Bless This World With A Stranger

by RhineWrites

Arc 8: Konosuba Inferno (chapters 37-?)

17. A4-1: Gifts and a Road Trip

Arc 4: Labyrinth of Knowledge and the Forge

Chapter 1: Going on A Road Trip with My (Not) Harem

{ Prologue }

(Aqua POV)

I sit back in my chair as another idiot goes on his way; having chosen rebirth as a baby on Earth as opposed to going to Heaven or being sent to that flat chested idiots main world.

Oh well, not that it matters to me, anyways.

I mean, why should it?

After all, that Devil King guy and his forces didn't have the balls to attack my children and so long as they were safe, who cared about anything else, right?

On a side note, I still can't believe how stupid humans can be sometimes.

Telling them that Heaven was nothing but sitting back and watching the clouds pass by while getting a tan?

I mean, how stupid can you get?

Ah, if only they knew what that were missing out on.

Oh well, sucks to be them.

I then pull a chip from the bag sitting next to me and pop it into my mouth before picking up the manga I had... borrowed from a previous visitor and continue where I left off.

It was my favorite kind too; the one were the protagonist was a complete idiot.

Always makes me laugh... speaking of-

That reminds me of that one loser that came by here not to long ago; the one I had told had died on the tracks by a sudden heart attack due to an equally sudden adrenaline rush.

Yep, that one had been pretty funny too.

And the best part was; he totally believed what I had told him.

Oh, if he only knew the truth?

Which reminds me; just where is the afterlife did he disappear to anyways?

I turned my eyes away from him for one damn second and poof, he was gone.

Oh well, I'm sure he's fine and all that... now, back to my comedy manga.

"I see you're working hard... as always?"

Came a deadpan toned voice from beyond my watery throne; making me jerk and stand quickly.

Nearby, a bubble of water drips down from above; taking the shape of a tall, well dressed figure with white hair.

My eyes go wide before I rush forward and hug the persona tightly; crying out-

"BIG BROTHER, YOU CAME TO SEE ME. WAHH, I'VE MISSED YOU!"

"Yes, I'm sure you have... assuming that little pea sized brain of yours can recall anything that doesn't interest you for longer than a micro second."

I quickly pull away and give him a pouty face; a tactic that has never failed to guilt trip in him the past.

"Pathos sniff sniff you big meanie, we haven't seen each other in so long and this is how you treat your beloved little sister?"

"Oh spare me those water works of yours, Aqua. You aren't a little kid anymore... at least not physically that is. And who is it that never bothers to keep in touch, huh? I've tried calling you loads of time and you never ever reply."

"But-but that's only because... I'm so busy and stuff and..."

He walks past me, his eyes locked onto the mountain of empty bags and manga and games I have strewn around my throne, then looks back at me with a disproving look.

"Clearly, you have been busy. So much so that you don't even have time to order your poor angelic helper to clean up after your."

I wanted to retort; to tell him that I don't make Bubbles do stuff like that-

But who am I kidding here, my brother did know me better than anyone else.

A fact I both love and hate about him sometimes.

I then notice him becoming more somber and serious before he says-

"Aqua, please take a seat. There's a matter we need to talk about now."

Judging from the look he gave me; I knew that now wasn't the time for my usual antics here so I did as he said and take a seat as he comes to stand before me.

"OK Aqua; here's the situation. We have recently learned that one of the souls that came before you, one Satou Kazuma to be exact, was sent down to Eris's main world without being given a Divine Relic or special power from you."

"Hm, sounds like a 'him' problem if you ask me... OW?"

I feel the powerful, and very painfully familiar force of Pathos's judo chop come down onto my head.

As I grab onto my head while crying and complaining, he voice gets louder as he says-

"No, you idiot. It is not a 'him' problem but a 'you' problem here. Aqua, you allowed him to be sent down there without receiving a heavenly gift. Need I remind you that doing so is a rule we all have to follow?"

"Furthermore, upon looking into the matter, We have learned that you didn't even send him yourself. Rather, you allowed his soul to be stolen away from your throne here and not even once to you feel the need to alert us of this matter nor did you ever look into it yourself. Care to explain why?"

I decide to adopt pleading eyes and aim them at my brother; to act all innocent and sweet as this tactic has always gotten my butt out of trouble before with him.

"But it wasn't my fault, Pathos. I didn't do nothing wrong. Why should I be held accountable when some dumb hikki neet from Japan decides to skip out before getting his cheat power? Besides, I had other matters to attend to like seeing to other souls and..."

"And being a lazy little tadpole?"

"I've told you never to call me a tad-UURRKKK."

I feel his judo chop against the top of my head again; this one having enough force behind it to make the water beneath us ripple like a tidal wave.

"TAKE THIS WHOLE THING SERIOUSLY FOR ONCE, AQUA!"

He yelled at me, making me cower and quake.

I had never seen him get THIS mad at me before.

After taking a few breaths to calm himself down, he says-

"Aqua, that isn't all. We've also reviewed your conduct with dealing with this Satou Kazuma as well and I have to say I personally am very disappointed with you."

"Wh-wh-wh-wait a moment, you mean... you saw all of THAT?"

"YES, we of the upper ranks did. And we have also looked into your conduct concerning others who have visited you and seen similar acts of dubious intent on your part as well."

"I'm sorry to say this to you, Aqua, I really am. I'm afraid, though, that a decision has been made."

I began to shake as I timidly ask him-

"What d-d-decision is that, brother?"

He lets out a regretful sigh before explaining-

"Effective immediately, your status as a goddess will be revoked. Furthermore, when the next person who appears before us that will chose going to Eris's world comes, in addition to her receiving a divine gift, we shall also send you down with her. Once down there, alongside helping her out, you will need to locate this Satou Kazuma and apologize to him and offer unto him any one request he may make of you... and I do mean ANYTHING... even your body if he demands it."

But-but, that can't be allowed, can it?

I mean, the heavenly law set forth after all those incidents that happened in the past that prohibits relationships between gods and mortals-

"Will be waved in your case, for this matter. And finally, you must off your aid in defeating the Devil King and his forces though you will be doing so without the bulk of your power which will be sealed until further notice. All you'll have left with be your healing powers."

I immediately rush forward, grabbing onto and shaking my brother as I scream, cry, and wail at him.

"This isn't right, it's not fair. This is totally no fair. They can't do this, how could they do this to me? How could you do this to me? After all, I'm Aqua the goddess of water and I deserve..."

He smacks my head again, for the third time... I think, sending me crumbling onto the ground in a teary eyed and broken mess.

"You deserve a lot worse, if I'm being honest here. Sigh I blame myself for you becoming like this, you know. I spoiled you way to much as you were growing up. And I should have requested an intelligence booster for you as well. Well, to late for that, I guess."

After a few minutes, I finally stand as I repeat Pathos's words.

"So, I'm to go play assistant to some dumb mortal down on that flat chested girls world, find that pathetic NEET and apologize to him, play a role in saving that stupid world then? That's really not fair but what other choice am I being given here?"

"Since when has life been fair, Aqua? And by the way, we're going to have a nice, LONG little chat once you get back... IF you get to come back that is?"

I look at him, confused; asking him what he meant by that?

"Simple, if you fail at any of your assigned duties down below; like abandoning your partner, fail to properly apologize to Satou Kazuma, and aiding in defeating the Devil King, then you're status as a goddess will be permanently taken from you and you will become a mortal... permanently."

Those words make me freeze but he wasn't done yet.

"And, if you fail to show any sort of mental and emotional growth while you're down there as well, then you will be exiled to Hell were you will surely become a demon... or even worse, A DEVIL!"

That was the straw that broke my poor little back as I started wailing anew; screaming out-

"No, that's not fair. It wasn't my fault. Why is it everyone in the universe is always wrong but me?"

"Aqua, you need to stop acting like a baby; stop assuming that being a goddess is a free do anything you want without punishment gig, and just grow the fu..."

He stops his words and I stop my wailing as we both felt it; a new soul on approach to my throne.

"Hm, seems your ride has already shown up... and a most unexpected ride she is at that..."

======================{ Part 1: Wanderer's Homecoming }=======================

As the teleportation comes to an end; I find myself standing outside a familiar location-

That being the mansion me and the girls called home.

"Home Sweet Home."

I then proceed to the front door; only to find some rather curious noise coming from inside.

The sounds of someone screaming; things hitting the ground, and even sounds of things breaking.

I let out a sigh as I shake my head.

Home, sweet home, indeed.

I unlock the door and step inside in order to see what madness awaited me.

Inside; I find both a welcoming sight and a sweat drop inducing scene all rolled into one.

I see Chris; running from one spot to another while a seemingly berserk Chomusuke chasing after her.

"Stay away, you demon beast. After what you just tried to do to me, don't think for a second I won't end you were you stand?"

Chomusuke's response was to snarl like a pissed off cat would as she continues her attempted assault.

Honestly, I really should just ignore this whole affair and either head upstairs or just turn around and leave and come back later.

Instead, I decide to throw myself into the lions den as I say out loud.

"Nia, now is this how we go around treating our fellow roommates?"

Hearing my voice; both Chris and Chomusuke stop dead and look my way.

Chomusuke then mews happily as she seemingly forgets about Chris as she comes running over to me.

"Kazuma, thank... Eris you're here. Be careful, that malicious demon has broken into the mansion. I'm certain it was sent by some sort of Devil in order to kill us; perhaps even the Devil King himself."

I smile at her before kneeling down and petting the awaiting, and very excited Chomusuke, getting her to purr very happily in response.

"Kazuma, what are you doing? Aren't you afraid that little demon will..."

I ignore Chris's obviously worried concern for me as I continue playing with Chomusuke.

"Yes, and what an adorable little demon you are too, aren't you Nia."

Chomusuke purrs again; sounding very happy with my presence.

Once I pulled my hand away; she quickly jumps onto my shoulder and begins to nuzzle my cheek.

I then look at a both shocked and confused Chris and say to her-

"So, you were saying?"

After a moment, Chris recovers from her shock and confusion before saying-

"Wait, is that... are you saying that... that thing there is a pet and part of our family?"

I chuckle at her actions before saying-

"I'm pretty sure I didn't say anything... well, not to you anyways. But yes, Nia here is a member of our family. Technically, she's Megumin's familiar and can be a bit interesting in her actions. Nia, this is Chris, she's also a member of the team so I would appreciate if you take it easy on here, alright?"

Chomusuke nods though I notice her still giving Chris a suspicious and wary look.

Chris, for her part, also seemed doubtful before finally walking forward and stand before us.

"So, her name is Nia then? Funny, I would have thought Megumin would have given her a... well, a name more to the personal taste you'd expect a Crimson Demon to come up with."

I chuckle at hearing Chris say that; and I'm sure Chomusuke did as well based on the sound she made.

"Well, actually... Megumin gave her the name Chomusuke. Seeing as I think that name is both stupid and sounding very unladylike, I decided to nickname her Nia which she seems to like a LOT more. Don't tell Megumin that, though. The last thing I want or need is to get an earful from her about that."

"Hm, makes sense. Personally, I like the name Nia more too. So... friends?"

Asked Chris nervously as she cautiously moves her hand closer to Chomusuke.

They both then look at me; asking if it would be OK and I return their shared looks with a smile and a nod.

Finally, Chris makes contact with Chomusuke and begins to rub and scratch her, getting a pleased mew in response.

Once this was done, Chris then gives me a look over before saying-

"Well Kazuma, trying out a new look. If so, I have to admit that I like it."

I did have a new look to me; understandable as my old Adventurer's attire had been blasted all the way to hell by Megumin's Explosion.

I was currently wearing a greyish tank top, black pants in an Arabian style-

[Think the kind of pants Aladdin wore in the Disney movie; except... well, black in color]

Grey/black boots that were both water proof and made practically zero noise even on a stone surface.

A black jacket with green lines running along it in a diamond like pattern-

And finally, a pure white cloak with golden lines etched into the material.

"Yeah, it was kind of necessary considering everything that has happened while you were away."

"Wanna give me the four-one-one then? I'm aware that you managed to clear your name from what Luna told me. However, I only just got back from being away and have yet to see the others."

I give her a nod before pulling the cloak off of me, then say-

"Sure thing; there's actually some things I want to talk to you all about too. And seeing as you're already here and all, I guess I should get your input first and foremost; if only to see if there's anything about what I want to talk about with them I should probably refrain from doing so for now."

Chris nods as I lead her over to the kitchen table and clear it off before looking back at Chris.

"By the way; here's a gift between us wayward drifters. A present brought to you courtesy of the fallen kingdom of Norse."

I then toss the white cloak I had been wearing over to her before reaching into my pouch and pulling out a map I had made while away.

She catches the cloak, looks it over, then looks back at me before saying-

"Um... thank you... for this hand-me-down then, I guess?"

Chomusuke gives her an annoyed hiss before turning back at me and giving me an awaiting look.

After I had finished rolling out the map, I reach again into my pouch and pull out an exotic fish carefully preserved in a case; pull it out and place it near the edge of the table on a plate.

"There you go, girl? Bob-appetite."

Chomusuke mews happily as she hops down from my shoulder and moves over to the fish, sniffs a for a second before breathing fire on it for a few second, then finally eating it.

From the look she gives me after experiencing the first bite; she was really enjoying it.

"Wait, that thi... Nia can breath fire?"

"So it would seem; though try to convince Megumin of that as she refuses to believe it. Anyways, back to what YOU said before; no that cloak isn't some hand-me-down. I was only wearing it before is order to see if it actually works or not."

Chris cocks her head; confused, making me elaborate for her-

"It was during a little visit to the ruins of the Norse Kingdom that I discovered a few interesting items I decided to bring back with me to give to you and the others..."

"Probably to bribe us into forgiving you for being away for two bloody weeks."

Comes the voice of Anna as she finally appears.

I laugh nervously as I avert my gaze and scratch my cheek in a way I had learned from Chris.

And action that Chris not only notices but makes her smirk just a little.

"No... I have no idea what you're talking about, Anna. Anyways, despite you being a ghost and all, I still managed to find you something neat too."

"REALLY?"

Said an excited Anna as I pull another object out and put it down on the small table next to the couch-

The item being a lava lamp that I had found while away.

Alright, it wasn't an item I had found but rather made with my own two hands but she doesn't need to know that.

I also had another one still in my pouch; one of the seven items I need to give to Vanir eventually.

I then turn it on; Anna's eyes going wide as she floats over to it and watches it intently.

"Wow, that's so amazing, Kazuma. Those weird looking bubbles are moving around and changing color too. This is just so cool looking."

Yep, that will keep her entertained for a good long while.

I look to see Chris was also rather enthralled by the lava lamp I had made.

Once I brought Chris's attention back onto me, she says-

"So, does this cloak you gave me have any special features to it or is it just a fancy looking gear?"

"I'm so glad you asked for you see, Chris; this cloak, when worn and with the hood up, has an enchantment that with muddle the thoughts of people who are looking at you. Say you go stealing an item but get caught and your face is seen, for example. This cloak will make it so anyone who sees you, and is looking for you, will not realize that you are you even when they are looking right at you."

Chris's eyes go wide before looking at the cloak with a new found respect; then putting it on after a few moments.

"Wow, that sounds amazing if it actually works."

"It should as it was made by the kingdom of Norse for stealth based missions it would send its thieves and rouges out on. Be warned though that if the hood falls off, then the enchantment that makes you look like just another face in the crowd to those hunting you will be broken and it may take some time before it's power can be used to fool them again."

Chris nods before pulling the hood up and giving me a coy smile.

"I'm going to have so much more fun with my thieving from now on. Thank you so much, Kazuma."

I give her a big smile and a thumbs up before saying-

"You're welcome. Now then, lets get down to business and talk about everything that happened while you were away?"

======================={ Part 2: Reunion with the Girls }========================

After going over everything that had happened since she had left; I informed Chris of what happened to me after I had left on my little vacation.

She surprised me with her reaction to hearing I had made it beyond the Cloud Maelstrom-

Even more than that; her reaction to hearing me talk about my time on Empyria, exploring, really caught me off guard.

It was like she already knew about that somehow and was both shocked and maybe even a little disturbed with knowing I had set foot on there.

"Chris; why are you having such a negative reaction to me being there? I would have thought you'd be excited about the idea that going there is now possible. That you would want to explore the place no human has ever been known to have either seen or set foot on before?"

Hearing me say that makes her take pause; her serious expression shifting into being one of nervousness.

She then fakes laughs and says-

"Yeah, you're right. I should be more excited to experience such an honor. Um... ah, it might be better not to tell anyone else about having been there, though. Especially don't tell Darkness. As devout as she is, knowing you trespassed onto Eris's personal garden could lead to big trouble for you, Kazuma."

You don't have to tell me that, Chris.

I had already determined, from hearing the creation story for this world, that letting anyone; especially those from the various religious sects, know that I had actually been there would be a bad idea.

I mean, those religious zealots types would have me burned at the stake probably while the less religious and more academic minded folks would want me to take them there for their scholarly curiosities.

"Don't worry, I'll keep mum on the whole deal. Once the others get back, I'll just tell them I spent the whole time away exploring the ruins of Norse. How does that sound?"

Chris gives me a happy nod; the begins to fidget, surprisingly, before asking me-

"So, just how much of Empyria did you explore anyways?"

I think back on the whole experience then say-

"Not all that much, I don't think anyways? There was the large area I had arrived at and another section after. Didn't have time to explore the rest, really. I did want to explore the center of the place but there was this weird wall of light that I couldn't get around. Hm, probably for the best as I'm sure there was something special just beyond it. Something no mere mortal such as myself should ever see."

"I see; good, that's good then. Nothing to worry about, I guess..."

Mumbled Chris, making me give her a curious look.

I wanted to ask her what was up with her but my gut told me I wouldn't get an answer if I did.

So I dropped it before walking over to the large area of the living room and began to empty the contents of my pouch onto the floor.

Once done, I returned all the items I didn't want to leak out back into the pouch, placed the items I was going to be giving the others off to the side, and then finally lined up the last items left out together.

Chris, finally emerging from her private musings, takes notice of my actions and joins me.

"So Kazuma, what are these nifty looking things here?"

"Remember how I told you about my little business venture with Wiz and her new partner? These seven items here are the newest additions to the one hundred overall I made as part of the deal we struck. Now that I'm back from my trip; I have no doubt Vanir has become aware of my return through just his powers so I expect him to come around at any time to collect them and give me my eris in return."

"Do the others know that we're now super rich yet?"

"I wouldn't exactly say 'super rich' but just regular rich for now. Anyways, the answer is no they don't. I didn't want to say anything to them until I had the eris in-hand. Just in case the deal fell through, ya know?"

"Good call, there. So, wanna tell me about these seven then?"

Chris then begins to look the items over as I explain the functions of each and every one of them.

There was the Kotatsu, a Magnifying Glass, a Lighter, a Laser Pointer, a Pocket Watch, a Flashlight, and the other Lava Lamp.

I have to remember to thank Eyeball with helping me make some of the more difficult ones the next time I was around Empyria as well as making a comprehensive set of blueprints for them.

"Oh yeah, these will definitely make life easier for everyone in the world. You know, I'm surprised no one has ever made these items before, ya know?"

I agree with Chris as she continue to admire the items.

She then stops suddenly before moving towards the front door; quickly exiting with me following.

Once we were outside, she hold her hand up as a weird looking bird comes down to land on her wrist-

A bird... made of paper?

Guess that's why it looked so weird, huh?

After hearing it make some weird noises, it reverts to being just a regular piece of paper which she quickly returns to her pouch before looking at me and saying-

"OK, my little eyes in the sky there just spotted the others exit Axel's eastern gate and will be back at any time. Hm, I have an idea on how we can surprise them, and test out my new cloak too."

"First things first, just what the heck was that? You can turn a piece of paper into a paper bird and have it watch out for things for you from the sky? That's awesome; please teach me that skill later, Chris."

Chris then becomes all sheepish as she scratches the scar on her cheek.

"Yeah, that might be a bit difficult for me to do. That skill isn't... exactly one that can be learned... under normal conditions. Anyways, we should get into position already. You head back inside and hide in the kitchen and I will remain out here and see if this cloak can really do what you say it does."

I wanted to push her more about that amazing skill she had used; get her to tell me what she meant by it not being a normal skill one could learn and all-

But I sight and relent for now though I tell her we'll be talking more about this later.

I then head back inside while she heads out past the gate and pulls her hood up, awaiting the arrival of the others.

(Darkness POV)

I wondered if Kazuma would be there, at the mansion, waiting for us tonight?

Probably not as it had been two weeks since he had left.

His note had said he'd be gone for just a few days and it had been much longer than that.

I was staring to get a little angry with him, if I'm being honest here.

Not for myself, of course, but for the others as his delayed return was clearly affecting them though they tried their best to not show it.

There was also the fear that maybe his failing to return wasn't his fault; that maybe something bad had happened to him.

If that was the case, then we may never know what became of him and that's what was really making me angry.

Damn it Kazuma, you better get back soon so I can chew your ass out-

Mm, that actually sounds fun as I wouldn't mind getting MY-

"Hey, there's someone up ahead; hanging out at the main gate."

Cielo's words bring me out of my growing perverted thoughts as I look and see a cloaked figure looking in our direction.

{Insert Image 1}

"Could it... do you think it could be Kazuma?"

Asked Yunyun hopefully.

Megumin's reply didn't have nearly as much hope in her voice as she says-

"If it was Kazuma, he would have started approaching us by now. Maybe its someone who knows where he is at least?"

We could all hope but I feared that hope would only leave us feeling burned afterwords.

Once we reach the figure, Megumin asked timidly yet hopefully-

"Kazuma, is that you?"

"Sorry, I'm not this 'Kazuma' person that you speak of."

Said the figure; obviously female from the sound of her voice.

The others slump their shoulders sadly while I stare towards the figures face through their hood, not seeing any familiar face awaiting within.

"Who are you then? Are you connected to Ego, Shy, and Passion by any chance?"

This mystery figure shakes her head again before saying-

"I'm sorry, but those names are not familiar to me. -pause- Darkness, are you saying you really don't recognize me under the hood?"

I give the hood figure a questioning look as I reply-

"Should I recognize you, miss?"

"I'll be damned, this cloak really does work. I should really come up with a proper thank you for him later. Anyways, it's me, you guys..."

The figure then pulls the hood off; revealing to us that it was Chris.

"Chris?"

Shouted all of us, save Yunyun who only looked between us and her with a confused look on her face.

"Yep, it's me. Sorry be being so late with getting back. Business was... hectic to say the least. Anyways, where's Kazuma and who's the new girl?"

Before I could speak, Megumin steps forward and opens the gate to pass through; all the while saying-

"Who cares about THAT guy anymore? He left us and has yet to come back despite saying he would so I say good riddance to him. Anyways, this is Yunyun. She joined up while you were gone and we can talk about the rest inside. It's cold out here."

Megumin then storms off towards the front door with Cielo and Yunyun following after her; asking her why the sudden change in attitude.

Her attitude just now caught me off guard too as until just now; she had always come off as being the most worried about him, wanting to get everyone's help in searching for him.

Guess seeing that it was Chris under the hood instead of Kazuma was the last straw for her.

I look at Chris who has a worried look on her face.

"Let's go inside and talk. A lot of things have happened since you were last here."

With that, the two of us joined the others inside; finding them staring at the new set of weird items now present inside the living room.

"Chris, what is all of this? Did you buy these curious looking things while you were out?"

Asked Cielo, getting a shrug in response.

"They aren't from me; I can say that much. I guess they must be that troublesome moocher we have to deal with."

We all look at her confused; but before we could ask her what she meant-

"HEY? Who are you calling a moocher you wandering vagabond? Last time I checked, this mansion was under MY name which makes you all freeloaders as I don't charge any of you rent."

Yelled Kazuma, making us all jump as she comes running out into view from the kitchen-

With Chomusuke resting atop his head happily.

I look back at Chris who gives me a wicked grin; one I return by saying-

"Me and you are going to have a little talk later. But for right now, I need to..."

"KAZUMA!"

Cried Yunyun as she rushes forward, throwing him into a tight hug; one that he was clearly taken aback by and really enjoying too based on the perverted look he now had.

Cielo walked over and placed her hand on the crying Yunyun's shoulder; a few tears falling down her own face as well as she smiled happily.

Megumin, on the other hand, didn't budge an inch though I could tell she wanted to.

Once Yunyun had let him go, both she and Cielo looked back and gave Megumin a confused look.

"Megumin? Aren't you gonna say something at least?"

They both asked her.

Her response was to bring her hands over her chest while looking away defiantly.

"Hm, not really. While I guess I'm... glad to see you're OK, Kazuma... just a little bit. I have to ask what you're plans are now. Not that I care... really..."

Kazuma chuckles which gets her to look at him with angry eyes.

"Wow, who would have thought my being gone for just a few days would have turned you into a tsundere, Megumin."

"A tsun-tsundere? How dare you, Kazuma. Calling me such a thing. And saying that you were gone for just a few days? Is two weeks really your idea of a few days? You better sit your butt down on that couch right now mister because we ALL have a few choice words for you, right guys?"

Megumin was stopped dead and left blank faced as she saw Yunyun and Cielo admiring Kazuma's new attire.

"Kazuma, when did you get those new clothes?"

"You're looking really cool Kazuma; like some kind of fairy tale hero from the old books we have back in the Crimson Demon village."

Megumin's response to them was the cry out in anger, making them jump in surprise as she mangles her own hair from aggravation.

Beside me, Chris chuckles and says quietly-

"Ah, good to be home again. I missed all the crazy."

After a sigh, and watching Megumin shake Yunyun and Cielo while yelling 'what's wrong with you two' at them, I step forward and say-

"Look, Kazuma, we're all glad you're back; safe and sound... though some of us are having a harder time being honest about it."

This earns me a dark glare from Megumin which I ignore as I continue-

"But the fact remains you were still gone longer than your words in the letter implied you'd be. You know we can't just simply forgive you for making us all worry like that. Like Megumin said, you better sit down so we can all have a turn giving you a piece of our minds."

Megumin the backs away from the others to stand beside me; now smiling smugly.

Kazuma sighs before saying-

"I had a feeling this was what awaited me upon my return. Guess I have this lecture coming. But, before we do all that, would it be OK if I gave you the souvenirs I got for you all while I was away first?"

All of us perk up, our attitudes and feelings quickly changing as we heard those words-

"Souvenirs?"

========================={ Part 3: Gifts for the Girls }==========================

(Kazuma POV)

Despite the cold, and some complaints about returning out into said cold; all of us were now standing on the training field Darkness had set up back behind the mansion.

I had explained to everyone that we would need to be outside in order to properly show off the souvenir's I had brought them as doing this inside could run the risk of damaging the mansion.

I decided to start off with giving Darkness her bribe-I mean gift.

An attachment for the wrist guards on her armor.

"What's does this thing do, Kazuma?"

"Just press the glowing crest on the underside of the attachment. You'll see..."

She turns her attention to her arm as she holds it out then uses her free hand to press the crest-

Making a shield of energy in the shape of a kite appear.

"Wow, that's amazing, Kazuma. It's some sort of magic shield. Where did you find this? How does it work?"

Taking a quick gaze over to the others; I could see their eyes had gone wide and looked amazed as well.

I look back to Darkness as I start to explain-

"After I left, using teleport magic, I-"

"Wait, when did you learn Teleportation, Kazuma? Even I haven't been able to learn that yet and its one of the spells I should be able to learn both easily and quickly."

Said Yunyun, a look of astonishment in her eyes.

"I learned it from seeing Wiz do it during the Div-Destroyer incident. Anyways, after I used a random teleport, as the only location I had registered at the time was just outside the mansion, I found myself arriving-"

I stop as I see Chris giving me a stern, warning like look; telling me I better not goof up and say 'that' place to them, which makes me gulp.

"I arrived in the ruins of the lost kingdom of Norse where I..."

"Norse, THE lost kingdom of Norse? Kazuma, that's amazing. What did it look like, where is it?"

Cried Darkness; forgetting about her other interest.

"Can you all please not interrupt me here? If this keeps going, we'll have to stay out here even longer than needed. OK?"

They all look at me sheepishly as I finally continue-

"OK, that damn shield making thing there draws in worldly mana to help form the shield. You can adjust the style of shield it will appear as by adjusting the metal wheel surrounding the projection gem. If you send some of your own mana into it; it can make the shield grow bigger and even turn it into a dome of energy for a short period of time."

Darkness nods as she does as I said and adjust the ring; making the shield turn into a round shield, a square shield and other such forms.

She then adds her own mana into it, making the shield grow bigger till it becomes a dome big enough to protect both her and several others... if they don't mind things being a little cramped that is.

"Thank you for this, Kazuma. I'll be sure to put it to good use."

I nod before turning to Cielo and handing her a pair of fancy battle gloves.

"Those there are called Blast Fist, if my reading of the name was accurate. When worn, not only will that add a extra 'kick' to your punches but even if you miss landing a hit on a target, so long as your action was only off by an inch or so and if you were sending mana into the gems on the knuckle, you'll still make a hit by way of something called 'wave pressure'. What ever that means?"

Cielo nods as she slides them on and study's them for a moment.

"That fit like a glove; no pun intended. How did you know they would fit me?"

"They're one size fits all, much like how some Adventurer's gear can adjust its size based on the needs of the user. So, how do they feel?"

Cielo begins throwing a few punches into the empty air; smiling before suddenly sending a punch my way that came so fast I had no time to dodge.

Not that I needed to as she avoided hitting me by just a mere inch... oh no?

Just as I feared, I felt myself being slammed in my face by an invisible force that sent me spinning through the air and landing hard on the ground a few feet back from where I had been standing.

"Yep, they feel amazing alright... oh right, Kazuma. Sorry about that; I should have asked if you'd be be OK if I did that first, do you need any healing?"

I look at her and try to give her glare which was made hard as everything was spinning in my view.

"Yes... you really should have... and some healing would be nice... urk..."

A few moments later, and once I was back on my feet, Darkness asked Cielo to strike her shield with a punch in order to test out the 'kick' I had mentioned.

As Cielo goes to throw her punch, I recalled something important.

"Actually, you might not want to do..."

My words are cut off by a double blast as both girls are sent flying backwards; Darkness into the wall that wrapped around the mansion's ground and Cielo back into me, making me fall back onto the ground and her falling on top of me.

As Darkness picks herself up, she ask-

"Kazuma, what just happened?"

"Yeah, I forgot to tell you before. Any opponent that strikes you shield can be blasted back by a form of kinetic rebound effect. I think its effectiveness is based on the users defense stat. Never seen it do a backlash that strongly in my trial of the item. And Cielo's gloves have more or less the same function to them; using her attack power stat to determine the explosive force her hits can create upon impact."

"Wow, that's all re-ally ama-zing?"

Darkness's slowed speech confused me, as did the looks I was getting from the others which left me confused.

I then realize that Cielo was still on top of me and wonder why when a terrifying realization hits me-

My hands, in an attempt to catch her and help brace her from suffering any injury-

Had unintentionally latch onto her chest; my realization of which makes me subconsciously grope her a little bit.

Why me?

Cielo, who had been in a locked state of being from both being touched by me in this way, as well as literally being on top of me; finally reacts to my unintended groping as she screams at the top of her lungs, jumps off of me-

And then sends a fist slamming downwards; creating a loud blast sound.

After barely managing to survive that little incident, and after some cooling down back inside, we continue this little gift giving session.

"OK, hopefully there will be no more... excitement like we had before. Next, for you Yunyun..."

I then pull out a small box; making sure it was the right one, then opening it to reveal a ring inside.

Everyone's eyes go wide as I offer the ring to Yunyun who's whole face had turned a bright shade of pink.

"K-K-Kazuma, t-t-that's a... a-a-are you asking me t-t-to m-m-marry..."

As Yunyun stutters, Megumin steps forward and pushes a finger to my nose, saying-

"Satou Kazuma, just what are you pulling here? Are you really asking Yunyun to... I can't allow that. There's no way I could just stand back and let me fri-rival get herself involved with such a shady guy like you. Well, you better start explaining yourself."

Meanwhile, the others were standing there awestruck and unable to form any words in response.

I realize, finally, in that moment I should have done this part much differently.

Well, to late to start over now, right?

"No, you easily angered legal dwarf, this isn't what you think it is. And before I explain what it is, please take note everyone that Megumin here almost let it slip that she does think of Yunyun as a friend. You all heard it, don't deny."

That makes Megumin sputter as Yunyun quickly looks to her and asking it what I had said was really true.

After another back and forth moment, and everyone calming down, I finally continued.

"Anyways, Yunyun, this ring will amplify the power of your spells. Take Light of Saber, for example. With the boosting power this ring can grant you, you may just be able to equal the power of... an Explosion spell."

I say that intentionally; knowing that it would really piss Megumin off... which, sure enough, it did judging from the glare she was sending my way.

To be honest, I knew I MIGHT be pushing my luck with her here at this time but I really wanted to see just how tsundere I could make her become-

If only to test a theory I had about how quickly and easily it could be to earn her forgiveness right after.

Yunyun accepts the reward happily and slide it onto the ring finger of her right hand, then holds it up to let the light filtering in from outside reflect upon the sapphire gem bound to it.

"It's so lovely. Thank you for this, Kazuma. I'll always treasure it."

I nod before finally turning my attention to Megumin and say-

"And now last, but not least..."

"Don't bother yourself with me, Kazuma. I don't care what it is you brought back for me. I don't want it."

Hearing Megumin say that makes everyone else go stiff; shocked by her words.

"Megumin, that's enough. I know you're angry with Kazuma for being gone for two weeks and all, but don't you think you're going to far here?"

Asked Cielo.

Wait, two weeks?

Was I really gone for THAT long?

Thinking back, I did here them say that before but those words didn't register with me till just now.

Heh, no wonder my favorite little loli with a explosion obsession is so mad with me.

"I agree with Cielo. Megumin, you really should just stop acting like a child right now."

Adds Darkness.

Chris doesn't say anything; content to just sit back and watch to see how this all will play out.

Yunyun also goes to say something but Megumin cuts her off, finally ready to speak her piece.

"What's wrong with me? What's wrong with... what's wrong with all of you? Aren't we all suppose to be mad at him, giving his a lecture about being away as long as he was and telling him how worried he made us all? Are we doing that, no we aren't. Instead, here we are receiving gifts from him; gifts meant to bribe us into forgiving him before we can even scold him for his actions."

But I'm not... well, OK; I guess I am bribing you all into forgiving me.

But that wasn't my plan or anything; that's simply how the ball chose to roll here.

Megumin then crosses her hands over her chest again, then says-

"If you damn idiots want to be swayed so easily by this shameful, hopeless, perverted man, then be my guest. But I won't be bought so easily here. I'm going up to my room. Call me when dinners ready or something."

Megumin then begins to walk off while the others look at me; their looks asking me what should they do here to stop her?

I smile a devious smile in return before looking back at Megumin and saying-

"So, you really don't want this gift I got for you then, even after seeing what it was I brought back for the others? All right then, but at least tell me what I should do with it now?"

Megumin stops as she reaches the stairs and, without even looking at me, responds with-

"Keep it yourself, sell it, give it to someone else, throw it in the trash; I don't care. All I know is that I don't want it."

She then begins to walk upstairs and I wait till she was out of sight before before I give the others a wink while saying loud enough that she would hear-

"Very well then, I guess I'll just throw away this magic ring that can make it possible for one to cast Explosion magic MULTIPLE times per day away..."

Faster than a bolt of lightning could flash across the sky; I found Megumin back downstairs-

Standing before me; standing as high up on her tip-toes as she could manage and her face so close to my own that our noses were practically touching.

"Mu-Multiple Explosions... per day?"

I give her an affirming nod as the others try to repress laughing at her and her 'oh so predictable' nature.

I then pull out a second box and open it to reveal another ring, this one with a green gem upon it, and show it to Megumin who eyes sparkled and mouth drooling as she looked at it.

"That's right; MULTIPLE Explosions. From what I read, this ring will significantly cut down the amount of mana one expends when casting a spell. In the case of an Explosion maiden, like yourself, it can easily offer up the ability to unleash two Explosions a day... maybe even three Explosions."

Megumin began to shake as her hands began to reach nervously for the ring.

"And, if that's not all, little Megumin, it gets even better. This ring, as well as yours too Yunyun, also have an accelerated mana restoration enchantment placed upon them. If used correctly, one could even, dare I say, unleash up to six Explosions in one day...MAYBE EVEN MORE THAN SIX!"

Megumin's shaking was getting worse and worse as I had spoken; her hunger for this ring reaching maximum potency.

And now, for the finisher.

"It's oh so to bad that there isn't a master of Explosion around who would put this powerful item to its proper use. Yes, really, such a shame. I guess I'll just have to throw it into the trash..."

Megumin quickly grabs the box from me, taking the ring out and sliding it onto her ring finger quickly.

She then looks at me for a second before throwing me into a tight hug; practically screaming out-

"Kazuma, Kazuma (Yes, I'm Kazuma), you're back, You really came back after all. I was so-I mean we were all so worried about you. Please don't go leaving us like that again, Kazuma..."

Megumin then cries into my chest as the others face plant into the ground because of her sudden turn-around.

Well, everyone except for Chris who gives me a smirk and says-

"I guess Megumin really is a simple, easy to please girl, huh Kazuma?"

I turn back to Megumin as I rub her head with one hand.

Oh yeah, she was at that-

So long as you use Explosions in the equation that is.

========================={Part 4: Of Wealth and Plans }========================

{Insert Image 2}

After a bit, Megumin finally let me go as she then took to admiring her new accessory with pride.

After another moment had passed, she then looks at me excitedly with her eyes glowing-

"Kazuma, Kazuma (I'm still Kazuma), can we please go outside so I can do my Explosion ritual now. Please, please, please, I want to test this new baby out as soon as possible; right now in fact."

Megumin then began to hop up and down excitedly; like a little kid juiced up on pixie sticks.

"Megumin, he can't take you out now. Look outside, the sun's already starting to go down."

Said Cielo, getting Megumin to stop and look at her as Yunyun adds-

"And besides, you already used your Explosion earlier, remember? I doubt that ring will make it possible for you to cast multiple Explosions right this moment. Better to wait till tomorrow in order to enjoy if fully."

Megumin lowers her head as she begins to pout-

"But-but, I really want to..."

She stops as Darkness places a hand on her shoulder, then says as Megumin looks at her-

"Megumin, I understand the desire to want to go try out our new toys here. Trust me, you are not the only one who wants to go have some fun. But its already starting to get late as it is and I'm sure we're all tired here so lets wait till tomorrow. We'll be able to have plenty of fun then."

"I-I guess so. I'll try to be patient even though I've never been the patient type."

"Something I know from personal experience."

Joked Yunyun, surprisingly; having herself a little giggle as Megumin glares at her.

Chris then makes a little cough; getting our attention onto her as she says-

"So, what are the plans for tomorrow, then? I have about two weeks of free time available to me so I can join in the fun with everyone for once."

The girls begin to start talking about doing some harder ranked Quest; something I wasn't at all a fan of doing, mainly because my level was still utter crap when compared to there's.

But there was also another reason too and I believe now was the time to bring it up.

"Actually, guys. This may come as a shock to you all, but I have a Quest already lined up for us."

They all stop their chattering and quickly look at me; curiosity present in their eyes.

"What kind of Quest, Kazuma?"

Before I could reply, we hear the front door being opened (had anyone bothered to lock it earlier?) and then, before we could even react, a familiar looking devil came waltzing into the living room.

"Hey, who are you and what are you doing just walking into someone's home without even being invited?"

Yelled Megumin.

"Fwahahaha; what's wrong, foolish girls who can be bought off so easily by material gains, can't you tell who it is that stands before you? Surely you haven't forgotten Moi yet, have you?"

I go to respond to Vanir's words, to start explaining everything to the girls, but Darkness cuts in first-

"Wait, that mask on you forehead... you're Vanir, General of the Devil King's army."

Hearing that makes everyone but me go onto high alert; taking up battle poses.

"Looks like we'll get to test out our new toys in the sooner, after all."

Said Cielo as she punches her fist together.

"Don't worry, I'll make sure to kill him for good this time with a multi- Explosion bombardment."

Said an excited Megumin as her staff in hand (just where was she keeping it tucked away anyways?)-

"Megumin... everyone, we should try to take this fight outside first; in order to spare the mansion."

Cried Yunyun; her head turning from left to right as she seemed to be suffering a panic attack.

Chris pulls out her magic dagger and says coldly-

"Your move, DEVIL (how does she know he's a devil; did the others tell her without my knowing?)."

Darkness activates her new magic shield-

And Anna... Anna continued to watch the movements within the lava lamb; completely unaware of anything else going on.

I sigh as I step forward; getting in between Vanir and girls.

"Hold it, everyone. Just wait a few moments here. Vanir isn't an enemy nor is he here for any sort of petty revenge scheme."

"Indeed; thou all should heed the words of this boy here, this boy who secretly wonders and hopes that at least one of you will pay him a little visit later on tonight, a special 'night raid' as a thank you for his special gifts."

Hearing Vanir's words make me freeze as the girls go from looking at me in confusion over my actions to having looks of disgust and annoyance-

Well, everyone except Yunyun who simply became all flustered and embarrassed.

I quickly turn to look at Vanir as I shout out-

"What the hell are you talking about? I haven't had any sort of thoughts about any of them performing a 'night raid' thank you... but I really should have. Damn it, what's wrong with me? Why didn't such a thing cross my mind before? Damn it all; my inner perverts all out of whack or something."

After a few moments, Chris finally decides that enough is enough as she says, sounding impatient-

"Kazuma, can you please put your 'what's wrong with me' rant off to the side for now and tell us just what this THING is doing here and why are you standing between him and us for?"

"He must have been bewitched by Vanir before. When me and Cielo went down into the crypt to check on Kazuma, we found him wearing Vanir's mask, being controlled by him. He must have done something to Kazuma during that time. Why else would Kazuma be defending him now? Cielo, use your purification spells on Kazuma. We need to save him quickly."

"On it."

"How are you even still alive? We all saw your mask shattered in the crater next to Kazuma's body."

"Fwahahahaha; you really want to know I survived; explosion loving Crimson Demon girl who can't be honest about her truest feelings; please look closely at my mask and tell me what you see."

I sigh, knowing that if I didn't chime back in soon, things would not only get pretty dicey up in here, but also be a massive waste of time here too.

"His first mask was destroyed but he had another awaiting, hidden back down inside the crypt to take control of after losing the first mask. Anyways, stand down everyone. He isn't our enemy anymore. Quite the opposite; he's become something of an ally to use as well as a business partner."

They all give me confused looks for a moment before Chris says all coolly and direct-

"Would you mind explaining what you meant by all of that, Kazuma?"

After that, we all went over to the dinner table and sat down as I began to explain everything to them.

Vanir, meanwhile, began to look over the items I had laid out for the partnership.

"So, he was sent here in order to help you clear your name of the false charges... by the Devil King himself? Do you really believe that, Kazuma?"

Asked Darkness.

I shrug before saying-

"Who knows what is and isn't true with that guy. All I know is that his actions that night did have the desired effect with getting me freed of suspicion and that's enough for me."

"Then I guess we all owe him our thanks then...OW."

Megumin slaps the back of Yunyun's head at hearing her words before looking at me and saying.

"Kazuma, I still don't know about this. Sure, he did help us all out by helping you. But him being freed from the Devil King's service as a result; and setting up business with Wiz here in town on top of that? Something feels fishy to me here. How do we know he isn't some kind of spy or something."

I shrug again before saying-

"Maybe Vanir is a spy; maybe he is still our enemy here? Who can say, really. But Wiz is, or was, also a General of the Devil King and..."

"WHAT?"

They all shout, making me recall that I was the only one who had actually known that within our group.

"Kazuma, what are you... how and when did you find that out?"

Asked Darkness; and so I explained it all to them.

This made them all, even Yunyun, become very annoyed with me.

So much for that 'night raid' hope now, huh?

"Look you guys; the point from me to you is this. I was in a bad way before and Wiz helped me when she didn't have to. I was in a bad way before and Vanir helped me when he didn't have to. Seeing as they both helped me out; I'm willing to give them a second chance here. I just hope you will agree with me and follow suit too. Maybe they can't be trusted in the long run but they at least deserve a chance."

Hearing my words; the others slowly began to come around, agreeing with me that they had earned that from them.

Everyone except Chris that is as she mumbles to us-

"I still don't like this, nor do I think I can accept it either..."

With that, she got up and went into the kitchen; hopefully it was just because she didn't want to be in the same room as Vanir.

"Hey... Chris..."

Called out Darkness but she didn't respond.

"I guess all we can do is give her some time to think things through here."

Said Cielo.

Megumin then looks back at me and ask-

"So Kazuma, this business deal you and Vanir and Wiz have struck up. Exactly how much are you getting out of the deal, if you don't mind me asking?"

The others also look at me, waiting my response.

I rub my chin as I work on recalling the sum.

"Moi and the boy came to an agreement of three hundred million eris."

Said Vanir loudly to us; making me recall the amount.

"THREE HUNDRED MILLION?"

They all shouted out, sounding both shocked and amazed.

I then began to see Megumin sway back and forth from hearing that which forces Yunyun to grab onto her before she could fall out of her chair.

Darkness and Cielo cheered, saying that we'd never have to worry about anything ever again.

"Hey, you two. Don't go raising any flags here now. If we want to keep that three hundred million eris on top of the other hundred plus million that was left over from paying that debt; then we all need to make sure we don't go doing anything that will throw us into debt again, got it?"

They all recover and quickly give me a salute as they say in unison-

"You can count on us, boss."

Yeah, I'm sure I could count on you all; count on you to destroy that amount within a month's time.

Pushing that thought from my mind; I look back at Vanir and ask him-

"On the subject of the eris, have you been able to get it all together yet? And are those seven items I have there for you to your liking or not?"

Vanir puts the lava lamp, which he seemed to be the most curious about down before pulling out a bag that looked similar to the pouches we Adventurer's used and, after making a little chant, made all the items get sucked into the bag.

"Oh, they are indeed. As for the subject of the eris? Moi was able to procure it several days ago and have already had it transferred into your personal account at the bank."

He then steps up to me and hands me a paper.

"This is a writ of transfer of the funds from me to you, proof of the transaction though Moi believes though shall still pay the bank a visit here soon just to be certain."

I nod before handing him the blueprints to the seven items, which includes descriptions on what they do and how they work.

Once he had received them, Vanir gives us a gracious bow before saying-

"Now, if though shall excuse Moi, it is time for me to be getting back as Moi fears leaving that useless shop keep alone for to long as hell knows what she will do while Moi is away."

I smirk as I say-

"Probably go buying another useless set of items from her equally useless supplier from the Crimson Demon Village."

I take a quick glance at Megumin; seeing her tense up at hearing my words but she didn't verbally reply so I guess she agreed with me to some extent there.

Vanir sighs, saying-

"Indeed; well, Moi shall be going now. The new products should be available in store within the next month or so. Do be sure to come around and browse the isles once they're available."

And with that, he turned and left us to our previous discussion.

Speaking of-

"OK, back to business. Now, as I said before, I already have us lined up a special quest to undertake."

"OK then, let's here it."

Said Darkness though Megumin cuts in suddenly and adds-

"I am surprised, though. Hearing Kazuma say he want us to go do a quest and all. After hearing we have such much eris to our names now; I would have imagined he would want to be as lazy and pathetic as he possibly can be."

Cielo nods, agreeing with her assessment while Yunyun tries, rather poorly I might add, to defend me.

I sigh as I explain my thoughts to them.

"You're right. If this was a normal quest, I would be against it. But this one isn't a normal quest and as such, the reward isn't a monetary one awaiting us at the end."

"Then what is the reward, Kazuma?"

Asked Cielo.

I then once again, pull out the map and roll it out over the table before pointing to a particularly mountainous region to the north of Axel.

"This spot here; located within the Krakta Valley, is an old abandoned hideaway I learned the existence of while exploring the ruins of Norse."

Actually, it was Eyeball who clued me onto this places location and its contents.

"Located at the center of this hideaway; is a powerful tool used by the man who created the Div-Destroyer and other powerful weapons and items for the Norse kingdom. I figured that if WE could find it, and assuming it still works, then imagine what things we could create with it."

"Like a magic item that could grant me unlimited mana."

Said Megumin.

"Or a potion that could cure me of my Androphobia immediately."

"Or one that could help give me even greater confidence."

Said Cielo and Yunyun.

"Or maybe even a mechanized beast that could satisfy ALL my lustful desires without ever needing to stop and recover."

Moaned Darkness as she began to hug herself tightly while the rest of us give her a deadpan look.

"Anyways; I was thinking we could catch a carriage, travel to the nearest town, then hoof it over to this valley and see if we can recover the item. Question is though, what would be the nearest settlement?"

Cielo then takes a closer look at the map; tracing a finger around till she stops and says-

"Seems the closest settlement is Arcanretia; the center of the Axis faith on the continent."

"Arcanretia?"

Said Megumin as she quickly pulls out a little booklet from her pouch and begins to skim through it.

"Um, I really don't think we should go there. I was there not to long ago and... well, it's not all that..."

Yunyun's words of warning are stopped by Megumin as she excitedly says-

"No, we really must go to Arcanretia. We can stay at the inn, take in the sights, partake in the local delicacies..."

I look at Yunyun, seeing her become increasingly worried, which makes me start to worry too.

"Megumin , I really don't know. I think we should just focus on the primary task here and..."

"And enjoy the mixed hot springs they have in the city."

Added Megumin at the end; a smirk forming on her face which makes me stand up.

"Everyone, we'll also be staying a few days at Arcanretia too. Let's get to packing."

Only Megumin joined me in my cheer-

The rest could only look on with shock, disbelief, and no small amount of worry.

==========================={ Part 5: Just Business }===========================

(Chris POV)

After leaving the others and retreating to the kitchen, I quietly stepped outside.

I then made my way around to the front of the mansion and waited.

Soon enough, I saw that DEVIL come walking out the front door, leaving the grounds.

I decided to tail him; watching his every move and step.

He had done something to Kazuma, I was sure of it.

And I would follow him, observe him, all in order to save my friend from having his soul damned by this... this...

He stops suddenly, looking back in my direction.

I was confident that he couldn't see me; my skills with remaining undetected were unmatched after all.

"And yet, Moi knows you are there all the same."

Said Vanir joyfully; his growing grin filled me with disgust.

Seeing as there was no reason to stay hidden no more, I revealed myself and approached him cautiously.

"Now that you have stopped hiding; chivalrous thief with a DIVINE secret, won't you tell Moi what it is that makes you follow me?"

I wave my hand in the air angrily as I coldly say to him-

"Cut the crap, devil. I know who you are, what you can do. I know that as I am right now, I can't stop you from looking into my mind. I want to know what you did to my friend back there to make him trust you like he does. Be warned that if I find you have violated the laws between Heaven and Hell, I won't hesitate to wipe you from existence right here and now."

Vanir then laughs; an action that really pisses me off and makes me want to go ahead and end him on the spot.

But I hold back; knowing that in doing so, I would be violating those very laws myself.

"Moi believes you have already heard the answer before, did thou not? Regardless if thee wants to believe it or not is not Moi's concern, but the truth is the truth and that's that."

His words make me grit my teeth and clench my fist.

I wanted so badly to... no, I can't think like that right now.

I take in a deep breath to cool myself down before I continue.

"I don't suppose you have the contract Kazuma signed for this little deal you have going on available by any chance? I would like to look it over."

"But of course, Moi can easily provide that for you."

Vanir then reaches into his fancy top and pulls out the paperwork then hands it to me.

I then spend the next few minutes reading it over VERY carefully before letting out a sigh and handing the papers back to Vanir.

"So, Moi trust that there will be no issues then?"

As much as I hate to say this-

"No, I suppose not. But know this, DEVIL. I WILL be keeping an eye on you, and on Wiz now too. For the safety on my friend, for his very soul, I will be keeping watch and if you, either of you, do anything that could harm him, then I don't need to tell you of the wrath that I'll rain down from Heaven upon your heads."

If Vanir was human, my words would have left him a shivering, cowering mess of a creature.

Instead, he just laughs again which only makes me feel more angry.

He then leans in close, way to close to my liking, and says to me-

{Insert Image 3}

"Seeing as thou holds such secret affections for that boy, please allow this devil of foresight to tell you of an important truth."

"In the coming days, you all will be going off on a special quest together; one that will bring both joy and pain and many an embarrassing moments for you all. But Moi must caution you, and the other girls as well, to always keep the boy close to your sides as Moi can see a great misfortune befalling him from one encounter leading into another and another; the foundation of which could bring greater suffering upon you all."

Hearing that makes me turn away for a second; my thoughts mulling over his words.

I then look back at him to ask-

"What do you mean by that? Ex...plain...?"

He was nowhere in sight; having slipped away in my moment of being distracted.

I stand there for a moment before screaming out-

"God damn you, devil."

I probably should know better than to take fathers name in vain like that, but what can one do?

After a bit of huffing and puffing and cursing up a storm, I remember that its cold outside and, as such, I needed to get back inside before I freeze to death or worse, catch the common cold.

Once I got back to the mansion; I spot Kazuma and Megumin seemingly celebrating something while the others give them looks of doubt, worry, and fear.

Damn it, I turn my attention away for one seconds and these idiots go deciding something without me.

Oh well; they may all be idiots but they're MY idiots and I can't help but love them all the same.

===================={ Part 6: A Silly Name for This Cool Sword }===================

(Kazuma POV)

I finished getting dressed as the following morning dawned; the early morning rays of sunlight peeking through the curtain of my window.

I then make one final check in order to make sure I had grabbed everything I would want or need going into this little road trip we were going on.

From what pretty much everyone had told me; if we were able to catch the morning carriage hat left within a few hours, we would reach Arcanretia by around the same time tomorrow.

Allow ourselves one day of rest to recover from the carriage lag we would all likely suffer once at Arcanretia; to enjoy the hot springs and general sightseeing-

We would then set out on day three of the trip, reaching the Krakta Valley by late afternoon, assuming we weren't delayed in any way along the road.

We could then decide if we should brave taking a look around upon arrive or set up camp just outside and wait till day four?

If we're lucky here, we should hopefully be in and out quickly and be back at Arcanretia before the end of the fourth day, be back on our way home on day five, and finally be walking inside the mansion on day six.

In other words, just a tad bit under a week overall for us to be away.

And after that, we will hopefully take a much needed break from doing anything to serious.

Yeah, like hell is that going to happen, right?

Anyways; seeing that I had everything I needed, I leave my room and head down stairs, finding Chris was already awake, sitting on the couch as she ate some breakfast.

To be honest, that looked so desirable for me to do too but I had a pit stop I wanted to go get over and done with before we leave in a few hours.

Perhaps sensing my presence, Chris turns back and looks at me curiously, asking-

"Dressed already? We still have about three or so hours before we need to be at the carriage depot."

"Actually, we have around two hours. We never bothered to reserve any seats yesterday, remember?"

I said this as I pulled out my own make shift personal pocket watch and looked at the time.

Chris, recalling I had made everyone their own little pocket watch too, pulls hers out and looks at the time before saying-

"OK then, around two hours. Still, why are you up so early for? Did you not follow your own advice and not pack last night?"

I shake my head as I touch my pouch and say-

"All packed and ready to go. But I need to stop off at the gear shop before we leave. A few weeks ago, the day before Sena cleared me of those charges to be exact, I made a custom order request for a new sword. It should have been ready by the start of last week but, as you know, I lost track of time which led to me being a little late coming home. I was planning on running over to Axel to grab it last night but then other things came up that distracted me."

Chris gives me a nod before taking another bite out of her breakfast.

"By the way, have the others gotten up yet?"

I asked her; getting a no from her.

"No one else has come down stairs apart from us. Should I go wake them up after I finish eating?"

It was my turn to shake my head in reply.

"Give them another hour before doing that. Once I'm done getting my custom order, and maybe stopping by a potion shop to buy a few extra healing items, I'll come meet you guys at the depot."

"Cool beans; see you there, Kazuma."

She said as she nodded before turning away; returning to enjoying her meal by the fire.

I then head to the front door and get my boots on; then proceed to head out when I hear a mew sound.

Looking back, I see Chomusuke looking up at me expectantly.

"Hm, you wanna go ahead and come with me, Nia?"

Chomusuke responds by hopping up onto my shoulder, nuzzles my cheek, then jumps atop my head where she curls up and proceeds to fall asleep, or so I guessed anyways.

"Hey Chris, let Megumin know I have Nia with me, alright?"

"Sure, sure..."

She responds as I continued on my way.

We had decided, since we'd be gone for a full week, that we would be bringing Chomusuke with us seeing as it might be hard for Anna to take care of her while we were gone.

Also, I have come to notice she really likes spending more and more time with me here as of late.

Perhaps even more so than she does Megumin.

Does that make her my familiar now?

I better not tell Megumin that, she'd strangle me for sure.

Once we had reached Axel, I look at the time on my pocket watch again and see that I still had twenty minutes before the gear shop would even be opened, so I decide to take a quick side trip over to the guild in order to let Luna know we would be gone for the next week.

You know, just in case anyone comes around looking for us.

Soon thereafter, me and Chomusuke were standing outside the now open weapon shop when-

"Aha, there you are you cat-napper."

I turn to see a huffing and puffing Megumin standing before me; her face beat red, most likely because she was out of breath, likely do to her running all the way here.

"You know, legal dwarf, you really shouldn't be running in the winter, let alone getting yourself into such a state as what I'm seeing you in. That's a good way to get yourself really sick."

She 'hmph's' at me while crossing her hands over her still panting chest.

It was kinda cute in a way.

And kinda hot too... wait, did I really just think that?

Must be this damn cold weather?

"Stop calling me a legal dwarf, Kazuma. I hate that nickname. Please go back to calling me Dynamite as my nickname. It sounds so much cooler and more dangerous too."

"Yeah, yeah, as you wish... Dynamite Dwarf."

For that one, she swats me with her staff; Chomusuke waking and jumping over to her just in time to avoid taking the hit as well.

It was worth it; just to see her the look she gave me.

"Anyways, why are you here, Kazuma? Chris didn't elaborate about it."

"Hm? Oh, I was just wanting to pick up a custom order I requested a few weeks back. One that I'm a little late in getting picked up. As I was going to leave, Nia (What did you call her?)... I mean Chomusuke showed up before me and seemed to want to come along so I figured no harm no fowl."

Megumin sighs before reaching up and rub Chomusuke's ears, saying as she does this-

"You should really not let yourself get so attached to this guy, Chomusuke. Take it from me, he's been nothing but trouble since the day I met him."

I go to respond to her rudeness but I stop as I hear her softly add-

"But I guess I can't blame you. Despite being what he is, I can't help myself but say that I wouldn't have him any other way."

Her absent minded smile she gave to Chomusuke was rather nice looking.

I wonder though; did she forget that I was here, within earshot of her, when she said that.

I then clear my throat, getting her attention back onto me, as I say-

"Well, seeing as you're here and all, what do you say we go inside and get my new blade?"

She nods happily as we proceed inside.

"Welcome customer; how can I... Kazuma, is that actually you? I heard you were dead."

Wait, really?

Who's been spreading those rumors about me this time?

On impulse, I turn to look at Megumin who, taking notice of my eyes on her, simply shakes her head.

At least it wasn't her; I hope anyways.

I then turn back to the blacksmith slash clerk and say-

"Sorry to disappoint you but the rumors of my untimely demise have been greatly exaggerated. Anyways, is my custom order ready yet?"

"Custom or-oh right, that interesting little number. Hold on a second, I'll be right back."

He then proceeds into the back room and, after a moment, returns with a black sheath with green lines running along it in hand.

Sticking out of the sheath was the black and red colored hilt of the sword; the guard being the Japanese kanji for katana.

Sticking out of the hilts far end was a foot long chain, magically enchanted to be able to extend outwards like rubber which had cost a far bit extra to have done, and ending with a little bracelet I could put on to keep the blade connected to me.

I could already tell that it was going to be amazing to look at as I take it from him.

"I'll be honest here kid, I'm still not quite sure I fully understood that hold folding technique you spoke of but overall, I think the end result turned out pretty great. I can at least say I've never made a blade like this nor have I ever seen one like it either."

"I have no doubt, man. Now, lets see how this guy looks unsheathed."

I then pull the weapon free from its sheath; revealing a blade that had the slightest of curves to it-

A real katana with a black and red colored blade; the dull side being black and the sharp side being red.

Yep, exactly as I had hoped it would look.

I look over at Megumin, seeing both her and Chomusuke looking at my blade with wide eyed awe.

"Kazuma, I've never seen a blade like that before. It looks so cool. Does it have a name yet?"

A name huh?

That's right, I have yet to decide on a name yet.

I'll think about that as we head over to join the others.

"Speaking of which; here you go. That's a special naming tag we give out to anyone who has a custom order made by us here. Just right the name you want your blade to be known by on here and slap it onto the handle or the blade itself and the name will then be magically etched in, never to be removed."

"Gotcha."

I take the paper from him and stuff it in my pocket.

"Kazuma, Kazuma (forever and always, Kazuma), why did you have a chain and bracelet attached to it?"

Asked Megumin.

I look around, seeing that there should be enough space to show off for her; even spotting a target board hanging on the wall.

Seeing me looking around, the shop keep says-

"As long as you don't damage the merchandise, feel free to have at it, kid."

I nod before telling Megumin to stand back; beside the entrance that is.

"OK, the first reason is to make sure I don't get separated or lose this bad boy here. And the second..."

I then begin to, carefully, spin the blade around beside me rapidly; the special metal used that gave the blade its special coloring making a surprising humming sound I didn't ask for but was pleased with.

And then I send it racing forward; the chain magically extending like I had hoped it would, in the way it did, landing smack center upon the target board.

Both Megumin and she shop keep stood there stunned before giving me praise and cheers.

"Now I see what your real purpose with that request was kid. That's damn impressive."

"Amazing, Kazuma. That was so totally cool. Just wait till the others see that. Everyone's going to be so amazed."

I allow myself to smile a big, cocky smile before I give the chain a hard yank; to make the blade dislodge itself and return to me, which it indeed did-

But not in the way I had wanted as, in its return, it managed to hit some other weapons along the way-

And the end result was all the weapons ended up on the floor after an insane round of dominoes.

Thank Eris none of them broke or were damaged though; just a little scuffing was all.

Both Megumin and the shop keep go from being impressed to giving me a deadpan look as I sheepishly scratch the back of my head.

"Heh, I guess I'll need to work on that part, huh?"

After taking a few minutes to get all the fallen weapons put back in their proper place; without help from anyone mind you, me and Megumin headed over to the potion shop and stocked up on a few items.

We then made our way over to the depot where the others should be waiting.

And, along the way, I began to run through all the names I could recall from back home; the names of all the most famous swords, not just from real life, but from anime, manga, and games too.

For an awesome blade such as this one, only the best would suffice for me.

"Kazuma, Megumin; over here."

Came the voice of Cielo; drawing us to the fourth carriage out of a total of nine that would be traveling together.

A nice little caravan we would be apart of, huh?

"You two certainly took your sweet time in joining us. Did the two of you need some alone time together or something?"

Asked Darkness, giving me a wink wink, nudge nudge sort of look.

"No-No, it wasn't that. Nothing like that. We... well, I had a little minor issue back at the gear shop that delayed us. We also decided to grab a few additional potions to bring along as well."

"That was a good idea, actually. Once we get to Arcanretia, the rest of us should go buy a few addition potions as well."

Said Chris; her voice not quite sounding all that happy.

She was more or less fine with us going to Krakta Valley, but when we had told her we would be staying a day or two in Arcanretia, she became far less comfortable.

Yunyun too wasn't all that enthused either with the idea, saying that Arcanretia wasn't as nice a place to visit as it had once been.

Megumin called her a worry wart, saying it had been all fine and dandy when she had last been there.

Regardless of her confidence, the fact Chris and Yunyun were apprehensive about this; and the fact they were the two must well adjusted members of our party, gave me reason to be less happy here too.

Speaking of Yunyun; she then takes notice of my new blade and says-

"Kazuma, since you got yourself a new sword. Can you show it to us?"

Well, no harm in doing that though I should probably refrain from showing its range ability for now.

Better to wait till we're out in the open where I can test out just how long the chain will extend to.

I pull the blade from its sheath and hold it out before the others to let them see it in all its glory.

{Insert Image 4}

"Wow, that is a nice sword you got there, Kazuma. What are going to name it?"

I give Darkness a confident smile in response to her question as I say-

"I've been giving that one some serious thought as me and Megumin walked here. I thought about names like Masamune or Kusanagi; but those are both supposed to already exist so I thought maybe give it a name from the story's I've read. Now let me see here..."

I then began to brainstorm the various names I have heard from my life as an otaku-

Buster Sword... no, this blade isn't nearly as long or as big to be worthy of that name.

Gun blade... no, that's stupid as the gun part of the name isn't even a thing... yet.

Ebony/Ivory... no, that doesn't work either if only because the color scheme doesn't match.

Wait, I know; seeing as it looks the way it does and add in the chain, only one name makes sense to me.

I give the girls a smile as I look at them and say-

"OK, I've decided. This guy here will, from now on, be known as..."

"Chunchunmaru."

Said Megumin suddenly and matter-of-fact like.

We all turn to look at her; as she had remained beside and slightly behind me since we had arrived.

"What did you say again, Megumin?"

"I said that blade will be called Chunchunmaru from now on."

She says that as she closes her eyes; a look of great pride forming on her face.

Off to the side, I hear Yunyun say-

"Chunchunmaru? But Megumin, doesn't that name mean...?"

Megumin was quick to respond, running over to Yunyun and silencing her by saying.

"You have a problem with that name, Yunyun? It's a strong and confident sounding name; one worthy of Kazuma's new blade. Understand?"

Yunyun nods nervously as Megumin pulls away to look back at me.

Yeah, I somehow doubt your words there, Megumin.

Luckily for me, and even more so for this blade, I wasn't going to use a name as silly as that one.

"Not going to happen, Megumin. While I thank you for offering up such an... interesting name for it, I'm afraid as its MY blade, I get to make the final call here. And the name I chose is Tensa Zangets..."

I stop dead with talking as I hear a weird sound, making me look down.

On the hilt of my sword was the name etching paper I had been given-

The word 'Chunchunmaru' scribbled down upon it as the paper fades, leaving the name glowing on the hilt for a few moments before fading from sight, only to reappear when mana was pushed into it.

"From now on, it will be called Chunchunmaru."

She said, giving me one of the smuggest looks she had ever given since the day we had met.

"NNNOOO!"

I wail in despair as I fall to my knees and hang my head low.

My blade, my awesome looking katana; that damn loli had violated him in such a way that it was unforgivable.

I turn my head and glare at her, one that she returns with a look of confusion.

"What's wrong, Kazuma? I just gave your sword such a cool name, as my thank you for this ring you gave me. You should be thanking me in return for doing that. Anyways, enough of about that. We should hurry up and decide the seating arrangement for the carriage ride, right?"

"That is true; we'll have to start getting on in ten minutes. Does anyone need to use the bathroom before we go? The first rest stop is four hours away once we set out."

Darkness said as the others girls gather around her.

"Megumin, while I'm sure your intentions there were good and all, don't you think it was Kazuma's right to name his blade?"

Asked Cielo; getting a 'What is really?' response from Megumin who seemed totally uncaring about it.

"On that subject, just how did you even get that name etching paper off him to begin with? Even I didn't see you do it, Megumin. I think you could have all the makings to become a master thief."

Quickly added Chris; making Megumin smile proudly as she boast of her many talents.

Not that I cared I I was still there, kneeling down on the ground in my sorrow.

An evil smile then begins to form as an idea enters my head.

A place with mixed hot springs, huh?

Heh heh he; just you wait, Megumin.

This isn't over yet for I have some wicked punishment planned for you.

Just wait, you damn little thief for you will soon taste the wicked fruit called revenge.

I stand, return... my PARTNER to his sheath and start to walk over to join in the conversation-

And then I come to a dead stop as I feel it; a feeling I hadn't felt in years-

A feeling of both my body and even my heart becoming heavy; like being crushed by an invisible claw.

A feeling I had experienced only once; on that day when I saw HER riding on the back of that high school assholes bike, looking all comfortable and content as our eyes met for the last time.

I quickly began to turn every which way; trying to see if I could see her anywhere.

All I could see, for a split second within the crowd, was the view of the back of a girl with light blue hair that had a part near the top done up in a loop-

Standing beside another girl with bright pink hair.

That blue haired girl, though; while I couldn't see her face, there was still something familiar about her... wait, wasn't that the brain dead god...

"Hey, Kazuma; hurry up and join us. Chris wants to tell you something."

Hearing that makes me blink; the act makes the blue hairs girl, as well as the pink haired girl she was beside vanish from view.

Maybe that all had just been my imagination just now?

I shake my head as I walk over to join the others.

As I do, I wonder behind why I had suddenly experienced that weird reaction?

I must be going crazy or something; I mean, there was no way SHE would be here too, right?

And besides, I hadn't seen anyone in the crowds that looked like her-

For one thing, she had bright blonde hair from what I recalled... never mind that now.

"OK, what's up?"

Chris steps forward and says to me.

"OK, here's the deal, Kazuma. We... well, us girls did some talking about seating arrangements. We only have the one carriage and all and it only has so many seats that can be filled. Because of that, someone has to sit in the back with the rest of the luggage. So, I decided it should come down to being either you or me. We'll settle this by a good old fashion game of rock-paper-scissors. What do you say?"

"I say shouldn't we all be doing this, not just us two? Never mind, I'm game if you are. Just be warned though, I have never lost at this game even once."

Chris gives me a surprisingly devious smile as she retorts-

"Neither have I which means that one of us will see their streak come to an end this day. Now, best of three, you and me."

The others step back; allowing us some room as we begin.

"Rock-paper-scissors..."

==========================={ Part 7: Entropy's Hunter }===========================

(3rd Person POV)

The deep woods; far east of Axel; a crackling sound is heard, but only by the local wildlife.

This was followed by a crack forming within the open air, a dark light dimly glowing beyond.

From out of this crack came wisp of smoke into the world; gathering and collecting together to take shape and form... the shape of a humanoid.

Once formed; a multitude of shapes began to rise and fall from the vaporous body of this creature-

Shapes like that of faces, objects, symbols, and other such things.

What must be considered to be its eyes start to glow as it makes a sound not unlike crackling thunder arise from within itself.

It stairs back at the crack which still remained.

The sound of a growl comes from behind it; making it shift from looking at the crack in the air to the source of the growl.

An Kobold; disheveled and hungry that gives the smoke creature a dark glare.

It then charges forward, not caring for any risk from doing so and lunges at its prey.

The smoke creature doesn't move, instead allowing it to strike only for the Kobold's whole form to be absorbed into the smoke.

A few moments later, the skeletal remains are expelled; remains that quickly crack and break apart, becoming nothing but dust in the wind.

The smoke creature returns to staring at the crack; waiting and waiting-

And then, the crack begins to shine with a darker, more insidious glow.

[FIND... SATOU... KAZUMA...]

[RE...TRIEVE... THE SOUL!]

The crack in the air then closes as the smoke monster remains standing there for a moment more-

It then shifts into the form of a wolf; howls into the air with a booming thunderous sound-

And then races off into the forest; the hunt for its prey having begun.

Next time: After a little misadventure on the road, Kazuma and the girls arrive in Arcanretia; ready to see the sights and partake in the local pleasures. What crazy antics will the get up to while there and will they even make it to Krakta Valley in one piece? Fine out next time...

Image 1: Chris; wearing her new cloak, face somewhat hidden behind the hood.

Image 2: A four panel shot; Darkness taking a defensive pose with her energy shield, Cielo smacking her blast gloves together, Yunyun holding her magic ring close to her heart, and Megumin thrusting hers out excitedly with staff at the ready.

Image 3: Vanir leaning in close to a freaking out Chris; giving her an annoying, and knowing, smirk.

Image 4: Kazuma holding out his new katana for the other girls to see.