Chapter 6: The Truth She Feels Inside Her Heart

================={Part 1: Once More Within the Heart of the Soul}=================

The last thing I could remember was thrusting Kirin into wound cut deep into Medusa's head-

Just as she fired off her Gaze from her one remaining good eye at me.

There was an intense burst of light that blinded me, a deafening boom, and unimaginable pain-

And then, nothing but the never ending void of darkness, where nothing could be grasped!

I'm not sure how long I was there but it felt like it had been forever and in that forever-

All my senses, including my sense of self, had gradually faded until there was almost nothing left of me!

And just as I was about to accept it all and give into the infinite void-

I felt a warmth touch my cheek before hugging me close to it, pulling me away from there into...

I blink as I look up into the endless field of stars and nebula that was being presented above me.

I turn my head to the side, taking note that the ground was the same way, another reflection of the sky!

I go back to looking up at the sky... I think, and ponder on the feeling that I had been here before.

As I was doing this, a face appears, hovering over mine; the face of that girl-

Yes, that girl with the black hair with a red sheen to it, dressed in Goth clothing, and having yellow cat like eyes.

Her features are neutral for a moment before she breaks out into a big grin.

["So, here once again, huh? Do I have you to thank for that?"]

Her response was to nod, then shake her head, then shrug. In other words, yes, no, maybe? She probably didn't know for sure herself.

I finally sit up, taking a moment to look around, wanting to see it that OTHER girl, the one I could recall who had been hanging out under that tree shaped 'bubble' within this place.

As far as I could see, she wasn't present anywhere... at least not yet!

I go to stand, wincing as I do so which makes the quiet girl give me a worried look as she stands as well.

After a moment to check myself over, noting the discomfort present, I look at her and say-

["By the way, thanks for helping me out back there, when I was facing Medusa. That really helped me out as I doubt I could have pulled any of that off at my current level of ability. Wish it didn't leave me feeling all sore and roughed up here though!"]

Her response was to conk the side of her head playfully, giving me an 'oopsie' look.

She then opens her mouth and says something to me, but her words fail to reach my ears for some reason.

I scratch the back of my head and say-

["Sorry, but I can't hear your voice. You... wouldn't have anything you could possibly write on available to use here by any chance?"]

She shakes her head at me, making me sigh and wonder what it was I could do here with her now.

"She said "Sorry about that, but that's kind of the price one has to pay when channeling the powers of a goddess of destruction through their unprepared body." As you currently are, Kazuma, I'm afraid I'm forced to agree with her assessment!"

The sudden voice reaching my ears makes my turn my head this way and that, trying to find the owner.

The quiet girl the tugs on my sleeve, making me look to see her pointing in a specific direction.

As I look, I finally take notice of the young woman sitting under the tree shaped 'bubble' who had appeared from out of nowhere.

The quiet girl then runs over to the woman and silently says something else to her.

"Hm, what's that? Oh, so you aren't actually a literal goddess back in life, but the masses looked upon you and called you one because of the powers you possessed being very god-like in their eyes. And... (a momentary silence) ...because of this, the Arkt faith denounced you as some sort of devil and had you hunted as if you were a monster. Must have been rough for you!"

The quiet girl responds by holding her hand out, shaking it just enough to imply a 'so-so' response.

I then walk over to join them, a strange feeling coming over me as I came closer and closer to seeing the face of this woman who was able to talk to me now.

I wasn't sure why, but I couldn't help but feel that seeing her face would reveal so much to me in this moment.

I drew closer, and closer, and closer, and just as her face came into full view for me to see-

I suddenly find myself standing a good ways away from those two, wondering just how I ended up standing here when I should be over there.

"Hey, why are you standing over there like some kind of loner? Hurry up and come join us!"

["Um... I... well, I was doing that when I suddenly found myself..."

The woman then laughs at me, making me feel a little mad before she finally says-

"Hey, don't be so serious or shy, Kazuma. I was only teasing you... one of my favorite past times for a good while, before things became... complicated. Never mind that now, go ahead and come back over here. Just don't go trying to look at my face here yet. Seems you aren't ready for that truth at this time!"

Eh? What did she mean by that? Teasing me... favorite past times... things getting complicated...?

I groan inwardly as I begin to make my way back over to them, wondering why I had to keep dealing with people being cryptic about everything with me in life.

Like that cute girl from back in Arcanretia, the one who was a Crimson Demon or, at least, had the same eyes as them.

Once I had gotten back to those two, though making sure to not stand in a position that could make me be sent back away from them again, I ask-

["So... I don't suppose there's any chance you could explain to me what's going on here by any chance? I mean, just who are you two and where is this place? Why are you both here... and for that matter, why am I here too?"]

The quiet girl goes from looking at me to looking at the woman, who herself was quiet for a moment before finally saying-

"All that is... complicated. First, I can't tell you my name yet. Not because I can't or anything, it's more of a personal preference on my part. I've been able to observe you and your adventure's while in this place and I feel you aren't ready to learn the truth about me... at least not yet. As for our friend here, her name is... actually, what is you name? I can't believe I never asked you that before!"

The quiet girl then begins to talk to the woman, making her say things like "Oh, so your name is... that sounds rather cute. Not my particular style of name but still, cute in its own way!"

The quiet girl says some more things, making the woman lean forward suddenly and shout out-

"Wait, WHAT? Are you serious? You aren't messing with me here? (more silent words from the quiet girl) And that means your connection to Wolbach is...? (quiet girl nods while smiling, making the woman laugh happily) That's amazing, incredible even! To think that Wolbach would be... I wonder if the relationship between me and MY Wolbach was also..."

["Say, not to jump into the middle of the conversation you two are having, but would someone please give me the four-one-one on what's being said here. Kinda sucks when your being left in the dark, you know!"]

They both jump, clearly having forgotten I was even here at all.

The woman then says to the silent girl that they will continue this conversation later before she turns her attention back onto me.

"Sorry about that, Kazuma. That's another old quirk of mine, always forgetting that you are in the room at times. Sigh And here I thought I'd grown out of that in my adult life!"

I narrow my eyes, giving her a hard glare as I say-

["OK, enough of that please. If you can't explain something to me right now, just say as much and leave it at that. Don't be going and saying things to me that will leave me asking questions here, questions I won't be able to get an answer to till a later visit or something!"]

From my angle on her, I could see her smile just a little. Perhaps my words reminded this woman of someone in her life.

"Yeah, you're right. Sorry about that. OK then, I'll focus on what I can tell you in the here and now. First, I believe you asked me about this 'place' we are all currently in, right?"

I nod, saying "That's right!" in response.

I then see her bring a hand up to rub against her chin as she pondered the question, then-

"I'm not one hundred percent sure about this but I think this place is known as the 'Heart of the Soul,' the very center of our souls or something like that. A most sacred place that none, technically, should never be able to enter."

["And yet, the two of you are in here with me."]

"So it would seem, though she's actually meant to be in here. (points to the quiet girl) As the physical manifestation of the anchor on this side of the thread of fate that connected you to your destined soul mate, she has taken the form you see before you now!"

The quiet girl then says something to the woman, making her add-

"She said "To be more exact, this is the form I took in my previous incarnation, during our life on Arbel. I do not look like this now in my current incarnation though this isn't to far off either!" You'll have to tell me about that once this guy here take his leave!"

Wait a minute here. She said Arbel and before that, Arkt. Weren't those the words Chris used when she told me a little about her past, before she found herself coming to this world like me?

"Kazuma, if you look closer at her chest, you should be able to see it; the thread of fate that connects you to you soul mate!"

Hm, might as well. Hope the quiet girl doesn't mind me doing this.

I lower myself down, to get a better angle at her chest, surprised when she puffs said chest out proudly before me.

Her chest was well developed, perhaps around the same size as Yunyun's I think. It took a couple of moments, but it slowly became noticeable to me, the thread that was coming from her.

My eyes trace the thread along its path, as far as I could until it faded into the endless sea of stars.

I then look back at her and ask-

["So, any chance you can tell me the name of your current incarnation then?"]

I then turn to look at the woman, awaiting her to answer for this girl.

"She said that she COULD tell you but why spoil the surprise. She's sure you'll figure it out, sooner or later. Who knows, Kazuma. Maybe YOU already HAVE figured it out, but can't yet accept that answer?"

After a pause, the woman says-

"As for ME being in here? Honestly, I'm not quite sure how that happened myself. All I can say is that I had a run in with Entropy and found myself here in this place. As such, I've decided I'm going to go ahead and stick around inside here for the time being. Hiding out as it were. Hope you don't mind."

So, is this woman is a target of Entropy too? Wonder what it wants with her?

["I don't mind to much. But you should know that a piece of Entropy is inside me, merged with the Lich power that still remains within me. It could be a little dangerous for you to hang around, just so you're warned!"]

The woman nods, then says-

"I'm already aware of that, thanks for telling me though. Good news is that the piece of Entropy within you doesn't have the ability to actually access this place. I believe only the main body could have a chance at doing that which is one of the reasons why it's after you!"

I see, then that would explain a lot.

["Sorry, but you know I have need to ask you this question. Are you the reason Entropy is after me?"]

"I wish is were that simple. If it was, I would have left already in order to spare YOU from having to deal with it. No, it is after you as well. Me being in here is more of a bonus for it. However, I am worried my finding you, hiding within your soul, may have been the reason it found you to begin with. If that's the case, then I'm sorry. It wasn't my intention to get you dragged into this mess, Kazuma!"

I'm the one who shakes their head this time, telling her-

["Don't worry about it. If what you're saying is correct here, then it would have come for me sooner or later anyways. Maybe it's for the best that it's happening the way it is now."]

There was a moment of silence before the woman finally says-

"Thank you, Kazuma. For everything! Now, as for how you ended up here...?"

Her words stop as I look down at my ghostly hands, seeing them start to fade.

"Crap, seems its time for you to be heading back out now. I was really hoping we could talk some more here. Listen, think about what happened before that brought you to this place, both the first time and this time. The clue on how you came to be here will be found in that which those two events share. When you next return, maybe you'll be able to see my face... and hear her voice! Until then..."

I could feel myself being pulled away, the last thing I could see was the quiet girl waving me goodbye, a warm smile present on her face.

{Insert Image 1}

===================={Part 2: What Happened After the Battle}====================

My vision was blurry as my eyes slowly opened from who knows how long I had been unconscious?

Despite that, it was obvious the the ceiling above me was a bright red color.

For the next few minutes, I just sat there and waited patiently for my eyes to regain their focus.

As I waited, I was quick to become aware of the various levels of discomfort coming from all across my body, to say nothing of the mild pain that was running along my right arm.

Despite that, there was one thing I was very thankful for here-

And that was that I was really glad that I hadn't woken up to the sound of 'The Man Who Sold the World' playing in the background.

If I had heard that playing, then I would have to question if I was really the REAL me or if I was someone else brainwashed into thinking that I was... well, me here!

Finally, my vision cleared and I started to turn my head to one side and the other, noting that the entire room I was in was painted entirely red with a little yellow as a secondary color.

"Mm... guess it isn't just Megumin... Crimson Demons must really like this color combination!"

"We're also partial to black, though I'm sure I don't need to tell you that!"

Came a voice that was immediately followed by the door to my room opening and a man dressed like a doctor came in, except replace the white coat with a black one.

"So mister hero, are you feeling any better?"

He asked me as he pulled a chair over to sit beside me, a clip board present in his hands.

After a moment, I respond by saying-

"A little discomfort here and there, nothing to bad all things considered. My right harm hurts like hell though!"

The doctor nods, jotting down a few notes before saying-

"Not surprising, seeing as you came very close to losing that arm of yours!"

Eh?

Perhaps sensing my confusion, or maybe it was just par for the course that came with being a doctor, he got up and walked over to my right before reaching out and shifting the covers away to reveal my right arm.

Why did I not think to go do that myself once my vision had cleared up?

I then try to sit up, getting a little assistance from the doctor in doing that. Once done, I look down at my right arm and hand and find them covered in bandages covered with magic glyphs.

I sweat a little before turning my attention to the doctor and asking-

"Um... should I be worried about what I'm seeing here?"

"No, no, there isn't nothing to worry about, mister hero. Let me explain the situation here. You were at ground zero when that 'metal creature' went all kaboom! In truth, you should quite dead right now due to being at the center of it."

"Instead, you came out of it surprisingly well all things considered. You had some minor burns all over your body and plenty of muscle stress, a few pulled muscles as well, and a couple of broken ribs though I suspect those were caused when you were fighting that thing, not when it lit up the night sky!"

"Your right arm, however, suffered heavy damage including third degree burns and fractured bones and trauma to the joints, hence the special healing wrappings we have placed on you!"

I nod before looking down at my right arm, trying to move it. While I could lift my arm up and down, though that came with some pain in doing so, I found I couldn't move my fingers nor my elbow.

I look at doctor who was quick to guess what I was about to ask him.

"You're gonna find moving the joints around rather difficult for the next few days, mister hero. No need to worry though, you should regain full control of your arm and hand within a weeks time. Just so you know, odds are very likely you'll have some scars running across you arm for the rest of your life. Sorry about that but even our healing skills have there limits."

I shake my head, letting him to not worry about it.

"Could be worse, I guess. I could have lost a limb or two, or I could be dead! Anyways, how long will I need to stick around before I can be discharged? And are any of my friends out there, waiting for me to wake up so they can come pamper and baby me?"

"I'll need you to drink a special healing potion, especially made for you by Hyoizaburoo. So long as it doesn't produce any... unexpected side effects for you, it should be possible for you to leave here in a few hours. On a side note, those medical wraps on your right arm will fall away automatically once your arm has fully healed so bare with it until then, OK."

"As for your friends, sorry but I'm afraid they aren't here right now!"

"Really, well that's... unexpected."

I wasn't joking about that either. I really thought they wouldn't want to leave my side until I had awakened.

"I can assure you that them not being here isn't because they don't care. The villages medical facility is actually rather small. Only family members can be allowed to hang around after visiting hours, no exceptions. At present, its still very early in the morning for us so it'll be a few hours before they can come back around to check in on you. Now, let me go grab that potion for you to drink!"

Two hours later, the doctor gave me the go ahead to be discharged though warned me to play it safe and take it easy for the next few weeks.

Just as I finished getting dressed, I heard a knock at the door followed by it opening.

Yunyun entered the room, followed quickly by her mother.

"Kazuma, you're awake! Are you OK? Are you still hurting anywhere?"

Asked Yunyun quickly as she ran over to me. Once I told her that I was, she hugged me hard, making me yelp in pain.

Guess I wasn't quite as alright as I thought I was.

After Yunyun had finished apologizing, Rikarika began to talk to me-

"Like my daughter, I am thankful to see you OK, Kazuma. Also, I want to thank you for the big risk you took in protecting us like you did that night. Your actions have earned both our clans eternal gratitude and friendship. If there is ever anything you need, just ask and we will do all we can to help."

"Thank you, ma'am. I'll keep that in mind. So, where's boss Hiropon at? Don't tell me he's 'taking a nap' while the two of you are here? And what about the others?"

Rikarika laughs as she waves off my worry.

"Oh, no need to worry about my husband. He actually had to go to the capital to make a direct report on what has happened here to the high council. Normally, our clan would only make our reports directly to the king, but seeing as his majesty is currently engaged in warfare with the Devil King, we have to meet with the council as an alternative. He's not expected to be getting back till later in the afternoon!"

Yunyun then chimes in, saying-

"As for everyone else, I'm sure they must be on their way here now. We've all been very worried about you, Kazuma!"

"Especially Megumin, if I recall as I heard she was being so incredibly stubborn with leaving your side last night that Yuiyui had to use Sleep in order to pull her away from you!"

Said Rikarika with a laugh.

I role my eyes, not surprised in the least to have heard that.

"That's good to know. So, is the village recovering nicely? You must still be hard at work with the rebuilding after what Sylvia did. And speaking of, what happened to Medusa after I struck it, and myself, down?"

"Most of Medusa was destroyed by the blast. The pieces that were left have been taken for research materials!"

Said Yunyun with Rikarika quickly adding-

"It's only been a couple of days since then but our researchers have already learned a ton of information from their analysis of it. They are confident that, once they are done, we'll be capable of creating all sorts of new toys to play with. Now, about the current state of the village..."

A few minutes later, the three of us exited the villages hospital, which wasn't that big to be honest.

In fact, it was more like a small family focused clinic than an actual hospital.

Guess that means they don't worry about people getting injured very often here.

The doctor gave me a cane to help me walk as my leg strength was still a little weak, seeing as I had spent nearly three days bedridden on top of the stress my legs had suffered during that fight.

Once I get back to Axel, I seriously need to start working out my muscles as I really haven't improved any since that day I had helped Megumin steal all that fruit and nearly died from making a run for it right after.

As soon as my eyes spotted the scene awaiting me outside the hospital, my jaw pretty much hit the ground at the sight I was seeing before me.

"The village... has already been rebuilt here?"

"That is correct, Kazuma. I'm aware the construction methods of non Crimson Demons can be rather slow and time consuming. But for our clan, we can easily rebuild the entire village even if its been completely wiped off the face of the earth in under twenty four hours."

Explained Rikarika.

"When I was traveling around the kingdom and discovered that outsiders need weeks to months in order to build even a single building shocked me, to be honest. Once I become chief, I plan on reaching out to the greater kingdom and offer training to anyone interested in how to do it as quickly as we Crimson Demons can!"

Adds Yunyun.

I nod as I look around at the scene before me again.

I then recall a certain something important here.

I turn to look at Rikarika and ask-

"On the subject of quick home building here..."

"Hm? Oh right, I almost forgot!"

Rikarika then reaches into her pocket and pulls out a key and hands it to me.

"I believe you know what this is for, Kazuma! Would you like us to show you the place you requested me to have made before?"

I nod as the three of us begin to walk. As we went, I also brought up the subject of my other request for the items I would need to begin making new spells for this world to play with.

Yunyun answers me, saying-

"Everything should be gathered together and ready to be given to you by tomorrow morning!"

Shortly after that, I took notice of a new addition to the village that hadn't been here when we had first arrived nearly a week ago.

"You guys have a lake inside the village now? Wait, isn't that where you went all ham with those four Earthquake spells, Yunyun?"

Yunyun blushes as she pokes her fingers together nervously.

"Yeah, after the fight was over... everyone decided to finish filling the hole up with water and they also tossed an artificial island at the center of the lake as well."

I look out at the lake again, seeing that there was indeed a small bit of earth rising out of the water at its center. And on this island was a podium with some statues on top though at my current angle on it, I couldn't tell what the statue was of.

"Does the lake have a name by any chance?"

I asked Yunyun, seeing her become embarrassed as she averts her eyes from my gaze.

Rikarika then speaks up, telling me-

"We decided to call it 'Thunderbolt Yunyun Lake!' As you can see, my daughter didn't agree with that decision!"

I laugh as I take a few steps over to Yunyun, placing a hand on her shoulder.

"Why so embarrassed about that, Yunyun? I think that's an awesome name!"

"Y-You do? Well, I-I guess I'm OK with i-it being called that then."

After that, Rikarika led me around, letting me get a better view of the statue that had been set up on the island... or maybe I should stay statues here.

What I had originally believed to be a podium was actually Medusa, lying on the ground with large 'X's' for eyes and standing over it was-

Yunyun, standing in the pose she had used when she had confronted Sylvia. And to one side of her was-

Megumin, holding her staff out as if preparing to fire off an Explosion. And to Yunyun's other side was-

… ME, posed nearly perfectly in the manner I had been in just before shoving Kirin right into Medusa's head.

"We call this the 'Crimson Trinity Statue!' All future generations will know the names of these three for the legends that they truly are!"

Said Rikarika proudly while Yunyun buries her face into her hands to hide her embarrassment.

As for me and how I felt about becoming a legend amongst the Crimson Demons?

"Me, a legendary hero? Hm, stranger things have happened I guess!"

A thought then occurs to me as I ask the two girls.

"By the way, whatever happened to Kirin. The energy sword I used against Medusa, I mean?"

They both blink before Yunyun has an "Oh yeah" moment before reaching into her adventurer's pouch and pulls out a small lump of metal and places it into my hand.

I look down at it, seeing what it had become before letting out a sigh.

"Terrific, and here I was hoping I would be able to make use of it again in the future. Oh well, easy come, easy go I guess!"

I then slide it it into my pants pocket before saying-

"So, we were heading to check out a certain place?"

Rikarika nods as she goes to say something, but stops before giving me a smile.

"Before we do that, I do believe its time to reunite with the others now!"

=============={Part 3: Gifting This Family With Even More Happiness}==============

"Kazuma, Kazuma...!"

Came the voice of Megumin as I turned to see her running towards me at blinding speed.

"Yes, I'm Kazu-omph!:

Her impact against me nearly sent me flying off my feet as she hugged me tightly, crying hard into my chest.

I look down at her for a second, then back in the direction she had come from, seeing Darkness and Cielo with Yuiyui, holding Komekko, and Hyoizaburoo following a few steps behind them!

"Megumin, be careful. Kazuma's still on the mend here!"

Cried Yunyun, going into a panic while her mother simply laughs at all the scene.

"Kazuma, are... are you OK? I was so worried about you!"

Asked Megumin, her hug becoming stronger which made me wince a little.

I place a hand on her head, giving her some gentle head pats as I say-

"Yeah, I'm OK... more or less, though maybe ease up on that hug here. I still have some sore muscles I'm not wanting to stress at this time!"

I feel Megumin nod though she didn't let up on her hug.

By now, the others had managed to join us with Darkness speaking first-

"Glad to see you up at last, Kazuma. You should know you really had us all worried over these last few days!"

I scratch the back of my head as I give them a sheepish look.

"I know, sorry about that by the way. From what the doctor told me, I should probably consider myself lucky that I even survived my taking Medusa head-on like that!"

Hyoizaburoo nods, agreeing with my statement.

Yuiyui smiles at me and says-

"Still, you put on an amazing performance during that fight, Kazuma. Many of the village haven't been able to stop talking about what you and Yunyun did that night. I'm sure you've seen the statue over there by now. You both are seen as legends around here now, you know!"

"Yeah, big brother looked really cool. So cool that it makes me even happier to know I have such an amazing big brother to look up to and idolize!"

Megumin turns her head to look at her sister while still maintaining her hug on me and says-

"And what about your sister? You know, your actual FLESH AND BLOOD sibling over here? You know what, never mind that for now. Mom, what do you mean when you ONLY said Kazuma and Yunyun? Don't tell me you're forgetting someone else here by any chance?"

Yuiyui takes on a thinking pose for a moment, then ask-

"Hm, did I forget anyone? Honey, what do you think?"

"Let's see, let's see... nope, can't recall anyone else that should be included with Kazuma and Yunyun there as legends of the village!"

Said Hyoizaburoo before looking at the scowling Megumin with a humorous grin.

"These parents, how could... fine, just forget it. I don't care about your opinions anymore anyways. The only person who's opinion I care for now is the one I'm presently hugging...?"

Megumin stops mid sentence, a look of confusion crossing her face before morphing into a devilish grin as she looks up at me.

"Kazuma, do you have some hard lump of metal hidden inside your pants pocket here our are you just that happy to see me now?"

For a second, I began to panic but quickly regain my composure before responding while matching her devious grin with one of my own.

"Can it be both, Megumin?"

Megumin laughs before allowing another moment to bury her face against my chest before finally letting me go.

Cielo then steps forward, extending her hands and activating her healing spell.

"I'm really glad to see that you're OK as well, Kazuma. Give me a few moments to see if I can help lessen any pain or discomfort you might still be feeling here, if not remove it out right."

I nod as I watch her work her magic on me.

Yuiyui then looks at Rikarika, asking-

"So, is Kazuma good to go here or does he need to head back to the hospital here in a bit?"

"Doctor said he could be fine and discharged him. He did say Kazuma should take it easy for the next few weeks if at all possible. After all, there's only so much healing that can be done through potions or magic. The rest will only come with time and patience."

Everyone nods in agreement, then Rikarika says-

"Well, as much as I would like to stick around and hang out with everyone right now, I need to get going and do my rounds around the village, seeing as Hiropon is away at the moment. Yunyun, will you take over for me and show Kazuma and the rest to the 'you know what' for me here?"

Yunyun nods, saying "Leave it to me, mom!"

Rikarika then looks at Kazuma and says-

"And mister Kazuma; once again I think you on behalf of the village for what you did for us that night as well as thank you for keeping an eye on and protecting my daughter and Megumin. Should we be unable to meet again before you all depart, know that you have the eternal loyalty of this clan. If ever you need anything at all, just call on us and we will be there for you!"

"I'll remember that. It was good meeting you, miss Rikarika. And good luck with keeping boss Hiropon in check in the future!"

Rikarika nods before turning and walking away, stopping after a few steps to look back and quickly add-

"Oh, and Yunyun... (Yunyun looks at her more and says "Yeah?") … if you want to stay out a little late tonight, even stay over at a friends house, then that's fine with me. Just make sure you swing by in the morning to say goodbye before you all leave, OK?"

Yunyun nods at her mother before Rikarika continues on her way to do whatever it was she was going to do.

I then look at the others and say-

"So, we're heading back to Axel tomorrow then?"

Cielo is the one to respond to me as she puts the finishing touches on healing me.

"That was the plan, unless you WANTED to stick around longer. We all agreed that we've probably been goner longer than we should have been. Furthermore, we're sure Anna must be worried about us, as well as everyone back at the guild too!"

Makes sense, I guess.

Darkness, who had been looking over at the statue of the Crimson Trinity, turns back to look at us and ask-

"Out of curiosity, when did Megumin and Kazuma get added to the statue? I remember hearing that it was only suppose to have been of Yunyun standing over Sylvia originally!"

"That was my dad's idea when it was being talked about. It was my request that Kazuma and Megumin be added in as well as changing Sylvia to Medusa. When the rest of the clan heard this, they all started agreeing with me and father was forced to accept that decision though he still felt it should only be about me when all was said and done!"

"That's only because he, as a father, wants to brag about his daughter accomplishments alone! Something I can deeply understand here!"

Said Hyoizaburoo in response to Yunyun's words.

Yuiyui then adds while placing a free hand against her cheek-

"Them adding Kazuma was a no brainier but Yunyun really had to push hard to get Megumin added to the mix!"

"Eh? Why was that?"

Asked Cielo, a question me and Darkness also had.

Judging from the look Megumin had on her face when her mother had said that, I had a feeling she already knew the answer to that question.

"Let's just say everyone finding out that the top mage to come out of Red Prison has willingly chosen to limit herself, and her potential, by only focusing on ONE spell, the spell seen as the most useless by the clan didn't leave many feeling confident in her being worthy of inclusion!"

"Who cares about those idiots anyways. They are just to simple minded to really understand the genius that I truly am. Just watch everyone for I will one day prove to everyone here just how awesome and amazing Explosion magic truly is. And then, they'll be free to get down on their hands and knees and beg me to forgive them for being so shortsighted and stupid!"

Shouted Megumin defiantly, making her parents shake their heads sadly.

I'm pretty sure I hear Hyoizaburoo mumble quietly to himself, saying-

"Just where did we go wrong with her?"

"Megumin is right though..."

I said, getting everyone to look at me.

"If it hadn't been for Megumin's Explosion spell; her spell being as powerful as it was, then there's a chance Yunyun's spell may have failed to pierce the shield back then. And besides, apart from Light of Spear, is there any other spell currently out there that's powerful enough to one-shot even the Devil King himself? I think not. I hope that one day, everyone here will see Megumin the way we have come to see her... the way I have come to see her!"

"Kazuma...!"

Said Megumin, tears of joy forming in her eyes at my words.

Hyoizaburoo and Yuiyui look at each other, then back at their daughter and me, giving us a smile.

"Well, if Kazuma believes that strongly in you, then as your parents, we should also follow suit and believe in you as well!"

"Indeed, you'll always have our support, no matter what, Megumin! (Megumin uses the sleeve of her mage dress to wipe away the tears that had started falling) So, should we head back to the house and have something to eat here, people?"

While Megumin, Darkness, and Cielo nod, and Komekko cheers at the sound of eating something, I turn to look at Yunyun, giving her a nod which she returns before I look back at the others and say-

"Before we do that, there's some place I'd like to show you all!"

Megumin, Komekko, and their parents give me confused looks-

As do Darkness and Cielo though seeing me give them a smile makes them realize what was about to happen which makes them start smiling too.

After that, Yunyun took the lead seeing as I didn't know exactly where this place was at.

Soon after, following a short walk up a hill, we reach a large house with a smaller building located near it. Looking back in the direction of the village, one would find they would have a rather nice view of some of the buildings and Thunderbolt Yunyun Lake to enjoy.

In fact, there was a little seating set-up near the edge anyone could sit on in order to do just that!

"Kazuma, who's house is this?"

Asked Megumin, with her mother quickly adding-

"Has anyone in the village decided to relocate to this spot? I have to admit it is a rather nice view so whoever it is that owns this place must have good taste!"

I couldn't help but smirk, finding that they really haven't even considered the possibility that very shortly was going to become real here.

I then reach into my pocket, pulling the keys I had been given out and dangling them before the family!

Hyoizaburoo looks at the keys, then at me and ask-

"I see, so you are the owner of this place then? A summer home perhaps? Or maybe a winter home?"

"Not quite, pops..."

I said, my smile growing wider as I walk over to him.

I then grab hold of his hand, holding it out before me before slapping the keys into said hand.

"It's not MY home here, but yours! Welcome to your new home, you guys!"

Hyoizaburoo, Yuiyui, and Megumin were stunned by my words, none of them unable to speak for a good few minutes.

Off to the side, I could see Darkness, Cielo, and Yunyun looking at me with big smiles plastered onto their faces.

Komekko was the one to break the silence by saying-

"Hey, what's going on? I don't understand?"

Yunyun answers her by walking up, kneeling down and placing a hand on Komekko's shoulder.

"Your big brother just gave you a new home to live in. A big home filled with plenty of rooms to play in and tons of yummy food to eat!"

Komekko's eyes go wide as she if what was said was true and when she gets her confirmation, Komekko cheers and jumps into the air happily as she excitedly dance around the area.

This brings those three out of their shocked states with Hyoizaburoo saying-

"Kazuma... son, is this... are you...?"

I nod, confirming what was happening here was indeed real and true.

"I really hope you enjoy living in your new home, you guys... oh right, almost forgot here. Say Cielo, you have my adventurer's pouch on you by any chance?"

"Huh? Oh right, yeah... here it is..."

She then removes the second pouch that had been hanging around her waist and tosses it to me. After digging around for a second, I pull out a small card, feeling glad that I had stuffed it into here as apposed to keeping it in my pants pocket-

The very set of pants that got annihilated when Medusa... or Kirin, or both, exploded.

I then hold the card out to Yuiyui who shakily takes it from me and looks at it carefully before saying-

"A bank card?"

I nod then say-

"I went ahead and took the liberty of creating a bank account for you guys at the village bank. Now I know, thanks to pops new and improved potions and items he'll be getting out there soon, as well as your ability to start getting to work on any Japanese writing translations, you'll be able to finally get some REAL eris flowing your way. But it'll probably take a few months before money would stop being an issue..."

"... So, until then, I took the initiative here and gave you all a little advance in the eris department so that you could make do until the eris from your hard work finally starts coming your way!"

Both Yuiyui and Hyoizaburoo stare blankly at the card for a few moments before looking back at me, tears welling up in their eyes.

Megumin, who had been going from looking at the new house to the card, finally looks at me and ask-

"How much did you give them, Kazuma?"

I think for a second, finally recalling the amount before I finally say-

"Two hundred million eris!"

"TWO HUNDRED MILLION ERIS?!"

Everyone screams, making me bashfully take a step back.

Sure, that was a lot for me to give up here but seeing as I had around seven hundred million in the bank before coming here, going down to five hundred million wasn't to big of a loss for me, especially as the bounty for Sylvia would not only return that, but add an additional one hundred million on top of that.

I took a quick glance at Darkness, Cielo, and Yunyun, finding that all three of them were as shocked as Megumin and her parents, likely because while I had told those three that I was going to give them some money and this house, I had never shared just how much I was going to give them.

As I go to turn back to look at the family, I feel something impact me, hugging me hard.

It had been Yuiyui, her tears falling fast and hard as she spoke with a voice filled with unending joy.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you..."

She said repeatedly as Hyoizaburoo joined her in hugging me as well.

While he didn't say any words himself, his own tears and the look on his face said all that needed to be said.

I then feel Komekko hugging my leg. She probably didn't know what was going on here but was simply following her parents actions by hugging me as well.

I let myself enjoy the moment, wondering if this is how being part of a family really felt here, something I had never experienced before at any point with my own family... at least not with my parents anyways.

I then turn to look at Megumin, seeing tears of joy falling from her eyes as well.

Her parents, probably sensing this, break away from me for a second and beckon Megumin to come join in which she does without hesitation, running forwards and once again hugging me before her parents joined in with hugging me as well once again.

{Insert Image 2}

I'm not sure how long we stayed like this though I was sure it lasted for a good while.

Once it was done, Yunyun explained that the secondary building beside the house was a little workshop Hyoizaburoo could use in making his potions and items now.

Peeking inside, he found it had a far more generous set up than his old spot.

We then moved over to the house itself, stepping inside and exploring.

It was impressively large, containing a second floor to it.

The main level had a living room and family room, kitchen and dinning room, a bathrooms, and a study slash library from which Yuiyui could do her work and Komekko could sit down to study for school.

The second floor was made up six bedrooms with two bathrooms, one of which was entered through the master bedroom, and a balcony one could walk out that also had a great view of the village beyond.

And behind the house was an open air hot spring bath. All in all, this was a very nice set up and an amazing upgrade from an old falling apart barn.

And even better was the fact the house was already fully furnished as well. No need to go buy anything, not even food... though that depended on if Komekko could be stopped from eating everything at once if you took your eyes off her for a moment.

The rest of the day was spent collecting the few precious items from the old house, which there wasn't much of to be honest, as well as all of the supplies that had been recovered from the old workshop, and relocating them over here to the new spot.

And once all that was done and set up, and room assignments had been made for Megumin, whenever she came around in the future, and Komekko, we all sat back and spent the rest of the day celebrating like there was no tomorrow.

Though, in truth, tomorrow looked so very bright for us all, especially for the family I had gifted with much happiness here!

========================={Special Aqua Interlude 3}=========================

"Aqua... lady Aqua... bad luck charm... goddess of toilets... bottom feeder, time to wake up now!"

"Snore... grumble... why so mean... you'll receive divine... leave me alone, still sleeping here...!"

My less than agreeable underling kept trying to force me to wake up, but I didn't want to.

I had been up late last night, entertaining the masses down at the guild hall and having myself quite the large number of drinks they had offered me as a reward.

And then, I spent nearly fifteen minutes puking my poor little heart out afterwords before crawling into bed and falling asleep.

And now, my worthless and helpless underling was trying to get me to get up when I was still so tired here.

Didn't she understand that as a beautiful goddess, I needed to be allowed to enjoy my beauty sleep here, especially now as I had been forced down into this backwater hillbilly hick world to suffer unfairly by those snobs upstairs who simply didn't understand anything about anything at all.

I tell you, it was oh so very hard to be one of the very few up in heaven who actually understood how things really were in the universe!

"Last chance, get up now or you'll regret it big time!"

Do your worst, idol girl. Right now, I doubt even THE God himself could get me to get up here!

For a few moments, I was back to being at peace as was nearly back in dream land-

Until I felt a dark shadow come over me, making me open my eyes just a little-

And it was then I saw I most horrifying sight coming down at me; the rear end of a donkey coming down at me fast.

"NNNNNNNOOOOOOO!"

A few minutes, and A LOT of scrubbing later, I came out of the barn, crying my poor little heart out as I looked at my underling and said-

"Why... sniff … why did you do that... hic? Do you have any idea what you just did to me? I-I-I just... wah! … I just kissed the ass of an ass here!"

"Just be glad that donkey didn't have the chance to pee or poop on you, Aqua. Maybe next time, you'll listen when someone tells you to get up. Did you forget, we have to catch a ride to Veridae today!"

This damn girl, she really was an idol in her last life, not caring about the needs or want of others.

And how could she treat me like this. I'm a goddess, I deserve so much more than what I'm being given.

I tell her as much, making her role her eyes in response.

"Correction, you WERE a goddess, Aqua. Were a goddess, but not anymore. Right now, you're just a human with above average stats and incredible healing powers at your disposal. If you WANT to return to being a goddess, don't forget what your brother said. You had a lot of work you need to do, as well as needing to do a lot of personal improving here as well!"

"But I have been improving. You just fail to realize that because in your mind, its all about you!"

"Says the pot calling the kettle black! If everything you've done so far is what you would consider to be an improvement over your old self, then you're never getting back into heaven, at least not as a goddess anyways.!"

"wah... Why are you being so mean to me?!"

My underling roles her eyes again before turning away, walking down the road into the city proper.

"Anyways, we need to hurry up or we'll miss the carriage to Veridae. You coming or not?"

"Like I have a choice. Why do we have to go there anyways? Why can't we go back to Arcanretia and be with my followers, they'll treat us far better than anyone else in this dumb world ever will!"

"Right, like how a mob of your followers wanted to lynch you back there before, forcing me to get us both out of there to save your lives!"

"That was a misunderstanding and you know it. If you had just given me the time, I could have cleared things up with them and we'd be living the good life right now!"

"Sure you would have?! Anyways, remember what that Vanir guy told us. If we go to Veridae, we'll be sure to have an important encounter that will have an important impact on us both. Plus, I hear that's where the popular entertainment group, Axel Hearts, is currently performing at. If I can get them to hire me on; with my past success as an idol in Japan, I should be able to make a killing and get us into quite the cushy life, don't you agree?"

Well, yeah... I guess that's true.

I can also recall hearing that Veridae was one of the more beautiful cities here in the kingdom of Belzerg, not as beautiful at my Arcanretia, but still a sight to see as Veridae is said to be the home of the kingdoms most famous art exhibits.

I then feel my underling's eyes on me, making me turn my head up to look at her.

"Well, shall we get going... miss manager?"

Me, her manager? The thought makes me smile happily as I nod and follow after her.

While not as big or as important as being a goddess, being a manager for right now was still a nice title to have, one I must make sure I own with all that I am here!

(AN: Yes, Kazuma and Aqua will come face to face in the next arc. But, will Kazuma also come face to face with 'Harp Song' as well, or will that still be a few arcs away from happening? Find out soon!)

========================{Part 4: A Feeling Expressed!}========================

Dinner that night had been the best dinner Kazuma had cooked for us yet!

I confess that I did feel a little bad over leaving him to cook for us here again, especially when he was still healing here.

We really should have been the ones to cook for him for a change, but his cooking was just so good that we couldn't help ourselves here.

Hm, I wonder if anyone else besides me was having these sorts of thoughts as well?

The air that filled the new house was certainly a lively one; understandable given the circumstances.

Yunyun had even elected to join us for dinner as well, which I was OK with.

The only thing I wasn't OK with was my sister forcing Kazuma to let her sit on his lap for the whole thing and my parents waving off my complaints, telling me that it was all fine, that she wasn't causing anyone any trouble by doing that.

And Kazuma, bless his generous heart here, was just being to nice to tell her no either.

Of course, the thing that really left me fuming was Komekko would look my way every few minutes and flash me that damn smug face of her's before going back to eating.

Where had she learned to do that at anyways, I wonder? Had it been that damn Bukkuroroii's doing by any chance?

Because if so, then I would need to punish him big time before we left in the morning here.

And what bothered me even more here was the fact my little sister's smug face was even better than mine was, and that just couldn't be possible, right?

I mean, surely no one can out-smug me, the queen of smug, right?

Never mind that for now as I didn't want to ruin the fantastic moment here.

Some time after dinner, when we had all been in the family room chatting, I found my eyes becoming more and more droopy until the next thing I knew, I was looking up at a dark and unfamiliar ceiling, in a room that was also unknown.

I found myself beginning to panic as I sat up quickly, looking around, trying to figure out where I was.

It took me a few more moments before my brain finally woke up and logic helped me to understand here.

This must have been my new 'bedroom' for my personal usage whenever I decide to come around and visit my family in the future.

It didn't feel right, to be honest. Maybe it was because I already had my own room back in the mansion, a room I found myself missing just a little here.

I then realize that it was dark in here, making me pull out my pocket watch to look at the time.

It was just a little past 2am in the morning? I must have fallen asleep at some point.

I then realize that something important was missing here in this room!

It was Kazuma to be exact. I look around, not seeing him anywhere. Not in bed beside me, not on the floor. Just where was he anyways?

Once I had confirmed that Kazuma wasn't in here with me, I found myself feeling very confused.

I mean, my mother would have had no issues with putting us in here together again, right? Especially after everything Kazuma had done for us.

Was it because he was still healing that she had shown restraint here? No, of course now. That woman doesn't know the meaning of the word restraint in my opinion!

Well, if he wasn't in here then he must be in one of the other rooms!

I get out of bed and begin to look around. First, I decide to check the master bedroom, for some reason.

Obviously, Kazuma wasn't there but seeing mom and dad holding each other like they were made me feel warm inside. The looks they had on their faces, it was the happiest I had ever seen them look before.

I then found the rooms Darkness and Cielo were staying in and even found Yunyun slumbering away in one of the rooms as well. There was only one room left I hadn't looked in, that being me... sisters...?

Oh no-no-no-no-no here, you better not have changed it up like that mother...

I quickly make my way to Komekko's room taking a peek inside. After a quick scan around the are, I let out a sigh of relief. Kazuma wasn't in here either.

But if he wasn't upstairs in one of the bedrooms, then where was he?

Surely he wasn't being forced to sleep on the sofa or on the floor somewhere downstairs, right?

I quickly made my way downstairs, looking in every room and still finding nothing.

By now, I was beginning to worry, and get annoyed, as I tried to think about just where he could be at right now.

And then, a thought came over me. No, he wouldn't go do THAT to himself here... would he?

I quickly slide on my winter jacket and head outside into the cold night air, finding that a crimson snowfall had begun as I quickly made my way into the village, heading towards the old house.

As I walked, my eyes locked onto Soketto's fortune teller shop which made me recall my visit to her the other day, after the others had forced me to go outside for a bit in order to get some much needed air.

(flashback-the day before)

"I see this place hasn't changed at all since I was last here. Still all dark and gloomy!"

I said as Soketto took a seat opposite me.

"That's kind of the point, in case you don't remember, Megumin. So, do you still remember how we do this?"

I nod as I place my hands on the crystal ball with Soketto placing hers over mine.

From out of the crystal ball came the mist that filled the room as the magic item itself began to glow.

I really wish I could see whatever it was she saw when doing this, if only to make sure she wasn't trying to pull my chain here or leaving out important little details that would be nice to know.

I guess I shouldn't be to hard on her though, seeing as everything she told me before I had first left the village was spot on, especially the bits about Kazuma!

"Strange, I find my vision quite clouded when trying to look into your future, as if someone or something was trying to interfere with letting me see what's to come for you!"

Say what?

"Has that ever happened to you before, Soketto?"

"No, not like this at least. Give me a moment to see if I can force my way beyond the haze!"

Soketto then makes a more serious face, her eyebrows furrowing as little beads of sweat start to form. I could see the strain she was taking on as the magic item began to glow brighter and brighter her until...

She lets out a breath, panting heavily which makes me ask if she was alright here.

She looks at me, giving me a nod before taking a moment to recompose herself.

"I was able to get three things out of that attempt. I hope the words I'm about to say to you will be of help in the future, Megumin!"

"First, you will soon find yourself meeting a man who wears a mask, a mask worthy of being worn by one who is considered a worthy friend to us Crimson Demons. Pay very close attention to the few words he will speak to you as those words, as well as the feelings you'll feel when in his presence, will help guide you towards discovering who that man is!"

What do you mean? Are you trying to say that there's another guy I could find myself taking an interest in besides Kazuma here? If so, I'm not sure I would want to meet this man then.

"Second, sometime in the near future, I can see that Kazuma will find himself falling into a dark place, one far deeper and darker than any other. When that time comes, only you can find him, only you can guide his soul back home. Follow the crimson thread that connects you two and your search will never fail!"

Kazuma... falling into a dark place? It better not be because someone tries to do some evil to him because if so, I will make them regret the day they were ever born here. And save him? Of course I'll save him. There's no way I would ever fail to save him, not after all the times he has saved me!

"And finally, I can see that there will come a time when he was approach you, ask you to promise him something. No matter what, you must not ever break that promise to him. If you do, not only will he be made to suffer greatly, but that failure will leave a wound on your heart that may never fully heal!"

Me, break a promise I would make with him? That will never happen here. In fact, I declare that if I EVER break a promise to him, then that will be the day I swear off ever using Explosion magic again, forever!

"I have told you of what I was able to see, Megumin. Remember my words and never forget for I can see it clearly; the connection you and him share with one another is one so strong that it spans entire lifetimes..."

(present)

I finally reached the old house. Funny, to look at it now made it look so creepy and ominous, like some kind of haunted house or something.

I carefully step inside, an act that made no sense to be honest as there shouldn't be anyone in here anymore.

Before anything else, I head up the makeshift stairs and open the sliding door into the bedroom and find...

I sigh, shaking my head in exasperation as I look over to this guy, snoozing away in the middle of the room without a care in the world.

I don't even bother with closing the door as there was no need to as I quietly walk over to him, sitting down on my knees before him.

For the next few minutes, I just sit there and look upon him in wonder and joy.

This man, who had done so much for me in life, as made me feel SO MANY things I have never felt before, nor thought I had wanted to feel until I had felt them...

Was now sleeping out here in this old crap shack without a care in the world! Seriously, just what was going on inside your head when you decided to do this, huh?

I sigh again as I reach out and run my fingers through his hair, which makes him mumble something!

"What am I going to do with you, Kazuma?"

I then found myself doing something I hadn't planned on doing, something I didn't even realize I was doing until after I had done it.

I leaned forward, lowered myself down and gently pressed my lips carefully against his.

I kept the connection between our lips for a few moments before I realized what it was I was doing and quickly pulled away.

I then press a finger against my lips, my mind racing over what it was I had just done with Kazuma!

I had just given Kazuma my first kiss, or maybe it was my second as I wasn't sure if what we had done the night Sylvia had decided to launch her attack counted as my first or not?

Not that it mattered as this definitely was a kiss, a real kiss here.

I found myself starting to smile as I marvel at the feeling and sensations I had felt when my lips had been against his.

I can now understand why some girls like kissing their special someone a lot now. In fact, I believe I owe quite a few of them an apology for saying that I found them pathetic for liking something I, at the time, found dumb and pointless.

I only had one regret now and that was the fact I had done that when he had been asleep, thus robbing him of the experience of that first kiss with me!

Sure, I already knew I wasn't his first, something I now felt annoyed by as I really needed to have a talk with Wiz once we get back to Axel for robbing me of that pleasure here.

I then look back down at Kazuma, finding myself wanting to experience another kiss with him again, but I decide to refrain for now, at least until he was awaken to both experience it himself and to find out what it must feel like to have a kiss returned.

I then lift up the covers and lay myself down beside him, resting my head on his chest as I wrap my arms around him in a loving embrace.

I then tilt my head up up to look at his face and smile happily.

It was in that moment I made a decision I had been mulling over for the last few days, ever since it became known to the whole village I had maintained my stance on only wielding Explosion magic.

Perhaps, it was time to make a change here with my life and if it could help Kazuma out in any ways-

Then it would be worth the sacrifice...

===================={Part 5: What She Feels Inside Her Heart!}====================

When I awoke again, a few hours later, the light of the morning sun had begun to fill the room!

Though I didn't really want to at the time, I pulled myself away from Kazuma's still sleeping form, sitting up to stretch and yawn.

After that, I spent a few minutes looking down at Kazuma, finding myself enjoying the rise and fall of his chest as he continued to snooze away.

Despite the desire to just lay myself back down with him and perhaps take in a few more hours of sleep, I knew we didn't have time to for that now.

It wouldn't be long before everyone else would wake up, realize that me and Kazuma were missing, and begin to look all over the village for us.

If I wanted to go carry out the plan I had made before falling asleep here last night, then we needed to be moving quick here.

I then reach out and begin to poke Kazuma's cheeks, slow and gentle at first, then becoming more forceful and quick as the seconds pass.

Finally, he begins to groan followed soon after by his eyes opening. Like me, he then sits up, stretch's and yawns before looking around the room then at me with a dumbfounded expression.

"Good morning, Kazuma. Did you sleep well?"

"Mm...? Oh right, good morning Megumin. Where are we? Did your mother do anything weird again last night?"

He must still be half asleep here for him to go ask me that. Either that or mom really owed him an apology here!

"Not that I'm aware of, Kazuma. We're currently inside the old house which begs a question here. Why did I find you sleeping all the way over here instead of sleeping at the new home you gifted my family with?

"Your old house? Really?"

He asked me as he looked around again.

"I'll have you know you had me really worried when I woke up last night, Kazuma. I didn't find you by my side, nor anywhere else inside the house either. Once your brain is back to proper working order here, will you be ever so kind as to tell me why it was you came out over here to sleep for the night?"

Kazuma looked at me again and for the next few moments, he maintained his dumbfounded look.

But eventually, the light of realization came into his eyes and he started explaining what had happened.

"Last night, after you went to sleep, your parents had me carry you up to your new room so you could rest properly. Not long after, your mother also retired for the night, saying something about her body was starting to feel weird. I considered hitting the hay as well but decided to go out to take in the night air before turning in."

"I ended up walking around for a bit before I met that fortune teller girl, Soketto I think her name was, who dragged me into her place and did a reading on me. After that, I was preparing to head back when a sudden wave of exhaustion came over me. Seeing as this place was closer, I went ahead and came over here to sleep. I'm guessing when you went looking for me, you thought to check this place and... well, here we are now!"

That explained why he wasn't in the new house, I guess. Still wish he hadn't wandered down into the village like that but what can I do here. I'll just need to keep this man on a shorter leash from now on I guess!

On a side note, he said he ran into Soketto while he was out.

"Did you have anything of interest talked about when you had your fortune read, Kazuma?"

He takes on a thinking pose for a second before saying-

"Hm, can't recall off the top of my head here. Must have been nodding off while she was doing her thing there. Oh well, I'm sure her words are swimming around somewhere inside this thick skull of mine. I'll give it some time and see if it ever decides to resurface or not. So, what should we do now? Head back and start saying out goodbyes to your parents and sister?"

I nod at him, then recall that little something I wanted us to do here as well.

"Before we do that, Kazuma, would you mind if we take a little detour first. There's something I wanted to do before we head back!"

After that, we had left the village proper and soon found ourselves looking out over the great empty fields where, not to long ago, Kazuma had been kidnapped by those horny female Orcs.

After we come to a stop, Kazuma looks at me and ask-

"SSSoooo, what are we doing all the way out here? Wanting to do your daily Explosion before we head out?"

My response was to shake my head, before pulling my adventurer's card out and handing it to him.

He takes it, looks at it, then at me, giving me a confused expression.

"While you were unconscious, I found myself on the receiving end of a fair amount of ridicule and laughter on behalf of the village. Despite the part I played that night, with giving the MKK the power it needed to take out Sylvia or weakening the shield protecting Medusa, many still have come to look at me as an embarrassment and a joke for still only knowing Explosion magic!"

Kazuma waves his hand dismissively into the air as he tells me-

"Sounds like a bunch of idiots if you ask me. Cut from the same cloth as all the idiots we have around the guild hall back home. You never cared what those guys said to you back there so why do any different with their cousins around here? You and I, as well as the rest of our friends and family, know different so just ignore all those naysayers like you always do. They change their tunes eventually once you become the greatest mage in the world, am I right!"

I turn to look at Kazuma, his confident smile aimed at me made my eyes water just a little bit.

"Thank you for saying that, Kazuma. It really means a lot to me. That said, there is truth in their words as well, which is why I've made my decision here."

Kazuma looks at me, clearly confused before looking at my card, realization coming over him as he looks back at me and ask-

"Are you asking me to press the button for you? To have you learn Advanced magic here?"

I nod as I turn away from him, my eyes looking upon the morning sky and watching the clouds go by.

"I don't have the strength or the courage to go through with doing it myself here, even though I've made my decision on this matter. I know I'm being unfair to you here, putting you into this position, forcing you to do this for me. I'm sorry, Kazuma... but I just..."

I hear him sigh behind me, followed by-

"No-no, I understand. Are you sure about this, really really sure I mean? Once I do this, there won't be any take backs unless you're willing to start over from square one. Also, are you sure you won't ever come to resent me either here for doing this one day?"

Yes, I'm sure. And as for possibly resenting you later on? How could I when it was my request to you!

I hear him sigh again followed by the sounds of things being done with my card, making me close my eyes in acceptance.

Finally, I hear the sound of the confirmation option being used, making me turn back and accept the card before putting it away. I then look at him, smiling as best I could here as I say-

"Well, that's all done now so we should be hurrying back to the others, right?"

I then start walking, going to move past him on the trek back home when I feel his touch reaching out, grabbing onto my shoulder and making me look back at him.

"Before we head back, why don't you go ahead and fire off an Explosion for me. Once for the road before you start walking that new road you're now on!"

I look back at him, wanting to tell him that now wasn't the time for me to be reverting to my old ways, not now, not after what I had just asked him to do for me here.

But seeing his warm smile on me made me want to do it, because it was Kazuma who was asking me here.

"Alright, you want to see me fire off an Explosion? Then I will give you an Explosion that will be heard across all space and time!"

I then step past him, looking out beyond me into the open fields and plains, holding my staff out as I began my chant... but something was off here. My chant was... different for some reason.

"Born, within the darkness before there was ever such a thing as time, I lash out with unforgiving abandon! Filling darkness with the merciless rage of burning light, I shall consume any and all that comes to deny me! Weep, oh petty, weak willed souls for the terror I bring will smite you where you stand. Now bow, bow, bow before me and accept this, the ultimate fate I shall bring down upon one and all!"

"HYPER EXPLOSION!"

The blast that hit the plains was massive, on a scale I had never even seen before.

Now, instead of a massive open area that stretched far beyond what even my eyes could perceive, was now nothing but light and smoke, accompanied by a deafening sound and a quake that nearly knocked me back onto my butt.

And through it all, I just stood there, frozen at what I had just seen. In all my life, I had never seen an Explosion of that level or power before. Just what had...

It was then it occurred to me in full, the chant I had used had indeed been different and the name I had called out instinctively hadn't just been an Explosion, but...

I then found myself beginning to fall towards the ground, something in and of itself strange as my mana reduction ring should have left me still feeling good enough to stand.

But before I could hit the ground, I felt myself falling into Kazuma's arms as he was now holding me in the princess carry position.

My eyes, still wide with shock, look up at him as he gazed out over the open field, a whistling sound coming from him.

"Damn, I knew it was going to be a strong one but THAT strong? I can definitely say I never want to be on the receiving end of that one!"

He then looks down at me and gives me a smile, which in turn makes me pull my card back out to see just what it was he had done here.

I could see that I still had Explosion magic, obviously. But right below it was a new spell; Hyper Explosion! I then look back at him and say-

"Wha...?"

"Don't ask me how I managed to do THAT here, Megumin, as I'm not quite sure myself. Anyways, I hope you like you new toy here... though we may need to find someplace a little farther away from Axel before we go using that one again as looking out at the open fields now..."

He then looks out into said fields, my eyes quickly doing the same only for us to see a massive hole cut deep into the earth, not a simple crater mind you but what appeared to be a deep gorge or possible a canyon of at least half a mile in length.

I then look back up at him as he finishes by saying-

"... doing this one at our usual spots simply won't work anymore, am I right?"

By now, I couldn't hold back my tears of joy anymore.

This man, when is enough enough with him? Always doing the nicest things for me, for all of us, even when we ask him to do something that would benefit himself, he'll still go do something that will make us happy as well. Is it any wonder why I love him... so... much...?

God, I am such a idiot here. All this time, I've been nothing but a stubborn child refusing to accept the truth I have always known to be true inside my heart. Well, that ends today because...

"Well, you ready to head back, Megumin?"

I nod happily before resting my head on his shoulders. I decide to let myself stay in this position until we reach the village, at which point we'll switch over to the usual back carry position.

"Oh, by the way, my score for that Hyper Explosion is..."

Is what, is what, Kazuma?

"How about 10..."

Eh? Ten, ten? Just a measly ten points, are you intentionally trying to ruin this moment here?

"... million points! You know what that means, Megumin. You have A LOT of work you're going to need to put in in order in order to both reach that score again and even more in order to surpass it. Luckily, I'll be there to help you every step of the way!"

Ten million points? I actually achieved a score of that magnitude?

I find myself beginning to laugh as I wrapped my arms around Kazuma's neck, hugging him as tightly as I could while in the princess carry position.

Yep, no doubt about it. I had completely fallen in love with this man here and I couldn't be happier about it!

Now, the only question I need to figure out is how and when to tell him as much. While I could just go ahead and tell him now...

As a proud daughter of the Crimson Demon clan, I couldn't settle for doing just any old love confession here.

No, for this guy who has completely enraptured my heart here, I would need to do something truly special and amazing in order to show him just how much I loved him.

Just you wait, Kazuma for soon, I'm going to give you the biggest, most bombastic love confession any Crimson Demon could ever hope to muster in their lives!

As we reached the village, while we were working on getting me onto his back, Kazuma recalled something and asked me about Chunchunmaru.

That also reminded me of his main sword and my answer forced us to take an additional side trip over to the blacksmith shop to retrieve it as it had been damaged in the blast.

Not only was it better and stronger than ever now, it had been given an additional perk in the form of an 'Ignite' enchantment. In other words, the blade can become covered in fire by tapping a glyph that had been etched into the hilt.

After collecting Chunchunmaru, we finally returned home where everyone was waiting for us.

"Hey, there you guys are. We were about to come looking for you all!"

Came Cielo.

Yunyun then ask-

"Where did you two go so early in the morning?"

"Were the two of you wanting a have a bit more privacy by any chance?"

Adds Darkness, making me shake my head here.

I quickly shake my head, telling them that we just went out so I could do an Explosion, nothing more!

"That explains the loud blast from before. If you're going to be going and doing that, shouldn't you do it a bit further away from the village? I'm sure that noise has gotten everyone on high alert here!"

"Sorry dad, I wasn't expecting my Explosion to come out as powerfully as that one did!"

I said sheepishly, feeling it wise to not let everyone know yet what had actually happened out there.

I then realize that someone was missing, mom.

"Say, where's mom at anyways? I'd expect her to be out here by now as she was always a light sleeper."

"Mommy said she'll be out in a minute or so. She was acting really weird, right daddy?"

Father nods at Komekko's assessment before explaining that mother had refused to get out of bed until he had left the room for some reason. I wonder what was going on with her?

Just then...

"Hey, is everyone alright? Did you all hear that blast from before...?"

Yunyun's mother came running up, in something of a panic here too.

We quickly explain everything to her, making her calm down before saying-

"So, it was just you two then. That's good to know. Well, I better head back into the village and let everyone else know as well before we have a mob heading out to hunt our non-existent attacker here."

Rikarika then moves forward and hugs Yunyun tight.

"I'm very proud of you, my little spark. Take care of yourself and make sure to come home to visit more often, OK!"

"I will mom. Say sorry to dad for me once he gets back, for not waiting till then!"

Rikarika then looks at us and thanks us as well, asking us to keep watching over Yunyun for her.

She then approaches Kazuma and me, holding out a sack which Darkness takes for him, seeing as his arms were busy holding me here.

"Inside are the materials you requested for your future attempts at creating new skills, mister Kazuma. Please keep us up to date on your progress, alright?"

"Sure thing, ma'am. Once I'm done with the first wave, we'll come back around to demonstrate and shown them off here."

Rikarika nods before saying goodbye again and then walking away.

Once she was gone, we look back towards the house, wondering what was taking mom so long when...

"Sorry for taking so long, everyone. Hope they didn't leave without me here!"

"MOM?"

"Honey, you...?"

"Huh? Mommy, you look different. Did you boobs get bigger?"

I hear my mother chuckle with an evil tone to it. She then puffs her chest out as far as she could, a confident smile present on her face.

Her breast had gotten bigger alright, going from being her original 'A' cup size to now clearly being 'double D's' here, and all this in just one single night.

"That is right. As of today, I am no longer Yuiyui that flat for I am now Yuiyui of the two dee's here! Just wait till Rikarika and the other girls see me. I cannot wait to bask in their jealousy's here!"

So that potion Kazuma and my father had made really does work then?

Then that means... YES, YES, YES, it's only matter of time before my body will become such that will make all my old classmates cry in defeat.

Victory shall soon be mine!

As I come down from my personal victory high here, I take notice that father was looking at mother with wide lust filled eyes, eyes I had never seen before from him. At least, not with this level of intensity that he was giving off here.

Mother looks at him, giving him a coy, playful look as she says-

"Are you liking what you are seeing here, handsome?"

Father's response was to nod quickly, a little drool forming around his mouth.

Mother smiles at him before walking forward and whispering something into his ear. As soon as she was done, they both turn to me and he says flat out-

"Megumin, could you do us a huge favor here and take your little sister with back to Axel for a few days. You know, watch over her and show her around while me and your mother... go take care of some LONG overdue business!"

In other words, you just want her out of the house so that the two of you can go at it like a couple of horny rabbits in heat I take it!

"Yeah, sure... I don't really mind but... Kazuma?"

"I don't see a problem there. I think Komekko will enjoy getting to see someplace new, won't you?"

"But I just got my new room? Why are you kicking me out all of a sudden?"

Yuiyui knelt down to address the near crying Komekko, saying to her-

"We aren't trying to kick you out, honey. Me and daddy just want to have some... alone time right now is all. I'll come around in a few days to pick you up.Come on, don't you want to go see a new place and spend a little more time with your sister here?"

Komekko shakes her head furiously, making me do another 'urk' reaction.

"What about your big brother? Don't tell me you don't want to spend more time with him now?"

"Hey, don't be putting words into my mouth. If I can stay with big brother just a little longer, then I'll go!"

Cheered my sister as she jumped up and down happily, her previous complaints all but forgotten now.

I now felt even madder here but no worries, I'll have a few extra days to win her back over which is a good thing.

After mom had collected a few of Komekko's things and given them to Yunyun to hold, we said our final goodbyes, gave mom the directions to find the mansion, and then Kazuma used a demi-mana enhanced teleport to send us all right back to the mansion, back to our home!

==================={Part 6: Another End to Another Adventure!}===================

"Ah, it's good to be home again!"

Said Cielo as she collapsed onto the sofa beside me.

Yunyun was also sitting with us as well while Darkness had taken a seat in the chair off to the side.

Currently, Darkness and Yunyun where telling Anna, who was hovering in the air, circling them, of the excitement we had gone through while away at the Crimson Demon village.

I was busy playing with Chomusuke, who was resting on my lap.

And Komekko was snoozing away, snot bubble and all, in the chair on our opposite side, having worn herself out after running around the mansion, going nuts over every single things she saw here.

"Hey guys, we got a letter from Chris while we were gone!"

Came Kazuma as he entered the room from the kitchen.

Anna had been collecting the mail delivered to us while we had been away, placing it on the small prep table in the kitchen for some strange reason.

"What did she say?"

Asked Darkness, our attentions now focused on Kazuma.

He begins to read the letter aloud-

"Dear comrades, I have been able to track the circus troupe all the way to the capital city of Elroad. From what I've learned, they will be remaining here for the next two months before they will be setting out to return to Belzerg to put on a performance at the capital!"

"I am currently in the process of finalizing my plans to have at Alonzo and retrieve that Divine Relic he has in his possession. If all goes well, I should be returning to the mansion within a few weeks time. If I have not returned within one month from the date I have written at the bottom, assume something has happened and, well, please come save my ass for me!"

"PS, I mean it with me NOT coming back in person within the allotted time here. If I send a letter but don't come back in person, then assume that I wrote that letter while under the effects of the relic and come find me anyways. Hope to see you all here soon, Chris!"

After that, we discussed what do do before Kazuma handed Darkness a second letter, this one from her father. An update letter, letting her know how the meeting between the noble houses and the high council went down.

And, after that, there was one more thing we had received. An invitation sent out to all Adventurer's of Axel to come to a celebration being held inside the guild hall, this very night in fact.

A going away party for Taylor and Keith who had accepted the offer to join the Silver Brigade after all.

Guess we had our evening plans decided now, huh?!

(Kazuma POV)

I don't think I've ever seen the guild hall this lively before, except for the night following the saving of the town from being destroyed by the Divine Beast.

I was currently sitting alone within the chaos going on around me, though this mostly by choice.

Back, near the entrance into the main hall, Megumin and Yunyun were with Komekko who was being fawned over by Luna and all the other girls who worked here at the guild as waitresses.

In fact, many of the female adventurer's were also hanging around Megumin's sister, all of whom were doting on her like crazy.

And, from the looks of it, Komekko was relishing in all the attention she was getting here.

Darkness and Taylor were chatting over at the bar; not sure about what but I was assuming it had to do with Crusader related stuff.

Near to them were Keith and Cielo, an odd combination to see chatting together without any third wheels getting involved.

Of course, it wasn't a sign of anything scandalous going on between them. The truth was, the two of them actually called the same city, Veridae, home and were simply talking about things they remember from said home.

Lynn, for some reason, was MIA, as was Dust. I wondered why that was?

"Hey Kazuma, why are you sitting all by your lonesome here? Don't tell me you and those girls you've formed a harem with are suffering a bit of friction here by any chance?"

Speak of the blonde haired devil sporting the red jacket now!

I turn to see Dust as he came to sit beside me, awaiting a reply from me.

"I'm sure you would love that as it would give you a second chance to try stealing them away from me with!"

Dust leans back, looking appalled at my insinuation here!

"What, me? Come now, Kazuma. I would never go do that to a friend here. That's not my style, man!"

"Right?! Anyways, to answer your question; no, there isn't any friction going on here between me and the girls. Just because we aren't sitting together right now doesn't mean nothing weird going on!"

At least, I hope this wasn't a sign that there was something wrong here with us?

Maybe I should get off my ass and go join in with one of them once my conversation with Dust here is over?

"Right, if you say so, man. If you say so!"

Dust took a moment to look around the room, taking a moment to observe the others before turning his attention back onto me.

I sigh, deciding it would be for the best to change the topic of this conversation before it becomes even more of a headache for me.

"Tell me Dust, why aren't YOU taking time to go hang out with Taylor and Keith here? I mean, tonight IS their last night here in Axel before they leave for the capital and all. Shouldn't you be wanting to not waste this last chance you got with them? And also, where's Lynn at? I haven't seen her once since getting here!"

"There's no need for me to go hang out with those two now. We already did our goodbyes and had a private party the other day. As for where Lynn is? She isn't in Axel at the moment. She had to leave early this morning, some sort of emergency back home from what she told us. I don't think she'll be back for a few days, maybe even a few weeks here?"

I nod before turning to look away, my gaze on Keith and Taylor. I wonder what they might be feeling about all this right now. From talking with Dust, it seemed like he wasn't to broken up by all this!

Dust then takes a drink of beer before looking towards his former teammates as well, saying as he does-

"Between you and me, Kazuma. I'm really going to miss those three. I know I was more of a burden to them than a blessing, letting myself get involved in all sorts of messes that they had to then bail me out of. And I know I gave Lynn more grief than I really should have done!"

"Yeah, I made a ton of mistakes I regret. But one thing I don't regret here is the time I spent with the three of them. We may be going our separate ways now, but I know I personally won't ever forget the times we spent together as a team, both the bad and the good. And who knows, maybe one day, when this war is over, we can meet up and go do a quest together, for old times sakes!"

I look over at Dust again, seeing an expression I had never seen on him before.

A look of nostalgia and warmth! Hm, maybe this guy wasn't so bad after all, if you could get around all the layers of trouble he had on the surface!

"So, what are you're plans now? And what about Lynn? You guys gonna try to find some new people to party with you or something?"

Dust shakes his head before finishing off his beer, then letting out a loud burp before looking at me again.

"Nope, we decided to go our separate ways as well. For me here, I've actually already have made a new party with someone here in Axel!"

"Really? Wanna tell me who it is, Dust?"

"He's talking about me, Kazuma!"

Came a familiar voice, making me turn to look back where a familiar figure was now standing.

"Serena? Long time no see. Has being here in Axel been treating you well?"

"It has, quite well in fact. I have already made many friends and gained quite the reputation here, thanks to the dependability of my healing skills. And what about you, Kazuma? How have you been?"

"Well, I'm alive which is saying something considering the lives we live in this world. Did have a rather close call a few days ago, as you can see!"

I then expose my right arm to Serena, showing her the medical bandages I was still wearing.

"Geez, what happened to you there, Kazuma. You're arm must have taken quite the pounding to need bandages like these covering it!"

Commented Dust.

"You could say that! Sylvia, general to the Devil King's forces was attacking the Crimson Demon village. We managed to stop her easily enough but her actions there awakened an ancient super weapon called Medusa. That fight almost cost me my arm here. Luckily, the medical treatments the Crimson Demons possess was able to save my arm. These bandages will remain on me until there's no longer a reason for them too, at which point they'll automatically fall away. I'll probably have to live with a few scars for the rest of my life though!"

"Damn, sucks to be you, huh? Oh well, could be worse. Between you and me, Kazuma, I hear girls dig a man with a few scars, right Serena?"

Serena smiles, saying-

"Well, maybe one or two... Anyways, hold your arm out for me for a second, Kazuma. I can't promise I'll be able to help with any of those scars, but maybe I can accelerate the healing period you have to deal with here!"

I nod as I do as she ask, feeling her powerful healing skill working its magic on my injured limb. Once she had finished, she reaches out and touches my arm, smiling after a second.

"I think it will be OK here. If my guess is correct, these wraps should fall away by late morning tomorrow. Like I said, I can't promise anything about the scars that'll be left behind, but..."

I shake my head, telling her to not worry about it. Like Dust said, maybe those scars will become a turn on for at least one of the girls in my party?

"By the way, seeing as you two have formed a party, what are your plans now?"

I asked, getting Serena to recall something.

"Oh yeah, the reason I came here to begin with. Sorry Dust, but if we're going to be catching the evening carriage to Paegin Cove, we need to hurry over to the transport station real soon. Otherwise, we'll have to wait a few days for the next ride over there."

"Oh yeah, I almost forgot. I better go say another goodbye to Taylor and Keith before we go too."

Dust breaks away from us to go do just that. I then turn my attention back to Serena and ask her-

"So, you two are leaving Axel already? Going to find better opportunities elsewhere?"

She chuckles as she shakes her head at me.

"Our trip is only a short one. We'll be back here soon, hopefully within a couple of weeks if nothing unexpected happens."

I nod, the ask her why the need to even go to begin with?

"I have an old friend from back home, runs under the Ranger class and spends her time working as a treasure hunter, of a sort. Her name is Melissa! She can be a... handful to deal with at times, but she's someone I trust. She also owes me a few favors here. I figured we'd hit her up, see if I can cash in those favors and have her join us, at least for a while here!"

I nod, then turn my attention towards Dust, then back to Serena and ask-

"Sure you want to subject your old friend to that guy? I know you haven't been in Axel long enough, but I'm sure you've already heard a tail or two about him. In fact, I'm surprised you agreed to join up with him here."

Serena laughs, saying that she had indeed heard quite a few things about Dust, but...

"... Despite all that though, when I look at him, I can't help but feel that he may be the one who can help me achieve my personal wish in life!"

"And that would be?"

I asked her, only getting a coy smile in return.

Right after that, Dust finally rejoins us, telling Serena that he was ready to go. He then looks at me and says-

"Oh yeah, before I forget here. Lynn asked me to tell you to keep an eye out for her return. While she didn't know when she'll be back, she did say that there was something she wanted to talk about with you once she did. Not sure what about though. Maybe my buds will be able to answer that when, and if, they come over to chill. Do me a favor, Kazuma. Keep an eye on Lynn for me. That girl is so hopeless without me around to save her!"

"Yeah, sure thing. If you say so buddy!"

I said while giving him a nervous chuckle. I wonder what Lynn will say about that once I tell her.

Dust then suddenly grabs my hand, forcing me into a hand shake here. His actions took me by surprise and I was about to ask what the deal was when I felt it, the item sandwiched between his hand and mine.

He then ends our handshake by making sure my fist was closed before letting go.

"Well, I said my peace here. See you around, Kazuma. Don't go doing anything I wouldn't do here!"

"Please take care of yourself, Kazuma. I look forward to seeing you again here, sooner or later!"

With that, the two of them turned and left the guild hall.

I waited till after they were long gone before sitting back down and opening the palm of my hand.

I then used my free hand to retrieve the slip of paper Dust had carefully passed to me, opened it, and read what was written on it to myself.

"Never let you guard down around this woman!"

I reread it again a few more times before looking back to where Dust and Serena had been standing before.

I didn't know what Dust meant by all of this, but I had an ominous feeling that came from deep within me, telling me I better heed his words, take them seriously here.

I really hope this wasn't a sign of any bad things that were coming in the future...

===================={Epilogue: Advent of the Fisting Master}====================

The city of Veridae, third biggest in all the kingdom of Belzerg.

A few noble families called this place home, as well as the Duchess of Veridae who was cousin to the current king of Belzerg.

And one of the nobles that lived here, said the be the third most powerful house in all of Axel, as well as the richest of them all-

Was house Accord Reuentahl!

And inside the family's mansion, located on their private estate, the head butler, an older man by the name of Gurney, was busy working inside the main office of his lord and lifelong friend.

To be more specific, he was making sure everything in the office was as symmetrically positioned as possible.

Gurney was a symmetry freak at heart.

And currently, he was working on getting his lords work desk put back into its proper position with everything else in the room.

"I swear, my lord sometimes... can he NOT go knocking everything out of position whenever he feels like running around, fisting the air with his boundless energy...? Hm, what's this?"

Gurney could just barely see it, but it was most definitely there; a letter that had fallen under the desk at some point in the past.

He picked it up and looked it over carefully. Judging from the amount of dust that had collected upon it, it must have been under the desk for a few months now.

"Those maids, it would seem they have been slacking off in their duties. When the master finds out, they will surely be put through the gauntlet of the masters fisting regiment!"

Gurney then blows the dust off to better read what was written on the letter-

"Hm, is says "To the family of Ciruelto..." What, does this have something to do with the young lady's mysterious absence as of late? I must inform the master at once!"

Gurney left the room at once, quickly leaving the manner and running over to the smaller building that acted as the masters training dojo. As he stepped inside, he could make out the sound of two woman making some rather strange noises.

Likely the lady of the house and her visiting sister here.

He then entered the main room proper, finding the master standing tall and proud while the two lady's were laid out on the floor, both clearly attempting to recover from their morning training regiment.

"Master Accord, I have found a letter I believe you will want to ready, sir!"

Said man turned back to face Gurney, saying-

"Can it not wait, old friend? I'm currently in the middle of our daily fisting regiment here. As you can see, these two have been slacking off with their training as of late, given how quickly they submitted to me this day!"

Gurney once again looks at them, then back to his master and say-

"Indeed, it is as you say, master. However, I believe you will want to read this now..."

Gurney then tells him of the events that led him to the discovery of the letter and what was written on the front.

As soon as he heard that, lord Accord quickly opened the letter, reading its contents.

As he did, his eyes narrowed and became filled with utter rage.

He then asked Gurney if you knew anything about this 'old castle' spoken of in the letter, being told that it was suppose to be near the city of Axel if memory serves.

Lord Accord then crushes the letter with his might fist before turning his attention to his wife and sister in law.

"Please forgive me, you two. An important matter has come to my attention. One that requires me to take swift, decisive action here. I will be gone for a few days so take the time to rest up for when I return, we shall resume our fisting training and I promise to be as unrelenting as possible!"

With that, Lord Accord and Gurney left the dojo and made their way over to the family's personal stables.

"Gurney, my old friend. Say nothing of this matter to anyone until I have returned."

"I understand, sir. May I ask what your plans are here?"

"I will go investigate this castle, go to Axel if I must and I will find and rescue my poor Ciruelto! And I will also find the one who has taken her hostage as well and when I do..."

He then pumps his dominate arm into the air while proclaiming aloud-

"... I will unleash upon him a fisting of such magnitude that should he be unfortunate enough to survive the encounter, he shall never again be able to walk right!"

Somewhere, back in Axel, Kazuma suddenly found himself having a cold sweat moment.

He couldn't be sure why, but he felt, if only for a second, that his life with in great danger now!

=============================={Arc 5: End...}==============================

Next time: We'll be doing the first of the four planned intermission chapters for this series. Details about that will be at the start of said chapter (expected to be out by Sunday).

In two chapter, we'll begin Arc 6: The Wicked Fruit arc. After having a meeting with Lynn, as well as a talk with Ruffian, Kazuma returns to the mansion to find a strange man waiting for him, a man who begins to come at Kazuma with his fist of fury. Will Kazuma survive this encounter, or will he fall victim to the power of the Fisting art. And where the heck are the girls when all this is going on too?

Image 1:A shot of the quiet girl and the myserious woman over by the tree shaped 'bubble'

Image 2: Kazuma being hugged by Megumin and her family