Greetings, everyone! It's a pleasure to be with you once again. As usual, let me introduce myself: I'm KaleidoMirror!
Today I bring you the next update of "The Forge and The Foam." I understand that it may seem like the plot is moving a bit slowly, so I want to take this opportunity to explain my approach. In all my stories, I tend to structure the narrative into a series of volumes, each composed of six chapters. This allows me to carefully develop the context and characters before diving into the core of the plot, namely, the canon, which many of you are eagerly anticipating. I ask for a bit of patience as we will soon reach that point.
The reason behind this methodology is that I want you to understand how I am building this new universe and to grasp the situation and the path I wish to follow. The only different cases from my other works would be "The Birth of the Hogwarts Sword," "Sword in Tales of Demons and Gods," the shojo manga "Kimi wa Boku no Dolce," "Is It Wrong?" and, of course, "Echo of the Seasons," in which there are spoilers related to all my works.
We are very close to starting the canon, so I would love to know what you think so far. I've dedicated myself to improving certain aspects that I had overlooked, and I'm really satisfied with the final result. I'm eager to hear your opinions and comments on this new chapter. Your feedback is crucial to me as it helps me improve and know what you would like to see in future updates.
Continuing with our regular section, I want to share my enthusiasm for two masterpieces that have influenced this work and of which I do not own the intellectual rights, but they are inspiring examples that I deeply admire: "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" by Rick Riordan and "Fate/Stay Night" by Nasu and TypeMoon.
I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to share my work with you, and I hope you enjoy reading this update as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Are you ready? Enjoy it!
- Central Pacific Ocean -
(Boeing 747-400)
In the midst of the Central Pacific Ocean, the Hawaiian archipelago stood out as an oasis of adventure and natural beauty. Though it was just the beginning of the journey, the crew enjoyed the comfort and magnificent service aboard the Boeing 747-400, a commercial airplane specially modified to enhance the flying experience due to the personalities on board.
Despite only a couple of hours passing, the second-grade class maintained an atmosphere of general excitement. Teacher Dorothy had given a brief lecture on general instructions and explained some of the cooperative activities among the groups that had requested extracurricular activities.
The reason behind all this excitement was the school trip to the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, the summer event where they could enjoy a well-deserved break, as well as strengthen bonds among all involved.
Standing out among the parents, Mrs. Smith was especially excited to spend quality time with her son. As the flight smoothly progressed high above the ocean, the pair enjoyed a brief moment chatting idly side by side as they usually did.
"You know, my sunshine," said Aimer with a longing voice as she looked towards the horizon. "I'm eagerly looking forward to seeing Hanalei Bay again!"
"Why, Mom?" asked curious Shirou, finding his mother's gaze a bit odd. "Is it important?"
"Of course, sweetheart!" Aimer's smile was one of satisfaction as she fed her son spoonfuls of a tropical fruit cocktail. "It still brings back so many memories of my brief stay there a few years ago. It's the largest bay on the north shore. I absolutely fell in love with the beautiful views there. I assure you, you'll love them as much as I do!"
Obviously, the mother didn't mention more details, especially because, as far as she was concerned, this place brought back so many memories of her honeymoon with her husband years ago. But, admiring her son beside her, she allowed herself to be swept up in the excitement.
"There's literally so much to see and do all over the island."
"I know, Mom! I can't wait either!" the boy responded, somewhat embarrassed by his mother's affectionate actions but allowing himself to be spoiled since no one was looking closely in their direction. "Plus, I promised Rae I'd teach her how to swim and snorkel." Lowering his head, his voice turned into a murmur, but his eyes sparkled in anticipation. "Also, we're both excited to interact with the dolphins! Will you join us, Mom?"
"It's very likely," replied Aimer, stroking her son's rebellious red hair as he nodded at her caresses. "But remember, we can't be too selfish. We'll also be doing ecotourism and other outdoor activities with your classmates in the group activities. It will definitely be an amazing adventure for all your friends. Plus, I'll make sure to have a 'pleasant' conversation with Drew's father at the right time," added Aimer, alluding to the recent altercations the children had had at some school events.
At that moment, Rachel, Shirou's best friend, approached walking down the aisle. The expression on her face couldn't hide her happiness; if it weren't for the strict prohibition against running, she would undoubtedly be doing so at that moment.
"Shirou! Shirou!"
"Rae?" asked Shirou, confused.
"Have you heard? Among the places to visit is the famous Daniel K. Inouye Lighthouse. You won't believe it, but it's so tall!" she said, making hand gestures about the size of the monument in an adorable way as she spoke. "I asked and confirmed that we'll be able to see the whole island from there. But that's not all!" the girl, now jumping with excitement, continued, "Teacher Dorothy assured me that we'll visit the Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge."
The boy, accustomed to his friend's usual bursts of enthusiasm related to nature, smiled briefly before getting up from his seat. The girl was puzzled by this, but she overlooked it, taking her friend's hands.
"Aren't you excited?"
"Of course I am," Shirou responded, feeling a bit overwhelmed by his friend's energetic actions. "It's just a good time to liven things up a bit."
He had been looking forward to this trip for a long time, so he took a moment to search through his pockets and offer her a small gift he had prepared in advance.
"I'm not sure if you'll like it, but I bought this compass because I know how much you love exploring nature," he said, feeling a little nervous as he noticed his friend's intense gaze on him. "But I feel a bit insecure when something inevitably catches your attention to the point that it's not the first time you've gotten into trouble because of it."
"Come on, Shirou... that was just one time, there's no reason to keep living in the past," Rachel embarrassedly replied, recalling all the occasions that had passed.
Among which she always felt a little guilty, having caused quite a scene when she found herself crying when she got lost on the grounds of the Smith mansion last year. At that moment when she looked at Shirou, she noticed that his actions were so different from his usual cheerful and determined face; instead, she noticed something that made her see that there was more to her friend than she knew. From there on, her friend always made sure to keep an eye on her, but she took it as an opportunity to mature and have a good time with young Smith.
"Besides, you know I trust you to take care of me," the triumphant girl smiled, puffing out her chest in victory and sticking out her tongue. At that point, Shirou sweatdropped, imagining and hoping that nothing would happen this time.
"Come on, my little one, you shouldn't be a bad friend," his mother wasn't helpful as she encouraged and indulged her friend's behavior in front of her eyes. "Remember that your sweet and loving mother also trusts her little justice hero to save the day."
"I think it's excellent, Mrs. Smith!" Rachel just mocked, hugging her friend as he sighed defeatedly. "We both know Shirou's dream can come true!"
"Mom!" said Shirou, feeling betrayed by both his friend and his mother, who joined in as usual. "Don't tell me you too?"
Aimer laughed and hugged her son affectionately. "Of course, my little hero. I'll always be your biggest fan!"
"Are you ready to explore Lēʻahi Head, my little one?"
"I'm curious about how big the crater is," said Shirou, still a bit embarrassed from being teased by his mother and best friend. He decided to ignore it to keep the conversation more productive. "Plus, we can enjoy the wonderful views from the top. I've read they're amazing!"
Aimer nodded, looking at the two children fondly. She felt it was a good opportunity to address the issue of Rachel's designated chaperone.
"I think you both have excellent ideas," she smiled at the children. "That's why I've spoken with Agent Williams to temporarily include you in our activity schedule, Rachel. Was that wrong?"
"No, no, of course not, Mrs. Smith!" Rachel shook her head, extremely enthusiastic. "I'd be more than happy to spend time with you all!"
"I'm glad to hear that," Aimer smiled again, relieved. "I remember when you visited us a month ago, you suggested we take a hiking tour to the top of Lēʻahi Head. From there, we can see the entire southern coast of the island in all its splendor. I know it will be an unforgettable experience."
As they talked, the designated chaperone, Mr. Williams, approached from the hallway after receiving a brief call from Mrs. Smith. He waited for the right moment to join the conversation.
"I see you're making exciting plans," he commented with a smile. "I remind you, Miss Dare, that I've taken the liberty of adding a small detour to the itinerary so that on the third day, we can visit the Kohala coast up close. This will increase our chances of spotting the whales you've been eager to see."
"Thank you so much, Agent Williams!" the young girl was doubly excited. "This is going to be incredible!"
The man sighed, grateful that his charge was so different from her father, Mr. Dean, who had emphasized that his "princess" should visit historical and cultural sites, like the ʻIolani Palace.
Indeed, the young girl had even prepared in advance to learn about the history of Hawaii, longing for the opportunity to participate in a traditional Hawaiian ceremony.
"Miss Dare," Agent Williams continued, "also, when we arrive at the hotel, the whole class will participate in the traditional Hawaiian ceremony in the evening. So we need to schedule our final activities so as not to be late."
"Mr. Williams..." Shirou frowned, thoughtful. "Could you give us more details about the type of ceremony it is?"
"Very good question, Master Shirou. Your teacher, Dorothy, made it clear that it would be good for everyone to enjoy the famous welcome called 'Aloha'. It's a way to show respect and appreciation for Hawaiian culture and traditions. Additionally, we will be accompanied by the three most important figures of the island."
"What do you mean?" Aimer asked, very curious.
"Not to boast, but due to the special influence of certain members of the school board, we managed to have the 'Three Graces of Hawaii' take charge of the preparations for this occasion."
"Three Graces?" Rachel asked, confused. "Are they a kind of band?"
"I'm afraid you're partially mistaken, young lady," her guardian shook his head. "To be more specific," his tone turned curious at this point, "they are a group of famous international figures with an impressive track record in banquets, concerts, and the most exclusive events. But for some strange reason, they always take a break in Hawaii at this time of year for the past ten years. So it wasn't hard to get their collaboration to handle our week's schedule across the islands."
"So they'll do something super special for us?" Shirou's tone was full of excitement.
"Don't doubt it, Master Shirou, I know it will be a very special experience," the guardian explained proudly.
At that moment, Professor Dorothy's voice echoed through the airplane's PA system, announcing a group activity. "Attention, children, parents, and chaperones, we will start a trivia activity about Hawaii. We'll form teams, and there will be prizes for the winners among the kids. Get ready to show off your knowledge!"
The children on board, including Shirou and Rachel, perked up at the news. Shirou saw this as an opportunity to redeem himself and enjoy a pleasant moment with his friend and impress his mother with how hard they both studied in advance for the trip.
"Come on, Rae, we have to win this," said Shirou, taking her hand and leading the way.
"Count on it, let's show everyone what we know!" Rachel nodded, equally determined but rolling her eyes, imagining that only Shirou could show such stubborn determination when he set his mind to it. So she decided to go along with him. "Plus, I get my long-awaited rematch against Drew," she smiled excitedly.
As the two kids got up, ready to team up, the other children gathered and discussed answers. As the activity progressed, the excitement grew, with shared laughter and learning more about their excursion destination. Shirou and Rachel answered many questions correctly, earning the admiration of their peers, though Drew's disapproving and provocative glare, with her father trying to calm her from his seat, was evident.
"Shirou, Rachel, did you know the original name of Diamond Head is Lēʻahi?" asked Ms. Dorothy. "It means 'tuna forehead promontory'. Does anyone know why?"
Rachel raised her hand excitedly. "I know! It's said that ancient Hawaiians thought the crater's profile from the ocean resembled a tuna's forehead."
"Correct, Rachel!" Ms. Dorothy clapped. "Very good. Now, who knows which is Hawaii's youngest volcano?"
"Kīlauea!" Shirou quickly answered. "It's one of the most active volcanoes in the world."
"Exactly, Shirou!" Ms. Dorothy nodded approvingly. "Impressive, kids."
The children's enthusiasm was contagious. Drew, from the other side, scowled, clearly annoyed by Shirou and Rachel's correct answers.
"Drew, why don't you try answering the next one?" suggested Ms. Dorothy.
Drew shrugged, looking disdainfully at Shirou. "As if it matters. We all know who always has to be the center of attention."
Shirou tried to ignore her, focusing on the trivia, but found it difficult, especially because she was staring at him with an unsettlingly familiar expression. "Come on, Rae... let's keep going...," he said nervously, avoiding eye contact with the girl. "We need to keep up the pace, we're almost winning this!"
"Unless someone else wants to finally answer," Rachel nodded, but Drew's furious look and provocative attitude were effective when she noticed how the girl decided to continue with the game. At this point, it was obvious that they only needed to say the right things to make the 'princess of Meadows' finally have fun. "And it looks like this isn't over!"
The activity continued, with Shirou and Rachel demonstrating their knowledge of Hawaiian history and culture. Their precise and quick answers impressed not only their peers but also the parents and teachers present. On another note, the fervent competitiveness of Tanaka's girl did not go unnoticed, making them feel pressured at some point.
Finally, Ms. Dorothy announced the winners. Although it was a landslide victory, the 'princess' attempts were also worthy of recognition: "And the winning team of our Hawaii trivia is... Shirou and Rachel. Congratulations, my little ones!"
The children applauded and cheered while the winners hugged excitedly. Shirou's mother smiled proudly from her seat, and Agent Williams watched approvingly, taking photos and audio notes for his report to Mr. Dean.
"Good job, kids," said Aimer when they returned to their seats. "I'm very proud of you."
"Thanks, Mom," Shirou said, smiling. "I knew all that studying would pay off..."
"Yes, Mrs. Smith, it was great!" Rachel added. "Shirou was the one who decided to prepare us for the trip, but it was because he talked to me about everything related to nature that I decided to give it a chance too!" Jumping in her seat, she burst into laughter. "I definitely can't wait to explore everything we've learned!"
As the plane began its final descent into Honolulu, the children and parents prepared for a week full of adventures and discoveries.
"This trip will be unforgettable," thought Aimer, confident that the experiences shared in Hawaii would leave a mark on their hearts forever.
Finally, the plane landed smoothly at Honolulu International Airport. The passengers applauded as the plane taxied to the gate.
"I can't believe it, we've finally arrived!" exclaimed Rachel, looking out the window with bright eyes. "Are you ready, Shirou?"
"Don't doubt it!" Shirou responded, grabbing his backpack. "I wonder what adventures await us?"
As the class prepared to disembark, Ms. Dorothy reminded them of the final instructions. "Remember to stay in groups and follow directions. We have an exciting week ahead!"
Shirou and Rachel held hands, ready to embark on an adventure, unaware that this was just the first step in a series of events that would forever change their lives as they knew them.
- Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel -
(Hotel Lobby)
Morning was coming to an end when Professor Dorothy's class arrived at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel. The check-in and room assignments went smoothly, thanks to their reservations. While the parents and school staff handled the final details, the children were given some free time to relax and explore the hotel.
Shirou and Rachel briefly separated from the group, venturing into the hotel lobby. They were awestruck by the elegant surroundings as they headed towards the grand hall.
"Oh... My goodness! Look at this place, Shirou. I never expected it to be this incredible," Rachel remarked, admiring the columns adorned with Hawaiian motifs. "Isn't it better than the photos we saw earlier?"
"You're right, Rae. They're a bit peculiar, but they give me a sense of tranquility," Shirou replied, nodding as he admired a painting of the Hawaiian archipelago.
"Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" The energetic girl approached and took his hand, stealing his attention from the painting.
"Are you referring to exploring the souvenir shop?" Shirou asked, rolling his eyes, knowing exactly what his friend wanted to do.
"You're my best friend for a reason, Shirou," Rachel smiled. "So I hope you agree with the plan!" She tried to lead the way, eager to take him there. "Besides, don't you think it would be a perfect way to relax after the flight?"
Shirou pretended to be difficult, stopping abruptly and causing a look of confusion on his friend's face.
"Are you sure this isn't just a subtle way for Mr. Dare to understand that you want to spend more time with him?"
Shirou's words caused a brief silence between them, but the sincerity in those golden eyes Rachel knew so well made her reconsider. She couldn't deceive him. Shirou was right, and she couldn't help but sigh when her intentions were revealed.
"So you already saw it coming, Shirou?" She let go of his hand and took a few steps away from him.
"It wasn't hard," he murmured briefly. "I know you well enough to tell when you're lying, especially when I've noticed how your right hand trembles and you avoid looking at me. Am I wrong?"
"You just don't understand, Shirou! My father is always like this with me!" Rachel shouted but immediately realized her mistake, noticing the hurt look on her friend's face for a brief moment. She quickly tried to appear strong. "I'm sorry, Shirou. I didn't mean that. It's just that..."
"Calm down," he said, attempting to soothe her. "We both know you didn't mean it." He sighed before continuing. "It's just that whenever we talk about your father, I can see how sad you are, and it's not my intention to make you feel that way."
"I know… I appreciate that you're always there for me like this." Rachel raised her hands and dropped them in frustration. "It's just so frustrating. Even though we had over a month to prepare, my father..." She lowered her gaze, but her distress and a few tears of helplessness were enough to convey her feelings. "I just don't matter enough to him!"
It was strange, but Shirou always had complicated emotions when he saw his friend going through these kinds of problems that he didn't have. Though he didn't have a father, his mother recently told him a bit about him, emphasizing that his father was very special to her and that she truly wished he could be there to see him grow up. Unfortunately, he had disappeared in flames. Even now, Shirou didn't understand what she meant, but he knew that asking more questions made his mother a bit nervous, and he understood that there were limits that it wasn't the time to cross.
Still, as on every occasion they faced these difficult moments, Shirou offered a shoulder and a hug where his friend could let out her feelings and recover from her difficult emotions.
"You know as well as I do that your father is very busy, but he definitely loves you," he hugged her while trying not to look at the tears, knowing that Rachel didn't like feeling too vulnerable and fragile. He always respected her stance in that regard. "That's why Agent Williams is always looking out for you, just as he has been since I've known him. He's a good guy and has definitely helped us many times."
"Shirou..." Rachel accepted the gesture, but her emotions were bittersweet for having hurt her friend and because she didn't know how to face her own feelings. At that point, she let herself be carried away while they continued to exchange words of comfort during this delicate moment.
After a while, Rachel was the first to step back, gently pulling away and wiping her tears with her hands, trying as usual not to seem 'uncool.' "Thanks, Shirou. Really."
"No problem, Rae. You know I'll always be here for you," he replied, smiling in an attempt to cheer her up.
"Well, how about we go to that souvenir shop now?" Rachel suggested, feeling calm enough to show her usual bubbly attitude again.
"What are we waiting for?" Shirou responded, taking her hand again and heading towards the shop, determined to make the rest of the day much better for his friend.
- Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel -
(Souvenir Shop)
Both Shirou and Rachel were dazzled as they looked around the hotel's souvenir shop, marveling at the items they found. While they explored together, each one examined the unique and extravagant objects displayed on the shelves, lost in their own thoughts.
"Oh…! Look at this, Rae!" exclaimed Shirou, holding up a necklace made of seashells adorned with small crystals. "I bet if you wore this, you'd definitely grow a mermaid's tail!"
Rachel smiled, rolling her eyes at her friend's jokes. "Ha, ha, ha! You're so funny and yet so childish, Shirou," she said, frowning slightly as she looked at the item.
"You know I was just kidding!" Shirou grinned sheepishly, feeling a bit cheated as she took the necklace from his hands. "Hey!"
"You always know how to tease me. So consider us even, what do you say?" Rachel stuck out her tongue and winked victoriously, ignoring her friend's eye roll, well aware of Shirou's good-natured attitude.
"For the record, you started it," Shirou tried to appear strong but was ignored once again.
"But look how beautiful it is!" Rachel squealed with delight as she admired it for a moment before handing it back to Shirou with a huff.
"Ha, ha, ha. And you say I'm the childish one?" Shirou retorted, pointing out that she wasn't the only one. In the end, a brief staring contest between gold and green eyes was all they needed to make peace.
"Well then, what do you think of this?" Rachel presented a set of bracelets made of volcanic stones and brightly colored beads. "It reminds me of something the ancient Hawaiian gods would wear from the stories we read earlier."
Shirou nodded, admiring it before pointing to the shelf on the right. "And what about these little totems? Don't you think they're intricately made?" He picked one up and touched it. "I'd love to take one home!"
"You say that!" Rachel responded triumphantly while presenting the next option. "Look at these flower necklaces!" she exclaimed, lifting a colorful garland. "Wouldn't it be a better idea to wear one of these when we go to the beach?"
"I don't think they match your hair," Shirou teased, only to receive a playful punch on the shoulder from Rachel. "You know I was just kidding," he sighed in defeat, rubbing his shoulder with a betrayed expression.
They both laughed at the comment and decided to explore the rest of the shop separately, planning to share their discoveries and decide on what to buy.
"I see you like the shop," commented a gentle but enthusiastic voice.
As Rachel admired the shop, a slender man with blonde hair approached her, his eyes filled with curiosity and a friendly smile.
"I apologize for my sudden interruption, young lady. But how do you like the shop?" The man picked up an artisanal dagger made of shark teeth, astonishing her as he made it disappear with a small magic trick. "Let's just say… I'm very proud of it!"
Rachel turned to see the man, marveling at the sudden act. "It's amazing," she replied. "There are so many beautiful things here that I don't know what to buy."
"I'm glad you think so," said the man. "But where are my manners? My name is Loptr," he bowed with exaggerated flair before making the dagger reappear briefly, then returned it to its original place. "I always try to have something special for every visitor."
"I'm Rachel Elizabeth Dare," Rachel said, blushing when she realized she had given her full name. "But… you can call me Rachel," she suggested, trying to lower her gaze.
"Oh… it's certainly a pleasure to meet you, Miss Rachel. No need to be overly formal; you can speak freely," Loptr added with a slight smile.
Rachel felt a strange but pleasant confidence with him, so she responded with a smile. "Thank you, Loptr." She fiddled with her hands before speaking again. "It's just that there are so many unique things here that I've never seen before."
"And you haven't even seen half of what we have in storage," Loptr joked. "But enough talk, Miss Rachel. Is there something specific you're looking for?"
Rachel glanced quickly at Shirou, who was engrossed in examining some Hawaiian tapestries at the other end of the shop, hesitating a bit before sighing and mustering up courage. She stepped a little closer to Loptr and lowered her voice: "Well, I'm actually looking for something that my friend Shirou would like. But… please don't tell him. I want it to be a surprise!"
Loptr raised an eyebrow with curiosity, directing his gaze to where Rachel was looking, observing Shirou intently for a moment. His green eyes glinted brightly before turning black. "Is it for your friend?" he asked, his tone showing a barely perceptible change that Rachel didn't notice.
"Yes, he's very special to me," Rachel nodded. "And I really want it to be something he likes," she continued, almost breathless with excitement. "Something meaningful."
"Let me think…" Loptr seemed to reflect for a moment while observing the enigmatic young man, then nodded slowly. "I think I have just the thing, my dear Rachel. Perhaps something related to Hawaiian mythology?"
"Do you have something like that?" Rachel asked, a bit doubtful, fearing a negative response.
"That depends," Loptr seemed hesitant, but smiled strangely. "Tell me, dear, does Shirou have a special interest in such objects?"
Rachel didn't notice the subtle change in Loptr's expression but felt encouraged. "Well…" Rachel frowned, thinking. "He loves stories about heroes and gods, especially from ancient Greece. But he also has a fondness for Pacific cultures… It's a bit complicated!"
"Well, since I like you, I think I have something that could be perfect." Loptr went to a display case and took out a small silver harmonica with simple yet slightly rustic engravings, featuring a worn-out rainbow design. "You know, this harmonica is very special… It's said to have an incredible backstory, even hard for me to believe."
"Now… I'm definitely curious..." Rachel looked closely at the harmonica, expectantly. "But, could you tell me what makes it so special?"
Loptr leaned forward and whispered confidentially: "You might find it hard to believe, but it's said that this harmonica carries the blessing of the ocean god Kanaloa, so it will certainly be a gift your friend will appreciate."
"Really?" Rachel asked, incredulously, giving the object a closer look.
"Would I lie to you, dear? I'm just trying to help," Loptr said, exaggerating his act and clutching his chest as if he might faint at any moment. "Don't you trust me?"
"It's not that, sir," Rachel said, shaking her head vigorously, trying to fix it, but it was evident she had fallen for the man's act. "It's just that this is an ancient artifact, and I don't know if I can afford it."
Rachel lowered her head, feeling deeply sad. Even though her father had a lot of money and she had access to a certain amount of cash, due to the nature of the trip, she was limited to the budget managed by Agent Williams. She didn't know if he would agree to buy this antique, considering its value, which could easily be classified as a treasure.
Seeing the young girl's deeply saddened expression, Loptr felt his heart break, so he decided to handle the situation with great care.
"Come now, let's not get sentimental," he tried to console her. "I think, due to my special situation at the hotel, I can make you a very special offer, dear…"
"Really?" Rachel asked, still doubtful but a little less sad. "What do you mean?"
"Well…" Loptr looked to the side, nervously. "I've been working at the hotel for a while, but I'm actually an eccentric millionaire living the 'common' life," he said, striking a passionate pose with a hand over his heart, exaggerating his movements. "I've grown so tired of fame and social pressure that I took this job through some connections, and your genuine desire for your friend's gift has really touched me," he confessed, wiping away a few fake tears with a handkerchief.
"Does that mean…?" Rachel asked, hesitantly.
"That maybe I can do my good deed for the year," Loptr said with a huge smile. "So, for just five dollars, this harmonica can be yours. It's a very special gift, but I must ask you for one thing."
Rachel took the harmonica, marveling at its intricate design up close. "What thing?" she asked, confused.
"You must promise me this: only your friend can play it." Loptr's tone was completely serious and devoid of emotion, to the point of making her shiver under his cold gaze.
"Why?" Rachel asked when she finally managed to calm down.
Loptr lowered his voice and leaned towards her, as if sharing a secret. "As you might imagine, according to ancient Hawaiian tradition and the story related to this harmonica, the blessing is very real. The tales warn that terrible things will happen if anyone other than the owner plays it, and the ancient power will fade," he whispered like a spell. "So this secret remains only between us two…," the girl took the harmonica very carefully, feeling something strange about it, "do you agree?", though the man's sudden voice made her nod quickly.
"That story... is certainly… incredible," she said, looking at the instrument with new light.
"I know, Rachel," the man put his hand under his chin, looking into the distance.
"Even so…" Rachel made a slight bow with her dress, feeling both intrigued and impressed by the story. "You have my word, Mr. Loptr. I promise only Shirou will play it," she sighed with a genuine smile, feeling her worries melt away. "Besides, I think he'll love it."
Loptr nodded, satisfied. "That sounds perfect, dear." Taking a box, he placed the harmonica inside before turning it into a small gift. "I hope you enjoy your purchase, Rachel."
Rachel paid the five dollars and carefully put the gift in her bag. "Thank you, Mr. Loptr. This really means a lot to me."
At that moment, Shirou approached, holding a small hand drum decorated with drawings of waves and sea creatures. "Rachel, look at this! Isn't it cool?"
Rachel nodded, keeping her secret. "Yes, it's amazing!" she sighed, knowing her friend wouldn't change, seeing his usual smile, "You know, Mr. Loptr says he has even more things stored away, so this shop practically has everything, doesn't it?"
Loptr smiled as he watched the two friends walk away together. "I hope you find everything you're looking for and more," he said, waving them off from behind the counter.
Once the two friends were out of sight, Loptr let out a low chuckle, and his appearance began to change. His skin turned a dark green, and his hair became as black as obsidian. A malicious grin spread across his face.
"At least I've gained nearly eight years to hide it," he murmured to himself. "When the time comes, I will reclaim what is mine." He glanced towards the door through which Rachel and Shirou had exited and added, "I haven't violated the treaty between the pantheons. No one can lay a claim on me. The Greeks can't interfere since it hasn't been claimed yet, and neither can the uptight Japanese. Otherwise, there are still easy ways to handle this little matter."
With one last satisfied look, Loptr wrapped himself in shadows, reverting to his human appearance. He returned to his shop, ready to greet the next customer who walked through the door.
Unfortunately, we have reached the end of this chapter. However, there are some important things I want to share with you.
I have previously mentioned how I handle the volumes of my works, and I want to reiterate that your patience is crucial to reaching the exciting moments you are eagerly awaiting. Everything is being constructed so that you can appreciate how everything connects and, especially, to understand what it means to be a child of Hephaestus in the upcoming chapters.
I sincerely hope you enjoyed the chapter "Arriving in Hawaii, a Strange Little Gift." I hope the wait has been worth it.
It fills me with satisfaction to see that we have received 32 reviews, as well as the support of 221 favorites and 320 followers. I eagerly anticipate how this story will unfold in the future and deeply thank you for your continued support.
Before I say goodbye, I would like to address some comments from the previous chapter:
Fanfiction:
Gilgamesh50: I hope you enjoyed the update, my friend. Thank you very much.
Nikkless: Strictly speaking, it's a reincarnation, although there is much we will discover later on.
Diabolos Aides: I hope the wait did not disappoint you. Thank you very much for reading.
Onetime: He won't lose his memory, but there will be a point where Emiya appears, so look forward to it.
JRZTT1246: At a certain point in the story, just be patient.
Darth Kyuubi Kurama: As always, my great friend, thank you for the tremendous support. I appreciate it very much.
Guest: Yes, Amaterasu will appear at some point in the story. Tamamo no Mae from FGO is on the table, so don't doubt it.
Wattpad:
None.
AO3:
None.
For now, KaleidoMirror bids farewell, but we will meet again in the next update! I deeply appreciate your patience and continued support. Feel free to keep sending your comments and suggestions, as they are essential for the development of this story.
Until next time!