TALES OF THE DEMON HERO

XXI. ‘New Visitors’

XXI.

‘New Visitors’

Previously on ‘Tale of the Demon Hero’: That afternoon, the Hamasaki Twins woke up inside their respective cell rooms. Kazuki met ‘Ches’, ‘Niel’ whispered something to Mayumi and Kenji met ‘Sielo’ and ‘Ceila’. ‘Ryo’, ‘Ki’ & ‘Mi’ managed to rescue Rai from Van. The ‘Six Fugitives’ were summoned to the Court Room when Mr. Anthony arrived along with Mrs. Mai’s henchmen and Rai. Rai went mad and summoned the ‘Black Hounds’, asking them to send her message to Queen Faeya. Seven shooting stars were seen in the Earth’s night sky after that.

“The Prince and ‘Princess’

Lives happily ever after?

Wondering what happened

To the ‘Witch’?

The ‘Witch’ saves herself.”

That afternoon,

Back in the ‘Ryushizaki Town’…

Shouta was running in the Main Highway, trying to chase Hiiro’s delivery van.

“Your highness! Please wait for me.” Maki shouted out as he was peddling the bicycle, chasing Shouta.

“Damn it! Maki, hurry! The delivery van is just three cars ahead of us.” Shouta said as he stopped from running in the side walk, waiting for Maki.

Few minutes later, Maki arrived on the side walk.

“Now, I know why you didn’t join in any of our running marathons back in the Kingdom. You’re way too fast!” Maki said as he complained to Shouta.

“Uh? Well, we, ‘Iytherians’ are natural born runners. We’re specifically trained to run fast to qualify for the ‘Annual Faery Hunt’. Anyway, you’re way too slow!” Shouta said as he complained to Maki.

“I’m not. I already stole this bicycle just to caught up with you and I’m still slow? You got to be kidding me!” Maki said as he tells Shouta.

“Fine. Now, you’re here let’s go chase that deliver truck.” Shouta said as he ran away.

“Y-Your Highness? Where are you – Ah! Please for me!” Maki said as he started peddling the bicycle, chasing Shouta on the Main highway again.

Along the Main Highway…

“Thank goodness! These motor vehicles stopped thanks to that – Uh? Ah, now I remember! Lady Boss said when the red light appears I should use the brakes to stop the truck before the pedestrian lane and wait to change it into green light again.” Shouta said as he was running  on the road, passing by each motor vehicle.

“Hey – This is the Main Highway! Are you mad?” Mr. Bus Driver said as he saw Shouta passed beside his passenger mini-bus.

“Sorry! Uh? Humans are really weird.” Shouta said as he sighed and suddenly jumped onto a car’s roof.

Shouta started jumping onto a car’s roof to the other while Maki is behind him, still peddling his bicycle.

“Y-Your highness! P-Please wait for me. Ah! I cannot do this anymore.” Maki said as growled and hit the brakes.

Maki stopped beside the same mini-bus earlier.

“Hey. Was that your friend?” Mr. Bus Driver said as he asked Maki.

“Y-Yes! I’m trying to chase him at this moment and I’m doing it by foot. I’m really sorry!” Maki said as he dropped the bicycle on the road and started running away.

“Hey – Where are you going? Uh?” Mr. Bus Driver said as he and his seven passengers looked outside the window.

“Now, there are two delivery trucks in front of me. Which trunk is it?” Shouta said he stopped jumping on taxi cab’s roof.

“Hey – What the heck? Get off my taxi!” Mr. Taxi Driver angrily said as he shouted back at Shouta.

“Damn ‘Royal Sleuth’! Where the hell is he? Maki, come forth!” Shouta said as he turned around, looking for Maki.

“I’ve arrived, your highness!” Maki said as he shouted back and then jumped onto the same taxi cab.

“Hey – What the heck?! I said get off my taxi!” Mr. Taxi Driver angrily said as he shouted back at Shouta and Maki.

“From what I’ve saw, the trunk’s plate number was ‘C-H-E-1-7-0-8’. Ah! There it is!” Maki said as he found the delivery trunk.

Shouta and Maki both jumped away and safely landed on the 2nd delivery trunk’s roof.

“W-Wait! What is happening?” Maki said as he and Shouta slipped down on the roof.

“This trunk is moving. Wait! The lights turned green!? Damn you, strange three-colored lamppost!” Shouta said as he shouted back at the traffic lights above him.

“Humans call that lamppost as a ‘traffic light’, your highness!” Maki said as the 2nd delivery truck starts to move away.

“I don’t care! Hey! Mr. Truck Driver, please stop this trunk immediately – Eh!?” Shouta said as he slid down onto the trunk and started knocking on the window.

“W-What!? What the hell? Where did you came from?” Mr. Truck Driver exclaimed as he hit the brakes and stopped.

The 2nd delivery truck suddenly stopped and Maki rolled and fell off the truck.

On the middle of the road…

“Ow-Ouch…Damn it! This truck suddenly stopped – Your highness!? Eh?” Maki said as he stood up, searching for Shouta.

“Hey – Are you two mad?! Eh? H-How is he doing that?” Mr. Truck Driver angrily said as he went out of his truck and looked up.

“Phew! That was close. Eh? What’s with that look, Maki?” Shouta said as he was floating up in the air and asked Maki.

“What? You can also use your ‘Air-Alementalian’ magic in here?” Maki exclaimed as he wondered.

Shouta started walking while floating above them.

“Uh? Yes. It seems that I can use my – Eh?! Ah!” Shouta said as his ‘Alementalian’ Magic deactivates and fell on the ground.

“Your highness, are you alright?” Maki said as he approached and asked Shouta.

“Yes. But my ‘Alementalian’ Magic wouldn’t last even for five minutes in this polluted planet. Anyway, where’s the truck?” Shouta said as he stood up and asked Maki.

“Hey, you’re blocking the road!” The other drivers said as they started honking their cars, trucks, buses and tricycles.

“I’m sorry! Now, look what have you done? Eh? Are you even listening to me?” Mr. Truck Driver angrily said as he asked Shouta and Maki.

“Maki! We got the wrong truck.” Shouta angrily said as he shouted back at Maki

“I’m sorry! Ah! That truck’s plate number was ‘C-H-E-1-7-8-0’.” Maki said as he apologized to Shouta.

“Ma-ki!? Damn it! In behalf of my stupid friend, I truly apologize for the delay.” Shouta said as he and Maki apologies to Mr. Truck Driver and to the other drivers.

“I found that truck. This way, your highness.” Maki said as he dragged Shouta and both ran away.

Shouta and Maki passed by the 1st delivery truck which is parked at the sidelines.

On the sidelines…

“Uh? Good afternoon, Mr. Paul.” Hiiro nervously said as he went out of the driver’s seat.

“Plate number: ‘C-H-E-7-1-8-0’. There. Here’s your violation ticket, Hiiro.” Mr. Paul, the police officer said as he tore off the ticket and gave it to Hiiro.

“Uh? Another violation? I’m sorry. When I looked at the right, side mirror I saw a ‘Water Puppet’ running beside the truck and I got distracted.” Hiiro said as he explained what happened.

“Young man, you should hit the brakes and stop before the pedestrian way and look at the traffic lights.” Mr. Paul said as he pats Hiiro head with the ticketing sheet.

“Oh, so that three-colored lamppost is called a ‘traffic light’? I understand. I apologize Mr. Traffic Light.” Hiiro said as he apologizes to the traffic light.

“Listen to me, when that lamppost is on red light it means that you have to stop, the yellow light means to wait and lastly the green light means you’re good to go. Understand?” Mr. Paul said as he teaches Hiiro how to use the traffic lights.

“Oh? I see. Note. Thank you very much, Mr. Paul.” Hiiro said as he carefully wrote down those notes on this right hand.

“This is the third violation ticket that I gave you so please take good care of those notes. Your driving skills reminds of that obstinate guy.” Mr. Paul said as he sighed and crossed his arms.

“Obstinate guy? May I ask who are you referring to?” Hiiro said as he wondered.

“His name was Shouta Motoumiya. Last week, I apprehended him for violating three traffic rules and for reckless driving. I bet Sir Boss finally reprimanded that guy.” Mr. Paul said as he tells Hiiro.

“Shouta? So, he’s alive huh?” Hiiro said as he sighed and crossed his arms.

“Until now, my back hurts because I stayed up all night that week just to finish those written reports.” Mr. Paul said as he began sulking on the ground.

“Uh? I just hope that you’ll never meet that guy again.” Hiiro said as he approached Mr. Paul, trying to console him.

“Thank you very much, Hiiro. Anyway, give that ticket to your boss and put the seatbelts on your little sister.” Mr. Paul said as he reminded to Hiiro.

“Seatbelts?” Hiiro said as he wondered.

“Okay. Follow me and I’ll show you.” Mr. Paul said as he and Hiiro walked around to the passenger’s seat.

Mr. Paul demonstrated to Hiiro on how to put the seatbelts on while driving and also taught him on how to turn on the radio.

Few minutes later, Hiiro drove away and the delivery truck left.

That night

While traveling on the road…

Harue slowly woke up beside Hiiro.

“Uh? Good evening? Eh? It’s already evening.” Harue said as she looked outside the window.

“Good evening, my little sister.” Hiiro cheerfully said as he tousled Harue’s hair.

“So, we’re going back to the farm.” Harue said as she asked her big brother.

“Yes. Ms. Lady Boss is probably waiting for us back there.” Hiiro said as he continues to drive.

“Oh, okay.” Harue sadly said as sighed.

“Uh? Okay. What’s wrong?” Hiiro said as he asked Harue.

“Uh!? N-Nothing… I-I’m just homesick. I missed everyone back in the Kingdom.” Harue sadly said as she tells Hiiro.

“Me too. I wonder if Yuki doing well back there.” Hiiro said as he continues to drive.

“Of course, big brother Yuki will do anything to get us back in the Kingdom.” Harue said as she looked at Hiiro.

“Really? Ah, yes! I almost forgot. Sir Boss, the owner of the ‘Fruit’s shop asked me to give you this.” Hiiro said as he took the cola can and gave it to Harue.

“W-What is this?” Harue said as she examined the cola can.

“That’s a drink – Uh? Specifically, a cola. That’s what he said.” Hiiro said as he continues to drive.

“Cola huh? That’s a weird name for a drink. Anyway, I’ll drink this.” Harue said as she started shaking the cola can.

“N-No! Harue, please stop. Don’t shake it.” Hiiro said as he tried to stop Harue but it was too late.

Harue opened the can and it exploded right onto her face.

“Harue? Are you alright?” Hiiro said as he asked Harue.

“W-What was that?! What kind of explosive is this?!” Harue exclaimed as she got angry and crushed the can using her hands.

“Hahaha! I did the same thing earlier. I forgot to ask Mr. Sir Boss on how to open that can.” Hiiro said as he took out his handkerchief and gave it to Harue.

“Thank you, big brother. Eh? Big brother, look! That’s the three-colored lamppost that we’ve met this morning.” Harue said as she saw a traffic light at the end of the road.

“Oh? I see. Wait! From green light it turned yellow and then red. Mr. Paul told me something about this. Let’s try this.” Hiiro said as he gently hit the brakes.

Hiiro’s delivery truck managed to stop on time before it crosses the pedestrian lane.

“Phew! That was close.” Hiiro said as he wiped off his sweat.

“So, we need to stop when the red lights are on? That’s strange.” Harue said as she wondered.

“Yes. This unknown world has strange traffic rules like that.” Hiiro said as he looked at Harue.

“This is really a strange world.” Harue said as she started combing her disheveled hair.

“Oh! Look, it is green again. I think we’re good to go.” Hiiro said as he carefully drives away.

Back on the road…

“Uh? Big brother? Look at the night sky.” Harue said as she opened the windows and looked up in the sky.

“Harue, I’m sorry but I can’t do that. I’m driving at the moment so please tell me what you saw.” Hiiro said as he continues drive.

“Five, six and seven…I think I saw seven shooting stars tonight.” Harue said as she gently closed the window.

Hiiro smirked as he continues to drive.

Back in ‘Ryushizaki Town’

In the Police Station…

Sir Boss arrives inside the police station, looking for Mr. Paul.

“Good evening, Sir. Mr. Paul, you have a visitor.” Ms. Receptionist said as she welcomed Sir Boss and called out Mr. Paul.

“Thank you very much! Good evening, Sir Boss. This way please.” Mr. Paul said as he and Sir Boss walked out of the main office.

Mr. Paul and Sir Boss went to the detention rooms to visit Shouta and Maki.

While walking on the Hallway…

“Uh? Sir Paul, what have they done this time?” Sir Boss said as he asked Mr. Paul.

“Please call me ‘Mr. Paul’, Sir. We’re received phone calls that these two idiots were dangerously jumping on each vehicle while being stuck in the traffic. Maki also stole a bike outside a convenience store and allegedly used it to chase Shouta.” Mr. Paul said as he and Sir Boss arrived outside the second jail room.

“Eh!? You really came?” Shouta exclaimed as he and Maki saw Sir Boss.

“G-Good evening, Sir Boss.” Maki shyly said as he greeted Sir Boss.

“Good evening, Shouta and Maki. This is the four time that I am going to bail you out of this jail room.” Sir Boss said as he smiled back at Shouta and Maki.

“W-We know. Thank you very much!” Maki said as he nudged Shouta’s right shoulder.

“Thank you.” Shouta shyly said as he scratched his head.

“No. You don’t have to do that Mr. Sir Boss. Let’s make a deal.” Mr. Paul said as he looked at Shouta and Maki.

“Eh? I’m listening.” Shouta said as he got curious.

“You see, for two years we’ve trying to pin down this hostile Gangsters creating havoc in this town. Help us catch their ‘g**g Boss’ and I, on the other hand, will personally bail both of you out of here and delete all of your violation records.” Mr. Paul said as he tells Shouta and Maki.

“Hostile Gangsters huh? No. I politely refuse.” Shouta said as he lies down on the floor, picking his nose.

“What!?” Mr. Paul, Sir Boss and Maki shouted out, surprised from Shouta’s response.

“Your highness, please listen to me – honestly, can you please stop doing that?!” Maki said as he rolled over Shouta onto his side.

“What? I really don’t want to deal with Naoki and his g**g members.” Shouta softly said as he tells Maki.

“Me too. But, imagine this. If we agreed to his proposition, you’ll have the chance to wander around and silently search for Hiiro’s whereabouts. We can also use this chance to find the exact location of the ‘Rusty Gate’ and destroy it, stopping the ‘Collision Prophecy.’” Maki softly said as he suggested to Shouta.

“Hm? Interesting. Indeed, that was our main objective but what if he is lying to us?” Shouta softly said as he asked Maki.

“I wonder what these two idiots were talking about.” Sir Boss said as he wondered.

“I still have work to do so please hurry.” Mr. Paul said as he stares at Shouta and Maki.

“Thank you for waiting. We’ve finally made a decision.” Shouta said as he stood up and dusted off his shirt.

“Then, what is it?” Mr. Paul said as he and Sir Boss got intrigued.

“We agree with your proposition in one condition.” Shouta seriously said as he crossed his arms.

“Hm? Okay. I’m listening.” Mr. Paul said as he unlocked the cell door.

“I made a promise to Sir Boss that I’ll assist him back in his ‘Fruit’s Shop so I’ll only work for you during weekends. Do we have an accord?” Shouta said as went out of the jail room.

“Accord? Ah, yes! We have a deal.” Mr. Paul said as he and Shouta shook their hands.

“Shouta? You damn brat. You made me cry.” Sir Boss said as he became emotional and wiped off his tears.

“S-Shut up. Hey! Don’t sneeze on my shirt.” Shouta shyly said as he gently pushed Sir Boss away from him.

“Maki, your amazing observation skills will help us find this ‘g**g Boss’ in no time.” Mr. Paul cheerfully said as he tousled Maki’s hair.

“Uh? My strange ‘Common Combination’ Alementalian magic does not work that way but I’m glad to help you.” Maki said as he sighed and scratched his head.

“Now, let’s get out of here. Please follow me.” Mr. Paul said as he walked away, followed by Shouta.

“Ah, Maki. I’ll add your payment for those two spoiled watermelons in your monthly rent which I think will costs you double than your usual room rent.” Sir Boss said as he reminded Maki.

Maki flinched and stopped from walking.

“Maki? Maki! Hey – come back in here. Maki, stop opening that jail room.” Shouta said as he tried to stop Maki.

“I would rather be detained back in this jail room than living with that despicable human.” Maki said as he grabbed the cell door, trying to open it.

“I’ll only let you do that after you give me the full payment.” Sir Boss said as he walked away, followed by Mr. Paul.

“Now, he’s asking for the full payment? That’s just unfair.” Maki said as sobbed on the floor.

“Alright! I’ll pay half of the share for this month so please stand up and let’s leave.” Shouta said as he got annoyed and pulled Maki up the floor.

“Really? You’ll do it? Thank goodness. Now, I don’t have to worry for this month’s rent.” Maki cheerfully said as he smirked back at Shouta.

“Didn’t you hear what I just said? I said half! Only half not all of it. Damn it.” Shouta said as he walked away from Maki.

Outside the Police Station…

“Finally, we’re out.” Shouta said as he stretched out his arms.

“Now, you’ll start working tomorrow and here’s your Long Swords. Can you stop carrying those swords? You’re scaring everyone every time you walk around the town carrying that.” Mr. Paul said as he gave the swords back to Shouta and Maki.

“No. I can’t. I must take good care of this Long Sword.” Shouta said as he took his sword and causally put it back onto its scabbard.

“Your highness? Eh!? Are those my students?” Maki said as he turned around and saw his students wandering along the streets.

“Uh? Teacher Maki is over there!” One of the students said as he and his other two friends saw Maki.

These students ran and approached Maki.

“Uh? Children, it is already past curfew hours. What are you doing in here?” Maki said as he asked his students.

“We decided to meet up in the park do to our star-gazing observations homework.” Student #1 said as he showed his written notes to Maki.

“Ah, yes! But I don’t see any shooting stars tonight.” Maki said as he looked up in the night sky.

“Oh, my! So, these little humans were your prized pupils?” Shouta said as he looked at Maki’s students.

Maki’s students flinched and ran behind him.

“We’re not little. You’re just freaking tall.” Student #2 said as she pouted and crossed her arms.

“Your highness, please stop scaring them.” Maki said as he sighed, consoling his students.

“My apologies. Let me introduce myself. Hello Readers! I am Prince Shouta Motoumiya, the ‘117th former Imperial Ruler of Alementalia’ and the former, official ‘Chief-On-Duty’ of the First ‘Imperial Council’. It is my pleasure to meet all of you.” Shouta cheerfully said as he introduced himself to everyone.

“I wonder where this sparkling background came from. You two, let’s leave.” Sir Boss said as he started walking away.

“Uh, Sir Boss? These two probably don’t know how to get back on your Shop. Sir Boss! Please wait for these two.” Mr. Paul said as he flinched and ran away, chasing Sir Boss.

“Maki’s pupils, I have a proposition to you.” Shouta said as he asked Maki’s students.

Maki’s students looked at each other, wondering what Shouta’s talking about.

“My apologies. Let me rephrase that…May I ask you a question?” Shouta said as he asked Maki’s students.

Maki’s students looked at him and nodded.

“How many shooting stars did you see tonight?” Shouta said as he asked Maki’s students.

“Ah! Based on our observation list, we saw seven shooting stars earlier tonight.” Student #3 said as he took out and read his written notes.

“Seven?! Do you happen to know where they probably landed?” Maki exclaimed said as he asked his students.

“Um? We saw six out of the seven stars descended on those mountains.” Student #3 said as he turned around and looked at the mountain ranges, kilometers away from the town.

“Thank you very much for your cooperation. Maki, let’s go.” Shouta said as he ordered to Maki.

“No! They are my students. It’s already curfew hours so I’ll walk them back to their houses.” Maki said as he insisted to Shouta.

“Fine. I’ll go back to the Shop and rest for the night.” Shouta said as he ran away.

 “Uh? Okay. That’s weird I thought he’s going to nag at me. Anyway, everyone! Please follow me. I’m going to take all of you back you home.” Maki cheerfully said as he tousled his students’ hair.

Maki’s students nodded and started dragging him away.

At the other end                

Of the street…

Mr. Paul and Sir Boss are at the end of the street, waiting for Shouta to arrive.

“Eh? Where’s Maki?” Sir Boss said as he wondered and asked Shouta.

“Maki is making sure that his students are safely back to their homes.” Shouta said as he arrived.

“Then, my apologies but I must get going. I’ve received a report that someone saw two mysterious people making out in the riverbanks back on the ‘Central Metropolis.’” Mr. Paul said as he tells Sir Boss and Shouta.

“Uh? Of course. Thank you very much.” Sir Boss said as Mr. Paul ran away and went back to the Police Station.

“Seven huh? Sir Boss also saw two stars before so – there are nine shooting stars that appeared this week. This is bad. We haven’t found the ‘Rusty Gate’ yet – Uh? Where’s Sir Boss?” Shouta said as wondered and looked around.

“Hey i***t! I’m walking in here. Are you coming or what?” Sir Boss said as he shouted back at Shouta.

“Uh? Please wait for me.” Shouta said as he ran away, chasing Sir Boss.

Outside the ‘Ryushizaki Town’

In a Fruits’ farm…

Lady Boss took her scarf and an old gas lamp and went out of her house.

“It’s already midnight. Where the hell are they?” Mrs. Lady Boss, Sir Boss’ wife, said as she was waiting outside their house.

“Um? Madam, it’s cold out here so please get back inside your house.” Mr. Fruit Farmer #1 said as he got worried to Mrs. Lady Boss.

“Thank you but I’m fine. I’m really worried for those two.” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she gave the gas lamp to Mr. Fruit Farmer #1.

“Then, I’ll just open the entrance gate in case before they arrive.” Mr. Fruit Farmer #1 said as he grabbed the gas lamp and ran to the entrance gates.

Mr. Fruit Farmer carefully opened the gates and stood up, waiting for the truck to arrive.

Few minutes later…

“Madam! I saw a light! The truck is back.” Mr. Fruit Farmer #1 said as he shouted back at Mrs. Lady Boss.

“Are you sure that’s the truck?” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she asked and shouted back to Mr. Fruit Farmer #1.

“Uh? Let me check again…Um? No! I think someone is walking towards the entrance gates.” Mr. Fruit Farmer #1 said as he ran out of the gates and looked closely to Rai.

“Please help…me.” Rai said as she lost her consciousness and fell on the ground.

“Ah! Please help me!” Mr. Fruit Farmer #1 said as he shouted out for help.

Mrs. Lady Boss and the other farm helpers heard his loud cry and immediately ran out of the gates.

“What happened? Are you alright?” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she approached and asked Mr. Fruit Farmer #1.

“Look over there. I-I saw a walking mummy. It approached me while emitting fire on his right hand.” Mr. Fruit Farmer #1 said as he was trembling in fear and mortified from what he saw.

“What the heck are you talking about? This is not a mummy. This is a woman.” Mr. Fruit Farmer #2 said as she kneeled down and looked at Rai.

“A woman? She must be a tourist who left her hiking team and got lost in that cursed mountain ranges. Everyone, please help me bring her to my house.” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she approached Rai.

Mrs. Lady Boss and the other carefully brought Rai to her house and started cleaning her wounds.

10 minutes later…

Hiiro’s delivery trunk has arrived outside the fruit farms.

“Finally! We’re back. I cannot feel my legs.” Hiiro said as he hit the brakes and stretched out his arms.

“We’re late! I already told you not to take that shortcut.” Harue said as she pouted and went out of the truck.

“Hey – I already apologized remember? Please wait for me.” Hiiro said as he went out of the trunk, chasing Harue.

“Eh? What is this? Big Brother, look! There are blood stains on the ground.” Harue said as she kneeled down and looked closely on the ground.

“Indeed. These are blood stains. Wait! I wonder why the lights on Lady Boss’ house is still on.” Hiiro said as he and Harue looked at the house, few meters away from the entrance gates.

“Wait, the gates were left opened, we found some blood stains and the lights were on – Big brother! Something’s wrong. Let’s go!” Harue exclaimed as she and Hiiro ran towards Mrs. Lady Boss’ house.

Outside Mrs. Lady Boss’ House…

Hiiro and Harue silently arrived on the front door and took a peek inside the house.

“I knew it. Those were thieves from the other night. They came back and took Mrs. Lady Boss as their hostage.” Harue softly said she tells Hiiro.

“Hm? Let’s don’t jump into conclusions. But just to be safe, let’s bring some these cleaning materials to defend ourselves.” Hiiro softly said as he suggested to Harue.

Hiiro quietly grabbed the wooden broom stick and gave the dustpan to Harue.

“Eh? I want the broom stick not this.” Harue softly said as she got disappointed.

“Harue, please listen to me. We don’t have time to argue about this. Lady Boss needs our help.” Hiiro softly said as he took a peek inside the house.

“Hm! Okay. Though, I still hate this magical dust collecting thing. Earlier this morning, after I cleaned the front yard, I used this to put the dried leaves inside the garbage bin but because of that 1% uncollected dust particles left on the ground, I got annoyed and stopped cleaning.” Harue softly said as she looked at the dustpan.

“So, that’s why Mrs. Lady Boss got angry at you. Anyway, are you ready?” Hiiro softly said as he asked Harue.

“Yes! Don’t worry, Mrs. Lady Boss. We’ll save you.” Harue said as she looked at Hiiro.

“Okay. On my count… one, two, three! Let’s go!” Hiiro said as he slammed opened the door.

Inside the House…

“Get away from her!” Hiiro and Harue both exclaimed as they went inside the house.

“Oh! Hiiro and Harue, welcome back and please lower down your voice. You’ll disturb our neighbors.” Mrs. Lady Boss softly said as she and the other fruit farmers looked at the Matsuoka Siblings.

“U-Uh? So, you’re not being abducted?” Harue said as she wondered and put the dustpan down on the floor.

“No! Why would you think of that? Hiiro, please put that wooden broom stick down on the floor.” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she requested to Hiiro.

“Uh? Yes. We’re back, Madam. Who’s in the stretcher?” Hiiro said as he put the broom stick down on the floor and wondered.

“Ah, yes. That woman’s probably a tourist who got lost in those cursed mountain ranges. We just finished binding her wounds and I asked them to put her in my room to take some rest.” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she tells Hiiro and Harue.

“Again? I wonder why would those people risk their lives just to get up on that mountain range.” Hiiro said as he put the broom stick down on the floor.

“I’ve heard rumors that there’s a mysterious gate hidden inside those mountain ranges which many believed is a magical portal to another world. They described this world as a land of strange elemental magic and gold.” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she stretched out her arms.

“My big brother was right after all. The ‘Rusty Gate’ does exists in the ‘Human World’.” Harue whispered to herself as she looked at her big brother.

‘’Princess! ‘Princess’!

The ‘Gate’ is here…

Over here.’

“Uh? Who are you? ‘Gate’?” Harue whispered to herself as she turned around and gazed outside the window.

“Just like what was written in Naomi’s letter.” Hiiro said as he sighed.

“Anyway, I bet both of you are tired so go to your rooms and rest well.” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she tousled Hiiro’s hair.

“Y-Yes. Uh? Madam, I’ve met Mr. Paul this afternoon and he gave me another violation ticket.” Hiiro shyly said as he took out the ticket and gave it to Mrs. Lady Boss.

“Again? What did you do this time?” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she grabbed the ticket and asked Hiiro.

“Um? Something about over speeding and crossing while in red light, I guess.” Hiiro nervously said as he chuckled.

“I understand. Let’s discuss this matter tomorrow morning. Harue, go back to your room – Harue?” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she and Hiiro looked at Harue.

Harue was staring outside the window; Hiiro tried to pinched her cheeks but she does not even move an inch.

“Harue, what’s wrong? Eh! She’s being hypnotized but by who?” Hiiro said as he grabbed Harue’s shoulders and started shaking her.

“The ‘Gate’ is over…there… Eh? W-What happened? Big Brother?” Harue said as she snapped out and wondered.

“Huh?! You suddenly froze which scared us. What happened to you?” Hiiro said as he asked Harue.

“I-I don’t know. I heard someone calling me so turned around and I can’t remember what happened next.” Harue said as she hugged Hiiro.

“You’re probably tired so back to your rooms.” Mrs. Lady Boss said as she tousled Harue’s hair.

The Matsuoka Siblings nodded and went upstairs.

On those mountain ranges

Inside the forest…

Kazuki and Kenji landed in the forest and rolled over to the small lake.

“Kenji! Kenji!? Where are you?” Kazuki said as he shouted while being afloat inside the lake.

“I’m here! Don’t worry. I’m fine.” Kenji said as he rose above the water and tap Kazuki’s right shoulder.

“Let’s get out of here.” Kazuki said as Kenji nodded.

In the Lake’s shoreline…

“Finally! We’ve reached the atoll.” Kazuki said as he lazily lies down on the ground.

“This is a lake not the ocean, big brother.” Kenji said as he sat upright beside Kazuki.

“So, what are we going to do? Now, we’re exiled there’s no way we’re getting back to the Kingdom.” Kazuki said as he sat upright beside Kenji.

“Honestly, I don’t know either. We landed in an unknown world that looks like a replica of the Kingdom.” Kenji said as he looked around the surroundings.

“Eh? Really? I cannot sense any kind of elemental magic in here. Though, the water pollution is very evident in that lake.” Kazuki said as he stood up and stretched out his arms.

“Indeed. I just hope that the people living in world will find a way to save and preserve their version of Mother Nature.” Kenji said as he stood up.

“So, do you want to help me clean up this shoreline?” Kazuki said as he asked Kenji.

Kenji nodded and they started cleaning the lake’s shoreline.

Few minutes later…

“I’m done on this part. Eh? Big brother, where are you?” Kenji said as he turned around, searching for Kazuki.

“Kenji! Over here!” Kazuki said as he called out Kenji.

Kenji found Kazuki and approached him.

“Oh, my! You didn’t tell that you have an older, twin brother.” Mr. Fisherman #1 said as he chuckled.

“Uh? Actually, he’s the eldest twin.” Kenji said as he looked at Kazuki.

“Y-yes! Indeed. I am.” Kazuki said as he flinched.

“Is that so? I’m sorry. I thought that you’re the eldest because you’re taller than him.” Mr. Fisherman #1 said as he scratched his head.

“Thank you very much.” Kenji said as he smirked back at Kazuki.

“Kenji?! Stop smirking.” Kazuki shyly said as he pinched Kenji’s cheeks.

“No! I should be the one thanking both of you. Yesterday, some hikers visited this lake and left their garbage in their camping area. I intended to clean them up after I come back from work.” Mr. Fisherman #1 said as he tells the Hamasaki Twins.

“Fishing? At this time of the day? I wonder what time is it.” Kazuki said as he wondered.

“Uh? It’s already 2AM in the morning. I think you should go back to your house and rest.” Mr. Fisherman #1 said as he grabbed the used plastic bags and etc. from Kazuki and Kenji.

“Um? We don’t live around here.” Kenji sadly said as he looked at Kazuki.

“We got exiled from our Kingdom and never to return again.” Kazuki sadly said as he tells Mr. Fisherman #1.

“Exiled? Uh? I’m sorry to hear about that. Ah! How about you stay in my place for a while?” Mr. Fisherman #1 said as he asked the Hamasaki Twins.

“Ah – um? Thank you very much but we politely refuse your kind offer.” Kazuki shyly said as he looked at Kenji.

“No. Not at all. Consider this as your reward for picking up that garbage. Here’s the flashlight. Walk straight ahead inside the forest and you’ll reach my wooden house at the end of that pathway.” Mr. Fisherman #1 said as he gave the flashlight to Kenji.

“But? We cannot possibly – Eh? Sir! where are you going?” Kenji said as Mr. Fisherman #1 ran away.

“I’ll be back by afternoon so please be careful on your way inside that forest.” Mr. Fisherman #1 said as he waved and shouted back at the Hamasaki Twins.

“And there he goes. So, what is this thing?” Kazuki said as he got intrigued while looking at the flashlight.

“I’m sure Sir called this as a flashlight. It is quite different from the wooden torches and gas lamps that we’ve using back in the Kingdom.” Kenji said as he also got intrigued and examined the flashlight.

“Then, how to we turn off this light stick?’ Kazuki said as he wondered.

“Uh? I don’t know either. Wait. Let me try this.” Kenji said as he aimed the flashlight onto Kazuki.

“K-Kenji, what are you doing?” Kazuki said as he flinched and stepped away from Kenji.

“I think if I press this button down…Amazing! The lights were turned off. But what if I slide this button up…Big brother, look! The lights are back! Big brother?’ Kenji exclaimed as he demonstrated on how to turn on/off the flashlight.

“Kenji, stop! Get that thing away from me. That thing is blinding me.” Kazuki exclaimed as he ran away from Kenji.

“Sorry. H-Hey! Big brother, please wait for me.” Kenji said as he also ran away, chasing Kazuki.

Inside the Forest…

The Hamasaki Twins were walking inside the forest; Kenji was carrying the flashlight while Kazuki is walking behind him.

“Are we there yet?” Kazuki said as he yawned and asked Kenji.

“Uh? I think so. Ah! Big brother, look! There’s Sir’s old shack.” Kenji cheerfully said as he found the shack.

“Kazuki. For once, please call me in my first name Kenji.” Kazuki seriously said as he stopped from walking.

“Eh?! But I-I cannot do that. I respect you so much that I cannot even say your name.” Kenji exclaimed said as turned around and looked at Kazuki.

“That light stick is blinding me. Turn it off!” Kazuki said as he complained.

“Oh? My bad. I’m sorry. So, Kazuki, let’s leave then.” Kenji said as he started walking away.

“Okay. Wait! Y-You said my name - Kenji! Please wait for me.” The overjoyed Kazuki said as he ran away, chasing Kazuki.

Meanwhile,

On the other side

Of the forest…

Eito and Emi landed inside the forest and were both entangled up with the vines above the trees.

“W-Where am I?” Emi said as she slowly woke up and wondered.

“Thank goodness your finally awake.” Eito said as he was entangled up with Emi.

“Mr. Eito! Where are we? Why are we all tied up in this tree branch?” Emi exclaimed as she panicked.

“Ms. Emi, please calm down or else the vines will – Eh!? Ahh!” Eito said as he tried to stop Emi but it was too late.

The fragile branch snapped into two; Eito and Emi instantly fell on the ground.

On the ground…

“Ow-Ouch…My back hurts. Ms. Emi? Ms. Emi, where are you?” Eito said as he stood up, searching for Emi.

“Um? Mr. Eito, you’re stepping on my back.” Emi said as she uttered while still on the ground.

“Ms. Emi!? Here, let me help you.” Eito exclaimed as he helped Emi to get up on the ground.

“Thank you.” Emi said as she sighed and dusted off her hooded cape.

“I’m really sorry for what happened.” Eito said as he apologized to Emi.

“No. Don’t worry, I’m fine. Anyway, where are we?” Emi said as she wondered.

“I don’t know. I assume we landed inside a forest and – Uh?” Eito said as he heard a voice talking to him.

‘Look over here.

The ‘Gate’ is here.

Over here!’

“Who’s that?” Eito said as he shouted back inside the forest.

“Who are you talking to, Mr. Eito?” Emi said as she got startled and asked Eito.

“Shut up! Shut up! I’m not one of them. I am not.” Eito said as he got mad and cried on the ground.

“Mr. Eito? Are you alright?” Emi said as she approached Eito.

“Did you not hear that? Is it gone? Have I gone mad as well?” Eito said as he laughs manically.

“Mr. Eito? You must be traumatized from what happened to us. Let’s get out of here.” Emi said as she helped Eito to get up on the ground.

“Get away from me! This is all your fault. We asked you to erase Harue’s memories but you failed. Damn it!” Eito said as he pushed Emi away from her.

“Oh? Now you’re blaming me? I did erase her memories but I’m still amazed that she found the ‘Book of Prophecies’ and found the truth by herself.” Emi said as she crossed her arms.

“W-What? She did what?! Oh no! This is bad. This is bad!” Eito exclaimed as he stepped away from Emi.

“Yes. Harue found that ‘book’ and probably on her way to find the other ‘Two Factors.’ Oh my! The second ‘Factor’ is just standing in front of me – Eh?” Emi said as she looked at Eito.

Eito drew out his Long Sword and aimed it at Emi’s upper neck.

“Shut your damn mouth. Please.” Eito said as he pleaded to Emi.

“Hm? Why are so angry? You are the one who told Harue about your ‘Cursed Mark’ not me.” Emi said as she smirked back at Eito.

“I know! It is my mistake to trust her. Now, I pray that she will not tell anyone about that.” Eito said as he lowers down his Long Sword and looked up the night sky.

“Ah! I have an idea. I’ll find a way back to the Kingdom, search for Harue and you, again erase her memories. How about that?” Eito said as he suggested to Emi.

“Hm? No. I refuse. Harue is also here, exiled amongst us.” Emi said as she started walking away.

“W-Wait! What?! How did that – So, the ‘Imperial Council’ lied to all of us?” Eito said as he ran away, chasing Emi.

“Yes. While Mr. Carlo and I were waiting outside the court room, we overheard their conversation about exiling the Matsuoka Siblings for committing treason. After the ceremony, Sir Yuki went out of the court room and suddenly dragged me to the ‘Underground Prison’.” Emi said as she explained what happened.

“Siblings? Wait! Does that mean Sir Hiiro is also here?” Eito said as he stopped from walking.

“Yes. So, let’s get descend off this mountain and find Harue.” Emi said as she continued walking and left Eito alone.

In the ‘Central Metropolis’

Inside the ‘Metropolis Police Station’…

Mr. Paul arrived inside the ‘Metropolis Police Station’ and was welcomed by his fellow policemen.

“Ah! There he is. Welcome to the ‘Metropolis Police Station’, Mr. Paul.” Mr. Chief Inspector said as Mr. Paul approached him.

“I’ve arrived, Mr. Inspector. What happened?” Mr. Paul said as he asked Mr. Chief Inspector.

“After we received that disturbing call, my men went to the riverbanks and invited those two teenagers to with us in the police station. We conducted an interview and they kept telling me that they got exiled from an unknown place and landed in here.” Mr. Chief Inspector said as he tells Mr. Paul.

“Just like what Shouta and Maki said during the interview last two years ago. Wait! Sir, are those teenagers both wearing strange clothes and carrying a Long Sword?” Mr. Paul said as he asked Mr. Chief Inspector.

“Um? Yes. As if they attended a medieval-themed party and based on my observations, the young man was carrying a Short Sword and the young woman was also carrying a wooden bow.” Mr. Chief Inspector said as he read his written notes in his wooden clipboard.

“Thank you very much, Mr. Chief Inspector. I’ll go to the Interrogation Room to continue the investigation.” Mr. Paul said as he ran along the Hallway.

Inside the ‘Interrogation Room’…

Hikaru and Mayumi were sitting beside each other, waiting for Mr. Chief Inspector to come back.

“So, that human tied up us with these – Uh? What are these things anyway?” Hikaru said as he examined the handcuffs on his hands.

“Those humans called these as handcuffs. What an effective and efficient way to pin down their fugitives.” Mayumi said as she examined her handcuffs.

“Handcuffs huh? Hey! Madam, Lady – Ms. Author, this is unfair! I would rather be eaten by ‘Black Hounds’ than being detained in jail not with this woman.” Hikaru said as he complained and looked at Mayumi.

“Handcuffs huh? Hey! Madam, Lady – Ms. Author, this is unfair! I would rather be eaten by ‘Green Ogres’ than being detained in jail with this guy.” Mayumi said as she complained and looked at Hikaru.

“So, it is true then. You’re both wearing strange clothes.” Mr. Paul said as he entered the Interrogation room.

“Hm? You’re not the same human earlier. Who are you?” Hikaru said as he asked Mr. Paul.

“Tell me, were you really making out in the riverbanks few hours ago?” Mr. Paul said as he asked Hikaru and Mayumi who both blushed.

“O-Of course, we’re not! Please listen to me, we got exiled from our Kingdom and landed on that riverbank inside this metropolis.” Mayumi said as she explained what happened to Mr. Paul.

“Someone saw us and suddenly called the police to report us.” Hikaru said as he continued Mayumi’s explanation.

“Kingdom? What is the name of this Kingdom that you are referring to?” Mr. Paul said as he got intrigued and asked Hikaru and Mayumi.

“We came from the Kingdom of ‘Alementalia’. The Kingdom was once ruled by the ‘Exiled Prince’ named – Eh?” Hikaru said as Mr. Paul stood up and slammed the table.

“I knew it! You came from ‘Alementalia’ which was once ruled by Shouta.” Mr. Paul exclaimed as he looked at Hikaru and Mayumi.

“H-How did you know that name?” Mayumi said as she asked Mr. Paul.

“Two years ago, the same thing happened and I got the chance to interview Shouta and his other six friends. Are you here to search for the same ‘Gate’ as well?” Mr. Paul said as he asked Hikaru and Mayumi.

“’Gate’? What are you talking about?” Mayumi said as she wondered.

“They told me the same story and were all searching for a ‘Rusty Gate’ which they believed is found on those mountain ranges near the ‘Ryushizaki Town.’” Mr. Paul said as he tells Hikaru and Mayumi what happened two years ago.

“Two years ago? You must be mistaken. The Prince and his accomplices got exiled – Um? Let’s see…eight months ago.” Mayumi said as she tells Mr. Paul.

“I guess time works differently in this world.” Hikaru said as he sat down back onto his chair.

“Anyway, you’ll be staying here for the final interview while I call Shouta and Maki to pick you up later this afternoon.” Mr. Paul said as he grabbed his papers and black coat.

“Please wait! Can we have our weapons back?” Mayumi said as she asked Mr. Paul.

“No. Your weapons are here by confiscated until further notice. So be good then and stay in here.” Mr. Paul said as he went out of the room.

“What?! But? Wait! He already left.” Mayumi said as she sighed and sat back onto her chair.

“Now, what are we going to do?” Hikaru said as he wondered.

“That policeman said that he interviewed the ‘Exiled Prince’ and his accomplices before so I assume they all survived after two years.” Mayumi said as she sighed.

“Hm? How about we bail out of this police station and find him ourselves?” Hikaru said as he suggested to Mayumi.

“Bail out?! Hahaha. Are you kidding me? We don’t even know how to get these handcuffs off our arms.” Mayumi said in disbelief and laughs out.

“By using my ‘Fire-Alementalian’ magic. Watch me. ‘Within the abilities given to me, I command thee, come forth, my ‘Fire Bird’.” Hikaru said as he uses his ‘Alementalian’ magic.

A small, magical circle suddenly appeared on the table as Hikaru summoned his own ‘Fire Bird’. Few minutes later, a little ‘Fire Bird’ with bluish white feathers and long thin beak came out of the magic circle and flew up in the room.

“I-Is that a ‘Fire Bird’? Wait! You have one as well?” Mayumi exclaimed as she stood up and watched Hiiro’s ‘Fire Bird’ flew around the room.

“Yes. There were few ‘Fireiyans’ who has the ability to summon their own ‘Fire Birds’.  Although, mine is quite smaller than my big sister – Eh? Damn it.” Hikaru sadly said he remembers his elder sister.

“Um? I’m really sorry about what happened to your big sister.” Mayumi said as she looked at Hikaru.

“Uh? No – Thank you very much. Let’s get out of here. Come forth, my little friend.” Hikaru said as he got flustered and summoned his ‘Fire Bird’.

Hikaru’s ‘Fire Bird’ slowly descended and landed on the table; Hikaru raised his arm and showed his handcuffs. This ‘Fire Bird’ flew up and starts pecking up the metal handcuffs, slowly eating it.

Few minutes later, Hikaru’s handcuffs disappeared and he is now able to his arms. This ‘Fire Bird’ did the same thing on Mayumi’s handcuffs.

“Yes! I’m finally free. Thank you, little – Um? What is his name?” Mayumi cheerfully said as she looked at Hikaru.

“Hm? I haven’t thought of that. Well, I’ll just name him ‘Nameless’.” Hikaru said as he crossed his arms.

“What?! That’s not even a name! Um? Since you saved me, I shall give you a name. Thank you, ‘Chi’.” Mayumi cheerfully said as suggested to Hikaru.

“’Nameless’ is much better – Eh? A-Alright! Fine, I’ll agree with your suggestion.” Hikaru said as ‘Chi’ flew over on the top of his head.

“Now, let’s get out of here.” Mayumi said as she and Hikari stood up and silently went out of the room.

Along the Hallway…

“’Chi’, please distract them while we’re trying to find the exit doors.” Hikaru softly said as he instructed to ‘Chi’.

‘Chi’ chirped and flew away; ‘Chi’ started flying around the police station.

“Eh? Is that a firefly?” Policeman #1 said he and his buddies got distracted from their work.

“Hurry, catch it!” Policeman #2 said as he and the others ran away, chasing ‘Chi’ who flew upstairs.

“They took the bait. Now’s our chance to escape.” Hikaru softly said as Mayumi nodded.

Hikaru and Mayumi quietly ran along the Hallway and successfully escaped out of the ‘Metropolis Police Station’.

Back to the Forest…

Keisuke was driving a car and arrived back inside the forest.

“I’m back. Eh? Ms. Reika?! Why are you camping outside the abandoned mansion?” Keisuke said as he takes each grocery bag out of the car.

“Welcome back, Keisuke. Let my ‘Puppets’ help you carry those groceries to the mansion.” Reika said as she looked at her three water ‘Walking Puppets’ who immediately approached Keisuke.

Each ‘Puppet’ grabbed two groceries and started crawling back to their mansion.

“Where is Ms. Naomi? She hasn’t paid her share for this week’s bills.” Keisuke said as he took out his notepad and asked Reika.

“Ah, yes! Naomi is up there. She is still on her star-gazing observations up on the roof.” Reika said as she and Keisuke looked above the mansion.

“Uh? That’s really a weird devotion. I still doubt that Mr. Hiiro’s plans will work.” Keisuke said as he closed the car’s door.

“Oh, believe me. Hiiro’s plans will work. That ambitious guy will never give up until he has that ‘Cursed Throne’ for himself.” Reika said as she smirked and grabbed the big pack of white marshmallows out of her woven basket.

“Look! Ms. Naomi seems to be finished with her activity. Eh?! Ms. Naomi!” Keisuke said as looked up at Naomi.

Naomi carelessly jumped off the mansion’s roof and safely landed on the front yard.

“Keisuke! Welcome back!” Naomi cheerfully said as she ran towards Keisuke.

“I-I’m back! Now, I demand you to pay your share for this week.” Keisuke said as he crossed his arms.

“Hm! Okay! Alright. Hey – Uh? Servant #1! Please come forth and bring my luxury, hand bag. I have to pay Keisuke.” Naomi said as she suddenly shouted back at their mansion.

Few minutes later, a maid servant mindlessly went out of the mansion, carrying Naomi’s hand bag. This maid then gave the bag to Naomi.

“Thank you very much, my cute servant. Please go back inside the mansion and continue cleaning the living room.” Naomi said as she commanded her servant.

“So, while I was back on the ‘Central Metropolis’ doing some shopping, you abducted those humans and force her to become your servant.” Keisuke said as he and Reika looked at Naomi’s servant.

“Yes! After Reika and I came back from our haul, we saw some hikers camping on the lake below and asked them to clean the mansion for me.” Naomi cheerfully said as she took a gold bar out of her bag.

“Haul? You mean from our heist. I saw that expensive bag being advertised on that glass box and Naomi liked it so I helped her to steal it from that store.” Reika said as she tells Keisuke and started squishing the white marshmallow.

“Uh? For the record, you bring everything you steal inside the mansion. From that luxury, red car parked in the garage, that complete home theater TV set, that huge twin-door cooling box, leather-made furniture set and those expensive jewelries and bags you’re hiding inside your room.” Keisuke said as he enumerates a few of Reika’s possessions.

“Not to mention that squishy thing. Hold my bag, Keisuke.” Naomi said as noticed the bag of marshmallows and shoves her bag to Keisuke.

“Eh? Hey – What the hell?” Keisuke said as he sighed.

Naomi went to Reika’s camping site and sat beside her.

“So, what do humans call these puffy things?” Naomi said as she grabbed the bag of marshmallows and asked Reika.

“Hm? The package label says ‘White Marshmallows’. Look! When you squished this, it will bounce back and return to its original form.” Reika said as she squished the marshmallow in front of Naomi.

“A-Amazing! I wish my darling Hiiro can see this. Eh?” Naomi said as she got flustered.

“Aw! You really miss that guy. How sweet.” Reika said as she started eating the marshmallow.

“Y-You think so? U-Um? It’s been a while since the last time we saw him. Stop looking at me.” The flustered Mayumi said as she used her hands to cover her face.

“Then, shall I summon back my ‘Puppet’ who I assigned to spy on Shouta and Maki?” Reika said as she smirked and asked Naomi.

“Eh? I thought you asked that ‘Puppet’ to spy on Aoi and Naoki.” Keisuke said as he approached her and Naomi.

Keisuke, then sat beside Naomi and shove the bag back to her.

“I did but I got intrigued so I asked it to follow Shouta and Maki instead, right my ‘Puppet’?” Reika said as she turned around and looked at her ‘Puppet’ standing behind them.

“Oh? It’s already here. Welcome back.” Naomi said as this ‘Puppet’ crawled and approached them.

This ‘Puppet’ raised up and wiggled both of its short arms back at Reika.

“Hm? Okay. I understand. Thank you.” Reika said as she nodded.

“Eh?! You can understand that?!” Naomi and Keisuke exclaimed as they asked Reika.

“Yes. Mr. Wiggly said that he saw Shouta and Maki chasing a delivery van in the main highway and somehow saw Hiiro and Harue inside a parked truck. Wait! Really?” Reika said she asked her ‘Puppet’.

Mr. Wiggly, again raised up and wiggled its short, left arm back at Reika.

“A-Are you certain that you saw Hiiro and Harue inside that truck?” Keisuke said as he asked Mr. Wiggly.

Mr. Wiggly lower down his arms and ignored Keisuke’s question.

“Damn you! Answer my freaking question!” Keisuke angrily said as he stood up and approached Mr. Wiggly.

“Keisuke, please calm down.” Reika said as she stood up and ran away, chasing Keisuke.

“If your ‘Puppet’s report is somehow true, then let’s find Mr. Hiiro and the ‘Key’.” Keisuke said as he smirked while looking up in the night sky.

“Of course! The ‘Gate’ cannot be opened without its designated ‘Key’.” Reika excitedly said as she clapped her hands.

“Wait! I wonder why he came with Harue in this world. I must go out and ask him personally.” Naomi excitedly said as she stood up and ran away.

“Naomi?! Where are you going? Mr. Wiggly! Follow her.” Reika said as she commanded Mr. Wiggly.

Mr. Wiggly crawled away, trying to chase Naomi inside the front yard.

“The stage is set and the other players have arrived so let this survival game begin.” Keisuke said as he stretched out his arms.

 ===============================================================================================

Thank you for waiting! Here’s Chapter XXI and Enjoy Reading. Part Two starts today and will update next week so stay tuned. – CheChe-Chan.