AN: Reviewer Questions-
xEnderx2104: I'm actually been looking into getting as much information as I can about the WN, though the purpose for that is something I can't speak on yet. In particular, I want to get a detailed info on the ending as I heard that in the WN, Kazuma and Aqua get together, Megumin leaves to see the world, and Darkness pops in and out occasionally to flirt with Kazuma.
IlikeToWriteSome: I'll do my best to keep the characters feeling like one would expect them to be though I can say Kazuma won't be as 'head slap inducing' bad here as he won't have Aqua being the main source of his grievances, at least not early on.
Yes, this will be a Kazumin story, though I won't rule out the possibility that I might have hints about a post story harem life for Kazuma. Right now, it's just a Kazumin focused endgame but we'll see how the future goes. And the reason I have this story tagged as 'Adventure and Friendship' is because the romance part won't be happening for a good long while, probably not until we pass the halfway point.
Anyways, don't wanna spoil to much, beyond what I might have just done, so let's get going...
Chapter 2
Part 1:
I had finally arrived at the HQ of the construction site.
Standing before me was a massive man with more muscles than stones that paved the pathways of Axel. He had curly blonde hair and small, beady eyes.
"So, Luna from the Guild has sent you here to help out on site, correct?"
His voice was more high pitched than I was expecting it to be. I nod as my answer.
He takes a moment to study me while rubbing his chin.
"No offense, kid, but you don't strike me as the type that can take to the sorts of manual labor that comes from this line of work?"
I wanted to refute his words but honestly, I couldn't deny his assessment of me.
"I'm more than aware of that but miss Luna still sent me your way. I'll take that as some sort of sign that she believes that there's something I can do here for you. Besides, I'm desperate for cash so any work will do."
He's quiet again for a moment, most likely mulling my words over in his head.
"Well, I guess I can have you handle both paint work and help with making meals for the break periods. You can also clean the cookware at the end of the day."
Not exactly what I was expecting but I could work with that.
While my cooking skills weren't anything special; I mean my usual methods involved warming up instant ramen cups in a microwave, but I was surprisingly well versed in how to make many different types of food as I had been responsible for cooking for my little brother back when I had lived at home.
"Alright kid, I'll take you on. I mean, if Luna thinks you can be of use, then who am I to turn you away. Be here tomorrow at 9am and will get you started."
I pump my hands in victory and thank the boss for giving me the job.
He then goes ahead and gives me a quick tour of the current work site and even introduces me to some of his more skilled and reliable crew. And, adding on even one final bit of consideration, he even allowed me to take some food from the food stand so I could at least have some energy for tomorrow.
"By the way, what's your relationship with miss Luna, if you don't mind me asking?"
I ask him this before leaving to spend the rest of the day exploring Axel.
"It's a simple one, really. She's my twin sister, twiggy."
Could have fooled me.
After that, I spent the rest of the day looking around; using the map Luna gave me to help locate any location that I felt would be important; at least any location that came to mind.
Places like inns, grocery stores, and shops that one could go to for weapons and armor. All such stuff like that. My personal favorite that I had seen was the massive Cathedral that was located dead center here in Axel. The artistry used in this structure rivaled even the best found back on Earth.
I learned from a priestess who served here that this Cathedral was dedicated to the patron goddess of Fortune; Eris and that Axel was the center of the faith. In other words, this city was essentially this world's version of the Vatican or at least a part of the city.
Soon, day turned to night and I found myself a nice little spot along the banks of the northern river that passed through the down. While I had learned that this world was currently past the halfway point of summer but it really hadn't been all that hot today.
Maybe that was because, unlike on Earth, there hadn't been enough done to the atmosphere to trigger any sort of global warming. Or maybe Axel was located in the more northern half of the northern hemisphere? Either way, it wasn't so bad. This night, at least, was cool enough that I found sleep easily had.
The next day, I showed up early to the job as I wanted to leave a good impression on the boss.
This turned out to be a good choice on my part as it gave him enough time to give me a explanation on what's what with the current job they were doing here.
I also learned a little detail. This job actually paid 5000 Eris per day, but only for full timers. Temps like me didn't make that but I would get 2000 Eris which was still twice what I had expected. While I could cut my full week planned for this temp work down to two days, I decided to stay with this work for the planned week as the extra 5000 Eris would help out should emergencies occurred.
As far as the work itself? Honestly, not that bad. The paint work was pretty easy and when I was pulled away to help in the kitchen for work breaks, I actually had fun. While my knowledge of this world's meals was nonexistant, I found the availble ingrediants sufficant in making some dishes from back home.
Everyone at the site really loved them and some of them even said I should come work for them full time. If adventuring ends up being a bust, I might just take up that job offer.
I also made a little extra for me to munch on for my dinner this evening.
My second day on the job was even better than the first.
I had already learned the names of everyone here and they all knew mine. And dare I say that I was actually having fun too. Thinking back to my life in Japan, I had always felt like something was missing. But here, now, I was beginning to feel like I may have found that missing thing.
I must also, shamefully, confess me and the guys from the job liked admiring the hotties that walked down the streets.
After finishing my second day on the job, he began to head back to my temporary home along the river when a voice called out to me.
"I haven't seen you around here before."
I looked around but couldn't find the owner of that voice. After a moment, I hear the owner say...
"Up here, look up kid."
I follow those instructions and tilt my head upwards. It only took a moment before I spotted the owner of the voice; a girl with silvery hair, a gray bikini top partially hidden by a bright green shoulder length cape, blue jean shorts, and black boots. She gave me a wave before hopping down to street level.
"Can I help you?"
Now that she was closer, I found myself taking in what I was seeing. She was actually pretty cute; in a spunky tomboyish sort of way. She had a scar on one cheek but, in a strange way, it actually added to her cute factor.
"Nope; just wanted to be friendly and say hello. I can tell just by looking at you that you aren't around here. My name is Cris; my job is thief. How about you?"
"Nice to meet you. I'm Satou Kazuma, I'm... Well, I guess for now I'm part painter and part cook though I'm working on getting enough money to become an Adventurer."
She nods her head before leaning in, placing a hand against her cheek as she walks around me, giving me a detailed look over. Her gaze was so intense that it was actually making me nervous. She said she was a thief so does this mean she was trying to determine if I would be worth robbing or not?
"Hm, yes- interesting. Very interesting-"
She mumbles as she keeps checking me out. I clear my throat, drawing her from her whatever it was she was doing here.
"Hey, don't you think you're being rather creepy right now? I mean, I don't mind if you check me out and all. I am quite the looker if I do say so myself but if you keep this going, then I think it wouldn't be to much to ask to be allowed to do the same to you, don't you think? Or are you planning on robbing me?"
"Watch it mister Satou, or I'll ask the goddess Eris to deliver divine retribution upon you."
She then gives a pleasant laugh, then presses a finger against her scar playful.
"Just joking. And I apologize for my previous action."
"Don't worry about it. While it was a little weird, having a girl check me out isn't all bad. Anyways, what was that about anyways?"
She cocks her head, as if thinking about it. Then she repeats her previous action by pressing a finger to her scar while giving me a cheeky grin.
"That's- A- Secret."
I sigh in exasperation. This girl was really tiring me out and I had only just met her.
"And on that note, I'm going to take my leave before this conversation leads to anything more creepy."
I turn to leave but I'm stopped as she places a hand on my shoulder.
"Before you go, did you say your name was Satou?"
I turn back to look at her.
"Yeah, that's right. Does that mean anything around these parts?"
This reminds me that this wasn't the first time someone had reacted to my family name. Was the name Satou something bad around here.
"I'll answer that question the next time we meet. Anyways, I need to be going now."
"Hey, wait a minute-"
I yell at her as she pulls away. Before I can stop her, she surprises me with an impressive jump back onto the roof of one of the taller buildings; adding a rather cool looking flip at mid-jump. She shouts back at me during the jump-
"Hay is for horses."
Once back on the roof then looks at me, sticking her tongue out playfully before disappearing from sight.
I stand there for a few moments, processing what had just happened.
I had several questions swimming inside my head; the biggest question being-
"I don't know if I should be annoyed with that girl or really turned on right now?"
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Part 2:
Following my meeting with that thief girl, I had spent the rest of the evening just strolling around. I had ended up sleeping in a new spot that night; wanting to change up the scenery a bit. When I woke up the next morning, I was kindly asked not to use the inside of the cathedral as a slum dwelling again.
It was day three of the temp job; just about halfway to my goal.
As I walked to work, I found myself passing through a rather ritzy part of Axel. I guess this is where all the more well off citizens of this city made their homes. The houses, while not mansion like or anything, were still bigger than the homes I had seen in other parts of the city; with large lawns like a mini park and trees with plenty of tasty looking fruit hanging down from them.
As I walked, my eyes fell on a most unexpected sight. A girl standing as high up on her tiptoes as she could while holding a staff nearly as tall as she was in hand. She was trying to bat one of the pieces of fruit from the tree branches- And failing miserably at it to. Her face looked desperate as she kept trying.
It took a moment before I realized it; I had seen her before.
That's right, it was the girl from the other day, back at the Guild Hall. The mage I had made a promise to myself about.
{Insert Image 2}
While I could have ignored her for now and kept going to work, I was pretty sure I had enough time to indulge with a slight diversion. Besides, if I didn't stop and do something, the lack of action would haunt me for the rest of the day, if not longer.
As I walk towards her, a rather mean thought crosses my mind. I knew I shouldn't do this but the temptation was just to much to ignore. I snicker, just a tiny bit, before slowly walking up behind before proclaiming like a loud voice; trying to sound like a cop or whatever name they used around her was.
"EXCUSE ME YOUG LADY. JUST WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING?"
The girl squeaks as she jumps away. She quickly turns to me, bowing over and over as she stammers out an apology at me.
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I know what I was doing was wrong but you see, I-"
I began to laugh, making her stop and look at me; first with confusion then anger.
"Wha... Hey, that wasn't funny. I almost had a heart attack there you know, buddy."
"Yeah, sorry about that. The urge was just to strong there."
I say this while giving a hearty laugh. She responds while puffing her cheeks in annoyance.
"Then maybe I should act out an urge I'm feeling right now then. Make you wish that a Knight Guard was here at this moment."
She growled as she aimed her staff at me. She then started a chant.
"Hey, hold up a second. No need to blast me with some sort of spell. How about I make it up to you?"
The girl stops her chant and looks at me with some doubt in her eyes.
"How?"
I walk pass her; coming to stand before the tree. I had never been a good tree climber so that only left-
"Lend me your staff for a second. I'll see if I can knock a few down for you."
Instead of giving me her staff, she clutches it tightly against her body before taking a step back.
"You're just going to break it if I do, won't you?"
I could hear a slight hint of fear there in her voice. Had something like that happened to her before?
"I promise you I won't. How about this, if I do anything you don't like, feel free to punish me however you see fit."
After a moment, she nods and hands me her staff. As I turn back to the tree, I take a second to study the staff and saw it had indeed been damaged around the middle. There was a clothe there, tightly wrapped around what I was assuming the break point. I wondered if some sort of glue like adhesive had been used too?
Finding myself unable to quite reach the fruit either, even when holding the staff by its very bottom, I rise myself up onto my tiptoes and manage to hit the lowest hanging one. But despite my efforts, it clung on to the branch and refused to relent.
Behind me, I heard the girl breath in hopefully as I hit it then let out a sign when I finally pull back.
"I guess that's it then. Well, thank you for trying anyways-"
I look back at her; seeing her looking down. I couldn't be sure, but I think I saw a tear falling.
"Oh, we're not done here yet. I have another idea, if you want to give it a chance?"
Her head shoots up, a hopeful look returning to her watery eyes.
"Really?"
I give her a nod before turning back to the tree. I then kneel down and say-
"Climb up on my back. This will allow you to better close the gap with your desired prize."
She gives me a hesitant look, making me add-
"Hey, how bad to you want this? Need this? If we don't hurry, someone will come along and we'll have to run for it."
At my words, she nods before coming forward and climbing up to sit on my shoulders. She then grabs onto my head as I stand and make my way back to the tree.
"Why are you helping me out? I'm guessing you know you're helping me to steal these?"
She ask this as she begins to use her staff, which I had returned to her, to try again with getting some of the fruit.
"Really? I'm not so sure about that. I mean, if the fruit hanging from the trees were considered to be private property; owned by the people who live in these houses, then they should put up fences to signify that fact. Since these yards are all open along the road, then its technically a public space."
I look up at her and give her a cheeky grin. Seeing this, she returns my grin with a big smile.
She manages to swat a few down; catching them in mid-fall then stuffing them into her adventuring pouch. It only takes a few moments more before she reaches her reach limit.
"I guess five is all I can manage to get. Thanks for your-"
She goes to say this, but I interrupt her before she finish's.
"Don't give up yet. Just stand on my shoulders, alright. That should give you the needed height to reach them all, right?"
"Are you serious? Will you be able to avoid losing your balance and make me fall If I do that? And how do I know this wasn't a plan to let you get a peek at my panties?"
I hadn't thought of that.
"I promise I won't let you fall. Like I said before, if I do anything you don't like, feel free to punish me however you want after. Plus, if I wanted to sneak a peek at your panties, I could have easily come up behind you earlier and lifted your skirt up while you had been distracted, right?"
After a moment to think about it, she gives me a nod before trying to raise herself up into a standing position on my shoulder's. It was, without question, a difficulty and slightly painful attempt on her part and I had to struggle hard to not lose my balance here.
Once she had finished getting on my shoulder's, she was easily able to reach the fruit with just her hands alone and quickly began to stuff them inside her pouch. Once she was done, I suggested we try grabbing fruit from a couple other trees in neighboring yards.
And so it was we went from one tree to another, the mage grabbing as much as she could, before moving on to the next. It was then I noticed something-
"Say, just how much stuff can you store inside that pouch of yours anyways?"
"Adventurer's pouches have been enchanted to hold a large amount of stuff inside them, despite the small size. This one here can hold up to about half a room size haul within it. I'm using the mess hall from the guild as a reference for the room size."
After explaining that, she returned to focusing on her work. After a bit more, she decided she had finished her fruit gathering. Once she had returned to sitting on my shoulder's, I knelt down and allowed her to slide back down onto the ground. I then hold out my fist at her.
"Here's to a successful day of "borrowing" from the snoots and snobs of society."
To be fair, I didn't know if these people who lived here were actually like that but, eh, details.
The girl gives me a confused look as she looks at my fist. I tell her to follow my action. She then brings her on fist up and I bump mine into hers. She remains confused for a second before her eyes light up, finally getting what this gesture was trying to achieve. We fist bump again, then laugh.
"So, what was your take away from this little excursion?"
She takes a moment to think on the question.
"I stopped counting at tree three but I believe it was over seventy pieces. That should definitely last me a week so long as I keep my wits in order."
After that, we suffer a momentary awkward pause; both of use wondering about what to say next. I realize I was forgetting something, but what? Finally, she breaks the silence.
"About what you just did for me; thank you. I mean it, thank you. I haven't had much kindness given to me since I came here three months ago and what you just did for me was by far the kindest thing that's been done. It really meant a lot to me."
She says this while looking away; probably from feeling bashful and, or, shy. I couldn't be sure, but I think she had a blush on her cheeks. This makes me scratch the back of my head nervously as I avert my gaze.
"No-No problem. I just glad I could do something nice for someone in need is all."
After another awkward moment, she speaks up-
"Say, if you're not doing anything right now, could we... Could we hang out a bit more. My name is-"
"HEY!"
The sudden scream from behind the girl makes us jump. We look back and see a guy dressed in a robe standing in the lawn of one of the houses we had just been standing outside of. He had seen our handy work, or so I was assuming anyways. I knew were this turn was heading.
I quickly grab the girl's hand, pulling her along with me as I break out into a run. She was clearly smart on the uptake as it only took her a second to catch on to my actions, running as fast as she could to keep up. Behind us, we could hear the middle aged guy scream something out at us.
"HEY, YOU, WAIT. GUARDS, GUARDS, STOP THEM. STOP THOSE DAMN THIEVES."
We ran fast and hard, ducking in and out of alley ways, and getting strange looks from people as we went. As we ran, I could hear the girl start laughing suddenly and even I, feeling a strange sort of exhilaration from this, quickly joined in.
We finally came to a rest in a small alley; both of us huffing and puffing as we struggled to catch our breaths. This girl was clearly in better shape than I as she recovered far faster while I had to lean against the wall with a hand over my chest. I honestly felt like I was going to throw up but I managed to keep it down. I didn't want to do something uncool now, not with a cute girl next to me.
"That was- That was so much fun. I've never had that much fun before."
She said this before looking at me with worried eyes.
"Hey, are you going to be alright?"
I nod at her as I feel myself finally starting to regain my composure.
"Yeah, I just need a few moments more, huff huff-"
I was paying the price for my shut-in lifestyle right now.
"You should really workout a lot more. Otherwise you're gonna end up killing over one day."
No kidding, I really need to...
Work out? Work out-
Work?
"OH CRAP, I'M LATE FOR WORK."
I scream, it finally dawning onto me just how long I spent helping her and how much time I actually had to get to work before doing so.
I immediately sprint out of the alley and begin running towards the work site.
"Hey, wait a moment..."
I hear her cry out to me. I stop long enough to look back at her as she comes running out of the alley. I run in place as I frantically say-
"Sorry, I really have to go otherwise my boss will really kill me."
I then continue my running. I could still hear her trying to yell something at me and all I could do in response was to yell back-
"Sorry, I'm really sorry. Let's hang out the next time we see each other, OK."
Part 3:
The boss did indeed give me a chewing out when I got there before inquiring as to why I was late to begin with. I told him the truth; to afraid that he would see through any lie I might try to use as my excuse. His reply wasn't what I had expected but I honestly should have seen it coming.
"Hey fellas, our little wonder chef here has himself a little girlfriend. Imagine that."
For the rest of the day, all I got was hoots and holler's and several 'Casanova' comments from everyone.
I honestly wished they had just docked my pay for the day; it was so embarrassing.
After work had finished, I found myself a nice quite spot to relax in as I unwrapped my dinner and started to eat. As I ate, I found myself thinking back on the mage girl I had encountered twice thus far. I recalled she had tried to tell me something before I had ran off. I wondered what it was she wanted to say.
"I was already running late. I should have spared her a few more moments before running off."
As I go to take another bite of my meal, I feel something scratch gently at my leg.
Looking, I spy a small cat like creature with black fur, yellow eyes, and a red cross mark on its forehead. It also had small bat like wings on it back. I reach out to pet it.
Sensing my actions, the cat quickly pulls away and gives me a wary look.
"It's OK, I won't hurt you."
To prove my point, I break off a piece of the chicken like food item I had been eating and offer it to the creature.
After another moment, it comes forward, sniffs the gift, then takes it from me; eating it happily. Once it had finished, it leaps onto my shoulder and nuzzles its head against my neck.
"You must really have liked that, huh? Here, have some more."
I offer this cat like thing more treats and it happily eats. It remains on my shoulder, switching between eating the treats I offer it and nuzzling my neck after each as a show of affection.
From the way it was acting, I took a guess that this cat was female due to how affectionate she was being towards me.
Once we had finished off that piece of 'not' chicken, she hops off my shoulder and looks at me with big eyes. I wonder if she was wanting something else from me?
"Were you wanting some more? Well, OK, I'll give you a few bites more."
I reach to my side and pull the other, unfinished meal and tare a piece off to offer her.
As I do this, she suddenly leaps up and rakes my hand with one of her paws, lightly cutting my flesh with her claws. I yelp as the 'not' chicken drops from my hand. Moving with deft swiftness, she leaps up and grabs the meal in midair then darting away from me the moment it lands.
"Hey, why'd you do that for?"
I yelled at the cat who stops long enough to look back and give me an apologetic look, or I assume it was a look like that at least, before continuing on and leaving my line of sight.
I thought of giving chase but I doubt I would find her by this point. I look first to the red marks on my hand then at the small piece I had torn off from the other for her and sigh.
"Guess this will be the extent of my dinner tonight. If she wanted it that badly, she could have just grabbed it while it was laying at my side."
I then places the piece into my mouth, then places a free hand over the scratch.
"I wonder if she knows that her scratch really hurt..."
The next two days go by quickly for me. I don't find myself running into either the mage, that cat, or even the thief girl.
At the end of my final day, the boss and the guys throw me a party, thanking me for my hard work. I'm even told that if I ever need more money, don't hesitate to stop buy as they would always have a place for me here. Hell, if Adventuring doesn't work out, they'd even hire me on full time.
The boss also gives me something called a 'Writ of Payment.' All I needed to do was to visit the Axel branch of the Grand Belzerg Bank and start up an account with them. They could then take the Writ and put the 10000 Eris I had earned into my account, give me my bank card, then go to the Guild to pay the fee needed to become an Adventurer.
I didn't get much sleep that night, mainly because I was worried about getting robbed of my payment.
The next day, I found myself emerging from the bank, admiring the newly minted card they had given me. The way it worked was pretty much like how a credit card or debit card worked back on Earth.
With that out of the way, I finally made a return trip to the Guild and approached Luna.
"Ah, you've finally come back, mister Satou. Does that mean your ready to get your card now?"
"You know it."
I say that as she pulls a small device out and instructs me to insert my card into the reader. It works more or less the same as you'd expect the card readers on Earth would work. Despite this place being a fantasy world, there was a surprising amount of modern things to be found here.
I wondered if another reincarnate from Earth like me had something to do with that.
"OK, all done. Now then, mister Satou, if you'll join me over here to the side."
She then gets up and exits the booth. I join her next to a large glowing sphere like machine. She tells me to touch it which I do, causing the light within to glow even brighter. I feel like its pulsing through my whole body.
Off to the side, next to the machine, a card appears on a table and information comes into existence upon it. Once it was done, Luna reaches out and takes it in hand.
"Hm, interesting?"
I cock my head to one side, noting the confusion in her voice.
"Is something wrong?"
"Oh no, everything appears fine I guess. Your stats are mostly pretty average. Your intellect stat is fairly above average. Holy, your Luck stat is insanely high. In fact, I've never seen someone's luck stat be this high before. I'll be honest with you, I think becoming an Adventurer would be a waste of your talents. If anything, you'd definitely fair far better with any other job like a Merchant."
I consider her words for a moment.
"All the same, I think I'll try out Adventuring for a bit. If that ends up not working for me, then at least I know I'll have other options available."
She gives me a nod before looking back at my card.
"It's strange though. I look to see what class you were given but I'm only seeing some strange symbols."
She gives me my card and I look at the Class Name part and find I was looking at-
"It's Japanese, the language of my homeland. Why would it be written in my native tongue?"
"That is strange. I've never heard of that happening before. What does it say, anyways?"
She looks at me curiously as I read the kanji in my head.
Stranger? What the hell does that even mean.
Feeling her awaiting my reply, I say-
"Um... Freelancer. Yeah, it says my class is Freelancer."
I lie, thinking it would sound better that Stranger.
"Hm, Freelancer, huh? Never heard of it before."
"It's sort of a jack-of-all trades sort of job. Back where I'm from, it can learn any skill but will never be a master at any."
At least I hope my actual class worked that way.
"Oh, then its just a fancier way of saying a base Adventurer. Freelancer, huh? I like the sound of that. I should contact the main branch of the Adventurer's Guild and put in a request to have the term Freelancer officially added to the Class registry.
After this, Luna took the time to explain to me how one became stronger in this world. It wasn't just about going out and killing things. Even the simplest of food items could help contribute to gain XP for personal growth. The same with exercise as well.
Once that was done, Luna told me that while I could technically try to be a solo Adventurer, I would eventually need to party up if I wanted to really make a big difference in the world. To that end, I should go ahead and make up and recruitment sheet to put onto the board.
To that end, she goes and gives me both paper and quill to go take care of that right now. Once I finished, I handed it to her to look over. She then gives me a smile before placing it up on the recruitment board.
"Just so you know, it could take hours, even days to weeks. Sometimes even months as well before you can get a full party formed. Remember to take it down once you feel you have enough members."
"Got it. So, any idea on what I should do now?"
"Since you have some time, I'd recommend going down to the gear shop and procure yourself a weapon. You can also get measured for armor though that will need a few days to likely be finished so its better to get it done now while you're waiting for someone to come to you."
Her words make sense so I decide to follow her suggestion. Before leaving, I ask Luna to keep watch for anyone who wants to party with me; to let them know that I'd be back once I had finished this little errand I was going to do. Before I leave, she also gives me my Adventurer's pouch and a book that detailed all information an Adventurer would want and need to know for their profession.
Part 4:
The gear shop had a nice selection of items, most of which was outside my price range.
Upon arriving and showing off the clerk my Adventurer's card, and telling him that I wasn't currently spected into any particular class but a simple jack-of-all trades, he showed me into another room where he took my measurements.
After a talk, it was decided that until I had improved my stats a fair bit, it would be best if I went with a simple chain mail undershirt, an over tunic and reinforced leather pants. The tunic and pants would have a special enchantments woven into them that would cause any cuts or tears to naturally repair themselves after a short time so long as they weren't to extensive.
This would take a few days to complete as it was better for Adventurer's to wear gear tailored to them than to buy some random fear off the shelves. It would cost a little bit more but would last longer in the long run.
You could also have a custom weapon forged for yourself as well but that was a lot more costly.
Since I was a jack-of-all trades class, I could technically use any of the weapon types that existed.
He recommended I consider trying out the shops weapon rental system for a bit. How that worked is that I could rent any one weapon, keep it for three days, for free I might add, then return it to borrow another and then buy which ever one I felt the most comfortable with.
Of course, there was the whole 'you break it, you buy it' caveat that came with renting weapons.
After doing some thinking, I decided to buy a short sword for now. I could try renting out the other types at a later point, once I had a few ally's to back me up out there. Besides, who doesn't choose a sword as their first weapon unless your class doesn't allow for the use of one?
By the way, I could have gotten a regular length sword over a short but the cost in Eris would have put me in the red which wouldn't be smart as who knows how earning money was going to go at the moment. And long swords were outside my price range so there was that too.
Once I had paid for the weapon and the gear; it was a pay in advance style system, I headed back to the Guild.
"Ah, mister Satou, that didn't take you to long."
Luna says this to me as I come walking into the Guild.
I pull my short sword out and show it to her.
"It's not much to look at, I know, but she'll serve till I can afford something more impressive. Has anyone come around about my recruitment request?"
Luna shakes her head as she returns to cleaning the registration desk.
"No but I'd say to stick around for a few. We have a mage who comes by around these times who's looking for a party. If she show's, I'll send her your way."
I wondered if it was 'that' mage she was talking about. I didn't mind sticking around as I was feeling hungry anyways so I proceed over to the mess hall and order myself some food and drink. I ask the waitress to leave the menu as I had a feeling I'd be buying the mage girl some lunch once she arrived.
I had just about finished my lunch when I heard a familiar clacking sound tapping the stone floor, becoming louder as it drew closer.
"Excuse me, are you the one seeking aid on your quest for greatness?"
That was one way to put it, I suppose. She was trying to sound confident, maybe even a hint of cockiness as well. Probably wanting to give off an impression that said 'you'd be a fool to not have me join you.' I smile for just a second before adopting a neutral expression, then I turn back to look at her.
Seeing that she had my fully attention, she pushes her cloak back and strikes a pose, her one exposed red eye glowing as she boastfully declares.
"My name is Megumin; Arch Wizard and greatest among the Crimson Demons. She who wields Explosion magic and the one who will one day master Explosion and stand above all mages."
Wow, that was a rather impressive intro. I honestly wanted to applaud her for her showmanship but I kept myself from doing this, wondering how long it will take before she recognizes me.
"So, what do you say, she we go out and carve our names into the annals of history together?"
She then comes out of her introductory pose and finally takes a look at me. She just stares for a moment, then cocks her head; probably thinking 'wait, haven't I seen him before?' After another moment, her eyes go wide as she loudly proclaims.
{Insert Image 3}
"Ah, it's you."
"Yo."
I replied with a swish of my hand in the air while cracking a big smile.
"That's right, it looks like we meet again, after all. Nice to meet you, Megumi."
"I can't believe it, it's really you. That nice yet mean guy who both helped me get some food then ran off when I was trying to talk with... Hey, you called me Megumi. I said my name was Megumin. Did you hear it right this time. Me-Gu-Min."
Megumin then puffs out her reddened cheeks in irritation; I hear her mumble something like 'Why does everyone make fun of my name' under her breath.
"I'm sorry, I honestly thought you said Megumi at first. Hm, Megumin, Megumin..."
I repeat her name several times, getting use to the sound of it. While it was a bit weird at first, I had to admit that it did have a nice ring to it.
"Well, in any event. I'm glad you showed up. When I first saw you a week ago, I made a promise that I would ask you to join with me once I had my official Adventurer's card and I can now keep that promise. And like your name's, either Megumi or Megumin, meaning, you showing up now is a definite blessing for me."
"Huh? What do you mean when you say that my name is a blessing?"
I explain to Megumin that back in my home land, the name Megumi means blessing so her's had more or less the same meaning to it. Or, at least it did in my opinion. Hearing me say that causes her to look away, probably to hide the clearly obvious blush that had crept up onto her face.
"Th-Thank you, I've never had anyone, not even back home, say something so kind about my name before. You really think I'm a blessing?"
I pound a fist against my chest and reply-
"Of course, Megumin. If nothing else, I am one who stands by the things they say."
She giggles before looking back at me and gives me a thankful, cheerful smile.
"That's good to know. Anyways, what did you mean when you said you had seen me a week ago?"
I explain to her how I had walked passed her the previous week; had promised myself that I would form a party with her once I had earned my Adventurer's card.
"You did, really?"
I nod, then take notice of something.
"Say, what's with the eye patch? I don't recall you wearing it the other day. Did something happen?"
"Huh, oh this? I'd usually respond to that question by saying 'This eye patch helps to conceal a great and terrible power; one that if unleashed would scour all life from this world within an instant.' In truth, its just a simple eye patch. I wear it because I like the way it looks."
I give her a look that screams 'really?' There was something about her that screamed chuunibyou to me.
"By the way, what's your name?"
"Who, me? Oh, right. I'm Kazuma, Satou Kazuma. Charmed, huh?"
Why did I end that with an 'Asuka' reference?
The sudden clatter of her staff hitting the ground drew me from that thought. I look at her and see she had gone stiff; her eyes wide as if she had just seen a ghost or had heard something earth shattering.
I guess it was another reaction to my family name. Well, time to finally find out what that's all about.
"Kazuma? Did you really say your name was Kazuma, right?"
Eh, she was reacting to my given name? Hadn't expected that to happen.
"Um... Yeah, that's right. My name's Kazuma. Is that a problem?"
She spins around and for a second, I thought she would make a run for it. But she didn't, instead I hear her mumbling something. Curious, I lean towards her to try to hear what it was she was saying.
"... is this what Soketto meant when she said to take care of..."
Sensing that I was listening in, Megumin turns back to me and bows.
"Sorry about that, I-well, It's a long story that doesn't need telling right now. Please accept me into your party and take care of me."
I wanted to press her about what had just happened, but before I could say anything, a loud 'ugu' sound comes from the girl, making her blush from embarrassment. I crack a smile before handing her the menu.
"Oh well, never mind that then. How about you sit down and eat something then we can go get ourselves a quest to do after. Does that sound good?"
She happily takes the menu and sits besides me while I call the waitress over to place another order.
Part 5:
We ended up staying at the Guild for nearly another hour. The time was mostly spent with us talking about things. She told me of her clan, the Crimson Demons; how they were known far and wide as the most powerful of mages. She told me all about Arch Wizard's and how they worked. She mostly focused on her Explosion magic and its benefits.
I guess she really loves Explosion magic, huh?
"So, what about your family? What are your parent's names?"
I ask her as she greedily ate the food that had been brought to her. I had also ordered a smaller, second helping of food. I wasn't actually hungry for seconds but my gut told me having this would be a life savior when dealing with this girl.
"My parent's? Oh, my mother's name is Yuiyui and my father is Hyoizaburoo."
I blink a few times, dumbfounded.
"Did you just make that up?"
"NO, of course not. Don't be mean. If you have a problem with my parents names then we'll have to take this outside."
I wondered how many time that happened with her?
To calm Megumin down, I offered her my second helping of lunch which she quickly accepted.
I guess she really was hungry. And my gut feeling had paid off too.
After finishing the food, she let out a loud burp that rang across the Guild, then patted her belly while releasing a content sigh.
"Now that hit the spot. Thank you for the meal."
She looks at me, brings her hands together, then bows.
"No problem, no problem. So, ready to take on a Quest and see how well we can work together?"
I get up from the bench as she follows quickly, grabbing her staff as she does so.
"Yeah, I can't wait to show you what I can do."
After taking a few minutes to look over the Quest board, with Luna coming out and explaining to me how one can know which Quest would be right for them to undertake, we make our selection and head out to kill us some beasties.
As we walked to the southern gate of the city, we took the time to talk a little as she took the lead, being more familiar with the layout of Axel than I was.
Well,actually, she did most of the talking; continuing her praising of the Crimson Demons. How they were considered to be the greatest of the allies the kingdom had at its disposal, due to their insane OP powers. The way her eyes shines, literally, as she spoke, it was clear she held her clan in high regard.
She also explained that the eyes of Crimson Demons glowed when either excited or angry. Weird, huh?
And, of course, she talked at great length about her love for Explosion magic again; talking about how amazing it was when compared to lesser spells that wished they were Explosion magic.
I had to admit, her words made me want to learn Explosion; not that I said that aloud.
Once we passed through the massive arched gate, we had finally passed into the outside world.
I took a moment to admire the landscape before me. Having never been outside Axel until now, I found myself wanting to take in all the sights and sounds of this world.
Finally, I felt like I was going on a real adventure, even if this was just the usual grinding levels one did before preceding with the journey.
Remembering that I had also been given a book that held detailed information on both gear, classes, and monsters, I reach into my Adventurer's pouch and pull it out.
"What's that?"
Megumin asked, stopping and looking at me as I flipped through the pages.
"I got this back at the Guild. It's a valuable tool any Adventurer should have on hand and at the ready. Wait, don't you have one, Megumin?"
She shakes her head, then tells me-
"The way we Crimson Demons receive our Adventurer's card is different than how others get theirs. We receive our card once we began our studies at the village's magic academy. Since we all are given the class of Arch Wizard, it makes it easier for us to keep track of our development and the amount of skill points we receive by completing our lessons and other activities."
In other words, much like how there was multiple ways one could gain XP for leveling up in this world, there was also multiple ways one could earn skill points beyond leveling up too.
Good to know.
"Giant Toads: a slimy and slick creature who possess rubbery bodies that have a strong resistance to physical damage. While docile, their long tongues can easily extend out as much as 200 meters and have a high speed tongues, used to capture their prey. Once in their belly's, they slowly digest their prey; usually needing around 12 hours before digestion starts and a full day before being done. As such, they don't need to eat much as they aren't all that active and thus, don't expend much energy."
"How to defeat. Generally, it is best to use magic, especially ice magic as they are easy to freeze due to being aligned with water and high tier fire magic to dry them out, thus affecting their movement even more than normal. If no spell caster is available, then aim for their one weak spot between the eyes. A deep enough cut will kill them."
It also warns to beware of toads that have large, wart like growths on their skin, especially around the eyes as these variants can spew out a toxic saliva that can cause paralysis if hit by it.
"Kazuma, Kazuma, there's some now."
I'm drawn from the book to see where Megumin was pointing.
Before us were four frogs. One was directly ahead of us, looking away. Another was off to the side, eying up some wild goats. And two more were further away and looked to be asleep.
The Quest was to kill five toads for completion and with this, we'd just need to find one more after this.
"OK, here's the plan, Megumin. I'll deal with the two closest to us. You can take out the two further out."
"Understood, but will you be OK trying to solo those two?"
I'd be lying if I said yes but this would be a good chance for me to even see if I had what it take to be an Adventurer to begin with.
"Only one way to find out."
I left Megumin's side, moving slowly towards the first of the two toads. I managed to make it mostly to it before it turned to look at me. Almost immediately, it tried to get me with its tongue but I just barely managed to jump clear before breaking into a run towards to it. It tried several more times to capture me but I managed to avoid the attempt before leaping up and sending my blade thrusting into its eyes which turned full white before collapsing onto the ground.
With one done, I went for the other and found it to be an even easier kill, if only because it was busy eating one of the goats it had been looking out. I had to admit, seeing one of the goats legs sticking out of the toads mouth and being reminded of that scene from Jurassic Park did scare me a little.
"Hey, how was that, Megu..."
A sudden blast of wind almost knocked me off my feet. I looked on in awe as I watched an intense surge of mana swelled around here. She chanted something though I was to far away to hear her words. She finally finished her chant before aiming her staff at the two stationary toads and shouting aloud-
"EXPLOSION."
The two toads vanished from sight, enveloped in hellish fire that reached up towards the heavens. In an instant, it was over and the two toads had been reduced to ash.
"Holy shit, that was freaking awesome. How have you not been welcomed by anyone else, Megumin?"
Yep, definitely needed to learn that spell once the opportunity came around.
Before I could move, the ground did the moving for me. I look and see another toad, the last on the kill list emerge near where Megumin was at. It then begins to move towards her.
"Hey, Megumin, watch out. You have a... EH?"
I look on dumbfounded as Megumin collapses onto the ground. I knew she was saying something to me, probably explaining what had just happened to her, but I was to far away to hear what she was saying. But there was at least one thing I was certain of-
She was probably asking me to come save her as the toad shot it tongue out at her and in seconds, she had been pulled into its mouth.
"Hey, don't let yourself get eaten, you idiot."
I yell at her as I race to save her from the toad.
Part 6:
"The insides of toads smell really bad, you know."
She tells me this as I carry her on my back; her body soaked with gastric goo. I hoped the guards or anyone else who would see us as we pass back into the city wouldn't assume that her current state was due to us having any sort of funky, kinky play time. I mean, I would be the one would suffer from that happening over Megumin.
"That's information I neither asked for or needed to know. Anyways, what happened back there. Megumin? You just collapsed after casting your spell. You're not sick or something, are you?"
I feel her shake her head before explaining.
"Explosion is extremely powerful but the cost is that it consumes a LOT of mana, so much that it currently exceeds my mana limits. As a result, it draws a bit of life energy to compensate for the missing mana. Because of this, I'm left vulnerable after casting my Explosion magic and will usually need between twelve hours to a full day before I'll be fully recovered."
Was this girl serious?
"If it takes some life energy from you to cast the spell, aren't you worried it'll shorten your life span?"
I hoped the concern in my voice was picked up by her.
"It's fine. The drain isn't enough to have that kind of an effect on my life. Even if it did, to walk the path of Explosion and to one day become its master, no sacrifice is to great to achieve my dreams."
She proudly declares this aloud, getting people's attentions onto us.
Please don't do that. I'm already worried how people will look at me, I mean us, based on how things currently look right now.
I sigh before saying-
"I understand. However, we'll need to save using Explosion magic until its a last resort. For now, just stick with less over powered, world ending spells, alright."
"I'm afraid I can't do that, Kazuma."
Eh, why not? Why can't you do that?
Her forthcoming answer fills me with dread.
"Don't you see, I can't lower myself to using other, more base spells. Explosion magic is the only magic for me. To lower myself to such menial standards that others adhere to would force me away from achieving what is my full potential."
Funny, I'm pretty sure the path you're walking is doing that just fine as it is.
"Even other spells found within the Detonation family are inferior when compared to the awesomeness that is Explosion. Sure, if I learned other spells, things would be easier for me. I would have even found myself a party to join by now if I learned other spells."
So that's the reason you were a loner. Given your situation when we met, you really are one stubborn girl, you know that?
"But I don't care. The path of Explosion is the only path for me and if I have to suffer hunger, isolation, or even death itself, I would rather embrace these truths than to turn away from who it is I really am. You see Kazuma, I'm am more than just Megumin, greatest mage of the Crimson Demons..."
"I am also the incarnation of the God of Destruction and as such, I must guard close within my being the power that, if unleashed, would see this world burned to ash."
Wait, if she really believed the things she was saying, then that had to mean-
THIS FREAKING LOLI REALLY WAS A CHUUNIBYOU!
"Oh... I see, good... to know. Well, anyways..."
Before I could continue, her grip on me tightens, so much so that my shoulder's felt like they were starting to bruise from the strength of her grip.
"Just think about it, Kazuma. To have all the power of a God of Destruction at your disposal; to be at your beck and call whenever you need her; what else could you possibly hope for? I don't even need a share of the reward money either. Just access to three square meals a day, new gear when needed, and a place to stay. That is all I need."
I start to respond to her words, but again find myself unable to as she wraps her legs tightly around my waste with enough force that it feels like my ribs could crack. Her arms wrap around my neck tightly to the point I feel as if I was being choked to death.
"Please, don't leave me. No one else will take me on and if you don't accept me, I'm scared I won't be able to survive. Please Kazuma, I'll do anything you ask me to. I'll even carry the bags inside dungeon's since I can't use my Explosion magic while inside. I mean it, I'll do anything..."
I understand that, you crazy chick but how can I even say anything in reply when you're choking the life out of me. And, on that topic-
"...megumin... can't breath... tapping out, I'm... tapping out here..."
I try to say to her but her cries were louder than my pleas.
"Look, what has that man done to that small child?"
We both turn our attention to a group of girl's standing close by. It was obvious by the way they were dressed that they were Adventurer's. They were looking at us with mixed emotions in their eyes.
Towards Megumin, the showed pity and remorse.
And towards me, anger and disgust.
I knew this was going to happen.
"He's covered her in goo. Just what has that sicko done to her?"
"That man is a criminal. Someone quick, call for the guards."
Oh god, no. This isn't what it looks like, I swear.
I could see from the corner of my eyes, Megumin looking at me with a devilish smirk. No, please don't say anything. At least realize my situation and let me talk first. And by the way-
I'm still choking here.
"Please, don't abandon me. I'll do anything, even that creepy slime game we played with those toads."
Damn this girl. I regret ever feeling sorry for her.
The female Adventurer's scream, either from fear or disgust... Or maybe both. Their screams alert the guards and force me to make a drastic decision. Make a run for it.
Problem with that being my face had started to turn purple now so trying to run just wasn't an option for me. It was at that moment Megumin finally noticed the color of my face and realized just what was going on; why I hadn't said anything for the last minute.
She quickly loosens her hold while frantically saying.
"Oh no, Kazuma. I'm sorry. I didn't realize I was choking you to death. I'm sorry, I'm really, really sorry."
After this, and while I worked on breathing some air into back into my lungs, Megumin explained to the guards and to those female Adventurer's what exactly had happened to her, they apologized to me though I couldn't help but think those girls didn't quite believe her as they still give me a dirty, disgusted look.
Maybe they felt I shouldn't have let Megumin get into the state she was currently in.
Once I had regained my composure, I took time to think on how to respond to her. She was now giving me time to reply. While I couldn't see her face, I had a feeling she was scared that I would reject her; if not for her revelation on her mage method, then for the fact she nearly strangled me.
I sigh as I finally speak my thoughts.
"Can't be helped, I guess. I wished you had told me about that little caveat that comes from using Explosion magic as it would helped me, helped us avoid what happened back there. We'll need to be a lot smarter when we go on our next Quest, OK?"
"I understand. Thank you for at least giving me a... Wait, what?"
She asked, stunned by my reply. Clearly, she had expected me to cast her aside after all that.
I turn my head so she can see me cracking her a sly grin.
"I have to admit that Explosion magic is some next level stuff and will definitely be useful to have, especially when in a pinch. And I'll admit it would be nice if you would learn some other spells, if only just to have some options available, I'd be a damn fool to turn you away as well. After all, every team needs to have a secret weapon and you can fill that role easily, right?"
There was also the fact I didn't know when I'd find myself getting another addition to the team. I decided it was best not to say that aloud.
Hearing my words brings a smile to her face. I'm pretty sure she was even crying as she wrapped her arms and legs around me again, this time with a lighter touch which I guess represented a hug.
"Thank you, thank you, thank you Kazuma. I swear you'll never regret this. I'll work extra hard in order to make sure I can be of use to you."
I then decide to say something else, but I need to chose my words carefully here.
"I do have one request though."
After a pause, I continue-
"If another mage shows up and wants to join us, I hope you won't get upset and accept him or her without issue."
"But why would we need another mage? Aren't I good enough? Is what you said before a lie?"
"It wasn't a lie. Everything I said to you was true. Remember, I said you will be our secret weapon. A wise don't throw their secret weapon out there to take out the trash mobs when they have the big bad waiting at the end of the Quest. You have the secondary, backup mage deal with the rabble so that the star of the show can show the big bad just how bad she can be. Don't you agree?"
Hearing my words brings a smug smile to Megumin's face.
"Yes, you're right Kazuma. Whenever we take on a big Quest, I should hold myself back in order to beat down the boss that awaits us. OK, I'll be fine with adding a second mage to our party should one come along. I'll enjoy having an underling to aid us; to be at my beck and call."
Chuuni's are so easy to convince. I'm glad I learned the secret from anime and manga.
"Glad to hear that. Now, great Arch Wizard and God incarnate, please point me in the direction of the nearest bath house. I think we could both use a bath.
Part 7:
We had arrived at the bath house; an impressive building sculpted from white marble and many rows of columns wrapping around the structure and red tiled roofing. It looked like something out of a Roman Empire period piece.
"So, think you have enough strength back to walk into the woman's bath... Or should we see if there are any private bathes open; you know, so we can help wash each others bodies? I mean our backs."
I throw in that perverted question out of nowhere. For a moment, I wonder why I did but then remember that I am a guy, a healthy young man who, while not yet at his prime, was still a man.
I had expected her to immediately rebuke me, maybe even threaten punishment. Instead-
"I'm sure I can manage, but maybe we should take the private bath option. I feel I owe you some form of thank you for earlier, after all."
Wait, was she serious? Does this mean I had arrived at my popular phase already? Thank you, God.
Probably guessing at my thoughts, Megumin laughs as she conks the back of my head before pushing off me.
"I hadn't pegged you as being a pervert, Kazuma. Good to know on my part. I'll need to keep an eye on you in the future."
She tried to sound like she was wary of me, but I could just make out the playful nature hidden beneath. At least my bad attempt at a joke hadn't been a total washout. After a, partly embarrassed chuckle, I ask her-
"So, should I wait back out here once I'm finished for you?"
"I'll probably take a bit longer to get cleaned up. Being inside a toad's mouth demands extra scrubbing for a beauty like myself. Once you're done, head back to the Guild and collect the reward then order our dinner. I should get there by the time the waitress comes with the food."
Megumin then hands me both her Adventurer's card and bank card before heading into the bath house.
"Anything in particular you want me to order for you?"
I yell out at her as she goes. She stops, looks back at me, and says-
"I'll have double whatever you order. Trust me, I am not a picky eater. Drinks can be whatever too."
I allow myself a little time to enjoy the water alongside washing up. Once done, and retrieving my cleaned clothes; which have been cleaned and dried quickly thanks to the power of magic in this world, I head back to the Guild Hall.
"Ah, mister Satou. Did everything.. Where's your Arch Wizard?"
Luna asked me this, looking around for Megumin. I could guess what she might have been thinking.
"She's still at the bath house, getting cleaned up. Due to a lack of information on her part, she ended up almost becoming some toad's dinner. Hopefully, there won't be any surprises when we go on our next Quest together."
I then hand Luna both mine and Megumin's cards.
"So you and her have become a permanent team then? I'm happy to hear that."
Luna tells me this as she smiles happily before getting to work, scanning our cards to confirm the kill count. She then ask me how the money should be split.
"Put half into my account and half into her's."
Once Luna had finished, she hands me the cards back. I go to leave when-
"I want to thank you, mister Satou. For letting her stay with you, I mean. Ever since she came to Axel a few months ago, she has had nothing but hardship after hardship thrown her way. It's nice that she's finally found a reliable person who she can truly call a comrade."
"I'm not sure if I'm really that reliable but I'll do what I can to do right by her. Anyways, see you tomorrow."
With that, I head into the mess hall and find an empty table.
If I was being honest with myself, I might have ended our partnership back there if I wasn't aware of her situation ahead of time; due to those past encounters. I'd like to think I was a good guy deep down, but I wasn't so stupid to not see that I was also a selfish and perverted fool of a man as well. The choices I had made in life back home in Japan could attest to that.
Once I had made mine and Megumin's orders, I wonder if she or the food will arrive first.
"Excuse me, are you the one from the new recruitment flier?"
I heard the deep and sultry voice come from behind me. Two recruits and both being female coming in just one day? Maybe I was entering my popular phase after all.
I turn and look at the owner of the voice.
She was tall, probably a tad bit taller than me. She wore light armor with a bronze sheen and yellow lines running along it. Deep blue eyes and long blonde hair tied into a pony tail. And while her armor tried its best to hide it, I could tell she had curves in all the right places along with really big boobs. In other words, her body type was the exact opposite of Megumin's. Not that I would say that aloud. I'm not that stupid.
"I'd like to offer my sword to your party, if you will have me."
Next time: Our little family grows, Skills, and another interesting Quest...
Image 1: Cris is standing on the rooftop, scratching her scar.
Image 2: A back shot of Kazuma, looking at a back shot of Megumin as she tries to swat the fruit from a tree.
Image 3: Megumin and Kazuma looking at each other; Megumin's face being one of shock and surprise while Kazuma's having a smirk.