face.
"Bell!" Syr delightfully exclaimed, making her way towards him while dragging Ryuu, who was looking down at their joined hands in astonishment at such unexpected strength from the waitress. She was even digging her heels in!
Bell smiled at them, "Miss Syr! Miss Ryuu! It's nice to see you," he greets, "are you out shopping too?"
Syr nodded and brought an embarrassed Ryuu right next to her, "Yep!" she replied happily, "Ryuu here needs more variety in her wardrobe. The only thing she bothers to wear is her waitress uniform or her old gear from long ago," Syr pouts at the elf, "honestly, even Mama Mia is telling you to get new clothes. You know it's bad when 'she' is telling you to change outfits."
The green haired elf could only looked down at the words of her friend, her long ears turning red at the tips.
"But Bell," Syr turned her attention to him, "I'm surprised to see you here. Are you looking for some new clothes too?"
Bell nodded and held out one of the bags he got earlier, "That's right," he replied, "my familia and I have been going to different stores to try and get myself some new clothes," he laughs suddenly, "and to get themselves some new clothes too. We've been to a lot of stores so far, even an elf store to see if anything looked good on me."
Ryuu perked up at that, her eyes slightly wide with surprise. Looking at Bell, she tried to imagine him in an elf's attire.
It would honestly look very awkward…and kinda cute, though she'd never say that out loud.
Syr had no problem voicing her amusement at such a mental image with her playful laughter before replying, "Oh I wish I was there to see that. I bet you'd look fetching in such clothes," she leaned forward and looked at Bell with pleading eyes but her smile remained as playful as ever, "any chance we could go back and you could try on some for me?"
Bell blushed at the sudden focus but before he replied, two familiar voices came from the changing room area.
"Okay, what do ya think, bro?"
"Hey Bell, what do you think?"
Bell, Syr, and Ryuu turned to see Chitoge and Ibuki emerge from the changing rooms with their new clothes.
Chitoge came out in a rather vibrant red camisole that complimented her lithe figure, the accompanying dark green skirt complimented it as well, giving a more tropical look that Bell hadn't expected when he saw her pick the items up.
He idly noticed that she adjusted her hair so that it was tied in a ponytail by her red ribbon and hung down in front of her chest. It looked wonderful on her.
Turning to Ibuki, Bell saw she was far more bold with her attire. She wore a black tube top that exposed her navel and part of her toned stomach, the fabric emphasizing her build and well as her generous chest, for her lower attire she sported a rather stylish pair of white short shorts.
Bell blushed when he saw the shorts. Clearly Ibuki underestimated their size. They weren't obscenely short but they were definitely close enough. Ibuki was really gifted, or cursed, with powerful thighs that the shorts had no problem with emphasizing.
He vaguely recalled her mentioning someone from her old world that has even bigger things than her, though she bragged about having a bigger chest.
"Hey! Earth to Bell," Chitoge called, looking annoyed and a little flushed, "we asked ya a question, what do you think?"
"I think the silence is telling," Ibuki said, tilting her head back with a large smile, "we clearly look awesome!"
Bell still said nothing, he simply stared.
It was making Chitoge nervous now and the blonde soon grew frustrated, "Well?" she asked, her tone turning aggressive, "what do you think?!"
"Wow," Bell finally said, barely above a whisper, "you two look amazing."
For a moment, Chitoge and Ibuki stood stock still in the face of their captain's words. They had expected compliments, Chitoge more so just to break the awkward silence, but they hadn't expected the compliment to be delivered so…honestly.
Bell wasn't just saying that to be nice. He honestly meant it from the heart.
That realization garnered the following reactions.
Ibuki actually looked embarrassed and self conscious all of the sudden, crossing her legs and turning aside as if to hide herself, her face red.
Which unintentionally gave Bell a rather generous side profile of her figure.
Chitoge stared at Bell uncomprehendingly before her own face began to turn just as red as her friend and she looked down to the side, moving a hand up and twiddling with the end of her hair, her red ribbon seemingly twitching nervously.
Bell looked between the two, wondering what was happening. Did he say something wrong?
"Ohhh!" came Syr's astonished voice, "Those look so good on you two," she turned to her elf friend, "what do you think, Ryuu? Want to try something like that?"
The elf looked at the two in front of her before focusing on Chitoge's attire, "I may be interested in that," she said, "it looks decent enough."
Syr followed her gaze before shaking her head in bemusement at what her friend said, "That one does look nice but that wasn't the one I was suggesting," she said, looking at Ibuki with clear emphasis.
Ryuu realized what she meant and she too looked at Ibuki, only to blush at the thought of wearing such…daring attire.
It wasn't the most risqué of clothing but it was still something she would never see herself wearing in public!
At least not without a disguise.
Ibuki and Chitoge finally noticed the two new arrivals, "Oh! It's you girls from the pub," Ibuki began, her embarrassment vanishing in place of curiosity, "Syr and Ryuu, right? What brings you two here?"
Syr happily told the reason why they were there and Chitoge couldn't help but comment, "So you got one with no sense of fashion too, huh?"
Ryuu looked down with embarrassment, an action more emphasized by Syr's agreeable nodding, "Yes, tragically so. I insisted she get some clothes that are more," Syr looked up in thought, finger on chin contemplatively, "tasteful than what she usually wears."
"But that maid outfit is actually pretty stylish already," Chitoge commented.
"Not when you wear it practically as your normal clothes in and out of the pub," countered Syr, "the look kinda loses some luster when it's practically a regularity."
Chitoge looked at Ryuu, "You seriously wear that thing even out of the pub?" she asked, sounding astonished, "Nothing else?"
Ryuu, red faced, could only nod.
Chitoge looked at her for a moment more before looking at Syr, seeing the suddenly somber expression on the usually joyous girl, she looked to Ibuki, who returned her gaze. For a moment they just stared at each other before suddenly nodding and returning to the changing rooms. They were gone for but a handful of seconds before they emerged, wearing their casual clothes they came in with. Each had an expression on their face that screamed that they were on a mission.
"Bell," Chitoge began, drawing her captain's attention, "we're gonna have to pause our date for now."
Bell blinked in surprise and voiced as such, "Huh?"
"Date?!" Syr suddenly questioned in surprise, hands to her mouth.
"This is an emergency of fashion," Ibuki explained, her voice more serious than any time Bell had heard her, "we are obligated to help this poor soul achieve stylish results."
"Poor soul?" Ryuu asked, pointing to herself, "Um, I argue that point. Especially with the emphasis you put on it."
Chitoge raised a fist up high, as if ready to fight the whole world, "Let's go!"
"Let's go!" cheered Ibuki.
"But what was that about-" Syr started before looking between the two women and getting caught up in the excitement, "L-let's go!" she cheered awkwardly, a bit surprised with herself.
Ryuu and Bell could only stare at the trio dumbly. Wondering how things progressed like this. Bell at least turned to stare at the elf.
"I'm sorry," he apologized, "my familia can be…eccentric at times," calling upon the familiar word of a strange but beloved artist.
Ryuu could only sigh, not disappointedly, but as if accepting an inevitable outcome, "It's alright,"she said, "I'm no stranger to unconventional personalities. I work with far too many to be too affected by now," she looked at him with an apologetic look, "I'm sorry if we disturbed your outing."
"I-it's alright," Bell hastily replied, "my friends seem real eager to help," he shrugged, "if you don't mind that is."
"She doesn't mind~"
The sing-song voice of Syr nearly made Bell and Ryuu jump in surprise, the elf looked over her shoulder to see Syr just behind her, and just behind Syr on either side were Chitoge and Ibuki.
Syr put a hand on Ryuu's shoulder and Bell had to fight back a gasp at seeing the physical contact that the elf was okay with, "Ryuu is quite the capable person but she does need some help every now and then with certain things," Syr's smile turned mischievous, "Bell, would you like to hear how long it took Ryuu to learn how to be a waitress?"
"Clothes!" Ryuu suddenly exclaimed, moving to grab Syr and Chitoge by the shoulders and walk in an unspecified direction, "Let's go get some clothes! This was your idea after all, Syr! I'm counting on you to pick something nice for me!"
"What about me?" Chitoge commented, "I'm the one who offered to help."
"You'll make sure Syr doesn't pick out anything 'too' embarrassing for me."
"Why would she-oh! Wait, I see it now. That grin on her face, sis. You were really gonna pick out something strange, weren't ya?"
"Maybe," Syr replied, sounding like a kid who got caught with their hand in the cookie jar and was proud of it.
Bell watched them go, wondering what to do now. He didn't wonder for long when a familiar ninja looped her arm around his and dragged him along to the others.
"C'mon, Bell," Ibuki said with a smile, "your opinion is needed for this too."
"Eh?" Bell intelligently replied, "It is?"
"Of course," Ibuki said with a smile, "a man's thoughts are quite important. Why else do you think Chitoge and I asked for your opinion on our clothing?"
"Th-that was only a few pairs," Bell said, "and I didn't say much the other times at the other stores!"
Not unless you count standing there awestruck. This place was the first time he even managed to compliment them.
"Relax," Ibuki comforted, pulling him along, "just be your normal self and everything will be fine," she paused, thinking for a moment, "try to call back that charm you had earlier with us, that'll cinch it."
Bell wasn't sure he could because even he didn't know where that came from. Still, he clearly had no other arguments and simply let himself be dragged on by his enthusiastic date.
Maybe this won't be so bad. After all, he was helping out a friend.
"This seems…a bit much," Ryuu commented, coming out of the changing room.
She was wearing what amounts to a ballroom gown. All frills and exaggerated fluff, with even the collar covering half her face.
"Yeah, no, absolutely not," Chitoge judged, directing a pointed look at Syr, "told us it was a bad choice."
"Oh come now," Syr huffed, "it's not that bad."
Ryuu made to return to the changing rooms but the dress's size offset her balance and she slowly tipped forward. She waved her arms in the air to prevent her fall but to no avail.
Bell turned to look away before he got an unintentional up skirt view.
"Saw that coming," Ibuki commented, moving to help the elf up, "next one is my choice!"
"Um," Ryuu muttered, looking down at herself, "I'm not sure that this attire is appropriate."
She was now wearing a white tank top that had a bright floral design down its front and black short shorts that compliment her thighs well. Completing the look were long black thigh highs and brown shoes.
Ibuki scoffed at the doubt, "Don't be silly," she chided, "you pull the look off well," she suddenly realized something and moved a hand to scratch at her chin in thought, "in fact, that look is almost natural on you. You got any clothes like that at home?"
Ryuu looked at the bubbly ninja in shock before schooling her features. In all fairness, she wasn't wrong. Her old adventurer attire wasn't too dissimilar to this.
…in fact, the more she thought about it, wasn't her adventurer attire arguably 'more' revealing than this? Sure she wore long boots instead of leggings but she was sure her 'pants' were even shorter than these shorts.
Maybe it was time to reconsider more than just her personal fashion today.
"I think that's a good set too," Chitoge commented, "a little bright in the shirt for my taste but it works for you," she smiles and points a thumb back behind her at what she picked out, "now let's see how you look in this!"
"Damn," Chitoge muttered, staring at the newly dressed elf with a proud smile, "I am good."
"Woah," Ibuki muttered, her eyes wide, "I didn't think it would work but…damn, was I wrong."
"Ohhh!" Syr opined in awe, "I had my doubts but I'm glad to be proven wrong," her eyes sparkled, "if I didn't know any better, I might just ask you out!"
Ryuu squirmed at the words of her friend, turning aside and blushing, "P-please don't tease me like that, Syr."
Ryuu was wearing a tuxedo of elegant design and cool style, the fabric forming nicely over her fit figure. One would think that such an outfit would be far from feminine, yet Ryuu managed to somehow come off as elegantly beautiful as ever.
And a bit dashing too. Like some kind of heroic figure.
Bell looked at her with surprise and a bit of awe. Like Syr at first, he too was skeptical about the clothing at first, now that was no longer the case and he voiced as such.
"You look amazing, Miss Ryuu!"
His words, though simple, managed to make the elf even more embarrassed and caused her to squirm harder and turn away. Unfortunately for Ryuu, this gesture and action treated Bell to the sight of her well curved behind, which was well complimented by the dress pants she wore.
Bell blushed and turned away himself, seeing such a sight from an elf felt almost like a taboo. Still, he found his gaze coming back to it every now and again, his face getting redder and redder.
"Alright," Ibuki announced with a clap of her hands, the noise drawing an annoyed look from a passing worker, "now it's your turn, Bell."
"Eh?" Bell opined at the announcement, "My turn? My turn for what?"
"Well I thought it was obvious," Ibuki replied, genuinely surprised by her captain's cluelessness, "it's time for you to pick something out for Ryuu. We've all had a turn, so now it's yours."
"Eh?" Bell replied again, more surprised this time.
"She's right," nodded Chitoge, "only fair after all."
"Eh?!"
"Don't worry, Bell," Syr encouraged, looking at him with complete confidence and with a bright smile, "I'm sure you'll pick out something nice for Ryuu to wear. I have complete faith in you!"
"You do?!" because he didn't.
Bell eventually turned to look at Ryuu, who met his gaze. The green haired elf looked at Bell with some skepticism but eventually sighed and nodded to him.
"Might as well," she said, "I trust you will pick out something appropriate, Mister Cranel."
Bell better, that stare she gave him as she said that did not promise kind things should he fail.
Bell looked around the store, seeing the clothes and wondering what to pick. He wanted to pick something different and unique than what his friends had done. Something that he thought would honestly look good and modest on the elf but still accentuate her beauty.
Bell inwardly cursed his still lacking sense of style, hopefully after this trip he'd have a better understanding by now.
Something caught his eye, interrupting his musings. Bell pointed at it.
"How about that?" he asked.
Chitoge looked to where he pointed and raised her brows in surprise once she spotted what he was pointing at.
"That's…not bad at all," she smiled at Bell, seemingly impressed, "we just might just find a bit of taste in you yet, captain."
Ryuu emerged from the changing room with the attire Bell had chosen.
It was by far the most modest of any of the clothing that was picked for her. For it was just a simple day dress.
Light in color and long in the sleeves as well as the skirt that covered her knees, it had pale purple accents along the collar and the wrists, with a cute little bow tie of similar color near her neck. Comfortable white shoes completed the look, providing a well balanced look that spoke of innocence and comfort.
Ryuu looked at herself in a mirror, extending her arms and spinning around to see the back. She ran a hand down the skirt, feeling its texture, and enjoying the soft feel.
She looked towards the others and graced them with a smile that seemed to shine with its honesty, "I quite fancy this one," she said, "it's an excellent choice."
Ibuki gave Bell a hearty pat on the back, "Nice one, Bell," she said with a smile, "knew you had it in you!"
Syr clapped her hands in joy and congratulations, "Well done Bell! I had absolute faith in you," she looked to her friend, "that definitely looks great on you, Ryuu, and it's so cute too!"
Chitoge looked the elf up and down, evaluating the sight before her, "Simple is often best at times," she said with an approving smile, "and it simply looks great on you, Ryuu, awesome work," she ended with a thumbs up to the elf, who blushed at the compliment.
This shopping trip was turning out far better than the elf had expected. Sure, running into Bell and his familia was a surprise but a welcomed one by now. Thanks to their advice and input, she was able to select quite a few new sets of clothing for herself.
Ryuu looked down at the dress she wore now, smiling softly. So far, in her opinion, Bell had the best choice for her. A surprise to be sure, for the both of them.
Then again…Bell had surprised the whole city recently…maybe she should talk with him about that as an experienced adventurer. It was the least she could do.
"Now for the next part," Syr suddenly called, drawing Ryuu and Hestia familia's attention, "we have a good grasp on what clothes Ryuu should get now, right?"
Chitoge and Bell shared a look, while Ibuki rubbed her head in confusion, "Uh, yeah?" the ninja replied, looking as bewildered as her friends at this sudden change in the silver haired waitress, "that's what happened. We did the same with Bell earlier."
Bell nodded and shook the bag that had his selection of clothes in emphasis.
Syr's eyes glimmered with mischievous light, "Then let's go a bit bolder with the clothing this time," she said, theatrically gesturing to a far area of the store, "something we all could stand to have!"
The others followed her gesture and all three's faces lit up in scarlet.
"No…no no no! That's just-I mean…how did we miss that?!" Chitoge sputtered.
"No way! No How!" Ibuki said, crossing her arms in rejection, "That's the line in the sand for me! Will not cross!"
"Syr!" exclaimed Ryuu to her friend, "Is that why you were sneaking glances in that direction?! Surely you wouldn't subject me to such…vulgarity!"
Bell was gaping like a fish as he looked at the 'clothing' that Syr gestured to. Calling it risqué would be a modest summation. Calling it 'clothing' would be generous at best. Still…Bell couldn't help voice a stray thought he had.
"Why would someone wear…so much leather?"
"I'm glad you asked Bell," Syr said with a grin, "you see, it's because-"
Chitoge, Ibuki, and Ryuu both clapped their hands over the girl's mouth.
"No!" the three shouted.
Together, the group left the store and walked down the road. Chitoge, Ibuki, and Syr were at the head. Discussing shopping locations as well as their preferred styles and tastes. Syr seemed adamant to ask something else but Chitoge and Ibuki were expertly leading the conversation.
Bell took a breath as he walked beside Ryuu. In both his arms were bags of the clothes he purchased as well as a few clothes that his familia members got in addition.
Bell watched as the trio in front of him talked and laughed with each other. He smiled, it seems his date with his two friends had come to an end, though he wasn't dissatisfied by that. They had enjoyed the day greatly, even before Syr and Ryuu showed up. Looking at them now and how they were happily talking with Syr, Bell was certainly glad that they became good friends in such a short time.
"I feel as though I owe you an apology."
The sudden voice beside him nearly made Bell jump. Looking to his side, he suddenly remembered that Ryuu had walked beside him for a time, her own hands full of bags that had both hers and Syr's clothing selections.
Bell took a moment to process her words, "What for?" he asked curiously.
"For interrupting your outing with your friends," the elf clarified, "it wasn't mine nor Syr's intention to do so. That store happens to be one that Syr likes to frequent. The staff are familiar and friendly to her, even offering generous discounts that very few average customers receive."
Bell had seen that, whenever they checked out of the store. Syr had arguably gotten more clothes for herself and Ryuu then Bell or the others had. Bell recalls seeing the original price and nearly choked on his tongue in shock. He nearly choked on it again when he saw how much she got to pay instead.
He almost cried when it came to paying for his stuff. Not because it was too expensive but because the cashier looked like he wanted to murder Bell for just being there. In fact, it seemed like all the employees there wanted him dead. What did he do?!
He decided to abandon such thoughts, it wouldn't help him now to dwell on it in any case.
"It's alright," Bell said to Ryuu, "it was fun running into the two of you," he gave her an honest smile, "there's nothing to apologize for."
Ryuu smiled, grateful for that. "I'm glad," she turns ahead, to watch the trio ahead of them, "you've done astoundingly well lately. Both you and your familia."
"Thank you," Bell said.
"But take caution when going down to the eighteenth floor," Ryuu said, her tone becoming sterner, "great are your numbers and as impressive as your level up is, the dungeon is still a place that can surprise you in the most horrible of ways."
Bell jumped a bit at her words, surprised to hear them, "H-how did you know about our journey?" he asked. He was sure he was quiet about it and didn't give any hints regarding it.
"I asked your friend," she said, tilting her chin to Ibuki, "she was quite excited about seeing the underground town on the eighteenth floor," she cast a worried look towards the ninja's way, "I hope she doesn't expect something glamorous down there. Even the word 'rustic' can sound too complimenting in describing that place."
"What word would you use?" Bell asked, his question geared to getting a better idea of Rivira from an experienced adventurer.
Ryuu hummed in thought before replying, "Stubborn and determined. Those would be the words best to describe the town," she paused in thought, "and its inhabitants."
Bell nodded, with that little answer, he had a bit of a better idea of what to expect. When he got home, he'd ask Koukin to share with him what Lili had said about the floor and the town.
Ryuu looked to Bell again, her expression unreadable. Bell wasn't entirely sure but he felt as if the elf was going to tell him something. As if to confirm his suspicions, Ryuu gave a sigh and began speaking.
"I suppose there is no harm in telling you," she began, "Syr puts her trust in you and that's enough," she took a breath and continued, "I too will be heading down to the eighteenth floor."
Bell almost tripped over his own feet in surprise, the bags he carried jostling around in his arms. He regained his footing before looking at the elf with undisguised surprise, "Really?! You are?!"
Ryuu gave him a look that quited him. She looked ahead to the others to make sure they didn't hear. When it was evident that they didn't, she turned back to Bell and answered, her voice lowered so only he could hear, "Yes and I'd thank you for not sharing it aloud."
Bell blushed in embarrassment at his surprise but couldn't help but ask next, "But why? I thought you were done adventuring."
"I am," Ryuu replied, her voice terse, "this is not an adventure but rather a mission instead," she nodded, more to herself at her own words than anything, "one requested by an old ally and friend," she grimaced and continued, "and her foolhardy patron as well."
Bell blinked and wanted to ask who. Ryuu saw the question coming and spoke before he could say anything.
"I can't say who asked me," she said, "they would rather be anonymous for now, but safe to say, they wouldn't ask for my help unless they needed it."
"What could they need your help for?" Bell asked innocently, genuinely curious. He almost froze in shock at the look Ryuu had when he asked that question.
She wasn't looking at him, thankfully, but even from the side Bell could see the usually neutral expression she wore sharpened into something more dangerous. Her eyes, a calm sky blue, were now cold in their focus.
A killer's eyes, Bell realizes with a shiver.
"There's the potential of some pests in the dungeon," she said, her voice as cold as a corpse, "ones that I failed to stomp out years ago."
For a moment, Bell didn't say anything. Frankly, he was honestly scared to. He had never seen the usually calm and collected elf so frightening before. It told him something else though, that whatever is in the dungeon that she regarded as a 'pest' wasn't long for this world.
He hoped it was a monster but he knew better…you don't have that kind of reaction to just monsters.
Ryuu soon returned to her previous expression, with a visible effort, given the deep breath she took. She looked at Bell and gave him a sincere look.
"My apologies, Mr Cranel," she said, her voice remorseful, "I lost my…control for a moment."
Bell shook his head and tried to smile reassuringly at her but knew it looked forced and a little awkward, nevertheless he tried.
"It's alright, Miss Ryuu," he said, "we all sometimes lose control of ourselves at times."
The words he used could've been chosen better but they seemed to do the trick as she graced him with a smile.
They walked for a bit more, hearing the chattering of their friends ahead for a moment longer, before Bell eventually asks, "So when do you leave?"
"Tomorrow," she answered neutrally, she had no issue with telling him the truth, "another reason as to why Syr took me out today. She wanted me to have a 'fun shopping experience' before I go and make a mess of myself in the dungeon."
'I think it's the dungeon that should be worried about you making a 'mess' of it,' Bell thought with a nervous sweat, "My party and I are heading down in a few days," he said, "maybe I'll see you there?"
Ryuu graced Bell with a smile, "I believe we will," she replied, "given what I was told, the matter which I've been invited to aid with may take some time to resolve. I do look forward to it," she gave him an appraising look, "you reaching the eighteenth floor that is."
Bell blushed at the confidence that the elf had in him. He thought he was better at taking those but his modesty still bleeds through at the worst times.
"But my warning still stands."
The stern voice once more returned to the elf and it made Bell twitch at its arrival.
She continued, "Do not be overconfident. One thing you must always remember. No matter how great your numbers, no matter how well equipped you are, and no matter how strong you may be, the dungeon has laid low the mighty and the meek with no remorse. Always be cautious, especially when traveling so far down its depths."
Bell saw something then, something in Ryuu's body language. It was only for a moment but he knew the movement from his own experience in life.
A shiver, Ryuu was fearful of something.
"Especially," she repeated, "when traveling so far down in its depths. There are dangers that can't even be described down there. Always be careful."
Bell could only nod, unable to find the right words to say when given such a warning.
Ryuu nodded back and turned ahead and walked on, her face returning to its usual expression.
"Also another thing," she suddenly said, "when you get down there and you see me, don't say my name. I would rather be anonymous for the sake of myself as well as others I hold dear," she focused her attention upon Syr ahead of her, seeing the smiling girl causing one to come to her own face, "the last thing I want is to cause them any trouble."
Bell had no issue with agreeing to that, "Of course," he said, "I'll be quiet about it," he suddenly realized something and couldn't help but ask, "what should I call you then?"
"Nothing," she replied, "I'll simply associate with you while you're down there. I'll use your name but you needn't use any for me," she gave him another smile, this one more self deprecating, "I apologize for the secrecy but I'm rather adamant about my privacy if you couldn't tell.
Bell just shook his head, "N-no, it's not a problem," he said, "I can understand it."
She nodded, "Good," she looked ahead and saw something, "it looks like this is where we part ways, Mr Cranel."
Bell looked and saw Chitoge and Ibuki standing off to when path on the road while Syr stood on another, the trio seemingly finishing up polite goodbyes and well wishes.
They noticed the two approaching, "Hey, Bell," Syr began with a smile, "this is where we have to part. Sorry for taking up so much of yours and your friends' time. I was just having so much fun."
Bell waved off her apology while Ryuu joined by her side, "It's not a problem," he said, "I'm glad Chitoge and Ibuki had so much fun talking to you."
Chitoge gave a huff, turned away, and crossed her arms, "I wouldn't go that far," she said, "don't think I'll overlook your interruption just because you have a decent sense of style."
Ibuki nudged her, a grin on her face, "Oh really?" she asked, "because you and Syr were having quite the engaging conversation about potentially asking for one of her work uni-"
Chitoge slapped her hands over Ibuki's mouth, her eyes wide and her cheeks red, "Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!" she interrupted, panicked, "that was just supposed to be a private conversation between the three of us!"
Ibuki pried Chitoge's hands off, revealing the mischievous smile underneath, "It's nothing to be embarrassed about," she said, "I'm curious myself to see how I'd look in one."
Bell watched his two familia members, his two dates for the day, go back and forth. Talking about something that was puzzling him. He wondered what it was until he was brought out of his thoughts by Syr, who happily stepped up to him with a smile.
In a stage whisper, she said, "Chitoge was wondering if my work could lend out an extra uniform for her to tinker with," excitement shined through her eyes, "she wants to study the design and see if she could maybe make it better. I'm not sure why but I think she could do it, she has a great sense of style."
Ryuu's ears twitched, having overheard, and she cast a cautious look towards Syr, "I would be careful on how to word that," she warned, "I can't see a good outcome if Mama Mia finds offense in someone 'improving' upon her design for the uniform," she shivered on a less than pleasant thought, "especially if the 'improvements' aren't to her liking."
Syr's smile suddenly looked far more nervous, especially with the few drops of sweat that Bell could see sliding down her face, "M-maybe I'll just sleep on the idea for a while," she said.
"Wise," commented Ryuu, she turned to Bell and gave him a bow, "thank you again for accompanying us on our outing. As well as your assistance in expanding my wardrobe."
Bell returned the bow and gifted both Syr and Ryuu a sincere smile, "It was no problem," he replied, "I'm glad we could help. Thankfully that store was very well equipped, so we definitely had a great selection to choose from."
Syr nodded and began to walk down the road to the pub with Ryuu, "I'm not surprised," she said as she walked, "that store has to be well equipped given who owns it."
This piqued Bell's curiosity, "Who's that?" He asked. The owner had to be a wealthy individual to stock that many clothes with that much variety.
Syr stopped and turned to look back at Bell and the others, who were moving to stand by their captain's side, "You didn't know?" she asked, earring a shake of the head from Bell, "Well that store is owned by one of the best familias in the city."
Chitoge and Ibuki perked up at that, their curiosity lit as well. Bell however suddenly felt nervous, worried about the answer.
"Freya familia operates that store!"
At that answer, Syr turned back and walked back down the road alongside Ryuu, a skip in her steps.
She never saw the surprised and shocked looks that Bell and the others had behind her.
Bell, Chitoge, and Ibuki stood in the street, their eyes wide at what they heard. Together they shared a look and an unspoken communication was shared between the three. Soon, the three nodded and made their way back home.
They silently agreed, albeit with some reluctance from Chitoge, that they would never return to that store again.
And that they would notify their familia about this.
The clothing was great but the risks were far far greater.
With that little revelation, the date between the three had ended.
Bell wished it could have ended on a better note than this.
The three soon arrived near home just as the sun was beginning to set. After such a day, they were ready for a good meal and a good rest.
As they walked to their home's entrance, Chitoge and Ibuki stood back and let Bell walk ahead of them. Together, the two leaned close and lowered their voices so as not to be overheard.
"Well?" asked Ibuki, "What do you think?"
Chitoge gave a brief hum before replying, "Well I'm still sad we can't go back to that store. I've come around to understand it, sis. It's tough but it's better than exposing ourselves belly up in front of a potential threat to our familia."
Ibuki blinked for a moment before giving a scowl and reiterating, "Not that…but I'm glad you understand. I was getting tired of seeing you sulk. No, what I meant is the date. What did you think of it?"
Chitoge blushed at the question, as if remembering that yes, she and her and Bell went out on a date. A shopping trip more like it but still a close date as far as Chitoge was concerned.
"It wasn't…bad," she replied to the ninja, "I was actually having a lot of fun," she grimaced, remembering something awkward, "I probably shouldn't have gotten involved with helping Ryuu get some new clothes. Kinda made things awkward, didn't it?"
Ibuki nodded, a frown on her face as she recalled as well, "Yeah it did. But don't blame yourself. I got too excited too, I'm equally as guilty," her frown turned into a small smile, "it was fun though."
Chitoge couldn't help but smile back, "Yeah," she agreed, "it was fun."
For a while they just walked on in silence, looking at the passing rubble from old buildings long since crushed by the passage of time and events unknown.
"So," began Ibuki, still keeping her voice low, "you gonna ask Bell if he'd wanna-" she trailed off, the rest of her question obvious to the red ribboned blonde.
Chitoge blushed, looked at Bell for a moment to see if he was listening before whispering to Ibuki with fervor, "Why would you ask that now?!"
"I don't know!" Ibuki replied, her cheeks reddening at realizing what she just asked, "it's just-well-isn't that also why we went on this date? To get closer and know Bell better?"
"Well," Chitoge began, nervous sweat dripping down her face, aiding in her embarrassment, "yes but still," she cast a look Bell's way, "don't you think that it would be…awkward after today?"
Ibuki followed her gaze and soon nodded her agreement. Chitoge was right. It wouldn't be appropriate to ask… 'that' after such an awkward and tense ending. It would just feel wrong to ask about it now.
She supposes there was always next time. Maybe another date perhaps?
Maybe…after their journey to the eighteenth floor?
Ibuki just gave a sigh and simply moved along the path to their home. All of this could wait some other time. Right now, she just wanted to go home, enjoy a nice shower and bath, some good food, and simply sleep the rest of the day away.
They were soon at the door and Chitoge moved to open it, giving Bell a smile and a nod of thanks. He was still holding the bags, they could at least open the door for him.
Soon the three passed the threshold and made their way to the living room.
And gaped at the strange sight before him.
Rin and Miyuki, both kneeling by one on the couches, hands in their laps, and dry erase boards hanging around their necks.
On each of the dry erase boards was something written. Reading them only made Bell and the others more confused.
On Rin's it said I won't use untested equipment for my magical experiments.
In Miyuki's it said I won't stand by while my friend uses untested equipment.
The two looked up to Bell, their captain, their summoner, and potential savior.
"Bell," pleaded Miyuki, "please tell Koukin we learned our lesson. We won't do it again," she squirmed where she kneeled, unintentionally shaking her large chest in clear discomfort, the white board laying on it nearly falling off to the side, "she hasn't had us move for like three hours!"
"This is ridiculous," muttered Rin, turning red and looking down at the board that dangled across her far more modest chest, "I'm one the strongest ones in the familia," she sniffed, it wasn't prideful, "how can I, a mighty magus, be reduced to something like," she tapped the side of the whiteboard, "this?"
"Because obvious mistakes deserve an obvious punishment," a familiar but firm voice said. Bell and the others looked to see Koukin coming down the stairs. She smiled when she saw Bell and the others. Following shortly behind her was Hakufu, Arue, and Misato.
Bell returned the smile and waved a greeting. He suddenly realized that both his arms were lighter. He looked to see the shopping bags he was carrying had been removed.
"If you wouldn't mind, Master Bell," another familiar voice said beside him. He turned to see Kirumi, the ultimate maid, with the bags of clothing looped in each arm.
'How did she do that!' he thought, wondering how she removed the shopping bags from his arms without him noticing.
Given the wide eyes and open mouths of Chitoge and Ibuki, he wasn't the only one.
Kirumi adjusted her grip on the bags, "I'll take these to your respective rooms," she said, making her way to do so, "if you desire, there are left over almond cookies in the kitchen. I encourage you to get some before Miss Charlotte and Lady Hestia finish them off."
The kitchen doors opened to reveal such individuals. Charlotte and Hestia moved out of the kitchen on a slow trek, clutching their bellies with clear discomfort.
"Too much," moaned the pinkette, "we were in over our heads, Hestia."
Hestia gave a burp, very ungodly, "Couldn't help it," she said, "those cookies were too good," she moaned piteously and leaned against the wall, hand on her stomach, "didn't want to miss out."
A familiar mature figure walked out of the kitchen, holding two cups of some sizzling clear liquid. Rinko gave a deep sigh at the sight of the two, "I tried to stop you two earlier," she said, holding out the cups, "now you must live with the consequences. At least until the seltzer water does its job."
The two looked sheepish as they took the drinks, sipping them with polite thank yous. Hestia finally noticed Bell and gave him a tired wave, "Bell," she called, "welcome home. I'm sorry I'm not over there to give you a hug," she patted her stomach, making herself groan, "mmmm, I may have made a mistake."
"You both did," chided Rinko. She turned to Bell and gave a smile, "oh Bell, Chitoge, Ibuki! Did you three have fun on your date?"
Bell shared a look between his two dates. It was one of awkwardness as well as worry. Koukin was first to notice something by that gesture and asked them to explain. With little reason to say no, not that they would, the three explained how their day went and where they went, as well as who they ran into.
When they were done explaining, Koukin could only rub at her temples in clear exhaustion and stress. This day seemed too chaotic for her.
Though it did help that Hakufu was behind her and rubbing her shoulders, the soft but firm hands of her lover made any excess stress vanish. There was still some stress but thanks to small comforts it was manageable.
"That is…unfortunate," Koukin commented once the three finished their tale, "I wish that your outing could have ended better but I understand that would be difficult considering you three basically traversed a dragon's den without noticing."
A little over dramatic in describing Freya familia? Perhaps. Inaccurate? Doubtful.
Bell could only nod his agreement, he sat on a couch, melting into its soft embrace. The day really was a tiring one. Not so much physically but emotionally.
"Yeah," replied Bell, "but it was still fun overall I think," he passed a look to Ibuki and Chitoge, "I hope you two had fun despite what happened at the end."
Ibuki just smiled and walked around behind the couch Bell sat on. In a sudden motion, she wrapped her arms around his neck from behind in a playful hug, making her captain squeak in surprise.
"Of course we had fun, Bell," she said with clear joy, "yes the end was kinda a bummer but you still gave us a wonderful time."
"You underestimate yourself, Bell," Chitoge commented, "yeah the ending sucked but it wasn't your fault," she gave him a smile and a thumbs up, "besides, our objective at getting you some new duds was a success. This is a win in my book, bro."
Bell smiled and nodded, his face a bit red from Ibuki's proximity. Made all the more redder when Ibuki snuggled into his hair, humming playfully.
"Hello!" Rin's voice cut through the air, prompting everyone to look towards her, "Bells' back! Can we please stop kneeling here like this now?!"
Beside her, Miyuki nodded rapidly in agreement, her dreads bouncing back and forth.
Koukin looked at the two, as if surprised they were still in that position in the first place, though her eyes gleamed with mischief and vindictive glee, "Oh? You two are still like that?" she asked with a grin, pushing up her glasses and making them gleam, "I thought for sure you two would have gotten up by now. After all, Bell is finally here after all."
The two kneeling girls looked at Koukin, then at each other, then back to their vice-captain, "What the hell are you talking about?!" exclaimed Rin, "You just told us to kneel down here for an unspecified amount of time, with these stupid boards around our necks, for the trouble we caused!"
"Accidental trouble!" piped in Miyuki, looking nervous as Bell, Chitoge, and Ibuki looked their way, "just want to clarify because…" she chuckled, it sounded awkward and forced, "details are important."
"Did I?" asked Koukin in the face of Rin's frustration. She put a finger to her chin in contemplation, "I thought for sure I said you could get up after Bell returned home. Did I not?"
Rin looked at her as if she grew a second head, her outrage was evident, "What the hell?! You never said that!" she pointed to the grinning second in command, "you never said that at all!"
Koukin looked at her faux shock for a moment, her amusement transparently clear. Then she snapped her fingers in realization.
"Oh that's right!" she began, as if coming to an obvious conclusion, "I said it under my breath. That's why you didn't know!"
Rin and Miyuki's jaws dropped at this.
Koukin wasn't done, "Well I suppose all's well that ends well," she said, "you two must be tired being like that all day. Well congratulations, you served your punishment with grace and dignity," she gestured over to the kitchen area, "I suppose now you can go and get something to eat. You two must be starving after all, if you can't wait for dinner that is."
"Only because you were vague about this ridiculous punishment you subjected us to!" Rin shouted, moving to stand, "I can't believe it! We thought we were gonna stay like this all nigh-"
A sharp but wet cracking sound echoed in the room and Rin suddenly seized up and collapsed back in pain, clutching at her feet.
"Oh that was a mistake," Hakufu commented, looking at the now twitching magus, "after kneeling like that for so long, your feet must be locked up something fierce. Best to take it slow when getting up."
Miyuki listened to the wise words and did so. Tilting herself to the side and rolling onto her back. She stretched her legs and wiggled her feet. Once she felt no signs of potential discomfort, she stood with a huff and a smile, seemingly proud of herself.
"This can't get any worse," moaned Rin, humiliation and pain evident in her voice.
"Oh but it can," Koukin commented, her smile widening, the sight of it making Rin shiver.
Didn't matter if Rin was technically stronger than her. Sometimes there were just people in the world you couldn't win against.
"You and Miyuki," the sound of her name making the later girl freeze in her tracks, "are going to do the responsible thing and tell our dear captain what exactly happened that caused such a punishment to befall you."
Bell perked up at this and Ibuki released her hold on him and stood at attention, both were curious about this now.
"Something happened while we were gone?" Bell asked, concern in his voice, "Was anyone hurt? Is everything okay?"
Arue waved a hand placatingly at Bell, "Worry not my dear captain," she said, her voice in its dramatic pitch, "the ordeal was overcome with care and grace," she brought a hand up to her eyepatch in her signature pose, her red eye gleaming, "though not without an unfortunate material casualty."
"I dunno," commented Hakufu with a grin, "depending on how you look at it, it could be a gift instead,"
Misato gave a sigh, "Please you two," she began, her elf ears twitching, "let's treat this situation with a bit more seriousness."
A loud cough ended any more discussion to be had. Attention soon came back to Koukin who gestured for Rin and Miyuki to explain their predicament as well as the cause of it.
The two looked at each other for a moment before giving tired sighs and looking towards Bell.
"Okay Bell," began Miyuki, "it all began like this."
And so they explained. Telling Bell about their magical research, the new gadgets being made, and the experimental device that was tested poorly. It wasn't long until they mentioned what was damaged in the experiment and what that meant for Bell.
Rin finished up the explanation with a dreary look down at herself and the sight that hung over her chest, "And so our punishment was to reflect on our actions," she said, casting an irritated look at Koukin, "apparently until you got home. A detail that our vice-captain kept under her breath!"
Koukin didn't dignify a response to that, her eyes on her captain to see his reaction. Bell had been still and silent during the entire explanation. Processing what he heard.
She hoped he was responding to this carefully and maturely. Even with how unorthodox it is overall.
"So yeah," Miyuki cut in, "bad news is the downstairs bathroom is…shattered. So now all that's left is the main floor bathroom," she actually gave Bell what appeared to be a sincere smile, one that was both apologetic and congratulatory, "guess that means you'll get to enjoy the new bathroom with the rest of us."
Bell didn't say anything, he merely sat on the couch stock still and staring at her.
"Uh, hello," Miyuki said, standing up and walking aside, Bell's gaze never following her, "uh, is our captain alright?"
Ibuki, still behind Bell, waved a hand in front of his face. No reaction, "That can't be good," she commented.
Hakufu, being more abrupt, walked up to Bell's side and pressed a finger to the side of his head. No response. She pressed a bit harder and Bell toppled to the side, eyes now confirmed to be staring at nothing.
Hakufu gave a snort, an amused smile on her face, "Thought so," she commented, "he knew what it meant when Rin brought up the destroyed bathroom downstairs," she leaned down and poked at his cheek, "I knew I was going to see a funny reaction but this is more than I imagined."
Hestia moved to slap her hand away, "Quit poking at my Bell!" she grabbed Bell by the shoulders and made him sit up against the couch again, "Bell! Bell!! Speak to me! It's not so bad. Sure I was frustrated when I first heard but then I realized something," she took a step back and spread her arms, as if revealing a monumental truth, "now we can shower and bathe together! Isn't that great?! Now I can scrub your back and you can do mine!"
Bell slumped to the side, seemingly more in shock than before at hearing that.
Koukin sighed at her captain's ridiculous habit. She thought her captain had improved some more when it came to being close to the opposite sex. Especially after having some pleasurable nights with a few of them. Still, there seems there is much to improve upon.
She was confident that one of two baths with his familia would help amend that. Maybe even give him a confidence boost as well.
"We'll let our captain rest and recover for now," Koukin said, "I hope there are no complaints about this arrangement?"
Ibuki and Chitoge knew she was speaking to them, "It's kinda crazy. I'm not gonna lie," Ibuki said, "but it doesn't feel right to leave Bell out just because of this accident," she gave a smile and put her hands on her waist, "besides, we were still a bit awkward in asking him about boosting us today. This could let us at least get used to seeing him more…more," she faltered, her smile turning a bit embarrassed, "intimately," she finished.
Chitoge felt her ears go red at the words of her friend. She looked at Bell, gave a frustrated sigh and nodded, as if coming to a conclusion that she must overcome, "Yeah, what she said. Besides, Bell's been great with us today. I don't think he'd try anything in that situation if we didn't want him to. Bro ain't like that."
Koukin nodded, satisfied with those answers. It was a strange situation they found themselves in but one that seemed to be more or less welcomed by the familia as a whole. Granted, it would be awkward initially. Probably more so for Bell than anyone else but Koukin was confident that her captain and the others would adapt in time.
She turned to her now comatosed captain, still slumped across the couch.
"Let's get Bell situated," Koukin said, moving to adjust his body into a more comfortable position, "I'd feel guilty if he woke up with a sore neck."
Before she could do anything, the doors the familia home opened up, revealing Kallen, Olivier, and Mildred; each one of them carrying a well sized bag of valis coins.
Kallen walked up before the others, money in hand and a proud grin on her face, "We had a good run in the dungeon today!" she proclaimed, "we'll have our coffers full by tomorrow if our luck holds out."
An exaggeration, Koukin knew. As since they have more members in the familia now, their coffers would only increase overall. Nonetheless, Koukin was happy to see that the three had a profitable day in the dungeon.
Kallen suddenly noticed Bell and raised her eyebrows at his state, "What happened to Bell?"
Koukin sighed and began to explain the situation herself this time. Today was a day of too much talking it seems.