HAPPY 15TH ANNIVERSARY?
“Bell, what kind of celebration do you want for your fifteenth birthday?”
“Huh?”
It is early afternoon, and I am enjoying a rare day off from the Dungeon. The two of us are alone in the mansion’s living room, sharing the sofa, when Goddess turns to me and asks that question.
“Aren’t you fourteen right now? And it’s been half a year since you came to Orario, so that means the big one-five is just around the corner! We gotta get ready!”
Goddess’s explanation is accompanied by wild gesturing. I sort of understand and don’t understand at the same time.
“…Okay? I mean, I guess that makes sense…?”
“So what kind of birthday do you want?”
“Um…What kind? I guess as long as everyone’s here, it doesn’t really matter…”
“Don’t be shy! You’re the captain of my familia and the very first member! It might not be fair to supporter girl and the others, but I want to pull out all the stops for you! Show you my overwhelming goddess love!!”
Goddess is already getting a little carried away, but I’m not sure what to say.
“I really can’t think of anything I want. The thought is more than enough.”
“Come on, Bell! You must want something!”
“…I guess there is one thing,” I say. “It’s not really a celebration or anything, but…”
“Oh?” Goddess turns back toward me, eager to hear what I have to say.
“I want to adventure…just like we always have and always will.”
“An adventure?”
“Yeah. With all the happiness it brings, the fun, the wonder, the beauty, the mystery…and even the hardship and the pain. As long as everyone’s here, we can all face it together.”
I think of everything that’s happened to me so far. All the people I’ve met, all the things I’ve seen, and all the feelings I’ve felt. Love, excitement, and courage.
With my friends by my side, there’s nowhere I can’t go. That is what I truly believe.
“Adventure, eh? Yeah, that’s such a Bell thing to say!”
Goddess is with me every step of the way. Her face lights up in response to my answer.
“That settles it! Bell’s fifteenth birthday party will be adventure-themed!!”
“What?! Did you listen to a word I said?!”
Goddess bounds out of the room, and I hastily follow, an unmistakable smile on my lips.
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