Hello everyone! Kamen Rider Duelist here for another chapter of Silent Magi's Apprentice! Now that his Elemental Magic training is complete, it's time for him to refine them on his own, as well as refine more of his Potion making skills! Plus, we'll be revisiting a couple of old friends to give them a bit more screen time! After that, a few more characters will debut, including those that you'll be very familiar with, like say, a certain pair of master and student mages?
Striberx: Which means the fans of the OG mages are gonna be happy. I know I am due to my own love for DMG. :3
KRD: Exactly! Though that certain pair of master and student mages are gonna show up next chapter. So for now, enjoy this chapter everyone!
Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh! All creative rights belong to Kazuki Takahashi.
It was later into the day after Kuromu and Shizuka had enjoyed each others' company in the hot spring that Hiita provided for them. They now find themselves at Doriado's doorway as she and the other Charmers, including a sulking Dharc, were seeing Kuromu and Shizuka off. It'll be a bit sad that they'll have to part ways, especially the girls since they have grown attached to the boy, especially Lyna. But they know that he can visit again if he wants to.
"Well, this is where we part ways." Kuromu said, before bowing to them. "Thank you for allowing me to train under you, Lady Doriado."
"It has been my pleasure, Kuromu." Doriado smiled greatly from their chats. She then took out from her robes a book which had an intricate design for a book's hard cover. "Take this."
"What is it?" Kuromu asked, taking the tome and opening its pages.
"That is a Book of Secret Arts. It will help refine your magic and teach you more elemental spells that will help you in your studies. Use it well."
"I will, thank you." Kuromu smiled.
"Also," Doriado said, as she looked at Dharc and nudged him forward. "I believe he has something he wants to say."
Dharc was pushed forward, huffing with annoyance as he looked away, only to be slapped by Hiita in the back. He grumbled a bit before looking to Kuromu, "Sorry…" He said coldly.
"Say it like you mean it." Hitta huffed.
"Sorry… for attacking you…" He repeated himself in a bit more serious tone, but still was being hard to deal with.
"It's fine." Kuromu scratched his head. "But… let me just say this. For what it's worth, I have no intention of harming Lady Doriado in any way possible. Your teacher has helped me a lot over these past few days and I'm grateful for her guidance."
"Hmph… whatever…" Dharc huffed, looking away once again with arrogance.
Doriado sighed at this. There's just no pleasing this boy, was there.
"What I'm confused about is, why go through all this trouble?" Kuromu asked.
"It's because he's in love with Master." Hiita bluntly revealed, earning Dharc's attention and now a red face.
"You promised you wouldn't tell her!" He cried out comically.
…
…
…
…
"HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH?!" Kuromu cried out in pure shock.
"Oh my… here we go…" Eria sighed as she shook her head.
"The cat is out of the bag…" Shizuka sighed too.
"You didn't even consider that, Kuromu?" Wynn questioned, "I mean, it's obvious."
"Could've fooled me!" Kuromu said. "He attacked me, just because he thought I was gonna make Lady Doriado my girlfriend?!" He then looked at Doriado. "Did you know about this?!"
"I… may have known his feelings…" She admitted, much to Dharc's and Kuromu's surprise. "I wanted to see how it would go and if he'd break out of his shell to confess?"
"Y-You… you were waiting for me to confess? All this time?" Dharc asked in disbelief.
"Of course I was. You're the only one that's ever been so honest with me. Unlike those nobles, you're not looking to gain fame or power or even an heir. You genuinely want the best for me, and I couldn't help but be happy learning that." Doriado informed him, "But with you being so shy about your true feelings and always staying in your room, I wanted to give you a push to get out more. Only then would I respond to your feelings."
Dharc sighed at this… "I messed up didn't I…"
"That's the understatement of the century…" Hiita rolled her eyes, earning an elbow to the gut from Aussa. "Ow…"
"Be nice…" Aussa chided.
"You'll have plenty of time to make it up to me." Doriado smiled sweetly, wanting to give him another chance to be better.
"Mmmmm…" Dharc pouted, looking away with embarrassment.
"Well… this is unexpected…" Kuromu sighed, "And here I thought it was something so serious, it actually meant life or death…"
"You'll understand when you're in love, Kuromu." Eria giggled before mumbling out. "Maybe even sooner than you think…"
"Hm? Did you say something?" Kuromu tilted his head.
"Oh nothing~" Eria giggled once more.
"Come, my apprentice. It is time for us to depart."
"Oh right." Kuromu noticed, before bowing to Doriado and the Charmers. "Again, thank you for everything. I'll come back soon!" He said, before the two of them walked off towards a portal that Shizuka had already made beforehand.
"Remember your training!" Hiita shouted out.
"Please take care of yourself." Eria smiled warmly.
"And remember to stop being a worrywort!" Wynn smiled.
"Come visit us sometime, alright?!" Lyna called out, as Kuromu gave a thumbs-up in the air, making Lyna smile, before he and Shizuka went through the portal and soon closed afterwards.
Chapter 8: Of Princes and Paupers
A few weeks had passed since training with the Charmers and Doriado came to an end. Staying ever diligent, Kuromu continued refining his Elemental Magic, remembering all the lessons that Wynn, Eria, Aussa, and Hiita had taught him. Whenever he made a mistake, he would take notes on what he needed to do to improve on it. It also helped that some of his lessons would lead to creating and inventing new spells for his arsenal of offensive, defensive, and supporting techniques.
As he was looking over the notes and Book of Secret Arts that he received, Eleisa walked in with some food and drink, being past breakfast, and still a few hours left before lunch. So the elf thought maybe a light snack would be good until then.
"Huh? Oh, thank you, Elesia." Kuromu smiled a bit.
One of the biggest changes was Elesia warming up to the boy. Ever since the small incident with Dharc, she became more protective of the boy. From making sure he has enough rest and food, to quickly attending to him should he even get a papercut. She became somewhat of an 'overprotective big sister' but still showed some reserve. It was honestly a sweet change.
"Kuromu." Shizuka said, as she came into his room.
"Sensei, is something wrong?" Kuromu asked.
Shizuka shook her head. "No, none of the sort. But… I am informing you that I must depart for the Magical Citadel. It is for the upcoming Thaumaturge Trials."
"Really? It's already near that time?" Kuromu asked wide-eyed, not realizing how much time had passed.
"It is. Would you like to come to the Citadel with me or remain in your studies?" Shizuka offered.
"Ah, I was actually thinking of visiting the Capital, now that you mentioned the Thaumaturge Trials coming up. I probably need some insight on what to expect."
"Then you should finish your snack first." Shizuka giggled softly. "And xince you will be off on your own, perhaps, it is time I teach you how to create a portal."
"Oh, really?"
"Yes. While we may be teacher and student, there will be times where your studies will become independent and self-learning. There is only so much that I could teach you."
"Ah, I… guess that would make sense. And if there's some sort of emergency, you can't be here all the time." Kuromu pondered.
"Correct. So I will be teaching you to conjure two portals. One where you choose your destination… And the other directly to me, but only use that in dire circumstances. We do not want you popping in when I am giving your case, only to find out you ruined your soup again." She giggled. She remembered when he ran into her study, finding out he messed up cooking a simple soup.
"Uh… sorry… that was…" Kuromu looked away, blushing in embarrassment. "I wasn't paying attention that time…"
"I just found it amusing for a change." She giggled, "And Elesia still banned you from cooking."
"Please don't remind me…" Kuromu slumped his shoulders with his head hung down. "Alright. How do we start?"
"First, we need to go outside. Not the best place to start working on portal magic indoors, no?" Shizuka pointed out.
"Right. But first…" He said, before eating one of his snacks. "Can't leave this unfinished."
Shizuka giggled as Elesia had a prideful smirk. He's learned to not only remain out of the kitchen to cook, but to not leave a scrap of his food on the plate.
After finishing eating his snacks and drinking his tea, Kuromu went over to the Apothecary Lab to grab the potions he had made and placed them in a crate for Garie to sell. Once the crate was sealed, he carried it and his newly forged wand, heading out of the hut to meet up with his teacher at the doorway. "Alright, Sensei. I'm ready."
Shizuka nodded as she held her staff up, "I want you to envision yourself. Envision walking forward through not land, nor sea, nor the air… But with your magic. Step forward with your magic at your feet and envision yourself to where your destination will be…"
Kuromu nodded as he set the potion crate down, and pulled out his wand. He then pointed it forward, and closed his eyes to concentrate. 'Envision myself walking forward through magic… that shouldn't be too hard…' He thought.
"Now… step forward…"
Doing as instructed, he stepped forward and a circle of magic appeared in front of him, prompting him to open his eyes. There was a magic circle, but no portal just yet. "Uhhh…" He looked at Shizuka.
"You are still attached here to teleport." Shizuka said, before going behind him and holding his arm with her hand. "Close your eyes. Do not lose focus…"
Kuromu nodded, before doing so.
"Now concentrate. Envision your destination in your mind. Walk forward through your magic…"
Kuromu hummed low as he concentrated. Soon, a vision appeared in his mind. It was blurry at first, but it soon become focused and sharpened, revealing that the destination he wanted to go to was Garie's Potion Shop.
"Now… step through…"
He took a step forward, ready to open his eyes.
"Keep them closed. Keep moving forward."
Kuromu wanted to argue, but did as his teacher instructed. He kept moving with his eyes kept closed, the vision of his destination still in his mind. As he got closer, the vision he had became whiter and whiter until moments later, his entire vision whitened.
"Now open your eyes."
Kuromu slowly opened them at a turtle's pace, which then widened significantly, looking around and seeing that he was standing in front of Garie's Potion Shop! He turned around and noticed a portal… realizing that he came to the other side!
"I-I did it!" Kuromu stifled a laugh. "Ha-haha! I did it!" He cheered.
"Congratulations, you mastered the spell." Shizuka smiled sweetly, "Now that you have an idea on how to use it, it will be as simple as walking up a staircase." She then used her staff to levitate the crate of potions and moved it to the other side of the portal to place in Kuromu's arms.
"Thank you, sensei! Um… I don't have to close my eyes again to make another portal, do I?"
"Not unless you find it easier to cast the spell." She pointed out.
"Uh… fair point."
"In any case, I shall let you be on your way."
"Okay, I'll see you later!" Kuromu waved. With a wave goodbye from her, the portal closed, leaving him on his own. With a sigh, he turned towards the shop. "Let's do this," He said, then walked towards the shop and opened it. "Garie? Are you here?"
*POOOOF!*
"Ahhh, not again!"
'Another failed experiment, huh…?' Kuromu said dryly.
"Ugh… and here I thought I got the right concoction." Garie groaned, as she pushed away the curtain, soot present all over her face, before noticing the young mage. "Oh, well if it isn't Siley's apprentice!" She smiled, clumsily wiping her face with the sleeves of her lab coat, trying to look clean as possible. "What brings you here?"
"I'm here, by myself." Kuromu answered, before holding up his crate. "And I brought more potions to sell."
"Hoho~? Well, let's see how much your craft has improved!" Garie grinned. She took one potion and began the examination, tinkering with its potency and dilution. "Well, well, well! Looks like you did improve! It's top notch and there's no residue anywhere inside whatsoever! How did you-"
"I had help." Kuromu answered. "I was training with Lady Doriado and her Charmers on my Elemental Magic, and Eria's lessons on Water Magic, helped refine more of my alchemical skills."
"Hooo? You got to work with The Charmers and their master? My, my, aren't you moving up in the world!"
"Heh, heh, I mean with the Thaumaturge Trials coming up soon, I gotta improve somehow." Kuromu said sheepishly.
"Oh? You're going to attend the Trials? My, my! You have grown!" Garie grinned with delight.
"Yeah, Shizuka-sensei went to the Magical Citadel, probably to speak with Master Endymion about my participation." Kuromu explained. "Speaking of which, is there anything I should know about the Trials?"
"Only that the tests are always different every time. No two Trials are the same after all. Otherwise, people would memorize them and promote too easily." Garie revealed.
"True… was there an alchemy exam in the Trials at one point?" Kuromu asked. "I would imagine these Trials would test the apprentices based on their choice of study."
"Indeed there was! A couple of decades back. Only one truly passed, because like you, they understood the importance of potions and alchemy." Garie smiled.
"Really? Who was that?" Kuromu asked curiously.
Garie only smiled as she stood up to walk over to her desk, "One that helped show others that regular magic or powerful spells aren't the only ones that can be used for the good of the world." She said, looking at a small pendant, as within it showed what looked to be a younger Garie and someone who looked similar to herself but as a male.
"Is that… your Father?"
"Yes. When he passed his Trials, he contributed to the current set of laws for potions… but in the end died due to overworking himself."
"I see… I'm sorry to hear that…" He apologized.
"It was very long ago, but I still try to uphold what he taught me."
"I'm sure he'd be proud to see how far you've come if he were still alive." Kuromu smiled softly.
"Thanks, Kuromu. I appreciate that." Garie smiled, "Now then, let's get to your reason for being here, no?"
"Right." Kuromu said as he unloaded all the potions out of the crate one by one, showing different colored potions of all kinds. Garie's eyes widened, seeing these many Potions, recognizing them and the effects they would have, if one were to consume them. And they were all high quality.
"Well, well, you sure have been busy! Did you expect that I was running low?" Garie snickered from his amount.
"I just like making them."
"Well, believe it or not, there are smaller shops who need this. So I'll tell you what, not only will I buy all of these from you, but you'll be gettin' 30% of the earnings I get from giving these to the small shops too." Garie offered.
"Deal!" Kuromu grinned, holding out his hand to shake on it.
Garie took his hand and shook it, knowing that this will help them both profit and grow, getting better quality potions out in the world than the cheap ones that have been plaguing the magical industry for ages.
"Hehehehehehehehehehe…" Kuromu grinned, carrying the large pouch of gold in hand. He definitely earned more than 200 Gold coins. It was probably ten times the amount. With this much, he can buy a lot of things, even a few things to decorate his room.
"Ho ho! I'm rich!" He cackled with delight.
But in the blink of an eye, he felt the pouch being ripped out of his grasp before he spotted someone run off with it.
"Hey! Give that back!" Kuromu shouted, running after him.
The thief was much faster than him, dodging people left and right whilst trying to avoid the young mage, evening throwing stuff to distract him.
The young mage dodged in response to avoid these things. He then took out his wand. "Rise from the ground and flow with the wind! Levitation!" He shouted, shooting the spell.
Yet the thief smirked as he… drew out a wand as well?!
"Redirect!" The thief announced, forcing the spell back to Kuromu.
"I don't think so! Repel those that stand in my way, Mirror Force!" He shouted, as the magical barrier appeared and the spell bounced back at the thief, eventually hitting him and having him float him, making him flail.
"Che, lousy little…" The thief hissed, slamming the tip of his wand into a nearby wall, "Evaporate!" He shouted as large clouds of smoke filled the area.
"Dang it, what-"
"Luminous Spark!"
"Huh?!" Kuromu got out as a ray of light dispersed the fog and the thief was immediately bound by energy chains after. The young mage turned around to see a familiar Lightsworn High Priestess with her owl, approaching. "Lady Minerva!"
"It has been quite some time, Kuromu." She smiled softly at him, then turned her attention to the thief. "Did this man steal your property?"
"Yes."
"Hmph, how distasteful… To think one who could've been a Lightsworn mage, was reduced to a common thief…" She said with disgust.
"To hell with you, Priestess!" The thief spat. "You and your teachings are going to one day corrupt and ruin this nation!"
"Why don't you shut up and give me back my money!" Kuromu demanded.
"As if! A chump like you deserves to be robbed!"
The priestess frowned before using her staff to knock out the thief, causing the pouch of money to drop on the ground. She then picked up the pouch and gave it back to Kuromu. "Here you are."
"Thank you, Lady Minerva." Kuromu thanked as a few guards showed up.
"Please arrest this thief and take him away." Minerva instructed.
"Yes ma'am!" With the energy chains dissipated, the guards cuffed the unconscious thief in iron chains before dragging him away to a guard station where he will be processed and sent to the dungeon to await trial. The crowd watched while murmuring amongst one another, before dispersing and going back to their usual business when they were out of sight.
"That was exciting… and not in a good way…" Kuromu sighed. "I should've been more aware."
"There has been an alarming growth of thieves as of late. They are using something to bypass our defenses to run amok. We don't have any evidence as to what that could be however. If it was a spell, it would be broken by the sheer might of Endymion's magical aura surrounding the city. Any spell that tries to counter it, would knock out the mage, or be in a coma at worst."
"That… does sound troubling…" Kuromu muttered.
"Which is why I have been tasked to investigate. Hopefully soon, before they figure out a way to overpower Endymion's aura…"
"Perhaps, I could help?"
Minerva smiled but shook her head, "I'm afraid this is something only us Lightsworns can do, but thank you for your consideration."
"I see."
"Come. We can at least walk and speak about what you have been doing since the last time we met." Minerva offered.
"Sure, I'd like that." Kuromu nodded.
"My goodness, I didn't expect Doriado to actually train you with her Charmers." Minerva gasped from hearing his latest tale.
"It was Doriado who offered her services to help train me with my Elemental Magic in the first place." Kuromu chuckled sheepishly. "I accepted, and since then, I've improved significantly on it, even after training with them."
"Still, to train under her and The Charmers, is quite an accomplishment. Not many have finished all of their trails." She praised.
"I guess I was lucky." He laughed weakly. "With the Thaumaturge Trials coming up, I have to be at my best."
"Luck has nothing to do with it." Minerva shook her head, "The Charmers' Trials are just as advanced and difficult as the Thaumaturge Trials. Yes, you faced one element at a time, but that's nothing compared to the actual Trials, and it can possibly kill you. Learning from them not only gives you a hint as to what the Thaumaturge Trials is, but it gives you a greater understanding of magic."
Kuromu flinched at this, "Is it… really that dangerous?"
"Yes. We can't just give a Trial so easily. You have to earn it, even if you have to put your life at risk. That is why they change the Trials every time."
"I… see. I… guess asking for advice about it, is out of the question."
"Sadly, yes. You must go in with the same amount of information as the other apprentices who are applying." She shook her head, much to Kuromu's slight dismay. She then smiled easily, "But… that doesn't mean I can't give you encouragement and reassurance."
"Huh?" Kuromu looked at her.
"I know you'll pass. You have shown more aptitude for magic and actually want to grow and learn instead of seeking power or fame."
"Even though this is just a way for me to pass the time until my memories return?"
"But you enjoy learning magic, no?"
"I admit… it is exciting."
"Hehe, how about I treat you to something nice to eat before you meet up with your Master?"
"Sure, I'd like that." Kuromu nodded with a slight smile.
*KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK*
"Master Endymion, Silent Magician is here to see you."
"Ah yes, please let her in."
The large crystal doors opened and Shizuka entered the Master's study room, the doors closing promptly after.
"Greetings, Master Endymion." Shizuka bowed to her.
"It's good to see you again. How is the boy's training?"
"He has made significant progress since his first lesson." Shizuka answered. "His elemental magic has greatly improved, thanks to the Charmers and Doriado's assistance, and his skills in alchemy are progressing upwards."
"That's wonderful to hear. I take it you're here to finalize his entry into the Trials?"
"Yes, Master." Shizuka answered.
"Is he with you?"
"He is not. He is in the Capital, making preparations for the upcoming Trials. But we will reconvene here at the Citadel later in the day."
"Ah very well. Well in that case, I must know as well… Any 'episodes' he has had?" Endymion questioned.
"From what I recall, he had one at his Fire Trial with Hiita. The Fire Charmer herself told me. It was a continuation of the previous 'episode'. The strangers in his memory took something from him and lit them ablaze. What it is, he does not know."
"Hmm… let us just hope that all he gains is his memories…" Endymion grimaced, "I don't want to see another Demon Mage again…"
"You and the rest of our world. The only time a Demon Mage appeared was when…"
"Yes…" Endymion murmured, as he closed his eyes, remembering a certain memory from his time when he was an apprentice. "My Master gave his life for the present we have now. And it's up to us to nurture future generations of mages to ensure that it does not happen again, for a bright future."
"I cannot agree more. Sadly, there are still… remnants of those who think otherwise…" Shizuka sighed.
"I know… And I'm glad that so far, you and your student have remained out of their eyes…" He sighed with relief, but worried it could still happen. "Nonetheless, here is his registration form." He said, presenting the piece of parchment to Shizuka to look over. "I took the liberty of filling in the rest of the registration due to its… incompleteness."
"What do you mean?" Shizuka asked, looking up at him.
"When I was overlooking his form, most of the information was incomplete. Most likely due to pieces of his memories still missing. Normally, the information would appear and fill in all on its own. And yet…"
"And yet…?" Shizuka prompted.
"The more important ones to be filled… aren't blank. They're erased, as if entire parts of his memory were taken from him."
"Erased?" Shizuka said wide-eyed. "Surely, you do not think…"
"I do not know… We can only hope that it's only because of how he arrived here…" Endymion said, but shook his head. "Regardless, please look it over for final approval. Once I have your signature appendaged, I will send this to the Magic Council."
"Of course."
Once the paper was given to her, Shizuka looked it over once more, before signing it and returning it to Endymion's hand. The paper then ignited, sending it off to the council.
"There, he is set. All that's left is the due date for the Trials to begin." Endymion nodded. "It would be wise for you to tell your apprentice the basics when he reconvenes with you."
"Yes Master. I will be sure to tell him."
"Speaking of, let's see how he's doing." Endymion said, before turning his attention to his crystal ball, which activated and showed an image of Kuromu conversing happily with Minerva. "Ah, it seems Lady Minerva is getting along swimmingly with your apprentice." He chuckled.
"He has that personality to befriend many…" Shizuka smiled happily.
"Oh? I thought you would harbor a hint of jealousy." Endymion teased.
"Hm? Why would you think that?" She asked, confused by his words.
"Come now, given your time at the Academy rooming with Minerva and Doriado, wasn't it always you that would throw a fit when things do not go your way?"
"Master, I have aged in wisdom and patience. I am much better off now than I was then." Shizuka said dryly. "Surely, you do not think of me as childish to this day."
"True, though given the many letters I receive from you about how proud you are of him, things seem to be different."
"T-That's-" Shizuka looked away with a slight blush. "We are merely Master and Apprentice. Nothing more."
"Hm, if you say so." Endymion smirked, much to Shizuka's slight annoyance.
However, much to her surprise, she sneezed. Her nose wasn't that stuffy, was it?
'Someone must be talking about me, and I have a sneaking surprise as to who it is…' Shizuka thought.
"I-I'm sorry, Shizuka-sensei did what?" Kuromu laughed as he and Minerva were sitting outside of an eatery, enjoying themselves.
"She threw a fit the moment she got a B+ because we 'kept her up all night with our tea parties, so she didn't have time to rest and study more'." Minerva giggled at the memory. Kuromu couldn't help but laugh again, nearly shedding a tear of joy.
"I'm sorry, but I can't imagine Shizuka-sensei throwing a temper tantrum." Kuromu sighed, after calming down from laughing.
"She was a very 'by the book' type of mage. Always wanting to be perfect and show that she is taking things seriously. But we still loved her like a sister."
"Now that I can believe." Kuromu chuckled.
"Just wait until I tell you the story of when she finally let loose from a girl's night out." Minerva playfully winked.
"Oh no, she didn't…" Kuromu said wide-eyed.
"I shall not spoil that just yet."
"For a High Priestess, you tell the most scandalous things that most would think of as heresy."
"Priestess I may be, I am still a woman in the end." Minerva giggled.
"Heh, yeah, I guess so."
"Speaking of Shizuka, how are you faring with her?" Minerva asked.
"We get along pretty well and she's taught me a lot of things."
"Mhm, well… have you made any advances?"
"Eh? Advances? You mean-" Kuromu got out, until he remembered being in the hot springs with her, making him blush red. Though he doesn't think it counts as… making an advance on her.
Yet for Minerva, she fully noticed the blush, "Oho~? So there was something?" She teased the boy.
"N-Nothing scandalous, if that's what you're implying!" Kuromu stammered.
"But enough for you to start noticing her differently." Minerva grinned slightly.
"M-Maybe? I don't know…" He pouted, looking away.
The Priestess giggled softly. "Well, hopefully it'll blossom into something wonderful."
"You… think so?" Kuromu asked. "I mean… we're just Master and Apprentice, but…"
"True, but it's not illegal. I've known many friends and others who fell for their master or apprentice." Minerva pointed out.
"Oh, like Doriado and Dharc."
"Yes, exactly like-" Minerva said, but then paused, looking at Kuromu with wide eyes. "I'm sorry, did you say… Doriado and Dharc?"
"Oh yeah, I forgot to mention, apparently, Dharc was in love with Doriado and thought I was taking her away from him."
Minerva groaned out, suddenly slamming her head onto the table, much to Kuromu's shock and surprise. "Dang it! I lost the bet!" She cried out comically.
"…Bet?"
"An apprentice of a friend of mine made a bet with me, saying that those two will fall in love someday, and I told her that wouldn't be possible… Ugh! I just lost a good chunk of my monthly salary from that!"
"…I hope you're not stealing from the Church of Ultima's poor box…" Kuromu said dryly.
"No, no… Just something I save on the side for things…"
Kuromu could only stare at Minerva with a sad yet exasperated smile, before he set his 2000 Gold down in front of her. "Here. Take it."
"I'm sorry, but I cannot take it. When I make a promise or bet, I intend to fulfill it on my own." Minerva denied.
"But… this is to replenish your savings."
"You're sweet, but again, I'll be okay. Thank you though."
Kuromu pouted, but relented, "Very well."
"Besides, you worked hard to earn that money. You should buy something for yourself."
"I could, but… what exactly could I buy?"
"Why not something special for your Master?" Minerva pointed out. "Something to thank her for everything she's done?"
"Hmmm… I guess?" Kuromu said, as he took out something from pocket, a piece of paper and unfolded it. "I mean… I have been working on this, but I don't have the gemstones for it." He said, giving it to Minerva for her to look at.
"Oh? You've been gem crafting?" She said with some surprise.
"In my spare time, yes. But the gemstones I want to get are very rare. I'd have to get them from… Crystal Beasts?"
"Ah. Yes, those can only be gained from the Crystal Beasts. But that is even harder because they don't drop them like ores. You have to either gain their trust… or kill them." She said the last part grimly.
"O-Oh no! Killing them is the last thing on my mind!" Kuromu panicked, waving his hands frantically.
"Heh, I know. You don't seem the type to harm something just for valuable resources." Minerva smiled, reassuring him that she knew well. "Well, how about instead of those coins, I show you where they live in person?"
"Really?!"
"Of course! Consider this as thank you for spending the day with me." Minerva smiled. "It'll take me a bit of time for approval though. They are an endangered species after all."
"Ah, that makes sense." Kuromu understood.
"If I can get approved, the earliest I can do, at best, is after the Trials. So you'll have plenty of time then."
"Got it." Kuromu nodded.
"In the meantime, I must return to the church." Minerva said, standing up before bowing to him. "Thank you for a wonderful time. Hopefully, we can do this again soon."
"Me too. Until next time." Kuromu nodded with a smile back. With this, Minerva bowed once more before taking her leave.
"Okay, what to do, what to do…" Kuromu pondered to himself, contemplating his options. He continued walking around the streets of Capital, mostly exploring it since he didn't do much of it the first time he visited, but he also took the time to take in both the view and what shops he could go to.
"Oya? If it isn't Kuromu!"
Kuromu blinked, before turning to see the familiar anthropomorphic beetle that was the Magical Merchant.
"Kata!" Kuromu recognized the bug. "What are you doing here?"
"Oh, just out and about, selling my wares here for a bit, and picking up a few things before heading back to the Desert Town." Kata explained, "How is La Jinn doing?"
"He's doing well and in good hands."
"Hahaha! Good! Good!" Kata laughed. "Oh, you're not with your Master?"
"She's at the Citadel, speaking with Master Endymion about the upcoming Thaumaturge Trials. I'm here to make preparations for it." Kuromu explained, "Problem is that I have no clue where to prepare for it."
"Hahaha, that's the whole point!" Kata laughed, "The Trials change frequently, so there's no way for you to truly prepare."
"Lady Minerva said the same thing…" Kuromu slumped.
"Ah, don't worry, lad! You'll pass! I'm sure of it!" Kata reassured, patting the boy on the shoulder. "Say… I sense your magic's improved significantly."
"Yeah, I've trained with the Charmers and Lady Doriado." Kuromu answered. "I'm mostly compatible with Earth Magic."
"Earth Magic, you say?" Kata mused, pondering on something. "Tell me, have you attuned to your True Element yet?"
"No," Kuromu shook his head. "Why do you ask?"
"Hmmmm…" Kata hummed, staring deep into Kuromu's eyes for a moment.
"Kata?" Kuromu asked, confused.
"This is just a hunch on my part, but…" Kata said, before reaching into his sack of goods. "Hmmm, let's see… where did I put it? It should be around here somewhere. Oh, I was wondering where that went- aha, here it is!" He said, pulling what appeared to be a medallion of sorts. It was gold in color, the size of Kuromu's palm and engraved on it was a silver crescent moon with other intricate designs on it.
"What's this?" Kuromu asked curiously, taking the medallion into his hand.
"Oooh… this here is interesting." Kata observed, "That there's a special medallion that enhances a person's magic, but only if they're the right element."
"The right… Element?"
"That's right. And given the engraving, again, this is just a hunch, I reckon that medallion works best at night."
"And… you're giving this to me… free of charge?" Kuromu raised an eyebrow.
"The Trials are murder on unprepared mages." Kata said with complete sympathy, "I know a couple of them who thought they could pass only to flunk completely. They never showed their faces again." He shook his head.
"R-Right, so I've heard. But! I will accept this wholeheartedly! Thank you!" Kuromu bowed to him.
"No worries." Kata said before he left, "Break a leg, lad! I know you can ace those Trials!"
"Heh… thanks Kata." Kuromu chuckled. "Alright, I think it's time to go to the Citadel." He said, before pulling out his wand and closing his eyes to concentrate. 'Alright, just as Shizuka-sensei taught me…'
With bated breath, he concentrated and an image of the Citadel appeared in his mind. When he opened his eyes, this time, he saw the Citadel on the other side. He smiled, before crossing over and the portal closed.
"Alright, now that I'm here…" He said, looking around and noticed the Royal Magical Library in the distance. "I should at least get some more books on Elemental Magic and Alchemy."
He began to make his way towards the library and upon arriving, he grabbed several books for his upcoming exams, as well as renewing a few books he wanted to keep for a while longer. With those books in tow, he walked out of it.
"Shizuka-sensei should be done talking to Master Endymion by now." Kuromu muttered to himself as he kept walking. "Maybe I should visit him and pay my respects."
"Ugh! Who let some muggle lowlife step onto the Citadel?" A pompous voice rang out next to the boy.
The poor boy was suddenly caught off guard by the loud voice, almost dropping his books in the process.
"And he tries to sully such wondrous knowledge with dirt? You're just a worthless thief like everyone else. I will be taking those now." The pompous voice huffed, before the books stopped in place and were swiftly removed from his hands.
"H-Hey! What-" He turned to the source of the voice and it was a magician he had never met before. "Please, give those books back."
"Tsk, and risk letting lowlife trash like you sully the work of the good mages of this academy?" The asshole magician snidely told him. He then waved his wand to pin the boy to the ground.
"Gah!" Kuromu cried out as he was planted to the ground. He tried to get up, but to no avail. "What… is this…? Gravity magic?"
"Guards? Guards? Please escort this thief where he belongs, in the same dunghill he crawled out of." The wizard ordered out, calling a few guards over.
"Gh…" Kuromu gritted as he struggled to get up.
"Ugh, they're taking their sweet time. Why can't commoners just listen to us?" The wizard groaned in annoyance as he waited.
"As Source of Thy Power I order Thee. Decipher the Laws of Creation…"
"Huh? What are you muttering about, twink?" The pompous wizard questioned.
"Return to Thy origins and restore Order from Chaos! State of Emptiness!" Kuromu roared as his whole body glowed, before the magic that was affecting him shattered like glass. Kuromu gasped heavily, feeling the weight that was crushing him, lifting off.
"What!? Beh… must've used some scroll." The pompous wizard spat out.
"Please… return those books to me." Kuromu said, slowly getting back up.
"No, a pitiful garbage rat like you, doesn't belong here. Why don't you go home to your ogre mother and eat the garbage you make?"
"Why-"
"It's because you're a commoner. A street rat. One of a dozen! Something that shouldn't be here or even exist for that matter." The pompous wizard insulted. "Whoever gave birth to you must be ashamed! No wonder you're stealing these sacred texts, it's all you can do after they threw you away! You think you have all the power in the world, only for true mages like us to put you in your place!"
"That's not- I don't-" Kuromu tried to speak, but his words were caught in his throat. His whole body went numb as cold sweat fell from his face.
"Oh don't give me that. It's true. Why else are you here and not with family? Oh right! They gave up on you and tossed you like every other garbage out there! I bet they're enjoying their lives without some little speck like you! You're probably not even their child, just some bastard thrown out for the real son they wanted!" The wizard cackled, "Perhaps that's why you came here, trying to improve what little chance at happiness you want. Well, it's too bad, because you don't deserve any happiness in the first place!"
"N-No, I-"
"You should rot in the hole you crawled out of! Nobody wants you! KILL YOURSELF RIGHT NOW AND RID US ALL OF YOUR STENCH!"
"I believe that is quite enough."
The pompous wizard turned to see Shizuka with an angered frown on her face as he huffed in annoyance.
"Oh great, even you're here… just what I needed." The wizard groaned.
"S-Sensei…" Kuromu gasped.
"You will not harass my apprentice any further."
"And what are you going to do? Lie to Master Endymion about me rightfully removing a thief? My father is one of the members of the Magic Council! One word from me, and he'll erase anything I want!" The wizard threatened.
"And will be denied by me." A familiar presence said as the pompous wizard, felt a chill going down their spine. They turned around and saw Endymion standing there with a look of disapproval. "Need I remind you, that as long as I am Master of this Citadel, any and all complaints must go through me."
The pompous wizard flinched, knowing that any lie or threat retaliated by Endymion is tantamount to suicide. Endymion's word was law and has to abide by it. The wizard huffed and stormed off with an annoyed groan.
Endymion sighed at this. While he would have had the mage arrested, he knew some of those in the Magic Council were corrupt and would bail them out at a moment's notice.
Kuromu meanwhile dropped to his knees as his whole body visibly shook.
"Are you alright?" Shizuka asked with worry, hugging the boy in her arms.
"W-What did I do…? I didn't- I…"
"You are not at fault, young one." Endymion said, approaching him. "There are many… prideful and arrogant mages who harass and insult anyone that isn't of this world or of noble blood."
"N-Nobles?" Kuromu got out.
"Yes. Many of them believe that they are of… a superior bloodline. Enough for them to believe that they are above everything else. I have done my best to stop such a mindset, but… to no avail. We can only hope with each new generation that comes and goes, enough people learn the mistakes of the past and change themselves." Endymion noted out.
"Please Kuromu, do not think too much of what that man said." Shizuka said.
Kuromu could only nod numbly.
"You should return home for the time being. I'll have to reschedule the Trials, after I settle things with today's incident." Endymion suggested before he sighed, "I'm glad we came here just in time. It's tiring having these nobles stripped of their magic for murder."
"Thank you, Master Endymion." Shizuka said to the man before leaving with the boy.
Endymion sighed, "Master, If only you can hear my voice, this small prayer… please, watch over the boy."
Kuromu and Shizuka returned home and the latter helped the boy back to his room. She could tell that the boy was visibly shaken from the mage's words. How could this have happened? She was now regretting leaving him alone, due to today's incident. And worst of all, she doesn't know how long until he fully recovers. It may be too late and Kuromu will be held back.
"Shizuka, what's wrong?" Nia asked, flying in. "What happened to Kuromu?"
"He… he was involved with an incident at the Citadel earlier today. He… needs some time to rest."
"What?!" Nia gawked. "Even after what that jerk Dharc did, Kuro gets hit with this?!"
"No, it was not him." Shizuka clarified, "It was another mage at the Citadel."
"Wait, don't tell me he ran into one of them. Did he?"
"Unfortunately, yes…"
Nia snarled and gnashed her teeth, "Oooh. When I get my hands on the prick that did this, I'm gonna…" she then growled while making a motion of strangling someone's neck.
"You will do no such thing, Nia." Shizuka said curtly.
"But-" The fairy protested.
"I understand your feelings, all too well. Believe me. But violence is not the answer to our problems." Shizuka shook her head.
"Mmm… can I send a small curse, instead?" Nia pouted.
"No…"
"Oh come on!"
"I will not have another complaint from your curses again, Nia."
"You're no fun…" Nia pouted with a huff. "But still… what can we do?"
"The best thing we can do is be there for him when he is ready…" Shizuka sighed. "No matter how long it takes…"
"Fine." Nia sighed, "But you owe him something good! How about going on a date?"
"Surely, you jest…" Shizuka said dryly.
"Nope! Geez, you two need to stop dancing around each other and just kiss already!"
"You really need a hobby…"
"You two are my hobby!" Nia giggled before flying off. Shizuka merely shook her head as she looked back at the door that led to Kuromu's room. She could only hope that her student would recover from this dilemma.
"What is this that I hear about my son harassing someone?!"
Endymion fought the urge to facepalm. No doubt that the harasser tattle-taled and his father decided to give Endymion a piece of his mind. Such is the trials of being Master of the Magical Citadel. Granted, complaints like these are far and few in between, but it doesn't make it any less annoying and cumbersome that he would have to sit down and listen to their arguments.
"And as I've told you… he has been seen harassing another student with his status and power…" Endymion groaned as he rubbed his temples from the annoyance of the father mage.
"That's preposterous! He was-"
"I saw the entire ordeal myself…" Endymion said. "Your son is lying to you to curry your favor. That student did no wrong and was falsely accused. Member of the Magic Council you may be, do not forget that I outrank you in many ways."
"D-Don't give me that, Endymion! Sooner or later your position will fall and once I'm up there, I'll make sure you can't stand the sight of magic!" The father huffed, storming out of the room in a huff as his son followed suit.
Endymion again sighed at this, rubbing his temple. The things he does for the sake of others… how tiresome. Just then, his crystal ball glowed and an image of a beautiful young woman with long flowing blonde hair, part of that hair with a long braid while wearing a silken white robe, a golden necklace that adorned her collar and a white halo-like piece attached to her back, with golden intricate designs.
["Oh my, did I come at a bad time?"]
Endymion chuckled at this, "I always make time for you, my beloved Selene."
["Always with the charm, Endymion."] The woman giggled. ["Now pray tell, what has befallen my dear husband to be so distressed?"]
"Just another incident with these blasted 'pure bred' nobles…" He sighed heavily. "They've been recently aware of your student's new apprentice and have been giving him grief, attempting to find a way to remove him…"
["Oh dear…"] Selene murmured in worry. ["This is about the boy you've spoken of?"]
"Yes… the one we've discussed…" He nodded to her. "I think it may be time for him to meet another mage around his age…"
["That does sound like a wise plan."] Selene said, before smiling, ["And I know just the people to help. It also gives me the excuse to visit my adorable pupil!"]
"I'm sure she'll be delighted to see you again, dear." Endymion smiled. "I'll leave it to you to contact them."
["Will do! Don't work too hard~"] Selene sang, before her image disappeared.
The older mage smiled, sitting back in his chair and sighing with relief, knowing it'll be interesting for the boy to meet them.
The next day…
"Young Master… you need to eat…" La Jinn said, as he and the rest of the residence were at the kitchen having lunch.
"H-Huh…? Oh… sorry…" Kuromu muttered, as he slowly ate in silence. The rest of them looked at each other with concern.
Yesterday, he hadn't come out of his room and had probably slept the rest of that day as well. When morning came, he seemed to be doing well, but was actually hiding it from them, so that they didn't have to worry. His smile seemed… empty. It was obvious to Shizuka that he still hadn't gotten over what happened yesterday, not that she could blame him. It was definitely quite the shock. The poor boy had no chance of defending himself from the verbal abuse. It was one insult after another without giving him any chance to rebuke him.
"Hey, hey, Kuro!" Nia flew up to him, hugging the boy, "How about we play some games together?"
Kuromu smiled sadly at her, "Sorry, Nia… not today…"
"W-Well then… why don't we visit the animals and spirits in my realm? Many of them miss you!" She suggested to him.
"Sure… I guess…" Kuromu said.
"Good good! I'll even get Eria to visit you and treat you to some of her cooking!" Nia beamed.
"Mm…" Kuromu nodded slowly.
Shizuka didn't want to say anything, but… sooner or later, she still had to address it. "Kuromu… are you… still bothered by what that mage said to you?"
Kuromu fell silent, placing the fork down on the plate. He sighed, "I'd be lying if I said no… the things he said… what if it was true? What if I was thrown away by my parents? I know I still have pieces of my memory to put together, but…"
"Nothing is certain, my apprentice." Shizuka said firmly. "The noble was only spouting nonsense. They do not know the true you. They know nothing of your situation."
"No matter how many years pass, there are always those who attempt to halt progression." La Jinn added. "One thing for certain is that they are only delaying the inevitable."
"Yeah! Besides, those jerk nobles always try to find some excuse to be at the top. Don't let their words get to you." Nia nodded.
"Yeah, I… guess so…" Kuromu muttered, "Still… I can't help but wonder…"
*KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK*
Everyone perked up when they heard someone knocking at the door. Who could it possibly be?
"I'll get it." Kuromu stood up from his chair and went over to the door to open it. Upon opening it, he was met with the sight of a beautiful and mature blonde woman that practically looked like an angel in his eyes. "Um…" He gulped in surprise, with a blush. "Can I help you?"
"Ah! You look so cute!" she gasped, before hugging the boy tightly with a bright smile.
"Uwahhhhh! What are you doing?! Sensei, help!" Kuromu wailed. Immediately, Shizuka, Nia, La Jinn, and Elesia rushed over to the door… only to be met with the display in front of them, leaving them stupefied, especially the Silent Magician. "Ahh! Sensei, wait, no! This isn't what it looks-"
"Master? What are you doing here?" Shizuka blinked with surprise.
"Huh?! Master?!" Kuromu gawked, before looking at the angelic blonde woman.
"Mhmh! I am!" the woman smiled, "I am the one who trained, found, and gave her the title of 'Silent Magician'. Though from what I've heard, you gave her a cute nickname. 'Shizuka' wasn't it?"
"W-Wait, y-you're… Shizuka-sensei's… sensei?!"
"Indeed, I am."
"HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH?!"
Later on…
"You could have at least sent me a letter ahead of time…" Shizuka sighed as she, the blonde woman, and Kuromu were sitting on the sofas of the living room while Elesia served them tea.
"I wanted to make this a big surprise to meet me favorite student." She giggled, sipping the tea. "Plus an extra one too." She said, before looking at a confused Kuromu. "Oh, where are my manners, I haven't properly introduced myself now have I? I am Selene, Queen of the Master Magicians. And! Master Endymion's wife."
"M-Master Endymion's wife?!" Kuromu gawked, before bowing deeply. "Please forgive my rudeness!"
"Oh, he told me about your mannerisms and they are so adorable!" she giggled again. "So no need to apologize."
"What exactly are you doing here, Master?" Shizuka asked. "Surely, coming to my abode to surprise me and my apprentice is not the only reason why you came here."
"Yes, you are correct on that. I came due to what has transpired… so I wish to assist your apprentice, alongside giving him a new… perspective and friend." She smiled softly.
"Eh?" Kuromu blinked, before his face faltered. "So you heard from your husband."
"Yes, and I'm sorry that you had to go through such an awful ordeal." Selene said. "Believe me when I say that not all mages… think that way. Of that, you can be assured."
"Thank you, Lady Selene. That means a lot." Kuromu nodded. "What… exactly did you have in mind?"
"Well, I'd like to invite you to a unique place. One that I'm sure you'll like."
"Where is it exactly?"
"Well, that would be at the Mystical Cathedral." Selene revealed.
"Mystical… Cathedral?" Kuromu tilted his head. "I've never heard of it before."
"Only a select few know of it. Think of it like… The Lightsworn's Headquarters, but one that I run and look over."
"Ah, I see." Kuromu replied, before looking at Shizuka, "What do you think?"
"To be honest… I am surprised she wants to take you over there…" Shizuka noted. "And besides, it would be rude if you were to refuse such an offer. And you have yet to see most of the world, so this is an opportunity for you to expand your horizons."
Kuromu uttered a noise of surprise, "Er… I suppose you're right." He said, before turning to the Queen of the Master Magicians. "Very well. I will gladly accept your invitation, Lady Selene."
"I'm glad to hear it. We shall leave tomorrow if you wish?"
"Sure, I don't mind."
"Excellent. It gives me the chance to catch up with my former apprentice." Selene smiled.
That night… Kuromu was fast asleep, as was Elesia, Nia, and La Jinn, while Shizuka and Selene were at the living room, still chatting away. They were reminiscing of old times as well as talking about Kuromu's progress as an apprentice, especially his recent training with Doriado and the Charmers.
"I must admit, when I heard you finally found an apprentice, I was already ready to hop over and congratulate you. But sadly, I had matters to attend to." Selene giggled.
"It is fine. You had more important things to do." Shizuka shook her head.
"But what made me grin, was him giving you a nickname." Selene smirked, "Didn't expect you to accept a name fitting for a couple's nickname."
Shizuka sighed wearily at this, "Not you too. It is already bad enough that your husband, Minerva, Doriado, and her Charmers are teasing me about it. I will reiterate once more. We are nothing more than Master and Apprentice."
"Yet remember how Endy and I fell in love?" The mage reminded her of the tale she repeats talking about at times.
"You told me a plethora of times during my apprenticeship with you…" Shizuka answered dryly.
"So why think it'll be the same? From what I've heard, his words for you reaches beyond the cosmos." Selene pointed out with a delighted giggle.
"Mmmmm…" Shizuka pouted at this.
"Oh well, you two will eventually realize it," Selene shrugged her shoulders. "Speaking of… I've also heard about his… unique situation."
"From Master Endymion…"
"Yes." Selene answered. "Do you know how long before…"
"No. While the signs are present, it is not significant enough for our enemies to be aware…" Shizuka shook her head. "He must be protected at all costs."
"Agreed… One reason why I'm having him meet your old friend and his apprentice."
"You mean…"
"Yes." Selene smiled. "After all, it has been some time since you've seen each other… not since…"
"That last battle…" She grimaced at that old memory. "Where I…"
"Shizuka, you know that he had to move on." Selene frowned sadly.
"I dealt the final blow…" Shizuka pointed out. "I had to follow orders, but…"
"It was in the past… and he thanked you for it." Selene added. "What do I tell you all the time? Forget the past, live in the present, and build a better future."
Shizuka looked down at this, "Yes… you are right. You always instilled that into me whenever I stumble, and yet… I still do, even to this day."
"It just means you still have much to learn, my apprentice." Selene said, before standing up from her sofa. "Well now, I suppose, I should turn in for the night. We all have a long day ahead of us tomorrow." She said, before walking off, but not before she stopped herself, looking over her shoulder. "Oh, one more thing…"
"What is it, Master?" Shizuka asked.
"Try not to overthink your feelings." Selene said. "They are just as important as the magic you wield." She said, before finally leaving to sleep in one of the empty rooms, leaving Shizuka by her lonesome.
"Not… overthinking my feelings… hm?" Shizuka pondered, as she sat back, staring at the fireplace while the flames crackled into the night.
