TALES OF THE DEMON HERO

XX. ‘Second Nine Exiled’

Previously on ‘Tale of the Demon Hero’: Rai, Hikaru, Eito and Emi were all brought to the ‘Underground Prison’, detained as Hiiro and Harue’s accomplices; Mrs. Mai and Van went to visit Rai, while Eito met ‘Flora’ and ‘Lyon’ seems to be interested with Hikaru’s plan. The ‘Wathyrian Reps’ were waiting for the special train to arrive in the ‘Central Train Station’ and the Hamasaki Twins got escaped out of the moving train, ran away to meet Mayumi back at her apartment.

Inside the

‘Imperial Court Head Quarters’

That morning, after doing their tasks, Mr. Jiro and Ms. Aya both went back to their office in the Head Quarters to take some rest.

Outside the ‘Inventory Department’

Along the Hallway…

Mr. Jiro and Ms. Aya finally arrived outside their office.

“Eh? The door’s opened? I’m sure I locked it before we left earlier this morning.” Ms. Aya said as she gently pushed the door inwards.

“Where are the ‘Imperial Soldiers’ guarding this Hallway? Uh?! There’s a trace of blood on the floor.” Mr. Jiro said as he noticed some blood stains on the floor.

Mr. Jiro and Ms. Aya looked at each and suddenly slammed the door.

“Welcome back, your highnesses.” Sir Yuki said as he and Mr. Carlo saw Mr. Jiro and Ms. Aya and greeted them.

“Sir Yuki?! How did you get inside our office? Wait, who are they?” Mr. Jiro said as he and Ms. Aya went inside their office and asked Sir Yuki.

“Uh? Please ask about Mr. Carlo that thing. Anyway, I brought the last three fugitives, alive.” Sir Yuki said as Mr. Carlo carefully the old sacks covering these fugitives faces.

The three fugitives were all tied up together on the floor.

“Fugitives? Don’t tell me – Ah! Thank you very much, Sir Yuki!” Mr. Jiro exclaimed said as he took a peak and recognized Kazuki and Kenji’s faces.

“Your welcome, your highness. Now, for my reward I – Eh?” Sir Yuki said as he looked at Mr. Jiro.

“Ah, yes! Your reward. I have your reward right here.” The overjoyed Mr. Jiro said as he ran and grabbed out an old sack under his desk.

“Your highness, please listen to me. I really don’t need that sack of gold bars – Eh?” Sir Yuki said as Mr. Jiro approached him and shoved the sack onto his face.

“Here’s your reward, Sir Yuki. Make sure that you’ll equally divide it with Mr. Carlo.” The overjoyed Mr. Jiro said as he gave the sack to Yuki.

“Uh? Your highness, what you’re offering is not even the reward that I desire so please put it down.” Sir Yuki said as he smiled back to Mr. Jiro.

“Oh? I see. I issued an announcement poster along the ‘Central District’, stating that anyone who will bring me the Hamasaki Twins alive will have this 20 million gold bars as their reward. But you don’t want it, I wonder why.” Mr. Jiro said as he threw the sack on the floor and wondered.

“Ah, yes. The only thing that I desire the most is this… please make me the next ‘Royal Advisor’.” Sir Yuki seriously said as he looked at Mr. Jiro.

“What?! After your siblings got exiled, this is the first thing that you’ll ask Mr. Jiro?” Ms. Aya exclaimed as she asked Yuki.

“Your highness, I didn’t actually expect that you’ll going to ask him that.” Mr. Carlo said as he got surprised and tells Yuki.

“Oh? Such an ambitious one just like your elder brother. But, unfortunately, I cannot.” Mr. Jiro said as he sat down on his chair.

“But why? I did what you asked.” Sir Yuki said as he crossed his arms and asked Mr. Jiro.

“Truth to be said, you need to get both of the ‘Four Village Chiefs’ and the ‘Imperial Ruler’s approval to become the next appointed ‘Royal Advisor’ but you’ll have to think of these. First, Mr. Geno, the ‘Iytherian Village Chief’ is currently at large. Second, Mr. Sai went back to their ‘Village’ and third, you’ll have to impress Ms. Iysa to get her approval.” Mr. Jiro said as he tells Yuki.

“Oh no, Ms. Iysa? It seems that anything literally does not impress her. This is going to be tough.” Sir Yuki said as he sighed and scratched his head.

“Then, I’ll personally recommend you to her as the next ‘Royal Advisor’. Would you accept that as your reward?” Mr. Jiro said as he asked Sir Yuki.

“Of course, your highness! Thank you very much.” Sir Yuki said as he smiled back at Mr. Jiro.

“What? Please wait. Five out of Hiiro’s seven accomplices were the ‘Chosen Candidates’ and if they somehow got exile, the current ‘Royal Advisor’ will become the next – Don’t tell me that was your plan all along?” Ms. Aya said as she turned around and looked at Sir Yuki.

“Um? Thank you for reminding me what was exactly written on my agenda notebook. Please excuse us.” Sir Yuki said as he smirked and walked away, followed by Mr. Carlo.

“Damn you! Wait, come back in here.” Ms. Aya said as she got angry to Sir Yuki but Yuki and Mr. Carlo already left the room.

“Now, now calm down Ms. Aya. Let’s get to business.” Mr. Jiro said as he looked at the Hamasaki Twins and Mayumi.

“So, what are we going to do about them?” Ms. Aya said as she asked Mr. Jiro.

“Hm? For the meantime, I’ll go to the Main Court Room to inform the remaining ‘Council’ members while you summon three ‘Imperial Soldiers’ and ask them to bring these fugitives to the ‘Underground Prison.” Mr. Jiro said as he instructed Ms. Aya.

“As you wish, your highness. Where should I hide that old sack?” Ms. Aya said as she wondered.

“Please use them as a bribe to the three ‘Imperial Soldiers’. Ask them to put the twins in a separate cell room and I’ll visit them later this afternoon.” Mr. Jiro said as he instructed Ms. Aya and went out of their office.

“As you wish, your highness.” Ms. Aya said as she sighed.

Few minutes later…

Three ‘Imperial Soldiers’ knocked outside the ‘Inventory Dept.’s’ office.

“Come in.” Ms. Aya said as she was sitting on her chair.

“Thank you. Uh? His highness, Mr. Jiro asked us to go in here.” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’#1 said as he and his buddies went inside the office.

“Ah, yes. His highness wants you to bring these three fugitives down on the ‘Underground Prison’. Put the eldest twin on the ‘West Wing: Cell room #11’ while the other half on ‘Cell room#10.” Ms. Aya said as she instructed the three ‘Imperial Soldiers’.

“As you wish, your highness. But how about this woman? Where are we going to detain her?” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’#1 said as he and his buddies started pulling the sleeping twins out of the room.

“Hm? I have a special cell room for her. Put this woman on the ‘South Wing: Cell room #12’.” Ms. Aya said as she instructed Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #1.

“Oh no! Not that room. That’s the room where Sir Hiiro locked up that ‘Sly fox’.” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier #1 exclaimed as his buddies looked at him.

“Hiiro’s already exiled so his highness wanted these fugitives to be fed to those ‘Beasts.’ Isn’t that the purpose of the ‘Underground Prison’?” Ms. Aya plainly said as she stood up and stretched out her arms.

Ms. Aya grabbed the old sack and gave it to the three ‘Imperial Soldiers’.

“Uh? Thank you, your highness. Damn it! These are real gold bars.” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #1 exclaimed as he opened the old sack and took out one gold bar.

“His highness also wants you to have that. Now, get these fugitives out of my office.” Ms. Aya said as he ordered the ‘Imperial Soldiers.’

The three ‘Imperial Soldiers’ sheepishly smiled and carefully dragged the Hamasaki Twins and Mayumi out of the room.

‘Underground Prison’

South Wing: Cell Room #12…

Mayumi is still asleep inside that room; A mysterious young boy with fluffy gray-colored, fox ears approached her.

“Uh? Hello. Hello? Are you still alive?” The young boy said as he started poking Mayumi’s cheeks.

“Hey – Kenji, stop that – Eh?” Mayumi exclaimed as she woke up and got surprised to see this boy.

“Hello. Um? Who is Kenji?” The young boy said as he wondered and asked Mayumi.

“Kenji’s my boy – Anyway! Where am I? Why is it so dark in here?” Mayumi said as she panicked and asked this boy.

“Oh! They dragged another fugitive on my room. Hooray!” This boy cheerfully said as he jumped up in the air.

“Another fugitive? Now, I remember! Sir Yuki and Mr. Carlo went in my apartment, saying that I am being arrested for one of Sir Hiiro’s accomplices when Kazuki and Kenji came and – Eh? Chains?” Mayumi said as she stood up but she accidentally slipped because of her chains.

“Ah, yes! Those ‘Imperial Soldiers’ chained you onto the wall this morning.” The boy said as he stepped onto Mayumi’s leg chains.

“What? No, No! I cannot be detained in here. I need to go back in ‘Iytheria’. I need to ask my family why did they abandoned me.” Mayumi said as she went mad and cried.

“Oh, I see. Your so called family abandoned you as well. That’s sad.” The young boy said as he starting floating up in the room, crossing his leg.

“Uh? You can float? Wait! How are doing that?” Mayumi said as she looked up at the young boy.

“You see, I was once ‘Iytheria’s Guardian Beast’ but that man sold me out to that bastard ‘Royal Advisor’ and now detained in here with you.” The young boy said, picking his nose in front of Mayumi.

“‘Iytheria’s Guardian Beast’? Wait – You mean? Please stop doing that. That’s disgusting.” Mayumi said as she reprimanded the young boy.

“Yes! You hunch is right. Sorry for the late introduction. I’m ‘Niel’, the ‘Beast of Air’ also known as the ‘Clever Fox.’ Nice to meet you.” ‘Niel’ said as he introduced himself to Mayumi.

“’Beast’? But you don’t look like one though and stop picking your nose!” Mayumi said as she shouted back to ‘Niel’.

“That man went out to see me, asking me teach him about that f*******n ‘Air-Alementalian’ Enchantment but I refused so he sold me out. And it seems that you two are siblings or so something.” ‘Niel’ said as he jumped down and stared at Mayumi.

“W-Why are you looking at me? I really don’t understand what you are talking about.” Mayumi shyly said as she wondered.

“Hm? Alright! You have more potential than him so I’ll make you as my student.” ‘Niel’ said as he tells Mayumi.

“Me as your student? Are you mad?” Mayumi exclaimed as she asked ‘Niel’.

“Don’t worry. This f*******n enchantment will help you someday.” ‘Niel’ said as he smirked back at Mayumi.

“f*******n ‘Air-Alementalian’ Enchantment huh? My Father mention once that he always wanted to learn that Enchantment but he failed.” Mayumi said as she tells ‘Niel’.

“Your father? I knew it. That’s why you looked so similar to each other. Fate brought us together hahaha!” ‘Niel’ said as he laughs manically.

“Fate huh? Now, can you help me get this chain off my right leg?” Mayumi said as she tried to take the chain off by herself.

“I’ll only help you if you hear me out.” ‘Niel’ said as he pouted and crossed his arms.

“Fine! Please teach me that f*******n ‘Air-Alementalian’ Enchantment.” Mayumi said as she crossed her arms.

“Alright! I’ll show that man what I can do. You see, that f*******n Enchantment is - …” ‘Niel said as he sat across Mayumi and whispered something on to her left ear.

‘Underground Prison’

West Wing: Cell Room #11…

Kenji was sleeping on the ground and got woke up by a loud scream.

“Listen to me, ‘Ceila’ we cannot just eat him.” ‘Sielo’ said as he stopped ‘Ceila’ and pushed her away from Kenji.

“But why not? I’m hungry.” ‘Ceila’ said as she crossed her arms and pouted.

“Uh? Eat who?” Kenji said as he woke up and sat on the ground.

“He woke up! Let’s ran away!” ‘Sielo’ and ‘Ceila’ said as they both got scared to Kenji and ran to the corner.

“Um? I’m sorry to scare you. Can you please tell me where I am?” Kenji politely said as he stood up and dusted off his black suit.

“Eh? Only ‘Wathyrians’ can hear our voices. Wait! Who are you?” ‘Ceila’ said as she hid behind ‘Sielo’ and asked Kenji.

“I’m Kenji Hamasaki and I’m from ‘Wathyria’. Where exactly I am? Big brother? Kazuki where are you?” Kenji exclaimed as he panicked and ran to the metal door.

“Uh? Mr. Kenji, please calm down. They locked up your twin brother on the other room.” ‘Sielo’ said as he tells Kenji.

“Thank you. Now, please help open this door.” Kenji said as he tried to push the door inwards.

“No! Stop. That door’s locked and those three ‘Imperial Soldiers’ took the keys away.” ‘Ceila’ said as she shouted back at Kenji.

“Uh? Damn it. Anyway, who are you?” Kenji said as he got pissed off and kicked the metal door.

“Sorry for the late introduction everyone. I believe we met before. I’m ‘Sielo’ and this is my younger twin sister, ‘Ceila’.” ‘Sielo’ said as he introduced themselves to Kenji,

“We’re the ‘Beasts of Water’ also known as the ‘Alluring Dire Wolves’ though this is just a temporary form. Nice to meet you, Mr. Kenji.” ‘Ceila’ said as she introduced themselves to Kazuki.

“Beasts?  But to me, you looked like a twin brat who loves to eat just like us right, big brother? Oh? He’s not in here.” Kenji sadly said as he turned around, searching for Kazuki.

“Your other twin half is on the other room, remember?” ‘Sielo’ said as he looked at Kenji.

“Uh? I’m sorry. Big brother and I grew up together and this is the first time we’ve got separated to him so I’m honestly freaking out right now.” Kenji shyly said as he covered his blushing face.

“Ow! He’s blushing. How cute!” ‘Ceila’ said as she squealed and approached Kenji.

“Ceila’? Get away from him.” ‘Sielo’ said as he tried to push ‘Ceila’ away from Kenji.

“Thank you, I guess. You’re cute as well.” Kenji cheerfully said as he smiled back at ‘Ceila’.

“T-Thank you very much.” ‘Ceila’ shyly said as she blushed and used her long, grey tail to hid her face.

“You, get away from my little sister or just get the hell out of here.” ‘Sielo’ said as he shouted back at Kenji.

“I would love to but I don’t have keys and I am not strong enough to open this door.” Kenji said as he sighed and scratched his head.

“Then, how about we help him? Using our combined strengths, we can simply open the door and get out of here.” ‘Ceila’ said as she suggested to ‘Sielo’.

“We cannot do that. It’s been six months since the last time we saw the ‘Eastern Ocean’ and we’re powerless when on land remember?” ‘Sielo’ said as he tells ‘Ceila.’

“Oh? I forgot about that. Ah! Somebody please get us out of here! We really need to get back in the ‘Eastern Ocean’.” ‘Ceila’ said as she started slamming the door.

“Eh? The ‘Eastern Ocean’? Rumors back in my ‘Village’ said that whoever venture beyond the coral reef boundaries will be swept away from by the two ‘Sea Leviathans’ protecting the ‘Eastern Ocean’.” Kenji said as he tells ‘Sielo’ and ‘Ceila’ who smirked back at him.

“Get away from me! You damn kitten!” Kazuki shouted out while being detained on the other room.

“Was that big brother? Kazuki – I mean big brother, are you alright?” Kenji said as he shouted out through the small opened window.

‘Underground Prison’

West Wing: Cell Room #10…

Kazuki was struggling to get a black cat off his hair.

“Please get off my hair, you damn kitten.” Kazuki said as he gently pulled the cat off his head.

“No! Give me that fish you’re hiding on your head.” The black cat said as he scratches Kazuki’s head.

“Fish?! I’m not fish so get off my head.” Kazuki angrily said as he managed to pull the cat off his head and threw it on the floor.

“But why do you smell like the ocean?” The black cat said as he safely landed on the floor and wondered.

“Uh? That was my shampoo. Mayumi gave it to me as her birthday gift to me. A-Anyway, how are you able to talk to me like that?” Kazuki said as he sat down on the floor, crossing his legs and wondered.

“I am the only one amongst my other six siblings that can talk to an ‘Alementalian’ without transforming into one. Well, that’s the perks of having the ability to control their shadows.” The black cat said as he smirked back at Kazuki.

“What? Control my shadow? Eh!? What happened? I cannot move my legs.” Kazuki said as he tried to stand up but he slipped and kneeled down on the ground.

“See? I was sitting in front of you which gave me an access to magically control your ‘Shadow’. I ordered it to drag you back down on the floor.” The black cat said as he and Kazuki looked at the corner.

Inside that partially lighted cell room, there was a silhouette of a human-like ‘Shadow’, sitting on the corner and looking back at the cat and Kazuki.

“I want you to meet your ‘Shadow’. ‘Shadow’ say ‘Hi’ to your big brother Kazuki.” The black cat said as he introduced this ‘Shadow’ to Kazuki.

Kazuki’s faceless ‘Shadow’ smirked back at him; Kazuki got scared and pushed the black cat away from him.

“Ow-Ouch! Why would you have to do that?” The black cat angrily said after he rolled off the floor.

Kazuki’s faceless ‘Shadow’ frowned and disappeared without a trace.

“W-Who are you, damn cat?” Kazuki said as he trembled in fear and asked the black cat.

“I’m glad that you asked that. I’m ‘Chester’, the ‘Beast of Shadow’ also known as the ‘Shady Cat’. You can call me ‘Ches.’” ‘The black cat AKA ‘Chester’ said as he introduced himself.

“Hm? That’s a weird name for a cat. Then, Mr. ‘Ches’, help me unlock this door.” Kazuki said as he stood up and tried to open the door outwards.

“That’s useless. The three ‘Imperial Soldier’ who brought you and your older twin brother in this wing took the keys and left.” ‘Ches’ said as rolled up and started l*****g his front, right paw.

“What did you just say?” Kazuki said as he snapped out and asked ‘Ches’.

“Uh? Unless you have the full strength of a ‘Gold Eater’, you cannot open that metal door.” ‘Ches’ said as he approached Kazuki.

“Don’t try to change the topic! I’m the eldest twin and the other one who’s detained on the room across us is my little brother.” Kazuki said as he got pissed off and shouted back at ‘Ches’.

“Okay. Calm down. Earlier, I overheard those three ‘Imperial Soldiers’ arguing who should they detain on the Cell Room #11 and they chose your little brother instead of you.” ‘Ches’ said as he tells Kazuki.

“Hey! What are you doing? Stop that!” Kenji said as he shouted out through the opened window.

“Kenji! Are you alright? What’s wrong?” Kazuki said as he panicked and shouted out through his opened window.

“Big brother!? I’m glad that you’re safe. Look! Something’s moving in front of your cell door.” Kenji said as he looked down on the Hallway.

“W-What are those creatures?” Kazuki said as he and Kenji looked down on the floor and wondered.

 ‘Mi’ looked up on Kazuki’s cell door and stared back at Kazuki while ‘Ki’ also looked up on Kenji’s cell door.

‘Look! ‘Ki’

I wonder who’s the eldest twin.’

‘Mi’ said as he was telepathically talking to ‘Ki’.

‘I think this guy

Is the eldest twin

I mean look he’s taller than that guy’.

‘Ki’ said as he turned around and was telepathically talking to ‘Mi’.

“Aw! They are so cute. Hello! What are your names?” Kenji cheerfully said as he asked ‘Ki’.

‘Hi! I’m ‘Ki’

Shake my hands.

‘Ki’ said as was telepathically talking to Kenji.

‘I think they are not

‘Aethyrians’.

Look! The ‘Imperial Soldiers’ are back.

Let’s get out of here.’

‘Mi’ said as he was telepathically talking to ‘Ki’.

‘Ki’ and ‘Mi’ turned around and saw the same three ‘Imperial Soldiers’ arrived at the right end of the Hallway and ran away.

“Look! Over there! Let’s chase them.” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #2 said as he and his buddies ran away, chasing ‘Ki’ and ‘Mi’.

“Hey! What the hell is happening? Hey!” Kazuki said as he asked the three ‘Imperial Soldiers’ who passed by their cell rooms.

“Um? Big brother, look. That tiny creature left some fruits outside your cell room.” Kenji said as he noticed in front of Kazuki’s cell room.

“Is that so? But why would that tiny creature give me those fruits?” Kazuki said as he wondered.

 ‘Underground Prison’

North Wing: Hallway

The same three ‘Imperial Soldiers’ were chasing ‘Ki’ and ‘Mi’ and they all arrived at the North Wing.

“Damn it! Those creatures are really fast runners. Hurry! This way.” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #1 said as he and his buddies stopped in the middle of the Hallway.

“W-Wait! We’ve been running all over this underground labyrinth. Let’s take some rest.” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #2 said he sat down on the floor.

“But? Alright! You two stay in here, I’ll chase those creatures.” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #1 said as he ran away to the left end of the Hallway.

‘Ki’ & ‘Mi’ were waiting for Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #1, mocking him to ran away with them.

“There you are! Hey – Where are you going? Eh?!” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #1 said as he arrived and was surprised to see ‘Ryo’ waiting for him at the left end of the Hallway.

‘Ryo’ clenched his right fist and suddenly punched Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #1 away from him; Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #1 flew away and hit the bricked wall.

“Finally! I’ve always wanted to do that. Thank you, ‘Ki’ & ‘Mi’.” ‘Ryo’ said as he looked down on the floor.

‘Ki’ & ‘Mi’ raised up both of their right arm and waved back at ‘Ryo’.

“Hey – Who are you? What happened in here?” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #3 said as he and his buddy arrived at the left end of the Hallway.

‘Look!

There’s another one.’

‘Mi’ said as he was telepathically talking to ‘Ki’.

‘Let’s punch

them away!’

‘Ki’ said as he was telepathically talking to ‘Mi’.

These ‘Gold Eaters’ approached the two ‘Imperial Soldiers’ and touched their right foot.

“Eh? W-What are you doing?” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #2 nervously said as he asked ‘Mi’.

“You’re so weak! You can even push me away.” Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #3 said as he taunted ‘Ki’.

‘Ki’ looked at ‘Mi’ who nodded back at him.

“You pissed them off. I hope you’re still alive after this.” ‘Ryo’ said as he sighed.

Using both of his short arms, ‘Ki’ grabbed Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #3’s right foot and carefully lifted him up in the air. ‘Mi’ also did the same to Mr. ‘Imperial Soldier’ #2 and forcefully threw them at the other end of the Hallway.

“Woah! Nice aim, guys. Good job!” ‘Ryo’ said as he smiled back at ‘Ki’ and ‘Mi’.

‘Mi’ raised up his right arm and waved back at ‘Ryo’.

“Ah! I almost forgot that. Now, let’s leave and save her.” ‘Ryo’ said as he waved back at ‘Mi’.

‘Ki’, ‘Mi’ and ‘Ryo’ ran away and went out to find the Cell Room #4.

Few minutes later, the three ‘Mythical Beasts’ found this cell room. ‘Ki’ was about to open the metal door but someone has already opened it outwards.

“Now, stay still. I’ll be back – Eh? Who are you?” Van exclaimed as he was surprised to see ‘Ryo’ and the ‘Gold Eaters’.

‘Ki’ & ‘Mi’ flinched as they saw Van and touched both of his feet; Then, they forcefully pushed him back inside the cell room; Van flew away and rolled on the floor.

Van hit the wall and lost his consciousness.

“Thank you, ‘Ki’ & ‘Mi’. Let’s go inside and find her – Rai? Rai!” ‘Ryo’ said as he and the ‘Gold Eaters’ saw the unconscious Rai lying down the floor.

‘Ki’ was horrified from what they saw and used his right arm to cover ‘Mi’s red eyes. ‘Ryo’ immediately took off his brown coat and used it to hide Rai’s face.

‘Underground Prison’

North Wing: Room #5…

‘Ryo’ is carrying the unconscious Rai while the ‘Gold Eaters’ slammed open the door and they all went inside the room.

“Rai, please don’t die. Please…” ‘Ryo’ said as he cried behind Rai’s body on the floor.

‘Ki’ raised up his left hand and waved back ‘Ryo’.

“Oh, I see. But she really needs to see a physician – Ah! Fine! I’ll do it.” ‘Ryo’ said as he scratched his head and tore off his long sleeves.

‘Ryo’ used these to bind Rai’s wounded shoulders.

Few minutes later…

“There! I’m done. But still, we need to take her to the main Infirmary room.” ‘Ryo’ said as he sighed and sat down beside Rai.

‘Mi’ raised up his right arm and waved back at ‘Ryo’.

“Uh? Are you about that?” ‘Ryo’ said as he asked the ‘Gold Eaters’.

‘Ki’ & ‘Mi’ both raised up their short arms and waved back at ‘Ryo’.

“Okay. I understand. Be careful on your way back though.” ‘Ryo’ said as he sighed and smiled back at the ‘Gold Eaters.’

The overjoyed ‘Gold Eaters’ ran away; ‘Ki’ went out of the room, followed by ‘Mi’.

“Rai, please don’t die.You’re only our hope. Please…” ‘Ryo’ said as he cried and fell asleep beside Rai.

That afternoon…

‘Underground Prison’

North Wing: Room #5…

‘Your highness

Please help us.

Please stop the ‘Hero’.

“‘Hero’ Uh?” Rai said as she uttered in her sleep.

“Um? I hope this works… Rai, main characters like you does not die that easily. Also, I’m sorry because I forgot to tell you this. I went back to your apartment and read the manuscript scattered on the living area. You forgot to edit Chapter 19.” ‘Ryo’ said as shouted back at Rai.

“What!? I already told you not to mess with my story – Eh? ‘Ryo’?!” Rai said as she suddenly woke up and looked at ‘Ryo’.

“Rai! I’m glad that you’re finally awake.” The overjoyed ‘Ryo’ said as he hugged Rai.

“Ow-Ouch…Where am I? What happened? Where’s Van?” Rai said as she simultaneously asked ‘Ryo.’

“Um? A-Ah! That guy was probably dead after the ‘Gold Eaters’ pushed him away and hit on the wall.” ‘Ryo’ said as he tells Rai.

“Oh, I see. Then, where are we?” Rai said as she asked ‘Ryo’.

“We’re on the ‘Underground Prison: North Wing’. We’re locked up inside the Cell Room #5.” ‘Ryo’ said as he closed the first aid kit.

“’Underground Prison’? Now, I remember. I was walking back on the apartment when Mrs. Mai’s henchmen and Van abducted and brought me to the Head Quarters. They kept blaming me for Ms. Akari’s death. I told them the truth but they still didn’t believe in me so Van kept punishing me.” Rai said as she trembled in fear.

“Rai, calm down. Don’t worry, you’re safe. Thanks to these ‘Gold Eaters’, I finally managed to cover up all of your wounds.” ‘Ryo’ said as he looked at ‘Ki’ and ‘Mi’.

“So, those are your names? Thank you very much, ‘Ki’ & ‘Mi’.” Rai cheerfully said as she looked at the ‘Gold Eaters’.

The ‘Gold Eaters’ decided to lie down on the floor to take some rests; ‘Ki’ raised up his left arm and waved back at Rai.

“Um? I guess they are exhausted after they stole and brought this first aid kit from the main infirmary room this morning.” ‘Ryo’ said as he tells Rai.

“What!? But how did they do that? They are so small.” Rai exclaimed as she gently picked up the two ‘Gold Eaters’, cradling them like a sleeping baby.

“Despite their small size, those ‘Gold Eaters’ still possess their super-human, unexplainable strength and I assume that they haven’t eaten any gold bars that’s why they shank into that size.” ‘Ryo’ said as he tells Rai.

“Really? Then, what happened if they started eating gold bars again?” Rai said as she wondered and asked ‘Ryo’.

“I don’t know. Anyone, I want you to meet someone.” ‘Ryo’ said as he hugged Rai.

“Someone? Who are you referring to?” Rai said as she wondered and asked ‘Ryo’.

Rai carefully put the two sleeping ‘Gold Eaters’ back onto the floor.

“Uh? Please listen to me, you might find this strange but I want you to meet my mother.” ‘Ryo’ said as he and Rai looked at a dead body covered with white cloth behind them.

“Mother? You mean you Mother ‘Cog Dragon’? Then, why is she covered with a white cloth – Ah! I’m sorry! That was very incentive of me.” Rai said as she apologized to ‘Ryo’.

“No. Not at all. Six months ago, my Mother used her ‘Time-Alementalian’ magic and disobeyed the only rule that we have.” ‘Ryo’ said as he tells Rai.

“Disobeyed, Eh? Your mother loves you so much that she even disobeyed that rule to save you.” Rai cheerfully said as she looked at ‘Ryo’ who blushed.

“A-Anyway, on her last breath, she uttered this word: ‘Rai’ and asked me to find this ‘Alementalian’ who bears this name. I was a young hatchling before so I didn’t understand what she meant.” ‘Ryo’ sadly said as he tells Rai.

“I’m really sorry about your mother. Ms. ‘Cog Dragon’, may your soul find peace.” Rai said as she kneeled down beside that dead body and prayed.

“Uh? You’re really a strange ‘Alementalian’.” ‘Ryo’ said as he stares at Rai who smiled.

“You think so? You’re the 2nd ‘Alementalian’ who said that to me though.” Rai said as she giggled.

“Alright! You seem fine so let’s get out of here.” ‘Ryo’ said as he stood up and stretched out his arms.

“But this is the ‘Underground Prison’! No one can get out of this confusing labyrinth.” Rai said as she tells ‘Ryo’.

“Don’t worry. I already memorized the exact way on how to get out of this labyrinth.” ‘Ryo’ said as he gently picked up Rai off the floor.

“T-Thank you very much.” Rai shyly said as she blushed.

“Now, let’s get out of here.” ‘Ryo’ said as he ran away.

‘Ryo’ was about to open the metal door when someone slammed it inwards. ‘Ryo’ got started and stepped away from the door.

“There you are, damn ‘Witch’! We’re looking for you.” Van said as he and Mrs. Mai’s henchmen went inside the room.

“’Ryo’, please take ‘Ki’ & ‘Mi’ away from here. Hurry!” Rai said as she instructed ‘Ryo’.

“But how about you – Damn it! Please don’t die, Rai!” ‘Ryo’ said as he grabbed ‘Ki’ & ‘Mi’ up the floor and ran away.

“Don’t worry! I will not. I made a promise remember.” Rai cheerfully said as she smiled back ‘Ryo’.

‘Ryo’ forcefully pushed away Van and the henchmen out of the room and ran along the Hallway.

“Damn it! What are you waiting for? Chase him!” Van said as he ordered to Mrs. Mai’s henchmen who immediately ran away.

“Oh? Your still alive? I thought you rolled over and hit the wall.” Rai said as she taunted Van.

“Shut up! Now, I’ll have to deal with you again.” Van said as he took out his lasso and showed it to Rai.

“This time, I will set things right.” Rai said as she sighed and stood up.

“Shall we dance, little Ms. Witch?” Van said as he slowly walked towards Rai.

Rai stood up and sighed; She, then, took off his right glove and used it to bind her injured left leg.

“Hahaha! Look at you, you’re limping. How are you supposed to fight against me?” Van said as he mocked Rai.

“After that incident six months ago, I swore not to use my ‘Fire-Alementalian’ magic again but this time, I’ll use it to fight back.” Rai said as she sighed and looked at Van.

“W-What are you talking about?” Van said as he wondered and asked Rai.

“Within the abilities given to me, I command thee, Light up!” Rai said as she raised her right hand and used her ‘Fire-Alementalian’ magic.

Few moments later, loud explosion was heard inside the ‘Underground Prison’.

Outside the I.C.H.Q.

Front Gates…

Sir Yuki and Mr. Carlo finally arrived at the Front Gates and saw a mob of angry ‘Alementalians’ rallying in front of the Head Quarters.

 “Sorry we’re late. What’s going on?” Sir Yuki said as he asked Mr. ‘Upper Knight’ #1.

“Sir Yuki?! Um? These ‘Alementalians’ came from the ‘Central District’. They told us that they heard rumors about Sir Hiiro and the ‘Princess’ being exiled. So, they came in here and demanding to see Sir Hiiro and the ‘Princess.’” Mr. ‘Upper Knight’ #1 said as he reported to Sir Yuki.

“What? But who told them about that?” Sir Yuki exclaimed as he wondered.

“I don’t know, your highness. The member of the ‘Upper and Lower Knights’ already came in here to help the guards in the crowd control but these ‘Alementalians’ are really stubborn.” Mr. ‘Upper Knight’ #1 said as he reported to Sir Yuki.

“Alright! Let’s help them Mr. Carlo. Soldiers, open up the front gates.” Sir Yuki said as he commanded the two ‘Imperial Soldiers.’

“Look! They are opening the front gates.” ‘Iytherian’ #1 said as he saw Sir Yuki and Mr. Carlo approached them.

“Your highness, is it true that Sir Hiiro and the ‘Princess’ got exiled?” ‘Aethyrian’ #1 said as he asked Sir Yuki.

“Yes. It is true. They got exiled for starting a treason.” Sir Yuki said as he told everyone the truth.

“I knew it! Our ‘Village Chief’ got banished from the ‘Main Island’ without a valid reason and it is Sir Hiiro’s fault. He deserved it.” ‘Iytherian’ #1’ angrily said as he looked at Aethyrian’ #1.

“Huh?! It is not! Your traitorous ‘Village Chief’ started all of these and he deserved to be banished as well.” Aethyrian’ #1 angrily said as he looked at ‘Iytherian’ #1’

“What?! It was not our ‘Village Chief’s fault so stop blaming him.” ‘Iytherian’ #1’ angrily said as he looked at Aethyrian’ #1.

“No. Sir Hiiro and the ‘Princess’ got exiled and there’s no heir to the throne, who’s going to lead us then?” ‘Wathyrian’ #1 said as she trembled in fear.

“No one so don’t try to change the topic. It was damn ‘Village Reps’ fault why the ‘Council’s’ in disarray. We also heard rumors back in our ‘Village’ that they were the mastermind behind Ms. Akari’s death.” ‘Fireiyan” #1 angrily said as she looked at ‘Wathyrian’ #1.

“Huh? From what I’ve heard, it was your ‘Red Assassins’ who murdered Ms. Akari and not us. So stop blaming us for what happened.” ‘Wathyrian’ #1 angrily said as she looked a Fireiyan” #1.

“What!? Those ‘Red Assassins’ were banished out of our ‘Village’ a long time ago so please stop that false accusations.” ‘Fireiyan” #1 angrily said as she looked at ‘Wathyrian’ #1.

“Really? So that’s why they are swarming back in our ‘Village’ It was your fault.” Wathyrian’ #1 angrily said as she looked a Fireiyan” #1.

Their bickering continues while Sir Yuki and Mr. Carlo tried to stop them.

“Everyone! Please calm down. The remaining members of the ‘Council’ are doing their best to solve this problem. Rest assured that within these days, you’ll meet the new ‘Imperial Ruler’.” Sir Yuki said as he tells everyone.

“We don’t care about that! Sir Hiiro, the ‘Princess’ and the ‘Imperial Council’ made a promise that after six months, they’ll crown the new ‘Imperial Ruler’ but instead they chose to abandoned us.” Fireiyan” #1 angrily said as she looked at Sir Yuki.

“She’s right! We demand to see and receive an explanation from the ‘Imperial Council’” ‘Aethyrian’ #1 angrily said as he looked at Sir Yuki.

“Everyone, please listen to me. I will not allow you to get inside the Head Quarters.” Sir Yuki said as he stepped back and blocked the front gates.

“What?! Then, we’ll use force just to get inside the Head Quarters.” ‘Wathyrian’ #1 said as everyone shouted back to support her.

“Sir Yuki, please calm down – Uh?” Mr. Carlo said as he looked at Sir Yuki.

“Shut up! Why would you not listen to me? ‘Within the abilities given to me, I command thee, Tremble!’” The agitated Sir Yuki said as he used his ‘Earth-Alementalian’ magic.

The entire Head Quarters shook from Yuki’s magical earthquake. The mob started panicking some of them fell on the ground, covering their head with their hands.

The strong earthquake stopped after 10 seconds.

“Everyone! Are you alright?” Mr. Carlo said as he stood up and ran away to help the others.

“Sir Yuki used his ‘Earth-Alementalian’ magic while in the ‘Main Island’.” ‘Wathyrian’ #1 said as she and the other ‘Alementalians’ looked at Sir Yuki.

“N-no! I didn’t – I just wanted to help them stop this commotion.” Sir Yuki said as he approached ‘Wathyrian’ #1 but she ran away from him.

“Let’s get out of here. The ‘Council’ is arrogant enough not to hear out our plea. Sir Yuki, in behalf of the other ‘Alementalians’ in here, thy they heed this warning: ‘The red, ‘Flames of Hell’ shall come and haunt all of you.” ‘Fireiyan’ #1 angrily said as he stomped away.

The other ‘Alementalians’ nodded in agreement and followed him back to the ‘Central District.’

“’Flames of Hell’? What is he talking about?” Sir Yuki said as he wondered.

Back inside the I.C.H.Q.

Main Court Room…

The remaining members of the ‘Imperial Council’ were hiding under their table during this earthquake.

“The earthquake stopped. That’s a relief.” Mrs. Mai said as she went out of her desk.

“Ow-Ouch! My head. I guess that was Sir Yuki’s ‘Earth-Alementalian’ magic.” Ms. Annie said as she accidentally hit her head under the table.

“Your highnesses, are you alright?” Mr. Ryu said as he stood up and asked Mrs. Mai, Ms. Aya and Ms. Annie.

“It seems that everyone is fine so let’s go back to the trial.” Ms. Iysa said as everyone stood up and looked at Mr. Nile.

“A-As you wish, your highness. Standing in front of us are the accused accomplices of the traitorous Matsuoka Siblings, Hiiro and Harue. On your right, we have the malicious ‘Enchantress’, Emi Fujimoto, followed by Eito Yoshiyuki from the ‘Upper Knights’ and the rumored ‘Imperial Hero’ Hikaru Hashimoto. On your left, we have the Hamasaki Twins, Kazuki followed by Kenji and lastly Mayumi, a member of the ‘Archers’ Circle’.” Mr. Nile said as he introduced the six fugitives to the ‘Council’.

“Just like what I told you earlier, one of the Hamasaki Twins is a member of the ‘Red Assassins’ while the other one is from the ‘Blue Mafias.’” Mr. Jiro said as he smirked and looked at the Hamasaki Twins.

“Kazuki, is it true that you were a member of the ‘Red Assassins?’” Ms. Iysa said as she started the cross-examination.

“My little brother is dying! Please, untie and let me heal his wounds.” Kazuki said as he cried and pleaded to the ‘Council’.

“No. I’ll only grant your request depending your answer.” Ms. Iysa said as she insisted to Kazuki.

“Fine! Yes, your highnesses. I am a member of the ‘Red Assassins’ so please untie me.” Kazuki said as he cried and pleaded to the ‘Council’.

“Mr. Ryu, please untie him.” Ms. Iysa said as she instructed Mr. Ryu.

“Ah! Alright! I’ll do so stop staring at me.” Mr. Ryu said as he flinched and walked out of their table.

“While Mr. Ryu is untying Kazuki, Kenji please answer my question: is it true that you and your older brother were working for Hiiro before – Eh? Mayumi?” Ms. Iysa said as she was interrupted by Mayumi.

“No! I’m not. I didn’t do it. Wait! So, we’re actually working for Mr. Hiiro at that time? Hahaha! That’s probably why Father abandoned me. Father despises that guy so when he found out that I worked for him, he abandoned me. Hahaha” Mayumi said as she went mad and looked up at the ‘Council’.

“Mayumi, what are you talking about?” Mrs. Mai said as she wondered and asked Mayumi.

“How about we ask that mercenary who gave us those weird nicknames, right Hikaru?” Mayumi plainly said as she looked at Hikaru.

“M-Mercenaries? Weird nicknames? W-What are you talking about?” Hikaru nervously said as he stood up and stammered.

“Oh thy great ‘Council’, answer my question; Will you set me free if I tell you the truth?” Mayumi said as she asked the ‘Council’.

“Oh? Tell us the truth first and we’ll set you free.” Ms. Iysa said as she smirked back at Mayumi.

“Mayumi! No! Stop this madness.” Hikaru said as he panicked.

Hikaru stood up and pushed Mayumi away. Mayumi slipped and rolled over the floor.

“Mayumi?! Damn you! Unhand me!” Kenji angrily said as he shoved Kazuki away and stood up.

Kenji stomped away and was about to head-butt Hikaru when Mr. Ryu came and stopped him.

“You two, please calm down. The ‘Council’ does not tolerate violence in this court room.” Mr. Ryu said as he pushed Kenji and Hikaru away from each other.

“Mayumi, are you alright?” Kazuki said as he approached and asked Mayumi.

“I’m fine. Thank you, Kazuki.” Mayumi said as she smiled back at Kazuki.

“Shut up, damn woman! N-No! Hahaha! Rai must not know what I did or else she’ll despise me. She’s the last best friend that I have so I’ll do anything to make her stay with me.” Hikaru said as he went mad and kneeled down on the floor.

“What the hell is going on? Uh? Ms. Emi? Emi!” Eito said as he wondered while looking at Emi.

“I didn’t mean to do it. My big brother insisted me – I mean I only wanted to become her friend so I erased her memories. I didn’t do it! It wasn’t me.” Emi said as she cried on the corner.

“W-What are you talking about, Ms. Emi?” Eito softly said as he wondered and asked Emi.

“Huh? Are you talking to me?” ‘Emi’ softly said as she asked Eito.

“Huh?! Big brother? Wait! Who are you?” Eito seriously said as he asked ‘Emi’.

“I’m ‘Emi’. Oh! Now, I remember you. You’re that ‘Upper Knight’ who asked this girl to erase the ‘Princess’ memories after she found out your ‘Cursed – Eh?” ‘Emi’ said as she tells Eito.

Eito trembled in fear and sat down on the floor.

“N-No! Shut up! Harue didn’t – she promised not to tell anyone about that. She made a promise! I only did that to protect myself. I swear I didn’t murder anyone.” Eito said as he went mad and cried on the floor.

“Sir Eito, Are you alright?” Mr. Ryu said as he approached and asked Eito.

“What the heck is going on?” Ms. Annie said as she and the other ‘Council’ members wondered.

“Eito, the ‘Council’ has decided to strip off your rank for committing treason. You’re no longer a member of the ‘Upper Knights’ and for the meantime, Mr. Anthony will take your supervising position.” Ms. Iysa said as she tells Eito.

“What? N-No! Stop! I’ve worked so hard to become one of the ‘Upper Knights’. Please don’t take it away from me.” Eito said as he pleaded and cried on the floor.

“By the way, where is Mr. Anthony? I summoned him an hour ago and he’s still not in here.” Mrs. Mai said as she wondered and asked Mr. Nile.

“I’m sorry I’m late, your highnesses.” Mr. Anthony said as he slammed opened the door.

Mr. Anthony went inside the court room, followed by Mrs. Mai’s henchmen and Rai.

“Finally! Announcing the arrival of Mr. Anthony of the ‘Upper Knights.’” Mr. Nile said as he introduced Mr. Anthony.

“What happened? Why did you take so long?” Mrs. Mai angrily said as she asked Mr. Anthony.

“My apologies. This feisty woman put up a good fight so it took us a while to tie her up.” Mr. Anthony said as she pushed Rai down on the floor.

“Rai?! Rai! Are you alright? Eh?” Hikaru said as he ran away and approached Rai.

“Ah! Look at you. Your fair complexion was now covered with bruises and bandages.” Mrs. Mai said as she went out of the table and approached Rai.

“Get away from her!” Eito angrily said as he ran towards Mrs. Mai to push her away.

But Mr. Anthony blocked his way and pushed Eito instead.

“Oh my! What is this? An ‘Upper Knight’ is worried to this ‘Demon Witch’. That’s strange.” Mrs. Mai said as looked at Eito.

“Hahaha! Look at this Eito. Finally, the ambidextrous ‘Upper Knight’ is no longer in the First Rank.” Mr. Anthony said as he took out a silver brooch from his right chest pocket and taunted Eito.

“Damn it! That’s mine! Give it back.” Eito angrily said as he stood up and tried to fight back.

But since he’s all tied up, Mr. Anthony punched him away.

“Eito! Eito? Hey! Are you alright?” Hikaru said as he ran away and approached Eito.

“That’s enough!” Rai bravely shouted out as she tried to get up the floor.

“Hey! Um? Lady – Master? Ah! I forgot her name.” Kazuki said as he scratched his head.

“Big brother, her name is Rai Akimura. She’s also one of the five ‘Chosen Candidates. How you forgot that?’” Kenji said as he sat down on the floor.

“Akimura huh? Huh!? She’s Lady Marie’s daughter and that brat who punched me during the auditions.” Kazuki exclaimed as he stomped away and approached Rai.

“Eh? Eh! Kazuki, where are you – Come back!” Mayumi said as she tried to stop Kazuki.

“How dare you raise your voice in front of the ‘Council’ members?!” Mrs. Mai said as she got pissed off to Rai.

Mrs. Mai was about to slap Rai when Kazuki arrived and shoved her right hand away from her.

“Stay away from her, ugly witch!” Kazuki said as he shouted back at Mrs. Mai.

“What?! I-I’m ugly? How dare you call me that!” The agitated Mrs. Mai said as she slapped Kazuki instead.

Kazuki fell on the floor, touching his swollen right cheek.

“I said that’s enough!” Rai bravely shouted out as finally managed to untie herself.

“Eh? H-How did you untied yourself?” Mr. Ryu said as he asked Rai.

“’Red Assassins’ always have a spare small pocket knife hidden under their long sleeves. Well, that’s what my mother told me.” Rai said as she raised up her right hand and waved back at Mr. Ryu.

“Damn it! ‘Imperial Soldiers’ apprehend her!” Mr. Ryu said as he commanded the three ‘Imperial Soldiers’ guarding the court room.

'Oh thy mysterious creatures,

Hiding under the shadows,

I summon thee,

Come forth, 'Black Hounds'!’

Rai said as she raised her right arm and shouted out.

A magical circle appeared on the floor; Rai’s shadow started to move on its own, forming into two unidentified silhouettes. These silhouettes then morphed into ‘Black Hounds’, summoning Alphe and Avia.

“’Black Hounds’? Wait! Is that a ‘Cursed Mark’ on your upper right neck?” Mr. Ryu said as he noticed Rai’s ‘Cursed Mark’.

“P-Please help us! A ‘Demon’ has invaded the Headquarters.” Ms. Annie said as she cowers in fear and shouted out for help.

“You’re indeed a ‘Demon Witch’! You’re able to summon these ‘Black Hounds’ using a ‘f*******n Enchantment.’ I suggest we exile them before they create havoc inside the Head Quarters.” Mrs. Mai said as pleaded to the ‘Council’.

“You’re right! ‘Demons’ has no place in this Kingdom. ‘Council’ members please gather around these seven fugitives.” Ms. Iysa said as he instructed the remaining ‘Council’ members.

Ms. Iysa, Mr. Ryu, Ms. Annie, Mrs. Mai and Mr. Jiro formed a circle surrounding the seven fugitives. Lead by Ms. Iysa, they began enchanting a spell to start the ceremony.

“We, the ‘Imperial Council’, hereby opening this magical gate…” Ms. Iysa said as she and the others enchant their spell. 

A glowing, magical portal appeared underneath the seven fugitives; Flowering vines with thorns were slowly dragging Rai and the others, sinking them on the floor.

“Ow-Ouch! Thorns? W-What the hell is happening?” Kazuki said as he tried to take the vines off his neck but it was useless.

“Mr. Alphe, please send this message to Queen Faeya and the others: ‘This Kingdom shall sink in despair. Gray ashes will fall from the sky. Rocks will roll down from the high mountains. The ocean will rise, drowning everyone and those windmills shall be destroyed.’” Rai said as she instructed to Alphe and Avia.

Alphe and Avia both howled and ran out of the court room. 

“Hurry! Chase those ‘Black Hounds’!” Ms. Annie said as she commanded the three ‘Imperial Soldiers’.

“Exiling these two traitors to the unknown world and never to return again. Be gone!” Ms. Iysa said as she and the others continue enchanting their spell. 

“Be gone, foul ‘Demon Witch’!” Mrs. Mai said as she shouted back at Rai.

With one swift move, the mysterious vines successfully dragged Rai and the others away and the portal disappeared without a trace.

Back in ‘Ryushizaki Town’

That afternoon…

Shouta was sweeping outside the ‘Fruits’ Shop when a delivery truck arrived.

“Oh? The delivery is here. Sir Boss! Sir Boss! What the heck is he doing right now?’ Shouta said as he went back inside the shop.

The delivery truck stopped in front of the shop; Hiiro went out from the driver’s seat and stretched out his arms.

“Um? Lady Boss said that I should call her after I arrived in this shop. To do that, I should use this thing to call her. What is this thing anyway?” Hiiro said as he turned around and took a smartphone out of right chest pocket.

“Hurry! The delivery is here.” Shouta said as he pushed Sir Boss out of the shop.

“Alright! Alright! I’m coming so you don’t have to push me. Oh no! I forgot the inventory list back on my apartment. Can you go back upstairs and get it for me?” Sir Boss said as he asked Shouta.

“Ah! I knew it. You’re always forgetting things. I’ll be back to help you unload those crates of watermelons so stay in here.” Shouta said he pouted and went back upstairs.

Outside the ‘Fruits’ Shop…

Sir Boss went out of his Shop, wondering where is the driver.

“Uh? I wonder where is the delivery driver. Who’s this little girl sleeping on the passenger’s seat? Ah! There you are.” Sir Boss said as he looked inside the delivery truck.

“Uh! Good afternoon, Sir Boss. I’m Hiiro Matsuoka, the new delivery driver. On behalf of my boss, thank you for your patronage on our products.” Hiiro said as he turned around and introduced himself to Sir Boss.

“Your welcome. I’m Sir Boss, the owner of this ‘Fruits’ Shop. I’m glad that my wife finally managed to find a new driver and deliver those watermelons on time.” Sir Boss said as he sighed and crossed his arms.

“Wife? Eh!? Really?” Hiiro exclaimed in disbelief.

“Yes! Uh? Your smartphone is ringing. Aren’t you going to answer that?” Sir Boss said as he noticed Hiiro’s phone.

“Uh! This is embarrassing but could you teach me on how to use this rectangular, glass thing?” Hiiro shyly said as he asked Sir Boss.

“Of course! I would gladly help you. You see, you have to press this green button to answer this call. There. Now, put this on your left ear and try to talk.” Sir Boss said as he instructed Hiiro.

“Oh? Okay. I understand. Thank you very much. H-Hello?” Hiiro said as he did what Sir Boss said.

“Hiiro? Hiiro, answer the damn phone!” Lady Boss said on the other line.

“A-Amazing! Sir Boss, your magic worked.” Hiiro exclaimed as he looked at back at Sir Boss.

“Now, answer that call while I unload the crates out of the truck.” Sir Boss said as he walked away and went around the truck.

“Thank you very much, Sir Boss.” Hiiro said as he walked away and called back to Lady Boss.

At the back of the truck…

“Ah! My watermelons have arrived. Look at you, you’re so round and juicy – Eh? Maki!? Welcome back.” Sir Boss said as he opened the door and took out one ripe watermelon.

Sir Boss turned around and saw Maki.

“I’m back, Sir Boss.” Maki said as he arrived and growled.

“W-What happened to you?” Sir Boss said as he asked Maki.

“Ah! Today was Art Day so I asked my students to bring their art materials. During the class, one of them accidentally spilled his red, acrylic paint on the teacher’s desk where I left my brown suit.” Maki said as he explained what happened.

“Is that so? You can bring that to the laundry shop later. For the meantime, help me carry these inside the shop.” Sir Boss said as he gave the watermelon to Maki.

“Uh? Okay. Man, this is so heavy.” Maki said as he walked away, carrying the watermelon.

Maki walked around the truck and saw Harue sleeping inside the delivery truck.

“Is that Harue? Eh! But that’s impossible. Wait! I’ll go back to check if that was really her. Eh? It is her!” Maki exclaimed as he walked back and looked at Harue.

Maki panicked and dropped the watermelon on the ground; He, then, ran away and went inside the ‘Fruits’ Shop’.

“Maki? What was that? Damn it! I told you to help me carry these – Where the hell is he?” Sir Boss said as he wondered what happened.

“Thank you very much for waiting, Sir Boss. I’m done talking to this thing please allow me to help you.” Hiiro said as he went back to the truck.

“But? You are probably exhausted driving from the mountains down in here so I cannot let you do that.” Sir Boss said as he tried to stop Hiiro.

“No. Not at all. Please allow me to help you.” Hiiro said as he insisted to Sir Boss.

“Then, if you insist. Please carry those crates inside my shop and I’ll just go upstairs and drag down my assistants to help you.” Sir Boss said as he pats Hiiro’s right shoulder.

“Speaking of assistants, my little sister is supposed to be helping me in this task but she fell asleep while we’re on the road.” Hiiro said as he scratched his head.

“Is that so? I thought she’s a beautiful mannequin sleeping inside your truck. Anyway, I’ll be back.” Sir Boss said as he walked back inside his shop and went upstairs.

Inside Shouta and Maki’s Apartment

In the living area…

“So, let me get this straight. After I went out of Sir Boss’ room, you arrived and dragged me back inside our apartment to tell me that?” Shouta said as he asked Maki.

“To tell you that I saw Harue sleeping inside that truck.” Maki said as he insisted to Shouta.

“That’s impossible! Harue is back at the Kingdom and she’s probably working at the Head Quarters right now.” Shouta said as he stomped away.

“Please listen to me. What if Hiiro’s plan worked?” Maki said as he asked Shouta.

“Hiiro’s plan will not work! I’ve been observing the night sky within these past two years and I didn’t saw one shooting star after we’ve arrived in here.” Shouta angrily said as he tells Maki.

“Damn it! This is why they hated you. Your subjects and the ‘Imperial Council’ had enough with your obstinate personality so they chose to exile you.” Maki said as he cursed out.

“I know! That’s why I deserve to be exiled in this unknown world.” Shouta sadly said as he shoved the wooden clip board onto Maki’s chest.

“You two, that’s enough.” Sir Boss said as he went inside the apartment.

“Uh! Sir Boss? I apologize for the commotion.” Shouta said as he apologized to Sir Boss.

“No problem. Maki left the door open and I overheard your conversation so I went inside to check it out.” Sir Boss said as he glares at Maki.

“I-I’m so sorry. I’ll pay for that spoiled watermelon.” Maki said as he apologized to Sir Boss.

“I’ll add that debt to your monthly rent. Anyway, Shouta, I asked you to bring that inventory list. Where is it?” Sir Boss said as he asked Shouta.

“Ah, yes! Here’s your inventory list.” Shouta said as he gave the clip board to Sir Board.

Sir Boss grabbed it and shove it back onto Shouta’s cheeks.

“For once, trying listening to what others’ saying to you. Even though you disagree with Maki’s opinions, listen to him. It is called respect.” Sir Boss said as he reprimanded Shouta.

“I’ll remember that, Sir Boss. I’m sorry.” Shouta humbly said as he apologized to Sir Boss.

“Good! Now, let’s get downstairs and start the inventory. Maki, I also need your help so go back to room and take off that – Maki?” Sir Boss said as he and Shouta looked at Maki.

“Maki? Ma-ki! Maki! He suddenly froze after hearing the word ‘debt.” Shouta said as he playfully pinched Maki’s cheeks.

“Oh? Is that so? Then, you stay in here to accompany him while I go downstairs and start the inventory.” Sir Boss said as he went out Shouta’s apartment.

 “Yes Sir! Maki! Maki! I need you to snap out. Maki.” Shouta said as he grabbed Maki’s shoulders and started shaking him.

10 minutes later

Back at the Fruit’s Shop…

“Phew! That’s the last crate Sir.” Hiiro said as he put the crate inside the Shop.

“Thank you, Mr. Hiiro. Here.” Sir Boss said as he gave two Cola cans to Hiiro.

“Uh? Thank you very much. But why two?” Hiiro said as he wondered.

“Give the other one to your little sister." Sir Boss cheerfully said as he smiled back at Hiiro.

“Again, thank you very much.” Hiiro cheerfully said ran away and went back to the trunk.

“Have a safe trip.” Sir Boss said as he waved back at Hiiro.

Few moments later, Hiiro drove the delivery truck and left the ‘Shopping District’.

“We’re back! Maki finally snapped out.” Shouta said as he and Maki went out of the Fruits’ Shop.

“Good! Now, we can start the inventory. Thanks to Mr. Hiiro’s help, we managed to carry these 24 crates inside the store.” Sir Boss said as he looked at the watermelons.

“Oh? So, that’s the name of the new delivery driver…Wait! Huh!?” Shouta exclaimed as he stomped away and approached Sir Boss.

“Indeed. He even asked me to help him on how to use a smartphone. I bet he came from a different country. Anyway, let’s start the inventory – Uh? Shouta froze.” Sir Boss said as he sighed and looked at Maki.

“A-Are you certain that Hiiro was that driver’s name?” Maki said as he panicked and asked.

“Uh? Yes. Well, that’s what he said to me. Why?” Sir Boss said as he started transferring the watermelons on the weighing scale.

“N-Nothing. Hahaha. Here, let me assist you.” Maki nervously said as he stammered.

“Hm? Something’s wrong. I forgot to ask this but what are you two arguing earlier?” Sir Boss said as he suspiciously glares at Maki.

“A-Ah! Um? Something about shooting stars and childhood stuff.” Maki shyly said as he tells Sir Boss.

“Ah! Speaking about stars, two chapters – I mean nights ago after I closed the shop, I looked up in the night sky and saw two shooting stars fell out of the sky.” Sir Boss said as he started weighing the watermelons.

Shouta and Maki went speechless after that; Maki accidentally dropped another watermelon on the floor and started running out of the shop, followed by Shouta.

“The Prince and ‘Princess’

Live happily ever after?

Wondering what happened

To the ‘Witch’?

The ‘Witch’ saves herself.”

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­Thank you for waiting! Here’s Chapter XX concluding Part One. Enjoy reading. Thank you for the reading the story and Will update next week so stay tuned. – CheChe-chan.