Bless This World With A Stranger

by RhineWrites

Arc 15: At the End of the World!

48. A10-2: These Trials with Yunyun

{|} Chapter 2: These Trials with Yunyun {|}

{|} Part 1: The Crimson Trials Begin {|}

(morning: Day-4)

The excited crowd were standing outside the old looking structure located a little way outside the Crimson Demon Village; a location that had been spared the chaos and destruction brought about because of Sylvia, her forces, and Medusa.

While it was the norm for everyone in the village to be present when it came time for someone to undertake the trials to become the next chief, they usually were only somewhat interested. In fact, if they showed any form of excitement, it was only because it meant that none of them would have to worry about being made to take the trials themselves.

After all, pretty much no one within the clan actually wanted to take on the role of the chief, because of all the responsibilities the position requires. If you learn any one thing about the Crimson Demon clan, aside from their over-the-top personalities, it's the fact they don't like being responsible for anything.

But this particular Crimson Trial was different as everyone was really excited. Why was that? It was because I was the one who was undergoing the trials. After that recent incident with Sylvia, her forces, and Medusa, I had become something of a cultural marvel with my people.

The whole thing still embarrasses me, if I'm being honest.

Currently, I was sitting behind a curtain with Kazuma, Anna, and my parents as we patiently awaited the turn of the hour so father could walk out and present me and Kazuma as was tradition for the trials.

"Feeling nervous?"

asked Kazuma, pulling me from my thoughts.

"I know it's strange, seeing as the trials as a whole is ultimately meaningless. Despite that, I can't help but feel nervous about all of this. I mean, what if I can't even make it past the first trial? What if I..."

I then feel Kazuma take my hand with his own, giving my hand a comforting squeeze. He then sends me a confident, perhaps even a little cocky, grin.

"Just relax, Yunyun. Don't forget who your partner for this is. With me by your side, you'll go farther than anyone else ever has."

Hearing him say that makes me send him a grateful smile. I could feel my cheeks warming up and I was about to go give him a thank you hug when I feel a chilling aura begin to fill the air. Looking towards the source, I'm not surprised to find it was all coming from father who was staring daggers at Kazuma.

While my father doesn't say anything, the look in his eyes made his thoughts clear. "Keep trying to make moves on my little girl and you'll regret it big time."

I wanted to say something but the feeling of two other eyes on me and Kazuma makes me stop. Those eyes, belonging to my mother and Anna, were far more agreeable than father's... sort of. Mother was just smiling happily while Anna had that excited look about her. I feared what it was she was thinking now.

Just then, a bell begins to ring out in the distance, letting us all know that the time had come.

Father sighs before going from his leaning position against a side wall.

"Guess it's time we get the party started, huh? Yunyun... wait for me to come call for you."

"You too, Kazuma."

adds my mother of the two of them exit out from the covering that the curtain was providing. The moment it was just the three of us, I quickly see my previous thought made real as I go give Kazuma a tight hug.

"Thank you for those words of yours, Kazuma. I'm feeling much more confident about all this now."

"That's what I'm here for."

said Kazuma, returning my hug. This was nice, it really was. If only this moment could last...

"OOOO, should I step out as well so you two can have a little more privacy? Just so you know, I WILL be expecting details later if I do so."

Kazuma and I quickly pull apart which is quickly followed by Kazuma mumbling out-

"In hindsight, I should have figured out how to get rid of Anna for a few days alongside Megumin."

"Ah, don't say that big bro. You know you just LOVE having me around, providing my special blend of color commentary for all to hear and enjoy."

That is debatable on so many levels, Anna, but I'll let you keep living in that fantasy for now.

Just then, I hear my father, who had been addressing the rest of the clan while we had our little moment back here, finally call for me to emerge.

"And now, for the moment you all have been waiting for, may I present my pride and joy and the great savior of the clan; my daughter... Yunyun!"

I stand as I hear everyone cheering my name. For just a second, I have second thoughts till I feel Kazuma's hand on my shoulder. I feel his strength and confidence flow into me through that touch, restoring my resolve. With that, I step out beyond the curtain with confidence into full view of the clan.

I send them a little wave before saying as loudly as I can-

"Thank you all for being here today and for your love and support. I promise, as the next leader of the clan, I won't let any of you down."

I then bow while the cheers grow louder and I even hear some people calling out my name, as well as that embarrassing nickname I was given by everyone that I was still not use too. I then look at mother and father, seeing them both beaming with pride before my father decides that it's time to finally announce Kazuma.

"And now, I shall reveal who my daughter has chosen to be her partner for these trials, though I'm sure many of you are already aware of who will play the role of partner here. While I confess that I'm not too keen on her choice, I will not let my personal doubts deny her of the choice made. Please join us on the stage... (a devious smile appears on his face) Satou Anna."

Say what? What was that about NOT letting your personal doubts deny me MY personal choice.

"Dad, what are you..."

Before I could finish, dad's eyes go rolling into the back of his head before he goes collapsing onto the stage. This, along with him saying that Anna was my partner, gets everyone chattering amongst themselves while mother finally steps forward and says with a cheery tone-

"Everyone, please forgive our silly chief here. He was so excited about today's events that he ended up staying up late last night. I was afraid he would pass out during this, but does he ever listen to me. Sight, what is a poor loving housewife to do?"

This gets a lot of people laughing at father; something I confess is well deserved in my opinion.

"All joking aside, please allow ME to introduce my daughters chosen partner. I'm sure everyone here already knows him from his efforts in saving the village in the past. May I present to you all... Satou Kazuma."

Everyone cheers as Kazuma comes walking out, waving as he comes while I notice Anna peeking out from behind the curtain, jumping up and down with glee. Once Kazuma was standing beside me, he says to everyone-

"Thank you all for having me here for this day. I don't worry about anything. With me as Yunyun's partner, not one enemy inside will lay a hand on her."

"Sure, because you'll want that honor all for yourself. Make sure you bring us plenty of naughty stories involving you and that guy when you make it back, Yunyun."

shouted someone from the audience, most likely miss Panyatopi, making me blush from embarrassment. This also gets many people to talk while I could see Funifura and Dodonko sending me looks of jealousy. OK, maybe it wasn't that bad.

Mother then clears her throat before motioning with her arms towards the massive twin metal doors.

"Well, if you two are ready. Good luck and make sure you have fun while you're in there."

"We will and thank you... all of you."

I shouted out as Kazuma and I wave one final time to the crowd before approaching the doors, finding them automatically opening much like the doors inside the old research facility. We look at one another, giving each other a confident nod before stepping inside to begin the trials.

{|} Part 2: The First Trial {|}

"Curious, this whole place looks rather advances, from a technological standpoint."

said Kazuma as we sank deeper and deeper into the world. What was it that Kazuma called this again, an elevator? All I know is that after passing through the entry room, we had entered a smaller room and once the door had closed behind us, we had started experiencing some form of decent.

I look at Kazuma, seeing him resting a hand against the strange feeling metal wall while flashes of light go zipping by along these odd cuts within the walls. I then ask him-

"Kazuma, is there something familiar about all this to you? Is this how things look and feel back in Japan?"

"Sort of... our level of technology is quite advance but what we're seeing here is even more futuristic than that. This place is giving me serious sci-fi vibes, like something out of Star Wars or Star Trek. Maybe even the technology used by the Ancients in Star Gate."

Sci-fi? Star Wars... Star Trek... Star Gate? I can recall Kazuma using the word sci-fi in the past, when describing how some of his inventions could be looked at when compared to what we have to work with. But those other things?

Before I could ask him if he could elaborate, this elevator we were in begins to feel like it was slowing down. A moment later, we come to a dead stop as the doors open with a 'ping' sound. Kazuma then steps forward with me right behind him as we admire our surroundings.

It was another large room, much like the one we had first stepped into back on top. The room was dark, save for the amber colored lights streaking around the cuts that had been made into the walls. What's more, I observed that ripples could be seen moving across the metal floor like it was the surface of water with each step we took.

Once again, Kazuma made his way over to one of the walls and places his hand against it.

"You know, I'm beginning to wonder about the history of this planet. I mean, just looking around, one can't help but think that this world is currently living in a Middle Ages like period, complete with magic. And yet, everything has a video game like feel. Then there's the Divine Beast. Sure, they were pretty advanced considering this world technological level... but this place..."

Kazuma didn't finish though it was obvious he was deep in thought though I did hear him mumble to himself.

"I seriously need to ask Chris about this once she gets back."

Kazuma then looks back at me and beckons me over to his side. I do so and he quickly takes my hand and presses it against the wall. Almost immediately, I notice the warmth coming from this wall as well as it's strange texture. It was like I was pressing my hand against a living creature.

"What kind of material is this place made out of?"

I said absentmindedly to myself. I'm sure Kazuma knew that, but he still answered anyways.

"No idea but this is clearly beyond what even the old Norse Kingdom had available to it. Trust me, I know seeing as I have explored the ruins of their capital."

I was going to ask him if he had any ideas about this place till I took notice of something that made my cheeks heat up; Kazuma's hand was still resting on top of my own.

I quickly pull my hand away, making Kazuma turn all sheepish.

"Sorry about that, Yunyun."

"Don't worry about it. I mean, it's not like I... really minded... Anyways, we better find that sphere or orb device."

Kazuma nods as we move away from the wall and start exploring the room. It takes a few moments, but we soon find another door that opens on the wall opposite where we entered. It was only now that I realized that both this door and the door we had passed through perfectly blended in with the walls.

If one found themselves inside this room with no explanation, it would be understandable for them to think they were trapped as doors were all perfectly hidden from regular view.

Inside the new room, we found a pedestal with the glowing orb set upon it. We both walk around it, examining both the orb and the room as a whole. There didn't appear to be another door opposite us so either it won't open until we touch the orb or maybe...

"Well, ready to do this, Yunyun?"

"I think so. I admit that I'm feeling nervous though..."

"Hey, you got this. Just believe in yourself and it'll all be good. Besides, you have me with you, right. That means it'll be doubly good."

True enough. With you by my side, Kazuma, I feel like I could take on the whole world and win.

We both take up our positions on opposite sides of the orb. We then both reach out and place our dominate hands against it. The orb begins to glow brighter as these magic tendril-like beams of light emerge only to quickly wrap themselves around our wrist.

A strange voice then begins to speak; talking in a language I was unfamiliar with. I look at Kazuma only to see that he was just as confused as I was. A moment later, the voice spoke again but this time-

[Universal Translation complete. Biocompatibility of subjects over ninety percent. Prepare for Grade Alpha test initiation.]

"Um... Kazuma?"

"Don't look at me. I'm as much in the dark as you are here."

A moment later, the light coming from the orb begins to dim as the tendrils wrapping around our wrist fades, leaving a tattoo like mark in its place. This mark looked like a series of arrows emerging from two circles flowing opposite of one another.

I pull my hand close to further examine it only for a golden tether to come shooting out, linking with the one coming from Kazuma's mark. The moment they met and connected with one another; I experienced an incredible rush of power begin to flow through me.

I felt stronger, faster. I felt that if I were to cast a magic spell right now, it would be far more powerful than what it should be normally. I then look at Kazuma and another truth is revealed. I couldn't be sure, but I think I could read his mind right now. Guess I'll confirm that right now by asking him a question that's been on my mind for a good while now.

"Kazuma, did you... like it when me and Megumin slept with you those two times?"

Honestly, it was embarrassing to ask that, but it would be the best way to make sure.

Kazuma quickly averts his gaze as he nervously says-

"That's a random question to ask all of a sudden. I... well... let's say that I didn't dislike it when that happened."

But beneath his spoken words, I heard his mind say-

"Damn right I liked it. Hell, if only you two did that each and every night with me I would be the happiest of man alive."

"I see... that's... that's good to know."

Guess that means I'll need to start doing that more in the future. Oh, and Megumin too, of course.

I then see Kazuma smiling a devious smile. I then realize my error here. If I could read Kazuma's mind right now, then the same most also be true for...

"I thought it strange that you would go asking me such an off-topic question like that out of the blue. You know, Yunyun; if you were wanting to test to see if we could read each other's minds because of this tether, we could have just taken turns asking the other what we were currently thinking about, like thinking of a color or something."

Kazuma then begins to laugh as I bury my face in my hands to hide my embarrassment.

Once I had recovered, we test out the distance aspect of the tether. While the room we were in wasn't large, it was still just large enough for us to find the tether turn from gold to blue color when we were at the further apart that we could be at.

"If I had to guess, I'd say fifteen to twenty feet apart before we see our connection beginning to weaken."

"Agreed. Also, I couldn't hear your thoughts as easily either. If I had to guess, we'll probably lose that boon once we shift to green. Definitely yellow."

Kazuma nods before we find ourselves going back over to the orb which was now flashing. I look down at it then back at Kazuma before saying-

"Think we need to touch the orb again to proceed?"

"Well, seeing as no door has appeared yet, I would guess so. Only one way to be sure."

We then both reach out and touch the orb again, causing it to pulse before the whole room suddenly shifts. The next thing we knew, we weren't inside the small room but standing dead center inside what looked to be a massive underground cavern.

"Now it's starting to look like we're inside a cave of trials here. Quickly, before the enemies start appearing, let's see if we can..."

Before Kazuma could finish, strange particles of light fill the air all around us and from those flashes appeared beast unlike anything I have ever seen before.

They looked like lizards but with a human like shape to them as they stood on their hind legs. Their left arms had massive metal gauntlets that looked to make decent shields and their tails ended in spiked balls. The claws of the right hands were long and sharp looking, and they had feathers growing from their long necks like collars.

To make matters worse, more and more kept appearing by the second.

"Kazuma..."

I said, my tone filled with worry.

"These guys look familiar... sort of. Well, Yunyun, ready to do this?"

I see our enemies take up their own battle stances though they don't make a move to attack. Perhaps they were being kind by letting us have the first turn. Well, I won't complain about that. I pull my enchanted short sword out as does Kazuma with bringing Chunchunmaru to the ready as well.

"Yeah, let's get this trial started."

And with that, we began our fight against these lizard men.

{|} Part 3: Strength in Our Bond {|}

One of the lizard men before us let loose a gargles snarl sound before being silenced by way of getting Chunchunmaru stabbed right between the eyes. The life in its eyes quickly fades before its body burst into light and dust as if it had never even been there to begin with.

"I'm sure he got the point of my action, wouldn't you agree, Yunyun?"

I couldn't help but role my eyes at Kazuma's sad attempt at making a pun... though I still thought it was somewhat funny. I guess seeing as it was coming from Kazuma, I was willing to give it a pass.

I pull away from him, jumping onto another of the lizard men, causing it to fall backwards from my impact and forward momentum, all the while slashing a deep cut into its neck. I then spring forward, off the falling body, onto another lizard man who brings its shielded arm up in defense. I was prepared for that though as I use my own free hand to push of the metal guard that acted as a shield to do another flip to land right behind it and deliver a quick back stab before to it before it could turn to face me.

"How was that Kazuma. I think I have the makings of a great assassin; wouldn't you agree."

"You do know how to slay a man's heart... in a good way. Keep it up, Yunyun."

Despite the strong blush growing on my face, I still mentally promise myself that I'll have to chastise him latter for his goofy puns... well, maybe.

I see more of these lizard men charging at me, bringing their weapon like clawed hands to bare in an effort to strike me down. I, in turn, run towards before cartwheeling around them and over them, using my enchanted short sword to strike each enemy down whenever I had a moment to make them taste my blade. Once that group was done, I take that moment to catch my breath while looking back at Kazuma.

I really hoped he saw me moving with the grace of a trained dancer just now... not because I want him to praise me for my leg work but because I... OK, it's totally because I want him to praise me and maybe even give me some head pats. What can I say, I'm a simple girl with simple needs.

"Kazuma, did you see me. Did I look..."

I don't finish as I see Kazuma swinging Chunchunmaru around like a fast-moving saw blade, easily shredding through his targets. He then fires off the grappling hook from his Sheng Biao which wraps around the leg of one of his foes. He then yanks said leg out from the creature before going into a spin, using the lizard man like a morning star to hammer it against the rest of its kind.

With that, there was only one left standing and that one appeared to be going into a panic as it had Kazuma to one side and me opposite. I could see Kazuma sending me a signal with his blade, along with a sly smile which I return, understanding what he was thinking.

We both then shoot forward, making the lizard man panic even more as he seems at a loss as to what it should do, who it should protect itself from first and because of that hesitation, it was rewarded with a long blade piercing its neck and a short sword lodged into its back.

And like the others, its body burst into a nothingness of flickering dust.

"Well, that was invigorating, wouldn't you say Yunyun. Yeah, that was a nice late morning workout."

"We're not out of the woods yet, Kazuma. Don't forget we'll have more showing up at any moment and even more beyond that until we clear this trial so let's focus on finding the exit out of here while we have a chance to breath."

"You're the boss, Yunyun."

We then begin to scan the area, making sure to carefully scan every nook and cranny we could see which wasn't easy as this place was insanely massive in scale and scope. As my eyes go from here to there, I thought crosses my mind.

"Say Kazuma, about the way those strange monsters died..."

"Yeah, that's been bugging me too. In fact, something about this place as a whole is a curiosity to me. I don't know why, but something about this place and these creatures makes me think we could be inside some sort of..."

Before he could finish, a new sound fills the air, making Kazuma go silent. It was a humming sound, low at first but quickly becoming louder and higher pitched by the second. And then, they came into view, a new type of enemy that buzzed around here and there as they drew closer and closer.

These creatures were small, looking like you could have two or three standing on the palm of your hand at any one time. Their bodies were thing and pale with big heads and almost as big eyes. As the got closer, I suddenly felt Kazuma's energy change, making me look at him as he says-

"No way. Are those... Tooth Fairies... from the Golden Army?"

Tooth Faeries? What are those.

"Kazuma..."

"Yunyun, keep your mouth shut. No matter what. Those things... if they operate in the same manner as the ones they look like, they'll try to force their way into your mouth in order to steal your teeth so they can eat them... among other even more unpleasant things."

I do as Kazuma orders and immediately close my mouth as tightly as possible as these Tooth Fairies finally reach us and start swarming us all over like a horde of locust. And there were hundreds of them, perhaps even thousands; all coming in from every direction all at once.

I then begin slashing the air, seeing many of these things struck down by my efforts but it didn't seem to be doing anything as no matter how hard I tried, there always seemed to be more and more to deal with. Kazuma, for his part, began swinging both Chunchunmaru and his Sheng Biao to bring down as many as he could.

Finally, after what felt like forever, we started to see some progress as the number of these Tooth Faeries had begun to dwindle to a point where we could actually make out things beyond the wall of these creatures were making around us.

And then, we heard a nightmarish screech followed by another type of creature joining the fray. Before I could even fully register that screech, I felt something small impact against my stomach, knocking me backwards. I try to recover only to find more and more impacts happening against my body.

It finally became too much as I collapse onto my back with nothing but these small, toddler sized creatures began smacking me and tearing away at my clothes. I wanted to cry out in pain, wanted to cry out for help but I could still recall Kazuma's words from before and so, I keep my mouth firmly closed.

Not that it seemed to matter as several of these creatures, who I could now see looked like Howler Monkey's but more reptilian, began working on forcing my mouth open. I fight with all my might to resist them but the combined strength of the ones working against me won out and I found my mouth being forced open so that the Tooth Faeries could do their own thing with me.

"KAZUMA!"

I screamed, seeing as there was no need to keep my mouth shut now that I wasn't being allowed to.

I could feel several of the Tooth Faeries crawling into my mouth and placing their tiny, clawed hands against my teeth and gums and I brace myself for the pain I knew was coming...

And then a felt it, a massive blast of dark, arcana like energy and the next thing I knew, a flash of movement above me comes swinging around, slicing through all the creatures with ease. This causes the few Tooth Faeries inside my mouth to panic and try to make their escape, only to be taken out as the wave of dark power comes swinging around them again.

For a moment, I just lay there as I try to process all that I had seen and because of that, I finally took notice of it... just barely. A pulsing light coming just beyond a platform of rock that rested high above. I then remember the situation we're in and quickly get back onto my feet.

I then see Kazuma, an arcane light fading from around him and his extended grappling hook.

"Kazuma, how did... we're not supposed to be able to use magic during this particular trial."

"Who said I was using magic? Guess the rules don't recognize tapping into arcana as a form of magic."

True, but still... Kazuma, to use a power like that. Isn't that dangerous for...?

"We better hurry and find the exit. I can already feel the next challenge coming.

"Huh... oh, right... about that. I think I found it just a moment ago, high up on top of that outcropping of rock."

I then point Kazuma in the direction I was talking about. Just then, a deafening roar rings out, making the room shake. I then look back at Kazuma, preparing to tell him we need to move. Instead, he says-

"It'll be close, but I think I can just reach..."

"Kazuma?"

The next thing I know, Kazuma turns to me and says-

"Sorry about this, Yunyun. Hold on tight."

He then wraps his sword hand around me, pulling me in incredibly close to him. I knew my face must be showing quite the blush on it as I could feel my breast pushing up deeply against his body. I was going to shout at him and say that this wasn't the time or place for such things...

But then he raises the hand with the Sheng Biao up at the towards the rock I had pointed out to him, and I now understood what he was doing. Seeing the hook dig into the rocky ground above, I begin hugging Kazuma as tightly as I could and just in time as a moment later, we went rocketing upwards fast. We went flying skyward so fast that we ended up overshooting where the hook had dug into the earth and the next thing I knew, we were making a rough landing up on the outcropping of rock that had our exit sitting upon it.

"Ow, that really..."

"Yeah, I know-I know, rough landing. At least we made it."

True enough as I pick myself up off the ground. Kazuma was doing the same before making a few quick tugs on the rope of his Sheng Biao to free it from the underside of the rock below. As he does so, he peeks down at the ground below us and I follow suit and see what would have been or next challenge.

It was a chimera like creature, having a body of an Advanced Stalker, the wings of a dragon, three spiked tails, and the face of an orc. And, it had something else too, something that filled me with sheer terror at seeing it and what it might have done to me if I was still down there when it had arrived.

At my side, Kazuma whistles an impressed sound then says-

"Wait till Darkness hears about that guy down there. That freak would be her dream encounter if such a thing actually existed in the real world."

"It better not exist outside the trials because I sure as hell don't want to ever encounter such a... thing. Why is such a thing even here inside the trials to begin with? I don't want to even think about how my predecessors dealt with that if they even encountered it. Actually, what are we even doing just standing here? Let's hurry up and end this before anything else..."

Obviously, my words just had to go jinx us as the ground beneath my feet suddenly gives way and I find myself falling down towards the creature that would be a nightmare encounter for any sane girl. Luckily, Kazuma manages to catch me and save me from the fall... even though he does so by accidentally groping me.

I don't really care or even mind as I'd rather it be him touching me in these sorts of ways than something like that. Once I was safely back on top, Kazuma says-

"That was close one, right Yunyun? Well, I think this trial has outlived its welcome. Want to move on to trial two?"

I quickly nod as he takes his hands off me; something I confess I wish wasn't the case. We then hear a strange noise, making us look over the edge again to see the dangerous beast scaling the wall up to us so we quickly make to the pedestal and place our hands against the orb.

The room fills with light, so bright that we were momentarily blinded by it. The next thing I knew, we were back inside the small room we had first been in before starting the first trial. A glowing symbol appears upon the walls, taking on the form of a smiling face.

I permit myself the right to collapse to my knees while catching my breath and allowing myself a moment to bask in the moment of victory I felt was well deserved. I then look back at Kazuma and say-

"How about we take five before we move on to the next... Kazuma, what's wrong? Why are you averting your gaze while blushing like that."

"Um... well, how should I put this. You might want to look down at yourself, Yunyun."

Huh? Why would I need to... I go from looking at Kazuma, who despite his efforts to keep his gaze averted was still allowing himself an opportunity to sneak peeks at her. She then looks down at her body and quickly understands what was going on with Kazuma.

My top had been torn and damaged by those monkey creatures. There was a tear along my stomach, my sleeves were shredded, and there was a long tear along my chest. In essence, my chest was pretty much on full display for Kazuma's viewing pleasure. Even my bra had been lost in all that action.

I find myself screaming out of embarrassment, the sound ringing out throughout the room.

{|} Part 4: You Have My Back while I'm on Yours {|}

After having my moment of screaming out my embarrassment, I quickly ordered Kazuma to not look at me; to turn his eyes away so I could change into one of my spare outfits I was thankful I had been wise enough to pack for this little test as I had been warned that this could take a few days and I didn't want to be stuck wearing the same thing from start to finish.

I kept one eye on Kazuma the entire time, in order to make certain he didn't take the opportunity to sneak a peek at me. Thankfully, he didn't do it even once which made me feel somewhat conflicted. On the one hand, I was glad he had done as I had asked him and yet...

To not even try to sneak a peek at me at least once... I don't know. Maybe he could have tried peeking at me at least one time while I was changing. Just a little peek would have been alright.

Forget about that for now. Once I had finished changing, I told Kazuma it was alright to look at me again. I then offered to make lunch which he was fine with as he wanted to 'check something out.' Soon, while I was making some nice and warm, I began to hear the sound of clanking impacting a wall.

"Kazuma... what are you doing?"

Looking his way, I saw him slashing and thrusting Chunchunmaru at one point upon the walls, seeing a strange sort of sparking light from everything impact he made.

"Confirming a theory I have about this place."

He continues his unusual action while I make a slight adjustment to the meal I was making before pulling away so I could walk over to his side. I could leave what was simmering in the pot for a few moments so I could get a bit closer in the hopes of understanding why he was doing what he was doing in this place.

"And this theory would be?"

I asked though he didn't respond right away. I look at him for a moment more before turning my gaze onto the area he was striking. At first, it seemed like a waste of time if you asked me. In fact, despite all his slashes and thrust, there appeared to be no sign of damage on the walls. You would think there'd be at least some markings from all those impacts Kazuma was making but... there was nothing.

Until there was... something as something strange began to happen as Kazuma began to strike faster and faster, harder and harder. I kind of warping... a distortion that would reveal a kind of grid like underside to the wall that would quickly 'heal' if you could call what I saw healing.

Kazuma then stops and sheaths Chunchunmaru, then looks at me and says-

"Just like I expected. These caves the trials are held in aren't really caves at all. We're inside some kind of Holodeck like facility. And the enemies we've encountered and will encounter going forward, just illusions made into a physical state by the ability of this Holodeck."

"Holodeck? I don't understand, Kazuma. What's that?"

"Something born from the medium we call science fiction. I'll tell you, and the others about it in greater detail another time but suffice to say, a Holodeck is... (sniff-sniff) Is something burning?"

Something... burning...?

"Oh crap, I forgot about lunch!"

After we finished eating the ruined lunch and me feeling the need to apologize for ruining it, which earned me plenty of head pats alongside some "Don't worry about it" from Kazuma, we decided it was time to move on to trial number two.

"So, we ready for this, Yunyun?"

I nod but then quickly pull my pocket watch out and look at the time. To say we had eaten a late lunch would be an understatement as it was nearly three in the afternoon. I then pocket my watch while looking back at Kazuma and say-

"Yeah, I'm ready. If possible, I'd like to see if we can make it to the third trial before dinner and maybe even be the first to make it to the fourth trial."

"Assuming there actually is a fourth, you mean."

"That too. Alright, let's do this."

We then reach out and place out hands upon the orb, once more filling the room with a blinding light which forces us to cover our eyes. Once the light had faded, we found ourselves standing before what looked like the entrance to a cave system. Perhaps some kind of mine or something.

"OK, let's review what we need to do for this one. I'm guessing once we step inside this cave, we'll begin seeing all those monsters we're supposed to hunt and kill."

"Yeah, there's supposed to be around one-thousand beast if I remember correctly. Some of them will hide from us while others will come at us with the intent to end us. Also, only magic can harm them once inside, so it'll be entirely up to me to do the fighting. Hope my magic will hold out."

"It should, according to you what your mom said before. Also, don't forget we have a time limit working against us as well."

I nod, remembering that mother had said something about there being a twenty-four-hour time limit to the second trial. Furthermore, she had told me in private that there had been many past chiefs that had failed the second trial, not because they got overwhelmed by the monsters, but because they got too carried away with 'having themselves a little fun' which caused them to lose track of time and fail because of that.

"Speaking of which, it's already started up. We should get going."

said Kazuma, looking at the palms of his hands. He then shows me those palms, revealing both had glowing numbers present on them. One said a thousand which I'm guessing was the number of monsters remaining that needed defeated of the other having a clock that was counting down slowly.

I then run into the mouth of the cave while looking back at Kazuma while saying-

"Come on, Kazuma. Let's go show those monsters inside the power of... Crim... son..."

I suddenly found myself feeling weak in the knees. In fact, my legs as a whole were wobbly and quickly gave out beneath me. Luckily, Kazuma was quick enough to catch me before I could hit the ground. As he supports me, he says-

"Hold it, tiger. Don't forget the most important detail about this trial. In exchanged for nigh unlimited magic power, you'll find yourself unable to move around of your own free will. In other words, I need to carry you around until this trial is over."

"Oh, right... guess I did forget about that detail."

As Kazuma worked to get me on his back, I couldn't help but feel a little nervous. I worried that maybe I would be too heavy to carry for the entirety of this trial. After all, unlike Megumin, I had a little bit more going on with my body to add on some extra weight to say nothing of...

A sudden feeling grabbing my butt makes me go rigid which is quickly followed by a stammer. Kazuma looks at me and says-

"I know you'd probably rather me have my hands resting under your legs than on your butt like I'm doing now but this will help me hold you up over the long haul. Is this going to be OK or should I..."

"No-no, this is fine. I... I don't really mind so long as it's just you and me... and that it's you who's doing it. I doubt Megumin would..."

"Between the two of us, Yunyun. Megumin has recently started having me carry her like this when it's just the two of us alone. Hell, she even often has me carry her in the 'Princess Carry' style."

"Ah, she does... really?"

I can't believe that she... you're more cunning and devious than I ever could have imagined, Megumin. I can't let you keep moving further and further ahead of me here. Once this trial is over, I'll need to do something to help even the odds. As for what, I'll think about that when time permits.

"Yunyun, I think I can see some salamando's and goblins deeper inside. Ready to unleash hell in there?"

"Yeah, let's go, Kazuma."

I then begin to prepare my first spell for use as Kazuma goes walking quickly into the cave as the second trial truly began.

{|} Part 5: Half a Year to Victory {|}

(Rubrikt POV)

"I think you for your prompt response to my summons, lord Dustiness... lady Dustiness. I do hope I didn't interrupt anything of significant importance going on with either of you."

"Don't worry about it, chancellor Rubrikt. It's always a pleasure to visit to pay the capital a visit."

said Dustiness Ford Ignus before taking a drink from the teacup presented to him by my personal attendant, Rain. After taking a sip, Ignus sends me a smile and adds-

"As always, your tea is indeed most excellent. If it were possible, Rubrikt, I'd steal miss Rain here away from you to come work for me."

I chuckle as I flash a quick smile towards Rain who was standing off to the side, a fierce blush forming on her cheeks. I then turn my attention back to the father-daughter duo and, wanting to make some small talk before getting down to business, ask-

"So Ignus, how's your new role as governor of Axel treating you? I can't imagine the job to be an easy one, especially with all the issues left in the wake of Alexei Barnes Aldarp's fall from grace."

"You're not wrong, chancellor. It has been quite difficult, especially seeing as I's still on the mend following the whole being cursed situation I suffered. I can at least take some solace in two key bits of information though."

I cock an eyebrow up to show my curiosity at his words.

"And those two things would be?"

Ignus takes another drink from his cup then says-

"First is the knowing that my old friend hadn't fallen from grace like many of his family had done in the past. The fact that Ortis had stolen his son's body from him, as well as many others of the bloodline, while tragic in the knowing, at least redeems my best friend's good name. At least now, the world knows that Aldarp was, is, and always will be a good man."

"The second is my dear daughter being at my side. With her becoming my deputy governor and assisting me with all matters that comes from the position I now hold as made it much easier on me."

"I'm simply doing what I can for you father as you have done for me throughout my entire life. I'm proud that I can do as much as I can."

"You are indeed a good daughter for your father, Lalatina."

"I'm not sure if I would THAT far, Rubrikt..."

"Father, what are you insinuating here?"

shouted Lalatina, making both me and Ignus laugh at her flustered face. She glares at us for a few moments more before huffing while looking away with a pouty face. After a moment more, I ask her-

"Seriously, Lalatina, has your new role as deputy governor had any negative effect on your status as an active adventurer? And how is that party you are a part of also? I've heard they have achieved much in the short time you all have been together. Things like seeing multiple Devil King generals defeated."

"It's fine. Though it does eat up much of my free time, it hasn't forced me to make any serious changes with my life. At least not yet, sir. As for my party... what can I say. Things are as chaotic as always, not that being chaotic is a bad thing in my opinion. If nothing else, my friends have kept my life interesting."

Lalatina then finally takes a drink for her own cup then looks at Rain while saying-

"Father's not wrong about the quality of this tea. I'm also tempted to make an offer to have you come work for us down in Axel, Rain."

"You honor me, lady Dustiness."

After a few more minutes of random chit-chat, I decide it's time to progress this meeting to the next phase. I lean forward, resting my hands in a crossing pattern before me.

"Now, let's get down to business, shall we. I didn't just invite the both of you here for a little teatime. There are some important matters that I believe are long overdue for discussion, Ignus."

Probably because he saw the seriousness I was sending his way, and maybe because I had addressed him by his first name, Ignus took on a serious expression himself as did Lalatina.

"Does some of this have to do with what the high council possibly looking for a replacement for our current royal family?"

Hearing that had a visible reaction of surprise from Lalatina. I'm guessing Ignus hadn't fully alerted her to that conversation yet.

"I'm sure the council would prefer you say the word 'successor' over replacement but yeah, it has to do with that. There's a few other things besides that but I feel we should first speak of the current state of the war."

"Has something changed, lord Rubrikt?"

"You could say that Lalatina. We have determined that the massive castle that has long been believed to be the base of operations for the Devil King and his forces is, in fact, a front. A distraction meant to keep our focus away from their real base of operations."

"Are you saying that for all these centuries of conflict, our kingdom has been wasting time with trying to get around that magic barrier that protects that structure?"

asked Ignus. I shake my head then say-

"Not quite. We still believe there to be an important role that fortress plays for the Devil King and his ilk. We just now believe that it is also a ruse to keep us from searching for their true home base. It's also possible that a way to travel to this true base of operations may still be found within the castle, or at least a vital clue on where to find it."

"Forgive me, lord Rubrikt, but how did we come into this information to begin with?"

"It was a kindred spirit to the famous Mitsurugi Kyouya... I'm sure you're familiar with that man. A female traveler from that same distant land who went by the name Sakuraki Minako. She had a curious power that allowed her to PHASE, as she called it, through solid objects. This ability also seemed to work on powerful magical shields and barriers. She took a big risk to sneak inside to gather information and managed to return to us with this important intel."

I could see the look of surprise present on their face. Lalatina then asks me-

"Strange, I thought I had heard all the names of those curious strangers that had come to us from that distant land, bearing strange sounding names... like our very own Satou Kazuma."

"I concur with my daughter. This is the first I'm hearing about this Sakuraki Minako as well. I don't suppose there's any chance we can meet with her once this meeting is over with."

I let out a sigh before saying with a grave tone.

"I'm afraid that is no longer possible. While she was successful in obtaining this important intel for us and bringing it back, it came at the cost of her life as she suffered grave injuries while in there. As for not having heard of her before; that was a personal choice on her part. She didn't like being out there in the spotlight. She was the quiet type, one who didn't like having to many eyes looking her way."

"While her loss is regrettable, it has gifted us with much... such as a way to sneak a small force into that very castle itself. Even now, we are making preparations to form that force which will be led by Mitsurugi himself. This assault is still several months out from happening, but..."

"That's another topic you want to talk to us about, isn't it. Talk to me about specifically. You're wanting to ask me if I would join that team for this critical mission, right?"

"Not just you, but you're friends and party-mates as well, Lalatina. Do you think you all would be interested?"

Lalatina cups her hand under her chin as she thinks about it, then says-

"I'll need to speak with them about this, of course. Would it be safe to assume that ALL of us would be coming, even Kazuma?"

"Yes, all of them. Especially Satou Kazuma for I feel his intellect, the very intellect that has seen you all achieve such success in the past, could be the most important of assets to have for this mission. Ignus, what do you think?"

"I think I'd rather my daughter not take part in something as dangerous as this, but I also know that as a family with the status we have doesn't allow me the option to object to her doing it either. All I can do is ask you to come back home to me, Lalatina."

"You know I will, father. After all, there's a reason why I focused myself into being a defensive knight."

"I thought it was to fulfill that perverted dream of yours?"

"Shut up, chancellor."

I chuckle as Lalatina rages at me, forcing Ignus and Rain to stop her from jumping me. I then stand and walk over to the window as I add quietly yet just loud enough for them to still here.

"Make no mistake, all of you. After all this time, all these centuries of needless battle, the ending to this foolish and pointless war is now in sight. In fact, I believe this war will have finally come to an end before this year reaches its conclusion."

And with it, this whole world too.

(elsewhere)

(Lynn's POV)

I walk slowly down the darkened room with nothing but glowing blue flames erupting to life as I approach a figure I could just barely make out sitting before me. Once I had gotten close enough, many blue flames burst into existence, revealing the old man sitting on his throne.

I then bow down with my head lowered and await his words-

"Arise child. You of all people know that there is no need for you to bow before me."

He says that but if I didn't bow, he would chastise me for not doing so, especially when his bodyguards were present in the room as well. As I stand, I allow myself a quick glance to my right, seeing father leaning against an unseen wall within the room, his expression unreadable.

"It was just the two of you that returned..."

said the figure, also sparing a glance towards father before looking back towards me.

"... Why is Satou Kazuma not with you? After all this time, I finally grant you permission to bring him so that we may meet and yet now is the moment you choose to not bring him before me."

"Forgive me, my liege. But he... Kazuma, had a prior commitment. He is currently assisting a mutual friend of ours, a Crimson Demon named Yunyun, with her trials to become the next chief. Once that's done, which should be within the next few days, I'll be able to bring him here to meet you then."

"I see... that's fine. If his assistance with that matter could see us gaining the Crimson Demons as potential allies in the future, then it's an acceptable delay."

I wanted to chastise this man for his way of thinking, but I knew better than to do that when others were present. A smile forms on his face as he says-

"Dear Lynn, you know you can't hide those thoughts of yours from me. You think my aim is to turn Kazuma, and perhaps even the Crimson Demons, against the kingdom of Belzerg, don't you?"

"I confess that thought has crossed my mind, yes."

"Fear not for my meeting with him has no such designs at present. Where my thoughts concerning Kazuma and the Crimson Demons lies is more for the future than the present. A future that goes beyond this pointless war."

"Goes beyond... sir, are you saying...?"

my father said suddenly, getting our king to spare him a glance followed by a smile and a nod.

"Yes, my boy. At long last, I do believe that time has come for this long war we have been fighting to come to an end. By years end at the latest, if I may be so bold to claim."

"But how can you be sure about that?"

I asked.

"I can sense it in the water and feel in in the air; something is about to happen that will change everything. And then, once this war is over, I can finally diminish and rest my tired body at last. It will be your time then, Tia'lynnya!"

"But that can't... but you have so much life left within you."

"Don't misunderstand, child. I don't plan on dying yet nor anytime soon. I simply mean that I'll finally be able to relax and enjoy some long overdue retirement. When that happens, you have to finally step up as your mother would have been if she was still with us. Your days as our leader shall soon be upon us..."

Our king then stands and approaches me, reaching out to place a hand on my cheek as he reaches me.

"My precious granddaughter."

{|} Part 6: A Trial, a Dream, or a Krys {|}

The last of the monsters fall and fade away as the sakura petals the filled the air around us slowly faded. Breathing out a sigh of relief, I ask Kazuma-

"Were they it; the last ones we needed to hunt down?"

Kazuma takes one hand off from supporting me and examines it. He then sends me a nod while saying-

"Yep, with those guys out of the way, you have successfully slain one-thousand monsters. Good work, Yunyun."

"Correction, WE slayed one-thousand monsters together. I wouldn't have been able to do this without you carrying me around on your back like you've done. There's also your keen eyes spotting some of the ones that were hiding in plain sight as well as your Enemy Detection skill."

"Honestly, I surprised that it actually works with the creatures in here. I mean, it's not like any of them are real nor do I think any of them were of any real threat to us. At least I wouldn't think they'd be."

I shrug my shoulders before looking around the room. Kazuma takes notice and asks me what I was looking for.

"I'm trying to see if I can spot the pedestal with the orb on it. Now that all the enemies have been taken out, it should be popping up somewhere in here now."

"Good point, maybe we need to exit the cave and return to where we were standing when we first entered this..."

A blinding flash of light then erupts all around us, forcing us to close our eyes tightly in order to avoid being blinded. A moment later, the light fades and we once again find ourselves in that waiting room with the pedestal and orb resting dead center within it.

"I was going to say trial but... never mind. So, think you've regained the ability to walk around without needing me?"

"Yeah, I think so... but do we need to part ways so soon. I was just really starting to enjoy this whole experience, you know."

"Yeah, I know. I was getting use to you smushing your twins up against my back too."

I decide to let that slide and not say anything as I go back to standing as, if I was being honest, I liked doing that as well. Shows just had far I've fallen since meeting this guy and the others. I then approach the orb, look at it for a few moments, then look back at Kazuma who asks-

"So, shall we go ahead and try our hand at this next trial; the one that has never seen a pass by anyone before or should we call it for today with some rest here."

Hm, good question. I pull out my pocket watch out once more to check the time.

"It's almost seven in the evening..."

"Meaning it took us nearly four hours to complete that trial."

"Yeah... Let's go ahead and give the third trial a go. According to mother, all the third trial does it set us before some sort of mirror that's supposed to challenge us in some way. Best case scenario, we pass and we'll spend the night camping here in this room. Worst case, we'll be sleeping in some nice, comfortable beds tonight."

"Guess that means we're doing this."

Kazuma then walks over to join me before the orb. We both begin to reach out to touch the orb, but Kazuma sudden stops as he smirks ever so slightly.

"What is it?"

"Imagine if we learn that the reason no Crimson Demon has ever been able to pass this trial was due to it forcing them to face the truth that all your clan's crazy antics and ways of doing things is indeed very childish and embarrassing. In other words, it makes them view the clan as a whole with the same perspective an outsider would have... no offense."

"None taken... and yeah, that would be pretty funny actually. I could see something like definitely being the reason and explanation behind all my predecessor's failures. Now, shall we?"

"Let's shall..."

Kazuma and I finally touch the orb and following the bright light that filled the room, I found myself in a room that was more or less the same as the waiting room we normally found ourselves in when between trials. The only difference was the fact the pedestal and orb were missing, having been replaced by a massive, circular mirror hanging off one of the walls.

And also, Kazuma wasn't here with me.

"Kazuma... Kazuma... can you hear me?"

Despite the small size of the room, my voice seemed to echo for a good long time which was quite eerie. A waited and waited yet I never once heard his voice respond to my own. I guess this should have been expected.

I then turn my attention back to the mirror, look at it for a moment before taking in a deep breath.

"OK Yunyun, calm yourself. You can do this... you can, you MUST!"

Everyone back in the village had high hopes for her. Her friends had high hopes for her. Kazuma had high hopes for her. And I have high hopes for myself. I then step forward till I was within a few steps of the mirror. I then reach out and touch the glass, tracing my finger lightly over the reflective surface.

"OK, what's supposed to happen... now..."

Suddenly, my vision began to blur and spin as my head started to feel lighter and lighter and I felt like my whole body was falling towards the mirror. But instead of impacting against it, I just found myself falling farther and farther into an unending darkness.

I fell and fell and fell and fell and...

My eyes open, finding myself looking up at a ceiling that was both familiar and not. Light was filtering in through the gaps in the curtain of the window. Sitting up, I look around as I try to figure out where it was I was at.

"This place... right, this is one of the rooms inside the Guild that an adventurer can rent when they don't own an actual home. But why am I here?"

Why would I have stayed here when I have a home back at the mansion with Kazuma and the others?

Getting up, I quickly dress before exiting the room so I could make my way back home. I did allow myself a moment to examine myself in order to make sure I hadn't engaged in any perverted activities in secret and was relieved to find I was still indeed pure... at least I hoped so.

As I enter the large room within the guild, I decide to go ahead and have something to eat as my stomach wasn't hesitant in its desire for food and I'd be too embarrassed to walk through Axel with all the growling coming from my stomach.

I find a table to sit at and after a few minutes, I finally manage to get one of the waitresses to come attend me. As I awaited my breakfast, I hear something curious said off to the side.

"Hey, isn't that her? The solo mage that never works with others if she can avoid it."

"Yeah... must be nice to be so skilled and so powerful that you don't need to rely on having others around to back you up."

"Well, if that's how you feel about us, we'll be more than happy to let you be a solo act too."

"Wait, please wait... that's not... that's not what I meant when I said that."

I didn't hear where that conversation was going as my thoughts were too busy thinking about the stuff said at the beginning.

They had called me the solo mage. It's been a long time since anyone has called me that. Not since word of me having joined with Kazuma and the others has anyone ever seen me like that. Why were they suddenly calling me by that title again?

After eating breakfast, I left the guild and began walking towards the east gate. As I walk, I find myself seeing people sending me curious looks, but not unfamiliar looks. I remembered a time when people have looked at me with the expressions they were sending me.

Like with those adventurer's back in the guild, the people I walked past sent me looks that screamed 'there goes that strange girl who likes to be alone.'

Why was everyone looking at me like that. Why were they reminding of that period of my life. I hated my life back then. I didn't want to be alone, nor did I understand what it was that made people think I liked or wanted to be alone.

I need to stop thinking about it as I'm starting to get all depressed here.

I continue on my way, having several stranger encounters. There was this cute little puppy I tried to play with only for it to run away the moment I went to reach for it. Then there was the adorable looking infant I wanted to get a better look at that started crying the moment she saw me.

And then there were all those creepy guys who offered to 'be my friend' if I just went with them to someplace that offered a little more privacy for us to 'hang out.' I could recall having experienced that in the past and while I had indeed been desperate to make friends, I hadn't been THAT desperate... or stupid either.

Just as I neared the east gate, I heard some familiar voices.

"Seriously, this is how you two spend your days together. Don't you find such acts to be boring?"

"How can you say that Darkness. What we're doing is important training here. Nothing about it is in any way wasteful."

"Kazuma's right. My daily Explosion routine is a must if I hope to become the greatest of mages. Don't even dare to say that this is boring or a waste of time. At least Kazuma understands me and my dream."

"He only understands because he's trying to earn some brownie points with you. Probably hopes it'll get you to invite HIM into doing something perverted together."

"Ah... Darkness, that's... that's ridiculous. I'm doing this because I want to and because it's fun, not because I'm trying to get Megumin to want to join me in my bed each and every night."

Without a doubt, it was my friends. I then go running forward to join them. But when I go to speak, to let them know I was here, I find myself saying-

"There you are, Megumin. Today's the day when we'll finally settle our long-standing rivalry."

Eh, what did I...?

The next thing I knew, I was standing off to the side, seeing myself standing there proud while pointing at Megumin, who was resting on Kazuma's back.

"This again, Yunyun? Didn't we already do this just the other day. You do know I have better things to do here than play with you all the time."

"What do you mean 'the other day?' Our last duel was over two weeks ago."

"Details-details, anyways... afraid I have to pass. I'm tired after doing my daily Explosion and even if I wasn't tired, I'd still be busy. You know, with MY friends here. I know that concept must be hard for someone like you, who has no friends, to understand..."

I see myself jerk as if a sword had been stabbed into my very heart. Something I very much understood as I felt it too.

"Yeesh, that's a little harsh don't you think, Megumin?"

"I agree... that's like kicking a guy in the dick... or smacking Yunyun's giant tits around without remorse."

"Kazuma..."

I see Megumin move closer to Kazuma so she could whisper something into his ear. While I couldn't hear what was said, his reaction was enough to say it all to both of me.

"Sorry Yunyun, but Megumin and I have other plans for today. How about we hang out together another time."

"What Kazuma said. I promise we can play together tomorrow. Anyways, let's go, Kazuma."

They then begin walking away while Darkness does a bow before following after them while asking Megumin what she had said to Kazuma. I see myself watching them go, looking completely depressed and defeated. I looked like the loneliest girl in the world.

As I stand there, looking at myself, I also don't know what to think as I also felt that feeling of rejection. It was then I realized what this was. I remembered that I was taking on a trial, my third trial. It must be tapping into my greatest fears and darkest dreams here.

The nightmarish fear that my life up till now, and all the happiness I have felt and experienced, was all nothing more than a dream and that I would one day wake up to a life where I was still alone once again.

I bring my hands over my heart as I began to chant to myself-

"This isn't real... this isn't real... this isn't real. All of this is just an illusion, part of the trial. I need... I need..."

[You need to accept the truth. What you're seeing here isn't some dream or illusion...}

My eyes go wide from shock as I see the me that had been rejected and left behind turn to address me directly, her face cynical and scowling.

"You're wrong. This is all part of the trial. I know it is. What I just saw... it wasn't my reality."

[Wasn't it, though. Come on and stop being naïve here. Do you really think that after all that hardship you had to suffer growing up that you would suddenly find friends and a place to belong?]

"Yes, I do believe... because it had to happen eventually for me, right? In fact, it did happen to me."

My other then begins to laugh at me with even more of me appearing here and there and all around me, all laughing as well.

[Did it though? Are you really sure all that you believe to be real is actually real and not a figment of your imagination? How do you know that what you just saw wasn't reality trying to remind you of what it really is.]

"You're wrong... I know you're wrong. I know because I'm not alone in here. Kazuma..."

[What about Kazuma? Was he present when you appeared before the mirror or were you all alone... like always? Face it, Yunyun. Kazuma isn't here with you. He never was. You are taking on the trial all alone here as who in their right mind would ever want to help you out here.]

It's a lie... what you're saying is a lie. All a lie... it has to be...

[Quit denying reality, me. Just accept the truth already. You are ALONE. You have always been alone and always will be alone. That is your curse... your fate. Accept it... say it. SAY IT!]

No, you're lying... you have to be lying. I know you're lying. You have to be...

I find myself collapsing to my knees as all the others me's chant and scream out for me to say it. To admit that I am alone and always be alone forever. And as they continued assaulting me ears and my mind with their cold, cruel words, I could feel my heart starting to waver as the doubt began to set in.

I then feel a hand come to rest under my chin, making me look up to see the me I had been watching as she says-

[Please, end this already. Just accept it so we don't have to suffer anymore...]

"I... I... I am al..."

"No, you're not alone. You never have been... Krys."

Suddenly, all the other me come to a stop... no, they had been frozen in place like they were statues. I then stand and look around, wondering what had happened when I feel a presence come into being behind me, making me spin around to find...

"Chris?"

Yes, I was looking at Chris... wait, something was off about her. Her hair still had that lavender color but was now longer and kept in a ponytail with a small part along the front that partially hid her left eye. There was no scar but a tiny tear like mole under her right eye.

She was also dressed in strange clothing that looked like some sort of armor yet had a flexibility to it that wasn't natural to metal but cloth instead. She had some kind of staff like weapon on her back and a knee length scarf.

She smiles as she says-

"Yes, my name is Krys. Not the one you're thinking of as, for one thing, my name is spelled a little differently than hers. I'm guessing you must have questions for me, Yunyun."

"You could say that, yes. For starters, just where did you come from, why are you here, and... and why is it I feel like there's something familiar about you. Like I should know you in some strange way."

"Where did I come from? Would you believe me if I said I came from within you yourself. Why am I here? I figured if Ritu and Realm could get away with interacting with their current selves, I could too. As for why I am so familiar to you. Perhaps it's because you can see something of me within yourself and vice versa... or something like that. What do you think?"

What was that supposed to mean... and who are Ritu and Realm? Wait, now that I think about those two names, I... what is this feeling that's coming over me. This nostalgic warmth from deep within my very being. Just who are you?

The girl, who was already a little transparent, begins to become even more so as she lets out a sigh.

"Guess this is the limit for me to have this moment with you. Listen, current me, don't forget that this is a trial... your trial. Don't let your heart start to waver because of false words, no matter how loud they ring out. You already know the answer to be pass this trial now just say it. Also, sorry about jinxing your life. You'll understand what I mean by that one day."

She then fades as everything suddenly returns to being in motion again. Once more, the words of the other me fills the room again as they wait for me to acknowledge that I'm alone and always will be.

"Alright, I'll say it. I'll say what I need to say here."

The all stop, their eyes locked onto me as I turn my head to the sky and shout out with all my might-

"I AM NOT ALONE!"

Instantly, the world and the other me shatter like glass and, for a moment, I wonder if maybe I had made a mistake. Maybe the challenge wasn't to deny their words but to accept them? That thought dies a quick death though as the shattered images suddenly come together again, reforming the mirror I had used to enter this test and the moment it had finished rebuilding itself, I was pulled into it.

The next thing I knew, I was back inside the small room with Kazuma leaning against the side wall. He takes notice of me before I could speak, just as the walls glowed with the green light that confirmed we had passed the trial. If that wasn't enough, Kazuma sends me a victorious grin and a thumbs up.

I couldn't help but smile from ear to ear as I pumped my fist into the air victoriously.

We did it, I did it. For the first time in the clan's history, the third trial had been cleared.

{|} Part 7: Escaping These Debt Collector's {|}

"Are you going to miss the time you've been spending here in Veridae, Lia?"

Since returning to Veridae to help Lia and the rest of Idol Hearts with completing their preparations for the big move, I have found myself spending a lot of time getting to know all the girls involved with the group. Currently, I was out with Lia and Erika, who I had previously only knew by her alternate name of Harp Song, as they, as well as the other girls, were taking in the sights on last time before the move began.

"I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't miss this place, Cielo. After all, Veridae has been my home for a few years now. It's going to be hard to leave this place behind but if doing so means the two of us can hang out way more often, then I think I'll manage."

"I'm sure being able to hang out more with Kazuma might be a boon for you as well, huh? I mean, you and he may have known each other in the past, even if only just a tiny bit. On that topic, has any more of your old memories come back to you since our last trip here?"

"Sadly no but I'm hopeful that will change once we're living around Axel. And you're right, being able to spend more time around Kazuma is going to be a nice bonus as well. For one thing, having a co-manager to help me manage Idol Hearts... I can't tell you how stress relieving that's going to be for me."

We both giggle at that. A sudden sigh makes us turn our attention over to Erika who seemed lost in thought. I ask her-

"What's wrong?"

"Hm..."

"Is it about your forthcoming meeting with the Kazuma Cielo's friends with. Wondering if he's going to be anything like the Kazuma you once knew."

Come again? That's all news to me.

Erika sighs again before looking at us and says-

"Hm... oh, sorry. My mind was elsewhere. What were we talking about again?"

"Several things, actually. One of which pertains to you getting to meet the Kazuma Cielo's friends with."

"Oh, yeah. That has been on my mind as of late, ever since you announced that we were relocating Idol Hearts to Axel. Cielo, what is YOUR Kazuma like?"

"What's he like? Hm, how to explain... well, he can be a pervert but it's nothing that isn't acceptable. He's not nearly as bad as Darkness. His greatest trait however is just how reliable he can be. He's always there for us, always saving us from the troubles we often find ourselves getting into. He's an amazing guy who's changed my life, as I'm sure the others would also say, and I'm happy that he's a part of my life."

"I see, he sounds like someone I'd definitely want to meet. So..."

Erika then leans in close, making me pull back away from her.

"Cielo, I couldn't help but hear some serious passion in your words when you were describing him. Would I be right in assuming that you view him as more than a friend. Does he make you think impure thoughts and want to do naughty things with him?"

"Ah... what are you saying. It's not like that between us. He's a friend, a good and important friend but that's it."

"Really now...?"

I could feel the blush I knew was present growing more and more intense by the second as Erika continued to eye me; trying to break me into confessing something that wasn't there.

"I have to agree with, Erika on this one, Cielo. Are you really sure there isn't anything going on there between you two. I mean, you did give him your first kiss after all."

My whole world comes crashing down from Lia betraying the confidence I had placed in her when I had told her about that particular event. As Erika's redoubles her stare, I quickly say-

"How could you betray me, by revealing that, Lia. Also, don't forget I only did that because I wanted to punish my father for being an ass to Kazuma. Kissing someone doesn't mean you have romantic feelings for them."

"I guess that's true. During my time as an idol, before coming to this kingdom, I had been required to kiss a few people as part of publicity for my label and for a few acting roles I was mandated to do."

said Erika, pulling away from me at last. Lia takes on a thinking pose as she says to herself-

"Well, if that's the case, would you mind if I try to get into a relationship with him in the near future? That kiss we had with one another still haunts my dreams."

"WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY?" (x2)

As me and Erika confront Lia for her shocking revelation, a pair of shadows come over us, making us look to see two massive and insanely muscular men who towered over us. They were so tall that we were like a small child standing beside a tall adult.

"Um... can we help you?"

asked Erika, clearly nervous which I didn't blame her as I was feeling quite nervous myself right now.

A third figure then comes into view, coming around the two men, who was more reasonable in size in that he was only two heads taller than we were. He then says-

"Sorry if my buds behind me surprised you. We're bounty hunters, working a debt collecting job. We were hoping you three could help us."

"Um... sure, if we can, that is."

I said. The reasonable sized man then pulls out a piece of paper and asks us-

"Have you three, by any chance, seen this person?"

I take the paper from the guy while Lia and Erika lean in close to get a better view. The moment Erika sees the figure, her face sours in annoyance while Lia starts shaking her head while mumbling to herself.

The picture was of Erika's so-called manager; Aqua I believe her name was. The image was a comical to be sure with Aqua looking all cartoony making an evil grinning face with her teeth looking like jaws, her tongue forked and snake like, and what appeared to be horns and a devil's tail.

Lia looks at the men and says-

"We don't know where she is right now, but we do know her... unfortunately."

"What did that brain-dead idiot do this time?"

asked Erika. The guy takes the picture back then says-

"She completely destroyed a tavern last night is what she did. The barkeep told her she had enough to drink, she threw a fit and what followed were tables and chairs being broken, widows smashed, the other bar bums suffered serious injuries, the barkeep has been traumatized, and ALL of the booze was either consumed or stolen by this demon from the pits of hell."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing, but Lia and Erika seemed to believe it, judging from all the eye twitch's they were suffering at the moment. I then ask the guy-

"How much does she owe, exactly?"

"137 million eris!"

"I'm going to kill."

screamed Lia, already cracking her knuckles while her face turned red from the rage she was feeling. Erika sighs before saying-

"We'll help you find her, sirs. I think it's time she finally learns that her stupidity has consequences."

Geez, now I'm really starting to understand what Kazuma meant when he warned us to not get involved with her.

"Come on, let's go find her already. She's probably back at the amphitheater, hiding her pathetic ass inside."

said Lia as she turns and leads the bounty hunters away. As I and Erika follow, I already knew I would take care of the bill myself, seeing as the debt was chump change for someone from the Accord family. But that still left the matter of how to deal with Aqua.

Guess once we're back home, I'll consult Kazuma about that as I have a feeling he'll want in on figuring out how that idiot should be punished.

(Nearby, watching from the shadows of an alleyway)

Oh no, it's those giant freaks that won't stop chasing me around, claiming I have a massive debt on my head. And what's worse, they seem to have tricked those three into believing their outlandish story.

Seriously, I didn't do anything wrong. If anything, it was that stupid barkeep and the other bums who are at fault. You don't go telling a goddess like me NO when she's in the middle of having one last night of fun before she has to say goodbye to a place forever.

If anything, that stupid tavern should be paying ME for giving them my business to begin with as I did provide everyone with many hours of entertainment in-between drinks. If those guys hadn't tried getting all handsy with me when me and that pathetic barkeep were having our little talk over when enough is enough, none of that would have happened.

OK Aqua, think... How do I get myself out of this stupid situation that's not in anyways your fault? Oh, I know... heheh, it's the perfect plan.

I'll just go find some dumb NEET and sweet talk them a little, maybe even make them an 'offer' in exchange for helping me out a little. Once they've helped me, I can walk away and not worry about fulfilling my end of the bargain as there's no way any lazy hikki-NEET could ever force the divine me into doing anything I don't want to do.

Now, where can I find myself a useless NEET? Too bad Kazuma didn't come along with Cielo as he would be the perfect tool... I mean, savior to aid my plight.

(In that moment, Kazuma couldn't help but shiver just a little, as well as found himself wanting to smack the back of Aqua's head once he sees her again.)

{|} Part 8: Dive to Relive {|}

Kazuma was making dinner as I lay back, lost in thought. I could still remember that girl who had saved me from failing my trial... but only just barely. I could still recall her name and a couple of things she had said but that was it. If my gut was correct on this, I would probably forget her completely by morning.

"Almost done, Yunyun."

"Great, I'm starving here. (pause) Say, Kazuma..."

I sit up as he turns his head to look at me.

"I was wondering, what kind of trial did you have to overcome? My trial tried to trick me into thinking all the good stuff that had happened to me since the day we met was all a lie or a dream and that my reality was that I was still alone. The loner girl who always did everything solo in the eyes of others."

"And a good thing you overcame that too. I wonder... if this trial had happened at an earlier point in your life, would you have still beaten that test?"

I shake my head and say-

"I doubt it. Back at the beginning, I always woke up each morning thinking it had all been a dream. Even now, to this day, I still have that thought though it's thankfully become a rarer occurrence."

"You and me both. The idea of you still being alone and feeling like you had no one... that just doesn't sit well with me, you know."

"Yeah... anyways, I was wanting to ask you what your trial was all about and how you managed to beat it."

"Huh... oh, right. My trial wasn't anything special. In fact, beating it was easy as I had already done that before the trial had even started. Strange, huh?"

Eh? You had already... what do you mean by that, Kazuma? My mental question must have been obvious as Kazuma smiled before saying-

"Do you remember the Duchess of Kessex and how she acted towards me?"

I nod as Kazuma takes a moment to check dinner before continuing his explanation.

"While we were there in Veridae, at the big party she was holding for us... well, for all of you. She had taken me aside and had said some things to me. Talked about how the world I had been born in was different than the one you all had been born into. She said I should be grateful that all of you had been kind enough to lower yourselves down to live beside me in my world... or had helped me come to live inside your world."

This was news to me, but it also wasn't a surprise either. Recently, Darkness had gathered all of us together and had revealed that the Duchess had tried to kill Kazuma while replacing him with some fake; all for the purpose of tricking us into working for her with the fake then 'faking' Kazuma's death right after.

Naturally, we had all been pissed and Megumin even had to be visibly restrained from heading to Veridae to nuke the palace there; being reminded that the Duchess was missing. While that had calmed her down, she had still sworn that if we ever come face to face with that woman ever again, she wouldn't hesitate to kill her on the spot with her Explosion.

To be honest, she wasn't the only one who was thinking such dark and evil thoughts towards the Duchess.

Currently, Kazuma didn't know that we knew all that. As far as he knew, it was just Chris and Lia who knew what he had been through. Maybe Darkness too.

"She then told me that eventually, you all would be ascending to an even GREATER WORLD, one that I would not be able to follow you all too. To put it another way, she more or less said that you all would leave me behind and forget about me."

"We won't. We'd... we'd never do that, Kazuma. Never leave you behind nor would we ever forget about you."

I shouted in earnest, having somehow warped from where I had been sitting to being right in front of him. I was so close in fact that our noses were practically touching. I was aware of our close proximity to one another, but my mind was to focused on reassuring Kazuma to really care about that.

Kazuma smiles a confident smile as he tells me-

"Yeah, I know. Like I said, I have already made peace with that, which is why passing my trial was a breeze. Despite it trying desperately to force that narrative into my brain, I stayed strong and defiant and... well, here I am."

"Good, that's good to hear."

I then pull away but choose to stay close but still feel the need to say it again, even if a bit more quietly-

"We'll never leave you, Kazuma... nor will we ever forget you either. I know I won't."

"I know. I feel the same, Yunyun... looks like dinners served. What do you say we fill our stomachs then hit the hay so we can make an early start of it in the morning. If we're lucky, we'll be done with this whole trial by lunch."

I nod happily as Kazuma hands me my meal.

The next morning, after collecting our things, we were standing before the pedestal once again.

"So, what do you think the fourth trial will be about?"

"I have no idea. Guess there's only one way to know for sure."

"Yeah, I guess. Say, imagine in there was no fourth trial. Imagine when we touch the orb, we find ourselves being sent to some kind of reward room to collect a prize. That would mean we could have slept in a nice, comfy bed last night."

"If that happens, I'd probably destroy the trial grounds just to vent my annoyance."

"Like Megumin would do?"

"Just touch the orb already, Kazuma."

"Yes, ma'am."

One bright light filling the room moment later, we found ourselves in a rather strange place.

"A forest?"

"Not just a forest, but a forest filled with teal colored greenery."

True; both the grass and the leaves on the trees had a teal coloring to them while the bark of the tree itself had a deep maroon color to them.

Also, we appeared to be standing right in the middle of a forest and no matter which way I looked, I couldn't see anything except trees, trees, and more trees.

"I wonder what this one is about?"

Kazuma was also pondering this mystery before he finally offers-

"Maybe we're supposed to be two hikers lost in the woods or something and we need to make our way out. Or perhaps we have to find something or someone hiding inside this place?"

"That's what I was thinking as well. So, which way should we go..."

[TING!]

I jump at the sudden ringing sound and I'm pretty sure Kazuma had as well as we both spin around and find a floating crystal, in the shape of an eight-pointed star, hovering behind us.

"I guess this is the trial then. Maybe we need to activate it then try to find it within this..."

"Yunyun, stop. Don't touch it."

shouted Kazuma, making me stop and realized I had been moving towards it. Why had I been doing that? I look back as Kazuma reaches me and quickly pulls me further away.

"We can't get near that thing, Yunyun. Don't ask me why or how, but something inside me is telling me that whatever this is... it's dangerous and NOT part of the trial."

"It isn't? How do you..."

Was it because of what was hiding itself inside you, Kazuma? Was it Entropy that had...

[TING!]

Again, the crystal chimed out as its colors began to change which is followed by an immediate burst of wind from everywhere coming right at us, slamming against us and actually lifting us up off the ground. And then, the crystal began to spin round and round, sucking us in towards it.

"Quick Yunyun, magic..."

I nod as I send my Light of Saber flying at the spinning crystal while Kazuma shoots a barrage of fire balls at it. All this does is cause the attacks to be deflected away. I then try Sakura Storm but to no avail either.

"Kazuma, what do... what should we do here?"

"No other choice. Time for a little Lich..."

A pulse of light shoots out from the crystal and the next thing I knew, everything had gone dull and numb. And it hadn't just been me as I'm sure the same had been done to Kazuma. I couldn't be sure about this, but I think it just used some kind of paralysis spell on us.

We moved closer and closer to the crystal and then... it felt like we were being pulled into it.

And then, everything went dark and silent.

{to be continued...}

Next time: Kazuma and Yunyun find themselves enter a dream, or perhaps a memory, from the past.