It was another leisurely weekend in Akihabara, and Alexis wandered through the bustling streets, blending into the crowd with his casual attire—slacks and a plain shirt. His eyes drifted lazily across stalls and booths, eventually landing on a particularly loud setup:
"Lucky Draw Event! Only 50 Yen! First Prize: An Unforgettable Hokkaido Hot Spring Vacation for Six!"
The event handler waved a brightly colored sign, his booming voice pulling in passersby. Alexis stopped, squinting at the sign.
"Fifty yen for a vacation?" he murmured to himself. "What's the worst that could happen?"
The handler caught his hesitation. "Come on, young man! Test your luck! Just one pull could change your life!"
"Sure," Alexis replied nonchalantly, handing over a coin.
He reached into the container and shuffled the slips, deliberately dragging out the moment. The event handler leaned in, eyes sparkling with anticipation. Finally, Alexis pulled out a slip and handed it over.
The handler opened it, froze, then exploded into motion. A bell rang wildly, and the man yelled, "FIRST PRIZE WINNER! WE HAVE A WINNER!"
Confetti burst into the air as a small crowd formed, clapping and cheering. Alexis blinked, the noise startling him more than the announcement.
The handler handed him a sleek envelope with a flourish. "Congratulations, sir! You've won six tickets to an all-expenses-paid hot spring vacation in Hokkaido!"
Alexis stared at the envelope like it was an alien artifact. "Huh. Lucky day, I guess."
An onlooker muttered, "This guy acts like he wins trips every day. So chill."
Another nodded. "Probably a secret celebrity."
Without a word, Alexis pocketed the tickets and strolled off, the cheers fading behind him as he made his way back to Seika's apartment.
When Alexis entered the apartment, Seika was at the dining table, sipping tea, while Crucibelle was chomping down on snacks and Miz lounged on the couch flipping through TV channels.
He tossed the envelope onto the table with casual precision. "Hey, got us a trip to Hokkaido."
Seika froze mid-sip, her hand trembling slightly as her gaze locked onto the envelope.
"…Wait." She set her cup down slowly, her tone deadly serious. "What did you just say?"
"I won tickets," Alexis repeated, deadpan. "To Hokkaido. Hot springs. Six of them."
The room went silent. Seika's eyes darted between Alexis and the envelope before she suddenly shrieked, leaping out of her chair.
"WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?! LET ME SEE THAT!"
In a single motion, she lunged across the table, snatching the envelope like her life depended on it. Crucibelle sat up, curious, while Miz pushed his glasses up, intrigued.
Seika tore open the envelope and read the contents aloud, her voice rising with excitement. "Three days… all expenses paid… HOKKAIDO HOT SPRINGS!"
She spun around, clutching the tickets dramatically. "We're going to Hokkaido! Hot springs! Relaxation! REAL FUN VACATION VIBES!"
Crucibelle tilted her head. "What's a Hokkaido? Is it food? Can I eat it?"
Miz frowned thoughtfully. "What's a hot spring, Miss Seika? Is it like… boiling flavored water? For soup?"
Seika waved her hands frantically. "No, no! It's a place where you bathe in warm, natural water. It's soothing and relaxing!"
Crucibelle gasped. "So it's like a giant bathtub... outside?"
"Exactly!" Seika exclaimed.
Crucibelle's face lit up. "I want to splash around!"
Miz, however, looked apprehensive. "I… don't know. I don't want to boil alive."
Seika crouched to Miz's level. "Trust me, Miz. It's not that kind of boiling. It's heavenly!"
Alexis leaned against the wall, arms crossed, watching the chaos unfold with mild amusement. "We've got two extra tickets. Who do we bring?"
Seika started thinking about it. "Hmmmmmmmmmmm..."
Alexis pulled out his phone instead. "Or… I'll handle it."
Carna picked up on the second ring. "Boss? What's up?"
"Feel like taking a vacation?"
Carna's voice immediately perked up. "Vacation? Where?"
"Hokkaido. Hot springs. Three days. All paid."
There was a pause. Then Carna whooped. "Heck yeah! Melina's coming too!"
"Figures," Alexis said, smirking. "Be ready tomorrow."
After hanging up, he glanced at Seika with a thumbs up. "They're in."
Seika cheered, dragging Crucibelle (who still had a chip hanging on her mouth) and Miz into a celebratory hug. "This is going to be the best trip ever!"
The next morning, the group gathered at the train station. Carna arrived with Melina in tow, both carrying sleek luggage.
Carna slapped Alexis on the back. "You're full of surprises, Boss. Didn't peg you for the hot spring type."
"Didn't peg me for the lucky draw type either," Alexis replied dryly.
Seika bounced in place, practically vibrating with excitement. "Alright, everyone! To Hokkaido!"
The group boarded the sleek onsen train, its warm interior lined with plush seats and large windows that framed the countryside beautifully.
As the train hummed to life, conversations started flowing.
"Do you think they'll have fish bento?" Crucibelle asked, eyes sparkling.
Miz nodded. "I read they serve regional specialties on trains like these."
Carna smirked at Alexis. "Seriously though, winning a first-prize trip? Rigged. No way you're this lucky."
Alexis shrugged. "Just a fluke."
Seika leaned in, grinning. "Maybe the universe decided you deserved a break for being… well, you."
"A bit strict? Very strategic? A bit serious?" Alexis guessed, raising an eyebrow.
"Efficient," Miz corrected, earning a laugh from the group (except from Crucibelle who was staring outside the train window in awe).
After a long ride, the train came to a smooth halt at the station in Hokkaido, and the door slid open with a soft whoosh. As the group stepped out, they were greeted by a blast of fresh, crisp air. The air was so cold it practically stung, but the beauty of the snow-covered landscape was undeniable.
Seika, barely containing her excitement, bounced from foot to foot as she looked around with wide, starry eyes. "We're really here! We're in Hokkaido!" she squealed, practically spinning in circles like a child at a theme park.
"Seika, please don't fall into a snowbank," Alexis called out dryly from where he stood, reading a map with an air of calm focus.
Seika waved him off, continuing to dance around with the pure joy of someone who had just unlocked the most precious achievement in a video game. "It's so beautiful! Look at all the snow! The mountains! The sky! This is perfect!"
Meanwhile, Carna and Crucibelle were standing together in a corner, huddled up in multiple layers of winter clothing—knitted caps, scarves, gloves—everything but thermal armor. But even with all that gear, they were still shivering visibly.
"Why is it so cold?" Crucibelle complained, tugging at her scarf. "I'm wearing everything and my teeth are still chattering!"
Carna, equally bundled up, adjusted her cap and sighed dramatically. "I swear, Hokkaido's got to be colder than any dungeon I've been in."
Miz and Melina, who had been quietly observing the chaos, turned to each other and, in perfect unison, asked, "Why are you still cold? You have everything on!"
Carna and Crucibelle turned to them, eyes wide with exasperation.
"It's cold, okay? It's freezing!" Crucibelle replied, her voice rising in protest.
Carna, clearly unimpressed, held up her mitten-covered hands. "Look at these fingers! They're not even supposed to bend like this anymore!"
Seika, still twirling in the background, shouted, "You're just not used to the real cold! Hokkaido cold is a whole new level of crisp!"
Miz, ever the calm and collected one, adjusted his glasses, giving the two a confused glance. "Shouldn't you two be used to colder environments by now? After all, you're used to fighting monsters and traveling across various regions…"
Crucibelle threw her hands up in the air dramatically. "Fighting monsters doesn't involve standing still for hours in subzero temperatures! We don't exactly have hot springs in the middle of a fight!"
Alexis, who had been scanning a map of Hokkaido in his hands, finally spoke up without looking up. "You guys do realize we're only a short walk from the hot spring resort, right? And we've got these awesome things called indoor heating in Japan." He gave a little sarcastic chuckle at their expense.
Seika paused her spinning to look at him. "Indoor heating? You mean… like the rooms are warm?"
Alexis looked up, a small grin forming. "Yes, Seika. Rooms. And don't worry. There's an outdoor bath waiting for you~~."
Seika's face lit up again, ignoring the others as she dashed ahead, yelling back, "Best vacation ever!"
Carna groaned, rubbing her hands together in vain. "If this indoor heating is as good as he says, I'm never leaving my room."
Melina smiled softly, stepping toward her sister. "Come on, Carna. We can get hot tea at the resort, right? It'll warm you up."
"I'll believe it when I'm holding that tea in my hands."
As the group started walking toward the hot spring resort, Alexis kept his nose buried in the map, his eyes scanning the route carefully. It wasn't a long trip, but he wanted to make sure they arrived without any detours. He noted the picturesque path leading them through the snow-covered trees, the distant mountains in the background, and the serene landscape that seemed to invite them in.
Seika continued to skip ahead, occasionally stopping to spin in a circle or leap into the snow, her exuberance contagious. "This is what a vacation should feel like!"
Meanwhile, Miz, ever the calm observer, glanced up at the sky, noting the clear blue with just a hint of cloud. "The weather here is… much clearer than back home."
"You mean it's less polluted," Alexis replied dryly, his eyes scanning the map again. "It's also a great place to recharge. Hokkaido's known for its pristine air and relaxing atmosphere."
Seika suddenly stopped and pointed excitedly. "That must be the resort! Look! Over there!"
Everyone turned to where she was pointing. In the distance, nestled between two mountains, was a gorgeous structure with traditional Japanese architecture—wooden beams and paper lanterns glowing warmly in the snow. The steamy scent of the hot spring wafted through the air, making everyone's exhaustion from the cold vanish in an instant.
"Looks like we made it," Alexis said, rolling up the map and tucking it into his bag.
The sliding doors to the Hot Spring Resort opened with a soft shush, and the group stepped inside, immediately greeted by the soothing warmth and the soft, welcoming glow of lanterns. The lobby was a blend of modern amenities and traditional Japanese décor—smooth wood panels, sliding paper doors, and gentle stone lanterns.
Alexis, the ever-responsible one, walked up to the receptionist, handing over the tickets with an air of cool professionalism. The receptionist smiled warmly, taking the tickets and returning with three room keys.
"Your rooms are ready, sir," she said, bowing slightly. "Enjoy your stay at our resort."
"Thanks," Alexis replied with a casual nod, accepting the keys. "We will."
The group headed to their rooms in a relaxed yet excited manner. Seika was practically skipping as she moved down the hallway, while Miz walked with his usual calm and composed demeanor. Carna and Crucibelle, shivering from the cold air outside, hurried to change into their yukata, eager to find warmth.
Alexis knocked gently on the door to Miz's room. "Let's meet up later at the baths."
Miz glanced up from his unpacking, adjusting his glasses. "Understood, sir. See you there."
Once the group gathered their things and changed into their robes, they made their way to the hot spring baths. Alexis, Miz, and the girls were all heading to the gender-segregated areas for the hot spring soak—everyone in high spirits, though Seika and Carna were practically vibrating with excitement.
The boys entered their side of the hot spring, which was designed with elegant stone structures and a view of the snowy landscape outside. The air was thick with steam as Alexis and Miz slid into the warm water, the heat immediately melting away any remaining stiffness from their bodies.
Seika's voice could be heard faintly through the walls of the partitioned baths, and the sound of Carna giggling was a noticeable backdrop. Alexis raised an eyebrow as he sank deeper into the water, trying to enjoy the warmth in silence.
Miz, however, was no stranger to casual conversation. "So, Boss," he started, glancing over at Alexis, "how are you enjoying the trip so far?"
Alexis leaned his head back against the stone ledge, his eyes closed as he relaxed into the bath. "It's nice. A bit of peace and quiet for once. The last few months have been... eventful."
"I'm sure," Miz mused, his voice light but laced with curiosity. "A bit more peaceful than that dragon incident, I presume?"
Alexis couldn't help but chuckle. "Much quieter, yes. Though I'm sure things won't stay this way for long."
Just as the conversation lulled, Seika's voice drifted in louder now, clearly from the girls' bath next door.
"I'm so glad Alexis saved me back then," Seika's voice rang out clearly, sounding almost wistful. "I... I never really had anyone who'd protect me like that before. He's such a... reliable person."
There was a brief pause before Carna's voice responded, teasing but gentle. "He's not just reliable, Seika. He's... kind of a hero, right? I mean, I have a lot of respect for him. He doesn't just save people for fun... he actually cares."
Alexis, who had been resting with his eyes closed, froze at the sudden mention of his name. His ears burned slightly, but he said nothing, glancing sideways at Miz, who was quietly observing.
"Yeah, Alexis really is..." Seika continued, her tone still thoughtful. "I'm really glad he's around. And you know, I think there's more to him than people realize."
Alexis's face reddened at that, though he tried to maintain his cool composure. What in the world...?
Meanwhile, Carna's voice drifted over once more, though there was a noticeable shift in her tone. "...You know, I think I respect him more than anyone realizes. He's just... different from other guys. Not flashy or show-offy, but always there when it counts. I could... I could really get used to being around him more, you know?"
"Hmm?" Seika asked, as if catching on to the subtlety. "What do you mean by that?"
Carna quickly corrected herself. "Oh, nothing! Just thinking out loud!" Her tone was casual, but there was something playful about it. "Still, Alexis is... well, special in his own way."
A beat of silence passed, and Alexis felt his cheeks burn even more. She respects me... but what was that about "getting used to being around me"...?
Miz, who had been quietly absorbing the conversation, raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Is that so?"
Alexis, caught a little off guard by Miz's sudden shift in focus, shot him a warning glance. "Don't even think about it, Miz."
But Miz's grin was far too innocent. "Oh? I was just asking, Boss. Seems like someone's been getting a lot of respect recently."
Alexis groaned. "Shut it, Miz."
The conversation continued in the girls' bath, but Alexis and Miz barely registered it now. Miz was far too entertained by Alexis's reaction, while Alexis was left silently brooding in the warmth of the water, trying to ignore the faint blush still coloring his face.
After an hour or so, the boys and girls emerged from the baths, feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Their night was far from over, though. The resort had plenty to offer, from a cozy lounge area to a beautiful snow-covered garden.
As they wandered around, Seika—now fully energized—suggested a night walk. "The garden looks gorgeous at night. We should go check it out!"
"Lead the way," Alexis said, his tone light despite the lingering awkwardness from earlier.
The group ambled through the garden, the snow crunching beneath their feet as they admired the peaceful surroundings. The lights of the resort shimmered in the distance, the scent of wood smoke drifting on the cool air.
"Can you believe we're really here?" Seika asked, practically skipping through the snow.
Carna, her face flushed from the bath, smiled. "I'm still in awe of this place. It's... perfect."
Suddenly, a voice interrupted the calm atmosphere. "Hey! Looks like we've got some visitors!"
Alexis, Seika, Carna, Miz, and Crucibelle turned toward the source of the voice, spotting a group of four unfamiliar figures standing at the edge of the garden, illuminated by the warm glow from the resort lights.
The strangers stepped forward, each of them clad in what appeared to be travel gear—clearly not from Japan, judging by their accents and the casual ease with which they moved.
One of them, a tall man with short-cropped brown hair and a sharp gaze, smiled at them. "I assume you're here for the relaxation as well?"
"We're... a little bit of everything," Alexis replied, assessing them carefully. "You guys tourists too?"
The man chuckled. "You could say that. We're with the Hokkaido Wave Order. Came down to check out the resort for a bit of leisure. Not often we get a break from the usual."
"Hokkaido Wave Order?" Seika asked, surprised. "You're part of the Wave Order?"
The tall man nodded. "Yeah. You could say we're the local crew. I'm Zane, by the way."
The others introduced themselves in turn: Kellen, a quiet woman with dark purple hair; Sylas, a tall and broad-shouldered man; and Cael, a younger-looking guy who was busy inspecting the frozen lake nearby.
"What brings you to Hokkaido?" Miz asked, raising an eyebrow.
"We needed a break," Zane said with a grin. "No better place to recharge than here. Why? You all here for a similar reason?"
Alexis shrugged, his usual calm returning. "Something like that. Just wanted some downtime."
"Well," Zane said, his smile widening, "Looks like we all might need some company then."
Seika's eyes twinkled with excitement. "You guys have to join us for dinner! We can swap stories about the Wave Order and all the crazy things we've done!"
Carna rolled her eyes playfully. "You're one to talk, Seika."
And just like that, the night continued with new faces, new conversations, and the promise of even more adventure.
(They all arrived and stayed at one of the suites)
The room was a storm of laughter, clinking glasses, and vibrant chatter. Alexis and his group, along with the Hokkaido Wave Order team, filled the cozy resort suite with energy and warmth. The small table in the center was crowded with bottles of sake, cans of beer, a deck of cards, and a partially finished game of shogi that had been left abandoned once Zane and Miz started a heated debate about strategy.
Sylas, the broad-shouldered member of the Hokkaido crew, was arm-wrestling Kellen, who surprised everyone with her sheer strength. Meanwhile, Seika, now thoroughly tipsy, had somehow managed to rope Cael into playing an old board game she had unearthed from the resort's stash. Her giggles echoed through the room, brightening the atmosphere even further.
Alexis leaned back against the wall, his beer in hand, observing the scene with a small, content smile. For a moment, it almost felt surreal—this strange harmony between two groups, the laughter, the camaraderie. It was a stark contrast to the chaotic, battle-filled days back in Boundless.
"Mind if I join you?"
Alexis turned his head to see Carna, holding her own drink. She gestured toward the balcony, and he stepped aside to let her through.
The two stepped onto the balcony, the cold night air biting softly at their skin but still comfortable enough to enjoy. The moon hung high above them, casting a gentle glow over the snow-covered landscape. For a while, neither of them spoke, simply sipping their drinks and letting the quiet settle between them.
Carna broke the silence first. "You know, it's funny. I never thought I'd be standing on a balcony in... wherever this place is, sipping something like this." She held up her drink, swirling the liquid around. "Back in Boundless, the closest thing we had was that weird ale from the Mercenary Tavern. And even then, it tasted awful."
Alexis chuckled softly, leaning against the railing. "Yeah, I remember that stuff. You'd drink it after a mission just to feel normal. Never thought I'd actually miss it."
Carna turned to him, her expression thoughtful. "Do you miss it, though? Boundless, I mean. The way things used to be?"
He took a moment before answering, his eyes fixed on the moon. "Sometimes. But... not really. Life back there was simple, sure, but it was also... dull. Predictable. Every day was a cycle—quest, battle, rest, repeat. Here... it's different. It's chaotic, but it's alive. There's color to everything. Even the mundane stuff feels important."
Carna nodded, her gaze distant. "I get that. Back in Boundless, everything felt scripted, even the battles. We were created for a purpose, but there was no room for anything more. No surprises, no... life." She paused, taking another sip of her drink. "Here, though? I've learned things I never thought I could. Felt things I didn't even know I was capable of."
Alexis glanced at her, noticing the soft smile playing on her lips. "What about now? How are you handling this world?"
She laughed lightly. "Honestly? It's overwhelming sometimes. But it's also... freeing. I never had friends like this back in Boundless. Sure, we worked together, but it wasn't the same. Here, I feel like I actually matter—not just as someone who fights, but as... me."
Alexis smiled at her words, nodding in agreement. "Yeah. This world has a way of doing that. Making you feel like there's more to life than just surviving."
Carna hesitated for a moment, then asked, her tone softer, "Do you think you've changed since we came here?"
Alexis raised an eyebrow, then smirked slightly. "Changed? Definitely. I never used to think about things like this. Never had the chance to. But now... yeah, I'd say I'm a little different."
Carna opened her mouth to say something else, but before she could, the balcony door slammed open with a loud bang.
"Alexis! Carna!"
They both turned to see Seika standing in the doorway, her cheeks flushed red from drinking. She wobbled slightly as she leaned against the frame, grinning from ear to ear.
"There you are! What are you two doing out here, being all quiet and boring? Come back inside! We're playing a new game, and it's your turn, Carna!"
Carna blinked, then let out a surprised laugh. "Seika, you're drunk!"
"I am not! I'm just... enjoying myself!" Seika declared, her voice a little too loud. She grabbed Carna's arm and began pulling her back inside. "C'mon, no more serious talks! It's party time!"
Alexis chuckled, shaking his head as he watched Seika drag Carna back into the chaos of the room.
Alone on the balcony now, he leaned against the railing, his eyes returning to the moon. The laughter from inside drifted out faintly, mixing with the quiet of the night.
He took another sip of his beer, his mind wandering. "If those warp-rifts never came... would my life still be dull in Boundless? Would it still feel empty?"
He paused, glancing over his shoulder at the lively scene inside. His friends were laughing, talking, living in the moment.
Turning back to his beer can, he smiled softly, muttering to himself. "This is my life now. It's not perfect, but it's mine. And I'm not wasting it. Not anymore."
With that, he drained the rest of his drink, set the empty can on the railing, and stepped back inside to join the others.
The night carried on with more games, more laughter, and more memories being made. It was a rare moment of peace for Alexis and his group—a reminder that even in the chaos of this new world, there was always time to stop, breathe, and enjoy the little things.
The next day dawned crisp and cold as Alexis and the group stood on the balcony of their resort, the misty breath of the mountain air visible in front of them as they prepared for a day of exploration. The sun was still low in the sky, casting a soft, golden hue over the snowy landscape of Noboribetsu. Alexis was in his usual calm mood, but a smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he gazed out at the untouched white fields stretching into the distance.
"Alright, team," Alexis announced, turning to his friends, who were all trying to adjust to the chill. "We've got a whole day to experience this place, so let's make the most of it."
Seika, in her white yukata, was already bouncing with excitement, eyes sparkling as she tugged at her thick scarf and pulled her sleeves up with exaggerated enthusiasm. "I can't wait to see everything! I've heard the food here is amazing!"
"Yeah, well, just make sure you're not dragging us into any more souvenir shops," Miz teased, his breath puffing in the cold air.
"Speak for yourself!" Seika shot back, clearly unaffected by the cold, her face flushed with excitement.
Carna, however, had bundled herself in layers—thick knitted gloves, a woolen scarf, and a heavy coat over her yukata. Despite her warmth, she was still shivering from the chill in the air. "Why is it so cold here?" she muttered, her teeth chattering. "I'm supposed to be used to the cold, but this is next level!"
Crucibelle, no stranger to warmer climates, was practically wrapped in her scarf like a mummy, her face barely visible behind it. "This isn't even funny anymore," she mumbled, barely able to move with all her layers.
Meanwhile, Miz was strolling along with his hands casually tucked in his pockets, unbothered by the freezing temperatures. "You get used to it. Just keep moving."
The Hokkaido Wave Order team had already gathered by the door, and Zane, the leader of the team, gave them all a friendly wave. "Ready for your tour?" Zane asked, his breath coming out in visible clouds. "We're going to show you some of the best spots in Noboribetsu. Trust me, you're going to love it."
With that, the group set off, making their way through the snow-covered streets of the town. Zane led the way, offering historical tidbits about the local hot springs and surrounding areas. The first stop was a traditional food stall known for its sweet, soft potato croquettes and Hokkaido dairy products.
Seika was practically bouncing with joy as she dug into a bowl of steaming miso soup, the warmth spreading through her body. "This is so good! I could eat this every day!"
"Isn't there more to do than eat?" Miz asked, looking over at Alexis, who was still sipping on his tea. "You're not going to just let her drag you into every food stall, are you?"
Alexis chuckled, shaking his head. "I'm here to enjoy the experience. If we get full, we can burn it off later."
"That's the spirit!" Seika grinned. "Food is half the experience anyway!"
They continued their journey, with Zane pointing out more picturesque spots around the town—quaint little markets, historical shrines, and even a few cozy cafés nestled under thick blankets of snow. Along the way, the group tried their hand at ice fishing on a frozen lake, where Carna and Crucibelle struggled to keep warm but managed to catch a couple of small fish. Carna's expressions were a mix of confusion and awe as she held up a tiny fish she'd caught. "Is this… supposed to be this cold?"
"You'll get used to it," Miz said, trying his best to hide his amusement at the sight of her bundled up to the point of immobility. "Just don't fall into the lake. That's the worst mistake you can make here."
Crucibelle gave a little giggle, although her red cheeks and trembling body made her seem more comical than anything. "I'm just glad we're not stuck here for hours!"
Meanwhile, Seika and Alexis took to the ice rink with ease, gliding gracefully and laughing as they tried to out-skate each other. The others joined in eventually, with Carna and Crucibelle wobbling around the rink like penguins on skates. The laughter filled the air, even as their breath came out in thick clouds against the cold. Miz and Zane traded playful insults as they raced one another across the rink, while Alexis watched, shaking his head but clearly enjoying the spectacle.
"You're really good at this, Alexis," Seika said as they slowed down, spinning around with a flourish. "Did you skate back in your world?"
Alexis smirked. "Not really. But when you've spent your life fighting monsters and dodging spells, balance becomes a little more natural."
"Right," Seika laughed, her face flushed from the exercise. "Well, I'm going to keep winning anyway."
Just as Alexis was about to say something in return, Zane stepped forward, a glint in his eye. "Alright, how about a little friendly competition? You and me, Alexis. Let's see how you handle some real action."
Alexis raised an eyebrow. "You mean, like a duel?"
Zane grinned. "Exactly. Let's take it to the snowfield. The fresh powder will make it interesting."
The rest of the group quickly gathered in a small clearing near the ice rink, eagerly awaiting the upcoming battle. Alexis and Zane stood opposite each other, their gazes locked in mutual respect. As the challenge was issued, the group grew more excited. They knew this wasn't going to be just any fight—it was going to be something epic.
"I'll make it quick," Alexis said casually, though his voice was laced with the faintest hint of a challenge.
"Bring it on!" Zane replied, cracking his knuckles. "Don't go easy on me, Alexis."
They both shed the top halves of their yukatas. The air around them grew colder as they exposed their toned physiques to the winter chill, each determined to push through the discomfort. Zane rolled his shoulders, and his fists began to glow with alternating hues of fiery orange and icy blue, each pulse releasing a faint mist. Slu showed up on his shoulder.
"Ready, buddy?" Alexis asked with a grin. Slu jiggled in response, its body shimmering with enthusiasm. A mouth formed in the slime's surface, opening wide, and with a wet schlop, Alexis reached in and drew forth his steel short sword. The blade emerged gleaming and pristine, as though it had been waiting for this exact moment. Slu closed its mouth with a cheerful wiggle and bounced to the side, watching eagerly as Alexis gave the blade a quick flourish and settled into a ready stance.
The crowd, made up of Alexis's group, Zane's team, and a steadily growing number of curious townsfolk, murmured in awe at the display. The snowy expanse became their battlefield, a pristine canvas for the impending clash.
Zane raised his fists, the glow intensifying as he smirked. "That's a unique trick. Let's see if your swordplay can keep up."
Alexis smirked back, stepping forward lightly, his boots crunching against the snow. "Don't worry. I'll keep things entertaining."
With a sharp crack of snow beneath their feet, they launched at each other. Zane's fists moved first, a swift jab glowing with fire that Alexis sidestepped, the heat brushing his cheek. Zane followed immediately with an icy roundhouse kick, but Alexis blocked with his blade, the steel ringing sharply as frost licked its edge.
Zane didn't relent. His punches came in a rapid barrage, alternating between fiery impacts that melted patches of snow and icy strikes that froze the ground where they landed. Alexis countered with deft footwork, weaving through the attacks while his sword danced. The blade became an extension of himself, deflecting a blazing uppercut and pivoting into a downward slash that Zane narrowly avoided.
The duel escalated as Zane planted his foot into the snow, sending a ripple of ice toward Alexis. Alexis leapt backward, flipping mid-air, and landed just in time to counter a fire-imbued dash from Zane. Their collision sent a blast of heat and frost outward, creating a swirling mist that shrouded them momentarily.
From the mist, Alexis lunged, his sword flashing in the dim light. Zane ducked and retaliated with a spinning kick, but Alexis anticipated it, blocking with the flat of his blade and using the momentum to pivot and strike. His blade caught Zane's forearm lightly, leaving a shallow cut. Zane grinned despite the sting, his breath visible in the icy air.
"Not bad," Zane admitted, wiping a trickle of blood away. "But let's turn up the heat—or the chill."
He slammed his fists together, creating an eruption of fire and ice. The snow beneath them melted and froze simultaneously, turning parts of the battlefield into slick ice. Zane used this to his advantage, sliding toward Alexis with a fiery punch that forced him into a defensive roll.
Alexis capitalized on the slippery terrain, activating his Agyl' Boost. His movements became faster and more fluid, his sword strikes precise and relentless. He slid across the ice, using the momentum to launch himself into a sweeping slash aimed at Zane's midsection. Zane countered with an icy barrier, shards flying as the blade shattered through.
Snow swirled around them as the duel reached its peak. Alexis activated Precision Strike, his blade glowing faintly as he aimed for Zane's shoulder. Zane dodged narrowly, the strike slicing through the frost-laden air. Zane responded with a fiery punch, but Alexis twisted away, retaliating with a low sweep of his blade that forced Zane to leap over him.
As Zane landed, Alexis saw his opening. He thrust his palm forward, releasing a calculated barrage of Wind Sprite Combustion Volley. The wind orbs shot toward Zane, each one bursting upon impact and kicking up snow in small, controlled explosions. Zane dodged most, his movements fluid and precise, but one orb grazed his side, sending him skidding backward.
The crowd gasped as Zane steadied himself, steam rising from his burned scarf. He laughed, shaking his head. "You're full of surprises, Alexis."
Alexis smirked, his sword resting against his shoulder. "You're not too bad yourself."
Zane's grin widened. He stomped into the ground, unleashing a wave of frost that froze the remaining snow into jagged shards. Then, with a flaming punch, he sent the shards flying toward Alexis like projectiles. Alexis spun his sword, deflecting the ice shards in a dazzling display of sparks and snowflakes.
The final clash came as both fighters surged toward each other, Zane's fists glowing with dual elements and Alexis's blade shimmering with energy. They met in the center, an explosion of force shaking the snowfield and sending spectators stumbling back.
When the snow settled, Alexis and Zane stood opposite each other, panting heavily but smiling. A mutual respect had formed in the heat (and frost) of battle.
Zane raised his hand, offering it to Alexis. "You're a hell of a fighter."
Alexis sheathed his sword back into Slu, who jiggled happily, and shook Zane's hand. "You're not too bad yourself."
The crowd erupted in cheers, clapping and whistling as the two combatants returned to their respective groups. Crucibelle ran up to Alexis, offering him a warm scarf. "You were so cool, Alexis!"
Seika grinned, handing him a flask of warm tea. "You really know how to put on a show."
Carna gave him a playful punch on the shoulder. "Not bad, Boss. Maybe next time, I'll take you on."
Alexis chuckled, glancing at Zane, who was similarly surrounded by his team. "Next time, let's make it a team fight."
Zane laughed. "You're on."
The group, still buzzing with energy from the duel, trudged back to the resort, leaving behind footprints in the snow. As they entered the warm building, they joked about Zane's exaggerated claim of being "seconds away from victory."
"You mean seconds away from falling flat on your back," Alexis teased, earning a round of laughter.
Zane huffed, crossing his arms. "I let you win, obviously. Can't break the guest's pride on their first visit to Hokkaido."
"Sure," Carna quipped, raising an eyebrow. "That's why half the crowd was chanting Alexis's name."
Melina snickered. "Face it, Zane. You got outclassed."
Their banter carried all the way back to their rooms, where they changed out of their yukatas and into their proper comfortable winter clothing. Soon, the group reconvened in the resort's lobby and headed to a renowned restaurant in Noboribetsu to savor Hokkaido's finest delicacies.
The restaurant was lively, filled with locals and tourists enjoying the evening. Lanterns cast a warm golden glow over the wooden interiors, and the air was rich with the scent of grilled seafood, buttered corn, and savory soups.
Sliding into a long table, the group quickly ordered an assortment of Hokkaido's signature dishes: kani miso (crab innards), jingisukan (grilled lamb), zangi (fried chicken), butter corn ramen, and ikura don (salmon roe rice bowls).
When the food arrived, Miz's eyes widened. "This... this is paradise," he declared, grabbing a piece of zangi. "Why didn't Boundless have anything remotely like this?"
"Probably because we didn't need to eat," Melina replied, smirking as she elegantly sipped her miso soup.
Zane held up a piece of grilled lamb dramatically. "Let us take a moment to appreciate the miracle that is flavor. Truly, this world excels in its food arts."
Alexis chuckled as he tore into a piece of buttered corn, shaking his head. "I'd trade a hundred combat manuals for one plate of this stuff. You're right; the real world definitely wins in this department."
Seika leaned forward, her chin resting on her hands.
"Speaking of Boundless," she said curiously, "do you ever miss it? The battles? The strategy?"
Alexis paused, a faint smile forming. "Not really. I've got enough strategy to deal with here—and the stakes are higher. Plus," he gestured at the table of food, "better rewards."
Carna smirked. "And better people to eat with."
"Aw, does that mean you didn't enjoy the company of those from Boundless?" Miz teased, elbowing Alexis.
"Let's just say I prefer my party members not trying to stab me in the back for experience points," Alexis replied dryly, earning a chorus of laughter.
As the food disappeared and the sake cups were emptied, Crucibelle tugged at Seika's sleeve. "Can we go outside? I wanna build a snowman!"
"I'm interested as well!" Miz added, already bouncing out from his seat.
Seika nodded, grabbing her coat. "Alright, alright, let's go!"
The trio dashed into the frosty night, the snow crunching beneath their boots. Crucibelle immediately flopped into a snowbank, gathering snow to craft a wobbly snowman. Miz wasted no time launching a snowball at Seika, who shrieked and retaliated with surprising accuracy.
Alexis strolled out shortly after, his scarf snug around his neck, watching the scene unfold with a contented smile. Seeing Crucibelle's laughter echo through the snowy streets filled him with a warmth he hadn't known back in Boundless.
"Not bad," he muttered to himself as he leaned against a lamppost, crossing his arms. "Not bad at all."
But the peaceful moment was fleeting. A familiar prickle crept down his spine—an unmistakable warning from his honed instincts. His gaze sharpened as he scanned the quiet streets, his senses now on high alert.
"Something wrong?" Seika called out, noticing the slight shift in his demeanor.
Alexis turned to her with an easy smile, masking his seriousness. "Nothing. I'll take a stroll through the streets for a bit. Don't wait up."
Seika tilted her head but nodded. "Alright, but don't get lost!"
Once out of view, Alexis's calm expression vanished, replaced by a cold, calculating seriousness. His footsteps slowed as his eyes scanned the quiet alleyways, the distant glow of lampposts reflecting off the snow.
"I know you're there," Alexis called out, his voice cutting through the stillness. "You're not exactly subtle. Show yourselves."
A silence followed, broken only by the soft crunch of snow. Then, from the shadows of a nearby alley, a figure emerged. Clad in white from head to toe, the hooded individual blended almost perfectly with the snow, save for the faint glow emanating from the handgun in their gloved hand.
"How observant of you, Mr. Alexis Tilt," the figure said, their voice calm but laced with menace. "But this is our order, and we won't hold back."
Alexis's breath misted in the air as he adjusted his scarf, his eyes narrowing. Without a word, he reached up to Slu, perched on his shoulder. The yellow slime jiggled before opening its mouth wide, allowing Alexis to draw his steel short sword. The blade gleamed in the moonlight, its edge sharp and ready. Slu plopped to the ground, bouncing slightly before retreating a safe distance to observe.
Alexis pointed the blade at the figure, his posture relaxed yet commanding.
"Well then," he said, his voice colder than the surrounding snow. "Let's get this over with."
The figure raised their gun, its barrel glowing with magyk. The hum of charged mana filled the night, the tension thickening as the snowy street seemed to hold its breath.