KRD: Hello everyone! Kamen Rider Duelist here! Sorry for the wait, but the next chapter of Silent Magi's Apprentice is here!
Striberx: WRRRRRYYYY!
KRD: Okay, DIO. Calm down… -_-; Anyways, the Thaumaturge Trials are upon us! But before that, Kuromu is going to have R&R with a certain pair of mages.
Striberx: My girl is here. I must ascend now.
KRD: Down boy, heel. -_-; But seriously, yes, we are debuting Mana and Mahad aka Dark Magician Girl and Dark Magician!
Striberx: It should've been me! Not him! ME! It's not fair!
KRD: Okay enough banter! On with the story!
Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh! All creative rights belong to Kazuki Takahashi.
A young girl giggled to herself as she was lying on her bed, too excited to sleep. She had blonde hair and green eyes with an outfit composed of an off-the-shoulders garment that extends to her upper-thighs and ends up as a pink skirt, being blue with pink trimmings and a few touches of yellow. Her hat is pointed, like a certain Master of hers, except it is blue, along with pink rings and a pink spiral on one side. She wears boots reaching halfway up her thighs, and her wand, which is blue, has a spiral which is similar to the one on her hat, except that it is yellow. She also wears pink and blue gauntlets.
Not long ago, Selene had visited her and her Master and requested that the two spend time with someone important, to which the girl especially agreed on. It's been so long since she met a cute boy.
"Oooooh, I can't wait to meet him…" She squealed, rolling on her bed from side-to-side.
Just then, an astral projection appeared above her. Namely of an older man with purple hair wearing a set of similarly coloured armor, a dark purple cloak, and a large pointed helmet. He also had a seafoam green staff in hand.
"Mana, you must be on your best behavior tomorrow." He said, "Remember what you promised him."
"I know that Master Mahad, but can't a girl like me be normal for once?" Mana groaned in annoyance.
"Need I remind you that the last time you tried to be normal, I had to quell a potential political crisis that you two caused." Mahad vehemently reminded her.
"Ugh, why do you have to keep reminding me of that~?!" Mana groaned louder, covering her face with her pillow.
"It's because I care about the both of you." He sighed, "I want to make sure that you're both safe. Especially because we were meant to help him grow as Pharaoh."
"Yeah, I know…" Mana sighed, "I promise that I won't try anything funny."
"The fact that you even say that, worries me even more…" Mahad grumbled dryly, "How does he put up with you?"
"Um… natural charm?" Mana grinned weakly.
*POP!*
Mahad wasn't impressed, tapping his staff on his empty hand in impatience.
"Oh, don't be such a worrywart, Master! Seriously, I'll play nice!" Mana reassured him.
"I hope you will, because if I hear about you causing trouble again, pray to the gods that he won't die of embarrassment when I reveal that body pillow you made of him." Mahad said before his projection faded out of existence.
Mana puffed her cheeks in comical anger, throwing a tantrum by flailing her arms and legs. "Master, you big dummyyyyyyyy!"
Chapter 9: Resting One's Heart
It was finally that day.
Kuromu had gotten up bright and early to prepare himself for meeting with these mages that Selene had set up for him. After what happened yesterday, it was definitely what he needed. Selene told him that meeting these mages would give a new perspective of the world around him, while also becoming friends in the process. The very thought excited him a bit, as he couldn't wait to meet them. For his sake, he hoped that they're friendly as they look. Then again, since Selene recommended this meeting in the first place, he shouldn't have anything to worry about.
After preparing himself, and eating a filling breakfast, Kuromu was ready to leave, wand in hand and a satchel of potions on his form.
"Someone's eager to leave." Selene smiled, as she and Shizuka had been waiting for him.
"I wouldn't want to miss it." Kuromu replied.
"Then we are ready to depart." Shizuka said, before turning to Elesia and La Jinn. "Please look after the house while we are gone."
"Understood, milady." La Jinn nodded, while Elesia bowed silently.
"Hey~! Wait for me~!" Nia called out, the Dreamsprite flying towards the group, floating to a stop after.
"Nia?" Kuromu blinked.
"I'm coming with you!" Nia huffed. "I'm always staying behind whenever you two go somewhere, so this time, I'm going too!"
Kuromu smiled with a chuckle, "Sure. The more the merrier," He then turned to Shizuka's sensei. "You don't mind, do you Lady Selene?"
"No no, I am fine. As you said, the more the merrier."
"Great! Then let's get going!" Nia chirped happily.
"I wonder who is actually more excited out of the two of you…" Shizuka commented dryly. This earned some laughs from the others before saying their goodbyes and they went on their way. Selene offered to open up a portal to which a portal of light opened up. Selene went in first, followed Shizuka, and finally Kuromu and Nia who sat on his shoulder. When they went through, Kuromu was met with the sight of a pathway. It was a trail made of pure light and the sky above him was motes of different colors of light, floating around him.
"Whoa…" Kuromu murmured in awe, looking left and right. "This… will lead us to the Mystical Cathedral?"
"Very much. Now keep close, we do not want you to be transported elsewhere." Shizuka instructed him.
"Yes, sensei." Kuromu said, as they kept walking.
"It's so pretty." Nia commented in awe.
"If you think this is beautiful, wait until you see the actual Cathedral." Selene smiled.
"So what are these mages like?" Kuromu asked.
"That would be a secret." Selene giggled. "Wouldn't want to spoil the surprise, now would we?"
"Well… when you put it that way…" Kuromu chuckled sheepishly. "Still… what will I be doing with these mages? Training? Learning new spells?"
"You'll soon find out when you meet them." Selene smiled as they continued walking down the path of light. Moments later, they saw another light at the end of the pathway. Once they walked through, they found themselves on the other side of the portal. Kuromu could only look on in shock and awe.
It was a large and ancient structure, bathed in mystery and wonder. It was a grand spectacle, with large stained glass windows and a grand entrance that is sure to awe and impress visitors. It was an incredible feat of architecture sure to impress even the most skeptical traveler. The exterior itself is a marvel of architecture, the stonework being both beautiful and functional. The spires and towers reach high into the sky and cast long shadows that are sure to be awe-inspiring. A testament of power and beauty.
"Whoa…" Kuromu murmured in awe.
"Okay, that's intimidating if I've ever seen anything that impressive." Nia commented.
"Oh this is just the exterior, just wait until you see the inside." Selene giggled from their reaction.
And so the four continued towards the cathedral. Drawing closer and closer, Kuromu felt very tiny in comparison. It was like comparing an elephant to a mouse, times a thousand.
Upon arriving at the entrance, they found themselves in front of a pair of doors made of stone and ivory, all of its faces detailed and chiseled, depicting various images. Selene walked up to it and waved her hand. The doors slowly open with a loud rumble, the underside of the doors scraping along the stone floor as it did. Kuromu's and Nia's jaws dropped at the inside of the Mystical Cathedral.
The interior of the mystical cathedral is a true spectacle, filled with great beauty and grandeur. The stained glass windows cast colorful light and the statues provide a sense of peace and serenity. The elegant and intricate ornaments and decorations add to the sense of awe and majesty that is sure to be felt by any visitor. The interior of the Mystical Cathedral is filled with artwork and sculptures that are sure to be appreciated by anyone who appreciates beauty and art. The interior of the mystical cathedral is truly a wonder to behold, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who sees it.
Selene giggled as she already could feel Kuromu's and Nia's shocked reactions to the sight. It always was a treat to see those freshly new to magic come here and see the spectacle.
"Kuromu, Nia. Keep your mouths closed. It would be rude to our hosts, if you keep them hanging." Shizuka said, but had a hint of mischief in her voice. The two of them snapped out of their stupor and promptly closed them.
"Shall we?" Selene giggled again.
"U-Uh, yes Lady Selene. Lead the way." Kuromu cleared his throat.
The group soon followed after Selene, leading them deeper into the Cathedral. Kuromu couldn't help but keep looking at the sights and architecture of the area. It was too fascinating not to admire and remember it. Moments later, they found themselves at the Cathedral's altar where two people were standing in front of it.
'That must be them.' Kuromu thought.
"Selene, and… 'Shizuka' is what you're going by now, correct?" The older mage called to them.
Kuromu had a good look at the older mage, which was a man with purple hair wearing purple colored armor, a dark purple cloak, and a large pointed helmet. He also had a seafoam green staff in hand. There was something familiar about this mage, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it.
"Mahad." Shizuka nodded. "It has been quite some time."
"It sure has. A century or two… no?" He chuckled softly, "You finally being given a name is wonderful to hear."
"Thank you." Shizuka bowed slightly, before gesturing to her apprentice. "It is thanks to him that I have been given that name."
"Oh?" Mahad looked at Kuromu, chuckling again, "To think that you accepted it from your apprentice. He truly must mean a lot to you, if you accepted something so casually."
"Uh…" Kuromu mumbled, clearing his throat with a slight blush.
"Please… do not think too much of it." Shizuka sighed. "Kuromu only gave me a name for his convenience and nothing more."
Kuromu soon noticed that next to the mage was a young girl, around his age who looked ready to just burst with emotion and excitement as she happily waved to him. Kuromu waved back weakly, though he also felt some kind of vague familiarity with her.
"Master, Master!" The girl perked up as she whispered but seemed she intentionally made sure everyone could hear her, "He's super cute!"
"Eh?!" Kuromu gawked.
"Looks like another girl has her heart stolen by your apprentice." Selene giggled to Shizuka.
"Mmmmmm…!" Nia huffed, hugging Kuromu's cheek with a hiss. "Mine!"
"N-Nia?"
"Oh? A fairy likes him too?" The girl gasped but smiled, "We haven't seen a relationship like that in quite awhile, Master!"
"Er… it's not really like-"
"Ku-Ku!" Nia pouted upon his words as she pinched his cheek. "Don't toy with a maiden's heart."
"Eh~?" Kuromu uttered out in disbelief.
"She's right!" The young girl nodded, "It's never nice to toy with the heart of a maiden."
'Why am I suddenly thrown into a romantic comedy?!' Kuromu wailed out in his thoughts.
"Now, now. I think it's best to introduce yourself." Mahad said to the girl.
"Mhm! My name is Mana! I'm the Dark Magician Girl!" She said, making a pose before winking to the boy, "It's nice to meet you! Just don't get charmed too easily!"
"Dark Magician Girl…" Kuromu muttered in thought, then turned to Mahad. "And that makes you… the Dark Magician… right?"
"Correct." Mahad nodded
"Dark Magician… Dark Magician Girl…" Kuromu pondered, a hand to his chin. "Why do those names… sound familiar?"
"Kuromu?" Shizuka asked.
"I feel like… I've heard of those names before coming here to this world, but… I don't know where…" Kuromu hummed in thought.
"You've… heard of us before?" Mana blinked.
"I think so, but again, I don't know where." Kuromu shook his head. "I'll worry about it later though. Not like I need to remember it now."
"I see." Mahad nodded, "Then please, follow us to your destination."
With a nod, Kuromu, with Nia on his shoulders, followed Mahad while Mana walked next to him, leaving Shizuka and Selene behind to their own devices.
"Will he be okay?" Selene turned to the silent mage.
"As long as he is with Mana, I think he will be." Shizuka said. "After all, he does need to be around more people his age."
"I wasn't referring to his memories." Selene giggled.
"What do you mean?" Shizuka looked confused.
"We all know how many find Mana attractive… Who's to say he won't feel the same?" Selene smirked, teasing her former apprentice.
"I do not think there is anything wrong with that… I think. Is there?" Shizuka asked her former Master. Selene sighed at her former apprentice. It seems that Shizuka still needs to learn about matters of the heart.
Mahad continued walking down one hallway of the Mystical Cathedral with Kuromu and Mana following behind. During their walk, Mana asked a lot of questions about his training in Elemental magic and alchemy, which Kuromu had no trouble answering. He even told her stories about his time with Doriado and the Charmers.
"That's so awesome, Kuro! I didn't know they all had such unique homes!" Mana smiled with delight.
"Yeah, but Hiita's wasn't fun. Made me run around with my feet on fire when she made me look for her hut…"
"Hehe, sure it wasn't you just being… hot?" She giggled from the joke.
"Oh very funny…" Kuromu rolled his eyes. "But at least I got to enjoy a hot springs bath."
"You got to bathe in her special hot spring?!" Mana gasped.
"It was just a hot spring."
"Not just any hot spring. It's THE hot spring! The same one blessed by Ra!"
"Ra…?"
"You don't know?"
"Should I?"
"It's an Egyptian God! One of three! The immortal phoenix! The most powerful thing that can wipe out everything! The beginning and end of reality itself!"
Kuromu gulped and blinked. "Okay, I will take your word for it."
"I'd give anything to bathe in that…" She groaned out, feeling jealous.
"I could ask Hiita when I visit Doriado and the Charmers again." Kuromu offered.
"You'd do that for me?"
"I don't see a reason why I can't." Kuromu shrugged.
"Thank you, Kuro!" She beamed, hugging the boy tightly.
"Okay, Mana, you're welcome!" Kuromu wheezed. "You can let go now! Mana, too tight! Too tight!"
"Oh? But I thought boys liked it when girls did this?" Mana smirked teasingly as she pressed up against him more.
"Mmmmmmmmmmmm!" Nia puffed her cheeks in annoyance.
"Why are you getting mad?" Kuromu said incredulously.
"As dense as a rock…" Nia huffed.
"We are here." Mahad said suddenly, causing the three of them to stop their 'love spat' and looked towards the Dark Magician, who was standing in front of a doorway. "Beyond those doors lies your task, Kuromu."
"What do I have to do?" Kuromu inquired, after Mana released him from her hug.
"You will see once you enter those doors." Mahad said. "Of course, I will be supervising this endeavor, so be on your best behavior."
"Hey~! Why do you have to say it like that, Master?" Mana huffed in annoyance.
"Mana, I know how you are. Don't think I've forgotten the last incident."
"Mmmmm…" Mana puffed one of her cheeks with a pout.
"Do I… even want to know what happened?" Kuromu blinked.
"Ooooh, blackmail." Nia snickered, rubbing her hands evilly.
"I'd tell you, but then he would have to kill me." Mahad chuckled.
"He?" Kuromu asked, confused.
"You will know in due time. For now, go inside." Mahad gestured to said doors in front of him. With a nod, Kuromu walked towards the doors that opened outwards.
Light shone from within, causing the young man and Nia to cover their eyes as they walked forward. When they finally crossed the other side, the light dimmed enough for them to see and found themselves… at a beach?
"W-Wait, what?" Kuromu said, looking at the scenery. The sand was white, palm trees swayed in the gentle breeze, the ocean was crystal clear, and there was a simple beach house made of wood further inland.
"Woohoo!" Mana cheered while Mahad breathed in the tropical air. "Isn't it great?!"
"H-Hold on, my training… is at a beach?" Kuromu asked, confused.
"Not really, it's where we can unwind!" Mana said… before throwing off her dress to reveal a bikini with the same color scheme as her regular dress.
"Gahhh!" Kuromu gawked, blushing heavily, looking away.
"Always the most eager to unwind."
"What do you mean by-" Kuromu didn't finish his sentence when he turned towards the source of his Master's voice, and fought the urge to look flabbergasted when seeing Shizuka… in a swimsuit!
"Master, why must I wear something so… embarrassing?" Shizuka asked Selene, looking over herself. For one, she was still wearing her hat, or at least, a version of it which was summer-like. She wore a white bikini with blue edges, hugging her frame rather nicely. It didn't help that the bottom half of her bikini exposed her v-lines, only covered by a thin sky blue sarong, tied around her waist.
Kuromu checked his nose and thankfully, he didn't feel the red liquid going down. But it was still embarrassing.
"Oh come now, Shizuka. It's not appropriate to be at a beach if you wear your normal clothes in this dreadful heat." Selene giggled, wearing a simple and moderate white sundress with poofy shoulders.
"But I feel… exposed…" Shizuka pointed out while she covered her chest with her arms.
"I… what's going on?" Kuromu asked, looking at Mahad and Mana.
"I think she's just not used to showing this much skin." Mana pointed out, missing the point of Kuromu's question, "This is the first time I've seen her in a bikini, or really this the first time anyone's really seen her out of her normal clothes."
"That's not what I mean…" he grumbled in a deadpan manner.
"Okay~ so~ how do I put this? Lady Selene ki~nda tricked you into having a vacation." Mana smiled sheepishly.
"What…?" Kuromu muttered, looking at Selene who smiled sadly.
"I'm sorry for deceiving you like this, but I wasn't lying about helping you out." Selene apologized. "Believe me when I say that you are a wonderful mage. My former apprentice can attest to your accomplishments for sure, as you are one of the very few who wish to truly learn and grow for the sake of others. But even the best of magicians need a break every once in a while."
"I… see…"
"And besides, you weren't prepared for that noble confronting you, hence why your mentality broke down that day. Hopefully, this sabbatical that I prepared for you will help."
"So we decided to bring you here and help you get your mind off of it." Mana said, "And judging by that blush from our current swimsuits, we did our job just fine." she teased.
"Mana, remember you're engaged. He wouldn't be happy if he found out someone was making a move on his fiancée." Mahad reminded her.
"Just because I'm engaged, doesn't mean I can't appreciate how cute a boy is." Mana huffed. "And besides, Lady Selene says I need to hang out more with people my age, so nyeh~!" She said, pulling down an eyelid and sticking her tongue out. Mahad merely rolled his eyes at this display. From these interactions, Kuromu swore that they were less master and student and more siblings.
"Ahem!" Nia cleared her throat intentionally. "Aren't we supposed to be having this vacation thing already?"
"Oh, right." Mana said before pulling Kuromu towards the water, "Why don't we go for a swim?"
"Ah, wait, Mana!" Kuromu cried out.
"Get back here with Ku-ku!" Nia huffed, flying after them.
"Ah…" Shizuka reached out, only to falter and sigh. "What am I doing?"
"Wait, Mana! I don't have any swimming trunks on me!" Kuromu cried out, causing Mana to stop pulling him and turn around in realization.
"Oh right, we should probably get you some." Mana realized. She then had her wand appear, then twirled it around before pointing it at him. "And presto!" She said, before a beam of light hit Kuromu. His clothes had disappeared and were replaced with white swimming trunks that covered his knees. Not to mention that he was barefooted and… showed some noticeable musculature on his abs.
Mana looked back to the beach and grinned cheekily, "Huh, looks like Shizuka's getting an eyeful." She pointed out to Kuromu.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Kuromu pouted before looking back and quickly finding out why. As it turned out, Shizuka and Selene were watching him, the former looking embarrassed. "Really…?" She turned to Mana with a dry look.
"What? You saw them expose some skin, no big deal."
"Yeah, but-"
"Stop being so stiff, and have some fun~!" Mana said, before grabbing Kuromu's and… throwing him into the ocean?!
"Uwhooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooa!"
*SPLASH!*
"Ku-ku!" Nia cried out.
Thankfully, thanks to Kuromu's training with Eria, he was able to breathe underwater and swam upwards to the surface, breaking it as well, "Ohhhh, it's cold!" He shivered.
"Hehe~ finally awake?" Mana grinned impishly after swimming up to him.
"You didn't have to throw him like that." Nia huffed, hovering over the two.
"What? I thought it would be funny." Mana said with a shrug.
"Oh ha-ha." Kuromu rolled his eyes.
'Wow, all work and no play huh?' Mana blinked, noticing how Kuromu was acting. He wasn't having any fun at all. It was a lot worse than she thought it was. Granted, this is to be expected since it's weeks and months of training his magic. She's gonna have to change her game plan. She has to think like him. What does he consider fun?
Looking around, Mana noticed not far from the shore was a reef with a rock formation that had an underwater cave. That's when a spark of inspiration hit her. Kuromu loved exploring new places!
"Follow me."
"Huh?" Kuromu got out.
"I said follow me." Mana repeated, before diving down underwater.
"H-Hey!" Kuromu cried out, before diving underwater to go after her.
"Don't leave me behind!" Nia said, before taking in a deep breath and plopped right into the water with them. The three of them swam underwater and Mana pointed them towards the underwater cave that was just ahead of them. The young man and Dreamsprite were confused by this, but nonetheless decided to follow her instructions. They continued following Mahad's apprentice before finally entering the underwater cave. They swam in before swimming upwards, where was a bit of light coming from the surface, prompting them to break it.
"Uwhaaa!" Kuromu breathed as he, Nia, and Mana came out of the water. "Where are-" His words fell short when he found himself looking at a cave full of crystals sticking out of the cave walls. "Where are we?"
"Think of it like my secret hiding spot." She giggled.
"A hiding spot?" Nia raised an eyebrow. "Why hide from your Master?"
"Master Mahad can be a big dummy sometimes. So, I come here to vent off and relax." She said, before coming out of the water and sitting on the edge of the pool-like cave entrance. Kuromu promptly got out to sit next to her and Nia sitting on his shoulders after to dry off her wings.
"I'm gonna assume that Master Mahad hasn't found this place yet." Kuromu guessed.
"Duh, if it's a hiding spot, clearly he hasn't." Mana rolled her eyes in amusement.
"So why bring us here?" Nia questioned.
"Well, I kinda figured that Kuro here likes to explore new places he hasn't been to before." Mana shrugged. "So this counts, right?"
"…Yeah, it does." Kuromu said. "Is this all of the cave or is there more?"
"Well how about we go explore it together?" She smiled at him.
"Uh… yeah, sure." Kuromu said, before the both of them got up and went further inside the cave. As they went along the rocky trail, he couldn't help but notice more and more crystal appearing, the further down they went. Something told him that at the end of the path, it was going to be something of a spectacle. For now, he'll have to enjoy the walk until then.
"So… Mana."
"Hm?"
"How long have you been Master Mahad's apprentice?"
"Oh for several SEVERAL years. Since Ancient Egypt."
"Ancient… Egypt…" Kuromu trailed off. "But that's… 5,000 years ago…"
"Mhmm! It sure was." She giggled innocently.
"But then… how are you this… young?"
"Magic of course!"
"Besides the obvious…" He deadpanned with a sweat drop.
"Sorry, you have to be in my level of magic to learn that information." She giggled, teasing the young mage.
Kuromu pouted at this, but shook his head. "Still… to be an apprentice for that long. You haven't… promoted since then?"
"Nope, and I'm not gonna anytime soon."
"Huh? Why?" Nia asked confused. "Don't you wanna be a strong and powerful mage like your Master?"
"To be honest? I'm perfectly fine being at the level I'm at. I prefer just being free to express myself and look into the future!" Mana smiled sweetly. "Not all of us wanna be masters."
"Really? There are mages that don't want to be Masters?" Kuromu inquired
"Mhm, some many just want to have magic to defend themselves, their family or livelihoods. Not everyone has to have recognition, reputation, and greatness to get anywhere in life."
"I… never thought of it that way." Kuromu pondered with a hand to his chin. "When I first became Shizuka-sensei's apprentice, all of this, even now, is just a way to pass the time until I recover my memories. But then… when I saw magic for the first time, let alone knew that I was capable of it… never in a million years did I think…"
"There was more to you than you thought?" Mana supplied.
"I guess that's one way of putting it." Kuromu said. "Since discovering this side of myself, I find myself wanting to know more. What I can do. What I'm capable of. Maybe… there's no need for me to remember my old life."
"Well, I know you'll make it something special. You just need time and that spark to figure it out and remember."
"Yeah. I just hope those… 'people', don't ruin it all either." Kuromu frowned.
"You mean those stinkin' nobles?" Nia pouted.
"Yeah…" Kuromu sighed. "I have to admit, I was not prepared for that at all. I guess no matter what world it is, there are people that are just that petty."
"Just know, nobles they may be. Doesn't mean they're that adept. Some get through by cheating, their money or their bloodline. Trust me, I've beaten plenty of nobles as well." Mana smirked proudly.
"Must've been a terror on the battlefield against those nobles." Kuromu chuckled.
"Oh so many tried to claim I cheated or whatever else they could think. Luckily both Master and my fiancé proved them wrong." She giggled.
"Your fiancé?" Kuromu blinked. "Oh, Master Mahad mentioned you were engaged."
"Mhm! He did so much for me back in those ancient times… if it wasn't for him? I wouldn't be here right now…" She smiled softly, remembering those days.
"He's one lucky guy to have someone like you."
"Thank you for that. I'm sure you'll find someone like that someday too."
"Maybe. But right now, I'm fine as it is." Kuromu nodded.
"Hey, I think I see something." Nia pointed, prompting Mana and Kuromu to look ahead seeing that there was a light at the end of the crystal tunnel. "Whatever it is, it's so bright, I almost can't see what it is." She added, squinting her eyes.
"What can you see?" Kuromu asked.
"I just said it's so bright!" She responded comically.
Mana and Kuromu continued walking towards the light at the end of the crystal tunnel until they found themselves in a huge cave. The cave itself was lined from top to bottom with an amalgamation of crystals as far as the eye can see. There were all sorts colors decorating the rock walls. If a bandit were to discover this place, they would be filthy rich.
"Whoooooooa…" Kuromu and Nia said in awe.
"Now this is a new place!" Mana said with delight.
"You mean you haven't been in this part of the cave?" Nia asked.
"Not really. I went to the waterfall section of the place."
"Well, we can check it out after we look at this. This place looks incredible." Kuromu said in awe as he continued looking around, unaware there was a pair of hungry eyes watching the pair.
Back at the beach, Shizuka sat by herself near the shoreline, hugging her knees while staring out into the ocean horizon. She should've followed her apprentice, but her decision to let Kuromu bond with those of his age prevented her from doing so. She knew that he needed this, that much is certain. But she couldn't help but feel whatever it was inside her heart. Was it loneliness? Envy? Guilt? Doubt? She didn't know. Selene, her former Master certainly didn't help things as she was trying to convince her that it was love, but she knew for certain that she didn't have those feelings for her apprentice. Granted, there were cases that Master and Apprentice do get married, but it wasn't such a case for them. At least, she thought it wasn't.
"Dueling unpleasant thoughts?" Mahad's voice rang out, causing her to look up at the Dark Magician.
"Mahad." Shizuka acknowledged.
"Be assured, your apprentice is in good hands." Mahad said, as he looked out to sea with her. "Mana may still act childish, but she is a capable mage like many others. She knows what she is doing."
"I… understand… I just…"
"Worried Mana might try to make a move on him?"
"That is not it."
"Your answer doesn't reflect your heart." Mahad pointed out, keeping Shizuka quiet. "I'm not saying to act on your feelings right away. Your apprentice probably wouldn't appreciate the sudden gesture. But… at the same time, the longer you hold those emotions in, the worse it will get."
"Then… what must I do?" Shizuka asked. "These emotions are… admittedly vexing. But… how could I express myself without… losing myself in the moment when I do?"
"That is something you must figure out on your own, Shizuka. But don't dwell on it too long… otherwise you'll lose your chance forever." Mahad pointed out. "In fact, you can use this as a learning opportunity."
"Learning? How?" Shizuka asked quizzically.
"You are not incapable of expressing those kinds of feelings. That much is certain." Mahad said, sitting next to her, then turned his head towards the Silent Magician. "Everyone must start somewhere. You can use this chance as an opportunity to learn about it. You can't jump ahead or it will end disastrous. It's like that of an infant, learning how to walk."
"So… what you are saying… is that I have to take baby steps to learning these feelings." Shizuka translated.
"Yes. Everything takes time to learn." Mahad replied. "You will master those feelings soon, with patience, wit, and timing. A bit of jesting and suggesting wouldn't be a bad idea either."
"I… see…" Shizuka pondered. "You have given me much to think about."
"That is why I am here." He smiled softly.
Back with Mana, Kuromu, and Nia, the three of them continue exploring the crystal cave they've found. Everywhere they went, it was nothing but crystals and gemstones. Some of them Kuromu had mined to put into his satchel to decorate his bedroom with. Others he had taken for him to use in his potion experiments, by analyzing their properties and discovering what he could make with them.
"Enjoying yourself now?" Mana giggled.
"You bet I am." Kuromu grinned. "I'm having a blast!"
"Hey, Ku-ku! Mana! I found something!" Nia called out.
"Hm? What would that be?" Mana questioned.
"Just come here!"
Mana and Kuromu looked at each other confused, before the two went over to where Nia went, going deeper into the crystal cave and there were met face-to-face with a large blue crystal that was at least five stories high and it was shaped like an egg.
"What… is… that?" Kuromu gawked, slowly approaching it.
"That's… a crystal dragon egg!" Mana gasped.
"You mean… there's a dragon inside of that thing?!" Kuromu got out.
"We need to get out of here now!"
"What? Why? It's not like it's gonna-"
*CRACK!*
"Hatch…"
*CRACK!
"Now…"
*C-R-R-RACK! C-R-R-R-R-R-R-RACK!*
"RUN!" Nia cried out to them both.
Mana and Kuromu wasted no time as they did indeed start running, Kuromu grabbing Nia on the way. As they did, the web of cracks on the crystal egg grew bigger and larger. Light seeped out of those cracks, until the crystal egg eventually shattered and unexpectedly exploded, causing the 'shell' to scatter in different directions. Knowing that the crystal shards were about to hit them, Kuromu suddenly grabbed Mana and dove behind a wall of crystals to protect themselves from it.
What emerged out of the crystal egg was a large crystalline dragon with a large set of claws on both it's front and back feet, a large pair of dazzling, yet extremely sharp wings, a tail with the same crystal scales as the rest of the body, and finally a terrifying maw with two large crystals as horns.
"This isn't good… what do we do?" Nia whimpered.
Their troubles weren't over as the ground shook. They lost their balance momentarily, trying to figure out what was happening. They soon found out why, as the wall of crystals they were hiding behind, were actually part of a second and much larger dragon. It slowly rose up and spread its wings out. More than likely, it was the egg's mother. Its eyes glared intensely at the trio.
"Oh. Dear. Gods…" Mana murmured in fright.
"Don't… make any sudden moves…" Kuromu muttered.
…
"ACHOO!"
Kuromu and Mana looked towards Nia who was the perpetrator.
"Ehehe… sorry."
*ROAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAR!*
"RUUUUUUUN!" Kuromu yelled as he grabbed Nia and both he and Mana made a run for it.
The mother and baby (if it actually even be considered a baby due to its size) soon chased them through the crystal tunnel. After they escaped through a different entrance, the two dragons roared at them again, giving a stern warning to stay away from the cave. Kuromu breathed a sigh of relief.
"I almost died there…" he panted. "Just what was that?"
"I think… that was a Dragite." Mana panted.
"A Dragite? You mean… to tell me that's actually not a dragon?" Kuromu asked incredulously, "Like… LOOK AT THOSE THINGS! They clearly were dragons!"
"True, they look like dragons, but they were made out of pure rocks." Mana pointed out.
"So… sentient crystals that shape themselves… into dragons…" Nia said dryly. "That doesn't make any sense!"
"I'm a magician and you're a fairy, think this world wasn't already crazy enough?" Mana said with some dry wit.
"Okay, enough of the banter." Kuromu placated, between the two. "Anyways, you were going to show me the waterfall part of this cave?"
"Well, we're already here." Mana pointed out.
Kuromu turned around and was met with the sight of said waterfall. It was a beautiful and unique sight, with a crystal clear pool of water cascading down and into another pool of crystal clear water down below. The water is as blue as the sky and as pure as the clearest crystal, and the sound of the falling water creates an eerie and beautiful atmosphere. Fish can be spotted swimming in the waters, and the natural and artificial lighting combines to create an almost magical ambiance. It was truly a sight to behold, and its beauty and uniqueness make it a must-see for anyone who appreciates nature and its wonder.
"Wow…" Kuromu said in awe.
"It's beautiful, right?" Mana said.
"Yeah, it sure is." Kuromu nodded. "It actually makes me wanna jump off the waterfall." He grinned, before deciding to use his Wind Magic to fly up to the top of the waterfall and stand at the edge.
After examining the perfect angle to jump, Kuromu stepped back before breaking into a run.
"Banzaaaaaai!" He said, before jumping off and diving in.
*SPLAAAAAAAAAAAAASH!*
"Woo hoo! Nice one, Ku-Ku!" Nia cheered.
Kuromu swam up to the surface and broke it. "Uwhoaaa…" He gasped. "Cold…"
*SPLAAAAAAAAAAAAASH!*
Kuromu raised his arms when Mana jumped in after him.
"Gah! Hey, no fair!" Kuromu snarled.
"All's fair in love… and… war…" Mana said, before seeing a large wave coming for her, conjured by Kuromu.
"You were saying?" Kuromu snickered.
"Gah! Now who's the one that's not fair!" Mana cried out before swimming for her life.
*SPLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASH!*
"Hahaha! Got you!" Kuromu laughed.
"Uh… Ku-Ku?" Nia pointed out. Kuromu was confused, but then looked to see that Mana was floating… face first in the water!
"Mana!" Kuromu cried out, swimming over to her. "Mana! Oi, Mana!" He shouted, worried as he was gonna turn her over, to make sure she didn't actually drown. But then…
Mana suddenly turned over to herself, "GOTCHA!" she grinned before pulling Kuromu underwater.
"UWHOA!" Kuromu cried out. Moments later, they broke the surface. "Gah, geez, don't scare me like that!" He groaned, but then realized something. He was… holding onto Mana closely with his arms wrapped around her body. Mana mirroring the same position as he was.
Worse… Kuromu noticed Mana's top casually floating in the water.
"U-Uh…" Kuromu gulped hard with a heavy blush, letting go and turning away.
Mana blushed shyly, looking away as well, while covering her chest with an arm. "Kuro… you know it's rude to touch someone else's woman. Especially when they're engaged."
"S-Sorry. Please don't let your fiancé know. I like my spine where it is." Kuromu stuttered.
"Ooooooooooh, you're in tro~uble~" Nia snickered. "I'm gonna tell Shizuka about this."
"Don't you dare, Nia!" Kuromu cried out in dismay. "It was an accident, I swear!"
"Well if you'd like, I could get her to flash you." Nia laughed.
"ABSOLUTELY NOT!" Kuromu denied from the top of his lungs… but his blushing face showed otherwise. Meanwhile, Mana quietly grabbed her top and slowly put it back on.
"We… should probably head back." Mana mumbled.
"Y-Yeah." He agreed.
"Ahhhhhh, isn't this the best? To enjoy and relax here?" Selene sighed wistfully, laying on a wooden lawn chair, a small table next to her, with a fruit drink sitting on top. Shizuka had decided to lay on her own wooden lawn chair as well while Mahad stood underneath the palm tree's shade, meditating.
"It certainly was a change of pace. For myself and my apprentice." Shizuka replied.
Selene looked at her former student with a slight smile, "So… have you decided? Whether or not to move forward and take the next step?"
Shizuka pondered in silence momentarily before looking back out to sea. "Yes. Mahad has given me much sound advice to consider and I will take what he said to heart."
"Good. Glad to know he finally got through to you." Selene giggled, "You always were stubborn with things outside of learning magic."
"Surely, I was not that terrible…"
"You told me at first, 'friends are only meant for projects'." Selene reminded her, prompting Shizuka to flinch.
"I-In my defense, many things have changed since I last made that statement…" Shizuka countered.
"Indeed. Hope you do your best with him." Selene smiled, already eager to see how this will progress. Maybe she should use some kind of seer orb to check up on them? Popcorn included.
"Sensei! We're back!" Kuromu's voice called out, surprising Shizuka momentarily. The Silent Magician promptly turned to the source of the voice and saw Kuromu, Nia, and Mana approaching them, the former waving with a smile on his face.
"Welcome back you three! Did anything fun happen?" Selene smiled.
"Oh, we went cave exploring, collected cave crystals, swam in an underground waterfall, and ran into a Dragite that hatched and its mother was angry so we ran for our lives." Kuromu said casually.
"YOU WHAT?!" Both Selene and Shizuka gasped. Mahad even opened one eye upon hearing it.
"I-It's fine. Nothing to worry about!" Mana placated the two. "We're fine, see?" She said, presenting themselves. "We all made it back in one piece!"
"You still were dealing with a Dragite! You should've gotten here sooner and told us! Or send us a magical warning to tell us you were in danger!" Selene scolded the three.
"S-Sorry," Kuromu winced. "It won't happen again."
"Heh, that's not the only thing that happened." Nia snickered.
"Nia? Don't you dare…" Kuromu growled.
"Hm? What happened?"
"Nothing, sensei!" Kuromu said quickly, before glaring at the Dreamsprite. "Right, Nia?"
"I mean-" She was quickly given a silent spell by Kuromu, making her huff.
"Well in any case, I hope that mother Dragite didn't follow you." Selene said.
"No. It just roared at us to leave her and her baby alone." Mana shrugged.
"Good. At least it wasn't too hostile to you." Mahad noted, "Still, you should've contacted us. Seems I'll have to make a different punishment for you, Mana."
"Huh?! But why?! We had no idea!"
"Because it was still dangerous to just stand there and not inform us. We are your guardians, we are the ones meant to deal with situations like that. Especially since it could enrage other dragite's knowing you went into their territory."
"Mahad. Now is not the time to punish your student." Shizuka said. "We are here for enjoyment, not ruin it. It is something that you and Master had prepared for my apprentice, is it not?"
"Yes, but-"
"Then it would be rude if we were to correct our apprentices for such things, even if it were dangerous and foolhardy to not inform us, no?"
Mahad sighed as he nodded. Shizuka was right. Even if it was foolish, as long as Kuromu and Mana were safe, it was all that mattered. "Very well then… You're off the hook, Mana."
Mana sighed in relief.
"For now…"
Mana groaned.
"Be grateful that Shizuka has pleaded her case on your behalf." Mahad said, making the Dark Magician Girl pout. He then turned to Kuromu, "As for you, young man…"
"Y-Yes?" Kuromu winced timidly.
"I hope you also understand certain species now, and you'd be wise to look them up and save yourself time should you encounter another one again."
"Yes Master." Kuromu nodded furiously.
"Good. Now then…" Mahad said, as he changed his attire, revealing his long purple hair that fell to his shoulders, also revealing his athletic body, and wearing simple white swimming shorts. He then waved his staff and what magically appeared was a banquet table full of food. "Who's hungry?"
Meanwhile…
Endymion watched everything that was going on from his crystal ball and smiled. The boy was doing well with relaxing, despite his run-in with a powerful Dragite and… the small incident between him and Mana. Granted, he meant no harm towards the affected party, but that was something he had to be careful about from now on.
But seeing how the boy now has ties with Mana, he knows things will get challenging from here on, he now has someone else to trust in. The master mage could only hope that maybe even her fiancé could help Kuromu with his problems, given how powerful the ancient ruler is.
*KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK*
"Master Endymion, Chaos Command Magician is here to speak with you."
"Let him in."
The crystal doors opened, revealing a mage with a dark green outfit with sharp edges, orange accents on the rims of the clothing with a few gleaming red orbs as his curved hat top also showed an imposing sight as it felt like someone taking the same design style as Gandora The Dragon of Destruction, while he held a magical staff that was in the same color and style as his outfit, with a red gem on it.
"Master Endymion." The Chaos Command Magician bowed.
"Chaos Command." The master mage nodded, "What brings you to my office?"
"I came here on behalf of my apprentice."
Endymion sighed at this, sitting back in his chair. "Not this again…"
"Please, I implore you to allow him to retake the Thaumaturge Trials!" Chaos Command Magician pleaded. "He has improved himself! I've seen it with my own two eyes! Give him another chance!"
"Do you not remember the previous times he has participated?" Endymion questioned harshly. "He has proved to be rebellious and arrogant in his ways. His desire for greatness blinds him!"
"We all know he is far better than you assume! Please, I implore you to let him retake the trials!"
"Do I need to remind you that this would be his third time, retaking it? The last time I decided to give him this chance, he cheated on the exam! No. He will not be allowed to partake in the trials until he truly learns to be a better mage. Not someone looking for power." Endymion denied.
"But Master-!"
"Enough, Darius." Endymion said, using Chaos Command's real name, making the latter stutter in silence. He sighed as he stood up and walked towards Chaos Command Magician, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Listen well, my former apprentice. Your heart is in the right place. You wish to see the good in others. I know you care for your apprentice very much. But your good-hearted nature is blinding you to what really matters. I am doing this for his protection and others'."
"I… understand… Master Endymion…" Darius bowed, knowing he couldn't get this request revitalized.
"Good." Endymion sighed. "I suppose I'll have to speak with your apprentice personally. Knowing him, he will be quite stubborn to accept things as they are."
"I will convince him to meet you, he is at the moment within the Fallen Ruins to learn the hieroglyphics there…" Darius informed.
"The Fallen Ruins?" Endymion frowned. "There is nothing of value there. What could he possibly-"
"He may have a lead on the New Era…"
This regained Endymion's attention, "Are you sure that he may have found actual leads to it?"
"It's possible." Darius nodded. "He's still looking into it."
"Please, keep me informed should there be any real evidence…"
"Yes, of course, Master." Darius bowed. "Does… this mean…"
Endymion pondered on this. "While I still do not approve of your apprentice to partake in the Trials. With this new possible discovery, I could, at the very least, reconsider your request. However, keep in mind, it is only a reconsideration. It is not certain. So do not get your hopes up. Should he do something again, then I will not allow him to take it for another decade."
"Y-Yes Master! Thank you, Master!" Darius bowed, gratefully. "I promise, you will not regret this!"
"Yes, yes… Now is that all?"
"A-Ah, right. You are to meet with my apprentice, yes?"
"Very well…"
After a hearty and filling lunch, Shizuka took the initiative to offer Kuromu to walk with her along the beach. Kuromu was a bit surprised, but nonetheless accepted. Selene smiled knowingly, that Shizuka had started making her move on the apprentice. So Selene made it a point to have Mahad, Mana, and Nia stay back while the Master and Apprentice enjoyed their personal time to themselves.
Kuromu for some reason felt nervous walking with his sensei alone, along the beach. They've been around each other for a while. They've walked together in the few places that he visited ever since his arrival in the world, and it wasn't awkward then. But why was it awkward now?
"What a beautiful sunset."
"Yeah, it… is…" Kuromu trailed off. "It's… comforting…"
Again, there was the awkward silence.
"So… did you have a wonderful time?" Shizuka asked.
"Uh, yeah, I did." Kuromu chuckled sheepishly. "Even though it took running away from a Dragite to make the vacation memorable." But then one other memory flashed in his mind. That particular memory of him holding Mana close without her top on, making him blush.
"Is something wrong? Your face is red."
"A-Ah, no it's nothing really! Hahaha!" Kuromu laughed off forcibly.
"If you say so, then I shall trust you, my dear apprentice." Shizuka smiled softly at him as a soft wind blew by them, making her hair float with the wind as the dusk setting made her look breathtaking. Kuromu couldn't help but stare at his teacher in awe, mesmerized by her beauty.
"Utsukushii…" He whispered.
"Hm? What was that?" She asked, confused by the word.
"A-Ah! Sorry, that came out of nowhere!" Kuromu apologized looking downward at his feet.
Shizuka could only giggle out of delight and enjoyment. "Well? Care to tell me what it means?"
"Eh?" Kuromu looked at her in shock. "W-What it means?"
"Yes. The words you speak piqued my interest. I wish to know."
"U-Um… well…" Kuromu trailed off, looking down and embarrassed as his face turned red. "I-In my language… utsukushii… it means… means…"
"Means?"
"It means… beautiful…"
This made Shizuka blush as she gained a small smile as well, "You… find me beautiful?"
"Y-Yes…"
"Thank you, Kuromu… that means a lot to me that you feel that way…"
"R-Really?" Kuromu looked back at her surprised. "T-That's great! Uh… good to know, I guess, um…"
"Is there… Anything else you wish to tell me about what you've said in your language?" Shizuka asked, as she moved a bit closer to him.
"Um… none that I could think of at the moment." Kuromu mumbled. "I mean I could teach you the language. You've been teaching so much, it's only fair that I teach what I know."
"I would like that very much, my dear Kuromu."
"Huh? Dear?" Kuromu looked at Shizuka, only to realize that her face was close to his. "Uwhaaaa!" He cried out, falling backwards. Shizuka grabbed a hold of his hand to catch him, but proved to be useless as she involuntarily fell down with him, into the sand.
"Ohh…" Kuromu groaned, feeling his back hit the sand. Once he gathered his bearings, he realized that Shizuka was on top of him, her body pressed up against his, while her hat was off to the side, revealing another side of her beauty, which was without it. "Se… Sensei…?" He blushed heavily.
"I guess we fell, huh?" She smiled innocently at him.
"Uh… yeah…" Kuromu got out, before looking away. "Um, can you… get off of me, please?"
"O-Oh! Right! So sorry!" She quickly sat up, brushing herself off as she was trying to hide her own blush.
Kuromu also sat up and the two seemingly looked away from each other, trying to get rid of the red on their faces. After what seemed to be an eternity, both of them managed to calm down.
"Sensei…"
"Y-Yes?"
"When those Trials come… I'll make you proud." Kuromu began. "I'll pass whatever they have in store for me. No matter how hard it is… I won't quit. You've done so much for me these past several weeks. So… I'm going to show everyone that what you've taught wasn't for nothing. All that I've learned this whole time, it'll be worth it. Yakusoku. It's a promise. And one that I intend to keep."
"I know you will…"
Shizuka then made another move to sit closer to Kuromu and lean her head on his shoulder.
"S-Sensei?" Kuromu blushed again.
"Just enjoy this, my dear Kuromu…"
Kuromu could only stay silent as he allowed her to stay like this.
"Oooooooh, you did it, my dear apprentice." Selene squealed as she, Mana, and Nia were watching from afar, hiding behind a palm tree. "You're starting to become a woman."
"You owe me money, Nia. Told you they wouldn't kiss yet." Mana giggled.
"Drat." Nia pouted.
"And why was I dragged into this?" Mahad sighed, standing a few feet away from the group.
"Don't you think they're cute together?! We have to see it through to the end!" Selene beamed with enjoyment.
"More like you're all bored…" Mahad shook his head. "Please don't make me tell Master Endymion about your antics again, Lady Selene. Let alone your daughter, Artemis."
"Hehehe, busted!" Nia snickered.
"Oh poo, you never let me have any fun." Selene pouted cutely.
"For now, let's just leave them be." Mahad said, as he turned around to leave, but looked over his shoulder, noticing that the ladies were still watching. He cleared his throat. "I wasn't suggesting…" He said sternly.
"Awww…" The girls groaned before soon following suit, leaving the master and apprentice alone together.
