"So please, tell me, how did you end up in the Ravensfield Labyrinth?" she asked, her gaze fixed upon me as I lay in bed, my body covered in bandages. I was half-naked, but at least I still had my pants on. The bandages were carefully wrapped around my chest, particularly the area where I had been stabbed. As I waited for an answer, my consciousness slowly returned, and I looked up at her with her dazzling eyes.
"It's a long story," I began, my voice filled with humility. "You see, I was summoned by the goddess Nerthus. The Emperor of the country, Heisen, gave us a mission to destroy the Demonic League and save humanity from their plans of eradicating us." I paused, reflecting on what I knew from them.
"That's all I know," I admitted.
Recalling the moment when we were sent to the Ravensfield Labyrinth, it was initially meant to be a combat training exercise, providing us with the experience of people who were still accustomed to modern peace and social stability, based on what they had witnessed in their previous world. However, it became evident that none of that training was beneficial in this world, where bloody wars and executions were the primary methods of problem-solving.
Over the past few months since being summoned by the goddess Nerthus, I found my assigned class to be of little use, constantly belittled and undermined by my classmates, who pushed me further down. I had grown tired of it all, and the desire to leave the party grew within me, even though I had contributed my abilities to support them. It didn't matter to them. They wanted me dead, but I couldn't bring myself to care.
"I understand your story, Fujioka-san," Claudia said, trying to provide comfort in the face of Kazuki's harrowing past. Kazuki had formulated a plan to become stronger and confront those who had betrayed him, should he ever have the chance to see them again.
Yet, deep within my heart, there was a lingering anger, a burning hatred for those who had betrayed, used, and treated me like a worthless object. Kazuki struggled to conceal his aggression in Claudia's presence.
Getting out of bed, I began searching for my armour and sword, only to realize they were nowhere to be found. As I scanned the room, frustration growing, I vowed to retrieve my equipment and strengthen myself. One day, I would confront those who had wronged me, should the opportunity arise.
Panic coursed through Kazuki as he remembered losing his weapons during their battle in the Ravensfield Labyrinth. He cursed himself for his carelessness, allowing distractions to get the better of him during the fight.
Noticing his distress, Claudia inquired about the source of his worry. Kazuki explained his predicament, and the girl suggested that he try creating his weapon. At first, he hesitated, uncertain of his abilities, but he realized that he had nothing to lose.
Agreeing to Claudia's suggestion, Kazuki embarked on the task of crafting his weapon of choice. He gathered the necessary materials and began the process of construction.
It proved to be a challenging endeavour, and he struggled to get everything just right. However, he persevered, determined to create a weapon that would not only aid him in battle but also prove to his former party members that he was not to be underestimated.
Days turned into weeks, and Kazuki devoted all his time and energy to building his firearm. The weapon he created was a 6-shot revolver capable of firing 120 rounds per minute. It resembled a modern-day revolver, meticulously crafted to his specifications.
With the revolver complete, he moved on to constructing his primary weapon. This time, he opted for a lever-action hunting rifle capable of holding 9 to 13 rounds of cartridges. The materials required to create this weapon included Aurumite and Thunderstone.
Aurumite, a rare and precious metal with a brilliant silver hue, was known for its resistance to corrosion and tarnishing. It was highly sought after in various ancient cultures and civilizations, prized for its beauty and durability. Besides its decorative qualities, Aurumite possessed unique properties that made it a valuable resource in alchemy, metallurgy, and magic. Skilled blacksmiths and practitioners could harness and amplify its powerful energy.
Thunderstone, on the other hand, was a rare and powerful ore that generated incredible electrical charges when exposed to intense heat or pressure. It had a deep charcoal grey colour, renowned for its durability, strength, and unique properties that made it highly sought after for crafting potent weapons. The mining and refinement of Thunderstone required skilled artisans and craftsmen well-versed in metallurgy and engineering.
Kazuki's journey to create his weapons was fraught with challenges, but he persisted. He knew that these weapons would not only serve him in battle but also symbolize his determination and resilience. With his revolver and hunting rifle in hand, crafted from the finest materials, Kazuki was ready to face his former party members and prove his worth.
And finally, Thunderdust was a powerful and explosive substance used in the creation of firearms and other advanced weaponry. It consisted of a fine, grey powder composed of several potent chemicals and minerals, including saltpetre, sulphur, and charcoal.
Creating Thunderdust was a complex process that required skilled alchemists and chemists who carefully measured and combined the various components in precise amounts. Once made, the powder was highly unstable and needed to be handled with great care to avoid accidental detonation.
When ignited, Thunderdust released an intense burst of energy that could be harnessed and channelled into bullets and other projectiles, propelling them at high speeds and velocities. Its explosive power made it a valuable resource in the development of advanced weaponry, often used to create bombs, grenades, and other explosive devices.
After months of hard work, Kazuki had finally completed his masterpiece. He tested it out and was impressed by its accuracy and power. Claudia, recognizing his achievement, congratulated him on his success.
Following a long day of hard work creating these new sets of weapons, I decided to take a stroll in the town square, hoping to cure my boredom.
As I looked around the spacious room, I found myself inside an inn tavern. My room was located on the second floor of the tavern. The place was filled with life and bustling with activity. Many people visited daily to treat themselves.
Claudia was the first to leave the room before me, likely because I had slept for an unknown amount of time after completing my weapon.
I immediately stood up and noticed a wardrobe in front of me. Inside, there was a shirt that seemed to be reserved for me. I put it on, left my belongings in the room, and opened the door, rushing out.
Arriving at the front door of the inn, I confidently opened it to step outside and search for Claudia. As I exited, the sun's radiant glare met my eyes. I instinctively shielded my face from the blinding light.
Once my sight had adjusted, I observed townsfolk going about their business on the cobblestone sidewalks. Ahead of me, there was a fountain where people took breaks, sitting on the benches surrounding the water reservoir.
While walking around the town square, I couldn't help but notice the various shops and stalls lining the streets. The scent of fresh baked goods, roasted meats, and exotic spices filled the air, enticing my taste buds.
Suppressing the tempting desire to indulge in delicious pastries due to my lack of money, I focused on my quest to find Claudia.
Passing by food stalls, I noticed a person standing beside a tree, appearing anxious. It seemed to be a woman, and she looked familiar. I decided to approach her, attempting to get closer without arousing suspicion. To my certainty, it was Claudia herself.
Trying to comprehend the situation, I approached her. As I drew nearer, she noticed me but didn't question my presence. Without raising any suspicions among the townsfolk, I walked slowly towards her and took a seat beside her.
So, uh... what's wrong?" I asked.
"Huh?"
"You know, something's happening when you're like that."
Claudia had no choice but to open up to Kazuki, but since he asked politely, she insisted on telling him.
"Well, it's just, you know, problems."
"What sort of problems?"
"About the past, where I was from."
Her tone became soft and depressing as she started to recount a tragic story. However, I couldn't bring myself to listen to her.
Claudia used to be a part of the prestigious Wellenpealte domain, a wealthy and influential clan nestled in the beautiful Orientian countryside. The Wellenpealte domain had a long-standing history of power and prominence in the region.
Claudia's parents were not just diplomats but manipulative puppeteers, using their children as tools to advance their sinister agendas. From a young age, Claudia was subjected to their cruel machinations, forced to partake in unspeakable acts to secure power and control. The scars of their abuse left her emotionally shattered and psychologically scarred.
Seeking solace, Claudia immersed herself in the art of sword fighting, finding the motivation to escape her nightmarish existence. She trained relentlessly, her sword becoming an extension of her being, carrying her pain and anger, slashing through the rage that had consumed her soul.
Despite her prowess with the blade, Claudia's accomplishments were met with indifference or confusion. The recognition of her talent buried her beneath a blanket of despair. Her spirit shattered into pieces, and each rejection drove her deeper into isolation.
In a desperate attempt to break free from her family's desires, Claudia made a fateful decision. She would participate in a gruesome and underground sword-fighting competition, fueled not by pride or honour, but by a desperate need to prove her worth and seek revenge for her dark and tainted experiences.
As she stepped into the bloodstained arena, her heart weighed heavily with the burden of her family's abuse. Every swing of her blade carried the weight of her tortured past, and every victory was a bitter reminder of the twisted path she had been forced to tread.
The spectators, indifferent and jaded, viewed her as nothing more than a pawn in their brutal game. Through the gruelling matches and the cries of pain echoing in her ears, Claudia fought not only her opponents but also the demons that haunted her from within.
Each clash of the blades became a battle for her survival, a chance to reclaim her shattered identity and defy the darkness consuming her. During this bleak journey, Claudia's quest for vengeance and liberation from the clutches of her tragic lineage led her down a treacherous path, testing her resilience and pushing her to the brink of destruction.
Whether she would emerge victorious or succumb to the relentless darkness remained uncertain, for the world she inhabited offered little hope and happiness.
"Claudia-san, I think you're doing well for yourself," I said.
"Everything is in the past now. I will protect you as your knight in shining armour."
I poured out all my feelings for her, realizing it was more like a confession than mere comfort. It was my first time opening up to someone of the opposite sex. I wasn't the same person I was in my previous world, but I had done it.
Claudia raised her eyebrows and smiled happily, immediately hugging me tightly, accepting me as her protector and lover.
"Yes, I've finally found someone who understands me," she replied.
"I pledge my unwavering loyalty to you. I am your sword and partner. Together, we are strong."
Kazuki and Claudia finally opened themselves up to each other, becoming life partners. A man abandoned by his comrades found solace in the touch and warmth of a beautiful maiden. But Kazuki knew his story was just beginning; he would not rest until he found justice for whoever had betrayed him.
Hand in hand, they walked happily under the evening sky, with lampposts illuminating their path as they strolled past buildings. They were enjoying the time of their lives. After sightseeing, Kazuki and Claudia found a seat outside a restaurant and settled down.
"Claudia, I want to explore and venture across the continent," I said.
"And I want to sign up to become an adventurer."
"Well, if you want, there's a nearby Adventurer's Guild in this town. Let's visit it tomorrow morning."
"Sure, that would be great," she replied.
With their conversation concluded Kazuki and Claudia made their way back to the inn. As they walked, they passed by numerous attractions and marvelled at the breathtaking scenery of the town, particularly under the blessed night sky. Upon reaching the tavern, I opened the door, revealing a bustling scene inside. People were drinking, sleeping, and even singing together.
Climbing up the stairs, we settled into bed together. Kazuki wanted to uncover the hidden secrets of this world, especially the Theocracy Empire of Heisen, and explore the other tribes in this magical realm. But before that, he needed to prepare himself to become the mercenary he had always desired to be—a class bestowed upon him that he didn't consider a curse or a weakness, but rather a blessing.