《World of Eclipse》


 Chapter 1: WIELDER – I want to become a Soldier

    ¡°We¡¯ve arrived,¡± the owner of the horse-drawn charabanc announced as we enter our destination.


    ¡°I¡¯m...finally here!¡± I said with shining eyes and a big smile, excited as I look at the big arch that is made of concrete, the entrance to the so called Town of Beginning, [Genesisia].


    The two horses then stopped on its tracks and the passengers started to get off the vehicle.


    ¡°To think that we will arrive here 2 in the afternoon, I guess we can still roam around a bit,¡± one passenger said.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± his male companion replied with a smile and both of them left the carriage, making me the only one still inside.


    ¡°Uhmm...Mister, can I ask a question?¡± I said to the owner before getting off.


    ¡°What is it?¡± he asked after slightly turning his head towards me.


    ¡°Do you know what direction to take in order to reach the [Genesisia Hall]?¡±


    ¡°Are you perhaps aiming to become a soldier?¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°Now that I noticed it, you do have a sheeted short sword on your waist. Well, just take the straight path until you see the big building with [Genesisia Hall] written on top of it.¡±


    ¡°Thank you very much,¡± I said and jumped off the carriage.


    ¡°Kid, just a small advice from this old man, I¡¯ve met different aspiring soldiers but this is my first time seeing someone who wants to become one with an outfit of simple sleeveless shirt, trouser and boots. I would definitely buy some decent armor first before applying if I were you,¡± he said with a smile.


    I then slightly scratched my head and with a forced smile, I replied, ¡°Well, I just came from a small village so I don¡¯t really have an option about that. My money can¡¯t surely afford one, you see.¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± he said with a serious face. ¡°Good luck, kid. I hope you at least passed the test.¡±


    ¡°Thank you very much,¡± I said with a bow and afterwards, started heading towards the Hall.


    My name is Raiki. My dream is to become a high class [Katzen Soldier]. The custom of becoming one is you should be an adult, at least 18 years old. That is why after reaching that age, I immediately set out on a journey to become a soldier. It¡¯s been 5 days since I left my village and finally, I¡¯m now in the first step of my dreams.


    ¡°But anyway, a town sure is amazing. I wonder if Honoka felt the same way too when she arrived in a town like this one,¡± I said with a smile while looking around the houses made out of bricks and woods. There were also some shops around with different [Katzens] walking about the road.


    ¡°There¡¯s a [Weapon Shop]...[Item Shop]...and even an [Armor Shop]. I really wish I have the money right now,¡± I sadly whispered to myself. I then lightly tapped both of my cheeks at the same time and made a serious face. ¡°But this is no time to get depressed. I need to focus on becoming a soldier first.¡±


    Suddenly, I saw a robed individual being followed by guys wearing rugged clothes, each with knives of their own. They then went to an alley, disappearing from my sight.


    ¡°Hey, lady, want to hang out with us?¡¯¡± one guy asked with an evil smile while holding his unsheathed knife.


    There are four of them in total, surrounding the robed girl in every direction so she couldn¡¯t escape.


    ¡°No thanks,¡± the girl flat out rejected in a serious tone while the hood of her light brown robe covers her eyes.


    ¡°Then, give us your money. That way, you can leave this alley unharmed,¡± another guy said and laughed derisively.


    ¡°Are you perhaps doing this to everyone you set your eyes to?¡± she asked in a calm voice.


    Shen then slightly tuck up her hood to reveal her eyes.


    ¡°I can¡¯t let you do this atrocity anymore,¡± she followed with a sudden piercing gaze, enough to make the two she looked at make a couple of steps backwards.


    ¡°Sh...shut up!¡± one of the said two guys yelled with a sudden scared face. ¡°It looks like you need to fear us first!¡±


    The other three then readied their knife to attack when suddenly, I called out to them.


    ¡°Hey, you four, aren¡¯t you embarrassed to gang up a single girl just to take her money?¡± I asked with furrowed eyebrows as I slowly walk towards them.


    ¡°Huh? Who are you anyway?¡± one guy asked with a sudden irritated look towards me.


    ¡°I¡¯m just a passerby,¡± I replied seriously.


    Then, the four of them laughed out loud.


    ¡°What are you, a hero wannabe? You should have outgrown that when you reached 10,¡± one guy reacted and continued laughing.


    ¡°The elder said to me that big towns and empires are dangerous but I didn¡¯t think that it will be this bad. To think that you have the courage to do that in broad daylight,¡± I continued while still walking, now just a couple of steps away from them.Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.


    ¡°I¡¯ve had enough of your childhood dreams. Let¡¯s teach this kid a lesson!¡± one guy mockingly shouted and started running towards me. Then, another followed him. The other two remained blocking the other path in order for the girl to not escape.


    I immediately draw out my short sword and ran towards the approaching two.


    ¡°Feeling brave?¡± the first guy said with a ridiculing smile and prepared to slash me but before he managed to land a hit, I pounded its blade using my short sword, strong enough for him to let go of his weapon. With his weapon down the ground, I immediately jumped up and delivered a kick on his face. He then flew away and hit the wall.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t think he will lose consciousness from a single kick,¡± I mutter with a slight surprised face after landing on the ground.


    ¡°Wh-why you!¡± the next guy screamed with now a slight scared face as he prepares to slash me but before he knew it, he¡¯s not holding his knife anymore, just what happened to the guy earlier.


    I then sheathed my sword and asked them ¡°Want to continue?¡± with a serious face.


    ¡°R-remember this!¡± the other two shouted and carried the guy who lost consciousness. The other guy then picked up the two knives on the ground and all of them ran away.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± I asked with a smile to the robed girl.


    She then tucked up her hood a little to show me her eyes and with a smile, she said, ¡°Thank you for saving me.¡±


    What a beautiful girl...


    She has a blonde hair with green eyes and her skin is white. Probably around twenty years of age.


    ¡°Y-you¡¯re welcome,¡± I replied with a slight blushed face and slightly averted my gaze to the side.


    ¡°Are you perhaps new to this town?¡±


    I then looked at her with a smile and answered, ¡°Yeah. The truth is I¡¯m here to apply as a soldier. That is why I¡¯m currently heading towards the [Genesisia Hall].¡±


    ¡°Then, let me at least guide you there as a thanks.¡±


    ¡°Really? Then, please do so. My name is Raiki, by the way,¡± I introduced.


    ¡°You can call me Ciana. So let¡¯s go?¡± she asked, smiling.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I cheerfully answered.


    We then started walking towards the Hall.


    ¡°But anyway, you sure arrived in time, Raiki,¡± Ciana suddenly said as we advance the road.


    ¡°Why?¡± I curiously asked.


    ¡°Well, I think tomorrow will be the start of the entrance test. So if you missed that, you need to wait another month to take that.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± I reacted, surprised.


    ¡°Yes. Can I ask you something?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s your partner [beast weapon]? You need one so you could take the test.¡±


    I then stopped walking out of shock and replied, ¡°I...still haven¡¯t met one. I thought that you only need to start finding one once you passed the entrance test!¡±


    The types of soldiers are classified into two, a [wielder] and a [weapon]. The wielder is generally the one who wields a [weapon], not to be confused with an ordinary weapon. You see, there are three types of weapon a [wielder] can wield. The first one is an ordinary weapon like my short sword here. The second one is the [monster weapon], a weapon that can use a certain [ability]. Only skilled blacksmiths can make it. The third one is the [beast weapon], which is a living [beast] like me who can use [magic] and also has an [ability]. In this world, anyone can become a [weapon] even me. A [Katzen] and a [Hund] in [weapon form] is called a [beast weapon]. I decided to become a [wielder soldier] instead of a [weapon soldier] so I really need to find someone who would agree to partner up with me.


    ¡°I...see,¡± Ciana reacted with a slight surprised face. ¡°Then, before registering in the Hall, why don¡¯t you go first to the [Partner Lounge] of this town instead?¡±


    ¡°[Partner Lounge]?¡± I repeated, new to the term.


    ¡°It¡¯s the place where you can meet a [wielder] or [weapon]. It¡¯s basically where you can find someone who would like to join you,¡± Ciana answered with a smile. ¡°So want me to guide you there instead?¡±


    ¡°Yes, please,¡± I replied with a smile.


    We then started walking towards a different direction while conversing.


    ¡°But be careful on picking a [weapon], Raiki. As a [wielder], you can only register up to four [weapons] in your party. After all, it is really inefficient to change partner [weapons] from time to time considering that you need to train and be familiar with those four to become stronger so it is ideal to stick to only four [weapons] until the end,¡± Ciana lectured seriously.


    ¡°I just wonder if I can really gather four members along my journey,¡± I muttered, somewhat a little unsure of myself.


    ¡°Of course you can,¡± Ciana answered with a gentle smile. ¡°After all, you¡¯re kind, Raiki.¡±


    I then averted my gaze from her after hearing those words and with red cheeks, I replied, ¡°Thanks.¡±


    ¡°So here we are,¡± Ciana announced after we stopped in front of a two storey building resembling a saloon.


    ¡°Thanks for guiding me here, Ciana,¡± I thanked her with a bow.


    ¡°I¡¯m the one who should say that. Once again, thank you for saving me in that alley,¡± Ciana followed with a smile.


    ¡°It¡¯s no big deal. I just did what¡¯s right,¡± I said cheerfully.


    ¡°Then, good luck in finding a [weapon]. I hope we meet again,¡± Ciana said and waved farewell.


    ¡°I hope so too,¡± I whispered to myself with a smile as I watch her walk away. ¡°Now let¡¯s enter this so called [Partner Lounge].¡±


    ¡°Hey, brother!¡± someone suddenly called. It is the guy who is sitting in front of the lounge¡¯s entrance. He stood up and went before me.


    ¡°Uhmm... Can I help you?¡± I asked to the stranger.


    In appearance, he is a middle aged skinny guy with a beard that was somewhat trimmed lazily. He is wearing a somewhat old breast plate with no particular design. There¡¯s also a sword behind his back.


    ¡°From the looks of it, you¡¯re a [wielder], right?¡± he asked with a smile.


    ¡°How did you know?¡± I asked, surprised.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m old to the business so I know who is a [wielder] or not based on their build. You have a decent one for a kid, after all. Are you perhaps looking for a [weapon]?¡±


    ¡°Yes. That is why I went here to look for someone willing to join me. You see, I urgently need one because the entrance exam for the aspiring soldiers of [Katzenschatz] will be tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°I see, so you¡¯re gonna join ¡®that¡¯,¡± he whispered. He then smiled and said to me, ¡°But no need to fear anymore because I am willing to become your [beast weapon], [wielder].¡±


    ¡°R-really?¡± I asked, surprised.


    ¡°But of course, that won¡¯t be free. You need to pay me 500 EC to establish our contract,¡± he followed, still smiling.


    ¡°500 EC?¡± I reacted, not expecting the expensive amount of money I needed. ¡°Do you really need to pay 500 EC to anyone just so you can recruit?¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah. And some even pays 5,000 EC just to recruit someone. I¡¯m a level 10 [weapon] you see so 500 EC is cheap if you ask me,¡± he said with a somewhat forced smile.


    500 EC is the total money I have in my pocket. If I gave it to him, I won¡¯t even have any money left on me.


    ¡°Sorry but...I can¡¯t recruit you if that¡¯s the case. I guess I can only recruit someone up to 300 EC,¡± I said with a sad smile.


    ¡°I...I see. I can¡¯t help it then. I¡¯m fine with just 300 EC,¡± he replied with a sigh.


    ¡°R-really?¡¯ I asked with shining eyes.


    ¡°Y-yeah. With that, our contract is established. My name is Jester. What¡¯s yours, my [wielder]?¡± he asked with a smile.


    ¡°Raiki. I¡¯m still inexperienced so I¡¯m gonna do my best to become a good [wielder],¡± I said with an excited smile.


    ¡°Looking forward to it then, Raiki,¡± Jester said and drew out his hand.


    I then shook it, signalling the start of our partnership.


    On that place, I just smiled cheerfully...without knowing that Jester won''t show up in tomorrow¡¯s entrance test.

 Chapter 2: WEAPON – The mysterious girl named Ciana

    ¡°Hah!¡± I shouted and kicked the [Hedgerat] that tried to tackle me from behind. With just that attack, it fainted.


    A [Hedgerat] is a brown rat-like monster with a height of 3 feet. It is capable of moving very fast by rotating like a wheel.


    ¡°They sure are fast but their [defense] are really weak,¡± I muttered with a serious expression.


    Right now, Jester and I are currently training in the [Crimson Forest] near [Genesisia Town]. It¡¯s a forest made of mostly dried up trees with red grasses all over the place.


    (They¡¯re low in level you see.)


    That voice that I can only hear inside my mind is from Jester. Currently, he is a short sword on my left hand, the one I¡¯m using to battle the monsters.


    ¡°They are around level 4 to 6, right?¡± I asked.


    (Yeah. I¡¯m at level 10 so no need to worry about their strength. Just fight like you always do.)


    [Level] is the unit of strength and it is used to identify how strong someone or something is. The lowest [level] is 1 while the highest recorded is 100.


    ¡°Got it!¡± I replied and slashed the [Hedgerat] that tried to jump me from the left side. Only one left.


    (That¡¯s the last one. You can do it, Raiki!)


    I then sprinted towards the last [Hedgerat]. It jumped towards my face and I dodged it by docking slightly. With the [Hedgerat] directly above me, I delivered the final strike by slashing it in the stomach.


    ¡°[Wind Slash]!¡± I yelled and a gust of wind formed with the slash of my short sword. It hit the monster heavily.


    The [Hedgerat] then fell on the ground, unconscious.


    ¡°So that¡¯s what a [beast weapon] is capable of. [Magic]...how cool,¡± I said with shining eyes.


    (So this is really your first time handling a [beast weapon].)


    ¡°Yeah. Thanks for the hard work, Jester,¡± I said with a smile to the [weapon] on my hand.


    Afterwards, he transformed back to his original appearance and gave me a smile.


    ¡°I think that¡¯s enough for today? It¡¯s near sun down after all,¡± Jester suggested.


    ¡°Yeah. I also have a general grasp on how to [wield] you for tomorrow,¡± I followed with a smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that tomorrow will be a piece of cake for you,¡± Jester said with a wink.


    ¡°I do hope so,¡± I replied with a shy smile. ¡°I¡¯m also looking forward to the time where we can travel together after we pass the test.¡±


    Jester then got slightly surprised for some reason.


    ¡°Y-yeah. I¡¯m sure that will be fun,¡± he followed with a grin.


    ¡°Then, let¡¯s rest for tonight. I will stay at an Inn near the [Genesisia Hall]. How about you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got a place where I can stay tonight so no need to worry about me. Anyway, 10 in the morning at [Genesisia Hall], right?¡± Jester asked.


    ¡°Yeah. If possible, let¡¯s meet at 9 so we can strategize or something.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± he replied with a smile. ¡°Now, let¡¯s go back to the town.¡±


    We then left the [Crimson Forest] and went separate ways after reaching the [Genesisia Town]. As for the Inn fee, I paid 200 EC, making me now totally broke. Well, I can just ask Jester tomorrow on how I can earn some money here in town.


    ¡°It¡¯s really a relief that I brought some fruits from the Village or I might even worry about starvation now,¡± I muttered to myself as I munch one while sitting on the bed inside the room I rented for the night. ¡°I hope I can really pass the test tomorrow.¡±


    Just like that, the night ended and the day of the entrance test finally arrived.


    ¡°He sure is late,¡± I whispered as I wait for Jester inside the [Genesisia Hall].


    The [Genesis Hall] has a lounge where everyone can wait before the start of the test. There, I¡¯m sitting in a bench, one of the wooden seats that can be found inside.


    ¡°Just half an hour before 10, huh,¡± I whispered, worried about Jester.


    All I could do is to stare at the registration area where aspiring soldiers register to join the entrance test. Earlier, there¡¯s a line but now, only some [Katzens] are going there to register.


    ¡°Please come already...Jester,¡± I called to him while looking above the ceiling.


    Without me knowing, Jester is now outside the hall, smiling in an evil manner.


    ¡°As expected to a country bumpkin. To think that he really believed that you should pay someone so you can form a partnership,¡± Jester muttered and laughed out loud. Then, he walked away and turned right to an alley. ¡°I wonder who to target next?¡±


    ¡°Hey, you,¡± a girl in light brown robe suddenly called.


    Jester then turned around to see who called him. It is no other than Ciana.


    ¡°So you really don¡¯t have any plans on following your contract with Raiki,¡± Ciana continued with furrowed eyebrows.


    ¡°H-huh?¡± Jester reacted, surprised. He then averted his gaze and replied, ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about. Maybe you¡¯ve mistaken me for another person.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough. You¡¯re not suitable to be his [weapon] anyway. At least return the 300 EC you took from him,¡± Ciana requested with a serious face.


    Jester then clicked his tongue and made an irritated expression.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t stop pestering me, you¡¯ll be hurt badly, young lady,¡± Jester said with serious eyes and draw out his sword behind him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t regret your decision,¡± Ciana whispered and Jester ran forward, ready to slice her.


    Meanwhile, in [Genesisia Hall]...


    ¡°The Registration will now close. Is there anyone who still wants to register for the entrance test?¡± the reception girl announced to everyone in the lounge.


    I then stood up out of surprise and hurried towards her.


    ¡°Can you please wait a little more? My partner is still not here,¡± I desperately asked to the girl.


    ¡°Sorry but it¡¯s now 10. I¡¯m sorry but you will have to wait for another month to register again,¡± the girl replied with an apologetic look.


    ¡°That...can¡¯t be...¡± I whispered with widened eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m really sorry about that,¡± the girl followed sadly.


    ¡°Wait a moment!¡± a girl in robe suddenly shouted after arriving in the entrance. ¡°I will...become that boy¡¯s [weapon].¡±


    ¡°Ciana?¡± I reacted, surprised.


    She then ran towards us and asked the girl, ¡°Can we still register?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Just write your name here and sign it. The total fee to register is 300EC,¡± the girl replied with a smile.


    ¡°300 EC?¡± I reacted with widened eyes. ¡°I...don¡¯t have enough money to afford that.¡±


    ¡°Here,¡± Ciana said and gave the girl 300 EC. With that, she received the paper that we need to fill out.


    ¡°Ciana? Why did you pay for that fee?¡± I asked, surprised.


    ¡°The truth is...I got that from Jester. Some things happened and he ended up giving it back. He can¡¯t fulfil his contract with you anymore so he gave the money back,¡± Ciana explained with a smile.


    ¡°Are you perhaps an acquaintance of Jester?¡±


    ¡°No. I just met him outside,¡± Ciana answered with a smile.


    ¡°Outside? Jeez. He should¡¯ve at least told me in person,¡± I complained. ¡°But Ciana, are you really sure about this?¡±


    ¡°Well, let¡¯s just say that our partnership will end after you passed this test today,¡± she said, still smiling.


    ¡°I...see,¡± I said with a slight surprised face, understanding that she already believes that we can pass this test. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    After filling out the paper, we immediately went to the area where the test will be conducted. It¡¯s an arena with bleachers around the area. There are only a few spectators in the bleachers, mainly acquaintances of the participants. As for Ciana and I, we including the aspiring soldiers are currently waiting in the battle arena which is circled by the bleachers. I think there are more than 200 [Katzens] here inside the arena including their [weapon] partners.


    ¡°Thanks for the wait!¡± a man wearing a suit suddenly shouted energetically. He is in the elevated area, together with the three [Katzens] sitting with a table in front of them. ¡°I will be the announcer for this entrance test, Jacob!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s finally starting,¡± I whispered with a nervous yet serious look.


    Ciana then looked at me as I stare at Jacob. After seeing my expression, she smiled and looked at the announcer too.


    ¡°As you all know, this entrance test will be your first step to become a [Katzenschatz] Soldier! If you pass this test, you can now have the right to participate in the [soldier challenge]!¡± Jacob continued enthusiastically. ¡°Common mistake of new ones here is that they all believe that after passing this test, they are now fully-pledged soldiers but that¡¯s entirely wrong!¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I reacted with widened eyes.


    ¡°See? Look at him! We already found one who misunderstood this test just like that,¡± Jacob said and pointed his finger towards me.


    ¡°S...sorry about that...¡± I whispered shyly and everyone started laughing.


    ¡°You see, this is the process to become a [Katzenschatz] Soldier so listen up! First, you need to pass this Entrance Test so you can have the right to participate in the [Soldier Challenge]. And what is that [Soldier Challenge], I hear you asking. [Soldier Challenge] is the challenge for the [wielders] who passed this test so they can determine their rank as a soldier. So in short, you still need to clear at least one [Soldier Challenge] before you can become a soldier in title.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s what it is,¡± I whispered, now fully understanding the process.


    ¡°Well, those challenges involves battling too so your focus won¡¯t change. You still have to get stronger so you can become a high ranking soldier,¡± Ciana followed with a smile.


    ¡°I see,¡± I responded.


    ¡°So with that, let¡¯s start the Entrance Test!¡± Jacob shouted and the crowd started cheering.


    ¡°Let¡¯s pass this, Ciana,¡± I said to her with a serious smile.


    She then nodded with her usual gentle smile.


    ¡°The rules are simple. [Wielders] here will be divided into pairs and a single pair will battle until a [wielder] lose consciousness, a [weapon] can¡¯t maintain its [weapon form] anymore or someone forfeit the battle. I can also stop the match if I think that further continuation will be dangerous. Also, you don¡¯t need to worry about winning or losing because we will only assess your skills whether you are qualified to take the [Soldier Challenge] so rest assure,¡± Jacob explained.


    ¡°I see. Now that¡¯s a relief,¡± I said with a sigh.


    ¡°But unfortunately, the number of [wielders] who registered is not even. That is why this fellow will help us!¡± Jacob announced and someone suddenly entered the arena. It¡¯s a guy wearing orange full plate armor with a beautiful girl wearing a similarly designed armor beside him.


    ¡°My name is Dallan, nice to meet you,¡± the tough-looking guy said with a smile. ¡°And this is my partner Ronna.¡±


    With that introduction, the girl just nodded with a smile.


    ¡°Dallan? Are you kidding me? What is he doing here?¡± one participant reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°Yeah. This is the town of beginning, you know. To think that someone as strong as him will be in our presence,¡± another reacted, also surprised.


    ¡°As you all know, Dallan is one of the strongest Castle Soldier of God [Leo], one of our Exalted [Constellation Deities]. To show you how this test will be done, one [wielder] from your group will battle him! And of course, that battle will count as that [wielder]¡¯s entrance test,¡± Jacob enthusiastically informed us.


    ¡°Huh? Isn¡¯t that unfair?¡± one participant complained.


    ¡°I just hope that it won¡¯t be me,¡± another followed nervously.


    ¡°And that [wielder]...is the last one to register in this test!¡± Jacob followed.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that...us?¡± I whispered, shocked.


    ¡°[Wielder] Raiki and [weapon] Ciana, you¡¯re the chosen ones! So everyone, please move to the bleachers except those two and Dallan!¡± Jacob announced and everyone suddenly started cheering.


    ¡°Good luck, kid,¡± one participant said with a smile as they left the arena.


    ¡°Do your best,¡± another followed with a smile.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied with a nervous smile.


    Are you kidding me? Why am I the one that needs to battle him out of all [wielders] here? This is pretty hopeless!


    ¡°Raiki?¡± Ciana suddenly called.


    ¡°Huh? What is it?¡± I asked, slightly surprised.


    ¡°Let¡¯s win this,¡± she followed with a smile.


    Win...huh.


    I then slapped my cheeks, making Ciana surprised.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. How can I become a strong soldier if I think negatively? Let¡¯s surely win this,¡± I replied with a serious smile.


    Ciana then nodded with a smile.


    ¡°Ronna,¡± Dallan called and suddenly, the girl behind him transformed into a red light and went directly towards his open palm. Then, it slowly formed into a lance.


    ¡°Ciana,¡± I called with a serious face and Ciana also transformed into a light. Afterwards, the light went towards my left hand and became a sickle.


    ¡°So this is your [weapon form],¡± I whispered as I look at the C-shaped blade of my new [weapon].¡±


    (Is it your first time using a weapon like this?) Ciana asked, with her voice resounding inside my mind.


    ¡°Yeah. But it¡¯s close to my short sword so I¡¯m gonna use you just like that,¡± I said with a smile and made a fighting stance, holding [Ciana] unto waist height with my other arm forward. Then, I slightly bended both of my knees and made a serious face.


    As for Dallan, he just stood there confidently, not even trying to make a proper fighting stance.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the difference in the level of our [weapons], newbie. The ability of Ronna is [Shadow of Flames]. It copies the level of the opponent¡¯s [weapon] so she is now the same level as yours. So with that said, let¡¯s start, newbie,¡± Dallan said with a smile and pointed his lance towards me.


    (Raiki, I have a strategy.)


    ¡°What is it?¡± I asked.


    (Just move as fast as you can towards him and pound his lance like you did with those robbers when you saved me.)


    ¡°Got it,¡± I agreed with a smile.


    ¡°Battle...Begin!¡± Jacob announced and before everyone even realized what happened, I managed to land a hit on his lance. Then, Dallan¡¯s [beast weapon] couldn¡¯t maintain her [weapon form] any longer because of the massive damage we inflicted, resulting for her to transform back behind Dallan.


    ¡°Wh...what...happened?¡± Dallan reacted with widened eyes as he looks at me.


    I then stood up straight and rose up an arm.


    With that, the crowd went wild in cheering.


    ¡°An attack that was so fast, Dallan couldn¡¯t even react! The winner is no other than Raiki and Ciana!¡± Jacob announced energetically as the crowd continues on cheering.

 Chapter 3: THE MAIDEN – The Lost Deity, Virgo

    ¡°Cheers!¡± both Ciana and I said with a smile and made a toast using our drinks. We then happily gulped it in one go and exhaled after finishing.


    ¡°Old man, another two!¡± Ciana said to the owner.


    ¡°Coming!¡± the old man replied and gave two drinks to us once again.


    Right now, both of us are celebrating in a bar for passing the entrance test for aspiring soldiers. With that, I can now participate in the [Soldier Challenge] to determine my rank.


    ¡°I am really thankful to you, Ciana. Without you, I wouldn¡¯t pass that test so easily,¡± I thanked with a smile. ¡°Not to mention this treat of yours just to celebrate. I promise that I will repay all of your help someday.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to. I¡¯m just indebted to you for saving me back in that alley. Now, we can call it an even, right?¡± she asked with a smile.


    ¡°Well, if that¡¯s what you want,¡± I responded and continued drinking. As for Ciana, she just continued watching me with a gentle smile.


    ¡°I think it will be fun to travel with you...¡± Ciana whispered to herself.


    ¡°You said something?¡± I asked, not hearing her words.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± she replied and continued drinking.


    ¡°But anyway, what¡¯s up with that attack earlier? That¡¯s not an ordinary [critical hit]. After all, you managed to make a [weapon] the same level as you unable to battle with a single hit. It¡¯s really amazing no matter how you look at it,¡± I said with shining eyes.


    ¡°Uhmm...that?¡± Ciana asked after slightly averting her gaze to the side and hiding the lower part of her face behind her drink.


    ¡°And what¡¯s your [birth magic]?¡± I continued.


    Each [beast weapon] has a respective [magic type] that it can solely use, depending on that individual¡¯s [birth magic] and those are [lightning magic], [ice magic], [fire magic], [earth magic], [wind magic] and [darkness magic]. Those symbolize the natural disasters that we beasts conquered back in ancient times like thunderstorms, blizzard, forest fire, landslides, tornado and total darkness. But¡­there are others that can use different [magic] that is not included on those six. They are the [Constellation Deities], the immortal beings that are not classified as [Katzen] nor [Hund]. They have their own original [magic].


    ¡°But given the sudden [speed] I¡¯ve gained...your [birth magic] is [lightning magic], right?¡± I asked, confident about my answer.


    ¡°Well...you¡¯re somewhat right,¡± she responded with a forced smile.


    ¡°I knew it!¡± I reacted happily. ¡°Even I couldn¡¯t believe my speed in that battle after all.¡±


    ¡°Anyway, let¡¯s continue our celebration, Raiki,¡± Ciana suggested.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied and continued drinking.


    After our celebration, we exited the bar and said goodbye to each other.


    ¡°Thank you very much for everything, Ciana,¡± I said with a bow.


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome. Thanks too, Raiki,¡± Ciana followed with a gentle smile.


    I then lifted my head and muttered, ¡°I hope we meet again.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I hope so too,¡± Ciana responded, still smiling. She then waved her hand and walked away.


    ¡°But be careful on picking a [weapon], Raiki. As a [wielder], you can only register up to four [weapons] in your party. After all, it is really inefficient to change partner [weapons] from time to time considering that you need to train and be familiar with those four to become stronger so it is ideal to stick to only four [weapons] until the end.¡±


    As she walks away slowly with the moonlight lighting her path, I suddenly remembered those words from her, back when we first met.


    ¡°I...want her...as my [weapon]...¡± I whispered to myself and started chasing after her. Then, after lessening the distance between us, I grabbed her hand.


    ¡°Ciana...I...¡± I said, slightly panting.


    ¡°Raiki?¡± she asked after facing me, surprised.


    ¡°Can you...become my [weapon]?¡± I asked with seriousness.


    Those words surprised her even more.


    ¡°I just think that it will be really fun to travel with you. And also, I think I developed a habit of relying on you,¡± I followed and forced a laugh. ¡°But above all, even if you said that it¡¯s fine, I really want to repay your kindness. I¡¯m not sure if we can still meet next time so...I think this is the only way I could think of so I wouldn¡¯t lose you.¡±


    ¡°Raiki...¡± she whispered. I couldn¡¯t see her current expression now because her hood currently covers her eyes.


    ¡°Can you...join me?¡± I asked with serious eyes.


    Then, she removed her hood, revealing her whole face to me for the first time.


    She really has a blonde hair and green languid eyes. Her nose is slightly pointed and her lips are naturally pinkish red. There¡¯s also a white flower below each of her white cat ears.


    ¡°You really are beautiful...¡± I commented unconsciously.


    She then got surprised and averted her gaze with blushing cheeks.


    ¡°I mean...you really are beautiful but...I just...¡± I explained in a flustered expression.


    Why did I even say that out loud?


    She then made a sad face and looked at me straight into the eyes.


    ¡°Sorry Raiki but...I can¡¯t join you as your [weapon]. I¡¯m in a difficult situation right now so I can¡¯t just decide on things even if I want to.¡±


    ¡°I see...¡± I muttered and my ears slightly dropped down together with my tail.


    Ciana then looked down sadly.


    Because of that I got surprised and forced a smile.


    ¡°I guess...it¡¯s too bad. Okay, got it. See you around then,¡± I said and let go of her hand.


    Then, she nodded with a sad smile and both of us parted ways there.


    The next day, I started working in the construction of a certain building in the outskirts of [Genesisia Town]. The pay is 500EC per day so with 200EC for the Inn expense and 100EC for food expense, I still have 200EC to save per day. After all, I learned how important money is compared to the time where I was still living in my village. I need to save up first before continuing my journey. While at work, I got to know my co-workers. But among all of them, the one I became particularly close to is Keith, a [Katzen] who is the same age as me. Right now, Keith and I are eating lunch while sitting on a log as we talk to each other.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    ¡°I really wish I could become a soldier,¡± Keith said with a smile as he looks at the blue sky where the big crescent moon can be found together with the bright sun.


    ¡°Like I said, you should really try the test next month. I¡¯m sure that you can pass it if you find a partner [weapon],¡± I said with a smile as encouragement and munched my bread.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m still having second thoughts about it because I already have a daughter. She¡¯s still 2 years old so I still don¡¯t want to work far from home,¡± he explained with a sad smile after looking at the bread on his hand. ¡°How about you? Any luck in finding a [weapon]?¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m really busy here in the construction so I kinda lost the time to look for someone,¡± I said and forced a laugh.


    ¡°Jeez. You should at least take a day off once in a while to find one. I mean, that¡¯s much important compared to saving money,¡± Keith lectured and started eating his bread.


    ¡°Right, right,¡± I replied and gulped some water.


    ¡°But a [weapon], huh,¡± Keith muttered with a smile and held his half-eaten bread like a sword and swung it around slowly. ¡°I really want to at least experience that for myself. I really envy you in that.¡±


    ¡°I would like to become one just for you but unfortunately, I don¡¯t really have the talent in transforming into one. I can¡¯t even transform into a light you see,¡± I followed and finished eating my lunch.


    ¡°Well, they say that becoming a [weapon] is much harder than being a [wielder] after all,¡± Keith responded and started eating his bread once again.


    ¡°But I wonder what it¡¯s like to wield a [Constellation Deity]. I¡¯m sure that it will feel different compared to a [beast weapon], right?¡± Keith curiously asked to me.


    ¡°Like I¡¯ll know. I haven¡¯t wielded one anyway. But I think it would really be different in comparison because they are the only known ones who managed to reach level 100,¡± I said and looked to the sky,


    ¡°But only a high class soldier can experience that,¡± Keith continued with somewhat sad eyes.


    ¡°It¡¯s not really impossible you know. If we work hard, I¡¯m sure that even we can become one,¡± I said seriously.


    ¡°Yeah right, Mister Optimist,¡± Keith responded with a laugh. ¡°It¡¯s just that even if you managed to become a high class soldier, it¡¯s still not a guarantee that you can wield a [Constellation Deity]. After all, after you completed the [soldier challenge], you still need to participate in the [Deity Tournament] where the strongest of the strong gather. You need to become one of the top five of that tournament and only then will you receive the right of wielding a [Constellation Deity]. No matter how you look at it, it¡¯s really a difficult path to take,¡± he complained.


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly the reason why it¡¯s exciting to aim for the top, isn¡¯t it?¡± I followed with shining eyes. ¡°We just need to train more and more and someday, that might not be impossible to us anymore.¡±


    ¡°Right. I sure do,¡± Keith followed with a grin, not even serious about his reply.


    ¡°Jeez. But I wonder what happened to the Lost Deity, [Virgo]?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yeah. She just disappeared for unknown reasons. [Katzen]¡¯s [Constellation Deities] should originally be six but because one Goddess [Virgo] disappeared two generations ago, us [Katzens] couldn¡¯t do anything but to wage war with only five [Constellation Deities] on our side. Because of that, we almost lost in the previous war. I wonder if she¡¯ll show up in the upcoming war,¡± Keith said seriously and stood up. ¡°Let¡¯s go back to work?¡±


    I then stood up too and replied, ¡°Yeah. But can I ask a question?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Keith asked.


    ¡°The [Constellation Deities] have different ears compared to us, right?¡±


    ¡°Well, yes. Unlike us, they have almost circular shaped ears found near their cheeks, far from the location of ours which is almost on top of our head.¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± I answered with a serious face.


    ¡°But why did you ask that all of a sudden?¡± Keith questioned me curiously.


    ¡°Well, I just almost believed that a girl I met was a [Constellation Deity]. I mean, she¡¯s always hiding her head but before we part ways, she revealed her ears to me, making me realize that my hunch was really wrong all along,¡± I said with a forced smile.


    ¡°What? You think you find the [Lost Deity] or something?¡± he asked with a teasing smile.


    ¡°Jeez, let¡¯s go back to work or we won¡¯t get our pay for the day,¡± I said and started lifting a log.


    After a while, sun down arrived, signalling the end of our work for the day. The head then gave us our pay for the day and Keith and I went separate ways.


    ¡°That makes 1,800EC,¡± I said with a smile as I count the coins in my pouch. I then placed it inside the pocket of my trousers as I walk towards the Inn. ¡°I wonder where Ciana is right now.¡±


    Suddenly. I saw someone wearing a familiar light brown robe running with three black robed guys chasing after her.


    ¡°Ciana?¡± I reacted and followed them.


    After running around, the three robed guys managed to corner Ciana in a dead end part of the town. Because the time is now late, almost no one can be found around the area. Most [Katzens] are now inside their houses.


    ¡°You have nowhere to run now. Just come with us quietly,¡± one guy said.


    ¡°And why would she do that?¡± I asked with a serious face as I walk towards them.


    ¡°Raiki?¡± Ciana reacted in a surprised manner.


    ¡°The three then faced me and asked, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Raiki, a friend of that girl. If you don¡¯t leave her alone, I¡¯ll be the one who will fight you three.¡±


    ¡°You arrogant kid!¡± one guy shouted and ran towards me.


    I then drew out my sword and made a fighting stance.


    ¡°Raiki, don¡¯t! He¡¯s a [wielder]! He¡¯s using a [beast weapon]!¡± Ciana yelled.


    Suddenly, my sword¡¯s blade got cut in half so easily.


    ¡°What?¡± I reacted, surprised.


    ¡°Raiki, let¡¯s go!¡± Ciana said with serious eyes.


    ¡°That, huh,¡± I reacted with a smile. I then opened my hand and shouted, ¡°Ciana!¡±


    Then, she transformed into a light and went towards my open palm. In just awhile, she is now a sickle being held by my left hand.


    ¡°Oh no¡ª¡± the guy who destroyed my sword reacted and immediately jumped away.


    ¡°You¡¯re slow!¡± I said and slashed his sword but he managed to block it successfully.


    (His weapon is a level 10 just like me. He won¡¯t be defeated with a single slash.)


    ¡°Then, how about ¡®that¡¯?¡±


    (You mean the [Heaven Strike]?)


    ¡°So that¡¯s what that attack is called. Is it just me or it doesn¡¯t sound like a [lightning magic]?¡± I asked.


    (That¡¯s... Anyway, I didn¡¯t tell you before but that attack only has a 50 percent chance of working. Basically, it depends on your luck.)


    ¡°What?¡± I reacted and the guy from earlier slashed my sickle, now being my turn to block.


    (But if it worked, the [weapon] that you attacked will lose his or her [stamina] to fight, making it unable to maintain a [weapon form] anymore. Should we use it?)


    ¡°Yeah!¡± I replied.


    (Let¡¯s go!)


    ¡°[Heaven Strike]!¡± I shouted and pounded his sword as hard as I can.


    ¡°What?¡± the guy reacted in a surprised face.


    But for some reason, it felt like an ordinary slash after I delivered it to the [weapon] of the enemy before me.


    (Sorry, it didn¡¯t activate. It looks like we¡¯re out of luck. Now, we can¡¯t use it for 24 hours.)


    I then jumped away and asked, ¡°Then, what other [attacks] can you use?¡±


    (That¡¯s...)


    The three then ran towards me, prepared to attack.


    (Shout the words [White Out]!)


    ¡°White out!¡± I repeated and suddenly, a very bright light lit the area, coming from [Ciana]. It was so bright, enough for the three to cover their eyes. When the light disappeared, the three can no longer find us.


    ¡°That is without a doubt [Light Magic]. That girl...is really Goddess [Virgo],¡± one of the robed guys said.


    ¡°We must report it immediately to him,¡± the other followed.


    After successfully running away, we hid inside an abandoned house. We then sat down on the ground out of exhaustion.


    ¡°That earlier...is a [light magic]...¡± I whispered with a surprised face and looked at Ciana.


    ¡°Sorry...for hiding it but the truth is...¡± Ciana said with a sad expression while looking down and after awhile, looked at me with sudden seriousness. ¡°I¡¯m the [Constellation Deity], [Virgo].¡±


    ¡°I have my suspicions before but to think that it was really true...¡± I whispered, still surprised. ¡°Then, how about your ears? Why isn¡¯t it different compared to ours?¡±


    She then removed her hood and stood up. Then, she removed her cat ears like some accessory and the smell coming from her that indicates that she¡¯s a [Katzen] disappeared completely.


    ¡°This thing is called [Concealing Ears], an item that hides my presence as a [Constellation Deity]. With this, even a fellow Deity can¡¯t recognize me,¡± she explained with a serious face. ¡°The reason why I can¡¯t come with you is because I¡¯m being chased by those guys. If I tag along in your journey, you will just get involved in my problem,¡± she explained with a worried face as she looks at the item on her hands.


    I then stood up and gave her a gentle smile.


    ¡°Ciana... I will protect you, I promise,¡± I said with serious eyes.


    With those words, she got surprised as she looks at me.


    ¡°I won¡¯t force you to tell me your problems. But at least let me become your strength. I want to help you. Can you...trust me?¡± I asked and placed both of my hands lightly on her shoulders.


    She then nodded and gave me a smile.


    ¡°Please become my [wileder], Raiki,¡± Ciana said.


    Without us knowing, the three robed guys returned before their master, kneeling as the master sits in a big chair.


    ¡°So she really is alive after all,¡± the master whispered with a grin.


    ¡°What should we do?¡± one asked, with his head still bowed.


    ¡°It¡¯s been so long and she hadn¡¯t done anything. Maybe she really did lose her memories. But just in case, I¡¯ll give you your next mission. You three just need to watch the actions of this so-called Raiki. If what you¡¯re saying is true, I¡¯m sure that Vii will join that kid in his journey,¡± their master said. ¡°You can now leave.¡±


    ¡°Understood!¡± the three responded and left the dark room.


    ¡°If you really lost your memories...why did you suddenly disappear...Vii,¡± the master muttered in a serious tone.

 Chapter 4: THE RAM – The Constellation Deity, Aries

    After successfully fleeing from Ciana¡¯s mysterious chasers, she decided to finally join me in my journey, as my first [weapon]. With that decided, we immediately left the [Genesisia Town] the next morning after saying goodbye to my acquaintances including Keith.


    Right now, we¡¯re travelling towards the [Sagittarius Empire], the location of the first [Soldier Challenge] to get the class of a 6<sup>th</sup> rank [soldier].


    ¡°Haaaahhh!¡± I shouted and swung my sickle on the bear¡¯s jaw.


    *boom*


    The impact from the clash formed an explosion of smoke and the monster got blown over a couple of steps backward.


    We¡¯re currently in the [Crimson Forest], battling a [Howling Grizzly] with [Ciana] in [weapon form]. It¡¯s a white bear-looking monster with sharp, long claws. I then immediately stood up and looked at the weapon on my left hand.


    ¡°That didn¡¯t work?¡± I reacted with a very surprised face when the monster just suddenly stomped the ground angrily after receiving damage.


    (It worked. It¡¯s now the time to strike again!)


    ¡°Got it!¡±


    With a short shout, I immediately jumped and swung the sickle on the bear¡¯s forehead.


    *clang*


    It¡¯s too hard to pierce through!


    (Be careful. Its skin is as hard as steel!)


    ¡°Oh no!¡±


    I immediately made a defensive stance while still in mid-air and took the swing of the monster head-on.


    ¡°Ghhhgghhh!¡±


    I landed on the ground and slid painfully on it. I just stopped after my back hit a tree.


    ¡°That hurts!!!¡±


    I then stood up and took a fighting stance once again.


    *howl*


    (Its head, torso and arms are as hard as steel except its legs. Strike all of your attack there.)


    So its leg is the weakness.


    ¡°Got it!¡± I replied and sprinted towards it.


    ¡°Huh? Am I really this fast?¡± I thought to myself.


    Before I know it, I¡¯ve already circled behind the bear in a flash.


    ([Light Magic] raises the speed of the user. But be careful. The more you raise your speed, the lesser the attack damage that you can inflict.)


    ¡°I¡­see!¡± I shouted and swung my weapon on its legs.


    Because of my attack, the bear screamed painfully and fell on one knee.


    ¡°Ciana, do you have any attacks other than [Heaven Strike]? Something really damaging!¡± I asked, ready to attack one last time to finish it.


    (Yeah. Shout [Light Slash]!)


    Suddenly, the sickle¡¯s white orb emitted a very bright light.


    ¡°[Light Slash]!¡± I shouted and slashed the bear, leaving a white light on its trajectory.


    *bam*


    The bear hit the ground heavily and lost its consciousness. Did I¡­win?


    (You sure did.)


    ¡°I¡­won,¡± I whispered and collapsed in a sitting position on the ground. My heart is still beating like crazy. That might be the strongest monster I¡¯ve faced in my life.


    After the battle, Goddess [Virgo] went back to her original form.


    ¡°It looks like you completely mastered to hold back now. All of the monsters you¡¯ve battle just lost their consciousness,¡± Goddess [Virgo] muttered while looking to the monsters I¡¯ve defeated.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to kill any monsters as much as possible. Even though they¡¯re the one who attacked us, it is still wrong to kill them,¡± I said seriously.


    ¡°I see,¡± [Virgo] replied with a charming smile.


    ¡°I then blushed and asked, ¡°A-anyway, Goddess [Virgo], what¡¯s your level now?¡±


    ¡°With that battle, I''m currently at Level 11 now,¡± she announced.


    ¡°But you¡¯re a [Constellation Deity], right? Aren¡¯t Deities supposed to be at level 100 already?¡±


    ¡°You see¡­I died¡­just recently,¡± she replied and averted her sad eyes to the night sky.


    ¡°D-died?¡± I reacted with a very surprised face. ¡°But aren¡¯t Deities immortal?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. But not like what you think. We can die but after that, we can be reincarnated,¡± she continued after looking to me once again.


    ¡°Reincarnated?¡± I repeated, still confused on the sudden fact that I¡¯ve learned.


    ¡°Simply put, our level will reset to one,¡± she said with a strained laugh.


    ¡°The public doesn¡¯t know that,¡± I replied and made a thinking pose. ¡°Then, how did you die?¡±


    She then got slightly surprised silently and after a couple of seconds, she asked ¡°Do you want to know the reason why I died and the reason why I ran away from my duty as a [Constellation Deity] of [Katzenschatz]?¡± with a serious face.


    I think that one is a serious matter. Is it really okay for me to know the reason so easily? I guess it¡¯s up to her.


    I then smiled and replied, ¡°Tell me once you¡¯re ready someday.¡±


    ¡°I see. Thanks,¡± she replied after smiling gently. ¡°Anyway, do you really want to call me Goddess [Virgo]? If someone heard you, I¡¯m gonna be in a whole lot of trouble, you know.¡±


    ¡°S-sorry, Ciana,¡± I asked with a flustered expression.


    ¡°Jeez. You don¡¯t need to be so formal in front of me, you know. How about treating me like the time when you still don¡¯t know my real identity?¡± she requested with a pout.


    ¡°Well...it¡¯s just that... I¡¯m not really sure if I should talk like that to a [Constellation Deity],¡± I said with a forced smile while scratching my head.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. And I don¡¯t really like being exalted too much anyway,¡± she followed with a smile.


    ¡°I see. Then, okay, Ciana,¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°Should we get moving?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s go,¡± I said and we started walking towards the exit of the [Crimson Forest] where [Sagittarius Empire] can be found.


    ¡°But this is indeed bad,¡± I said to Ciana with a worried face.


    ¡°Are you perhaps talking about my Magic Power?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I kept relying on [White Out] and that last [Light Slash] earlier that I completely used up all of yours.¡±


    [Deity weapons] and [beast weapons] need [magic power] to use its [magic]. Because of the continuous fight with the monsters along the way, I completely used up Ciana¡¯s [magic power] meaning I can¡¯t use [Light Slash] nor [White Out] anymore. We need to replenish her [magic power] first but considering our location, it is impossible right now.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.


    ¡°I hope that we won¡¯t encounter a strong monster on the way or we¡¯re dead,¡± I said with a very nervous expression.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. With my current level, I¡¯m sure that you can beat the usual monsters here in [Crimson Forest] without using any of my [Special Attacks],¡± she said with a smile.


    ¡°But do you still have other [special attacks] other than [Light Slash], [White Out] and [Heaven Strike]?¡±


    ¡°Yeah and it¡¯s called [teleport]. It lets you instantly move towards any place within 5 meter radius of your current position.¡±


    ¡°Woah! Now that¡¯s convenient. To think that I can¡¯t use those right now¡­¡± I whispered with a depressed look.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m sure that we can exit this forest unharmed even if you can¡¯t use any of my [special attacks],¡± Ciana followed to cheer me up.


    ¡°I just hope so,¡± I followed.


    ¡°No~. I think you¡¯re in a pinch, [Virgo]¡¯s [wielder]~,¡± a girl suddenly said in a playful tone.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    When I looked up, I saw a slender girl sitting on a branch of the dried up tree in front of us.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­¡± Ciana reacted with an extremely surprised face.


    She had a long silver hair and violet-colored eyes. For some reason, her eyes were so droopy that you will question yourself if she¡¯s sleepy or not. She was wearing a very seductive black clothing, a fir sleeveless dress which emphasizes the beautiful curve of her body. On top of it, she was wearing white light armor which consists of a small breast plate, a knee guard and a hand guard that extends from the wrist all the way to the elbow. She is also wearing white gloves and knee socks.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to keep relying on that Deity¡¯s magic power, then~, develop your own [physical attack],¡± she continued.


    ¡°Physical¡­attack?¡± I repeated.


    ¡°A [weapon] can only learn its respective [special attack]. That means that if you want to rely solely on your [weapon], you¡¯re bound to spend its magic power until it¡¯s all gone.¡±


    ¡°So a [physical attack] is¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s not your [weapon]¡¯s attack but rather the [wielder], your attack,¡± the girl continued.


    ¡°So if I can develop a [physical attack]¡­we can become much stronger.¡±


    ¡°Well, even though the ordinary attacks that you can do like kicking, punching and swinging your [weapon] can be classified as [physical attacks], developing one that is as strong as a [special attack] is what I¡¯m recommending you to do¡­in order to stay as her [wielder] of course,¡± she continued with a sudden serious smile.


    ¡°Raiki¡­this woman is¡­¡± Ciana whispered, nervous.


    ¡°Ah~. I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Seira. Nice to meet you, Raiki~.¡±


    She knows my name?


    ¡°She is [Aries], one of the six [Constellation Deities] of [Katzenschatz],¡± Ciana followed with a serious expression.


    That means¡­


    I immediately made a fighting stance and shouted, ¡°[Ciana]!¡±


    Ciana then transformed into a sickle in mid-air and I grabbed thenewly formed [weapon] using my left hand.


    If she¡¯s a [Constellation Deity], that means that she¡¯s here to bring back Ciana. I don¡¯t know why Ciana ran away from her duties but I need to protect her as her [wielder] right now.


    ¡°Good response~. But don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m not here to take her back. I¡¯m just here as a mere spectator,¡± Goddess [Aries] explained with a smile.


    ¡°Spectator?¡± I asked without discarding my serious expression.


    ¡°I want to watch you two grow~¡± she continued with serious eyes even though she¡¯s smiling.


    Watch? But why?


    ¡°Anyway, Vii, you still remember this?¡± [Aries] said and brought out a sheathed golden dagger.


    (That¡¯s--!)


    ¡°If you want to get this back, I have a [mission] for you two~¡± she said and smiled.


    Ciana, is that your dagger?


    (Yes. It is an important gift to me but I failed to retrieve it during my escape.)


    Then, we have to get it back no matter what.


    (But--)


    ¡°Then, what kind of [mission] do we need to clear?¡± I asked with a serious face.


    ¡°[Show me a Crimson Dragon],¡± Goddess [Aries] announced.


    (That¡¯s--!)


    ¡°Crimson¡­Dragon?¡± I repeated, first time hearing that kind of monster.


    (Raiki, it¡¯s impossible! A [Crimson Dragon] is a rare monster with an encounter rate of 1 out of 5,000. And also, you can¡¯t beat it with my current level. The level of a [Crimson Dragon] ranges from 30 to 40. Even if you managed to find one, we can¡¯t win!)


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Find me, huh.


    ¡°Then~, will you do it?¡± Goddess [Aries] asked, amused.


    I then smiled and replied, ¡°All I have to do is find you one, right? Then, I accept it.¡±


    (Raiki?)


    We don¡¯t have a choice anyway. We need that dagger and also¡­I think that there¡¯s something going on here that we don¡¯t know yet.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± I said and Ciana transformed back. She then followed me as I walk away.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see what you¡¯re capable of, Raiki,¡± Goddess [Aries] whispered as we disappear from her sight.


    ¡°[Crimson Dragon], huh,¡± I whispered to myself as I walk forward while thinking deeply.


    ¡°Anyway Ciana, what kind of Deity is [Aries]?¡±


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t know her that much but she basically always acts on her whim. She always wants to have fun and she doesn¡¯t want to do anything boring. To sum it up, she¡¯s a self-centered Deity.¡±


    ¡°I see. Do you hate her?¡±


    ¡°Not really. We¡¯re not even that close. That is why I got surprised about what she did earlier,¡± she continued with a sad face.


    I wonder what her motive is.


    ¡°Well, let¡¯s just do what she asked us. What does a [Crimson Dragon] looks like anyway?¡±


    ¡°Are you sure that you want to help me get that dagger?¡± she asked with a sad expression.


    ¡°Of course. And this is a rare chance to finally repay you from everything,¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°Raiki...it''s not too late. We can still turn back,¡± she said with a sad face. ¡°Of course, that dagger is a treasure to me but I don¡¯t want you to be in danger just because of it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. After all, I have you,¡± I replied with a gentle smile. ¡°Let¡¯s finish this mission safely, Ciana.¡±


    She then sighed and finally made a smile.


    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s do this. Thank you, Raiki,¡± she muttered with a smile.


    Then, we continued our search. Since we left Goddess [Aries] we haven¡¯t encountered a single monster yet.


    ¡°The [Crimson Dragon], does it have something worth looking for?¡± I asked curiously.


    ¡°Yes. It has a [rare loot] embedded on its forehead. It is said that it can restore both stamina and magic power at the same time so every [wielders] want it so badly,¡± Ciana explained.


    ¡°Wait. Doesn¡¯t that mean that you should first¡­¡±


    ¡°Slay it in order to get the [rare loot],¡± Ciana continued with a sad face.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± I reacted with a surprised look.


    Is Goddess [Aries] after that [rare loot] too?


    ¡°Killing a monster just to get what you want is¡­cruel,¡± Ciana continued with a serious face.


    ¡°Ciana¡­¡±


    Suddenly, she got surprised and waved her hands in denial.


    ¡°Sorry about that. I¡¯m not referring to you but rather the [wielders] who do it just to gain power. You¡¯re not like them because you¡¯re just forced by Seira to do it. So¡­so¡­¡± she explained in a flustered expression.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t kill that [Crimson Dragon]. I promise.¡±


    ¡°But¡­how about Seira¡¯s condition?¡±


    Suddenly, the red grass near us rustled.


    *ruuu*


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    The grass is just around 4 feet tall so I think it is not a dangerous monster.


    I then slowly backed down, preparing to escape when suddenly, it jumped out of the grass and landed in front of me.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°Th-that¡¯s--!¡± Ciana reacted with a surprised face.


    It is a baby dragon that is around 15 inches in height. It has a light red scaled body and a ruby-like stone embedded on its forehead.


    *ruuuuu!* the monster reacted wildly.


    ¡°[Crimson Dragon]!¡± both of us reacted.


    Hey, hey, hey. Where did the 1 out of 5,000 chance of encounter go? We found it in one try!


    ¡°Is this¡­dragon...really a level¡­40?¡± I asked Ciana while looking at the dragon suspiciously.


    ¡°This¡­this is not the usual [Crimson Dragon] that you can find here. The usual size of it is 24¡¯ long and 6¡¯ in height. It is said that it can create an earthquake if it wants to and can even split the ground into two if extremely angry.¡±


    ¡°This puny dragon¡­can split the ground into two?¡± I asked, doubting those descriptions.


    ¡°I think¡­it is a baby [Crimson Dragon].¡±


    ¡°I think this is the weakest monster I¡¯ve encountered since my journey,¡± I muttered and looked at the small monster.


    *Rrrrrrrrrruuuu!!!!!!!!!!!!!* the dragon reacted angrily.


    For some reason, the baby [Crimson Dragon] got pissed and jumped me. It then bit my head.


    ¡°Ouuuuchhhhhhhhh!!!¡± I shouted.


    I tried to pull it out but it won¡¯t even budge.


    ¡°Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ciana! Do something!¡± I panicked.


    Ciana then looked back and forth around, trying to figure out what to do with a flustered expression.


    ¡°Wh-wh-wh-what should I do?¡± she asked like she is about to cry any second.


    ¡°Hmmm. There¡¯s not that many monsters around for some reason,¡± someone from faraway said.


    ¡°Yeah. I wonder if we¡¯re out of luck today.¡±


    The baby [Crimson Dragon] then jumped back towards the grass and ran away.


    ¡°It¡­fled.¡±


    Ciana then let out a sigh of relief and asked, ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m fine,¡± I replied with a forced smile.


    Even though my head hurts like crazy.


    ¡°Huh? Issho, there¡¯s two strange people here,¡± the guy who suddenly appeared out of the tall red grass said after seeing the two of us.


    ¡°Strange?¡± the guy Issho asked.


    Six guys came out of the grass and looked at us suspiciously.


    ¡°Anyway, did you two saw any red-colored dragon around here?¡± the bearded man asked.


    ¡°We saw one. It ran towards there,¡± I said and pointed to the direction where it ran.


    ¡°Raiki?¡± Ciana reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°Really? Guys, let¡¯s go!¡± he said and disappeared from our sight swiftly.


    ¡°Raiki, why did you tell them the location of that baby?¡± Ciana asked, surprised.


    ¡°Why? They are asking where and I know it so¡­I answered it normally,¡± I replied with a clueless face.


    ¡°They are obviously [Monster Hunters], you know!¡±


    ¡°What? They are bad people?¡± I reacted with a sudden surprised expression.


    Ciana then sighed and replied, ¡°Jeez. Anyway, let¡¯s follow them. We¡¯ve got to rescue that baby.¡±


    ¡°R-right!¡± I said and followed her.


    We then searched the whole area once again and encountered some weak monsters. Luckily, I managed to defeat them even though I can no longer use any of [Ciana]¡¯s [special attacks].


    ¡°So the 1 out of 5,000 encounter rate is really no joke,¡± I said with a tired expression while still searching the grass.


    ¡°Especially if it¡¯s a specific one. Maybe the chance of encountering it became 1 out of 10,000 now.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t even joke about that.¡±


    *ruuuuu~*


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    Both Ciana and I heard that familiar sound. It¡¯s that baby [Crimson Dragon].


    ¡°Ciana, let¡¯s go!¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    We then ran towards the direction where we heard it and when we came out of the tall grass, we saw the six guys from earlier. One guy is holding the baby [Crimson Dragon] upside down on its tail.


    ¡°Who would have thought that we can find a baby version instead of an ordinary one?¡±


    ¡°Lucky! What we want is the [rare loot] on its forehead anyway. Even if it¡¯s small, I¡¯m sure that it can still heal.¡±


    ¡°Issho, hurry up and kill it so we can take the [crimson stone] on its forehead.¡±


    ¡°Leave it to me. [Jack]!¡± Issho said and the guy next to him transformed into a sword on his free hand.


    ¡°Wait!!!¡± I shouted after appearing.


    ¡°Huh? You¡¯re¡­the weird couple from earlier.¡±


    ¡°What are you planning to do to that baby?¡± I asked in an angry tone.


    ¡°We will get the [crimson stone] of course. Can¡¯t you tell just by looking?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t allow that,¡± I replied seriously.


    ¡°Ehhh~. So you also want this [rare loot]. Men, teach him a lesson!¡±


    After hearing his order, his four comrades surrounded Ciana and me.


    ¡°Ciana, let¡¯s do this?¡± I asked with a stern expression.


    ¡°Yeah. Leave it to me,¡± Ciana responded with a serious smile.

 Chapter 5: CRIMSON DRAGON – The Baby Dragon, Ruby

    After Ciana decided to come with me in my journey as my [weapon], we suddenly met Ciana¡¯s fellow [Constellation Deity], [Aries]. She asked to show her a [Crimson Dragon] in exchange for Ciana¡¯s dagger so we decided to find one while we¡¯re on the [Crimson Forest]. Just before sun down, we finally found a baby [Crimson Dragon] but a group of [Monster Hunter] caught it before us, with plans of killing the monster to get its rare loot.


    ¡°Ciana...those four...¡± I asked with a stern expression.


    ¡°Yeah. It looks like those four only have ordinary weapons but their boss has a [beast weapon].¡±


    ¡°Get him!¡± Issho shouted to the three and the fight started.


    ¡°[Ciana]!¡± I called.


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡±


    She then transformed into a sickle on my left hand.


    Just before I got hit by a sword, I managed to block it just in time.


    ¡°Die!¡± the other one said and tried to hit me behind using a staff. I somehow elbowed it using my free arm.


    ¡°Haaah!¡± I then shouted and over-powered the guy with the sword in a single slash, making me free once again. I then delivered a roundhouse kick on the staff guy, making him kneel on the ground.


    ¡°You¡¯re finished!¡± the other two shouted and attacked me at both sides using their hammers.


    *pow*


    But because I ducked completely, they ended up hitting each other.


    ¡°Wh-what was that for?¡± the guy angrily shouted at his comrade.


    ¡°It is your fault for standing there! Wait! You hit me too, right?¡± the other complained.


    ¡°Leave the in-fights for later!¡± I said and swung [Ciana] while rotating 360 degrees. Both of them got knocked out completely.


    ¡°Wait, that¡¯s¡­¡± I whispered with a slight surprised face.


    I think I now know what to do in order to obtain a strong [physical attack].


    ¡°It¡¯s not yet over, punk!¡± the sword guy shouted and prepared to slash me.


    Shoot! I¡¯m defenseless on my right side!


    ¡°[Teleport]!¡±


    Because of my sudden shout, the guy with a sword stopped from attacking.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    (Raiki¡­you can¡¯t use that move right now.)


    ¡°I forgot that [Ciana] ran out of Magic Power!¡± I shouted with wide opened eyes.


    ¡°Y-you¡­you¡­you clown!¡± the sword guy shouted with an extremely embarrassed face.


    He then swung his sword back and forth but luckily, I managed to dodge all of it.


    ¡°W-why you! Jose, now!¡± the guy with a sword called.


    ¡°Right!¡± the guy with a staff replied and thrust his weapon towards me. I managed to avoid it by jumping up.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    With the momentum from the jump, I circled in mid-air and delivered a slash on the guy with a staff. After landing on one knee, he collapsed face-first on the ground.


    So ¡®that¡¯ is stronger the faster my rotation is.


    ¡°Die!¡± the sword guy said and swung his sword towards my face. I managed to block it with the blade of my sickle.


    I then kicked him on his leg and he accidentally dropped his weapon on the ground.


    ¡°Too bad!¡± I shouted and slashed him as hard as I can, this time, without rotating.


    ¡°Arrgghhhh!!!¡± he screamed.


    ¡°So a rotation really strengthens the attack!¡± I said and punched him on the stomach to knock him out. He fainted after that.


    Ciana, how¡¯s your current level?


    (It increased by one. I¡¯m now at level 12.)


    ¡°Great!¡± I reacted with a smile.


    With a shocked face, Issho couldn¡¯t help but stand there without moving.


    ¡°So you¡¯re the last one,¡± i muttered while looking at the last standing enemy.


    *ruuu~* the dragon moaned weakly.


    It looks like the baby [Crimson Dragon] can¡¯t even move.


    He then let go of the baby [Crimson Dragon] to the ground and charged towards me.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so arrogant, kid!¡± Issho shouted furiously.


    (Be careful, Raiki. His sword is already at level 14!)


    *clang*


    Both of our weapons clashed. Our strength is just even¡­or so I thought.


    *spark*


    After a while, he over-powered me and managed to cut my cheek a bit.


    (Raiki!)


    ¡°It¡¯s just a light bleeding so don¡¯t worry!¡± I replied and pounded my sickle once again to Issho¡¯s sword as hard as I can. Then, our exchange of slashes continued for quite some time.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, kid? Realizing that you¡¯re about to lose?¡± he asked with an arrogant smirk.


    ¡°Of course¡­not!¡± I said and swung my sickle but got blocked by his sword once again.


    *clang*


    ¡°Then, how about this!¡± he said and slammed his sword on my sickle¡¯s blade.


    *clang*


    ¡°Arrghhh!¡± I reacted, trying my best to not get pushed back.


    What strength! I¡¯m really losing!


    ¡°I¡¯ll congratulate you for surviving this far. But¡­¡± Issho whispered.


    Suddenly, his blade got enveloped by fire.


    ¡°¡­this is where it ends!¡± he continued with a victorious smile.


    ¡°Arrrggghhh!¡± I reacted, clenching my teeth.


    (Raiki! Watch out!)Stolen novel; please report.


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!¡± Issho yelled.


    After shouting, his sword suddenly exploded, sending my whole body flying a couple of meters away. I then landed on the ground and slid painfully.


    ¡°So¡­I¡¯ll be taking this [Crimson Dragon],¡± he said and grabbed it once again on the tail.


    The baby [Crimson Dragon] is so weak that it can¡¯t fight back anymore. It looks like it took quite the beating before we even got here.


    ¡°These useless fellows... I¡¯ll be taking the credit alone then. I¡¯m sure that I can get a good price out of this thing¡¯s [rare loot],¡± he said and laughed happily.


    ¡°N-no¡­¡± I whispered weakly.


    ¡°What the¡­¡± Issho reacted, surprised.


    Even though I¡¯m completely lying flat on the ground, I managed to utter that word.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Issho muttered, shocked about the fact that I can still talk.


    I can¡¯t let him kill that baby [Crimson Dragon]. I¡¯ll¡­I¡¯ll¡­


    I then tried to stand up but there¡¯s no success. I can¡¯t even lift my body.


    ¡°Do you really want money that badly?¡± Issho asked.


    ¡°O¡­of¡­course¡­¡± I responded, almost not audible.


    ¡°Jeez¡­¡± he reacted with a disappointed face.


    ¡°O-of¡­course¡­I¡­don¡¯t want any money!¡± I shouted as loud as I can.


    After hearing that, Issho got surprised.


    ¡°I¡­won¡¯t let you kill that baby [Crimson Dragon] just for money. Even if he¡¯s a monster, he¡¯s still alive. He has the right to live. Someone like you who takes monster¡¯s life without feeling anything can¡¯t understand him so don¡¯t you ever take his life without knowing anything. I won¡¯t let you kill him just for your self-satisfaction!¡±


    ¡°Then, are you saying that you can understand this thing?¡± Issho asked, irritated.


    ¡°Of course I don¡¯t. That is why¡­I want him to decide on his own.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Issho uttered in a confused look.


    ¡°You, are you fine to be killed? Will you just let him kill you without a fight?¡± I shouted to the [Crimson Dragon].


    *ruuu~* the dragon replied weakly.


    ¡°If you want to live, fight!¡±


    Suddenly, the life on the baby [Crimson Dragon]¡¯s eyes came back and it bit Issho on its arm.


    ¡°Ouchhh!!!¡±


    ¡°Go, [Crimson Dragon]! You can do it!¡±


    ¡°You pest!¡± Issho shouted and swung his sword on the baby [Crimson Dragon]. The monster got hit and fell towards me.


    ¡°I¡¯ll kill you this time for sure!¡± he continued with an extremely pissed face.


    Darn it! I can¡¯t even move! I want to protect this baby [Crimson Dragon]. But¡­but¡­


    Suddenly, the baby [Crimson Dragon] slowly crawled towards me.


    ¡°What are you¡­¡± I reacted with a puzzled face.


    He then jumped on top of my head and rested there.


    ¡°So you want me to be killed together with you¡­¡± I whispered, surprised.


    For some reason, I ended up smiling after that.


    ¡°If only¡­I have the power to¡­protect you. This¡­won¡¯t happen,¡± I continued and bit my lip out of frustration.


    Darn it!!!


    *Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrruuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!!!!!!!!!*


    ¡°Huh?¡± Issho reacted.


    Suddenly, a very bright crimson light lit the area.


    ¡°What the heck is this?¡± Issho reacted while covering his eyes.


    After the light disappeared, Issho uncovered his eyes and got surprised from what he saw.


    ¡°I¡¯m now...fully recovered!¡± I shouted and made a fighting stance with [Ciana] on my left hand.


    Our stamina and magic power completely recovered thanks to this dragon. It looks like its ability is to [heal] others. Now, I won¡¯t lose to him!


    ¡°How did you¡­recover?¡± he asked with a shocked face.


    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to this baby [Crimson Dragon]. Leave the rest to me. This time, I¡¯ll protect you,¡± I said while looking at the completely exhausted baby [Crimson Dragon] lying on the ground.


    *ruuu~*


    ¡°That monster¡­healed you? Are you for real?¡± Issho asked, confused.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see if I can finish you for real!¡± I said and dashed towards him. I covered the 15 feet distance between us in a flash.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°Haaah!¡± I shouted and slashed him.


    ¡°Gwaahhh!!!¡±


    I then delivered a kick to his leg, making him stumble on his footing.


    ¡°You!¡± he said and swung his sword to me but I somehow blocked it.


    *clang*


    ¡°It looks like it is now time to use my new [physical attack],¡± I muttered with a smile.


    ¡°Wha--¡± Issho said.


    ¡°[White out]!¡± I yelled and a very bright light flashed.


    ¡°Ahhh!!!! My eyes!!!¡± Issho reacted.


    He then swung his sword around, hoping that it will hit me but no luck.


    After a while, he recovered and looked around but¡­


    ¡°Where¡­is he?¡± Issho asked, couldn¡¯t find me anywhere.


    ¡°Here!¡± I responded with a shout.


    When he looked up, I am now descending from the sky.


    ¡°What?¡±


    I then rotated as fast as I can to strengthen the final attack.


    ¡°Bring it on!¡± he shouted and prepared to slash me in half.


    ¡°[Wheel Blade]!¡± I screamed. Then, I landed on his sword¡¯s blade and continued the rotating saw-like attack.


    ¡°Urrrggghhh!¡± Issho muttered, trying his best to push me back.


    *clangclangclangclangclangclangclangclangclangclangclangclangclang*


    ¡°Arrrrrrgggghhhh!!!¡± he shouted, desperate to block my attack.


    *slash*


    With the last rotation, I managed to send his sword flying and deliver a deep slash on his chest, strong enough for him to finally lose his consciousness and hit the ground.


    After I landed on the ground with one knee, I stood up and asked a question to the last guy, the [weapon] that transformed back to his original form out of exhaustion.


    ¡°You still want that [Crimson Dragon]?¡±


    He then ran as fast as he can away from us.


    Guess¡­that¡¯s a total win.


    Ciana transformed back and said, ¡°You finally have your own [physical attack], Raiki. [Wheel Blade], huh. It¡¯s really cool! Congratulations.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± I replied with a smile. ¡°But it¡¯s all thanks to you and that baby [Crimson Dragon].¡±


    I then went before the baby [Crimson Dragon] and gave him a smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re now safe.¡±


    *rruuu~¡±


    ¡°Here,¡± I said and gave him the last [banapple] on my bag. It can recover one¡¯s [stamina] but not the [magical power], something I bought in the [Genesisia Town] before leaving.


    He then bit a little and became energetic again.


    ¡°So this is really effective even to Dragons,¡± I muttered to myself after learning something new.


    The baby [Crimson Dragon] then chewed the remaining [banapple] and completely recovered to full health.


    *ruuuuuu!!!*


    ¡°Hmmm~. I see, I see,¡± I replied with an amused face.


    ¡°Raiki, you can¡­understand what its saying?¡± Ciana asked with a slight surprised face.


    ¡°Not really¡­but¡­I think I can feel the meaning of what he wants to say.¡±


    ¡°I¡­see,¡± she said and smiled.


    Afterwards, the baby [Crimson Dragon] jumped on my arms and started licking my face.


    ¡°Hey¡­hahaha. That tickles.¡±


    ¡°It looks like this baby really like you now,¡± Ciana commented with a smile.


    ¡°Congratulations~,¡± someone suddenly said, sitting right above us on a tree.


    When we looked at the tree branch of that dried-up tree, we saw [Aries] there.


    ¡°[Aries]¡­¡± I whispered.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I say earlier to call me Seira?¡± she asked with a pout.


    ¡°Seira?¡± I repeated.


    ¡°Good~ Anyway, here,¡± she said and threw the dagger towards us. Ciana somehow caught it with two hands clumsily.


    ¡°You showed me a [Crimson Dragon] so you passed,¡± Seira continued.


    ¡°A-aren¡¯t you going to get its [rare loot]?¡± Ciana asked with a surprised face.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t said to ¡®get me a [Crimson Dragon]¡¯, right?¡±


    Just as I thought.


    ¡°Seira, you know that some [wielders] are currently hunting for monsters and you got worried that they might kill this baby monster, right?¡±


    ¡°What are you trying to say?¡± she asked with an amused smile.


    ¡°If you want this [Crimson Dragon], there are plenty of times to get it, you know. You just want me to save it from those men, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m that nice?¡±


    I then gave her a smile and replied, ¡°Maybe. After all, kindness lies in everyone¡¯s hearts.¡±


    Her eyebrows furrowed a bit and whispered, ¡°That kindness will become your weakness someday.¡±


    Did she say something?


    Afterwards, she stick out her tongue and said, ¡°Behhh~. You¡¯ve got a long way if you really want to be invited in the [Deity Tournament]. Later.¡±


    She then jumped from tree to tree so fast and disappeared from our sight.


    ¡°I wonder if she¡¯ll tell the higher-ups that she found me,¡± Ciana muttered with a serious expression.


    ¡°Well, all we can do is to continue our journey and see what will happen. All I can say is I¡¯ll protect you with all of my strength,¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. Let¡¯s just be cautious from now on,¡± Ciana replied with a smile.


    ¡°Anyway, Ruby, thanks for healing us earlier,¡± I said with a smile to the said dragon.


    *ruuuuu!* the dragon responded with a smile.


    ¡°Ruby? That¡¯s a cute name,¡± Ciana commented. ¡°Now that we settled everything that we need to do here, should we now get going?¡±


    ¡°Well, [Sagittarius Empire] is already near and I think it will be just an hour to reach the exit of this forest so let¡¯s go before it gets totally dark. I heard that there¡¯s an Inn right after the exit of this forest so let¡¯s stay there for the night.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Ciana answered with a smile and placed the dagger she¡¯s holding inside her robe.


    ¡°So Ruby, take care,¡± I said and placed Ruby down on the ground.


    *ruu?*


    ¡°Don¡¯t let anyone caught you again, understand?¡±


    *ruuu~*


    ¡°Hey. Don¡¯t be sad. I¡¯m sure that you can survive just fine. You¡¯re a [Crimson Dragon] after all,¡± I said and smiled.


    *ruu! ruu!*


    ¡°That¡¯s the determination. I¡¯m sure that you will grow strong. So¡­goodbye,¡± I said and stood up.


    After that, we Ciana and I continued walking. As we walk towards the exit of the [Crimson Forest], all I could think of is Ruby¡¯s gaze from far away. Then, after hours of walking, we finally got out of the [Crimson Forest]. For some reason, I stopped on my tracks and looked back to the forest.


    ¡°You¡¯re already missing Ruby?¡± Ciana asked with a smile.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re right. Let¡¯s go,¡± I said and started walking once again when¡­


    *ruuuuuuuuuuuuu!!!*


    When I turned around, a familiar dragon jumped on my arms and started licking my face.


    ¡°Ru¡­Ruby?¡± I reacted with a surprised face.


    *ruu!*


    ¡°It looks like Ruby wants to go with us, right?¡± Ciana asked to Ruby a smile.


    ¡°Is that true, Ruby?¡±


    *ruu!*


    ¡°Jeez. Okay! Let¡¯s go!¡± I said enthusiastically and ran while Ruby is riding my right shoulder.


    ¡°I think this is really the good outcome,¡± Ciana whispered to herself with a smile and chased after us.


    Just like that, we gained a new member: the baby [Crimson Dragon], Ruby.


    After some days, Seira arrived in front of the master, the mysterious individual who is after Ciana. Right now, Seira is just standing with a smile while the master is sitting on his usual chair.


    ¡°So why did you call me here~?¡± Seira asked.


    ¡°Seira, I heard that you gave back Ciana¡¯s [monster weapon]. Is that true?¡± the master asked in a serious tone.


    ¡°Can you still call that a [monster weapon]? The ¡®orb¡¯ is at Vii¡¯s castle right? That means that it is just an ordinary weapon right now,¡± she answered, still smiling.


    ¡°That¡¯s not my point. Since when did you learn the fact that Vii is alive?¡±


    ¡°Just recently,¡± she answered and turned around. ¡°If that¡¯s all, I¡¯m gonna take my leave.¡±


    ¡°Seira, you¡¯re not planning to oppose me, aren¡¯t you?¡± the master asked in a serious voice.


    Seira then looked at the master and with a smile, she answered, ¡°Maybe. Is that a problem?¡±


    The master then smiled and followed, ¡°No. That¡¯s an interesting turn of events too after all.¡±

 Chapter 6: LIGHT VS DARK – Versus Rave and Kumi

    ¡°Yeah! We¡¯re finally here!¡± I said after we reached the south main gate of [Sagittarius Empire] right after high noon. I excitedly look around before entering it.


    ¡°You¡¯re really like a kid,¡± Ciana commented with a smile.


    The empire has a barricade made of concrete walls. As for the entrance, it has a big open gate with a big, rectangular flat rock with words [Sagittarius Empire] written on top it. Compared to [Genesisia Town], the wall around the Empire is much larger and taller.


    We then entered the empire and tons of [Katzen] can be found walking about.


    ¡°Hey, look at the boy,¡± a passerby whispered to the guy next to him.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a [Crimson Dragon] on his shoulder!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not a [Crimson Dragon]. I mean look at its size. It¡¯s probably a new discovered [monster]. Even an experienced [Tamer] can¡¯t tame that dragon and he¡¯s still just a kid.¡±


    ¡°Is it just me or everyone is looking at us,¡± I asked while looking around. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that they¡¯ve already found out your identity?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that¡¯s not the reason,¡± Ciana replied, confident for some reason.


    ¡°Now that we¡¯re on topic, how did she immediately recognize you? You said that those fake ears of yours will make you unrecognizable by other, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes. But because she can read other people¡¯s mind, this is useless to her even though she can¡¯t recognize me.¡±


    ¡°Wait, she can read other people¡¯s mind?¡± I reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s her [ability] called [Mind Read].¡±


    ¡°I heard that the [ability] of the [Constellation Deities] are all over-powered but Seira¡¯s [ability] is really terrifying on its own.¡±


    ¡°Well, you¡¯ll eventually battle her so look forward to it,¡± Ciana replied and chuckled.


    ¡°Jeez, that¡¯s not funny, you know. Anyway, how about exploring this Empire now? This is my first time here after all,¡± I asked excitedly.


    ¡°Sure. But I wonder where should we go first,¡± Ciana whispered while looking around.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± I said and ran.


    *ruu-ruu-ruu!*


    ¡°Jeez. You¡¯ll bump into someone if you run that fast,¡± Ciana said and followed me.


    As I jog past the crowd, I saw lots of [Katzen] walking around, wearing different kinds of clothes.


    *ruuu! ruu-ruu!*


    ¡°Hmmm? You want to enter those buildings?¡± I asked to Ruby.


    *ruu!*


    I¡¯ve been busy looking at the different [Katzen] walking about that I missed the buildings around.


    There are lots of buildings made of bricks. Their designs are the same but they vary in size and colour.


    ¡°That is an [item shop],¡± Ciana said.


    ¡°Item?¡± I said and looked at the building where the signage [item shop] can be found on top of the door.


    ¡°If you want to be a soldier, you will need some items in a fight and while travelling, right? You can buy it here.¡±


    ¡°And that¡¯s an [armor shop]. And there¡¯s even a [weapon shop]. I can¡¯t wait to become a soldier,¡± I said enthusiastically as I look around.


    ¡°Do you want to enter this [item shop] first?¡± Ciana suggested.


    ¡°Okay,¡± I agreed with a smile.


    We then entered the place and found tables made of wood, with different items on top of them. The shop has a guy in the counter reading a newspaper.


    ¡°This is the liquefied version of [banapple], right?¡± I asked to Ciana after looking at a small bottle with yellow liquid inside.


    ¡°Yeah. This is a [banapple drink]. It also restores your stamina like an ordinary [banapple] but it is easier to carry so it¡¯s more ideal to bring this rather than a [banapple].¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s twice the price of a regular [banapple] so I just bought the fruit instead of that before we left [Genesisia Town],¡± I followed, remembering that day.


    ¡°And this bottle is...¡± I muttered after seeing the bottle with red liquid right beside the [banapple drink].


    ¡°It¡¯s a [strapple drink] and it restores Magic Power.¡±


    ¡°Well, we have Ruby so we don¡¯t really need to worry about that, right?¡±


    *ruu!*


    ¡°Ruby can only use his healing ability twice a day though,¡± Ciana followed.


    I then checked out another table and saw some diamond-like gems with different colors.


    ¡°It¡¯s my first time seeing these,¡± I commented while staring at the said items.


    ¡°Those are [power stones]. It enhances a certain status of a [weapon]. Orange for attack, blue for defense, violet for speed, green for accuracy, yellow for stamina and red for magic power. It looks like they¡¯re just selling the usual stones and not the rare ones.¡±


    On the next table, there is some sort of bottled drink again but now inside circular ones.


    ¡°And these?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Look at the first red bottle. What¡¯s written there?¡±


    I then grabbed it and read, ¡°[Flame Burst].¡±


    ¡°Familiar?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that the [special attack] of Issho¡¯s [weapon]?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s a special attack learning drink, [SALD]. By consuming it, a [beast weapon] can learn that attack even though that [beast weapon] can¡¯t learn it naturally. But keep in mind that a [beast weapon] cannot learn a different magic¡¯s [special attack] even with the help of [SALD]. Of course, [deity weapons] like me can¡¯t learn other types of magic too. Red bottle for fire magic, blue bottle for ice magic, yellow bottle for lightning magic, brown bottle for earth magic, green bottle for wind magic and black bottle for dark magic. Unfortunately, you can¡¯t find the magic type exclusively for Deities anywhere because no one even tried to make one.¡±


    ¡°Well, you can¡¯t normally get a Deity as your [weapon] after all.¡±


    After checking out all the items there, we then went outside and started walking while looking around.


    ¡°Now I¡¯m starting to get hungry. Is there any cheap restaurant here?¡± I whispered as I look around.


    ¡°Raiki, watch out!¡± Ciana called.


    Suddenly, I bumped someone and she fell on a sitting position. The fruits that she¡¯s carrying using a bag got scattered around.


    ¡°A¡­sorry!¡± I said and started picking up the fruits.


    ¡°N-no. It¡¯s my fault for daydreaming while walking,¡± she said in a flustered expression and grabbed her bag.


    ¡°Here,¡± I said and gave her the fruits on my hand.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    When I looked at the girl, I noticed that her smell is different compared to [Katzens]. She is a brunette [Hund] girl that is probably the same age as me. She has brunette shoulder-length hair and brown ardent eyes. She is wearing a maid outfit and a metal collar, a proof that she¡¯s a slave on this territory.


    ¡°Iwa! Hurry up, you useless [weapon]!¡±


    When I looked to the person who shouted those words, I saw a 6 footer light brown-haired man wearing a flashy red armor. There are also three girls wearing the same maid uniform as the [Hund girl] but they are all [Katzens] and not wearing any collar for slaves.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    ¡°Yes, Sir,¡± the girl said and hurriedly collected the remaining fruits. She then bowed to me and ran as fast as she can towards her company.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Raiki?¡± Ciana uttered with a puzzled expression.


    ¡°A¡­let¡¯s go,¡± I said and stood up.


    Iwa¡­is her name, right?


    ¡°I heard that all the captured [Hunds] are turned into slave but...¡± I whispered with a sad face while walking.


    Is that man a [wielder] too? She called that girl a [weapon] after all.


    ¡°Raiki, let¡¯s enter this [clothing shop].¡±


    ¡°S-sure,¡± I said and followed Ciana.


    With the remainder of the exploration, all I can think of is the girl called Iwa.


    ¡°Raiki¡­.Raiki? Hey, are you listening? Raiki!¡±


    ¡°Huh? Wh-what is it, Ciana?¡±


    She then smiled and asked, ¡°Did you fall in love with that girl?¡±


    ¡°Wh-what are you saying? I¡¯m just¡­¡± I explained in a flustered expression.


    ¡°Just?¡±


    ¡°Just¡­can¡¯t get her off my mind,¡± I continued with a sudden serious expression.


    ¡°So this is your first time seeing a slave,¡± Ciana said with a serious face.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I answered sadly. ¡°I just think that...it¡¯s not right to do that. Even though they are our enemies...I still can¡¯t see it as the right thing to do.¡±


    She then smiled and replied, ¡°You¡¯re right. Even though they¡¯re also doing that to us in their territory, I still think that slavery is still a wrong act on our side.¡±


    ¡°Ciana, I wonder if I can change that custom...if I won the [Deity Tournament],¡± I whispered.


    Ciana then looked at me with a slight surprised expression and smiled gently.


    ¡°Just kidding, let¡¯s visit the next store,¡± I said and went out of the [clothing shop].


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you can...someday. You¡¯re the one I chose after all,¡± Ciana whispered and followed me.


    After visiting a couple of shops, Ciana told me that we should train first before we take the first ordeal of the [Soldier Challenge], defeating the [Constellation Deity] [Sagittarius] in battle. Even I can see that in our current level, we still don¡¯t stand a chance against him so I immediately agreed.


    ¡°The fastest way to grow stronger while earning some money is by [monster hunting] but that¡¯s out of the question right?¡± Ciana said as we both converse to each other while sitting on a street-side bench.


    ¡°Yeah. So how about we go [loot hunting] instead?¡± I suggested.


    [Loot Hunting] is the term used when you collect different [loots] without killing or harming a monster. Instead of hunting for monsters like the [monster hunter] do, [loot hunters] collect loots from plants, trees and the likes. It is a job that is much safer than [monster hunting] because you don¡¯t need to confront monsters directly. Well, you might encounter different monsters while on your quest though so it still counts as training.


    ¡°That way, we can also earn money,¡± I followed.


    ¡°Well, that might work. So should we head back to the [Crimson Forest] now?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s go!¡± I said with a smile.


    *ruu!*


    I¡¯m gonna do it. I¡¯m going to become a high class soldier and win the [Deity Tournament]!


    We then went to the [Crimson Forest] and started collecting [loots] that can be sold. Of course, we encountered different monsters but we tried our best to just knocked them out or avoid confronting them.


    ¡°Haaaaah!¡±


    With a short shout, I defeated the 2 ft, black mole with rabbit ears called [Ground Rabbit]. It lost its consciousness after receiving a slash from [Ciana].


    Ciana then returned to her usual form and said, ¡°Good work¡± with a smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m right. You¡¯re Raiki, aren¡¯t you?¡± a black-haired guy asked after appearing behind us. He¡¯s a guy wearing pure black clothing with bandages on his arms and legs. He¡¯s also wearing black headband and scarf.


    I then got surprised after seeing him and reacted, ¡°R-Rave?¡±


    Ruby then flew up and I immediately went towards Rave. We then both bumped our fist and happily smiled at each other.


    ¡°So you really left the village to become a soldier,¡± Rave said with a smile.


    ¡°We promised, right?¡± I followed.


    ¡°So this girl is your partner, huh.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. She is Ciana.¡±


    Ciana then bowed and uttered ¡°Nice to meet you, Rave¡± with a smile.


    ¡°Nice to meet you too,¡± Rave responded.


    ¡°He is also from my village and is one year older than me. We both promised to each other that we will become a high class soldier someday,¡± I said to Ciana while reminiscing the days before Rave left the village.


    ¡°Anyway, don¡¯t hide there and introduce yourself,¡± Rave said to the little girl that is hiding behind him. She is around ten years of age.


    ¡°Is she your partner?¡± I asked as I look to the white-haired girl wearing a light pink long robe with unusually wide sleeves. She also has a sash on her waist.


    ¡°Yeah. Her name is Kumi and she¡¯s really shy. Come on, Kumi.¡±


    The girl then looked at Ciana and me and whispered, ¡°N-n-n-n-n-n-ice...t-too...meet you.¡±


    ¡°Nice to meet you too, Kumi,¡± both Ciana and me answered with a smile.


    After that, she once again hid behind Rave. This girl is really shy.


    ¡°So how are you now, Rave?¡± I asked.


    ¡°It took me quite a while to find a partner but here,¡± he said and showed me a silver ring on his right index finger. ¡°This is the proof that I¡¯m a sixth rank soldier now.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the [Archer Ring], the symbol that you¡¯ve defeated the Deity [Sagittarius],¡± Ciana reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°How cool!¡± I reacted with shining eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m now preparing to head towards the next empire but to think that I¡¯ll meet you here. Anyway, how about you? Are you planning to challenge God [Sagittarius] now?¡±


    ¡°Not yet,¡± I replied with a sad smile. ¡°The first thing that we¡¯ve decided to do is to get stronger while earning money through [loot hunting].¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s what we did when Kumi and I were just starting as partners. But that will take you quite a while. Getting a level up is really hard with that method after all,¡± Rave explained.


    ¡°I see. Anyway, Rave, want to have a battle like old times? This time, we have partners now so let¡¯s see who¡¯ll win today,¡± I suggested excitedly.


    ¡°Oh~ Let¡¯s do it,¡± Rave replied with an excited smirk.


    ¡°Ciana, can we?¡± I asked to her.


    ¡°Right, right,¡± Ciana said with a smile.


    ¡°Kumi, let¡¯s win this,¡± Rave said to his partner Kumi. She then nodded and made a serious face.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, [Ciana]!¡±


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡± Ciana replied with a smile. She then became a white light and transformed into a sickle in mid-air. She then flew like a boomerang and went on my left hand.


    ¡°[Kumi]!¡± Rave shouted and drew out his right palm.


    Kumi then became a black light and transformed into a dagger on Rave¡¯s hand.


    ¡°A dagger, huh,¡± I whispered with a smile.


    Ciana, l¡¯ll use your [special attacks].


    (But if you do that, Rave will find out that I¡¯m a [Constellation Deity].)


    We can trust him, don¡¯t worry.


    (Jeez. You just want to win, don¡¯t you?)


    Well, that¡¯s a part of it.


    (Then, use my power to the fullest, my [wielder].)


    ¡°Thanks, Ciana,¡± I said with a smile.


    After that, Rave and I charged towards each other. In an instant, our [weapons] clashed.


    *clang*


    Our strength is just even.


    ¡°Then, how about this!¡± Rave shouted and pounded the blade of his dagger on my sickle¡¯s as hard as he can.


    *spark*


    ¡°Ughhh,¡± I reacted with my left hand shaking because of the sudden increase in power.


    (Be careful, Raiki. [Beast Weapons] with [Dark Magic] can increase its attack by lessening the user¡¯s defense.)


    I see. Then, we should take advantage of that fact!


    I then raised my speed and circled behind Rave. Even if my attack is lesser than usual, the fact that Rave lowered his defense means that this is the perfect time to attack!


    ¡°Ha!¡± I shouted and prepared to strike Rave on the back.


    ¡°Not so fast! [Darkness Burst]!¡± Rave shouted.


    Suddenly, I¡¯ve been swallowed by darkness and before I know it, I can no longer see anything.


    ¡°This is the end! [Dark Blade]!¡± Rave shouted and his blade got enveloped by a dark aura.


    (Raiki! Watch out!)


    *slash*


    ¡°Ahhhhhhhhhh!!!!¡± I screamed because of the sudden pain I¡¯ve felt on my body. When my knees hit the ground, my vision finally went back to normal.


    ¡°Want to admit defeat?¡± Rave asked and pointed his dagger on my face.


    ¡°It¡¯s now my turn. [White out]!¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Rave reacted and covered his eyes using an arm but it¡¯s already too late. He already got blinded by the sudden flash of light. I immediately jumped and shouted, ¡°[Light Slash]¡±!


    ¡°Arrrggghhhh!¡± Rave reacted, clearly feeling the attack I delivered on his body.


    ¡°I then landed on the ground and said, ¡°How¡¯s th¡ª¡±


    ¡°[Dark Blade]!¡± Rave shouted and [Kumi] got covered by a dark aura.


    He already recovered?


    ¡°[Light Slash]!¡± I shouted and countered his attack.


    *ka-boooom*


    We then jumped away from each other and smiled at the same time.


    ¡°Not bad, Raiki.¡±


    ¡°You too, Rave.¡±


    ¡°Want to finish this?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s go!¡±


    We then ran towards each other and when he entered my attack range, I shouted, ¡°[Light--]¡±


    ¡°Eat this!¡± Rave said and pointed his dagger to me. ¡°[Chaos Blast]!¡±


    Suddenly, his dagger produced a dark, swirling beam and hit me.


    ¡°We did it!¡± Rave happily reacted after seeing its target getting hit completely.


    *swoosh*


    But when the beam vanished, he got surprised that no one can be found there.


    ¡°What?¡± he reacted and looked around but couldn¡¯t find me anywhere.


    ¡°I¡¯m here!¡± I shouted as I descend from the sky.


    ¡°Why you!¡± he said with an amused smile.


    ¡°[Wheel Blade]!¡±


    ¡°[Dark Blade]!¡±


    *ka-boooooooooom*


    The clash of our attacks produced a big explosion that shook the area. When the smoke lifted, both Rave and I were still standing. But our [weapons] are no longer in our hands. Both Ciana and Kumi are now behind us, sitting with very exhausted expressions.


    ¡°A tie, huh.¡±


    After Rave and I said that, both of us collapsed on the ground.


    ¡°It looks like¡­*pant*¡­it¡¯s a draw,¡± I said with an exhausted smile.


    Rave then laughed out loud and replied, ¡°Yeah! Phew! That¡¯s¡­*pant*...one amazing battle!¡±


    ¡°Next time¡­I¡¯ll surely win, Rave.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll say the same to you¡­Raiki.¡±


    After that, Rave shared his [banapple drink] and [strapple drink] to us so we can all recover from the battle.


    ¡°By the way, Raiki, is it just me or Ciana¡¯s [special attacks] are strange,¡± Rave asked with a puzzled face.


    ¡°Can you two promise that you won¡¯t tell it to anyone?¡± I asked with a serious face.


    Rave then made a serious face and answered, ¡°We promise. Right, Kumi?¡±


    Kumi then nodded.


    After that, I looked at Ciana and she started telling them about her real identity.


    ¡°Y-you¡¯re the [Lost Deity], [Virgo]?¡± Rave reacted with a very surprised face. Kumi has a similar expression.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ciana replied shyly.


    ¡°Hey, Raiki!¡± Rave shouted and grabbed me. ¡°You¡¯re already using a [Deity Weapon] and you¡¯re not even a soldier yet???¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t help it, you know.¡±


    ¡°Rave, I¡¯m the one who agreed to become his [weapon]. I¡¯m the one who should apologize for not following the rules of the [Deity Tournament],¡± Ciana followed and bowed.


    Rave then got flustered and let go of me.


    ¡°Y-you don¡¯t need to bow Goddess [Virgo]. I¡¯m the one who should apologize for my insolence,¡± Rave said and bowed.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to call yourself insolent. And also, you can call just call me Ciana,¡± Ciana said with a gentle smile.


    ¡°I understand, God¡ªI mean Ciana,¡± Rave said and lifted his face.


    ¡°Since when did you become so polite, Rave?¡± I asked with a clueless face.


    ¡°Just so you know, that¡¯s what you call proper respect to a [Constellation Deity],¡± Rave muttered with squinted eyes. ¡°Then, do you want me to come with you?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± I reacted with a sudden surprised face.


    Rave then smiled and said, ¡°Let¡¯s travel together. Of course, I¡¯m gonna wait for you to get an [Archer Ring]. That way, we can be together again like old times.¡±


    Like old times...huh.


    I then smiled and replied, ¡°Sorry but you can go on ahead. I don¡¯t want to keep relying on you. This time, I will stand up on my own feet and someday, surpass you.¡±


    Rave then laughed out loud and rubbed my head so fast that afterwards, my hair became messy.


    ¡°Surpass, you say? Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m just getting started and I¡¯ll be much stronger than today. So just do your best and keep up with me,¡± he said with a smile.


    ¡°Next time we meet, let¡¯s battle again,¡± Rave and I said with a smile and we bumped our fist again.

 Chapter 7: NIGHT-LIGHT – Sharing a bed with Ciana

    Right now, Ciana is walking with me, side by side while Ruby is on my right shoulder. We are heading towards [Sagittarius Empire] after another day of [loot hunting]. After exchanging the loots in a [loot shop], we finally decided to buy an armor using the money that we¡¯ve saved. The total amount of our money is 10,300 EC but of course, we¡¯re not planning to spend everything on the armor.


    ¡°Let¡¯s enter!¡± I said excitedly after arriving in front of the [armor shop].


    ¡°Right, right,¡± Ciana replied with a smile.


    Just after I set my foot inside, I immediately got amazed from the view I saw.


    ¡°Cool!¡± I whispered with shining eyes.


    There are lots of life-size dolls wearing different kinds of armor lined up. Whether you¡¯re looking for men or women¡¯s armor, you can find it here. These armors have different sizes, shapes, designs, colors and prices.


    ¡°Oh~. This armor is quite cool!¡± I commented as I stare at the full plate silver armor. It looks that even a strong weapon can¡¯t pierce through it.


    ¡°What is its price¡­50,000 EC???¡±


    I then looked at the price of all the armors lined up one by one if I can find something that I can buy.


    ¡°30,500¡­29,000¡­27,000¡­35,000¡­40,000¡­ahhhh!!!¡±


    ¡°Hey, Raiki? Are you okay?¡± Ciana asked with a surprised face because of my reaction.


    *ruu?*


    ¡°It¡¯s no good. These are way too expensive!¡±


    Ciana then laughed sheepishly.


    ¡°It can¡¯t be helped. We¡¯re just starting after all. It looks like you can¡¯t buy one of these armors yet,¡± she followed.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t there any light armor here?¡± I asked.


    Desperate to wear anything as long as it¡¯s an armor, I found some boxes stacked at the corner. I then went there and found different light armors.


    ¡°Look, Raiki. These armors are cheap,¡± Ciana said as she searches for a good armor beside me.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. 9,800¡­7,200¡­5,000¡­12,200¡­¡±


    We the searched the entire shop but unfortunately¡­


    ¡°7,200 EC is the cheapest we¡¯ve found. I can afford it but,¡± I whispered with a depressed expression. In this world, money is needed for food, shelter, clothing and lots more. I¡¯ve got a feeling that we won¡¯t survive long if I spend more than half of the money with a weak armor. I want something strong but that¡¯s way too expensive for me.


    ¡°And¡­it doesn¡¯t look strong too,¡± Ciana commented as she knocks lightly on the breast plate of the said armor.


    I then stood up and said, ¡°Well, let¡¯s just come back here after saving a fair amount of money,¡± I said with a sad smile.


    ¡°Won¡¯t you look at other [armor shops]?¡±


    ¡°Well, we might found something strong within our budget but I¡¯m sure that its level of defense will be something like that too.¡±


    ¡°Then, next time it is. Once we¡¯ve saved enough,¡± Ciana said and stood up.


    *ruu!*


    ¡°Ruby?¡±


    Now that I noticed it, Ruby is no longer riding my right shoulder.


    We then searched for Ruby and found him on top of a stone table.


    ¡°There you are Ruby,¡± I said and went before the table.


    *ruu! ruu-ruu-ruu!¡±


    He is pointing at a red shield before him.


    ¡°This?¡± I asked and grabbed it.


    It¡¯s a crimson-colored shield but because it only covers the wrist to the elbow and has a narrow width, just the width of an arm, it looks really light.


    ¡°So you picked this for me,¡± I said and looked at the price.


    ¡°So it¡¯s 5,000 EC,¡± Ciana followed.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    *ruu!*


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll buy this,¡± I said and gave Ruby a smile.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°I know that this will be useful in our quest. Even though its durability is lower than the usual shield, it looks strong and I have a feeling that it can survive any sword attacks.¡±


    ¡°Then, let¡¯s buy that.¡±


    After buying the [Crimson Protector], our remaining money is now 5,300 EC.


    When we got out of the shop, the sun is now down.


    ¡°So it is now 7, huh,¡± I whispered.


    ¡°Raiki, do you want to find an Inn where we can sleep for tonight?¡± Ciana asked.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do that.¡±The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Ciana said and chuckled.


    ¡°I wonder where the Inn is,¡± I muttered as I look around the area.


    ¡°Well, let¡¯s just walk around and I¡¯m sure that we will find one eventually.¡±


    As we walk, I noticed that there are lots of bars open. There are also tons of customers inside, drinking enthusiastically.


    Finally, we found a cheap-looking Inn and decided to enter. After talking to the inn keeper¡­


    ¡°600 EC for just one night???¡± I reacted after hearing the price from the big man on the counter.


    ¡°Look, man. Our Inn is the cheapest one you can find here in [Sagittarius Empire]. If you don¡¯t want to sleep here, find another,¡± he said with an irritated face.


    ¡°How many beds are there?¡± I asked with serious eyes.


    ¡°Of course one.¡±


    ¡°B-but¡­¡±


    ¡°We still got 5,300 EC left, right?¡± Ciana asked with a puzzled face.


    I¡¯m just worried about the other expenses for our daily needs. It looks like we really need to go [loot hunting] everyday after all.


    ¡°So, are you going to take it¡­or not?¡± the guy asked again.


    ¡°Old man, we¡¯re gonna take one room,¡± Ciana said with a smile.


    ¡°Huh?¡± I reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°That way, we can save more money,¡± Ciana replied like it¡¯s the most natural thing in the world.


    ¡°But...we can¡¯t share a bed, right?¡± I asked, confused.


    ¡°Why?¡± she asked and slightly tilted her head.


    You¡¯re really asking me why?


    ¡°D-do you have a room with two beds?¡± I asked with a flustered expression to the owner.


    He then smiled and replied, ¡°Nah. Why not have a hot night with this chick instead?¡±


    ¡°I bet that¡¯s a lie! I can see that you¡¯re having fun teasing me!¡± I retorted angrily.


    ¡°Hot?¡± Ciana whispered, not understanding what the owner meant. ¡°Anyway, Mister, we¡¯re getting only one room.¡±


    ¡°Thanks for the business!¡± he said enthusiastically and gave Ciana the key.


    We then ascended the stairs made of wood and opened the wooden door of our room. It¡¯s a room with a small wooden bed with two small worn out pillow and a single lamp on top of a small table near the bed.


    ¡°What is with this room? Is this...is this a rip-off?¡± I reacted, comparing the romm to the previous one I''ve rented in [Genesisia Town].


    *ruu?*


    ¡°I think we are even lucky to get a room for just 600 EC, you know,¡± Ciana said and started removing her light brown robe. "We''re in an Empire so the cost of living here is sure to be expensive compared to towns."


    ¡°C...Ciana?¡± I reacted, surprised.


    She then looked at me and shyly said, ¡°Now that I realized it, it¡¯s your first time seeing me not wearing this, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Th...That¡¯s not the issue, you know!


    After completely removing her robe, what I saw was the entrancing image of Goddess [Virgo]. Her slightly curled blonde hair is waist-height and she¡¯s wearing a white sleeveless tunic with a red corset on her waist. You can definitely say that even if it¡¯s just in looks alone, the girl before me is a goddess.


    She placed her neatly folded robe on top of the table near the window and also removed her [Concealing Ears]. Then, she placed it on top of the robe.


    Darn it. Why is my heart beating this fast?


    Afterwards, she went to the bed and sat down.


    ¡°Look, Raiki. It¡¯s softer than you expected. Come here,¡± she continued with a smile as she presses the bed.


    ¡°O...kay,¡± I replied, trying my best to not be so nervous and sat down on the bed too, next to her.


    ¡°Now, let¡¯s go to sleep. I¡¯m already exhausted,¡± Ciana suggested and lay down on the bed.


    W-well, I¡¯m also exhausted so¡­I should sleep too.


    ¡°O¡­kay,¡± I responded and did the same. As for Ruby, he decided to sleep in front of the window.


    And after some hours¡­


    Like I can sleep!


    Right now, I¡¯m facing the wall so I can¡¯t see Ciana. Because I¡¯m still widely awake, I decided to see if she¡¯s awake too.


    ¡°Ciana? Are you asleep?¡± I whispered.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    I then turned around to face Ciana when suddenly, her face appeared in point blank range.


    ¡°Guhh!¡± I reacted with widened eyes.


    ¡°Hmmm~¡± she mumbled with a smile while sleeping very soundly.


    You¡¯re too close!


    Because we didn¡¯t turn the lights off, I can see her beautiful face very closely. Our lips are almost touching. I wonder if she will wake up¡­if I kissed her.


    ¡°What am I even thinking?!¡± I shouted inside my mind.


    ¡°I¡­can¡¯t eat anymore~¡± she whispered with a smile.


    I guess¡­she¡¯s dreaming. She¡¯s eating in her dream, huh. She is really cute inside and outside.


    ¡°Well, I guess¡­touching her cheeks is not against the rules right?¡± I said and pressed her cheek using my index finger lightly.


    ¡°Hmmm~¡± she reacted after her eyebrows slightly twitched.


    How cute!!!!!!!!!!!!


    I then repeated it a couple of times with a silly smile on my face.


    ¡°I wonder why I can¡¯t get tired of this,¡± I whispered and look at her blonde head. ¡°I¡¯ve always wanted to try this but¡­¡±


    I then slowly placed my hand on top of her head and started petting it lightly. After awhile, a smile emerged from her sleeping face.


    This is bad! She is so cute that I can¡¯t stop anymore!


    ¡°Raiki~~¡± she suddenly mumbled with a smile.


    ¡°Gahaa!!!¡± I reacted with a surprised expression and stopped patting her head.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure...you can do it,¡± she continued.


    So she is even encouraging me in her sleep.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied with a gentle smile.


    Thanks to that, I can¡¯t even catch some sleep anymore. Maybe I should explore outside for a bit.


    With that decided, I left the Inn and walked around the streets. While walking, I noticed that the usual people walking can¡¯t be found anywhere. The usual noisy bars are now almost empty and the different shops that are usually open are now closed.


    ¡°I think it¡¯s already the time to sleep after all,¡± I whispered as I look around.


    ¡°One Hundred shots~, One Hundred Hits~ Lululalalu~¡± a drunk guy sang as he walks while swaying.


    Suddenly, a cloaked man appeared behind the guy. He then ran towards the guy and slashed the pouch on its waist.


    ¡°Wh-what?¡± the drunkard reacted with a bewildered face.


    The thief then ran as fast as he can with the pouch on its hand.


    ¡°Thi-thief!¡± the drunkard shouted and tried to go after him but tripped instead.


    ¡°Wait!¡± I said and ran after the thief as fast as I can.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°Not-so-fast!¡± I said and delivered a flying kick on the thief¡¯s back. He stumbled and hit the ground. He also accidentally let go of the pouch.


    ¡°Stealing is a crime!¡± I shouted.


    ¡°Shut up!¡± the man said and brought out a knife. He then thrust it to me but I somehow dodged it.


    ¡°That¡¯s close,¡± I said and jumped up as high as I can.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°Justice Punch!¡± I said and delivered a punch on his face. It is strong enough to send him flying. After landing on the ground, he immediately stood up and ran away, leaving the pouch on the ground. I then grabbed the pouch and showed it to the drunkard.


    ¡°Th-thank you!¡± he said and hugged me on the leg.


    ¡°H-hey! What are you doing?¡± I asked in a surprised look.


    ¡°You¡¯re my life saver! Without that, my Boss will surely kill me!¡± he said while crying.


    ¡°I...see. You¡¯re welcome then,¡± I said with a smile.


    ¡°I know, give that to me,¡± he said and grabbed the pouch.


    ¡°Hmmm?¡±


    ¡°Here,¡± he said and gave me a yellow crystal.


    I then took it and asked, ¡°Are you really giving this to me for free?¡±


    ¡°Of course. Anyway, I should hurry towards the hide-out or I might meet someone like that again,¡± he said and ran away as fast as he can.


    ¡°It looks like he sobered after that incident,¡± I said and put the unexpected reward on my pocket.


    Wait. If I remember correctly, the [loot shop] that we visited last time is open 24 hours, right?


    Out of things to do, I decided to exchange the [loot] for money. Unexpectedly, I received 1,000 EC out of it.


    ¡°What a lucky night~!¡± I excitedly sang as I jumped around the street in happiness.


    Maybe I should head back to the Inn.


    Just when I decided to go back, a cold breeze blew in my position.


    ¡°How cold...¡± I commented and looked at the direction where the wind came from while shivering.


    Surprisingly, I saw a familiar girl sitting on top of a big rock before me. She has a brunette shoulder-length hair and wearing a maid outfit. For some reason, her eyes look so melancholic right now.


    After a while, she finally looked down and got surprised from seeing me below her.


    ¡°Hanya!¡± she reacted and accidentally slipped after standing up. She then fell on the ground, face first.


    ¡°Hey, are you okay?¡± I asked and went before her.


    ¡°Uhhh...¡± she moaned as she gets up.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­¡± I whispered and remembered her name.


    It is no other than the [Hund] slave I met the other day, Iwa.

 Chapter 8: SLAVE – The Hund, Iwa

    After leaving the Inn in the middle of night, I unexpectedly run into the slave I saw the other day, Iwa. With Iwa seeing my face, she got flustered and said, ¡°Y-you¡­you¡¯re¡­the¡­b-bumper boy.¡±


    ¡°B-bumper¡­boy?¡± I repeated, surprised from the weird call.


    ¡°A! Sorry about that!¡± she said and bowed.


    ¡°My name is Raiki. Nice to meet you--¡±


    ¡°M-my name is¡­Iwa,¡± she immediately followed.


    Well, I already know your name.


    ¡°Can I ask the reason why you¡¯re here this late?¡± I asked with a smile.


    She then looked at the sky and said, ¡°I¡¯m here because¡­I can¡¯t sleep.¡±


    Her eyes¡­became sad again.


    ¡°I can¡¯t sleep too, you see. Want to take a walk with me for a bit?¡± I asked with a smile.


    ¡°Uhmmm¡­¡± she whispered with a hesitant look.


    ¡°You¡­can¡¯t?¡±


    ¡°O¡­kay,¡± she replied with a shy nod.


    We then walked around the streets and all houses and shops are now close. You can¡¯t hear anything except the zephyr blowing on the area.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this scenery¡­looks amazing?¡± she suddenly asked with a slight smile while looking forward.


    ¡°This scenery?¡± I asked and looked around.


    ¡°The moonlight from above, the empty streets without any people and the silence that echoes endlessly. Isn¡¯t this too peaceful?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± I replied with a smile and looked at her.


    ¡°If only¡­this silence can last forever,¡± she continued and her smile disappeared.


    Her [wielder]¡­I wonder if he¡¯s a bad person. He even called Iwa useless even though she¡¯s doing her chores.


    ¡°Iwa¡­are you a [weapon]?¡±


    ¡°Yes...I am. How about you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a [wielder],¡± I responded confidently.


    ¡°Really?¡± she asked with a slight surprised face.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I don¡¯t look like it but I¡¯m quite strong, you know,¡± I replied with a big smile.


    Suddenly, she chuckled.


    ¡°So you finally laughed,¡± I muttered with a gentle smile.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°I think¡­you¡¯re cuter when you smile.¡±


    After hearing those words, her face blushed and she immediately averted her gaze.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m not cute at all,¡± she responded shyly.


    ¡°Of course you are,¡± I responded seriously.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    After that, she avoided looking at me straight in the eyes. We continued walking without saying anything to each other. When we arrived in front of a closed [weapon shop], Iwa decided to ask me something.


    ¡°Raiki, why did you¡­become a [wielder]?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    She then looked at me with a flustered expression and continued, ¡°S-sorry about that strange question. Please forget that I ask it.¡±


    ¡°Well, to earn money for my family and also to fulfil my childhood dream I guess. It¡¯s been my dream to become a high class soldier you see,¡± I said and smiled.


    ¡°I see,¡± she muttered with a gentle smile.


    ¡°Can I ask a question too?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± she asked with a sudden nervousness.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ¡°Do you...hate [Katzens]?¡±


    After hearing that, she got silent for a couple of seconds and replied, ¡°Well, it¡¯s true that at first, I really got scared of all the [Katzens] because of the treatments I¡¯ve experienced after becoming a slave but...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    She then smiled and continued, ¡°I met some good [Katzens] too so I know that not all of you are bad people.¡±


    ¡°Iwa...¡±


    ¡°How about you...Raiki? Do you hate...[Hunds] like me?¡± she asked with an anxious look.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re the first [Hund] that I met so if I¡¯m gonna based it on that, I¡¯ll definitely say no. I like you after all,¡± I said with an honest smile.


    She then blushed and immediately looked down.


    ¡°I can see that you¡¯re a good person after all,¡± I followed. ¡°Can I ask another question again?¡±


    ¡°G-go ahead,¡± she whispered shyly.


    ¡°What kind of person is your [wielder]?¡±


    She then got surprised and immediately held her left wrist. Only then did I saw the bruise there.


    ¡°Your [wielder]¡­is he hurting you?¡± I asked with a serious face.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Iwa!¡± I said and placed my hands on her shoulder. Because of this, she twitched and her entire face turned red. ¡°If your [wielder] is hurting you, tell me. If you don¡¯t want to become a slave anymore, tell me. I¡¯ll do something about it.¡±


    Despite hearing those words, she continued to stay silent.


    ¡°But¡­but¡­if you don¡¯t say anything¡­I can¡¯t help you. Tell me, Iwa. What do you really want to do?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± she whispered and averted her gaze away from me.


    ¡°If you want, you can even come with us¡­so¡­so¡­¡±


    She got surprised after hearing that and looked at me with tears welling up on her eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯ll protect you no matter what happens,¡± I replied with serious eyes.


    "Rai...ki..." she whispered, now confused on what she should say.


    "..."


    ¡°S-so...rry¡­¡± she said and turned around, making me let go of her shoulders.


    ¡°Iwa¡­¡± I muttered, slightly surprised.


    ¡°Y-you don¡¯t need to worry about me. Even though I look weak, I¡¯m quite used on being mistreated so I¡¯m sure¡­I¡¯m sure that I can take it¡­no matter how long it takes,¡± she said and forced a smile.


    What should I do? What should I do in order to help her? I¡­I¡­


    ¡°¡­can¡¯t do anything,¡± I whispered and bit my lip.


    ¡°?¡±


    I then grabbed her hand and said, ¡°Come with me for a while.¡±


    ¡°W-wait. Raiki?¡±


    As we head towards our destination, the sky is now slowly turning into blue. I think it¡¯s now before 6 in the morning. After a while, we finally reached the [clothing shop].


    ¡°Raiki? What are we doing here?¡± Iwa asked, confused.


    ¡°It¡¯s still close¡­¡± I whispered after seeing that the shop is not open yet.


    Suddenly, the door opened and a tall girl with a build of a man came out while stretching her arms upward.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, are you open now?¡± I asked to her.


    ¡°Huh? We will open at exactly seven so come back at that time,¡± she replied seriously.


    ¡°Can¡¯t we look at some clothes now?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Of course not! Didn¡¯t you hear what I¡¯ve just said?¡±


    ¡°Please! I¡¯m begging you! I promise that I¡¯ll buy at least one so can you let us enter,¡± I asked after bowing.


    She then looked at Iwa and looked at me once again. ¡°Jeez. You better buy something, brat,¡± she replied while scratching her head.


    ¡°Thank you! Iwa, let¡¯s go,¡± I said with a smile and once again grabbed her hand.


    ¡°Raiki? What¡¯s the meaning of this?¡±


    ¡°Treat it as a gift for walking around with me the entire night. Just pick anything you want,¡± I continued and we entered the shop.


    ¡°Huh? We¡¯ve already got a customer?¡± a girl in ponytail asked to the Owner after descending the stairs at the corner. She is still wearing some sort of pink night clothes.


    ¡°Yeah. So hurry up and do your work.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± she said with an irritated face but just after a split second, her expression changed and a very bright smile appeared on her face.


    ¡°Welcome~.¡±


    So this is a smile of a professional sales lady! How blinding!


    She then looked at Iwa who is looking around with a flustered expression.


    ¡°You want some clothes for your [weapon], right?¡± she asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°Then, please follow me, Miss,¡± she said and yanked Iwa towards the fitting room.


    ¡°Raiki, I can¡¯t wear anything other than a maid outfit. So...¡± she explained with a sad expression.


    ¡°Then, how about a scarf instead? The season is now cold you see and you can also cover that collar, right?¡± I suggested.


    ¡°But¡ª¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve got money here so just pick anything you want,¡± I said with a smile. ¡°Miss, can you assist her so she can pick a good scarf?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir. Now, let¡¯s go to the scarves,¡± the girls said to Iwa and pushed her towards the location.


    Wait¡­money? I forgot all of my money in the Inn! I¡¯ve only got 1000 EC here!


    ¡°That girl¡­is she your [beast weapon]?¡± the Owner asked after standing next to me.


    ¡°A¡­she¡¯s¡­not.¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± she replied and made a serious face. ¡°So you¡¯re friends with a slave. Now that¡¯s a rare case. Why are you doing this then? You¡¯re not even her master, right?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­I want to do something for her¡­even if it¡¯s little,¡± i responded with a sad expression.


    ¡°Let me tell you something, brat. [Trust is always stronger than Fear]. If you remember that, I¡¯m sure that it will work out in the end. So¡­hurry up and go to her,¡± she said and pushed my back. Because of its strength, I got sent in front of Iwa that just arrived.


    Right now, she¡¯s wearing a cream-colored scarf. It is fitting to wear together with her maid outfit.


    ¡°D-does it¡­look weird?¡± she asked with blushed cheeks.


    ¡°It really looks good on you,¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°This scarf enhances the magic power of the wearer. The total cost is 500 EC. Would you like to purchase it?¡±


    500 EC? That¡¯s expensive for an ordinary scarf but I think the price is just about right considering its effect.


    ¡°Sure, we¡¯ll take it,¡± I replied and gave her the money.


    ¡°Thanks for the business,¡± the girl thanked with a smile.


    After we finished buying, the sky is now completely light blue but the sun is still not present. We then started to walk on the streets. This time, you can see few people around, some preparing to open their shops and some walking while carrying lots of bags (probably headed outside [Sagittarius Empire]).


    ¡°Thank you very much¡­for this gift,¡± Iwa said after placing her hand on the scarf.


    ¡°It¡¯s no big deal. It¡¯s cheap anyway,¡± I said and smiled.


    Suddenly, I felt a soft sensation that touched my cheek. After that, she ran away and stopped after gaining some distance.


    ¡°I¡¯m going this way so goodbye, Raiki.¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah,¡± I said with a surprised expression.


    So that¡¯s what a kiss¡­feels like.


    ¡°Goodbye, Raiki,¡± she whispered with tears in her eyes.

 Chapter 9: FLAME MASTER – Iwa’s wielder, Dante

    \Several days passed and Iwa and I didn¡¯t meet again. I strolled around the streets every night but I didn¡¯t saw her even once. Well, this empire is very big after all. Finding someone is not gonna be easy. I wonder if something happened to her.


    ¡°Maybe I should head back to the Inn now,¡± I whispered to myself while sitting on the stone where I saw Iwa for the second time. ¡°I think I really need to get used on sleeping with Ciana or I¡¯ll develop insomnia.¡±


    I then jumped to the ground as the sun starts to rise. After reaching the Inn and waking up Ciana and Ruby, we decided to head towards a [weapon shop]. It is because Ciana said yesterday that I need a weapon in case that I can¡¯t use her. Also, an ordinary weapon is much cheaper than an armor so she said that we should buy it first. Those are ordinary weapons made from different [loots] that you can collect from monsters, plants, etc. Some who can¡¯t form a [partnership] with a [beast weapon] use these instead. When we entered the [weapon shop], different weapons welcomed us.


    ¡°I wonder what weapon I should buy,¡± I whispered to myself.


    I¡¯m already using a short-range [weapon] so should I try buying a weapon with a longer reach?


    We then explored around and saw different kinds of weapons: swords, daggers, axes, staffs, lances, whips, bows, trident and others.


    ¡°Ciana, what do you think is a good weapon for me?¡± I asked.


    She then made a thinking pose and replied, ¡°Maybe you should try a short sword.¡±


    ¡°Why a short sword?¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s the type of weapon you formerly use even before you met me, right? Because you will only use it for emergencies, the more you are familiar with your weapon the better. Not to mention it has a slightly longer reach than my [weapon form] sickle so I think it will also be useful in some situations.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°I wonder what kind of [slave weapon] should I buy?¡± a guy suddenly said in a loud voice. He is wearing a very expensive looking dress and lots of jewelleries.


    Buy?


    ¡°Welcome, Sir. Are you going to buy a [slave weapon] again?¡± the owner said with a big smile after rushing to his side.


    ¡°Who knows? If you show me something nice, I will think about it,¡± the guy said in a boasting way.


    ¡°Then, let¡¯s immediately head to the 2<sup>nd</sup> floor,¡± he said and the both of them ascended the stone stairs.


    ¡°Ciana¡­¡± I said and looked at her, asking her if I heard that right.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go there and see for ourselves,¡± she replied with a serious expression.


    We then followed the two and got surprised from what we saw. There are lots of [Hunds] there, sitting on the ground: mostly girls, elderly and kids. They have shackles attached on their feet like they are slaves, being sold here. All of them have scared and exhausted expressions.


    ¡°How about this [weapon] that we recently received?¡± the owner said and went before a [Hund] girl that is just a few age older than me. She has a ponytail hairstyle and is wearing rugged clothes. I think that girl is around mid-twenties.


    ¡°Ho~. She is quite a good [weapon] visually,¡± the buyer said and looked at the girl indecently. The girl got scared and tried to escape but because she has a shackle on her neck, all she can do is to shake in fear.


    ¡°She is a [slave weapon] that uses [lightning magic]. You can¡¯t find a [weapon] like this in any shops, you know~¡± the owner said with a smile.


    ¡°Hmmm~. A [slave weapon] specializing in [speed] is not bad, I guess. Okay, let me see if she¡¯ll be good in a battle.¡±


    ¡°Here,¡± the owner said and handed a small stone to the buyer. The buyer then gave the girl a smile and said, ¡°Fear me.¡±


    After grabbing the stone hardly, the collar that the girl wears sparked and she got electrocuted.


    ¡°Ghhhhaaaa!!!¡± the girl screamed.


    ¡°That¡¯s right! No matter what you do, you can¡¯t defy me with this stone. If you don¡¯t want to feel pain, fear me and obey all of my commands! Understand?¡± the buyer continued while laughing in a really evil manner.


    ¡°Ghhhhaaaaa!!!¡± the girl continued to shout in pain.


    ¡°No answer? Then, let¡¯s see what will happen if I gripped it harder. I wonder if the pain will be doubled~,¡± he said with a very amused smile.


    ¡°I¡­ghhhh¡­.under¡­stand¡­.ghhhaaa!!!¡±


    The owner of the shop then whispered something to the buyer.


    ¡°Okay. [Saeko],¡± the buyer whispered and the girl transformed into a yellow light. She then became a katana on the buyer¡¯s right hand.


    ¡°Oh~. This is quite a magnificent katana,¡± the buyer commented after unsheathing it. He then swung around the sword and stopped with a smile.


    ¡°Good~. Okay, I¡¯ll be taking this,¡± the guy said with a smile.


    ¡°Thanks for the business,¡± the owner happily responded.


    After losing my control, I immediately ran towards the buyer and clenched my fist. Just before I managed to punch him, Ciana appeared in front of me.


    *slap*


    Because of that sudden slap in the face, I realized what I was about to do.


    ¡°Hey, he got slapped by that girl,¡± a buyer around whispered to the boy next to him.


    ¡°Is that a lovers¡¯ quarrel?¡± the girl next to him followed.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    ¡°Raiki, please¡­control yourself. If you did something like that¡­you will be imprisoned. No matter how you look at it, that guy is a noble,¡± Ciana whispered with a frustrated face.


    ¡°Cia¡­na...¡±


    I then clenched my fists and bit my lip.


    I can¡¯t do anything. I am really¡­powerless.


    After getting out of the [weapon shop], we then walked around without a proper destination. After a while, I found a bench in the pavement so I decided to sit down.


    *ruuu~* Ruby moaned with worried look.


    I then looked at Ruby and gave him a forced smile.


    ¡°No need to worry about me, Ruby,¡± I responded to him.


    ¡°Raiki¡­¡± Ciana whispered and sat down next to me.


    Afterwards, I sighed, still remembering what I witnessed earlier.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know¡­that they are now selling [slave weapons] there. I thought that they are just selling ordinary weapons,¡± Ciana whispered as she watched the people walking about.


    ¡°Ciana¡­what are the requirements for a [weapon] to become a [wielder]¡¯s [partner]?¡± I asked with a sad expression while looking at the blue sky.


    ¡°Do you still remember our first battle together?¡± Ciana asked with a serious look.


    ¡°Yeah. At the entrance test, right?¡±


    ¡°What did you do to make me transform into a sickle?¡±


    ¡°I just...focused on thinking about you. Everything I know from the Ciana I know back then,¡± I said after looking at her.


    She then smiled and replied, ¡°That¡¯s right. The [wielder] and the [weapon] should have a similar state of mind before the [wielder] can use the [weapon]. In that case, you thinking about me is what triggered me to transform. Similarly, back then, all I¡¯m thinking is you, all things I know about you,¡± she asked with a sudden smile.


    ¡°Then, what¡¯s up with that scene earlier?¡±


    Suddenly, Ciana got serious and said, ¡°But here¡¯s also another way.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± I asked.


    ¡°That is the [weapon] must fear the [wielder] more than anyone. If that happens, the [wielder] can use that [weapon] anytime that person wants even if the [weapon] is against it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­cruel¡­¡± I muttered, shocked.


    ¡°If you think about it, the concept of [Fear] to control a [weapon] is flawed. Any [wielder] can use a certain [weapon] if that [weapon] became more scared to that person compared to the [weapon]¡¯s current [wielder].¡±


    ¡°Then, that stone¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. If someone had a stone that can torture you anytime, I¡¯m sure that you¡¯ll be scared to that person the most.¡±


    So Iwa is suffering to that concept to. She also has a similar collar like that girl earlier so I¡¯m sure of it.


    I then stood up and asked, ¡°Ciana, is it true that [Trust] is stronger than [Fear]?¡±


    That¡¯s what the owner of the [clothing shop] said to me. If that¡¯s true¡­then¡­


    Ciana then stood up and gave me a smile.


    ¡°Yes. So if a [weapon] learned to [trust] a certain [wielder], no other [wielder] can use him or her anymore by using [fear].¡±


    I then made a determined expression and looked at the vast dark sky.


    ¡°I want to change this world,¡± I said with a serious face.


    ¡°The [Royal Family] is the one who implements the rules so you have to become one of the top six in the [Deity Tournament] if you want them to listen to you,¡± Ciana explained. ¡°But I just have a feeling that if it¡¯s you, you can someday do it.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I will make it a reality,¡± I said with a serious smile.


    After that, we decided to head towards [Crimson Forest] to [loot hunt] again. While we¡¯re walking, I saw a familiar face from far away.


    ¡°Iwa?¡± I reacted with a slight surprised face.


    *ruu?*


    ¡°Iwa?¡± Ciana repeated and looked at the direction where I am looking.


    There, a very scared girl is standing alone in the middle of the dangerous [Crimson Forest]. She clearly doesn¡¯t have a weapon in hand.


    ¡°What the heck is she doing there?¡± I asked to myself and hurried towards Iwa. Because of my sudden sprint, Ruby flew up from my shoulder and looked at Ciana.


    ¡°Wait, Raiki!¡± Ciana said and the both of them followed me.


    *roar*


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a [Cerberia]!¡± Ciana reacted after seeing the three-headed monster that looks exactly like a ferocious dog but with three heads. It has a height of 5 feet and has a red fur.


    ¡°Darn! [Ciana]!¡± I called.


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡± Ciana responded with a serious face.


    Ciana then became a sickle and I immediately dashed towards Iwa.


    The [Cerberia] then lifted its claw and scratched Iwa.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!" Iwa screamed out of pain.


    The strength of its attack is enough to send her flying and hit a tree trunk heavily.


    ¡°Why you!¡± I shouted furiously.


    When the monster entered my attack range, I immediately slashed it, putting all of my strength in the hit.


    ¡°[Heaven Strike]!¡± I yelled and with just one slash, the monster fainted.


    ¡°What the¡­ A [critical hit]?¡± a man hiding nearby reacted.


    ¡°R-R¡­Raiki?¡± Iwa reacted with a shocked face.


    I then went before her with a very worried face and asked, ¡°Iwa, are you alright?¡±


    After hearing that, she forced a smile and rubbed her wounded stomach.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine so¡­don¡¯t worry. This is just a light wound,¡± Iwa muttered weakly.


    ¡°Of course that is not a light wound! You¡¯re bleeding! This is a very heavy wound!¡± I shouted in an extremely worried look.


    *ruu!*


    Ruby then jumped on top of Iwa¡¯s head and started healing her.


    ¡°Thanks, Ruby,¡± I said with a smile of relief.


    *ruu!*


    ¡°What did you just do, damn brat!¡± a voice suddenly asked in an angry tone behind me. When I turned around, I immediately saw a tall man wearing a flashy red armor. Behind him is a tanned [Katzen] girl with similar maid outfit as Iwa.


    ¡°What¡¯s¡­the meaning of this? Why¡­did you let your [weapon]¡­be wounded by a monster?¡± I asked without knowing the expression I¡¯m currently making.


    ¡°Fool! She is the [bait] in this [monster hunt]. Her job is to lure this [Cerberia] so I can find an opening to attack and finish it in one hit but¡­you stole my prey! You¡¯re gonna pay for this!¡± Iwa¡¯s [wielder] furiously complained.


    ¡°Bait¡­you say?¡± I shouted and prepared to slash him on the face.


    ¡°[Janet],¡± he whispered and a sword blocked my attack.


    *spark*


    ¡°You¡¯ve still got a long way to go if you want to point a sword on the great me!¡± he shouted and gave me an intimidating glare.


    ¡°[Teleport]!¡± I shouted.


    ¡°!¡±


    In just a split second, I am now behind him and already in a swinging position.


    ¡°[Light Sla--]¡±


    ¡°Na?ve! [Flame Dance]!¡± he said and just after I¡¯ve cut him in half, his silhouette became fire and vanished into thin air .


    ¡°What the--¡± I reacted with widened eyes.


    ¡°Surprise?¡± he asked after appearing behind me and swung his sword to me. I managed to turn around and block his attack just in time using my sickle.


    *spark*


    ¡°You¡¯ve got one interesting [weapon] there, kid,¡± he said with a smile while looking at my sickle. ¡°Is that a [weapon] that uses [lightning magic]?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the worst! How can you treat Iwa like that?¡± I asked with an extremely pissed expression.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me¡­you¡¯re angry just because of this tactic?¡± he questioned me, somewhat confused.


    *spark*


    ¡°Tactic? You¡¯re calling that act a tactic? That¡¯s not how a sane [wielder] handle his [weapon]!¡± I shouted, pissed.


    ¡°Are you perhaps Iwa¡¯s friend? I didn¡¯t even know that she has one,¡± he asked with a ridiculing smile.


    ¡°So what if I am?¡±


    ¡°A useless [weapon] as a friend? Are you kidding me? You¡¯re befriending something that useless? All it can do is to turn into a lousy shield! I just got fooled to buy her because that fraud dealer said that she has the [rare ability] [Clay Morph]!¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t deserve a [weapon] like Iwa, you scum!¡± I screamed angrily.


    *spark*


    ¡°Are you saying that you want her?¡± he asked, grinning.


    ¡°Yeah! I¡¯m going to take her from you even if I have to use force!¡±


    He then laughed very loudly and replied, ¡°What an idiot! Taking me as an opponent and even trying to get a useless [weapon] as a price is the dumbest thing someone would do. Fine! [Flame Burst]!¡±


    Suddenly, his sword exploded and sent me flying towards Iwa.


    ¡°Raiki? Hey! Are you okay?¡± Iwa asked with an extremely worried face after I landed on her lap in a lying position.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take you on, kid. Let¡¯s meet at the [Wielder Dome] tomorrow at exactly 1 in the afternoon. It will be a [four on four] battle. Got it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll¡­beat you¡­for sure so¡­don¡¯t you dare¡­run away¡­¡± I whispered weakly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, Iwa,¡± he said and started to walk away from me.


    Darn. I can¡¯t move. My vision is starting to get blurry.


    Iwa then looked at me like she wants to say something.


    ¡°Iwa!¡± her [wielder] suddenly called.


    After hearing that guy¡¯s sudden shout, her shoulder twitched and looked at me with a very scared expression.


    ¡°Are you disobeying my order?¡± he followed with intimidating eyes.


    ¡°That¡¯s...¡± Iwa replied, confused on what to do. She then looked at me once again.


    ¡°Iwa¡­I¡­promise that¡­I¡¯ll get you¡­so¡­so¡­wait for me,¡± I muttered using the last remaining strength that I have.


    After saying those words, I lost consciousness.

 Chapter 10: CONDITIONS – The Prelude of the Battle

    When I opened my eyes, I immediately saw the yellow leaves of a tree, swaying as the wind blows in the area. As I absent-mindedly stare at the peaceful scenery while lying down, a familiar face suddenly appeared right in front of my face.


    ¡°Are you awake?¡± she asked with a smile.


    ¡°Ahhhh!!!¡± I reacted and tried to get up but ended up hitting Ciana¡¯s forehead.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± we both reacted.


    ¡°S-sorry, Ciana!¡± I apologized after completely lifting my upper body upright.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m okay,¡± Ciana replied with a smile.


    ¡°Uhmm...thanks for...letting me rest on your lap,¡± I responded shyly.


    It looks like we¡¯re on the [banapple fields] found on the north-east part of the [Crimson Forest]. That is why there are lots of living trees and grasses everywhere.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that you two are already in ¡®that¡¯ kind of relationship,¡± Rave suddenly commented with a teasing smirk.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that!¡± I retorted and suddenly got surprised. ¡°Wait...Rave? What are you doing here? Didn¡¯t you go to the [Taurus Empire] already?¡±


    ¡°Well, we¡¯ve received a mission that took place here but after we finished it, we immediately saw you two. That is why we brought you here,¡± he explained.


    ¡°A mission?¡± I repeated.


    ¡°Yeah. Soldiers tend to receive missions sometimes you see. The higher your rank, the more difficult missions you¡¯ll get. Of course, you¡¯ll be paid nicely.¡±


    ¡°Being a soldier really is nice,¡± I commented with an admiring smile.


    ¡°H-here,¡± Kumi said shyly and gave me a [banapple].


    So I even made Kumi worry.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± I said with a smile and took the fruit. I then bit it and commented, ¡°Delicious!¡±


    ¡°Ciana told me everything. So you will battle that Dante tomorrow. I think you can¡¯t win easily with that kind of opponent,¡± Rave said with a serious expression.


    ¡°You know that man?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Of course I know him. He is infamous throughout [Sagittarius Empire] as the [Flame Master] you know,¡± Rave followed.


    ¡°R-really?¡± I reacted with a surprised look.


    ¡°God [Sagittarius] is the one who told him that he should become a soldier after all. It looks like he can see some good potential in that Dante. That means that his [weapons] are quite strong,¡± Rave continued.


    ¡°The [weapon] that defeated us is already a level 27 sword that uses [fire magic]. I¡¯m sure that the other three [weapons] that he will use in the battle have high levels too,¡± Ciana followed.


    ¡°What? Level 27?¡± I reacted with widened eyes.


    Ciana is still at level 22 and the match is already tomorrow.


    ¡°Why did you even agree to a [four on four] battle? You only have one [weapon], you know,¡± Rave said and sighed.


    ¡°Well, all I¡¯m thinking back then was to free Iwa from that guy so¡­¡± I replied while looking down.


    ¡°Good grief,¡± Rave said and stood up. ¡°We have to train and get you a new [physical attack] then.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I have to get a move that can counter that [Flame Burst],¡± I said and stood up.


    ¡°That¡¯s not the only reason. You¡¯re gonna battle on the [Wielder Dome], right? That means that you can¡¯t use any of Ciana¡¯s [special attack],¡± Rave said, serious.


    ¡°Huh? But why?¡± I asked with an extremely surprised face.


    ¡°Are you dumb? There will be lots of spectators there. If you show any [light magic] moves there, I¡¯m sure that everyone will find out that your [weapon] is the [Lost Deity], [Virgo],¡± he explained.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­right,¡± I whispered, realizing that he really has a valid point.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    But¡­how can I win without relying on Ciana?


    Ciana then stood up and gave me a smile. ¡°I¡¯m sure that you can win. You promised that girl, right?¡±


    ¡°Ciana...¡± I whispered while looking at her.


    She''s right. I promised Iwa that I will surely get her. I can¡¯t afford to waste time here.


    ¡°Rave, please help me train. I want to¡­become stronger,¡± I said with serious eyes.


    He then smiled and replied, ¡°That goes without saying. Come on and let¡¯s start!¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡± I responded with a serious smile.


    Starting that exact moment, I focused on learning a new [physical attack] and before I know it, the day of the battle arrived.


    It is now 11 in the morning and we¡¯re now standing in front of the [Wielder Dome].


    ¡°It¡¯s big¡­¡± I whispered to myself as I look at the big building in front of me. It is a dome that has 3 floors and a size that is really humongous. Without a doubt, it is one of the biggest facilities here in [Sagittarius Empire].


    ¡°This is the place where [wielders] get famous after all,¡± Rave replied while looking at the dome¡¯s entrance. Kumi is also with Rave, hiding behind him because she is still scared to the crowd of people.


    *ruu-ruu!* Ruby encouraged before the battle.


    I then looked at Ruby who is on my right shoulder and replied, ¡°Thanks, Ruby. I¡¯ll do my best.¡±


    ¡°Raiki, let¡¯s enter,¡± Ciana said with determined eyes.


    ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s win this,¡± I replied and we entered the big open door to get Iwa from Dante.


    When we entered inside, we found lots of people in lines. It looks like they are lining up in front of the betting area.


    ¡°They are here to gamble. Every day, lots of battles happen here so this place is always packed,¡± Rave explained.


    ¡°Are you perhaps Mister Raiki?¡± a butler asked after appearing next to us. There¡¯s also another butler right behind him.


    ¡°Y-yes, that¡¯s me,¡± I replied with slight nervousness.


    ¡°Then, please follow me to the 3<sup>rd</sup> floor¡¯s battle field. Mr. Dante is already waiting for you,¡± he followed politely.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I responded with a slight nervous tone.


    We then went upstairs and as we walk towards our destination, we saw lots of battle fields with [wielders] fighting on it. There are also lots of spectators around them, cheering for their favorite [wielder]. I also noticed that there are lots of butlers patrolling the area. Are they the guards of this place?


    After we reached the end of the floor, we found a big wooden double door that is around 12 foot in height. When the butler opened it, tons of spectators around welcomed us with a loud cheer.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this¡­¡± Ciana reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°This is the battle field that can occupy hundreds of spectators. Only infamous [wielders] are allowed to battle here,¡± Rave commented.


    The battle field is just plain ground with a big rectangle shaped arena. The arena has a small rectangle area connected at both ends that serves as the standby-area for the [weapons] for each side. But what is surprising is the number of crowd that decided to watch my battle.


    ¡°As expected to Dante. He even managed to get spectators this many,¡± Rave continued as he looked around the bleachers full of enthusiastic people.


    ¡°I think I might get a stage fright here,¡± I replied as I look around.


    Suddenly, Rave slapped me in the back and gave me a smile.


    ¡°Just remember your training. I¡¯m sure that you can beat that Dante so don¡¯t be scared,¡± he said with a smile.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± I said with a smile.


    ¡°Then, Kumi and I will go to the bleachers so good luck, Raiki¡­Ciana.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Leave this to us,¡± Ciana and I responded.


    Ruby then jumped on Rave''s left shoulder and gave me a determined look.


    *ruu-ruu-ruu!*


    ¡°Yeah. I will not lose this battle no matter what,¡± I replied with a smile.


    Rave, Kumi and Ruby went to the bleachers to find a seat while Ciana and I went to the battle field where Dante and his four [weapons] are waiting.


    "Raiki..." Iwa whispered with a worried face.


    I''m here to free you, Iwa.


    ¡°So you didn¡¯t run away, brat. You¡¯re quite courageous for a first star [wielder],¡± Dante said with a ridiculing expression.


    A star represents the number of [weapon] a wielder has. That is why Dante is currently a four star [wielder]. I¡¯m clearly at a disadvantage here.


    ¡°You better free Iwa if I won this battle,¡± I said seriously.


    ¡°Yeah. But in exchange, I¡¯ll get that sickle that uses [lightning magic] if I won,¡± Dante responded with a grin.


    ¡°Wh-what?¡± I reacted, surprised.


    ¡°That goes without saying. Are you suggesting that only I will lose something if you defeated me here?¡±


    If I lost¡­Ciana will¡­


    ¡°We agree to that condition,¡± Ciana replied seriously.


    ¡°Oh~. Then, let¡¯s start the battle,¡± Dante said with an evil smile.


    ¡°B-but¡­Ciana?¡± I reacted hesitantly and looked at her.


    She then gave me a smile and said, ¡°I believe in you. That is why I can bet myself in this battle.¡±


    Ciana¡­


    ¡°I¡¯ll win this, I promise,¡± I replied and made a serious expression.


    ¡°[Weapons], please leave the battle field and wait at your respective stand-by area,¡± the judge announced.


    Ciana then went towards the small rectangle area connected to the battle field. As for Iwa and the other three of Dante''s [weapons], they went to the other side and stood politely like dolls, waiting for their master¡¯s command.


    ¡°Hey, that kid is only a one star. How can he even win?¡± one spectator from the bleachers said.


    ¡°Maybe his other [weapons] are late.¡±


    ¡°Now that¡¯s what you call a rare case. If that¡¯s true, those weapons have to arrive before that kid lost.¡±


    ¡°This might become a one-sided match.¡±


    ¡°The [four on four] battle between [Flame Master] and Raiki will now begin. Each [wielder] can use up to four [weapons] in this battle. A wielder can win by making all of the opponent¡¯s [weapons] unable to battle, making the opponent lose consciousness or making the opponent admit defeat. Are both [wielders] ready?¡± the judge asked.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied with a serious expression.


    ¡°Yes. I¡¯m ready,¡± Dante replied with a confident smile.


    ¡°Then, battle¡­.commence!¡±


    ¡°[Ciana]!¡± I called and opened my palm.


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡± Ciana responded.


    After that, Ciana immediately transformed into a white light and went towards my hand. After circling on it several times, she became a sickle.


    ¡°For starters, [Lee]!¡± Dante called with a confident smile.


    ¡°As you wish.¡±


    Once she heard her name, the girl beside Iwa immediately became a red light and went to Dante¡¯s hand. She then transformed into a piandao.


    ¡°Entertain me, Brat!¡± Dante muttered and laughed.


    We¡¯ll surely win this so just wait...Iwa.

 Chapter 11: RAIKI VS DANTE – The Battle at the [Wielder Dome] for Iwa

    To free Iwa from her wielder Dante, I agreed to duel him in the [Wielder Dome] at [Sagittarius Empire] with the agreement of when I win, I¡¯ll get Iwa from him and when he wins, he¡¯ll get Ciana from me. That¡¯s why I can¡¯t afford to lose this battle.


    ¡°Then, battle¡­.commence!¡± the judge announced.


    ¡°[Ciana]!¡± I called.


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡± Ciana responded.


    After that, Ciana immediately transformed into a white light and went towards my hand. After circling on it several times, she became a sickle.


    ¡°For starters, [Lee]!¡± Dante muttered confidently.


    ¡°As you wish.¡±


    Once she heard her name, the girl beside Iwa became a red light and went to Dante¡¯s hand. She then transformed into a piandao.


    ¡°Entertain me, Brat!¡± Dante said with a grin.


    ¡°Haaaahhhhhh!!!!¡± I shouted and dashed towards him. In a flash, I covered the distance between the two of us.


    ¡°Take this,¡± he said and thrust his sword to me.


    *clang*


    I somehow blocked it using my [crimson protector]. Thanks to this shield, I can defend and attack the next turn!


    ¡°Ha!¡±


    With a short shout, I swung my sword towards his face. It grazed his cheek, making it slightly bleed.


    ¡°Why you! [Flame Point]!¡± he shouted furiously and hit my [crimson protector].


    *clang*


    ¡°Ugghhhh!¡± I reacted.


    Even with this shield on, I can still feel the heat on my arm! I have to do something!


    I then delivered a roundhouse kick on Dante¡¯s side, enough to make him flinch from pain even though he¡¯s wearing a heavy red armor. The strength that he¡¯s applying on his sword got weaker.


    The only [special attack] that I can use that doesn¡¯t behave like a [light magic] attack is this!


    ([Heaven Strike]!)


    "Haaaa!!!¡± I shouted and swung my weapon as hard as I can to his piandao. With just one hit, his sword transformed into a red light and got sent back to the opponent¡¯s standby area.


    ¡°Just one hit?¡± Dante reacted, shocked.


    (That¡¯s one down, Raiki!)


    But with that, I can¡¯t use [Heaven Strike] anymore.


    ¡°Useless! [Lhea]!¡± Dante shouted with a pissed face.


    ¡°As you wish.¡±


    Suddenly, a bastard sword appeared on his hand. ¡°Die!¡±


    Our swords clashed, creating sparks as we try to overpower each other. Suddenly, he gave me an arrogant smile.


    ¡°[Flame Dance]!¡± Dante yelled.


    Oh no!


    Suddenly, Dante became a flame and vanished. When I looked around, he is nowhere to be found.


    Darn! Where will he appear?


    ¡°Here!¡± he shouted and slashed me on the back.


    ¡°Ahhhh!!!¡± I screamed because of the sudden pain.


    ¡°[Flame Slash]!¡± he followed.


    *clang*


    ¡°¡­*pant*¡­*pant*¡­¡±


    I somehow turned around and blocked his attack using my sickle just in time. Thank God!


    ¡°You good-for-nothing brat!¡± he shouted and delivered a barrage of attacks.


    *clang*


    *clang*


    *clang*


    *clang*


    Fortunately, I blocked all of it using my sickle. The clanging sounds continued for a while and when he got irritated, I predicted what¡¯s coming next.


    ¡°[Flame Dance]!¡± Dante shouted and vanished once again.


    I then closed my eyes and tried to sense him. I¡¯m sure that¡­he will attack¡­now!


    ¡°Die!¡± he shouted and prepared to slash me from behind but in his surprise, I managed to jump up very high before it landed.


    ¡°What???¡±


    ¡°[Wheel Blade]!!!¡± I shouted and transformed into a rotating saw-like form. I then descended to his sword and continued rotating.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    *spark* *spark* *spark* *spark*


    Because of my continuous rotation, his [beast weapon] couldn¡¯t take the damage anymore and went back to the standby area, leaving Dante defenseless for my continuous [physical attack].


    ¡°Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!¡± he screamed as I rotate as fast as I can, damaging him as hard as I can.


    *slashslashslashslashslashslashslashslashslash*


    After a while, my rotating attack naturally stopped, leaving Dante kneeling on one knee while I am standing proudly.


    ¡°Wanna give up?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Now you¡¯ve done it! You¡¯re dead! [Janet]!¡± Dante shouted with a sudden evil smile.


    ¡°As you wish,¡± Janet replied and a sword with a red blade appeared on Dante¡¯s right hand.


    ¡°Hey! Is it just me or the [Flame Master] is losing?¡± the spectator from earlier asked to the guy next to him.


    ¡°Not yet. This is the real start of the battle. He will now use his best [weapon]!¡±


    This is his strongest weapon, [Janet]. Thanks to the battles earlier, Ciana is now at level 25 but this weapon is already at level 27. Not to mention Ciana¡¯s stamina is already not on the good side.


    ¡°[Flame dance]!¡± he shouted and disappeared once again but this time, he is faster to appear behind me.


    Darn, I can¡¯t turn around in time!


    ¡°[Flame Slash]!¡± Dante shouted.


    ¡°Arrrgggggghhhh!!!¡± I screamed after the burning sensation slashed my back. Then, an exploding pain jolted me. I almost fell on my knees but I managed to remain standing.


    ¡°This¡­is not over yet!¡± I said and made a fighting stance after facing Dante.


    ¡°Just admit defeat already!¡± he said and swung his sword continuously. It took all of my energy just to block all of his swings.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Tired already?¡± he asked with a ridiculing smile.


    ¡°I..won¡¯t¡­let¡­you¡­have Ciana and Iwa!¡± I shouted, trying my best to defend from his attacks.


    I then swung [Ciana] with all of my strength and produced a spark when it hit his sword.


    ¡°Then, better say goodbye to the both of them now! [Flame Dance]!¡±


    Suddenly, he transformed into flames and once again vanished.


    ¡°I¡¯m already used to your speed!¡± I said and swung my sword into thin air.


    *clang*


    With a surprised face, he reappeared while our swords are clashing.


    ¡°You brat!¡± he shouted angrily.


    ¡°Is that all you¡¯ve got, [Flame Master]?¡± I asked with a smile.


    ¡°Then, be defeated by the same attack that defeated you before! [Flame Burst]!¡±


    I¡¯m waiting for that move!!!


    Just before his sword exploded, I immediately crouched down and kick his leg, strong enough to make him fall down sideways.


    ¡°[Counter Kick]!¡± I muttered.


    When the right side of his head hit the ground, his sword exploded, making his [weapon] attack his own [wielder] accidentally instead of me.


    ¡°You did it!!!¡± Rave shouted in the bleachers happily.


    My training paid off!


    Afterwards, Dante stood up with a very pissed face and shouted, ¡°I¡¯m going to kill you!!!¡±


    ¡°No, thank you!¡±


    ¡°[Flame Slash]!¡± he shouted and swung his flaming sword towards me.


    ¡°Haaaaa!!!¡± I followed and swung [Ciana] towards him.


    *boom*


    Both of our swords clashed and after creating a huge explosion, both Janet and Ciana got sent to their respective standby area, leaving me with no [beast weapon] left.


    ¡°I win, Brat!¡± Dante shouted with an evil smile.


    ¡°Are you sure that Ciana is my only [weapon]?¡± I asked with a confident smile and looked at Iwa.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me--!¡± Dante reacted with widened eyes.


    Reading my mind, Dante immediately prepared his right hand.


    ¡°Iwa, put all of your trust in me because I¡¯ll surely beat this guy!¡± I shouted, enough to be heard throughout the area. ¡°Believe in me because I believe in you!!!¡±


    ¡°Raiki!¡± Ciana called with a worried expression.


    ¡°[Iwa]!¡± both Dante and I shouted, exactly at the same time.


    The stadium became silent. Not knowing what will happen next, all they can do is to hold their breaths.


    Iwa then became a brown light and went towards my left arm. After a while, she transformed into a bronze kite shield. Its length is slightly longer than my [crimson protector] but much wider in width.


    ¡°Wh-wh-wh-wh-wh¡­¡± Dante reacted with a dumb-founded face.


    (Raiki...thank you.)


    That''s my line, Iwa. Now, let¡¯s win this together!


    ¡°Take this!¡± I shouted and punched Dante using the tip of [Iwa] that slightly passes my left hand.


    *pow*


    He then flew away and hit the ground with his eyes rolled back.


    ¡°Who is useless now, [Flame Master]?¡±I asked with a smile.


    The whole stadium is speechless. It is because of the sudden turn of events that happened here for the first time, a [wielder] getting a [weapon] of an opponent in the middle of the battle.


    ¡°W-with all of his [weapons] unable to battle and [Dante] losing his consciousness, the winner of this match is Raiki!!!¡± the judge announced with a surprised face.


    Suddenly, the audience applauded very loudly, cheering my name. They are so hyped up that the cheers became so loud that it is not an exaggeration if I said that it can be heard throughout the whole dome.


    ¡°Raiki!¡± Ciana shouted happily as she run towards me and jumped on my arms.


    ¡°C-Ciana?¡± I reacted with a flustered expression after she hugged me.


    *slap*


    ¡°Ouch!¡± I reacted out of the sudden pain in my back.


    That familiar slap on the back...


    After Ciana drew back, I turned around and saw Rave smiling very cheerfully with Ruby on his left shoulder.


    ¡°I know that you will win! Congrats!¡± Rave congratulated.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± I said and smiled.


    ¡°C-congratulations,¡± Kumi shyly said while still hiding behind Rave.


    ¡°Thanks for cheering for me too, Kumi,¡± I responded.


    *ruu-ruu!*


    ¡°Of course I won. I promised it earlier, right?¡± I said to Ruby.


    Iwa then transformed back and stood shyly right in front of me.


    ¡°Iwa, thanks for trusting me. Because of you, we won this battle,¡± I said and gave her a smile.


    ¡°Raiki,¡± she said and tears started to drop from her eyes.


    After Ciana got healed by Ruby, I called her name and she transformed into a sickle on my left hand.


    ¡°Ciana, can I cut Iwa¡¯s collar?¡±


    (Well, as of now, you can¡¯t cut it. That collar is made of the hardest metal so cutting it is really hard. Also, Iwa is still a slave to this territory. By removing her collar, she will be categorized as an intruder.)


    ¡°So what should I do?¡±


    (You should destroy the [master¡¯s stone] instead. That way, no one can hurt her anymore using that collar¡¯s function.)


    ¡°I got it,¡± I said and went towards Dante. Then, I grabbed stone on his pocket and cut it into two, making it impossible to use anymore. Ciana then transformed back and gave Iwa a smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re now free from Dante. So¡­can you now answer the question that I asked you ¡®that¡¯ night?¡± I asked to Iwa with a serious smile.


    She then wiped her tears and looked at me.


    ¡®Tell me, Iwa. What do you really want to do?¡¯ That¡¯s what I asked her.


    ¡°I¡­I¡­I¡­I want to come with you! I want to be always by your side! You¡¯re the only [wielder] I want as my master. Is that¡­is that¡­too selfish of me?¡± she asked with tears welling up on her eyes.


    ¡°Of course not. You can come with us anytime. I¡¯ve already said that, right?¡± I said with a smile.


    "Raiki..." Iwa whispered and tears started dropping from her eyes.


    "Iwa..." I continued and drew out my hand.


    She then held it and nod with a smile. ¡°I¡¯ll become your shield and protect you¡­I swear, my new [wielder].¡±


    After the decisive battle with the [Flame master] Dante, our party obtained a new member: the level 18 kite shield that uses [earth magic], Iwa.


    Suddenly, a centaur with dark brown long hair wearing a light green, full plate armor appeared before us.


    ¡°H-hey, look at that!¡± one spectator reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°It¡¯s the God [Sagittarius]!¡± everyone reacted in the bleachers.


    ¡°What a magnificent battle, Raiki,¡± he said with a smile. ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve watched a breath-taking battle like that. Congratulations in winning.¡±


    ¡°Th-thank you,¡± I said and bowed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be expecting you to come and challenge me in my castle for your first [soldier challenge]. I¡¯ll be waiting,¡± he followed and left.


    God [Sagittarius], huh.


    I then looked at both Ciana and Iwa and said, ¡°Let¡¯s also win against God [Sagittarius].¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± both of them responded with a smile.

 Chapter 12: THE ARCHER – The Constellation Deity, Sagittarius

    After the battle with Dante, Ciana, Iwa and I trained to become prepared for the upcoming battle with God [Sagittarius].


    The [Soldier Challenge] is the only way to become a soldier of [Katzenschatz]. By defeating the first [Constellation Deity] [Sagittarius] in battle, a [Katzen] can immediately become an official soldier with the lowest rank [6<sup>th</sup> rank]. As you defeat more [Deities] in the duration of the challenge, your rank will go up. The highest rank is [1<sup>st</sup> rank] and you can only become one by defeating all six [Deities]. Of course, the participants in the [Deity Tournament] will also be based upon the achievements of the [wielders] here in this challenge.


    And after days of training, we finally decided to challenge God [Sagittarius].


    ¡°This castle¡­is huge!¡± I commented with a surprised face after arriving at the venue of my first [Soldier Challenge].


    ¡°This is [Archer Castle] after all,¡± Ciana said.


    It is a big castle made of big bricks. Even though its sole color is light red, it is still majestic in appearance.


    ¡°Is our training...enough?¡± I asked nervously.


    ¡°Jeez, don¡¯t be so nervous. Let¡¯s win this,¡± Ciana replied with a smile.


    ¡°Sh-she¡¯s right,¡± Iwa replied with a sudden nervous face.


    ¡°Look, you even influenced Iwa,¡± Ciana whispered with a sigh.


    ¡°S-sorry about that,¡± I replied in an apologetic tone.


    ¡°Just believe in the two of us, Raiki,¡± Ciana said with a smile.


    ¡°Th-that¡¯s right. I will try my best,¡± Iwa followed, trying her best to encourage me.


    *ruu!* Ruby also encouraged who is currently on my right shoulder.


    I then lightly slapped both sides of my face and with a smile, I said, ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s win this!¡±


    ¡°Are you Mr. Raiki?¡± a [castle soldier] asked after the big door of the castle opened.


    ¡°Y-yeah. That¡¯s me,¡± I responded seriously.


    ¡°Then, please follow me towards the [Battle Arena],¡± he continued with a poker face.


    ¡°Sure,¡± I replied.


    We then followed him inside the castle. There are some rich guests in the first floor, chatting with each other but when we ascended to the second floor using the grandiose stairway, the one who welcomed us were different expensive furniture and decorations made of rare [loots] that costs millions of EC. There are lots of expensive-looking things that I don¡¯t know where to look anymore.


    ¡°As expected to a Deity,¡± I whispered while looking around.


    ¡°Please follow me this way,¡± the soldier said.


    ¡°Y-yeah,¡± I replied and followed him.


    After walking for a couple of minutes as we look at different paintings hanged in the walls, we finally arrived at a big door made of metal. When the butler opened it, we immediately saw the [battle arena] with someone standing in the middle.


    ¡°Welcome, [wielder],¡± he said with an excited smile.


    It is no other than God [Sagittarius] wearing his usual light green armor. In appearance, he has a blonde hair and a very handsome face. His lower body is also that of a horse, making him really tall in height.


    I then went before him and Ciana and Iwa stayed on the standby area.


    ¡°The battle you showed me in the [Wielder Dome] is really entertaining. I just hope that you¡¯ll do the same here,¡± he said with a smile.


    ¡°I¡¯ll try my best,¡± I replied with a serious face.


    ¡°So¡­how about we start the battle now? It looks like you¡¯re already ready to fight,¡± he followed with a serious smile.


    ¡°Please do,¡± I said and sharpened my senses.


    ¡°As usual, I won¡¯t use these legs to run. You guys are still a beginner after all so please don¡¯t take it the wrong way. Is that okay with you?¡± he asked in a friendly tone.


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    I¡¯m sure that if all Deities took the challenge seriously, no one can pass the challenge. That is why they¡¯re giving us a handicap.


    ¡°The [Soldier Challenge] will now commence. God [Sagittarius] and the challenger, Raiki can only use two [weapons] respectively. The one who will make all of the opponent¡¯s [weapons] unable to battle, make the opponent [wielder] lose consciousness or make the opponent [wielder] admit defeat will be announced as the winner. Are both sides ready?¡± the judge asked.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied and made a fighting stance.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start,¡± he said and smiled at me.


    ¡°Battle¡­.commence!¡±


    ¡°[Ciana]!¡±


    ¡°Leave it to me,¡± Ciana replied with a serious smile.


    ¡°[Joan]!¡± God [Sagittarius] called.


    ¡°Yes, Sir.¡±If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    After a sickle appeared on my left hand, I immediately looked at God [Sagittarius]¡¯s [beast weapon].


    ¡°As expected. It¡¯s a level 30 bow and arrow that uses [ice magic] just like Ciana told us,¡± I whispered.


    Ciana is now at level 30 so the result of the battle will be decided by the strength of the [wielders].


    (Just like I thought, Sagiru is still using his usual style of challenge. If that¡¯s the case, the other one will be a level 30 [beast weapon] that uses [fire magic].)


    This is my first time battling a [wielder] with a long range [weapon].


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± I said and dashed towards God [Sagittarius].


    The faster I get, the lesser the damage I can inflict but I¡¯m clearly at a disadvantage here because of [Ciana]¡¯s range. I have to get closer or I won¡¯t even land an attack.


    ¡°So that¡¯s your plan. [Icicle Arrow],¡± God [Sagittarius] said and fired his arrow to my direction.


    (Raiki, stop!)


    I immediately turn on my brakes and after I stopped skidding completely, the arrow landed right before me and formed three conjoined ice pillars in an instant.


    ¡°That¡¯s close!¡± I reacted with a shocked face.


    ¡°If I were you, I won¡¯t attack carelessly. If you got hit by that, I¡¯m sure that your whole body will freeze and you¡¯ll lose by default,¡± God [Sagittarius] explained confidently.


    As expected to an [Constellation Deity]. Dante is too weak compared to him.


    (What should we do, Raiki?)


    ¡°Increase our speed!¡± I said and ran towards God [Sagittarius] in my max speed.


    (But with this¡­your attack damage will become¡­zero!!!)


    ¡°What?¡± God [Sagittarius] reacted after I instantly appeared before him in point blank range.


    ¡°[Switch]!¡± I shouted and swung my weapon to God [Sagittarius]¡¯s bow.


    *boom*


    (Raiki! This is--!)


    [Switch], my newest [physical attack]. It enables me to max my [weapon]¡¯s worst status (in this case, [attack]) instantly and make its best status (in this case, [speed]) completely zero. The condition in order to activate this is my best status should be max first. With this new [physical attack], I can deliver the maximum damage I can inflict to the opponent but¡­it will make me unable to dodge the opponent¡¯s next attack because my [speed] just became zero. A gamble attack perfect for a situation like this!


    When the smoke lifted, the bow is still present. God [Sagittarius] gave me a smile and said, ¡°Impressive, but¡­¡±


    I¡¯m planning to finish his [weapon] in one attack but it didn¡¯t work! I¡¯m dead!!!


    He then held a single arrow like a knife and shouted, ¡°[Ice Stab]!¡±


    ¡°Ahhhh!!!¡±


    When I got stabbed by the arrow, a freezing sensation exploded inside my body, very different from a [fire magic]¡¯s [Flame Burst]. It made my whole body numb, making me hit the floor.


    ¡°Gahaaa!¡±


    ¡°Raiki!!!¡± Iwa shouted with an extremely worried expression in the standby-area.


    ¡°Did you think that just because this [weapon] of mine is a [long range] type, it can no longer attack in point blank range?¡± God [Sagittarius] asked with serious eyes.


    Darn it! I have to get up or I¡¯ll lose!


    (Raiki, can you get up?)


    Don¡¯t worry, Ciana. I can still¡­continue.


    ¡°Hmmm~,¡± God [Sagittarius] reacted with an amused expression after I got up with shaking legs.


    ¡°Then...how about this!¡± I shouted and circled around him, fast enough for God [Sagittarius] to have a hard time following my movements.


    ¡°Does that [weapon] uses [lightning magic]?¡± he asked with a smile.


    I then jumped up and shouted, ¡°[Wheel Blade]!¡±


    ¡°Na?ve! [Icicle Arrow]!¡±


    *pew*


    When my [weapon] and his arrow collided in mid-air, I immediately rotated like a wheel.


    *clang clang clang clang clang clang clang clang clang*


    Our attacks tried to push against each other and after a while, it created an explosion.


    *ka-boom*


    After I landed on the ground, God [Sagittarius] gave me an amused smile.


    ¡°Not bad, [wielder].¡±


    Darn it! I can¡¯t even land a hit! How can I even beat this guy?


    ¡°You see, attacking head-on won¡¯t do you any good. You should always outwit your opponent in a battle. This [soldier challenge] is not just about strength but also about strategy, you get it?¡± he explained with a gentle smile.


    So I should outwit him using my own strategy.


    (If only we can use my [special attacks]¡­)


    If we do that, he will learn your true identity. That is why we can only use¡­


    (Raiki?)


    I got it! I hope ¡®this¡¯ will work!


    I can only maintain the effects of [switch] for a couple of seconds so it already deactivated earlier. If I want to increase my attack to the maximum again, I have to use [switch] again. First, I have to get close to him as much as possible with my speed at maximum.


    I then charged towards God [Sagittarius] and prepared to slash him.


    ¡°You can¡¯t beat me just by charging blindly, [wielder],¡± God [Sagittarius] said with a smile and fired an arrow to me.


    *pew*


    I managed to dodge it by jumping up. Because his arrow missed, it hit the ground, making the area around it freeze.


    ¡°That¡¯s close!¡± I said after landing on the ground.


    ¡°It¡¯s too soon to let your guard down,¡± he said and fired his arrows repeatedly.


    *pew-pew-pew-pew-pew-pew-pew-pew-pew-pew-pew*


    All of it was so close on hitting me but I managed to dodge all of it by running around. Before I know it, the battle field got covered completely by ice.


    ¡°Ice¡­¡±


    This will work!


    I then ran around and because the floor is now slippery thanks to the new ice floor, I slid very fast that I¡¯m now heading towards an ice pillar.


    (Raiki, watch out!)


    ¡°Increasing your [speed] in this new battlefield is a failure of a strategy¡­¡± God [Sagittarius] whispered with a disappointed face.


    But this is all part of my plan!


    Just before I hit the pillar, I braced myself and drew out my free hand.


    ¡°What is he planning to do?¡±


    What hit the pillar is my hand and before I completely crashed on it, I used both of my feet to shift the direction of my momentum. Before I know it, I am now heading towards my desired location.


    (I see! You used the pillar to change direction without losing speed!)


    And now, I¡¯m heading towards the bewildered God [Sagittarius]!


    ¡°What the¡­¡± God [Sagittarius] reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°Here I come!¡± I shouted and prepared to cut him. Because I¡¯m sliding towards him very fast, there¡¯s no time for a counter-attack. I can do this!


    ¡°[Swit--]¡±


    Just before my blade touched him, an arrow generated on his hand in a split second.


    ¡°Too slow! [Ice Sta--]¡±


    If my [Switch] and his [Ice Stab] clashed, the two attacks will just cancel out each other! I have to abandon using [Switch]!


    I immediately turned on the brakes to deliver a move that will stop his attack.


    ¡°[Counter Kick]!¡± I shouted.


    *pow*


    ¡°Ugghhhh!!!¡±


    Because of my sudden kick on his leg, he lost his grip on his arrow.


    A bow without an arrow can¡¯t do anything! With this slash, it¡¯s the end!!!


    ¡°Haaaa!!!¡±


    Just before my blade reached his bow, he managed to hold his bow like a bat and gave me a victorious smile.


    ¡°[Gold Smash]!!!¡± God [Sagittarius] yelled.


    *slam*


    Without landing an attack, [Ciana] became unable to battle and transformed back into the standby area.


    There¡¯s no time to waste!


    ¡°[Iwa]!!!¡± I screamed.


    ¡°At your service!¡± Iwa responded with a serious face.


    In an instant, a bronze kite shield appeared on my left arm and because God [Sagittarius] is just exactly on [Iwa]¡¯s attack range, I managed to land a hit.


    ¡°[Bronze Smash]!!!¡±


    *boom*


    After being hit by my shield, God [Sagittarius]¡¯s [beast weapon] transformed into a blue light and went back to the stand-by area. I immediately ran some strides away from him and made a defensive stance.


    I finally defeated his first [weapon]! Thanks to that, [Iwa] is now at level 23.


    ¡°Not bad, [wielder],¡± he muttered with a wry smile.


    ¡°Without [Ciana] and [Iwa], I won¡¯t reach this far. It¡¯s all thanks to them,¡± i replied seriously.


    ¡°I see. Then, are you ready for my second and last [weapon]?¡± he asked with an amused expression.


    ¡°Bring it on!¡± I responded.


    ¡°Then, [Christine]!¡± God [Sagittarius] called.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Suddenly, the last girl on his standby-area transformed into a red light and became a bow on his hand.


    So it is really another level 30 long-range [weapon], huh. This is the worst match-up. [Iwa] is just a kite shield and the only [physical attack] I can do is [Bronze Smash], a point-blank range attack. This situation is bad! But despite that...


    ¡°We¡¯ll win this...¡± I whispered with serious eyes.

 Chapter 13: RAIKI VS SAGITTARIUS – The Battle for the Archer Symbol

    After defeating Dante, we decided to challenge God [Sagittarius] to clear the first [soldier challenge]. But just after I thought that Ciana managed to defeat God [Sagittarius]¡¯s first [weapon], God [Sagittarius] managed to land an attack to [Ciana] making her unable to battle anymore but thanks to my quick reflexes, I managed to call out [Iwa] just on time and make his first [weapon] unable to battle to after delivering a clean hit. Now, it will be a [one on one] battle with [Iwa] and his [last weapon].


    Then, are you ready for my second and last [weapon]?¡± he asked with an amused expression.


    ¡°Bring it on!¡± I responded.


    ¡°Then, [Christine]!¡± God [Sagittarius] called.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Suddenly, the last girl on his standby-area transformed into a red light and became a bow on his hand.


    So it is really another level 30 long-range [weapon], huh. This is the worst match-up. [Iwa] is just a kite shield and the only [physical attack] I can do is [Bronze Smash], a point-blank range attack. This situation is bad! But despite that...


    ¡°We¡¯ll win this...¡± I whispered with serious eyes.


    After an arrow appeared on his hand, he immediately pointed his bow on the ceiling and shouted, ¡°[Fire Works]!¡±


    He then fired the arrow directly above him and after it reached its maximum height, it exploded like a flower spectacularly.


    (Raiki, take cover!)


    I immediately followed Iwa¡¯s advice and placed my shield on top of my head for cover. Suddenly, a rain of flaming arrows poured on the whole battlefield. Before I know it, the ice field melted and the battle field returned to its original state.


    ¡°Are you¡­kidding me?¡± I whispered with a surprised face.


    ¡°Now, you can¡¯t repeat the feat that you did earlier. Even though [Fire Works] uses a large amount of my [beast weapon]¡¯s magic power, it is worth to use it, right?¡± he asked with a smile.


    Thanks to [Iwa]¡¯s high defense, I managed to survive that attack but¡­


    ¡°Let¡¯s start! [Flaming Arrow]!¡± he said and fired an arrow towards me.


    I have to dodge it!


    ¡°Oh no!¡± I reacted with a sudden shocked face.


    [Iwa] is too heavy! I can¡¯t increase my speed like when I¡¯m using [Ciana]!


    *boom*


    Just in the nick of time, I managed to lift my arm and [Iwa] protected me from the swift attack.


    (Raiki, are you okay?)


    I¡¯m fine, Iwa. Sorry for acting as my shield.


    (You don¡¯t need to apologize because that¡¯s my duty as your [beast weapon]. The one who should apologize is me. My worst status is [speed] so because of me, you can¡¯t use your usual battle style. Sorry.)


    Don¡¯t say that. Don¡¯t forget the fact that the two of us also trained for this day. Even though I can¡¯t use my usual battle style, a good [wielder] can adjust depending on his [weapon] so if we can¡¯t win this...it¡¯s all my fault.


    (That¡¯s--)


    ¡°[Wielder], are you seriously planning to win with a shield? That [weapon] can only use the [bronze smash] from earlier, right?¡± God [Sagittarius] asked with a serious expression.


    ¡°So what if it¡¯s true?¡± I asked, also serious.


    ¡°Then, you don¡¯t have a chance to win. You know it without me telling you, right?¡±


    (Sorry¡­)


    ¡°You¡¯re wrong!¡± I shouted with a serious face.


    With that sudden shout, God [Sagittarius] and Iwa got surprised.


    ¡°I will prove to you that [Iwa] is not a useless [weapon], that she can win in any kinds of battle if we combined our strength. We will prove that by beating you!¡± I continued.


    (Raiki¡­)


    Let¡¯s win this, Iwa.


    (R-right!)


    ¡°Then, come!¡± God [Sagittarius] responded with a smile.


    I then ran towards God [Sagittarius] as fast as I can but¡­


    ¡°Compared from earlier, it¡¯s like you¡¯re now moving in slow motion,¡± [Sagittarius] commented and pointed an arrow to me.


    ¡°Just you wait!¡± I shouted.


    ¡°[Flaming Arrow]!¡± he shouted and I immediately made [Iwa] a shield once again.


    All I can do is defend from [Sagittarius]¡¯s attacks. I can¡¯t even dodge it because of my slow speed. What should I do?This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± God [Sagittarius] asked.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Darn it! I can¡¯t think of any strategy!


    A continuous attack of [Flaming Arrow] hit [Iwa] as I desperately think of a strategy to outwit [Sagittarius] but¡­


    ¡°If you don¡¯t do something, your [weapon] will soon faint. Or are you saying that you¡¯re giving up?¡±


    (Raiki¡­)


    Iwa¡­


    (I¡¯m¡­fine. I can still¡­hold out so¡­just think about what you should do to defeat God [Sagittarius]. All¡­I can do is¡­protect you so¡­I will protect you¡­as long as I can¡­)


    Iwa¡­


    ¡°Now, do you want to surrender?¡± [Sagittarius] asked as he fires his arrows continuously.


    ¡°No¡­¡± I whispered and took a step forward.


    ¡°Hmmmm~¡±


    (Raiki?)


    I will no longer think of a clever plan just to outwit [Sagittarius]. Iwa, I believe in you so¡­give me your strength and endure his attacks until the end.


    (A-as you wish!)


    ¡°What are you¡ª¡± God [Sagittarius] reacted, shocked.


    ¡°This is my plan! I¡¯ll get close to you and punch you with all of my might!¡±


    ¡°Hahahaha. Let¡¯s see if that plan of yours will work!¡± [Sagittarius] shouted and continued the barrage of flaming attacks.


    One step at a time, I managed to get closer to [Sagittarius] bit by bit. Without [Iwa]¡¯s unbelievable [defense], this feat can never be done.


    ¡°Are you¡­kidding me? That [weapon] is still holding out?¡± [Sagittarius] whispered and his eyes became serious.


    Iwa, just 5 meters and we can land a hit! You can do it!


    (I¡¯ll¡­do my best!)


    4 meters left!


    ¡°Darn it!¡± God [Sagittarius] shouted and the arrows that hit [Iwa] per round increased in number.


    3 meters left!


    ¡°How can you still hold out? This is--¡± God [Sagittarius] reacted with a surprised face.


    2 meters left!


    ¡°That [beast weapon]!¡±


    1 meter left!


    ¡°This is impossible!¡± he shouted, confused.


    Point blank range!


    (Raiki, now!)


    ¡°[Bronze Smash]!!!!!¡±


    ¡°[Flame Dance]!!!!!¡±


    Just when I thought we finally land a hit, God [Sagittarius] vanished just after I hit him. He then teleported behind me and whispered, ¡°Too bad¡­Raiki!¡±


    I immediately turned around and saw the distance between us¡­


    ¡°5¡­meters¡­¡± I whispered with widened eyes.


    ¡°Just so you know, I didn¡¯t use my legs to get away from you. Now, this is the end!¡± God [Sagittarius] shouted and took a firing stance with his bow and arrow.


    Darn itttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt!!!!!!!!!!!


    (Reachhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)


    Suddenly, [Iwa] emitted a very bright brown color.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡± God [Sagittarius] asked after covering his eyes with an arm.


    When I opened my eyes, I got surprised from what I saw. [Iwa]¡­transformed.


    ¡°[Clay Morph]?¡± God [Sagittarius] reacted with widened eyes.


    ¡°Clay¡­Morph?¡± I repeated.


    ¡°It is a very rare [ability] for [beast weapons] that uses [earth magic]. It lets the [weapon] transform into a similar [type] of [weapon] as its enemy,¡± God [Sagittarius] explained with a smile.


    [Iwa] retained its kite shield appearance. The only difference is now, she has a cannon sticking out on top of the shield¡¯s face. So [Iwa] became a long range [weapon] like [Christine].


    ¡°Seems like this battle will be much more interesting now,¡± [Sagittarius] said with a smile and pulled the string of his arrow.


    ¡°This battle is just starting!¡± I shouted and pointed the cannon to [Sagittarius].


    (Raiki, I¡¯ve learned a new [special attack].)


    What is it?


    ([Earth Blast]. This attack gets stronger as you give it more of my Magic Power.)


    Then, for starters¡­¡± I said and smiled.


    ¡°[Flaming Arrow]!¡± God [Sagittarius] yelled.


    ¡°[Earth Blast]!¡± I shouted.


    The two attacks collided and exploded.


    ¡°They¡­have the same power?¡± God [Sagittarius] reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°Yeah¡­at least on that attack. I can still¡­make it stronger! [Earth Blast]!¡±


    ¡°[F-Flaming Arrow]!¡±


    Afterwards, that next attack over-powered his arrow and exploded after hitting God [Sagittarius]¡¯s [weapon].


    ¡°We did it!¡± I shouted happily.


    (Thank you, Raiki. Without you¡­I¡¯m sure that¡­I¡¯m sure that...)


    ¡°It¡¯s too early for that. We still have to win this, right?¡± I said with a smile.


    (R-right.)


    ¡°My [weapon] is almost out of magic power,¡± God [Sagittarius] whispered with a surprised look.


    He¡¯s still¡­fine after that attack?


    ¡°Too bad then,¡± I replied after the smoke lifted on [Sagittarius]¡¯s location. As expected, he¡¯s still composed. He''s a [Constellation Deity] alright. I can¡¯t let my guard down yet.


    ¡°How about we finish this with one last attack, [wielder]?¡± [Sagittarius] said and made a firing stance.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine with that,¡± I replied after pointing the cannon to him while my left arm is being supported by my right hand.


    ¡°Then¡­[Meteor Arrow]!¡± he shouted and an arrow with an incredible fire power had been fired towards me.


    Iwa, use all of your remaining magic power for this last attack!


    (As you wish!)


    ¡°[Earth Blast]!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!*


    The two attacks tried to push against each other in mid-air. They were so powerful that it generated a strong gust of wind that made the ground and wall of the battle field crumble.


    ¡°Eat my [weapon]¡¯s strongest attack!¡± [Sagittarius] shouted.


    It surely is strong but¡­


    ¡°My [weapon]¡­Iwa is much stronger than yours!!!!¡±


    Finally, my attack overpowered his and made a big and loud explosion. I covered my eyes from the sudden impact.


    (Did we¡­win?)


    After the smoke lifted, I found God [Sagittarius] kneeling on the ground but¡­


    (His weapon¡­is still there¡­)


    No¡­way. Iwa''s magic power is now zero and just one hit and she will surely fail to maintain her [weapon form] anymore.


    God [Sagittarius] then stood up and gave me a smile.


    ¡°It¡¯s your win, Raiki.¡±


    Suddenly, his [weapon] transformed into a red light and went back to the standby-area.


    ¡°The two of the God¡¯s [weapon] can no longer battle. Therefore, the victory goes to the [challenger], Raiki!¡± the judge announced.


    ¡°We...did it!!!¡± I shouted and jumped happily.


    Ciana then went before me and said ¡°You¡¯re finally a soldier now, Raiki¡± with a smile.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I responded with a big smile.


    Then, Iwa transformed back and gave me a confused look. I know what she¡¯s thinking.


    ¡°We won, didn¡¯t you hear the judge? It¡¯s all thanks to you two,¡± I said to Iwa and Ciana.


    ¡°Raiki¡­¡± Iwa whispered.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Thank you...for believing me,¡± she said after looking up to me and gave me a charming smile.


    I then smiled back and replied, ¡°I¡¯m counting on you from now on, Iwa.¡±


    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Iwa responded with a smile.


    Afterwards, Ciana hugged the both of us and said, ¡°You both did really great, congratulations.¡±


    ¡°Jeez. We¡¯re a party you know. It¡¯s also thanks to you that we won this so thanks too, Ciana,¡± I said with a smile.


    ¡°Congratulations, Raiki,¡± God [Sagittarius] said after arriving with a small treasure chest on his hand.


    Ciana and Iwa then went beside me and gave me a smile.


    ¡°This is the proof of your victory, the [Archer Ring],¡± God [Sagittarius] said and opened the chest. Inside, there¡¯s a silver ring designed with some sort of symbols.


    ¡°With this, you are now a [6<sup>th</sup> class] soldier, one of the [1<sup>st</sup> wave] of soldiers for the upcoming war. But I know that you can still make your rank higher,¡± God [Sagittarius] said with a smile. ¡°Also, you can now challenge the next [Constellation Deity], [Taurus].¡±


    God [Taurus], huh.


    I then took the ring and placed it on my left index finger.


    ¡°I can see that you have the potential but it is up to you if you can reach the top. Without hard work, potential is useless. Work hard in order to achieve your goal, Raiki,¡± God [Sagittarius] said with a serious face and smiled at the end.


    ¡°I understand,¡± I replied with a serious expression.


    This is the first step towards my dream. I will become a high rank soldier and also...win the [Deity Tournament]!

 ARC END (First Update)

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    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Name: Raiki


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Title: none


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Rank: 6<sup>th</sup> rank


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Age: 18 years old


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    List of [physical attacks]:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Wheel Blade] ¨C a high-damaging physical attack. Can only be used with a short-bladed weapon.</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Counter Kick] ¨C counters close-range attacks</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Switch] ¨C switches around the worst status and best status that the current [beast weapon] gives to the user. Can only last in a couple of seconds.</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Bronze Smash] ¨C the sole attack of an ordinary bronze shield (Can only be used with [Iwa] when in Shield Mode: Protector)</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    List of [Weapons]:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    Name: Ciana/ [Virgo]


    Age:unknown


    Race: [Constellation Deity]Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.


    Kind: Sickle


    Level: 30


    Magic: Light


    Ability: unknown


    Arsenal:


    <ul>


    <li>Golden Dagger</li>


    </ul>


    List of [special attacks]:


    <ul>


    <li>[Heaven Strike] ¨C an attack that has a 50% chance of landing a hit. If the opponent¡¯s [weapon] is successfully hit, it will make the opponent¡¯s [weapon] unable to battle no matter how high the level is</li>


    <li>[Light Slash] ¨C basic light magic attack of [Ciana]</li>


    <li>[Teleport] ¨C It lets the user instantly move towards any place within 5 meter radius of the user¡¯s current position</li>


    <li>[White Out] ¨C blinds opponent /s temporarily</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    Name: Iwa


    Age:17 years old


    Race: [Hund]


    Kind: Kite Shield


    Level: 24


    Magic: Earth


    Ability: [Clay Morph] ¨C copies the [kind] of the opponent¡¯s [weapon]. (Can only store up to one mode)


    Arsenal: none


    List of [special attacks]:


    <ul>


    <li>[Earth Blast] ¨C long-range attack that gets stronger as it consumes more magic power (Can only be used when in Long-range Mode: Blaster)</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    List of [Monsters] tamed:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    Name: Ruby


    Species: [Crimson Dragon]


    Ability: [Healing Aura] ¨C heals both stamina and magic power of the target completely. (Number of times it can heal per day is equal to the number of current [weapons] on the [tamer]¡¯s party plus one.)


    Status: currently in the party


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Arsenal:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    [Crimson Protector] ¨C lightest shield that can be found in [Sagittarius Empire]


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Symbols obtained:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    [Archer Ring] ¨C proof of defeating The Archer, [Sagittarius]


    </td>


    </tr>


    </tbody>


    </table>

 Chapter 14: BLACKSMITH – The Monotone Blacksmith, Arjen

    ¡°Here it is,¡± Iwa said after stopping in front of an old [blacksmith¡¯s shop]. Compared to the other shops near it, for some reason, it looks like kind of¡­abandoned.


    ¡°So this is the place you¡¯re talking about,¡± I said to Iwa.


    Today, we are now out to buy an armor and ordinary weapon. It took quite a while but we finally saved enough money to buy both. Iwa said that she knows a good [blacksmith] here so we decided to pay him a visit but¡­


    ¡°Are you sure that this shop¡­is on business?¡± I asked while looking at the creaking wooden signboard at the top of the shop made out of stone.


    ¡°Yes. It¡¯s already like this when I first went here,¡± Iwa responded with a smile.


    ¡°Then, let¡¯s enter,¡± Ciana said and both of us followed Iwa. After Iwa opened the door, we found some [weapons] displayed at the wall.


    ¡°Even though the weapons here are not that many¡­I can see that all of them are well-made,¡± Ciana said while examining some swords displayed.


    ¡°Maybe he¡¯s on the workshop again,¡± Iwa whispered and entered the door behind the counter. As for me, I decided to look around the shop like Ciana.


    ¡°But¡­he should at least clean. There are already webs in the ceiling,¡± I commented while roaming my eyes around.


    *ruu!*


    ¡°Right?¡± I asked to Ruby who is currently on my right shoulder.


    This might also be the reason why everyone avoids this shop.


    ¡°Since we¡¯ve got a decent amount of money now, why won¡¯t you order a custom weapon and armor? That way, it will really suit your built and fighting style.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. And because the money will come to us every month now that I¡¯m an official soldier, I don¡¯t need to worry about the food and shelter expenses. I can now even buy different items for emergencies,¡± I followed happily.


    Suddenly, we heard Iwa¡¯s scream coming from the room behind the shop.


    ¡°Iwa!¡± I reacted and both Ciana and I dashed towards the door. When we entered the workshop, we found her with a very shocked expression.


    ¡°Iwa, what happened?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Arjen is¡­¡± she said with a terrified expression and looked at a [Katzen] boy lying on the ground.


    I immediately went before him and tried to wake him up.


    ¡°Hey, are you okay?¡± I shouted and tapped his cheeks.


    ¡°Aaaa...¡± he whispered weakly.


    ¡°What?¡± I asked and placed an ear near his mouth.


    Suddenly, the boy bit my ear.


    ¡°Wha¡ª¡± Ciana and Iwa reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°Ouch!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!¡±


    Suddenly, Iwa pulled me up and said,¡± Wh-wh-what are you doing Arjen?¡± with a flustered expression.


    The boy then stood up and scratched his messy hair.


    ¡°I dunno. The last thing that I can remember is I was eating biscuits.¡±


    ¡°You fell asleep while eating again?¡± Iwa asked with a slight surprised look and sighed at the end.


    When I looked at the table, there is indeed some biscuits in the table.


    ¡°Iwa¡­¡± the boy suddenly whispered in a poker face after stopping before Iwa.


    ¡°Ar¡ª¡±


    He then pinched Iwa¡¯s cheeks and stretched it like dough.


    ¡°You¡¯re much cuter now compared to your last visit,¡± he commented in a monotone voice.


    ¡°Hueee. Shop it Arren~¡± Iwa muttered as her cheeks got stretched in and out.


    So this boy is Arjen, the [blacksmith] that Iwa mentioned to us. He is wearing a worn-out green long sleeve and brown short shorts. He is also wearing boots. I think he is also around Iwa¡¯s age. For some reason, he¡¯s like lifeless. His expressions are just monotone.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    ¡°Anyway, did you escape again?¡± he asked to Iwa.


    ¡°No. Master Dante is not my [wielder] anymore. Let me introduce you to my new [wielder]. This is Raiki,¡± Iwa introduced me with a smile.


    ¡°Uhmm¡­nice to meet you. My name is Raiki,¡± I followed with a bow.


    ¡°I see. My name is Arjen. Nice too meet you too, Mickey.¡±


    ¡°Huh? My name is Raiki,¡± I responded with a confused look.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Sorry, sorry. Raikey, right?¡± he asked without his expression changing.


    ¡°Well¡­you can call me whatever you want,¡± I said and made a strained laugh.


    This boy is quite weird.


    ¡°Arjen, we are here because Raiki wants a weapon,¡± Iwa said.


    Suddenly, the Arjen guy looked at me with very serious eyes. He then examined me from top to bottom.


    ¡°You specialize in light, short-range weapon, right?¡± Arjen asked.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°With your build, I¡¯m sure that you don¡¯t have any experience in wielding any heavy weapons. As for the shape of your arms¡­I can see that you don¡¯t rely on brute-strength when battling. Also, with the shape of your legs and how worn-out your shoes are, I¡¯m sure that your best status is your [speed]. You always run around in battle so¡­I think a dagger is a good weapon for you. A short sword is not that bad too. What kind of [beast weapons] do you have right now?¡±


    How cool!


    ¡°A sickle and a shield,¡± I replied.


    ¡°If it¡¯s just a weapon for emergency use, I recommend you to use a similar short range one like your sickle but if you want to try something new, that¡¯s a different story. What do you want me to make?¡±


    ¡°Then, a short sword please,¡± I answered with a smile.


    ¡°I see. Unfortunately, someone already bought the finest and last short sword I made so I have to make another one. What kind of short sword do you want?¡± he asked.


    ¡°What kind of short sword?¡± I repeated, wondering what he meant by kind.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    He just continued staring at my eyes with a serious expression. What does he mean by that? Is he referring to the type of blade? Or is he talking about the materials that I want as the ingredients for my requested weapon? But what I really want is...


    ¡°I want¡­the best sword, something that won¡¯t lose even to a [beast weapon],¡± I followed seriously.


    He then made a wry smile and replied, ¡°Then, come with me.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± I reacted, slightly surprised.


    He then went before a cabinet and grabbed a blue dagger that is sheathed. Then, he threw it at me and I caught it with my two hands.


    ¡°We¡¯re gonna go to [Harlequin Valley] and get some materials. You two girls stay here and manage the shop,¡± Arjen announced.


    ¡°I-I got it, Arjen,¡± Iwa replied.


    ¡°Come on Raikey, let¡¯s go,¡± he said and yanked me.


    ¡°A¡­Iwa, Ciana, I¡¯m going.¡±


    ¡°Take care, Raiki,¡± Iwa replied.


    ¡°Good luck,¡± Ciana followed with a smile.


    ¡°Ruby, you stay here too,¡± I said..


    *ruu?*


    ¡°If something happens, you¡¯re the only one that I can count on to protect Iwa and Ciana,¡± I said with a smile.


    *ruu!*


    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll be counting on you.¡±


    We then exited the shop and started walking towards the [Harlequin Valley]. While we are walking on the streets, I decided to ask my question to Arjen.


    ¡°Arjen¡­this dagger¡­did you make it?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. That is my first piece so I decided to keep it.¡±


    ¡°I¡­see.¡±


    ¡°How did Iwa became your [weapon]?¡±


    ¡°About that¡­I battled Dante for her freedom. I managed to win so Iwa became free but she decided to accompany me in my journey so she became my [beast weapon].¡±


    ¡°[Trust is always stronger than Fear], huh. I guess that legend is true after all,¡± he whispered with a smile.


    ¡°Did you say something?¡±


    ¡°That girl¡­Iwa is a coward but she is kind-hearted. She doesn¡¯t care what will happen to her as long as she can protect others so¡­please be the one to protect her,¡± he said and looked at me seriously.


    ¡°I promise. I¡¯ll protect Iwa,¡± I responded with a serious face.


    ¡°Here we are.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Just after we exited the North Gate of [Sagittarius Empire], I immediately saw a signboard with some writings on it. Beyond the signboard is a land full of different plants and trees.


    ¡°Is this already the entrance to the [Harlequin Valley]?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m counting on you. The monsters here are much stronger compared to the ones in [Crimson Forest] so you need to put extra effort to get certain [loots] from them.¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute. Are you saying that we¡¯re gonna kill monsters just to get the materials to make my weapon?¡± I asked, surprised.


    ¡°That¡¯s the reason why we¡¯re here,¡± he responded with a poker face.


    ¡°But¡­¡± I whispered hesitantly.


    ¡°Are you¡­a [tamer] too? Now that I remembered it, you¡¯ve got a tamed monster earlier.¡±


    According to Ciana, a [tamer] is someone who fights using a [monster] and not a [beast weapon].


    ¡°I¡¯m not but¡­I don¡¯t want to kill monsters as much as possible so¡­¡± I muttered while looking on the ground with a sad face.


    ¡°You¡¯re one strange person. Then, what are you planning to do?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°If you have lots of money, you can buy the materials I need in a [loot shop] and give it to me. But that will cost you a lot given that you still have to pay me for my work.¡±


    ¡°I¡­don¡¯t have that much yet,¡± I replied with a sad look. ¡°We have some money saved but if we really need to pay a high price right now to get the weapon and armor, we can¡¯t do it because I still have to wait for a month to receive my first pay.¡±


    He then let out a deep sigh and whispered, ¡°And here I thought I can finally make my masterpiece.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s head back. I¡¯ve got some spare materials in my shop. I can make you a good weapon using those so no need to worry.¡±


    ¡°But¡­that¡¯s¡­not gonna be the best, right?¡±


    ¡°That goes without saying. You can¡¯t get ¡®the strongest weapon¡¯ that easily. That is why we need to get the specific materials to make it but¡­with my strength, I can¡¯t get it. Because you¡¯ve defeated God [Sagittarius], I¡¯m sure that you can kill that monster but¡­it looks like your strength is not the issue here.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    What should I do? I¡¯m sure that someday, the time where I can¡¯t use Ciana and Iwa will come. With my current strength, can I win with an ordinary weapon? Can I win against strong enemies without getting the ¡®strongest weapon¡¯? No. I need to become the strongest. And to do that¡­I need it. That¡¯s why¡­I need to¡­


    ¡°I got it. I will¡­get the ingredients needed to make the ¡®strongest weapon¡¯,¡± I replied with a serious expression.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I wanted to hear, Raiki,¡± Arjen replied with a smile.


    And with that, we entered the [Harlequin Valley] together.

 Chapter 15: EMERALD – The Horned Serpent

    Just after defeating God [Sagittarius] and becoming a 6<sup>th</sup> rank soldier, we decided to go to Iwa¡¯s friend, a blacksmith named Arjen so I could obtain a weapon and an armor. But Arjen gave me a condition if I want to get the strongest weapon and that is to get the necessary ingredients needed to make that. With me agreeing on his terms, we decided to enter [Harlequin Valley].


    "¡­check. Iron feathers¡­check. Crackeroak wood trunk¡­check. Fallery''s claw...check. Ruby gem¡­check. As for this one, I already have this at my shop. And this too. Harlequin Valley herbs¡­check. I already have this too. And that leaves only one left: Serpent''s Horn, the most important material to complete it," Arjen said and folded the small scrap of paper on his hands. He then put it back to his pocket and gave me a lifeless stare, probably asking me if I have some questions.


    This is now the second day of our search here in [Harlequin Valley]. I can¡¯t remember how many monsters I¡¯ve defeated and retreated from. The only thing inside my mind is getting the necessary ingredients that Arjen wanted.


    "So what''s the next monster''s name?" I asked seriously.


    "[Horned Serpent]: a green-scaled reptile with an average length of around 24 foot long," Arjen answered.


    "Then, let¡¯s finish this," I said without changing my expression and started heading deeper the Valley. Arjen stared at my back for a while before carrying his big backpack again.


    [Harlequin Valley] is so much different compared to [Crimson Forest]. If [Crimson Forest] looks only the same wherever part you go (excluding the banapple fields), [Harlequin Valley] is different. There are different kinds of plants and some areas don¡¯t have grasses unlike the [Crimson Forest] with only one kind of tree and grass. Also, the weakest monster that can be found here is already at level 20.


    ¡°I think this is it,¡± I said to Arjen behind me after arriving at the lair of the [Horned Serpent]. It is inside a cave.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so sure yet. There are still lots of caves here in this Valley.¡±


    ¡°Are you saying that we will all check those caves one by one until we find that serpent?¡± I asked with a surprised face.


    ¡°If you want to have the ¡®strongest weapon¡¯ that is.¡±


    ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s hurry up so we can go home as fast as we can.¡±


    After Arjen brought out a lamp-like device, we decided to enter it. Inside, there are stalactites, stalagmites and some other strange rock formations. There are no monsters that can be found in the area though.


    *Hssssssssssssssssssssss*


    ¡°It¡¯s here,¡± Arjen whispered.


    ¡°!¡±


    Suddenly, a big green snake with a glass-like horn appeared. Its glare is enough to intimidate us.


    Hey, hey. This snake is level 40!


    ¡°Can I beat it with an ordinary weapon?¡± I asked to Arjen after making a fighting stance with my borrowed dagger.


    ¡°That is the reason why ¡®you¡¯ can beat it. The [ability] of that monster is [magic reflector]. Any [special attacks] of any [beast weapon] will just be reflected by that horn.¡±


    ¡°So¡­with this ordinary weapon, there¡¯s nothing to reflect, huh,¡± I muttered seriously.


    *Hsssssssssssssssssssaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!*


    In an instant, I almost got bitten by the snake after it extended towards me. Luckily, I managed to jump up in time.


    ¡°It can extend like rubber?¡± I reacted while still in mid-air.


    ¡°Yeah! So be careful!¡± Arjen reminded, still in a monotone way.


    ¡°Tell me that beforehand! [Wheel Blade]!¡± I retorted and started circling as fast as I can. I then landed at its body and rotated like a big shuriken continuously.


    *Hsaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!* the monster screamed in pain.


    *slam*


    Huh?


    Before I know it, I hit the cave¡¯s wall and fell on the ground. What just happened? I¡¯m the one attacking, right?


    ¡°Watch out for the tail!¡± Arjen shouted.


    So it hit me using its tail.


    I then stood up and returned the Serpent¡¯s glare.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­strong,¡± I said and smiled.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    *Hssssssssssss*


    Afterwards, I ran towards it and my dagger and his metal-coated tail clashed with a spark. We exchanged blows, with each hit getting stronger every clash.


    ¡°Haaaaahhhhhh!!!¡± I shouted.


    *Hssssssssaaaa!!!*


    *booooom*


    The final clash created an explosion of smoke.


    ¡°Raikey!¡± Arjen called with a worried face while covering his face with two arms.


    But when the smoke lifted, only the [Horned Serpent] can be found.


    *Hsss?* the monster reacted, looking around for me.


    Arjen immediately looked above but there¡¯s no one there.


    ¡°Where did he go?¡± Arjen whispered.


    ¡°Here!¡± I shouted and jumped out of the swamp behind the serpent.


    *Hssaaa!*


    I immediately brought out a filled-up vial and threw the content¡¯s on the serpent¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Hssaaaaa!*


    I need you to be blind just for a split second!


    ¡°Raikey, the tail!¡± Arjen yelled.


    Its tail is now approaching me head-on! But¡­


    I somehow dodged it in mid-air and shouted, ¡°[Counter Kick]!¡±


    *pow*


    *Hsaaaaa!!!!¡±


    That kick is strong enough to draw his head towards me!


    I then used its body as a stool and jumped towards the top of its head. After I landed on top of it, the serpent collapsed on the floor.


    ¡°With this, it¡¯s the end!¡± I shouted and held the dagger with both hands, up in the air.


    Knowing its faith is sealed, the serpent closed its eyes.


    *crack*


    Huh?


    When I looked beyond the cave, I saw a big nest. There, you can find less than six big eggs, one starting to crack.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡± I whispered with a surprised face.


    ¡°Raikey¡­¡± Arjen muttered after figuring out what¡¯s on my mind.


    So this [Horned Serpent] is there mother and if I killed her¡­


    I immediately jumped away from the serpent¡¯s head and said, ¡°Sorry, Arjen. I really...can¡¯t do it after all¡± with a smile.


    For a couple of seconds, Arjen just stared at me seriously and after awhile, he gave me an unexpected facial expression.


    ¡°I see. Then, let¡¯s go back,¡± he replied after smiling gently for the first time in front of me.


    While walking towards the outskirts of [Harlequin Valley], I decided to break the silence by talking to Arjen next to me.


    ¡°Arjen, sorry about all of this. In the end, I couldn¡¯t get all the ingredients you want,¡± I muttered sadly.


    ¡°Raikey, what do you think is the [strongest weapon]?¡± Arjen suddenly questioned me with a serious look.


    ¡°A weapon that can¡¯t lose to any kinds of [weapon], right?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right but strength¡­comes from the heart of the wielder and today, I saw how strong you are. That is why no matter what kind of weapon you will wield, you can make it the [strongest weapon].¡±


    ¡°Arjen¡­¡± I whispered, slightly surprised after hearing those words from him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that one day, that kindness will be your strength,¡± he continued with a smile.


    ¡°Can I¡­ask you something?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± he asked after returning to his usual poker face.


    ¡°Can you¡­give me this dagger? After fighting with it the whole day, I somehow got attached to it. Can I¡­keep it?¡±


    ¡°Are you sure? I mean, that¡¯s my first work so I¡¯m not that confident in that in terms of durability and strength.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I like it after all,¡± I responded with a cheerful smile.


    ¡°I¡­see. Then, suit yourself,¡± he replied. ¡°Just try your best not to shatter the blade.¡±


    *Rooooooooooooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrr!*


    Suddenly a big monster appeared before us.


    ¡°Arjen, fall back!¡± I shouted and protected Arjen after getting behind me.


    ¡°A [Berser King]!¡± Arjen reacted, surprised.


    ¡°Its name is quite intimidating¡­if you didn¡¯t notice those multiple puns that is,¡± I muttered to myself.


    It¡¯s a big Bear-like creature, 12 foot in height. There are some scars on its body, probably the proof of battling strong monsters before. It looks really ferocious.


    ¡°A [Berser King] looks for strong opponents in its turf. You should be honored that it appeared before you,¡± Arjen said to me.


    ¡°I might cry out of joy then,¡± I retorted with a smile.


    ¡°But be careful. Its strength is equal to that of the [Horned Serpent].¡±


    ¡°Just as how I wanted,¡± I said and jumped up.


    *Roooooooaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!*


    ¡°[Wheel Blade]!¡±


    After being hit by my rotating saw-like attack, the monster screamed out of pain.


    *bam*


    When it collapsed on the ground, I immediately jumped away and pointed the dagger towards him.


    ¡°If you want to be the King of this Valley, you still got a long way to go, Monster,¡± I said with a confident smile.


    Suddenly, the blade of the dagger got shattered into pieces and fell on the ground spectacularly.


    ¡°H-h-h-huhhhhhhhh?!¡± I reacted with wide open eyes.


    ¡°My worst fear became reality,¡± Arjen replied with a face palm.


    ¡°Hey, why did it crumble so suddenly? I mean just look at it! All that is left is the handle! How can I fight with this?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because of your [physical attack], [Wheel Blade]. That attack puts so much strain on the blade that an ordinary weapon will be destroyed if used continuously,¡± Arjen explained.


    ¡°Then, can you fight instead of me?¡±


    ¡°Of course not. I¡¯m just an ordinary [blacksmith].¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t get out of this place if I can only use [Counter Kick]! This situation is hopeless! I should¡¯ve brought Ciana or Iwa with me!¡±


    *thump*


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    After just some couple of seconds, the bear-like monster is now standing with eyes ready to fight again.


    *roaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrr!!!*


    *We¡¯re¡­dead,¡± I whispered in despair.


    Suddenly, a familiar tail hit the monster¡¯s face, making it flew away and hit a nearby tree.


    ¡°That¡¯s--!¡± Arjen and I reacted and both of us looked behind.


    ¡°[Horned Serpent]!!!¡± I shouted with a slight surprised face.


    *Hssssssssssss*


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± I asked with a smile.


    *Hsssssssss, hsss, hssaaaaaaaaaa*


    ¡°You¡¯re here to repay your debt?¡± I asked, surprised.


    ¡°Wait. You can understand monsters?¡± Arjen reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°Nope. I just got a feeling that that is what she¡¯s saying,¡± I responded to Arjen.


    *Hss, hssssssaaaa, hsa,* she said and tossed a glass-like egg-shaped gem to me. It is as big as my fist.


    ¡°A¡­farewell gift?¡± I asked and looked at the warm gem. It is like this thing is alive.


    ¡°That¡¯s a¡­[reflector egg]!¡± Arjen reacted, slightly shocked.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± I asked curiously.


    ¡°It has the same properties as the horn of that serpent. Sometimes, this gem is included when a female [Horned Serpent] lay its eggs so getting one proves how lucky you are in [loot hunting]."


    ¡°Woah! Lucky, huh. Thanks, Emerald!¡± I said with a smile to the [Horned Serpent].


    *Hsaaaaaaaaa!*


    ¡°Wh-what did it say?¡± Arjen asked with a slight intimidated expression.


    ¡°She said to get out of here before the Pseudo-King recovered.¡±


    ¡°Then, hurry up and let¡¯s go!¡± Arjen said and yanked me once again.


    ¡°Thanks again, Emerald. I hope we see each other again in the future!¡±


    *Hsaaaaaaaaaaa~¡±


    ¡°Raiki,¡± Arjen said while we are still running.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I properly received all of the ingredients I needed. I¡¯ll make the [strongest weapon] so look forward to it,¡± he said seriously.


    Arjen¡­


    ¡°Yeah. I can¡¯t wait anymore!¡± I replied enthusiastically.

 Chapter 16: SIBLING – Raiki’s Little Sister, Honoka

    ¡°Hehehe¡­¡± I chuckled with a smile.


    ¡°Raiki, how long will you stare at your new weapon while laughing creepily?¡± Ciana asked while the three of us are walking.


    ¡°Now that¡¯s rude. What¡¯s so wrong about staring at the [strongest weapon],¡± I retorted and held the short sword up in the air while staring at the lustrous blade.


    It is a short sword with a blade length exact to my upper leg and a hilt perfectly fit for my hand. It has a glass-like gem embedded at the center of the blade.


    ¡°But with this new image, Raiki looks like a genuine soldier now, don¡¯t you think?¡± Iwa commented with a smile.


    *ruuu!* Ruby agreed, currently riding on my right shoulder.


    Well, I just placed the metal breast plate on top of my sleeveless brown clothes. I also have my new knee guards and of course, the upgraded [Crimson Protector] which shines more brightly now on my right arm. And on the right side of my pants is where the sheath of my new sword is attached. As for the shoes, they are now made of the same metal as the breast plate and knee guard but much lighter, making it perfect if I use [Counter Kick]. Arjen is really one amazing [blacksmith].


    ¡°[Raiden], huh,¡± I repeated as I remember the name that Arjen gave to my new short sword. ¡°What a cool name.¡±


    ¡°Ahhhhhhhhhhhh!!!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    On our way towards [Taurus Empire], the next empire where I can challenge the [Constellation Deity] [Taurus] to get my next soldier challenge symbol, Ciana, Iwa, Ruby and I heard a sudden scream from a girl while walking on the [Harlequin Valley].


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± I shouted and Ruby flew up.


    After I sheathed [Raiden], I immediately called, ¡°[Iwa]!¡±


    ¡°At your service!¡± Iwa replied and became a bronze kite shield on my left arm.


    ¡°Long range mode: Blaster!¡± I shouted.


    After my command, a cannon appeared on top of the shield.


    We then hurried towards the one who screamed and when we arrived there, we saw an orange hound and a sitting girl that got cornered in the woods.


    ¡°A [Duskhound]!¡± Ciana reacted.


    ¡°[Rock Blast]!¡± I shouted and fired the attack at the monster.


    *boooooom*


    After the smoke lifted, the hound is now very irritated and ready to dash towards me any time.


    ¡°Iwa, let¡¯s finish this!¡±


    (As you wish.)


    I then jumped up as high as I can and muttered, ¡°Shield Mode: Protector.¡± [Iwa] then returned to her original bronze kite shield form.


    ¡°That jump is amazing,¡± Ciana whispered while watching from far away.


    ¡°[Bronze Smash]!¡±


    *ka-boom*


    With the acceleration downward and strong impact of my attack, the [Duskhound] finally fainted after that.


    (Raiki, how did you became this strong? I mean, back when we¡¯re battling God [Sagittarius], I¡¯m still too heavy for you but now, you jumped so easily like I¡¯m weightless.)


    ¡°That? Well, the gathering of ingredients with Arjen served as my training too. I¡¯ve been battling monsters with just an ordinary dagger for three days straight after all,¡± I replied with a smile.


    (You are really amazing, Master.)


    ¡°I said to not call me that, right? Anyway, let¡¯s check out the girl.¡±


    (As you wish.)


    I think it will really take some time before Iwa¡¯s submissiveness disappears.


    I then ran towards the girl and asked, ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    The slender girl then stood up and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. Thanks for saving me, [wielder]¡± with a smile.


    It¡¯s a girl in braids as tall as Iwa, wearing fit sleeveless red orange cheongsam with golden floral embroidery design. Her one piece dress has a long cut on both sides of her skirt, revealing her legs.


    ¡°Ho¡­noka?¡± I whispered with a surprised expression.


    ¡°Raiki?¡± she reacted with a similar expression as mine.


    (Is she¡­an acquaintance of yours?)


    ¡°She¡¯s my...little sister, Honoka. She is one year younger than me,¡± I answered Iwa, still with a surprised face.


    ¡°So you really left the village to become a soldier,¡± she said with a slight surprised face.


    ¡°Honoka!¡± I reacted with tears of joy and hugged her. ¡°I¡¯ve really missed you!¡±


    ¡°Wh- Have some shame, jeez! I really appreciate that you saved me but stop being clingy,¡± she complained with furrowed eyebrows as she tries to remove my hug.


    I then made a few steps backward and Iwa transformed back.


    ¡°Are they your [weapons]?¡± Honoka asked as she looks at both Ciana and Iwa. Ciana gave her a smile and Iwa made a nervous face.


    ¡°My name is Honoka, her little sister. Nice to meet you,¡± she said and smiled.


    On a sudden turn of events, I got reunited with my little sister whom I haven¡¯t seen for a year. You really don¡¯t know what would happen.


    ¡°So you¡¯re travelling throughout the [Katzenshatz] to become the best cook, huh,¡± Ciana commented as she talks with Honoka.


    Honoka left our village when she was still 16 years of age to travel with Chen, a Master Cook who is also from our village.


    ¡°Well, something like that,¡± Honoka answered with a shy smile. ¡°But the battle earlier is really amazing. All I can do is to watch there with my mouth hanging open. You¡¯re so cool, Iwa.¡±


    ¡°N-n-n-not in the slightest. The one who is amazing and cool is my Master, Raiki. Without him I can¡¯t defeat that monster,¡± Iwa followed with a flustered look.


    ¡°My brother? Well, it looks like he became strong compared when I¡¯m still at our village but I wonder if he can now beat Rave,¡± Honoka responded and looked at me with a teasing smile.


    ¡°What? Just so you know, I saw him at the [Crimson Forest] and when we battled, the result is a tie,¡± I said with a pout.Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    ¡°See? You still can¡¯t beat him,¡± Honoka followed and chuckled.


    Right now, Honoka is guiding us towards the small village where she currently stays.


    ¡°We¡¯re here,¡± Honoka said after we arrived at the small village. ¡°Follow me¡±.


    It consists of twelve small houses, all made out of wood, in three rows and four columns. You can also found plantations near it.


    ¡°So this is the village Honoka is talking about,¡± Ciana commented after the three of us stopped walking.


    There are only few people who live here and they all greeted Honoka after arriving. It looks like she is really popular here.


    ¡°Honoka!¡± four children called happily and hugged her legs.


    ¡°I¡¯m back,¡± she replied with a smile while patting their heads.


    ¡°Did you get all of the ingredients needed?¡± one kid asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Who are those people?¡± another one questioned.


    ¡°This is my big brother and his friends,¡± Honoka responded.


    ¡°Really?¡± another one followed curiously.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Honoka followed with a smile.


    The children then surrounded and stared at us with sparkling eyes.


    ¡°Honoka¡¯s brother, are you perhaps a [wielder]?¡± one girl asked to me.


    Well, I¡¯m wearing an armor so I think that¡¯s what led them to that conclusion.


    ¡°Y-yeah¡­¡± I whispered shyly.


    ¡°Really? Then, can you show us that ¡®transformation¡¯?¡±


    Transformation? Maybe they want to see a [weapon] transform.


    ¡°Sure,¡± I said with a smile.


    ¡°Yay!¡± they reacted happily.


    ¡°Then, [Ciana]!¡± I said and drew out my left hand.


    ¡°Leave it to me,¡± Ciana replied with a smile.


    She then transformed into a white light and flew straight up. After seconds, she transformed into a sickle in mid-air and went to my hand like a boomerang.


    The kids then clapped their hands very happily.


    ¡°That¡¯s amazing, Honoka¡¯s brother!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my first time seeing one!¡±


    ¡°Me too!¡±


    ¡°You can just call me Raiki,¡± I said with a smile.


    ¡°Got it, Raiki,¡± they replied at the same time.


    Ciana then transformed back and followed, ¡°And I¡¯m Ciana.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Come on, introduce yourself too,¡± I said to Iwa who was so silent since we arrived here.


    ¡°S-sorry for the late introduction. My name is Iwa. I¡¯m so pleased to meet all of you,¡± she replied nervously with a bow.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to be that formal you know,¡± I whispered to her.


    ¡°A-as you wish,¡± Iwa responded shyly.


    ¡°Iwa, can you transform too?¡± one little girl asked.


    ¡°I...can,¡± she replied while blushing.


    ¡°Then, can you show us?¡± the kids requested excitedly.


    ¡°A-as you wish,¡± she replied with a sudden determined face.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go. [Iwa]!¡± I shouted after I drew out my left hand forward.


    ¡°At your service!¡± she replied with a sudden serious face and transformed into a brown light. After circling on my arm a few times, she became a bronze kite shield.


    ¡°Woah~~~¡± the kids reacted.


    ¡°It¡¯s too early to be amazed. Long-range mode: Blaster!¡±


    Suddenly, a cannon sprouted on top of the shield and I pointed it upwards.


    ¡°[Rock Blast]!¡±


    I then shot three consecutive attacks and it exploded like fireworks in mid-air.


    ¡°Amazing~~~¡± they all reacted with shining eyes.


    Iwa then transformed back and the kids gave her a very amazed expression.


    ¡°That¡¯s awesome, Iwa.¡±


    ¡°That explosion is really beautiful~¡±


    ¡°And so flashy too!¡±


    ¡°Th-thank you very much,¡± she replied shyly but after seeing the children¡¯s smile, she ended up smiling too in the end.


    *ruu! ruu-ruu!*


    ¡°You too?¡± I reacted after hearing what Ruby suggested to do.


    ¡°Raiki, are you a [tamer] too?¡± a kid asked.


    ¡°Well¡­sort of?¡± I answered, not really sure how to put it.


    Things will only complicate if I said that I¡¯m not.


    ¡°That monster is really cute~¡±


    *ruu~* Ruby reacted with a proud expression.


    ¡°His name is Ruby,¡± I followed.


    ¡°Raiki, can we play with Ruby?¡± the kids asked excitedly.


    *ruu?*


    ¡°Sure,¡± I replied with a smile.


    *ruu-ruu!* Ruby reacted with a flustered expression.


    ¡°Ruby, you want to show-off right? Then, entertain those kids. I know you can do it!¡±


    *ruu-ruu!* Ruby replied with a sudden determined expression and flew right at the top of the children.


    ¡°See you later, Raiki, Iwa and Ciana. Let¡¯s go, Ruby,¡± the kids said and they ran away.


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s almost dinner time so don¡¯t play too long,¡± Honoka reminded to them.


    ¡°We got it!¡± they replied cheerfully.


    ¡°Those kids¡­they really took a liking out of you,¡± Honoka said to us.


    ¡°Seems like it,¡± I replied.


    ¡°Welcome back, Honoka,¡± the guy around mid-60s, wearing a red orange Oriental Dress with a similar embroidery design as Honoka¡¯s dress said after arriving.


    ¡°I¡¯m back, Master. I collected all the ingredients that you¡¯ve requested,¡± Honoka said politely and showed her wooden basket backpack full of different fruits and vegetables of this world.


    ¡°Good work. And these guys? Wait. Is that you Raiki?¡± he asked with a big smile.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a while, Chen,¡± I greeted with a smile.


    ¡°So you finally decided to leave the village, huh,¡± Chen whispered with a gentle smile. ¡°Did you two met by coincidence in the forest?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Let me introduce you to my two [weapons]. This is Chen, a master in the art of cooking and also from our village.¡±


    ¡°Nice to meet you, Sir. I¡¯m Ciana,¡± Ciana said with a polite smile.


    ¡°M-my name is Iwa. I¡¯m pleased to meet you,¡± Iwa followed nervously with a bow.


    "I''m Chen, a travelling cook," he introduced with a smile.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t Chen the...¡± Iwa reacted with a sudden surprised expression.


    ¡°Is something wrong, Iwa?¡± Ciana asked.


    ¡°He¡¯s a very famous cook. According to what I¡¯ve read before, he is one of the best cook of [Katzenschatz],¡± Iwa continued.


    ¡°That¡¯s amazing!¡± Ciana reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°I¡¯ve dedicated my whole life in cooking after all,¡± Chen said to Iwa with a smile.


    ¡°Of course, that¡¯s not all,¡± I continued with a proud smile. ¡°The reason why he travels is to feed the poor and provide knowledge on how they can feed their selves through planting different vegetations and herbs.¡±


    ¡°How admirable,¡± Ciana and Iwa reacted.


    ¡°I¡¯m just doing it because I want to, it¡¯s not really that admirable,¡± he followed shyly. ¡°Anyway Raiki, you¡¯ll be staying here for a while right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I want to stay with Honoka or a little longer. I really missed her,¡± I replied with sudden tears of joy.


    ¡°Jeez,¡± Honoka reacted with a sigh.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that all of you are hungry now so...let¡¯s go to the place where we currently stay so I can cook you all a meal,¡± Chen said and winked.


    We then all smiled and replied, ¡°Thank you very much.¡±


    We then followed him towards a small stone house. The inside has a simple design but a little old-looking compared to a cheap inn''s room, probably because of the little cracks on the wall and the worn out rags and carpets. There are two small yellow lamps that can be found on opposite sides of the wall. After we entered, Honoka led us to a circle table made out of wood. There are also a total of six seats that can be found. After we sat down, Chen and Honoka immediately prepared the dinner.


    "Thanks for the wait," Chen said after bringing different kinds of foods on the table.


    "Those look extremely delicious," I commented as the appetizing aroma of the newly cooked foods circulates the whole house.


    "So, let''s eat," Chen said after sitting down with us, smiling like usual.


    "Let¡¯s eat," we all said and started eating.


    All the foods that Chen cooked are all made of vegetables. There''s a stir-fry vegetable, vegetable stew and other vegetable dishes. All of us found the dishes really delicious.


    "Thanks for the food," we all said after we finished eating. Well, Ruby is still eating the big bread that Chen gave earlier while sitting on one of the chairs.


    "Chen, those were really delicious. You''re really one amazing cook," I said with a smile.


    "I agree. I will never forget the taste of your food," Ciana followed with a thankful smile.


    "I''ve never sampled something that tasty in my entire life. Thank you very much for making me eat your cooking," Iwa thanked with a bow.


    "Now you''re exaggerating,¡± he said shyly and we all laughed.


    ¡°Anyway, Honoka, did you get rusty in fighting? That [Duskhound] almost kill you, you know,¡± I said to Honoka with a serious face.


    ¡°O-of course not. I just let my guard down because that is my first time being attacked by a monster in that valley,¡± Honoka replied with a pout.


    ¡°Honoka? You got attacked by a monster?¡± Chen reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°Y-yes...Master. Sorry for letting my guard down,¡± she apologized with a sudden sad face.


    ¡°Raiki, sorry that I sent your sister into a dangerous place. Thinking that the [repelling horn] is enough to protect her is a mistake on my part. It¡¯s my fault,¡± Chen said and bowed to me.


    ¡°Y-ou don¡¯t need to bow, Chen. I mean its Honoka¡¯s job to assist you after all,¡± I said with a slight surprised face. ¡°But that [repelling horn]...¡±


    "This one," Honoka replied and showed me a necklace with a small horn as its pendant.


    "I saw an item like that in [Sagittarius Empire]. That can repel monsters with a level of...what is it again?" I asked to myself.


    "It can repel monsters level 25 and lower. That [Duskhound] earlier is a level 26 so that item couldn''t repel it earlier," Ciana explained.


    "Even though strong monsters that can negate the effect of the [Repelling Horn] are just few on the area where Honoka always go, we can''t afford to take a risk again," Chen replied. ¡°It¡¯s a shame but I think we should stop getting ingredients from the Valley.¡±


    "But Master...¡± Honoka reacted.


    ¡°Then, should I accompany her every time she goes there?¡± I suggested.


    ¡°But Raiki, how about your journey?¡± Chen asked.


    ¡°Well, [Taurus Empire] can wait alright. Protecting my little sister is important too after all,¡± I said with a smile.


    ¡°Jeez, you worry too much,¡± Honoka reacted with furrowed eyebrows and slightly blushing cheeks.


    "But I can''t accept it. I can''t afford to owe you anything anymore," Chen replied with a serious face. "That is why, I will hire you properly as Honoka¡¯s bodyguard. I also need some additional helpers in improving this village so your arrival here really saved me. For your service, I will bring you all to [Taurus Empire] using our carriage after we finished our business here. We''re planning to go there too after all. Of course, the food and shelter while you three are staying here is on me.¡±


    *ruu-ruu!* Ruby complained because he didn¡¯t get included.


    ¡°Of course you too,¡± Chen replied and chuckled. ¡°So...is it a deal?"


    I then looked at Ciana and Iwa and I got a nod from both of them.


    "We accept it," I answered.


    Starting that night, I became the official bodyguard of Honoka and Ciana and Iwa became temporary assistants of Chen.

 Chapter 17: BLACK SWORD – The Jet Black Katana

    ¡°Hahhh!¡± I shouted and chopped the last piece of wood using an axe.


    ¡°Here, Raiki,¡± Honoka said and offered me a towel.


    I then accepted it and wiped the sweat on my face.


    It¡¯s been a week since I¡¯ve been reunited with my little sister Honoka and started helping Chen. Chen is the Master Cook mentor of my little sister and they¡¯ve been travelling all around [Katzenschatz]. Because we decided to wait for the two of them before going to [Taurus Empire], I at least have to get stronger while fulfilling my duty as the bodyguard of Honoka as preparation for my next [soldier challenge].


    ¡°You¡¯re really a life saver. Without all of you, this village won¡¯t even recover from that incident,¡± the old villager said to the two of us while arranging the chopped woods.


    Apparently, this village had been robbed by bandits. Because no one is strong enough to cross [Harlequin Valley] to work at [Sagittarius Empire], they just barely survived by getting small amounts of edible ingredients from the valley.


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome,¡± Honoka replied with a smile.


    Right now, Iwa is helping Chen teach the women of the village how to cook inside the house while Ciana is teaching the men how to fight monsters. Apparently, Ciana is also an experienced fighter so every morning, she volunteered to teach them how to fight while wielding the weapon that we got from Seira. Using her dagger with a golden hilt, she is now sparring with a man holding a sword.


    ¡°Your head is wide open! Monsters won¡¯t miss that!¡± she said with a serious expression and swung her dagger. The man somehow blocked it with his sword.


    ¡°I-I got it. Here I come!¡± the man said with resolve and swung his sword.


    Ciana swiftly dodged it by side-stepping.


    ¡°That¡¯s one powerful swing,¡± Ciana said with a smile.


    ¡°Ciana sure is amazing,¡± Honoka said while watching them spar.


    Even I don¡¯t know that Ciana can fight until this week. She is really a [Constellation Deity] alright.


    ¡°You can battle her if you want,¡± I suggested.


    Honoka have three metal sticks on her right leg that forms a staff when joined together. Back when we¡¯re still at the village, we often spar but of course, I¡¯m the winner almost every time. It¡¯s because I let her win sometimes just so she won¡¯t be mad that I always win all of the time.


    ¡°Jeez, I know I can¡¯t beat her just from watching, you know,¡± she replied with a pout. ¡°How about you challenge her instead?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm. Maybe next time,¡± I said and smiled. ¡°It¡¯s been an hour since sunrise so should we go to [Harlequin Valley] now?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right. Let¡¯s go,¡± Honoka replied with a smile.


    We then prepared the necessary things that we should bring and started walking towards the north entrance of the Valley. Because of the [Repelling Horn], there are no monsters that tried to attack us.


    ¡°So¡­what¡¯s the next one?¡± I asked while we¡¯re walking on the grassy ground.


    ¡°Three [Lime Mushrooms]. Those can be found near a cliff.¡±


    ¡°That¡­sounds dangerous.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re here,¡± she said after we arrived at the said cliff. I immediately looked below and saw nothing but darkness.


    ¡°Hey, falling down here is no joke. I will get it instead. It¡¯s dangerous.¡±


    ¡°Jeez. You don¡¯t need to worry. And also, this is my job so just leave it to me,¡± she replied and went at the edge of the cliff where the [Lime Mushrooms] can be found. She then plucked three and placed it on the wooden basket on her back.


    ¡°See, there¡¯s nothing to worry about, right?¡± she asked with a proud smile.


    ¡°I get it so hurry up and¡ª¡±


    Suddenly, the ground that Honoka is standing started to crack and she fell on the cliff.


    ¡°Honoka!¡± I shouted and grabbed her hand just in time.


    ¡°Th-that¡¯s close,¡± she said with widened eyes.


    ¡°Jeez. I¡¯m going to pull you up.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± she replied and I pulled her up. Because of the momentum of my pull, Honoka collided to me and both of us fell on a lying position in the ground.


    ¡°Jeez, you could¡¯ve at least pulled me carefully,¡± Honoka complained while lying on top of me, lying on her stomach.


    ¡°You really scared me there. I don¡¯t know what I will do if you really fell down,¡± I said with a worried expression while looking directly at her eyes. It¡¯s been a while since I became this nervous. Living in that village is really peaceful that I almost forgot this feeling.


    After hearing my words, Honoka¡¯s cheeks kinda got red and suddenly tackled my chest with the side of her head.


    ¡°Ouch! What was that for?¡± I asked, confused.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    ¡°You¡¯re heart...is really beating fast,¡± Honoka whispered as she listens to it while her right ear is on my chest.


    Now that I noticed it, I forgot to put on my armor. The only thing I brought for fighting is [Raiden].


    ¡°Thanks to you, Reckless Girl. How about we stand up no--¡±


    ¡°Raiki¡­¡± she suddenly interrupted.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°You like Ciana, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°H-how did you reach that conclusion?¡± I asked with a surprised face.


    ¡°See, your heart beat rapidly increased just because I¡¯ve said that,¡± she whispered with a pout. ¡°I can also see that you look at her differently, you know.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that, seriously,¡± I followed, trying to convince her.


    She then lifted her upper body to look at me and asked, ¡°Then, who is the one that you really like?¡±


    ¡°I like her character of course, I mean she¡¯s kind and always worry about Iwa and me. But if you¡¯re really asking whom I really like... it¡¯s definitely you of course,¡± I replied like it¡¯s the most natural thing in the world while looking straight at Honoka. ¡°You¡¯re my precious little sister after all.¡±


    She then made her eyes squinty and followed, ¡°Seriously Raiki, anyone who¡¯ll hear that will get the wrong idea.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Did I say something weird?¡± I asked.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­really an idiot, you know.¡±


    ¡°Wh-what?¡± I reacted with a surprised face. ¡°How can you call your brother an idiot?¡±


    She then stood up and replied, ¡°Because it¡¯s the truth.¡±


    ¡°Is this what they call rebellious age?¡± I whispered to myself and stood up. Honoka''s attitude has changed alright compared to when we''re still living together. I wonder if it''s because of not seeing each other for a long time.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± Honoka suddenly reacted.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± I asked to her.


    ¡°I guess¡­I sprained my ankle,¡± she said and showed it to me. It''s really swelling slightly.


    I then faced the opposite direction and crouched down.


    ¡°Come on. I¡¯ll carry you on my back,¡± I muttered seriously.


    ¡°H-huh?¡± she reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°You can¡¯t walk properly with that injury, right?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­heavy, you know,¡± she said shyly with furrowed eyebrows while looking at a different direction.


    ¡°You don¡¯t look like one though.¡±


    ¡°Ughhh¡­¡±


    Why is she that against it?


    ¡°You¡­don¡¯t want to?¡± I followed.


    ¡°Th-that¡¯s not it. It¡¯s just¡­¡± Honoka whispered, somehow embarrassed.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s embarrassing,¡± she whispered shyly.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± I asked, not hearing her words.


    ¡°Fine. I just have to do it, right?¡± she said and placed her arms around my neck. I then grabbed both of her legs and stood up.


    ¡°Now, let¡¯s go,¡± I said with a smile.


    ¡°Jeez,¡± Honoka reacted with a sigh.


    Suddenly, a horde of black mouse with the pincers of a crab appeared before us.


    ¡°Those are¡­ [Clawed Mouse]!¡± Honoka reacted.


    ¡°What happened to the [Repelling Horn]? These guys are without a doubt below level 25.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­gone¡­¡± Honoka whispered with shocked eyes.


    ¡°What?¡± I reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°The charm is gone! Maybe it fell on the cliff earlier.¡±


    ¡°Then, we have no choice but to battle them.¡±


    ¡°But how? How can you draw your sword while carrying me with both hands?¡±


    ¡°Then, it¡¯s simple,¡± I replied and shifted her forward.


    ¡°Wh-what?¡± Honoka reacted, surprised.


    Is this what they call a lover¡¯s carry? Well, this is not the time to think about it.


    While Honoka¡¯s arms are wrapped around my neck, both of her legs are being carried by my right hand. With this position, my left hand is now free. I immediately drew out my short sword and pointed it to the [Clawed Mouse].


    ¡°I¡¯m ready anytime you want!¡± I shouted and the monsters jumped towards me.


    ¡°Haaahhh!¡±


    *slash*


    With just one hit from [Raiden], the first mouse immediately fainted.


    ¡°This sword is really good!¡± I reacted excitedly.


    The onslaught continued and I managed to beat all of them with one slash each.


    ¡°And that¡¯s the last of them,¡± I said after defeating the last mouse.


    ¡°Are you okay, Raiki?¡± Honoka asked with a worried face.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. This is a child¡¯s play compared to when Arjen and I went here,¡± I proudly stated.


    *Rooooooooooooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrr!*


    ¡°Are you¡­kidding me? Not you again!¡± I reacted with widened eyes.


    *thump*


    Suddenly, the [Berser King] that tried to kill me before appeared.


    ¡°A¡­[Berser King]. We¡¯re doomed,¡± Honoka reacted with widened eyes.


    Not that I can blame her. This ferocious monster, I¡¯m sure that I can¡¯t beat it while carrying Honoka.


    ¡°Honoka, we¡¯re not battling a horde of monsters anymore so I think it is safe now. I¡¯ll put you down for now so I can beat this one.¡±


    ¡°I got i--¡±


    Before I know it, the [Berser King] is now before us, ready to swing its sharp claws.


    How fast!!! It clearly grew faster compared to before!


    *Roar!*


    I somehow turned my back to protect Honoka and both of us flew away from each other after the monster attacked.


    ¡°Hono¡­ka¡­¡± I muttered after getting up with an injured back.


    I should have put my armor earlier alright. Now I¡¯m regretting it.


    Right now, Honoka is lying flat on the ground, not even moving. It looks like she took some damage too.


    *roar*


    ¡°Wh-why are you heading towards Honoka?¡± I muttered as I watch the [Berser King] walk slowly.


    It then grabbed Honoka¡¯s left arm and lifted her up.


    "Hey!!!" I shouted furiously.


    It then stared at Honoka''s body and prepared to slash her.


    ¡°N-no! You stupid Monster! Attack me and not her!!!¡± I said and started to dash towards them.


    Our distance is around 10 meters. I won¡¯t make it!


    ¡°Bro¡­ther¡­¡± Honoka whispered after looking at me.


    ¡°Hono--¡±


    She then drew out her free hand towards me and said, ¡°Help me.¡±


    ¡°Honokaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!¡±


    Just before the [Berser King] landed the attack, Honoka transformed into a red light and went on my left hand.


    *roar?*


    The surrounding became red because of the sudden flash of bright light. When the lighting disappeared, a black katana appeared on my hand.


    ¡°[Honoka],¡± I whispered as I stare at the [weapon] on my hand with a surprised look.


    After a few seconds, she returned back to normal and hugged me.


    ¡°Raiki....Raiki!" she cried.


    ¡°Everything is fine now,¡± I said and patted her head.


    ¡°That was really scary,¡± she said while sobbing.


    ¡°Anyway, step back. I¡¯ll finish this,¡± I said and Honoka went behind me.


    The [Berser King] then rushed towards us with a ferocious expression.


    ¡°Guess I have to use it,¡± I said and sheathed [Raiden].


    ¡°Raiki?¡±


    I then made a drawing stance and waited for the monster to come closer.


    ¡°Raiki! Watch out!¡±


    When the [Berser King] is now before me, I instantly teleported behind him in a flash.


    ¡°[Lightning Bolt],¡± I whispered.


    Suddenly, the bear got electrocuted and collapsed face first on the ground.


    I then stood up properly and gave Honoka a smile.


    ¡°You defeated the [Berser King] without drawing your sword?¡± Honoka reacted with a really surprised expression.


    ¡°Well¡­something like that, I guess,¡± I responded with a smile.


    I then started walking towards Honoka and when I stopped before her, she looked down with a sad expression.


    ¡°Sorry, Raiki¡­for being a burden to you. I...couldn¡¯t even help you.¡±


    ¡°Sorry? Now hearing that from you is much surprising than seeing that [Berser King] earlier.¡±


    ¡°Jeez! And here I am worrying about you!¡± she said and repeatedly pound me on my chest weakly using her fists.


    Anyway, let¡¯s hurry,¡± I said and this time, carried her in my arms like a princess.


    ¡°R-R-Raiki?¡± she reacted with a flustered expression.


    ¡°I¡¯ll protect you no matter what kind of monster appeared before us so leave everything to me,¡± I said with a reassuring smile.


    She then wrapped her arms around my neck and replied, ¡°Thank you, Brother¡± with a blushed face.


    After that, I walked back to the village without encountering any monsters along the way.

 Chapter 18: RAIKI AND HONOKA – The Temporary Partnership

    ¡°Are you ready, Raiki?¡± Ciana asked while in a fighting stance with her dagger.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied while holding [Raiden] with my left hand.


    ¡°Even if I¡¯m not in [weapon mode], I¡¯m still at level 41 just so you know. I won¡¯t go easy on you,¡± Ciana followed with a confident smile.


    ¡°Just as how I wanted,¡± I responded with a smile.


    This afternoon, I asked Ciana to spar with me. It¡¯s been a while since I fought a weapon-user after all. I need to battle someone or my fighting skills will be rusty in no time.


    ¡°We¡¯re rooting for you, Ciana. You can do it!¡± the men of the villager cheered as they surround the two of us in circle.


    ¡°It looks like you¡¯re really liked by your students, teacher,¡± I teased.


    ¡°Raiki, do your best!¡± Iwa and Honoka cheered.


    ¡°You¡¯re one to talk,¡± she replied with a smile. ¡°Aren¡¯t you popular too?¡±


    ¡°Jeez,¡± I sighed with a smile.


    ¡°Here I go,¡± Ciana said and started sprinting towards me.


    I then swung my short sword to her dagger. The clash of our blades created multiple sparks.


    ¡°Your [attack] clearly got higher,¡± Ciana commented.


    ¡°I¡¯m not cutting tons of woods every morning just for nothing,¡± I followed and tried to kick her but she back flipped backwards, dodging it swiftly.


    ¡°It¡¯s now my turn,¡± I said and covered the distance between us in a flash.


    ¡°What?¡± Ciana reacted, surprised to my speed.


    ¡°Haaah!¡±


    With a short shout, I delivered a slash on Ciana but surprisingly, she blocked it using her dagger just in time.


    ¡°Your [speed] really overwhelms me every time,¡± Ciana said and forced her way out with a slash.


    ¡°Wha¡ª¡±


    Before I know it, the edge of her dagger is now pointing on my throat.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­my lost,¡± I muttered with a slight surprised look.


    ¡°Ciana wins!¡± the villager judge announced.


    After hearing that, the men cheerfully celebrated.


    ¡°So I even lost to the battle of popularity,¡± I said with a defeated smile.


    Even if I decided not to use any of my [physical attacks], it is no excuse that I lost to Ciana. When it comes to pure sword fighting, Ciana is definitely better than me.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll win next time, Raiki,¡± Iwa said after arriving before me. She then offered me a towel with a smile.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± I said and took it. I then wiped the sweat on my face and started chatting with her.


    ¡°That was an amazing fight. Here¡¯s a towel,¡± Honoka said and offered Ciana a towel.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± she replied and wiped her face.


    ¡°Those two¡­they are getting closer as days passes by,¡± Ciana commented as both of them watch Iwa and I converse with each other.


    ¡®So Iwa likes Raiki and Raiki likes Ciana...but how about Ciana?¡¯ Honoka thought to herself.


    ¡°Are you perhaps jealous?¡± Honoka asked to Ciana.


    ¡°Jealous?¡± Ciana asked after slightly tilting her head with a clueless expression.


    ¡°S-sorry about that weird question,¡± Honoka said in a flustered expression.


    ¡°Hey, Honoka. Should we get going now?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s go. We¡¯re going now, Ciana,¡± Honoka said.


    ¡°Take care,¡± she replied with a smile and Honoka and I went to prepare at the house. Iwa then went beside Ciana.


    ¡°Iwa, what do you mean by jealousy?¡± Ciana asked suddenly.


    ¡°Jealousy...is it? What kind of jealousy?¡± Iwa asked because of the vague question of Ciana.


    ¡°Hmmm...I don¡¯t know but maybe something that I might feel when I see you and Raiki talking,¡± she followed, still with a clueless face.


    ¡°Ehhhhhh???¡± Iwa reacted with a very surprised face.


    ¡°Iwa?¡±


    ¡°Y-y-y-y-y-you don¡¯t need to get jealous because of me. R-Raiki is my Master and someone like me is not allowed to develop any romantic feelings towards him,¡± Iwa replied in a flustered expression.


    ¡°What?¡± Ciana asked, clearly not understanding what Iwa meant.


    ¡°So...do you really like...Raiki after all?¡± Iwa asked with an anxious look.


    ¡°Yup, I like him,¡± Ciana answered with a sudden honest smile. ¡°Of course, I also like you, Ruby, Honoka, Chen and everyone here. All of you are good people after all.¡±


    ¡°I mean...romantically.¡±


    ¡°Romantically? Like the reason why you marry someone?¡±


    ¡°Y-yes, th-that¡¯s it,¡± Iwa replied with her face red.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see...¡± Ciana whispered as she thinks.


    Iwa then patiently waited for her answer with curiosity.


    Suddenly, Ruby appeared before Ciana and Iwa while flying.


    ¡°Hey, Ruby. Are you done playing with the kids?¡± Ciana asked and noticed the thing that Ruby is holding.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this Raiki¡¯s [Crimson Protector]?¡± Iwa asked after seeing it.


    ¡°He must have removed it as a handicap in our battle earlier,¡± Ciana reacted while pouting.


    ¡°But he will go to the Valley with Honoka, right? He surely needs it,¡± Iwa followed.


    ¡°Let¡¯s bring it to him before they left. He is changing clothes in the house so let¡¯s go there.¡±


    *ruu!*


    ¡°As you wish,¡± Iwa replied.


    They then walked towards the house with Ruby. But suddenly, Iwa stopped in front of the house¡¯s door and got surprised.


    ¡°Is something wro¡ª¡± Ciana asked.


    ¡°Did you¡­hear that?¡± Iwa suddenly interrupted with a surprised face.


    ¡°Hear what?¡± Ciana asked.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that¡­it is ¡®this¡¯ big and long up close,¡± the two suddenly heard. That voice is without a doubt Honoka¡¯s.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    ¡°Do you¡­want to touch it?¡± I asked.


    ¡°C-can I?¡± Honoka questioned nervously.


    After hearing those exchanges of words, Iwa immediately placed an ear on the door. As for Ciana, she remained standing with a clueless expression.


    ¡°Of course,¡± I responded.


    ¡°Wow...¡± Honoka muttered, surprised from what she saw.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s hard and¡­kinda warm in here,¡± Honoka followed.


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t touch it there,¡± I complained.


    ¡°I-I got it. Then, how about here? Can I touch this part?¡± Honoka asked, now looking at me.


    ¡°I think it¡¯s safe there,¡± I responded.


    ¡°This¡­is really warm¡­and it feels like this thing is alive,¡± she continued with a smile.


    ¡°Yeah. I feel the same way too,¡± I followed.


    ¡°I¡¯ve seen lots of this before but yours is really different from them,¡± Honoka said with admiration.


    ¡°Of course it is. Don¡¯t compare it to ordinary ones. Even if it¡¯s not that big in size, it won¡¯t lose to anyone¡¯s,¡± I boasted.


    Iwa¡¯s face then became extremely red and started emitting smoke on her forehead.


    Suddenly, the door opened and Iwa fell spectacularly on the floor.


    ¡°Ciana? Iwa?¡± I reacted.


    ¡°Ciana? Why did you open the door?¡± Iwa asked with a very red face.


    ¡°Why? Didn¡¯t we go here to give the [Crimson Protector] to Raiki?¡± Ciana replied innocently.


    *ruu?*


    ¡°Sorry to stop you in the middle of an activity. P-please don¡¯t mind us and continue what you¡¯re doing,¡± Iwa said after standing up with her upper body completely bowed.


    I then cocked my head slightly and replied, ¡°Activity? You mean me showing [Raiden] to Honoka?¡±


    Then, both of them looked at Honoka and noticed that she¡¯s holding my unsheathed short sword with two hands.


    ¡°Then¡­that ¡®it¡¯ is¡­[Raiden]?¡± Iwa whispered.


    ¡°Well, Honoka is so amazed about the [strongest weapon] that she requested to see it up close,¡± I answered with a proud smile.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± Honoka asked with a clueless face.


    Iwa then covered both of her face and ran away while saying, ¡°I¡¯m an indecent girl!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Iwa?¡± I asked to Ciana.


    ¡°Who knows?¡± Ciana responded after cocking her head slightly. ¡°Anyway, here, you forgot this.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thanks,¡± I said and took the [Crimson Protector].


    ¡°Take care both of you,¡± Ciana said to us with a smile.


    ¡°We will,¡± both of us responded.


    After that, we started walking towards [Harlequin Valley].


    ¡°Haaaa!¡± I shouted and the [Clawed Mouse] fainted with a slash.


    ¡°You really only use the back of your sword when fighting monsters,¡± Honoka commented.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to kill them after all. I just want them to lose consciousness so we can pass through,¡± I explained with a smile.


    Because Honoka lost the [Repelling Horn] the other day, I¡¯ve got no choice but to fight every single monsters that attack us while exploring the [Harlequin Valley]. After an hour of walking around the Valley, we finally gathered all the ingredients in the list.


    ¡°Let¡¯s head back,¡± I said to Honoka after she put the last ingredient in the basket.


    ¡°Wait¡­Raiki,¡± Honoka suddenly said with a serious face.


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± I asked curiously.


    She then looked at me straight and said, ¡°I want¡­to become your [weapon].¡±


    ¡°Wh-what¡¯s up all of a sudden?¡± I asked with a surprised face.


    ¡°These past few days, I saw how you fought with different monsters so I learned how hard it is to become a bodyguard. But the worst thing that I learned is that I can¡¯t do anything to help you. All I can do is to watch you suffer while fighting those strong monsters. That is why when I became your [weapon] the other day, even if it¡¯s just in an instant, I finally saw the answer that I¡¯ve been seeking. I want to become your strength. I want to help you fight them,¡± she explained with seriousness in her eyes.


    ¡°Honoka...¡± I whispered with a slight surprised look.


    ¡°Just until you¡¯re my bodyguard. Is it¡­possible?¡± she followed.


    There¡¯s no reason for me to reject her request. I mean, it¡¯s even safer if she¡¯s in my hand compared to when she¡¯s standing behind me.


    ¡°Well...I¡¯m fine with it but¡­it¡¯s not that easy, you know.¡±


    She then stepped forward and replied, ¡°I can do it¡­as long as you believe in me.¡±


    ¡°Then, okay. If that¡¯s what you want,¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°Thanks, Raiki,¡± she whispered with a smile.


    And starting that moment, Honoka became my temporary [beast weapon].


    The next morning, we immediately started practicing. With the villagers watching us, Ciana is now standing before Honoka and I while in a fighting stance with her dagger.


    ¡°So, show me what kind of [beast weapon] Honoka can become,¡± Ciana said with a smile.


    ¡°Honoka, are you ready?¡± I asked while she¡¯s standing behind me.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± she replied with a nervous expression.


    ¡°Then, let¡¯s go. [Honoka]!¡±


    ¡°R-right,¡± she replied and transformed into a red light. Afterwards, she became a pure black katana on my hand.


    ¡°We did it!¡± I said excitedly but after two seconds, she immediately transformed back to normal.


    ¡°Huh? That¡¯s weird?¡± Honoka reacted and looked at both of her hands.


    ¡°Is something wrong, Honoka?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Please let me do it once again,¡± Honoka said with a determined face.


    ¡°Okay. [Honoka]!¡± I called once again.


    We did it a couple of times but she always transform back to normal every two to five seconds.


    ¡°I wonder if something is wrong,¡± I muttered to myself.


    Honoka then looked down and replied, ¡°Sorry. I can¡¯t do it properly.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry. We just need to try it again and again until you can maintain your [weapon] form,¡± I replied with a smile.


    Ciana then sheathed her dagger and put it back inside her clothes.


    ¡°Honoka can already transform into a [weapon] so I know that she trust you completely by now but¡­in order to become a real partner, the [weapon] and the [wielder] should become one in their state of mind,¡± she explained to us.


    ¡°But what should we do to be like that?¡± Honoka asked.


    ¡°You know how we can communicate using telepathy when you¡¯re wielding me, right?¡± Ciana asked to me.


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°That is the proof that our minds are one. That is also the reason why I can maintain my [weapon] form as long as I want to,¡± Ciana continued.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that this is complicated,¡± I commented.


    ¡°Well, you two just need time and I¡¯m sure that it will work out before you know it,¡± Ciana continued with a smile.


    ¡°Maybe that¡¯s right. Honoka, let¡¯s do our best,¡± I said to her with a smile.


    ¡°Y-yes,¡± she replied with a sad smile.


    ¡°Honoka,¡± Chen called after appearing behind us. We then faced him.


    ¡°What is it, Master?¡± Honoka asked.


    ¡°I can¡¯t guarantee that what you want to do will work out as long as you don¡¯t give up. But if you give up now, it is really impossible to achieve the results that you wanted. So the only thing that I can say is to strive towards your goal and don¡¯t give up until the end. As long as you don¡¯t give up, the possibility is infinite,¡± Chen advised with a smile.


    ¡°I understand. Thanks for the advice, Master,¡± Honoka replied and her usual smile returned.


    Since that day, we practiced every morning but still couldn¡¯t produce the result that we wanted.


    ¡°I wonder if I can do something to help Honoka,¡± I whispered to myself while lying down on the sheet in the floor. The house where Ciana, Iwa, Honoka and I stay only has one big bed that can occupy the three girls so I¡¯m here sleeping on the floor. And, as usual, Ruby is sleeping on top of a table near the window.


    ¡°Anyway, I should sleep now. Honoka and I need to practice tomorrow morning,¡± I continued and closed my eyes. After a while, I fell asleep.


    ¡°Raiki...hey. Wake up.¡±


    After hearing that whisper, I opened my eyes and saw Honoka¡¯s face.


    ¡°Wha¡ª¡± I reacted with a surprised face but Honoka immediately covered my mouth.


    Right now, Honoka is on top of me, with her face just slightly away from mine.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± I whispered, trying to not wake the others with my question.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go outside,¡± she whispered with a serious face.


    I then nodded and both of us when outside.


    As we walked outside, all we can hear is the deafening silence of the nature. Everyone in the village is now sleeping.


    ¡°Raiki,¡± Honoka whispered after stopping near the vegetation fields.


    ¡°What is it?¡± I asked.


    ¡°I think I know the reason why I can¡¯t transform,¡± she followed and turned towards me, revealing her sad face.


    ¡°Really? Then, what is it?¡± I asked.


    ¡°I think...it¡¯s because you find me weak,¡± she said with sudden seriousness.


    ¡°Huh?¡± I reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°You know that [weapon] also takes damage in a fight so you subconsciously reject me. You don¡¯t want me to get hurt,¡± she followed seriously.


    ¡°That¡¯s...¡± I muttered but couldn¡¯t rebut on what she said.


    ¡°But that also means that you find me weak because of your over-protection,¡± she continued without her expression changing.


    ¡°I...¡± I responded and clenched both of my fists.


    Suddenly, Honoka throw me [Raiden] and I caught it with a surprised face. She then assembled her three metal rods to form a staff.


    ¡°That is why...Brother, I challenge you to a fight,¡± she said and swung her staff around and thumped it to the ground afterwards.


    ¡°Honoka...¡± I muttered, surprised by her suggestion.


    ¡°Or are you saying that you¡¯re afraid because you might lose this time,¡± she said with a sudden mocking smile.


    ¡°Sure. Let¡¯s see how strong you¡¯ve become since our last battle,¡± I replied with a serious face and unsheathed [Raiden].


    ¡°Here I come,¡± Honoka said and dashed towards me.


    ¡°Slow!¡± I whispered and covered the distance between us in a flash.


    Honoka got surprised but immediately shifted to a serious face. As fast as she could, she immediately prepared to hit me with her staff. Reading her movements, I immediately hit her staff with the back of my blade.


    *boooooooooooom*


    The clash of our weapons formed an explosion of smoke.


    ¡°Opening!¡± Honoka shouted and hit both of my legs with her staff.


    ¡°Wha¡ª¡± I reacted as I fall on the ground. I then managed to land on a single arm and immediately landed in a kneeling position.


    ¡°Haaahhh!¡± Honoka shouted as she aims to pound me with her staff.


    I then tried to counter her staff with a slash from my sword but in my surprise, what I hit is just 1/3 of Honoka¡¯s staff. She managed to disassemble it just after being hit by [Raiden]. Now, she¡¯s below me holding the remaining parts of her staff.


    ¡°With this...it¡¯s my win!¡± Honoka shouted and managed to land a blow.


    *swoosh*


    But in her surprise, what she hit is just an after-image of me. I then appeared behind her and pointed my sword towards the back of her head with a serious expression.


    ¡°It¡¯s my lost,¡± Honoka said and made a sad expression.


    I then sheathed [Raiden] and gave her a smile.


    ¡°You¡¯ve become really strong compared to last year. You made me serious for the first time,¡± I said with a big smile.


    She then pouted and replied, ¡°Just like I thought, you really didn¡¯t take all our previous battles seriously.¡±


    Suddenly, I drew out my left hand and shouted, ¡°[Honoka]!¡±


    After hearing that, Honoka made a big smile and made a nod. She then became a red light and transformed into a black katana on my hand.


    ¡°Sorry, Honoka,¡± I said in an apologetic tone.


    (You really should be, jeez)


    ¡°This time, I¡¯m gonna rely on you now so do your best,¡± I said with a smile.


    (Yup. Leave it to me, Brother.)

 Chapter 19: FEMALE SOLDIER – The Rampaging Raider, Aria

    ¡°[Honoka]!¡± I shouted and drew out my left hand.


    ¡°Wh-what should I say at a time like this?¡± Honoka asked with a sudden flustered expression.


    ¡°H-huh?¡± I reacted with a puzzled face.


    Right now, Ciana and the villagers are watching us after we told them that Honoka can now maintain her [weapon] mode. It is now past 5 in the morning and Ciana is standing before us when Honoka asked a weird question.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Before transforming, Ciana and Iwa say something, right?¡± Honoka continued.


    ¡°Something?¡± I followed.


    ¡°You know, Ciana¡¯s ¡®Leave it to me¡¯ and Iwa¡¯s ¡®At your service¡¯,¡± she further explained.


    ¡°So that¡¯s what you mean,¡± Ciana commented with a strained laugh.


    ¡°Is that even necessary?¡± I asked to Ciana.


    ¡°It¡¯s like¡­how can I explain it¡­just a whim I guess?¡± Ciana replied.


    ¡°How about you, Iwa?¡± I asked to the girl sitting on a chair with Ruby on her lap.


    ¡°M-me? The truth is¡­before, Master Dante ordered us to say ¡®as you wish¡¯ every time we transform so I got used on saying something before transforming. I just picked ¡®at your service¡¯ because I think that¡¯s what a loyal [beast weapon] should say before transforming,¡± Iwa explained.


    ¡°You heard that. It¡¯s not like saying some words is necessary. But if you really want to do it, then say something,¡± I said with a smile to Honoka.


    ¡°B-but¡­what should I say?¡± Honoka muttered, thinking.


    ¡°Hmmm. I don¡¯t know. I¡¯m not really capable of transforming into a [weapon] so I¡¯ve never tried to think of one,¡± I answered.


    ¡°Then, if you became one, what are you going to say?¡± Honoka asked with a sudden interested expression.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see¡­maybe¡­got it¡­I guess?¡± I asked while in thinking pose.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­plain,¡± Honoka remarked with squinted eyes.


    ¡°My bad if it¡¯s plain. Just say something randomly so we can start sparring with Ciana,¡± I retorted with a pout.


    ¡°O-okay, say my name now,¡± Honoka said with a sudden serious face.


    ¡°[Honoka]!¡± I called and opened my left palm.


    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely win!¡± she replied and became a pure black sword in my left hand.


    (How¡¯s that?)


    That¡¯s really like you. Let¡¯s win this!


    (Yeah!)


    ¡°So, should we start our spar now?¡± Ciana asked and unsheathed her dagger.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I said and held my sword with two hands.


    ¡°But¡­something is bothering me,¡± Ciana muttered as she stares at [Honoka].


    ¡°What is it?¡± I questioned.


    ¡°Honoka¡¯s level¡­is kind of weird,¡± Ciana followed.


    Now that she mentioned it¡­


    ¡°I think she should be at least at level one but¡­¡± I whispered and looked at [Honoka].


    (Is something wrong with me, Raiki?)


    The truth is¡­I can¡¯t explain it either.


    ¡°I can¡¯t feel any power from her. It¡¯s like¡­she¡¯s at level¡­zero,¡± Ciana said with a puzzled expression.


    (Zero?)


    ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s like she¡¯s not even a [beast weapon],¡± I followed.


    ¡°Does she have any [special attacks]?¡± Ciana asked.


    ¡°Yeah. Just one though. It¡¯s [Flame Burst],¡± I responded.


    ¡°That¡¯s amazing. She already has that strong attack in her early level,¡± Iwa whispered.


    ¡°So we won¡¯t hold back and use that in our fight,¡± I said and smiled.


    ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to it then. So, let¡¯s start,¡± Ciana said and made a fighting stance.


    ¡°Here we go!¡± I said and sprinted towards her.


    [Flame Burst] is a close-range attack. I need to lessen the distance between Ciana and I first.


    ¡°Your plan is really obvious,¡± Ciana said and dodged my first swing swiftly.


    ¡°Why you!¡± I said and swung [Honoka] around but she all dodged it perfectly.


    ¡°Better practice using a sword more, Raiki. Your technique is that of an amateur,¡± Ciana commented with a smile and jumped backwards.


    After she landed, I felt an intimidating aura coming from her. She¡¯s gonna¡­attack!


    She then placed her left arm on her back and drew in her dagger, pointing up in the sky.


    I immediately made a defensive stance and shouted, ¡°Come!¡±


    She then bended her knees and in an instant, she vanished.


    (Wha--?)


    Before I know it, she already delivered an attack on my katana in a flash.


    ¡°[Steel Thrust],¡± Ciana whispered with her feet still not touching the ground. Did she just¡­jump forward?


    When her feet landed on the ground, I immediately lost my balance.


    She¡¯s too fast that it looks like she used [teleport] but she didn¡¯t. That¡¯s just Ciana¡¯s max speed!


    ¡°With this, you lose!¡± she said and swung her dagger towards me.


    I immediately prevented my fall by making my right arm an alternative footing. With my legs up in the air, I pivoted my right palm on the ground and landed a kick on the right side of her waist.


    ¡°[Counter Kick]!¡±


    ¡°Gahaa!¡± Ciana reacted out of pain.


    She then jumped backwards and made a defensive stance with her dagger.


    ¡°[Wheel Blade]!¡± I shouted and jumped up.


    ¡°You can use that with a sword?¡± she reacted with a surprised expression after looking up.


    ¡°Looks like I can!¡± I replied and circled in mid-air like a rotating saw. I then landed on her dagger while circling as fast as I can.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    ¡°Ughhh!¡± Ciana reacted with clenched teeth as she tries her best not to get overwhelmed by my attack.


    ¡°Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhh!!!!¡± I shouted and rotated even faster.


    Lots of sparks got created in our clash and after a while, my [physical attack] naturally stopped while I¡¯m still in mid-air.


    ¡°A good defense is the weakness of your [Wheel Blade],¡± Ciana said with a smile.


    ¡°But¡­my blade is now touching your dagger!¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°Oh no!¡± Ciana panicked after realizing my plan.


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!!!¡± I shouted.


    Ciana closed her eyes and braced herself for the [special attack].


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    But my feet landed on the ground without any explosion happening.


    (I¡­can¡¯t use it!)


    ¡°What?¡± I reacted and Ciana pointed the tip of her dagger¡¯s blade on my nose.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡­what was that all about?¡± Ciana asked with furrowed eyebrows while pouting.


    ¡°C-Ciana wins!¡± Iwa announced.


    Ciana then sheathed her dagger and said, ¡°You held back again.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fighting seriously,¡± I replied and Honoka transformed back.


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault, Ciana. For some reason, I can¡¯t use [Flame Burst],¡± Honoka explained.


    ¡°Now that¡¯s odd. Maybe your strange level is related to it,¡± Ciana commented while thinking.


    ¡°It¡¯s just my guess but maybe it is because of her [ability],¡± Iwa said after getting near us while carrying Ruby in her arms.


    *ruuu!*


    ¡°[Ability]?¡± I repeated.


    ¡°There are lots of strange and undiscovered [ability] so maybe that¡¯s the reason why she can¡¯t use her [Flame Burst] and why her level is zero,¡± Iwa followed.


    ¡°So¡­how can we know my [ability]?¡± Honoka asked.


    ¡±I think you should consult a [weapon specialist]. I¡¯m sure that every Empire has one,¡± Iwa answered.


    ¡°But first¡­you two have to gather ingredients in the [Harlequin Valley], right?¡± Ciana reminded.


    ¡°We forgot! We¡¯re going!¡± we replied and both of us hurried back to the house.


    ¡°I wonder what kind of [ability] she has,¡± Iwa muttered.


    *ruu-ruu-ruuu*


    ¡°Well, maybe they can discover it on their own. All we can do is to wait,¡± Ciana responded with a smile.


    After that, Honoka and I went to [Harlequin Valley] to gather some ingredients like usual.


    ¡°Raiki¡­¡± Honoka called with a sad expression.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Sorry. It¡¯s my fault that we lost earlier. ¡®I¡¯ll definitely win¡¯¡­I can¡¯t even make those words a reality.¡±


    ¡°[Honoka]!¡± I shouted and drew out my left hand.


    ¡°H-huh?¡± she reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°[Honoka]!¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah!¡± she replied and transformed into a red light but immediately transformed back after bouncing off my palm.


    ¡°Wh-what just happened?¡± she asked with a puzzled expression after returning to normal.


    ¡°One more time! [Honoka]!¡± I shouted with my hand still drew out.


    ¡°Raiki¡­¡±


    ¡°[Honoka]!¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯ll¡­definitely win!¡± she replied with a sudden serious expression and transformed into a katana in my hand.


    I then stared at the blade and said, ¡°Now that¡¯s the Honoka I know.¡±


    (¡­)


    ¡°Even if the chance of winning is zero, I still want you to say that because¡­if you don¡¯t believe that you¡¯ll win, we will surely lose in that battle. So just by hearing those words, that you¡¯ll definitely win, it gives me the strength to not lose,¡± I said with a serious face and smiled afterwards.


    (Sorry about that, Raiki. Next time, I¡¯ll definitely win.)


    Yeah. I will surely make that a reality as your [wielder].


    Suddenly, two fast objects got thrown to our direction. I immediately swung [Honoka] twice to change their trajectory. The two knives then hit the grassy ground.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± I shouted and made a fighting stance with my sword.


    ¡°Not bad, [soldier],¡± a girl suddenly said with a smile while standing on a tree branch.


    It is a girl wearing a green bandit outfit.


    She then jumped down and brought out four knives, two each for her hands.


    ¡°Hey, what was that for?¡± I shouted with furrowed eyebrows.


    (Raiki¡­this girl is dangerous.)


    ¡°Why did you attack me?¡± I asked with intimidating eyes.


    ¡°Relax, [soldier]. I¡¯m not here to kill you,¡± she continued without her smile disappearing.


    ¡°Then, what are you planning to do with those knives?¡±


    ¡°How about you look at my necklace,¡± she said with a confident smile.


    I then looked at her chest and saw two voluptuous bumpers.


    (Raiki¡­you pervert¡­)


    I-it¡¯s not like that! I just happen to see those on the way! Anyway¡­there¡¯s a ring on her necklace. Isn¡¯t that¡­the [Archer Ring]?


    ¡°So you¡¯re a soldier too,¡± I said after seeing the proof of defeating [Sagittarius].


    ¡°I¡¯m exploring this Valley to find strong opponents and I saw a 5<sup>th</sup> rank soldier so I decided to greet you,¡± she explained, still smiling.


    ¡°Now, that¡¯s what you call a warm greeting. So you want to fight me as a fellow soldier,¡± I said and made a smile.


    ¡°So¡­ are you accepting my challenge?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. But¡­where is your [beast weapon]?¡±


    ¡°These knives are enough to beat you,¡± she replied with an arrogant smile.


    ¡°Now that¡¯s what you call confidence. What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t give my name to weaklings,¡± she replied and threw four knives towards me.


    I immediately jumped up and dodged them.


    ¡°Too slow!¡± she said after appearing behind me in a flash.


    She¡¯s fast!


    She then kicked me from behind and I flew away from its strength. I then slid on the grassy ground and stopped after my body hit a big rock. The impact of my collision to the rock formed big cracks on it.


    (Raiki!)


    I immediately stood up and held [Honoka] with two hands.


    ¡°She¡¯s¡­really strong,¡± I said and made a fighting stance.


    (Raiki, are you alright?)


    ¡°Yeah¡­somehow.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re expecting to be at an advantage because you have a [beast weapon], then, you¡¯re completely mistaken,¡± she said and brought out one knife for each hand.


    ¡°I know that!¡± I shouted and covered the distance between us in a flash.


    ¡°What the¡ª¡± she reacted with a completely surprised face.


    ¡°[Steal Thrust]!¡± I said and delivered the attack on her knife.


    *crack*


    ¡°!¡±


    I managed to destroy one of her knives with my newest [physical attack] so she immediately jumped up on a tree branch.


    ¡°That¡¯s quite amazing, [soldier],¡± she commented and made an amused expression.


    (Raiki, when did you learn that from Ciana?)


    I just imitated her form and somehow pulled it off for the first time.


    ¡°But¡­I have lots of knives so destroying one is futile!¡± she shouted and another knife appeared on her right free hand.


    Those knives¡­I wonder where is she storing them. Are those unlimited?


    She then jumped towards me and swung both of her knives.


    ¡°[Twin Slash]!¡±


    ¡°Haaah!¡± I shouted and swung my sword to defend against her attack.


    After the clash, lots of sparks got created. Seeing that our strength is just even, both of us jumped backward and smiled afterwards.


    ¡°I know that you¡¯re still a lot stronger than this,¡± she said and held the knives she¡¯s holding more firmly.


    ¡°You too,¡± I replied and held my katana to waist height.


    Then, both of us charged towards each other and continued the exchange of attacks.


    *clang*


    ¡°Haaaah!¡±


    ¡°Haaaah!¡±


    *clang*


    The clash of our blades continued for minutes. Neither of us is letting the opponent see an opening.


    Honoka, can you now use [Flame Burst]?


    (I think I still can¡¯t. I just can¡¯t feel any power within me yet.)


    Then, all we can do is to defend on my [physical attacks].


    ¡°Haaaah!¡± I shouted and swung [Honoka], destroying the girl¡¯s knife.


    She immediately brought out another knife and swung both on my sword.


    *spark*


    Just as I expected, even though she¡¯s clearly stronger than me, I can equal her because I have a [beast weapon].


    ¡°Not bad, [soldier],¡± she said while putting all of her strength in both of her knives to overpower me.


    ¡°You too!¡± I replied while trying my best to overpower her.


    ¡°If you¡¯re planning to destroy all of my knives, it¡¯s really useless!¡± she shouted and finally overpowered me.


    ¡°Wha¡ª¡± I reacted with a surprised expression.


    (Raiki, watch out!)


    [Twin Cross]!¡± she shouted and swung both of her knives on the center of my armor.


    (Raiki!)


    I somehow managed to maintain my footing and made a defensive stance with my katana.


    ¡°That armor is quite tough. And here I thought that attack will pierce through you just like that of those other 5<sup>th</sup> class soldiers¡¯.¡±


    ¡°This battle is not yet over,¡± I said and swung my sword but she dodged it by jumping up. She then threw her two knives towards me.


    ¡°Haaahh!!!¡± I shouted and swung my sword twice, destroying both of her knives.


    ¡°I wonder how many knives do you have left?¡± I asked with a smile.


    ¡°Too many for you to count!¡± she said and brought out four knives, two on each hand.


    Now, I¡¯m sure of it. Those knives are really unlimited.


    (Raiki, how is that possible?)


    I don¡¯t know but I have a plan.


    The girl then threw four knives at once and I jumped up to dodge it.


    ¡°How foolish!¡± she said and jumped forward towards me.


    A knife then appeared on both of her hands and slashed [Honoka] using those.


    ¡°Haaaaahhhh!!!¡± I shouted and slashed both of her knives, making her let go of those.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°Sorry!¡± I said and swiftly slashed her body multiple times.


    ¡°What?¡± she reacted and both of us fell on the ground in a kneeling position.


    (Don¡¯t tell me¡­)


    Afterwards, her clothes got blown away in pieces, leaving only the bandage that is wrapped around her bust.


    (You pervert!)


    ¡°It¡¯s a misunderstanding! Look!¡± I replied to Honoka and pointed at four knife sheaths on a belt wrapped belowe her chest. The belt has four green gems on it.


    ¡°So you finally noticed it,¡± she said and stood up, not embarrassed even though her upper body is almost naked. ¡°This is a [monster weapon] called [Mugenia]. It produces unlimited knives according to my will.¡±


    A [monster weapon] just like my [Raiden], huh.


    ¡°And this kind of weapon is extremely rare. Rumors even say that no one can make these kinds of weapons anymore,¡± she continued explaining.


    ¡°That¡¯s not tru¡ª¡±


    ¡°Remember, don¡¯t mention to anyone that I¡¯m the one who made [Raiden].¡±


    I forgot. Arjen said not to tell anyone the fact that he made [Raiden]. I wonder why.


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± the girl asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s your win, [soldier],¡± she said with a smile and turned her bare back to me.


    ¡°I¡­see,¡± I said and averted my gaze while blushing.


    ¡°My name is Aria. You?¡±


    ¡°A¡­my name is Raiki,¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°Raiki, huh. I¡¯ll remember that,¡± she whispered and disappeared in a blink of an eye. Before I know it, she is now jumping away from tree branch to the next.


    ¡°That girl is really strong. I only won because she didn¡¯t use a [beast weapon],¡± I muttered with a serious look.


    (More like you only won because you stripped her naked.)


    ¡°I-I don¡¯t have a choice! I just want to know if her knives were really unlimited,¡± I retorted, embarrassed.


    (Jeez.)


    Honoka then transformed back and said, ¡°We...really won, right?¡±


    I then smiled and replied, ¡°Yeah. And we¡¯ll win our next fight too, I¡¯m sure of it.¡±


    Then, Honoka nodded with a cheerful smile.


    After our first win, Honoka and I went back to the village, clearly stronger than before.

 Chapter 20: FISHING – Arrival at [Taurus Empire] and a Day-off with Ciana

    ¡°I can¡¯t thank you enough, all of you. I hope that you¡¯ll reach [Taurus Empire] safe and sound,¡± the elder said while all the villagers are waving farewell to us because we¡¯re now ready to leave the village.


    ¡°Good luck on your journey, Master Chen, Honoka!¡± the villagers followed.


    ¡°Goodbye and take care,¡± Chen and Honoka said while waving.


    ¡°Master, we¡¯ll definitely become great [loot hunters],¡± the men yelled with enthusiasm.


    ¡°Y-yeah,¡± Ciana said while waving her hands with a strained laugh.


    ¡°Raiki, Ciana, Iwa, good luck on your journey too!¡± the kids followed in unison.


    ¡°Thanks!¡± I replied and waved my hand.


    ¡°We will miss you all!¡± the kids shouted while crying. ¡°Ruby! Let¡¯s play again sometime!¡±


    *ruu-ruu!*


    Then, our mode of transportation started moving forward.


    Right now, Ciana, Honoka, Iwa, Ruby and I are inside the carriage while Chen is at the front seat, controlling the horse while it pulls the wooden carriage on its back.


    We are now heading towards [Taurus Empire] for my next [soldier challenge]. That place also happens to be Honoka and Chen¡¯s next destination. After a whole day of travelling, we finally arrived at our destination.


    ¡°We¡¯re here!¡± I said after we reached the south main gate of [Taurus Empire]. I excitedly look around as the carriage enters it.


    ¡°You really don¡¯t change, Raiki,¡± Ciana said with a smile.


    The empire is surrounded by tall concrete wall. As for the entrance, it has a big open gate with the word [Taurus Empire] written on it.


    After arriving at the terminal of the Empire, Ciana, Iwa, Ruby and I got off the carriage and said, ¡°Thanks for the ride.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure that you already want to get off here?¡± Chen asked.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied with a sad smile.


    Honoka then jumped off from the carriage and went before me with a sad expression.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be sad. I¡¯m sure that we¡¯ll meet again someday. We¡¯re both travelling around [Katzenschatz] after all,¡± I said with a smile.


    ¡°Raiki¡­yeah. That¡¯s right,¡± she said as she looks at my eyes and made a sad smile after looking down.


    ¡°We¡¯re going. Take care, Honoka,¡± Ciana said. ¡°And Chen, you too.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. You can leave Honoka to me,¡± Chen responded with a smile. ¡°And as for you Raiki, I hope you and your [weapons] will get the [Bull Symbol].¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied. Ciana and Iwa also nodded.


    ¡°Good luck on your dream of becoming a high class soldier, Raiki. I know you can do it,¡± Honoka followed with an encouraging smile.


    ¡°You too. You better become a Master Cook like Chen,¡± I said and placed my hand on Honoka¡¯s head.


    Honoka then nodded with a smile.


    After our farewell, Honoka rode the carriage and after some time, they disappeared from our sight.


    ¡°Raiki¡­¡± Ciana whispered with a worried face while staring at my back.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± I said and started walking on the road opposite of where the carriage went.


    Both girls stared at me with a worried face while I¡¯m walking away and followed me after a while.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that she¡¯ll be fine. I¡¯m sure of it,¡± I whispered to myself.


    ¡°Should we explore around before finding a place to eat for dinner?¡± Iwa asked while walking beside me.


    *ruu!* Ruby answered while on my right shoulder.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­not in the mood to explore,¡± I replied and forced a laugh.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Anyway, how about we challenge [Taurus] now? That way, we can go to the next empire as fast as we can,¡± I suggested with a sudden serious face.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°But¡­[Taurus] will be using one level 50 [weapon] once we challenged him. Battling him now might not be a good idea,¡± Ciana replied with a somewhat sad yet serious appearance.


    ¡°Ciana, what¡¯s your current level now?¡± I asked with a serious face.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    ¡°I¡¯m now at level 44 and Iwa is at level 38,¡± she replied with a serious expression.


    ¡°I...I also agree. I think we should train more first before challenging him,¡± Iwa replied with a worried look.


    ¡°I¡­see. Then, let¡¯s go and find a place to eat instead,¡± I said with a forced smile and started walking.


    ¡°Raiki¡­is acting strange,¡± Iwa muttered.


    ¡°He¡¯s being impatient which is really out of his character. Just like I thought, he still doesn¡¯t want to part ways with Honoka,¡± Ciana said with a sad face.


    ¡°Then, why didn¡¯t he say that to Honoka? That way, Honoka would have joined us¡­probably,¡± Iwa replied and made a sad expression at the end.


    ¡°We two know including Raiki that Honoka has a dream of her own. I know Raiki and what Honoka wants is what really matters to him. That is why he decided to not say anything and just show her a strong facade so that Honoka will not be worried about him.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­right,¡± Iwa whispered sadly.


    ¡°Anyway, let¡¯s follow him. All we can do is to support him as his [weapons]¡­and as his friends,¡± Ciana said with a gentle smile.


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Iwa replied with a sudden serious face and both of them followed me.


    After eating at a bar and renting a room with two beds in an Inn, Ruby and I immediately fell asleep on our bed after saying ¡®Goodnight¡¯ to both Ciana and Iwa.


    ¡°He fell asleep just like that,¡± Ciana whispered with a gentle smile while sitting on their bed with Iwa beside her.


    ¡°Ciana...¡± Iwa suddenly said with a serious expression.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re planning to start our training tomorrow to prepare for our upcoming fight with God [Taurus], right?¡± Iwa asked.


    ¡°That right. Why did you ask?¡± Ciana said.


    ¡°C-can we...please make that the day after tomorrow?¡± iwa suddenly suggested with serious eyes.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m sure Raiki will be fine with that but do you have a plan for tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°I have...a favor to ask,¡± she followed while looking directly at Ciana¡¯s eyes.


    Just like that, it is now a start of another day. After eating breakfast at the lobby of the Inn, I went back to the bedroom, only to find Ciana sitting patiently on the bed.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Iwa and Ruby?¡± I asked as I went towards the closet where I placed my armor.


    ¡°Iwa said that she will just walk Ruby outside,¡± Ciana said.


    ¡°Then, all we can do is to wait for them,¡± I said and opened the closet.


    ¡°Anyway, Raiki. Can we move our training tomorrow?¡± Ciana asked with a smile after she went behind me.


    I then turned around and asked, ¡°Well, it¡¯s fine...but why?¡±


    She then held my hand and pulled me towards the door.


    ¡°C-Ciana?¡± I reacted with a slight flustered expression.


    ¡°Let¡¯s explore the Empire first,¡± she said and placed the [Concealing Ears] on her head. She then opened the door and gave me a smile.


    ¡°With that outfit?¡± I asked with a surprised face after noticing that she¡¯s not wearing her robe today but rather only the white tunic.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. No one will recognize me as long as I wear this item, you know,¡± she answered with a cheerful expression.


    We then exited the Inn and explored the Empire as Ciana pulls me around the block.


    For some reason, all the men we passed by are looking at Ciana but when they noticed that I¡¯m also looking at them, they¡¯re all averting their gaze.


    ¡°Hey, Ciana,¡± I said as we continue walking.


    ¡°What is it?¡± she asked with a smile.


    ¡°Is it just me or everyone is looking at you?¡±


    ¡°Well, this tunic is really eye-catching after all. That is why I always wear a robe on top of it,¡± she said and made a strained laugh.


    ¡°But...why didn¡¯t you wear a robe today?¡±


    ¡°Well...a change of pace, I guess,¡± she replied with a smile.


    ¡°I...see,¡± I answered with a clueless face.


    As we continue to walk, we reach an area of the town with no building and only gardens. We then continued walking and eventually reach a big pond with some Katzens enjoying a picnic near it.


    ¡°Is this our destination?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yeah. We¡¯re gonna go fishing,¡± she answered with an excited smile.


    ¡°Fishing?¡± I asked and looked around and saw a fair amount of [Katzens] fishing at the pond.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that this will be fun,¡± she followed cheerfully and yanked me towards the rental house. We then rented a boat and two fishing rods. After we reached the center of the pond on a boat, we casted our rods on the water and waited for a fish to be caught. There are also some boats around us, also there to catch fish.


    ¡°You see, I¡¯ve always wanted to try this,¡± Ciana said as she waits with a smile.


    ¡°Say, Ciana,¡± I said while looking at the water. ¡°You did this just to cheer me up, right?¡±


    Ciana¡¯s shoulder then twitched and she made a strained laugh.


    ¡°The truth is...this is Iwa¡¯s idea. She said that we should take a break first so you can relax. She¡¯s worried about you because she saw how down you are after parting ways with Honoka,¡± Ciana explained with a smile. ¡°Of course, I¡¯m also worried about you because I also noticed that so I agreed on this plan.¡±


    I then made a sigh and replied, ¡°So I even made the two of you worry.¡±


    ¡°Sorry. I should have asked Iwa where we should go too. Going to this pond is my idea, you see. Fishing is not really entertaining after all,¡± she said and forced a chuckle.


    ¡°That¡¯s not true,¡± I interjected with a serious face. ¡°The truth is this place is really calming. It¡¯s been some time since I¡¯ve relaxed like this.¡±


    ¡°Raiki...¡± Ciana whispered with a slight surprised look and made a gentle smile afterwards.


    ¡°So thanks for bringing me here, Ciana,¡± I said with my usual smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome,¡± Ciana said. ¡°Say that to Iwa too later.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Anyway, how about we see who can catch a bigger fish?¡± I challenged Ciana.


    ¡°Heh~ I accept your challenge. I¡¯m gonna win this,¡± Ciana said with a smile and her rod immediately shook. ¡°Here it is!¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I reacted with a surprised face.


    She then reeled in the rod and caught a 9 inches fish.


    ¡°I did it!¡± she reacted happily.


    Suddenly, my rod shook and I gave her a smile.


    ¡°Haaah!¡± I said and when I reeled in my rod, I saw a 12 inches fish.


    ¡°Woah!¡± I reacted with a big smile when suddenly, the fish managed to get away from the hook and fell on Ciana¡¯s [concealing ears]. Then, both the fish and the item fell inside the bucket.


    Oh no! Ciana disguise...has been removed!


    Just before the [Katzens] around noticed her, I immediately grabbed both of her arms and forced her into a lying position on the boat.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°Phew. It looks like no one saw you,¡± I whispered and looked at Ciana, now with her face really close to mine. Then, I got surprised.


    Ciana is now blushing, an expression of her that I only saw for the first time. Her hair is scattered beautifully like paint in a canvas, making me entranced once again.


    ¡°R-Raiki...¡± she whispered in a slight flustered expression.


    ¡°What is it?¡± I asked, still looking at her straight while grabbing both her wrist down. For some reason, I forgot the position we¡¯re currently in and just continued admiring the girl before me.


    ¡°Can you...get my [Concealing Ears] in the bucket? I think it fell there...¡± she whispered after averting her gaze while blushing.


    ¡°S-sure!¡± I said with a flustered face after finally getting a hold of myself and immediately lifted my upper body to get it. After she received it, she then wore it and looked at me with upturned eyes.


    After just some seconds, both of us immediately averted our gaze away from each other.


    ¡°Sorry for...pushing you so suddenly,¡± I said, still blushing slightly.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be. I¡¯m the one who should thank you or everyone here might have discovered my identity,¡± she said with a smile.


    We then looked at each other again and laughed together.


    ¡°So...let¡¯s continue fishing?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Ciana replied with a smile.

 Chapter 21: THE BULL – The Constellation Deity, Taurus

    Days passed just like that and I am now walking around the block early in the morning just before sunrise. Because I got used on walking with Honoka this time of the day, I decided to continue doing it even though she''s not here anymore. As for Ciana, Iwa and Ruby, I left them in the Inn while they''re still asleep.


    "So this is where the market is," I whispered to myself as I explore the noisy and rowdy place. There are lots of vendors around, some have stands and others just have sheets spread out in the floor with their products on it. Lots of products can be seen being sold to [Katzens] stopping by including meat, vegetable, fruits, spices and others. "Anyway, this market is really big. I think I''m lost now," I said while looking around. Can I even get out of here? I''m walking here for hours already.¡±


    "Raiki?" a familiar voice said behind me.


    I then turned around and saw a girl wearing a red orange oriental dress while carrying two big paper bags.


    "Honoka," I muttered and made a big smile after seeing her.


    "It really is you!" she followed happily and rushed towards me. "What are you doing here?"


    "Just....exploring around," I replied.


    "Where are the others?" Honoka asked.


    "Still sleeping in the Inn we rented last night. Anyway, are you done shopping?"


    "Yeah. Just as I expected, this place really has everything," she replied cheerfully.


    "I''ll carry this one," I said and took a bag from her.


    "I can handle it," she responded, somewhat a little shy about making me help.


    "There are no monsters here so all I can do is to help you carry this," I followed, hoping that will convince her.


    "Then¡­thanks," she whispered with a gentle smile.


    We then walked towards the exit of the market while we¡¯re talking about what happened to us these past few days. Before we know it, we are now at the crossroads again where we parted ways last time. The sun is now set with the time around seven in the morning. As we search for the words we should say to each other before we say our goodbyes, all we did was to stare at each other¡¯s eyes, not knowing what to say.


    ¡°I guess...this is a goodbye again,¡± I said with a sad smile.


    ¡°That¡¯s...right,¡± she said with a melancholic expression.


    ¡°Goodbye, Honoka.¡±


    ¡°Bye, Raiki.¡±


    I then turned around and started walking away. But after some steps, I decided to stop.


    ¡°Raiki!¡± Honoka suddenly called.


    I immediately turned around and replied, ¡°Honoka...¡±


    ¡°Just like I thought...I can only carry one bag so...can you...carry this to the place where Master and I currently stay?¡± Honoka asked with her eyes darting around and slightly blushed cheeks.


    I then gave her a smile and said, ¡°Of course.¡±


    We then walked across the roads and after minutes of walking, we reached the slums of [Taurus Empire].


    ¡°So this Empire also has places like this,¡± I said while looking around the small houses made of scrapped materials. The people around once again greeted Honoka after arriving.


    ¡°You are really popular wherever you go,¡± I said to Honoka as she waves to the people around.


    ¡°They are just grateful to us because Master Chen provides the food that they can¡¯t afford. You see, all people here were starving because the foods here in [Taurus Empire] are also expensive. Jobless people like them can only eat rarely,¡± Honoka explained with serious eyes.


    ¡°I guess there are indeed many people like them everywhere in [Katzenschtatz],¡± I followed with a similar expression as her while looking around the area.Stolen novel; please report.


    ¡°And feeding them...is Master and I¡¯s job,¡± she continued and looked down. I can¡¯t see her current expression.


    ¡°Honoka, what¡¯s up with those soldiers?¡± I asked after seeing lots of man wearing the same kind of armor.


    ¡°They are...[Taurus]¡¯s Soldier!¡± she said with a sudden frightened expression and sprinted forward.


    ¡°Wait!¡± I shouted and followed her.


    ¡°Master!¡± Honoka called after seeing Chen with a horned muscular guy that is already around 7 foot in height wearing a color black heavy armor. The armor gives you the impression of a fortress that is really impenetrable.


    ¡°So you¡¯re back, Honoka,¡± Chen said with a serious expression.


    ¡°So this is your disciple,¡± the horned man said and looked at Honoka with an intimidating glare.


    ¡°N-nice to meet you. I-I¡¯m his disciple, Honoka,¡± Honoka replied, trying her best to not be intimidated.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to be that scared. I¡¯m just here because I¡¯m requesting for your Master¡¯s return as a soldier,¡± God [Taurus] said with a smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m very sorry but just like I said to your men these past few days, I can¡¯t do that because I¡¯m travelling across [Katzenschatz] to feed the starving people and give them ways to have a good life without getting hungry. I already decided to quit being a soldier a long time ago,¡± Chen replied in a polite yet serious tone.


    ¡°The war is near and I¡¯m not gonna just sit around and do nothing after hearing that you¡¯re back here. That is why I¡¯m going to bring you back so your strength will not be wasted,¡± God [Taurus] continued with absolute resolve in his voice. Just from that can make your legs shaky out of fear.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that there are plenty of youngsters who are much stronger than me now. That is why I chose this lifestyle because I know that I can help more people here compared to being just a soldier, that¡¯s all,¡± Chen replied in pure earnestness with unwavering eyes.


    ¡°Won¡¯t you really change your mind?¡± God [Taurus] asked once again.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid not, God [Taurus],¡± Chen replied with serious eyes.


    God [Taurus] then looked down and replied, ¡°Too bad then.¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°I guess I have to convince you using brute force, [Rocky]!!!¡± God [Taurus] shouted and a brown light circled around his right hand. It then formed a hammer made out of boulder almost as big as his body size.


    ¡°[Honoka]!!!¡± I shouted.


    A katana then formed in my left hand and before the hammer hit Chen, I somehow blocked it with a swing. The impact from our clash created a gust of wind, strong enough to shake the poorly made houses around us.


    ¡°Heeeeehhh,¡± [Taurus] reacted with a surprised yet amused expression.


    Honoka¡­this is¡­


    (It¡¯s¡­amazing. My level¡­became 70 all of a sudden!)


    ¡°You managed to block my attack, kid. Who are you?¡± [Taurus] asked with an amused grin.


    ¡°Raiki, a 6<sup>th</sup> rank soldier,¡± I replied as our [weapons] spark while clashing.


    ¡°Raiki, huh. I think I heard about you from Sagiru,¡± [Taurus] muttered.


    God [Sagittarius], huh. I heard from Ciana that [Sagittarius]¡¯s real name is Sagiru.


    ¡°He said that you¡¯re strong but I didn¡¯t think that you¡¯re already this strong.¡±


    ¡°Thanks for the compliment,¡± I followed seriously.


    ¡°So¡­you know Chen, huh. Friends, perhaps?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. That is why I won¡¯t let you harm him no matter what.¡±


    ¡°How brave of you,¡± he said and laughed out loud afterwards.


    ¡°Let me ask you something. Have you ever tasted Chen¡¯s cooking?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Of course not,¡± he responded in a tone that he¡¯s not even interested in what I¡¯ve asked him.


    ¡°Then, you don¡¯t have the right to force him to become a soldier again!¡±


    ¡°Such courage¡­or rather¡­arrogance, I guess I now know why Sagiru got interested in you. But¡­¡± he continued and his strength increased exponentially all of a sudden.


    ¡°Ughhhh!¡± I reacted and tried my best to not get overpowered by his hammer.


    (Raiki¡­this¡­is¡­bad¡­)


    ¡°Haaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh!!!¡± he shouted and swung his hammer as hard as he can, making [Honoka] transformed back behind me.


    A critical hit?


    After that, he immediately pointed his hammer at me and said, ¡°But you still can¡¯t beat me with your current level,¡± he said and emitted a very strong killing intent. In an instant, a sweat appeared on my forehead.


    His [weapon] then transformed back and the two of them started to walk away from us.


    ¡°Raiki, are you okay?¡± Honoka asked after approaching me.


    ¡°Yeah. No need to worry,¡± I replied and wiped my sweat in the head using an arm.


    After taking some steps, [Taurus] stopped and looked at me.


    ¡°Let¡¯s make a deal, brat. In our next fight, win against me and I¡¯ll leave Chen alone but if you lose, Chen will become a soldier again. Do you agree?¡±


    Is he...giving Chen a chance?


    ¡°O-of course!¡± I immediately responded.


    ¡°Also¡­you can never again participate in the [Soldier Challenge] and become a soldier!¡± he followed and laughed out loud. ¡°I, as one of the Constellation Deities, set those as the rules for when you challenge me for my symbol!¡±


    After hearing those words, Honoka, Chen and I got shocked.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, men!¡± [Taurus] yelled.


    ¡°Yes, Sir!¡± the soldiers replied and followed [Taurus]. After that, they finally left the place.


    ¡°Raiki, why did you do that? Now your job is on the line,¡± Chen said in a worried tone.


    ¡°I just can¡¯t stand there doing nothing while they take you away by force,¡± I replied seriously.


    ¡°Raiki, thank you,¡± Chen said and bowed.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal, really. And I¡¯m planning to beat him from the start anyway,¡± I followed with a smile.


    ¡°Raiki¡­¡± Honoka muttered with a sudden serious expression.


    ¡°Why?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Please become my [wielder]¡­again.¡±


    ¡°Honoka¡­¡±


    ¡°This is also my battle as Master Chen¡¯s disciple. I want him to continue cooking so please let me participate in your next [soldier challenge].¡±


    That¡¯s right. I know I can¡¯t beat [Taurus] with just Ciana and Iwa¡¯s help. I also need Honoka¡¯s strength in my next battle.


    ¡°Okay. Let¡¯s win this again...together,¡± I said and gave her a smile.


    ¡°Right. Together,¡± Honoka replied with a smile.


    I won¡¯t let [Taurus] take Chen. We will surely win because¡­losing is not even an option.

 Chapter 22: ABILITY – Shadow of Flames

    After confronting [Taurus] in an attempt to stop him from making Chen a soldier once again, he gave me the conditions on my upcoming [soldier challenge]. In our next fight, if I win against him, he¡¯ll leave Chen alone but if I lose, Chen will become a soldier again and also, I can never again participate in the [Soldier Challenge] and become a soldier.


    Today, just after high noon, Honoka and I decided to go to a [weapon specialist]. We need to learn what her [ability] is before challenging [Taurus].


    ¡°But I wonder if my [ability] is related to that incident," Honoka muttered while walking beside me.


    The incident where she became a level 70 [beast weapon] all of a sudden while fighting [Taurus], huh.


    ¡°I think it is. That is why learning about your true [ability] might be the key to our victory,¡± I answered.


    "So Raiki, do you know where we can find a [weapon specialist]?" Honoka asked.


    "Yeah. I asked some residents and they said that I can find it around here."


    "Is that...it?" she asked after pointing to a pure white building. There''s a signage with writings [weapon clinic] on top of its door.


    "So this is the place," I whispered.


    We then entered after knocking thrice and saw that the place is no different from an ordinary house. There¡¯s a sofa, tables, furniture, small lamps and other household materials.


    ¡°Is this...really a clinic?¡± I reacted while looking around the house.


    ¡°Maybe we should wait outside. It feels like we¡¯re intruding someone else¡¯s home without permission,¡± Honoka said in an anxious expression.


    ¡°Is this your first time in a [weapon clinic]?¡± a girl suddenly said after appearing.


    ¡°Y-yes,¡± Honoka replied nervously.


    It is a girl around mid twenties, wearing yellow long sleeves and black straight skirt. She has the charm of a mature woman that can make anyone entranced.


    ¡°Is this perhaps your house?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yes. Anyway, have a seat. I¡¯ll prepare you two a tea so wait here for a bit,¡± she said and went towards the kitchen.


    Honoka and I decided to sit on the sofa and after a while, the girl served us a cup of tea. After we had a sip, she started the conversation.


    ¡°You see, almost all the people who go to a [weapon clinic] only wants consultation. That is why it became a tradition to make all the [weapon clinics] look like an ordinary house to make anyone at ease. Of course, there are cases where some go here after getting some strange curses and unusual [weapon form] deterioration so if that¡¯s the case, we will go to the [treatment room] found at the back of this house.¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± Honoka replied.


    ¡°I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Marriah, a [weapon specialist]," she said with a smile.


    "My name is Raiki," I followed with the same expression.


    "I''m Honoka. Nice to meet you," Honoka followed in a somewhat slightly nervous look.


    Is there a problem with your [weapon]?¡± Marriah asked to me.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    I¡¯m surprised that she knows that I¡¯m the [wielder]. As expected to a [weapon specialist].


    ¡°The truth is I just want to know what her [ability] is,¡± I responded.


    ¡°Do you have any idea what is it?¡± Marriah questioned.


    ¡°No. But there¡¯s a strange thing that happened to her when we battled [Taurus].¡±


    ¡°So what happened when you battled our Empire Lord?¡± she furthered ask.


    ¡°Her level suddenly increased,¡± I answered.


    ¡°I see. Anyway, to know your [ability], you should first transform into a [beast weapon]. After that, leave the rest to me,¡± she said to Honoka and made a smile.


    ¡°Raiki,¡± Honoka said with a serious expression.


    ¡°I got it. [Honoka],¡± I muttered and she transformed into a katana on my left hand.


    Marriah stood up and stopped before me. She then knelt down the floor and stared at the katana that I''m holding with my left hand.


    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll be examining your [weapon] now,¡± Marriah said as she looks up to me who is still sitting in the sofa. She then looked at [Honoka] and started touching the blade.


    (!)


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± I asked to Honoka.


    (It''s...nothing.)


    ¡°What a fine blade,¡± she said and glided her fingers from the top to the bottom of the blade''s back.


    (Uhhh!) Honoka reacted, like she moaned out of sudden pleasure.


    ¡°Honoka?¡± I asked, curious about that sudden reaction of hers.


    (My voice...ahhh~. I can''t...control it...)


    Marriah''s gentle touch slowly became a vigorous rub. She alternated her pace and even changed the direction of her fingers movements from time to time. Because of this, Honoka''s moans became louder and clearer.


    (If this continues...ahhhh~....I''ll...lose my mind!)


    "M-marriah! Honoka is...acting weird!" I said with widened eyes.


    "Hmmmm~. How is she?" Mariah replied without stopping her hand.


    "It''s like...she''s in ecstasy."


    (That''s not...ahhhhhhhh~)


    "Don''t worry. This will be over soon," she muttered and licked her lips.


    "Is this really necessary?¡± I asked, confused.


    "Yes. This is what I usually do to know the [weapon]''s [ability]," she replied with a strange gleam on her eyes without averting her gaze from [Honoka].


    "I...see," I whispered and looked at [Honoka].


    "Honoka, I recommend you to call your [wielder]. That way, you can stop producing those strange voices unintentionally," Marriah continued and rubbed the blade faster.


    "Can you hear Honoka''s voice too?" I asked, surprised.


    "Of course not. I just know what she should be feeling right now."


    (Ahhhh~...Brother!)


    ¡°Honoka?¡± I reacted, not expecting that call.


    (Brother...brother...brother...brother!)


    Why am I getting embarrassed at a time like this?


    (Brother...ahhh~. Don''t...let go of me...ahhh~!)


    "Y-yeah," I replied and tightened my grip on the hilt.


    "And for the finale," Marriah whispered and started licking the blade.


    "M-Marriah?" I reacted with an extremely surprised expression.


    (No~~~. That''s...if this continues, I''ll...I''ll...)


    ¡°Honoka?¡± I called, now with a red face because of a somewhat obscene scene that is happening before me.


    (Raiki...I''m...I''m...)


    ¡°Don''t tell me...that...you''re gonna...¡±


    (Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh~~~~~~)


    "!"


    "It''s done. Sorry for the wait," Marriah said after stopping and went back to her seat in front of us. She then brought out a white handkerchief and wiped her mouth like she just finished eating a meal.


    Honoka then transformed back to normal in a lying position, making my legs as her head pillow.


    "Honoka," I reacted with a worried face after seeing her unconscious.


    "She''s fine. Just a little tired because of the check-up," Marriah said with a smile.


    "A-anyway, do you know her [ability] now?" I asked, trying my best to hide my embarrassment.


    "It''s the [ability] [Shadow of Flames]," Marriah answered with a serious smile.


    "Shadow...of flames?" I asked, being clueless to the [ability].


    Is it just me or I already heard that before?


    ¡°Simply put...it is both the strongest and the weakest [ability] of all [weapon] that uses [fire magic],¡± she explained with a smile. "The level of your opponent''s [beast weapon] will be the level of [Honoka]. If you''re battling someone without a [beast weapon], it will just function as an ordinary weapon."


    "So that is the reason why her level is zero when we battled Ciana and Aria," I muttered to myself.


    "Do you have other questions?" Marriah asked.


    "Can''t she use any [special attacks] if she''s not battling a fellow [beast weapon]?"


    "That''s right. That''s the weakness of [Shadow of Flames]."


    "Thank you, Marriah. That''s all I want to know."


    "I''m looking forward to your accomplishments from now on, Raiki," she muttered with a smile. ¡°But by the way...¡±


    ¡°Hmmm?¡± I responded with a curious look on what she¡¯ll gonna say.


    She then stood up suddenly from sitting and slowly went before me. Afterwards, she drew in her face towards mine and whispered, ¡°Do you also want to take my personal check-up?¡±


    Then, my face went instantly red and immediately averted my gaze.


    ¡°I guess...I¡¯ll pass for today,¡± I shyly replied.

 Chapter 23: DARK RIPPER – The Serial Killer of Low Rank Soldiers

    ¡°Bro¡­ther¡­¡± Honoka whispered while soundly sleeping.


    After learning about Honoka¡¯s [ability], [Shadow of Flames], which lets her copy the level of the opponent¡¯s [beast weapon], we are now heading towards the slums where Honoka and Chen currently stays. It is now passed sun down so the street is now being lightened by the street posts.


    ¡°She¡¯s really like a kid,¡± I muttered to myself with a smile as we walk across the roads of [Taurus Empire] while I¡¯m carrying her on my back.


    ¡°Look at those couple,¡± one passerby commented with a smile as she watches us.


    ¡°How sweet,¡± the girl beside her followed and both of them chuckled.


    I immediately made my pace faster after hearing those comments.


    ¡°Bro-Raiki?¡± Honoka reacted after waking up, clearly surprised.


    ¡°So you¡¯re finally awake,¡± I reacted as I try to look behind.


    ¡°Wh-why are you carrying me?¡± she asked with in a bewildered expression.


    ¡°You lost consciousness after the check-up, remember?¡±


    ¡°A-anyway, I¡¯m fine now so put me down,¡± she complained in embarrassment.


    ¡°Right, right,¡± I said and knelt down so she can stand up again.


    ¡°But it sure is quieter here compared to [Sagittarius Empire], don¡¯t you think?¡± I said to Honoka while looking around because only few [Katzens] can be seen walking about.


    ¡°[Sagittarius Empire]? Well, that empire has lots of bars and restaurants compared to this place after all,¡± Honoka replied.


    After minutes of walking, we found ourselves on an empty road, full of abandoned houses and shops. The place is really creepy for some reason.


    ¡°There''s no one around here, huh,¡± I whispered.


    ¡°We¡¯re getting near the slums after all,¡± Honoka followed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t come here!!!¡± someone suddenly shouted.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    Then, we heard someone screaming in a very frightened tone.


    ¡°Honoka, let¡¯s go!¡± I called.


    Then, both of us sprinted towards the empty alley. After we arrived, we saw a man cornered in a wall with a frightened expression and¡­a girl sliced into two, with her internal organs scattered across the floor while being covered by a pool of blood.


    Suddenly, I felt a strong urge to vomit but I managed to control it by covering my mouth.


    ¡°An¡­assassin...¡± Honoka whispered with a very frightened expression.


    When I looked at the silhouette before the cornered man, I saw a scrawny man in a black worn-out cape. His face is being covered by black bandage.


    When he looked at us, we felt a very strong killing intent, even stronger than the one I felt from [Taurus].


    This is bad, if I don¡¯t do something, that man will be killed too!


    ¡°Honoka¡­¡± I said with a reluctant face.


    ¡°Sure. Let¡¯s do it,¡± she replied with a nod and a serious face.


    ¡°[Honoka]!¡± I said and made a serious expression.


    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely win!¡± she replied and transformed into a red light.


    After becoming a katana on my left hand, I immediately bended my knees and shouted, [Steel Thrust]!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    *clang*


    Despite its speed, the assassin managed to stop it using his scythe.


    (Raiki, I''m now at level 80!)


    This is dangerous. We''re battling a high level assassin. One wrong move and we''re finished.


    [Shadow Sneak]," he whispered and disappeared from my sight.


    (Raiki, behind you!)


    "Die," he muttered and prepared for a swing.


    Oh no! I can''t move!


    (Brother!!!)


    *KA-BOOOOOM*


    Suddenly, a big explosion of smoke happened behind me after I heard a clash of blades. The impact formed by the collision was so strong that I almost got blown away but managed not to by thrusting [Honoka]¡¯s blade down the ground.


    When I managed to turn around, I saw a tall man''s back. It looks like he protected me using his [beast weapon] in a form of a bastard sword.


    "You fine, lad?" he asked with a very reassuring smile.


    It is a man wearing a blue armor with a big bastard sword on his back. Just one look and I can tell that this guy is insanely strong.


    ¡°You¡­¡± the assassin whispered with a sudden irritated mood after seeing five rings on the blue armored guy¡¯s right hand. Those five rings¡­this guy is a 2<sup>nd</sup> rank soldier???


    ¡°Haaaaahhh!¡±


    After he overpowered the assassin in their clash, the assassin jumped on top of a building and said, ¡°[Cyan Knight] and 6<sup>th</sup> rank soldier, Raiki, I can¡¯t see the ¡®evil¡¯ within you so you¡¯re not on my ¡®killing list¡¯ but¡­if you tried to stop me next time, I¡¯ll kill you without hesitation.¡±


    He then got enveloped by darkness and vanished without a trace.


    Honoka then returned back to normal and knelt down.


    ¡°That was really scary,¡± she said with a face still shocked from the happenings.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    ¡°So you¡¯re Raiki, huh. Nice to meet you. My name is Cyann,¡± he said with a smile and drew out his hand.


    Wait...Cyan? And a blue armor...there¡¯s no mistake about it. He¡¯s no other than the [Cyan Knight]¡­the current strongest soldier of this generation!


    ¡°I-I¡¯m Raiki, nice to meet you,¡± I said and shook his hand.


    After that, his bastard sword transformed into a girl wearing a light blue armor.


    ¡°This is my partner, Ellen,¡± Cyann introduced.


    The girl then bowed slightly as a greeting.


    ¡°She¡¯s really a silent person, you see,¡± Cyann said and laughed.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m Honoka, nice to meet you too,¡± Honoka said after standing up.


    ¡°Nice to meet you too, Honoka. Anyway, what are you two doing in this place?¡± Cyann asked curiously.


    ¡°We¡¯re just passing by when we heard a man¡¯s scream. Wait, where is he?¡± I said and looked around but couldn¡¯t find him anymore.


    ¡°He fled as fast as he can after I appeared,¡± Cyann replied with a sigh.


    ¡°I¡­see,¡± I responded, slightly surprised.


    ¡°He just left his [weapon]¡¯s dead body just like that,¡± Cyann whispered with solemn eyes while looking at the remains of the girl.


    ¡°Cyann¡­¡± I whispered with sad eyes as I look at the body too.


    ¡°Anyway, I must pursue the [Dark Ripper]. Can I trust you on calling the [castle soldiers] of this empire? They will handle this situation,¡± Cyann said in a serious look.


    ¡°I got it. Leave it to us,¡± I responded seriously.


    ¡°Then, goodbye. [Ellen]!¡±


    His [weapon] then transformed into a bastard sword and after he got enveloped by lightning sparks, he disappeared in a flash.


    ¡°[Cyan Knight]¡­and [Dark Ripper]. They are completely in a different league,¡± I said and looked at Honoka.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s because their [beast weapons] have high levels already,¡± Honoka responded with a sad look.


    [Beast Weapons]? No. It¡¯s not just their [weapons]. Their level as a [wielder]¡­that¡¯s what really makes them so strong.


    ¡°Raiki, I¡¯m gonna call a soldier," Honoka said to me.


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯ll wait here,¡± I replied.


    Honoka then ran away to call for a soldier.


    ¡°Without Honoka¡¯s [Shadow of Flames], I¡¯m sure that I won¡¯t even stand a chance to that assassin. I have to get stronger or I will never draw out her true potential in my upcoming fight with [Taurus],¡± I whispered to myself as I stare at the dark starry sky.


    And just like that, the day ended.


    ¡°That training is really tiring,¡± Honoka complained with an exhausted expression as we walk on the roads of the south commercial area of [Taurus Empire].


    ¡°Well, both Iwa and I were already used to this lifestyle after all,¡± Ciana replied with a smile.


    We just finished training at the [Harlequin Valley] so we are now heading towards the slums where we can eat Chen¡¯s cooking. As I walk while roaming my eyes around, a familiar figure appeared on my line of sight.


    ¡°Cyann?¡± I reacted after seeing the tall guy wearing a blue armor together with a girl wearing a light blue armor.


    ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t that the [Cyan Knight]?¡± one guy reacted with a surprised face.


    The [Katzens] around suddenly started making a fuss after seeing him. Almost everyone around greeted him and waved at him with a smile.


    ¡°As expected, he really is popular,¡± I commented with a slight surprised look.


    ¡°If it isn¡¯t Raiki. I forgot to thank you for what you did the other day,¡± Cyann said wth a smile after seeing us.


    ¡°No need to thank us. We¡¯re just passing by after all,¡± I greeted back.


    ¡°How are you doing, Honoka?¡± he asked cheerfully.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Thanks for saving us the other day, Cyann,¡± Honoka replied.


    ¡°It¡¯s no big deal. And it¡¯s my mission to pursue that [Dark Ripper] anyway,¡± Cyann followed.


    I then looked at Cyann¡¯s partner, Ellen and she just bowed again. As a reply, I bowed back.


    This girl is really silent.


    ¡°By the way Raiki, I didn¡¯t know that you¡¯re popular, you play boy,¡± he suddenly said with a teasing smile.


    ¡°How did you come up with that conclusion? Anyway, these two girls are my friends, Ciana and Iwa,¡± I retorted with squinty eyes.


    ¡°My name is Ciana. Thanks for saving our [wielder] the other day,¡± Ciana said with a smile and a slight bow.


    ¡°M-my name is Iwa. I also thank you from the bottom of my heart,¡± Iwa followed nervously and bowed her head.


    *ruu!* Ruby also introduced while on my right shoulder.


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome. My name is Cyann. Nice to meet you. And this is my partner, Ellen,¡± Cyann introduced with his usual refreshing smile.


    Ellen then bowed and closed her eyes.


    ¡°So, are you still pursuing the [Dark Ripper]?¡± I asked curiously.


    ¡°Yes. Unfortunately, he managed to kill the [wielder] that you saved last night,¡± he said with a sudden sad expression.


    ¡°That [Dark Ripper]¡­why is he even killing people?¡± I asked in a disturbed look.


    ¡°The [Dark Ripper] always appear at night so I still have plenty of time before I start my search. Do you want to hear more about him?¡± Cyann asked seriously.


    ¡°Yes, please,¡± I responded with a similar expression.


    ¡°Then, let¡¯s go to a bar. It¡¯s my treat,¡± he followed with a sudden smile.


    We then followed Cyann towards a three-storey bar. Because it was still past 4 in the afternoon, there¡¯s not that many people there, making it a little quiet, enough for a proper conversation. After we sat down, a waitress appeared.


    ¡°Hello, Linda. You¡¯re as beautiful as eve¡ªouch! Ouch! Ouch!¡± Cyann reacted after getting pinched by Ellen in his ear.


    ¡°Have some shame. We¡¯ve got other people here,¡± Ellen whispered with a serious expression and let go of his ear.


    She finally spoke!


    ¡°Sorry about that. Anyway, Linda, I¡¯ll order the usual,¡± Cyann continued with a forced smile but managed to give the bar girl a wink at the end.


    ¡°There are lots of new faces here. Friends of yours?¡± Linda asked with a smile.


    ¡°Yeah. I left the others at [Leo Empire] because of my new mission,¡± Cyann explained cheerfully.


    ¡°I see. Good luck in your new mission then. The usual, right? Please wait a minute,¡± Linda said and went downstairs. After a while, tons of foods got sent to our table, big chunks of meat, pasta, stewed vegetable and lots of other meals that emit a very enticing aroma.


    ¡°So don¡¯t be shy and eat,¡± Cyann said with his arms wide open.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this too many for us?¡± I asked as I look at all sorts of dishes served on the table.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Even if I look like this, I can eat a lot,¡± Ellen replied after wiping her mouth with a handkerchief.


    Hey! Hey! All the foods in her plate are gone in an instant! How did she manage to eat that within seconds???


    ¡°And me too!¡± Cyann followed as he drinks the soup like it¡¯s just an ordinary drink.


    ¡°Then, thanks for the food,¡± Ciana said and started to get some pasta.


    ¡°This flavor¡­it has 15 different seasonings on it,¡± Honoka whispered to herself seriously after sipping some soup.


    ¡°Raiki¡­¡± Iwa said with a reluctant face.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need my permission, you know. Just eat at your heart¡¯s content,¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°As you wish,¡± she replied excitedly and started to fill up her plate.


    Better start eating or all the foods will be gone in no time.


    After eating, Cyann started the story with a sudden serious expression.


    ¡°The [Dark Ripper] is one of the most wanted criminal here in [Katzenschatz]. Together with his [beast weapon] that uses [dark magic], he assassinates 5<sup>th</sup> to 6<sup>th</sup> rank soldiers and their [weapons] if they are included in his ¡®killing list¡¯.¡±


    ¡°That killing list¡­he said the other day about seeing the ¡®evil¡¯ within people,¡± I muttered while reminiscing what the [Dark Ripper] said to us.


    ¡°According to him, he is only killing evil 4<sup>th</sup> rank and 5<sup>th</sup> rank soldiers to stop them before the evil within them fully mature and take over their actions,¡± Cyann explained.


    ¡°Then, is it true that the ones he killed are all evil?¡± Ciana asked curiously.


    "I can¡¯t argue that some of them are infamous [weapon dealer], [thief], [slave seller] and others with much cruel jobs but¡­killing them is still not right,¡± Cyann answered with serious eyes.


    ¡°I agree but what are you planning to do when you caught them? Will you also¡­kill them?¡± I asked.


    ¡°I¡­will send them in the [Underworld Prison],¡± Cyann responded with serious eyes.


    ¡°Then, can I help you in your mission? I can¡¯t sit here doing nothing while I know he¡¯s out there ready to kill people anytime he wants,¡± I said with a serious smile.


    ¡°Raiki¡­¡± Cyann muttered with a slight surprised expression.


    ¡°We promise that we won¡¯t be a burden to you,¡± Honoka followed, also serious.


    ¡°M-me too,¡± Iwa also agreed, trying her best to not be nervous while making a serious face.


    *ruu-ruu* Ruby said, fired up while on the table, holding a big chunk of meat.


    ¡°Thanks. I am really grateful for what you want to do but I can¡¯t allow you to join me. This mission is dangerous. One wrong move and anyone can die. You saw how strong he is right?¡±


    ¡°I know. His [weapon] is already at level 80. But [Honoka]¡¯s [Shadow of Flames] can deal with that. Won¡¯t you really consider it?¡±


    He then smiled and replied, ¡°Then, on one condition. If you beat me in a battle, I¡¯ll think about it.¡±


    ¡°Cyann¡­¡± Ellen reacted with furrowed eyebrows, not expecting Cyann¡¯s sudden condition.


    Everyone got surprised including me.


    ¡°A battle against...the strongest soldier of [Katzenschatz]...¡± I whispered to myself.


    Ciana just sighed and smiled afterwards, knowing already the answer I¡¯ll give.


    As for Iwa, she just looked at me and Cyann back and forth, confused and nervous at the same time.


    ¡°Raiki...¡± Honoka called, knowing that Cyann¡¯s condition is really unfair to us.


    *ruuu-ruuu!* Ruby followed with a confident smile like he completely believe that we can win.


    Jeez. This is making me really excited.


    ¡°Sure, I accept your condition. We¡¯ll definitely win!¡± I said with an excited smile.


    ¡°Interesting. Just like I thought, this kid is really amusing,¡± Cyann said to Ellen and laughed out loud. ¡°Very well, it will be a [three on one] battle. Come at me at your best, Raiki!¡±

 Chapter 24: RAIKI VS CYANN – Versus the Strongest Soldier of [Katzenschatz]

    After being challenge by the current strongest soldier of [Katzenschatz] in a battle in order to know if we won¡¯t hold back his mission, we went to a [private arena] near the bar. After Cyann paid the owner, he led us to a battle field, similar as the one at Sagiru¡¯s Castle.


    ¡°Raiki, just like I said earlier, you can use all of your [weapons] in this battle. It will be unfair if it¡¯s just a one-on-one showdown after all,¡± Cyann said after both of us stepped inside the battle field.


    Even I know that winning against him in a one-on-one battle is next to impossible.


    ¡°Sure,¡± I replied and faced the three girls behind me.


    ¡°All I can say now is I¡­we will do our best as your [weapons],¡± Ciana said with a serious look and smiled at me.


    ¡°Th-that¡¯s right. I¡¯ll do my best!¡± Iwa said with a slight nervous yet determined expression.


    ¡°We¡¯ll win this, Raiki,¡± Honoka added with a smile and made a thumb up.


    *ruu-ruu!* Ruby encouraged us while on Iwa¡¯s left shoulder.


    ¡°Thanks, everyone. Let¡¯s win this!¡± I announced with serious eyes.


    After that, Ellen, Ciana, Iwa, Ruby and Honoka went to their respective stand-by area. After the judge asked if both Cyann and I are now ready, he announced, ¡°The battle between [Cyan Knight] and Raiki will now commence. The [Cyan Knight] can only use one [weapon] while Raiki can use all of his [weapons] in his party. The one who will make all of the opponent¡¯s [weapons] unable to battle, make the opponent lose consciousness or make the opponent admit defeat will be announced as the winner. Battle¡­commence!¡±


    ¡°[Honoka]!¡± I shouted and drew out my left hand.


    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely win!¡± she replied and transformed into a red light. After circling on my left hand, she became a black katana.


    With a collected expression, Cyann then called the name of his [weapon].


    ¡°[Ellen],¡± he said and Ellen transformed into a yellow light. In an instant, she became a bastard sword on his right hand.


    A level 85 bastard sword, huh. Ciana is currently level 48 and Iwa is 44. Honoka is really the only one who can defeat his [weapon] right now.


    ¡°Come!¡± Cyann said with a smile.


    I then sprinted towards him and swung my sword towards the blade of his [weapon].


    *clang*


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!¡± I shouted.


    ¡°[Zap Counter],¡± Cyann whispered and before I even delivered the attack, I got electrocuted. I somehow maintain my footing by piercing [Honoka]¡¯s blade on the ground as a support.


    ¡°There¡¯s no time to rest in a battle! [Electro Slash]!¡± Cyann shouted and swung his electrified big sword. I somehow dodged it by jumping up.


    ¡°Na?ve, [Lightning Steps]!¡± he followed and disappeared in an instant.


    After I landed on the ground, he immediately appeared behind me in a swinging position.


    ¡°[Electro Slash]!¡±


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOM*


    The explosion made from our sudden clash created a strong gust of wind, enough to make everyone cover their eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m just starting! [Electro Slash]!¡±


    ¡°Shoot! [Flame Burst]!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOM*


    The clash of [Electro Slash] and [Flame Burst] got repeated multiple of times, enough to make the field form cracks.


    (Raiki, this strategy¡­)


    I know. [Flame Burst] is our only [special attack] that can equal [Electro Slash] and he knows that. That is why he is deliberately using only [Electro Slash] in order for me to use it continuously.


    (But [Flame Burst] recoils on the user¡¯s stamina so¡­)


    Yeah. Soon, all of my stamina to fight will be gone!


    ¡°[Electro Slash]!¡±


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOM*


    (Then, what should we do?)


    We need to change the flow of the battle. Switch with Iwa.


    (I got it!)


    ¡°[Iwa]!¡± I shouted and Honoka transformed back in the standby-area.


    ¡°At your service!¡± Iwa replied and transformed into a kite shield on my left arm.


    I need to make him fall back first!


    ¡°Long-range mode: Blaster!¡± I said and a cannon appeared on top of the shield.


    ¡°[Clay Morph]?¡± Cyann reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°[Earth Blast]!¡± I yelled.


    ¡°Oh no!¡± Cyann panicked.


    *ka-boooooooooom*


    Just before the attack hit him, he managed to jump backwards.


    ¡°[Shadow of Flames] and now even the rare [Clay Morph]. You¡¯ve got two amazing [weapons] there,¡± he said and pointed the tip of his sword towards me. ¡°But¡­¡±


    Suddenly, a ball of electricity, one meter in diameter appeared on the tip of his blade.


    ¡°[Plasma Cannon]!¡± Cyann shouted and it flew towards me in an instant.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ¡°Shield mode: Protector!¡± I said and Iwa transformed back into a kite shield. The ball then hit [Iwa] and tried to push us.


    (Raiki! Sorry!)


    ¡°Iwa?¡± I reacted with widened eyes.


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    Before I know it, Iwa transformed back because of receiving lots of damage from that single attack.


    ¡°Are you¡­kidding me?¡± I whispered with a surprised face.


    Iwa¡¯s monstrous defense¡­got beaten by just one attack?


    ¡°[Lightning Steps],¡± Cyann whispered and appeared before me in a flash.


    ¡°You¡¯re defenseless now, you know,¡± he said and made a swinging position.


    ¡°[Honoka]!¡± I shouted and a katana appeared on my left hand.


    ¡°[Electro Slash]!¡±


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOM*


    (Raiki, just a little more and my magic power will run out.)


    ¡°[Electro Slash]!¡±


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOM*


    If I don¡¯t do something, I will lose without even inflicting damage to them. But what should I do?


    ¡°Raikiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!!!¡±  Ciana suddenly shouted loudly, enough for both Cyann and I to stop fighting.


    ¡°C-Ciana?¡± I reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°Don¡¯t just rely on Honoka¡¯s [ability]! Even if you¡¯re much inexperienced compared to Cyann, don¡¯t forget the fact that you¡¯ve defeated lots of strong opponent¡¯s before! Believe in your skills as a [wielder]!!!¡± Ciana followed, trying to convey everything she wants to say.


    ¡°Ciana¡­¡± I whispered with a slight surprised look.


    ¡°You¡¯re really blessed with good [weapons],¡± Cyann said with a smile.


    ¡°I know. That is why I¡¯ll win this!!!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s see what you can do then. [Electro Slash]!¡±


    ¡°[Counter Kick]!¡± I shouted and kicked his leg, strong enough to make him stop the attack.


    Honoka uses [fire magic]. Meaning the stronger the [attack] I make, the lesser its [accuracy] will become. But with this point-blank range, it¡¯s impossible to miss!


    ¡°Oh no!¡± Cyann reacted and made a defensive stance with his big sword.


    ¡°[Switch]!!!¡± I shouted and swung my sword to his [weapon].


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    Did I¡­win?


    (I can¡¯t see through the smoke but I¡¯m sure that it¡¯s over. If they are still fine after that, they are really monsters).


    ¡°What a strong [physical attack]. How did you learn that one?¡± Cyann reacted while cracking his neck.


    ¡°!¡±


    (!)


    When the smoke lifted, we saw Cyann perfectly fine with his bastard sword on his right shoulder.


    They are really monsters!


    I immediately jumped up and shouted, ¡°[Wheel Blade]!!!¡±


    ¡°You really exceeded my expectations but¡­¡± Cyann muttered and held his bastard sword at waist height. Afterwards, his sword got enveloped by lightning sparks.


    I then rotated as fast as I can and went towards him like a rotating saw.


    ¡°[Thor Slash],¡± he whispered and slashed through me.


    ¡°Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!¡± I shouted as I got electrocuted in mid-air.


    ¡°With this, there¡¯s only one [weapon] left,¡± Cyann said and placed his [weapon] on his right shoulder.


    After I landed on the ground, Honoka transformed back to the standby-area.


    ¡°Raiki!!!!¡± Ciana, Iwa and Honoka called with worried expressions.


    ¡°Or¡­are you saying that you can¡¯t stand up anymore?¡± Cyann continued with serious eyes.


    I can¡¯t stand up anymore? That¡¯s not even an option. I will stand up no matter how many times I need¡­until we win this!!!


    I immediately stood up with shaking legs and replied, ¡°I can still¡­fight.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Sorry, Ellen but this is a fight between men. We can¡¯t afford to back out now, right Raiki?¡± Cyann asked with a smile.


    So even Ellen is worried about me. I think I look really beat up now.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­right,¡± I said weakly and shouted, ¡°[Ciana]!!!¡±


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡± she replied with a serious expression and became a sickle on my left hand.


    ¡°Is that¡­a [beast weapon] that uses [lightning magic]?¡± he asked with a sudden puzzled face.


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± I said and bended both of my knees.


    ¡°Come!¡±


    ¡°[Steel Thrust]!¡± I shouted and delivered a swift attack on his [weapon].


    ¡°What speed!¡± Cyann reacted and stepped back after my attack.


    It¡¯s working!


    ¡°But¡­my [weapon]¡¯s level is twice compared to yours! [Thor Slash]!¡±


    If that attack hit us, this battle is over! The only thing I can do to win is¡­


    (Raiki, don¡¯t tell me--)


    ¡°[Teleport]!¡± I shouted and disappeared without a trace.


    ¡°What the¡ª¡± Cyann reacted with a surprised face.


    I then re-appeared behind him and shouted, ¡°[Steel Thrust]!¡±


    *crack*


    After delivering my attack, I managed to leave a crack on his armor but it wasn¡¯t enough to pierce through him.


    What a tough armor!


    He then faced me and shouted, ¡°[Electro Slash]!¡±


    I then jumped backwards to dodge the attack. After landing, I immediately made a defensive stance with [Ciana].


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Cyann?¡± I called because of his sudden motionlessness. Right now, Cyann is just standing there while staring at me.


    ¡°That [weapon]¡­doesn¡¯t use [lightning magic],¡± he muttered with a serious expression.


    ¡°Th-that¡¯s¡­¡± I reacted nervously.


    ¡°[Lightning magic] is my most favorite magic among all. Even though it can¡¯t learn a damaging attack in early levels, I still love how it boosts your speed, making it the perfect [attribute] if you want to surprise the opponent with your strategy. But that attack¡­didn¡¯t increase your speed but rather enabled you to travel through light,¡± he said with a serious expression.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a [deity weapon]¡­I know it,¡± Cyann continued, not changing his expression.


    (Raiki, this is bad. We¡¯ve been discovered!)


    Wh-wh-what should we do?


    ¡°Where did you meet Goddess [Virgo]?¡± he asked.


    ¡°If I answered that question, what are you gonna do to her? Will you tell it to the [Royal Family] or the other Deities?¡± I asked with a serious face.


    ¡°Jeez, I can at least see that you didn¡¯t force her to become your [weapon]. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t tell it to anyone, I promise,¡± he said with a smile and winked at me. ¡°You can also trust the judge and the owner of this place. I know them personally after all.¡±


    ¡°Thank you very much,¡± I said happily and bowed.


    ¡°So let¡¯s continue this battle and this time, I want to see what will happen if Goddess [Virgo] and you became serious.¡±


    ¡°Then, prepare yourself! [Teleport]!¡± I yelled.


    ¡°That again, huh,¡± Cyann whispered, amused.


    I then re-appeared behind him in a swinging position and shouted, ¡°[Light Slash]!¡±


    Cyann immediately turned around and yelled, ¡°[Electro Slash]!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOM*


    What strength! Just one more of that attack and [Ciana] will be unable to battle!


    ¡°[Teleport]!¡± I said and re-appeared a couple of meters away from Cyann.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Giving up already?¡± he asked with a smile.


    ¡°Of course not,¡± I retorted.


    What should I do now? Can we still win this battle?


    (Raiki, because I levelled up in this battle¡­I learned a new [special attack].)


    ¡°R-really?¡± I reacted with a surprised face.


    Ciana then told me about the attack.


    ¡°If you¡¯re not planning to attack, I¡¯ll be the one who¡¯ll do it!¡± he said and sprinted towards me. Before I know it, he is now before me, ready to swing his bastard sword.


    (Raiki, we¡¯ve got only one chance to do this. If you miss, we can¡¯t win anymore.)


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡± I said and pointed [Ciana]¡¯s blade to Cyann.


    ¡°[Electro¡ª]¡±


    ¡°[White Out]!¡± I yelled and a very bright light blinded Cyann.


    ¡°My eyes!¡± Cyann reacted and covered his eyes with his free arm.


    (Raiki, now!)


    ¡°[Holy Sword]!!!!!¡± I shouted and held my sickle to waist height. Suddenly, the C-shaped blade transformed into a sword-like blade made out of light.


    (Do it!)


    ¡°Haaaahhhh!!!¡± I shouted and swung my newly transformed sword-like weapon to them.


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    [Holy Sword] is a [special attack] that increases in power the stronger the opponent¡¯s [weapon] is. That is why I managed to deliver a devastating damage. The impact was so strong that half of the field almost got destroyed after lots of cracks appeared on it.


    Did we¡­get him this time?


    (All I can say is our attack landed successfully.)


    Then¡­


    (Don¡¯t rejoice yet. We still don¡¯t know the outcome.)


    ¡°[Lightning Steps]¡­¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    (!)


    When the smoke lifted, Cyann is now before me, ready to swing his [weapon] towards [Ciana].


    This guy¡­is really the strongest [wielder].


    ¡°[Thor Slash]!!!¡± Cyann shouted and landed a direct hit on [Ciana].


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    When the smoke lifted, I¡¯m now standing empty-handed while Ciana is now on the standby-area.


    ¡°W-With all of his [weapons] unable to battle, the winner of this battle is the [Cyan Knight]!¡± the judge announced, overwhelmed from the battle he just witnessed.


    ¡°I lost,¡± I said and fell on a sitting position while laughing weakly.


    ¡°That¡¯s one close fight,¡± Cyann said and offered me a hand.


    I then took it and stood up.


    ¡°Good luck to your mission¡­I guess,¡± I said with a sad smile.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see¡­¡± Cyann suddenly said with a serious face.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I take it back. You can now join me,¡± he continued with a smile.


    ¡°R-really?¡± I asked with widened eyes.


    ¡°Yeah. I know that you won¡¯t become a burden. I mean, look how strong you are. Just one more hit and I¡¯ll surely be the one lying on the floor,¡± he said and laughed.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± I relied with a big smile.


    ¡°Let¡¯s catch the [Dark Ripper] together,¡± he said and offered a handshake.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied and shook it.


    After battling the strongest soldier, I learned that I still have a long way to go as a [wielder]. But that also made me want to become much stronger to the point that I won¡¯t lose to anyone anymore.

 Chapter 25: THE SCORPION – The Constellation Deity, Scorpio

    ¡°I wonder where he is,¡± I asked while on top of a three-storey building, trying to scan the area if I can see the one that I¡¯m looking for.


    The sky is now pure dark. For tonight, no stars can be seen in the sky and even the moon is nowhere to be found because of the dark clouds scattered above like a rain is on its way. Because I finally got the permission to help Cyann on his mission to catch the [Dark Ripper], I am now patrolling the area, searching for the [assassin].


    (Is he really still in this town?) Honoka asked while she¡¯s in [weapon mode] on my left hand.


    ¡°According to Cyann, this is the only [Empire] where he kills his victims,¡± I answered and jumped to the next building. Afterwards, I once again looked below the empty alleys below me, trying to find our target.


    (I see.)


    ¡°Well, let¡¯s try going over there,¡± I suggested.


    ¡°Are you searching for me, Raiki?¡± a man¡¯s voice suddenly asked to me in a scary tone.


    When I looked at the higher building behind me, I saw [Dark Ripper] standing with his scythe on his shoulder.


    ¡°I finally found you!¡± I said and threw [Honoka] up in the air as high as I can. ¡°[Flame Burst]!¡±


    [Honoka] then exploded in mid-air and after a couple of seconds, I caught her using my left hand.


    After that, the [Dark Ripper] stared at me with much stronger killing intent.


    ¡°You just gave a signal, don¡¯t you? So that [Cyan Knight] is still here,¡± he muttered, irritated.


    I left Ciana and Iwa at Chen¡¯s place because this mission is really dangerous. Only [Honoka] can stand a chance against his [weapon] on a one-on-one battle. I have to buy some time until Cyann gets here.


    I then made a fighting stance with my katana and asked, ¡°[Dark Ripper], why are you killing [wielders]? Don¡¯t you know that what you¡¯re doing is wrong?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not the one at wrong. Those [wielders] are!¡± he shouted and his killing intent got stronger, enough to be seen by the naked eye. ¡°They bully the weak, rape the women, torture and kill anyone for fun¡­I won¡¯t let them do as they please. Someone needs to judge them!¡±


    ¡°And that one¡­is you?¡± I asked, nervous from his intense hatred.


    ¡°That¡¯s right! I¡¯m the only one who can! I¡¯ll kill them before they become more evil and powerful! And if you stand in my way¡­¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t hesitate to kill you!¡± he yelled and vanished after the shadows enveloped him.


    (Raiki, behind you!)


    ¡°[Dark Blade]!¡± [Dark Ripper] shouted.


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!¡± I countered.


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    After the explosion, I immediately jumped backwards to the next building and look around.


    ¡°He¡­vanished?¡± I reacted with widened eyes.


    (Raiki, above you!)


    ¡°[Dark Blade]!¡± he shouted and swung the scythe on my body.


    ¡°Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!¡± I screamed out of pain and my knees hit the floor.


    (Raiki!)


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­*cough*¡­fine. Thanks to this armor,¡± I said and the breast plate hit the floor after it got divided into two.


    ¡°That¡¯s a tough armor for a newbie like you. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll end this now,¡± he said and prepared to swing his scythe.


    ¡°[Counter Kick]!¡± I yelled and hit his right leg, strong enough to make him loss his balance.


    ¡°Wh¡ª¡± he reacted with surprised eyes.


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!¡± I shouted and landed the attack on him perfectly.


    ¡°Gahhhhaaaa!¡± he screamed and hit the floor in a kneeling position.


    Compared to Cyann, this guy is nothing!


    ¡°I¡¯m done underestimating you. I¡¯ll seriously kill you now!¡± he shouted and disappeared once again.


    Honoka!


    (I¡­can¡¯t sense him!!!)


    What the¡ª


    ¡°[Shadow Sneak],¡± he whispered after appearing behind me.


    I¡­can¡¯t move again? What¡¯s with this attack?


    ¡°[Demon Blade]!¡± he said and prepared for a slash.


    Suddenly, a familiar figure appeared and shouted, ¡°[Electro Slash]!¡±


    Before getting hit by the bastard sword, the [Dark Ripper] jumped up on top of a building higher than the one we¡¯re currently standing at.


    ¡°[Cyan Knight],¡± the [Dark Ripper] muttered with sudden seriousness.


    ¡°Sorry for the wait, Raiki, Honoka,¡± Cyann said with his usual smile and faced the assassin.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°Whenever I look at his back, I always feel safe,¡± I whispered with a smile.


    (Me too. You can feel how strong he is even if he¡¯s not fighting.)


    ¡°You¡¯ve done more than enough. Let me take care of this,¡± Cyann continued and drew out the ordinary bastard sword behind him.


    ¡°A double¡­bastard sword?¡± I reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°It¡¯s too soon to be surprised,¡± he said and leaped forward. In an instant, he is now before the [Dark Ripper].


    ¡°[Demon Blade]!¡±


    ¡°[Thor Cross]!!!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    ¡°That ordinary bastard sword¡­can do a [Thor Slash]?¡± I reacted with a surprised expression.


    (Is that perhaps a [Monster Weapon]?)


    ¡°What kind of [monster weapon] is that?¡± the [Dark Ripper] asked after both of them landed on top of separate buildings.


    ¡°It¡¯s called [Mjolnir]. It can copy the [special attack] of my [weapon] as long as I can deliver them at the same timing.¡±


    ¡°You just told me your weakness,¡± the [assassin] said and appeared before Cyann in a split second. He then hit [Mjolnir] continuously, making Cyann unable to deliver a double attack.


    (Should we help him?) Honoka asked.


    You¡¯re right. That way¡ª


    Suddenly, they both jumped from buildings to buildings while clashing. Their movements were so fast that I couldn¡¯t follow it anymore.


    ¡°Are you¡­kidding me?¡± I reacted with widened eyes and opened mouth.


    (They are really on a different level.)


    Their attacks were so fast that all I can see is the trajectory of their path and the sparks made from their clash. So this is what happens when they took the battle seriously.


    ¡°I still got a long way to go,¡± I whispered as I watch them from below.


    ¡°[Plasma Cannon]!¡± Cyann shouted.


    ¡°[Chaos Blast]!¡± the [Dark Ripper] yelled.


    The two long-range attacks collided and created a big explosion. Afterwards, the continuous clash of blades continued.


    ¡°[Thor Cross]!!!¡±


    ¡°[Demon Blade]!!!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    I¡¯m starting to get used to their speed. I can now slightly follow their movements.


    ¡°What a boring battle,¡± a guy suddenly said after appearing beside me.


    ¡°What the¡ª¡± I reacted in a surprised look after noticing him.


    I couldn¡¯t even sense his arrival?


    ¡°Yo, brat. I¡¯m [Scorpio], nice to meet you,¡± he said with a bored smile.


    ¡°S¡­[Scorpio]?¡± I reacted with widened eyes.


    It is a guy in braids wearing maroon long-sleeves and black tucked-in pants.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind me. I¡¯m just here to take some fresh air before going back to my empire. Anyway, who is that strong guy that [Cyan Knight] is battling?¡± God [Scorpio] asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s the [Dark Ripper],¡± I answered nervously.


    ¡°So he¡¯s still not finished on his latest mission. Since I¡¯m not in a good mood, I guess, I¡¯ll kill that assassin with my own hands. Maybe that will cheer me up a little. [Rossanna],¡± he said and a girl wearing a black suit suddenly appeared behind him. With a nod, the girl transformed into a knife and [Scorpio] disappeared in an instant. Before I know it, something exploded in the middle of the two¡¯s fight.


    ¡°That guy¡­his movements are so fast compared to Cyann and the [Dark Ripper]!¡±  I reacted in a shocked manner.


    ¡°You called?¡± [Scorpio] said after appearing beside me again. In his right hand is his [weapon] and at his left¡­is the [Dark Ripper] with eyes rolled out.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°Seems like killing this guy somehow made me livelier,¡± God [Scorpio] said and threw the [Dark Ripper] on the floor.


    ¡°[Dark Ripper]!¡± I reacted with a worried expression.


    Cyann then jumped towards us and landed beside [Scorpio]. After giving the [Constellation Deity] a bow, [Scorpio] said to him, ¡°How can you beat [Leo] if you¡¯re having a hard time with this guy? His [weapon] is five levels lower than yours, you know.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for making you finish my mission but¡­did you really have to kill him?¡± Cyann asked in a polite tone yet serious eyes.


    ¡°Do you really need a reason to kill an assassin? I mean, he¡¯s killing people just for fun, you know. But don¡¯t worry, look,¡± he said and pointed at the motionless assassin¡¯s scythe.


    ¡°The scythe on his left hand¡­hasn¡¯t transformed back yet,¡± I whispered to myself.


    ¡°This is one tough guy,¡± he said and pointed the knife¡¯s tip towards the [Dark Ripper]¡¯s face.


    Suddenly, the assassin¡¯s [weapon] transformed back and a small girl (probably around the age of ten) appeared. She has a violet hair in a twin ponytail and wears a black gothic lolita costume.


    She then looked at [Scorpio] with emotionless and unmoving eyes.


    ¡°Those eyes¡­it reminds me of someone¡¯s,¡± [Scorpio] whispered with an amused expression.


    ¡°I...*cough*¡­can still fight,¡± the assassin said weakly after his consciousness returned.


    ¡°See? He¡¯s a tough one right?¡± [Scorpio] asked and looked at Cyann.


    ¡°God [Scorpio], please let me handle this. I¡¯ll take him to the pri--¡± Cyann muttered but stopped.


    ¡°[Dark¡­ness]. [Darkness]!¡± the [Dark Ripper] whispered as he tries to lift his upper body upright.


    He¡¯s¡­calling for his [weapon].


    I immediately looked at the little girl and got surprised because she¡¯s staring at me.


    ¡°[Fling Fire],¡± [Scorpio] muttered and an attack pierced through the assassin¡¯s skull. After that, the [Dark Ripper] lied flat on the ground.


    (He¡¯s¡­dead.)


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°God [Scorpio]?¡± Cyann reacted, shocked.


    ¡°There. You want to handle it, right? Handle cleaning up his corpse,¡± God [Scorpio] said with a smile.


    ¡°I¡­understand,¡± Cyann replied after averting his gaze with sad eyes.


    ¡°Then, goodbye you two. See you some other time,¡± God [Scorpio] followed with a smile.


    ¡°God [Scorpio], how about this little girl?¡± Cyann asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to kill her because she¡¯s still a little girl. I guess¡­never mind. Do what you want.¡±


    ¡°A-Affirmative.¡±


    I will now go back to my Inn. See you around,¡± God [Scorpio] continued and jumped off the building.


    ¡°I¡­couldn¡¯t do anything,¡± Cyann whispered with disgust in his eyes.


    I couldn¡¯t find the right word to say because I¡¯m in the same boat as him. I couldn¡¯t do a thing to stop God [Scorpio] from killing the [Dark Ripper].


    I then looked at the girl and noticed that she¡¯s not even sad after losing her partner. She just stands there while staring at him with a poker face.


    ¡°So¡­Cyann, what are you planning to do to this girl?¡± I asked.


    ¡°I think I¡¯ll bring her to the prison,¡± Cyann responed.


    ¡°But¡­is there any other way to end this? That girl¡­is so young,¡± I answered and looked at the girl.


    ¡°I agree. I think¡­I¡¯ll take her into custody. I¡¯ll include her in my party,¡± Cyann said with a smile.


    ¡°Is that fine?¡± I asked with a slight surprised face.


    ¡°The only wanted is the [Dark Ripper] after all and the public doesn¡¯t know the face of his [weapon]. So instead of bringing her to jail, I think providing her a new life to start all over again is what I should do instead.¡±


    ¡°You really are a nice person,¡± I said with a smile.


    Suddenly, the girl stopped before me and stared at my eyes once again.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Is there¡­something on my face?¡± I asked curiously.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Ahahaha,¡± I laughed forcedly.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I think¡­he wants to come with you,¡± Cyan commented.


    ¡°Wh-what?¡± I reacted with a sudden surprised face.


    (What?)


    ¡°I mean, even though his partner kills people, he is still a righteous man deep inside. Maybe this girl can see the evil within people¡¯s heart too and decided to follow you because she can¡¯t see that ¡®evil¡¯ in you. She feels like she can trust you.¡±


    ¡°You give me too much credit,¡± I complained, not knowing how to react. ¡°You¡¯re much kinder than me if you ask me.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s...¡± Cyann reacted with an unexpected surprised face and suddenly averted his gaze with somewhat sad eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not really that kind, you know.¡±


    ¡°Did you say something?¡± I asked, not hearing his whisper.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. So¡­do you want to become her guardian? At least just for the time being. You can contact me anytime if you can¡¯t guard her anymore. I¡¯m gonna get her as soon as I can if that happens.¡±


    (Raiki, this is dangerous! What if that girl only wants to kill you?)


    I then stared at her eyes again and saw how emotionless her eyes really are.


    ¡°But this girl¡­I can¡¯t just abandon her, you know,¡± I replied to Honoka.


    (That¡¯s¡­jeez. You are way too nice.)


    ¡°That¡¯s the only thing I can do for not saving his master,¡± I continued with a smile. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll take care of her.¡±


    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll leave her to you for the time being,¡± Cyann responded with a smile.


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m gonna do my best to guard her.¡±


    ¡°Raiki, I¡¯ll be waiting at the top. Work hard to become a high-rank soldier,¡± he said and drew out his hand.


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯ll do my best,¡± I replied and shook it.

 Chapter 26: DARKNESS – The Mysterious Little Girl

    ¡°This is one tiring day,¡± I whispered to myself while lying on my bed.


    We are now inside a room with four beds, one for each of us because we can now afford a room in a luxurious Inn. Of course, Ruby and I still share the same bed. Right now, everyone is sleeping soundly while I¡¯m the only one awake.


    ¡°But that girl sure is mysterious,¡± I muttered and looked at Darkness¡¯ bed where she is currently sleeping while being covered by the blanket.


    Even though she follows us everywhere we go just like I requested, she still hasn¡¯t uttered a single word since I met her.


    ¡°I wonder if I¡¯m doing what Cyann would¡¯ve done if he became Darkness¡¯ guardian instead of me,¡± I whispered and once again opened my notebook.


    Because I am now her guardian, I decided to buy a notebook where I can write all the information I learn about her. Since I started doing it, I managed to write entries about her. Here are those.


    [Entry no. 1: Darkness hates carrots]


    For some reason, she always set aside all the carrots she can find in the dish and always left it on her plate. Let¡¯s go back to a previous day where Honoka and I talked about Darkness.


    ¡°I wonder if Darkness finds my cooking awful,¡± Honoka said sadly as both of us clean the dishes in a river one afternoon after training in a forest.


    ¡°Of course not. It¡¯s the best in the world, you know,¡± I followed with a serious face.


    Honoka then got surprised and her cheeks became slightly red.


    ¡°I-I still got a long way to go before I can cook better than Master Chen,¡± she replied after averting her gaze. She then made a serious face and announced, ¡°I swear that one day, Darkness will finish every meal that I make! I will make that happen!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you can do it,¡± I whispered with a gentle smile.


    Well, until today, Darkness still refuses to eat carrots. But thanks to that, Honoka¡¯s cooking improves steadily as days passes by.


    [Entry no. 2: Darkness smells like flowers]


    Whenever I get close to her, I always smell a sweet yet mature fragrance that reminds me of flowers. I don¡¯t know if this information is trivial or not but I decided to write it here. Now, let¡¯s go back to the night when Ciana saw me writing [Entry no.2] before going to sleep. I was sitting on a chair while making my lap as the table for writing on the notebook.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Ciana asked curiously as the others soundly sleep in their respective beds.


    ¡°Ciana? Well, I decided to write everything that I learn about darkness here,¡± I replied.


    ¡°I see,¡± she whispered and read what I¡¯m writing. ¡°But what kind of flower?¡±


    ¡°Maybe...lavander...I guess,¡± I said, still not sure on my answer.


    ¡°Then, what do others smells like to you?¡±


    ¡°You mean Honoka and Iwa?¡±


    She then nodded with a curious smile.


    ¡°Well, Honoka smells like mixed spices, blended together harmoniously, producing a noticeable and pleasant smell.¡±


    ¡°I see. Then, how about Iwa?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s see...Iwa¡¯s smell reminds me of the fragrance of [strapple], a smell that induces a fair amount of sweetness.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that because you¡¯re always making her drink a [strapple drink]? You always rely on Iwa¡¯s [special attacks] compared to Honoka and I after all.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± I reacted with a slight surprised face. ¡°Now that you¡¯ve mentioned it...¡±


    ¡°Then, I¡¯m going to bed too. Don¡¯t stay too late,¡± Ciana said with a smile.


    ¡°By the way, Ciana...¡±


    ¡°Hm?¡±If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    ¡°You smell like white lotus to me,¡± I followed with a smile.


    To be more detailed, Ciana¡¯s smell has a rich, intoxicating quality that evokes the warm, misty atmosphere of gardens and...I really like that fragrance.


    ¡°I...see. Well, for me, you smell like metal...and...I like that smell,¡± she replied with slightly blushed cheeks and immediately went to bed.


    ¡°M-metal?¡± I reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°Good night,¡± Ciana followed and started sleeping on her bed.


    Now that I remembered it, I wonder if it¡¯s fine to smell like a metal.


    [Entry no. 3: Darkness likes Ruby]


    I wrote this entry because of a certain event. It happened one morning, when I woke up only to find Darkness petting Ruby who is right beside me.


    *ruuu~* Ruby reacted with a smile as Darkness pet him in the head.


    I immediately closed my eyes and pretended to sleep. But when I opened my eyes slightly after a couple of seconds, Darkness can no longer be found in the room.


    ¡°Is that a dream?¡± I asked to myself after lifting my upper body upright.


    I then looked at Ruby and saw crumbs of bread on his mouth.


    ¡°That¡¯s...unexpected,¡± I whispered.


    [Entry no. 4: Darkness is always looking at me]


    For some time, I thought that it¡¯s just my imagination that Darkness is always looking at me but Iwa made me realized that it wasn¡¯t. It happened when we just finished our training in the [Harlequin Valley]. Iwa was walking beside me while Ciana and Honoka were behind us talking to each other. Darkness was behind them. Of course, Ruby was still on my right shoulder.


    ¡°I wonder why Darkness always stares at Raiki,¡± Iwa whispered with a sigh.


    ¡°R-really?¡± I asked with a slight surprised expression.


    ¡°Th-that¡¯s¡ª¡± Iwa reacted, clearly surprised that I heard her whisper. ¡°You...didn¡¯t notice it?¡±


    ¡°I thought that it¡¯s just my imagination.¡±


    ¡°I...see,¡± she said and made a somewhat sad look.


    ¡°Do you know what does that mean?¡±


    ¡°Maybe...because...she likes you too...¡± she whispered but this time, I couldn¡¯t hear it properly.


    ¡°Come again?¡± I asked with a curious face.


    Her shoulders then twitched and continued ¡°I-It¡¯s nothing¡± with a flustered expression. ¡°I don¡¯t really know why too. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°I...see...¡± I replied with a puzzled look.


    [Entry no. 5: Darkness is strong]


    Lastly, this happened recently when we¡¯re training at the [Harlequin Valley].


    ¡°[Holy Sword]!¡± I shouted and slashed a [Duskhound], making it hit the ground.


    Ciana then returned back to normal and asked, ¡°Should we call it a day?¡±


    ¡°Everyone, let¡¯s go back to [Taurus Empire]. It¡¯s already getting late,¡± I announced.


    We then prepared to leave the Valley when suddenly, the [Duskhound] from earlier recovered and prepared to attack the one nearest to it, Darkness.


    ¡°Darkness!¡± I shouted and drew out [Raiden].


    Just before its sharp claws hit Darkness, she managed to bring out a fan made of metal and defended herself. The clash between the monster¡¯s claws and her fan created an explosion of smoke because of the strong impact. When the smoke lifted, we saw that the claws of the [Duskhound] were now bended and its gaze was now fixated to Darkness with a scared expression. It then immediately ran as fast as it can.


    ¡°But still, that surely is a surprise to us,¡± I whispered and closed the notebook. ¡°Well, her level is high after all. I wonder how she became that strong considering her age. She¡¯s just around 10 if I¡¯m not mistaken.¡±


    I then stood up and went before her bed but immediately got surprised from what I saw.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a pillow!¡± I reacted and immediately went outside the room. I then ran as fast as I can on the hallway and found the girl just after she exited the female¡¯s comfort room.


    ¡°It looks like I¡¯m over-thinking things again,¡± I said with a sigh of relief.


    She then looked at me with her usual emotionless eyes.


    ¡°Uhmmm...Darkness...¡± I muttered with a hesitant look.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Want to go outside for a bit?¡± I asked with a grin.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I guess¡­I¡¯ll take that as a yes?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Don¡¯t just look at me blankly, jeez.


    ¡°Okay, follow me,¡± I said and started to walk towards the exit of the Inn. She then followed me with unchanging expression.


    After that, we walked outside with me taking the lead while she¡¯s a couple of steps away from me. Because it¡¯s just past 11, the bars around were still open, with its customers partying as loud as they can.


    ¡°It sure is lively around here,¡± I said while roaming my eyes around.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Still no reply, huh.


    I took her outside now because she might be missing the night view of this empire but¡­I don¡¯t know if I did the right thing. This will surely remind her of her [wielder], [Dark Ripper] after all.


    ¡°Uhmm¡­Darkness¡­¡± I said and look behind me but she¡¯s nowhere to be found again.


    Where did she go?


    ¡°Darkness?¡± I called and look around and saw only strangers walking. But when I looked at the top of the two-storey [weapon shop] before me, I saw her there while staring at me.


    Is she telling me to follow her?


    I then jumped up as high as I can and landed on the rooftop.


    ¡°Darkness,¡± I called.


    There, I saw her sitting on a bench while looking at the dark sky.


    I then walked towards her and asked, ¡°Can I sit here too?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Then¡­¡± I whispered and sat beside her.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°This sky¡­sure is mysterious, right?¡± I asked and look at her.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    She just continued staring at the dark sky in silence.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about me,¡± she suddenly whispered in a serious tone without averting her gaze above.


    She finally spoke!!!


    ¡°Wh-what do you mean?¡± I asked, nervous.


    ¡°I¡¯m following you because I saw something ¡®rare¡¯ within you. Something I saw for the first time. So don¡¯t mind me and continue your journey just like usual. I won¡¯t hide nor run away from you. I¡¯ll just continue following you,¡± she said and stood up. Her voice is cold yet beautiful to hear.


    ¡°I...see,¡± I responded with a slight surprised look.


    She then started walking away from me and jumped off the building.


    ¡°So she wants to go back to the Inn now,¡± I said and stood up.


    [Entry no. 6: Darkness doesn¡¯t hate the night view]


    ¡°Something like that, I guess,¡± I said with a smile after writing those words in my notebook.


    It looks like step by step, I¡¯m getting closer on understanding Darkness. I just hope that someday, she¡¯ll open up to me.

 Chapter 27: RAIKI VS TAURUS – The Battle for the Bull Symbol

    ¡°So we¡¯re finally here,¡± I said as I look at the big castle of [Taurus] while we¡¯re standing in front of it.


    It is a castle as big as Sagiru¡¯s but with a very different design and structure. This castle is made of pure gray metal designed with lots of pointed steel bars. Just from one glance and you can see how the castle is well-built.


    Behind me are Ciana, Iwa, Honoka, Chen and Darkness while Ruby is on my right shoulder.


    ¡°We¡¯re ready,¡± Ciana said with a smile and looked at Iwa.


    ¡°Th-that¡¯s right!¡± Iwa replied nervously.


    ¡°Raiki¡­let¡¯s go?¡± Honoka asked with a smile.


    ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s go and beat [Taurus]!¡± I responded with a serious smile.


    Ciana is now at level 53 and Iwa is at level 50. With Honoka¡¯s help, I¡¯m sure that beating one of [Taurus]¡¯s level 50 [weapon] will be a piece of cake.


    The big two-way steel gate suddenly opened and a big open yard with lots of [empire soldiers] welcomed us.


    ¡°What the¡ª¡± I reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°Welcome, Raiki and Chen,¡± [Taurus] said while at the rear end of the wide field, sitting on a big chair. There are also five soldiers behind him.


    ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of this?¡± I asked with furrowed eyebrows.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you see just by looking? You have to defeat my 54 soldiers first before you can fight me,¡± he replied with an amused expression.


    ¡°Th-that¡¯s not in the rules!¡± Ciana retorted, surprised.


    ¡°I¡¯m the [Empire Deity] here so I¡¯ll be the one who will make the rules!¡± [Taurus] shouted angrily and a strong gust of wind hit us. What pressure!


    ¡°Wh-what should we do, Raiki?¡± Iwa asked nervously.


    ¡°I can¡¯t defeat them alone if those soldiers decided to attack me at once,¡± I replied in a serious tone.


    ¡°Raiki, Honoka and I will help you fight,¡± Ciana suggested with a serious face.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. With the three of us, we can defeat these soldiers,¡± Honoka followed with a confident smile.


    ¡°I guess we don¡¯t have a choice. Iwa, Chen, Darkness and Ruby, all of you stay here. We¡¯ll handle this,¡± I announced.


    ¡°Raiki¡­sorry for not being useful,¡± Iwa muttered with a sad expression.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be counting on you to help defeat [Taurus] later. As for now, just wait here,¡± I followed with a smile.


    ¡°A-as you wish!¡± she replied with a sudden determined expression.


    ¡°Raiki, good luck,¡± Chen said with a worried expression.


    ¡°Leave it to me,¡± I answered with a smile.


    *ruu!* Ruby said while he¡¯s on Iwa¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Yeah. We¡¯ll surely win this,¡± I replied.


    Ciana then brought out her dagger and Honoka assembled her steel staff.


    ¡°Men, get them!!!¡± [Taurus] ordered and the soldiers charged towards us.


    I then brought out [Raiden] and bended my knees. In an instant, I passed through a couple of soldiers and after I whispered ¡°[Steel Thrust]¡±, five got blown over and fainted after hitting the ground.


    ¡°A-attack Raiki at the same time!¡± the leader of the soldiers shouted and all soldiers sprinted towards me with their respective ordinary weapons.


    Honoka then appeared before me and swung her staff to a soldier. That soldier flew away and hit two of his comrades.


    ¡°I can¡¯t let you harm our precious [wielder],¡± Honoka said and pointed her staff to the wave of soldiers.


    ¡°Why you!¡± the leader soldier shouted and prepared to slash Honoka but before he know it, he suddenly hit the far wall with a bang and collapsed face first on the ground.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget about me,¡± Ciana said and pointed her dagger towards the soldiers.


    ¡°If you want to defeat him, you have to get through us first!¡± Ciana and Honoka shouted to the soldiers with a smile.


    ¡°How cool¡­¡± Iwa reacted while watching the battle.


    ¡°Those girls are strong,¡± one soldier reacted, now nervous.


    ¡°D-don¡¯t just stand there and charge!¡± one soldier said and a wave of men ran towards us.


    We three then charged towards them and defeated everyone that entered our line of vision. Before we know it, all the fifty soldiers were now on the ground, unconscious.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that you have comrades that strong, Raiki,¡± [Taurus] said while still sitting with his arms and legs crossed. ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°[Jean]!¡± one soldier called.


    ¡°[Eris]!¡± another followed.


    Both those [wielder] soldiers behind him called their [weapons]¡¯s name and walked towards the three of us while holding their respective swords.


    ¡°So we¡¯re now fighting the [wielders] of [Taurus],¡± I whispered.


    ¡°Raiki, Honoka should rest now. We need her strength to defeat [Taurus] later. Let me handle these two,¡± Ciana suggested.


    ¡°Honoka, go back to Iwa¡¯s side and let Ruby heal you,¡± I ordered.


    ¡°I got it,¡± Honoka said with a nod and jogged away.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go! [Ciana]!¡± I said and drew out my left palm.


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡± she replied and became a sickle on my hand.


    The two [wielders] then charged at the same time and swung their swords at me. I managed to dodge the two attacks by jumping up.


    ¡°[Frozen Flare]!!!¡± both of them suddenly shouted after pointing both of their swords towards me. A blue-red flame then hit me in mid-air.


    ¡°Gaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh!!!!¡± I screamed out of pain and landed on the ground in a kneeling position.


    (That¡¯s a [sync attack]!) Ciana reacted.


    ¡°Sync attack?¡± I repeated.


    (When two [wielders] activated two [special attacks] at the same time, creating a new one. That¡¯s a [synch attack].)


    I then stood up and made a defensive stance.


    ¡°These guys are stronger than I expected,¡± I whispered.


    (Do you have a plan?)


    ¡°Yeah!¡± I replied with a smile and drew out [Raiden].


    (That¡¯s--)


    ¡°Double Wielding!¡± I shouted and made a fighting pose with [Ciana] on my left hand and [Raiden] on my right.


    Even though [Raiden] doesn¡¯t have the ability of [Mjolnir], it is still the [strongest monster weapon] so I¡¯m sure that it can keep up with other [beast weapons] no matter how high their levels are!


    ¡°[Twin Slash]!¡± I shouted.


    ¡°[Flame Slash]!¡±


    ¡°[Frozen Cut]!¡±


    *ka-booooooooooooooooooooooooom*This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Our exchange of attacks continued without either side getting the advantage. The clash continued for a long period and after a while, the three of us jumped backwards.


    ¡°You two are really strong,¡± I commented with a smile.


    ¡°You too,¡± both of them replied with a smirk and charged towards me again.


    ¡°But I¡¯ll still be the winner!¡± I said and jumped up.


    ¡°!¡±


    ¡°!¡±


    If the rotation of the wheel blade is vertical, let¡¯s see what will happen if I rotated horizontally with two bladed weapons!


    ¡°[Top Blade]!!!!¡± I yelled and rotated as fast as I can.


    The whirlwind-like attack then landed on the ground and hit the both of them, making the two flew away and hit the ground heavily. With my newest [physical attack], both of them fainted together with their [weapons].


    Ciana then transformed back and whispered, ¡°Raiki, I¡¯ll go back at the stand-by area and let Ruby heal me.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I said and Ciana sprinted towards Iwa¡¯s side.


    [Taurus] then stood up and went before me, leaving the last soldier at his side¡¯s stand-by area.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t think that you¡¯ll really reach this far, Raiki,¡± he said with an amused yet intimidating expression.


    ¡°So how about we start the [soldier challenge] now?¡± I asked with a serious smile.


    ¡°If that¡¯s what you want, challenger! [Rocky]!¡±


    ¡°Affirmative,¡± the last soldier replied and became a big hammer on [Taurus]¡¯s right hand.


    ¡°That [weapon], it¡¯s a level 70!¡± I reacted with a very surprised expression.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re special after all. I can¡¯t just underestimate you and use my usual level 50 [weapon]. That is why I decided to use Rocky,¡± [Taurus] responded and laughed out loud.


    ¡°[Ciana]!¡± I called.


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡± she replied and became a sickle on my left hand.


    ¡°Haaaaaahhhh!!!¡±


    ¡°Haaaaaahhhh!!!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOM*


    When both of our [weapons] collided, an explosion of smoke shook the area. Suddenly, [Ciana] went back to the stand-by area with an exhausted expression.


    ¡°Sorry, Raiki,¡± she apologized.


    He defeated Ciana¡­just like that?


    ¡°That¡¯s the difference in their level,¡± [Taurus] said with an intimidating smile.


    ¡°[Iwa]!¡±


    ¡°At your service!¡± she replied and became a kite shield on my left arm. I then jumped backwards as far as I can.


    ¡°So that¡¯s the shield that has the [Clay Morph] [ability],¡± [Taurus] muttered with a grin.


    ¡°Long-range Mode: Blaster!¡± I shouted and a cannon appeared on top of my shield.


    ¡°Hohhh~,¡± [Taurus] reacted with an amused expression.


    I then pointed my [weapon] towards him and yelled, ¡°[Earth Blast]!¡±


    Without even moving an inch from his position, [Taurus] used his hammer as a shield.


    *ka-booooooooooooooooooom*


    But when the smoke lifted, [Taurus] is just standing there with his [weapon] not even scratched by our attack.


    ¡°What the¡ª¡± I reacted, shocked.


    (That¡­can¡¯t be...)


    ¡°Like I said, that¡¯s the difference in their level,¡± [Taurus] muttered and started walking towards me slowly.


    ¡°Shoot! [Earth Blast]!!!¡±


    *ka-boooooooooooooooooooooooom*


    ¡°Is that all you¡¯ve got?¡± he asked as he slowly lessens the distance between us.


    ¡°[Earth Blast]!!!¡±


    *ka-booooooooooooooooooooooooooooom*


    (Raiki, nothing is happening!)


    ¡°[Earth Blast]! [Earth Blast]! [Earth Blast]! [Earth Blast]!!!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOM*


    Before I know it, [Taurus] is now before me, ready to whack me with his hammer.


    Just one hit and Iwa will surely be unable to battle! I have to do something!


    [Counter Kick]!¡± I screamed and hit [Taurus] on the leg.


    ¡°Are you even trying to attack me?¡± [Taurus] asked with a grin.


    ¡°No¡­effect?¡± I reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°[Boulder Pound]!!!¡± he shouted and his gigantic [weapon] is now heading towards me.


    (I won¡¯t let you harm my [wielder]!!!)


    *BOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    ¡°What the¡ª¡± [Taurus] reacted and took a couple of steps backward after a sudden gust of wind got created.


    ¡°Iwa¡­this is¡­¡± I muttered.


    When the smoke lifted, a formation of solidified rocks thrice as tall and wide as me appeared before me. It just deflected [Taurus]¡¯s attack like it was nothing.


    ¡°This is amazing, Iwa!¡± I said with a smile and looked at the kite shield on my arm.


    (This is my new [special attack] [Wall Shield]. It can deflect any attack once no matter how strong it is and will get weaker if used consecutively. Anyway Raiki, I¡¯m now at level 53. I can now store an additional mode.)


    ¡°So that means¡­¡± I said and stood up. The solidified rocks then disappeared.


    ¡°You really won¡¯t stop surprising me, Raiki,¡± [Taurus] commented with an amused expression.


    ¡°Then, will this surprise you again? Hammer Mode: Whacker!¡± I shouted and Iwa transformed into a hammer as big as [Taurus]¡¯s.


    ¡°Amazing but¡­quite the lightweight if you asked me,¡± [Taurus] commented derisively.


    ¡°We¡¯ll see about that!¡± I said and vanished from his vision.


    Before he know it, an attack suddenly whacked him from behind.


    ¡°Gahaa!¡± he reacted, clearly feeling the attack.


    ¡°[Light Pound],¡± I whispered and [Taurus] got blown away. He then landed on the ground heavily on his feet.


    ¡°What speed. How can you move so fast with that kind of [weapon]?¡± he asked with a serious expression.


    ¡°Well, she¡¯s just a light hammer, that¡¯s all,¡± I replied and swung [Iwa] like a bat.


    ¡°But despite that, it¡¯s still powerful,¡± he said and readied his hammer.


    ¡°Here we go!¡± I said and sprinted towards him.


    ¡°[Earthquake]!!!¡± [Taurus] shouted and smashed the ground using his hammer.


    Suddenly, the ground shook very strongly, making me lose my balance and hit the floor in a sitting position.


    ¡°[Landslide]!¡± he followed and pointed his hammer up in the air. Then, tons of rocks appeared above and buried me.


    ¡°With that attack, it¡¯s the end!¡± [Taurus] said with a victorious smile.


    ¡°Raiki!¡± Ciana and Honoka shouted in the stand-by area.


    ¡°[Earth Blast]!¡± I shouted and the rubbles covering me got blown away. I then stood up and gave [Taurus] a smile.


    ¡°Hoohh~. You survived that attack, huh,¡± [Taurus] reacted with a smile.


    ¡°Of course,¡± I replied and made a smile.


    I then looked at the pile of rocks beneath me and saw the destroyed [Crimson Protector]. It looks like it can no longer be repaired by Arjen in that kind of state. Thanks for all the help. Without you, I¡¯m sure that I couldn¡¯t survive that [Landslide].


    ¡°But¡­¡± [Taurus] said and looked at my kite shield.


    (Sorry¡­Raiki. I can¡¯t¡­maintain this mode¡­anymore.)


    ¡°Iwa?¡± I called.


    Iwa then transformed back into a brown light and went back to the stand-by area.


    ¡°So with this, you¡¯ve only got one [weapon] left,¡± [Taurus] said and pointed his hammer to me.


    ¡°Not really. I still got two!¡± I announced with a confident smile and [Taurus] got surprised.


    Ciana and the others got surprised too and looked at Darkness.


    ¡°So that little girl is your new [weapon],¡± [Taurus] muttered and looked at Darkness with a serious face. ¡°That girl¡­is a level 80 [weapon], huh. So you¡¯re saving the best one for the last.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not. I¡¯m just her guardian,¡± I answered.


    ¡°Then, are you saying that Chen can now become a [weapon]?¡± [Taurus] asked with a sudden surprised face.


    ¡°M-me?¡± Chen reacted with a bewildered expression.


    ¡°I mean this one,¡± I said and brought out [Raiden].


    ¡°Huh? Are you an idiot? You know that fighting a [Constellation Deity] with an ordinary weapon is close to conceding defeat. Your [beast weapons] weren¡¯t able to defeat mine so how can that mere short sword defeat me?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see about that!¡± I said and bended my knees. Before he realized it, the blade of my weapon is now on his hammer.


    ¡°[Steel Thrust],¡± I whispered and a crack finally appeared on his hard hammer.


    ¡°What?¡± [Taurus] reacted, surprised.


    He then drew in his hammer and prepared to pound me.


    ¡°[Boulder Smash]!¡±


    ¡°[Wheel Blade]!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOM*


    After I landed on the ground in a kneeling position, [Taurus] stared at my weapon and said, ¡°That¡¯s¡­a [monster weapon], huh.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied with a smile and stood up.


    ¡°So that is the reason why it can withstand my [special attack],¡± he continued with a serious face.


    ¡°But it is still too early to be surprised!¡± I shouted and sheathed my sword. I then made a drawing stance and lightning sparks suddenly appeared around me.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± [Taurus] reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°Feast your eyes. You will be the first Deity to see the true strength of the [Raiden]!¡±


    ¡°Then, just try it!!!¡± he said and sprinted towards me.


    I then teleported behind him and whispered, ¡°[Lightning Bolt].¡±


    ¡°Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!¡± [Taurus] reacted after his whole right arm got electrocuted together with his [weapon].


    ¡°[Honoka]!¡± I called.


    ¡°I¡¯ll¡­definitely win!¡± she replied and transformed into a katana on my left hand.


    ¡°Raiki!!!¡± [Taurus] screamed furiously and smashed his hammer towards me.


    I then bended my knees and [Honoka]¡¯s blade got enveloped by fire.


    ¡°[Flame Thrust]!¡± I shouted and in an instant, I flew towards his [weapon].


    *crack*


    ¡°Impossible!!!¡± [Taurus] reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°[Honoka]¡¯s blade pierced through his hammer?¡± Ciana and Iwa reacted with surprised expressions.


    I delivered all of my attacks at this same spot and finally pierced through on his invincible hammer!


    ¡°Your [weapon] is tough on the outside but¡­how about inside?¡± I asked and gave him a smile.


    ¡°Darn it!!!¡± [Taurus] shouted furiously.


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!!!!!¡± I yelled.


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    ¡°Why you!¡± [Taurus] shouted and swung his [weapon] like a bat, making me flew straight up.


    (Raiki, watch out!)


    [Rock Blast]!¡± he said and a big rock got fired towards me.


    ¡°[Wheel Blade]!!!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    Both attacks cancelled out each other so [Taurus] prepared to fire a [Rock Blast] again.


    ¡°It¡¯s useless! [Flame Thrust]!¡± I said and [Honoka] delivered me to his hammer in an instant.


    *crack*


    After the blade pierced through his [weapon] again, I muttered, ¡°With this, it¡¯s the end!¡±


    ¡°No!!!¡± [Taurus] shouted in despair.


    ¡°[Flame Burst]!!!!!!¡±I screamed.


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    When the smoke lifted, his [weapon] transformed back at his side¡¯s stand-by area, making me the winner of this [soldier challenge].


    ¡°We did it!¡± I said happily and jumped around.


    ¡°Raiki!¡± Ciana yelled as all of them ran towards me. ¡°We did it!¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡± I happily responded.


    ¡°You really are strong, Raiki,¡± [Taurus] said after stopping before me.


    The three girls then went behind me and gave me a smile.


    ¡°You defeated me completely. Congratulations,¡± [Taurus] said with seriousness and handed a small chest.


    I then opened it and saw a similar silver ring to the [Archer Ring] but with a different design.


    ¡°It¡¯s the proof of your victory, the [Bull Ring]. With that symbol, you can now go to the next empire and challenge [Scorpio],¡± [Taurus] continued.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± I said and placed it on my left middle finger. With the [Archer Ring] on my index finger, I now have two [empire symbols].


    ¡°I hate how fearless you are but my policy is to accept the attitude of strong ones. But remember this: Arrogance will only bring you to destruction. Accept the fact that anything can happen in a battle so no matter whom you face, don¡¯t let arrogance bring you to the path of losing,¡± [Taurus] said to me and made a smile at the end, making me a little surprised.


    ¡°I¡¯ll...remember that,¡± I said, still with a surprised face and gave him a smile afterwards.


    ¡°Chen¡­¡± [Taurus] continued with a sudden serious look and faced Honoka¡¯s master.


    ¡°What is it, Sir?¡± Chen asked.


    ¡°I won¡¯t force you to become a soldier anymore. Do what you want from now on. That¡¯s what I promised after all.¡±


    ¡°Thank you very much!¡± Chen replied with a bow. ¡°But I have a favor to ask.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± [Taurus] asked with a slight surprised face.


    ¡°Can you join us eat dinner? We¡¯re gonna have a feast at the slums to celebrate Raiki¡¯s victory,¡± Chen asked with a smile.


    [Taurus] then smiled and replied, ¡°Suit yourself.¡±


    ¡°[Taurus]...¡± I replied, changing my impression on him.


    [Taurus] then turned around and said, ¡°Anyway, Raiki, [Scorpio] is much stronger than me but don¡¯t you dare lose miserably. You¡¯re now carrying my symbol so the least you can do is to become a high-rank soldier!¡±


    ¡°Affirmative!¡± I responded with conviction.


    After defeating God [Taurus], I am now a 5<sup>th</sup> class soldier. I¡¯ll become much stronger so I can become a high-rank soldier and win the upcoming [Deity Tournament].

 Chapter 28: DECISION – Raiki and Honoka’s Answer

    ¡°So¡­this is really¡­the real goodbye then,¡± I said to Honoka.


    ¡°I guess¡­it is,¡± she replied with a sad expression.


    Right now, we¡¯re at the North Gate of [Taurus Empire], ready to leave the empire right after high noon.


    ¡°Time¡­sure flies fast,¡± I said and looked at the ground with solemn eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I still want all of you to stay here for a little bit longer but¡­that¡¯s impossible, right?¡± Honoka asked with a forced smile.


    ¡°Honoka, I¡¯m sure that we¡¯ll meet again someday,¡± I said with a smile.


    After hearing that, she gave me a nod and smiled at the end.


    ¡°So¡­goodbye, Honoka,¡± I followed.


    ¡°Goodbye, Raiki. Good luck on your journey,¡± Honoka responded.


    We then left the empire as Honoka and Chen wave their hands.


    While we¡¯re walking, Ruby suddenly asked me a question.


    *Ruuu-ruu. Ruu? ruu~*


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Ruby. Why are you even asking something like that?¡± I asked to the small dragon on my right shoulder.


    Iwa suddenly tugged my leather glove with a worried expression, making me stop from walking.


    ¡°Is it¡­really fine to leave just like that?¡± Iwa asked while looking straight at my eyes.


    ¡°Wh-what¡­do you mean?¡± I asked after averting my gaze away from her.


    ¡°You want Honoka to join our party, right?¡± Iwa continued.


    ¡°That¡¯s...¡± I responded after looking at her once again with a surprised face. Yet, no words got followed after that.


    ¡°If that¡¯s true¡­then¡­then¡­¡± Iwa muttered with tears welling up on her eyes, not knowing what to say anymore.


    ¡°I can¡¯t. I just can¡¯t,¡± I replied with sad eyes.


    For some reason, Ciana is just silent, watching me with a serious yet worried look.


    ¡°Why?¡± Iwa suddenly asked in an unusual high voice.


    ¡°Because¡­I can¡¯t just selfishly ask her to come with me! She has her own dream and I will just be a wall to what she really wants to do if I did that!¡± I responded with slanted eyebrows.


    Iwa looked at me with a surprised expression after hearing that reply. It looks like I unconsciously raised my voice.


    ¡°Sorry¡­about that,¡± I said and started walking.


    ¡°Raiki, if you continued walking away, you might regret it later,¡± Ciana muttered in a serious tone.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    I then stopped walking and replied, ¡°This is for the best and I¡¯m fine with this decision.¡±


    Suddenly, someone kicked my legs so hard that I screamed.


    ¡°Wh-what was that for?¡± I asked and turned around only to find Darkness with her usual unmoving eyes.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong about being selfish once in a while,¡± Darkness said and all of us got surprised.


    ¡°Darkness¡­¡± I whispered.


    ¡°Do what you want. I¡¯m sure that Honoka will give you a proper reply so you don¡¯t need to be afraid,¡± Darkness continued and suddenly gave me a slight smile.


    ¡°But¡­¡± I whispered with a reluctant face.


    ¡°Or¡­is your pride that high that you¡¯re afraid to be rejected by your own little sister?¡± Darkness followed.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­right. I¡¯ll ask her even if she rejects my request,¡± I said with a sudden serious expression. Ruby then flew up and gave me a thumb up.


    ¡°Go. We¡¯ll be waiting here,¡± Darkness replied after returning to her usual poker face and closed her eyes afterwards.


    ¡°Everyone, I¡¯ll be back!¡± I shouted and ran as fast as I can back to the gate.


    ¡°Now that¡¯s the Raiki we know,¡± Ciana said with a smile.


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Iwa followed with a smile.


    As I sprint towards the gate, the memories about the time when Honoka and I were together flashed before my eyes, back in the village and the events after we both left there and meet again. That is why I don¡¯t want to give up yet. I want her to¡ª


    Suddenly, I stopped from running and saw a familiar face while she¡¯s panting.


    ¡°H-Honoka?¡± I reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°I¡­caught up,¡± she said and smiled.


    ¡°Honoka¡­¡±


    ¡°Raiki¡­¡±


    ¡°I want you to come with me!¡±


    ¡°I want to come with you!¡±


    We both said those words exactly at the same time. That is why we both got surprised after hearing it.


    ¡°R-really?¡± both of us asked at the same time once again.


    Because of that, both of us laughed.


    ¡°Honoka...I really don¡¯t want to be separated with you again. You¡¯re my precious little sister and I don¡¯t want to lose you anymore,¡± I said seriously.


    ¡°Raiki...¡± Honoka whispered with a slight surprised face. ¡°Me too. I want to be always by your side. I want to become your strength and help you no matter what happens.¡±


    ¡°But how about Chen? Did he agree to this?¡±


    ¡°Well...this is what happened after all of you left the Empire.¡±


    ¡°Honoka, do you want to come with them?¡± Master suddenly asked as we walk towards the slums.


    ¡°Wh-why are you asking me about that, Master?¡± I asked, surprised.


    ¡°I knew it. Do you still remember your reasons why you became my disciple?¡± Master questioned me with a serious look.


    ¡°Yes. I want to learn all of your skills in cooking and see this world with my own eyes by travelling with you,¡± I responded.


    ¡°Honoka, as of now, you¡¯ve graduated as my disciple. Congratulations,¡± Master announced with a smile.


    ¡°M-Master? That can¡¯t be. I still have a long way to go before I can become a Master like you,¡± I reacted, surprised and confused at the same time.


    ¡°Honoka, believe in yourself. I already thought you all the knowledge I know about cooking. All you have to do now is to create your own style of cooking from now on. And also¡­you have another dream right?¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± I reluctantly followed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be staying here for more than a year because this place has the largest number of starving people among our six empires. So don¡¯t waste your precious time and fulfil your other dream. As your Master, I¡¯ll be supporting you from the shadows no matter where you go.¡±


    ¡°Master¡­¡± I whispered with a slight surprised expression. ¡°I got it. Thanks for teaching me all of your knowledge in the art of cooking!¡± I shouted and bowed as hard as I can. ¡°I will definitely become a Master Cook someday!¡±


    ¡°Take care, Honoka. I know that you¡¯ll be a really great cook someday,¡± Master followed with a smile.


    ¡°I hope that Chen can solve the starvation problem in [Taurus Empire], I said with a smile after Honoka finished her story.


    ¡°I know he can. He¡¯s the greatest cook of [Katzenschatz] after all,¡± Honoka replied with her usual cheerful smile.


    ¡°I agree. So¡­let¡¯s go?¡± I asked and drew out my hand.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Honoka muttered and held my hand.


    After that, both of us ran towards Ciana and the others.


    ¡°Wait, you sweet siblings!¡± a familiar voice suddenly shouted while running and caught up with us.


    ¡°Rave?¡± Honoka and I reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°Long time no see, Raiki and Honoka,¡± the guy wearing a ninja outfit said and made a big smile.

 ARC END (Second Update)

    <table>


    <tbody>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Arc End Update 2:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Name: Raiki


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Title: none


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Rank: 5<sup>th</sup> rank


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Age: 18 years old


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    List of [physical attacks]:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Wheel Blade] ¨C a high-damaging physical attack. Can only be used with a short-bladed weapon.</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Counter Kick] ¨C counters close-range attacks</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Switch] ¨C switches around the worst status and best status that the current [beast weapon] gives to the user. Can only last in a couple of seconds.</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Bronze Smash] ¨C the sole attack of an ordinary bronze shield (Can only be used with [Iwa] when in Shield Mode: Protector)</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Steel Thrust] ¨C a very fast attack that almost can¡¯t be dodged.</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Twin Slash] ¨C an attack that deals twice the damage of an ordinary slash</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    <ul>


    <li>[Top Blade] ¨C a physical attack that inflicts twice the damage of [Wheel Blade]</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    List of [Weapons]:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    Name: Ciana


    Title/s: [Lost Deity], [Virgo]


    Age: unknown


    Race: [Constellation Deity]


    Kind: Sickle


    Level: 55


    Magic: Light


    Ability: unknown


    Arsenal:


    <ul>


    <li>Golden Dagger</li>


    </ul>


    List of [special attacks]:


    <ul>


    <li>[Heaven Strike] ¨C an attack that has a 50% chance of landing a hit. If the opponent¡¯s [weapon] is successfully hit, it will make the opponent¡¯s [weapon] unable to battle no matter how high the level is</li>


    <li>[Light Slash] ¨C basic light magic attack of [Ciana]</li>


    <li>[Teleport] ¨C It lets the user instantly move towards any place within 5 meter radius of the user¡¯s current position</li>


    <li>[White Out] ¨C blinds opponent /s temporarily</li>


    <li>[Holy Sword] ¨C changes the blade of [Ciana] into a sword-shaped light. The stronger the opponent, the higher the damage it can inflict</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    Name: IwaThe narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Age: 18 years old


    Race: [Hund]


    Kind: Kite Shield


    Level: 53


    Magic: Earth


    Ability: [Clay Morph] ¨C copies the [kind] of the opponent¡¯s [weapon]. (Can now store up to two modes)


    Arsenal: none


    List of [special attacks]:


    <ul>


    <li>[Earth Blast] ¨C long-range attack that gets stronger as it consumes more magic power (Can only be used when in Long-range Mode: Blaster)</li>


    <li>[Wall Shield] ¨C summons a giant shield made of solidified rocks that can nullify any attack once. It gets weaker if used consecutively (Can only be used when in Shield Mode: Protector)</li>


    <li>[Light Pound] --¨C a high damaging attack that doesn¡¯t consumes the [beast weapon]¡¯s magic power (Can only be used when in Hammer Mode: Whacker)</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    Name: Honoka


    Age: 17 years old


    Race: [Katzen]


    Kind: Katana


    Level: ---


    Magic: Fire


    Ability: [Shadow of Flames] ¨C the level of the opponent''s [beast weapon] will be its level. If the user is battling someone without a [beast weapon], it will function as an ordinary weapon


    Arsenal:


    <ul>


    <li>Steel Staff</li>


    </ul>


    List of [special attacks]:


    <ul>


    <li>[Flame Burst] ¨C a high damaging close range attack that recoils on the user a little</li>


    <li>[Flame Thrust] ¨C a very fast attack that has a low chance of piercing through [weapons]</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    List of [Monsters] tamed:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    Name: Ruby


    Species: [Crimson Dragon]


    Gender: Male


    Ability: [Healing Aura] ¨C heals both stamina and magic power of the target completely. (Number of times it can heal per day is equal to the number of current [weapons] on the [tamer]¡¯s party plus one.)


    Status: currently in the party


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    Name: Emerald


    Species: [Horned Serpent]


    Gender: Female


    Ability: [Magic Reflector] ¨C any [special attacks] of any [weapon] will just be reflected by its glass-like horn


    Status: currently at [Harlequin Valley]


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Arsenal:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    [Raiden] ¨C a short sword and the first [monster weapon] that Arjen created. It can manifest the [magic] of the user and make it a [special attack]. Other abilities still unknown.


    List of [special attacks]:


    <ul>


    <li>[Lightning Bolt] ¨C the fastest [special attack] that deals damage to the opponent. It has the highest percentage of hitting the enemy above all [special attacks] of all [magic]. Because it was only manifested using the [reflector egg], it can only be used once a day.</li>


    </ul>


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Guest in the Party:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    [Darkness] -¨C [Dark Ripper]¡¯s former [weapon]. After her [wielder] got killed by [Scorpio], Cyann made a request to Raiki to guard her in his place


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td colspan="2">


    Symbols obtained:


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    [Archer Ring] ¨C proof of defeating The Archer, [Sagittarius]


    </td>


    </tr>


    <tr>


    <td></td>


    <td>


    [Bull Ring] ¨C proof of defeating The Bull, [Taurus]


    </td>


    </tr>


    </tbody>


    </table>

 Chapter 29: RAIKI AND RAVE – The 3v3 Rematch

    After challenging [Taurus] and obtaining the [Bull Ring], our party gained another permanent member, my little sister, Honoka. But suddenly, while still in the [Yellow Path], a straight long road with lots of tall yellow trees in both road-sides, a familiar boy suddenly called us. The time is now at high noon. With his appearance, both Honoka and I got really surprised and happy at the same time.


    ¡°Long time no see,¡± the boy wearing a black ninja outfit suddenly said with a smile.


    ¡°R-rave?¡± I reacted with a surprised expression.


    ¡°So you have an armor now. It looks good on you,¡± he said as he looks at the one I¡¯m wearing.


    ¡°Rave, long time no see!¡± Honoka reacted with a happy face.


    ¡°Look at you, Honoka. You¡¯re now much beautiful compared to the last time I saw you,¡± Rave commented with a smile.


    ¡°Jeez, you¡¯re still like that,¡± Honoka replied and chuckled.


    ¡°Anyway, let me introduce you to my partner. Come on, Kumi,¡± Rave said and looked at the girl behind him.


    Kumi then went beside him shyly and whispered, ¡°M-my...name is...Kumi. N-Nice to meet you.¡±


    Then, Kumi immediately hid behind Rave again.


    ¡°Sorry. This girl is really shy around strangers,¡± Rave explained.


    ¡°So she¡¯s still the same as usual,¡± I said and looked at Rave.


    ¡°Well, she improved a little at least compared to the first time i met her,¡± Rave followed.


    ¡°Anyway, why are you two here?¡± I asked.


    ¡°You see,¡± Rave said with a sudden boasting smile. ¡°We¡¯re here because--¡±


    ¡°Hey! Rave! How dare you left us behind like that!¡± a girl in pigtails wearing a white armor complained as she runs towards us.


    ¡°Well, we caught up so¡­all is well now,¡± a girl behind the first girl said with a sleepy expression and a yawn. She¡¯s wearing a blue ponchos and brown boots.


    ¡°You guys took a while,¡± Rave said and laughed.


    ¡°You¡¯re just too fast!¡± the girl in pigtails retorted in a bad mood.


    ¡°Anyway, let me introduce you. This hot-headed girl is Shikaze. And this girl with droopy eyes is Aori.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Aori. Nice to meet you,¡± the sleepy girl in ponchos said and and once again yawned.


    ¡°Who are these two?¡± Shikaze said and looked at the two of us.


    ¡°I¡¯m Raiki, nice to meet you,¡± I introduced myself in a friendly tone.


    ¡°And I¡¯m Honoka. Nice to meet you,¡± Honoka followed similarly.


    ¡°Since you¡¯ve introduced yourselves, I guess it can¡¯t be helped. I¡¯ll let you know what my name is. I¡¯m Shikaze of the Southern Wind Tribe. Be grateful for becoming my acquaintance,¡± she said proudly with a smile.


    What¡¯s up with this somewhat conceited girl? Rave already introduced you, you know. Anyway, it¡¯s my first time hearing about the Southern Wind Tribe.


    ¡°Sorry about her. She¡¯s really boastful,¡± Rave said with a tired expression.


    ¡°We don¡¯t really mind, right?¡± I asked to Honoka.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Honoka agreed with a slight forced smile.


    ¡°So...continuing what I want to say earlier¡­the truth is¡­¡± Rave continued with a sudden serious expression.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I am now a 4<sup>th</sup> rank soldier!¡± Rave followed with a big smile and showed me the rings on his right hand.


    ¡°That¡¯s--!¡± I reacted with a surprised expression after seeing the [Archer Ring], [Bull Ring] and [Scorpion Ring] on his hand. ¡°Amazing!¡±


    ¡°Jeez, you¡¯re making me blush. Anyway, these three girls are my current [weapons]. They are really strong, you know,¡± Rave continued proudly.


    ¡°Ohh~ You see, I also have a total of three [weapons] now,¡± I followed.


    ¡°Really? Then, how about a battle?¡± Rave excitedly suggested.


    ¡°A battle, huh. It¡¯s been a while since both of us did that,¡± I replied enthusiastically.


    ¡°These two...¡± Honoka whispered with a smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. So¡­is it fine with you?¡± Rave asked.


    ¡°Of course. But first, let¡¯s go to Ciana and the others. Then, we can start,¡± I answered.


    ¡°Alright! Let¡¯s hurry!¡± Rave followed excitedly.


    After walking for minutes, we finally arrived at the place where I left Ciana and the others earlier. After greeting each other, we decided to start the battle.


    ¡°So let¡¯s start?¡± I asked with an excited smile.


    ¡°Yeah!¡± Rave replied with a similar expression as mine.


    ¡°[Iwa]!¡± I shouted.


    ¡°At your service,¡± Iwa replied with a serious expression and became a shield on my left arm.


    ¡°[Aori]!¡± Rave called.


    ¡°Right, right,¡± Aori replied with her usual sleepy expression and became a sword with a light blue blade and an azure handle.


    ¡°Iwa, what is [Aori]¡¯s level?¡± I asked.


    (I think it¡¯s at level 54.)


    ¡°So it¡¯s at level 54, huh. You are currently at level 53 so we need to be careful.¡±


    (As you wish.)


    ¡°Long-range mode: Blaster!¡± I shouted and a cannon appeared on top of my shield.


    ¡°Ohhh~. [Clay Morph], huh,¡± Rave reacted with an amazed expression.


    ¡°It¡¯s too early to be surprised! [Earth Blast]!¡± I replied and a lump of compressed soil got fired towards him.


    *boooooooooooom*


    When the smoke lifted, a wall of ice appeared and got shattered.


    ¡°[Atlantic Fence],¡± Rave whispered and continued, ¡°It¡¯s my turn!¡±


    ¡°Shield Mode: Protector!¡± I immediately ordered and [Iwa] transformed back into an ordinary bronze kite shield.


    Rave then pointed his sword right above me and yelled, ¡°[Avalanche]!¡±


    ¡°Oh no!¡± I reacted and moved my shield above me.


    Suddenly, a pile of snow appeared with an amazing speed and buried me completely.


    ¡°But¡­¡± Rave whispered and started running towards the newly-formed mountain of snow.


    *BOOOOOOOOOM*


    With that attack, I successfully blasted the snow covering me, by delivering a [Bronze Smash] on the ground. The attack was so strong that the snow got blown away all over the place.


    ¡°I know that you¡¯re capable of enduring that [special attack]!¡± Rave yelled and jumped towards me. Before I know it, he is now before me, already in a swinging position.


    ¡°[Wall--]¡± I yelled in panic.


    ¡°[Freezing Slice]!¡± Rave shouted and I got slashed by the attack.


    ¡°Ughhhhhh!¡± I reacted and knelt on the ground.


    What is with that attack? My whole body became numb instantly.


    ¡°That¡¯s the effect of [Freezing Slice]. With that, your astonishing [speed] is no longer a threat!¡± Rave announced.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    ¡°Long-range Mode: Blaster!¡± I shouted and pointed the cannon towards Rave.


    ¡°[Atlantic Fence]!¡± Rave yelled and a wall of ice appeared before him.


    ¡°[Earth Blast]!!! Full power!!!!!¡±


    *KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    As the smoke starts to disperse, Rave said, ¡°[Atlantic Fence] can negate any attacks so you just wasted all of [Iwa]¡¯s Magic Power. With that, you¡¯re¡ª¡±


    ¡°Hammer-mode: Whacker.¡±


    ¡°Wha¡ª¡± Rave reacted after hearing that and looked around the smokescreen-filled area.


    When the smoke lifted, I appeared on his right side and shouted, ¡°[Log Pound]!¡±


    ¡°Oh no!¡± Rave reacted, surprised.


    ¡°Take this!¡± I shouted and landed a critical hit on his [Aori].


    *boooooooooooom*


    (Did we...win?) Iwa asked as the smoke generated by our attack covers our opponent. When it lifted, we got surprised that [Aori] is still in [weapon mode].


    ¡°But...that¡¯s a critical hit...¡± I whispered with widened eyes.


    ¡°Yeah...[Aori] managed to withstood it. If that attack is slightly stronger than that, then [Aori] would have failed to maintain her [weapon form] now but...¡± Rave muttered and jumped up and made a swinging pose.


    ¡°Shoot!¡± I reacted in surprise.


    ¡°[Freezing Slice]!¡± Rave yelled and landed a critical hit on [Iwa].


    (Sorry...Raiki...) Iwa apologized and transformed back to her original form.


    ¡°[Ciana]!¡± I immediately called.


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡± Ciana replied in a serious look and immediately transformed into a sickle in my left hand.


    ¡°What?¡± Rave reacted, clearly caught-off guard because of [Ciana]¡¯s fast transformation.


    ¡°[Light Slash]!¡± I shouted and landed a clean hit on [Aori]. It was enough to make Aori transform into a blue light and be sent to Rave¡¯s [weapons]¡¯ standby-area.


    ¡°I leave the rest to you,¡± Aori said to Rave and yawned while sitting on the ground.


    ¡°I guess that¡¯s one win for the both of us but it¡¯s too early to know what will be the outcome of this match,¡± Rave said and drew out his right hand forward.


    ¡°We¡¯ll see about that,¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°[Shikaze]!¡± Rave shouted.


    ¡°Any opponent that stands on my way¡­will be beaten without mercy,¡± Shikaze announced with an arrogant smirk and transformed into a green light.


    ¡°Do you really have to say that every time you transform?¡± Rave asked and a white long staff appeared on his left hand. He then swung it around with his two hands and pointed it towards me.


    ¡°Ciana, can I let Honoka handle this match?¡± I asked to Ciana.


    (Sure) Ciana replied and transformed back to the position she was standing at earlier.


    ¡°[Honoka]!¡± I followed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely win!¡± Honoka replied and transformed into a red light. After circling a few times on my left hand, she transformed into a katana with a black handle.


    ¡°So that is Honoka¡¯s [weapon mode],¡± Rave commented.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I responded.


    ¡°Then, come!¡± Rave followed, ready for us.


    I then bended my knees and whispered, ¡°[Flame Thrust].¡±


    *swoooooooosh*


    ¡°Woah!¡± Rave reacted and rode his staff. Before I know it, he dodged my quick attack by flying up.


    ¡°Are you¡­kidding me?¡± I reacted with a surprised face while looking up. Rave is now floating while sitting on his staff.


    ¡°Is this your first time seeing this? It is called [Air Ride], it lets me float and glide in mid-air. Amazing, right?¡±


    ¡°Now we¡¯re at a disadvantage. Honoka, can you release a fire power strong enough to lift me and fly around?¡± I asked.


    (Don¡¯t ask for the impossible, jeez.)


    ¡°Now, taste this,¡± Rave said and flew straight up.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got a bad feeling about this,¡± I muttered to myself and readied my sword for an attack.


    Rave then pointed his staff towards me and because he is no longer riding his staff, he started falling straight down.


    ¡°[Kamikaze]!¡± he shouted and a very large tornado appeared before me. It was so huge that dodging or running away from it is not even an option.


    ¡°What kind of [special attack] is that?¡± I shouted and took the tornado head-on.


    ¡°With that, it¡¯s my victory,¡± Rave whispered after landing on the ground in a kneeling position.


    ¡°Gahaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahh!¡± I shouted as tons of razor wind struck me back and forth.


    When the attack vanished, I collapsed on the ground and [Honoka] returned back to the standby-area, unable to maintain her [weapon form] anymore.


    ¡°Raiki!¡± Ciana and Iwa called while on the standby-area.


    ¡°What a strong attack,¡± Honoka whispered and stood up weakly.


    I then stood up feebly and said, ¡°What a destructive attack.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re one tough opponent alright. And here I though you can no longer stand-up,¡± Rave said with a slight surprised face.


    ¡°Well, somehow¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the strongest [wind magic] attack, you know. You really are something,¡± Rave commented with a smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised that she already has that move. She¡¯s still at level 55, right?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yeah. Amazing, isn¡¯t it?¡± Rave asked to me.


    ¡°But [Shikaze] isn¡¯t the only one who can make the opponent unable to battle with one attack. [Ciana]!¡± I called and she transformed into a sickle on my left hand once again. ¡°[Heaven Strike]!¡±


    Before Rave realized it, I got teleported behind him and [Shikaze] transformed back without even realizing the sudden damage that [Ciana] inflicted to her.


    ¡°Did I just...lose?¡± Shikaze whispered, clearly surprised.


    ¡°That attack is really unfair,¡± Rave complained with squinty eyes.


    ¡°That attack has a 50-50 chance of landing, you know,¡± I responded.


    ¡°Right, right. So, let¡¯s start the final battle,¡± Rave said and smiled.


    ¡°Of course,¡± I replied with serious eyes even though I¡¯ve got lots of bruises all over me and my armor can no longer defend me in its state because of the sudden [kamikaze] from earlier.


    ¡°I see. But I will win this so prepare yourself,¡± Rave replied with a smirk.


    ¡°I¡¯ll say the same thing to you. Let¡¯s win this, Ciana,¡± I muttered.


    (Yeah.)


    ¡°[Kumi]!¡± Rave shouted and a black dagger appeared on his right hand. So Kumi is also at level 55 just like Ciana.


    Anyway, I need to blind them first. That way, inflicting the first blow will be my feat.


    ¡°[White Out]!¡± I shouted and the whole area got lit by a very bright light.


    ¡°Kumi, do it!¡±


    Suddenly, the blinding light that [Ciana] created got swallowed by darkness and got negated completely.


    ¡°What?¡± I reacted with an astounded look.


    ¡°That¡¯s the [ability] that we recently discovered, [Magic Glutton],¡± Rave said with a smile.


    ¡°Magic¡­glutton,¡± I repeated.


    (That¡¯s¡­)


    ¡°Ciana¡­do you know that?¡± I asked.


    (Yeah. With that, they can no longer be affected by any [light magic] attack for a whole day.)


    ¡°What?¡± I reacted, shocked.


    ¡°This ability can neglect all of the [special attack] of the [magic] it ate for the day. And the magic [Kumi] ate for today is no other than that [light magic] of Ciana! Meaning, we won¡¯t be affected by any [light magic] in our battle now!¡±


    ¡°Jeez. And here I thought I can use all of Ciana¡¯s [special attacks] to the fullest,¡± I complained but still smiled at the end.


    ¡°Do you still think that you can beat us?¡± rave asked, also smiling.


    ¡°Of course!¡± I said and ran as fast as I can towards him. Before he knew it, I am now before him ready to swing my sickle.


    ¡°Bring it on!¡± Rave replied and our weapons clashed.


    *spark*


    ¡°You clearly got stronger compared to last time,¡± Rave said with an amused face.


    ¡°Same to you,¡± I replied with a smile.


    Our blades clashed multiple times while trying our best to over-power each other.


    (Raiki, do you have a plan? At this rate, we will surely lose given Kumi¡¯s [ability].)


    [Magic Glutton] can now cancel all of [Ciana]¡¯s [special attacks] so¡­wait. That¡¯s it!


    ¡°[Teleport]!¡± I shouted and appeared behind Rave in a blink of an eye.


    (That¡¯s right! You can use any attacks as long as it isn¡¯t directed to your opponent¡­just like [Teleport].)


    ¡°Shoot!¡± Rave reacted and made a defensive stance with his dagger after turning around.


    ¡°[Switch]!¡± I shouted and hit his dagger as hard as I can.


    *BOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    ¡°Not¡­bad,¡± Rave suddenly said.


    When the smoke lifted, I saw that [Kumi] managed to endure our attack.


    ¡°But¡­I¡¯ll be the winner this time!¡± he shouted and disappeared.


    (Raiki, behind you!)


    This attack¡­[Shadow Sneak]! I can¡¯t move again!


    ¡°[Dark Blade]!¡± he shouted and I got sliced from behind. I then collapsed on the floor.


    I then looked at [Ciana] who is still at my left hand.


    (Raiki? Are you okay?)


    ¡°Sorry Ciana. This battle...is my lost...¡± I whispered and lost consciousness.


    When I opened my eyes, I found myself lying on a carriage with Ruby right beside my head. It looks like I¡¯ve been carried here and we already got a destination to go without me knowing.


    *ruu!* Ruby reacted and licked my face.


    ¡°Sorry that I made you worry, Ruby,¡± I said as I pet him with a smile.


    ¡°Raiki,¡± Ciana, Iwa and Honoka reacted with a smile after seeing me finally conscious.


    I immediately lifted my upper body upright and found everyone sitting. The ones sitting on my left side are Ciana, Iwa, Honoka and Darkness while the one sitting on the opposite side are Kumi, Shikaze and Aori.


    ¡°Are you fine now?¡± Ciana asked with a worried face.


    ¡°Yeah, just a little tired from the battle earlier,¡± I replied with a smile.


    ¡°Here, Raiki,¡± Iwa said and offered me a [banapple drink].


    ¡°Thanks,¡± I muttered and drank it. ¡°Anyway, where are we?¡±


    ¡°Well, apparently, you finally have your first mission as a soldier,¡± Honoka explained.


    ¡°Mission?¡± I reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°Yeah. You and I have a mission to guard God [Scorpio]¡¯s [weapon],¡± Rave suddenly answered, sitting in the front beside the owner of the carriage controlling the horses that pull us.


    ¡°God [Scorpio]?¡± I reacted, surprised.


    ¡°Here we are,¡± the owner of the carriage said and the horses stopped. We are now back at the central area of [Taurus Empire]. We then got off the carriage and Rave paid him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s now head to the meeting place. I¡¯ll explain the details while we¡¯re walking,¡± Rave said and we started walking.


    ¡°So why do we need to guard God [Scorpio]¡¯s [weapon] so suddenly?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Apparently, God [Scorpio] received a threat letter. It said that the sender will kill his [weapon] before he got out of this Empire,¡± Rave explained with a serious face.


    ¡°What?¡± me, including my party reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°That is why we three soldiers got assigned as guards so they can safely return to [Scorpio Empire],¡± Rave continued.


    ¡°Three?¡± I repeated with a confused look. ¡°Who is the other one?¡±


    ¡°He is already at God [Scorpio]¡¯s place. Here we are,¡± Rave said after stopping in front of a high-class Inn. It is a 20-floor building and is said to be the most luxurious Inn here at [Taurus Empire]. ¡°Anyway, let¡¯s enter.¡±


    We then entered the building and after Rave talked with the Inn Keeper, the guards allowed us to ride the lift.


    ¡°So this is an elevator,¡± I muttered to myself.


    At the corner of the hall, there¡¯s a big metal plate with a cylinder at one side of it. The lift can be ridden by around ten people. We then rode it and when Rave pushed a button on top of the cylindrical pole with a height half of Rave, the pole emitted a blue light and we got lifted slowly to the highest floor.


    ¡°Cool,¡± Honoka reacted as she watches the lift ascend.


    ¡°Rave, do you know the [rare loot] that powers this so called ¡®elevator¡¯?¡± I asked curiously.


    ¡°Nope. But this lift is really amazing, isn¡¯t it?¡± Rave said with a smile.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied with a smile.


    After reaching the destination floor, we then walked towards [Scorpio]¡¯s room. Rave then stopped in front of a big door and said, ¡°We¡¯re here.¡±


    I then remembered the time when I met [Scorpio], when he killed Darkness¡¯ [wielder], [Dark Ripper].When I looked at Darkness, she just gave me her usual emotionless eyes. I wonder if it¡¯s just okay to let Darkness meet God [Scorpio] so suddenly.


    Rave then opened the big door and what welcomed us is a guy wearing a black eye patch, standing. He is also wearing a yellow light armor.


    ¡°You must be Raiki, right?¡± he asked with a gentle smile.


    ¡°Y-yeah,¡± I replied with a slight nervous expression.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be nervous because we¡¯re both 5<sup>th</sup> rank soldier, you know.¡±


    ¡°I see. Sorry about that,¡± I said and laughed.


    ¡°My name is Arron, nice to meet you,¡± he said and drew out his right hand.


    ¡°Me too,¡± I replied and shook it.


    ¡°Hey, Raiki. I heard that you completely defeated Toru in his empire challenge. Now I¡¯m excited to battle you,¡± God [Scorpio] suddenly said with a smile as he walks towards me.


    ¡°I still got a long way to go before I can challenge you,¡± I replied with a bow.


    ¡°Anyway, your mission is to guard my partner, Rosanna,¡± he continued and looked at the girl behind him. It is a girl with dark red hair and wearing a black suit.


    ¡°Yes, Sir!¡± all three of us replied with a salute.


    She then bowed to us and said ¡°I¡¯m leaving my safety to you¡± in a serious tone.


    ¡°Raiki, Arron, remember that Lady Rosanna¡¯s life is more important than ours. Let¡¯s defend her with all of our strength so they can leave safely tomorrow,¡± Rave said with a serious expression.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Arron and I replied with determined look on our faces.

 Chapter 30: ABDUCTION – The Disappearance of Ciana

    ¡°It sure is quiet here,¡± I said to break the silence.


    ¡°It sure is, right Bon?¡± Arron replied with a smile and looked at the frail-looking guy beside him.


    ¡°Y-yes! I¡¯m not sleeping at all!¡± Bon suddenly announced like he got caught dozing off.


    Because of that, Arron and I laughed out loud.


    These two are Arron and Bon, the ones who also got assigned in the mission to protect God [Scorpio]''s weapon Rosanna from the killer who sent God [Scorpio] the letter in which the sender notifies him its plan of killing Rosanna. Arron is a 5<sup>th</sup> rank soldier just like me with Bon as his sole [weapon]. In appearance, Arron has a blonde hair and is wearing a black eye patch on his left eye. According to him, he is 22 years old. As for Bon, he also has a blonde hair but has a frail stature. He is at a young age of 15 according to Arron. Both of them are wearing yellow light armor with similar designs.


    Right now, we¡¯re guarding the front door of God [Scorpio]¡¯s room in the middle of the night. All of us were sitting on our respective chairs, lined up near the door. Iwa is currently beside me, sitting like a doll while trying her best to be wide awake. As for Ciana and the others, they are now sleeping in a different room in this Inn.


    ¡°Raiki, how are you related with Iwa?¡± Arron suddenly asked.


    ¡°Iwa? Well, she¡¯s a precious friend of mine,¡± I said and looked at Iwa with a smile. She then averted her gaze from me and bowed her head shyly. ¡°But why did you ask?¡±


    ¡°Well, I just got curious because it is my first time seeing a [Hund] so attached to a [Katzen]. You must really be a nice guy,¡± he replied with a gentle smile.


    ¡°There are lots of things that happened to us, you see,¡± I answered.


    ¡°Bon is my little brother and my only [beast weapon],¡± Arron answered instantly. ¡°Now that I realized it, did you defeated God [Sagittarius] and God [Taurus] with just the two of you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that is why I¡¯m proud of my brother,¡± Arron continued and ruffled the hair of Bon.


    ¡°But of course, my brother is also strong. Some even call him the [One Snipe Man],¡± Bon boasted with a sudden big smile.


    ¡°Jeez, stop it. My title is [Cyclops Archer] and not that one. Raiki might overestimate my strength,¡± Arron replied and laughed.


    ¡°They surely get along well,¡± Iwa whispered with a gentle smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± I replied and smiled too. ¡°Then, why did you become a soldier, Arron?¡±


    He then tried to think for a reason and replied, ¡°Well...because of its high profit I guess.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s also my reason,¡± I followed and chuckled.


    ¡°But...¡± he continued with sudden solemn eyes. ¡°I also become one because of someone.¡±


    ¡°Someone?¡± I repeated with a curious face.


    ¡°Well...a former lover. We¡¯re not like that anymore though,¡± he said and forced a laugh.


    ¡°Uhmm, sorry about asking about that,¡± I said after realizing that I asked a sensitive question.


    ¡°No need to worry, it¡¯s okay to me,¡± Arron said and gave me a smile.


    ¡°Arron, Bon, let¡¯s both do our best to guard Rosanna. You two Iwa,¡± I said with a smile and drew out a fist.


    ¡°M-me too?¡± Iwa sudden asked with a flustered look and immediately drew out her fist towards me.


    Then, both Arron and Bon looked at each other and with a nod, we four bumped fists.


    Just like that, the night ended and we¡¯re now escorting God [Scorpio] and Rosanna.


    ¡°Don¡¯t keep your guard down, Raiki,¡± Rave whispered to me as we walk towards the [Sky Carrier Terminal]. God [Scorpio] and Rosanna is currently walking behind us with Ciana and Shikaze behind them. On the other hand, Arron and his brother Bon are currently on a high building near us, ready to snipe the sender of the letter anytime it showed up. As for the others, we just left them in the Inn.


    ¡°But I wonder why the sender wants to kill Rosanna,¡± I asked curiously.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s just a hunch but I think it¡¯s because of revenge,¡± Rave replied seriously.


    ¡°Revenge?¡± I repeated with a puzzled expression.


    ¡°God [Scorpio] is the warden of the [Underworld Prison] and killed lots of criminals in death sentence. Because all Deities are immortal, the ones who will be targeted for revenge are the ones close to him...like Lady Rosanna.¡±


    ¡°About that...are all Deities really immortal?¡± I asked to Rave.


    According to Ciana, she died and got reincarnated. That is why she¡¯s no longer at level 100 anymore.


    Rave then gave me a confused look and replied, ¡°Now that you¡¯ve mentioned it, Ciana was...wait. Let¡¯s not talk about that now. Let¡¯s focus on the mission.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right. Sorry about that,¡± I followed and looked at Ciana. She then made a sigh and gave me her usual bright smile.


    Then, we continued walking and after a while, we finally reached the Terminal. There, God [Scorpio]¡¯s [Sky Carrier] welcomed us with a roar. It is a white dragon with around 20 feet high and 40 feet long.


    ¡°So that letter is nothing but a false threat,¡± God [Scorpio] said with a disappointed face as he climbs the [Sky Carrier].


    Because the Terminal is an open area, all we can do is to roam our eyes around prepared to clash with the sender anytime.


    ¡°Thanks for escorting us here,¡± Rosanna said with her usual serious expression.


    ¡°I guess...that letter is really just a fake threat,¡± Rave said with a smile.


    ¡°Yeah, it looks like¡ª¡± I followed but Ciana suddenly interrupted me.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    ¡°Raiki, at north-east!¡± she shouted.


    Suddenly, a very fast arrow got fired towards Rosanna.


    ¡°[Lightning Bolt]!¡± I shouted and slashed the arrow into two before it reached Rosanna¡¯s head. It was really a close one.


    Rave then immediately looked at the direction where the arrow came from and reacted, ¡°It...can¡¯t be...¡± with a surprised face.


    ¡°Found ¡®ya,¡± God [Scorpio] said with a blood-thirsty smile and shouted, ¡°[Rosanna]!¡±


    Rosanna then became a knife on his right hand and in an instant, they disappeared and reached the location of the sniper.


    ¡°[Shikaze]!¡± Rave shouted and a white staff formed on his right hand.


    ¡°[Ciana]!¡± I followed and a sickle appeared on my left hand.


    ¡°Raiki, let¡¯s go! [Air Ride]!¡± Rave shouted and rode his staff. I immediately grabbed the rear end of it and we flew towards the tall building where God [Scorpio] went.


    When we landed on the roof top, what we saw is the defeated Arron with Bon no longer in [weapon mode]. Both Arron and Bon are lying flat on the ground.


    ¡°I¡¯m a fool for trusting you, Arron,¡± [Scorpio] said with a smile ready to kill anytime. ¡°Why did you try to kill my precious [beast weapon]?¡±


    Arron then tried his best to at least lift his upper body upright but he is now too weak to do it. Then, he shouted ¡°for revenge¡± in a frustrated face.


    ¡°I...see. Then...¡± [Scorpio] whispered and slowly walked towards Bon.


    ¡°H-hey. Where are you...going?¡± Arron asked weakly.


    [Scorpio] then grabbed Bon¡¯s neck and lifted him up in the air. Bon then struggled, trying his best to remove [Scorpio]¡¯s grip.


    ¡°B-bro...ther,¡± he yelped with tears starting to ran down on his face.


    ¡°Stop!¡± Arron shouted, trying his best to get up.


    ¡°Now, experience what you want me to feel, Arron!¡± [Scorpio] shouted in a furious face and his killing intent got stronger.


    ¡°Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!¡± Arron yelled.


    ¡°[Holy Sword]!!!!¡± I shouted and slashed [Scorpio]¡¯s wrist, making his dismembered hand fall on the floor together with Bon.


    ¡°Raiki!!!!¡± Rave reacted with a really surprised yet scared expression.


    ¡°[Light Magic]?¡± Arron reacted with a surprised expression. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that Ciana is...[Virgo]?¡±


    [Scorpio] then looked at me with a very intimidating aura, enough for my legs to shake.


    (Raiki, run!!! You can¡¯t defeat him!!!)


    When I looked at his hand, it completely grew back and the dismembered hand on the floor turned into sand.


    ¡°Is that...Vivi?¡± [Scorpio] asked as he look at [Ciana] on my left hand.


    (Raiki, watch out!!!)


    Before I know it, I flew really far away and destroyed lots of walls as I continue to roll around in mid-air. When I opened my eyes, I am now sitting inside a destroyed building, hundreds of meters away from him.


    ¡°Ci...a...na...¡± I whispered weakly as I somehow see the silhouette of [Scorpio] carrying the unconscious Ciana on his shoulder. After I managed to draw out my hand, trying to reach them out, I lost consciousness.


    When I opened my eyes, I saw the familiar ceiling of the Inn. It looks like I¡¯m currently lying on a bed.


    ¡°This place is...¡± I whispered weakly.


    After remembering what happened to me, I immediately lifted my upper body upright.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± I reacted after feeling a jolt of pain in different parts of my body.


    ¡°Raiki!¡± both Iwa and Honoka reacted with a surprised face and immediately went before me.


    *ruu!* Ruby followed with a very worried expression.


    ¡°Raiki,¡± both girls cried as they hug me in relief.


    ¡°Ciana...that¡¯s right! Where is Ciana?¡± I yelled with a very worried face.


    Both girls then stood up and made a very sad expression.


    ¡°Raiki...sorry!¡± Rave sudden shouted and knelt down in apology. ¡°I couldn¡¯t even do a thing! I just...let God [Scorpio] took Ciana without a fight! I¡¯m really ashamed of myself!¡±


    Suddenly, tears started to run down on my face.


    ¡°Raiki...it¡¯s my fault,¡± Arron suddenly said after appearing before me, standing. Just like me, he is covered with bandage all over his body. Bon, who is behind him, is also like that.


    ¡°Arron...Bon...¡± I whispered, remembering what happened to them back then.


    Then, both of them knelt down on the floor and hit their forehead on the floor.


    ¡°Thank you very much for saving us!¡± both of them shouted. ¡°But we sincerely apologize that because of us, Ciana got abducted by [Scorpio].¡±


    ¡°You...don¡¯t have to apologize. It¡¯s my fault, that¡¯s the truth...because I used [Holy Sword],¡± I whispered with a sad expression.


    I then stood up and both Iwa and Honoka got surprised.


    ¡°Wh-what are you doing?¡± Honoka reacted.


    ¡°I¡¯m...going to get Ciana back,¡± I said with a serious expression.


    Iwa suddenly stopped me by holding both of my hands. Then, with tears welling down on her eyes, she said, ¡°Please don¡¯t push yourself too hard.¡±


    ¡°I have to,¡± I replied and looked at her with determined eyes.


    ¡°Then, we¡¯re coming too,¡± Honoka said with a serious expression and looked at Iwa.


    Iwa then nodded and followed, ¡°Let¡¯s bring back Ciana together.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re coming too,¡± Rave announced after standing up with Kumi, Shikaze and Aori behind him, all standing.


    ¡°Raiki...¡± Arron suddenly called after both brothers stood up.


    I then asked, ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Can I tell you the reason why I tried to kill Rosanna?¡± he continued with a regretful expression. ¡°I want you to know our side too.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead,¡± I replied with a serious expression.


    ¡°Before I become a soldier, I have a lover. Her name was Aiza. We really loved each other and we supported each other in our respective dreams. Back then, my dream was to become a famous weapon dealer and her dream was to become a master cook. But one day, a friend made me join in a [monster hunt]. I then brought a bow that I recently made to help me in the hunt. And when the hunt started, I learned how good I was in using a bow. No matter how far the monsters were, I can successfully hit them precisely where I wanted. There, I saw the fun of battling strong opponents. My friends even got surprised how good I was in using a bow and arrow. Then, a couple of months later, I decided to tell Aiza that my dream changed, that this time, what I want now is to become a soldier. But her reaction was different from what I imagined. She outright opposed what I want to do, saying that it is really a dangerous job without hearing my side. Because of that, we quarrelled really bad and eventually broke up. Since then, I didn¡¯t hear any news from her. That was why I decided to continue my dream to become a soldier together with my brother Bon as my [beast weapon]. It was a difficult road to join the [soldier challenge] but it was totally worth it after succeeding because we immediately defeated God [Sagittarius] in one try and I earned the title of [Cyclops Archer]. But several days after that, I heard a news that Aiza got beheaded by the warden of [Underworld Prison], [Scorpio] for the crime of attempted murder to a noble. I was devastated after learning that news. I know Aiza and she can never do something like that. And above all, I regretted the fact that she died without me knowing the whole incident. That was why I swore that I will avenge her, that one day, I will kill someone precious to [Scorpio] before his own eyes,¡± Arron told us and tears ran down on his face.


    ¡°So that¡¯s...what happened,¡± Rave whispered with a sad expression after hearing his story.


    ¡°But...you know that killing Rosanna is not a good method no matter how you look at it,¡± I followed with a solemn look.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Arron replied and wiped his tears. ¡°I learned that after I almost lose Bon too. That is why I regretted the fact that I tried to kill Rosanna and I will never do something like that ever again. I learned my lesson already.¡±


    ¡°Me too. I was really at wrong too because instead of stopping him, I even helped him to avenge Aiza,¡± Bon followed with regrets clearly shown on his face.


    ¡°That is why please let us help you save Goddess [Virgo] too. It¡¯s our fault to begin with so please let us join you,¡± both brothers said with a bow.


    ¡°I see. Then, I¡¯m counting on you two. Everyone...thanks,¡± I said and smiled.


    ¡°But...you¡¯ll need a [Sky Carrier] to chase after [Scorpio], right?¡± a familiar girl wearing a bandit outfit said after appearing on the open window.


    ¡°Wh-who are you?¡± Rave reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°Long time no see, Raiki,¡± Aria said with a smile.


    ¡°Aria...¡± I whispered.


    ¡°You know her?¡± Iwa asked.


    ¡°She¡¯s the one that we battled in the [Harlequin Valley] back when we¡¯re still helping the small village,¡± Honoka explained with a serious face.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± I asked with a wary expression.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be like that, Raiki. I¡¯m just here to help you,¡± she continued with a smile.


    ¡°Help?¡± I repeated with a confused look.


    ¡°I have a [Sky Carrier] so it will be much easier to catch up to them with my help, right?¡±


    ¡°But...why will you help us?¡± Rave asked, also wary of her actions.


    ¡°You see, I saw the whole incident at the Terminal. That is why I want to help you save her. Of course, I have my own reasons to,¡± she said and winked at me.


    ¡°Reasons?¡± I asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you once we¡¯ve arrived safely in our destination. So...is it a deal?¡± she asked without her smile disappearing.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll leave the transportation to you,¡± I replied with a serious expression.


    ¡°Raiki?¡± Honoka reacted with a surprised face.


    ¡°Can we trust her?¡± Iwa asked with a worried look.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know but...¡± I said and looked at Aria. ¡°...I¡¯ll do anything to bring Ciana back. If I have to gamble because of that, I won¡¯t hesitate to do it.¡±