The time for parting has finally come.
It's time for Rudeus to leave his quaint little village and venture out into the big, wide world.

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Ha... The first Volume is finally finished, huh?
Please read the notes I left at the end. :)
Please note that I do not own Mushoku Tensei or Fate.

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It was quick and silent. I didn't even notice before a month flew by. I suppose that happens when you spend time with your loved ones.

My house-the one I discovered-was basically left forgotten. The threat of a looming calamity hanging like storm clouds over my home made me realize how precious my family is.

After I had proved my hypothesis of the world's Texture breaking, the stars changed again. No more riddles or ciphers for me to decode in my spare time. I was unimaginably thankful, as I had more time to rest, yet sometimes ignorance is bliss.

The stars gave me one straight answer. The calamity that happens on the day after my birthday will be the catalyst for the shattering of this world. Right now, I'm seven years old. That gives me less than three years to prepare.

Can I do it? I'll answer honestly: No. No, I can not. Unless a miracle were to occur, this world was doomed.

Will I give up? Also no. My family's history is littered with nothing but taboos. Reality Marbles, geniuses, and replicating a feat that belonged in the Age of Gods. My magus line, my predecessors, and I broke Law after Law. Who's to say I can't defy another? Rules are made to be broken, after all.

So, that's that. I won't say any more. Thinking about the inevitable leads to nothing but misery. I'll come up with a plan. I'll establish an entire Thaumaturgical Foundation if I have to. So you'd better believe me when I say I'll save this world and its inhabitants' asses!

Anyway, now that my rambling's over. That little heart-to-heart I shared with Sylphie boosted our relationship to new heights. If she was fond of me before, she rarely left my side after that incident. That's a little worrying.

Don't get me wrong, I love how she fusses over me like a doting wife or parent. It makes me wanna tie the knot right then and there. But she also needs to be independent. With the way she follows me around, she may become too reliant on me. I've seen it in the Clocktower more times than I can count.

A magi's heir is like, no, is their parents' possession. And they are treated as such. They aren't allowed to have free will, nor have they seen the cruelty of the outside world. That innocence is what leads a good number of promising magi to an early demise.

Since I met her, Sylphie has been my apprentice and, in turn, my heir. I wish only the best for her, especially not an early death.

Sending her out into the real world will take some time, however. As her shy nature can't change overnight. Perhaps I should start with more field trips? But that'll take too much time! We only have a few unoccupied days here and there when we don't have anything else to do.

Ah! Whatever, I don't care! I have a disaster in three years to watch out for. I can deal with acclimating Sylphie to harsh society after that.

"Rudy?"

Right. I have been staring into space for quite a while. A Rune resembling a connected constellation danced around my head before vanishing. Sylphie didn't seem to notice, but it's been happening more frequently. I honestly have no idea why-like many other things-but I'll deal with that later.

"Sorry, sorry. Got lost in thought. Have you finished? Good, let me-"

"Hey, Rudy. There's a letter for you."

Paul barged into the room with a scroll addressed to me. "Who's it from?"

"Your teacher, Roxy Migurdia."

...

I read the letter with Sylphie, who didn't seem all that pleased and pouted. If she wasn't seven, I'd have guessed she was jealous.

My teacher is staying in the capital of the Kingdom of Shirone. She did say some things before she got to that, though. The reason she's in Shirone in the first place's because exploring labyrinths is a pretty good way of making a name for oneself. Another good portion was dedicated to her new student-the seventh prince.

When I read that section, I hastily covered where she wrote that I used to steal her underwear and spied on her while she changed. I did not want Sylphie to know of my perverted tendencies just yet. My relationship with her is maxed out, and I don't want it to drop.

In all seriousness, I feel kinda bad for my teacher. I at least kept my...quirks a secret, though obviously not secret enough. But that prince-from Roxy's letter anyway-didn't seem to have a care in the world. Ha... I guess that's what you get, being raised in a royal family.

Oh! On another note, it seems Master has leveled up. She can use King-tier spells now. If Master learns I'm a God-Rank Mage, I wonder what face Master's gonna make. She also suggested admission to the Ranoa University of Magic. It's a good piece of advice, but one I can't follow. I don't think anything's more important than the end of the world right now. I could get more people's help if I spoke out about it. But the chances of that happening are slim. Who'd believe a seven-year-old kid when he says the world will end on his tenth birthday?

The letter Roxy sent me was a pretty damn good wake-up call. I don't know what to do, so perhaps enrolling in the Mage's Guide or traveling the world will give me some ideas on fixing reality. I heard mentions of "The Seven Great Powers." The seven heroes who banished Demon God Laplace. If I can locate them, and convince them to join me, maybe I'd have a chance. Besides them, I also have other options like Perugius. I already know where he is-a floating palace I often see when flying to Roa-so finding him's gonna be a breeze.

All those facts point to one thing-I need to leave. The quiet village of Buena is a place I'll always treasure as my birthplace, but the inhabitants are too...ordinary. I must travel the world to find out how to fix it. I sighed, looking outside the window at the birds soaring in the sky. "Traveling...maybe that's..."

Sylphie seemed to catch on to my uncertainty quickly. She's a clever girl and unusually perceptive. That's one of the reasons she's so cute. "Are you gonna leave?" Her ears seemed to droop.

My heart churned, but I pressed the discomfort down. "Maybe," I muttered weakly. "There are some things I need to do, and this quaint little village simply can't offer the things I need."

I knew there would be a reaction, but I didn't expect her to lunge at me.

"N-no!" Sylphie clung to me as if I'd vanish. It was surprising. She didn't have much strength compared to me, but why was I choking?

"S-Sylphie?" She was trembling, and my own voice was shaky as well. I see. That's why. I'm choking because I'm crying. It seems I've realized how painful leaving this place is gonna be. I fell silent. I didn't know how to comfort someone when I was also crying.

"Don't... Don't go, Rudy! Hic... Waaaah!" Her shoulders shuddered as she proceeded to bury her face in my chest.

A selfish thought crossed my mind. What if I took Sylphie with me? But that was quickly banished. I know how dangerous everything could be, but my sweet Fae didn't. She didn't know how to protect herself. How would I look in her father's eyes if she ended up dead?

"A-alright." I forced a smile onto my face. For now, I'll lie. I don't care if she ends up hating me for tricking her. I must save this world. For a brighter future and for my-our-future life. "I won't leave, so please, don't cry." My heart seemed to shatter with every word out of my mouth. "I won't leave, so calm down. Okay?" I made sure she stopped crying before doing anything else.

...

The next day, I waited until my family was gathered at the dinner table and then made my move.

"Father, can I make a selfish request?"

"Hell no."

And I got shot down instantly. Hahahaha. Believe me, dear father, it's gonna hurt me so much more than you.

Fortunately, that response earned him a good hard smack to the head from Zenith, who was seated at his side. Lilia followed with a kick under the table.

Since the whole mess with the unexpected pregnancy, Lilia's joined us at the dinner table instead of waiting on us like a maid. She's officially part of the family now.

"You tell your father what you want, Rudy. He'll make it happen." Zenith said. The sidelong glare she sent at her husband was so scary.

"The Young Master has never asked for much. This is a golden opportunity to demonstrate paternal dignity." Lilia added supportively.

Paul resettled in his seat and crossed his arms. "Look, the kid wants something so crazy that he asked permission just to bring it up. Whatever it is, it's probably impossible."

That earned him another two smacks. Don't be surprised! It's only our usual family slapstick routine!

I'll get straight to the point, I suppose. "I've recently hit a dead end in my magical studies. So I was hoping to attend the Ranoa University of Magic." I decided that'll be my excuse. I can't tell them, "The world's gonna end. Imma gonna head out to look for a solution."

"Oh?"

"But when I mentioned leaving to Sylphie, she broke down and begged me not to leave her."

"Hah, what a little lady-killer! Wonder who you got it from."

Another two smacks. Anymore, dear father and you'll become a tomato.

"The ideal solution would be for us to go together, but Sylphie's family isn't as well-off as ours. I wanted to ask if you'd consider paying for both of us to attend."

It was the ideal solution to both my problems. Sylphie's gonna get a taste of the world, and I'll have all the research papers I'll need. Not to mention, I won't have a curfew, so I can go anywhere! Sometimes my genius impresses even me.

"You don't say?" Leaning his elbows on the table, Paul shot me a sharp look that brought to mind a commander. His eyes were deadly serious, like when he picked up a sword. "Well, the answer's no."

Once again, he shot me down. But Zenith and Lilia stayed quiet this time.

"I've got three reasons. First, you're still in the middle of your training with the sword. If you drop it now, you'll become a permanent amateur with no hope of improving. As your teacher, I can't allow that. Second, the money. We could probably manage your tuition but not Sylphie's. Magic schools aren't cheap, and it's not like we have magical money trees. Finally, you're only seven years old. You're a clever kid, but you don't know everything, and you lack real-world experience. It would be irresponsible for me to cut you loose right now."

I expected this. The reasons Paul gave were well-grounded. I could easily manage the money as I've added to the family's coin stash. But I couldn't give up.

"I understand, Father. I'll continue training with you. But can I ask how old you think I need to be before this could happen?"

"Let's see...Fifteen? No. Twelve. Stick around for that long, at least."

Twelve? Fifteen was the age kids came of age, so I get that, but...

"Can I ask why you chose twelve?"

"That's the age I left home."

"Ah. I see."

That won't do! By then, the world would have been destroyed for two years! I silently grit my teeth. I can't argue my way out of this one, but maybe I could... Yes, that could work!

"Well then, one last thing."

"Sure."

"Can you help me find a job? I don't mind whatever job you give me as long as it pays well."

"You want a job? Why?" Paul asked, his eyes narrowing.

'To conduct experiments without disruptions.' "I want to earn Sylphie's tuition for her."

"I don't think it's in her best interest for you to do that."

"Maybe not, but it is in mine."

The room fell silent for a long time.

"I see. So, that's how it is, huh?"

In the end, Paul nodded to himself, apparently convinced of... something.

"Alright, fine. In that case, I'll look into a few things for you."

While Zenith and Lila's faces now expressed concern, the look in Paul's eyes told me I could take him at his word.

"Thank you very much," I said, lowering my head in gratitude as my family resumed their meal.

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One morning, maybe a month after I told Paul I wanted to start working, a letter addressed to him arrived at our home.

It was probably the reply I'd been waiting for. I tried to brace myself for the news without getting too impatient. Would Paul tell me after training?

...

He brought it up before we even started training.

"Hey, Rudy."

"Yes, Father? What is it?"

Trying to keep my face composed, I waited eagerly for Paul's words. This was gonna be my first job! In this life, anyway.

But instead of giving good news, Paul took things in a strange direction.

"Tell me something. What would you do if I said you had to stop seeing Sylphie for a while."

I see. That's where this is going. My dad's got me s job in some far away area so Sylphie can learn independence. Not a bad idea, father of mine.

"I'd be unhappy, but I'd accept it."

"I figure-Wait." Paul looked baffled. "Did you just agree?"

Ha... I'm not an idiot, Paul. "Yes, I did. Sylphie's too dependent on me, right? So you're making the call to separate us." I shrugged. "I'm not dense, Father. I know what happens when someone becomes reliant on something or someone. I want the best for Sylphie in the long term. So I'll sacrifice a few childhood years for our future."

Paul stood there in a daze. Zenith and Lilia were surprised, too. Then, my father whistled. "I guess you got your brains from your mother. I never thought so far ahead when I was younger."

"Hahaha. I'm both of your children, so I don't only take after dear old Dad."

Paul snorted, a sly grin making its way up his face. "Sure. But you take after me more, right?"

That got him a jab from Mother.

"Ow... Anyway, I'm glad that things worked out like this. But sorry about this in advance."

"Huh?" I asked in confusion. "What are you-" A sword bonked me on the head.

...

I was in some carriage when I woke up. My mind was fuzzy. I'm sure I had a crucial dream, but I can't quite remember.

I turned my head and saw a woman with me. She had dark brown skin, a muscular body covered in scars, and skimpy leather clothes that didn't leave much to the imagination. The prominent features of her face, combined with the eyepatch she was wearing, gave her a definite tough-guy-er-woman vibe.

Sensing my eyes on her, the woman glanced down at me.

"Nice to meet you," I introduced myself like a gentleman. "My name is Rudeus Grayrat. I hope you'll forgive my confusion."

"For Paul's son, you're oddly polite."

Really? Those were the first words she said?

"I'm my mother's son as well."

"Ah, right. Guess you've got some Zenith in you, too."

So, she knew both my parents. That's a relief.

"The name's Ghislaine. We'll be getting well acquainted starting tomorrow."

"So you're the one taking me to my new job."

"Yes."

"Oh, well, okay. Nice to meet you, Ghislaine."

"Yeah. Same here." As she said that, she took a letter from her pocket and threw it at me. "Read this. I can't. So read it out loud."

"Okay."

I opened the sloppily folded letter and looked at the equally messy written words. A lot of lines were crossed out. They mainly explained why he decided to separate Sylphie and me.

"To my dear son Rudeus. If you're reading this, I'm no longer in this world."

"Wait, what?!" Ghislaine shouted, jumping to her feet.

Thank goodness this carriage had a high ceiling.

"Please sit down, Ghislaine. There's more."

"Hm. Right."

"Just kidding! I always wanted to try that one!"

The following paragraphs had a lot of lines crossed out.

"Where are you going, you ask? Ideally, that ball of muscle in there with you would explain everything. But sadly, her brain mutated into an extra bicep some time ago."

"What was that?!" Ghislaine shouted, jumping to her feet again.

"Please sit down, Ghislaine. The next part's nothing but compliments."

"Hm. Right."

And right back down she goes.

"That woman's a Sword King. You won't find a better teacher on this side of the sword Sanctum. Trust your old man on this one. She's really damn good! I never once got the upper hand on her...except in bed."

'Would it have killed you to leave that out?!'

Luckily, Ghislaine didn't look displeased. Huh, guess my old man's more popular than I thought. Anyway, I was evidently traveling with one hell of a fighter.

"Now then, let's move on to your job. You're going to be tutoring a young lady in Roa. Teach her reading, writing, and some basic magic, all right? The kid's spoiled, but I've faith in you, kiddo!"

"Uh...I'm guessing you're not the lady in question?"

"No, I'm not."

Phew. Okay, let's keep moving.

"That lump of muscle with you works for the young lady's family. In exchange for training you with the sword, she wants you to teach her reading, writing, and arithmetic. I know it's a ridiculous request from a woman with bicep brains, but try to not laugh. She's not joking."

"That son of a..."

Was I seeing things, or was that a vein throbbing on Ghislaine's forehead? The purpose of this letter was to explain the situation to me, but Paul's secondary objective was to piss Ghislaine off. Wonder what their relationship is?

"She won't be a quick learner. I'm sure. But it's not a bad deal. You won't have to pay for your lessons, at least."

Huh.

"How much would it usually cost to learn from you, Ghislaine?"

"Two Asuran cold coins per month."

Oh my lord, that was expensive. I could easily cough up that much money, but it was still a lot!

"You'll stay at the young lady's house for five years. Five years. Got that? I'm sure you understand why."

Yeah, yeah.

"Also, no visiting or sending letters, either."

Wait, WHAT?! Yeah, I'm listening to that request. I'm Sylphie's teacher, for heaven's sake! I have to tell her her lesson plans! No matter. I'll sneak back and teach her to fly. That way, she can reach my house all on her own.

"What's the matter, Rudeus? Did you break up with your girlfriend?" Ghislaine asked.

"Something like that..."

"Hang in there, Rudeus. It'll be okay."

"I guess."

I continued reading the letter. "As for compensation, you'll be paid two silver Asuran coins a month. That's below average for a live-in tutor, but it's more than enough for a child's allowance."

I have plenty of money from selling trinkets, so that doesn't worry me.

"When you have spare time, head out into the city and get a feel for spending money. A little practice is the best way to learn to use cash effectively. Then again, it shouldn't be a problem for a gifted kid like you. Just don't go buying any women, though. Got that?"

Seriously, why couldn't you have left that out?! Do you know how embarrassing it is reading it out loud?! Was he using reverse psychology here?!

"Additionally, once you complete five years of consistent service and finish providing the young lady with a solid education in all respects, your contract entitles you a special reward: a payment covering the cost of the tuition for two people to the University of Magic."

I don't need it. As I've said, I have plenty of money.

"Of course, there's no guarantee Sylphie will want to tag along with you five years from now, and you might lose interest in her yourself. But I'll explain the situation to her."

I'm not sorry when I say I don't trust you with her at all.

"I hope the years you spend in this new environment will teach you many things, allowing you to further develop. Sincerely, your noble, wise, and brilliant father. Paul."

My brow twitched. I know a few words to describe my father, and those three don't fit.

"Paul really loves you, doesn't he?" Ghislaine said

I smiled a little at that one. "He used to be kinda distant, but he started getting into it recently. Anyway, seems he's fond of you as well, Ghislaine."

"Hm? Why d'you say that?"

I read out the final lines.

"P.S. Feel free to date the young lady, but the ball of muscle's already mine. So hands off. Also, I knocked you out because I saw your little girlfriend walking towards our home. If you talked to her, that confident mask would break straight off. Don't act surprised. You're my son. I know your weak points."

"Hmm." Ghislaine hummed. "Send that letter to Zenith, would you?"

"Sounds like a plan."

Like that, I was traveling to the Roa, the largest settlement in the Fittoa region. Sure, I had mixed feelings, but there were worse outcomes. A shame I couldn't stay with Sylphie, though. "Ah, whatever. I'll sneak back and see her every week. No harm in a quick visit."

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I'll just come out and say it: This chapter is shoddy and rushed.
I'm sorry about that, but I really don't have much time on my hands.
I'll probably not update for a while after this, so I hope you'll all bear with me.
Besides that, the first volume of Fūin Shitei Tensei, Sealing Designate Reincarnation is finally completed. I'm thankful for all the readers who encouraged me.
This story will continue in Saisho no Kami no Erejī: First Divine Elegy, the second chapter of which is the dream Rudeus couldn't remember when he woke up in the carriage.
Anyways, Please like, share, follow, and comment.
As always, good luck with your game of life.