Hello everyone, Kamen Rider Duelist here for another chapter of The Silent Magi's Apprentice! Or rather, first of two chapters! That's right! I'm giving you another double feature after so long of not updating this story in quite a while! And today, we're going with the Water Trial on this, with Eria as his next teacher to teach him Water Magic. Now full disclosure, the Charmers themselves are going to be a bit older than what you see in their official card art. You'll see why further down.

Striberx: And I'm here too! Though don't worry, this truly is Duelist's work. I'm just helping with fitting the pieces together and correcting things is all. I'm just a helper here instead of a co-author.

KRD: Oh hey there. Yeah, if you haven't noticed, he's been helping me out with the previous chapters, and I know the other intro's haven't had him in these intros for a while, trying to figure things out on my own, and he has been helpful.

Striberx: This intro stuff tho was just adding onto things that needed to be talked about, and while I personally didn't mind not being included here. Duelist thought it would make things easier to explain, thus now I'm talking too. :P

KRD: Right, well anyways! It's time to start this double feature! Let'sa go!

Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh! All creative rights belong to Kazuki Takahashi.


Last Time on Silent Magi's Apprentice


"Master Endymion, Elemental Mistress Doriado is here to see you."

"Please, let her in."

"Master Endymion." Doriado bowed to him. "I'm pleased to see you are well."

"Doriado, likewise." He smiled at her, "What brings you to my office?"

"I have heard that Silent Magician has taken in a new apprentice." Doriado stated. "I also hear that her apprentice has taken an interest in studying Elemental Magic."

"He has. The young boy has an inept desire to learn magic. Something I wish that this generation would do instead of boasting about their bloodline or wealth." He sighed heavily.

"Still, I think this is a great opportunity."

"Hm? For what?"

"For me to assist Silent Magician's apprentice in refining his Elemental Magic." Doriado smiled brightly, with a clap and a tilt of her head.


"Doriado, it has been far too long." Shizuka smiled at the familiar face.

"Yes it has been." The woman grinned and the two shared a friendly hug. Doriado then noticed the young boy, "Ah, so this is the famous apprentice who has Silent Magician's approval? You are quite lucky to be taught by her."

"Um… sensei, who is this?" Kuromu asked his teacher.

"Kuromu, meet one of my friends. This is Elemental Mistress Doriado." Shizuka introduced, "She and I were classmates and friends during our time at the academy."


"Charmers, gather around, I have guests I want to introduce to you." Doriado said, clapping her hands two times. They all perked up as the group stood up and walked over to their master, ready for her next orders and wishes. "Everyone, I would like you to meet Silent Magician and her apprentice Kuromu. Her apprentice will be studying Elemental Magic with us today."

"Ah! Welcome welcome!" The green haired girl beamed brightly, as she seemed very excited before grasping his hands, "So! Does a cutie like you have a girlfriend yet?" She asked bluntly.

"Eh?!" Kuromu gawked.

"Wynn, don't be rude to our guest." The blue-haired girl scolded her, with a soft chop to her head.

"Ow! Come on, Eria… I know many of us were dying to see if it was a boy or someone single!" Wynn frowned as she rubbed her head.

"Pfffft, who cares about that crap? I wanna know if he's super strong!" The red-haired tomboy smirked dangerously, punching her fists together as flames erupted from said fists briefly.

"Does he like birds too?" The white-haired girl pondered as it seemed she was the youngest and most childish one so far.

"Now, now, Hiita, Lyna." Doriado admonished gently. "Kuromu's only started learning magic recently. So it would be unwise for him to be… thrown off the deep end as it were."

"Hmph… He doesn't seem much to me…" the boy scoffed softly as he went back to reading his book.


"Hahaha! Haha! I-I'm doing it! I-I'm flying! I'm flying!" He laughed with excitement as he glided across the sky.

"Easy now. Don't let the adrenaline get to you." Wynn said, with concern.

"It's okay, I got this! This feels incredible!" Kuromu laughed as he kept flying around.

"That's not the point! You need control, otherwise the Wind Magic you produce will run rampant."

"Hahahahaha! Hahahahahawhoooooa! Whoooooooooa! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaagh!" Kuromu panicked as he started flying erratically. "Oh crap, I can't stooooooooop!"

"Ugh! I told you!" Wynn frowned, flying over to him and made a small gust of wind around Kuromu, enveloping him in said wind, making sure that he spun in the opposite direction until he was still.


"Do I… seem that way? All bottled up?"

"Well, I can admit that you're not fully unleashing your true self. I can see it clear as the sky." Wynn pointed out.

"What do you mean by that?" Kuromu looked confused.

"I just think there's something you're not talking about or maybe even aware of. I don't know how to explain it, I just get that feeling that you're not fully free yet."

"I see. Well I don't know if it has anything to do with not being fully free, but… the truth is, I don't know everything." He admitted. "When I came to this world, I only know my name and nothing else. My memories are all scattered and I don't have all the pieces of the puzzle together quite yet."

"Maybe once you finally remember, you can be your better self?"

"I… guess. Though, I'm not sure if that part of myself is better."

*FLICK!*

"Ite." Kuromu winced, when Wynn flicked her fingers on his forehead. "What was that for?"

"Worrying about the small details isn't going to make you remember things faster." Wynn said. "Why rush everything? Granted, I'm not saying to be ignorant of your whole situation, but it wouldn't kill you to take your mind off of it, even just for a little bit."

"Uh… right." Kuromu blinked, before his eyes started getting heavy. "Huh…? What- Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz… zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz…"

Wynn smiled as Kuromu fell asleep. A heavy sigh escaping her lips, "About time my Comfy Sleep Time Cloud worked on him. He truly needs to relax more." She noted, turning her head to see Shizuka and Doriado walking in. "Sorry about that… had to get him to calm down somehow. Oh, and he passed with flying colors."

"Good job with your lessons, Wynn. You can go now." Doriado said with a smile, knowing her student did well before turning to her friend, "So, Shizuka? What do you think of the first lesson?"

"It is a start. But the other trials that await him… I hope that he is prepared." Shizuka answered.

"We can only wait and see how it'll progress." Doriado said, as the two ladies looked at the sleeping Kuromu who lightly snored away. Hopefully by the time he wakes up, he will be refreshed with a new mindset.


And now the continuation…


Kuromu groaned, slowly coming to from his sleep. He felt someone or something tugging at his sleeve, prompting him to open his eyes. Upon opening them, he looked to his left and saw Petit Dragon pulling on his sleeve with its mouth. "Huh…?" He managed to say, causing the small dragon to chirp and roar cutely. "Aren't you…"

"Looks like you're finally awake."

Kuromu looked towards his right and saw Wynn standing there, hands on her hips and with a grin. "Wynn… did I… fall asleep? How long did I-"

"Oh for a full 24 hours. You needed the rest." Wynn said nonchalantly.

"HUH?! A whole day?!" He panicked, springing up to his feet, scaring Petit Dragon as it backed off. "Sorry about that." He quickly apologized before turning back to Wynn. "But seriously, a full day?! That's not normal!"

"Yes it is. You were overworking yourself, your body was going to collapse sooner or later. So, I made sure that you got the rest you needed. Our Masters approved of it too." Wynn pointed out.

"I… see. Thanks… I guess." He mumbled, looking away shyly.

*GRUMBLE!*

"Um… I don't suppose you have breakfast ready, do you?" He winced.

"Hehe, I do." Wynn smiled as two clouds with a plate of food floating over to them both. "Eat up!"

"Thanks!" He said gratefully, before digging into this plate. "So I'll be training with Eria next, right?"

"Mhm, that's right." Wynn nodded. "And if you think my lessons are hard, oh, what I taught you was just a breeze."

"I had a feeling it would be that way. But that doesn't mean I'm not gonna quit." Kuromu said. "Besides, with Water Magic, my skills in Alchemy and Potion Making would be improved by a lot."

"True. But remember my own teachings, because they'll be similar to what you'll learn from Eria. Why else do you think she's next after me?" Wynn smiled.

"…she's not a flirt like you, is she?" Kuromu deadpanned.

"Pffffft, no, far from it. She's a lot more modest than I am, that's for sure." Wynn laughed. "But seriously, just remember your training and you'll be fine."

"Uh… right. Noted." Kuromu nodded, before he went back to eating his breakfast.


Chapter 5: A Droplet of Change

After the hearty breakfast he had with a Wynn, and another kiss on the cheek from the Wind Charmer, Kuromu made his way out of Wynn's room with a slight blush. The doors had opened to reveal that Eria was standing there in front of him, with her familiar Gigobyte. "Oh, uh… morning, Eria." He greeted.

"And to you too, Kuromu." She smiled sweetly, "Shall we head to my domain?"

"Of course. Lead the way." Kuromu said. With that, Kuromu followed the Water Charmer with her familiar following her. It wasn't long before she and Kuromu found themselves in front of a door which was made of the same material as Wynn's door. Instead of a green magic circle, it was blue, and in the middle was a symbol of 'Water'.

"Here we are. Brace yourself." Eria said, before she pushed the door open. Upon doing so, his eyes widened considerably at the sight. Wynn's room paled in comparison to what he was seeing now. In front of him was an ocean full water, protected the door's magic that stopped the water from rushing out. But what made him gawk was the fact that sitting on the ocean floor… was an underwater city. And not just any underwater city.

"N-No way! At… Atlantis!?" Kuromu stuttered. "The Atlantis?!"

"But of course. Who else but me would be worthy to own this place?" Eria smiled brighter.

"I-I've heard tales of this city, but I didn't think it actually exists!" Kuromu said, in awe. "An ancient advanced technological city that submerged deep under the ocean due to falling out of the favor with the gods."

"You know your history." Eria noted with a nod.

"Ehehe… well, I only read it in the books I borrowed from the Royal Magical Library, so…" Kuromu chuckled sheepishly.

"You learned it well, and you're right. But it wasn't just submerged in the ocean, it was sealed. The gods who did it realized how dangerous it was to have Atlantis, as many would try to take its technology for themselves. So instead, they sealed it away. When I became the Water Charmer, my ultimate task was to not only unseal it, but prove to the gods that I can keep it safe." Eria explained to the young mage.

"Hmm hmm, a big task indeed." Kuromu nodded in understanding, eyes closed, and a thumb and index finger to his chin in a check mark gesture. He then looked at Eria who had tilted her head. "Ah, though as much I wanna talk about history, we have work to do." He said, before walking towards the door. Gulping nervously, he took in a deep breath and held it in before entering Eria's room, finding himself now in deep water.

Eria was next to him but she was simply walking through the water like it was when she was on land, not even phased by the waters, even being able to breath under it.

"HM?! MMM MMM MMM MMMMMMM MMMMMMM MMMM MMMM?! (Huh?! How are you walking through like that?!)

"The water here is enchanted. I can do this with ease, and I'm letting you do this too." Eria giggled as she poked his puffed cheeks. He immediately panicked and flailed.

"Grrrrrrraghghrgahhrgagaghaegh- huh?" Kuromu said, noticing that he was speaking normally. "I'm not drowning…"

"Like I said, enchanted water. I can decide who breathes under it or not, and as you are a friend of Master Doriado and learning under me, I allowed you to breathe underwater." Eria informed him.

"Right…" Kuromu sweat dropped. "I have got to stop acting so surprised at this point…" He sighed.

"It's only natural, after all. Our basic instincts and experiences have given us that." Eria pointed out as she patted his head gently. "Now follow me. I'll show you the training room. Gigobyte, please go on ahead and make sure everything's ready for our training session."

"Rawr, rawr…" Gigobyte bowed before it left to prepare for the session.

"That's your familiar, isn't it?" Kuromu inquired as he and Eria walked into the sunken city. "I noticed all the Charmers have one."

"We all have one that represents our element. All our choice on who we choose to be our Familiar, of course."

"I see. I have La Jinn, but I don't think he really counts as a familiar, even if I made a contract with him." Kuromu pondered in confusion.

"A Genie? That's honestly impressive to have one." Eria praised. "But alas, I'm afraid La Jinn won't be considered, a familiar. After you attain the rank of Mage, only then can you search for a True Familiar."

"A True Familiar?" Kuromu parroted.

"Yes, they are technically another part of your soul. The one that responds to it will be your True Familiar."

"Are they also in tune with my True Element?" He inquired.

"Yes."

"I see. Well, I look forward to that one day." Kuromu chuckled.

"Sometimes finding a True Familiar can happen either on the most random day or in your most dire need. So don't expect to just walk out and try to find it, it has to come to you." Eria warned.

"Hehe right." Kuromu said sheepishly. As he and Eria walked into the sunken city, he saw several fish people and other human citizens, walking about. "Are these the Atlanteans that inhabit the city? They're going about their day as if the city itself hadn't sunk."

"Just because their city and themselves were sealed away, doesn't mean they stopped living. They just accepted it, though they were happy to finally be freed from the seal when I stepped in. They can now live peacefully without worry of any attacks or worse." Eria smiled, as she waved to a few of the Atlanteans who waved back with delight.

"They're pretty lucky to have you protecting them."

"I just hope I can keep them safe forever more so they can have a peaceful existence." Eria noted softly.

Eventually, Kuromu and Eria arrived at the destination. The huge palace that sat at the center of the entire sunken city. Arriving at the gates, they were greeted by a rather handsome man with long black hair and blue eyes. He wore blue fish scale armor on his torso, arms, and legs, coupled by several woven blue ribbons for his skirt armor. He was equipped with a trident spear in hand.

"Ah! Darling!" Eria smiled brightly rushing to the man to hug him as they shared a loving kiss.

"Welcome home, Eria. Have you been well?" He asked.

"Mhm, I have. This is Kuromu, an apprentice to a friend of Master Doriado, he's here to learn Water Magic from me." Eria introduced.

"Is that so?" The man smiled, before holding out a hand for Kuromu to shake. "Well met, my young friend. I am Neptabyss, Prince of the Atlanteans. Welcome to our humble home."

"The honor is mine, Your Highness." Kuromu nodded. "I never realized you and Eria are married."

"It was something for us too when she unsealed us and gave us freedom. I couldn't help but fall in love and marry her." Neptabyss smiled.

"Oh, Neptie, don't embarrass me~" Eria flushed, while fidgeting like a school girl.

"Plus, it's hard to deny how cute she can be." The prince chuckled. "And a special surprise is in our future."

"A surprise-" Kuromu's words were caught in his throat as he realized the implications, his eyes widening considerably. "Oh! OHHH! Oh wow! Congratulations!"

"It's still in the early stages, but we couldn't be happier." Eria smiled softly, rubbing her stomach.

"But wait, are you sure you should be training me at this point?" Kuromu asked.

"I'll be fine. I can handle the fundamentals, while Neptie here will help with the combat." Eria informed.

"Huh… you really thought of everything." Kuromu mused, before grinning. "But I'm not one to complain. I'm in your capable hands." He bowed to them.

Eria giggled at his etiquette as she lead him first to a simple room that had a desk, chairs, drinks and snacks, "But for now, how about something tasty to relax yourself?"

"Uh… sure. No problem." Kuromu said, as he remember Wynn's words to take it easy. So he decided to sit down and take what was offered.

"Glad Wynn's words stuck with you, otherwise I'd have to force you to relax." Eria giggled innocently yet was still terrifying to hear.

"A-After yesterday, I'd rather not take any chances." He sweat dropped. "So does Lady Doriado and the other Charmers know?"

"Oh but of course, we told them weeks ago." Eria reassured him. "Wynn, Aussa, and Lyna were so excited that they're going to be aunts! Hiita was neutral about it, but still happy for me. As for Dharc…"

"What? Was he… unhappy?" Kuromu asked.

"Oh no, not at all. Just his usual grumpy self. He's not the best at showing his emotions to others other than Master Doriado."

"Right, I figured."

"He did, however, make a few toys. Somewhat creepy, but… at least he was thoughtful. So, how do you take your tea or coffee?" Eria asked with a smile.

"Uh… do you have lemongrass?"

"We have everything possible here, including herbs and such not known to the world either." Eria giggled softly, nodding to a nearby servant who nodded and went to grab the requested addition to his drink. "So I hear that you're here in our world upon happenstance."

"Yeah. I apparently came here with no memory of who I am, other than my name." Kuromu nodded, "It's still a work-in-progress, but those memories haven't really surfaced yet."

"I'm very sorry to hear about your circumstances…" Eria frowned sadly before she walked over to hug the boy gently. And oddly enough this hug made him feel like he was being hugged… by a mother….

"E-Eria?" Kuromu stuttered with a blush.

"It must've been so hard for you… not knowing where you came from nor if you have any family… to feel so alone, no?" She said to him calmly.

"I mean… I have Shizuka-sensei and the others, but… I… uh…" Kuromu got out.

"Yet you still feel alone. Like something is missing and it hurts." Eria stated to the boy in a calming voice.

"That's not…" Kuromu got out, and before long, he felt something wet trailing down his face. "H-Huh?"

Eria smiled, knowing that the mental walls he built up were becoming undone.

"Shhh… it's okay… I'm here." Eria whispered gently to him.

"I… what?" Kuromu uttered in confusion. He wasn't sure why he was crying now. Sure, he had no memories prior to now, but it shouldn't even bother him, at least not yet anyhow. And yet… this feeling of sadness began to overwhelm him as more tears came down his face.

"You may not know it now… but when you do, I'll be here for you. For now, accept this sorrow and grow stronger." Eria said to him, gently patting his head.

"My… sorrow…" Kuromu managed to say before eventually crying on her with silence.

Eria smiled softly as she comforted the young mage. She was able to sense everything, including things that he may not be aware of. But in order for him to move on, she needed to poke and pry at his emotions, to prepare him for whenever his memories do finally come back to him. But for now, she stayed by his side so he can be ready for the next trial.


"Oh, now I know Eria's going to be a wonderful mother!" Doraido gushed, while watching the 'screen' with Shizuka.

"Agreed. Though it does pain me to see my student so vulnerable and not even know what he is crying about…" Shizuka said with worry in her look, hoping it doesn't drive the boy mad like many others.

"Well, given how eager he is to learn things so quickly, it was necessary to let his emotions out now rather than later." Doraido explained. "He must have been hiding his real emotions underneath his desire to learn magic, ever since he arrived. He is from a different world after all, and when one doesn't know their new surroundings… well, I'm sure you can piece that together."

"True… But it still worries me over what his mind is subconsciously putting away." Shizuka noted, "I would have handled it myself… but his power… I cannot even breach even his most outer thoughts…"

"Strange…" Doraido pondered in thought. "Only those of great power can do such feats. The only people that come to mind are-" Doraido stopped her train of thought when she looked at Shizuka, mildly surprised to see her complexion slightly pale, as if Doraido was about to spill some secret. "Shizuka? What's wrong?"

"Doriado… Please put a barrier over us. I need to tell you something and it is very important…" Shizuka requested.

"Hm?" Doriado looked even more confused.

"Please…"

"I'm not sure where this is coming from, but very well." Doriado said, before waving her hand and particles of magic overtook the room.

"Master, is lunch-" Lyna said, about to walk into the kitchen when her nose hit the magical barrier.

*BZZT!*

"Owie~!" Lyna cried out, holding her nose with comical pain. "Master, what was that for~?"

Doraido turned around and comically panicked, waving her arms frantically, briefly putting down the barrier. "Oh Lyna, I'm so sorry! Are you okay?!" She fretted, checking on her, leaving Shizuka to sweatdrop.

"I was about to give you and Master Shizuka some of my cooking… But I think I can wait…" She said, rubbing her nose that was now crooked and bloody.

"Ahhh, your nose is bleeding! Hold on, I got the first aid kit!" Shizuka said, running towards the kitchen.

"Doriado, you must calm yourself." Shizuka said dryly.

"But my sweet daughter is hurt! I have to get a band aid! No! She needs stitches! No wait! She could need surgery! Kyahh!" The older mage eventually tripped over herself and Shizuka guessed that she had face-planted on the floor.

"Oh Doriado, you fool…" Shizuka sighed. She'll have to tell her later. She then looked towards Lyna. "Come child, I will repair your nose."


After what seemed like an eternity, Kuromu finally stopped crying, even blowing his nose from all of it with a handkerchief that Eria provided. He had been crying non-stop for about half an hour, his heart pounding and lightening up, before eventually calming down. He took deep breaths as he was able to steady himself and calm his composure.

"Feeling better?" She asked him with a smile.

"Yeah… I think so…" Kuromu sighed, wiping his eyes. "I don't know what that was all about, or why I couldn't stop crying, but… thanks, I guess?" He winced.

"Of course, my dear friend." Eria smiled happily, "That said, you passed your first trial."

"Eh?" Kuromu said confused, "First… trial?"

"Mhm. This trial was for you to accept your weakness, learn from your pain and sorrow, and become a stronger person, mentally and emotionally. I had to pry your bottled up emotions free and force you to live through it. I'm very sorry to hurt you like that." Eria said, apologizing as she bowed her head deeply to the young mage.

"Uh… no, it's not your fault, I was just… I didn't even know that I had some kind of frustration pent up all this time." Kuromu stated. "Did it really seem that way?"

"It did…" Eria nodded softly, "And if you continued onward without this method… you most likely would have either gone mad or self-destruct by your own hands… I didn't want to see another gentle soul like yours become that…"

"I… see." Kuromu got out. "I'm sorry…"

"No, no. Don't be." Eria waved her hands. "You're not at fault. These things happen all the time. I merely just gave you an outlet to vent out those emotions, is all." By this point, a servant and Gigobyte came out with their tea and snacks. "Oh good, it's here. Right on time."

"Eh?" Kuromu looked to see Gigobyte and the servant, placing the tea set and cookies down on the table.

"Can't train on an empty stomach, right?" She giggled softly.

"Hehe… yeah, I guess so." Kuromu chuckled sheepishly, before pouring himself and Eria the two cups of tea and took a few cookies to eat. "Ahhhhh… so refreshing…" He sighed, feeling fuzzy and light.

"Hehe, I always find it refreshing and relaxing to have something tasty and nice when you vent out such emotions and problems." Eria giggled.

"Mind if I join?" A familiar voice said, as Kuromu and Eria turned to see Neptabyss approaching.

"Ah! Darling! You're just in time!" Eria smiled brightly. "Kuromu just passed his first trial."

"He did? Heh, well that's great to hear!" Neptabyss smiled, patting Kuromu's back though a bit hard by accident.

"Hehe, yeah." Kuromu winced with a strained smile, as Neptabyss sat next to his wife.

"So how are you feeling now, my young friend?" Neptabyss asked.

"A lot better than before." Kuromu admitted.

"Well, glad to hear it. It just means you have an iron will and a tough mind." He smiled. "In life, your mind and emotions are like water. It is formless and shapeless. When you pour water into a cup, it becomes the cup. Put it into a bottle, it becomes the bottle. If you pour water into a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Now water can flow or it can crash. Be water, my friend."

Eria nodded in agreement to her husband, "Water can just be as formless or as expansive as you let it unleash. Do you want it to be a calming river, or a torrential typhoon?"

"Huh… I never really thought of it that way."

"That is why my first trial had to release those emotions. Too much stress bottled up will cause pressure to build and you would have broken down in the worst way possible. You don't want a panic attack during a trial or being on your own now, do we?" Eria pointed out to the young mage.

"R-Right."

"There's also one other thing to consider." Neptabyss added. "No matter what form water takes, it remains true to itself. That is also what you must do. Like water, you must stay true to yourself. And with persistence, you can achieve feats that are deemed impossible."

"I see. I will take that into consideration." Kuromu nodded.

"Now, once you're ready, we can begin the next trial." Eria said, but gestured to the snacks and his tea that wasn't finished. Suggesting to finish that first before the trial.

"And while we chat," Neptabyss said, before holding out a piece of paper. "The three of us can figure out names for our child."

"Oh Neptie, it's too early for that." Eria pouted, with puffed cheeks. "We don't even know if it's a boy or girl. So stop getting ahead of yourself."

"I can't help it, I'm excited!" He chuckled with delight and joy.

"You two are quite the optimistic couple." Kuromu commented, biting on a cookie.

"That's just what it means to be in love." Eria smiled, "I'm sure you'll know it soon."


After fixing Lyna's nose and without any more distraction, Doriado set up the barrier once more, thankfully without someone walking into it with a broken nose. From there Shizuka told Doriado everything she currently knew. While she was under strict orders from Endymion, that no other soul must know, given that Doraido almost figured it out, the Silent Magician had no other choice, but to tell her.

"Are you serious?" Doraido asked with wide eyes.

"Yes… I am…" Shizuka nodded softly.

"Why didn't you say anything before?" Doriado almost scolded.

"I could not… not when our enemies could be listening in." Shizuka answered.

"Who else knows?"

"Master Endymion and La Jinn. The latter only knows through sensing the young boy when they first met." Shizuka replied.

"Hmph, of course they'd know. Cheeky things." Doriado huffed. "And… you're sure it's not fading away or killing him, right?"

"No. At least I do not think so. Not yet anyway." Shizuka said. "And now that I think about it, I have an inkling of a feeling that Minerva may also know. She just did not want to tell me in front of the boy."

"Hmm, this is troublesome…. I'm surprised that not only do they still exist, but one so young is still alive." Doraido noted.

"I cannot tell him what he is. If he were to discover that…" Shizuka trailed off.

"Don't worry. I won't tell him." Doriado nodded.

"Huh?" Shizuka looked surprised. "You will not?"

"Shizuka… I know what happens should someone like him find out the truth… Most become self destructive… I don't want to see that happen to him."

Shizuka sighed in relief, not knowing that she had been holding in a sigh. "Thank you. It means so much to me. His life is but his own, and needs to be preserved for as long as possible."

"Of course. Though even if my little Charmers knew or not, I know they'd still do the right thing and keep testing him in their trials." Doraido smiled.

"Yes. You are right."


With their tea and snacks finally finished, Kuromu was finally ready to begin training with Eria and Neptabyss. He followed them before he found himself in what looked to be an arena inside a bubble as Gigobyte was standing within it.

"Uh… is the little guy my opponent?" Kuromu blinked.

"He is." Eria nodded. "But don't let his size fool you. He's a lot more agile than you think."

"Uh… okay?" Kuromu got out, confused.

"Rawr, rawr!" Gigobyte roared.

"He's saying that you shouldn't underestimate him. And that he's really strong." Eria giggled.

"Okay, maybe I was just a tiny bit." Kuromu said sheepishly, causing Gigobyte to comically jump and flail in anger as if asking, 'You wanna piece of me?!'

"Gigo, easy now. He hasn't faced you yet, so you also shouldn't underestimate him either." Eria wiggled her finger with shame.

"Rawrawrawrawrawr!"

"Eager little fella, isn't he…" Kuromu sweat dropped.

*SPLASH!*

A waterball was flung at Kuromu's head, as his face was dripping wet from the water.

"Oh, he doesn't like to be called that." Eria warned, a bit too late.

"Now you tell me…" Kuromu deadpanned, before shaking his head to rid himself of the excess water. "Alright, you temper-tantrum lizard. You wanna fight? You got one." He said, pulling out his wand.

Eria frowned, pinching Kuromu's ear tightly, then looked to Gigobyte and used her power to make a water hand to pinch the side of the lizard's neck.

"Calm down, you two." She said now in a scary tone as it felt like they were about to anger a mama bear.

"Yes ma'am…"

"Rawr…"

"Good." She soon smiled as she let them go.

"So uh… how are we doing this?" Kuromu asked.

"You're going to fight Gigobyte and learn from him."

"Okay."

"And begin." Eria smiled as in seconds, the Gigobyte launched a torrent of water at the mage without any preparation.

"Whoa!" Kuromu immediately pulled out his wand, but the moment he pointed it, it was already too late, as the water crashed into him and sent him flying. "Uwhoooooooa!" He cried out, tumbling into the ground. "Ow…"

"Again, Kuromu. For this trial, you cannot rest until it's complete." Eria stated to him.

"Ugh…" Kuromu groaned, slowly getting up to his feet. "Okay, not cool." He said, before getting into a stance. "Let's see how you like this." He added, before a magic circle glowed below his feet.

"As Source of Thy Power, I Order Thee. Decipher the Laws of Creation. Become one with the wind and soar above the clouds! Follow-"

Gigobyte huffed as it slammed its tail on the circle, shattering it like glass.

"No way!" He gawked, before realizing that Gigobyte was already in front of him. He immediately dodged to the side to avoid a strike from the bipedal lizard. "Gh… Light Sphere!" He shouted, pointing his wand and sent an orb of light at him.

Gigobyte soon opened its jaw, clamping down on not just his wand, but wrist as well before flinging him to the side, only to start using the droplets of water around him before changing it into ice shards as the creature flung them at Kuromu, attempting to overpower the boy.

"Gh! Repel those that stand against me! Mirror Force!" He shouted as a magical barrier appeared in front of him and deflected the ice shards, sending it right back at Gigobyte. The lizard held up its hand as the ice shards stopped just before hitting it, only to turn it back into water as it splashed onto the ground.

"Okay, Wynn was right. Her training was just a breeze compared to this." Kuromu deadpanned.

Eria simply watched the fight as her Gigobyte was still on the offense, throwing shards of ice or blasts of water at Kuromu. The lizard was doing what her master requested as this trial was different from the last. He needed to learn, to be able to predict his enemies movements and adjust like waves at a beach.

"What do you think?" Neptabyss asked his wife.

"He's a quick learner. But he needs to be faster." She responded softly.

"Aye, I agree. His reflexes are somewhat sluggish." Neptabyss commented.

"But if he's as aware as Wynn says he is, he'll pick it up in no time." Eria nodded softly.

"Let us hope so."

"Whoa! Hey! Watch it! Gah!" Kuromu cried out as he dodged continuous water blasts and ice shards. Every time he deflected them back at Gigobyte, the lizard would stop them or dodge too quickly and continue with the relentless assault. There was something he was missing, but couldn't figure out what.

'Think Kuromu, think! What can you do to slow him down?' He thought to himself.

The Gigobyte smirked and made a unique gesture, one that was obviously aimed at Kuromu and telling him that his magic is weaker than a stage show. He was taunting him.

'No, don't let him get to you. It's what he wants.' Kuromu thought to himself. 'If he thinks I'm weak, he's got another thing coming. So let's try this.' He then pointed his wand and his magic circle appeared below him. "As Source of Thy Power, I Order Thee. Decipher the Laws of Creation." At that point, water suddenly rushed at the tip of the wand, condensing and pressurizing into a single orb of liquid. "Accept my offering and wash away all iniquities! Torrential Tribute!"

With an unseen signal, a large torrent of water came rushing towards Gigobyte, in the form of crashing waves. There was no way the bipedal lizard could escape this!

The lizard growled before it let out a howl, its cry echoing out and somehow protecting it from the crashing waves, leaving it unscathed.

"HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH?!" Kuromu gawked.

The Gigobyte grinned, as it then raised its claws as it controlled the waves and flung it back right towards the young mage.

"Crap! Crap! Crap! Crap!" Kuromu panicked as he wove his wand to produce a magical barrier, in an attempt to hold off the waves. However, it wasn't enough as the magical barrier cracked and shattered, washing him away. "Gaaaaaaaargagrhgahgahrgah!"

The Gigobyte soon bellowed in laughter at the scene, enjoying this 'trial' very much.

"He has a long way to go…" Neptabyss said dryly. "And a lot of work to do."

"I never said it'd be easy or quick." Eria noted as she clapped, stopping the match. "That'll be enough for now, Gigobyte, Kuromu."

"Rawr, rawr, rawr."

"No more. You've done enough." Eria huffed as she pointed to Kuromu who was knocked out cold. The young man felt a trickle of his soul almost leaving his body as his eyes were comically soulless.

*DING!*


"Geez… what a wimp…" Hiita scoffed as she, Wynn, Aussa, and Lyna, and Dharc were watching on the 'screen' from the living room of their house. They had seen the whole fight, and though his moves were decent, it still wasn't up to their level.

"I gotta admit, I'm not impressed…" Dharc added dryly.

"Easy you two. You both weren't the best either when you started." Lyna giggled.

"Pah, he and I are different." Hiita waved off nonchalantly.

"Sure, at least he's not hot-headed like you are." Wynn deadpanned.

"Wanna say that to my face?" Hiita growled, producing a fireball from her hand.

"Master! Hiita is starting a fight again!" Lyna called out.

"Don't you bring her into this!" Hiita snapped.

"Ugh… story of my life…" Dharc facepalmed, as Aussa tried to diffuse the situation between her fire and wind sisters.

"Hiita, Wynn, please! Not now!" Aussa placated the two. "We're all here to help Kuromu with his Elemental Magic, right? So let's just calm down and not break anything in this house for the upteenth time!"

"Grggh… still don't have to like it." Hiita huffed, arms crossed as she leaned back in her chair. "I just don't see how he could get on our level in such a short amount of time. It took years for us to hone our skills."

"That's why Wynn and Eria are helping him slow down. At least to a degree that he could use some of the basics that we were taught." Aussa pointed out.

"And we're just gonna accept that? No way! It's obvious what's happening… He's replacing us…" Hiita frowned.

"I don't think you really mean that…" Lyna mumbled.

"Face it, it's true. Why else were we not told about it until the day before he shows up? Master is wanting to get rid of us and replace us with this man child."

"My, my, why would you even think such a thing?" A voice said. Everyone flinched and slowly turned around to see Doriado, standing there with a sad frown on her face. "I would never throw all of you out for him."

"M-Master, we weren't thinking like that!" Lyna panicked, waving her arms frantically. "Really! Honest! Right guys?! Right?!" She looked left and right, hoping to get some kind of support from her siblings.

Yet there was only silence from the others, as it seemed in the back of their minds, maybe that was the case for them as they weren't told anything else other than to help train him.

"Oh dear… all of you are misunderstanding…" Doriado sighed. "While I can't say much, the reason we're training him is because his life is in danger."

Aussa flinched as she looked up with surprise, "His… life…?"

"Yes. And he needs this training to ensure his safety." Doriado nodded firmly. "He has much potential waiting to be unlocked, but once fully unleashed, that power will only serve as a beacon to his enemies. That above all else must not happen."

"Hmph…" Hiita simply huffed as she got up and stormed off, still angry about this situation.

"Hiita-" Wynn called out.

"If he's to get stronger, I'm gonna make him work for it!" Hiita shouted.

"Oh Hiita…" Aussa sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose, "Master, I think I should train Kuromu next instead, so he could at least prepare for Hiita's training…"

"I concur. Please do your best with him." Doriado nodded at the proposal.

"Don't get all bashful around him." Lyna giggled, making Aussa blush heavily as her glasses fogged up.


"GAAAHH!" Kuromu gasped sharpily, panting heavily as he finally woke up from his coma, sitting upright. "What the- where-!"

"You're up." Eria smiled gently. "You were knocked unconscious in your second trial."

"I- uh…" Kuromu got out, looking around as he was back in Eria's room, alongside Neptabyss and Gigobyte, the latter snickering before he received a small bop on the head from his master, courtesy of her staff. "Ahhhhhh… I failed didn't I…" He sighed, his shoulders slumping as his head hung over in defeat.

"Only the bout, the trial still remains intact." Eria informed the boy.

"Oh…"

"Cheer up, my young friend!" Neptabyss laughed, patting Kuromu's back rather hard again. "As the saying goes, 'If at first you don't succeed, try and try again'! Not everyone gets it right the first time around!"

"Hehe, right." Kuromu chuckled weakly. "So… should we try again?"

"You still need a bit more rest. Water must adapt within its environment, no?"

"Ah, I guess so." Kuromu said, as he looked out the window. "Speaking of… is there a water surface up top?"

"Hmm… in a sense, but not fully." Eria answered, "Though a friendly reminder, Atlantis is a place that must stay protected. So while the sun and stars can be seen, it's not like someone can drop down and swim towards us. The same can be said for reaching the surface."

"Right, but… I was thinking of going for a swim." Kuromu said sheepishly. "It's not training, but it's still a form of exercise. And I'd rather stay a bit active, given how I slept for a full day."

Eria giggled, "Darling? You might as well show him the pool."

"Hahaha! But of course! Follow me, my friend! I shall show you the wonders of my palace!" Neptabyss said jovially.

With a spring to his step, the Atlantean Prince led the young mage towards the underwater palace with Eria and Gigobyte following. It was much like the Citadel in terms of showcasing its glory. The halls were made of lustrous pearl lined with gold and silver and there were many sea creatures and fishes that swam by. But soon as they went to the center, the doors behind them closed, only for the ceiling to open up and fill with water. The four of them were launched into the sea above them, rapidly approaching the 'surface' above.

"UWHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOA!" Kuromu cried out.

"Hold on tight! It's going to be a bumpy ride!" Neptabyss laughed.

"Oh now you tell meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"

In seconds they reached what would be the surface of the water, but upon reaching and breaking the surface, the rapid ascent soon turned into a gentle wave. Kuromu was now in a new section of the realm as it felt more like a gentle beach side of the country as it too had the same architecture as the palace, but has a more gentle approach. Nearby was what looked to be only a pool, but an onsen as well.

"Whoa… this is…" Kuromu said in awe.

"A special little place for me and my family to have fun and relax. Think of it as another pocket dimension within the realm. Of course there is an easier way to get to it." Eria said, pointing to one of the doors nearby.

"I gotta say, it's impressive." Kuromu commented.

"It was my darling's idea when we were engaged." Eria smiled. "And it's also the place where…" She trailed off with an embarrassing blush.

"Oh… OH! Uh…" Kuromu cleared his throat. "Must have been… quite the night."

"Who knows? Maybe you'll have one someday too!" Neptabyss bellowed in laughter.

"U-Uh, I um…" Kuromu blushed heavily, "Maybe. Not sure. One day. Just not now. Uh…"

"Neptie, don't embarrass him." Eria pouted. "Come, all of us can enjoy the hot spring here."

Moments later…

*DONK!*

"Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh…" All of them sighed in relief as they were in their swimsuits, before dipping into the warm water.

"Now this is a way to relax oneself…" Neptabyss sighed in relief.

"I couldn't agree more… I feel all the aches just going away. I can't remember the last time I sat in a hot spring…" Kuromu said, dipping his body deeper into the water. "By the way… I've been meaning to ask. How did the two of you meet? Er that is, besides Eria being assigned as protector of Atlantis?"

"Hmm… well… It was when Master Doriado said I was ready to unseal the realm. I did so, but of course it wasn't pretty." She giggled, "Imagine yourself being sealed away only for one day that seal to be undone. You either think help has arrived or you're being invaded. And well… the latter was their first choice."

Kuromu winced, "Understandable. I'd attack someone too, if I'd been locked up for so long."

"Indeed, and for awhile we butted heads. I'd try to show him the help, but he'd deny me and kick me out. This went on for quite awhile." Eria sighed at this memories.

"So what changed?"

"Well, it was during a fight. We were throwing everything and when we were exhausted, the moon and stars came out and shined on us. We took notice of each other much more carefully. And… well…" Eria blushed.

"We banged on the spot." Neptabyss bellowed with laughter.

Kuromu facefaulted, "Haaaaaaaaah?!"

"I know! I know! It's so embarrassing!" Eria flustered, covering her face with her hands, shaking her head. "I couldn't believe my first time was a one-night stand~!"

"Tensions being high, our hormones at max, and a lot of pent up frustration, would of course lead to that." Neptabyss noted. "But soon after, we talked and upon finally hearing her wishes to help our people, I finally agreed. From there, we kept in touch until she finally agreed to marry me."

"Huh… that was… not what I expected." Kuromu blinked in disbelief.

"People react different when they are in love." Eria smiled sweetly. "I'm sure you have someone your heart beats to."

"Er… no. At least… I don't think so." Kuromu muttered.

Eria giggled, "Then it must be so. Otherwise you'd know if you weren't in love. Hmm… now I wonder who it could be…? Aussa? Wynn? Master, maybe?"

"No, no, and no." Kuromu deadpanned with a sweat drop. "And for record, we only just met. Plus, I already told Aussa that I don't feel that way towards her when Wynn was trying to hook me up with her."


Aussa heard that as the girl slumped her head, retreating to her tree with a sad heart.


"Oh dear… I think I may have to console Aussa in a bit." Eria sighed softly.

"Eh?" Kuromu looked confused, but then realized what she meant by that, and sighed, "Didn't I say that earlier when we first introduced ourselves?"

"True, but she may still harbor such feelings. She is a maiden wanting love at heart." Eria pointed out, "Either way, for now relaxing is what you need."

"I messed up, didn't I…" Kuromu sighed.

*DRIP, DRIP, DRIP*

"Mm?" Kuromu looked up at the sky as he noticed that it had darkened, "Rain?"

"It's the biosphere making this. It senses one's mood and acts accordingly. It must have sensed something in your own heart to start raining?" Neptabyss guessed.

"I… don't know." Kuromu pondered, as the rain now started pitter pattering on the area around them, save for the hot spring, due to the magic surrounding it having its own atmosphere. "Still, it's strange… why would-

*ZIIIIING!*

"Ergh!" Kuromu suddenly held his head with one hand, his eyes shut tight as he tried to fight off a mental pain that's hammering into his skull like a nail digging into itself.

"Kuromu? What's wrong?" Eria asked as the others were starting to worry.

"I don't know…! I'm suddenly-"

*ZIIIIIIIIIIIIING!*

"Aaaaaaaaaaargh!" Kuromu yelled out as he held his head with both of his hands, trying in vain to stop the major headache he's receiving.

"Oi kid!" Neptabyss said with worry as well.

Moments later, his eyes snapped open and everything in his vision went white.


In his mind, a fragment of a memory came into his vision. What he saw was a dark alleyway, surrounded by stone, concrete, steel, or brick. The sky was black as night as rain poured down. There were, what appeared to be, street lights, but some were dim while others had signs that flickered on and off.

Footsteps were heard as he turned around but was surprised to see himself there. It was hard to make out much else, other than it seemed he was slightly upset. Maybe missed his ride or had no choice but to walk home? Either way, it was strange seeing himself like this.

As he followed himself, he was unsure where this was? Could it be close to his home or something? He didn't recognize much of the architecture, other than it looking both outdated yet familiar compared to everything else he had seen.

Then to his surprise, he saw himself being surrounded by strangers from within the alleyway. He was trapped.

"Well look who it is." One of the strangers sneered, approaching Memory Kuromu.

"Please… just leave me alone…" Memory Kuromu pleaded.

"After what you did. You're not getting away so easily."

Kuromu was confused. What exactly did he do to upset this person?

The memory Kuromu whimpered softly as he tried to make a run for it, yet the strangers quickly caught up and pulled him to the ground. The group gathered around as they began to hit, strike and fully assault the boy. Their hits echoing in the rain as it was obvious they wanted him hurt and unable to move.


"Kuromu? Kuromu!"

"Haaaaa!" Kuromu gasped loudly, finding that he was finally brought back to reality.

He was now in what looked to be a medical ward of the palace as Eria, Neptabyss, Doriado and Shizuka were now next to him, all with worried looks on their faces.

"Sensei… everyone… what-" Kuromu got out, as he slowly sat up.

"Thank goodness you are awake…" Shizuka sighed with relief as she hugged him.

"Sensei… what… happened?" Kuromu asked as she broke the hug.

"You had some kind of episode and blacked out." Eria frowned with worry. "That splitting headache of yours must have done something…"

"Headache…? What do you…" Kuromu trailed off, before his eyes slowly widened in realization. "That's right… I had a headache because of the rain… it… made me remember…"

"You remembered something?" Shizuka asked.

"Yeah, I think… a part of my lost memories were restored, but… it's still vague…" Kuromu shook his head.

"You don't remember your past?" Eria heard with realization.

"No. That's solely the reason why I'm here in this world to begin with. To restore my past memories." Kuromu said, before smiling sadly. "Learning magic is just me passing the time."

"Well, I suppose that makes sense." Neptabyss nodded.

"Did you learn anything new?" Shizuka questioned.

"There's not much, but… I was in a dark alleyway… it was raining at night… I assume that I was walking home until these… strangers surrounded me from out of nowhere. One of them had some kind of grudge against me and I tried to run, but…"

"Oh… Kuromu…" Shizuka frowned sadly.

"Did you… die?" Doriado asked.

"That, I don't know… that's where that memory ended. I don't know what happened afterwards…" Kuromu shook his head. "But… given how I'm still alive here…"

"Sometimes people can be so cruel…" Neptabyss frowned with disgust.

"I guess training will have to stop here for now, huh…" Kuromu mused.

"Only if you wish. We will not force you." Doriado said, "However, we truly believe you should continue. Do you not wish to be better to yourself than before?"

"More than anything. I just… need time…" Kuromu trailed off.

"Then for now, you can relax until you feel ready to continue." Eria smiled sweetly.

"Thank you…"


At the Magical Citadel, Endymion was in his office until he was contacted by Shizuka via a communication spell. She would then relay the information that she had learned from her student to him. While it was a milestone that Kuromu had remembered a portion of his memory, the rest of it still remained a mystery. Those within his inner circle are still attempting to piece together past of Kuromu's past . He theorized that, while worrisome, whatever the young man sees will have to be the catalyst to trigger these memories to return.

"I see… so his memories have partially returned…" Endymion nodded.

["I worry for him, Master."] Shizuka said. ["If this was the extent of his first memory. I cannot imagine as to what the rest of pieces would entail."]

"I know… But you must have faith in him. If he cannot overcome it, he won't be able to survive the rest of his training." Endymion noted. While it was also painful for him, he too, needed to have faith that the boy will overcome these odds.

["I understand, Master. What must I do?"]

"Support him to the very best of your abilities. You are his Master, after all. And as his Master, you must guide him towards the right path."

["Yes Master."] Shizuka said, before the communication ended.

Endymion sighed as he sat back on his seat. He couldn't help but wonder if this was a sign of things to come. Hopefully, this wasn't a sign of a bad omen.