House of Tempest

Another day, another part of our extended field trip over with. So far it seemed like everyone in our class was really enjoying themselves. The sights we went to as well as the amazing food we got to try made it clear our trip was a success and I think many of the students found something to do after high school all thanks to this trip. For now though it was time to relax and we were all in the dining hall of the new hotel we were staying in all while in robes as we sat together in our respective groups enjoying a fantastic meal after another eventful day of sightseeing.

Framea: Wow this is so good! The way the herbs blend together with the rest of the meal is incredible! This is definitely getting three stars from me!

Yukari: I agree, think we should add something about the hotels we stayed in to our next issue of the school paper?

Framea: I don't see why not. I actually think I have too many ideas and it's going to be a pain to sort it all out.

Shuna: If that's the case I'd be more than happy to help you out.

Mizore: Count me in too, I'm actually kind of curious about what you found during our trip.

Framea: Thanks, I'll definitely keep that in mind.

Kurumu: By the way where's Kazuto, he's been gone for the past 10 minutes.

Moka: I think he's calling his family, I remember him mentioning that we're actually close to where he lives so I guess he just wanted to check up on them.

Miia: That's good, now that I think about it I should probably give my mom a call too. I haven't seen her in a while and I didn't get a chance to see her during Parents Day a few months back.

Kurumu: Sorry to hear that. Why couldn't she make it?

Miia: She actually caught a cold the day before and when she woke up she wasn't feeling very well. Thankfully my sisters were there to keep her company as well as look after her.

Framea: Speaking of your sisters how are they?

Miia: They're doing well, they also congratulated us on getting a boyfriend and hope we introduce Kazuto to them someday soon. Although...

Yukari: Although what?

Miia: Oh nothing, it's just that while I am disappointed that my mom couldn't meet Kazuto, at the same time I'm also a bit relieved that she didn't.

Yukari: What makes you say that?

Miia: Well... it kind of has something to do with lamia traditions involving finding a suitable mate.

It took a moment for Yukari to catch on to what she meant as her expression showed the others that what Miia was referring to was actually kind of shocking.

Yukari: Hold on, are you saying what I think you're saying!?

Shuna: Yukari is everything alright?

Moka: Miia what are you talking about?

She then took the time to explain how when a lamia finds a suitable partner that he is considered the property of their whole clan. In essence she was worried about the possibility that if I were to become her husband one day that would mean I would also become the husband of every lamia in her family's clan.

Miia: Since my mom is actually the leader of a clan of lamias it would mean that she would make me share Kazuto with all 100 members other than myself.

Kurumu: Wait a sec, so Kazuto would be a communal husband!?

Miia could only nod her head in embarrassment at that fact. The other girls looked rather worried about that possibility and had agreed to talk about it more with me in a more private setting when the opportunity presented itself.

Shuna: I'm sure that if we explained the situation to him then we can settle the matter once and for all. After all it's as Miia said, the tradition is quite old and it's not like it must be followed to the letter.

Miia: That is true. However there are still some lamia tribes that follow the older traditions to this day. That isn't to say we all follow those rules but it's important to keep an eye on them just in case. My mother did follow that rule with my father which is why my sisters and I don't look anything alike but he chose to follow our traditions.

Mizore: So what you're saying is that there is a chance we don't have to share Kazuto with anyone outside our group?

Miia: I believe so. For now let's just continue to enjoy our trip and we can talk about this with Darling another day.

From that point on it was agreed to continue the matter at a later date. As long as I was made aware of the topic beforehand we could hopefully avoid any problems down the road before we got involved. It was at this time that I entered the dining hall and made my way to the buffet table and before long I came back to the girls with a healthy portion of food on my plate. When I sat down the girls looked a little on edge only for them to quickly recover before I got suspicious of their behavior.

Yukari: Hey there Kazuto, so how was your call?

Kazuto: It was good, my parents wanted me to tell you that they hope your enjoying your trip and that they miss you.

Yukari: Aww that's so sweet of them. Next time you call them can you tell them that we miss them too.

Kazuto: Actually I had something a little different in mind.

Miia: What do you mean?

Kazuto: Do any of you girls have plans for tomorrow?

They all took a moment to look at one another before they each responded by saying no.

Kazuto: In that case what do you say I take you girls to visit my place. We aren't all that far since I know of a warp gate near here. It can transport us to the cave in my backyard since my dad just finished setting one up not that long ago.

Shuna: Really?

Kazuto: Yeah. So what do you girls say, want to come over to my place?

Girls: Absolutely!

That was fast, at least that went easier than I thought. After dinner ended we went to talk to Ms. Nekonome about our plans for tomorrow, since it was a free day she agreed and asked us if we planned on spending the night at my house. At first I thought against it, even though we had more than enough space I thought the girls might be a bit uncomfortable with that-...

Girls: Yes we're spending the night with him!

Never mind. I guess they'll be sleeping over. Of course as I just mentioned I had no problems with this, except for maybe the fact they shouted this in front of everyone just now. Anyway Ms. Nekonome told us that a separate bus would pick us up the day after tomorrow around 10:30 a.m. to take us back to school. After that we went to our rooms to get some sleep since the girls wanted to wake up early so we could head out.

Girls: ( I can't wait for tomorrow. )

The next morning the girls practically dragged me out from my room and insisted that we get a head start on going over to my place. They only stopped when I pointed out it was still early and that we should at least have breakfast first before we made our way over. Once we finally had a bite to eat I took a quick moment to make sure I had all my belongings as well as the gifts we bought for my parents before we made our way to visit.

The warp gate I mentioned last night was located near an old shrine that used to belong to a family of harpies that knew my mom. While the family no longer lived here the shrine is still visited by lots of people every now and then, especially during festivals as well as the last shrine visit for the year. Even after they moved away several years ago they said that our family was welcome to use it whenever it was necessary as long as we kept it a secret that the gate was more than just a decoration from those outside our family. The girls were a bit concerned since I told them about it but I assured them that there wasn't anything to worry about.

Kazuto: As far as I'm concerned you girls are a part of my family. That's not going to change anytime soon.

It was probably my imagination but I think I saw little hearts in their eyes after I said that. Once we reached the shrine we walked all the way up the steps until we saw a large decorated tile etched with an intricate design located in the middle of it. To most people they would look at the ornate patterns and think nothing of it, but to a trained eye you could see past certain markings and make out the obvious pattern of a magic circle designed for teleportation. We all stepped into the circle as I focused my power into it and envisioned the warp gate located back home, a moment later and we then find ourselves inside one of the caverns that I used for training.

Moka: Uh Kazuto are you sure we're in the right location?

Kazuto: Of course I am. This is just one of the caverns I use to train. Just follow me and we'll be out in no time.

Three minutes later and soon enough we see light shining from the end of the tunnel as we made our exit. After coming out from the cave we could see the expanse of my backyard with my house several feet away. Rather than leading them inside I walked them around towards the front, I explained to them that around this time my mother would normally be watching her shows on t.v. and dad and I learned a long time ago that it was better for us to not scare her by coming into the house from one of the back rooms when she's busy watching her shows.

Framea: What happened the last time you guys came in from the back?

Kazuto: Apparently as a kid my mom would often get pranked by her siblings since she was easily scared. Last time my dad and I came in from the back by mistake she threw a vase at us that almost hit us if we didn't jump out of the way in time.

Once we made it to the front the girls got a good look at my house for the first time. All of them with the exception of Shuna since she's been here before were impressed that I lived in a big place.

Shuna: If you think this is impressive you should see the inside, it's much bigger than it looks.

Kazuto: Shuna's right, my dad had embedded some space alteration magic making the space inside our house bigger than you'd ever think.

Kurumu: Awesome, I can't wait to see what it looks like.

Yukari: Well what are we waiting for, let's go already!

Before we could head inside we heard footsteps making their way towards us. From around the corner came a man in a business suit walking towards our group.

????: I have to say I'm very disappointed in you Tempest. What would your dear mother say if she were to find you skipping school and instead spending your time with a group of, admittedly attractive young women?

We turned to the voice to see the gentleman in question looking at us. More specifically he was looking at me and while he appeared to be smiling I knew that he wasn't being friendly. His smiling face was nothing more than a facade as I could clearly see the animosity hidden beneath.

Kazuto: I can assure you Mr. Edmaris that I am not skipping school. My friends and I are actually in the middle of a school trip and today we have a free day to spend as we wished. I wanted to invite them over to my home and show them around the neighborhood I grew up in as well as spend time with my family.

From the tone of my voice the girls knew I wasn't a fan of this guy. My hands were trembling and I knew they could feel my power slowly rising, as if I was ready to attack this guy the instant he made a move I didn't like. I did my best to sound friendly but it was making me sick to my stomach that I had to act this way in front of him.

Sugou: Is that so, well do forgive me for reading the situation wrong. I just find it hard to believe that you would take the time to go sightseeing rather than keeping up your studies. After all it seems to me that the men of the Tempest family have no sense of hard work and often spend their time leisurely doing whatever their hearts desire than finishing any actual work.

Kurumu: And just what is that supposed to mean!?

Sugou: My dear, if you must really know it's that the Tempest's have an embarrassingly low work ethic. Whenever I see his father at work all he ever does is laze around or give his work to others in our company. I don't think I've ever seen him do anything productive for as long as he's worked there. Why my father hasn't fired him yet I will never know.

Kazuto: ( muttering ) Why you son of a-...

Before I could finish that little remark I felt Yukari grabbing my hand in an effort to calm me down. I faced her and saw her expression, she was getting worried that I would let my anger get the better of me so I took a quick moment to calm down before it came to that.

Sugou: As much as I would love to continue this conversation I really must be on my way. Please give my warmest regards to your beautiful mother. And if I were you girls I would stop associating with trash like young Kazuto here, he doesn't have the same standing worthy of your beauty and I would hate to think of him dragging you to his level when you clearly can do better.

None of the girls responded to his remarks as they remained quiet all while glaring at him. He made no attempts to hide his flirting, this man just kept finding new ways to piss me off. Once I was sure he was out of sight I hit the gate of my home as hard as I could. The barrier around our home activated and held off my attack easily as I took a few moments to calm down.

Miia: Darling, are you okay?

Kazuto: I'm fine, it's just that I can't stand that guy. Ever since my father started working at the company he's been constantly antagonized by him for years. Not to mention that he constantly flirts with my mom and he's made no attempts to hide what he really thinks of me.

Framea: That's disgusting.

Moka: Agreed. Your mom is a happily married woman and why does he constantly treat you like that?

Kazuto: If I had to guess I think it's because I remind him of my father. The fact that we have similar personalities and that we aren't afraid to stand up to him must really get under his skin.

Mizore: I can't believe that your dad works for a creep like him. So who was that guy anyway?

Kazuto: His name is Sugou Edmaris, he's the son of the company president who happens to be my dad's boss. He thinks he can say and do whatever he wants and treats all the other employees as his servants. He thinks of himself as king of the castle and that his word is law. The only person to stand up to him was my dad, he's continued to defy him for years and because of that more and more people have followed his lead.

( Quick note: for those who are curious yes Sugou's appearance will match that of the same character from Sword Art Online of the same name. )

Kurumu: Well let's forget about him, right now we should focus on having a good day. So aren't you about to invite us inside sweetie?

Looking back at the girls I felt myself calming down and I lead them through the gate and to my front door. I knocked on my door and not a moment later I felt myself getting grabbed by my mom as she gave me a warm hug.

Mom: Welcome home honey! I'm so happy you decided to come visit and I see you brought your wives home too!

Girls: WIVES?!

Kazuto: Mom! Don't you think it's way too soon to be thinking that far ahead?!

Mom: Why? I know for a fact that you and them are going to be living a happy life together. Not to mention that I have been keeping contact with Akasha, Tsurara, Albis, Mrs. Sendo, even Ageha and we've already started planning your wedding.

Us: WHAT?! WEDDING?!

We then saw the coffee table that was in front of the couch and saw it littered with magazines on wedding locations, cakes, dresses and a bunch of other stuff that I didn't think we would have to worry about for at least a few more years.

Kazuto: Mom why are you doing all of this? Don't you remember that I just got out of being married a few months back when you guys came to visit?

Mom: I know, but there's nothing wrong with planning ahead for the future. The fact that you have 10 girlfriends is astonishing so me and the other girls decided to get a few ideas down so it won't be a hassle down the line.

She then leaned closer to me and whispered something that l hoped the other girls wouldn't hear.

Mom: ( whispering ) Not to mention the fact that when the time comes I'm not going to be the only one expecting grandkids.

Kazuto: ( Grandkids?! )

I didn't know it at the time but I accidentally transmitted that thought using Thought Communication and the girls instantly turned red when they caught wind of it.

Mom: Well I suppose we can discuss other ideas another day. You all came to visit and it would be rude of me not to offer my future daughters some refreshments. Kazuto can you please follow me into the kitchen and help me.

With that I embarrassingly followed behind her as the girls continued to stand in place all while their imaginations ran wild.

( Moka's pov )

Kids?! With Kazuto?! I can't believe that they were already planning on us having kids already. Admittedly I have thought about it occasionally. I remember that when we were younger that I sometimes imagined getting married to Kazuto and starting a family. When we reunited those memories became more clear and even now I couldn't help but think about what it would be like to be husband and wife.

( Moka's mindscape )

After a long day I hear the doorbell ring, I quickly make my way towards the door as I can hear the voice of my wonderful husband on the other side.

Kazuto: I'm home.

I open the door as fast as possible while jumping into his arms with a warm smile on my face. He catches me all while a small chuckle escaped his lips as he holds onto me lovingly.

Moka: Coming! I've been waiting for you, Darling.

Kazuto: Honey! Gosh, when are you going to stop jumping into my arms when I come home from work?

Moka: I can't help it, especially since I've been waiting all day for you.

Kazuto: At least I've gotten used to calling each other nicknames now. I'm not as nervous as I used to be when we started doing this.

Moka: I'm really glad you did, it's always been my dream to call each other that with the man I love.

After taking his briefcase and his coat for him I would lead him to the kitchen where our dinner was all prepared and laid out perfectly.

Kazuto: Oh? Something smells good!

Moka: Today is a special day after all. I made the first meal I've ever made for you, meat and potato stew.

As we sit at the table I then would take a piece of potato off my plate and blow on it before offering to feed it to him.

Moka: Here Darling, say " Ahh ".

His face would get so red from embarrassment that I have to control myself from laughing at how adorable he looks.

Kazuto: I'm fine! This is embarrassing.

Moka: Come on, just say " Ahh ".

He then finally complies as he eats the portion I gave him. At first I worry that I screwed up the recipe since he doesn't say anything for a while before he swallows and looks at me full of happiness and excitement.

Kazuto: This is good! You've really outdone yourself Moka!

Moka: Really?

Kazuto: Yeah! Your meat and potato stew is the best!

Moka: Thank you, I put a lot of hard work into it.

Just hearing him say that to me made my heart melt. I didn't think it was possible but I probably fell in love with him even more than when we were kids.

Kazuto: Now it's your turn Honey, say " Ahh ".

Moka: Huh? What? M-Me too?

Now I was getting embarrassed. Even after being together for a while he never fails at finding new ways to make me flustered. I gathered up my courage and I began to lean forward towards the food he offered to me. Just as I was about to take a bite he then playfully moved to food out of the way before I could get any. He then began to laugh as I just began to pout at him for tricking me.

Kazuto: Sorry, sorry! I couldn't help it, you just look so cute that I can't resist teasing you a bit.

Moka: ( muttering ) Dummy.

After dinner the two of us are cuddling on the couch while enjoying some wine and enjoying the warmth from one another and the fireplace giving us a soft glow as the peace and quiet surround our happy home.

Kazuto: I can't believe it's only been one year since we got married. And yet we're still crazy about each other as ever, maybe even more.

Moka: I know, I don't think we'll ever stop being crazy about one another.

Kazuto then takes my hand and kisses where I was wearing my wedding ring. I would then cuddle closer to him as I began to grow more needy for his affection. My face would begin to grow more flushed as I wished for nothing more than his gentle touch.

Moka: Darling, I think I may have gotten a little drunk.

Kazuto: Gosh, Honey. You're so spoiled.

Moka: What's wrong with that? We're a married couple after all.

I then take my hand and place it on his cheek as I look at him with a combination of love and seduction in my eyes.

Moka: Aren't you forgetting something important?

Kazuto: What? Something important?

Moka: You know, that thing we always do.

I lean in closer all the while giving him the bedroom eyes as I then whisper into his ear.

Moka: You haven't had your welcome home kiss yet.

I then faced him as I placed his hands firmly below my waist as his cheeks grew red. Feeling his grip tighten ever so slightly as I leaned in so our lips could meet.

Moka: Kazuto.

Kazuto: Yes Moka?

Our lips were only centimeters apart as I was ready to show my husband just how much I loved him.

Moka: Make me a mommy.

( Present )

Before my daydream could go any further I snapped out of it when I heard Kazuto and his mother walking towards us with some food and drinks. I also noticed the other girls were daydreaming too so I snapped them out of it before they were caught as well.

( Kazuto's pov )

I don't know what was more mortifying, having mom plan out a future wedding for me and the girls or mentioning the possibility that if we were to be married then all of their mothers would be expecting grandkids. Once my mom and I prepared some tea and snacks we made our way back to the living room where the girls were still standing in the same spot as before only their faces were slightly red.

Kazuto: What's wrong, are you girls feeling alright?

Girls: We're fine!!

They sounded kind of surprised, I wonder what was going on.

Great Sage: Most likely due to the conversation with your mother earlier it is very likely they are thinking about what married life would be like with you as well as what it would be like to bear your children.

Kazuto: ( Seriously? )

Great Sage: Based on the physical changes present it is very likely to be the case. I detect increased heart rate, and slight increase in their breathing. If this continues it is highly probable that there will be an increase in moisture due to...

Kazuto: ( Okay I get it! That's enough! )

I needed to calm down before this got more embarrassing than it already was. Fortunately the topic of conversation changed into how we were doing in school. We debated earlier in the day whether or not to mention the battle with the Orcs but apparently my parents already knew about that so we ended up telling her what happened. At first I was worried about the fact that I likely worried her and dad going off into a battle that big and while that turned out to be the case she was still proud that I was able to save the remaining survivors as well as helping them get a second chance at living their lives.

Afterwards my mom wanted to head out for a bit, since she was the one who wanted me to bring the girls over for the day she wanted to meet my dad at work so they could go grocery shopping soon after since they wanted to have a barbecue today in the backyard.

Kazuto: You know I don't mind getting the food myself. Let me go instead.

Mom: I know sweetie and I appreciate that, but this is a good opportunity for you and the girls to relax. You've all been through a lot the last couple of weeks so just take this opportunity take a break and rest. You've all more than earned it.

Rather than argue with her I decided to just go along with what she said as she left soon after. Once it was just us I offered to show the girls around the house. It took some time to show them some of the other rooms in the house with the final stop being my bedroom.

Kazuto: This is it, welcome to my humble abode.

( Timeskip brought to you by chibi Shuna decorating a Christmas tree. )

As the door opened up we stepped inside my own little sanctuary.

Kazuto: So what do you girls think?

My room wasn't anything particularly special. Aside from the things you would normally find in a bedroom like a bed and a closet I had a desk, t.v., game consoles, some posters from my favorite games and anime as well as book shelves filled with various books, manga, movies and a few figurines. I guess what really surprised them was the fact that my room was much larger than the average size a single person needed.

They each took a moment to look around as I decided to relax on my bed. Yukari and Shuna went to one of my bookshelves were I kept some spare tomes that my dad gave me to study in my free time, I could hear the two of them talking about some of the spells written inside as they never heard of some of those techniques before.

Yukari: Some of these tomes look quite old, where on earth did you find them Kazuto?

Kazuto: Actually they've been in the family for generations. From what my dad told me he got them from my grandfather when he was my age and they've been passed down for a long time.

Shuna: Some of these spells look quite fascinating, would it be alright if Yukari and I borrow them sometime?

Kazuto: Of course you can, I'll make sure to pack some with me before we go back to school.

Yukari: Thanks.

Mizore and Framea were looking through my manga collection as they each took a small handful and either sat at on the edge of my bed or in one of my beanbag chairs and began reading.

Mizore: Hope you don't mind if we read some of your manga.

Kazuto: Go right ahead, hope you enjoy it.

Framea: Hey Kazuto did you plan on watching that new anime adaption for this manga next week? If so do you want to watch it together?

Kazuto: Sounds good, I'll bring some snacks for us.

Miia and Kurumu were busy with admiring some of the stuff I had in my room like the replica swords I had on my wall from my favorite anime and the movie poster I had signed by the cast.

Miia: Is this poster really signed by the cast?

Kazuto: Yeah, I actually won it in a raffle on my way after school a few years back. That was a good Thursday.

Moka: Kazuto I can't believe you still have these.

We all turned to Moka who was holding a photo album in her hands, when I saw the white cover I immediately recognized it as the one that had pictures from when we were little.

Kazuto: I thought I put that away before I left for school.

She came towards me and sat down next to me as the other girls stopped what they were doing to join us. The first few photos were from when we played together at the park or at one of our houses. The next page showed us at the school dance with both of us in formal wear with big blushes on our faces.

Miia: Awww you two look so adorable together.

Mizore: I admit I am a bit jealous, but I can't help but agree with Miia.

Moka: I remember that. I was so nervous to ask Kazuto to be my date for the dance that I completely avoided the topic whenever it came up.

Yukari: So I'm guessing that Kazuto was the one who asked you to go with him?

Moka: He did, it was actually kind of cool how he did it though.

Shuna: What did you do Senpai?

I rubbed the back of my head nervously as I recalled what I did to ask Moka to the dance.

Kazuto: Well...

( Flashback )

At this point I was starting to regret coming up with this idea. I began to wonder if it was possible for me to turn back and forget this ever happened but my mom was insistent that I continue with this since it was my idea in the first place.

Mom: Do you remember what you need to do Kazuto?

I just nodded since I was too nervous to actually say anything at the moment, especially given the fact that we walked all the way over here while I was in costume. After we made our way to the door my mom ringed the doorbell and quickly hid behind one of the trees on the sidewalk as Moka's mother opened up.

Akasha: Hello Kazuto, what brings you here? And what's with the outfit?

Normally she wouldn't be so confused as to why I would be here, but considering the fact I was dressed up as a prince with a small bouquet of red roses in my hand she was more than welcome to be a bit lost.

( Quick note: Kazuto is dressed as Prince Marth from Fire Emblem. )

Kazuto: I'm h-h-here to ask M-M-Moka s-s-something.

I honestly couldn't stop shaking from nervousness. My throat felt dry and my instincts were telling me to run and hide before I embarrassed myself in front of my crush.

She quickly smiled at me as she figured out what it was that I wanted to ask her daughter.

Akasha: I see. Just wait right here and I'll go get her for you.

She then made her way up the stairs and I could hear her calling for Moka from the hallway.

Akasha: Moka there's someone here to see you.

Moka: Who is it mama?

Akasha: ( giggle ) Oh just a certain Prince Charming here for his fair princess.

If my face didn't resemble a tomato already it definitely did now. Not a second later and I could see Moka at the top of the stairs. She was wearing her pajamas since she was out sick today. Her hair was a bit messy and her nose was a little red while she had some slight bags under her eyes, but to me she was the definition of a beautiful princess.

Moka: K-Kazuto? What are you doing here?

I didn't realize it at the time but I stepped inside and once I was at the bottom of the stairs I got on one knee and held out the bouquet.

Kazuto: Moka, w-will you go to the school dance with me?

Silence was the only thing you could hear in the room. Moka was definitely surprised that I did all of this just to ask her to go to a dance with me. Her mom was watching us with bated breath from the top of the stairs while my mom was busy recording the whole thing behind my back. A few seconds passed and I thought Moka was going to reject my offer. I began to feel my heart break but it didn't last as she slowly made her way down the stairs. Her pace began to quicken before she literally jumped into my arms and knocked me down taking her with me.

Moka: Yes! Yes! Yes! I will go to the dance with you Kazuto!

( present )

Kazuto: ...And just like that she was my date to the dance.

Moka: The next day my mom took me dress shopping since I was feeling better and we agreed to meet at my house before heading to school together.

She then turned the page to show them a picture of me in costume on the day I asked Moka to the dance. My face was red and Moka still very visibly sick but regardless we were smiling like nothing was wrong.

Kurumu: Wow that's so cute!

Yukari: I bet the other kids were totally jealous of you two.

Kazuto: Not really. Before I became Moka's friend a lot of the kids used to make fun of her since she believed in monsters.

Moka: After we became friends most kids would usually ignore us or make fun of us behind our backs. But we never really cared since we had each other.

She then held my hand as I gave her a quick kiss on the cheek before the other girls awwwed at the two of us.

Miia: ( crying ) That's so sweet, does anyone have a hankie?

Framea: ( crying ) Yeah, I need one too!

Shuna: ( crying ) Me three!

From there we mostly just hung out and relaxed until we heard my mom and dad come back home after doing their shopping. We all made our way back downstairs to greet them and help out as best as we could.

Dad: Hello everyone, I trust everything is going well?

Mizore: It is. Thank you for allowing us into your home.

Miia: We really appreciate it.

Mom: It's no trouble at all. Now who's hungry?

While my dad and I got some stuff set up in the backyard the girls decided to help out my mom prepare some of the food we were going to cook. I felt this was a good time to introduce Ranga to my dad as well as let him out for some fresh air. When they met Ranga was very happy to meet my father that he almost knocked him over when he went to lick his face.

Dad: ( chuckle ) Easy Ranga, you're going to knock me down if you don't back up!

Ranga: My apologies sir, it's just an honor to meet my masters father for the first time.

Dad: It's no problem at all, I also want to thank you for keeping Kazuto and the others safe during your battle with the orc army. Please continue to watch over them.

Ranga: Of course, I promise to protect them with my life.

While the three of us were enjoying our time in the backyard the girls were having just as much fun back in the kitchen with my mom.

Mom: I really appreciate you girls helping me out in the kitchen. Having more hands around the house certainly makes the work more enjoyable.

Kurumu: Thank you. By the way there's something that we need to talk to you about.

The girls then went on to mention the encounter we had with Sugou earlier that day. My moms face became more angered as she heard what happened between us.

Mom: That man honestly doesn't know when to quit. I swear he just lives for the opportunity to harass my husband at work. Not to mention his petty rivalry against him and my son.

Kurumu: I know what you mean. He was even trying to flirt with us while mocking Kazuto. ( shiver ) Just remembering that is giving me the creeps.

Mom: I can't say I blame you. Ever since I was introduced to him he constantly tries to flatter me despite my best attempts to tell him off.

Yukari: Not to mention that he has a bad habit of angering Kazuto. I'm honestly afraid of what he might do to him if he pushes him past his breaking point.

Yukari's thoughts then drifted to the possibility that one day I might just blow him up on the spot. The area around him would be reduced to nothing more than a pile of ashes while his remains were disintegrated into nothingness.

Framea: I don't think I've seen Kazuto that upset about someone before.

Mizore: Yeah, the only time I can think of when Kazuto was that upset was with Mr. Kotsubo when he tried taking advantage of me last year.

Moka: Don't forget the Security Committee, especially Kuyo and his closest subordinates.

Mom: Well hopefully it won't come to that. Regardless I want you girls to continue to watch over Kazuto. I know he would do anything for the people he loves, but I don't want him to think he has to do it alone.

Miia: Don't worry, we'll make sure that he's in good hands.

Framea: You can count on us Mrs. Tempest.

Mom: Thank you girls. And please, call me mom.

For the rest of the day we simply enjoyed our time together. At the time all we could think about was working hard to make sure a future like this was possible for us. One where we could spend our days together laughing, and simply being together.

Mom: Honey aren't you going to tell Kazuto the good news?

Dad: No. Today is about them, we can celebrate the news another day. For now let's just enjoy our time with our son and our future daughters.

And so the day was spent with everyone smiling and happy. The next day we would go back to school to continue our studies. We thought nothing could get in our way and that we could continue our days peacefully.

However...

( Sugou's pov )

This isn't fair.

It's. Not. FAIR!!!!!

The sound of another bottle of wine breaking against my wall filled my empty apartment.

Sugou: Damn you Tempest! You always, ALWAYS get in my way! How dare you try and get ahead of your superior!

To think this day could go so wrong. I was destined for greatness. I was destined to lead those ungrateful swine into creating a perfect kingdom in which I could rule over them with absolute authority. And yet that damned Tempest had to come and ruin everything I worked so hard for!

Nothing was the same ever since he came into my life. Until then everyone and everything went according to my designs. No one talked back to me, no one questioned me. My word was absolute and yet that single man went up against me and destroyed what was rightfully mine!

Sugou: That miserable piece of trash, you and your son think you are so much better than me don't you. Don't you!

Of course I cannot forget his disgusting offspring, he reminds me so much of his father that it physically makes me sick. Those eyes of his, they are the eyes of someone who is willing to defy me and not be afraid of me. Eyes of a rebellious spirit that he shared with his worthless father.

I can still recall the events of today with such clarity that I am enraged once more how my future, my very kingdom was taken from me.

( flashback- earlier today )

It was such a simple day. My father wanted me to come to his office today to discuss an important matter with me. The only thing that brought me minor irritation was seeing the young Tempest on my way here.

Sugou: I'm so glad to be away from that filthy low born, just being in the same place as him is enough to make me feel ill.

What made the encounter worse was seeing him with a small group of young women. What they could possible see in him is beyond me, then again I believed I could use this information to my advantage. Any chance I have to ruin Arthur's reputation is one I take in great strides.

After a few more minutes I finally arrived at the large structure where my father's company resides. This was my palace, my kingdom to rule someday soon. Once I exited the elevator and entered the main room everyone around me held their head down as they remained focused on their work. This was exactly what I wanted, everyone bowing their heads at my mere presence, this was the power my authority granted.

Unless of course your name was Arthur Tempest.

I could see him across the room with his coworkers as they were working diligently on a new project our company was tasked with completing. Normally this would be of no concern to me since the low class are barely worth worrying over in my opinion. But the fact that this project was supposed to be given to me and instead it was handed over to someone less worthy was an insult. It was here that my father found me and escorted me to his office.

The conversation was maddening. He told me that I would no longer inherit the company as he did from his father before him. He said that my behavior wasn't becoming of a future head of the company and that I have disgraced our family name in doing so. At first I pleaded with him, telling him that I have only held our name with the highest regard. He said that my actions told a different story and that I acted more like a greedy tyrant than anything else.

Sugou: Why is it wrong for me to show those peasants who is in charge!

Father: Because you are not in charge! And you never will be!

He told me I was no longer welcome here and that I should leave at once. After I had gathered my belongings I was about to make my way out when I saw Tempest walking out from my fathers office all while shaking his hand. Then the other workers came over to congratulate him and I then heard the words that finally broke me.

Father: I know you will lead our company to a brighter future than I could Tempest.

( Present )

He took it away from me. Everything that rightfully belonged to me. Everything that was destined to be mine he had the nerve to take it from me!

I threw another bottle at the wall as I just sat there wallowing in my own personal hell. I needed to find a way to get everything back, to take back my kingdom before he runs it into the ground.

A sudden knock on my door let me escape my troubles for a mere moment. I sluggishly walked over and opened it to reveal three mysterious figures all dressed in white robes with hoods covering their faces.

Sugou: Who the hell are you?

????: Who we are is of little importance. We are here to pledge our loyalty to our one true king.

King? Just what are they blathering about? I assumed they were some crazy fanatics who wanted money from me but I wasn't in the mood to be charitable. Just as I was going to close the door on them and threaten them with the police they came inside my home uninvited and stood in front of my dining table with a small folder in hand. They asked me to step inside as they wished to speak with me of an important matter.

Sugou: ( At this point what more do I have to lose. Might as well see what these idiots want and be done with it. )

I took a seat opposite to them and opened the folder. My eyes widened at the information inside.

Sugou: ( This is impossible. How do they know about all of this? I thought this was a closely guarded secret only known by my family )

????: Judging from your expression we can safely say that we have your attention Mr. Edmaris?

I looked back to the three figures in front of me. It was here that I noticed that the two in the back each wore a metal mask that each displayed a face of tragedy while the one closest to me wore one depicting a face of comedy. He was the only one who spoke while the others simply nodded.

Sugou: Where did you get this information?

????: That my dear friend is of little importance, what is important is what you will do with this information.

I looked back at the papers in my hands. These documents confirmed what I believed for so long. My family has a long history of believing that our world was populated by not only humans, but by monsters as well. The many creatures that are told in mythologies throughout the world existed among us in plain sight. We kept journals of our ancestors documenting their existence for generations but my great grandfather was the first to break this cycle by calling it nonsense. So did my grandfather and my father but not me. I held on to this belief that our world was infested with disgusting abominations but my father insisted that I leave these behind as there was no evidence to support it. To him these were mere stories, not legitimate fact and there was no reason to concern myself with them.

Sugou: If what these documents say is true, what does that have to do with me?

????: It is as I said at the door, we are here for our one true king. After all you are the next in line of the Edmaris bloodline. The heir of an illegitimate bloodline that saw the truth. Monsters and humans are never to intermingle, their very existence is an insult to our race and for us to be free of them they must be removed from this world at any cost.

The two figures in the back them bowed as they said " My king. " to me. What surprised me more was the fact them knew about my family tree, how we are the descendants of royalty that was unjustly discarded by fools who thought they knew better.

Sugou: You know of my bloodline, and with these documents you prove that everything in those old journals written by my ancestors is correct.

????: Without a doubt my king. The Edmaris bloodline was shamed, and for over 800 years your family had to live like peasants when you clearly deserved better.

He was right, my family was meant for so much more. Instead we had to live like commoners when we were meant to rule above them.

????: The mistakes of the last king can now be undone by you. With the help of our organization Fairytale we can bring a new world. A better one where mankind will be free from the threat of monsters and you will reign as its king. Such is your destiny, such is your birthright and we will pledge ourselves to you for generations to come. Will you accept our offer oh wise and great Edmaris?

A moment of silence passed before I could no longer contain my joy. This is what I was truly meant for. As my laugh grew louder I knew what my decision would be.

Sugou: You may address me as your majesty. From this day forth I swear that I will bring a dawn to a new era. An era that will no longer be stained by the creatures that dare imitate humans. An era where humans are the one true race of this world!

????: All hail, King Edmaris!

This was the beginning of my story, and no one was going to take it from me.

Sugou: King Edmaris, I like the sound of that.