Konosuba
AN: This feels a bit weird for me, coming back to writing fanfics here on this site since 2016, after I had sort of retired in order to free up time to focus working on writing an actually original work that's not based on any existing story, world, and so-on. What brought me back was simply a case of writers block I've had for the last year with that personal writing project.
And because, if I'm being honest, because of missed writing these kind stories, stories that take ideas I have swimming around in my head for series I've watched and like. Ideas I would like to put out there if only to see how other fans might think and feel about them. Also, doing this in the past was one of the ways that helped me with coming up with ideas for my pet project as well.
With that in mind, this is the first fic I'm putting out under the RhineWrites author name. Before, when I last posted on this site, I was going under Keyote and primarily wrote fanfics for Naruto, Kingdom Hearts, and a few RWBY stories. So why am I using a different account? Mainly because I have long forgotten my password for my old FF account. And just so you don't have to ask, I can't do the 'change password' option as the e-mail my old account is under is no longer around and I can't change one without having the other.
Besides, I can see this as a new beginning for me on here as the person I am now is far away removed from who I was back when I last wrote on here.
One last thing before we start this fic. This will be a sort of retelling of the series but some parts from the LN will either be thrown to the wayside while others will have some big changes put onto them to keep you guessing on how it will play. One example I can give will give is vol 8. While the Eris Thanksgiving Festival story will still happen, what happens during that will be different from the LN.
And Aqua will not be a main character in this one. While she will have a place within this story, both short term and long term, her being a MC isn't in the cards for what my brain cooked up with this one. If your a big fan of hers, I apologize in advance. I hope, if you choose to still read this regardless, you'll eventually come to understand my reasons for why I'm going this route.
Finally, I'm going to try something with this fic that's very different from my usual writing style. I'm going to try to write this in the same style as the Light Novels are written in so that anyone who's read them may feel a sense of familiarity in this when reading. That means that each chapter will be written mainly from Kazuma's POV while the others will be marked accordingly with the exception of the lead in for this first chapter. The character POV for that, while I won't spell it out here, should be fairly obvious even to those new to the series or so I hope. Please let me know if I do it well or not.
Now then, let's bring another blessing onto this wonderful world...
Konosuba
Bless this World with a Stranger
Prologue
Night had long since fallen over Axel as I walk through the mostly empty streets.
I was sure the night sky, filled with many stars, must have been beautiful tonight.
But I was to depressed, and hungry, to care; my shoulders slumped and my head hung low, my eyes locked onto the ground.
Earlier, I had actually been asked by Rex if I would want to join him and his party as they left Axel to move on to Rhodia, the city where intermediate level adventurers traveled once the contracts in Axel, as well as the local beast, no longer proved sufficient for proper growth and gain.
Like other adventuring parties, Rex and his team had lambasted me on my obsession with Explosion magic; had painfully pointed out how I was holding myself back from reaching my true potential.
Unlike other parties however, they hadn't kicked me out after my first Quest with them either.
Well, I was never made a proper member of the party either. They'd only do that if I swallowed my pride and learned more spells. But they did call on me a few times when then went on a Quest that required the devastating power of Explosion.
They even helped me, and my rival, with resolving that issue with Hoost.
If I was being honest, I might not have associated with them again after that first Quest ended the way it did, what with them saying I had to learn other spells in order to become a full member. But they did at least acknowledge my Explosions power and usefulness so I was willing to work with them, hoping maybe they would break first and accept me fully without condition.
Also, my piece of the reward pie allowed me to quiet my ever hungry stomach for a little while at least.
Yes, Rex had made the offer but I had declined. I had declined because I still wouldn't be a full member but a guest for whenever they needed me.
As well as the fact I doubt anyone else there in Rhodia would accept a mage like me and even if they did, it would be only for one Quest.
Also I was currently at Lv 5 and the beast and Quest found with going to Rhodia were meant for those who had passed well into the 30's.
There was another reason as well. That reason being that the fortune teller from back home had said certain things to me before I had left to start my adventure.
Thing's like here in Axel, I would finally find someone, join a party, that would accept me, all of me, and that I would finally find a place I could truly call home and other such things.
She had also told me one other, strange thing; told me to make sure I take care of...
The sudden aroma that reached my nose pulled me from my thoughts, making me sniff the air in search of the source of that overpowering delicacy.
I spotted a freshly cooked pie sitting inside a open window of a nearby house, likely sitting there to let it cool before consumption. Like I was in a trance, I was drawn to it as my eyes water and my mouth drools.
My stomach roared within me, demanding I help myself to this unattended feast for my senses.
I carefully stood on my tiptoes and peaked through the window. There appeared to be no one inside the kitchen. I quickly looked back, finding no one on the streets nor any other evidence that I was being watched.
I turned my attention back to the pie. My drooling intensified as I hungrily looked at it.
While I wasn't a thief, nor had a desire to become one. This was a golden opportunity that I would be a fool to pass up. Besides, I would surely be forgiven for this theft by the goddess, right. After all, allowing oneself to starve would be seen as suicide, which is a worse sin that theft.
Especially theft from people who clearly weren't in danger of starving themselves.
With that thought, I had decided as I greedily reached to grab the pie and make a run for it. A light but somewhat maniacal sounding cackle coming from within me. So close, so close, so...
"Mom, is it ready yet?" came the voice of a small child from somewhere within the house.
That made me freeze in place. That voice sounded so young, a small child's voice.
It made me think of my little sister back home.
"A few more minutes, honey" came a reply. "Be patient."
The thought of my sister stopped me from taking the pie. I needed it more, I had no doubt about that. I was confident if I carried through on my action, the child would be fine. The mother could surely make another, even if it was done another day.
But the thought of stealing a treat a child was so looking forward to made me ask how I would feel if someone did that to my own little sister.
It broke me inside.
With a sigh, I pulled away and return to my walk. It looked like I'd go to bed hungry again tonight.
I soon arrived at my "temporary residence" here in Axel, that being the western park. I usually bunked under the shade of a large tree, unless it was raining, in which I then took shelter along the river bank that passed through the city, under the cross bridge.
As I lay back onto the ground, my eyes gazing to the sky, my stomach growled at me again, reminding me that it was still waiting to be satisfied.
At least I was quick to fall asleep and sleep would offer me a few hours of reprieve from my stomachs demands.
Just as I was closing my eyes, I spied something far above the world that drew my attention.
A shooting star? No, it was moving to slow. A comet perhaps, awash in a brilliant green glow?
This brought an old wives tale I had heard as a child to mind. If one wished upon a shooting star, they would have their wish come true.
Did the same apply to a passing comet? Either way, it didn't hurt to try it anyways. I brought my hands together and placed them over my hearts. I closed my eyes and poured all my being into my words. Tears begin to fall as well as I speak.
"Please, bring me a savior, someone to save me from myself; from my life as it is. Whether it be a friend or even a stranger. Please..."
Chapter 1: A Blessing From Another Star
Part 1:
A clear blue sky was the first thing I saw when my senses came back to me. Where was I, what was I doing before? For what felt like forever, I just remained in place as I awaited my brain to join my body in being fully awake. I didn't have to wait long in truth.
A sudden sharp pain tore through me like being stabbed by a hot knife, or at least the analogy my thoughts went with even though I had never actually experienced that feeling before-
Thank god for that.
I found myself shooting up into a sitting position as my hands went to hug my head, my gaze towards the ground. After a few moments, the pain subsided and I was finally able to think clearly again.
First, what was my name? Kazuma, my name was Satou Kazuma.
That's right, I am Satou Kazuma.
With that firmly established, I moved on to the next question; just where the hell am I?
I begin to look around and quickly deduce that I was in some sort of fancy city park. But it wasn't familiar with the location.
Naturally, my next question would be why was I waking up here and not back at my one room apartment. I finally pick myself up and look around frantically, seeing if anyone was around who would be looking at me like I was some poor, dumb drunkard who was just waking up from an all-night bender.
Luckily, there didn't appear to be anyone I could see. But I couldn't see any sign of the tall buildings expected on a major metropolis like Tokyo. Maybe I'd see a bit better once I got out of this hole I was in and make my way up to the streets.
Wait, why did I wake up inside a crater?
I had just realized the ground I had been sleeping in had a massive curved bowl like shape to it with alternating rings of grass and dirt. I couldn't really process what was going on so I decided to just climb out of this hole, get up to the street, and see what happens next.
Once I was out, a made my way up a nearby hill and after, found a pathway made from smoothed stone and strangely European style buildings that looked like something out of the middle ages along the opposite side of the path.
"What's going on? Just where the hell am I?"
I asked myself as I look around, desperate to find something I could say was familiar to me.
I then began to rack my brain, desperately trying my hardest to recall what I had been doing prior to waking up in this place. Let's see, let's see here-
I had woken up in my one room apartment, darker than the night save for the lights coming from my computer equipment. I looked at the clock by my bed and saw I needed to hurry if I want to pick up my limited edition copy of Myriad Swords 2.
I quickly got dressed, putting on my green and black tracksuit and green pants; grabbed my wallet, and raced out the door.
I really should have been rushing to get to school. I mean, that was the reasons my parents had sent me here to Tokyo for, to attend that private school they had forced onto me.
They had told me it was for my benefit but really, they just wanted me out of the house so they wouldn't have to deal with my ever growing depression.
I had only attended this private school for a few days before I had given up and had locked myself away in my small apartment, trying to avoid the pain reality was always throwing my way. I only came out when I needed to get food, needed to visit a local bath house, or to buy a new game.
Which is what I had just did as I walk out of the gaming store, my prize being held tightly to my chest.
I hum happily to myself as I rush to get home. Since I had allowed myself some time last night for actual sleep, I was feeling confident I could pull a few days worth of all nighters so as to fully enjoy this treasure I had been waiting years for.
And then, something made me stop and turn my head to the right.
I was looking at a girl, perhaps 13 or 14, skipping along the tracks of a bullet train line.
"Hey, little kid. It's dangerous to play there. You don't want to get flattened, right?"
I yelled at her, drawing her attention to me.
She gave me a warm smile, her dark Gothic style clothes and black hair with a red sheen flowing in the wind. No doubt about it, she was definitely the most beautiful girl I had ever seen.
I could feel the heat raise in my cheeks; I knew I was clearly blushing like crazy.
She then went back to skipping along the tracks as an emergency alarm went off, warning of an incoming train. I knew it would only be moments before the train arrived and killed this girl.
Despite the alarm, she was still moving along the tracks without a care in the world.
"What are you doing? Get off the tracks."
I screamed at her before finding myself launching myself at her; my precious purchase falling from my arms. I moved as fast as I could, desperate to reach hear as the sounds of the train blare out the warning alarm.
I would do it, I would save this girl from herself as she was a beauty worth the risk, a divine angel to good and innocent for this world.
From the corners of my left eye, I could see the train coming in, moving to fast to have to even begin to slow down. Just a little faster, a little closer, a little more-
I make a final lunge, pushing my arms out to at least push her away to safety, only for her to vanish as my hands reach her and-
Part 2:
Yes, that had been what had happened. She had just disappeared and I-
What had happened after that?
A sudden, quick surge of pain brought me to me knees and after a moment, I finally remembered-
I was standing in the middle of the room, the ground beneath, the walls around me, and even the sky above me; a brilliant glowing blue water.
It was like I was within an air bubble deep beneath the sea. The place was, without question, beautiful.
"Satou Kazuma, just a moment ago- you died a most painful and horrendous death."
The sudden voice had me looking around, trying to find the source.
A glimmer from above caught my attention. This light, an intensely glowing sphere of blue, emerged from the sky; floating down to his level before growing and taking the shape of a beautiful girl.
Not as beautiful as the girl he had seen on the train tracks, but still beautiful all the same.
She had light blue hair tied in the back that seemed to flow like water. Deep blue eyes that seemed to dug deep into you and you wanted them to. And a dark blue dress and blue knee high shoes.
Basically, both she and this whole place had a heavy water theme about it.
I then recall what she had said to me when she had appeared.
"Death? I'm dead? What do you mean, what's going?"
The girl didn't respond immediately, instead snapping her fingers which caused the waters behind her to rise up and take the shape of a chair, allowing her to sit.
{Insert Image 1*}
"Exactly as I said, you have just died. You were hit by an oncoming bullet train and were killed instantly."
She said to me as she gave a serious tone.
I see, so that's what happened. Wait, what about-
"Did the girl survive at least. Please tell me me death at least counted for-"
The girl burst out laughing suddenly; laughingly so hard that she starts to tear up. Laughing so hard to she has to hug her sides.
What was going on? Why was she laughing like this?
"Sorry, sorry. I was just joking with you. You didn't die by being hit by a train. It's just- your actual death is, was, just so hilarious that I can't help myself."
Just what was going on with this girl? What was her damage?
"What the hell are you talking about? Just what happened to me, anyways? What about the girl, the train? How did I die?"
I yelled at her as she continued to laugh like a mad man. After a moment, she calmed down enough to finally answer my question.
"What girl,what train? You just suddenly darted for the train tracks and threw yourself onto them. You then had a sudden heart attack, probably due to shock, and you died on the spot. You even pissed and crapped yourself. And to top it off, the people who found you, the paramedics who collected you, and the doctors who examined you are all laughing at you and how pathetic you went out."
After a moment, she adds-
"And to top it off, your parents were just called and after being told what happened, the hung up the phone and started laughing so historically that they fell to the floor because they couldn't keep themselves standing. I can't blame them, it's just so... just so-"
The girl sitting before me starts laughing again, somehow even harder than she had before.
I grind my teeth and bawl my fist as tightly as I could. This arrogant bitch before me actually thinks this is funny. I wasn't one to let my anger out. I had learned, painfully, that doing so never did me any favors. But this chick had somehow immediately pushed me beyond my threshold here.
"Do you really think something like that is funny? Just what's your problem, you stupid bitch? Are you really that fucked up a person to think someone dying is the least bit funny?"
"WATCH YOUR TONE, HUMAN!"
Her laughing stopped instantly as I spoke and, without missing a beat, her tone become dark, threatening even. The world around me grew darker and the waters became more violent and turbulent, like being in the middle of freak storm while at sea.
It was enough to make me freeze, even shrink away in fear. No, in terror.
"DO YOU THINK YOU, SOME PATHETIC AND WORTHLESS HIKI-NEET, HAS ANY RIGHT TO JUDGE ME? DO YOU EVEN KNOW JUST WHO I AM? WHAT I AM?"
"Should I?"
I asked her meekly.
For a moment, her anger seemed to flare up but it was only for a moment. She then took in a deep breath and visibly calmed down.
"No, I guess you wouldn't. Very well then, allow me to educate your tiny little mind."
She then stands, legs spread, as she looks to the sky with hands outstretched. Her voice with joy.
"I am Aqua. Yes, the goddess Aqua. Overseer of all souls that pass from your little corner of the world. The most divine beauty who is worshiped across many worlds. Yes, I am she. Aqua, the goddess of water."
"Never heard of you."
I said with a deadpan tone.
"You damn, shut-in. How dare you-"
She stops her anger filled reply as if a realization hits her. She then sighs before sitting back down.
"No, I guess that would only make sense. On this stupid, hum drum world of yours, the only deities you yokels know of are either ones modern civilization have deemed as myths or the supreme creator."
After a moment, she adds-
"And I guess I was acting rather demigoddess like just a moment ago. And for that, I guess I should apologize-"
Maybe she wasn't so bad after all. I mean, in myths, the gods weren't really concerned for the thoughts of feelings of mortals; probably saw them as bugs. Well, when they weren't going around fucking them without consent.
"I'm sorry too. This is all happening so fast I guess I-"
I start to say my apology but the goddess breaks in.
"Great, great, now that that's out of the way. We should get down to business. After all, I can already see the other souls who've died this day starting to pile up, waiting their turn to see me."
She then gets up and walks over to me, coming to a stop just a few steps before me.
"OK, my poor, unloved NEET. You have several options you can choose from."
She then holds a finger up.
"One you can choose to reincarnate into your world and start life over from zero."
She then holds out a second finger.
"Or two, you can go ahead and proceed up to Heaven and spend an eternity doing nothing but sleep on some clouds or listen to your dead relatives go on and on about how yous kids today have it so easy."
She then leans in close to me and adds-
"Though I personally wouldn't recommend it seeing as you are a young, horny teen with uncontrolled urges. You would quickly become pent up and find yourself unable to find that sweet, sweet release, making Heaven feel more like Hell."
"Is that really something a goddess should be saying?"
I ask her as she pulls back. She ignores my question and says-
"OR, you can go with the third option available to young people like yourself."
I ask her what, making her do a spinning dance around me before stopping and pushing a finger up against my nose.
"I am so glad you asked. Since you have a deep love of games, adventures, and fantasy, I am willing to send you to another world, your body and memories fully intact, with a quest to try to save this world from being conquered and dominated by the Devil King and his forces. What do you say? Do you have what it takes to become 'pause' a HERO?"
"Sorry, but could you clarify a bit?"
I asked her with a deadpan tone. She huffs, as if she's had to say the same thing a dozen times already.
"Look, its like this. Some time ago, some nut job showed up on this world that's even more of a hick town than your own, built up an army, and started to call himself the Devil King. He somehow managed to build himself up a decent army and has somehow managed to not only fight on equal grounds with the already established kingdoms and their forces, but has somehow been beating them and gaining ground at total conquest. It's gotten so bad that its becoming difficult to get any souls to want to be born there as the life expectancy as become so low."
"Then why would I even go there even I'm just going to die again before becoming an old fart? And how did it get that bad to begin with? Doesn't that world have a goddess watching over it too?"
The goddess, Aqua, sighs then says-
"It does but she's a total weakling, to say nothing of the fact that her chest is so small that she has to pad them just to make anyone think she actually has tits. Its pretty sad really, especially for a divine being. I mean, she's my subordinate but she's become so cocky over the eons just because she's seen as the dominate deity there. To be honest, I wouldn't care what happens to that world if it wasn't for the fact I also have some followers in that world as well."
"Then why don't you go and help out there?"
I asked her, out of my own curiosity.
"Not my responsibility. Its her mess so she should be the one to fix it. I'm already doing more than enough as is just by sending losers like yourself there to at least try to make something out of your dull and useless lives."
Watch it, you blue haired bimbo.
"Now, as for why'd you want to go there? Apart from the chance of becoming a hero, like I said before, and giving you another chance to make something out of your worthless life, there's also the chance you could have that dream life you always wanted; to have money, fame, and harem of beautiful woman at your beck and call since theirs no rules or stigma against things."
While her sales pitch left a lot, and I mean A LOT, to be desired. I had to admit the temptation of becoming a famous, rich hero was appealing. And the harem part was also a nice addition besides.
"Even if, let's just say, I did go, how would someone like me even last long in a world like that? As much as I hate to admit it, you weren't wrong with your description with my life style. If this place is indeed a true fantasy world, with magic, monsters, and such, how could someone like me even survive one day there before being deep six-ed again?"
I ask her this, getting a cheeky grin in response.
"Well, of course you would. I mean, the people of your world have become so weak since the industrial revolution took place; letting machines take more and more or the work off your shoulders. But luckily, I am not so unkind as to send you there without offering some sort of special power. Behold-"
She then steps to one side, holding both her hands out as a series on images appear out of thing air, dozens of them.
"Before you is a list of available Divine Relics I can offer you to take onto this merry mission. Each and every one having the power to make you not unlike a demigod to those poor, unwashed masses. If none of these are to your liking, then I'm willing to negotiate with special request. For example, if you say wanted to have the powers of Superman of the powers of Straw Hat Luffy. Even better, many Relics are chosen by heroes in the past, who have died either by combat or age, still remain in that world. If you find them, then you are free to use them as well as only an outsider like yourself can tap. Find enough of them and you could truly become like a god to those poor, misguided fools."
She then leans in close to me again and says-
"You could rule the world."
I gulp as her words permeate into my deepest core. While I wasn't to keen on the whole ruling the world bit, mainly as it seemed like a total headache for a shut-in like me, I found the desire to go growing quickly, to the point that I couldn't choose any other option now.
"Alright, I'll do it. Your on goddess."
I said with as much confidence as I could muster.
She gives me a big smile.
"Great, that's great. I'm sure you'll, probably do great over there. Maybe, hopefully? Never mind that now, just hurry up and make your choice. I have more lost souls I need to con in order to meet my personal quota for the day."
Wait, what was that last part?
She turns her back to me, walking back to sit upon her watery throne. I go to ask her what she had just said when my vision begins to blur. Before I knew it, I had blacked out, having a feeling like I was falling, falling across the sky.
In moments, I do recall stuff. Feeling like I was covered in a green light, moving beneath the stars. Sailing towards the ground. Slowing then coming to a stop just above the ground. The light around me expanding, causing the earth below to be pushed down into a bowl like shape. Then I feel my body floating gently down to rest.
"I'm sorry, Kazuma-"
A voice that sounded like that goddess, but more worn and tired and sad sounding, said in my mind. And then everything went dark again before I had found myself looking up to that clear blue daytime sky.
With that, I had remembered what had happened to me. I now had a better idea on just were I was. More importantly, I knew I had just been screwed over by that goddess; sending me here before I had even chosen my special power. There was only one thing I could say now.
"That damn so-and-so. Whenever I find myself dead again, I'm so gonna file a complaint and get her water themed ass fired-"
Part 3:
After I had cooled down from my ranting, I decided to have a look around and get the lay of the land.
It didn't take long till I finally found some people; their garb not unlike that of those worn by the masses during the middle ages. I found one particularly kind looking soul and approached them.
"Excuse me, would you be able to assist me?"
I kindly asked, getting their attention focused onto me. From the way this older individual was dressed, I hazard a guess and assumed that he was belonging to some sort of religious order.
"I'll do my best, son. Your garments; I take it you aren't from around here?"
He asked me while looking me over. It made me feel a bit self conscious if I was to be honest.
"You could say that. I'm, well, you could say a traveler from a far off land. Sent here by the grace of the goddess in order to save the world. Or at least try to anyways."
I say that, but hearing my own words aloud, I can't help but feel a bit pretentious and full of myself with making that declaration. It's enough to make turn red from embarrassment.
I had expected this priest like man to either laugh at me like I was making a joke or chastise me for making such a bold claim in regards to a goddess. Instead, his eyes light up as he excitedly exclaims-
"Can it be? If you do not lie, then I must report this most wonderful news to the high priestess and let her know that by the grace of the Lady Eris, we have finally found a savior."
Before I could reply, the old man had turned and was racing down the path; moving surprisingly I might add. I was also pretty sure I heard him shout something like "Follow me" but He was already well beyond gone before I could even bring myself to move.
"Hey, newcomer. From your garments, it's obvious you're not from around here."
I look at the source of the voice; a woman sweeping the porch of her home.
"Yeah, I guess you could say I just dropped out of the sky today."
I answered as as I scratched the back of my head and gave her a nervous laugh.
"And hit your head while landing as well, I bet. Sigh, look, if you want to live your life like you are some great hero from those old fairy tales, like those crazy Crimson so-and-so's, that's your business. But I ask you please don't go saying such nonsense to people OK. Especially, kindhearted souls like old Kimp there. Because of your claims, he's likely to get scolded again."
While I was a little annoyed that she claimed that I had lied to her without any evidence to support her claim, I couldn't deny her as I didn't have any evidence to support mine either, apart from the clothes on my back. As far as she could tell, I was just a traveler from some distant land.
Which, in all honesty here, wasn't technically wrong. Rather, not quite doing the explanation justice.
"Say, you aren't one of those freakish Axis Cultist, are you? Here to mess with the kindhearted and generous Eris faithful?"
She asked me this suddenly, giving me a look that I couldn't quite read. Was it fear, or anger?
"Neither, ma'am. Truth told, I've never heard of either to be honest. Even those Crimson so-and-so's you spoke of don't mean anything to me. You may not believe me; what it was I said to that priest guy. I honestly don't blame you as if our roles were reversed, I'd be the same way. But I ask you to at least believe me when I say that I got here today and I'm not really sure how."
I then tell her of the happenings that led me here. How I had went out to purchase some goods, how I had tried to save a girl that appeared to be in trouble. How my world went dark and finding myself suddenly here, leading up to this very conversation.
I, wisely, left a few key details out; like meeting that blue haired bimbo, and being more detailed about my home which, given the theme of this place, would probably fly over her head if explained.
She then looks me over, carefully for few moments.
"Hm, I guess you can't be with the Axis after all. Everything about you and your story screams weird to me, but not insane. Just be carefully who you say such weird stuff to going forward otherwise you'll end up thrown into an insane asylum before you know it."
I thank her for the advice, though I had already figured that one out. After all, even if this place was exactly like those fantasy RPG's I usually play, common sense dictate one should keep such knowledge on the down-low; only shared with just the right people.
Especially when sharing with the wrong sort could get me branded a heretic and burned at the stake, assuming they did stuff like that here. I thank the lady for her advice and go to leave.
"Wait, ma'am, one last thing. Is there any place around here one would go where they can sign up in their quest to become a world saving hero?"
I asked her this, getting an annoyed look from her. Or maybe it was a look of pity. Hard to say.
"You're really going to stick with that... Never mind, if you have a death wish, who am I to stop you."
Following her giving me directions, I begin my search. As this place was big and hard to navigate, I had to ask for directions a few more times, making sure not to say anything to extra and unneeded. By the time the sun had reached its highest peek in the sky, I was standing at my destination.
At least I hope it was anyways.
Part 4:
The sign above the door said 'Adventurer's Guild Hall: Axel Branch. I'm guessing this city was called Axel then. It had red tiled roofing and red banners coming down from the sides. Coming and going where tough looking warriors and mages. This had to be the place.
Proceeding inside, I walked along the stone flooring till I emerged into a large hall, filled with wooden tables and a bar opposite me. Looking around, I could see various people eating and talking. I decided to approach the nearest person, a large and rather well built man with big metal shoulder pads with pink colored straps reaching to his green/gray pants.
"Excuse me. I hate to bother you but could you help me with a question?"
I had wanted to sound cool as I talked, in order to give the impression of someone brimming with confidence. Instead, my voice squeaked just a little from the air of intimidation this guy was giving off. He turned, looked at me with cold eyes.
"What do you want, shrimp?"
He asked me with a low, ominous tone. His trimmed beard and Mohawk made me think this guy could have passed as an enforcer for the Yakuza. His muscles looked like he could crush me like snapping a trig. And while he was sitting, I could already tell that he's probably tower over me once standing.
"I was wondering where the reception desk is? I came here so I could sign up for, I mean, to become an adventurer."
He gave me a look over, as if trying to gauge my potential. Or at least, I hope that's what he was doing here.
"Don't make me laugh. Do you really think a tooth pick of a guy like you could possibly become a hero?"
His insults were starting to make me mad. I bawled up my fast, gathered my courage, and shouted aloud in defiance my resolve.
"Damn straight, I'll become a hero. Just tell me were I can sign up, then you can just sit back and drink yourself stupid while watching me take this world by storm and carve my name into the annals of history."
{Insert Image 2*}
I breath in to calm myself down. It was then I realize my declaration had drawn the attention of everyone in the hall onto me. This made me blush from embarrassment as I shrank back a little.
The man sitting before me just looked at me for a moment more before he burst out laughing.
"I see. Well then, mister hero, allow me to be the first to welcome you to the gates of Hell."
His mood and the intense aura he was giving off had changed, becoming jovial. He stood finally, confirming my thoughts about him being a giant of a man. He then motioned for me to follow him.
We headed out of the mess hall, back towards the entrance. He then stops and points me to the side where I could see three posting boards; one bordered by bronze, another silver, and the last gold, along the walls and a reception desk.
"The gal with the blonde hair there is named Luna. Just talk to her and she get you all sorted. Well then, mister tough guy. I guess I'll be seeing you around here then."
The mountain of a man said as he then walks towards the entrance, stopping long enough to say one final thing before leaving.
"And I'll do as you advised; I'll keep an eye on your progress."
I give him a nod before heading over to the desk. After a moment, the girl called Luna took notice.
"Ah yes, sorry about that. Can I help you?"
Her voice was soft and kind and, if I being honest. She was damn hot to. Her blonde hair tied into a ponytail and large boobs that seemed like they could pop out of her low open top just from the slightest movement. I quickly stop staring, wanting to avoid another bit of drama.
"Yeah, I was told this is where one would come to sign up to be a hero or whatever words you use here."
She chuckles though it sounds somewhat forced.
"Yeah, around here we use the words Adventurers. Can I have your name please?"
She had already pulled out a piece of paper, likely a registration form, and had a quill ready in hand.
"Satou Kazuma; Satou being my family name and Kazuma my given."
That was probably unnecessary details to give but seeing as this wasn't Japan, Earth for that matter, it was probably better safe than sorry.
"Satou? Did you really just say Satou just now?"
She asked me, her quill slipping from her finger tips. Crap, did I just fuck up already?
"No, oh no. Never mind my surprise. It's just... It's not a common name around these parts is all."
I had the feeling she wasn't being honest with me; or that she was but was leaving the actual explanation held back for some reason. No matter as she continued asking me questions about my self like age, date of birth, home. That sort of thing.
"OK there, all done. All I need now is just your registration fee and we'll be able to process your Adventurer card, mister Satou. That will be 500 Eris."
Wait, there was a registration fee? And what's an Eris? I thought Eris was the name of some goddess people here worshiped? I ask her these very questions.
"I see. Eris is both the patron deity of our world and the name of our currency on this continent. Do you really not have any money?"
She ask me this, making me search my pockets. I pull out 2 thousand yen, all I had left on me following my little excursion to by my new game; my power game that was left lying on the streets next to the tracks. That thought alone made me want to cry.
"Hm, I've never heard of yen before. Let me look and see what our books say."
She turns away, pulling out a booklet that I assumed listed all known currencies in this world. After she looks through it, she shakes her head and turns back to face me.
"I'm sorry, mister Satou, but I'm afraid we have no listing for yen in our logs. As such, I'm afraid I can't except that as possible payment. I'm sorry."
She bows her head as my heart sinks. I was starting to really feel this whole hero thing too.
I let out a disappointed sigh as I begin to walk away with slumped shoulders.
"Great, now what do I do? No useful money or even a place to stay. Man, I can't believe this is how my adventure begins."
As I go to leave, Luna calls out to me, making me stop as I look back and see her emerge from behind the registration desk.
"Wait, mister Satou. There may be something I can help you with. Please, come over here."
She gestures for me to join her over by the bronzed bordered posting board. Once I had joined her, she begins her explanation.
"On this board are request for anyone who're in need of money and need it fast; individuals like yourself. Everything listed here is work done here inside town and doesn't require one to have a adventurers license in order to do."
She then gives me a good look over then turns her attention to the board and examines the contents. I read of a few myself. Babysitting, grocery shopping, gardening. Nude modeling? She finally pulls one off and hands it to me.
"I think this should serve you well, sir."
I look at the paper; seeing the words "Assistance needed with town construction. Duties include digging, transporting, wall building, paint work, and assisting with the meal wagon. Pay is 1000 Eris daily.
"Those work can be a little tough, especially for one with your physique. But it has the highest payout of all the current listed options here and it could help get you started prepping for the life of an adventurer. What do you think?"
I consider her words, though I feel a little insulted my her description of me. Not that she was wrong or anything, but still-
"Hm, while hard labor isn't my thing, I think I can handle one days work given the pay awaiting me at the end."
"Actually sir, I would recommend five days work. Beyond the registration fees, you'll need somewhere between 3000 to 4000 Eris in order to buy equipment for yourself as well. The only other things we offer, besides your card, is a special storage pouch and a Guide Book to give you helpful knowledge."
\
Her words make me groan. 5 days is more than I'd like to do, to be honest. But it could be worse I guess.
"What the hell, why not. So, just where is this place at anyways? Where do I sign up?"
After a moment of waiting while Luna goes to retrieve a map of the city, she returns and points out our current location and where the job was currently at.
"Normally, maps like these are usually only given to registered adventurer's but I'd like to help you out by loaning this one to you."
The map wasn't just a simple map. It was in fact, enchanted in a way. A glowing dot was present on it, showing you where you were within the city and you could even ask it to show you where to find any particular destination, even getting a line that helped you find the quickest path by just pressing your thumb onto a seal located on the bottom right side and saying your destination aloud.
Basically, it was a magical world version of GPS.
"Given the time, you probably won't start work today but I'd at least speak with the foreman there."
She then gives me a piece of paper and instructs me to pass it along; saying it'll help land me a temp job with them.
"Thank you, miss Luna. I'll make sure to pay you back for your help."
"Good luck and we'll see you again. Oh, and I'll also let the staff here know they can serve you food in the mess hall as well, mister Satou."
I guess non Adventurer's can't eat here. Makes sense, I guess. I turn to leave, but stop and look back at her.
"By the way, just call me Kazuma."
She gives me a smile as a continue on my way. As I pass through the main entry door, a mage dressed in a red dress and wearing a large goofy hat walks into the Hall opposite me.
She was small in stature, her full height only reaching mid way up to my chest. She was slim and looked rather frail. Her large mages cane made clank noises at it hit the ground with each step. I don't know why, but I felt as if time slowed down as I couldn't help but stop and look back at her.
She didn't seem to notice me as she kept going, turning and moving towards Luna.
Suddenly, a memory flashed in my mind, the memory of that girl on the tracks.
Why? I wondered this to myself. Sure, I guess they had a similar face but that mages hair didn't have the red sheen to it like that other girl and the clothing style was different; both in looks and color. Despite that, I couldn't help but feel a connection there. Maybe I had hit my head after all.
Before I could get back to my intended course of action, I heard the mage talk with Luna.
"Are there any new party's looking for a Mage?"
Her voice sounded hopeful, laced with some degree of desperation. I then heard Luna's reply.
"I'm sorry, but nothing new today either."
"I see-"
Luna sounded remorseful. Understandable so as giving someone bad news was never a good thing. The mage also sounded sad. My gut was telling me she suffered rejection a lot. I wished I could help her right now but I was honestly in no better shape.
As I finally continued on my way, I made a promise to myself. Once I was able to become an Adventurer, and after that when I next saw her, I would ask her if she'd like to party with me. And as such, I did my best to commit her appearance to memory.
Next time: Megumin, Darkness, and Chris...
Image 1: Aqua sitting in her chair, arms resting on the armrest and one leg resting on the other.
Image 2: Rufian giving a big grin to Kazuma; the text "Welcome to the Gates of Hell" along the side.
