Bless This World With A Stranger

by RhineWrites

Arc 15: At the End of the World!

50. A10-4: A Victory for Yunyun

{|} Chapter 4: A Victory for Yunyun {|}

{|} Part 1: A Talk with Rubrikt {|}

"So, did the two of you enjoy your little trip down memory lane?"

Our trip down... memory lane? What the heck did this shadow man even mean by saying that?

I take a moment to look at him and find his appearance to be rather odd. It was like looking at the shadow of a person, except this shadow was three-dimensional in its existence. There was no definition to its features, nothing that could help to better identify it with, save for the glowing eyes.

"What do you mean by us enjoying our trip down memory lane? I can't recall having experienced anything like that before in my life. What about you, Kazuma. Was any of that familiar at all?"

"... No, not really..."

There was a hesitation in his words, doubt present in his voice. While I was sure what we had just experienced hadn't anything to do with Kazuma's past; one reason being that nothing I saw had matched up with his past descriptions of what his homeland had looked like, I still couldn't help but feel that there was something about that experience that had struck something deep within him.

Wait, now that I think about it, there was something about that which was making me feel... nostalgic?

I turn my attention back to the shadow, seeing that it had turned its attention to the star shaped crystal. From the looks of it, he was examining it as if he was checking to make sure it wasn't damaged in any way. I then heard him say this to himself-

"Hm, it seems this little experiment has left my precious Fantasia somewhat damaged. Nothing that I won't be able to repair but... (sigh) I guess I should have seen this coming. After all, the Fantasia was meant to take the things people store within their minds and create a dream based on that information. But what I had it do here was dive even deeper, into the memory of the soul to recreate certain events that happened in one's own past lifetime so their current self could relive said past. I shouldn't be surprised to see the Fantasia being damaged as it was never meant to do this sort of thing. In fact, I'm amazed it was able to handle doing this as long as it ended up doing it."

"Hey, are you forgetting about us here?"

shouted Kazuma, making the shadow tilt its head towards us. Seemingly remembering that we were in here, the shadow waves its free hand over the crystal, making it disappear before turning to give us its full attention.

"Sorry about that, my friends. I do tend to get distracted easily by things. Now, you were saying, child."

"I asked what you meant when you asked us if we enjoyed our little trip down memory lane. I never had memories like that before this day. I want to know what all that was about? Was it another part of the Trials I'm currently undertaking?"

The shadow chuckles at my words, making me feel both angry and nervous at the same time.

"First, allow me to introduce myself. I'd have you both introduce yourselves too but that would be pointless as I already know who you two are. Anyways, my name is..."

"Rubrikt!"

Kazuma's speaking up gives the shadow pause. Despite the lack of definition on its face, I'm pretty sure it was smiling for some reason.

"That is correct. I am indeed Rubrikt. Clearly, you have heard of me already, Satou Kazuma. I must confess that I am surprised that you were able to determine my identity from just seeing this shadow body I am using to make contact with you both. Tell me, where did you learn my name from?"

"Let's just say it came from someone who's working to stop you from doing more harm... I think."

"Ah, you must be talking about Palastori I take it. Yes, that one can be... troublesome alongside his crafty, clever, and dare I say devious nature."

"Kazuma, who's Rubrikt?"

"He's the one that's been going around, causing us all sorts of trouble. Remember what I told you all about the little adventure me, Nia, and Anna went on while you guys were doing that special quest? Yeah, all that was chaos was caused by this guy here."

Hearing that makes me become even more battle ready as I prepared to activate Sakura Storm the moment he tries anything funny. Rubrikt, for his part, just laughs happily before saying-

"I can assure you I have done so much more than just that. Some of which you'll be finding out about in the sooner over the later. Also, just so you don't have to ask. I'm not really here with you both right now. I'm just sending a shadow projection to communicate with you while I remain safely tucked away inside my current little hideaway."

"Afraid to face off with us? Is that is?"

I shouted, earning snort from Rubrikt.

"Hardly, miss Yunyun, hardly. I just feel it's a little too soon for us to be making a proper face to face meeting with one another but don't worry... that day will be coming here soon. In fact, perhaps even sooner than any of you could ever imagine."

The shadow flickers, making Rubrikt mumble something I fail to hear properly. He then says-

"Now, to answer that question of yours. It is true that what you just experienced over these last twenty-one hours was nothing more than a realistic dream depicting the lives lived by a group of other people; having the names of Krys, Linear, Eris, and Realm..."

"His name is Ritu!"

I said without thinking about it, making Kazuma look at me and say-

"Both are correct, technically."

"Indeed, so it seems. Like I was saying, you two experienced a dream about the lives they lived. While not YOUR memories specifically, those memories do belong to you as they come from your previous lives you both lived."

"Our previous... lives? That can't be possible."

"Oh, but it is. Look deep inside yourself; search long and hard, and I'm sure you may begin to see, or at least feel, the truth in my words."

What was this guy even saying? Nothing about this made any sense to me. Sure, going through all that did make me feel something... But that was just because of the realism of that dream. There's no way that...

"Yunyun, I think he may be telling the truth."

"What do you mean, Kazuma?"

"Well, it's hard to explain but I've seen Realm before... several times, actually. I've also seen Linear once as well, when Megumin managed to awaken me after I went all Lich down there in Hell. There's still a crap ton of stuff I don't understand but I can't help but feel that everything we experienced inside that thing was all true. All that really were things we did and experienced together in a previous lifetime."

I see. If you believe that strongly about it, then I guess I can believe it too. I mean, it's not like none of that was bad in anyway. Us meeting and become friends in our previous life and becoming close are all things that make me feel happy. And knowing you were my first and only...

MY mind then remembers all the 'adult' stuff that dream had made me mentally experience and I could feel my whole face... no, my WHOLE body heating up in that moment. Even if it had all been just a dream, I had still had sex with Kazuma. I had A LOT of sex with Kazuma, or at least his past self.

As I began to swoon from those recalled memories, Kazuma asks Rubrikt-

"Tell me, what was that all for? Why did you make us go through all that?"

"Why did I do that? Honestly, I had originally only intended to have you relive those memories as I felt recalling your previous life on Arbel would be a boon in times to come. Having Yunyun here join you in that experience was simply do to her having been here as well. It could have just as easily been that Megumin girl or perhaps even Chris the thief... or even all three of them together."

"And why would me having relived that be a boon in the times to come?"

"Sorry, but why spoil the surprise. Suffice to say, you'll find out soon enough."

Rubrikt's shadow body flickers again, this time more violently, making him sigh.

"It seems this means of communication is about to fail. Another thing I'll need to make adjustments to. Anyways, before I go, allow me to share a few more things with you two. First, I'm sure you heard me say this before, but I'll say it again. Despite the many years that must have passed for you both inside the Fantasia, the reality is that only twenty-one hours have currently passed. As such, I would recommend you both hurry up and see these trials to their conclusion as while the Crimson Demon clan are feeling hopeful with the amount of time you're taking in here, there is also some anxiety and tension also beginning to brew within their minds and hearts. After all, no one has even taken THIS long to clear, or should I say FAIL, the trials before, I think."

"Second, as a kindness from me, I shall tell you how to clear THIS trial. If you take a look around, you see all the trees appear to look the same... except that isn't the case. A few have curious, human like features, like a branch that looks like a hand that's pointing in a specific direction. Follow those directions and you'll find the exit though I suggest you hurry as you have less than three hours available before this trial auto-ends and you both fail."

Another flicker, this one making the shadow begin to fade.

"Well, it appears it's time to say goodbye for now."

"Wait, I'm not done asking you questions yet."

"I know, but I'm afraid those will have to wait. Don't worry, Satou Kazuma. We'll be meeting again soon. Until then, do enjoy the forthcoming Eris Thanksgiving Festival. I hear that this year's event will be... one to REMEMBER! Or perhaps NOT..."

Kazuma yells something as Rubrikt's shadow form fades away, leaving him standing there with a clenched fist and grinding teeth.

"Damn it, I really don't like the sound of that. Deal with that later, Kazuma. Deal with that later. Right now, you need to help Yunyun finish her trials... hey, YUNYUN...?"

"Kazuma and I had sex... Kazuma and I had sex... Kazuma and I had..."

"In a dream, Yunyun. It all happened inside a dream. Now stop daydreaming and come back to reality. We have your trial to finish up."

Without waiting for me to register his words and come back to my senses, Kazuma grabs me by the wrist and begins dragging me towards the first of the 'guiding trees' he was told about.

{|} Part 2: Observation {|}

It took Kazuma a bit of time to snap me out of my mental daydreaming, as he called it, and reminded me that we still had plenty of trials ahead of us and not much time left to see this particular one to completion.

After explaining to me what he believed was the proper way to handle this trial, I followed his lead and allowed him to lead the way from one curious looking tree to the next. I know that this was MY trial and as such, I should be the one leading the way, but my mind was still too jumbled with many thoughts to be able to give this any proper focus.

I kept telling myself that what had had told me was correct. Nothing we had experienced within that strange crystal had all been a dream. A dream built on the memories of some past lifetime that supposedly existed deep within our souls.

I knew what he was saying was all true, and yet... For me, it had all felt so real. Especially THOSE moments we shared together. In fact, even now, after all was said and done, I still felt like it had all happened. That all those intimate moments we experienced together within the dream..

I know this will sound strange, even stupid, but I don't know. It all felt like it had really happened to me specifically too. Weird, huh?

I wondered if Kazuma felt the same way, that everything we experienced inside the dream felt as real to him as it did to me? Guess if I really want an answer to that question, I'll need to ask him.

"Say, Kazuma..."

"I think we've found our exit, Yunyun."

he says at the same time as I had. He then points off to the distance, towards a curious shape that had appeared. Turing my gaze towards the object, I notice it appeared to be some kind of cottage.

"Are you sure that's our destination?"

"Can't be sure of anything in this place. That said, I would say it's more than likely, seeing as the last guiding tree was pointing in the direction that cottage is currently at. Also, this is the first new thing we've come across inside this place apart from the trees... and Rubrikt and his fancy crystal."

His logic made sense. I nod in agreement as we begin walking towards the cottage.

"Guess this means trial four is over with. Wonder what awaits us next? It would be nice if this was the last one, huh?"

"This won't be the last trial, Yunyun."

"How can you be sure about that, Kazuma?"

"Just a gut feeling I'm having. From personal experience, trials like these usually don't end until you face off against a boss tier monster. While we have had our fair share of enemy encounters, none of them have been the type that could be considered worthy of an actual boss."

"Good point... unless that scaring looking one we saw before was the boss. Remember, the one that Darkness would have LOVED to have had a run-in with."

"True but I would call that one more of a mid-boss. Anyways, we've reached the cottage. Ready to step inside?"

I nod as I reach out and open the door. We then step through only to once again find ourselves entering the rest room , alight with the green glow and symbols of victory.

"So, should we go ahead and try the next trial or should we get some sleep before moving on?"

I think about Kazuma's question for a moment, then say-

"I think I'm good for now. Maybe we should eat something first before moving on."

Honestly, I wasn't really that tired. Probably because we had spent all that time within that crystal where I assume we were sleeping alongside all that dreaming. As Kazuma worked on making us some lunch, or dinner or breakfast, I was sitting off to the side, my back resting against the wall, as I worked on getting all my thoughts in order.

Just then...

"By the way, Yunyun. You were trying to tell me something before? Back when I spotted the cottage."

Hm? Was I saying something... oh, right. I remember now.

"It's... nothing important, really. I was just wondering if certain acts we performed inside that dream felt more real to you than it should have."

"You mean like it hadn't just been a dream at the time. Like perhaps we had been partaking in the motions, as one would say?"

I nod, feeling rather shy as I do so. After a pause, he finally says-

"Honestly, I'm not sure. It's not like I have a frame of reference to go by here. What I mean is, it's not like I have ever done... THAT before. Well, not outside of past wet dreams, I mean."

That makes senses, actually. Thinking about it, it's not like I've ever done the deed with anyone prior to this. Just all those times inside the dream... and all my past personal naughty dreams I've experienced a few times over these last few months, ever since I first met Kazuma and became part of the team.

Could that be the reason why I'm feeling so weird? Thinking on it some more, I always do feel rather strange when I first wake up following me having such a dream. Finally able to breath out a sigh of relief, I'm able to finally, truly relax.

After that, we had a nice meal, thanks in no small part to all the awkwardness having finally evaporated. We also ended up falling asleep for a few hours. Guess we were both more tired than expected. Once we had regained consciousness, it was time to begin trial five.

Once the light had finished its brilliant, and blinding, shine, we found ourselves before a massive stone wall with a single pathway leading inside.

"Oh no, please don't tell me..."

groaned Kazuma, making me look at him. I was understandably confused by what would make him say that all of a sudden.

"What it is, Kazuma? What's wrong."

He looks at me with a nervous face and says-

"I think we're having to deal with another Labyrinth here."

Another... labyrinth? What does he mean by that. We haven't done one of those here in the trial yet.

Kazuma, clearly reading my thoughts from the expression on my face, reminds me.

"Have you forgotten, Yunyun? Our little trip to Arcanretia before and the oh so fun little adventure's we all had inside that one labyrinth?"

"Our trip to... oh no, please don't tell me..."

Kazuma nods, reservation present on his face. He sighs then says-

"Looks like we're about to have a round two with another of these things."

Eris damn it!

(elsewhere: inside a large, darkened room)

[Attention-Attention: subject Crimson Demon has been confirmed to have reached the fifth trial]

A single figure lay on the ground, unmoving in response to the voice.

[Alert-Alert: scans are detecting non-Crimson Demon present. Possible identity... partner]

Once again, the figure didn't budge an inch as it knew this was not unusual for a Crimson Demon to bring in aid from outside the clan in order to help with the completion of the trials.

[Warning-warning: scans have confirmed non-Crimson Demon to be a priority one threat entity}

Hearing this does cause the figure to move, its head lifting up slowly as a deep red eye comes to light which then begins moving in a repeating V-shaped pattern.

[Upon review, it has been determined that the entity's presence could cause subject Crimson Demon to become tainted should copulation occur. Suggested action... termination of entity authorized. Prepare for disposal]

The figure begins to rise up off the ground; glowing lines begin to shine upon its body as it does so. Once it was standing tall, a mechanical voice booms out from deep within its body-

DEATH... TO... RIAJUU!

(back with Kazuma and Yunyun)

"Kazuma, are we... back at the entrance?"

"Of course not, Yunyun. Since entering this place, we have been following a singular route. No optional paths or choices needing to be made. There's no way we could have..."

Kazuma stops speaking as he spots the reason why I had asked my question. On the ground before us, just beyond the entrance/exit gate we were currently standing at, was a series of words drawn onto the ground as an indicator for the two of us, just in case we found ourselves getting turned around inside.

It read "Kazuma and Yunyun were here!"

"How the hell did... all we've been doing since starting our little trek inside this place is walking down the only path made available to us. How did we end up back at the entrance? That just makes no sense."

He was right; this didn't make any sense at all. In fact, it defied all understanding on how a Labyrinth is supposed to work.

"There has to be something magical about this one as I'm sure we didn't have this sort of trouble with that other one. Think there's something we missed before? Perhaps some sort of guide set out somewhere we were meant to read before proceeding."

"Possibly but where would that be. I'm pretty sure we both were keeping an eye out for such a thing before we even entered, to say nothing of as we've been going a... long?"

Kazuma stops as a bell jingle rings out. Oh no, please don't tell me we've failed this trial already. Looking around, my eyes quickly turn back into the maze, seeing a plack having suddenly appeared on the wall right at the first turn.

"Kazuma..."

"You know, I'm pretty sure THAT wasn't there when we first walked into this place."

Agreed. After a moment, we both walked back into the labyrinth to get a better look at this message.

"It says 'Welcome to the Maze of Observation. There is but only two ways one can proceed here-in. Forward and back. The correct path will see you to the center while the incorrect path will only bring you back to the start. You have but six hours to make it to the center less you fail at your task.' Kazuma, how long have we been in here for?"

Kazuma cups his chin, thinking on my question, before saying-

"Maybe thirty to forty-five minutes? Honestly, I haven't been counting though I'm confident we haven't been in here past a full hour."

I nod though I wonder if there was any way to keep better track of the time we've spent inside this place. Also, based on what I had read so far, how does one even proceed further inside. We followed the only path and ended up right back at the start so how does one even...

Just then, the text on the plack changes, revealing the answer to my thoughts.

"Now it's telling us 'In order to proceed, be observant of the flow of the wind as it will guide you on your way.' What does it mean by... wait, now that I think about it, there were a few times I felt a sudden breeze hitting me as we were walking. I thought it strange to feel the wind blowing at all in here but didn't pay it any mind. Guess that was a big mistake, huh?"

"How were we supposed to even know? Not like this message was more obvious to us back at the beginning. Makes sense, now, why this place is called the Maze of Observation. At least we know what we're doing now so what do you say..."

Chime-Chime... only five hours left before trial ends... Chime-Chime

"Hm, guess that answers THAT question as well. Like I was saying before, we should probably hurry up and get moving here, especially seeing as we're already lost an hour in here... apparently."

"Agreed; back into the maze we... wait, there's one final thing written here."

'Please be warned that if the trial hasn't been completed by the fifth hour, participants can expect to encounter the rabid giant dogs to help give them a little extra motivation to help them hurry up and make it to the end.'

Me and Kazuma look at each other for a moment before quickly moving forward. After all, neither one of us were curious about just what kind of creatures these 'rabid giant dogs' would actually be.

{|} Part 3: To the Fated Reunion {|}

A sudden knocking at her door roused Wolbach from her deep slumber. She wanted to ignore the sound of the knocking, as she was currently lost in a beautiful dream, but the knock came again and again, followed by a voice finally saying-

"Lady Wolbach... lady Wolbach... are you inside right now?"

Grumbling, Wolbach opens her eyes before sitting up in her bed. She turns to the door with a harsh gaze and finally says with an equally harsh tone-

"Yeah... yeah, I'm up. What is it?"

"Sorry to disturb you now, ma'am. Lord Yasaka has summoned you. He says it's of the utmost importance that you come see him at once."

"Really now... I wonder about... Fine-fine, I'll be there in a few minutes."

Wolbach feels the presence beyond the door drift further and further away till it was gone, leaving her just sitting there in debate on if she should actually go or just return to her restful sleep.

To say she was a little annoyed was an understatement as she was dreaming of the past, something she didn't get to do as much of here as of late. It angered her that her dreams of her time with her parents and aunts Krys and Eris were slowly beginning to lessen as of late as it made her fear she was staring to forget them, the looks of their faces and the sounds of their voices.

"Doubt I'll be able to just jump right back into that now. Fine, I'll go see what that old man wants."

A few minutes later, Wolbach was walking down the long corridor and soon was standing before two large doors. After taking in a deep breath, she proceeds inside before coming to a stop and kneeling.

"Rise Wolbach... and I apologize if my sudden summons caused you to leave the dream you were having behind so suddenly."

Wolbach wondered how he knew about the nature of her dreams. Chalk that up to being yet another great mystery that made up the existence that was this man's nature.

"Don't worry about it. I'm sure I'll have such a dream again before too long. Anyways, you wanted to see me about something."

"Indeed, and it is a most important something indeed. I have just received an important message from my chief oracle... concerning you."

"Me? And what would your oracle have seen that would be of any importance to me, if I may ask?"

Lord Yasaka smiles at me; something about this particular smile making me feel uneasy.

"The most important of things, it would seem. My oracle's vision saw you finally finding that which you have long been searching for... the reincarnation of your parents."

"The... reincarnation of... are you certain of this, lord Yasaka?"

He gives me a confirming nod. I just stand there, feeling stunned at the news. Long has my search for those two been. Even after all this time, I still remember the words aunt Eris had told me when she brought me here to live, on this world that she had been gifted to watch over.

"I don't know how long it will take; perhaps a decade or a hundred years or even whole millennia. But one day, little Wolbach, if you can hold out long enough, you will see your parents and aunt Krys again. Keep in mind though that they won't look the same and they won't remember you."

One of the downsides of reincarnation is that people generally don't remember the lives they lived before, nor can they remember the people connected to those lives. Wolbach didn't really care about that though as just being with them again would be more than enough for her.

"Yes, I believe so. My oracle has never failed me with her predictions before, Wolbach."

"Where... where will this be happening, my lord?"

Wolbach was confident she had already encountered her father's reincarnation; back at those hot springs in Arcanretia. His scent, the aura he gave off, and the fact he had unintentionally called her "kitten" which had been a nickname her father had often called her by. That just left finding her mother and maybe aunt Krys.

"Therein lies the issue. It seems you'll encounter her somewhere within the Scarred Lands."

"The Scarred Lands? Are you certain about that, my lord?"

The Scarred Lands, also known by such terms as badlands, no man's land, the forbidden zone, and so on. It was a place few would even think of going to let alone staying for any lengthy period of time.

Long ago, something dark and terrible had happened there. Legends say that the goddess Eris herself did battle with a dark force, not that Wolbach knew for sure as it happened after she had went to 'sleep' (aka, was sealed away). What was known was that anyone who entered would see their magical powers grow weaker and weaker the longer they stayed within the region and would even lose said power if they ventured deep enough inside.

There was also the strange beast said to roam those forsaken lands; creatures that didn't seem to belong to this world. The only other thing known about those lands was that there was a structure situated at its center and that something of pure evil was said to be sleeping within.

"I'm afraid so. I do not know why you would find that which you have been seeking for so long in a place such as that now but..."

"No... no, it actually makes a lot of sense, I think. After all, that place..."

Wolbach didn't say anything more, as she wasn't sure how to explain it all to anyone. After she had been set free by that Crimson Demon girl, she had wandered for a few years before meeting Lord Yasaka and his people and decided to join their cause as it could help her in the long run.

During those early years, she had found herself on the outskirts of the Scarred Land; having been drawn there by a voice in her mind calling out to her. She might have continued onwards had Eris not appeared and, after a warm reunion, had warned her to not go there.

"If you go to where that voice is, you will find only evil and despair awaiting you. That voice... it belongs to an old evil. One the both of us should never have to come face to face with again."

Her emotions were complicated on that subject. On the one hand, she wanted to listen to Eris and not go but on the other, she had always had this desire to go and finish what had been started so long ago by those whom she loved most in life.

And that's when the fear arose. If she could hear that voice calling out to her, then was it possible her reincarnated parents and aunt also...

"So, you'll be going then?"

"Yes, I have to go. If your oracle is right about this, then I have no other choice but to go. I had to lose them once. I refuse to risk seeing that happen again, sir."

"Understood... Be careful, Wolbach. You are as family to me and my people. We would be quite saddened by your loss."

"Don't worry, lord Yasaka. I will be coming back, and I'll be bringing my family with me when I do."

Wolbach meant that. Knowing what she knew about this world, there was no way she wouldn't see them brought to safety and in her mind, there was no place safer than this hidden kingdom.

"Well, if you are certain. Also, there is something else I would like you to do once you've entered those lands, if it is possible."

"And that would be?"

Lord Yasaka then told Wolbach what it was he needed her to do. Once he was done explaining, Wolbach agreed to see to that matter as well. She then bows and leaves the room, planning on returning to her room to gather her supplies.

"So, heading off to the Scarred Lands, huh? You don't have yourself a death wish by any chance."

Wolbach stops then looks back to see Hans leaning against the wall. She would ask where he had come from but doesn't as she quickly remembers that, as a slime, he could easily slip through and hide himself inside the cracks in the walls.

"I don't think lord Yasaka would be happy to know you were eaves dropping on a private talk back there, Hans. I can tell you that I don't appreciate it."

"What can I say. I've never been one for being left in the dark about things."

"Obviously. So, I see you can retake a human form again. Guess that means you're back at full power."

"Close enough. I can't go all giant super slime yet, but I'll be back to my old self soon enough. Anyways, about that forsaken place..."

"Seeing as you were listening in, you already know my reasons for going. Now, if you'll excuse me..."

"Yeah, I know. Which is why I'm coming with you."

"... I don't recall asking you to do that."

"No, you didn't ask nor am I offering. I'm saying flat out that I-AM-GOING-WITH -YOU!"

"That would be a bad idea. You know what that place does to magical power. If you go, then..."

"I'll be eventually forced into my normal slime form. Could be worse. At the very least, I can watch your back for you since you won't have any of your enhanced senses to do that for you."

"Look Hans, while I appreciate the offer, I can't..."

"Who said I'm giving you any choice here, Wolbach. As you best friend, I refuse to let you go into a place like that alone. And besides... I've always wanted to meet the two crazy's that produced a creature of chaos like yourself so there's no way I'm going to miss out on this little reunion."

Wolbach still wanted to tell him no, but she knew Hans well enough to know that one way or another, he would be coming with her. She sighs before smiling just a little bit.

"Just be quick with getting your things together. The sooner we find them, the sooner we can get out of that place. I just hope we find them without needing to go to... Arkt Tuanatiri."

{|} Part 4: The Final Trials {|}

HOWL... HOWL... BARK-BARK-BARK

"Yunyun, I thought I told you to NOT go petting the doggy back there."

"I know, I know; I'm sorry. I couldn't help myself. It was just a small and cute little puppy at first. How could I not just walk up to it and give it some cuddles."

"Maybe remember what that first sign had told us about dangerous dogs coming after us if we take too long."

"Yeah, I know that but... but it didn't say anything about touching any we encounter along the way."

This was quite a mess we found ourselves in right now. After discovering the secret on how to proceed, we put that knowledge to good use in seeing us through this maze. Or, at least that had been the case until we once again found ourselves back at the entrance.

It didn't take us too long to figure out how we had screwed up this time. Basically, this maze actually had five different sections. The way to tell which part we were on was dependent on the color hue present on the walls and floor.

The first area had a greenish hue about it, which made sense as it was all about following the flow of the wind. Since green and wind are usually linked together, it made the most sense. After that came an area with a reddish hue about it.

Unlike the first area, the second was a fire themed. We realized this once we reached it again and took notice of the plack on the wall. How we continued onward in this area was to walk down the path lit with blue flames which were few and far between when compared to the regular red flamed candles.

After that, we entered an area with a deep blue hue to the walls with streams of water flowing down the center of the paths. Naturally, one would think to go with the flow and follow the path the water traveled but that wasn't the case. Luckily, we took notice of the plack right away and because of this, we learned that the correct action was to walk opposite of the waters flow till we could find the source.

And then came the area with a yellow hue. This one didn't have any particular trick to it. All that was required was working together with one's partner to climb up some very tall rises in order to keep to the path. While tiring, it wasn't anything we couldn't handle and soon, we found ourselves in the fifth area.

The fifth area didn't have any particular hue to it. The only difference was that the walls and floor had a more stoney make about them. As for the plack, all it said was that this FINAL leg of the fifth trial was more of an endurance test and that we would understand shortly.

It also said something to the effect of "Don't bother the puppy" or something to that effect. I didn't really pay that any mind... a big mistake that was. I now realize that, not that it made our current situation any better.

"I think I see the exit up ahead, Yunyun."

"Really... are you certain about that? What if it's the beginning again? I'm not sure if we have enough time to make another full run of this place."

"Either way, at least we'll escaped your new pet. Double time it!"

"You don't have to tell me twice..."

And so I ran even faster, probably faster than I have ever ran before in my life. Before us, our exit was getting closer and closer... and behind us, the one-time puppy now a small army of rapid beast, were also coming closer and closer.

Running... and running... and running... JUMP!

Moving in perfect synch, we both throw ourselves with all out might through the arch and make a hard landing onto the unforgiving ground. After a moment to recover, and groan, I left myself up enough to look back to see the crazy dogs had stopped at the arch, glaring and growling at us for a few moments before turning away and heading back into the maze.

"Guess that explains why this trial was said to be an endurance trial now. I mean, all that running we just had to do... definitely worthy of being called an endurance run."

"Guess that means I'm off the hook for playing with that one cute puppy then. I mean, we probably would have been chased after regardless... right?"

"Oh no... (chuckles) you are very much in trouble once this is all over and done with. You can trust me on that. Saying that, know I will be spending the remainder of our time in here thinking of a proper punishment for you."

That sends a shiver down my spine, yet I didn't feel nervous or even scared by that prospect. Quite the opposite, in fact. Shameful though it probably was, I was kind of looking forward to what he may come up with.

After all, Megumin seems to enjoy it when he punishes her for her troublesome antics though that may say more about her kinks than it does about me.

No matter as, while I was looking around, see a familiar sight awaiting us.

"Good news, we did reach the exit."

"Then let's hurry up and move on then... before anything else happens to us in this trial."

With a nod, we both get up and walk over to the pedestal and orb. A simple touch and bright light later, we were back in the rest room, being presented with the usual green success light. However, there was something different awaiting us this time. A vocal message that plays within moments of our arrival.

[Attention-Attention, trial goers. Please be advised that there are only two trials left to undertake. These two trials are interconnected with one another so it is advised you take time to rest before proceeding.]

"Well, what do you think, Yunyun?"

Good question? It would be nice to know what we were up against as that would make this choice a little easier. But seeing as I doubt we'll know what we're doing until we enter said trials, I think we should...

"Let's allow ourselves a few hours to rest and maybe eat something too. After all, while it may only be two more trials before the end, who knows how long completing either is going to take us, to say nothing of the both of them."

"Good call. Honestly, I was thinking the same thing myself. So, sleep first or eat?"

A few hours later...

I stepped into a large room with Kazuma just a step behind me. All around us was a strong wind blowing in what felt like a continuous spiral around the room. It had a circular shape to it with another passage opposite us over on the far side of the large room.

Oh, did I forget there was a massive gaping hole located in the center of the room. It was so big, in fact, that apart from the sole patch of earth we were standing on and the small amount stretching out from the other side, the entire room was more or less the hole with the walls curving upwards into a domed ceiling.

Stepping forward to the edge, I carefully look beyond into the hole and see a never ending abyss awaiting us. I look to Kazuma, who had joined me at the edge, as he says-

"Hm, better watch that first step. That'll be one hell of a fall should we fall into it."

"No kidding. So, any ideas how we're supposed to get over to the other side?"

Kazuma takes a good look around the area for a few moments before looking back at me.

"Well, we can rule out needing to play at being Tarzan as there's no rope or vines we can use to swing across."

"Tarzan?"

"Right, you wouldn't understand the reference. I'll tell you later. I wonder if there's a clue back inside that passage we arrived in."

We turn back and walk into the passage, quickly seeing that there was indeed a plack hanging on the wall; a plack I was certain wasn't there before. Either I really need to improve my ability to notice things quicker or there was some kind of delay with these things appearing.

As I reach out and touch the plack, words began to appear on it.

"It says "Before you is a great divide. Though it may seem impossible to overcome, remember that one who is willing to take a leap of faith shall surely see success in overcoming the trial." What do you think that means, Kazuma? What exactly is this leap of faith it talks about?"

"Seriously, you haven't heard that term before?"

I can only shake my head no; my cheeks burning from the feeling of embarrassment I was feeling at this moment. From the sound of Kazuma's voice, it sounded like this was a term anyone and everyone should know. Does this mean my clan is still lacking in important knowledge or was this all me that was the problem.

Kazuma sighs before explaining the meaning.

"Can't be helped, I guess. Saying that one should take a leap of faith is a term that means one is willing to do something when the outcome is entirely unknown. An example I can think of is all of you taking a chance on me despite not knowing how doing so would play out for you all in turn."

"I see..."

Honestly, I'm not sure if I would call that a good example as something deep inside me told me that you were worth the risk back when we first met. Actually, maybe it was a good example, just not when it came to me specifically.

"So, what do you think it means then?"

"Good question... good question. How exactly does a leap of faith apply to... oh, that's very sneaky."

"Come again? What is, Kazuma."

Kazuma looks at me, a confident look on his face as he looks back at the edge before the great abyss.

"Call me crazy, but I think we're meant to jump into the abyss here."

"... You can't be serious, Kazuma. I mean, for one thing, we can see a path awaiting us over on the other side of this oversized hole in the ground."

"True, but I'm thinking that passageway opposite us is actually a red herring; something there to trick us and keep our attention from the true answer."

Hm, I suppose that's a possibility too. But that's still taking a big... ah, I get the whole leap of faith line now.

"Assuming you're right about that, Kazuma. How does that lead you to think jumping down the hole makes any more sense towards being the correct answer here?"

"Well... let's just I've seen this sort of thing done before. Anyways, there's one way to know for sure."

We move back into the circular room and Kazuma moves to stand right at the edge. I stand behind him a few steps, my nervousness growing by the second and just when he was about to step off into the abyss, I quickly move forward and stop him by grabbing onto his jacket.

"Kazuma, are you really sure about this? I mean, what if you're wrong...?"

"It'll be fine, trust me on this one Yunyun."

I really wanted too and I really didn't want to all at the same time. In the end, my trust IN him won out as I let go. Kazuma sends me one final smile before turning back to the abyss as he shouts out-

"OK, here I go... FOR THE BROTHERHOOD!"

He then jumps forward with his legs pressed together and his arms spread wide; coming off as some kind of majestic bird taking flight. I watch in awe as he hangs in the air for a few seconds before he begins his descent...

Only for him to slam down hard onto some kind of invisible pathway.

"Um... Kazuma. Are you OK?"

"No... actually; I'm in a lot of pain here."

In the end, it turns out the solution wasn't jumping into the abyss. Rather, we needed to walk across an invisible road. The only way we could go about making sure we were actually staying on the path as using dirt on the ground and flinging it forward to help show us what spots were safe to walk upon.

It did become a little tricky near the end when the path turned into small platforms we had to hop over till we finally reached the other side. Once we had reached the other side, We begin to walk into the cave that seemed to stretch on forever.

"So, you doing OK now, Kazuma?"

"Apart from my pride... sure. Man, can't believe that happened. I must have really looked so uncool back there."

I giggle as I look at him. Yeah, he did look rather uncool but I wasn't planning on saying anything to him about that. As I was about to go say... something to him, something important suddenly dawns on me.

"Say, isn't this hallway going on longer than one would think it would?"

"Now that you mention it, we have been walking down it for a good bit now. Maybe it's a bit of a walk till we reach the final trial. After all, we were told trial six and seven did bleed into one another."

"I guess... unless we goofed up after all. Maybe you actually were right about what we were supposed to do and this is actually a trick... AAAAHHHHHHHHH!"

The next thing I knew, the floor beneath our feet had vanished and the two of us found ourselves falling down a deep, dark tunnel into the unknown.

{|} Part 5: Bomber Majin Moguninnin {|}

Our landing was less than pleasant though I suppose it could have been worse too. In a nutshell, we landed on some kind of gel like substance; something we quickly found ourselves sinking into. Getting out wasn't THAT difficult for us and we luckily weren't left all gooey and sticky, but it was still an unpleasant experience.

"Let's... NEVER... do... THAT... again!"

growled Kazuma as he checks himself over; probably making sure he was unharmed. I did the same, even if doing so was kind of pointless seeing as the stuff we landed in wasn't something that could cause injury. Once done, I take a moment to examine the room we had found ourselves in.

The room was both large and circular in its design; clearly signaling that this was some kind of battle arena. Made sense, I guess, seeing as this was were the final trial would be held at. I couldn't see any doors anywhere though, making me wonder how the "boss" of this thing would make its entrance.

In fact, apart from us and that gel stuff... scratch that; just us as the gel had suddenly vanished from sight. Anyways, the only other thing inside the massive room besides us was the usual pedestal and orb combo. I approach it and do a quick circle around it while looking it its soft, pulsing light.

"So, the time has finally come; the final trial... assuming we haven't been lied too. What do you think about... Yunyun?"

I don't respond as a strange, and rather foreboding, feeling had come over me. In truth, my brain hadn't registered Kazuma's words as I was more focused on figuring out exactly what it was I was sensing in here with us. Was I already feeling the presence of the trial boss? If so, then how was that possible, especially seeing as I hadn't activated the trial yet.

I then feel Kazuma's arm touch my shoulder, snapping me back into the moment. I look at him and see the concern on his face. He then says-

"Yunyun? You doing OK here. Something's wrong, isn't it?"

"Huh... oh, sorry, Kazuma. I guess I did kind of zone out just now, didn't I?"

"Maybe just a little bit. Anyways, I was asking if you were ready to do this when I saw you making a worried face. What is it; what's making you look all worried?"

"I don't know. Maybe I just have butterflies inside my stomach. Understandable, seeing as we're so close to possibly beating the trials which none have ever done before. What about you?"

"I'd be lying if I said I wasn't feeling the pressure here myself. That said, I'm not worried about our chances. With the two of us together, I know we got this."

"Yeah..."

No wonder Kazuma had become so important to me. I know he's just as nervous as I am, but he wasn't letting that hold him back. Perhaps it was because he was simply doing it for my sake, to keep my confidence up. Didn't matter as seeing him look confident in this moment made me feel confident too.

I then look back at the orb and bring my hand out to hover above it, then look back at Kazuma and say-

"Alright, I'm ready. Let's do this, Kazu..."

I could see it, the distortion in the air behind Kazuma, having a humanoid shape to it. Because of this, I could see it pulling one arm back and what looked like a blade like weapon shape slide out from the wrist as it goes to stab Kazuma from behind.

"Kazuma!"

I cried as I quickly reached out, grabbed onto him tightly and pulled him towards me while throwing myself backwards. This action causes me to stumble and fall back onto the ground with Kazuma falling right on top of me while the distortion in the air just stands there, perhaps confused by what had just happened.

"Wha... Yunyun, what's going on? If you're wanting us to have a little hanky-panky before we do the trial, all you have to do is ask. Don't go surprising a guy like me out of the blue like..."

"No, that's not it, Kazuma. Something was standing behind you and was about to attack."

"Eh?"

Kazuma turns to look back only to see the empty air. I'm sure he was about to say "There's nothing there," but doesn't get the chance to as something finally appears in the spot I had seen the distortion standing just moments ago.

It was tall, perhaps seven feet tall and very agile looking. It had a metal body colored a deep purple and a black knee length scarf and it's face looked like a hood was covering it with a V-shaped eye piece that had this single red light moving from one end to the next. I could feel my eyes going wide with shock as I knew what it was we were both looking at.

"Bomber Majin Moguninnin."

"Bomber Maj... you mean that mythical guardian of the Crimson Demons Megumin was going on about. It's actually real?"

[Assassination of priority one threat; Riajuu, not complete. Must continue to ensure protection of subject Crimson Demon]

Assassination... I see, so it really is going to try to kill Kazuma for some reason. I seriously can't believe Megumin was right about this. I'll really need to treat her to something later as my way of acknowledging I was in the wrong. Wait, did it just call Kazuma a Riajuu. What does that mean?

"Huh, this Moguninnin guy looks like some kind of ninja. It's sneak attack makes sense now. Hey you, robo-ninja guy. Care to explain why I'm a threat to Crimson Demons before we continue?"

[Riajuu appears to be weak. Proceed with separating it from subject Crimson Demon then terminate without fail]

Another blade emerges from its other arm as it goes to attack Kazuma. Reacting quickly, I throw my arms around Kazuma and force us both into a role, causing Moguninnin to once again fail to land its attack. Once we were done rolling, I found myself being the one on top this time.

As me and Kazuma look into each other's eyes in this moment, I find myself seriously wanting to do certain things with him. However, hearing the movement of the Moguninnin snaps me back to reality as I quickly get off Kazuma and back onto my feet, ready to unleash a spell to protect him.

[Subject Crimson Demon, please stand aside so priority one threat, Riajuu can be terminated]

"I refuse. I won't let you hurt this man. Tell me, Moguninnin; why is he considered a threat to me? And what do you mean when you say the word Riajuu?"

"Wait, he's been saying Riajuu?"

[The Riajuu is still in close proximity to subject Crimson Demon, switch to long range attack]

The next thing I knew, the underside of the Moguninnin's left arm lets out a red beam of light that focus's onto Kazuma's face, specifically right between his eyes. Before I could even react, a loud "BANG" sound rings out, making the world feel like it was slowing to a crawl as I turn to look at Kazuma.

"Man, that was to close. I split second later, and I would have another hole in my head."

Kazuma had just barely managed to activate his Shield skill, which had blocked the small metal ball Moguninnin had fired at him. The ball stays hanging in the air for a second before falling and making a light clattering sound on the ground. Moguninnin then continues firing more out, each one impacting the shield. Perhaps it was thinking that if it did it enough, it would break through the shield.

"Terrific, both a ninja and an Assassin. The fact it's still going has to mean it can break through my Shield if it keeps hitting the same general spot enough. Yunyun, be ready to fire off a spell at it the moment my shield fails or when you're ready."

"Right..."

I was already doing that, actually. Still, a little longer will allow me to put some additional power behind it. While destroying the Moguninnin wasn't something I was happy with, I would still do it without any hesitation if it threatened Kazuma because at the end of the day, Kazuma was the more important one in my world.

"Kazuma, do you know what that word it used to describe you means?"

I asked, figuring now as as good a time as any.

"You mean Riajuu? You could say that. Back in my homeland, the term Riajuu is commonly used by NEET's to describe someone who is satisfied with their life. Perhaps they may have been a NEET at one point themselves but got lucky and actually found themselves a girlfriend or boyfriend and have managed to get their lives on track. Long story short, it's meant to be an insulting name given to quote unquote Normies, or Chad's as they're called in the West."

"I'm still not sure I understand."

"Thank of the Buccacholi guy, or however you say his name. The one Soketto may or may not have feelings for. Say he's the top NEET in the village..."

"Easier said than done because I honestly think he is, judging how the other NEET's treat him."

"Right... Anyways, let's say he and Soketto eventually start dating and as a side effect of this happening, he actually stops acting like a NEET, instead acting like a proper member of society. The other NEET's may feel betrayed by his success at finding love and thus, they would start calling him a Riajuu. They would be angry at him for his luck, not wanting to acknowledge that the only ones at fault for their shitty lives is they themselves."

"Ah, makes sense now. Question, did you ever call anyone a... has the Moguninnin stopped its attack?"

As if to answer my question, the Shield sudden shatters as Moguninnin had formed a massive hammer which it had used to attack the shield with powerful force. Before I could even think to move, it zips past me bringing the hammed around to hit Kazuma, sending him flying back into the pedestal.

He groans but manages to pick himself up as Moguninnin prepares to launch its next attack. From what I could tell, that hit should have seriously injured Kazuma and maybe would have if not for Kazuma managing to form a second, smaller shield to take the blow for him.

"Don't hurt him... LIGHT OF SABER!"

I scream, sending my most commonly used spell flying at Moguninnin. Instead of being hurt by it, the spell is deflected off its armor, sending bits and pieces of it splattering all over the room. Moguninnin stops and looks back at me then says-

[Subject Crimson Demon, please do not interfere. Understand that the Riajuu's termination is for your safety]

"I disagree. Tell me why, Moguninnin. Why is a Riajuu so dangerous to a Crimson Demon?"

[All Riajuu suffer from the harem protagonist disease; a condition that makes them think all girls are theirs to subjugate and rule over. Also called the Kirito Syndrome, my duty is to protect all female Crimson Demons from becoming sexual playthings for perverted Riajuu minds]

"Oh, I think I get it now. Your creator... he was a sad and pathetic NEET who never has success at finding love or escaping the NEET lifestyle. The truth, however, is that NEET's are usually too lazy and to accustomed to living like a NEET to actually get of their asses and actually work for a better life."

Upon hearing that, Moguninnin goes to attack Kazuma again, making me activate my favorite spell, Sakura Storm, and send the multitude of rose petal like magical things and sending them to act as a wall to keep Moguninnin away from Kazuma.

"Kazuma, will you..."

"Yeah, I'll be fine. If Sakura Storm can keep it away from me for a bit longer, it'll allow me a chance at fighting back and stopping this thing. Now, Moguninnin... let's see what I can take from you... STE..."

BEEP BEEP BEEP, now activating final trial challenge-

Both me and Kazuma freeze as we both realize that when he was picking himself up following the Moguninnin's attack just a moment ago, Kazuma's hand had accidentally touched the orb which activated the final trial. Guess that means it wasn't just the one taking the trial who could activate these devices.

I hear Kazuma let out a sigh before he mumbles out...

"Seriously, every fucking time..."

{|} Part 6: The Trial and the Treasure {|}

The room grows darker as the pedestal begins to sink into the ground. Surprisingly, Moguninnin had stopped its attack on Kazuma, giving him a chance to catch his breath and, from the looks of it, take a moment to come up with some kind of battle plan he could use against Moguninnin.

And then, while it was sinking into the ground, the orb atop the pedestal suddenly emits two beams of light. One hits me and the other Kazuma, but it didn't hurt or appear to do anything of note. These beams of light only stay on us for a second before they fade, and the pedestal and orb finally disappears beneath the ground. And then...

[Scan of trial goers complete... now creating doppelgangers for the final trial]

Two circles light up on the ground and from them come pillars of light shooting into the air and within these pillars, figures begin to take shape and form though I couldn't quite make out any details. Once the figures were finished forming, the pillars of lights come to an end and the figures identities were at last revealed.

"Wait... is that... us?"

"Of course. I should have seen this development coming."

It was us, perfect copies of Kazuma and I. Well, almost perfect copies as while they physically looked like us, there was a difference of colors; like the color palette of these copies were washed out and faded. They then open their glowing eyes; Kazuma's copy looking at him and mine at me...

And then they went on the attack, as did Moguninnin who finally seemed to come out of whatever state of inactivity the creation of these copies had forced it into. I'm forced to pull out my short sword to defend myself as my copy had pulled her own weapon out to attack me with.

I need to use both my hands to strengthen my block against my copy who was insanely strong, perhaps even stronger than I was which didn't make any sense. Actually, maybe it does, seeing as this is meant to be a trial so it would be natural that our copies would have some kind of advantage.

"Hey, how is this fair? Making me fight two opponents at once. Seriously, isn't just having one enough?"

I heard Kazuma complain, making me turn my attention away from my copy to him, seeing that he was indeed having to fight not only his own copy but also Moguninnin. And it was evident that he was fighting a losing battle as between the two of them, he was not being given any time to do anything but either defend or dodge.

And as much as I hated to acknowledge this, his success was quickly diminishing.

"Hold on, Kazuma. I'll be..."

"Light of Saber."

said my copy suddenly, forcing my attention back onto it, seeing that it was using its free hand to cast the spell. Seeing as it was so sudden, and at point blank range as well, the attack impacts against my stomach and sends me slamming back into the wall with enough force that I knew I had spat out blood.

As I crumble to the ground, I take notice of something. While that attack had hurt... seriously hurt in fact, it hadn't left the same effect on me as one would expect from being hit with Light of Saber. Makes sense, I guess; seeing as the purpose of these trials wasn't to kill, only test. That means any attacks would be designed to insure no fatal injuries. At least I hope that was the case.

"GAHHHHH..."

"Kazuma..."

Hearing Kazuma's own suffering caused a surge of anger to shoot through me, pushing the pain I was feeling away and replacing it with adrenaline. I then pick myself back up, despite being unsteady on my feet while my copy goes to attack me with its short sword again.

"Light of Saber."

"Light of Saber."

My magic attack impacts against my copies, creating a flash of light as they cancel each other at. This didn't make my copy pause though as it kept coming right towards me, leaving me with only a few seconds to think of something. How about...

"Energy Ignition."

I aim the flaming blast at my copies feet only for it to spin jump over the burst of power blasting on the ground. I fire off an ice spell which it spins around while bringing its dagger around to strike me. I manage to block this attack as well and good thing too as if I hadn't, I would be joining Chris in the 'sporting a battle scar on my cheek look' after all this was said and done.

As we once more find ourselves having a battle of strength, I knew my copy was already planning on launching another magic attack against me. Perhaps it would be another Light of Saber. I needed to beat it to the punch this time; not just for my sake but for Kazuma. But what spell could I... wait.

There was ONE spell I had that it may be unable to counter, if only because it didn't exist within the magical move-pool till very recently. Would it even be able to use this or would it be caught off guard. Only one way to find out.

"Light of..."

"Sakura Storm."

Luckily, I didn't need to use my hands to activate this spell, only needing to say the name was enough. Hands were only needed to help better control it, or to use the sword form of Sakura Storm. Or rather, that's how it had been when Kazuma first gave me this power. Since then, I have practiced it every single day and while I wouldn't say I have mastered it yet, I was far more skilled with it now since the day I was given this power.

Immediately, the sakura petals form in the air and, following my mental commands, begin to swirl around my copy who was clearly taken aback by what was happening. It then tries to counter with its own Sakura Storm but fails as it clearly wasn't capable of using the skill yet.

I wondered if this meant that Sakura Storm wasn't available to use by everyone yet or perhaps these copies weren't as up to date as one would expect. Either way, I didn't care as my copy was currently distracted and that was more than enough for me to turn my attention back towards Kazuma.

What I see then, in that moment, sent a chill running down my spine. Kazuma was on the ground with his copy standing behind him, lifting him up so Moguninnin could come in and finish him off. Without even thinking about it, I rush forward as the sparks of Light of Saber flares to life in my hands.

"NO... KAZUMA..."

I screamed as I go to send Light of Saber out in the hopes it could save him, but Moguninnin was faster as I watch in horror as I see it bring its wrist blade back then stabs it into Kazuma's stomach. The next moment felt like it lasted an eternity as I came to a stop, unable to process what I had just seen.

And then, Kazuma collapsed onto the ground... except it wasn't actually Kazuma that hit the ground. It was his copy which quickly breaks apart into particles that fade into nothing. Both me and Moguninnin look at Kazuma, who had somehow switched places with his copy and his response was to say-

"Wouldn't you like to know what just happened... STEAL!"

From what I could see, it hadn't done anything much, save for causing a circular metal object, that appeared to be hollow appear in his hands, only to be quickly dropped onto the ground.

"You know, Mog... for someone as fast as you are, gotta say I'm surprised seeing how heavy just that piece of you alone felt. Yunyun, hurry up and aim for its knee."

"Knee... ah!"

I finally notice it then, what Kazuma had stolen was the metal covering that protected the right knee on Moguninnin. Now understanding what Kazuma's thought process here was, I fire my Light of Saber at Moguninnin, who had begun to rush Kazuma again. Without the protective magic resistant metal acting as a protective, my spell ends up slicing the leg clear in half and sending Moguninnin crashing onto the ground before Kazuma.

ALERT-ALERT: Mobility had been compromised. Risk of mission failure growing. Prepare to initiate Bomber Protocol

"Say what? Please don't tell me..."

"Kazuma, Moguninnin is called the Bomber Majin for a reason. It can detonate itself like a bomb at any time then reconstruct itself right after. Even if it was damaged in battle beforehand, its rebuilt form will see it fully repaired as if none of the previous damage had not happened."

"You're only telling me this NOW! Fine, please let this work... Steal... Steal... STEAL!"

Kazuma then begins to spam Steal over and over, getting more joint guards, one of its blades, a... questionable picture of some girl in a rather revealing dress and pose; where did that come from off its person. Then, finally, a glowing piece of coronatite which Kazuma quickly drops as well; probably because it was white hot. I guess it must have been its power core as the moment it appears in Kazuma's hand, Moguninnin immediately goes silent and the light that made up its eyes fades and goes dark.

"Well... that was a thing."

"Yeah, good thing you were able to steal its power source. A few moments longer, it would have exploded and taken us all out."

"Yeah, about that. Did it forget that it going all 'kaboom' just now would have likely killed you, either from being injured by it or by causing the room to collapse, depending on the power of the blast, that is."

"Probably when it gets like that, it doesn't think about that detail. By the way, Kazuma. How the heck did you avoid getting stabbed just a moment ago? With your copy holding you for Moguninnin, how did you manage to make it take the blow meant for you."

Kazuma grins a wide grin as he pulls out a small hand sized cylinder, one that looked very familiar.

"Remember this little toy? The item that allowed me to switch places with Darkness when Megumin used her Explosion on her and Vanir."

"Ah, I do remember that. The magic item from Wiz's shop that works in a manner similar the Paladin's Cover ability."

"Exactly. Since that day, I've always had a few with me as a just in case. After all, you never know when these babies will be needed."

"I need to get myself a few of those from Wiz myself once we get back to Axel."

"Good idea. So, does this mean we're..."

A sudden blast from behind us makes us look back to see my copy had finally broken free of its prison of Sakura Storm petals. I confess I had forgotten about it for a moment here. I turn, preparing to engage in in battle, but Kazuma stops me.

"Stay back and let me handle this, Yunyun. I think I know how to defeat your copy."

"But shouldn't I... actually, that does make sense. I was probably supposed to defeat your copy and you mine. If not for Moguninnin being here as well..."

My copy comes rushing towards me, preparing to unleash another Light of Saber but Kazuma steps out before me with Sprint and catches my copy with a surprising embrace. My copy seemed unsure what to do which could be proof that we were supposed to fight each other's copy.

"Instead of a duel of magic or blades, lets instead do this."

And then, before I could say anything or my copy could react, Kazuma does something neither of us would have expected or been prepared for. He pulls my copy into a kiss... a rather deep kiss at that. I just stand there, dumbstruck, partially shocked by seeing this happening and partially annoyed that it was my copy on the receiving end of that and not me myself.

As for my copy, it was just frozen for a second before its blade drops onto the ground and a burst of steam shoots from its ears. After a few seconds more, Kazuma ends the kiss and pulls away, leaving my copy to collapse onto the ground with a goofy grin on its face before breaking into particles of light. At least it acted like I would have, save for fading out of existence. I would just be lying there unconscious.

Kazuma then looks back at me and says-

"Now I think we're done here."

"I have no words that can express my thoughts at this moment."

[Congratulations, you have cleared the seventh trial. Please accept these rewards as proof of you accomplishment]

We look back to see a new pedestal rising from the ground, different from the usual one. Instead of an orb, it was holding... medallions in its place. Me and Kazuma approach it and look at them and I hear Kazuma say-

"Wow, after all that, this is the final reward. What a cheap-ass trial this ended up being."

"I guess. Maybe the real reward was the..."

"If you say that the real reward was the journey, I may have to pinch your cheeks. It's like saying the real treasure was the friends we made along the way. I can't stand such cop-out terms, even if the meaning is meant to be a positive one."

"Good point. So, what should we do with Moguninnin?"

Kazuma looks at him, then says-

"Leave him here for now. If possible, I'll teleport back here later and see if there's any chance it can be reprogrammed to make it more... agreeable with people like me. If I can succeed, then I may bring it back home and give it to Megumin as a pet."

"She'd like that, of that I have no... Kazuma, look. A door had appeared."

Sure enough, a door had appeared in the room. After collecting our metals, which I put mine on while Kazuma simply stuffs his into his pocket, we approach the door and, after a quick pause, enter. We then find ourselves entering a natural underground cavern, walking down a long slope till we finally reached the bottom and after passing into another room, we stop at the sight before us.

In this insanely massive room, which made the combat arena we had just been look closet size, was a large and possible deep pool or water. But caught me off guard wasn't this but what was inside the water...

It was a massive elephant like creature, made from a strange kind of material I wasn't familiar with. I look at Kazuma to ask him what he thought, but found he looked even more shocked than I did. Before I could say anything to him, he says-

"It can't be... Divine Beast Vah Ruta!"

{|} Part 7: A Night of Celebration {|}

The night shy overhead was illuminated by fireworks as the clan celebrated like never before. Now that I had finally returned from my trials, the usual cheers and applause I had been told to expect was going on. But I couldn't help but feel there was this additional energy in the air tonight coming from everyone than what I normally sensed during such celebratory events in the past.

Was it because the next chief had been decided, not that anyone had any doubt that it would be me. It would make sense seeing as it meant everyone else had escaped from having the job forced onto them for another few decades.

Or... was it even possible that they were just really happy for me; having come so far from my days as the shy, quiet, village odd ball?

"Attention... attention everyone..."

shouted father, who was sitting beside me. After several seconds of no one seemingly hearing his words; mother, who was sitting opposite me with father in between us, pulls out a whistle she always wears and blows into it. It was incredibly loud, and effective, as it got everyone to shut up and quiet down immediately.

"Thank you, love. Ahem, sorry to bring a momentary halt to all the fun, everyone. But there's something that needs to be said. It won't take long. Now, we all know why we're here in celebration tonight... right?"

"Because we usually do this once a week, boss?"

shouted Tatotatsu, the village's head craftsman.

"No... well, there's that too. But tonight's celebration has something additional to make it super special for ALL of us. As you all know, MY daughter... MY pride and joy undertook and completed her trials in order to become the next chief of the clan. Not only that, she also managed to do something no other has ever done before. She actually managed to complete the trial which is, to say, truly astonishing."

"Yes-yes, she's truly something else. Living proof that maybe there's something redeemable about you, Hiropon. Can we get back to getting shit faced already?"

came another voice from the crowd. I didn't recognize it though which alerted me to the fact that there must still be members of the clan I have yet to interact with enough to know well. I'll need to change that here soon.

"People-people, please be patient. I know we usually don't have any real reason to celebrate yet we do it anyways just because it's OUR thing. But for tonight, let's do things right and give both cheers and praise to MY daughter over her accomplishment with the trials. After all, she did it all by herself too."

"Dad, I didn't..."

"Yes, ALL BY HERSELF! Anyways... continue."

With that, everyone cheered before going back to their merriment. Father settles down and downs another mug of ale before getting up again, this time to go join the rest of the clan in their looney antics. I, meanwhile, just sit there and sigh with my head hanging low.

"Don't worry, Yunyun. I'll make sure everyone knows the efforts young Kazuma put in as your partner. Or rather, I should be saying I'll make sure to remind them of his involvement later."

"Thanks, mom. I still wish father would stop being so difficult with that subject. After all, Kazuma has done so much for the village... and for me in general. One would think he'd be more accepting by now."

"True, but he is a father and that's how fathers can be. By the way, where is Kazuma anyways? As your partner, he should be up here with us, sitting at your side. Guess Hiropon really didn't tell him like he said he would."

Huh? Hearing mother say that makes me begin to look around. Sure enough, I wasn't seeing Kazuma anywhere. I'm sure he had to be somewhere as he said we wouldn't be leaving till the morning. I quickly get up, preparing to begin my search when...

"Everyone, what do you say to a new game I've just come up with. All the girls have to enter a drinking contest and the losers have to suffer a special punishment from the chief."

shouted father, already smashed which was impressive... or not, seeing as I don't know how much he's already had to drink tonight. Mother sighs before standing as well while telling me-

"You go ahead and find that young man. In fact, why don't the two of you sneak off and spend some time together if you so wish. I doubt anyone's going to notice your absence tonight."

"What about dad?"

"You leave that bum to me. I know how to handle him after all these years. Oh... Yunyun, there's also something important we need to talk about, but we can do that tomorrow. I know you were planning on leaving in the morning but would you, specifically, be willing to stay a few extra hours so we can talk?"

"Sure, I can do that."

"Great... well, better go get the old leash on your father before he gets himself into some real trouble. And Yunyun... good luck and have fun with your little alone time with Kazuma."

I can't help but blush, just a little, as mother hops down from the small stage and begins to make her way over to where father was. I watch that go on for a moment before leaving the stage myself in my search for Kazuma. If I had to guess, he will probably be with Megumin's parents, alongside Anna.

As I make my way through the crowd, I get plenty of congratulations from people and even offers to have a little drink with some too. I decline, of course, as I continue my search. And then-

"What are you doing, Yunyun? Just wandering around aimlessly..."

"Yeah, this whole thing supposed to be about you so you should look like you're having more fun."

It was Funifura and Dodonko who had stopped me, both looking clearly drunk.

"What are you two talking about? I'm having plenty of fun here. I'm just focused right now, trying to find Kazuma so we can..."

"OHHH, looking for that feel good guy, huh? What, planning on having him give you a special experience/ That's not fair, Yunyun."

"Yeah, you and Megumin hogging him all to yourselves and getting to have that special experience whenever and however you want and wish it."

Feel good? Special experience? Just what the hell are you two... oh, right. They're talking about when Kazuma gives us mana via Drain Touch, specifically demi-mana. If I were Megumin, I'd probably be a little mean and rub that fact into their faces in order to make them jealous.

Actually, that does sound like fun right now, but I wanted to focus on finding Kazuma at the moment so that'll have to wait for now.

"You guys are VERY drunk right now, aren't you?"

"We're not drunk."

"And even if we were, it's allowed because we're both fourteen now, thus allowed to do whatever it is we want."

They both argued at me, making me sigh.

"Maybe so but... never mind that. Have either of you seen Kazuma at all tonight?"

Both of them shake their heads, making me sigh. I go to walk away when another familiar face joins in.

"So, I see you two have wasted no time with joining in the celebrations. Yunyun, congratulations on your success. You can be sure I'll write a book about it one day. On that subject, is it OK if we talk about the trials in more detail one day so I can be as detailed in my descriptions about them as possible."

It was Arue, our clan's resident writer of literature.

"One day, sure. But only if you make sure to include Kazuma in it as well. After all, his is an important role in the whole thing."

"If I must, I shall include that mean guy in the tale. Speaking of... where is he? I would have thought he'd be sitting up there with you and your parents earlier."

"Yes, he should have been up there, but it seems dad didn't tell him that fact. I'm guessing you haven't seen him at all. Do you know where Hyoizaburo and Yuiyui are at. I'm hoping they might know where he is."

"They're right where one would think they'd be... the buffet table, eating anything they can get their greedy little hands on."

That makes sense. I guess even after all the luck they experienced from what Kazuma gave them, they are still the same old-same old. Now that I think about it, wasn't Yuiyui acting weird with talking about how things were going? Maybe Kazuma's getting more intel on that right now.

"Well, I better go speak with them then. It was good to see you, Arue. Funifura... Dodonko, I'll see you..."

I stop dead when I turn to talk to them, finding the two of them in a deep and passionate, with plenty of heat to be felt, make-out session with each other. I just stare at them, unable to process what I was seeing. Arue then explains.

"Don't read too much into this, Yunyun. They always end up doing... things with each other whenever they become drunk. They both claim they still want to find boyfriends one day and that they only do stuff like this with each other to get in some much-needed practice time before that day arrives."

"I see. Tell me just how much training do they... actually, never mind. I think I'd rather not know."

I quickly leave Arue to watch over those two, who had fallen to the ground and appeared to be in the process of stripping one another. I'm assuming Arue will use some magic to offer up some privacy, and maybe take notes on how girl love plays out for her books.

I soon find Megumin's parents who were indeed eating like they're lives depended on it. I don't see either Kazuma, or Anna, around which does worry me. But I notice something else too. Komekko was also absent. After a quick talk with these two, I begin making my way towards a nearby hill with a lone tree resting upon it.

As I get closer, I finally see the person I was looking for; Kazuma. And as I also guessed, he wasn't alone. Anna and Komekko were with him too. Komekko was all curled up like a kitten with her head resting on his lap and Anna was resting her head on his shoulder. Both of them were clearly sleeping with Komekko drooling and Anna clearly had a drunk vibe about her.

I walk up and about to speak lightly when Kazuma opens his eyes, turning to look at me.

"So, why's the girl of the hour doing all the way over here. Shouldn't you be down with everyone else, having fun and stuff."

"You first. Why are you way over here, not taking part in the festivities? Is it because you're having to babysit these two?"

"That's part of the reason. I needed to get Anna away from all the free booze otherwise, I was afraid she's end up becoming another... well, I'm sure you can guess. As for Komekko? She just wanted to stay by my side."

He's quiet for a second then quickly adds-

"Also, there's the fact quite a few of the girls... DRUNK GIRLS I might add, wanted me to let them experience the old Drain Touch slash demi-mana combo. Naturally, I felt it a good idea to make some distance with all those crazy minded girls."

I completely understand. I laugh lightly for a moment then say-

"I still feel bad though. You deserve to be having as much fun to all this as anyone, Kazuma."

"Hm... true, but how would... say Yunyun, I have an idea. Want to go do something fun with me?"

About twenty minutes later, I was laying Anna down in her bed... with a little effort being needed. With her showing, and confirming, she was pretty much useless as a pathetic drunk, having to bring her into her room here at Megumin's parents' home was a challenge.

I really should have asked Kazuma to let me deal with Komekko instead of Anna.

"Yo bro, let me drink that one through your mouth against mine..."

grumbled Anna in her sleep. I really hope neither me nor Megumin would ever ask Kazuma to do that with us... even if the idea did have its merits to it too. Once I made certain Anna was under the covers, I leave her room and walk over to Komekko's and take a peek inside.

He was finishing up putting the covers over Komekko, who was mumbling something about wanting Kazuma to make her more yummy treats. I can't help but smile as Kazuma looks back at me, smiles, then joins me in the hallway, followed by us leaving the house.

"Think it's a good idea to leave these two alone, Kazuma?"

"Yeah, I think so. Anna's not going to be waking up till morning... not after all that she drank earlier. As for Komekko; she's a lot smarter and more mature for someone of her age. If there's anyone who can take care of herself, it's Komekko."

"Yeah, I guess you're right. So, you said something about us doing something alone..."

I realize I was fidgeting a little bit. I guess I was a little nervous, as well as a little excited too.

"Yeah, I did say that didn't I. How do you feel about going someplace very few have ever been before. Someplace where we would have total privacy."

Total privacy, you mean like... what are you planning to do once we're alone, Kazuma?

I could feel my body heating up and my heart beginning to race like crazy. I then realize Kazuma was holding his hand out to me. I shake all the interesting thoughts emerging in my head from my mind before reaching out and taking Kazuma's hand. He then pulls me in close then says-

"Teleport."

{|} Part 8: Under a Magic Stone-filled Sky {|}

Once the teleport ended, I found myself, alongside Kazuma, standing on a beach, looking out onto the ocean and what appeared to be some kind of cloud like barrier a good ways out, seemingly coming from out of the waters. This cloud barrier rose high into the sky around making what looked to be a dome of some kind.

Despite that, I could still see the stars in the sky. No, these weren't stars per say. Rather, they appeared to be a kind of floating rocks that hovered in the air all around us, each one emitting soft lights of various colors. I didn't know why but there was something about all this that felt strangely familiar.

"This place... it's SO beautiful, Kazuma. Just where exactly are we anyways?"

"My little secret hide away, for when things get hectic in life, rather it be in Axel, out and about the land, or sometimes even back at the mansion. This is the long rumored second home I discovered a ways back you and the others have been wanting me to bring you all too; Empyria."

"This place... is it really THE..."

I have heard of Empyria before. Among the oldest of legends held in our world, Empyria is said to be the oldest of the old. The sacred garden on the goddess Eris, from which all life everywhere sprang forth. To think Kazuma's secret hide-a-way has always been...

"Does Eris know about you being here? For that matter, is it OK for me to be here now?"

"Yeah, she knows that I've been here, and I don't think you being here will be an issue. Well, she never said I couldn't bring anyone here, just not reveal anything about this place to... any... one..."

"I think that counts as the same thing, Kazuma."

I say that, but I couldn't help but giggle at seeing him become all sheepish because he had made quite a goof by bringing me here. Finally, he says-

"I'm sure it'll be fine. After all, you are a close and trusted friend. I'm sure Eris would understand and agree with it being OK that you know about this place, and about you being able to come here. Now, how about I show you around... at least this area."

With that, Kazuma led me off the beach and towards a small looking village. I asked him if anyone actually lived here, and he said no. In fact, this village was only created recently, by way of someone he called Eyeball. Kazuma said he wanted this place to feel like people lived here, or had at one point, in order to create a sense of having been lived in once.

As he leads me to what he said was his personal abode, I happened to look up and I saw-

"Kazuma, is that...?"

"Yeah, that's the Divine Beast that attacked Axel; the one Megumin and the others thinks was destroyed by Megumin's Explosion spell. Its proper name is Vah Rudania. And beside it is Vah Naboris and I believe you remember Vah Ruta from the caves connected to the trials."

I nod, my eyes locked onto the three towering metal creatures. The gecko, the camel, and the elephant like beings were the three, as Kazuma called them, Divine Beast that many believed to be Destroyers.

To say that my mind was blown would be an understatement.

I had wanted to get a closer look and Kazuma had even offered to do that for me, but seeing as this Eyeball person hadn't appeared, even when Kazuma had called for it, it looked like it wasn't going to be happening anytime soon.

Anyways, once we had finished looking around the village, we had returned to the beach where we were now sitting. Kazuma's eyes were looking out at the waves as they gently flowed to and throw along the shore. I, meanwhile, was more focused on the floating glowing rocks of light.

If I was being honest with myself, I think I would like to live the rest of my life in this place. Forget about becoming the next leader of the Crimson Demons, being here was a more desirable... especially if I could do it with...

"Well, I think now's as good a time as any."

said Kazuma, digging into his adventurer's pouch. I realize I had been looking at him when my thoughts had finished, I quickly blush and avert my gaze. Luckily, he hadn't seemed to notice as his attention was elsewhere.

I go back to looking at him, now out of curiosity for what he was looking forward. He then has a eureka like expression come over him as he pulls out a... bottle of wine? After that, he also pulls out two very fancy looking glasses. Curious, I ask-

"Kazuma, what are you..."

"You can thank your mom for this... all of it, actually as it was her idea. She gave me the wine and the glasses and said if you and my daughter get the chance, then we show go sneak off and take the time to really enjoy ourselves. Seeing as we have managed to sneak off..."

I understood right away and was both excited and a little nervous. After all, was my mom wanting... expecting us to... Perhaps reading my thoughts, Kazuma adds-

"I was also a little wary of us going and doing this, but your mom isn't anything like Megumin's mom, right? She isn't secretly plotting out ways to get us in bed so we can "Hurry up and let me see the face of my grandchild" like a certain mother of questionable morals would be doing if things were a little different."

That is true. Mom can be a little weird about things at times, just as any other member of the clan. But she isn't the same level of questionable actions as Yuiyui, who was in a class by herself. Kazuma adds one final little detail.

"Also, your mom told me this particular wine barely has anything alcoholic in it. I believed she said something like 'a proper experience for a first timer or for ceremonial purposes.' So, want to give it a shot?"

"Well, seeing as it is my mother who's recommending this and I have never known her to lead me astray... what the hell. But is this OK with you though, Kazuma. I recall you saying you weren't one for drinking anything alcoholic. Something about how your family has a history with... what was it again?"

"Worthless drunks."

"Yeah, that."

"Like you said, what the hell. This IS a special occasion, after all. I feel like I can lower my guard a little... just for tonight."

With that, Kazuma pops the cork off the wine bottle then pours the wine into the two glasses. We then clink our glasses together before taking that first drink. Around a half an hour later, or maybe a full hour had passed, we had finished off the bottle and were now laying down on the sand, looking up to the sky.

Despite what mom had told Kazuma, I confess my head was feeling a little tizzy and all abuzz. Nothing major, mind you, but I was definitely feeling something. Luckily, it wasn't anything like the 'hard' stuff me and Megumin had drank not too long ago; the stuff that had led us to try to seduce Kazuma.

"So, want to head back to the village?"

Kazuma asked. I took a moment to think about it, then said-

"Can we... stay here tonight, Kazuma? I mean, just sleep out here on the beach under the stars... I mean magic glowing rocks. We can head back early tomorrow. Also, I won't be going back to Axel with you and Anna."

"Hm... why's that?"

"Mom wants to have a talk with me about something. Probably wanting to set up future visits so she and dad can begin teaching me everything that goes into being the village chief. Maybe other things too, but who knows there."

"I see. Yunyun, sure you don't want us to stick around till you're done with that. I can't speak for Anna, but I'd be fine with waiting a few extra hours if you want me too."

"Thanks for that, but I don't mind. For one thing, I have no idea how long this will all take before I'll be ready to come back. Besides, assuming Cielo and Megumin have returned with Idol Hearts in tow, I think they'll need you there to welcome them and show them around their new home. Don't forget, Kazuma. You ARE going to become Idol Hearts co-manager alongside Lia, right."

"Don't remind me, Yunyun. I still can't believe I agreed to become a co-manager. What was I thinking with adding even MORE work I'll need to be bothered with."

I can't help but laugh at that. Kazuma glares at me yet I don't feel any anger or annoyance coming from him. He was just trying to act all annoyed, and maybe he actually was but not as much as he was wanting to be about it.

I look back at the sky for a few moments and then, without even thinking about it, ask-

"Kazuma, about what happened before. I mean, inside that weird crystal."

"What about it?"

Was I really going to bring this up? And here I thought I had moved on from this topic already. Maybe the wine was making my head think, and act, in funny ways. Well, might as well see where this is going.

"I was wondering... Do you think what that phantom guy told us was true. That what we saw, and experienced; that was all from some kind of past life the two of us lived before this one."

"I... I don't really know. A part of me wants to say he was just messing with us and yet... there was something about what we saw and experienced... I don't know. It just felt so real, you know. I think when I next get to talk with Chri... Eris, I'll have to ask her about all that."

I nod before looking back up at the stars. I then say absentmindedly-

"If it is all true, then do you think that the two of us... and Megumin, can continue where the three of us left off from back in those days?"

"... Maybe... maybe..."

We all would, of that I have no doubt. I then reach out and takes Kazuma's hand into my own. In response, he squeezes my hand firmly yet gently, making me look at him and him at me. We then began to move a little closer, just a tiny bit really.

Here and now, under these NOT stars, we would rest and dream... and everything was perfect.

{|} Part 9: Our Trials Never Really End {|}

It wasn't long into the morning when Kazuma and I had returned from Empyria. This time, I was the one who used Teleport to see us back to the village as it would allow us to arrive near my parents' home. Upon arriving, we began to walk towards the front door when mom suddenly emerged, likely to do her usual morning routine; that being her tending to the garden outside.

Her eyes immediately spot us, making her smile; a smile that quickly gets a mischievous hint to it when she took notice of how we were. I suppose it was to be expected, seeing as I was hugging Kazuma's arm and had been since before we had even left Empyria. Why was I doing that again? Guess I just felt like it.

"So, what happened with you two after you both went mysteriously missing last night. Wait, no need to tell me as the glow I'm seeing from you both..."

I raise my hand to quiet mom before explaining.

"I don't know anything about any glow, but I can assure you we didn't do what you think we did. All we did was go someplace a little more private, enjoyed that wine you gave Kazuma, and ended up sleeping under the stars as the night air was rather nice."

"Oh, I see... I guess that's fine then."

"Yeesh, don't sound so disappointed, miss Rikarika. If I didn't know better, I say you were hoping... nay, expecting something more to have happened between us. Makes me think you and miss Yuiyui are a lot more alike than what I'm comfortable with."

Mom laughed at hearing that, as did Kazuma though it was obvious his laugh was a little more forced.

"Don't worry, Kazuma. While I confess that I do have MY moments every once and a while, I'm nowhere near as bad as Yuiyui is and can be when she's wanting something to happen. I could give you a few examples, but something tells me that won't be needed for this."

Both me and Kazuma nod. I then ask-

"So, what happened after we took off last night and is dad up yet?"

"No, your father is still sleeping and will likely remain asleep for a good chunk of the day. As for last night? Let's just say things went down as one would expect. Your father got shit faced and made quite the fool of himself. Yuiyui and Hyoizaburo ate so much that they ended up puking, and poor Funifura and Dodonko ended up doing things together that will surely make them hide themselves away inside their homes for many days to come."

"So, in other words, just another typical day in the Crimson Demon village, huh."

"For better or for worse. So, I take it you will be leaving us now, Kazuma."

Kazuma nods before my mother steps forward and pulls him into a hug, which he returns.

"Make sure you pay us all a visit again soon, Kazuma. Know that you will always have a home with us."

"I'll remember that... and thank you for everything, miss Rikarika."

"Yunyun, don't forget..."

"I know, I know. There are things you want to talk with me about before I return to Axel. Let me see Kazuma and Anna off then I'll come back around so we can talk."

Mom nods, then asks-

"By the way, where did that curious young girl run off too? I must say she caught me off guard. For someone not born of the clan, her mindset and way of doing things is so very much like a Crimson Demon. Perhaps... she should have been born as one of us."

"That would explain a lot." (x2)

After that, we walked through the village, making our way to Hyoizaburo and Yuiyui's place. As we walked, we saw the chaos left over from all the celebration the night before. I felt sorry for whoever would end up drawing the short end of the straw and have to clean it all up.

Better not end up being me as I do have places to be once my talk with mom, and maybe dad if he wakes up in time, has finished.

As we approach the front door, we saw Megumin's parents and little sister already standing outside; perhaps they had sensed our approach and had come out here to greet us. A few steps later and I saw that... NOPE, they weren't out her for us but because Anna was hunched over nearby, puking her brains out.

We come to a stop and Kazuma says in a deadpan voice-

"Anna... every single time, you do this. You really need to show some restraint when it comes to getting wasted."

"Yeah... yeah, I really should, huh. After all, I'm not a ghost no... give me a moment."

She then began to hurl again, making me walk over to rub her back. Kazuma, meanwhile, walked over to Megumin's family to say his goodbyes. As I rub her back, I say-

"So, putting aside your sudden and very expected need to clear up your system, did you enjoy your little trip to my home village."

"Actually... yeah, I have enjoyed being here. This may sound strange, but I feel like I have come home. Does that sound weird to you, Yunyun?"

"Not at all. In fact, me and my mom were talking about that very thing... well, she was anyways. Mom said you have the spirit of a Crimson Demon within you and feels that maybe you were meant to be born as one of us."

"Really? Sounds like good times, if you ask me. Oh well, maybe in my next life. So, we going back to Axel. I don't know about you, but I can't wait to get back so I can climb into my bed and sleep this damn hangover away."

"I'll bet..."

I look back at Kazuma, seeing Komekko in his arms as she hugs him tightly. Or maybe she wasn't wanting him to go. I couldn't see Hyoizaburo anywhere which I guess means he had already left to go do whatever it is he does when he isn't inside his workshop.

I then notice Kazuma and Yuiyui had been chatting about something as I hear Yuiyui say-

"So, what do you think, Kazuma?"

"Hm... honestly, I don't really mind doing that for you and Hyoizaburo. At the same time, this is a big decision to make. Before I can give you an answer, I should really talk with Megumin about this. See what she thinks about it."

Yuiyui nods while I wonder what they were talking about.

"I had a feeling you'd say that. I was expecting it, actually. Well, just give it some thought for now and let me know when you can. Anyways, it's time we get going ourselves, Komekko..."

"No... NO, I don't want to let big brother leave again."

"Don't worry, Komekko. We'll see each other again soon and when we do, I'll be sure to make even more yummy food for you. Maybe I'll even have another magic spell to show you."

It took a few more minutes but Kazuma was eventually able to get Komekko to let him go and go back to her mother. They then said their goodbyes before leaving the three of us alone. I then ask Kazuma-

"So, what did miss Yuiyui talk to you about, Kazuma?"

"I'll tell you... AFTER I've had a chance to talk with Megumin. Considering the subject matter, I think she has a right to be the first to hear about it."

I puff my cheeks out in annoyance at hearing that, making him laugh just a little before adding-

"Let's just say what Yuiyui talked with me about is relating to Komekko. Anyways, ready to be heading home, Anna?"

"I'm ready to crawl into my bed and sleep the rest of the day if that answers your question."

Kazuma and I both laugh at her. A few moments later, Kazuma was standing beside Anna and I opposite them. He then says-

"Now you're sure you don't want us to wait till you and your mom are done having you talk, Yunyun?"

"Yeah, I'm sure. Take Anna back to the mansion so she can rest. I'll be along in an hour... or a few. It depends on how long mom, maybe dad too, ends up taking with whatever it is I'm going to be told about."

"Gotcha... if I'm not at the mansion when you get back, then I'll probably be Idol Hearts showing them around their new home. Anyways, we better get going... Teleport."

Once Kazuma and Anna had left, I returned to the house where mom was waiting for me.

"So, I guess we should begin our talk, huh mom?"

"Yes, but first... there's something I must tell you. Your trials haven't ended yet."

"Huh? But I thought..."

"Don't misunderstand, Yunyun. Your trials to become the next chief have indeed ended, and quite successfully I might add. But between you and me, I have found that our lives are always going from one trial to another. Using you as an example, you could say the period of your life when you were a shy and quiet introvert was one trial; one you have finally overcome thanks to your meeting with Kazuma. The chieftain trials were another trial you have now passed. So now, you have to ask the big question... What do you think your next trial in life will be?"

I stand there, unsure what to say or do. I do find myself thinking about mom's words though and finally...

"I couldn't begin to even guess at what trials may come my way in the future, but I know as long as I have Kazuma and Megumin, and all the others by my side, I'll be ready to overcome any and all trials I may have to face in the future."

"Well said, Yunyun. Now, let's take a little walk, shall we. After all, there is a lot I feel we need to talk about and some of what that shall entail would be better left unheard by Hiropon."

"Really? Stuff we need to keep secret from dad. Like what exactly."

"You'll know soon enough. Let's just say it's complicated..."

{|} Epilogue: The Time Has Come... {|}

(Kazuma POV)

"Good to be home, huh Anna."

"Just get me into my bed, Kazuma. My stomachs beginning to feel all weird again. And I'm sure my headache's getting worse too."

I let out a sigh as I guide Anna up to the front door. Once we were inside, I lead her up the stairs to her room, calling out to anyone else while I'm at it. No response comes to my calls. A few minutes later, I exit Anna's room to let her suffer and recover in peace.

I head back downstairs, calling out for anyone several more times. The only response I get is from Anna who shouts out for me to-

"Shut up! I'm trying to sleep here, damn it."

Maybe I should kick her out of MY house. Probably regret it later if I did that. Anyways, what should I go do now? Maybe I should make my way over to the amphitheater and see if Cielo and Megumin are there with Idol Hearts, helping them get settled in already. OK, I've decided. I'll go make myself a sandwich and let myself have a little breather for an hour or so, then I'll head over to the...

The sound of the front door being opened gets my attention, making me look towards the entrance as I wonder who it was that was getting back? Cielo and Megumin, or maybe it was Darkness...

"So you're back already, Kazuma. Did Yunyun's trials end up going well for her and you?"

It was Lynn. I was about to respond but stop as I notice her demeanor was different; fiercer and more focused than the usual carefree Lynn I was use too. I then recall she had asked me a question and I finally give her an answer.

"Yeah, it went pretty well. Perhaps better than either of us had expected it to, all things considered. You know, being told how nonexistent the success rate for the trials has been in the past. We can talk more about that later, once Yunyun gets back. Maybe wait for the others to get back too."

"Is Yunyun not back already?"

"She'll be in a few hours. Her mom wanted her to hang back for a little bit longer so they could talk about some stuff. I offered to stay and wait on her, but she told me to go ahead and come back home. Anna is here, though we probably won't be seeing her for a few hours. After all the drinking and partying she did last night, she's in serious need of recovery time in the form of sleeping it all off."

"I see..."

Lynn then goes quiet, taking on a thinking pose. I just stand there and wait for a few moments before finally saying-

"Say, want to come with me? I was about to head over to the Axel Amphitheater to see if the others had gotten back from Veridae. If they're not back, then maybe we could..."

"Kazuma..."

I was going to say we could go do some training together. When it came to practicing certain skills, like Sprint, I found Lynn was one of the best training partners I could have with me, due to her wide range of skill and magic. However, the seriousness in her tone when she spoke gave me pause.

"There is something we need to go do. Right now, in fact."

"OK, and what would that be, Lynn?"

"It's time for you to finally go and meet HIM, the one everyone knows as the Devil King."

{|} Arc 10: end... {|}

AN: In two weeks, we begin Arc 11: Where the Shadow Lies. Megumin will finally reunite with Wolbach. Darkness, Cielo, Yunyun, and Anna learn about this and beginning following after her. And Kazuma joins Lynn and Ruffian as he finally goes to meet the Devil King and have a talk many arcs in the making. How will all this play out and how will it all end? Time will soon reveal that answer.

Till next time...