The days since Marshall Gramont came were tense for a while. Guiche was a nervous wreck until word came from his mother that he had just appeared at their home in a flash of light, demanding to know what became of a duel he was in. Since Marshall had summoned the golem which damaged part of the school when I had to retaliate in kind, he had to help pay for the repairs. That was good since I was broke. Colbert wouldn't leave me alone for a while, wanting to study my Inner Phantom though. I wanted to help him, but after the duel ended the Miracle Ring turned dark and I couldn't get it to work anymore. I just hoped that it wasn't a one–time only thing.
When Louise got back to her room with dinner in tow that night, she slapped me in the cheek for pulling off such a stunt. I knew the risks I was willing to take. That Centurion construct was gonna pummel me for sure, if I didn't do something about it. On the bright side, Marteau and Siesta thought I was even more incredible than before by standing up to Marshall, a man high in the military like I did.
As of now, after recovering from the duel, I've been doing a little project as of late. Since summer vacation is gonna be for another few weeks or so, I decided to busy myself with making a small one story Edo Period Japanese House as my living quarters.
Hey, I'm not going to stay sleeping in Louise's bed forever y'know.
For a number of days, I've been going to the forest of LaRochelle using my magic to cut some trees and chop them into wood for me to use. I even then went over to town to gather other building supplies I would need to build my house too. Mr. Colbert even offered to help and I was more than happy to let him do that.
I know what you're thinking. You're thinking 'how could a guy from the modern world know how to build an Edo–style house and have the experience to make one?; Well, if there was any subject in history I can say could have earned me a scholarship somewhere, it was history. My best area was Japanese history. I knew how to build a house like the one I had in mind because I made a miniature version for a history project. Building an actual sized one couldn't be too much different, just bigger than what I remembered. While I didn't have much in terms of tools, I did have the knowledge to make designs and with Colbert and my magic I managed to cut the pieces I needed. I managed to sell him on the project since he was deeply interested in things from my world and the chance to examine a cultural aspect of my homeland was more than enough incentive.
"How interesting," Colbert said impressed. "I must admit, the design of this house you're building is rather unique."
"It's a rather open design, supposed to promote positive flow through the household," I explained since the house's layout was rather open. On the plus side, it was easy to find everything and not get lost like in the castle. The number of times I got lost in there…
"Are all the homes in your world like this?" Colbert asked.
"No. There are only several of these kinds of home spread throughout my country." I said. "Houses like the one I'm building are a thing of the past, but my country still embraces it so we can understand its rich history and culture."
"Ah, it sounds so interesting," Colbert smiled. "I would so love to visit one day."
"Well, who knows? You might get your chance one day," I looked over the designs for the house and making sure that the pieces were coming together properly. I didn't want to have the place finished only to collapse while I was in it.
"So, do you have any other intentions for this place when it is finished aside from staying here?" asked Colbert.
"Well, entertain guests I suppose," I shrugged. "That's what the sitting room is for."
"I see."
"Hmm… Maybe I could add an onsen in there too while I'm at it."
"An on… what…?" Colbert asked confused.
"Oh I'm sorry." I apologized. "I meant hot spring. Onsen is just another word for it in my language."
"Oh, that sounds interesting," Colbert nodded. "Does it hold any significance?"
"Well, it's another cultural significant thing, but it's also like having a natural bath," I replied. "Although I'd have to settle for an artificial one instead of the natural one and the latter are considered so luxurious back home. Now how to do that though…"
"Hmmm…" Colbert said as he looked around and noticed Marteau… rolling a very huge, large pot? "Maybe you can use that for an artificial hot spring." He said, pointing to the said pot.
I glanced at it, surprised to see just how massive the pot was. I mean, one could have cooked a whole cow inside of the thing. It was just that big. It was kind of dented and looked like the edges were beginning to crack. The fact the resident cook could even move it was amazing. Marteau looked like he was going to toss it away too so maybe this was my chance.
"Hey, Marteau," I called, jogging over to the man.
"Hm…? Oh, hello Kurogasa," the man smiled. "What can I do for you?"
"Well, I was actually going to ask about that pot," I pointed to said pot. "Are you getting rid of it?"
"Yes, I have to," Marteau sighed. "It's gotten pretty dinged up and food I cook in it is starting to taste like metal since the coating is starting to come off. The school's already ordered a new one so I'm going to send this off to the blacksmith so it can be melted down to make more tools. Why? Are you interested in it?"
"I have a special project and this pot looks like it would be perfect," I smiled. "I don't need it for cooking though. I just need to know if it can still boil water."
Marteau laughed, "Ah, it can do that easily. Well, if you want it then you're welcome to it. It saves me the trouble of hiring some horses to haul it, even if it is at the school's expense."
"Thanks!" I grinned, testing the weight of the pot. I could already plan out how I would set it up. Maybe make a stone platform to rest the pot on so a small bonfire could be held underneath. I didn't want it too close to the fire or else I'd burn my feet on the bottom or boil myself. There was a sweet science to a homemade onsen and one I'd have to learn on the fly.
"Alright, time for me to work my magic carrying this thing." I said before slipping on a ring and placed it over the Hand Author buckle.
BIG! PLEASE!
I stuck my hand through the magic circle, allowing it to grow to the size I could carry the pot with one hand. Hefting the item up, I began carrying it back to my construction project. Maybe conferring a bit with Colbert could help me figure out how to make the right stone platform. The man often messed with chemistry so he'd know best how to regulate temperatures.
"Alright, I got the pot."
"Excellent." Colbert smiled.
"Now I just need the right stone platform to regulate the temperature." I added.
"Ah, then I can help with that," Colbert nodded, proving my guess right. "Many of my experiments depend on temperatures being within a certain range. I sometimes use thin slabs of stone to block off the worst of the higher temperatures. One of the Earth Mages on staff usually helps me with that."
"Great! Let's get started!" I grinned.
(Cue Theme)
LINE BREAK
Meanwhile…
"Alseid and Asura have failed us Lord Wiseman." Medusa bowed. "They were defeated by the Yubiwa no Mahōtsukai."
"This is becoming bothersome," Wiseman frowned. "This Mahōtsukai is just as meddlesome as the first."
"What shall we do?" Medusa asked.
"Hmmm…" Wiseman pondered. "I think I may have someone in mind."
"Someone thinking about me?" a new voice cut in, the owner of that voice appearing from behind a chair which couldn't have hidden him.
"Yes. I was just thinking about you. You heard our conversation?" Wiseman asked.
"I sure did." The voice chirped.
"Then you know what to do."
"One dead wizard, coming up!" the Phantom chuckled, leaping behind the chair again to vanish once more.
"Do you really think he could defeat the Yubiwa no Mahōtsukai?" Medusa asked.
Wiseman shrugged, "I doubt he'll fight the Mahōtsukai himself just yet. Once he's sure he can win though, the annoyance will be dealt with."
"Of course Wiseman," Medusa said.
LINEBREAK
"Whew," I sighed, looking at my new home. You know, maybe the nobles were onto something with magic construction. This was going way faster than what I expected.
"It looks incredible!" Colbert smiled, as we stepped back to look at the new home.
"Thanks," I nodded. "Maybe now I can rest comfortably on a futon instead of a pile of straw."
"Futon…?" Colbert asked confused.
"Oh, right. It's a kind of sleeping roll I use for a bed."
"Ah," the teacher nodded. "So do you have any plans with your sitting room? Sharing your culture with the students?"
"I wouldn't mind. Heh, who knows? Maybe I can do a class on it." I chuckled.
I sort of doubted it. Granted my circle of friends might be interested. The rest, I doubted. They were happy to remain snobby in their insular world. They wouldn't care about a foreign culture and may actually just make fun of it, showing how they thought they were so much better.
"You would?!" Colbert asked in excitement.
Wait, he thinks I'm serious?!
"Uh…" I blinked.
"Oh wonderful!" he smiled. "Studying a foreign culture is such a rare experience! I'd love to share that with the students! Perhaps you could explain your country's style of magic in comparison to our own?"
"Uh…" I blinked again. Okay, he was like a little kid who got his birthday present early. If I told him no I'd feel like I was kicking a puppy. "Maybe… when things have settled down?" I winced.
"Of course, you need to get settled in first," Colbert agreed.
Phew… that was a close call. "Well, I don't know about you, but after working all day, I think an evening bath would do the trick."
"Alright, I shall leave you to that then." Colbert nodded.
"Thanks for all your help Professor Colbert." I said.
"Oh it's no problem." Colbert smiled. "I'm glad I could help." With that, he left on his way back to his office.
With that, I looked at my new house and rubbed my hands together in excitement. "Onsen, here I come!"
LINE BREAK
My new onsen was set at the back of the house and I took the care to put up a high fence. Since my house was situated in the courtyard I didn't want anyone to wander into it and see me. I decorated the area with rocks and sand like a Zen garden just for fun. I layered rocks around the pot itself with a stone slab under it to keep the heat of the hidden fireplace from making the water or the pot too hot All I had to do was fill the pot with water, which took a few buckets from the well and then some firewood made from the leftovers of the wood carving, and soon the water was boiling at a comfortable temperature.
"Ahhhh," I sighed, slipping into the water. "Now this makes all the hard work worth it."
Nothing beats the onsen. It never does. Looking up at the night sky, I've been thinking about the crazy adventure I've had thus far.
I used to be a fanboy who ended up here, somehow manifested my magic from a television show made real, and now I've been fighting Phantoms and spoiled nobles. It was an adventure to be sure, but I still missed home and found my thoughts drifting to how I could get back if I could. Still, at least I made some nice friends while I was here.
"Kurogasa, where are you?"
Like Siesta. That maid was cute and she was really nice. I may have starved if I hadn't been able to make friends with her.
"Kurogasa, are you here? I brought dinner."
Wait a minute …Siesta?!
I blinked and turned around to my little house and almost choked when the door to the onsen opened, revealing the maid with a plate of food. "S–Siesta, what are you doing here?!" I stuttered.
Siesta turned red, blinking at me, "Um… I wanted to give you d–d–dinner. W–What is all this?"
"Huh? Oh, um… it's my uh… um… outdoor bathtub?"
Siesta's natural curiosity seemed to outshine her embarrassment as she set the plate of food down, "Oh? It looks nice. Can I try?"
"Uh… yeah, sure I guess." I said. Wait a minute! What am I saying?!
Well, Siesta would just wait for me to get out and when she was done we could share dinner and… OH NO, WHY IS SHE TAKING OFF HER CLOTHES?!
"SIESTA, YOU CAN'T TAKE OFF YOUR CLOTHES IN FRONT OF ME!" I panicked.
I quickly turned away so I wouldn't be tempted to look more. I heard more shuffling, but I assumed that she was putting her clothes back on so I could get out and put this awkward moment behind us. After a few moments, I assumed she left but then I heard a splash and my eyes bulged. I turned and I felt my nose feel like a high pressure hose was about to go off.
There sitting in the water was an unclothed Siesta whose only means of protecting her modesty was a towel she picked up from the house. The water wasn't cloudy like it would be in a normal onsen, so I could see plenty of her body Wow…
"Oh, it does feel nice," Siesta smiled, with her cheeks rosy.
"Uh… yeah…" I said before turning away a bit.
Siesta smiled and made small motions of pushing her hand through the water, "Is this how everyone in your country bathes?"
"Sometimes yes," I said. Yeah, when there's a barrier between the men and the women!
Well, except for some inns but… NO! Don't think about that! "What we actually do is clean ourselves separately then we soak up in the hot water. That way we can just enjoy being submerged and not have to rest in dirty water."
"I see." Siesta smiled. "I'd like try to that sometime."
Well technically you're doing it now… oh man did she make it look good too… WAIT! STOP THINKING LIKE THAT!
"I think it makes it more fun when there's company though," Siesta smiled, cheeks pink either from the situation or the heat of the water.
GAAAHHH, NO DIRTY THOUGHTS! BAD!
I took all my self–control not to just bang by head on one of the rocks to prevent myself from thinking dirty thoughts. I already had to change my seating to hide my… uh… reaction from Siesta. There was no denying it once I got a good look at her in the bath. Okay, just stay calm… don't stare too hard… concentrate on her face… not her sizable NO! GAH! Just her face! Not her nice rear or big bust or her–! AHHH! I'M DOING IT AGAIN!
"Are you okay, Kurogasa? You look red." Siesta said concerned.
"Just… fine," I mumbled, sinking into the water, curling up so my feet wouldn't touch Siesta. I would just blow bubbles. There, I could concentrate on that instead of Siesta.
"Oh ok." Siesta said. "Tell me Kurogasa, what is your country like?" She asked.
Now that was something I could focus on, "Well, it's nice. We have a nice mix of modern and tradition. Some places can be densely populated though so the buildings can be pretty tightly packed together or can reach pretty high to fit all the people. Open space sells pretty high. Magic is pretty rare though. Most people think it's only the stuff from stories. I thought the same until I got here and my Phantom manifested. I honestly collected the rings for fun and not to use them."
"It must be nice." Siesta said.
"Yeah, it is. Also, there's no monarchy, there's only one moon, and everything runs on electricity too."
"Now you're just teasing me," Siesta huffed.
"No, I'm serious." I insisted. "Well, we do have an emperor but he and his family let the government of elected officials run the country instead of doing it themselves. They do have a hand in the important things though."
"Why is that?" Siesta asked.
"Well, things change as time goes by." I said.
I explained to her that my country had a revolution we called the Meiji Revolution, people who took sides between the emperor who they felt was the true leader and the shogunate, or nobility. The emperor embraced new traditions and means of ruling while the shogunate wanted to keep things the way they were because it would mean their power would be diminished. That revolution was also the start of change, how my country continued to evolve and grow with the people as a whole eventually deciding how things would work rather than the elite few.
She was absolutely fascinated by the story and I was glad she enjoyed it so much.
"Wow… your country has changed a lot." Siesta said amazed.
"Any length of time brings change," I shrugged. "Just the big battles and conflicts tend to be what makes people notice those changes."
"I see…" Siesta said. "Well, I must get going. I've stayed here too long."
"Um… sure," I nodded as Siesta moved to get out. I looked away again, trying to crush the temptation. I waited until I heard the noise of cloth being moved. Once it ended, I looked up to see Siesta buttoning up her outfit again. I finally felt some relief at that. I was going to be tense for a while as it was.
"Thank you for letting try the outdoor bathtub. I enjoyed it." Siesta smiled.
"Uh… yeah, me too…" I said.
Oh my dreams were going to be… vivid tonight…
LINE BREAK
"Where is that Kurogasa?" Louise growled, as she stomped all over the place trying to look for him.
She was a little steamed still about Kirche's latest attempt to get his attention before she left. Although the redhead wasn't there, Louise wanted to make absolutely sure that he didn't have any funny ideas about Kirche or any other girl. Now that he had a taste of Jeanne, who knew what funny ideas he would get about some other girl at the school. He seemed awfully close to that maid since he first came to the Academy.
"He better not be, doing anything funny…" Louise growled again.
Louise stomped around, coming through the courtyard in her search. Entering one section, she came across the one story house which her Familiar had built. She knew he was building his own place to live, not that she liked it since a Familiar's place was by their master, but Kurogasa was a human and not an animal. She blinked at the sight, finding the architecture strange but tasteful.
And that was when she saw the maid leave the house with flushed cheeks and a silly smile on her lips. Louise's eye twitched, her teeth grinded, and she was very ticked off. "That idiotic dog…!"
He did it again! He slept with another girl! Oh it made sense! He'd follow any woman who told him a sweet story and flashed some thigh! That was where Kirche kept failing! She was too obvious of her intentions! Ooooh!
"THAT DOG!" she snarled.
But as much as she wanted to go and explode her anger on him, she couldn't because she didn't want to ruin the house that Kurogasa built.
As much as he richly deserved punishment, she wasn't going to be so petty as to just destroy his residence. No, she would wait for him to come out and punish him then! Her issue was waiting so she decided to go stomp around the courtyard and stew, imagining the sweet punishment she'd put down on her dog of a Familiar.
As she stomped around, she noticed Montmorency and Guiche having an evening dinner together and saw two drinks there. She needed to cool off so downing a drink should probably help.
"I'm drinking this!" Louise snapped, snagging Guiche's drink and not noticing Montmorency blanch in horror as she guzzled it down.
"Uh… Louise?" Guiche blinked.
'Oh no… she drank it!' Montmorency thought in horror.
Louise slammed the glass down and stomped away, ignoring the rising heat in her stomach which she attributed to anger.
"Stupid Kurogasa…" Louise grumbled. While she grumbled… why was she feeling drowsy?
LINE BREAK
I got out of the bath at long last. Having Siesta in there was a treat in itself I have to admit. I'd never say it out loud where anyone could hear but I could at least admit it. So after I got dressed, I decided to head up to Louise's room to grab my things so I could spend my first night in my new home. It would be better than sleeping on a bed of straw at least.
And the dinner Siesta brought was good too. I'd have to do something nice for her later.
I yawned as I headed up the dormitory steps, "Man, tonight is going to be a good night for sleep."
I went up the stairs and up to Louise's room and when I did, I saw Derflinger leaning on the wall with Louise sitting on the bed looking… strange for some reason. Is she okay?
"Louise, are you feeling okay?" I asked, approaching her to feel her forehead. She seemed to flushed and hot. "Your temperature is running kind of high."
"What are you talking about?" Louise asked, with her speech somewhat slurred.
"Okay, now something is wrong," I frowned. Her voice slurred, high temperatures and it looked like she was nodding off. Something had to be wrong. "Louise, I want you to lie down while I check to see if the infirmary still has someone up."
"No…" Louise said.
"Huh? What do you mean no?" I asked incredulously.
That was when the unexpected happened. She pounced on me to the floor and kissed me?!
"Idiot, Idiot, Idiot!" Louise sobbed, coming up for air. "How could you keep pushing me away for that maid, or that waitress girl? Telling me to stay here while you're always going off! Can't you tell how much I love you?"
EXCUSE ME?!
"I love you Kurogasa!" Louise shouted then kissed me again. This isn't an innocent kiss either! This is an 'open your mouth so our tongues can play' kind of kiss! What is wrong with her?!
"MPH," I gasped and with some effort, managed to push her off of me. For someone so small you wouldn't think she was so strong! She tried jumping me again, but I managed to catch her and pin her down.
"Oh, Kurogasa," Louise blushed in delight. "P–Please be, gentle. It will be my first time."
NO WAY I'M GONNA BE DOING THAT! NOT IN A MILLION YEARS!
"HAHAHAHAHAHA, looks like Louise is the victim of a love potion!" Derf laughed.
"HUH?" I asked incredulously, turning to Derf. Those things actually exist?!
"Sure Partner. You wouldn't believe the number of my previous partners that got hit by one," Derflinger snickered. "I recognize one a mile away! Looks like the girl got a pretty good dose too. And the girl's finally deciding to stake her claim!"
"Why would she want to drink a love potion in the first place?" I snapped.
*KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK*
Oh no. Don't let someone see us like this!
"Sir Kurogasa, are you in there?" Montmorency's voice asked. "We need to talk."
"I'm a little busy at the moment!" I yelped and Louise slipped from my grasp and proceeded to try and fondle me. "Louise! No! Bad touch! Bad touch!"
"But I love you!" Louise whined.
The door immediately opened and there stood Montmorency, looking quite pale as she took in the scene between me and Louise. I was in a word, mortified at what was happening. Louise didn't seem to notice as she tried to undress me. Derflinger was just laughing and Montmorency looked like she had stumbled upon something horrifying.
"Montmorency, can you please slow– oh dear…" Guiche mumbled as he arrived at the room too.
"Oh I knew it…" Montmorency face palmed.
"You knew it?" I said in confusion.
LINE BREAK
"YOU MADE THAT LOVE POTION?!" I shrieked at Montmorency. Thankfully, I used the Sleep Ring on Louise and she didn't wake up from my scream.
"I didn't mean for Louise to drink it! It was for Guiche!" Montmorency snapped back.
Guiche gaped, "What?! My lovely Montmorency, how could you?! You know my love for you is as grand as–!"
"Only until the next pretty girl comes along," Montmorency growled, making Guiche flinch. "Remember how I distracted you: 'Oh look, a flying beautiful woman!' You fell for that so easily!"
"Ughhhh…" Guiche groaned.
"That's not the point anymore!" I snapped, catching their attention. "What matters is that we turn Louise back to normal. Montmorency how long until the love potion wears off?"
"Um… not long," Montmorency replied weakly. "Six months… maybe a year?"
My eye twitched and she flinched. "Not good enough! I want you to fix this now!"
"I can't!" Montmorency retorted. "The main ingredient I need for an antidote is incredibly rare and almost impossible to get! You'll just have to wait!"
Derflinger then decided to open his mouth or what passed as one, "You know Partner, I think love potions are illegal these days."
That's when I really blew my top off, "THEY'RE WHAT?!"
"Oh look at the time!" Montmorency as she turned to leave the room. I quickly grasped the back of her uniform, lifting her off of the ground.
I then turned around to face me and…
BIND! PLEASE!
I bound her with chains.
"What are you doing?! Release me this instant!" Montmorency panicked.
"Montmorency…" I said.
"Y–Yes…?" She squeaked.
"Tell me… what elements do I have?" I asked.
"What?"
"ANSWER THE QUESTION!"
"All four!" she squeaked.
"Name them!"
"Fire, Water, Wind, and Earth," Montmorency quickly replied.
"Where are you going with this?" Guiche asked fearfully.
"Well, you see Guiche…" I began darkly. "I'm going to torture her with one of these elements until she makes the antidote… Option 1 would be to burn her. Option 2 would be drowning her. Option 3 would be cutting off her air supply. And Option 4 would be burying her six feet under!" I then yelled to Montmorency, "SO UNLESS YOU WANT ONE OF THOSE OPTIONS, I SUGGEST YOU START MAKING THE ANTIDOTE NOW!"
I admit that I was being beyond harsh, but this wasn't some schoolyard squabble. Louise had been in effect drugged by an illegal substance. If this had happened in daylight or during the regular school days it could've destroyed Louise's reputation and humiliated her with the stunts she'd have pulled for whichever boy she focused on. Her family would become involved and who could tell what would've happened unless someone discerned a love potion was involved. Even if it was discovered, the Vallière family could've taken it as an assault on them and things would have really gotten messy.
"Okay, okay, okay! I'll do it! Just don't kill me please!" Montmorency sobbed as tears streamed down her eyes.
Oka~y, maybe I was over the top…
I dismissed the chains and set Montmorency down. She tried wiping her eyes as Guiche tended to her. Once her face was clear, she tried to reclaim her composure but it was obvious that she was afraid of me, "We…We need a tear of the Water Spirit. I… I don't have one. W–W–We have to go to the Lagdorian Lake."
"And where exactly is this lake?" I asked calmly.
"A day's ride from here," Montmorency replied. "But just getting there isn't the hard part. Getting the tear is. The Water Spirit lives at the lake and getting her favor to even ask for a tear is near impossible. My family does have that favor, but the Water Spirit is moody and doesn't always listen."
"Then I'll convince her." I said. "You two get some rest. We're going to wake up early. And bring your chemistry set too Montmorency. You're making the antidote right then and there as soon as we get the Tear."
"R–Right," Montmorency gulped before she all but dashed from the room. Guiche quickly followed, but not before tossing me a look over his shoulder before he did so. He likely remembered when I kicked his butt in a duel. At least I was nice about it when I beat him. I wasn't so nice with his girlfriend when she drugged Louise.
I better apologize to her later after all of this is over… Seriously, what is wrong with me?
LINE BREAK
As soon as the dawn came, we loaded up and headed out towards the lake where the Water Spirit resided. We had some trouble getting ready since first Louise didn't want to stop snuggling and she insisted on holding my hand all the time and riding with me. Montmorency wasn't an early riser so Guiche had to coax her awake and remind her what we were doing.
So now I was on the Machine Winger with Louise behind me as Montmorency and Guiche were on a horse. I had to be a bit slower because I know for sure that a motorcycle could definitely outrun a horse.
"How can that contraption move without a horse?" asked Guiche, stunned at my machine.
"Trust me. You'd never understand if I explain it." I answered.
"Oh Kurogasa…" Louise sighed as she snuggled into my chest. Good grief, this better be worth it when all of this is over.
After traveling on the road, stopping every now and then for a break because of the horse needing rest, we finally arrived at the lake, but…
"Is the lake really this high?" I asked.
The lake was simply massive, large to the point where I could see trees coming out of its surface. Strangely enough, the path we were on seemed to end at its shores. Why was that?
"No, the lake is never usually this big," Montmorency frowned. "Something must have angered the Water Spirit if it decided to flood its own lake like this. This isn't good."
"Great…" I frowned. Looking over the surface of the water, I could see more signs of destruction. There were the tops of houses sticking out from the top. I missed them before since they were just under the surface of the water. Only the pointed top of a church broke the surface and I had mistaken it as a tree. "Well, I better figure out what's wrong then." I said, before placing the Driver on Ring on my finger and placing it in front of the Hand Author buckle.
DRIVER ON! PLEASE!
"What are you going to do?" asked Guiche.
"I'm going to meet the Water Spirit itself." I said before placing the Water Style ring on my left hand. And after getting off the Machine Winger and letting go of Louise, I flipped the Hand Author to my left, "Henshin!"
WATER! PLEASE! SUI! SUI! SUI! SUI!
I soon changed into Water Style and after that, jumped into the lake.
I was pretty sure I heard Louise cry out for me, but I was already under the water by then. My magic allowed me to coast along with ease, heading deeper under the water. "Now if I were a Water Spirit, where would I be?" I asked myself. I looked deeper, seeing a large indent at the bottom, probably where the original lake was. So deciding to go there, I swam to that location and it looked murky and dark. No surprise there. But then… my magic senses tingled. Something was definitely down here.
'Well, no time like the present,' I thought before I began to swim closer to the bottom.
As soon as I hit the bottom, the magic senses suddenly got stronger and the water around me began to stir. "Okay," I murmured. "Let's do things calmly and civilized. Don't tick off the ancient elemental."
Soon part of the water in front of me swirled in a vortex, and a clear visible water blob of what appeared to be a person appeared, "What are you, strange little thing?" the blob asked me. "Why are you in my domain?"
Okay, time to go Optimus Prime on her. "My name is Kurogasa Kururugi, also known as Kamen Rider Wizard." I introduced. "I come to you as an ambassador of the human beings from above to resolve our differences and bring peace between us."
The Water Spirit was silent for a moment. Finally, the head perked as it began to speak, "I demand the return of what is mine. I will not suffer hindrances. Leave my realm."
I perked, "Something was stolen from you?" Wow, no wonder it was ticked off and flooding the land.
"Yes. I seek its return and extend my reach so to reclaim it," the Water Spirit explained. "Go back to your masters. I will not stop until I have reclaimed it."
"There is no need to extend your reach." I said. "What if I reclaim what was stolen from you in your stead? Would you reconsider?"
The Water Spirit shifted slightly, but if it had eyes I think it would've narrowed its eyes at me in suspicion, "Why do you offer? Humans do not extend anything unless they wish for something in return."
I lowered my head, "It is true that I do wish for something. What I ask in return for searching for your lost relic is a tear." I looked up. "A tear so that someone may be cured of an affliction that ails them!"
The Water Spirit was silent, "…I see. If you wish for this task in return for a piece of me, then you must first prove I can trust you. To earn that trust, you must complete another task for me."
"Name it." I nodded.
"I have been attacked several times in the previous days." the Water Spirit explained. "I wish for the attacks to stop. Do this and I will grant you your task as well as a piece of me…"
"You have my word." I nodded. "I will see to it that the task will be complete."
"Then be off with you." the Water Spirit spoke before her vessel dissolved into normal water again. I turned around and swam back to the surface, launching myself out of the water and landing on the shores again. Looking about, I saw the others nearby where they were making a camp. Louise looked like she was crying and Montmorency was freaking out about something to Guiche.
"You're back!" Guiche gasped.
"What did the Water Spirit say?" Montmorency asked.
"Well, seems like someone stole something from it. That's why it's flooding everything. Eventually it figures it will find what was taken and get it back," I reported.
"WHAT?" Montmorency screamed. "What kind of idiot would dare try to steal anything from the Water Spirit? Who could even pull it off in the first place?!"
"Don't know, but they did it." I shrugged. "The Water Spirit is willing to part with a tear if I take up the task of getting it back though." I almost had to groan at what I had to report next. "The problem is that it won't let us have it until we get rid of some folks that are attacking it likely because of the flooding."
Montmorency opened her mouth again to whine, but the sounds of sniffling cut her off and we turned to see Louise sitting on a log, looking about to cry.
"Oh what now?" the blonde girl huffed.
"Kurogasa…" Louise whimpered. "Why won't you come over and hug me? I'm lonely!"
Oh boy this is gonna be a long day…
LINE BREAK
We had to wait for night since that was when we figured the attackers would come so the Water Spirit couldn't see them as clearly. When I talked with Montmorency and Guiche, they said to me the attackers were likely using an advanced Air Spell to cover them in a dome of wind which allowed them to travel underwater. It had to be kept up, so the attackers probably had help to do the actual attacking.
I had to use the Sleep Ring to keep Louise quiet because she kept on whining about leaving her.
"Was the love potion really necessary Montmorency?" I groaned after Louise snoozed off on a blanket I set out for her. "There are other ways to make a man stay faithful."
"I'm trying to keep my man on the narrow and straight!" Montmorency huffed.
"But Montmorency…" Guiche whined.
"Okay, Guiche, just don't speak. We all know you're a Casanova," I deadpanned, causing Guiche to flinch. "A love potion seems kind of extreme. I mean, look at what's happening to Louise."
"Blame Louise for suddenly drinking without knowing…"
I groaned a bit at that. It was a bit silent before I said, "Um… look, I uh… I want apologize for threatening you yesterday…"
"Hmph," Montmorency huffed. "Well, you should be! You had a right to be angry, but not to threaten me like you did!"
"Montmorency…" Guiche winced.
"I didn't mean to be like that…" I continued. "I was wrong and I overreacted. Is there any way I can make it up to you?"
Montmorency looked at me before sighing, "Just don't tell the faculty what I did then I shall forgive you."
"Deal," I nodded. Just then, we suddenly heard rustling from the nearby bushes. "Showtime," I stood up, gesturing for Guiche to follow me. He nodded as he followed. "Montmorency, guard Louise." I whispered.
"Right," the blonde girl whispered, suddenly afraid again. We were dealing with people who had the audacity to attack an elemental. It was just plain logical to be scared. With that, Guiche and I went over to where the perpetrators might be and hidden behind the trees, we saw two hooded figures approaching the lake.
"Okay, you distract the two with some kind of big spell. Something flashy," I instructed.
"I can do that." Guiche nodded.
"Good. And then I can use my Light Ring to blind them to submission."
Well, it was a simple plan but you know what they said about simple plans: Murphy's Law and all that. The two figures pulled out their wands to ready their attacks, "Now Guiche!"
Guiche didn't disappoint as he caused a wave of dirt to rise up from the ground and surge towards the duo. The two noticed the predicament and blasted fire and wind at the dirt to scatter it.
Guiche continued sending smaller waves of dirt to keep the pair distracted as I flanked them. Between the ice shards cutting apart the smaller waves and the fireballs blasting the bigger ones, they were paying not attention to me. Coming around by the pair, I slipped on the Light Ring.
"Here goes…" I muttered before standing. "Hey! Over here!"
LIGHT! PLEASE!
I raised my hand holding the Light Ring and it shined really bright.
The pair cried out in pain, clutching at their faces as they stumbled blind. They sounded oddly feminine, but I didn't have much time to consider it when one of Guiche's spells hit them, knocking them both to the ground with the dirt pinning them.
When the light faded, the pair was revealed to be… wait a minute, Kirche and Tabitha?!
"You've got to be kidding me." I groaned. "Kirche, why are you and Tabitha here?"
"Huh?" Kirche said before noticing me, "Darling!" She exclaimed, but then looked confused, "Wait, what are, you doing here?"
"I'd like to say the same thing." I frowned.
Kirche fought with the soil on her before she stood up. Her eyesight wasn't so good so when she lunged at me, she missed entirely and landed with a light 'oof'. That served to make me chuckle, at least giving me a lighter note for the night.
Tabitha managed to get out of the dirt too and a while later, everybody met up so we all can share our story.
"Well, it goes like this." Kirche explained, sexily leaning back on her log seat so her chest was on full display as she hung one leg over the other. She had Guiche's undivided attention, but not on her story. "Tabitha's been tasked by the Gallian King to stop the Water Spirit from flooding the lake since it's starting to spread into Gallian territory."
"And you thought attacking an elemental spirit was the way to go?" I asked.
"That's what we thought." Kirche said. "But I guess you have a better reason?"
"Well, I considered reasoning with it and I talked to it today." I replied, causing the two to blink. "The reason it's flooding the place is because someone stole something from it." That news caused Tabitha and Kirche's eyes to widen in shock. "I may be able to convince it to stop now that I've gotten the two of you to stop attacking it."
"Is that so?" Tabitha asked. I nodded at that.
"By the way, what is up with Louise?" Kirche asked, pointing to Louise, who was still sleeping… as she laid her head on my lap.
"Trust me you don't want to know…" I sweat dropped.
"Oooh," Kirche began to grin. "That makes me want to know more. Come on, tell me pretty please?" She presented her chest for my viewing pleasure to try and convince me.
"I said no. It is sensitive information," I frowned.
"Awww…" Kirche frowned.
"In any case, I better tell the Water Spirit." I sighed.
LINE BREAK
So with that, I changed into Water Style and jumped into the bottom of the lake again to meet with the Water Spirit. When I got there, the Water Spirit presented itself. "Water Spirit, I have returned and completed the task that you requested. The perpetrators shall no longer harm you."
"Excellent. You have been proven trustworthy." the Water Spirit acknowledged.
"However…" I continued, making it look at me again. "The humans have felt the need to attack because of your flooding water. If you were to let the waters return then they would no longer strike at you. As promised for the tear, I will take up the search for your lost treasure so you no longer need to flood the lands."
The Water Spirit remained quiet.
"Very well," the Water Spirit nodded. "I will bring back my waters in favor of sending you. What was stolen from me was my treasure, the Ring of Andavari. It holds the ability to bring semblance of life to those that have died, among other abilities that I do not care for." A small sphere of water appeared in front of me, which formed into the image of a ring with a plan band and a square jewel mounted on top. It was made of water, so there was no way to tell what colors it was. "It was stolen by a man by the name of Cromwell. That is all I know."
A ring that can bring the dead back to life…? That's a power only an act of God can do and is not something to trifle with. Why would this Cromwell want to steal this ring anyway? He's stupid if he thinks he could get away with it!
"I understand." I nodded to the Water Spirit. "I will hunt down this ring or die trying."
"I will hold you to that." the Water Spirit intoned darkly.
"You can rest assured. I, the Jewel of Hope, Kamen Rider Wizard will retrieve the Ring of Andavari. This I promise you."
"A man with the soul of a Dragon is a force to be reckoned with." the Water Spirit nodded as its form began to dissolve. "I wish you luck."
Wait, she could see my Phantom?!
Before I could ask, the Water Spirit was gone and I had no choice but to return to my friends. However, before I left, I noticed a small glass bottle on the bottom of the lake and I assumed it to be the Water Spirit's Tear. So taking it, I returned to the surface.
LINE BREAK
I returned to the surface and after giving the tear to Montmorency, she took out her chemistry set and went to work on it. It didn't take very long and she was able to finish it too. I could say what I wanted about the girl, but she apparently knew her chemistry.
She then had Louise drink the antidote and was finally back, to her normal self. …However…
"I CAN'T BELIEVE I DID ALL THAT!"
She remembered everything that happened…
"Okay, Louise, just calm down." I tried to reason with her.
"HOW CAN I?! I CAN'T BELIEVE I WOULD DO SOMETHING SO, DIRTY AND LOWLY AS THAT! MY REPUTATION IS RUINED!"
"Louise, the only people who knew about it are here!" I tried to remind her. "They all know it's a love potion! No one else knows!"
"Ooooh, Louise drank a love potion? My, my, Vallière, I didn't know you were getting that desperate." Kirche chuckled. Crap… I completely forgot that I didn't tell her about the love potion and I already spilled the beans!
"I didn't make it "The Flood" dosed me!" Louise snapped.
"Well you're the one who drank it without realizing what was in it!" Montmorency retaliated.
"Who would think a love potion would be in their wine?" demanded Louise. "Who would need to dose their boyfriend in the first place?"
"Ok, stop fighting girls." I said, playing peacemaker as I got between the two. "All that matters is that, you Louise are back to your normal self."
"Can we go home now?" asked Guiche, tired from using so much magic.
"Yeah, we can go home now." I sighed.
"Hehehehehehehehe… I found you Mahōtsukai!"
My eyes widened at the voice! I know that eerie voice anywhere! It can't be him!
We all looked towards a tree where a figure was sitting, clapping in amusement. He was clad in green and black armor which fitted him from head to toe. His legs were black while his chest and arms were green. His shoulder pads were shaped like beast heads. His face was hard to discern, looking like a helmet plate for some kind with no eye holes or mouth holes.
I gritted my teeth in anger when my thoughts were confirmed, "Gremlin!"
"Wow! You're quick!" the Phantom giggled at me. "You knew who I was right away! Are you secretly super smart?"
"You know him?" Louise asked.
"He's also one of Wiseman's elite Phantoms like Medusa, but went rogue!" I gritted, making Louise, Kirche, and Tabitha gasp since they met Medusa. "How are you alive Gremlin?! Haruto took you out!"
And how Haruto finished off Gremlin in the series was a bit disappointing and underwhelming. I mean sure, it was explosive and all, but it didn't have that "umph" in there.
"Haruto…?" Gremlin contemplated. "Hm, I don't know anyone by that name. Maybe it was someone else with my handsome face?"
I gasped in realization. This world's Gremlin must be like this world's Medusa.
This Gremlin then didn't come from that serial killer Sora, but instead was manifested inside of someone from Halkeginia. I was still wary around this Gremlin though since they always had a mind of making mischief for everyone. They always said when a Gremlin was in the works, things went wrong in a big way.
"Well whatever." Gremlin shrugged before he jumped from the tree and landed on the ground. "I'm here on Wiseman's orders to kill you and your friends. This is going to be so much fun!"
"I don't think so!" I growled, activating my Driver.
DRIVER ON! PLEASE!
The WizarDriver materialized and I flipped the Hand Author to the left.
SHABADOOBIE, TOUCH TO HENSHIN! SHABADOOBIE, TOUCH TO HENSHIN!
I slipped on my Flame Style ring and shouted, "Henshin!" before placing it in front of the Hand Author.
FLAME! PLEASE! HII! HII! HII, HII, HII!
"It's time to play!" Gremlin leaped from his perch, manifesting a pair of swords.
After donning in my armor, I switched rings and flipped the Hand Author.
CONNECT! PLEASE!
The small magic circle appeared in the air and I took out Derf, "Heya Partner, what's up?"
"We got another elite Phantom. This one is Gremlin!"
"Oh yeah, bring him on!" Derflinger laughed as I brought him to an attack stance. "Let's do this Partner!"
"Yeah, let's go!" I said before charging at Gremlin.
I slashed at the Phantom, but he blocked with both of his swords with a chuckle before he leaped back and ducked behind a large rock. I dashed after him, but he was gone. "Huh?"
"Over here!" I looked up and saw him waving at me from behind a tree.
"What the– how did he–" Derf said surprised.
"Gremlin isn't a trickster for nothing." I grimaced.
I dashed at him again, but he ducked behind the tree only to vanish again. He popped up out of a whole Guiche made from his spellcasting with a laugh. I tried lunging at him again only for him to duck down again. Looking around, I saw him squeeze out of a hollow tree with another stupid laugh, prompting me to shoot at him. He just danced around the bullets like a cartoon character before leaping behind a tree again.
Now I know how Haruto feels when he's dealing with Gremlin. He's just downright annoying!
"Hahahahaha, try and catch me!" Gremlin laughed.
"Hold still!" I snapped.
"Hold still? That's boring!" Gremlin said. "It's more fun if I move around!" Just to mock me he leaped up to sit on a tree branch out of range and kicked his feet like a little kid.
"Then I'll make you stay!" I shouted before switching rings and flipping the Hand Author twice.
BIND! PLEASE!
Mini magic circles appeared and the chains were about to bind him in place, but he managed to jump out of the way!
"Ah, ha, ha, ha, ha!" he laughed at me. "I'm not so easy to catch! Try again!"
All of a sudden, a fire, water, wind, and earth attack suddenly hit Gremlin from out of nowhere, sending Gremlin stumbling a bit thanks to Kirche, Montmorency, Tabitha, and Guiche!
"Now that hurt!" Gremlin huffed. "If you wanted to play then you should have waited for invitations!"
"Sorry, but no one's gonna get to my Darling, but me!" Kirche said.
Ugh… really Kirche?
"Well, if you want to play so bad maybe I can oblige." Gremlin laughed before he raised his hand to snap his fingers.
Gremlin snapped his fingers and a handful of Ghoul Stones appeared which he threw at my friends. When they hit the ground, they grew into Ghouls which stumbled towards the five students with menace on their minds.
"Hey! Leave my friends out of this!" I shouted before charging at Gremlin again.
"They insisted!" he teased, blocking my attack.
"Well I'm not letting you hurt them!" I countered before we backed off to gain distance and I switched rings.
COPY! PLEASE!
A copy of me appeared and my clone immediately went to help Louise and the others and I can focus on Gremlin.
"Oh, how clever," Gremlin laughed, acting like he was applauding my thinking. "I wonder how long a copy can last against the cannon fodder."
"Longer than your Ghouls, that's for sure!" I said before taking out my Flame Dragon ring. If I'm to beat Gremlin, I'm gonna have to go all out! I switched rings, replacing the Flame Style with the Flame Dragon ring and flipped the Hand Author to my left. I placed the ring in front of the Hand Author and…
ERROR!
Oh man, not what I was looking for! I flipped the Hand Author twice and tried again.
ERROR!
Dang it Dragon, stop being a stubborn lizard! I tried again.
ERROR!
"What's wrong Mahōtsukai?" Gremlin giggled before he slashed me across the chest, knocking me back. "And now this is where I get serious." Gremlin said before charging at me, giving me no time to regroup as I was slashed multiple times.
"Gah," I cried out as the strikes rained down on me, launching me onto my back with smoke lifting from my chest plate.
"Take this!" Gremlin shouted as he swung his blades and two waves of energy crashed onto me.
My scream of pain was drowned out by the blasts as I was launched back into the shores of the lake. I groaned and my transformation began to fail, portions of the armor turning misty with my elemental magic. "No! Dragon, keep it together!"
"Whoo wee, now I see why Medusa sees you as weak." Gremlin said.
"Grrrr…" I snarled, slowly pulling myself up. I wasn't going to lose here! Not now!
EXPLOSION! NOW!
The white circle appeared, exploding and sending Gremlin flying back behind a rock. I shook my head and looked to the side. Once again, the White Wizard was there approaching the fight. Just how the heck was this guy able to intervene like this all the time?!
"Who did that?! That was unfair!" Gremlin whined as he was trying to read the situation. Scrambling up on the rock, he spied the White Wizard who turned to face him. "Oh no… not you again…! Can't you leave us alone for once?"
The White Wizard was silent before turning to me and asked, "Are you alright?"
"Been better…" I grunted, getting back up to my feet. "I have to ask though. Why are you helping me?"
"Does there need to be a reason?" The White Wizard asked back, surprising me with that answer. "I am aware that you've been wary of me and I am here to assure you that I am not your enemy."
"The last guy who wore that suit said the same and he almost committed genocide." I retorted. "Forgive me if I don't trust you just yet."
"I understand." The White Wizard nodded. "I will then somehow have to earn your trust. For now, let us deal with this Phantom." With that, he pulled out from behind his back, the Hamel Cane.
"Oooh, you're just getting in the way now." Gremlin groaned. "Well, Wiseman wants to get rid of you as well so I guess I should. More work for poor old me."
"Not if I have anything to say about it!" The White Wizard said before charging at Gremlin.
"Do you really think you can trust him Partner?" Derf asked.
"I'm not sure." I shook my head. "The last guy who wore that suit was a genocidal maniac. I know it's not him, but that kind of reputation with the one who uses that other wielder's magic doesn't just go away."
"At least he's offering free help, so let's not turn it down and help the guy out."
"Figures a sword would say that." I snickered. Getting my second wind, I charged for the scene to lend a hand.
"Bring it on!" Gremlin shouted as his two swords clashed with my WizarSwordGun and the White Wizard's Hamel Cane.
I had to admit the White Wizard seemed to know what he was doing. He twisted around the Rapture Swords like a pro as he struck back, trying to get at Gremlin who was a natural at avoiding hits. Even with the two of us, he was still managing to defy the odds and bend around attacks.
"Let's see you handle this!" Gremlin slashing at the White Wizard with the Rapture Swords sending two waves of energy, but the White Wizard thought quickly and held his Hamel Cane like a flute and played it.
A stream of music emerged from the instrument/weapon, forming a barrier which protected both of us from the attack. I took the opportunity to fire off several of my silver rounds guided by my magic. Let's see him dodge these!
*BAM!* *BAM!* *BAM!* *BAM!* *BAM!* *BAM!* *BAM!* *BAM!* *BAM!* *BAM!*
"Gah," Gremlin shrieked in pain, as sparks flew off of him, making him stumble.
"Take that!" Derflinger cheered.
The White Wizard then switched rings and flipped his Hand Author twice.
GIANT! NOW!
He lashed out with a punch through his magic circle, his fist growing to a giant size before it crashed into Gremlin.
"Now it's my turn!" I said before switching rings.
EXCITE! PLEASE!
I grew tall and my muscles got big before charging at Gremlin and punched and kicked him all around, with Gremlin thrown around like a rag, "YEEEHOOHOOHOOHOOEY!" Gremlin cried as he was launched a clear distance away from the two of us.
And why the heck did he sound like Goofy just now? Never mind, what matters is we got him on the ropes.
"Let us finish this." The White Wizard said, taking out his Kick Strike Ring.
"I'm with you there." I said, doing the same thing.
VERY NICE! KICK STRIKE! FABULOUS!
YES! KICK STRIKE! UNDERSTAND?
Both of us took our leaps, producing our magic circles in the air before kicking the centers, charging ourselves up as we came down to strike at Gremlin.
We both struck, sending Gremlin sailing backwards with a scream before he exploded with both our magic circles hanging in the air. We did it! We beat an Executive Phantom like Gremlin and it was only our first meeting with the guy!
"Whew…" I sighed, hunching over.
"It is not over yet." the White Wizard warned me.
"Huh?" I looked up. "Doesn't it generally mean we win when the other guy explodes?"
"Look." the White Wizard said, pointing at where the explosion took place.
Standing up in the dying flames was a black figure. He wore a black shit with an upturned collar, the shoulders decorated with opera masks, the kind, which are happy or sad. He had a trailing coat which has armor shaped like those masks following him and his hands were covered in white gauntlets as opposed to his black coat. His face was the weirdest features, being completely blank, just a white slate. On his waist was a gem like all Phantoms wore his being green to denote air affinity.
"What the–" I gasped.
"Alas, I have been discovered." the strange Phantom lamented dramatically. "I have failed as a thespian. I Doppelganger have been found out! Oh woe is me!"
WHAT?! I DON'T BELIEVE IT! THE GREMLIN WE FOUGHT WAS A FAKE?! MAN, NOW I KNOW HOW AKIKO FELT WHEN SHE AND W, WERE DUPED BY THE DUMMY DOPANT!
Doppelganger laughed, taking a bow to us, "And now my part is complete. I shall bid you both adieu for the night but do not fret! We shall meet again!" taking his left hand, he pressed it onto his face before his entire body flashed and he transformed into a raven before taking off into the sky.
"GET BACK HERE!" I shouted, but I knew it was no use.
"He's too far away now." The White Wizard shook his head.
"Kurogasa," Louise shouted. The White Wizard and I turned to see that my copy vanish after taking out the last Ghoul Phantom and her and company approached us.
"I'm fine… more or less…" I sighed.
"Oh Darling, you were amazing!" Kirche cooed, and hugged my arm to my dismay.
"Kirche…" I sighed. I was too tired for this.
"You have all done well." The White Wizard said, gaining our attention. "But know this. This is all but a prelude of what's to come." He said, before specifically eyeing on Louise.
"Huh?" Louise blinked.
"Be warned, descendant of the Void. In the near future, all of Halkeginia will be in grave danger. You and your Familiar must be well prepared."
"What?" I cried. He knew Louise was a Void mage?!
"What?" Louise cried out.
"What?" Guiche and Montmorency exclaimed. But before we could say anything else…
TELEPORT! NOW!
Oh that little… thanks for leaving us with the fallout!
"Oh my…" Kirche said.
The four of them were all staring rather intently at Louise.
"What are you looking at me for?!" Louise panicked.
Oh boy… this is gonna be a long night, going back home…
LINE BREAK
The next day, we all got back to the Academy. Guiche and Montmorency were rather shocked that Louise was a Void Mage. I had to really convince them to keep their mouths shut, or we're gonna have an Apocalypse on our hands. Outlining just how many factions would try to use Louise and what they may have been willing to do to get her scared them a little I think. Politics alone could be a deadly game, but add religion and it got downright bloodthirsty.
Right now, I'm in my house, sitting Indian style at the table polishing my Wizard Rings while wearing my Land Style coat.
Like the previous coats the magic circles were on the front and back only this time it was yellow and the cloth had a rough leather texture feel to it. The small magic on the front had a dark gold color. The same was for the enlarged circle on the back. But what I like about the back was that the magic circle had a sandy feeling to it. Ms. Quinn must have used sand and glue for the lines and letters of the magic circle and the sand itself isn't falling off.
My mind wasn't on fashion though. Someone outside of our circle knew Louise was a Void mage. That meant we had a leak somewhere. How did the White Wizard find out?
I told the Headmaster about it and he immediately questioned every staff member of the Academy about it.
Since the Fouquet thing, everyone was taking security a little more seriously. The teachers who knew, Colbert and the Headmaster made sure they stayed silent about it. All the other teachers reported no one suspicious appeared since the White Wizard whisked away Guiche's father.
But it still begs the question: How did he know that Louise was a Void Mage? Could he be… nah that's not possible… there's no way he could be. What are the chances that the White Wizard himself is a Void Mage?
Then again, how else could he have things which were from my world, even if they were props or toys there…?
"Kurogasa…?"
I stopped my polishing and looked up to see my wooden door slide open to reveal Louise.
"Hi Louise," I waved. "What's up?"
She came in and slid the door closed before kneeling down at the table adjacent to me. "I… want to talk to you about something."
I asked, "About what?"
"About what the White Wizard said yesterday…"
"Ah," I nodded. "It looks like your little secret isn't so secret."
"That's a complete understatement…" Louise said a bit depressed. "How did he know…? How did he know that I was a Void Mage? Only the Headmaster, Professor Colbert, and now our group know."
"Maybe PlaMonsters, I don't know." I shook my head.
"And what did he mean that all Halkeginia will soon be in grave danger?" Louise asked again. "It doesn't make any sense."
"So far he seems on the up and up so he may keep it quiet," I offered. "But…"
Louise prompted, "But what?"
"We have no idea who he is or what he intends." I sighed.
"I see…" Louise mumbled. "I never thought it would be like this…" She said, as she was… trembling and hugging herself?
"Louise?" I said concerned.
"First Fouquet reveals that I'm a Void Mage, then… Th–The Headmaster tells us about the danger of it and… n–now the White Wizard telling us of this future danger? This is… This is too much to take in…" That's when her tears streamed down her eyes.
That's when I put down the ring I was polishing and the polishing cloth down, scooted next to her, and hug her close, "Hey, hey, hey, calm down…" I whispered.
"I'm scared!" Louise trembled. "Is all I'm good for is destroying things? Even if I have the Void I'm still a zero!"
"That's not true Louise…"
Louise dissolved into quiet sobs. Even now her noble upbringing wouldn't allow her to express her feelings.
"It's okay Louise… I'm here for you… Let it all out…"
We stayed like that for a while. I don't know how long. I didn't care to check. But all the while, I let her cry on me as I slowly combed her hair, comforting her as best as I could.
Hey, say what you want about her, but Louise is just like any other girl and her true self was kept locked away, by her pride and noble nature. On the outside, she's a noble who has to live up to her parent's and peers expectations and her prideful attitude was hiding her true self I'm seeing now. She's just like any other girl and the only thing she wanted was to be accepted for who she is without being judged by others. Sadly, it seemed a lot about being worthwhile in nobility was gained by how everyone else saw you. You stumble once, and it affected your whole life no matter how hard you worked to get past it.
After what seemed like forever, Louise was calming down and her crying mostly stopped. "You feel better now?" I asked, looking down at Louise.
"A little…" she murmured.
"That's a start." I said. "Listen Louise, it is okay for you to be scared. I'd be scared with all that thrown at me in the face. But that's why you have me to help you out. Do you remember what I told you at the Ball of Frigg?"
"You said that… you'd protect me no matter what… even… if the world is full of enemies…"
"That's right. And I intend to do that to very end. And I told you one other thing. I'll become your hope."
"Hm," Louise smiled lightly. "Hope…"
"Now you listen, Louise." I said, as we looked at each other. "Don't let anyone, and I mean anyone hold you back and live up to their expectations. It's going to be holding you back and by the time you realize it, it's already too late. Life your life as best as you can. I'll be there with you every step of the way."
Louise didn't reply, but the smile she had was the brightest I had ever seen as she leaned in on me again.
I have to admit… this feel nice.
"Oh my, what an interesting house," A voice said.
Louise and I perked up and let go of each other to see someone at the door, looking distracted by the design of my little house. They were dressed in a brown robe and although we couldn't see the person's face, I could recognize the voice.
"Princess Henrietta?"