《A Fantasy In Another World》


 The Divine Bind

    Prologue


    THE DIVINE BIND


    1


    ¡°Hikaru Yume¡±


    ¡°Here¡±


    He answered, his face had a shred of life in it as if he was somewhat alive. But it was just part of his act, his lie. Sooooo Boring.


    Hikaru¡¯s thoughts overran his mind as he slumped into his chair putting his head upon his arms that were resting on his desk.


    His eyes faded once more into the pitch-black lifeless stare he knew all too well. His eyelids slowly closed as his mind slipped away from him onto another place.


    I want to live. I want adventure. I want Power enough power to escape this world, or at least this classroom¡­


    ¡°Hikaru¡±


    A woman''s voice called from a ways off. Startled, Hikaru jolted up, his class was gone, and he was Floating in a space-like place.


    ¡°Where am I.¡±


    Hikaru wanted answers, but all he got was silence. Surrounded by black mist he suddenly felt dizzy and as he was about to doze off a sweet whisper came to him


    ¡°Upon this soul, I leave my mark, in his hand he holds the¡­¡±


    His eyes jolted open with life as light enveloped him. Well, I guess I got what I asked for¡­


    2


    Hikaru Yume awoke on an unknown shore of an unknown place he sat up and looked at the ocean before him.


    There was a massive island off in the distance. Hikaru stood up looking at his surroundings and searching for some indication of where he was. The resonating tone of the voice is still present in his thoughts.


    ¡°Hellooo!¡±


    Hikaru shouted but to no avail, not a soul was in hearing range the sun was beginning to set Hikaru made the assumption he had been passed out for several hours maybe longer.


    He made his way up the small shore to what seemed to be a massive forest of some sort to call it a mangrove swamp forest or jungle would be wrong it was unlike anything Hikaru had ever seen before.


    100-foot trees vines hanging no light was present the shadows moved freely here. Hikaru began walking through the area for what seemed like an hour.


    When the sun was fully set seeing your hand in front of your face should have been impossible yet the darkness hadn¡¯t changed too much it was as if the forest was stuck at a certain point in time.


    Hikaru tired of walking sat under a tree catching his breath. How Big is this place?


    Hikaru was trying to think of how to find civilization once more he needed something to eat. He didn¡¯t know if it was the teleportation or the lack of eating breakfast that caused this hunger but it didn''t matter as long as he got food and soon.


    Hikaru had realized not even crickets had made a noise in the forest no animal had made a noise it begged the question if there was any creatures living in here or not and if not why.


    Hikaru got up but when he did he started to here a faint whistling in the distance. Great just what I need a creepy whistle in a dark forest.


    He had no idea of where he was and needed answers a normal person would probably be scared out of their mind but not him.


    Hikarus''s one wish was to be like all the characters he read about in the light novels and mangas he had collected over the years he wanted powers friends and lovers like they had. but though he would dream of it it seemed as if it would forever just be that a dream.


    Until this morning when he had mysteriously teleported to this place an unfamiliar land, this was exactly the moment he had been waiting for he wasn¡¯t gonna just let it pass by.


    ¡°Alright then if this is just like those stories then I should follow that whistle huh?¡±


    Hikaru spoke to himself while beginning to make his way to the origin of the sound.


    3


    Hikaru had been walking for a while now following the whistle which echoed throughout the jungle-like forest the sound was hard to pinpoint but Hikaru knew he was on the right path when the whistling grew louder.This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.


    He came to a river that seemed to appear out of thin air from a tree stump of all places there was a massive tree that had fallen over and from the roots of the tree came flowing water. the fallen tree seemed to be hollow and led into nothingness.


    Nope. Hikaru was not going in there which was fine he didn¡¯t need to the whistling wasn¡¯t emanating from the tree it came from across from the tree on an arching root going over the great river.


    Upon the root was a man in a suit and top hat sitting on a stool with a lantern set on the stump right next to him he was whistling a tune that sounded familiar but Hikaru couldn¡¯t put his finger on it he knew it was a song he had heard before but at that moment he couldn¡¯t remember.


    Hikaru walked closer to the stump so he could talk to the man atop the stump and as he grew closer the whistling stopped. Somethings off¡­ Hikaru questioned. The man stood up from his stool and turned to look at his lantern but before he could the lantern light disappeared along with the man.


    ¡°What The?!?¡±


    Hikaru confused looked around for the man in the area where he had been sitting. But he was gone


    ¡°Hello there¡­ Invader¡±


    The man''s voice deepend on the word invader somehow the man who just seconds before was atop the giant root was now behind Hikaru.


    ¡°I was expecting you Boy ever since you entered my luxurious domain!¡±


    Hardly Luxurious at all. Hikaru didn¡¯t turn around he was scared too the man had this feeling about him and Hikaru knew it all too well the man was putting up an act he didn¡¯t care for what the man looked like he just understood he was dangerous.


    ¡°Why neglect me boy turn and look at the one who holds the key to your life or death¡±


    The man laughed it was a horrid laugh. Hikaru turned and when he laid eyes on the man he fell back in fear That¡¯s no man Hikaru thought to himself he had every right to believe so because what lay before him was no man, It was the eye of the forest who may have once been a man but was no longer a man.


    The creature was covered in a dripping shadow all that remained untouched were his eyes and mouth which were grinning ear to ear his eyes full of pain and signs of a broken mind.


    ¡°What are you!¡±


    Hikaru looked right at the creature''s eyes unable to look away in fear of that thing coming at him.


    ¡°The name is Crux I am The current Lord of this land also known as¡­ The Eye¡±


    The man leaned in on Hikaru.


    ¡°no need to introduce yourself I do not care because¡­ Judging by your reaction you have seen it.¡±


    ¡°Seen what¡±


    ¡°The Dark Mana Gathered around my body unless I am in the light this Mana covers me head to toe giving off this frightening appearance but not many can see it. At least not many from this world, Narcantia.¡±


    So I guess my hypothesis was right I am in a different world. Mana and the eyes of forests are not something you would hear in Japan. Hikaru understood this man saw that he was from a different world.


    ¡°So what if I am?¡±


    Putting on an act of his own an act of courage which he had none of at that moment.


    ¡°Then there is only one reason for you being here. I usually end up just killing whatever poor soul finds their way into my domain but¡­ Invaders are different.¡±


    The man was still holding that erie grin which had to hurt after holding it for such a long period of time.


    ¡°What do you mean Invaders?¡±


    after hearing he had a chance of not dying he suddenly felt relieved as if all the weight that creature had put on him suddenly lifted.


    ¡°We don¡¯t receive many Invaders and by that, I of course do mean other worlders like yourself¡±


    He looks Hikaru up and down


    ¡°Matter of fact the last one we had was¡­¡±


    He stopped as did his smile and looked up in the sky which could not be seen the canopy of the forest was too dense


    ¡°I see.¡±


    The Creature turned back towards Hikaru with a more normal look the act he put up faded he seemed somewhat sane.


    ¡°Boy, I would like to grant you a once-in-a-lifetime deal.¡±


    He walked closer to Hikaru getting way to close for comfort.


    ¡°What is it.¡±


    ¡°I suppose you aren¡¯t aware of Divine Binds are you now?¡±


    Crux asked Hikaru his eyes sharpened on Hikarus looking for any slight deviation of his character.


    ¡°No, sir¡±


    ¡°No, I thought not.¡±


    Crux stood up straight and took full grasp of the situation at hand a Divine Bind was no Laughing matter.


    ¡°It is a vow between two people Binding their mana and souls for a time granting them a portion of each other''s power.


    But it comes with a pact usually something extreme like an eye, arm, or, the Bindee''s very soul. You of course being the bindee. But I have no interest in body parts or souls. I want you to do something for me and in exchange you will receive One of the 36 Divine Binds to ever exist.¡±


    A Divine Bind was just like he explained a pact formed between two people allowing them to share power in exchange for something.


    There were only 36 beings throughout the history of the world of Narcantia all current and former eyes of the forest of despair had the ability to make Divine Binds.


    ¡°What is this ask that will save my soul¡±


    The creature''s voice turned into a voice emanating great despair and hate.


    ¡°There will be a woman you cross, you will want to kill her but you won¡¯t you will send her¡­ to me.¡±


    Crux fixed his eyes on the canopy above as suddenly a lantern appeared in his hand igniting as he raised it. As the light touched his shadow it vanished revealing a rather handsome man who seemed to be 20 to 30 years of age.


    The man was wearing the top hat and suit that Hikaru had previously seen on him atop the root.


    ¡°I do apologize if I realized I would be making a Bind today I would have dressed for the occasion.¡±


    His voice sounded normal like a completely different person.


    ¡°The woman''s name¡­ is Echidna The Deceiver. No one on this continent will know that name but you. and I and you will meet her one day that I know.¡±


    He had remorse and regret in his voice.


    ¡°So what, you want me to drag her all the way back here.¡±


    ¡°Of course not that will be one of the abilities I shall grant you. It is called The Elder Calling. It will allow you and anyone touching you to go from the forest to wherever you were last as many times as you would have it.¡±


    ¡°You said that was one, is there more¡­¡±


    Hikaru would regret asking that question as when he did the mans ear to ear smile came back at the thought of the power he would put into Hikaru''s Possession.


    ¡°So, are you in or not.¡±


    Crux asked refusing to answer the question yet smiling revealing a shard of the monster he was in the dark.


    ¡°What if I say no¡±


    ¡°Then This lamp will extinguish and you will see the power you had just asked about in its strongest in its masters hand.¡±


    ¡°Death¡­ I See¡­¡±


    Hikaru looked at the man smiling before him though he may be a murderous psycho Hikaru had a feeling that this Echidna meant more than the sum of every soul in this world. Hikaru stood up and went face to face with the man.


    If I want power and this guy''s offering I guess there''s no helping it.


    ¡°I Accept¡±


    The man stepped back and extended his hand to Hikaru who hesitated for a moment before grabbing it. As he grabbed it the lantern light went out and the shadow of the eye of the forest came back the hand he was holding previously had vanished and only a cold shadow remained in its stead.


    ¡°What is this!¡±


    Hikaru shouted as a sharp pain unlike anything he had felt before surged through the arm he had extended and all throughout his body a black shadow seeped into his bloodstream and eventually into his very being. Overrun with pain Hikaru Collapsed unconscious.


    ¡°The Bind is complete,¡±


    said the man walking back to his seat atop the root.

 Lucienda South

    Arc 1 Chapter 1


    Lucienda South


    1


    Hikaru awoke after having experienced unmeasurable amounts of pain only hours earlier. He could feel time had passed and stood up looking for Crux the Eye of the Forest. Hikaru could feel the cold dark shadow moving throughout his body.


    What Happened...?


    "Curse that... Creature."


    Hikaru said to himself unaware that Crux was sitting back atop the root where Hikaru first saw him.


    "Curse who deary."


    Crux spoke not moving his vision from in front of him. Hikaru startled turned to look at the man he saw atop the root the lantern was on once more and Crux looked like that dashing young man but retained his coldness.


    "So I take it our Bind or whatever is complete."


    "Yes, it is."


    "So now I go and find this Echidna huh."


    "Not yet there is time before... so go and leave my domain. But never forget our deal if you die before our deal is done. Even hell cannot save you from me."


    Crux said as he turned showing Hikaru the Erie smile on his face and then turning back to his view. No help on how to get out I guess. Hikaru thought to himself.


    "You have the power of the forest in your veins you already know the way. Here try closing your eyes and feeling the area that the forest encompasses."


    Crux gave Hikaru this advice Hikaru followed the list closing his eyes and trying to feel the forest or whatever the man said.


    "Foolish weakling, I see the transference takes time... oh well. Use this boat and follow the river"


    "What boa-"


    Suddenly a boat appeared next to Hikaru on the riverside bumping his leg.


    Stunned Hikaru looked back at Crux who had given no thought to Hikaru since their Bind hours ago. Hikaru climbed inside the boat and pushed off into the river as he passed under the root he turned trying to see Crux''s face but when he came into view he was turned around facing the opposite direction.


    "Whatever"


    He mutters to himself he raises his arm rubbing it to check if everything is fine. Not a scratch lay upon it and Hikaru quickly turned his attention forward to the forest ahead.


    I hope the rest of this world and its people aren''t like this place or... like him.


    2


    Hikaru Yume had been sailing down the river for at least two hours now he lay in his small rowboat with no paddle and looked up at the forest''s canopy wondering when he would see the sky again.


    He blinked and suddenly the canopy was gone. A feeling of time having passed laid on him he could have sworn he just blinked but he was no longer in the dark forest with the canopy.


    The stars were out and he could see them the sun was rising in the east and the orange tint filled the skies it wasn''t so bright yet the stars were invisible though he looked up searching for the constellations he would normally see in his own world they were nowhere to be found he laid back in his boat thinking about what his next move should be.


    "Others... He said no one would know Echidna so that means there are others out there Step one find them."


    Hikaru closed his eyes and listened and he could hear them crickets frogs and birds alive not like in the last forest he was in. The area was notably different.


    Normal-sized trees appear to be some kind of pine. The river had a bend approaching and Hikaru saw this and Percked up wondering what was on the other side the boat turned and it was a lake the river had ended and it ran into a lake.


    Hikaru exited the boat and began the next part of his journey on foot. Walking for several hours Hikaru began to get hungry he decided to look around for something edible but there wasn''t anything he could find so desperate tired and alone Hikaru sat under a tree thinking about his next move. And as he was he fell asleep.


    3


    Suddenly a noise woke him up he heard what sounded like a howl off in the distance. It sounded like something was coming. Hikaru stood up and began listening to hear where the sound was coming from. Just then a second howl only this one wasn''t so far away it sounded as if they were coming at him!


    "What the?"


    He was gazing in the direction where he heard them. Just then he heard a growl from behind him. He turned around to see what looked like a wolf cloaked in the same vile substance as the monster Crux he had met earlier. Yet not as much. The Creature howled at him showing Hikaru its teeth and glowing red eyes.


    "What is that Thing?"


    Hikaru said as he said that the creature took an offensive stance and pounced at Hikaru


    "Hey, Kid."


    Hikaru turned only to see a dagger go flying past his eyes hitting the hound directly in the chest and slamming it against one of the trees. Hikaru had a second of relief before several other wolves covered in the same aura as the eye appeared from the shadows.


    "Duck!"


    Hikaru did so as he did a giant pool of fire came flying over his head at the beasts. Hikaru turned to look at the person or people responsible for the offensive against the wolves there were four men running his way when he turned the men were approaching him.


    "Do you have any Idea of where you are Kid?"


    He turned and what he saw was a taller man with red hair and a red tunic he was wearing a pitch-black cloak on top to fend off the cold and something on it caught Hikaru''s attention. And eye. There was an eye stitched onto the cloak.


    "No I don''t!"


    "Marx, Light Cover Now!"


    As The man with the cloak said that another man from within the small group stepped forward. He was shorter had short blue hair and wore another cloak but he had the image of a blade emanating light sown onto it.


    "Now come into being light of Rendel stage one"


    The man shouted as he did a massive light was released and the beasts that were attacking suddenly became as if dead falling to the ground. But they weren''t the only ones.


    When that beam of light showed on him Hikaru fell to the ground in pain but unlike the monsters,he wasn''t on the verge of death the others saw this and were in utter shock.


    "The light cut the light!"


    As the taller man was Running over to Hikaru the light diminished. He ran over and knelt down next to the in pain Hikaru who was grabbing his chest in pain.


    "I see... there is only one explanation..."


    The man looked down at Hikaru as if disappointed. Then saying


    "He is the one who was chosen by the great eye"


    As those words left his mouth Hikaru was shocked wondering how he deduced that.


    "What no the Bind was promised to you wasn''t it?"


    The man with the blue hair came next to the one kneeling and grabbed his shoulder.


    "I''m sorry Kaede... but we can''t kill him he is but a boy."


    the man kneeling looked at Hikaru who was now recovering from the attack. All their words were slurred in Hikaru''s mind the light hit him like a flashbang.


    "Round up the wolves. We leave in the morning"


    He said standing up. Hikaru sat up.


    What was that? That attack why did it only hurt me and the monsters? Perhaps a side effect of the bind.


    Hikaru stoop up bowing to Kaede.


    "Thank you for saving me sir. My name is Hikaru Yume Sir."


    The man Kaede looked at Hikaru as the others began slaughtering and gathering up the wolves.


    "Hikaru huh? The names Kaede, Kaede Kraftlawe"


    His expression changed from a depressing look to a friendly one.


    "So Kid how did you end up here?"


    "I... uh was in this forest it was really dark not like this forest and when i walked in it was light out but the forest still was completely dark there was a canopy over the whole thing."


    Hikaru explained his situation to Kaede leaving out the whole being from another world thing.


    "I see. So you made a Divine Bind with the eye of the forest Crux?"


    The man was trying to clear things up.


    "Yeah I didn''t really have a choice as I said"


    Hikaru explained.


    "Well no helping it then. Come join us for a meal and we''ll take you to the town in the morning!"


    Kaede said patting Hikaru''s shoulders He took Hikaru leading him and the others who finished killing the animals and were carrying them to an opening a little bit away


    "I saw this spot earlier while we were searching for the shadow beasts."


    Hikaru wanted to ask questions about everything but didn''t wanna come across as an Idiot.


    "So Kaede right?"


    "That''s me!"


    Kaede laughed.


    "How did you know I was in a divine bind with Crux?"


    Hikaru knew he had done something wrong when Kaedes joyful expression changed once more to gloomy the others also looked uncomfortable. Was it something I said? Hikaru wondered looking at Kaede.


    "Come, let''s make camp I can tell you anything you want to know then."


    Kaede and everyone walked by Hikaru starting to make camp Marx who was in the back stopped at Hikaru patting him on the soldier and said


    "Take it easy kid a bind with the eye is very dangerous."


    Then Marx joined the others. Somethings not adding up here. What''s so dangerous about it what will happen to me if I keep down this path?


    4


    Hikaru and the others reclined around the fire. The tents were pitched the fire roaring and the men drunk with wine of some sort and passed out around the fire, except Kaede, Hikaru, and Marx.


    "So kid you wanted answers, right?"


    "Yeah, about the bind and where I am."


    "The whole washed up on shore thing is kinda weird... and I don''t really know all the information about your Bind only the great eye would know that."Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    "Crux... he said his name was Crux."


    "I see... you know his name."


    Kaede was disappointed Hikaru could see it.


    "What''s with the eye on your cape and Marx the sword on yours?"


    Marx looked over at Kaede who gave him a nod.


    "My Divine Bind."


    Hikaru was interested due to the knowledge he found that there were only 36 of them.


    "What crazy being are you with?"


    Kaede laughed at the Kid''s remark.


    "You really are clueless!"


    "Kaede, calm yourself."


    Marx snapped.


    "It''s fine"


    Hikaru replied the air felt heavy there was tension sorrow and hate.


    "Hey, Kid."


    Kaede said grabbing an object from his bag.


    "You wanna know why I''m so down huh?"


    "Sure."


    "Your Bind with the eye... I spent my whole life searching for him so that I could be the one to obtain it."


    Kaede looked down at his feet.


    "He saved me I wandered into his Luxurious Doman as he called it and was attacked by raiders from a nearby village who also wandered in. But. When I was about to die after being beaten to a bloody pulp, I saw him a man in a suit and hat just like you explained."


    Kaede was looking at the object he pulled out of his bag it was a small medallion with a symbol on it and writing that said Posseser of Power.


    "This Crux jumped in and saved me killing all those bastards who beat me and then he walked up to me and handed me this. Saying one day I would receive great abilities. Then I passed out."


    Kaede turned to Hikaru.


    "When I awoke I was in a village just north of here. And I had this in my hand still."


    Kaede flipped the medallion and then put it away. Hikaru took in the information staring at the fire so was Kaede and so was Marx all of them staring into the fire as the night wasted away.


    "I see so you think by that he meant Divine Bind, correct?"


    "Of course what else. I spent my life joining parties near and inside the forest but I could never find him."


    "I''m sorry is there any way for us both to receive binds or is it one on one?"


    "No, the only way would be by killing the Bindee the Bind is destroyed, but don''t worry kid I won''t Kill you."


    Marx looked up at the stars which were so very clearly out that night.


    "Look see how beautiful they are." Marx remarked, "Been a while since we have had a night like this."


    "Indeed."


    Hikaru looked at and so did Kaede the sky was beautiful there were stars scattered across the night sky and galaxies and planets too.


    I wonder if they even know I''m gone and what they think happened... I''m sorry everyone. But this is where I belong...


    "So where exactly am I, I never asked."


    "The one and only Lucienda The southern district to be precise"


    "Do you have a map?"


    "Marx"


    Kaede looked over Marx Turned from the stars to Kaede and turned again to grab a map from his bag which was right next to him.


    "This is the map of the world, Narcantia" Marx hands Hikaru the map. Hikaru opens the map and begins to study it.


    Everyone in this place speaks English, Glad my Aunt taught me English, or I would be so screwed.


    Hikaru''s Parents had passed on after his fifth birthday Hikaru was raised in Japan with his Aunt and Uncle on His mother''s side. His Aunt was an American and taught him fluent English along with some Russian, and Latin. She was smart and knew quite a lot. His Uncle was a construction worker. And was not that bright to say the least. But he had his humor and always could cheer Hikaru up when he was down.


    "Lucienda?"


    "Where exactly you from kid."


    The question caught Hikaru off guard.


    "Uhhh, nowhere on this map."


    "I see."


    Kaede studied Hikaru and then looked up.


    "So what is the name of your home country."


    I was expecting a cold unwelcome attitude the way Crux talked about us "Other worlders"


    "Japan,"


    "Never heard of it."


    Kaede looks over at Marx who is listening Intently.


    "Well, that''s enough for me tonight,"


    Kaede said standing up.


    "I think we all should rest, Hikaru I had the men set up a tent for you over there."


    Marx points to a tent in the corner nearest to the forest. Hikaru all got up and went into their tents and fell asleep...


    5


    "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father''s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you"


    Where am I?


    "Do not be troubled he says there is a place for you beyond anything you can Imagine"


    Is This?


    "Hikaru!"


    Is That...?


    "Hikaru I will ground you pay attention!"


    I''m sorry.


    "Hikaru? Are you okay?"


    I miss you and Uncle.


    "Repent for the time is at Hand!"


    I know this moment.


    "Ah, so now you wanna pay attention"


    It was the day my parents died.


    "Oh sorry I gotta take this stay right here"


    We were in church, she always took me even though her inlaws and my parents disapproved. But my parents always made her babysit while they were on business so it was whatever.


    "Hikaru... let''s go baby"


    She took me from the old pew in that church and we went right to the hospital.


    "Oh my God!"


    She cried for hours her and Uncle. I didn''t cry I didn''t understand until a little later when I saw them... dead.


    They were shot during a business deal with some shady people.


    "Hikaru, it will all be ok"


    Wait wasn''t this the day?


    "Hey!"


    "Hi"


    The day I met Natsumi


    "My name is Natsumi, what''s yours"


    "Hikaru."


    She was always there for me even in High school when I was cast out for being orphaned and a weirdo.


    "Hey Hikaru we''re getting some food after school want to come"


    "Nah"


    I should of gone... she really liked me for me. But I didn''t want her caught up in the mix of all the things going on.


    "Actually sure."


    What? This didn''t happen. I''m sure I said no that day.


    "Awesome come on we''ll be late for class."


    What''s going on?


    "So I invited Hikaru for later is that okay?"


    "That creep why?"


    Yeah, blurt that out like I''m not four seats behind you jerk.


    "Hikaru!"


    She waited outside the place for me. Why?


    "Hey didn''t you say some friends of yours were coming?"


    "They decided not to show."


    Figures


    "You didn''t have to come then."


    "Nonsense I invited you was I just gonna ghost you."


    "Why not everyone else would?"


    She would be better off without me all of them I just get in their way I should have just died with my parents.


    "Were Friends Hikaru... Right?"


    "Huh? Uh..."


    Why would she want to associate herself with me what am I someone unimportant to her the most beautiful girl in our class...


    "Sure. yeah."


    "Great, then why would I leave a friend alone on such a nice day."


    I see... Kind as always...


    "I see, then shall we eat."


    "We shall"


    Her smile is so beautiful.


    "So what should we get this place serves all sorts of stuff!"


    She''s so excited.


    "I don''t know. What do you want?"


    In reality, I wouldn''t have the guts to pull something like this off eating with her alone together. What kind of crazy dream is this?


    "So what shall I get you... Invader."


    What? Invader... I know that voice, It can''t be...


    "Oh I''ll just have your most ordered dish"


    What! why am I acting like that bastard Crux isn''t standing right there. Move Body Move!


    "And you Milady!"


    "Same"


    "Ah so I see"


    Damn you! If you touch her I''ll Kill you!


    "That''s no way to talk to a business partner... boy."


    Say what. There''s no way this is a dream that feeling and this one that pressure it''s the same...


    "Hehehe"


    I''ll choke that mocking giggle out of you bastard if I could just move and control myself.


    "This is our special dish... A very delicious soup."


    Like Hell, I''m gonna eat that Natsumi Don''t! Please hear me!


    "Hikaru? What''s the matter? Is everything alright?"


    No, it''s not please say something. what''s happening this has gotta be a bad dream.


    "Yes everything is fine, please enjoy."


    No, why is this happening Crux I''ll kill you!


    "This is pretty good. Mmm more I want more give me more it''s so delicious don''t you agree Hikaru eat eat eat eat it up it''s good so good."


    What''s the matter your eyes there dark what''s happening Natsumi stop, please. Please jus-


    "SHUT UP"


    "Hikaru?"


    "I''m... talking?"


    "Idiot."


    "Sorry, I-"


    "You are such an Idiot, why don''t you just die hahaha I mean honestly..."


    What is this? I feel sick. I wanna die.


    "What''s wrong with you."


    "Natsumi Stop."


    "Honestly you''re such a fool and a joke."


    "What..."


    "Die Die Die Die Die Die Die Die"


    "SHUT UP!"


    "Sir, I''m going to have to ask you to quiet down or leave"


    This Presence...


    "You Monster, why this is your doing!"


    "Hikaru stop your so annoying!"


    "Miss are you okay"


    "No, I want this insignificant loser out of here!"


    Bad dream it''s all a dream...


    "Dream... This is no dream"


    "Why what is this then!"


    "Why this is her true thoughts... can''t you tell?"


    Crux walked over to Natsumi running his bony hands through her hair he was covered in a thinner layer of shadow revealing an alternate being a bony grey man.


    "Get away from her!"


    There was a silence and a tension.


    "Boy, do you feel it..."


    His tone deep and crude.


    "What?!?"


    "Do you... Despair..."


    Hikaru''s body was being controlled by something or someone else he could speak but could not control his body which had picked up the bowl and began to bring it to his mouth.


    "No, get that away from m-"


    He drank. And felt Full of despair and sadness but it wasn''t his own it felt like the sadness was emanating off of someone else or something... it was someone else''s despair and pain.


    Who did this to you...


    Crux had a change of face from malice to shock.


    "You truly are odd... boy"


    Hikaru lost consciousness.


    6


    "HIKARU!"


    shouted a man''s voice it was the familiar Kaede Kraftlawe. He was grabbing Hikaru whose eyes were pitch black the tents they had been resting in were utterly destroyed.


    "Kaede Get back It''s gonna happen again!"


    Shouted Marx lying on the ground Injured.


    "Come on Kid, snap out of it!"


    Suddenly his eyes returned. His mind was his own.


    Kaede fell on the floor in relief.


    "Come on Kid, not cool... not cool..."


    Hikaru came too and looked around seeing the forest around them burnt to a crisp and the ground destroyed the men who openly welcomed him scattered around none dead all hurt.


    "Kaede!"


    Hikaru said kneeling down to help Kaede up. Kaede denied it and looked down. Hikaru turned his gaze to the others who also looked away.


    "What happened?!?"


    "You kid... you happened."


    "I did this..."


    The men all stood up and began helping each other cover their wounds.


    "There is no doubt in my mind this boy possesses the divine bind of the eye of the forest,"


    said Marx his voice shaking.


    "Yeah."


    Kaede stood up and went over to Hikaru.


    "It''s not your fault kid, Marx did something similar when he acquired his bind... just not on this level."


    So the bind with Crux... that dream. Did he take over my body what exactly did he feed me? That bastard.


    "I''m sorry I-"


    "Don''t worry kid, no one was killed."


    Kaede laughed it off and looked at Hikaru.


    "You''ll learn to control it."


    "What exactly was it?"


    Hikaru was appalled by his actions.


    "When someone receives a Divine bind from a higher being most times they can''t immediately handle its power so the being guides them down the path to control it..."


    Kaede had a look of worry on his face


    "Usually it starts in a vision of the two forces bonding and due to that bond a massive explosion or outpour of mana is released. But you just started attacking us as if you were trying to kill us... it was obvious you weren''t in control though. Your eyes... they had no life."


    when Hikaru heard those words he immediately remembered the vision of him and Natsumi and he remembered... Crux.


    7


    "So where are we going"


    Hikaru asked. The sun was rising and after the events of last night, no one could rest.


    "To Lucienda Eastern District."


    Kaede replied looking forward.


    "Remember that map I gave you last night?"


    "Yeah"


    "That''s a map of all Lucienda we are heading northeast to the Eastern District. Lucienda is one of the 13 Nations of Narcantia Lucienda is split into three districts."


    "I see"


    The group was walking through the forest uphill the terrain was very mountainous and covered in trees.


    "The southern district is where we are it''s separate and no one really lives here but beasts and... the forest where Crux lives is here."


    That''s my reason to not stay here a second longer. If I got this right Crux wanted to skip all the "Group Bonding" and just give me the power quick... whoever Echidna is he must really hate her.


    Hikaru looked up through the trees.


    Still, I will never forgive him for what he did messing with my memories to make me bind with him... why what was the point of making me hate him?


    "So where exactly is our next stop Kaede?"


    Questioned Marx.


    "Well, we gotta sell those carcasses from the beasts. So I think the town closest is..."


    He was in thought.


    "I think it''s Gagdred the drinking town!"


    The rest of the men yelled with joy but Marx was stricken with worry and anxiety.


    "Ah don''t worry buddy if Malissia still works there well just find a different tavern!"


    the group laughed at Marx.


    I Feel ya, people always use to mess with me like that even people who I thought were my friends...


    "No, It doesn''t matter you all drink I''ll just go sell the beasts."


    "How thoughtful!"


    That was clearly his intention from the start making Marx sell while they got drunk. I still don''t understand how they''re in such a good mood. I nearly killed them but they still treat me better than anyone in my world would.


    "I SEE HER!"


    yelled one of the men. He was up ahead pointing to a small clearing where a town was


    "Gagdred!"


    The men cheered. Hikaru walked over by Marx.


    "Hey, can I ask a question?"


    "Of course"


    Marx looked down on the town from the cliff. He and Hikaru stopped admiring the view.


    "Why treat me so well, all of you."


    "Like Kaede said no one was hurt and you aren''t the first Divine Bind user to have that happen"


    "You did he said right?"


    Marx''s head fell in regret


    "Yes"


    "What happened"


    "I killed one of our members..."


    "What? Kaede said yours wasn''t as bad as mine though."


    "It wasn''t as powerful no, at the time we had just taken on a new member. A young man named Shifan he was from Mythreign a refugee from their civil war."


    That is another one of the thirteen countries I guess?


    "He was weak and needed money so he offered to work with us. Kaede being the man he is let him... But he joined at the wrong time."


    Tears fell.


    "We had just left Southcrest the land of merchants and knowledge we had set out for Lucienda West and I at the time had just received my Divine bind Light of Rendel from Rendel the Third sword king. You wouldn''t know any of these places or people I''m guessing"


    Hikaru shakes his head.


    "I see. It was my third night with the Bind and I couldn''t figure out how to use it. I went to sleep and then... I had a vision where I was sitting next to my father''s grave and praying when suddenly Rendel the third sword king appeared we talked and he showed me how to use it then I passed out. Next thing I know I''m surrounded by Kaede and the rest of the men and there I see it... The boy''s body cut in half with light magic... my magic. When I blacked out several magic explosions emanated from my being. For you, it was different you were... possessed by something. I assume the man in the forest the eye."


    More tears.


    "He had a sister... Shifan had a sister and... she killed herself after discovering he had been murdered. Forced to flee their country. Forced to do dangerous work for money. And killed by trusted comrades..."


    "I see..."


    Kaede and the others were below them on a lower part of the cliff climbing down the others continued not paying any attention but Kaede knew the guilt Marx felt. He had stopped and was listening from below.


    "Hey Kid, Marx, Come on."


    He called. They began heading down to the others.


    8


    "Welcome To Gagdred!"


    Said a man standing by the entrance to the town he was obviously drunk.


    "Grandeid that you?"


    Kaede was familiar.


    "Kraftlawe!"


    The two hugged and the other men went on towards the tavern dropping the wolves by Marx


    "Marx, Kid, Take those to this town''s guild center for the gold."


    Kaede ordered.


    "Right away"


    Marx said bending to pick up the corpses


    "Well get over here." Marx looked at Hikaru who was zoned out.


    "Huh? Oh yeah."


    Hikaru picked up 2 of the smaller wolves whilst Marx had picked up four somehow.


    "How are you doing that?"


    "Every Bind comes with buffs and weaknesses I am able to lift a lot more weight than the average man but I like watching them carry it I never want to."


    I wonder what perks I get?


    "For you being contracted with the eye. You are vulnerable to light magic you can build tolerance but. It will take time."


    That pain I felt was the light from the Light of Rendel ability.


    "What exactly happened when I was unconscious?"


    Marx looked at Hikaru.


    "Nothing of matter at least for now, we have more important things to accomplish today."


    the two continued to the end of a road where three bigger buildings lay. One read Adventures Hall Another read Medic Hall and the last read Market Hall.


    "The Guild Hall is where were going"


    Marx said leading the way many of the bystanders couldn''t take their eyes off the skinny Marx carrying the massive hounds.


    The streets were full and market booths were everywhere. People showing off their magic in the streets and people paying to view them.


    I need to learn more about this world and magic...

 The Lady Hasee

    Arc 1 Chapter 2


    The Lady Hasee


    1


    The two entered the Guild Hall and went to the desk where a young woman was seated. Hikaru and Marx approached the woman Marx had the wolves covering his face.


    ¡°Hi, how may I help you?¡±


    ¡°We have the wolves from the quest over in Sanchron Village.¡±


    Marx did the talking.


    ¡°I see. May I see your Adventurers Membership?¡±


    Marx dropped the wolves on the floor and reached into his pocket pulling out a little silver card with something written on it.


    MARX CHARLIN


    CLASS: MAGE


    PARTY: KRAFTLAWE


    LEVEL: 130


    ¡°Level 130 is that good here?¡±


    Hikaru Questioned.


    ¡°Oh I guess you don¡¯t know of these silly matters¡­ well I guess the best way to explain would be to get you a pass!¡±


    Marx smiled.


    ¡°Oh no, I couldn¡¯t make you do that for me after all the trouble I caused.¡±


    Hikaru refused but Marx simply would not have it.


    ¡°Miss, may we purchase a Membership?¡±


    ¡°But of course¡±


    The lady pointed at two men who were standing in the corner motioning them over to take the hound corpses. The lady set a bag of gold on the counter Marx took and threw 10 pieces of the 30 received to the lady who took them and put them into another bag labeled Passes.


    ¡°So this boy will be joining I assume?¡±


    ¡°Boy? Were like the same age.¡±


    Marx and the woman Laughed.


    ¡°Oh, Hikaru have you not heard of the famous Elvish sisters that run the Guild halls?¡±


    ¡°Wait she''s Elvish?¡±


    ¡°Yes me and my many sisters serve the Guild Master by working his many Locations.¡±


    The woman moved her long hair away from her ears revealing pointed tips they were definitely elf ears.


    What other kinds of beings live here?


    ¡°My apologies Miss?¡±


    ¡°My name is Elda¡±


    ¡°Miss Elda¡±


    Hikaru bowed she reached out her hand Marx motioned Hikaru to grab it. So he did.


    ¡°This might sting a bit, we weren''t chosen to lead the guild halls for no reason¡­¡±


    She grabbed his hand tight and spoke softly


    ¡°Extend my blood and being and make clear the power set before me¡­ Exalted Blood Fusion!¡±


    Hikaru felt a painful shock emanate throughout his body. He screamed in pain the whole Guild Hall laughed at him. When it stopped she let go and Hikaru fell.


    ¡°Ah I see her blood magic does use a bight of a¡­ Lighter touch.¡±


    Marx giggled while Hikaru lay half-dead on the floor


    ¡°Yeah, I got that.¡±


    Elda took an empty silver plate from a box and put it under a device that engraved it.


    ¡°Your name boy?¡±


    ¡°Hikaru Yume¡±


    ¡°Party?¡±


    ¡°It''s free to change whenever you like¡±


    Marx said wanting Hikaru to join their party.


    ¡°Don¡¯t I need to ask Kaede for Permission it¡¯s his party. Right?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell him I am the Vice Captain of our little group¡±


    ¡°Kraftlawe Party¡±


    Hikaru said confidently.


    He had received his Adventurers pass it read.


    HIKARU YUME


    CLASS: ???


    PARTY: KRAFTLAWE


    LEVEL: 3


    ¡°Class unknown?¡±


    Marx questioned.


    ¡°Indeed odd?¡±


    Elda commented.


    ¡°What, do people usually receive a class?¡±


    Elda observed Hikaru.


    ¡°Your blood and being call out your class to me and I usually just print it out but for you It was silent I just didn¡¯t notice till you pointed it out I do many of these in a day.¡±


    ¡°Odd?¡±


    Marx remarked.


    ¡°Well we better get a move on but first¡­¡±


    Hikaru looked over at Marx.


    ¡°The blacksmith here makes very good weapons.¡±


    The two began walking out of the building Elda kept watching them as they left debating what to make of the odd boy


    ¡°You are indeed an Interesting one¡­¡±


    She said to herself.


    2


    ¡°Behold! Jackwa¡¯s Blacksmith store!¡±


    Marx said pointing to a small corner shop in the bigger place that was the Market Hall


    This place reminds me of the smaller malls back home.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry but we also will need to make another stop before the Blacksmith.¡±


    ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°Your clothing is rather odd and it causes some unwanted attention.¡±


    Hikaru looked around and many people in the town were staring at him.


    ¡°Yeah let''s do that¡±


    My school uniform won¡¯t cut it in this world Let''s see what kind of clothes they got here.


    ¡°There''s a shop right here.¡±


    The Market Hall wasn¡¯t really a hall it was a one-story building full of mini shops probably around 12 stores the town where they are Gagdred wasn¡¯t the biggest town but it was a fairly decent size with a population of 120 residents it was built in the clearing of a forest in one of the southernmost areas of Lucienda East.


    ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    The two of them entered the store there was no door it was open just like in the malls. But it was small the roof went high up and was covered in stained glass art the whole mall was like that.


    ¡°How may I be of service?¡±


    A woman walked up to them bowing then looking them directly in the eye.


    ¡°Uh-¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ it¡¯s you.¡±


    The woman''s tone switched from friendly to annoyed and angry and above all full of a wrathful malice.


    ¡°Oh, Malissia what a surprise you don¡¯t work at the tavern anymore?¡±


    ¡°I thought you knew since you got me fired!¡±


    Her voice became very loud and agitated.


    ¡°Marx you know this lady?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know him were old friends.¡±


    She said gritting her teeth.


    ¡°Melissia I apologize my actions were unforgivable but please forgive me.¡±


    Marx got down on his knees bowing Hikaru was shocked a mage as powerful as Marx gave up a fight that easily


    Makes you wonder what he did.


    ¡°As if this is enough?!?!¡±


    ¡°Please Calm yourse-¡±


    ¡°No, I will not!¡±


    They managed to grab the attention of not just everyone in the store but outside it too.


    ¡°Marx, what exactly did you do?¡±


    Hikaru whispered in his ear kneeling down beside him. He hadn¡¯t looked up yet.


    ¡°Later Hikaru.¡±


    ¡°Boy!¡±


    Hikaru startled stared up at the girl.


    ¡°Ye-Yes ma''am¡±


    ¡°What business do you have with Marx here?¡±


    ¡°Well we''re in the same Party and I needed gear and clothes so he brought us here.¡±


    ¡°Understood you do look awfully funny¡±


    ¡°Lady Malissia please leave him out of this¡­¡±


    Marx was trembling.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do as I please got a problem with that! Or should I tell everyone what you did!¡±


    ¡°No there is no problem!¡±


    ¡°Your name?¡±


    she said looking over at Hikaru.


    ¡°Hikaru Yume¡±


    ¡°The name is Malissia Greyhound! It would be a pleasure but you just had to drag this filth into my store!¡±


    ¡°The pleasures all mine.¡±


    Hikaru said politely bowing.


    ¡°Oh, you see that Marx he knows how to treat a woman!¡±


    Marx was torn apart and in tears.


    ¡°So what to do about that outfit? Stand up!¡±


    She ordered Marx he did it with zero hesitation.


    ¡°Follow me I¡¯ll take you to the back room.¡±


    They followed Lady Greyhound to a room in the back of her small store and inside was a changing room and several stacks of men''s clothing from cloaks to tunics and even¡­ other items which Lady Greyhound seemed to only get angrier when looking at them.


    ¡°Why Lord why¡­¡±


    Marx mumbled to himself.


    ¡°You say something loser?!?!¡±


    ¡°No nothing at all!¡±Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.


    Lady Greyhound picked out some cloth grabbed a tape measure and directed Hikaru to stand on the stool that she had pulled out. She began.


    ¡°Behold¡­ The might of Reverse Relapse!¡±


    She raised her hand and a magic thread came out wrapping itself around Hikaru tightly.


    ¡°Amazing, it feels¡­ so light?¡±


    ¡°Yes, that is the power of my Magic Cloning magic all sorts of things I can clone. Clothes, Weapons, and other things as well even myself but not other people.¡±


    Interesting power indeed.


    ¡°I cloned the thread and Imbued it with magic now the best part¡­ Style!¡±


    She began testing several outfits on Hikaru one appeared then undid itself then another did the same every 4 seconds a new outfit would be on him. He felt¡­ queasy.


    ¡°AH!¡±


    She said in excitement.


    ¡°Perfect!¡±


    Hikaru was on the stool and upon his body was a Black Tunic and a long Black cloak matching his dark long hair. Even Marx was in awe of how amazing it looked on him.


    ¡°Well done!¡±


    Marx complimented he must have forgotten who did it.


    ¡°A compliment from you is utter garbage Pervert!¡±


    That single comment sent him retreating into his shell.


    ¡°Sorry, I did not know my place forgive me!¡±


    He begged.


    ¡°Better.¡±


    she said with a satisfied look on her face.


    ¡°I like it.¡±


    Hikaru had stepped down and was looking in the mirror he saw the Cloak and tunic he wore Black pants and had been equipped with Black boots as well.


    ¡°Yes much like Marx you seem like the type to wear Dark clothes.¡±


    ¡°Marx Wearing dark clothes?¡±


    Hikaru Laughed. Marx was wearing white and light blue robes.


    ¡°Well not anymore but a long time ago.¡±


    ¡°I wish not to reminisce!¡± Marx butted in.


    ¡°Who cares what you think Pervert!¡±


    The group finished up and went on to the entrance turning to thank Malissia


    ¡°Thank you I appreciate it.¡±


    Hikaru said bowing showing his respect.


    ¡°Thank-¡±


    Marx was cut off by a kick to his face sending him flying out of the store.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Get out!¡±


    She screamed at Marx her expression changed as she turned to Hikaru she smiled.


    ¡°Have a wonderful day and beware of that man. I wish you luck anything you need I can assist you with!¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡±


    ¡°Hikaru here.¡±


    Marx handed him 5 gold coins from outside the store being sure not to enter.


    ¡°I assume these are yours then?¡±


    Hikaru handed them to Lady Greyhound.


    ¡°Much obliged.¡±


    They bowed to each other and Hikaru and Marx were off.


    3


    Hikaru and Marx were off to the blacksmith Hikaru had obtained new clothes whilst Marx obtained new traumas and reopened past pains.


    ¡°Here we are!¡±


    The two entered it was a darker store with weapons and armor everywhere.


    ¡°Who is it?¡±


    A voice grumbled from the back of the store.


    ¡°Shanagiri?¡±


    Marx shouted suddenly there was a tussle in the back and a giant mud beast came out he stood at least 10 feet tall.


    ¡°Marx my boy!¡±


    At least he''s wanted here¡­ Lady Greyhound wasn¡¯t messing around whatever he did¡­


    ¡°This is Hikaru he is new to our party and needs a weapon suitable for him¡±


    The mud man Shanagiri looked Hikaru up and down.


    ¡°I see¡­ Grackle new order just in a Longsword starter and uh¡­ Infuse it with Mythotite.¡±


    when Marx heard this he was shocked and worried.


    ¡°Mythotite?!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, the boy is off the higher classes right?¡±


    ¡°No? He has no class.¡±


    ¡°What¡­ no class you say?¡±


    Marx nodded Hikaru felt uncomfortable.


    ¡°Boy let me see your Guild Pass.¡±


    Hikaru handed it over and Shanagiri viewed it.


    ¡°Interesting am I right?¡±


    ¡°My blacksmith skill tells me what to make and with what so even if the Guild hall counselors got it wrong I don¡¯t this boy here is special I can feel it. Mythitite it is!¡±


    ¡°I see..¡±


    Marx looked up to the stained glass art above the mud man handed Hikaru his card back and went to the back of the shop.


    ¡°Be here tomorrow!¡±


    He said as he left their view.


    ¡°Well, we better be on our way it''s already Five!¡±


    ¡°What that late already but we practically just arrived!¡±


    The two left the store heading towards the Market Hall''s exit.


    4


    Kaede Kraftlawe and the other men with him were as follows in his party and written on his card were


    MARX CHARLIN


    HADLEND KADO


    KNIVESON K


    DIAVELEI CHURNO


    SATO NAZARO


    HIKARU YUME


    Kaede Kraftlawe grinned seeing the name of Hikaru added he sat on the porch of the tavern in Gagdred viewing the sunset. He had a drink in his hands and was staring up.


    ¡°Wonderful coincidence¡­¡±


    A voice rang out Kaede had an angered expression on his face. He stood up straight turning around to see a man in a dark robe with a White Oni Mask.


    ¡°Ain¡¯t no coincidence Varro.¡±


    The masked man Varro laughed.


    ¡°Right to business as always I see.¡±


    ¡°Yeah yeah, so there''s been a change.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡±


    ¡°The Bind¡¯s been taken.¡±


    ¡°Oh my.¡±


    ¡°I want you to do some more digging with pay of course and you''ll get what you''re owed when you''re finished.¡±


    ¡°I see so it¡¯s like that?¡±


    ¡°Not really in the mood for your critiques¡±


    ¡°Stop that piss-poor attitude whatever do you mean?¡±


    Kaedes face changed into a look of despair as he knew he had to use his backup.


    ¡°Dig into Jailors Keep¡­ and¡­ The Fallen Binds¡­¡±


    ¡°Dark Thing they are begs the question how do you know of these things?¡±


    ¡°A story¡­ from my youth.¡±


    Kaede turned back towards the sky as the darkness overcame the landscape.


    ¡°There is a time for everything¡­¡±


    Kaede said as he did Varro took off into the night just then the rest of the Kraftlawe group came out of the Tavern in their drunken state.


    ¡°Ah my lord!¡± said Hadlend


    ¡°What is it Hadlend?¡±


    ¡°What are you doing wallowing out here come inside and join us for a drink!¡±


    ¡°Yeah yeah, I¡¯ll be in.¡±


    The men cheered and went back inside and Kaede followed soon after now no one was on the porch and the quiet night overtook the area.


    5


    The next morning Hikaru and Marx set out for the Blacksmiths the others had gotten very drunk the previous night so they had all slept at the tavern instead of the local Inn.


    ¡°Beautiful morning wouldn¡¯t you agree Hikaru?¡±


    ¡°I do.¡±


    Hikaru was wearing his new clothes and enjoying them. He especially loved his cloak.


    ¡°The shop opens soon but we have tim-¡±


    ¡°Marx¡­¡±


    Hikaru stops and Marx does also.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Thank you¡­¡±


    ¡°What for?¡±


    Hikaru had a tear in his eye.


    ¡°For being nice to me after all I did I feel like you''re the first person I¡¯ve actually gotten along with in a very long time.¡±


    ¡°I feel the same¡±


    He paused.


    ¡°I¡¯ve known Kaede for a while but lately he has seemed¡­ Distant and I¡¯ve been longing for someone to talk to another friend and Hikaru that friend is you. I should thank you.¡±


    The two smiled and laughed as they began walking once more.


    6


    ¡°20 pieces!¡±


    Marx exclaimed. Staring at the mud man Shanagiri.


    ¡°Come on cough it up!¡±


    ¡°Scam artist.¡±


    Marx mumbled. after handing him the gold the man came out with a sheathed sword. He held it to his eye looking at Hikaru. The blade was pitch black with white lines running down the edge there was a white jewel in the guard and it was beautiful.


    ¡°Perfect.¡±


    He handed the blade to Hikaru.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never held a sword but I know it shouldn¡¯t be this light!¡±


    ¡°That a complaint!¡±


    Hikaru shrivled back.


    ¡°I¡¯m messing with you, kid! We use special materials and magic to create blades. This one is tuned with light magic resistance my magic allows me to view one''s weakness and so Based on that I can make them the perfect weapons!¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    Marx fumbled for something in his bag.


    ¡°I bought you this last night after you went to sleep.¡±


    He pulled out a belt with a place for his sword. Hikaru put it on.


    ¡°Thank you both so much!¡±


    ¡°No problem!¡±


    ¡°Really it was nothing.¡±


    Hikaru hugged Marx shocking him in that moment Marx began to cry remembering images of a young boy with short red hair doing the same.


    ¡°Hikaru¡­ thank you.¡±


    ¡°Anytime.¡±


    7


    Marx and Hikaru met up with the others at the exit of the town that night the sun had set and the journey was bound to be a long one.


    ¡°We got food, Marx!¡±


    Kaede asked.


    ¡°I am never not prepared honestly you think so little of me.¡±


    Kaede laughed and the 7 of them set off. A ways out from the town around midnight they set up camp in a clearing in the forest.


    ¡°Alright then let''s get some sleep early start tomorrow!¡±


    Kaede ordered. Everyone went into their tents and went to sleep everyone except Kaede Kraftlawe who was sitting on a massive rock overlooking a cliff near the clearing he was looking at maps and charts on his lap while having a liquor bottle beside him. From the rock you could see all of the forest ahead including a much bigger town than Gagdred it was a major city in Lucienda East called Alboast it was a ways off but still the light from the city even at this hour was emanating into the sky.


    ¡°Annoying.¡±


    Kaede spoke to himself he was alone and a little bit away from camp.


    ¡°Nauseating. Repulsive. And horrid beings.¡±


    He crumbled the chart in his hand staring dead ahead at Alboast. Suddenly Kaede heard a crack in the forest behind him.


    ¡°Kraftlawe¡­¡±


    It was Varro.


    ¡°Varro what is it? Already done?¡±


    ¡°Funny this one¡±


    He said pointing at Kaede.


    ¡°I have news from Kyotona.¡±


    ¡°Ah, well let''s hear it.¡±


    ¡°The last of the 7 seated has been making a move there.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­¡±


    ¡°If you and I do share the same goals as you say then you should be more worried than you are.¡±


    Kaede had an expression of nothingness on his face.


    ¡°It¡¯s the stupid city.¡±


    ¡°Ah I see, relying on the past is for the weak such as Marx and the others in your group.¡±


    ¡°Hmmph¡±


    ¡°We strongly rely on the future the outcome is what matters¡­ the¡­ results.¡±


    ¡°I agree.¡±


    The two men overlooked the city.


    ¡°I see it you know.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, what¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Your vision your dream.¡±


    ¡°I know¡­ I just wish things were different.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t I¡¯m glad it¡¯s just us that¡¯s all we need after all¡±


    ¡°Marx¡­¡±


    He mumbled to himself.


    ¡°The medallion is it still yours?¡±


    ¡°Of course¡±


    ¡°I believe it has meaning still.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡±


    ¡°I will research on my part but do not neglect doing your own research.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I guess.¡±


    The night went away from them as they looked down with hatred upon the city in the distance.


    ¡°That boy.¡±


    ¡°Hikaru, yeah I know.¡±


    ¡°He could be trouble.¡±


    ¡°Like I said I know.¡±


    Kaede stood up collecting his resources and retreating into the forest.


    ¡°I already have it figured out.¡±


    ¡°You keep him because he reminds you of another scared little boy lost in the dark forest of despair.¡±


    Kaede stopped.


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°That is hanging onto the past. Is it not?¡±


    Kaede ignored the man and walked into the darkness.


    8


    Dawn was upon them they all were slowly waking up and dressing themselves Marx who had been awake for hours was preparing food. Hikaru walked out of his tent. As did others.


    ¡°Smells good Marx!¡±


    ¡°But of course, I made it.¡±


    The two laughed.


    ¡°Alright you two shut it I got a hangover.¡±


    Kaede wobbled out of his tent.


    ¡°You really do need to stop drinking my friend it will do more harm than good if used too often the medicine will become poison.¡±


    Marx said while stirring the pot of stew brewing.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you take a hike Marx¡±


    The group laughed furthering Kaede''s headache but he too laughed it off.


    ¡°So what¡¯s our plan for this season,¡±


    Marx asked.


    ¡°We set off for the capitol next as usual we will be avoiding Alboast. If anyone near this city talks to us cover your faces and ignore them. I don¡¯t care who it is.¡±


    The men stopped there cheering and became serious Hikaru took the hint and stopped acknowledging the situation.


    ¡°Kaede what business do we have in the capitol?¡± Marx was wondering.


    ¡°My business is my own¡­ but I have something for you to do while I¡¯m working.¡±


    ¡°And that is?¡±


    ¡°A letter I received from the Guild in Gagdred.¡±


    Kaede looked up at the men with a smile.


    ¡°A Job to escort a certain Noble to her home.¡±


    ¡°I see¡±


    ¡°Since we are the only A-rank party available¡±


    ¡°We should get moving and remember the rules. Hikaru, you should be fine they don¡¯t know your face but you should still keep your cloak up.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir!¡±


    Hikaru responded. Kaede smiled and went up from his seat to his tent to prepare the others grabbed their food from Marx and began eating.


    9


    Hikaru had been with them for a while now he was learning the sword from Marx and other skills from the other party members such as cooking hunting and many other things including magic and the lands of Narcantia.


    They had set their sights on the capital of Lucienda East but had to pass the city of Alboast.


    ¡°Keep your heads low¡±


    Kaede ordered riding by were two guards on horseback who due to the group''s hoods paid no attention to them.


    ¡°Henchmen for the stupid lord of this forsaken town¡±


    ¡°Keep your voice down Kaede someone might hear you.¡±


    On the road, there were many people traveling and more guards scanning the area.


    ¡°Just had to be today,¡±


    10


    ¡°Lady Hasee we must be going!¡±


    A woman stood outside a room in the Palace of Ages it was Kasumi the guard to Lady Hasee heir to all Hasee assets.


    ¡°Give me a minute Kasumi!¡±


    A soft quiet voice was heard on the other side of the door. It was a young woman no older than 17 she was sitting on her bed looking out the window. The room was empty.


    ¡°I apologize my lady but please forgive me I¡¯m coming in.¡±


    The Guard Kasumi walked into the room and saw her on her bed.


    ¡°Lady Hasee please your father awaits and your ride is here.¡±


    Her father Lord Gyro Hasee had sent out a request to the adventurers guild asking for high rank parties to escort his dear daughter.


    ¡°Why must father be so controlling¡­¡±


    ¡°My Lady¡­¡±


    ¡°I just want to stay here with Argyle.¡±


    ¡°I understand but you will see him again I know it.¡±


    Kasumi was trying to comfort her the best she could. But to no avail.


    ¡°How long will the journey take since we are going to take the alter roads?¡±


    ¡°My lady I do not know but I¡¯m sure the adventurers your father hired will.¡±


    ¡°Adventurers¡­ foolish men playing pretend.¡±


    The Guard let out a laugh.


    ¡°Indeed.¡±


    Kasumi helped up Lady Hasee.


    ¡°But they do know what they are talking about when it comes to these things.¡±


    ¡°I understand¡­¡±


    The two women left the room leaving a dark and empty room behind.


    11


    ¡°Hikaru let¡¯s get a move on! We got a job to do!¡±


    Marx yelled over at Hikaru who was sitting on the wall of the Castle overlooking the Capital. Marx was loading Lady Hasee¡¯s luggage with the other men.


    ¡°I¡¯m coming¡±


    Hikaru jumped down the stairs armed with his sword and wearing his cloak which blew in the wind.


    ¡°Hikaru don¡¯t get any Ideas with the Lady alright!¡±


    The other men mocked him. The Lady was beautiful and all of them knew it. They also knew if they did anything the full might of Lucienda would rain down upon them.


    ¡°You clearly don¡¯t know me¡­ Sato¡±


    Hikaru looked right at Sato who was smiling at Hikaru laughing at him.


    ¡°Well see you''re the only one who doesn¡¯t know of the beauty which is the face of Lady Hasee.¡±


    ¡°Weirdo¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll see!¡±


    The men laughed. Marx was getting angry The Royal Palace¡¯s courtyard was no place for crude humor.


    ¡°Enough!¡±


    They all fell silent.


    ¡°We apologize¡±


    Sato, Hikaru, and the others nodded in agreement. As they fell silent the sound of trumpets rang. The door to the palace opened and Lady Hasee walked out. Beside her was Kasumi.


    ¡°Oh wow! I wish she would marry me!¡±


    ¡°In your dreams Diavelei!¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡±


    Marx was mad.


    ¡°Sorry¡­¡±


    They said in unison. The princess and her Guard along with two other maids who had swords, Katana¡¯s to be exact followed behind her.


    ¡°Katanas huh?¡±


    ¡°Yeah you don¡¯t see those around here usually.¡±


    Hikaru found Diavelei¡¯s statement reasonable back at the mud man¡¯s shop he didn¡¯t see any Katana¡¯s.


    ¡°Her Ladyship Roxy Hasee!¡±


    A man atop the stairs announced her as if they didn¡¯t know.


    ¡°Alright prep the carriage men¡±


    Marx ordered the men followed they opened the door and Lady Hasee inched closer and got inside along with the three guards.


    Katanas are rare or rather¡­ not native that would make more sense. the women with her look Japanese like myself. Unlike Kaede and Marx who look more European.


    ¡°Hikaru lets go!¡±


    Marx motioned Hikaru to get on the front of the carriage with him. Hikaru got on. The other men were on their own horses following close behind a number of guards followed behind for a while until they left the city.


    ¡°Why not just have the guards take her?¡±


    ¡°Well, we are an A rank party. You know what that means?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°It means our party could take out 100 guards in an instant.¡±


    Hikaru''s eyes widened.


    Their that powerful?!?


    ¡°Wow¡­¡±


    ¡°Speaking of strength¡­ what level are you now. I mean we spent around a week or two getting here you fought some low level monsters with the sword skills I taught you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, let me check.¡±


    Hikaru pulled out his Adventurers Pass and viewed it.


    HIKARU YUME


    CLASS: ???


    PARTY: KRAFTLAWE


    LEVEL: 15


    ¡°I¡¯m level 15 I guess.¡±


    ¡°Progress, good¡±


    Marx looked up at the sky.


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t hold a candle to your level.¡±


    ¡°In time, your sword skills are improving also.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I guess.¡±


    Hikaru picked up his sword looking into the white stone embedded in it. The party reached the gate the guards fell back and the journey began.


    ¡°What do you suppose their up to right now?¡±


    ¡°Who do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Gagdred.¡±


    ¡°Oh, well I try not to think about it.


    ¡°Clearly cause of Lady Malissia?¡±


    ¡°Uhh-¡±


    ¡°Say you said you would tell me what happene-?¡±


    ¡°Later Hikaru!¡±


    Hikaru laughed as the sun began to set and they entered the forest roads.


    12


    ¡°The time¡­ has come¡­¡±


    A voice echoed in the darkness. Flames roared into the night sky. It was a village on fire. Through the flames nothing was visible except the word¡­ gagdred.


    ¡°Please spare my family!¡±


    A young man with his family were cornered into a small building.


    ¡°Hehehehe.¡±


    Three men in dark cloaks drew knives and went towards them fully intent on slicing them to ribbons.


    ¡°Stop right there!¡±


    The men turned a silhouette of a woman was amongst the fire.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know who you are but you better leave this town!¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah, who''s gonna make us? You!¡±


    The one who said this was the man in the middle with a tattoo above his right eye reading [Insign to the Dark Guard] The woman who could now be seen as no other than Lady Malissia was shocked.


    ¡°The dark guard huh?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    The man leaped at her crushing the ground Malissia smiled and pounced towards him as well. What followed was a great clash. Malissia pulled out a sword of her own it was a smaller sword with a white line down the middle.


    ¡°Cute! Quite Cute!¡±


    ¡°Shut it creep you give Marx a run for his money!¡±


    She slashed the air in front of the man and left an arc of mana behind it was Blue mana Ice magic. He jumped back. Some gifted people can alter their base mana and use other types of magic than the kind they usually are born with excelling at.


    ¡°Big sister!¡±


    One of the little boys yelled out to her alerting the three men who smiled with malice.


    ¡°Kill the boy!¡±


    ¡°Foolish brother!¡±


    She leaped towards him trying to save them from the other men who raised their daggers. CLASH! The sword of another met her own in the air.


    ¡°Oh no you don¡¯t!¡±


    It was the third man the other two clearly obeyed him Malissia was trying her best to save her family who sat helplessly on the floor. The men began the lowering of their daggers.


    ¡°NO!¡±


    Suddenly a cloaked man came in at the last second. He had longer red hair and wore a cloak. With an eye on it. He stopped the downward spiral of their blades.

 Separations

    Arc 1 Chapter 3


    Separations


    1


    ¡°Kaede!¡±


    The man who stopped the blades was none other than Kaede Kraftlawe.


    ¡°Foolish man interfering with my plans are you¡­ you¡¯ll pay¡­ Dearly¡±


    The man with the tattoos face contorted revealing an unlovable monster.


    ¡°Malissia get your family to safety¡±


    Kaide began to smile with his own malice.


    ¡°I¡¯ll handle them.¡±


    Malissia nodded leaping back from the blade of the man and then dashing in towards her family. The man tried to swing at her but it was stopped by Kaede.


    ¡°Raghhh¡±


    The man had a look of disgust on his face. Kaede a look of malice.


    ¡°Big sister!¡±


    Malissia grabbed her family and removed them from the burning building.


    ¡°So your the Cult I¡¯m hearing rumors of?¡±


    ¡°Oh you have heard of us I am honored but that is not good.¡±


    The man leaped back bowing the other two men joined behind him.


    ¡°I am Apollos Van Reichant Servant of the Seventh Steated among the great!¡±


    He stood up straight looking Kaede in the eyes.


    ¡°Servant of the Seventh huh? As in¡­ Last¡±


    Kaede smiled. The man had grown Irritable and was angered by this.


    ¡°I¡¯ll show you my might!¡±


    ¡°Go ahead and try!¡±


    The twos gazes met. The enemy pushed first crushing the floor of the building below his feet. Kaede Responds with the same move they push forward towards each other. CLASH! The Twos swords met. Resulting in an explosion of mana crushing the building they were inside.


    ¡°Agh!¡±


    The buildings roof exploded everywhere they were now in the open. The night sky visible but the stars light outdone by the fire.


    ¡°I¡¯ll kill you!¡±


    The men leaped back.


    ¡°Behold my power!¡±


    The man raised his hands to the sky.


    ¡°Behol-¡±


    His words were cut off by the sound of a a blade hitting gut.


    ¡°Wha-¡±


    ¡°There will be none of that here¡­¡±


    Kaede had leaped forward so fast the man couldn¡¯t see it. He stopped the mans incantation by ending his life.


    ¡°What rank are you!¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡±


    Kaede smirked and raised his blade to the man''s neck and beheaded him.


    ¡°Kaede!¡±


    It was Lady Malissia. Kaede had by no means stopped the attack. There were several men everywhere burning and killing.


    ¡°Kaede how did you get here so quick.¡±


    ¡°The Castles of each Capital of the Nations hold a Teleportation Device of some kind. I caught wind of this attack from¡­ a contact and came at once.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­¡±


    She looked around seeing her home burned to the ground.


    ¡°Who are they?¡±


    ¡°They are from¡­ The Cult.¡±


    ¡°Cult?¡±


    Kaede looked around at the other men who were cloaked.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you more later just save as many people as you can Leave the attackers to me.¡±


    She nodded and ran towards the next building Kaede followed behind.


    2


    ¡°So what exactly did Kaede run off to do he seemed in a hurry?¡±


    Hikaru and Marx were still in the front of the carriage steering it.


    ¡°Who knows all we know is we were assigned this job.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡±


    Suddenly Marx looked up towards the forest ahead it was night time and late at that.


    ¡°Hadlend!¡±


    Hadlend came forward on his horse.


    ¡°Go ahead and scan out the area I have¡­ that feeling.¡±


    ¡°I see¡±


    Hadlend nodded and went ahead.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter.¡±


    Marx had a worried look on his face. He stopped the carriage.


    ¡°Hikaru get inside the carriage with the women I need to use Light of Rendel!¡±


    ¡°Wha-¡±


    Before he could finish his sentence a massive explosion occured in front of them.


    ¡°Hadlend! Hikaru get in!¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡±


    Hikaru leaped down and entered the carriage. The maidens were confused.


    ¡°What are you doing!¡±


    Hikaru got inside but was kneeling at the door ready to jump out if necessary.


    ¡°I was told to get inside for a second. Something is going on.¡±


    ¡°what¡®s happening!¡±


    Kasumi kept pestering Hikaru.


    ¡°Hang on.¡±


    Suddenly a large light appeared it¡¯s light ran through the windows meeting Hikaru¡¯s skin. He fell to the floor in agony.


    ¡°Boy what¡¯s wrong!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my Divine bind a weakness that comes with it.¡±


    He held his stomach in pain. The light died down.


    ¡°We need to go and see. We need to protect our Lady!¡±


    Her and the other Guard women nodded. Lady Hasee was asleep on her seat.


    ¡°No! Just wait were an A rank party trust Marx!¡±


    The lead woman Kasumi had an anxious look but eventually she gave in taking her seat.


    ¡°Hikaru!¡±


    Marx shouted from outside. Hikaru got out of the Carriage and ran towards Marx who was in front of the carriage a ways there were three men dead next to him.


    ¡°Marx! What happened?!?¡±


    ¡°Attackers seeking the Lady Hasee.¡±


    ¡°Is that all of them?¡±


    ¡°No telling¡­¡±


    Marx looked down at the three cloaked men he saw a sigil on their cloak recognized it and sneered at it.


    ¡°Kaede what¡¯s going on¡­¡±


    He mumbled to himself.


    ¡°The lady Hasee is asleep.¡±


    ¡°Good I don¡¯t want to worry her.¡±


    Marx looked off into the forest.


    ¡°Light of Rendel: Illumination!¡±


    A light flew from Marx¡¯s hand lighting up the forest. Hikaru felt a bit queasy but it wasn¡¯t as painful.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry this is Minor light magic it may make you feel uncomfortable but not in pain.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ where are the others?¡±


    ¡°I sent them ahead to find Hadlend.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    What¡¯s going on¡­ who are these men. I wonder what¡¯s really going on Marx seems to know something but Pestering might not be a good Idea.


    ¡°Hikaru.¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°I want you to stay inside the carriage for a while just until we reach the next town if I use a more powerful Light spell of mine it could seriously damage you.¡±


    ¡°Alright¡­ be careful¡±


    ¡°I will¡±


    The others came back carrying Hadlend. He was injured Marx motioned Hikaru to go inside the carriage.


    ¡°Wait! Take Hadlend.¡±


    Marx picked up Hadlend from one of the horses and gave him to Hikaru who carried him into the carriage.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Kasumi wanted answers when she saw one of the men injured.


    ¡°We¡¯re safe for now just leave it to Marx.¡±


    Kasumi clenched her fist but sat back.


    ¡°Do any of you know healing magic?¡±Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!


    ¡°I do.¡±


    One of the women sat up and kneeled over by Hadlend.


    ¡°Spirit of Healing: Astos!¡±


    Her incantation caused a circle light of mana to ignite around her hands and it began healing Hadlend.


    ¡°So Hikaru is your name?¡±


    Kasumi asked Hikaru looking at him dead on. Giving Hikaru a creepy feeling.


    ¡°Yeah, Hikaru Yume.¡±


    ¡°Are you from Mythreign also?¡±


    I guess that¡¯s where their from we look the same so that¡¯s a fair deduction.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I see where then. I ask because you look like your native to Mythreign like we are.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m from a distant land¡­ Japan.¡±


    ¡°Never heard of it.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, not many have.¡±


    After all only me and Crux know really I have no clue who else is or could be from or know about my world.


    Hikaru sat back on the floor closing his eyes.


    ¡°So Hikaru how long you been an Adventurer?¡±


    ¡°Just started.¡±


    ¡°Ah, I see¡±


    Kasumi looked at Hikaru with Interest wanting to know more about the strange boy.


    ¡°Why do you ask?¡±


    ¡°You give off an odd feeling¡­ a dark feeling.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I know.¡±


    ¡°Why is that.¡±


    ¡°I.. am bound to the Eye of the Forest Crux.¡±


    There was a silence then a very loud all around.


    ¡°WHAT!¡±


    The Lady Hasee turned over.


    ¡°Quiet down!¡±


    Kasumi ordered the woman all relaxed.


    ¡°The Eye of the Forest of Despair!¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s what it¡¯s called?¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t know?!?¡±


    ¡°Like I said I¡¯m not from around here.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know.¡±


    Kasumi looked out the window behind Hikaru. It was pitch black with a small bit of light caused from Marx¡¯s light he launched with his spell. The carriage began moving again.


    ¡°Well I guess were in the clear now?¡±


    ¡°Hikaru.¡±


    Marx called out. He was steering the carriage and the others were close behind.


    ¡°Yeah!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re in the clear but keep your wits about you.¡±


    ¡°Of course¡±


    Hikaru sat there with his eyes closed. Kasumi and the other women all we¡¯re anxious but sat back trusting their A rank companions. Hadlend was still being healed and the Lady Hasee was still asleep.


    3


    Kaede Kraftlawe was sitting on the tavern porch just like that night when they were in Gagdred previously but the building was ashes along with the rest of the town. The sun had risen and it was day. Several bodies of Cultists lay around on the ground.


    ¡°Stupid cultists¡­¡±


    ¡°Kaede!¡±


    Malissia Greyhound was walking uo to him from the rubble that was the bar.


    ¡°Malissia, how can I help?¡±


    ¡°No, I want to thank you because of you we saved well over half of our townspeople. Although the village was burned.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, no problem.¡±


    Kaede had a look of anxiety hand hate on his face. Malissia saw this and took a hint.


    ¡°If you need anything just ask we have moved to a stronghold nearby you¡¯ve been there before just ask and we¡¯ll help.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    Kaede rubbed his eyes and started walking into the forest Malissia turned and saw this.


    ¡°I wonder¡­ what could be going through your mind, Kaede Kraftlawe¡­¡±


    Kaede was walking into the forest and suddenly a branch snapped behind him.


    ¡°Varro?¡±


    ¡°Correct!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the news?¡±


    ¡°The Cult has upped the bounty on your head! You¡¯re now the second highest bounty on their list!¡±


    Kaede smiled and turned to Varro.


    ¡°So who¡¯s the first?¡±


    ¡°No clue¡­ they have no Image just a name¡­ Sylzarro.¡±


    This name sent shivers down Kaede¡¯s spine. He was shocked to hear that name. He looked down in thought.


    ¡°Sylzarro the Last Blade of the Elves! I thought he was dead!¡±


    ¡°No I guess he is still very alive.¡±


    ¡°Hard to beat that bounty.¡±


    Kaede turned back to the forest. Looked forward and pulled out the medallion from his bag.


    ¡°Any word on Marx and the others?¡±


    ¡°They have reached their destination and are now basking in the treasures of the Hasee Land, hehehe¡±


    Kaede smiled and laughed.


    ¡°Good, any trouble on the road?¡±


    ¡°I heard they ran into three cultists.¡±


    Kaede¡¯s expression turned once more to anger.


    ¡°Anyone Injured?¡±


    ¡°No clue. But I know that the Lady Hasee made it safe and sound so that¡¯s good new for you.¡±


    ¡°Indeed.¡±


    4


    ¡°Marx, who were those men that attacked us?¡±


    ¡°No clue.¡±


    He¡¯s hiding something¡­


    ¡°I see.¡±


    The group made it through the long journey and came to a farm with a giant manor upon it. Hikaru at some point moved back to the front with Marx. Kasumi and the women sat with Lady Hasee and the men rode on horses behind Hadlend was inside with the Lady.


    ¡°We¡¯re here I assume?¡±


    ¡°Yes. alert the women.¡±


    Hikaru opened the window behind them and looked inside the carriage.


    ¡°Hey, we¡¯re here.¡±


    The women all perked up.


    ¡°Lady Hasee we are home.¡±


    The carriage stopped at the manor and the women got out. Hadland sat in the carriage looking on his failure in the forest.


    ¡°Thank you good sir¡¯s¡±


    Lady Hasee stood silent. Kasumi thanked them.


    ¡°We have food inside the Lady has invited you to her table will you accept?¡±


    ¡°I apologiz-¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    Marx looked at Hikaru surprised.


    ¡°Boy, you don¡¯t get to decide that!¡±


    ¡°Come on, the men, especially Hadlend are still weary from last night we could use the rest and meal.¡±


    Checkmate.


    ¡°Fine, we accept.¡±


    ¡°Excellent! We shall show you to the guest rooms.¡±


    Kasumi invited them inside and showed them to their rooms as the other women led Lady Hasee to her quarters. The mansion was big and full of Marble statue art. Kasumi was leading the two men to their rooms the others stayed outside taking care of the luggage. Kasumi stopped at the end of the hallway.


    ¡°Here it is. You¡¯re room.¡±


    ¡°Thank you Lady¡­?


    ¡°Lady Kasumi guard of the Hasee families daughter.¡±


    ¡°Thank you Lady Kasumi.¡±


    Hikaru smiled at Kasumi. She left them to their room and went to attend to Lady Hasee. Marx and Hikaru entered the room it was massive there were five beds a living room and a balcony overlooking the farmland. Which spread for miles with forest surrounding it


    ¡°Wow, nice room.¡±


    ¡°Hikaru.¡±


    ¡°Yeah Marx?¡±


    ¡°I want you to know I¡¯m hiding the answers from you for a reason¡­ to protect you.¡±


    I see he noticed I suspected something.


    ¡°It¡¯s all good¡±


    Hikaru patted Marx¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°I trust you Marx.¡±


    ¡°You really are good man, Hikaru Yume.¡±


    5


    The night had come and the table was set a large feast laid upon the table. Sitting at the table were 10 men of importance and 3 women sitting next to them.


    ¡°Alright, I would like you introduce you to the Great group of men who safely brought you your daughter Lord Hasee.¡±


    A man standing at the door bowed introducing the group. Sitting at the opposite head of the table was Lord Hasee a giant man with a great beard and he had no hair. Beside him on his right was Lady Hasee His wife and on his other side Lady Hasee his daughter.


    The others at the table were military men and nobles and ofcourse Kasumi. Who sat next to another big man with long black hair just like hers. And he wore a long black jacket.


    ¡°Bring them in.¡±


    Lord Hasee commanded then the man stood and signaled two soldiers who were standing at the door.


    ¡°I present the Kraftlawe party.¡±


    The doors opened and the party stepped in wearing their gear still as they had no change of clothes. This shocked many of the important people at the table.


    ¡°I assume we were supposed to dress like that.¡±


    Hikaru whispered to Sato who let out a small laugh. Everyone at the table was dressed up to the max. All except the big man next to Kasumi.


    ¡°Ha, I see like minded adventurers!¡±


    The big man in the jacket spoke his voice deep and coarse. Kasumi hid her face in embarrassment.


    ¡°I am Marx Charlin Vice Captain of our party. Native to Lucienda East.¡±


    ¡°I am Hikaru Yume rookie adventurer. From Japan¡±


    When Hikaru spoke the man paid close attention with a smile. Kasumi smiled when he spoke.


    ¡°I am Sato Nazaro. Native to Mythreign.¡±


    ¡°I am Hadlend Kano. Native to Southcrest.¡±


    ¡°I am Diavelei Churno. Native to Italano.¡±


    ¡°I am Kniveson K. Native to Lucienda South.¡±


    The people sitting looked upon them with disgust all except for Lord Hasee and Lady Hasee and of course The Giant man and Kasumi.


    ¡°I see a Vice Captain where is your true captain?¡±


    ¡°I regret to say he is not with us currently.¡±


    ¡°How unfortunate. Come and sit with us!¡±


    Lord Hasee invited the men to sit which they did they sat at the opposite end of the table with Marx at the opposite head.


    ¡°So tell me was there any trouble on the road?¡±


    ¡°Nothing we couldn¡¯t handle.¡±


    The Lord smirked.


    ¡°I see. You are strong.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°So Hikaru Yume!¡±


    The Giant man chimed in.


    ¡°What nation are you from again?¡±


    He wore a smile resembling Crux Hikaru hated it.


    ¡°Japan it¡¯s a far away land I assume you haven¡¯t heard of it.¡±


    ¡°No I have not. You look like your Native to Mythreign like that Sato fellow.¡±


    ¡°I am not, Sorry.¡±


    The big man studied Hikaru he received an elbow from Lady Kasumi who was sitting beside him.


    ¡°Now let us feast!¡±


    The man said the others at the table gave him a nasty stare.


    Clearly they don¡¯t approve¡­


    ¡°Yes I agree!¡±


    The Lord Hasee spoke and several men with platters of Meat, Soups, Veggies and more walked in setting the platters about the table.


    ¡°Delicious!¡±


    The adventurers stared at the food. The Lord and the Big man smiled.


    ¡°Dig In!¡±


    The people at the table began to take and eat. There were many dishes there unfamiliar to Hikaru. Hikaru put his hands together remembering the dinners he ate with his aunt.


    Lord, Bless this food to our bodies and give us the strength to make it through the trials awaiting. Protect us and¡­ protect my Aunt¡­


    Hikaru wasn¡¯t all that religious but his Aunt was and he cared for her and his Uncle. So he did this to never forget them in this new land.


    ¡°What are you doing!¡±


    Sato whispered over to Hikaru.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Do you know where we are!¡±


    Hikaru looked around all eyes were on him.


    Not very religious I take it¡­


    ¡°Japan huh?¡±


    The big man said with a smile. The others all had looks of disgust on their face. All except the Lord and His family and the Big man and Kasumi.


    ¡°Have I done something?¡±


    Hikaru whispered to Sato who sighed remembering Hikaru was new to this land. Sato and Hikaru had become quite close in their journeys so had Hikaru and Marx. the men in Kaedes party were all ranging from 17 - 30.


    ¡°This country is Constalageous they worship the star gods. And that prayer stance is not welcomed.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°My lord do you see these men are barbarians from the Elder religions!¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡±


    The Lord''s voice echoed through the halls of the Manor.


    ¡°They are our guests! They aren¡¯t all from here some of them were bound to be different. They protected my daughter so I am bound to reward them! Enough of this pointless debate!¡±


    I see some form of Christianity or something exists here as well¡­? Interesting. I wonder if they worship stars are they Greek? Roman?


    ¡°Continue to eat my Guests forgive my foolish company!¡±


    They all ate and there was silence but that was quickly changed by the laugh of a man. A big man.


    ¡°Hahahaha! Silence at a feast how dumb!¡±


    ¡°Father! Enough!¡±


    Kasumi hit the man.


    Father! I see that man is her father. I assumed something of the sort. Too old to be her husband but who knows maybe she¡¯s into that stuff.


    ¡°For instance we haven¡¯t even introduced ourselves yet. I figure you know Lord Hasee?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Marx answered for the group. Lord Hasee smiled at the odd behavior of the man. Lord Hasee acted mature but in reality¡­


    ¡°Your outbursts always make me laugh friend! Shall we continue our fight after dinner!¡±


    Lord Hasee was as a child. His wife Lady Hasee elbowed him. He coughed into his hand and suddenly returned to his original ¡°Mature state¡± with sweat beads on his face.


    Well I can see where the power in this relationship is.


    The Big man opened his mouth.


    ¡°I am Kago Miyata! This is my Lovely daughter Kasumi Miyata!¡±


    He said this wrapping his arms around his daughter. Needless to say he received an elbow.


    ¡°Foolish old man.¡±


    After recovering from the elbow he opened his mouth again.


    ¡°These ungrateful Jerks are Nobles from this land.¡±


    The nobles looked at Kago with hate and bitterness but he remained unaffected.


    ¡°I am Leader of the Guard of Lord Hasee also his Cousin!¡±


    That explains the casual wear and behavior.


    ¡°So tell me what is the greatest beast you have ever come face to face with!¡±


    ¡°Hikaru.¡±


    Marx looked at Hikaru who turned to him. Marx shook his head causing suspicion to befall Kago.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Lies!¡±


    Marx gave Kago a look that sent him retreating into a shell. Retreating behind his daughter which made her more than a little angry.


    ¡°Just a softie,¡± Marx said to himself


    ¡°Says you.¡±


    Hikaru commented obviously referring to Gagdred. Marx instantly gave Hikaru a look that made him regret that statement.


    ¡°Sorry.¡±


    Sato laughed so did the other adventurers. Kago spoke again.


    ¡°So Marx is it.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°As in Marx who had the great Light of Rendel?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°How interesting a Divine Bind user not contracted to the government!¡±


    ¡°I find that kind of work annoying and repulsive.¡±


    ¡°Ha, me too!¡±


    Bind users work for the government?


    The men smiled and then back to the awkward silence.


    ¡°Feel free my guests to stay as long as you would like!¡±


    ¡°I thank you for your kindness my lord.¡±


    The Nobles all gave glances towards the group.


    ¡°But I really think we should get on the road sooner than later.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­¡±


    Kasumi opened her mouth as if she wanted to speak but didn¡¯t.


    ¡°What is it my Daughter?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡±


    Marx noted her behavior and Linked it to Hikaru. When he did he smiled.


    ¡°Oh, I see¡±


    He shot over a look at Hikaru smiling. All it did was leave Hikaru confused. They finished eating and all went there separate ways back to their rooms.


    6


    The morning came and the forest was full of fog. Kaede Kraftlawe looked at the sun while eating his breakfast.


    ¡°Kraftlawe.¡±


    Varro came out from the forest.


    ¡°So you were watching me sleep? Creep.¡±


    ¡°Not at all I was in Gagdred assisting the people.¡±


    Kaede took a sip of his soup then turned to Varro.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Hikaru Yume.¡±


    Kaede sighed and looked up to the sky.


    ¡°You must get rid of him some way if you want to protect him.¡±


    ¡°He has potential.¡±


    ¡°But you know as well as I if he stays with you¡­ he will die.¡±


    Kaede looked back at Varro. Who was still wearing that mask and cloak.


    ¡°I have a feeling that whatever brought him to this world will find a way to protect Hikaru by removing him from your party.¡±


    ¡°I see so the Great Kraftlawe yields to fate.¡±


    ¡°You noticed it too right? Hikarus Mana¡­ it¡¯s like his¡­¡±


    ¡°I did.¡±


    ¡°This is the only time, I¡¯ll yeild to that twisted Ideal¡­ fate.¡±


    7


    The sun rose in the morning flowing through the room of adventurers.


    ¡°Hmm¡±


    Hikaru¡¯s eyes opened slowly as the light came into the room. He rose up and looked around.


    ¡°Finally Awake.¡±


    He noticed everyone else was already up and were sitting on the couches.


    ¡°Must have slept in after that delicious meal!¡±


    Hikaru got out of bed he grabbed his cloak which was laid beside his bed. Along with his bag and sword.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Hikaru heard yelling outside it was children''s voices.


    ¡°What¡¯s all that commotion?¡±


    Hikaru walked over onto the balcony of their room overlooking the farmland behind the manor.


    ¡°Kids just being kids¡­¡±


    He saw three children running around the fields and immediately thought of Natsumi.


    ¡°Hikaru come sit down. We must discuss our next plan of action.¡±


    ¡°oh?¡±


    Hikaru took a seat next to Marx and Sato. Sato had a map placed on the table and next to it a ton of research notes.


    ¡°What are those?¡±


    Hikaru pointed to the notes.


    ¡°Ah, those are notes from Kaedes journal on the land known as Jailors Keep.¡±


    ¡°Jailors Keep?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a place next to Lucienda an Island where dangerous prisoners go.¡±


    Hikaru reached for the notes but his hand was blocked by Marx.


    ¡°Hikaru, sit back.¡±


    Marx had a worried look on his face.


    ¡°Hikaru, we received a letter from Kaede this morning.¡±


    ¡°How is he?¡±


    They seem worried.


    ¡°He is good. He sent us a letter of what we should do next and based on his Letter we have decided something.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah?¡±


    ¡°Listen Hikaru¡­ we all joined Kaede for a reason we all have our vision set on a goal and we don¡¯t want to drag you into it.¡±


    ¡°So your leaving me¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am sorry.¡±


    Hikaru looked out the window. All the men had a guilty look yet fulfilled look as if they were content with their ruling.


    ¡°Hikaru I spoke with Lord Hasee¡¯s Cousin this morning and it must be fate.¡±


    Hikaru perked up. Looking over at Marx.


    ¡°What is it.¡±


    ¡°He would like to add you to the Hasee security detail.¡±


    ¡°A job?¡±


    ¡°Listen to me Hikaru¡­ Listen good.¡±


    Hikaru knew they had their reasons he had gotten to know them pretty well in recent weeks.


    ¡°Stay here take the job. Work for a little while and set out on your own and form a party.¡±


    They all had their eyes closed. They still had that guilty conscience.


    ¡°Marx¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I will¡­ and¡­ Thank you¡­¡±


    Marx let out a sigh of relief.


    ¡°I know I just showed up out of nowhere and ruined Kaedes dream of gaining his Divine Bind and you still took me in. trained me and protected me. I don¡¯t know your reasons¡­¡±


    Hikaru looked at Marx who had opened his eyes and looked back.


    ¡°But I trust you¡­ friend.¡±


    Suddenly Marx had a memory appear in his mind of a young boy patting his shoulder the boy was covered in Scars. ¡°I trust you¡­ Friend!¡± the boy was young and had short red hair. Marx began to tear up.


    ¡°Hikaru¡­ we will come to find you one day. We will reunite.¡±


    Hikaru patted Marx¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°I know. This I promise you I will become strong and then I¡¯ll come and find you. I¡¯m also gonna have the strongest party and we can drink and tell our tales to each other!¡±


    ¡°Indeed¡±


    Sato pitched in. the group all sat there in silence and reminisced on their time together. Time spent fighting, training, and drinking.


    ¡°I¡¯ll join the Security detail and when I¡¯m ready I¡¯ll leave and start my own journey.¡±


    ¡°Then it¡¯s settled we leave tonight.¡±


    Marx wiped away his tears. Sato stood up and looked down at Hikaru.


    ¡°Been a good run, Hikaru Yume.¡±


    Hikaru nodded. For the first time in weeks, he was once again alone in another world¡­