《Infinity/10》 Chapter I: Determination (Part 1/2) On a certain distance, an unknown person behind the classroom is writing on his diary. Not particularly known among the class, but he holds no confidence to social life. *It''s been a long life since I''ve lived my life as a high schooler. Finally, after 3 years... I''m finally leveling up my circumstance as a student. I''ll be able to study soon as a university student and work part time jobs as how everyone do it. However, as much as I would like to say that I''m confident, I have no knowledge regarding about the life outside. So it may take me awhile in order for me to stay intact with every adults. Oh yeah, I almost forgot. This is my story, my successful life... probably. As I am writing to everyone who may find this note, I aim to make history on this age. My name.. is Nagumi Shiruto. I''m biologically 17 years old, Earth Time. I have a belief that outside our habitual planet, there is life outside. Sadly, there''s no way to prove this to be true, only way to do so is to hope it does exist. The start of the journey, begins here.* As he finishes writing, he''s put his pen down with a finishing looking gaze on his book. But... Nagumi: Ugh, what the hell is this? Why do I have to write my own future diary? Damn sensei pushing us into writing on a wrong time. Right, Yuuki-chan? Tsumi Yuuki. A childhood best friend of the so called "protag". How did it come to this? She looks at him with glaring look. Yuuki: Hmph! Whateeever. Don''t talk to me like you know me. Nagumi: What the hell?! What have I ever done to you? What''s making you speak like an angsty teen? Did I even do something wrong? Yuuki: Like hell you didn''t notice, you insulted our sensei and dare even speak without manners with me. You''re unforgiveable. Nagumi: I forgot, you have a hard Sensei-Complex. You''re hard core, Yuuki-chan. Yuuki: ''Fuck you know? Like you''d understand. Nagumi, in the backhead, was slapped afterwards as a mean of a casual routine for their childhood-relationship. By no means, he loudly screamed in pain, overreacting to the situation. He is without a doubt, a "protag". Sensei: Alright class, dismissed. Whoever didn''t finish their homework on writing their life on their personal diary, I''ll let you know that you will need to submit your literary work before the start of afternoon tomorrow. Specifically, 11:40 AM. I''ll give you all a chance to submit until then. Contradictory to this, your score will be deducted unless you pass it today. Seconds by second, the class slowly departures and goes their own way. Tsumi looks at the wall clock in front, and looks at Nagumi with a smile. In this situation... Yuuki: Yo, Nagumi-kun! Wanna head home together? Nagumi: Have you even no shame for what you did earlier? I felt pain and shivers on my whole body after what you just did! And what''s with the casual first name calling, like hell I even allowed you. You maniacal being with complex for senseis. Yuuki: Hehe~ Say whatever you want. As smart as you look, you''re awfully dumb for a 17 years old- wait, that again?Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. As she said it with easing dumb-look, both laughed at their own and continued their conversation about their future while heading home. On Nagumi''s mind, he looks at Tsumi nothing more less as a childhood friend, but a beaming hope. He secretly admires her in every way and is romantically attracted to her. This all started... On Tsumi''s mind, she looks at Nagumi with gleaming happiness and admires him for showing her the path she wants to seek. That is, to spend her time with him. To her, he is her shrine of happiness. Without him, would there ever be hope? This all started... ...during their days as a 6 years old, phallic stage. ?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã? >>11 YEARS AGO, SEPTEMBER 4, 2009. FRIDAY<< Playground. A small boy, hanging out on the swings. With no worries on his look, he is surrounded with a look of loneliness. Supposedly, for a child to be in his six, he should never be having knowledge about how the world works, but apparently he has the mind of a mature adult. He''s treated worse by kids his age due to his unnatural behavior, who is introverted in every aspect and is unsocial at age. His only support he has is his parents and nothing else. Outside his own biological family, his third party is never fond of him. Nonetheless, in the distance, he''s became aware that the sun is setting soon, and is time for him to go. Nagumi: ... He sighs with a sad expression. He despises the world and resents it. In this cold and dark world, no one seems to notice him. Children who played in the park finally departs with their parents at hand, with joyful look on their face. Nagumi: Tsk. This is the worst. My parents and I mutually love each other, but can''t they atleast think of me first? I wanna go home... I don''t wanna... stay here any longer. Without noticing, he''s let out a single tear on the left eye. Nagumi: Huh? Why now of all times... It''s been long since I wanted to cry and now of all times? ugh. Stupid parents. Finally, covers his face. His parents are not at sight due to work. The boy knows nothing of this, so he decides to go home on his own. So... Nagumi: H-how do I even go home? I.. I don''t know where to go. Someone... Help me. He mutters to himself. His eyes swelling little by little, agonizing in loneliness. His fingers twitched, and looks on his small hands. Unconfident, he looks at it. Nagumi: I''m weak, I know it. I don''t deserve to be in this cruel place. No one acknowledges me, no one notices my existence. I''m just a garbage in the society. I wanna-- ???: You. Nagumi: Huh? An unknown girl, shocks Nagumi while seated on the swings. Painfully, he drops by accident on it. To him, she looks very pretty in his eyes. Indeed, she looks pretty. But as dark as the surrounding place has gotten, her face isn''t visible. To add up, her face is covered with a straw hat''s blade. Thin as ever may be, she is beautiful. Her voice, enough to shake his world. Everything, gleams with color and the surroundings brighten. Music, that isn''t composed yet plays to his ears with beauty. Fragrance, is naturally shocking to the nose. His heart, wavered by the blooming of flowers. She turns away from Nagumi, with a gapping distance being ever so close yet so far. ???: Don''t be sad. Nagumi: Like you would understand. I''ve lived painfully, and I wanna give up as soon as I could if I can. ???: There''s not much known to the world. We are not acknowledged by the society. Even so, you cannot give up! There is more to know. Nagumi: And what is there more to know? Nothing I encounter would surprise me anymore. ???: Then... Would you like to be my friend? Nagumi: Huh?! Wait, why would you choose me to be your friend? I look nothing more as a trash that is useless. ???: You''re right on one thing. You are trash. Nagumi: ---hk! ???: However... Nagumi: ? The boy, instantaneously had a switch of view. From sadness to curiousity, what is more to it? ???: No matter how dirty you can be as a trash, you can clean yourself up again and become useful. Even if you are unrecognizeable as item, you are still useful in its own way. Nagumi: So are you assuming I''m more of an object, waiting to be used? That''s reeally mean. ???: No. We are both an equal. A trash to society. Unpleasant. Unwanted. Unruly. But I don''t view you as either of those. We may... Before continuing, she grabs her hat down with smile on her face. The wind as strong as it can be, peacefully stranded to her long black hair. Her facial expression, looks sad but joyful at the same time. As if, she found her lost objective once more. ???: ...start anew. Nagumi: ... Shocked as he may be, the quote she offered has no deeper meaning and is amateurish for his same age. Although, she changed him. He looks at the world with no more resentment. He has... found meaning to life. He has finally believed in truthful hope. Nagumi: And... What is your name? "I am your equal... Tsumi Yuuki. Remember that!" ?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã? Chapter II: Undetermined Resolution (Part 2/2) ... Both on their way to home. The silence has broken. Both: Say... The both spoke at the same time. Reddish face, awkward atmosphere. Nagumi: You uhm.. go first. Yuuki: Ah, okay! Uhm... She connects both pointy fingers with a nervous look. Calmly waiting for the right time to speak, by easing their own self first. Yuuki: Alright. Uh, since we unknowingly arrived at the playground, wanna hang out here for a second? Nagumi: S-s-s-s-s-s-sure! Why not?! He.. he.. h.. hk. Yuuki: What the hell''s with your stutter? Hahaha! Nagumi: Shut up! Stupid Sensei-Complex-Being Baaaaakkkaaaa! Yuuki: First of all, you were stuttering for no reason so I couldn''t really stop myself from doing it, second of all, what does "sensei complexity" even mean?! I have nothing for our teachers at all! Nagumi: Hope you''re right on that one. Maybe you got a sensei you like afterall, huh? Yuuki: No! It''s not like that! I... The atmosphere suddenly got silent. Her cheeks gotten red and unnerving. Does it mean... Nagumi: Oy, what happened? What''s with you suddenly pausing? Yuuki: ... From pausing, she''s held onto Nagumi''s sleeves and asks him with a body language to sit on the swings, pointing at them. Nagumi: Don''t tell me you REALLY do have a teacher on mind? This is bad... Yuuki: Listen. I''ll.. only say it once. Nagumi: ...Okay. Both awkwardly sits on the swings, opposite side of each other. "Whatisthiswhatisthiswhatisthiswhatisthiswhatisthiswhatisthiswhatisthis?! Is she gonna confess?! She''s twitching her body, and is looking flushed all the sudden! No... This can''t be. I must break the atmosphere before this happens!"Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Yuuki: Nagumi, I-- Nagumi runs as fast as he could, away from Tsumi. Distracting her. "Wait, why am I running?! I''VE LIKED HER EVER SINCE THEN but... Why?! Why can''t I let things flow as is?!" Nagumi: Look, let''s slide down together! We''ve been swinging around long enough, haha! Tsumi is close to tearing up, and disappointment in her face. Saddened that he is ignoring her even after giving her the okay. Nagumi: Listen, it''s not that I''m ignoring you. Yuuki: Then, what does that mean to me? ... Nagumi: Just, slide down together with me. One try. Let''s fall down together, and talk. Yuuki: ...? Both the awkwardness, disappears in an instant. It feels like the gap between them has been closed. Both happiness in their faces show, blushed with joy. Like there''s no tomorrow, she proceeds to the starting line of the short slide, with Nagumi behind him, letting Tsumi lend her shoulders between his legs. Yuuki: Huh?! Wha-?! N-no! Nagumi: Give it up, caught ya red handed! !!! Yuuki: ...huh?
Nagumi: First its that... I loved you. Ever since the beginning. You released me from the shackles and taught me the way to living. I''ve only known loneliness and depressed myself to death. But now I know that, without you, I... I would only be an empty shell, leaving behind no meanings.
Tsumi flushes her face, heat steadily and increasingly become more obvious in her face. Her grin little by little showing, tear visible to her eyes. Nagumi: I-I''m not expecting any response or anything... But... Please let me lend you my strength! While in the slide and sitting infront of him being Tsumi, he accidentally bows his head and collide painfully, crashing down the slide. Yuuki: Ack! Idiot! What are you doing?! Nagumi: Sorry! I''m sorry, I''m sorry, I''m sorry, I''m sorry... Tsumi glaring towards Nagumi, gives out a heavy sigh while sitted closely with each other still. Time froze still when she suddenly laughed out loud before Nagumi. Nagumi: Tsumi?! What''s wrong? Did you have a mental breakdown or something? I''m sorry!!! Yuuki: Hahaha, no it''s not like that. As she spoke with easing and soft voice, this is the first time in 11 years for Nagumi to see her beautiful side. He... feels relieved. Yuuki: You know... She turns her back to him. Ignoring his face for now. Yuuki: I''m happy that you confessed to me with strong couragement. I don''t even know what you like about me. However... ... However? .. . . - Yuuki: ... For a minute straight, the ambience has gotten silent. Yuuki''s expression looks all the more hesitating and confused on what to do. Nagumi: Like I said! I don''t care about your response now. What matters is that I get to share my feelings for you. That''s all I want and nothing more. Whatever happens, you''re all I have and I will cherish you until you grow tired of me. I need nothing else. Tsumi: Nagumi...-kun. As Nagumi has given his resolve, Tsumi in the end has calmy sigh, not knowing what to do. Nagumi: You know what, how about we go home? It''s getting late already. Our conversation''s are short but for some reason, the timing is too fast, don''t you think? Nagumi laughs it off, and the clock has really moved fast. Tsumi nods in agreement. As they walk to their destination, the awkwardness between the two has grown and expanded bigger than before. No one''s willing to take the lead to break it. Both: ... "What does Nagumi even find special in me? I mean, it''s not that I hate him, but rather we have mutual feelings and that''s what matters. But in the end, it looks like I''m the one rejecting him. How will I fix the situation?" As Tsumi dives into deep thinking, side by side, Nagumi notices her biting her finger nails. Confused as to why, he decides to ignore it. After looking away, he notices a strange small bag on the ground, mesmerized of its design. It looks like someone dropped an Omamori. He picks it up without hesitation. Tsumi: Nagumi. You know, I¡ª Nagumi: ...hu- A strange bright light emits from his hand. It is brighter than how a supernova''s explosion can emit. But it only lasted for a short while. In the residence view, it would''ve looked like it''s been shined a million times stronger than the Sun, that it''s enough to blind anyone who has their sight into it. Thankfully, no one noticed it, as the streets were empty at the time. The bright light''s radius is as big as a sports stadium. Additionally, it would''ve looked like as if a nuclear bomb was dropped to the said location. No one survived it''s beaming gaze, and there was no noise simulated. Only silence. ?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã? Chapter III: The Exhausting Run A dark cave is transitioned. Laying on the ground and waking up left foot shoeless, unknown to Nagumi about what has happened, he got transported to a rocky, wet-drippy cave. It''s so dark for Nagumi that it''s enough to drive him insane if he can''t find a way out. Nagumi: Fuck. Did we... get kidnapped? Doesn''t look like I''m restrained or anything... YUUKI-CHAN! WHERE ARE YOU?! Shouts the anxious Nagumi. Heart beating so fast, he might lose it in an instant. He promised someone that he would cherish (and protect) her, but failed unfairly. Nagumi: ...How did this... happen? I feel like... the world has changed differently. Has it? And my left shoes, who stole it even... This isn''t a joke anymore. Confused of what to do. He searches his pocket for a source of flashlight. Luckily... Nagumi: Thank fucking God, I''m glad my parents bought me a phone. I might''ve tried "my way out" if I never had it. Says the joking Nagumi. ...? Nagumi: Huh? What''s this... a bouquet? What''s all of this doing in this spot. And they''re all withered too. Very strange indeed, but ignoring it, he moves his light to a better place to investigate his surroundings. Cave roof is beyond reach, but it''s not too far either. Pathway is very clear and not much thorny like in the movies, but that is all. Nagumi: Guess I better find my way o- no. I have to search for Yuuki-chan and see if she''s here. I''m sure she''s around here somewhere. Hopefully so. Even if it''s a remaining part of her, an answer''s all I need. That is right. An answer. To the confession, and to the incident. That is all what''s needed. ... After a long 30 minute of thorough search, he finds nothing else but bouquet''s that has already wilted. Nagumi: What a wast- shit. No signal reception aswell. AND NOT MUCH BATTERY LIFE LEFT!? AM I REALLY THAT MUCH HATED?! Cries the sad Nagumi. Well, no matter. It''s already confirmed she''s not in here, even after tracing every speck of the cave. Nagumi: ...Guess I''ll leave. Hopefully, even if by chance, I hope she would atleast leave out of safety if she''s here. I''ll give it one more check later after I investigate where I am. As he confirms his search, it is merely impossible as of now to look for her. Nagumi gives up for now. Time passes by, he''s finally found the exit. It lasted a mere 10 minutes time. Nagumi: Grassy. Windy. Sunny. Beautiful. The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. The boy gazes at the horizon, he finds himself on the top of a grassy hill. Everything is so clear and clean, not a sight of pollute. The air feels so refreshing, and no one''s inhabited the pla- Nagumi: Oh! A village. Lucky! Maybe... I could find Yuuki-chan there! Apparently, the place is indeed inhabited by people. Knowing so, Nagumi runs off the hill to visit the village and ask for help, but falls down dramatically like an idiot. A soothing medievalry-feel music plays in the background. A noisy crowd, and looks like a marketting place. Everything feels so historic, that it felt like time has reversed back to 1450''s. If that''s the case... That would explain the signal reception being without a trace. Technology Age has downgraded. As Nagumi thought of the same thing, he cries with disappointment. Nagumi: Why''d I have to get Isekai''d to an old age instead of a futuristic one?! Am I really considered a fucking protag? Where''s my god damn powers then?! ...he thinks so. Should it really matter even? A banner placed on the top, named Yisethoria on the entrace for everyone to see. This should confirm on where he is. Nagumi: Yisethoria... huh? That''s a big fucking relief. I really did get Isekai''d! This isn''t a matter of life or death anymore, but a matter of knowing something''s gonna happen! This explains why Yuuk-chani isn''t here. It must''ve been that she was left off at Japan, and if so... I hope that is the case. He picks on his ears in order to relieve himself from stress. Finally, calm in the state. He roams the street, not knowing what kind of place he is in, decides to differentiate the world he used to live in to this world. As there''s much to see, there''s not much else to compare other than the infrastructures. Stone Age would be the right wordings for their technology, so far it''s not that complicated to understa- ???: --Brrk! Nagumi: Woah! Male Resident: Hey, pal! Watch where you goin''! Damn retard... Nagumi: ...sorry. Male Resident: Tsk! Spits the villager on a... beast carriage?. Rudely enough, on the case of Nagumi, he is not at fault here. Nagumi: Do I look like a delinquent? I''m the only one here with an ''unusual'' clothing here. Sighs the boy. Nagumi: Oddly enough, beastial beings carrying carriages... That''s really cool. I wonder if there''s... hot beastial chi- Nonono! I already have Yuuki-chan in my heart! ... Wimpers Nagumi. Nagumi: Right, right... Ask for help... The crowd is huge, enough to be compared to Tokyo streets at busy hours. If it would help, maybe having 1 villager to atleast talk to him would suffice. Apparently, everyone glares at him with confusion and negative behavior. As the young Nagumi continues to do so, no one wants to have his attention at any cost. As this would mean... Nagumi: This is discrimination... -sigh-. Nothing I could do unless I change this clothes. Better find a clothing shop, then- --!? ???: You. A girl whisphers, behind him. Nagumi: Huh? Immediately, on Nagumi''s mind... the first encounter reminds him of his girl of his life,. Tsumi Yuuki. His heart thumps as loud as it can be, as he is reminded a reminicient of past life, that changed his life forever with a single word. You. She pats his shoulders once, to catch his attention. ???: You. Are you in trouble? Nagumi: Hu- Ah! Oh, yeah I am. I''m new to this place and I don''t have any idea on where to go... Hehe... The boy giggles. ???: -sigh-, guess I got no choice. You got a strange outfit, though it''s not a bad design. A... head cover, blue and white color, and a rubber pants... Nagumi: Seriously! You put in wayyy too much detail! Just to let you know, Earth designed this cool ass hoodies and pants! ???: I don''t care. Nagumi: You just did! Both laughs as they understood each other. Nagumi: Anyway, what''s with you approaching me all the sudden? ???: Helping other people in need is in my blood after all! I can''t just leave you on your own, otherwise who knows what trouble you would''ve done here! Nagumi: Do I look that suspicious? Compared to those beats riding carriages, they''re more intimidating than I am... ???: Ah, they''re called Urions. Though, not that you asked for it... ...*sigh* Nagumi: Right.... Nods Nagumi. A sooth sigh leaves his mouth. ???: Ah right, where are my manners... I am Nishio Redman. A master sage swordsman of fifth caliber, at your service! Nagumi amazed at the introductions. Wows only shows on his face. Redman: ...and you are? Nagumi: Uh- ah! Nagumi Shiruto, a professional anime otaku! I know more fantasies than what meets the eye... Touyu! Nishio Redman, laughs at his introduction. Nagumi: What''s with you laughi- no nevermind, leaving off a positive impression''s all I need anyways. Redman: No, it''s not that you sounded awkward... But it reminds me of the old days... ??? Nagumi: What do you mean? Is there gonna be storytelling at some point? Nishio hums, not knowing how to tell him of her past... Redman: Right, since you''re an Otaku, guess it''s safe to tell you anyhow. I am part Japanese-Demian myself. I was first born at Japan, but got transported here for no reason, and in your case, I guess we''re both an equal victims to it. Nagumi: Huh... Redman-san? --- Redman: Ah, spare your humble honorifics. You can call me Nishio, we''re both a partner in crime now, aren''t we? The girl giggles. But a sudden shock leaves off Nagumi''s expression. ?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã? Chapter IV: Running Away from the Impossible (CHAPTER IV COVER) "Did I.. mishear that? So that means, that-" Nishio: You''re not alone. And so am I, apparently! Hehe... Nagumi: I-is that... so. Nishio: What? Cat got your tongue? Nagumi: Ah.. no. It''s that, I thought I was the only one who got transported in this world. I could''ve thought I was a protagonist of some anime for a second. Nishio: Guess that''ll make me the deuteroganist. Nagumi: No, I''d rather not we aren''t on this roles! Bad things happen to protagonists when they don''t know they are one! Nishio: That''s true.. The both agreed mutually not to get way ahead of themselves. Nishio: Anyhow, let''s come visit my home. I have 2 homes myself, one in this village and one on the capital of this country. Wanna camp on em'' for now? Nagumi: As much as I would like to, it''s plain awkward for me to acknowledge your offer, since... you''re a- Nishio: Yeah yeah, just cuz'' I''m a woman. Right? Not that you would do anything to me anyways. I already told you I''m a master sage swordsman. I''d just pat your back, and you''ll set aflames. !!! Nagumi: On second thought, I wanna live elsewhere, but since I got no other choice, I''ll take your offer. Nishio: Good! ... The girl jumps happily. Knowing she would be defenseless against a male being, she''s strong enough to bring up her role in the community and loyalty. Aside this, Nagumi is strongly urgent to living elsewhere in his mind, but he really doesn''t have a choice, as she is his only source of knowledge to this God forsaken world. -- The both has arrived at their place of camping. Time is estimated to be at... Dusk. Moreover... Nagumi: Holy shit! This place is your secondary, and it looks this good? What the hell is your wealth status, mademoiselle? Are you some kind of princess? Nishio: Spare the flattery, I''m a royal knight. Servant to our Holy Homeland, Demian-to-Knowledgeable! Or, rather that is what some crazy nutcrack would say. But thing is, they''re all true to heart. Nagumi: Right, don''t admit that you''re a crazy nutcrack yourself! Makes me feel unsafe living here temporarily! To his eyes, he doesn''t feel deserving of living here, as who knows what he would do when he feels motivated to do something ulteriorly negative. Pulling himself would be the best realistic option. He is not pure to heart, even if tempted by this girl unintentionally to do something. Her characteristics as a maiden brightens her feminine imagery. Bright, long red haired color, and a perfect body build. For a knight, she doesn''t look like one. Rather, she wears a common village garment outfit. She looks physically weak, but shouldn''t be underestimated. To conclude, she might look off duty, but she is doing her job on the streets without anyone ever knowing of her occasion. The housing, no. The mansion, the furnitures, everything looks neat and clean. Everything feels so rich. The mansion''s infracture is built by wood, like a cabin in the forest. To the eyes of Nagumi, this may aswell look like a vacation house for Christmas occasions. It feels so merry to live here on cold nights like this. It may aswell be worth traveling here for 30 minutes estimate by foot, being accompanied by a sweet girl.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. Nishio: Help yourselves around. Feel free to call this your home! Nagumi: Thank you, Nagumi-san. This place is wonderful. Of course, please disregard my improper statements earlier, for I may be rude to your splendid and beautiful architechture. Nishio: You really don''t have to act too proper! Jeez, you''re too agitating when you act like that. The two argues about how Nagumi is having a complexity about proper manners. Maybe he caught his sickness from- Nagumi: Yuuki. Nishio: What? Yuuki-san? Nagumi: Oh, sorry.. It slipped off my mouth by acci- wait.. Yuuki..-san? Did I hear that right? ??? Nishio: Yeah. Tsumi Yuuki, right? It slipped off your mouth aswell. Nagumi: Wait, do you know her or not?! Which is it, I''m confused. Nishio: There''s no deeper meaning behind what I''ve said other than the statement being literally it. Nagumi: ... Something felt off for a second, but there''s no point to pushing the incident now. He''ll just assume that he did speak out loud unintentionally. ?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã? It''s dark outside. The air feels so chilly and silent. Nagumi: Oh right. Ni-N... Nishio-san. Can I ask you tons of things? I wanna get to know you better, and perhaps atleast know about my situation. Asking with hesitation, due to not being used to calling people their first name. Nishio: What''s with the stutter? I already gave you the privilege to call me by my first name. Not that I pay any mind anyways. You may. Nagumi: Right... As he proceeds to thinking, he''ll need to ask the right questions properly, otherwise there might be a sudden revoke to the interrogation if done wrong. [Firstly...] mutters Nagumi, as his first word to the interrogation. Nagumi: How did you get transported here? Nishio: Hmmm, I don''t remember much of it, but I think it''s because I grabbed something peculiar while strolling uh... Hiroshima, if I may have not forgotten about it. Nagumi: You''re right. Hiroshima''s a place, so nothing you could''ve forgotten about. "Strange. She said, she have forgotten about it. So this implies it''s been a long time since she''s been transported here. I''ll confirm everything later. Now onto the next." Nagumi: What did you grab, specifically? Nishio: I don''t remember, I think. But I can assure I grabbed a flashy pebble. It looked like gold, but after grabbing it, I got transported to a mansion in the capital. Which is currently my primary household, and my reason for why I serve the nation itself. Nagumi: Is that so. Was there anyone in the mansion or where you got transported in the time being? Nishio: No, fortunately. It was empty and felt like it was abandoned ever since. Nagumi: Hmm... He puts his fingers to his chin, to comprehend her case. However, the main difference between their scenario is that she grabbed something else rather than an Omamori. Speaking of... "I think I still have the Omamori with me. Could it?" He searches his pockets once more. To his surprise, finds a strange square object and grabs it. Nishio: Oh! That looks like one of your loots after grabbing the thing before getting transported here! I have one aswell, but all I got from it was a holy sword. !!! Nagumi: Spare the bullshit, how did you get a holy sword from something this small? He shows the black small loot box in front of Nishio''s face. She sighs. Nishio: Well duh, dumbass. I don''t know either, but call it that it came from another dimension, but without a doubt it looked badass pulling the sword in my case. Nagumi: ... "This looks like one of the holders for a marriage ring. Surprisingly, it looks very gorgeous. What''s insi-" ? Nagumi: ... A ring? Nishio: That''s cool. Though, I don''t suspect it to be as cool as my holy sword. Which I call the Excalibur. Nagumi: You should seriously stop showing off, you''re gonna make me cry like a peasant that I am. Nishio giggles. Nishio: Well? What are you waiting for? Are you gonna wear it? Nagumi: No, to your dismay, you look more adamant to wearing it than I do. Why is that? Nishio: Hmmph. You read me like a book. You''re good. She crosses her arms, with a satisfied look. As if she looks at him as having a stronger will type. Nishio: It''s not that I don''t wanna wear it, but why don''t you? Nagumi: It looks like crap, so I may as well give it away. It looks dirty and would feel very strange for a guy to have this look being like a peasant. So I might aswell just give it away. Nishio: I would take it off your hands for you, but I''m afraid I can''t do that. Nagumi: Why not? Nishio: Well... ... She looks away with regret, colliding her pointy fingers with one another. Nishio: There''s a consequence to doing it, so I''d rather not. Nagumi: And what is that? Nishio: If I pass my "Familiar" to you, your heart will be ignited astray, or simply put... You might break psychologically if you''re not compatible with it. No, rather than compatibility, I''m sure only one in every universe would be able to possess someone else''s familiar. Which is impossible for both of us to have more than one familiar. Nagumi: Is that so. Nishio, lending her shoulders to the pillar of the house, frustrated. Nishio: I.. did this once to one of my subbordinates. Nagumi: And that explains, why you knew about the consequences then? Nishio: You''re right, more or less. Thankfully, his illness was temporary. Of course, I don''t wanna test whether if I would gone crazy if I took your ring though. Nagumi: Hahaha, well, it wouldn''t hurt lending it once in a while. I don''t mind letting you have it. Here. Nagumi sets a banter as he shows his ring in his palm to Nishio, as a result she runs away from him, slamming the door and hiding from her room. Angry and scared of Nishio''s "Familiar". Nagumi, asks for forgiveness as he doesn''t know where he should sleep, and Nishio exits. Time passes by, through the sleepy cold night, there, sleeps the tired Nagumi. Surrounded by bookshelves, a wooden desk and a lanter on top. A window, shining moonlight to his face. With a ring worn in his finger, little by little... A skin wears off his right ring finger. Remaining in it, only a skeletal finger, still intact with his hands. The ring, as cursed as it looks, may hold a strong threshold of invinsible and unstoppable power. Nagumi. What a mistake. You''ve possessed a dirty, ring, who realistically, no one should be able to wear it with fashion. Looking closely, engraved to the ring... "Ysabel Kiruno and hers'' only... ???¡ã¦Ð" ?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã? Chapter V: Me and My Idiotic Perfect Self It is currently morning. 9 hours has passed for the sleeping Nagumi, who just now woke up. Extending his arms, exercising the blood flow and the muscles. Nagumi: Hmmmph! Bed is comfortable, I fell in love with it. Thank you, Bed-sama. "This bedroom, oddly for me, looks like a household lounge room. It''s soo big it''s enough for me to put enough gym equipments in this single room. Nothing strange or suspicious here either. And looks like, it''s enough for me to trust Nishio-san without worrying of getting murdered in the middle of the night." A knock on the door, implying someone''s calling for Nagumi. Girl: Nagumi-kuuun! It''s breakfast time. Time to wake up! Nagumi: Yeah, yeah. Uhm, thanks again for... Letting me stay here the night. I feel more ashamed about living here without expenses. I''m more of a freeloader than a hotel resident. I''ll make sure to repay the debts, Nishio-san! ??!??!!! A crash to the door, so dramatic, has broken down what''s locking the outside world to this room. An angry and furious girl walks in, with a scary expression. Nishio: What the hell did I just hear? Did you call me an old hag or something?! You sure you wanna say that to my face, you good for nothing peasant? The furious Nishio, unsure of what she heard, thought it to be legible and clear that she was insulted. In the real world, she didn''t really hear it clearly. She pulls up her maidenly waifuu white figure outfit with apron sleeves, expressing anger and crouched. Nagumi: NONONONO! I WAS EXPRESSING MY GRATITUDE AND ALL... I DON''TMEAN TO INSULT YOU, NISHIO-SAMA! I BEG FOR YOUR FORGIVENESS FOR HOW DEAF YOU A- I MEAN FOR NOT SPEAKING CLEARLY! I LOVE THE BED, I FELL IN LOVE WITH IT. PLEASE LEND US YOUR BLESSINGS! Nishio: Say what, you damn brat?! Furnitures break left and right. A broken Nagumi, crossing his legs in the floor, seated in front of Nishio for the rude and banter behavior. May he rest in peace. --- After the breakthrough among the two housemates, peace is once restored. In the round dinner table, centered on the house, just in front of the kitchen, lies the two residents eating food. Nagumi: Ara ara! The food is very tasty! You cook so good, Nishio-san! I wanna have seconds. Nishio: Fufu! Have as much as you''d like! There''s more where they came from! Nagumi, with fluffy cheeks and mouth full of food, gleams with hope as it has recovered after the misunderstanding incident. Nishio, in front of Nagumi, in a 10 seat table, shows a satisfying eye gleam. But... Nagumi: Are these cow meat? Hamburger? It''s soo gooood! Nishio: No. ...? Nagumi: Uh.. I don''t know much about meat, but what is it made of? Nishio: Urion''s anu- !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Nagumi spits with utmost disgust. Nagumi: What the hell?! Are you damn serious, you old hag?! What is this, fuckin'' 1st century anus age?! The fuck is this shit! Nishio: Listen up you cunt, you don''t know shit about the exquisite foods that exist in this world, second of all, what the fuck did you say?! OLD HAAAGGGGG?????! Nagumi: I don''t give a flying fuck anymore! Why would you feed anus, disgusting country side hag?!If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Nishio flips off the finger as he angrily says it. The two fights off in a hand to hand combat, repeating the same instance that happened awhile ago, and the result once more repeating as the previous battle. Nagumi, full of bruises and bumpy sides to his face, surrenders in defeat. Nagumi: I- I-... The boy cries with hands to his face, unable to mutter a single word to apologize. Nishio: HUH?! MIND FUCKING REPEATING WHAT YOU SAID? I''M DEAF, AREN''T I?! Nagumi: I''m sorry. Nishio-san, no. Nishio-sama! Please spare my lifeee!! After sparring to death, Nagumi seated on a couch infront of a fireplace, attempts to recover his injuries. In the distance, Nishio, brewing a hot brownish beverage in order to make up with Nagumi. She hands off the brewed beverage to Nagumi. Nishio: Here. As a sorry for... not telling you about... the Urion''s a- Nagumi: Thanks, though forgive me for cutting off there on the last part, but I''d rather not hear about it. For now, let''s just forget what happened. Both agrees. Nagumi: Just to be safe, this is a- Nishio: Coffee. Yes, it is. It''s not piss, I can assure you... I forgot you just arrived in this world so I thought of thinking about your circumstance, and thought of letting you go with the flow of how things are done in this world. Nagumi: First of all, thank God that you finally managed to have manners. Second of all, there''s no way in hell I''d adapt to the food in here! Nishio: Then, you''re better off starving. As you say so. Nagumi: Is there nothing else than a Urion''s anus even?! Nishio: Unfortunately, there''s none. It''s been 249 Years Earth time since I arrived here. And I''ve been in your case aswell, and I fortunarely have managed to adapt. ! Nagumi: 249 years? You are an old hag! No offense, though. But, now speaking of it... "This is the one question I missed a chance to ask, now it''s time to conclude it." Nagumi: What year was it on Earth before you came here? Nishio: 2019. In your case, since you just arrived, that would mean it''s already year 2,268 on Earth? I''m supposed to be aged 21 before I got here, but it looks like I won''t be aging old enough. Biologically speaking, on this Earth, I am 269 years old, but since I don''t look like I aged, I would be still 21 physically. Nagumi: But, before I left Earth, it was only year 2020! How is this possible?! What''s the date here even now? Nishio: Let''s see... I have a clock on the wall, over there. Fortunately, this world has the same watch as our Earth, so this just makes things more convenient. Points out Nishio. On the wall, stating the day''s time. For some reason, it is very different. Nishio: Now, I know what you''re gonna say. "Why is there 27 hours in the clock?" Well, that''s how the time works here. In a day, a human, demi-beasts, urions, fairies, gods and demons, spend their average life of 15 hours in daytime. And 12 hours on night time. Crazily enough, the Earth we used to live in is consistent with its rotational speed compared to this world. Hence, the scient- no, Grand Time Sages, believes there to be 27 hours full day time. Nagumi: ... Nishio: What is it? Cat got yo- Nagumi: Thanks for the info, but is that seriously the only idioms you could say? Nishio: Hehe~ Looks like I pissed you off big time. Below the clock. Is the year, and it is currently- Nishio: Year 30,097. I don''t know how it''s come to this, and in comparison with the current Earth''s age to this, we''re more advanced than everyone in this world. I guess you could say, advancing the technology isn''t necessary anymore as magics are there to fulfill the jobs. However, I also have no idea how long it takes for this Earth to completely rotate around the this Sun, and that''s too complexed for me to know, a stupid knight! She bumps her fists to her head, with an idiotic expression. Nagumi: Took my words right out of you, the last part. Not that I''m saying you''re a stupid night, as it goes the same for me. But, thank you for everything you''ve done until now. I wanna ask if I could stay together with you for the time being, but of course, I''m willing to pay my share for taking care of me. Nishio: Heheee~ ara? Is that so, I remember you being so insulting as a bratty child when I came to wake you up. Nagumi: Please, seriously forget about that incident. I have no intention of being a coward speaking behind your back. I never even called you an old hag to begin with, that was me expressing gratitude at that time. God... Exhausted Nagumi. Looking tired again as he face palms, but in turn, Nishio embarassed. Nagumi: What? Nishio: Oh, nothing... "I have the ability to tell what is a lie and what is the truth, and he IS telling the truth. How am I gonna ask for forgiveness now? I''ve wronged him in so many ways without hearing him first" Nishio whistles, hiding her sides in embarassment. Nishio: Oh, by the way. I have a duty to do at the central capital. Duty calls~ I guess. Nagumi: Hmm, m''kay. ... Nishio: Do you wanna... accompany me? Asks the inviting Nishio. Without hesitation... Nagumi: I''ll take the offer. Can''t hurt to atleast go out for a walk every once in a while. Nishio: Great! As for accepting my invitation... Nagumi: ...? Nishio: In paying for my debts, I wouldn''t mind if you join my sides in the ranking as a fellow Royal Servant. Then, we can call off everything in debt. Nagumi: I-is that so? Being a knight is cool and all, but I''ll gladly accept the trade. ... Both nods in mutual agreement. The rise to knighthood, has finally arrived for Nagumi Shiruto. A day of exhilarating independence for the world is nigh. A legendary story, is born... Nagumi: Although... I don''t know how to wield a sword. Nishio: That''s what training is all about! I''ll introduce you to one of my subordinates, see if they''ll see you fit! Nagumi: Ah, that''s great, indeed. Can''t miss the chance to show off my cool side to you, after ever- Nishio: However... ... Nagumi: ...What, is there more to it? Nishio: I can''t tell you the details, but are you sure you''re prepared to do it? ??? Sad tears, stream down on her face. Not noticing her expression, immediately rubs off the watery eyes to cover her tracks. Nagumi: Are... You okay? ... Nishio: Hmm? Oh, forgive me for my rudeness. Let''s not talk about it for now. Hehe... ... Nagumi: Strange, this is something you wanted to talk about, but at the same time it is not. I won''t push your resolves though. Atleast I''m that respectable and lovely at heart. Nishio: Thanks... Call it, a wish to fullfill from one of the person I admired. ---? Nagumi: What''s the wish about though? Is this something I could fully d- Nishio, gasping for air heavily. Finally, lets out the real anger inside that has built up. Nishio: NO! STOP PUSHING AT THE MATTERS, AND JUST DEAL WITH IT! --!~ The shock shows on both their faces, Nishio realizing she made a grave mistake. Immediately, supresses her emotions and... Nishio: I''m sorry. Just... let me be alone while we ride to the Cen...tral. Nagumi: ...okay. ... Nishio: ---hk! The both exits the secondary household. For the two of them, it leaves out an unhappy memory after the incident. Not knowing how to fix the situation, the both pledges theirselves to be strong and senseful as they ask for a rent on Urion carriages, to be carried to the capital in prior time. ~ For 3 days without conversation, but only gestures to support themselves, they have arrived their destination. Chapter VI: The Existence of Melancholy (CHAPTER VI COVER) After arriving in 3 days, the two riders, still on the carriage, let''s out an inelligible moan, attempting to understand on what to do. Nishio: ... Nagumi: ... But, no one could find the courage to break the ill, wicked, and tiring mood. Until... Nagumi, taps his fingers on the seats with a rhythm. Playing a beat of an anime song in mind. Nagumi: *hums* Nishio: ...? Nagumi: Sing-a-long with me, mademoiselle! Baguette is lookin'' fresh and delicious, there''s a whole day ahead! Nishio: Is... that an anime opening? Nagumi: What do you think? Does it ring a bell for you? Nishio: C-certainly not! I''m not an anime fanatic like you are! Shrugs the Nishio. The mood has finally been cured. Nagumi: ... Nishio: ...? What is it? Do I have something on my face? Nagumi: Nope. Nothing like that. Asks Nishio, as Nagumi stares at her glistening eyes. Nagumi: ... Nishio: You know, you should cut it off before I- Nagumi: You look cute for a knight. Adorable, and beautiful at most. Hehe~ Nishio blushes after hearing the facts given. Nishio: Are you... Looking for some trouble? Nagumi: That''s the first statement I heard from you when we first met, but without the "looking" in it. Nishio: DON''T MAKE FUN OF ME! She slaps him on the back as hard as he could, still in the carriage. The boy screams the loudest he ever could. This moment, reminding him of his past life with Tsumi Yuuki during their countless encounters. Finally, he''s broken of the chains connecting him with her, telling himself to move on. After heading out the carriage and parking, right in front of them lies a beautiful sight to behold. Nishio: Welcome to the Capital! Known as, Seuphico'' of the Outlandish! Nagumi: That sounds too cool for a place, and this is a beautiful sight! Nishio: Right? Though, I''ve grown tired of it. So it doesn''t really move me much anymore. What lies right in front of them, is a countless architects of stone buildings. The technology here looks very more advanced than the previous world. With magic at hand, anything is possible to reimagine. Nonetheless, this is nothing to get tired of, hence it is very moving. From the distance, a young meek maid girl approaches the two with clumsiness. Maid: G-greetings, Nishio-senp- I mean, Nishio-sama and g-g-guest! It-it''s been awhile!! Please, let me a-accompany you two! The girl, blushing for no reason. Could be what anyone would call a deredere. Nishio: Same as ever, Thera. You''re too shy on introductions! Thera: I- My apologies! Please, forgive me! I wi-will do better! Nishio: Hahaha, you''re toooo cute, Thera! No one is as pure as you are! Your cheeks are sooo soft and fluffly! I love you to deaaath! Nishio brushes Thera''s cheeks with her own, leading for Thera to become overly reddish. Thera: Nishio-sama! Stop, please! This is too much! I don''t deserve your satisfactory compliments! I am not wooortthhhyyyy! "They look VERY close with one another. Too close! And speaking of, holy shit she''s cute! Short hair, maiden outfit, thin thighs, and small hands and feet! She''s an ideal angel! I think, she''s the same age as I am? We''re both the same height aswell!" Nishio: Oh right. Ahem. Sorry for the inconvenience, Nagumi-kun. I would like for you to introduce yourself to her. Nagumi: Shouldn''t it be the other way around?! You''re not very knightly at all! Thera: Uh-uhm... I''m... Theresa Hanabira! I-I''m.... "She''s shaking to her core, and her anxiety are off the charts! So cute!" Thera: You.. can call me Thera. I-it wuld bi en honur! She covers her mouth as she bit her tongue. Too cute. Nagumi: Thera-san. Are you... biologically connected to royalty by any chance? You''re too cute for a maiden, and you''re more like a young princess blooming to me! Thera: N-no! Sincerely, d-don''t speak highly of me in f-front of our Knight! Nishio: You really are too cute, Thera! Nothing else would satisfy me other than you being weightless! I can swing you around without problems at all! Thera: N-nooo! T-this is too much!! I can''t handle heights!!!!! Nishio swings Thera by the arm pits, left and right, too focused on the side subjects than the tour. Thera being too flustered, flaps his arms trying to fly away, but fails to do so. Afterall, human beings can''t fly. "In her heart... Nishio-san''s, there''s no place for me.. huh? I''ve pushed her and relied on her too much after only meeting her in a day. Is this.. how I will repay her? But at the same time, it feels like deep inside her... There are regrets." Nagumi deep into a void of thinking, frustrated on what to do and how to resolve their gap. Nishio glances on Nagumi''s side, unnoticed. "Did I... make things uncomfortable between us? I should apologize to Nagumi-kun for my misbehavior. I cannot be forgiven for such things, and it is all the more reason why I don''t deserve to be a knight. All I do is make mistakes, and resent on other people to push my problems to them. I am unforgiveable." Both stuck into resolving the issues on their own... Theresa stuck mid air on Nishio''s threshold. Not noticing, the playful and cheery Thera manages to ensure encouragement once more. Thera: A-ahm uhm... Excuse me! But... I-if there''s any matters I can h-help with... Please, sincerely! L-lend me y-your pain once in a w...hile. I, don''t mind you guys... sharing your... sufferings... w-with me! Shyly asks Thera. The two stares at each other''s eyes, not realizing that they were too obvious with their gaps, finally have the resolve to exchange "sincere" apologies and gratitude with each other. Nishio: W-wait! This problem is our case. You don''t have to go that far! We''re very sorry for the inconveniences we''ve caused you, Thera-san! We were too open about the issue! Right, Na-ga-mi? Nishio forces Nagumi to bow, unable to help herself move, she lets him do the disciplinary. Thera: ...hehe! The girl, extends a sincere smile towards the two. Speechless and at awe from their relationship, turns her back and leads on the tour. The past is finally no more. Nishio: Now that''s all done and said, let me show you the route around! We''ll get started on your training after. Nagumi: T..rain? You''re gonna train me by any chance? Nishio: Sadly, no. But don''t think too negative of it. She''s a high spirited partner of mine, and you might like her once you get to know each other!A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Nagumi: Oh, cool. "Somehow, every friends I meet are only girls and so. Starting with Yuuki-chan.. unto the next is Nishio-san, and finally Thera-chan. Can this get anymore livelier and so? This feels like a dream for every harem king blooming!" Without Nagumi noticing the real world situation, he is deep into thoughts, gazing towards the blue sky without a care in the world. The two girls present, grabs onto each of his arms to lead him on the entrance while he''s unaware of the circumstance. The boy, immediately fired up after realizing what he''s been up to. Feeling a burning touch to both left and right arms, he notices- Nagumi: Wahh! Nishio-san! Thera-san! How did I end up here?! Nishio: Stupid, Nagumi. Stupid! You''ve been daydreaming the whole minute and couldn''t be the least patient about waiting for you to finish your damn thought process. Is that how slow your brain works? Thera: Y-you''ve been.. gazing at.. space without noticing, Na-Nag-kun.. *gasps* Nishio: Nag-kun? That fits more and plays off like him! Stupidgami-kun to top the cherry off. Nagumi: That''s not really funny anymore, or rather that''s bullying. You should stop, Nishio-san. And you too, Thera-san! The boy wimps, and Thera seen visibly panicking, confused on how to apologize but couldn''t. Nagumi: Anyway, put everything aside... Where are we? Nishio: This is the main corridor, as you should be able to tell. Nagumi: Ohh? Is that right. This is one long corridor! I didn''t even noticed going in front of the entrance even. Nishio: We''ll go back to that later, but for now... As she shows the whole interior of the facility, the main corridor firstly -- Nishio: As you can see, this is very much like one of the movies you see during your timelyhood at Earth. An example to confirm that is, every step you take, the armor displays are there for decoration, surrounding the side ways. The only main difference is-- wait, don''t touch him! Nagumi, stupid about listening decides to ignore the explanation, proceeds to interact and touch one of the armor''s bums- ??? Armor: Oy, whe''e youth'' touchin.. boy? T''ats hellavuh ro''d to do! Has yo'' mothe'' been kiss''n that pr''ckly hends? Nagumi: WAH! THEY CAN TALK?! He says, after dropping ass first to the ground. Nishio: If you''d atleast let me finish talking, then yes. They are possessed by the lost "Familiars" who have lost their owners, and as a result, they have their own free will to do anything as long as they are suppressed to their own desires. They''re more like a living being who lives in this world, but they do not have their own possessing vessels, only this armors, which our Royal Government has provided. If you''re curious enough and don''t believe me, you might aswell check what''s inside the ar- Armored Familiar: Oy, oy! Wait, stop right there! I have my own dignity too, you know! Nagumi: You have too many accents! Which is your real one?! Sighs Nishio, as she finishes explaining. The familiar has it''s own way of talking, and its voice to explain is rough, much like a middle aged person''s. However... "That attitude is like mine. I feel like I could relate to him in some ways." The armored familiar leans close, to whispher though Nishio''s ears. Armored Familiar: Who is he, mademoiselle? He looks strange for a newcomer. Is he from around here? The clad scratches its own cheek, as a sign of confusion. Nishio: Nah, you can say he''s from uh... Other world but you wouldn''t believe me after all the progress he''s made, as you can sense his aura from your viewpoint. Armored Familiar: Now that you mention it, he has.. the darkness aura surrounding him. Looks dirty, hopeless, and stinks like shit. Nothing like I''ve seen before, or rather... This is my second encounter to it after a certain jackass attacked our vicinity. Nishio: That''s right. He is unnatural, but at heart, he is a good person. So let''s for now give him hope. Armored Familiar: Soo, how did it come to be? How did you two meet each other? Nishio: You could say, it was love at first sight. After realizing what she said, she immediately gives out a reaction and a correction. Nishio: I mean... Not in the way of loving him romantically! It''s hard to explain... But it''s got nothing to do with it being mentality and physicality! The girl waves her hand, in response to taking back her statement. Nagumi: So, knowing the dire situation I''m in, all I got to hear from you guys is how I look like trash in your perspective. Never knew you both had that kind of sides. Nagumi shivers in response to the misunderstanding, altogether without hearing the last part. Armored Familiar: Now, now... Don''t let it get to you too easily. After all, knowing everyone''s true selves would only give you a better hope to improving yourself! Nagumi: Like hell I asked for it! As usual, the atmosphere''s at high spirit once again. However... Nagumi: By the way, since you have your own personality, what do I call you even? Armored Familiar: Call me?! I figured there''s a better question to ask than that shitty statement. You can call me whatev''s you like. I don''t care either way. Nagumi thinks... Nagumi: I think it''s only right to call you Bob. Ain''t that right? Armored Familiar: I''m sure there are better names you can call me other than that shitty and half-assed name. I''m a Familiar, I can''t be called Bob. Otherwise, I''d be a laughing stock! The two argues, as Nagumi is really crappy at giving Familiars name. Armored Familiar: Oy, Nishio-sama! Please, say something to this dumbass! I don''t feel safe being close to him or whatsoever. And even so, you''re the one here who''s gotten to know me the most! Nishio: Right... uhm... Nishio: Would... Toru do it? The Armored Familiar and Nagumi both looks at each other''s eye, asking for a mutual agreement. Both nods in this suggestion. Nagumi: Toru sounds good. As expected of the greatest sage sama! Nishio: Please, your praises are worth nothing for me. Save your discrepancy for something else. Nagumi: As expected, of the horrific old hag sage sama!! Nishio: Fuck off! And why is that louder than the first one?! Other armored familiars: - Great Old Hag Sage Sama! In here! Please, lend us your strength! We also want names! (Pooru) - Y-yes! We''ll t-trust you in all ways more than uhm... one to give.. us better names! (Oru) - A name would be great. But it''s not like I''m asking for one or anything! Hmmph! (Tsunderu) Nishio: Which one of you shitheads called me an old hag?! But whatever, I''ll give you all the names you want. Don''t complain to me if they sound shitty enough for you, because I don''t give a fuck about how cool it is or shit is. Otherwise, I prefer it to be the other way around from the cool-side as you all pissed me off too much. The unnamed familiars, frightens as they face off Nishio without any intentions of insulting her, as they heard the insulting phrase from Nagumi itself. Like in the real world, they''re more on baby steps than matured ones. Finally, they are named after everything''s cooled down. Pooru, for the guillible type. Oru, for the Deredere type, and Tsunderu for... Tsundere.. type. The chill wind''s finally moved on. After finishing the introductions on the corridor ways, more Knight Armor displays are shown. More or less, it is estimated that they have met around 23 Armored Familiars around the way, with the other armors only being an empty vessel, waiting to be found by a wandering Familiar. On the way, he is shown the lounge room, dining room, guest rooms, kitchen, laboratories, and a garden. They have finished their tours, and Nagumi''s finally awaited rest has arrived. It is currently 26:30, close to midnight. Nishio: Ah, right. I almost forgot. This is my primary household, though I''m not the headmaster of it. So you will be living here from now on to relieve yourself of your duties. Nagumi: I figured on the way, so I''m not the least bit surprised about it. Nishio: Well you should be. Anyways, I''ll introduce you to the Headmaster of this mansion tomorrow, he''ll be coming back soon, so you''ll have to wait until then. That way, you can train yourself on your way to knight hood. Nagumi: Got you. So, where should I be sleeping exactly? Nishio redirects Nagumi to his bedroom, found on the very far corner of the 3rd floor of the mansion. This is where all the male resident''s sleep, or one can call this floor to be it''s own Male Dormitory. The 2nd floor for guest vicinity. The 4th floor for female''s dormitory, and lastly the 5th floor... restricted to only authorized personels. Nagumi, lays softly on the bed like a broken child in his own bedroom. Tired from the roamings he''s went through. Along the way... A knock is heard from the door. ???: N-Nagumi-sama... M-may I come.. in?! Nagumi: Ah, sure. You may. - Thera: Uhm... since y-you haven''t eaten yet... P-please uhmm... help yourself! She offers a tray of fancy foods at hand, with a few servants behind operating a cart, the same class as Theresa Hanabira. ???: Help yourselves out, Nagumi-sama. Nagumi: Ah, thank you, Thera-san.. and you are? ???: Ah, forgive me for not introducing myself while you were on your way to inspect the mansion. I am the senior of our female class, Alphys Reverene. Behind me is a butler, the same league as I am, a senior... Ino Phlores. I was reminded by Nishio-sama while you were on your way here. Ino: H-hello! I- I mean... Greetings, Nagumi-sama! Alphys Reverene. A mature looking woman. A violet hair, good body, and is atleast 5''9 ft tall. May be in her 20''s, basing from her beautiful look. Her voice is soft, and maturish, beautiful per''se. Ino Phlores. A gorgeous model of a butler. White hair, 5''7 ft tall. Comparing to Nagumi, Ino is a little taller than him, but more or less, it is debatable. Might be the same age as Nagumi, as he is currently at 17. However, he is more clumsy than he looks, but very approachable. Nagumi: Ah... yes. I''ll introduce myself then. I''m Nagumi Shiruto. I''ll be on your care from now on! Alphys: Same for us. Thank you for participating yourself as a Knight. We will be expecting more from you from now on. Ino: Mhm! What she said! The servants bow in gratitude and exits the room, leaving only both Thera and Nagumi. Nagumi:Uhm, is there anything else you need? He scratches his head as he asks while seated on the bed, and Thera standing in front of him. Thera: Uhm... yes! I, would like to ask you something. J-just to get to know y-you better, of course!! Nagumi: Sure, what is it? Thera: W-why are you... joining the ranks of.. "The Excalibur''s Patronage?" Nagumi: Ah, so that''s what it''s called. I guess you can say, I owe a friend for guiding me move forward throughout this world. Thera: I-is that so... Uhm... Nagumi: ...? The hesitance grow slightly bigger and bigger, unable to come out from Thera''s thoughts of exchange. Until... Nagumi: Is there, something the matter? Thera: It''s that... As she said in a melancholic tone. There: I believe... you should atleast decide the right course of action in all sincerity. Timing is an important aspect and... I believe you deserve to know atleast a little bit of details. Nagumi: ... Unable to comprehend on what it means, has given Nagumi a new better perspective of the Excalibur''s Patronage. What could it mean? Nagumi: Is it... something I.. wait, could this be what Nishio has been worrying about ever since? Thera: I''m afraid I can''t answer that, but... Think hardly through it. Nagumi: What is this about a wish that I must fulfill? Thera: That''s enough. My apologies, Nagumi-sama but I''ll be leaving you in your own care for now. Let us talk tomorrow until then. Nagumi: ... She leaves Nagumi''s room, leaving despairity and hopelessness on Nagumi''s eyes. He comfortably places his own body on the master''s bed. Head on the pillow sunken, and laying on his side view. Saddened to know with curiousity, whatever have they experienced that he doesn''t know, cannot be asked appropriately. Despair. Resentment. Hatred. Greediness. Envious. Wrath. Destruction. Appalling. Callous. Annoying. Oppressive. Pain. Rejection. Shocking. Sinister. Terrifying. Repugnant. Repulsive. Poisonous. Obnoxious. Naive. Monstrous. Nasty. Nobody. Zero. .... Nagumi let''s out a tear on his left eye, the same scenario that has happened during his childhood. He cares for everyone, yet he despises his own self. Knowing their true selves would only lead to distrust and disgust. To care for them, is nothing much different to knowing oneselve. It is truly painful. Because he know''s what it''s like to bottle up a painful memory of being alone, unable to express the pain to words. In their case, it is different compared to him, he believes. As there might be something that disabling them to protest against the system. He glances on his right ring finger, and notices his sk%%&in abo?ve the ri¦Ì¡êng is comple<>?TElY tOr¡ã^~N oFf. Nagumi: WHAT?! WHAT THE FUCK?! Chapter VI.V: What Remains (Short Episode) (CHAPTER VI.V COVER) Into the forest, unknown to the world. A strange person is running away, gasping for air, as if there was no tomorrow, and death is chasing as fast as it could- ???: Haah, ha.. -uk! Ah! Haa, heugh, ha... ???: GET THE FUCK BACK HERE, YOU TRAITOR!!! Behind him, a crowd of protest. Confused and frustrated of what he has done... ???: Please! Let''s just.. talk it out with them! We.. we''re gonna die if we keep running! ???: Then, we die doing so! I don''t have enough time to deal with the embarrassment of dying for being wrong! Deal with this for now, please! In his hand with a heavy grasp to it, a small and fragile pale girl''s hand. ???: We.. haah.. st- ???: YOU''RE BOTH TRAITORS!!! EVERY LAST ONE OF YOU!! ???: Y-.. you see! Th.. this is what I was talking about! NOW RUN! ???: I... jeeeeez, Nagumi-sama! Nagumi: Th... I''m not.. the traitor they think I am! Believe me, Thera-san! Thera: ... Running out of breath, legs shaking to the core of melting away any second... After running and running from danger for as long as they could, they have finally come to a stop. In front... Brave Female Knight: This is as far as you will go, Shiruto-kun. There''s no where for you to run and hide in anymore. Your past achievements will be recognized if you surrender here right now. There''s no need to face the problems alone. Thera: W-what should.. we do?! Nagumi: ... As he thinks of a resolution to fix the situation.. one thing comes to mind... "Behold, an unspeakable power unknown to all and peculiars. You will use me as you should, in return, I will use you for my own gains. Now, what would it be, Nagumi Shiruto?" The ring speaks with benevolent confidence. The dark aura residing within is escaping its vessel. "Now... hold me into your eye, and let us come to a mutual understanding!" ?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã? >> /UNKNOWN/ HOURS AGO - ENDTIME, NIGH << Nagumi close into tears, after only recently discovering what his ring has consumed... Startled from it''s abilities -- Immediately, he tries to remove the ring from his right hand, but is unable to do so. Frightened and shrieking from pain, as he forcibly attempts to remove it, blood seeps from the ring uncontrollably. Nagumi shaking from frustration... Grab''s a fire lantern near the bed on top of the desk drawers. "Is.. is this the only way?! ..ck! I.. I wanna melt it off my fucking hands!" Agonizing from cruel pain, an ineligible male voice is heard ???: Heehhhh? Hahahaha... A menacing shadow, manifesting the shape of a wolf appears in the corner of the room. In the blink of an eye, it has escaped from the dirty ring. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. ???: Nagumi Shiruto. Do you.... wish to... withdraw from... this pain? The manifestation as it speaks, is crude and mysterious. It''s motives are unknown and can''t be predicted. It drools its saliva, as it''s suffering from hunger, trying to hold itself back from eating it''s prey. ???: I am you... and you... are me. Nagumi: Wh.. huh? ???: The loneliness, the weakness, the agony, the pain you feel... I understand all of them. As I speak, I am the very manifestation of all your negative aspects. Nagumi: What.. are you? ???: I am... your familiar... but at the same time.. I am not. Your very core persona are... significant to me. The moment you touched your precious... marriage ring.... you have indirectly signed a contract... to be my... master. And you... will be under my... guidance, in order to save you. Nagumi: Then.. fucking save my ring finger asshole! I haven''t even gotten to marriage yet! How will I tell my wife all this? ???: Forgive me... Nagumi Shiruto... I am slow when it comes to... ex-plaining and so... but... I am not done... giving my credibility as a... Familiar yet. I... consume all the.. blood my owners... produce.... in order to stay.... liege... to my contract. However... I will assure you... the moment you took me... away from my... device... you will be... protected at all cost... at the price of your... very own... finger. Nagumi: ... The bed soaked of blood, and little bits of dead skins hanging to the ring, assures no safetiness towards the young Nagumi. Nagumi: Instead of consuming my very own finger, why not eat my ass in exchange?! Maybe that would better suit your shitty and gloomy behavior! ???: Ver...y well... Nagumi: Huh? NONO, WAIT! I''M JUST JOKING! ???: You... misunderstood me... Nagumi Shiruto. You... musn''t discern... the reality with your own humor... otherwise... it might eat you... away someday. Nagumi: ... The boy facepalms, and slightly relieved, as the motives has finally shown clearly from the apex wolf. ???: I.. fail to... introduce myself. I am of... no name... but... you may call me... whoever you want me... to be. Nagumi: Oshiri. ???: ...understood. The wolf nods in agreement, but comes with it a slight angry tone. It was suppressed rather quickly. Oshiri: Then... as per our... slow introductions... as we come to conclusion... I will reveal... my form. Nagumi seated on bed, waiting to be entertained as he still endures the pain and numbness he is feeling from his ring finger, comes to a wowing face after- Oshiri: From today on... I will be... giving you my best care... to my best of capabilities... as you... will do the same... master. The wolf transform within the black mist, covering every corner of the room with its own black aura until it fades naturally. Beneath the cover, is a young woman, seemingly younger than Thera''s petite age who is estimated to be 15. Her hair flourished in a beautiful color violet, and outfit appearing to be gloomy black as if she arrived from a funeral but at the same time has it''s own fashion for a prom party. Nagumi: Y-you''re.. a girl?! Oshiri: No. I have... many genders akin... among Familiars. I am genderless... and you may... decide... which I should shapeshift to. My wolf... appearance is only... for the sake of my... "cool showoff"... as how your vocabulary... describes so. Nagumi: I think you took way too much of my persona than what you should be even knowing. Other way... I will be in your care then. Oshiri: As... will I. Nagumi: Right but, how will my finger heal safely while you consume my fabulous finger? Oshiri: It is... not within my control... to do so. However... like my previous... owners... I suggest you... take a healthy amount... of healing... potions daily... otherwise... Nagumi: ...Otherwise? Oshiri: You might... As Oshiri takes its time to think of an answer... Oshiri: ...just kidding. Nagumi: Huh? Oshiri: I forgot... what to say... silly... Nagumi: Y-you... You''re the type who really can''t be fucked with in the world, acting so cool and composed all the time! Oshiri: I see... what you mean... Nagumi: You do? Oshiri: I''ve... taken the opportunity... to re-experience your... past and... it was... you can say, touching? Nagumi: Yeah... it is. After hearing her statement, he takes a firm grasp to his chest, knowing he won''t be able to reach out anytime soon to Tsumi Yuuki, as their distance seems to actively move farther and farther. Oshiri: Despair. Nagumi: ... Oshiri: You''re in.. too much pain... Nagumi: ... Oshiri: You may use me... as your instru..ment... to... heal all your... wounds. Nagumi: ... Nagumi: ...Thank you. Without intention, he cries and weeps in dizziness. The wolf hums, and allows Nagumi to sleep into it''s slender lap. "The pain he had to endure wasn''t for the sake of healing his loneliness, but the fact that he has to endure the pain of possessing emotions that would create the imagery of what it is like to be human. It truly is painful... to be a human. I envy you... Nagumi Shiruto." The Familiar loudly thinks, as it slowly descends into his finger. "I will... save you..." The finger, in an instant... heals. "You truly are cunning. To change me with your fond memories, is... nothing I can truly experience by touch. You... will save me, as I save you. That... is what you will become... to me... and to the world."
Chapter VII: The Unacceptable Truth The nights has passed, and ever since then, my eyes felt heavier and painful. My throat, clogged of sadness and guilt, that I couldn''t support anyone even myself, but be supported by anyone who felt like it. Oshiro-san, as how much malice she looked, she never looked like she would be of any harm towards anyone. In one night, my perspective of this world changed. I want to look forward and face the obstacles, even if it means dying, as long as everyone I''ve met until today would never suffer the same faith as I have. The night has passed, and only silence filled the whole room. I''ve been... placed on the bed, head on the pillow, and a blanket in me. The room was once flooded with my frustrations and anxiousness, that my room shouldn''t be able to fathom such disastrous emotions. Nagumi: ...Oshiru-san? As I called out to the person who cared for me, even for a short time... has left a lasting impression to me. I want to protect "her" alongside everyone. I want to have the power that would also leave a happy impression to their smiling evermore faces... I am weak, and powerless. I have... only struggles and weakpoints, that even the enemies would be able to figure out how to defeat cowards like me. Nagumi: Not here... huh. I''m not worth being spent their time with afterall, anyways. Envy. I envy the people who don''t have to struggle with fears and loathe in their daily lifetime. As I live, all I ever experience are madness and unbelievable "happenings". Will I... ever be like them someday? One who would... have a happy someone beside them. Will I... ever meet Tsumi Yuuki again? Will I... ever be on Nishio Redman''s side once more? Do I have a place to exist on this world? As how the world once was, all I did is offer them unnecessary problems. I am a filth. I am too emotional. Nagumi: --hk. Guh.. gh. pf.. heh.. kgh! Why am I crying over such trivial matters? I''m 17, for fucks sake! Be strong... Yuuki-chan would laugh at me if she were here... Nishio-san would beat me up if she saw me like this. Everyone would think of me as a friend, but in my eyes, I don''t feel worthy of such praise. I don''t know better of them as they do of me. ???: *knock knock* Nagumi: *snorts* Huh? Who.. who is it? ???: I-uhmm... W-it''s breakfast! P-please help yourself with our food! Ah... Thera-san. Unconciously, I also called her the same name as how Nishio-san did. Is this how it feels like to have someone besides you? Nonetheless... I am thankful that God would gift me such wonderful friends. They are one''s I want to treasure. As I brush away my tears away, I hope this would be the last cry I''ve ever let out. All my anger, frustration, anxiety, sadness, and worries... are finally let out. But again, it''s not bad that I should cry from time to time, I should consider this as an exercise for my moody behavior. I truly am truly despicable, afterall. After brushing everything that I''ve held up inside me, Thera-san comes in the room, and behind her are the two workers who I met yesterday. Phlores-kun and Reverene-san. [The three bows as they approach Nagumi Shiruto, and presents aside a dish suitable for breakfast.] Nagumi: Uhm... spare the courteousness and formality, I don''t need such! I swear... haha! It is truly awkward that they should bow when visiting, I don''t look much like a master anyways. Neither way, I don''t wanna be one afterall. This is too awkward even for me! Gaaaah! Alphys: Good, that would be for the best after all. Informality and such, would be better in your case. Nagumi: I didn''t expect to hear such cold words from you! But I''m glad you agreed easily, and still... that''s too harsh! Alphys giggles, but what have I even done to be rewarded such innocent and cute smile from her?! I''m so horrible... I don''t deserve this! God-sama, this is too much! Ino: Uhm... you know I''m also here? Nagumi: Ah, right. Phlores-kun, right? And besides you... Reverene-san. Sounds much like being a church member. Too fancy. Ino: Yes, I''m Phlores-kun, but without the -kun, and her without the -san. Nagumi: I''m used to conversing with honorifics, so bear with it! The both, tils their head with confusion. However, they hastily accepts the matter. Nagumi: Wow, these are good looking food! Except... I still remember the issue when Nishio-san offered me those shitty disgusting Urion''s anus. So I''ll ask without hesitation and without ever being rude as much as possible. Nagumi: Tell me... is this an anus or purely eggs and bacon? Alphys/Ino: What do you think? Thera: A-anus?! You.. wouldn''t think of... Urion''s anus... could you be? Nagumi: That''s what I wanted to know. I''ve had the worse experience eating that shit, and I wasn''t hoping to see that shit again. Even if it means Urion''s eggs and dick meat, please! Thera: W-we wouldn''t serve such.. luxurious things! T-they''re indeed... eggs and bacon! Sincerely! Wow... she''s too cute! Her being worried and all, it''s a delightment to my morning routine. Wish I could see that everyday... If it''s too much, she could be the cure to everyday world problems! Nagumi: Fine, I''ll trust you. As long as it''s Thera-san saying it, nothing would betray my feelings! Thera: F-FEELINGS?! Ah! She''s alerted. What could it be? Thera: M-my apologies, sincerely! Please, enjoy to your content... hahaha! With her hands grasped to each of her own, satisfied that I didn''t notice anything- she might be wrong that I think of such. Could she be... having feelings for me? No, she''s more cuter than being beautiful. But, if I were still in my elementary grade, maybe that wouldn''t be the matter for me. Maybe if she grows old and farther, she might look more womanly than what meets the eye! Nagumi: Alright uh, i-ta-da-ki-ma-su! ~If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. I''ve had my fill, and holy shit. This is the best food I''ve eaten in days, no- more like, ever since I came to this world! If only Nishio-san didn''t tell me what that fuckin anus was, maybe I would''ve been better off not knowing what it was, that way I would adapt to it unkowingly and for it to become my favorite food. However, hell no, Jose! I''ll eat as much as I can, until I clean my plate. The two, in my front view while I''m seated to my bed side, standing... looking for... my expectations of it? The Three: Well? What do you think? It''s not an anus, right? Nagumi: *spits* WHAT?! I''M STILL EATING, HAVE SOME RESPECT... COME ON!!! I continue to rant, after losing my apetite of eating, I will never eat with an audience aside ever again. ~ It''s already past 3 hours estimated... I look to my phone~ and there''s... 2 hours left of battery life; 45%. Time check, 5:47 PM. Date set at 09/04/2019. That''s the exact day that I met Yuuki-chan. Everyday, I still think of her, unable to forget. Will I... someday ever do so? I wonder... I don''t wanna break any connections towards anyone I''ve had with at Earth. ???: Hurry! Hurry! ... To this day, I still remember the time I''ve played with her. It makes me want to cry, remembering such glorious and gracious memories. How could I be deserving of having... friends? There: N-Nishio-sama! Why... why are you... crying? There it is. I''m being worried of again. I''m really... weak. Nagumi: Theres... nothing to worry about. I''m fine, really! Thera: This isn''t about the case where... we talked about... that... was it? Nagumi: It''s nothing like that, but thank you for your worries. I''ve needed that until then. I let off a weak smile towards the three, still standing aside me, even for three hours. They really are nuts, for standing besides me. Nagumi: It''s that... I''ve never had frie- oops. I covered my mouth, immediately. I don''t want anyone to know about my problems! This is too cruel. I should atleast be respectable and show off my strong side other than being cared for! Alphys: Friends... huh. I''ve once had a few, but I lost them all. Right now, all I have is my cousin, Ino. Ino: Yep yep! We''re like lightning bolts between ends! Uh oh... guess there''s no turning back. Am I really, looking for attention or what. Nagumi: What does that even mean? Ino: That means, we support each other no matter what. And between it, is everyone we''re close with, and you included! Even if it''s only for an instant, and even if we spreadout through the ground... that''s a specialty of setting a significant mark towards this world. Don''t you agree? Wow... that was... deep. Wait.. am I... Nagumi: You... consider me a friend? Alphys: You don''t look harmful enough to be our worthless enemy. However, you too are useless in some ways. That''s why we can lend you our strength, anytime you need it. Thera: A-and... let us share... with your worries! W-we''ll be there, until then! I never thought... I would have someone supporting me. I truly am glad to be human. I''m truly glad to have emotions. I''m truly glad that I have the ability to be open atleast once in awhile! In an instant, I hugged the three. while still remained on the bed. Thera: Wawawa! What is this?! W-why, Nagumi-sama?! Ino: Yes, what she said! This is... too awkward, please let go! Alphys: We figured we shouldn''t overlook over your painful finger. Consider this as a reminder that you shouldn''t try to off yourself way too easily. Huh... wait. What does that... Nagumi: ... WAIT! IT''S NOT LIKE THAT! I''M NOT TRYING TO KILL MYSELF, I SWEAR! We all laugh together, some are relieved that wasn''t the case, and me being my idiotic self as usual. Not figuring that the whole bed was bloodied like shit. Could they have noticed hours ago, and decided to not step on the landmine? Nagumi: Hahaha, uhm... S-sorry about... the bedsheet. Ino: No worries! We''re just glad you never did anything crazy while we were out! Haha... Can I tell them... about my situation with the ring? I should be able to... Afterall, what are the consequences of doing so? Nagumi: Right... about that. I bled even while asleep. Thera: W-why didn''t you call us?! We.. we could''ve atleast helped you heal your injuries! Even if I did call for help, this is a problem only I can handle, is what I would like to say. I called out [I couldn''t] afterwards. Nagumi: This is a problem only I could solve. But after everything''s already said and done, I''m fine now! Haha... Ino: Isn''t that really unnecessary of you to do? I don''t think you should do such. Who knows, you might have died after bleeding too much?! In worse case, you would''ve only left a shock on everyone living here! Nagumi: I already said... I''m sorry. Seriously, thanks for your worries, but like I said... this is only something I could resolve afterall. Alphys: Why is that? Nagumi: Because of this ring. Recognize it? The three look on the rusty, disgusting and rotten ring that was once coated with blood, now dried with a mesmerized expression. Alphys: Could this be... your own Familiar''s vessel? Nagumi: That''s right. My own ring finger had to be consumed and everything on it, as my Familiar needed such to live. It''s strange, really. I can''t even take it off even if I wanted to. Alphys: I see... So you came from another world, aswell. Nagumi: You spoke like you knew of someone who also came here from another world. It''s Nishio-san, right? Alphys: That''s right... but, other than that... there was someone else aswell. ??? What? There''s... someone else other than me and Nishio-san?! W.. does Nishio-san know about this?! This is a crazy discovery! Nagumi: There''s... someone else my kind?! Who- There''s nothing better other than to know who this person is, I must ask her right away! It''s now or never! Alphys: My apologies for the inconvenient interruption.However, that is something I can''t answer unless you figure it out your own. Nagumi: Are you fucking kidding me?! Is this someone I know, or someone distant?! Alphys: You will see... one day. Why does this have to happen... Why does she have to cut it off midway by telling me something impossible and yet not tell the end of it?! Alphys: ... I hope you are prepared. Nagumi: Huh? About what? Alphys: ... Is she talking about my meeting with the housemaster, or this wish I must fill?! What am I hearing, anyways?! Why does she feel more hesitant saying such trivial crap, one thing over the other? Alphys: The arrival of our Housemaster, Klein Heirold, The Holy Sage Master of the Cathedral. He currently holds the highest rank among the vicinity. If I were you, I would hold back the rude manners you have now. The fuck is she saying, I thought she''s a friend I could rely on when I needed it most-- Ino: Don''t let it get to you, Nagumi-pal, I understand how you feel, but it''s not like that. So for now, chill yourself! That''s right, I need to calm myself down and ask again later. Thera: I-it''s getting louder outside! Outside the door, Thera guarding the entrance door of my room, gives us a warning of what''s happening. All I hear are clanging of armored suits and footsteps of different people running down the corridor. Alphys: It is time. They have both arrived. Nagumi: They? I thought it''s only Klein-san coming home? Ino: ... Again, no response. Something isn''t right. Is this something I shouldn''t know unless I see it for myself? Not that it matters anyway, I will see it right away soon afterall. Thera: F-for now... here''s your outfit for the a-approaching Houselord-s-sama! Nagumi: Ah, thanks, I guess... This is just a plain clothing, made of cheap fabrics! Nothing I could complain about, but I do feel a bit jealous of the armors everyone is wearing. It looks cool to wear, it''s one like you would see on medieval portraits and chivalry movies. Very realistic portrayal, I suppose. ~ I''ve equipped all I needed, and worn my plain as hell clothing. I look in front of the mirror, so far it doesn''t look that bad. I look more like a convenience store register clerk than anything with this apron, but atleast I look more "modern" than what I wear, maybe this would atleast convince everyone that I''m not from the other world, even though I am, and give me the cold stares with a strange look for wearing a peculiar hoodie. After finishing so, Thera-san holds me by hand and guides me to the mansion entrance. Left and right side, lines up the Knights of the Cathedral, I guess. Everyone is also wearing a white hood and a robe, underneath it being hard armor. We stood on the right sideline of the Knights, to welcome the houselord-sama. And a sword in air, and me without one, to welcome the expected special arrival of Klein-san and-- Nagumi: Huh... aside him is... a girl. Who is sh- HUH?! [Surprised to his view, heart beating so fast, his whole body having a goosebump, and skin pale as white... Something he can''t comprehend to his mouth, let''s out a scared and trembling response.] This.. this can''t be. Y-Yu... ~ ^%^&DSST^%^&%SD Fuck. My sights is blurring, and I feel like vomitting a bit. No, please... have some strength, stand up straight! She''s right there in front of you! Nagumi: Ack! Ghhh! Fppfft... Cccck! Hkk! Ahhh... ha... Finally I calmed myself down. I clear up my head, and everything else surrounding me. Nothing can leave me shocked like this, other than the fact that what is truly infront of me is- Nagumi: Tsumi Yuuki. Wh.. what is she doing in the same carriage as that guy?! Is he... the housemaster?! He looks so bulked up with armor and... taller than Tsumi Yuuki. Thera: ...? Shit, is this... what they were talking about when they didn''t tell me about this? Something so trivial, yet I have no words for such a thing. She has... changed so beautifully. But yet... why do I feel a heavy weight to my chest?! This is... very violent... and strange! My heart can''t stop thumping... it feels like I haven''t seen her in a hundred of centuries! Is this... faith?! .... Crap, I thought too much of Yuuki-chan, but I never glanced at Thera-san''s view, and she looks worried! I must clear up the misunderstanding... Nagumi: S-... Sorry! I just... felt wrong for some reason. Don''t mind me! Thera: I-I''m glad. I thought you might''ve felt- exhausted after the bleeding. I won''t pay any mind! Nagumi: ... Ahh, her soft warm hands, still holding on to me. Relieving me of the things of what''s happening in front of me... I must, talk to her about what''s happening and why Yuuki-chan is here after all this. Nishio: ...! Oh, hey there, partner! Nagumi: Nishio-san! What are you doing here? Nishio: Did you forget, I''m also a Knight of the Cathedral! That''s a rude expectations from you! Hehe~ Nagumi: My bad, hah... I didn''t notice until now, we''ve been close to each other. ... I''ve kept silent until they approach the household. Until then... Yuuki-chan noticed me, and let out a wide eye view in front of me. Yuuki: ...?!? N-Na... Nagumi?! //END// Chapter VII.V: Special Recap SPECIAL RECAP CHAPTER THIS CHAPTER ONLY CONTAINS ILLUSTRATION, SADLY! I''LL DO AN OFFICIAL SEQUEL AFTER THIS CHAPTER! imgur url -- https://imgur.com/a/pKonaST (NAGUMI SHIRUTO) (THERESA HANABIRA) Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! (KLEIN HAROLD) (INO PHLORES) ?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã?¡ã? SPECIAL EXTRA Tip: To understand the comic, you "read" it from right to left, like how a manga should be read! CHAPTER I: DETERMINATION (PAGE 1) (PAGE 2) (PAGE 3 UNDER CONSTRUCTION! WILL BE UPLOADED IN THE FUTURE!) ||END||