Sudden Extra Seven
Ch 4: The First of the Five Rings Wounds Part 2
Disclaimer: I don't own Arifureta and Tales of the Wedding Rings characters or their respective universes.
This chapter will contain politics, dialogue-heavy, Drama(Maybe), Romance(Maybe), and world-building, and is a long chapter
Normal Talking "..."
Internal monologue (Hou?)
Telepathy/Cellphone [...]
Spell chasting/ chanting {...}
Mental spellcasting/Skills {...}
Now then onwards with the chapter
World Terra(Hime), The Kingdom of Nokanatika, Royal Palace King's cambers/Hajime's room July 21st R.H.E 1256 8 am multi pov
After heading back into the throne room and seeing everyone bent on their knee in his presence hearing his speech. Soon after getting to know their names and ranks, he'd order them to head back towards their respective territories. And kept doing what they have been doing before he became king. considering it would be counterproductive to suddenly change things around here. He ordered Hime, Alabaster, and someone to bring Yuka to his chambers where finally they'll have a one-on-one. While briefly saying goodbye to Marse for a bit since the Empire's envoys will be staying in the kingdom for a bit.
Soon enough after telling the maid to leave after Yuka came in and saw Hime and Alabaster on the opposite side of him. To which the maid did, leaving the four of them alone in the huge ass room. Thus after Yuka took the right side of him on the couch he was sitting on. He spoke up while giving them a slighlty honest yet cold gaze almost as if they were the presence of a deadly beast or monster.
Hajime "...So...I'm just going to why? Do you have any idea of the severity and foolishness of your decisions? Why did you trick me into coming here using my previous friendship with you...only to become your new husband and King? Beacuse I fucking do." he asks and says in an informing yet strong tone
Hime "I... no we didn't trick you into coming here! Believe me when I say this isn't what I planned to do when I asked for this favor! Please believe when I don't know what came over me into making our current situation" she exclaims in a quick and slight strong tone with a bit panicked yet honest expression at the current state of things
Yuka "Kind of hard to believe your words at the moment Joo-sama, more so having feelings for Hajime-kun from the start," she says blatantly and with a slight sneer calling her title
Hime "I what?! I have no idea what you're talking about!" she says and denies such a thing being caught off guard by Yuka's response to her and slighlty intimidated but her slight hostility and piercing gaze
Hajime "You serious going to play dumb now?Really? So you're saying that your supposed nonexistent feelings for me weren't why you used me? To bail yourself out as a jail-free card from this political marriage. That you before arriving her accepted to go through beacuse it was your supposed duty in marrying that other idiot! You did this thing for shits and giggles at fucking over my relationship with my lover and future wives!" he says and states with a slighlty cold yet controlled tone with a strong ye cold stare.
Hime "THAT isn't what I ment at all!" she says in a panic yet a bit terrified at hearing Hajime's tone with her and gaze as she wants nothing more than to just leave the room or hide in a corner.
Hime "You were just near me compared to Marse and everything was going out of control! You can't blame me in a panic for kissing you in an accident and making you my husband!" she elaborates and informs her reasoning in a slight exclaiming yet honest tone with a worried yet slightly terrified expression with tears threatening to come out
Yuka/Hajime (Bullshit) they both said mentally but didn't say out loud having their mood sour more
Alabaster "Hajime-kun please...the princess is likly speaking the truth of how things went down. You really can't blame her for not having situational and emotional awareness during such a situation. She was on the verge of death before you and Sonobe-san intervened and dispatched the Abyssal King's monsters. More when all in her sight was you. Despite the Empire's second prince being just a few feet to the right of her. Who was in the mists of defending himself with his and our knights? Please don't accuse her of such things as purposely messing with your harem relationship with future wives because she thought it would be funny. She was your childhood friend once before so you should know her well." he cuts in with a strong but respectful gaze trying to do damage control for Hime and yet
Hajime [Even now when you know the true reason why she kissed me during that time. You still try to cover for her as if she was your own daughter huh oji-san?] he says to him telepathically with a strong yet slightly cold tone. Yet still directed his strong yet cold gaze to him using his telepathy skill
Alabaster [Didn't really expect telepathy, sort of gave me a startle a bit. She's just a child Hajime-san much to my dismay when she's just digging her grave at this point. Instead of just for a minute accepting that her love or feelings for her are what made you our King and Ring Hero. And well my subtle impatient the Idea of perhaps having your cooperation in our world's plight. By any means necessary perhaps even using her childhood relationship with you as a means of bringing you here. You've proven you can easily do so earlier today. You can't blame an old man like me for wishing to save my Kingdom and world from our plight. So please don't hate her] he says back in slight shock yet understanding but informing tone while on the outside still having a strong yet respectful gaze. Not letting it show on his face the slight shock he'd felt when Hajime suddenly started to speak into his mind
Hajime [Kind of hard not to when I'll forever know including the girl beside me and my lovers. That even if I don't count this as a legit marriage, I'll forever remember this as my first time marrying someone I don't even love. What she'd done was a high degree of offense to me and my lovers including Yuka-san that should I go back. Do not for a second think Novelty-san will come out untouched. I'd even go further than that in saying she'll be dying countless times for stealing such a big day and moment for them. My lover and future wives aren't the forgiving types.] he says plainly and simply still having a cold yet strong gaze
Alabaster [Not even going to use her last name or nickname you've given her huh? Has your love for my surrogate daughter really gone? and you know I won't just let my daughter be threatened in such a matter. Even if that ment going up against you or your future wives Hajime.] he asks yet states in a strong mental tone still having a strong yet respectful gaze since not even a few seconds had passed since they started the mental conversation.
Hajime [She'd lost that right when she made me her supposed husband and hero. My or any feelings of childish love no crush I had for her dissipated years ago on that day when I'd fallen into the abyss. Oji-san I on one hand if Novelty-san had asked me on whatever friendly relationship left, to help you guys here. I've done so quickly for our past relationship with one another and the help you provided my parents and others. In trying to find us, but now well I'm finding it difficult to do so. More so when I could just head back with this ring on my finger, back home. And never come back leaving you all here to rot to your supposed deathly fate against this Abyssal King.] he continues to say
Hajime [As for the matter of you despite trying to protect Novelty from Yue and the others...despite your threats of hearing them...I doubt you could even wound them considering how much power they are compared to you Oji-san. Would love to see you try in going through with your threat of trying to harm them. It'll be amusing for me in seeing your fruitless endeavor in trying to stop them from killing Novelty from time to time. Life and death are nothing to our group when we can control them at our beck and call. Much like you assume that you have a powerful hero on your world at the moment] he says and states in slight amusement yet little coldness in his tone
Alabaster [Perhaps what you saying is current but that won't dissuade me from protecting her. More knowing perhaps death for her won't mean the end, if what your claiming is true. Still, though I know through your parents that you may have the means of going to and from worlds when they talk about how you're doing. That you've proven to have, meaning my contingency was well placed. I haven't been living this long and earning the Wizard Sage for nothing. You try to see and prove what I mean later. But like I said she's still behaving like her childish self despite given her the choice of not coming here and staying where she was. On earth with you and the others knowing I could've left her in perfect hands.] he says to him in earnest yet respectful with his expression changing to an old yet kind smile.
Hajime [...You seriously would've left her behind to come back here with the rings in hand. Knowing her younger sister that I didn't know about will be taking her place,. You expect too much of my generosity Oji-san in thinking I would've kept herself. More so when her having talked for two years after returning back from Tortus.] he simply says
Alabaster [I know you've looked for her from the shadows while your parents and my good friends would've watched over her from the light. More when she would've moved into your home. Despite whether you moved out with your harem or not after your graduation. Or are you saying your parents knowing the princess as much as you if not more wouldn't have taken her in? You knew despite her looks in your society she'll have a hard time finding a job or career simply for her foreign looks. After all, all your people would assume she didn't speak Japanese. And would try to avoid her since they thought they couldn't help her with what she needed. That sacres your society in not being able to exceptionally help someone. Or even know or speak the English language that is universal on your planet considering the superpower of the world being the United States of America.] he asks and says knowingly
Almost a dozen seconds had passed since Alabaster and Hajime seemingly stared at each other as if they were having a mental conversion. Mostly did consider, that Yuka already knew about the telepathy Hajime passed and she could use using of the artifacts he'd given to all the returnee group. While Hime simply looked to and from them a bit worried yet hopeful that Alabaster's words would help her out. It was then they saw Hajime close his right eye seemingly lost in thought before letting out a weak but tired sigh. Then re-opened it with his strong yet cold expression dissipated replaced with one of authority yet calmness while having a frown.
Hajime "Okay Oji-san I'll take your worlds at face value yet knowing full well how much people change within two years. I'm a perfect example of this as I'm not the boy you once knew and looked after. That doesn't mean I'm just going to let this go easily but for you Oji-san I'll give her the benefit of the doubt just this once. But no more surprises from you or Novelty-san here. This is your single chance to maybe gain some goodwill with me again, and for your sake as well the world you'd better be honest here from now on." he states strongly yet bluntly still retaining his previous expression
Hajime (You have no idea what you'd just unleash in this world, Oji-san. More so in preventing me or Yuka from returning home since we've gotten here or so you'd claimed. So don't blame me if in the future you'll be forced to watch helplessly as your precious princess gets hurt by simply being with me. When she herself denies her feelings at this very moment. Such like what I'm going to do now) he says to himself in a slightly cold yet amused tone going to enjoy this more than he should. After all, it very hard if not impossible to let his non-existent emotions get the better of him. Especially having cutely threatened his precious ones to their rightly deserved wrath
Alabaster "Thanks for your mercy on our princess Hajime...I'll be truthful in what you wish to know. So please ask away," he says honestly yet grateful knowing Hajime is going to be here reluctantly
Yuka "Such a sly Oji-san you are Alabaster-san, that being the case I'll be blunt. Are there other ring bearers such as Novelty-san over here?" she says and asks in Hajime's place has been quiet for a bit
Hearing such a blunt and direct question caused Hime's eyes to also widen and looked quickly to Alabaster. In Alabaster's case hearing such a direct question caused him to have a slight moment of hesitation though it didn't show to his face. Especially knowing such information will hurt Hime and likly even anger the two in front of them more.
Alabaster "Going to start off strong huh? Very well, just please listen to what I have to say with a logical and understanding heart. First off other than the power Hajime world with ease before getting the ring...The Ring Hero gains his or her power with how strong the relationship is with the princess is how strong or increase its power. While it's the princess's job no matter the cost or sacrifice gives the Ring the power to fight. Although that light show you presented was enough to fool everyone, being the sage that I am. Even I know you substituted your mana and power to increase the light of the ring you carry. I know that your power as the ring hero is minuscule compared to the power you have gained before arriving here. That being the case and to fully complete the ring hero's power... there are four more princesses around this world that...Hajime will need to marry to even become a decent ring hero if it stays this way." he continues to say in a serious tone
Alabaster "The ring he currently has The Ring of Light, has the power to repel evil granting the owner light of purification to whatever you hold light priests, nuns, paladins, saints, priestesses, or even saintesses. But without the need for faith and to be even more powerful than them. Alongside the ability to create weapons suited to defeat the abyss and lends you its strength. That being the case I highly doubt he can even use the ring at all other than to Illuminate his surroundings in warm and bright light." he states seriously and bluntly looking directly at both of not seeing the look of disbelief and shock Hime had on her. While Hajime and Yuka simply had a serious expression with both at the same time. Having a slight amused yet a bit self-deprecating grin at having heard what Alabaster said.
Hajime "Polygamy huh?... And I would have to marry four more princesses to gain even a modicum of power. Since I'm assuming this system of gaining power by how close and intimate the respective personas are. Is it a two-way street at making things work?" he says with slight displeasure and an amused grin
Yuka "Are you sure your not actively trying to get yourselves killed? Since it seems to me that's genuinely the case at this moment" she voices out her displeasure as within her hands a knife appeared as she did a bit of trick with it. Though seeing such tricks as moving the blade in between her fingers or flicking it in the air and catching it with two fingers as examples. Likly for entrainment purpose had taken on a different meaning as Alabaster
Alabaster "You say as if polygamy is a bad thing when you yourself are doing such with your future wives yes? But perhaps I should be more exact, the previous ring hero least to what records are left. Did marry each of the five ring princesses but they likly had to do so when they were in the clear. So in all likely hood, they started out as a simple political means for convenience, then being fiancees, and finally, ending up marrying each other. Considering back then it was truly in the dark ages with none of the races being able to do a thing against the Abyss King and his forces. So unless there is a time like how you accidentally married Krystal who had years in advance to get the wedding ready. In all honestly, they'll just become you, fiancees, if that makes the situation a bit better
Hajime "Oh I see that makes it way better...you ain't ask much are you huh Oji-san?" he says a bit sarcastically yet seriously still having a slight frown
Alabaster "You both wanted to know right away and not want any more surprises down the road. Even if you don't care, I wish to see the safety of the Kingdom and the continuation of this world go on. Suppose that means you using your power and being betrothed to four other princesses than your current queen. Then so be, I'd already risked it all in making sure you wouldn't be able to leave till everything is over. Or I can send you back since I'm the only one who even knows the summoning and world transporting spells." he says honestly yet seriously with an old yet veteran air about him
Yuka "Heh and so you don't care what your current queen has to say on the matter? Considering the expression on Novelty's face is very satisfying well for me at least," she says a bit amused yet questioning redirecting their attention to Hime. Who hearing Yuka's world merely sent an upset yet slighlty angered glare
Alabaster "Don't know why she has such an expression when she already knew in having to marry the second empire prince. She wasn't going to be the only one and besides. She'd lost the right to voice her outrage or opinion on how things play out thus forth by coming her in the first place even though both I and perhaps Hajime if only a bit told her not to. And to stay on earth where she'd have a more happy future there. Well, I say how things play out but we all fully know is in the hands of Hajime and his course of action henceforth." he says honestly and bluntly giving Hime a simple yet bit knowing gaze
Hime "I...no it's fine just do what you want" she wanted to speak out but choose to resign herself with a slight defeated yet honest smile while her hands curled into angered fists. As well putting up a brave front as if what was just said didn't bother her as much, but it did greatly.
Alabaster "Come now you don't have to make such an expression. It's not as for now on you just have to be by Hajime's side as eye candy. You can still call him out on dumb or stupid things. Or beat some sense into him when he goes outline. All you can't do is interfere in the decision of him getting four more princesses by his side and forming the intended harem. You knew what you had to do in preventing this situation you've avoided like the plague back on earth. You only have the consequences of your actions to blame in being part of a polygamy relationship. All you can do now in speaking honestly is how you wish to have your relationship with Hajime and other future fiancees going forwards for the rest of your life. Or til the abyss king is defeated being able to decide whether or not you'd wish to be part of said polygamy relationship" he says simply yet respectfully with a strong gaze
Hajime "I guess talking any further would be pointless. I doubt you could tell me anything at all about the ring in my possession that I don't already know. Or rather I likly know about this ring more than anyone in the world. Another thing is that I have a lot to think about and I'm sure my queen thinks the same in going forwards." he says plainly and honestly with a bit strong gaze. Informing everyone whether they liked it or not the discussion had come to end.
Hime says nothing only nodding a bit while having a slight fake smile on her face and one Hajime easily saw through. And so
Hajime "...This is going to be impossibly difficult for you...Hime...more so this is going to be a two-way street between each other and honest. Just know I don't believe you'd just let the emotions dictate your course of action. That being the case here and now to prevent anything from coming up in the future. I don't love you or even had a modicum of feelings for you either. All I have now is mostly familiarity but that's all, and until you can be honest with yourself unlike now. Such feelings for you will remain the same if not...will become worse as time goes on." he continues to say
Hime "You say as if there was a hidden meaning of me kissing you and not doing so on complete accident. Do you truly think in all honesty that I would use our past friendship of bringing you here? To a wedding in another world only to bail out last second on a person I don't know or even like. To kiss you intended on a person I supposedly had feelings for! You think too highly of yourself their casanova thinking you had a childhood friend who wishes to be with you!" she slighlty yes but says with a slightly angered but hurt expression as moved her arms out wide. Almost like a person holding all her pain and anger with tears threating to fall.
Hajime "I forget at times despite being the same age we're like heaven and the earth in terms of mental fortitude. By all rights, I and the rest of my class should be like you at this very moment. In not being truthful to ourselves and having a hold of your emotions knowing when it's the right time for such things. Compliment aside, it's a shame that neither myself, Sonobe-san behind me nor the rest of my remaining class can't be hopeful, naive, and idealistic children anymore. Well, as much we could be part of Japanese society anyways. That being said, Hime..." He informs and continues to say
Hajime "You don't want to become a person that I'll hate or an enemy of mine. Despite what you've done I don't wish for that to happen. It's only the fun memories of us together when we were younger are the only things preventing betrayal, hate anger, rage, and disappointment from coming out." he continues to say with sincerity and honesty with a slight smile looking at her face
Hajime "Please don't make me hate you Hime or make me your enemy as you've already done with the ones I love and care about once I inform them. I'm asking a lot from you since you are only human and haven't had much experience with reality. As everyone within the room already has done, please be the girl who'd helped out way back when. As well as the girl who'd became my second light that shined brightly in the darkness alongside my first. Only then perhaps could our friendship be regained once more" he says honestly to her with an honest smile
Hime "But I'm not hiding anything please believe when I say it was the heat of the moment!" she shouted out with slight tears coming out of her eyes
Yuka "You're expecting too much out of her as it is Hajime. You should know the women's heart isn't cut dry as men are and in all honesty, she truly thinks it was by complete accident. Not to mention her denying what she feels for you not that matters much since her grand plan. Of having you to herself was a bust since she has to share you either way" she cuts with arms crossed under her chest with a slightly amused but sneering smile
Hime "That wasn't what I intended and you know it you bitch!" she quickly turn to face Yuka with tears still flowing down but having an angered look on her face
Yuka "Really?"
Alabaster "Enough this isn't going anywhere as it so please cut it and not fight like children. Is there anything else you wish to talk about before we leave since it seems we weren't too welcome here for understandable reasons" He says with authority and strength in his tone and no-nonsense gaze as he looked at all of them
Hajime "No...since it seems there isn't anything else you hiding from us at the moment...so please politely see yourselves out Oji-san,"
Alabaster "We'll be sure to do so and for what it's worth sorry it had to turn out this way"
Hajime "You did what you set out to do for the of this place, doesn't mean I have to like it. I only say this I would've done something similar if it involved the ones I love or family. Just really upset having been caught and now needing to use me as a proxy to save this fucking planet along with taking on four other fiancees. I don't wish to have along with not wanting to be with Krystal-san."
Hajime (Not counting the fact things might come up of talking more be it willing or otherwise) thought in bit spiteful yet amused at the thought of hurting Hime and the old man by proxy. In getting or messing around with other women but discarded such a rabbit hole. When his lovers and future wives flashed in his eyes causing to have a bit sad expression.
Hime "You do realize I'm right here right?"
Yuka "Don't worry he knows it just shows that he's careless very little about things right now or whose feelings he is hurting"
Hajime "Yuka-san enough, I'm sure she gets it without the need to escalate things further. Don't really wish to see a one-sided beat down at the moment"
Hime (I really want to scream at them and say it won't be the case. But after seeing what she did to that abyssal monster not to mention wasn't afraid of it. I'll just keep my mouth shut till I get stronger.)
Alabaster "In any case please get some rest once you informed your loved one about your situation. Assuming you can do such a thing from here"
Hajime "Kind of hard too considering the situation at hand. I suggest you follow your advice as well since you lot could use it more than us"
Alabaster "Hahaha, perhaps. I hope to see you later on my king"
Hajime "Please don't else I will just punch you. Call me as you've always done since even my rage will be unfurled upon you despite my best efforts to not destroy everything around me"
Alabaster just merely smiles understanding the time for taking as well the kid's patience is at its wit's end. Thus making sure Hime followed him out making sure she doesn't try something with Sonobe-san. As well wishing to say something more to Hajime, both left the room just leaving Hajime and Yuka by themselves in silence before one of them spoke up
Yuka "Guess I'll begin the trail by calling Yue and the others. Just trust in them as you've always done just be aware they will be hurt and don't defend her"
Hajime "May as well get this over with though I won't defend her I just point out one thing since at the end of the day. She was my childhood friend once now a potential enemy should she doesn't clean up her act and sort out her feelings. I don't have the time to play naive and stuttering eroge protagonist at the moment or in the mood to"
With those words leaving his mouth and both letting out tired sighs from the mental strain and having to not explode began the call home. Using the Smartphone artifact that was working as intended. And sure enough, hearing it go through, Hajime set it down so that the hologram display function could be used. As see everyone within the living room. Since it seemed all were awaiting his call...
Earth, Tokyo Japan, Nakano City, Nagumo Household living room July 21st, 9 am Multi pov
Going back a bit all of the like Yuka and Hajime mentioned and most of those inclined toward the supernatural and fantasy side of things. Did awaken or looked towards the sudden pillar of light? Much like that regular civilian who'd fought a glimpse of it and well including those who worked for the government. Kind of hard to hide such a thing as that in plain sight. Much less cover it up when an unknown number of the population within Tokyo and outside of it saw such a thing. Much less catching either videos or pictures of such a thing that was up for a good dozen or so seconds before vanishing. Such as now being the hottest and most talkable subject within the internet sphere and media.
But in the case of the Nagumo family or rather later half of the household is Yue and the rest of the harem. Have been awake and awaiting Hajime since his last supposed outing with Hime. Hearing stories from Hajime's parents was in fact Hajime's crush and likly been the person he'd gone out with eventually. Should the incident didn't take place or even met Yue down in Orcus. So much so that to kill time the being little mischievous decide to look through a family album of Hajime's younger years. As well as seeing home videos and embarrassing Hajime during his dark past of having a case of 8th-grade syndrome. That showed from time to time a younger version of Hime in cosplay during Comiket or them having a family picnic with Hime's guardian named Alabaster.
Thus when having suddenly felt an immense surge of magic and mana and seeing the pillar. Followed soon after Hajime's call that turned into a message of him breaking his promise to them a bit. By going with Yuka to Hime's world to see her wedding since they didn't answer in time from the obvious shock and surprise of the mana pillar. Thus by the time, the message ended Yue was the only one to use Spacail Magic effectly to teleport out of the home and where Hajime and Yuka's location was previously. Only to the back of Hajime and Yuka going through the portal arms locked before said total closing on her. But gave her immense caution and worry seeing the remaining symbols and words of the massive circle. Since it read that only the caster could use the spell to come back or send someone back before it cut off vanishing with the portal.
Not surprising and with the added headache through the telepathic net Hajime set up for all their classmates and families. As well as the Section 3 Returnee Response division bureau who wanted to know what the hell was going on. And informed them about the pillar of light as well as asked for assistance should their investigations. within the location site turn violent like many other supernatural or fantasy cases within Japan turn up. Since the plantation of World Tree(Branch of it) in London England a month back.
Thus after all having to briefly explain what was going on and that Hajime along with Yuka headed off into Hime's world. All were satisfied with their answers and soon all communications with everyone ended again. Simply asking when Hajime and Yuka come back from their otherworldly senpai's wedding. To call all of them so that they could get details and gril both Hajime along with Yuka. About their sudden but little date to the other world something that Yue and the rest agreed to do.
So after hours of waiting and watching, all of them in their finally heard Yue's Smartphone ringed, and sure enough, after answering it and setting it down. The lot of them saw a serious but guilty-looking Hajime and a bit angered but also guilty-looking Yuka. Staring at them something that the lot of them had alarm bells within their mind rang out. More so when they all zeroed in on the new ring Hajime had on his ring finger that increased it ten-fold. Something that Hajime noticed them doing and simply gave them a more guilty but wrathful expression. When they saw him look to the ring in question as well before one of them finally spoke up within the tense but cold silence.
Kaori [Hajime-kun, Yuka-chan you look rather tired...Also, a bit late in calling us, you'll be coming home don't you think?]
Hajime [You could say that, though I only wished I was calling a bit late in telling you all. That I'll be seeing you soon]
Yuka [I for one wished to also say that was the case...but the expressions we have on tell it all that isn't the case. We won't be coming home sadly as much as we wished to sadly. Though it goes without saying we aren't saying in Novelty's world willfully]
Yue [...Hajime, Yuka...Does it have to do with the ring?]
Hajime [It has to do with this ring and more. I could only lament now till my unfortunate duty ends I had wished I'd brought you guys along with me. And not listen to my QUEEN's suggestion in bringing one of you with me. To her stupid wedding since I can't transmute this ancient thing off me without killing myself. And that wouldn't even free me from this thing since it fused with my soul. So even if I revied with my artifacts it's be attached and come back with me once more] they shared him say with a bit distant and rage yet having a very guilty expression. Only to ease a bit when they saw Yuka give him a reassuring pat on the back
But that only caused only more unease to them to swell within as well every so slowly they could feel their hearts crack in emotional pain. Knowing full well that whatever Hajime and Yuka are going to say next. After one of them asks what the hell happened and what Hajime ment by his Queen is going to be something they wished they never heard. But they still had to ask anyways since it was clear both were coming back meaning all their plans for the summer break may as well be thrown into the trash.
Yuka [Yue, Shea, everyone please bear in mind what Hajime-kun is going to say next is something he didn't do willfully. I just hope this unfortunate incident in your relationship with Hajime-kun, doesn't come to end it. Especially after everything you've been through and knowing him so well. But I'm not going to lie it's going to hurt and anger you a lot. Likely a whole lot more than what I'm currently feeling at the moment watching everything unfold like a bad movie]
Tio [...Goushujin-sama no Hajime...please tell us what happened over in that world and what you ment by your previous statement]
Hajime [I'm sorry to say but none of you will become my first wife and perhaps likly even beyond that. Should things like today happen again till everything is settled, not even Yue can't ever become my first wife anymore...I cheated on all of you unwillfuly or otherwise that fact remains the same. I could only say I'm sorry] they all heard him say in pained yet filled with an angered expression almost as if he wishes to weep. But for only him to protect himself face down before then not wanting to look at them
Silence descended within the room and unnoticed by all when Shuu, Sumire, and Myu came down from their rooms. Only to barely listen in on what was happening within the tense living room. Only to see and hear clearly what had Hajime just said shocking the three of them. But for the rest, something within them cracked something of untold pain priced deep within their hearts. Something tainted and dark was surging within them encouraging them to be rageful, encouraging them to despair, encouraging them to doubt their realtionship, encouraging them to go out a hurt him as he did to them just now.
Tears of rage, despair, sadness, and disbelief began to fall from their eyes. The stronger ones though hadn't given in to cold a dark feeling within their hearts and minds. Well, at least not listening to the whispers about doubting their relationship. Or go and cheat on Hajime as he'd done to them. But all knew Hajime wasn't one to pull cruel jokes on them like this as such he was speaking the truth. Yuka's expression next to him tells it very clearly what he is saying is the truth and likly the one he didn't cheat them on with. Considering she doesn't have the same ring on her ring finger. But the thing was for certain none of them were in the best state of mind to say something at moment. But there were few who could still ask in their place and perhaps get answers without their emotions getting in the way
Shuu [Musuko...Please elaborate further on what you ment. More so when I and Sumire know we'd never raised you as man or monster now who would go and cheat]
Sumire [Please for the sake of Myu and the others here. Please from the top explain what's going on and we'll from here make sure none of the girls interrupt]
Myu [Myu wishes to know why as well papa. Why would you hurt mama and the others onee-chans this way when I know you aren't this type of person? Especially not with Yuka onee-chan when it would've been a bit easier. And understandable it was with her considering your secret relationship as husband and mistress.]
Yuka [Myu-chan, Shuu-san, Sumire-san...] she said a bit ashamed yet a little grateful in knowing even now if Hajime had cheated on them with her. It would've been understandable in their eyes and more accepting of it. But wouldn't be as hurt by it as they are now knowing it wasn't her he cheated on with and in turn had hurt her as well. Likly knowing perhaps she had confessed her feeling to Hajime but in turn he not being able to accept her feelings. More so at this point in time with something serious as this. That she could see the doubt in Aiko, Liliana, and Remia's eyes likly questioning their relationship with Hajime. This was understandable in her eyes since they didn't undergo the trials within the Seven Great Labyrinths within Tortus. Besides the one labyrinth, Aiko did but certainly not the horrible and gut-wrenching one in former demon king territory
Hajime [Otou-san, Okaa-san, Myu-chan...I..well think you...to start it began with...] they saw him flash them a week smile while being on his knees after he'd uplifted his head to see them. Also, likely noticed the expression on Yue and the others and the doubt beginning to form within Remia, Liliana, and Aiko. But not bothering to say anything even if it hurt him knowing that.
So all of them watched and Heard Hajime's tale from when he and Yuka arrived at the wedding and how within the span of an hour or more. Things began to spiral out of control for everyone involved. As well as knowing who was the unfortunate official first wife of Hajime, along with him likly having to gain four more beacuse of his new duty as the Ring hero. About how he isn't able to return back without Alabaster's help since in mid explanation. Myu had asked rightfully so if he could use the compass and crystal key to get here.
Or even the Fairy Key to which none of them worked before continuing on. Such as the enemy this world he was up against, him being the temporary king of the country he was in. But as well which over the course of a few hours saw Hajime's expression turn more guilty but continued madness filled with spite and anger within. Before asking them a hard question knowing this time he was going to hurt all of them only to get back and spite Hime even more.
Obviously not to use Yuka in his spiteful venture and request of them since it would be wrong of him to do so. Along with the unfortunate politics he's involved in now beacuse of his new status as King but all knew he'd cared very little for such things. By the time his explanations and play-by-play of what had happened and his painful request and permission to do his plan.
It was already 11 in the morning with all of them sipping coffee or tea during the explanation and so
Hajime [...And so you know everything up till now and my horrible request of you that was only fueled by emotions honestly] they heard him finish dawning a shameful yet guilty expression but all saw his body tremble. Likly trying to contain and not let the rage and anger that was trying to get out during his calm but direct explanation of events.
Since he was already hurting Yuka as well and knows her genuine feeling now for better or worse in this situation. The rest though had to do everything in their power to not break mugs in their hands. From the various emotions, they were feeling beside Shuu and Sumire who through their son's entire explanation. Could only be stunned in disbelief and slightly lament their son's misfortune at times. Yet felt a bit betrayed by Alabaster's action but understood where the old man was coming from. But they knew it wasn't going to fly for Yue and the others. Each of their expressions with devoid of warmth such as Tio having a serious expression and a regal aura around her. Letting all know this was serious. Especially her eyes having her draconic pupils narrowed in controlled yet cold anger. Even Myu for perhaps the first time they have seen her had dawned a somewhat cold yet bit angered expression
As well for the first time since Hajime's transformation had dawned a weak but slighlty helpless expression something they've used to seeing in the old Hajime. Even more so hearing his ludicrous request fueled by spite and malicious emotions as he stated. Against the girl he'd used to call a childhood friend knowing well, that he was going to hurt Yue and the others more. This time willfully just to make Queen and first wife suffer for making him her king and hero of her world. They really wished to say something but this was a situation beyond their control or even having a say in the matter. This was all up to their son and his harem to decide their next course of action. As well as how to proceed within their relationship going forwards. This pained their hearts seeing everyone they love in such a state and almost at their throats.
Shuu/Sumire (Why did this have to happen now...Hime, Alabaster you don't know how lucky Yue and the others don't have the compass or crystal Key to get to you. Though isn't saying much when you have my son trapped with you there.) They thought in sadness and a bit pained expression need to turn away from everyone
Something despite their current states Yue and the others noticed in the corner of their eyes. Something that caused all of them to bite down on their lips a bit causing them to bleed. Knowing fully well how the situation doesn't just involve Hajime and themselves but his parents and likly the rest of their families when they hear about this. Since Hajime wasn't one to hide something(Unless it's about testing his romance creations and artifacts but isn't here or there) this major from the family. Especially one affecting them this much, they all knew for certain their relationship had taken a major shift.
Being in a bad or worse situation they couldn't tell if things will change. But that doesn't mean that this incident despite being horrible and in their faces. Couldn't be enough to break what they have together but it was certainly trying its best with Hajime's vicious ad spiteful request of them. All in hope of getting back at that bitch who dared take her place as the first wife.
They didn't care as much about the other potential wives Hajime might have in that world before marrying them. Considering they are there to spat on that bitch's efforts in trying to keep Hajime for herself. Intentional or otherwise they did not care since the fact remained they by her hands pushed them aside. To claim the title of the first wife. Even if they wouldn't count it or the rest after as wives of Hajime. They knew, for now, and however long they'll live who Hajime's first wife was and one he didn't even love. As he admitted to himself and even had told that Queen of his so.
But they did wish to yell at him though for giving that girl a second chance to redeem herself in his eyes though since he stated. Hime was at their mercy even more so when they don't know how long he'll be in that world. It could be for a week even up to a year at worst should it take that long. They were going to yell at him for it though once they've said their peace. And knowing his request it was only fair of them to place one on their own fueled by emotions or rather two requests that Liliana, Aiko, and Remia had cooked up. One that would hurt Hajime a bit but it would be a price he would have to ease their emotions and hearts. One of which Yue and the others agreed to have a mental private conversation with themselves. The other thought a bit more reluctant to allow them to go through with it but understood it was their right to ask their fiancee for such a thing.
They had already made up their minds on how to proceed to punish Hajime and how to answer his request but they had to get one thing out of the way. Now that beacuse of this infidelity and their fiancee knew about Yuka's feelings. Along with not knowing how long they were going to be stuck in that world something that didn't need their fiancee's opinion. Considering this was their way for now of getting back to him for going off without their approval to that world. So they were going to do and speak about something he will have no say in.
Thus after a long silence and dealing with their internal struggles one of them being Yue who was the head of the harem spoke up
Yue [Hajime...we are going to request you to leave that room for bit so that we can speak to Yuka alone. Please understand]
Hajime [...I do...just let me know when you guys decide on what to do yeah?]
Myu [Don't worry papa we'll be sure to let Yuka onee-chan know when it's the right time to call you in. Do know though you won't be allowed to know what we say and discuss with her. Till it comes the right moment for her to tell you to okay?]
Hajime [That's reassuring a bit frightening if being honest. Just please don't direct your anger to her will you since she isn't the one who caused this mess]
Liliana [We are reasonable and understanding beings Hajime, we know it isn't her who earns our anger. Do know though that girl you call your wife now even if you don't wish to do so. Will not get mercy from us do note that future husband of ours]
Hajime [Not that I expected anything less from you guys...I'll see you all in a bit I guess]
At his words they all see him leave his hologram frame only seeing Yuka looking in the direction of where likly the door is at. Only to hear it close informing them all that indeed it was just Yuka in the room. As well knew Hajime wasn't the kind of monster to use his skills and abilities to eavesdrop on what they were going to say. Thus all of them seeing Yuka letting out a sigh heard her speak up
Yuka [So then...I guess fellow victims of mine if we can call ourselves that after today's incident. And have fallen in love with a monster we know. What is it that you all fiancees of the monster I love? Wish to talk about or rather if thinking correctly ask of me the supposed mistress of your fiancee?]
It wouldn't be till a good hour till Hajime was allowed back into the room once Yuka and the others were done talking. And thus answering Hajime's request with an agreeing vote if only. He'd accept the two requests given to home by Remia, Liliana, and Aiko with the second one could be done once he comes back. But the first much like his request of them will be done as soon as they can. As well as what to expect in their harmonious relationship going forwards is going to be. By the end of the call, all of them had left very bitter tastes in everyone's mouths.
Back to King's chambers/Hajime's room July 21st R.H.E 1256 1 pm Hajime and Yuka pov
Hajime "...God fucking admit!" he yelled out in frustration, anger, heartache, and sadness having easily punched a hole through the floor before transmuting back to normal
All the while Yuka could only look at such a sight before looking up towards the ceiling knowing the difficult and hard request she'd accepted. Given to her by Yue and the others before speaking up
Yuka "What's done is done...it's been a long day why don't we go to sleep now since we do have things to do later on in the day. We could use it after all" she pointed and motioned towards the King size bed. Yet still having a tired but sad expression on her face with the other hand extended it down to Hajime's kneeling form.
Hajime "...Fine...just give me space since I need all the leg room I could get. I'll make sure to give you your space on the bed as well," he says grabbing her hand and pulling himself up
Yuka "I'd appreciate it thanks...come on we have a long day ahead of us"
At her words and without saying anything more both after locking the room along with various barriers around the said room for extra protection. Both after disrobing into theirs. Since they very well couldn't sleep in their kimonos back turned their backs on one another with a good few feet of empty space between them. As they pulled their covers and blankets over their forms. Since they couldn't care about sleeping so close with one another or in their boxers/lingerie after today. So they slowly closed their eyes just hoping this all was a horrible nightmare they'd dreamt about. And something they could perhaps laugh about with everyone about having said dream and them getting a laugh as well...sadly when they awoke a couple of hours later that wasn't the case...
...To be continued...Maybe
Hope you guys the chapter were decent and did the various interactions with each of the characters. A decent job as well along with hoping the bit drama or romance aspect. Decently written and understandable for each of the characters as well. though that could be just me the author thought it was and you guys may find a bit of an issue with it. Will accept reviews or criticisms about it along with the chapter as a whole, though that's only if you wish to leave or write one.
That being said in case one of you says No MYU will not be part of Hajime's harem or future when she grows up. All I have to say about that is that someone or various individuals fit into Myu's criteria of who she'll give chance. As well hook up with permanently moving away from her love of Hajime as she mentioned she had in WN Arifureta After Story: As the Daughter of the DemonKing Arc. But that's way down the line being I might write a story about her and her ventures in finding the one or multiple who stole her heart as Hajime did. And not relevant to this story at large.
Anyhow for sure, the next chapter will cover up the last of the first vol and perhaps a bit of the second since I didn't get to it in this chapter. So the next chapter whenever it comes out well. Pick up where this one left off with a slight time skip during a certain bath scene with Hajime, Hime, and Yuka being face to face once more.
Again hope the chapter was decent enough and hope to see you guys in the next one. Have a good day or night where ever you are. Till then guys.
