Mushoku Tensei: Moving Forward

Rudy [pov]

Life goes on.

“Rudy~ let go,” A voice called out to me, urging me to wake.

…don't wanna…

I ignored it.

As I was snuggling comfortably among my pillows, the last thing I wanted to do was wake up. Having such a goodnight’s sleep the night prior, I felt I could still go out and reach it, if I tried hard enough. Snuggling deeper into my pillows, I tried doing that as I took in the scent of fresh Lilies.

Hmmm… so nice… don't wanna wake up… five more minutes.

“Rudy, momma has to go to the clinic,” the whisper threatens my peace.

Ow.

It also pinched me.

Forced into the world of the living, I start blinking away my confusion, as I look up and see the blurry, if admittedly beautiful, angel looking down at me. She was also pouting.

Cute.

“And you have Sylphy later,” the pouty angel added.

Hah… damn.

Knowing just the right words to sucker punch me right in the feels, she drags me out of dreamland and into the present. Touching carefully the spot she pinched, I started regaining my bearings as I around me, and see… my hand pressing gently into my ‘pillow.’

Soft.

I slowly took my hand off her chest.

“Sorry,” I muttered.

I did it again.

As it turns out, I’m a bit of a snuggler. Never had anyone to snuggle to, never found out. So as embarrassing as this situation is, it’s not exactly uncommon.

Well… It was… embarrassing at first, but after the seventh(eighth?) time we slowly got used to it. No reason to make mountains out of molehills, and all that. So as embarrassing as it is, it only earns me a pinch and a pout, and we’re done. Truly. No harm, no foul.

Right?

“Sleepy Rudy is so clingy,” she plays with my hair from behind, “but it’s time for me to get ready.”

“Hai~”

And like that another peaceful start to my day begins.

Stretching our arms, arching our backs, we move to our respective sides as we start going through our daily habits. It’s time to warm up. A lilac gown on her, a light shirt, and shorts on me, we are rather cold if we leave be.

Sooo… as comfortable as all this is, she was right, we have stuff to do.

That and… seeing as I’m losing my snuggle body, the prospect of sleep doesn’t seem that appealing. The remaining wisps of body heat already drifting like a summer dream.

To dreams longs past~

Life’s funny like that.

One day you're snuggling without worries, wondering when she’ll let you go, then the next day you're overwhelmed with warmth. Then you start embracing her. Then you start falling asleep. And then before you know it, you realize that might have been one of the best naps you’ve had in this life.

Funny…

Give it time, and the little things become mundane.

It’s been a month since.

I… might be turning spoiled.

“Hmmm, that’s good,” finishing stretching, I turned around to check if she’s ready.

“Mom are yo-” before whisking my head back immediately.

…she was not.

“Rudy?”

“Nothing… just hurry please.”

“You can’t rush a lady Rudy,” her voice carries.

Yes yes, you're a lady. Now please hurry. I'm cold, and if I’m cold, you’re DEFINITELY cold. Dress properly!

The winter dream behind me aside, I needed to dress accordingly as well. It’s cold out, and I’m forgetting my jacket, along with… other things.

My apologies green fairy.

Looking out the window, I check the sun’s placement, and wonder how much time I have left. It’s early.

“I still had two hours…” I grumbled, frozen at the window. “Couldn’t we have stayed in bed a little longer? It’s cold out there, and warm in here.”

Sorry green fairy. Just five minutes.

“Nice try young man, but last time we did that you fell asleep, and I had to pinch you repeatedly.”

“...fair…”

In my defense… She was really comfortable.

I resumed my rummaging.

Funny enough my clothes weren't here at first. Rather we had to bring them here after the third week. Having enough of all the coming and going, we simply decided it was too much hassle to keep going back and forth, simply for a change of clothes. Especially during winter. So we cut out the middle man, and brought my clothes here. I now have two rooms.

I jest, but it's true.

Putting on a decently thick jacket I take one last look over myself and settle in.

Yosh, I hope you appreciate me Sylphy. I’m sacrificing my precious beauty sleep just for you.

…although, I suppose she does the same.

I will give her a pillow!

In the silence of the room I hear the sound of Zippers being pulled; the tell tale signs of her finishing, and so turn my head.

“Can I turn around now?” Turning around, subtly, I peek to see if it’s safe, and catch… Zenith in the middle of undressing… again.

Standing on one leg, her top half dressed, her bottom half… not, she is in the middle of undressing as a skirt dangles over her ankle as she prepares to unhook it. Noticing my stare, she freezes on that leg, before giving me ‘that’ look, and silently telling me her intentions.

“Yeah, yeah. I know the drill,” I turn back around. “You’d think we haven’t gone through this before.”

She sure likes purple.

“You’d think you’d stop peeking.”

Slander!

“I wasn’t peeking! You were showing! And I thought we were over this. Everything looks good on you, why are you still changing?”

Mama is a diva.

For some reason or another she’s intent on going through her whole wardrobe if the pile of clothes next to her is anything to go by. Honestly, I don’t know why she’s so-

“...n’t fit…” she grumbled.

“What?”

“It didn’t fit…”

Ah.

“Oh… I see… sorry. I’ll shut up. Just… give me the go ahead when you’re ready,” I quietly shut up and let her finish. It’s a sore point for her, and I know better than to address it.

“...”

Waiting patiently, I wait way past the point of shuffling and ruffling.

“Alright, I’m ready,” she declares.

I pause a moment, before turning my head slowly.

It’s not peeking. I waited!

Besides… as pleasant a sight as that would be… to peek on her now would ruin whatever goodwill I’ve earned lately, and that would make for some rather uncomfortable sleeping nights to say the least. I wasn’t gonna ruin a good thing for a few seconds of curiosity.

That and… I’ve already seen everything. Several years ago…

Being a reincarnate… being a baby… I’ve seen a lot of things I probably shouldn’t.

Fucking Raijus.

I won’t tell her though.

Well…

Nah, I’ll save it for the far future.

“Yosh, how do I look, Rudy?” My diva of a mama breaks me from my stupor, posing before me, hand on her hair, and swaying majestically.

Honestly…

Funny enough, mama doesn’t own slacks, just skirts and dresses. That said, she can still dress circles around any given lady, and combat the cold effectively.

Wearing several garbs over herself she is covered from neck to toes in something warm. A casual garb that’s between marron and purple. A thick red coat, darker shade than her usual, over them. A soft white fur linen piece warming her neck and shoulders. A corset hugging her sides tightly, yet leaving a window for her baby. And lastly, a long beige dress, matching and covering everything beneath the waist, with a matching white fur lining at its seams. All in all, a very fashionable, yet warm, piece. A diva to her core.

“Radiant.”

“Mmm! That’s not what I meant… but thank you, I think?” She places a hand upon her belly, a smile leaking. “I’m starting to show…”

“Yep,” I made a full body ice mirror showing her, her reflection.

“Hmm…” she frowns, turning sideways, and rubbing her belly. “It looks like I’m fat, rather than pregnant.”

I rolled my eyes.

You do not.

Climbing on bed, I got behind her, hugged her, and before she could notice, sneaked one of my hands behind her head, and gave her a ‘glow.’ “You’re absolutely glowing Mama, honest.”

“Rudy…” she turns her head at me, stroking my face gently as she does so, her soft whispers tickling me as she- “You’re practicing your magic again, aren’t you sweetie?” Divulges.

Ah… she caught me.

Using healing magic behind her head, I was giving(sneaking) her a holy look; The Holy Zenith!

Hey, can’t blame a man for trying to brighten up her day.

“He he,” I snapped my fingers, and gave her a wink. “What can I say, Mama is absolutely glowing~”

Batush-tush!

She rolls her eyes before smiling, pulling at my cheeks. “So much cheek, for such a little mouth.”

“Yoou’ree smillling sooo it’s finnne,” I say through strained lips. Breaking free I massage the sides of my face. “Love hurts… I wonder if this is how people get dimples?”

“Ha ha, I don't think that’s how that works Rudy.”

“Are you sure? Did your mama not pull on your cheeks when you were growing up?”

“Ha ha, no. I was born in a proper noble household.”

“Really? What a shame, they don’t know what they're missing,” I poke her cheek.

She smiles.

“Honestly, what is you and your obsession with my cheeks?”

“They're soft!”

“Pfft-haha! Alright sweetie. Whatever you say.”

“Also I’m a noble too right? You barbarian!” I joked. “Ow.”

She pinches.

“Too much?”

“A little. Do try to keep yourself in check. You are still talking to a proper noble lady,” she smirked. “Peasant~”

This gall…

“Of course my lady,” I hopped off of bed and bowed. “This lowly serf knew not what he says. I will refrain from speaking such nonsense, lest I be punished for my transgressions.”

She raises her chin haughtily. “Hmph, I’ll allow it!”

“...”

“...”

“He he/Ha ha…” A chorus of laughter soon follows.

“S-sweetheart,” she says, “I love you, but where do you come up with these things? Serf? Really? I would surely hope not. Since when did our status fall so low?”

“Since when did I became your pillow?”

“Please, I’m a treasure, and you know it.”

“Hai hai, my mother is-wait a minute, does that make me your dragon?”

“Ha ha ha… y-yeah s-sure. Whatever you say,” she says, huddled over, shoulders shaking, and holding her sides tightly, before recovering. “And I’m gold!”

“You are priceless~”

“Ha ha ha… well obviously. Have you seen anyone as ‘radiant’ as I?”

“Now whose the one having fun?”

“I don’t know,” she wraps her arms around mine, her pill- her chest wrapping around it. “Do tell me little dragon whose enjoying themselves here?”

“...roar?”

“And don’t you forget it.”

And like that she leads me away and into the hallway.

I really did dance to her tune, didn't I?

“Barbarian huh?”

“Sounded fun. I haven’t used that one yet.”

“True, but do keep your fun in moderation dear. I won’t have you growing up crass now.”

“My ladies wishes are absolute~”

“Of course!”

My mama is easily excitable.

“Anyways, ‘my lady,’ I’ve been wondering, but how long are you going to be working? I thought you said you were going to take a break because of the baby?”

“I’m pregnant, Rudy not handicapped. Also, today’s my last day,” she caresses her belly, “It simply isn’t worth the journeys, at least for another seven months. In any case, everyone knows where my house is, so we might even have visitors in case of emergencies. Though unlikely,” she shrugs. “The woes of peace I suppose. Makes one wonder what I’ll do with all my spare time…” she squeezes my arm tightly. “I guess Rudy will have to help me figure it out.”

“I have plans.”

Ow.

She pinches me again.

“Ah, how barbaric of me. My hand slipped,” she says fakely through closed eyelids.

“...I was joking,” I rubbed my arm.

This is child abuse!

“Even jokes get punished, if in bad taste. Remember,” she pounds her chests proudly. “Mama is gold, and she should be treasured.”

“I thought you were my queen?”

“That too.”

Tyrant!

“Aye, aye. My queen is the best. Long live Queen Zenith’s reign.”

“As long as you get it~”

“Haaai~ Still though… Don’t push yourself. Stress is bad for the baby, remember?”

“Yes yes, I know,” still locked at the arm, she grabs my face with her free hand, and tilts it up to look at her. “I am a healer reeememberrr?” Her smile turns playful, her cheek returning.

Who has too much cheek? You, and your cheekiness. Whatever… you're adorable, so you get a pass.

“Yes~”

“Madame Zenith, Master Rudy…” a sudden voice came between us.

And like that it all ceases.

In the middle of the living room a certain someone makes an appearance. Considering this is a house of three now there's only one person it could be.

“Your meals and preparations are ready,” Lilia uttered, stepping out of the corner and into the living room, a torch and satchels in hand, and a set of canteens by her feet.

“Thank you Lilia,” Zenith says monotonously, not sparing her a glance, and walking quietly, and purposefully as she picks up her things.

Slam. And out the house door.

“Thank you Lilia,” I followed suit, grabbing my own, including the torch.

“My pleasure Master Rudeus,” she bowed, exiting the house as well.

Slam. And leaving me alone.

“...yeah…”

…life goes on…

It’s been an awkward series of mornings, but this has become routine. It’s not disastrous or anything, or rather considering everything, this was probably the best possible outcome.

Still though…

The mornings are definitely cold…

We are over our initial strained feelings stage, but we never did figure out the ‘how’ in; how we were going to deal with this. One step at a time we supposed, but in actuality that means…

…

Anyways!

After a couple weeks of unpleasant silence it became obvious we weren’t going to kick her out. It’s hard to hate a pregnant woman after all. They have a plus five in charisma!

But seriously… there was too much history between us, all of us, for us just to throw her away. She is without a doubt a part of the family, for better or for worse, and everything that entails.

She was staying.

She won’t be becoming his mistress or whatnot.

‘It would be unbecoming of me to share the last name as the Madame and young master. I am content being Lilia Garidia. I only need be your… maid,’ she said at the time.

It was an ‘interesting’ conversation to say the least. But… yeah… a steady rhythm was finally reached. Less silence, and more formality, but… it’s something.

I wonder if we’ll ever be back to where we used to be…

Stuck in silence, I think such useless things.

“Why do I keep thinking these things?” My useless thoughts echo against these useless walls. Considering there's no one here… it truly is an exercise in futility. “I should go… Sylphy is waiting.”

And as easy as it all came to mind, it’s easily expelled.

Opening the door, I ignore my useless thinking as I walk past Lilia, to the gate, and get ready for our morning walks.

“H-Hey dear. Good morning!” Only for an annoying voice to carry.

“Fucking useless…” I grumbled.

Speak of the ‘for worse.’

Waiting by the gate, I see Paul trying to start a conversation.

“Sooo… you think you want to ride Caravaggio with me today?” Paul proposes to Zenith.

“Hmph!” She turns her head at him.

Oooh! Five stars, nine out of ten! Nice Tsundere pose too. Although, it’s more tsun than dere. Still cute though!

“Paul,” Lilia stands beside me, “pregnant women shouldn’t be riding horses, it’s unsafe for the baby.”

“Eh, but she rode just fine for the first month. I think she even Rode while Rudy was in her belly.”

Wait, you did what?!

“That was before we knew madame Zenith was pregnant. Now that we know, we must take proper precautions. It's simply unsafe for pregnant women to be riding horses. As for Rudy,” she frowns, “you were incredibly lucky that he wasn’t a stillborn.”

…no comment…

“O-oh, really?” He rubbed his head nervously.

“Yes. Really. Please be wary of Madame’s health.'' She adjusts her glasses.

“Ok…”

I actually didn’t know that either…

“Thank you Lilia,” I told her.

“My pleasure Master,” she bowed.

After the first week in which Zenith took a week off due to… personal reasons, she wanted to get out of the house, and back to the clinic, but there was a problem, her ride was Paul. That made things a little awkward. Because of that, and the cold weather, Zenith’s options became limited, but I did propose a solution.

On one hand she could leave with Paul on Caravaggio, and make it to work in five minutes. Or, on the other; she could walk with me and I would take her there, but in thirty. Warming the path with fire magic, but longer.

So A) go with Paul on a quick, but cold trip, and deal with it for only five minutes.

Or B) go with me down a longer trip, but under a steady flame.

“Let’s go Rudy,” she pulled on my arm.

She chose wisely.

Ha! Fuck-off, loser!

Well, in any case, riding is bad for the baby, so it’s not like he had a choice in the matter.

I walked forward, torch in hand.

///

“Wooh,” I blew into my hands. “I should start wearing gloves.”

Sometime later I was now waiting under a tree waiting for Sylphiette.

I am monstrously bored.

Magic is fun, nothings ever gonna change that, but… it doesn’t matter how fun something is, if that’s the only thing you can do. Anyone would get tired if their favorite hobby suddenly became their only hobby.

That’s where Sylphy comes in.

Using a little creativity, and a lot of magic, we can make even the smallest of things into the greatest of things, and escape my useless melancholy. I could do with a little ball of sunshine.

Honestly, I didn’t know it, but just having someone to talk to really does wonders for the soul.

My-God… did I actually become a sociable person this time around? Disgusting. I became a normie.

Pa-tooie!

Naaaah… I jest, but if I was actually a social person I could break all those awkward silences. Hell, calling myself a normie is probably an insult to normies. They would probably roll in their graves if they could hear me.

“...you know, on second thought let’s destroy this useless world,” I vented. “I think I saw Sylphiette's bully on my way here… just a little wouldn’t hurt… right?”

Snowball fighting. That’s something kids do right. It should be fine to jum-play, yeah, play a little right. Hmm…

“I wonder if Sylphiette is ready for it?”

“Rudy!” Suddenly a yell wakes me from my musings.

Speak of the kouhai!

A slight distance away, a small bundle of joy comes jogging my way. A large bag on her back, and wearing a fuzzy winter jacket, she looks rather warm as she comes to greet me. Slowing down she gathers her breath. “Hahh… I’m… here,” she looks at me timidly. “Did you miss me?”

“Hmm… nope.”

Her ears droop.

Ah. Too effective. It hurts.

“I really reallyyy missed you!” I hugged her, hard, wrapping her tightly for all her worth and raising her off her feet. Her ears twitching one two, reveal her true feelings.

Cute.

“What kept you so long? Kept me waiting,” I lowered her back down.

“Mama wanted me to be all nice and cuddly,” she waved her fluffy self about. “It worked! Are we going to play today?”

“Always! Now then, let’s do as we always do, and,” I point to the horizon holding her with one hand on her shoulder, “try to take over the world!”

She tilts her head quizzically.

“…by that I mean try to take over the skies.”

No one gets my humor…

I swear if I ever find a girl that laughs at my jokes, I might just marry her.

Today’s time waster of the day is; Project Kite-man.

Came up with the name myself, thank you, thank you, hold your applause.

Anyways, after my last project, project Hot Air, went up in flames, literally, we decided to go in a different direction. A safer direction, but just as much fun.

After weeks of… well… depression, I needed something to do, anything really, and so I took to the skies in an effort to get out of my head. Free of worries, free of gravity, aaand… with several miles between me and my problems, it sounded like sweet bliss.

On an unrelated note I was also running low on bedsheets.

Sylphy tilted her head. “I don’t see any bed sheets?”

That’s because they're burnt up!

“Hey, not all my ideas involve bed sheets. I was just using whatever I could get my hands on back then, and… it just so happened bedsheets were the easiest thing to get our hands on. That’s why we need kites. It’s time for Kite-man to become a reality.”

“Eh? Is that why you had me to hold on to these?” She pulls out a set of kites she had in her knapsack prepared for the occasion.

From now on, I name thee Kite-girl. Heck-yeah!

You can say hell when you're older.

I haven’t told her yet, but these kite-shields are to be our next set of wings.

It’s more dramatic this way.

After the unfortunate incident that was Project Hot Air, I realized that we didn’t have the luxury of burning through bedsheets anymore. Running low on resources, I needed something sturdier, safer, and immaterial to make. Something I could see myself falling in, but still maneuver to a safe landing.

Then it hit me…

As I was walking down the road watching kids play knight and monster, that… shields really do look big in a child’s hands. Encompassing their whole body, it's comparable to a hang-glider.

A new project was made.

“Alright, how are we doing Sylphy?”

“I’m good.”

“That’s good. You’re not cold?”

“No, mama wrapped me up in double layers. I’m warmer than Bugbear in summer.”

“Well… that’s great?” I think. “Now then, how ‘bout we have some fun. It’s time I showed you what these babies are for.”

“Hai~” She salutes.

…I think I might have taught her one or two too many weird habits.

Still cute though.

“Kites?” I asked.

“Check.”

“Lassos?”

“Check.”

“Jackets?”

“Double Check.”

“Plenty of soft snow to fall on.”

“Super Check!”

“Alright, it’s time to show you how to use these things,” I grabbed the kite. “So, ready to fly?”

“But I already know how to fly Rudy?”

Oh, poor ignorant Sylphy. You think you do, but you don’t. Let me enlighten you, my disciple.

“Mmmuuuu! You’re thinking something mean aren’t you!”

Sacrebleu?!

“Rudy’s face is super expressionate.”

It is?!

“Note to self… build a mask.” I pouted. “Anyways! Consider this an advanced course.”

Bringing Sylphy along, I got the preparations ready, and got ready to soar to the skies. Starting with a run we go up a small hill, both of us holding our own kites, until we’re ready to cast, and-

“Alright… wind… Blast!”

Whoosh.

Soaring…

We start soaring. Not jumping, not floating, but flying, and… not falling.

Whoosh. The wind bellowing through our hair, a cold front hitting our faces, and a large view before us… we are finally soaring.

“Yessssss!” I yell. Using a steady wind to soar steadily higher.

This might not look like a huge achievement to others, but after falling so many times, ‘this’ really makes me happy.

Finally… a win.

Turning my head to the side, Sylphy is flying right next to me too. Our modified Kite-shield, now a kite.

“Hell Yeah!” I roar.

///

I am on cloud nine.

“Hah…”

Project Kite-Man was a resounding success!

That was as exhilarating as it was liberating.

God I missed this. It’s been a while since I’ve felt so free.

Laying under a tree, Sylphiette and I are enjoying our much needed break. Stupid glee apparent on our faces.

Banzai!

But yeah… totally needed this.

I can’t swim to let off steam anymore, not until the spring unfreezes, and can’t train in swordsmanship for… ‘obvious’ reasons. So until then, little joys like this go a long way.

Magic~

“I’m glad,” Sylphy wakes me from my euphoria.

“Hmm?” I turn to to her-

Before feeling her hand on my face, shutting me up.

“I’m glad you're better,” she looks at me kindly, her touch gentle. “I… I was getting worried. Rudy’s been in a bad mood lately and quiet and I… I didn’t like it,” her ears drooped, her expression hidden. “Rudy isn’t that…” she mumbled from within my chest. “Rudy is wild, lively, t-teasing, and a b-bit of a jerk, b-but… he’s never ever quiet. It hurt. It hurt. It felt… really really bad. I… I was worried,” she looks up at me, tears in the corner of her eyes, catching me off guard.

Then a smile blooms.

“I’m glad you're better,” she pats, her hand sliding from my cheek to my hair, before playing with it gently. “Rudy really is best when he’s smiling.”

“I… I was… going through things.”

“I know,” she wiggled deeper into me, resting her head upon my heart. “Welcome back. I missed you.”

“…”

Damn… she is… something else.

If this was me three years ago, I might have just fallen for her right then and there, regardless of age. Hell, I still might, but I’m in a better place now so-

Actually, scratch that. I’m in a horrible place right now. But because of that, I can’t afford to make any more rash decisions. I need to think.

That and… she made my heart skip a beat.

So this is the power of a main heroine. Scary.

I feel a faint pounding in my chest.

“Thanks,” I mumbled, wrapping her tiny form tightly into my tiny heart.

It’s only been a few hours, but I'm already at ease.

That said… Now what?

I hug Sylphy a little tighter.

Things have settled down, but only recently have I come to realize how big of a detour I’ve truly taken since first reincarnating. I used to tackle things along like a shonen protagonist. Running wild and with merry, and getting stronger for it. Magic, swordsmanship, training.

Then Lilia came, and… my mind with it.

Granted, I enjoyed myself the whole way, most of the way, but all good things come to an end.

Now, the question is… What comes after ‘the end?’

Should I leave?

The reason I stayed here in the first place, before my infatuation with Lilia, was simply necessity. I was too weak, therefore I was. Forget Hitogami, you could breathe on me too strongly and I could fall over and die.

Now? Now I definitely have the ability to survive.

My swordsmanship is high beginner, bordering on intermediate. My magic is Saint class, at least in potency, and my mana control it at a level that can only be described as monstrous. So, emperor?

All in all, I’m ready for the world. Yet…

…leaving a pregnant woman all alone…

Disgusts me thoroughly…

You can call me a lot of things. You can call me wild, thanks Sylphy, but a scumbag… I don’t think I’ve fallen so low yet.

I won’t be leaving. Not yet.

With a half-hearted look, I look over Sylphy’s shoulder to where our knapsacks lay, where Zenith’s book is stored.

I found some useful facts in it, but I never did find what I intended. Looking through it I wanted to find some things about telepathy, or more precisely, how to combat it, but it really was just a bestiary with some useful facts about nature.

Don’t get me wrong, it's an invaluable gift, it will definitely be useful when I spread my wings, but it doesn’t have the knowledge I needed. The knowledge I need is…

I look past it, to the mountains in the distance.

One leap away.

They are visible even from here. So close…

Ranoa academy.

I guess that would be the most logical choice, except…

I have no money.

At the end of the day, regardless of my wishes, I don’t have the financial ability to act on them.

Money remains a universal constant.

Next year?

…maybe…

The fact of the matter is my freedom is still a distance away. So for the time being, I’m here no matter what.

But… ten months from now. Well, I have 10 months to figure it out.

Guess, there's only one thing to do.

I sit up, moving Sylphy’s head to my lap, as I move into a sitting position, slapping the sides of my face, and yelling. “Alright world, look out. Rudeus the Great is coming for you!” I poze pointing vertically.

Yosh, that’s good. I sound like a real shonen protagonist. Get on my level, naruto. Believe it!

Before I go to the academy, I’m gonna need money, sooo, adventuring here we go!!!

“Rudy, wants to be an adventurer?” A question came from below me. Looking down, I see Sylphy’s curious eyes looking up at me.

I thought you were asleep…

Laying back down, I turn away from her.

Aaaaahh! I wanna die, wanna die wanna die! I just went full chunni. You never go full Chunni.

Poke.

“He he~” a childish laugh tickles my ear, a finger on my face. “Rudy’s cheek is so warm~” Poke. “Are you alright?”

Of course my cheek is warm, my blood is flowing to it!

“I-I’m fine.”

Actually, yeah yeah, I’m fine. Now that I think about it there's no such thing as Chunni in a fantasy world. The world itself is a Chunni. I’m just flamboyant. Yeah, that’s right, flamboyant.

Huh, Megumin? Never heard of her. Go explode.

“Ahem, I’m fine. Just thinking about the future, and how much fun I’ll have once I start adventuring,” I say.

“Adventuring with Rudy… that does sound nice,” Sylphy daydreams.

“Adventuring with me?”

“Yeah, adventuring with Rudy would be really fun. Me and Rudy seeing lots of places.”

“Ah, yeah…”

Right… There's also that issue.

“…Rudy?”

“...”

“...”

Yeah… there would be one more person I’d be abandoning if I left.

The Sylphy issue… I have to address it.

“Hey, Sylphy… if I were to disappear one day, what would you-”

“No.”

“Eh? Um, Sylphy…”

She grabs my hand. It’s hot.

No I mean, like it’s actually hot!

Like really, really warm. I feel the mana whirring.

“Hypothetically! I mean… you know, in case anything ever happened.”

“N-No!”

“S-Sylphy I mean-”

“Are you going to leave?” Reaching to my elbow, she wraps her arm into mine, holding me tightly, and looking at me with a faint glow deep in her eyes.

Scary!

“I… I mean, one day I have to leave right, you know. Conquer the world, and all that, ha ha…” I laughed nervously.

She tackled me to the ground, her shoulders trembling.

“No! Don’t! No… Nonono,” she wails into my ear, squeezing me tightly. Moving to face me, and pushing off slightly, to look me in my eyes. “Don’t go anywhere!”

Drip.

…wet tears falling on me…

Damn…

I think I might have underestimated how big of a landmine this was. We’re close, but I didn’t think we were crying over close. I mean… I don’t get it. I do… but I don’t.

Why are you crying for me? I’m not worth your tears.

I’m just a man that should have never been.

I couldn't do anything by you. I couldn’t do anything by Lilia. I couldn’t even do anything by me. I let Paul’s infidelity happen. I forgot about Zenith. I. Have. Done. NOTHING. By Zenith, by you, by everyone. Again, and again, when it matters most, like in my last life, I did nothing. I thought I was moving forward, but in the end... I was just running.

Did I ever do anything by anyone?

I’d like to think that Lilia is more confident thanks to me. That she is more capable with her injury cured, but maybe I’m just deluding myself.

Have I ever done anything?

Magic? Swordsmanship?

Look how useful it’s been. I can’t see the results.

I must be garbage. Look at the mess I make. It must be hereditary.

I only ruin what I touch.

I’m not worth loving.

Rubbing the tears off her face I console her. “Sorry.”

I even bring my friends to tears.

Sigh… As expected; I’m trash.

I pat her head.

“Eh? R-Rudy?”

So I’ll take responsibility.

Wanting to placate her worries, if only a little. I move around my hand around, and bring them behind her ears, giving them a small wiggle.

“Wuuuu…” a cute moan escapes her.

Wiggling, her ears start twitching as she struggles to get out.

One day, when I was petting her, I realized she was ticklish behind the ears. It’s a little underhanded, but it calms her down.

Thank god I remember.

“Ruuudy, that’s cheatiiiing!”

“Yup.”

I continue putting the pressure, until her grip lessens, and her face looks more at ease. Finishing with some light head patting, her head flops down resting over my heart one more time.

The environment still, and Sylphy’s arms locked around my waist, not letting go.

When did I spoil her?

The situation with Sylphy is tricky, she is becoming, no she IS, dependent on me. If I were to leave, as she is right now, she’d probably be heartbroken. I’d like to think that she would get over me in time, but honestly I have no idea. I’m still stupefied that she likes me as much as she does.

I’m dense, not oblivious.

If a girl blushes every time you get close to her, even I’ll notice.

I just didn’t think her affection stat was raised this high. I guess I really was in my own world to have not noticed.

“Sylphy, I’m sorry for being so insensitive.”

She hugs me tighter.

I… I don’t want to address her crush on me. Not yet. Not now. This feeling, this warmth. It’s too precious to me to let go. I don’t want to burn any bridges, and want to continue this relationship as it is just a little while longer. I don’t need a girlfriend right now, I need a friend.

I’m sorry Sylphy, but just for a bit, I want to play the part of the dense childhood friend.

Arghh… the insincerity of it all… disgusting.

As expected of trash.

But I don’t have to stay that way.

I’m not attracted to her in the same way I was with Lilia, but that doesn’t change the fact that we’re close, and that’s why I’ll do something good by her. It's a tricky balance, but I hope I can friendzone her long enough until I can lead her into finding someone that realizes her value.

“Sylphy… do you remember the university Roxy was talking about?”

“…yeah.”

“It’s right over those mountains isn’t it?”

“Yeah…”

“But, even with a scholarship, living alone would probably still be expensive.”

She tilts her head looking up at me, scrunching her brown, wondering what I’m saying.

“It’s the truth. There is no such thing as a free meal. They say all expenses pay, but what they mean is we’ll pay for your education, but you pay everything else.”

That’s the kind of deal ‘free,’ means. In any world. So if I want to go to Ranoa…

“We’re going to need money.”

“We?” Removing herself from my person, she sits up, to look me in the eye.

What a refined young lady.

“We.”

She’s becoming dependent on me. I should push her away, but at the same time, I know that won’t do her any good. The only ones that could be her friends are my sisters, and they won’t be talking for a few more years. If I were to leave her here, she wouldn’t have any friends. She wouldn’t be able to grow here.

That, and this place is a ticking time bomb. The teleportation incident is still coming.

Another thing to prepare for.

In any case…

“If we both become adventurers we can earn money, and as long as we get Roxy to vouch for us, or build a reputation, we can go to Ranoa’s university, with our expenses mostly covered. You know… hypothetically.”

I suppose we can visit Ranoa university during the time of the incident. It would be a happy ‘coincidence.’

Rudeus Greyrat, sorcerer supreme. Not half-bad. Has a nice ring to it.

“Uwah,” an odd sound escapes her mouth, before her ears flapping like a hummingbird. Her eyes widening, her mouth slightly open, she makes for a grand sight.

I’m just speaking hypothetically you know~

“Ruuuudy!” She throws herself at me, wrapping her hands tightly around my neck, and squeezing me for all I’m worth.

Sylphy used nuzzle! It’s super effective!

I must be a water type.

The problem with Sylphy’s dependency is that there's no one here, besides me and our parents, that acknowledge her worth.

Adventurers though won’t be like that.

Demons? Green hair? Don’t be absurd. Who the hell would care about such things when their life is on the line?

If Sylphy were to become a highly valued adventurer, she would without a doubt find people who would acknowledge her. And as long as I’m there, they’ll be the right kind of people.

I’m not just gonna let ‘any’ vagabond be her friend.

Then comes the university years, where Sylphy would stand head and shoulders above the rest, and then after that… it’s all elementary~

It’s decided.

First, conquer the skies, two; help Zenith with her pregnancy, three; register as adventurers, and earn money, and lastly; turn Sylphy into a normie.

Operation Sylphy independence is a go! Viva-la-Revolution!

I’m sorry Sylphy, but you will have to become a school idol. O woe is thy~

“Ha ha…”

“What's so funny?” She asks.

“Oh nothing~”

I just thought it’s funny that I’m struggling so hard to leave, but then I saw your crying face, and then it became all too easy figuring out what to do.

The time I struggled to hold a sword has truly come to an end.

That really was a lot of things though. I don’t think I can do all of them within a year. I was telling myself only a year, but I doubt Sylphy will be allowed to adventure that quickly, not to mention…

The teleportation incident.

Well, at least that's a non-issue.

When the time comes I’ll just make some bs, that I want the whole village to celebrate my birthday in the mountains. It might be embarrassing, but for the sake of their lives, I don’t mind playing the act of the spoiled young master if only for a day.

It’s a shame I won’t be meeting Eris in this lifetime, but if I have to choose between the girl I only know about from books, and the girl next to me. The answer was obvious.

I look at the young girl holding me tightly against herself.

Always.

It’s time I start living again. I can stay here three more years.

I take a glance at the mess of green hair under my chin.

It’s going to be an interesting set of years. I just hope she’s not too much of a headache, but then again that’s what they say about me.

Well, whatever, every Batman needs a Robin, or Batgirl in this case.

“It’s been about three years since we’ve known each other hasn’t it.”

You’re going to grow up to be something real special, I’ll make sure of it.

I’ve been abusing her kindness. I cannot reciprocate her feelings. But that doesn’t mean I can’t do something for her. It’s the least I can do.

“Hey… is there anything you want?” I offered.

I enjoy our playing, and even teaching her became fun, but I’ve never once stopped to ask if she wanted something. I kind of just assumed she would go along with my whims. For this girl who indulges them, it’s time I indulged her once.

“Anything I want?”

Within reason.

“Yeah.”

“Well… there is something I always wanted to try.”

“Hmm?”

///

“...you sure this is what you wanted?”

“Yeah.”

“I mean if you’re sure. Although, it feels like I’m the one getting a reward,” I said, laying on her lap.

I’m receiving a lap pillow.

When I asked what she wanted, she said she wanted to give me a lap pillow. Don’t ask, I don’t get it either, but if it’s something as simple as a lap pillow I don’t mind doing it.

She starts stroking my head.

“…”

Still… It's comforting… Reminds me of… Roxy…

Things really were simpler back then-no… I was simply simpler back then.

How nostalgic.

I suppose I'll indulge just this once. Tomorrow, I’ll make her something to eat or something.

“Rudy… will you teach me swordsmanship?”

Or something…

That came out of left field. Why?

“You… want to learn swordsmanship?”

“Yes,” she answers.

That’s… unexpected. I did teach her some standard self-defense in case certain nobles, with certain ‘taste,’ ever showed up around her, but… swordsmanship.

Hmm… She does have a talented mind. So, maybe…

“Well… I guess it couldn’t hurt,” I tell her, enjoying her lap, the flames next to us still crackling. I missed simplicity.

So warm…

///

Sylphy [pov]

Mama was right. Men really are weak to lap pillows.

I asked mama once what's a sure fire way to get into a boy’s heart, and she told me plenty of hugs, cooking, and if all else failed, all men are weak to lap pillows.

Mommy said daddy likes it. That men are weak too sometimes, and want to be comforted.

Momma’s a genius!

I even asked daddy about it and he didn't deny it.

Although he did make a funny face when I asked him.

Rudy’s been sad lately. I wished I had remembered sooner. I’ve been waiting for him to tell me what's wrong, but he never did. The only times he seemed to get better, was when we were playing, so I made sure to do my best, and played with Rudy as much as possible.

Even when the sail set on fire, and we fell.

I didn’t scream! I’m a big girl!

…and I wanted Rudy to smile again.

So I kept him company, no matter how scary it got, and played with Rudy over and over. I even gave him hugs.

He says he doesn’t like it, but Rudy is a liar. Everytime he says it, he has a silly smile on his face, and tries to hide it.

I’m glad he’s better.

I run my hand through his hair.

“Rudy…”

I like Rudy. I really do. I really want us to marry, and stay together. That is my deepest wish. But…

Sometimes I feel Rudy might not feel the same way.

Rudy wants to be an adventurer.

I’m not surprised. Rudy is wild.

But he didn’t think to invite me.

My heart hurts.

I want Rudy to like me too, but I don’t know how to do it.

I don’t think he dislikes me, but I don’t think he loves me either. My dream is to be Rudy’s wife, but it doesn’t feel like it’ll come true.

What should I do, sensei? If I learn swordsmanship, we can get closer, right? Right?!

It worked with Lilia-san, at least that’s what I thought when I asked him.

I want to get close to him. I want to be with him. I want to be the girl Rudy takes on adventures. I… I want a lot of things. If I don’t even try… it feels like he’d fly away.

It scares me.

I want to be someone special to Rudy. I want to be his ‘most’ special person, but I don’t know how.

I continue playing with Rudy’s hair.

He’s so close… yet so far.

“Rudy, I… I… like… you…” I mutter out.

“...”

He doesn’t answer.

Did… did I-did I, ruin it?!

“You know, like a friend! Rudy is my best friend. And I like having fun with y-you, so I w-wouldn’t mind going on an a-adventure s-so…”

“...”

He continues not responding.

“Rudy?” I look down at him and move his hair from his eyes, and… notice his eys shut and his breathing steady. Rudy fell asleep.

Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.

I raise my hands to my face. My face feeling red.

So embarrassing.

I almost made a big mistake. It’s not the right time. Not yet.

I love Rudy, but the timing isn’t right.

What’s that thing Rudy always says? ‘All good things come to those who wait?’

I continue patting Rudy’s head.

Miss Lilia says Rudy likes adventurous women. Momma says boys like girls with big hearts. And Rudy’s mama said to just be myself. So…

I can be all of them… right?

A wild thought came to mind.

I’m not sure how to get Rudy’s attention, but… I don’t think I’ve lost sight of him yet. He’s still in my lap, and… I’m sure I can get him to look my way. If I become a famous adventurer Rudy will…

I raise one of my hands to my ears, and twist it a little.

“Owie~”

That was not smart of me.

Rudy won’t fall for a dumb girl.

“Yosh,” I pump a fist in the air.

I have not lost yet. If Rudy can’t be my prince that rescues me, then I’ll be his princess that rescues him. Rudy is adventurous, fun, h-handsome, but… he’s also stubborn, reckless, short tempered, and weak hearted. If I don’t stay by his side, who knows what he’ll do.

If something bad happens to him, who would give him hugs?

I look down at Rudy sleeping on my lap. Putting a strong image, but…

I poke one of his cheeks.

He’s actually really soft.

Even Rudy needs headpats.

And I will give them!

Headpats really are an amazing technique.

Thanks Mom!

“He he~” I chuckle. Looking back down.

Rudy is amazing.

And amazing Princes don’t fall for damsels they fall for Heroines!

I stop poking his cheek, and start prodding him. Feels warm.

So close, yet so far, but right now… he’s all mine.

“Rudy,” I whisper knowing he can’t hear me, “you taught me a lot. You became my friend, showed me magic, showed me I don’t have to be scared. Everyday with you has just made me so happy. I just… want you to be happy to. Rudy, you’re… you’re my everything, so…” I lean down, looking into his closed eyes. “I want to be your everything too.”

My face is so close to his.

I…

I lean down. I feel Rudy’s breath upon my face. I…

“This isn’t over,” I whisper. “I'm going to make you fall in love with me.”

I place a hand on either side of his upside down face, get closer… and kiss him.

And hold it…

…I love him…

A forever later I let go. My face feeling hot… and my heart feeling fuzzy.

Wow… I… I did it…

“Believe it…”

///

In the solace of each other’s company a young boy and elf girl laid on top of a snowy hill, their bodies warmed by the fire beside them. One dreaming of tomorrow, and the other just dreaming. For several hours they sat frozen as the fire settled down, and the young girl struggling to get herself back together. Both of them content with each other’s company. Both of them sitting peacefully.

Well, mostly.

Perhaps it was because of the flame, perhaps it was the closeness, but both of them were sporting a rosy look upon their faces. Although neither would notice, as neither were looking the other’s way.

One shy elf looking in the distance.

And one shy boy pretending to still be asleep.