shake it gift for mikunichi
Apr. 23rd, 2018 05:46 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
jun_mod posting in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png){kind=small}
jun_exchangeShake it for mikunichi
I am really sorry for the delay, but here is the last story of this exchange :) <3
Title: Make a Wish
Pairing: Junba, Matsumiya, Aimiya
Rating: PG-13
Warnings: Minor injuries and some poor fight scenes
Summary: When two powerful mages, Matsumoto Jun and Ninomiya Kasunari, got into a duel, Aiba Masaki, an ordinary human, was summoned into the fight. Now everyone thought Aiba was the most powerful being ever summoned, and he was having a tough time convincing everyone, especially Jun, otherwise.
Note: Dearmikunicchi, when I first saw your sign-up post, I prayed I would get you assigned to me. I really wanted to write a story based on one of your many awesome prompts. I hardly believed my luck when I saw the assignment email. And here we are, the story I got inspired by your prompt. It went to so many rewrites and so many versions. It ends up being a Jun story from Aiba POV. I hope you would like it as much as I have fun writing it :)
I would like to also send a million thanks to our dearest mod for her help and hard work in organizing the Exchange. I deeply appreciate her angelic patient and understanding when I have been super slow and inefficient. Thank you <3 You are awesome!
Aiba thought he must be dreaming. It was only a moment ago that he was walking a crowded street with Kazama after their weekly hangout. Aiba admitted he was a little tipsy from a couple drinks, but he was definitely not drunk enough to pass out.
So, what was this hideous looking giant monstrosity right in front of him?
And why would it advance toward him with those scary sharp claws and eyes that meant to kill?
Aiba didn’t have time to think. His reflect took over and he ducked to one side. Almost that exact same time, a scary sharp claw swooshed past him and collided onto the ground where Aiba once stood. This dream was too real, Aiba thought, he even felt sweat tickling down his forehead. He didn’t know people could sweat in dreams.
“Get out of there!” A voice came from one side and Aiba couldn’t help giving attention to the environment around him for the first time. This was sure a weird dream, Aiba thought. He was inside a large stadium with hundreds, if not thousands, of people in strange clothing sitting on the stands, watching with intensity. He stood in what looked like a fighting arena. There were debris, evidences of explosions, and many other destructions scattered everywhere around the ground. To the right side of him was a man, the one who just shouted at him, wearing a dark purple robe and pointing to his direction. However, this time he wasn’t directing his scream toward Aiba.
“Nino, stop it! That guy is going to get killed.” The fear in his eyes was clear even from the distance. Aiba turned to the other side and saw another man in dark yellow robe staring at him with unreadable expression.
“Please, Nino!” The first man continued, but that Nino guy remained still, his mouth parted open slightly. It was as if he was whispering or reciting something. He completely ignored the urgent pleas from the first man.
The monster continued to circle around Aiba, as if waiting for the right moment to finish him off. He would have run if his legs agreed with his brain. Sadly, they no longer responded to his survival instinct. Fear had taken over and Aiba knew he was a sitting duck.
Shouts from the man continued, but Aiba hardly registered any meanings from his words. Aiba’s eyes fixated on the dark monster creeping toward him. His only though was that he didn’t want to die, even in a dream.
Right then the monster jumped at him. In the split second, Aiba closed his eyes, hoping he would wake up.
Aiba loved the softness of his comforter. It was a housewarming present from his mother, given to him when he moved into his own apartment a few years back. It provided enough warmth in winter and it wasn’t too uncomfortable for Spring or Fall temperature. Aiba snugged further into the comforter and sniffed in the soothing, sweet scent from its recent wash.
Except it wasn’t the scent Aiba was familiar.
Aiba immediately opened his eyes and sprang up from bed. He was greeted by a loud cranking sound of a metal bowl dropped on the floor and a startled cry. He turned to the direction and saw a young lady staring at him in fright. Before Aiba could register enough information to do anything, the young maid ran out, covering her mouth to prevent any more screams.
Aiba closed his eyes, unable to believe that he was still in the dream. Was it even possible?
“You woke up,” said a familiar voice. Aiba opened his eyes to a familiar face. It was the same guy that Aiba saw earlier greeting him. The man made his way to the bed side and sat on the chair next to it.
“How are you feeling?” He inquired. Aiba, who was still confused and in shock, didn’t respond. The man tilted his head slightly and eyed him questioningly.
“You can understand me, right? They said since I summoned you, I should be able to communicate with you easily.” He explained. His sharp facial features were undeniably attractive, and his intense look at Aiba almost made him turned away from shyness. However, he was more concerned about the man’s statement. Summoned? What did he mean by that?
Aiba’s confused look must be obvious because the guy made a small 'hmm' and tried to explain further.
“I summoned you to fight Nino’s Shade and you destroyed it. For that, I must thank you. You won me the fight, and the title I have always wanted,” he gave a brief smile. Aiba thought he looked even more attractive when he smiled.
But the smile soon disappeared and he turned serious and somber once again.
“No summoned creatures have ever done that. But then, no one ever summoned anything like you,” the man added. Suddenly, his eyes gleamed and sparked. “You look just like us, but you hold power far beyond our limit.”
“Huh?” Aiba could no longer remain silent. The more this guy talked, the more confused Aiba became. The scenario was way too detailed, and too weird, to be one of the dreams he often got.
“Who are you? What are you doing in my dream?”
“Dream? No, you are not dreaming,” he looked at Aiba in surprised. His thick eyebrows raised, “I can assure you that you are fully awake. By the way, I am Matsumoto Jun, now the first Enchanter of Arashia, all thanks to you.” He reached out and briefly touched a side of Aiba's face. Aiba didn't have time to move away.
That was a strange way to greet someone. Aiba secretly pinched himself under the comforter.
It hurt. Oh no...
Aiba started to freak out and immediately got off bed. He ran toward an open window and looked out. There he was, standing at a window of a mansion, overlooking bustling market and endless buildings up to tall, strong city wall further away.
“Where the heck am I?” Aiba cried, more from shock rather than expecting an answer. This must be a joke. He couldn’t possibly be in another world. Another world – even that thought sounded insane.
But why was he feeling all this, the strangeness of how everything felt to him. The warmth of the sun felt differnt. THe way light reflected and shades occured looked different. The gentle windblow felt different on his skin. Even the air smelt different.
Aiba stood in shock next to the window, unable to believe the absurdity of the situation. Jun walked to stand next to him. He spoke warmly as his eyes laid on the city below.
“Impressive, isn’t it? Welcome to Arashia.”
Aiba could only gasped in respond.
It was weird thinking that you were in a dream, only to find out that the dream never ended.
Aiba had spent the past week staying at the Matsumoto mansion. Aiba didn’t have many options. He was suddenly found himself in the world he didn’t know. There was no one that he could turn to. No one that he knew, except this person who claimed to be his summoner.
By now, Aiba was certain he was not in a dream. He spent the last few nights sleeping in bed in the room Jun has provided him. Aiba dreamed of being home, only to wake up and realized he was still in this strange world that he couldn’t get a grasp on. The place looked somewhat like a town some hundreds of years ago. At the same time, everything looked different. Everything looked slightly off. And it’s not just about how people dressed or how the city looked like.
Then, there was this whole stuff about magic. That fairy tale energy that made stuffs happen unnaturally. Except that it was natural here. Magic seemed to be everywhere, in every part of everyday life. For example, there was no electricity, but houses stayed bright and warm at nights because of some magical stones powering lamps and fireplaces. Carts transporting goods and people moved about by some magical creatures, looking more like unicorns than horses. There were people who could light fire by a snap of their fingers, and there were people who water would spring from their palms. Everything freaked Aiba out, but no one else registered how strange things were.
Aiba observed the strange world through the window sill of one of the upper floor rooms at Matsumoto mansion. Fortunately for Aiba, it appeared his host, Matsumoto Jun, take it upon himself to take Aiba in. Jun seemed to welcome his addition to his home. Previously, the guy was living by himself in this large mansion. Having Aiba staying in his place, Jun insisted, was not a problem or an inconvenience to him at all.
Aiba’s allocated room was spacious but homey. It was next to the master bedroom where Jun slept. Aiba couldn’t help feeling slightly unconscious,the person who claimed had summoned him resided. Despite the strangeness of it, Jun tried his best to make Aiba feel comfortable and welcomed.
"If you summoned me, can you send me back home?" was the first question Aiba asked when Jun initially offered him a place to stay.
"I cannot. Usually, with a summoned creature, it will just simply disappear. It came with a purpose and when the purpose is fulfilled, it will leave. As easy as that." Jun explained. It was unsettling for Aiba to hear himself being referred to as creatures, then Aiba realized his host was not really a human either. And that was strange.
“I am still figuring out why, but it seems you are stuck with me for the time being,” Jun told him. “I might as well make you feel comfortable and at ease.”
Judging that a summoned creature was referred to as "it", Aiba though Jun was far more generous to him than he needed to.
"Don't look like that." Jun must have guessed what Aiba thought. Or maybe these people can read mind.
"And no, I cannot read mind." Jun added almost exactly the same time that Aiba wondered. It's creepy.
"Have anyone ever told you that you have a very expressive face? I am certain anyone can tell at least half of what you feel correctly. They are right on your expression. They are in your eyes." Jun teased. The way his eyes pierced so straight into the person on receiving end suddenly made Aiba's face reddened. If he was to stay under the same roof with Jun, he wasn't sure how long he would be able to resist his charm.
“You have to excuse them. Some were at the stadium and they saw you. For the ones that weren’t,” Jun gave him a coy look, “well, let’s just say words travel fast.”
"Why? What did I do?" Aiba had been uncertain of what happened until Jun described it to him.
Unknowing to Aiba, the fight he unwittingly took part was the biggest, most important fight in decades. It was the last fight in a tournament to select the new First Enchanter, the head of the magical defense force of the city, known as "the Circle". Arashia, the city they were in, was one of the largest in the Empire, and its Circle was one of the most powerful. Consequently, the title "First Enchanter" was highly pretegious and only the best of the best mages would even dream of competing in the tournament. The last fight was between two of the most highly acclaimed mages in the Empire, and the native to Arashia.
“We were in shock when Nino summoned a Shade. Nino was a renowned summoner but summoning a shade was another level. Shades are what we stand against, they are what the Circle swore to fight against. Shades take many lives before it disappears on its own.
"But you, you stood against Nino's shade. When you collided with it, there was an explosion of white light, the brightest we ever seen. The light from you engulfed the whole shade and it dispersed in the loudest explosion. There is no doubt in anyone minds that you are the strongest summon anyone ever managed in our realm." Jun looked so proud as he told Aiba the story.
Then, Jun’s eyes casted downward when he said the next words. “I still do not know if Nino meant to summon a Shade. It’s dangerous and reckless, so does Nino recently.” He looked genuinely saddened. He remained quiet for a long moment. “But then, as I prayed the gods to allow me to summon something that would save us, you emerged.”
The look on Jun’s face was like a parent feeling proud of his son. Aiba felt strange receiving all these praises and being fear upon without truly deserving them. Back home, he was Aiba Masaki, an ordinary salary man who often got scared. But none of it was like this. Nothing even remotely close to it. These people looked at him like he’s some kind of a higher being. It worried Aiba as much as it made him uneasy.
Aiba tried several times to explain to Jun that he didn’t have any magical power. “I am only a human with no special power. I cannot even hold my breath in water for long.” Aiba insisted. He’s certainly not some all-powerful being they thought he was. Aiba was, as he repeated to Jun, simply a human.
"It doesn't really matter. We all saw what you did. We all saw how powerful you are." Jun claimed firmly. Aiba could only sighed. He would have a touch time convincing anyone.
When Jun told Aiba about the special banquet celebrating his new title, Aiba was looking forward to it. Even though Jun was welcoming and could be considered the best host, Aiba welcomed a chance to meet other people, especially the ones that might be able to tell why he was still here and not home.
Jun saw Aiba's entusiasm and took it as a good sign that Aiba was adapting well to the new place. He even invited a tailor to the mansion to make Aiba a new outfit suitable to the custome of Arashia. The reaction from the tailor was somewhat similar to those of the maids in the earlier days. The good thing was that now the maids were less afraid of Aiba, seeing that he was not much different from them, and he hadn't killed anyone, unlike shades.
The banquet celebrating the First Enchanter title was one extravagant party. Hundreds of important people showed up to in a lavishly decorated hall at the mayor estate near the city center. On the day, Jun led Aiba to a carriage waiting for them in front ot Jun's mansion and Aiba left the mansion for the first time. The carriage was branded with the Jun family crest, like the ones Aiba saw everywhere in the mansion. Jun sat proud and amused observing Aiba in the new outfit.
"You look great in our traditional outfit." Jun complimented. Despite his usual stoic, serious face, Jun was surprisingly thoughtful and kind with his words.
"Thank you. You don't look too bad yourself." was Aiba's reply. Aiba tried to make it sounded polite, as if he just returned the compliment, although Aiba personally felt every word.
Jun tilted his head and gave him a rare happy smile. Aiba's heart beat so fast in his chest he had to turn away.
Along their ride, Aiba sneaked a peek and saw people lining up the street clapping and cheering for the new First Enchanter. But some that caught Aiba eyes still turned away frightened or hushed whispers to their friends. Jun who often snugged his head out and waved back to the people bended toward Aiba and gave him some tips.
"You know if you smile at them they wouldn't be too scared of you. When you looked uncertain and unhappy, your face was not as welcoming. The real you are not like that."
But when Aiba tried smiling at the crowd to show Jun the reaction, the crowd still looked away or hid their faces.
"This crowd is hard to please." Aiba lamented, making Jun laugh.
"It’s OK. It’s my job to please them. You only need to act like a summoned familiar."
"And what is that supposed to be?"
"Well, normally a familiar would just stay close to its master, and follow his wish. But we never have a human familiar, so you have to tell me what you can do."
"I am not your pet if that is what you are implying," Aiba pouted.
Jun laughed heartily. He pat Aiba a few times on his thigh.
"Sure, sure, of course not." He smiled teasingly, “What a willful familiar you are.”
Aiba sighed. Seeing that he could only lose in this argument, he kept silence.
“Don’t worry. Despite their reactions, they are glad to see you. You may be just the one that rescues them from the greatest peril.”
“The greatest peril?” Aiba instantly shot a shocking stare at Jun. Immediately, Jun's mouth gasped wide, knowing he had said something he shouldn’t.
"Ops. Oh hey! We arrive!" Jun immediately changed the subject, pointing toward the entrance of a large estate.
"Ohno Satoshi, our magistrate, wants to meet you so badly. I told you they are all interested in you." Jun said that as if to cheer Aiba up. For Aiba, it made him felt like more was at stake.
Aiba instinctively reached for Jun's hand and squeezed it for support. He didn't realize he did it until he felt Jun's hand, squeezing back.
If they were interested in Aiba, these people had a strange way to express it. As Jun made his way into the banquet hall, one person after another came to congratulate him, some shook his hands, some pat him on the back, some even gave him a real hug. It was obvious Jun was very popular.
During all these, Aiba trailed behind Jun and no one interacted with him directly, not even once. They even made sure the area around Aiba was vacant and unoccupied. No one came within a few meters of him. Jun constantly turned back and smiled apologetically at Aiba. He knew Aiba must feel awkward. However, he soon returned to engage to the next man that came to congratulate him. The obligations to his title were important.
Finally, they were brought to a long table up a stage. A small man in a simple, but elegant gown came to greet them. The man only nodded slightly before Jun launched at him and embranced the small man in his tight hug.
"Congratulations, Jun, I know this means a lot to you." The small man said into the curve of Jun’s neck, and Jun’s hug became even tighter. He whispered a thank you that was muffled by the cloth his face buried in. He could tell this guy was different than the other ones Jun greeted earlier. They were truly close.
"They grew up together. Ohno, Jun, and Nino. Ohno's father became their guardians after Jun's and Nino's fathers passed away." An offered explanation came from behind. Aiba turned to meet a man standing, looking directly at him.
The first man of the night that direcly addressed him.
"You must be Aiba. I am Sakurai Sho. You were very impressive at the duel," said a man who stepped from behind.
Sakurai Sho? That’s the name Jun mentioned, the person that might have answers regarding Aiba's situation. Sakurai Sho was a scholar and a librarian. In addition to safekeeping the extensive collection of massive books and tomes, Sho also researched on ancient, obscure magics. With Jun mostly occupied by the others, Sho was the only one that kept Aiba company. Aiba saw this as an opportunity to ask about his situation. Plus, Sho was highly interested in Aiba, and his continuing “existence” in their world.
What interested Aiba the most was whether he would be stuck in this world forever, since Jun seemed not to know how to get Aiba home. He kept comforting Aiba that one day, soon, he would simply wake up in his own bed on earth and probably forgot all about this.
Clearly, that hadn’t happened, and Aiba would hate to get stuck in his place, with everyone misunderstood him and “his power” like this.
“Normally, a summoned creature would disappear on its own after it has done its summoner’s bidding. That’s why, in case of a fight, summoned creatures would always disappear immediately after the fight ended. Some even faster if they were killed.” was Sho's answer to Aiba's urgent concern. Aiba gulped, recalling how scared he was in the arena.
“But, I won the fight for Jun, didn’t I? Why am I still here?”
“That – I also do not know. Maybe it takes longer for you to disappear because you are more powerful.” Sho’s voice was uncertain. Suddenly Aiba realized, “Wait a minute. When you say “disappear”, you meant them returning to their home, right?”
Sho’s smile was awkward. Whatever the answer Sho had in mind, Aiba was no longer certain he wanted to hear.
As the party progressed, Sho eventually left to talk to other guests, leaving Aiba at Jun’s side. Group after group of party attendees came to greet Jun and stayed to talk with him. Most of them reacted at the sight of Aiba. they consciously stayed away from Aiba, which made him feel uncomfortable. Aiba wasn’t sure if Jun realized it, but either way, he didn’t show any signs. Aiba wasn’t used to being in a party that he couldn’t fully participate. He started to feel regret coming here. Sure, he got some more information about his situation, but that information didn’t help ensured him of his future at all. ‘To fulfill your summoner’s wish’ - what was that supposed to mean? Hadn’t he, somehow, won the duel for Jun already? Why was he still here?
Aiba felt the need to clear his mind and to get fresh air. Jun was in an intense talk with other guests and didn’t see Aiba quietly leaving his side. Aiba wasn’t sure he should walk about alone in the place he didn’t know, but he did anyway. He left the room through one of the side doors and walked pass a quiet corridor until he eventually reached a large garden. The place was quiet, saved for sounds of crickets and night creatures. Aiba was amazed how the night here was so much like the night at home. He never realized how much he yearned to go back until this moment.
“You know you shouldn’t be walking about this place alone, you know? Satoshi has many sentries that would easily mistake you for an intruder.” A voice came from behind and Aiba immediately turned in alarmed. Despite in dim night light, Aiba still could see the smirk on the guy’s face clearly. Aiba remembered him instantly. It was the other mage in the arena on that faithful day. The one Jun called Nino. Aiba’s body tensed up, remembering the scary shade this person summoned on that day. Jun’s concerns over the summoning of such dangerous creature still rang in Aiba’s head. Nino was dangerous.
Aiba instinctively backed away a few steps as Nino casually walked closer to him. Nino was amused by Aiba’s action and let out a chuckle.
“There’s nothing to be afraid of. I am not going to hurt my summoned creature. Sho used to tell me I wouldn’t be able to even if I try.” Nino said through his chuckle. Nino’s words instantly froze Aiba on track.
“I am not yours.” Aiba protested almost immediately. He didn’t know why he sounded harsh and moody. Nino lifted up both hands in the air in a fake submission.
“OK, sorry. If you are going to go all Sho on me about the familiars and creatures’ Equal Rights, I take back what I said. You are not mine,” Nino bowed teasingly, “But I sure did summon you.” The confident smile Nino had told Aiba he wasn’t lying.
“You summoned me? But Jun…”
“Jun may believe otherwise, yet the truth is he could never summon you. Summoning has never been his strong point. I, on the other hand, am the best in this land.” Nino’s critique was filled with affections it didn’t sound like he had any ill intentions toward Jun. Nino simply stated a fact.
“If you are the one who brought me to this world, you must send me back right now.” Aiba demanded angrily.
Nino shook his head. His eyes casted on Aiba apologetically.
“I wish it could be that simple.”
“What do you mean? Why can’t you?”
Instead of an answer, Nino clicked his tongue before asking Aiba back.
“Hasn’t anyone told you the requirement for a summoned creature to disappear?”
“Yes. ‘A summoned creature must fulfill its summoner’s wish, then it shall be released from the bond,’ that’s what Sho told me.” Aiba recanted the words he heard. Nino responded with a nod.
“That’s right. You must fulfill a wish.” Nino rephrased Aiba’s answer.
“And I did. I won Jun the fight. He got to be the First Enchanter. But I am still here, stuck in your world, days after his wish was fulfilled.” Aiba protested, feeling frustrated.
“Well, fulfilling Jun’s wish would get you home if HE was the one that summoned you.” A corner of Nino’s lips pursed up. “But it was ME that summoned you. It was MY wish that you must fulfill.”
Aiba was jaw-dropped. How come his life could get this complicated?
“What do you want?” He asked weakly. Nino’s smile was brief, and his voice turned serious and somber.
“I want you to save Jun from himself.”
The ride back to Jun’s mansion was quieter than the ride before. Partly because it was late at night and the streets were mostly empty, partly because Jun was visibly tipsy, but happy and contented, from the cerebration. He sat with a soft smile plastered on his face. When the carriage rocked from bumps, his body would sway side to side. Although Jun didn’t seem to mind, Aiba decided to move to Jun’s side of the carriage seat and sat next to him, offering the mage a firm shoulder to lean on. Jun happily took the offer. They sat side by side on the quiet ride. Jun hummed a soft, slightly drunken tune as his head laid on Aiba’s shoulder and his soft hair brushed the crook of Aiba’s neck. Aiba looked out the window and saw that they were almost at the destination.
“I am so happy.” Jun whispered.
“Hmm?” was Aiba’s reply. Secretly Aiba was still preoccupied by his reflection from the meeting with Nino prior. He still hadn’t told Jun about it, and he wasn’t sure that he should.
“Thank you for helping me. I know you want to go home. I promise I will help you figure out how to return home.” Jun said with utmost sincerity. He truly meant what he said, Aiba was certain of that.
If only Jun knew what Aiba knew...
Instead, Aiba’s hand reached across his body and rest on Jun’s side. He pat the mage a few time.
“I would really appreciate that.” Aiba said, knowing full well that Jun couldn’t help bringing him home.
After a few weeks of being stuck in this world, Aiba slowly eased into the fact that he was now living in a strange world, with a mage, in his mansion. And their night time together in Jun’s study had become one of their routines. Aiba would sit near a magical fireplace, watching Jun researching and consulting various tombs that he borrowed from Sho’s library. Jun had dedicated most of his evenings, after he came back home, to study for ways to get Aiba home. He even tried a few rituals and countless spells hoping it would do the trick. None of them worked. Some nights,Yet, Aiba was grateful for Jun’s sincere attempt; he also felt increasingly guilty in holding on to the information of the only solution that could return Aiba home.
“What’s your plan as the First Enchanter?” Aiba asked one night as he accompanied Jun in his study. What Aiba learned from Nino has kept him feeling unsettled. He couldn’t help asking Jun about something Nino had told him.
“Hmm?” Jun was too absorbed into the ancient text to fully register Aiba’s question.
“I want to know what you want to do as a First Enchanter.” Aiba tried to make his voice sound casual and steady. He didn’t want Jun to know he desperately needed the answer.
“Have you been talking to Ohno and Sho about me again?” Jun asked teasingly, referring to Aiba’s occasional visitors. In the more recent days, Aiba even dared venture out into the city and made a stop at Ohno and Sho’s place. Jun thought it would be better and more comfortable for Aiba to have some other companies beside him, and it was certainly a welcome change in scenario to go out.
What Jun didn’t know was that Ohno and Sho weren’t the only two people Aiba was in regular contact with. Nino was another. It was even more convenient for Nino to meet Aiba at Ohno and Sho’s place.
Aiba pushed further for Jun’s answer, which Jun laughed slightly before answering.
“It’s too embarrassing, really, but you may have heard from them that my father was also the First Enchanter, right?” Jun smiled proudly. Aiba nodded along, ignoring to tell the truth that it was neither Ohno nor Sho that told Aiba about this. “There was something he wanted to do while he was the First Enchanter, something he attempted to do, although he wasn’t successful.” There was a hint of sadness in Jun’s voice, but it was soon masked by his constant determination. “I am hoping to finish what he started.”
It was the answer Aiba had dreaded, yet, he concealed his worry and gave Jun an understanding nod.
Nino told Aiba of this story – the reason why he studied shades so extensively he could even summon one despite a shade not truly being a summonable creature. ‘Jun would never be able to defeat the Prime Shade.’ Nino told Aiba earlier. ‘It feeds off negative magic. Any magical attacks would make it stronger.’
“That sounded like a lose-lose scenario. If you attack, you make it stronger and it will kill you. If you don’t attack, it will kill you anyway,” cried Aiba.
“Yeah, it’s suck, isn’t it? That’s why you need to stop Jun from attempting that. The First Enchanter doesn’t need to try to save the world by ridding it of the Prime Shade. He just needs to make sure the city is safe, and our magical barrier is secured and strong. No one expects him to rid the city of this problem once and for all.” Nino shook his head. “Sadly, Jun is Jun. He thinks he has to save everyone.”
“So, you decide to be the one that saves him.” Aiba added.
“No. I decide that YOU would be the one that saves him.”
“And how am I going to do that? I am sorry to burst your bubble, but what I have been telling you is the truth. I have zero magical power. How on earth, or not earth," Aiba stumbled, “whatever, how would I defeat the Prime Shade with my complete inability to do anything magical.”
“Well, maybe you only need to steer Jun from the idea of attacking the Prime Shade. Anything that would keep him alive and well. I only wish that.”
Although Jun never said anything, Aiba realized Jun had proceeded with his plan to destroy the Prime Shade. Aiba noticed Jun spending more time at the Circle and he remained occupied in his study into very late most nights. Several Circle mages would visit Jun and they convened regular meetings in Jun’s study. Strangely, Jun often invited Aiba to join him. Aiba would be in the room, sitting quietly, listening to the mages laying out strategies and battle plans. Aiba admitted he didn’t understand most of what they were saying, and he probably couldn’t care much. He was only too worried about Jun.
In one meeting, one of the Circle mages mentioned the name Aiba didn’t expect.
“Why don’t we bring in Ninomiya? I understand Ninomiya and you aren’t on a good term, but it’s hard to deny that he is one of the most powerful mages we have right now.”
Jun only stared at the guy who gave suggestion for a long moment before giving his answer.
“No.” it was brief.
“Ninomiya is at the frontier of Shade study. He’s arguably the most familiar with shades among all mages in Arashia, and he was, up until now, the only one that ever managed to summon a shade successfully. For someone with that qualification, it would be unwise not to invite him into our party.”
“I said no already. How many times do I need to tell you so you would stop plastering me with this issue?” Jun’s reply was icy cold. He looked at the mage with a piercing state. The guy immediately clamed his mouth.
“Pardon me, the First Enchanter.” He mumbled, not wanting to go against Jun’s intention, and backed down.
“What is it about Nino that you don’t like?” Aiba asked after the meeting was over and all the Circle mages were gone. Jun was surprised at the question. His eyebrows knotted together.
“Beside from the fact that he was up against me for my title?” Jun quibbed.
“I don’t think you would take it personally. It’s only a competition, wasn’t it?” Aiba pointed out.
“It’s not just any competition. Nino knew how much it was meant to me. Becoming the First Enchanter has always been my dream. He had never cared for the position. For crying out loud, he didn’t even like being a member of the Circle.” Jun vented out his heated respond. There were flickers in his eyes illustrating how angry and serious he meant with his words. “Nino just couldn’t allow the thought of anyone being better than him.”
“That doesn’t sound like Nino.” Aiba couldn’t help commenting.
“And what would you know about him? Did Ohno tell you about Nino?” Jun eyed him questioningly. He immediately added, “Oh-chan looks at everyone positively because he brings about the best in all of us. But believe me, we all have our dark sides, our poor quality. For me, it may be my pride. For Nino, it is his need to be clever and snarky. He had always been considered the most powerful mage of our generation, and he had to prove that publicly.”
“I think he worries about you,” Aiba said in a low, soft voice.
“Nino summoned a Shade.” Jun said immediately in reply. He looked hurt and betrayed. “Only the ones with the darkest heart would be able to do that.”
“Jun thinks I am evil because I happened to summon something no one else can?” Nino’s voice was so high and loud. “That’s not fair. I know he has been resentful that I was better than him at school, but this is too much.” Nino shook his head dejectedly although Aiba sensed he said it half-jokingly.
Aiba and Nino met at their usual place, the garden of Ohno mansion, a few days after. Aiba conferred to Nino his increasing concern that Jun was going to go through with the plan very soon.
“I fear he would go on with it as soon as he feels ready. What are we going to do if he does? How am I going to save him like I need to?” Aiba lamented. From the information he gathered from Jun’s preparation meeting, he didn’t see how he could be of any use in it. Especially now that Aiba knew he wasn’t tied magically with Jun through their summoning bond, Aiba saw even less chance he could be of any help. As the time went by and Jun had shown him more generosity, Aiba wanted to help Jun sincerely and not just because Nino told him too. He truly wished that he could find a way to help Jun defeat the Prime Shade.
But considering he was a normal human, not one of these powerful mages, nor a magical creature, Aiba questioned he could really do anything.
Aiba sighed. He never felt this worried in my life – and that included the first time he realized he was stuck in this world.
“I hear Jun is looking for a way to send you home. He has been consulting with Sho’s colleagues who did extensive research on summon creatures, and naturally those guys would need to consult me. I think they almost find a loophole to finally get you home.”
Nino’s revelation surprised Aiba. He turned immediately to his summoner.
“But you said I can only return if I fulfill your wish.”
Nino shrugged, “Apparently, you can get around that if you use a specific powerful portal spell coupled with some enchantments to ensure you would land on your world, not some weird places. Sho just told me. Jun figured that out and he confirmed that with Sho this morning.”
Nino was about to elaborate, but he realized something and made a big ‘O’ with his mouth.
“Ops. Did I just ruin the surprise? Jun probably would want to tell you himself.”
Somehow, Nino’s words made Aiba blushed. Aiba didn’t know why. There was no reason for his reaction.
But gosh, wouldn’t it be nice if he hears this directly from Jun? Aiba daydreamed.
“I guess you’ve got to act surprised when he breaks the news to you. You wouldn’t want to disappoint him, would you?” Nino smiled at him teasingly. Aiba blushed even more. Was he that easy to read?
Aiba returned to the Matsumoto mansion in the late afternoon. He wanted to be there before Jun returned home, in case Jun wanted to give him the news right away. Aiba thought about finally being able to go home. It should be good news, but he felt strangely lonely. Would he be able to see Jun again after he returned?
Aiba shook his head thinking how silly his thoughts sounded. Of course, he would never see Jun again. It wouldn’t be so bad. Everything would just go back to the way it was.
That’s the thing. Would he be able to go back to the way he was after he had witnessed this incredible world?
And there was Jun. How could Aiba ever go back to how he felt before he came here?
Aiba was surprised that when he arrived home and found a letter on his bed. Intricated handwritten letters of a language Aiba didn’t know filled the page. He remembered it was Jun’s handwriting. Naturally, he couldn’t read the language. However, when Aiba’s hand traced on Jun’s writing, the letters changed into something Aiba could read.
Dear Aiba,
I wish I could have told you this in person, but I fear I wouldn’t have the courage to do what need to be done. I have to go on the mission that we have planned for so long. The other mages think that I should bring you with me. They say you would be of much help. However, it’s our fight and I shouldn’t endanger you in our attempt to rid the empire of its long-standing threat. Please pray to your gods that we would succeed.
I also bear good news. With Sho’s help, I have found the way to bring you home. If my mission is a success, I will return to open the portal to your world myself. I would love to see how your world looks like. Do you think maybe I can cross to your world and you can show me around? However, if I am not here, I have enlisted the person I trust the most for the task. Either way you will be in good hands (although I much prefer the former option to the later.)
I am afraid of saying good bye, so I won’t. I hope I would be able to see you again.
Yours,
Jun
PS. Don’t be surprised that you can read my handwriting. The bond that we share through the summoning would allow you to read anything that I write, in any languages.
If only the bond would allow you to read my mind…
Aiba’s hands were trembling and his whole body was shaking. Jun still didn't know he didn't sumon Aiba. He wrote the letter that only those with an intimated bond would be able to read.
Yet, somehow, Jun could write a letter in language of another world, and Aiba could read his letter.
Aiba didn’t realize he had slumped onto his bed and remained there until someone barged into his room.
“Aiba! Where’s Jun?” It was Nino. His hand still clutched a piece of paper tightly. It seemed Nino also got a letter and he came to the mansion immediately. Aiba alternated between looking at Nino and the letter in his hand. Finally, Aiba found his voice.
“He’s gone.” Aiba said in almost a whisper.
“Where to? Why would he send me a letter and ask me to perform the ritual to open the portal for you?”
“He left on the mission. He left for the Prime Shade.” Aiba’s voice quivered. He didn’t know why he was so afraid. Very afraid.
“What?!? Without me?” Nino said in almost a scream. “And why didn’t you go with him?!?”
“He left without me.” Aiba mumbled. He felt the burning on his hand where Jun’s letter rested. “I am only a human. I would only be a burden.”
Nino snatched Aiba’s arm and grabbed it tight.
“What are you talking about? Have you listened to anything I told you? When I casted my second summoning spell in the arena, I wished for a creature that could save Jun. And you appeared. I don’t know why, I don’t know how, but I am certain you would be able to keep him from harm as long as you are with him.”
He gave Aiba such a strong, determined look. “I am going after him. He thought he was the only one who had information on the exact location of the Prime Shade. It’s like he forgot that his father wasn’t the only one on that doomed mission.”
Nino let go of Aiba but kept his eyes firmly on him. “Are you coming?”
Aiba didn’t need him to ask twice.
Aiba rode with Nino out west. The enchanted steed ran like a wind even after nightfall. Nino steered his mount through series of small roads and a makeshift path leading deep into the thick wood.
“Jun’s father found that the Prime Shade lived closer to this city than we previously believed. Because it continues to feed off negative magic or dark magic, Prime Shade needs to remain in some proximity to cities. And no city is as filled with magic as ours.”
As he explained, Nino held onto a small crystal on his necklace. It glowed and changed in colors as they continued forward. The crystal seemed to radiate pure white if they were on the right track.
“It’s the pathfinder crystal. My father had left one in his study when he joined Jun’s father expedition. I always thought this was the only one left and I tried to hide it from the others. I knew what Jun wanted, but I didn’t want him to attempt the same thing our fathers did. Unfortunately, the crystal only works when the moon is up, and incidentally night is the only time Prime Shade would materialize. During the day, they would disperse into dark energy, unable to be traced or tracked down.”
Aiba didn’t like the idea of it. Jun was ahead of them, tracking this Prime Shade evil, and most likely would attempt to engage and destroy it. However, he could only attempt that in the time when the Prime Shade was the strongest.
Aiba prayed that they would be in time, even though he wasn’t certain what he or Nino could do when they caught up with Jun’s team. Would they be forced to turn back? Would Jun be angry with them instead of understanding their concerns?
“It’s close.” Nino said in almost a whisper. He must be as stressed and worried as Aiba because he gripped the rein tightly.
The crystal glowed bright when they head sounds of explosions and fighting. Aiba’s heart beat fast. He knew something went wrong. He remembered the strategy Jun concocted with his team. They were going to use the mixture of binding, sealing, and banishment magic to imprison the Prime Shade. The selection of Circle mages Jun selected for the group filled with those specialized in such magics. They weren't the best fighters. Jun didn't think he would need fighters. If things went according to Jun’s plan, there would be little need for fights.
Clearly things didn't go according to Jun's plan.
Nino probably realized the same thing. He hurried his mount until they emerged from thick forest.
In front of them was a very large clearing. And there in the middle was the largest, darkest creature Aiba had ever seen. It was more heinous than the shade Aiba encountered in the arena, and probably ten times larger.
“What the hell is that?!” Aiba screamed, inevitably causing commotion. The Prime Shade instantly turned to him and Nino. Its mouth opened wide but Aiba could see nothing, except darkness, inside.
“What are you doing here? Get out!” cried Jun, who was standing on the other side of the field. Aiba immediately turned and saw Jun, battered from the fight but otherwise alive. The same couldn’t be said for other Circle mages that came with Jun. Several bodies laid scattered around the large area. Aiba prayed they were still alive.
Jun continued to point and to scream at them.
“Why do you bring him here? You are supposed to send him..”
Jun didn’t get a chance to finish his sentence. A dark glow energy ball was shot from Prime Shade mouth to his location. Jun narrowly escaped the direct impact with a quick dash, but the resulting explosion still sent him flew off his feet and landed heavily some distance away. He grunted and struggled to recover from the attack, but the Prime Shade already sent another energy ball in his direction. Jun instinctively lifted his good arm up to shield himself from the dark magic, although it wouldn’t be enough.
Aiba’s heart dropped on the ground. He could barely watch. However, before the attack reached Jun, a glowing white barrier sprung around him and dispersed the dark energy with ease. Aiba turned to his side and saw Nino extending his arm forward, clearly exerting his magical energy in creating the barrier.
The Prime Shade turned to Nino and glowed angrily at him.
“Yeah, right, greeting to you too.” Nino smirked at the creature. His other hand raised upward to create another barrier around himself as series of dark magic arrows sprung from every part of the Prime Shade and bombarded at Nino’s location. When the resulting explosions subsided, Nino was already on one knee but still able to maintain both barriers.
Aiba knew he had to do something. He saw Jun recovering and getting up on his feet. If he could get some moment to move across the field, they might be able to escape into the forest together. That hideous thing wasn’t going to follow them through thick forest, was it?
Aiba didn’t know the answer to his question. He didn’t know if his plan was a good one. But he ran across the field anyway. He’s fast. Maybe he could act as the distraction while Jun and Nino made their way to safety. Yes, that would work.
Aiba continued running as fast as he could. He heard series of explosions behind him and felt the heat radiating on to his back. Aiba kept running.
Until he tripped and landed spectacularly on his stomach.
Aiba looked up. He saw Jun running toward him. At the same time, Prime Shade readied its next attack and the dark energy ball was already half-way toward him.
Damn it. Jun hasn’t kissed him yet.
Aiba was so ready for burning scorch but it didn’t come. He opened his eyes and saw Jun, standing only a distance away, looking at him like he saw a ghost.
What had just happened?
Aiba turned just in time to see another dark energy shot collided into his body. However, it didn’t explode. It’s just simply… absorbed?... into his body.
What?!?
Aiba didn’t get a chance to think on spot because a strong hand snatched his and started dragging him along. It was Jun. The shield around Jun was still intact and Jun obviously intended to use that shield to cover Aiba as well. They ran together to where Nino was standing.
Then, Aiba got an epiphany. Or more like a theory.
He abruptly pulled his hand from Jun’s and ran back, at the same time waving, screaming for the Prime Shade to focus on him. Jun wanted to run after Aiba, yet his injured leg slowed him down. Aiba made a good distance away from Jun when he stopped suddenly and stood still waiting for the Prime Shade attack.
Jun could only look in horror as an array of dark magic arrows landing on Aiba. He feared for the worst.
However, the strangest thing happened. Like before, those dark energy attacks were absorbed completely by Aiba’s body. From that distance, Aiba stood with a smile, beaming at Jun.
“Hey, Jun, you know what, I figure out how I can save you.” Aiba shouted. “You guys said this thing lived off negative magical energy and magic residuals, right? What about it coming into contact with someone with zero magical energy like me?” Aiba’s smiled widened even more before he turned fully toward the Prime Shade “Let’s hope this work.”
Then Aiba ran directly toward it.
Aiba twisted and turned as he slowly regained conscious. He heard the familiar sounds of traffic outside his apartment window and the warm Spring sun coming through his partly opened curtain, hitting his face. Aiba inhaled deeply to his favorite fabric softener scent of his bedsheet and pillow case.
His brain slowly began to function. He gradually recalled the last few moment before he woke up - the Prime Shade, the explosions, and the last face that he saw before his conscious faded away. Jun.
Aiba immediately sprang up. He was instantly fully awake and alarmed. It was as he feared. He was in his own bed, in his own apartment. Aiba instantly sensed a large hole in his chest, as if something had sucked his heart out.
It was a dream. A very long, very best dream. But it still was only a dream.
Aiba immediately dropped back in bed, heartbroken. His tear threatened to come out. The loss was so real and it hurt as badly.
Then, Aiba heard a cranking from his kitchen. Someone or something was inside. He immediately dashed from his bed and ran into the kitchen.
In there was Jun with an apron, trying to figure out how to use Aiba’s coffee machine. Jun turned to greet Aiba.
“Oh hi, you are awake! I heard from Nino that “a coffee” may help when you wake up. Didn’t know it would be this effective. I haven’t even made it yet. I don’t know how you people manage to stay alive without magic to help even making a simple concoction.”
Jun was about to continue his rant, but Aiba cut him with a hug and a kiss.
After a long, well-deserve kiss, they were parted. Jun still panted a little when he commented, “Whao, I didn’t know you are this good, otherwise I would have done it long time ago.”
Aiba smiled. He pulled Jun in for another one. This time when they parted, he immediately asked, “So you are real? Am I not dreaming?”
“Of course, not!” Jun laughed. He still held Aiba close with both hands on Aiba’s waist. “You are a weird creature, you know that, right? You singlehandedly absorbed the Prime Shade, then you fell into a deep slumber for one whole year. Now you wake up, you still want everything to be only a dream?”
Aiba beamed back a smile. “Actually, this can be anything, anywhere, as long as it has you in it.”
“We can talk about where we want to live later. Let’s show me how to use your electronics first.”
If learning how to use a coffee machine was the first step toward getting Jun familiar with his world, Aiba was so happy to oblige.
I am really sorry for the delay, but here is the last story of this exchange :) <3
Title: Make a Wish
Pairing: Junba, Matsumiya, Aimiya
Rating: PG-13
Warnings: Minor injuries and some poor fight scenes
Summary: When two powerful mages, Matsumoto Jun and Ninomiya Kasunari, got into a duel, Aiba Masaki, an ordinary human, was summoned into the fight. Now everyone thought Aiba was the most powerful being ever summoned, and he was having a tough time convincing everyone, especially Jun, otherwise.
Note: Dear
mikunicchi, when I first saw your sign-up post, I prayed I would get you assigned to me. I really wanted to write a story based on one of your many awesome prompts. I hardly believed my luck when I saw the assignment email. And here we are, the story I got inspired by your prompt. It went to so many rewrites and so many versions. It ends up being a Jun story from Aiba POV. I hope you would like it as much as I have fun writing it :)I would like to also send a million thanks to our dearest mod for her help and hard work in organizing the Exchange. I deeply appreciate her angelic patient and understanding when I have been super slow and inefficient. Thank you <3 You are awesome!
Aiba thought he must be dreaming. It was only a moment ago that he was walking a crowded street with Kazama after their weekly hangout. Aiba admitted he was a little tipsy from a couple drinks, but he was definitely not drunk enough to pass out.
So, what was this hideous looking giant monstrosity right in front of him?
And why would it advance toward him with those scary sharp claws and eyes that meant to kill?
Aiba didn’t have time to think. His reflect took over and he ducked to one side. Almost that exact same time, a scary sharp claw swooshed past him and collided onto the ground where Aiba once stood. This dream was too real, Aiba thought, he even felt sweat tickling down his forehead. He didn’t know people could sweat in dreams.
“Get out of there!” A voice came from one side and Aiba couldn’t help giving attention to the environment around him for the first time. This was sure a weird dream, Aiba thought. He was inside a large stadium with hundreds, if not thousands, of people in strange clothing sitting on the stands, watching with intensity. He stood in what looked like a fighting arena. There were debris, evidences of explosions, and many other destructions scattered everywhere around the ground. To the right side of him was a man, the one who just shouted at him, wearing a dark purple robe and pointing to his direction. However, this time he wasn’t directing his scream toward Aiba.
“Nino, stop it! That guy is going to get killed.” The fear in his eyes was clear even from the distance. Aiba turned to the other side and saw another man in dark yellow robe staring at him with unreadable expression.
“Please, Nino!” The first man continued, but that Nino guy remained still, his mouth parted open slightly. It was as if he was whispering or reciting something. He completely ignored the urgent pleas from the first man.
The monster continued to circle around Aiba, as if waiting for the right moment to finish him off. He would have run if his legs agreed with his brain. Sadly, they no longer responded to his survival instinct. Fear had taken over and Aiba knew he was a sitting duck.
Shouts from the man continued, but Aiba hardly registered any meanings from his words. Aiba’s eyes fixated on the dark monster creeping toward him. His only though was that he didn’t want to die, even in a dream.
Right then the monster jumped at him. In the split second, Aiba closed his eyes, hoping he would wake up.
-------
Aiba loved the softness of his comforter. It was a housewarming present from his mother, given to him when he moved into his own apartment a few years back. It provided enough warmth in winter and it wasn’t too uncomfortable for Spring or Fall temperature. Aiba snugged further into the comforter and sniffed in the soothing, sweet scent from its recent wash.
Except it wasn’t the scent Aiba was familiar.
Aiba immediately opened his eyes and sprang up from bed. He was greeted by a loud cranking sound of a metal bowl dropped on the floor and a startled cry. He turned to the direction and saw a young lady staring at him in fright. Before Aiba could register enough information to do anything, the young maid ran out, covering her mouth to prevent any more screams.
Aiba closed his eyes, unable to believe that he was still in the dream. Was it even possible?
“You woke up,” said a familiar voice. Aiba opened his eyes to a familiar face. It was the same guy that Aiba saw earlier greeting him. The man made his way to the bed side and sat on the chair next to it.
“How are you feeling?” He inquired. Aiba, who was still confused and in shock, didn’t respond. The man tilted his head slightly and eyed him questioningly.
“You can understand me, right? They said since I summoned you, I should be able to communicate with you easily.” He explained. His sharp facial features were undeniably attractive, and his intense look at Aiba almost made him turned away from shyness. However, he was more concerned about the man’s statement. Summoned? What did he mean by that?
Aiba’s confused look must be obvious because the guy made a small 'hmm' and tried to explain further.
“I summoned you to fight Nino’s Shade and you destroyed it. For that, I must thank you. You won me the fight, and the title I have always wanted,” he gave a brief smile. Aiba thought he looked even more attractive when he smiled.
But the smile soon disappeared and he turned serious and somber once again.
“No summoned creatures have ever done that. But then, no one ever summoned anything like you,” the man added. Suddenly, his eyes gleamed and sparked. “You look just like us, but you hold power far beyond our limit.”
“Huh?” Aiba could no longer remain silent. The more this guy talked, the more confused Aiba became. The scenario was way too detailed, and too weird, to be one of the dreams he often got.
“Who are you? What are you doing in my dream?”
“Dream? No, you are not dreaming,” he looked at Aiba in surprised. His thick eyebrows raised, “I can assure you that you are fully awake. By the way, I am Matsumoto Jun, now the first Enchanter of Arashia, all thanks to you.” He reached out and briefly touched a side of Aiba's face. Aiba didn't have time to move away.
That was a strange way to greet someone. Aiba secretly pinched himself under the comforter.
It hurt. Oh no...
Aiba started to freak out and immediately got off bed. He ran toward an open window and looked out. There he was, standing at a window of a mansion, overlooking bustling market and endless buildings up to tall, strong city wall further away.
“Where the heck am I?” Aiba cried, more from shock rather than expecting an answer. This must be a joke. He couldn’t possibly be in another world. Another world – even that thought sounded insane.
But why was he feeling all this, the strangeness of how everything felt to him. The warmth of the sun felt differnt. THe way light reflected and shades occured looked different. The gentle windblow felt different on his skin. Even the air smelt different.
Aiba stood in shock next to the window, unable to believe the absurdity of the situation. Jun walked to stand next to him. He spoke warmly as his eyes laid on the city below.
“Impressive, isn’t it? Welcome to Arashia.”
Aiba could only gasped in respond.
-----------
It was weird thinking that you were in a dream, only to find out that the dream never ended.
Aiba had spent the past week staying at the Matsumoto mansion. Aiba didn’t have many options. He was suddenly found himself in the world he didn’t know. There was no one that he could turn to. No one that he knew, except this person who claimed to be his summoner.
By now, Aiba was certain he was not in a dream. He spent the last few nights sleeping in bed in the room Jun has provided him. Aiba dreamed of being home, only to wake up and realized he was still in this strange world that he couldn’t get a grasp on. The place looked somewhat like a town some hundreds of years ago. At the same time, everything looked different. Everything looked slightly off. And it’s not just about how people dressed or how the city looked like.
Then, there was this whole stuff about magic. That fairy tale energy that made stuffs happen unnaturally. Except that it was natural here. Magic seemed to be everywhere, in every part of everyday life. For example, there was no electricity, but houses stayed bright and warm at nights because of some magical stones powering lamps and fireplaces. Carts transporting goods and people moved about by some magical creatures, looking more like unicorns than horses. There were people who could light fire by a snap of their fingers, and there were people who water would spring from their palms. Everything freaked Aiba out, but no one else registered how strange things were.
Aiba observed the strange world through the window sill of one of the upper floor rooms at Matsumoto mansion. Fortunately for Aiba, it appeared his host, Matsumoto Jun, take it upon himself to take Aiba in. Jun seemed to welcome his addition to his home. Previously, the guy was living by himself in this large mansion. Having Aiba staying in his place, Jun insisted, was not a problem or an inconvenience to him at all.
Aiba’s allocated room was spacious but homey. It was next to the master bedroom where Jun slept. Aiba couldn’t help feeling slightly unconscious,the person who claimed had summoned him resided. Despite the strangeness of it, Jun tried his best to make Aiba feel comfortable and welcomed.
"If you summoned me, can you send me back home?" was the first question Aiba asked when Jun initially offered him a place to stay.
"I cannot. Usually, with a summoned creature, it will just simply disappear. It came with a purpose and when the purpose is fulfilled, it will leave. As easy as that." Jun explained. It was unsettling for Aiba to hear himself being referred to as creatures, then Aiba realized his host was not really a human either. And that was strange.
“I am still figuring out why, but it seems you are stuck with me for the time being,” Jun told him. “I might as well make you feel comfortable and at ease.”
Judging that a summoned creature was referred to as "it", Aiba though Jun was far more generous to him than he needed to.
"Don't look like that." Jun must have guessed what Aiba thought. Or maybe these people can read mind.
"And no, I cannot read mind." Jun added almost exactly the same time that Aiba wondered. It's creepy.
"Have anyone ever told you that you have a very expressive face? I am certain anyone can tell at least half of what you feel correctly. They are right on your expression. They are in your eyes." Jun teased. The way his eyes pierced so straight into the person on receiving end suddenly made Aiba's face reddened. If he was to stay under the same roof with Jun, he wasn't sure how long he would be able to resist his charm.
------------
When Aiba wandered around the mansion with Jun for the first time, the looks the maids giving him made Aiba uncomfortable. It was obvious. They were all afraid of him.“You have to excuse them. Some were at the stadium and they saw you. For the ones that weren’t,” Jun gave him a coy look, “well, let’s just say words travel fast.”
"Why? What did I do?" Aiba had been uncertain of what happened until Jun described it to him.
Unknowing to Aiba, the fight he unwittingly took part was the biggest, most important fight in decades. It was the last fight in a tournament to select the new First Enchanter, the head of the magical defense force of the city, known as "the Circle". Arashia, the city they were in, was one of the largest in the Empire, and its Circle was one of the most powerful. Consequently, the title "First Enchanter" was highly pretegious and only the best of the best mages would even dream of competing in the tournament. The last fight was between two of the most highly acclaimed mages in the Empire, and the native to Arashia.
“We were in shock when Nino summoned a Shade. Nino was a renowned summoner but summoning a shade was another level. Shades are what we stand against, they are what the Circle swore to fight against. Shades take many lives before it disappears on its own.
"But you, you stood against Nino's shade. When you collided with it, there was an explosion of white light, the brightest we ever seen. The light from you engulfed the whole shade and it dispersed in the loudest explosion. There is no doubt in anyone minds that you are the strongest summon anyone ever managed in our realm." Jun looked so proud as he told Aiba the story.
Then, Jun’s eyes casted downward when he said the next words. “I still do not know if Nino meant to summon a Shade. It’s dangerous and reckless, so does Nino recently.” He looked genuinely saddened. He remained quiet for a long moment. “But then, as I prayed the gods to allow me to summon something that would save us, you emerged.”
The look on Jun’s face was like a parent feeling proud of his son. Aiba felt strange receiving all these praises and being fear upon without truly deserving them. Back home, he was Aiba Masaki, an ordinary salary man who often got scared. But none of it was like this. Nothing even remotely close to it. These people looked at him like he’s some kind of a higher being. It worried Aiba as much as it made him uneasy.
Aiba tried several times to explain to Jun that he didn’t have any magical power. “I am only a human with no special power. I cannot even hold my breath in water for long.” Aiba insisted. He’s certainly not some all-powerful being they thought he was. Aiba was, as he repeated to Jun, simply a human.
"It doesn't really matter. We all saw what you did. We all saw how powerful you are." Jun claimed firmly. Aiba could only sighed. He would have a touch time convincing anyone.
-----------------
When Jun told Aiba about the special banquet celebrating his new title, Aiba was looking forward to it. Even though Jun was welcoming and could be considered the best host, Aiba welcomed a chance to meet other people, especially the ones that might be able to tell why he was still here and not home.
Jun saw Aiba's entusiasm and took it as a good sign that Aiba was adapting well to the new place. He even invited a tailor to the mansion to make Aiba a new outfit suitable to the custome of Arashia. The reaction from the tailor was somewhat similar to those of the maids in the earlier days. The good thing was that now the maids were less afraid of Aiba, seeing that he was not much different from them, and he hadn't killed anyone, unlike shades.
The banquet celebrating the First Enchanter title was one extravagant party. Hundreds of important people showed up to in a lavishly decorated hall at the mayor estate near the city center. On the day, Jun led Aiba to a carriage waiting for them in front ot Jun's mansion and Aiba left the mansion for the first time. The carriage was branded with the Jun family crest, like the ones Aiba saw everywhere in the mansion. Jun sat proud and amused observing Aiba in the new outfit.
"You look great in our traditional outfit." Jun complimented. Despite his usual stoic, serious face, Jun was surprisingly thoughtful and kind with his words.
"Thank you. You don't look too bad yourself." was Aiba's reply. Aiba tried to make it sounded polite, as if he just returned the compliment, although Aiba personally felt every word.
Jun tilted his head and gave him a rare happy smile. Aiba's heart beat so fast in his chest he had to turn away.
Along their ride, Aiba sneaked a peek and saw people lining up the street clapping and cheering for the new First Enchanter. But some that caught Aiba eyes still turned away frightened or hushed whispers to their friends. Jun who often snugged his head out and waved back to the people bended toward Aiba and gave him some tips.
"You know if you smile at them they wouldn't be too scared of you. When you looked uncertain and unhappy, your face was not as welcoming. The real you are not like that."
But when Aiba tried smiling at the crowd to show Jun the reaction, the crowd still looked away or hid their faces.
"This crowd is hard to please." Aiba lamented, making Jun laugh.
"It’s OK. It’s my job to please them. You only need to act like a summoned familiar."
"And what is that supposed to be?"
"Well, normally a familiar would just stay close to its master, and follow his wish. But we never have a human familiar, so you have to tell me what you can do."
"I am not your pet if that is what you are implying," Aiba pouted.
Jun laughed heartily. He pat Aiba a few times on his thigh.
"Sure, sure, of course not." He smiled teasingly, “What a willful familiar you are.”
Aiba sighed. Seeing that he could only lose in this argument, he kept silence.
“Don’t worry. Despite their reactions, they are glad to see you. You may be just the one that rescues them from the greatest peril.”
“The greatest peril?” Aiba instantly shot a shocking stare at Jun. Immediately, Jun's mouth gasped wide, knowing he had said something he shouldn’t.
"Ops. Oh hey! We arrive!" Jun immediately changed the subject, pointing toward the entrance of a large estate.
"Ohno Satoshi, our magistrate, wants to meet you so badly. I told you they are all interested in you." Jun said that as if to cheer Aiba up. For Aiba, it made him felt like more was at stake.
Aiba instinctively reached for Jun's hand and squeezed it for support. He didn't realize he did it until he felt Jun's hand, squeezing back.
If they were interested in Aiba, these people had a strange way to express it. As Jun made his way into the banquet hall, one person after another came to congratulate him, some shook his hands, some pat him on the back, some even gave him a real hug. It was obvious Jun was very popular.
During all these, Aiba trailed behind Jun and no one interacted with him directly, not even once. They even made sure the area around Aiba was vacant and unoccupied. No one came within a few meters of him. Jun constantly turned back and smiled apologetically at Aiba. He knew Aiba must feel awkward. However, he soon returned to engage to the next man that came to congratulate him. The obligations to his title were important.
Finally, they were brought to a long table up a stage. A small man in a simple, but elegant gown came to greet them. The man only nodded slightly before Jun launched at him and embranced the small man in his tight hug.
"Congratulations, Jun, I know this means a lot to you." The small man said into the curve of Jun’s neck, and Jun’s hug became even tighter. He whispered a thank you that was muffled by the cloth his face buried in. He could tell this guy was different than the other ones Jun greeted earlier. They were truly close.
"They grew up together. Ohno, Jun, and Nino. Ohno's father became their guardians after Jun's and Nino's fathers passed away." An offered explanation came from behind. Aiba turned to meet a man standing, looking directly at him.
The first man of the night that direcly addressed him.
"You must be Aiba. I am Sakurai Sho. You were very impressive at the duel," said a man who stepped from behind.
Sakurai Sho? That’s the name Jun mentioned, the person that might have answers regarding Aiba's situation. Sakurai Sho was a scholar and a librarian. In addition to safekeeping the extensive collection of massive books and tomes, Sho also researched on ancient, obscure magics. With Jun mostly occupied by the others, Sho was the only one that kept Aiba company. Aiba saw this as an opportunity to ask about his situation. Plus, Sho was highly interested in Aiba, and his continuing “existence” in their world.
What interested Aiba the most was whether he would be stuck in this world forever, since Jun seemed not to know how to get Aiba home. He kept comforting Aiba that one day, soon, he would simply wake up in his own bed on earth and probably forgot all about this.
Clearly, that hadn’t happened, and Aiba would hate to get stuck in his place, with everyone misunderstood him and “his power” like this.
“Normally, a summoned creature would disappear on its own after it has done its summoner’s bidding. That’s why, in case of a fight, summoned creatures would always disappear immediately after the fight ended. Some even faster if they were killed.” was Sho's answer to Aiba's urgent concern. Aiba gulped, recalling how scared he was in the arena.
“But, I won the fight for Jun, didn’t I? Why am I still here?”
“That – I also do not know. Maybe it takes longer for you to disappear because you are more powerful.” Sho’s voice was uncertain. Suddenly Aiba realized, “Wait a minute. When you say “disappear”, you meant them returning to their home, right?”
Sho’s smile was awkward. Whatever the answer Sho had in mind, Aiba was no longer certain he wanted to hear.
-------------
As the party progressed, Sho eventually left to talk to other guests, leaving Aiba at Jun’s side. Group after group of party attendees came to greet Jun and stayed to talk with him. Most of them reacted at the sight of Aiba. they consciously stayed away from Aiba, which made him feel uncomfortable. Aiba wasn’t sure if Jun realized it, but either way, he didn’t show any signs. Aiba wasn’t used to being in a party that he couldn’t fully participate. He started to feel regret coming here. Sure, he got some more information about his situation, but that information didn’t help ensured him of his future at all. ‘To fulfill your summoner’s wish’ - what was that supposed to mean? Hadn’t he, somehow, won the duel for Jun already? Why was he still here?
Aiba felt the need to clear his mind and to get fresh air. Jun was in an intense talk with other guests and didn’t see Aiba quietly leaving his side. Aiba wasn’t sure he should walk about alone in the place he didn’t know, but he did anyway. He left the room through one of the side doors and walked pass a quiet corridor until he eventually reached a large garden. The place was quiet, saved for sounds of crickets and night creatures. Aiba was amazed how the night here was so much like the night at home. He never realized how much he yearned to go back until this moment.
“You know you shouldn’t be walking about this place alone, you know? Satoshi has many sentries that would easily mistake you for an intruder.” A voice came from behind and Aiba immediately turned in alarmed. Despite in dim night light, Aiba still could see the smirk on the guy’s face clearly. Aiba remembered him instantly. It was the other mage in the arena on that faithful day. The one Jun called Nino. Aiba’s body tensed up, remembering the scary shade this person summoned on that day. Jun’s concerns over the summoning of such dangerous creature still rang in Aiba’s head. Nino was dangerous.
Aiba instinctively backed away a few steps as Nino casually walked closer to him. Nino was amused by Aiba’s action and let out a chuckle.
“There’s nothing to be afraid of. I am not going to hurt my summoned creature. Sho used to tell me I wouldn’t be able to even if I try.” Nino said through his chuckle. Nino’s words instantly froze Aiba on track.
“I am not yours.” Aiba protested almost immediately. He didn’t know why he sounded harsh and moody. Nino lifted up both hands in the air in a fake submission.
“OK, sorry. If you are going to go all Sho on me about the familiars and creatures’ Equal Rights, I take back what I said. You are not mine,” Nino bowed teasingly, “But I sure did summon you.” The confident smile Nino had told Aiba he wasn’t lying.
“You summoned me? But Jun…”
“Jun may believe otherwise, yet the truth is he could never summon you. Summoning has never been his strong point. I, on the other hand, am the best in this land.” Nino’s critique was filled with affections it didn’t sound like he had any ill intentions toward Jun. Nino simply stated a fact.
“If you are the one who brought me to this world, you must send me back right now.” Aiba demanded angrily.
Nino shook his head. His eyes casted on Aiba apologetically.
“I wish it could be that simple.”
“What do you mean? Why can’t you?”
Instead of an answer, Nino clicked his tongue before asking Aiba back.
“Hasn’t anyone told you the requirement for a summoned creature to disappear?”
“Yes. ‘A summoned creature must fulfill its summoner’s wish, then it shall be released from the bond,’ that’s what Sho told me.” Aiba recanted the words he heard. Nino responded with a nod.
“That’s right. You must fulfill a wish.” Nino rephrased Aiba’s answer.
“And I did. I won Jun the fight. He got to be the First Enchanter. But I am still here, stuck in your world, days after his wish was fulfilled.” Aiba protested, feeling frustrated.
“Well, fulfilling Jun’s wish would get you home if HE was the one that summoned you.” A corner of Nino’s lips pursed up. “But it was ME that summoned you. It was MY wish that you must fulfill.”
Aiba was jaw-dropped. How come his life could get this complicated?
“What do you want?” He asked weakly. Nino’s smile was brief, and his voice turned serious and somber.
“I want you to save Jun from himself.”
----------------------
The ride back to Jun’s mansion was quieter than the ride before. Partly because it was late at night and the streets were mostly empty, partly because Jun was visibly tipsy, but happy and contented, from the cerebration. He sat with a soft smile plastered on his face. When the carriage rocked from bumps, his body would sway side to side. Although Jun didn’t seem to mind, Aiba decided to move to Jun’s side of the carriage seat and sat next to him, offering the mage a firm shoulder to lean on. Jun happily took the offer. They sat side by side on the quiet ride. Jun hummed a soft, slightly drunken tune as his head laid on Aiba’s shoulder and his soft hair brushed the crook of Aiba’s neck. Aiba looked out the window and saw that they were almost at the destination.
“I am so happy.” Jun whispered.
“Hmm?” was Aiba’s reply. Secretly Aiba was still preoccupied by his reflection from the meeting with Nino prior. He still hadn’t told Jun about it, and he wasn’t sure that he should.
“Thank you for helping me. I know you want to go home. I promise I will help you figure out how to return home.” Jun said with utmost sincerity. He truly meant what he said, Aiba was certain of that.
If only Jun knew what Aiba knew...
Instead, Aiba’s hand reached across his body and rest on Jun’s side. He pat the mage a few time.
“I would really appreciate that.” Aiba said, knowing full well that Jun couldn’t help bringing him home.
-----------------
After a few weeks of being stuck in this world, Aiba slowly eased into the fact that he was now living in a strange world, with a mage, in his mansion. And their night time together in Jun’s study had become one of their routines. Aiba would sit near a magical fireplace, watching Jun researching and consulting various tombs that he borrowed from Sho’s library. Jun had dedicated most of his evenings, after he came back home, to study for ways to get Aiba home. He even tried a few rituals and countless spells hoping it would do the trick. None of them worked. Some nights,Yet, Aiba was grateful for Jun’s sincere attempt; he also felt increasingly guilty in holding on to the information of the only solution that could return Aiba home.
“What’s your plan as the First Enchanter?” Aiba asked one night as he accompanied Jun in his study. What Aiba learned from Nino has kept him feeling unsettled. He couldn’t help asking Jun about something Nino had told him.
“Hmm?” Jun was too absorbed into the ancient text to fully register Aiba’s question.
“I want to know what you want to do as a First Enchanter.” Aiba tried to make his voice sound casual and steady. He didn’t want Jun to know he desperately needed the answer.
“Have you been talking to Ohno and Sho about me again?” Jun asked teasingly, referring to Aiba’s occasional visitors. In the more recent days, Aiba even dared venture out into the city and made a stop at Ohno and Sho’s place. Jun thought it would be better and more comfortable for Aiba to have some other companies beside him, and it was certainly a welcome change in scenario to go out.
What Jun didn’t know was that Ohno and Sho weren’t the only two people Aiba was in regular contact with. Nino was another. It was even more convenient for Nino to meet Aiba at Ohno and Sho’s place.
Aiba pushed further for Jun’s answer, which Jun laughed slightly before answering.
“It’s too embarrassing, really, but you may have heard from them that my father was also the First Enchanter, right?” Jun smiled proudly. Aiba nodded along, ignoring to tell the truth that it was neither Ohno nor Sho that told Aiba about this. “There was something he wanted to do while he was the First Enchanter, something he attempted to do, although he wasn’t successful.” There was a hint of sadness in Jun’s voice, but it was soon masked by his constant determination. “I am hoping to finish what he started.”
It was the answer Aiba had dreaded, yet, he concealed his worry and gave Jun an understanding nod.
----------------
Nino had told Aiba about Jun’s father and his untimely demise on one of his missions. Jun’s father wanted to destroy the Prime Shade, the source of shade energy and the origin of all shades that had terrorized the city since the time of the Great Civil War some hundreds of years ago. It was said that a war broke between two fractions of the most powerful mages in the city. As the battle intensified, the mages resorted to calling upon dark energy to assist them. A great many people died, and the dark energy left in the world merged into one powerful and most evil being – the Prime Shade. People believed it was the curse put upon them by the gods for violating their trust and abused evil energy. The subsequent births of dark energy in form of shades were believed to come from the Prime Shade that resided deep in the mountain. Jun’s father devoted his life studying the Shade. He believed he had figured out the true location of the Prime Shade and how to defeat it. One day, while Jun was very young, he set out with a group of most powerful mages, Nino’s father included. They never returned.Nino told Aiba of this story – the reason why he studied shades so extensively he could even summon one despite a shade not truly being a summonable creature. ‘Jun would never be able to defeat the Prime Shade.’ Nino told Aiba earlier. ‘It feeds off negative magic. Any magical attacks would make it stronger.’
“That sounded like a lose-lose scenario. If you attack, you make it stronger and it will kill you. If you don’t attack, it will kill you anyway,” cried Aiba.
“Yeah, it’s suck, isn’t it? That’s why you need to stop Jun from attempting that. The First Enchanter doesn’t need to try to save the world by ridding it of the Prime Shade. He just needs to make sure the city is safe, and our magical barrier is secured and strong. No one expects him to rid the city of this problem once and for all.” Nino shook his head. “Sadly, Jun is Jun. He thinks he has to save everyone.”
“So, you decide to be the one that saves him.” Aiba added.
“No. I decide that YOU would be the one that saves him.”
“And how am I going to do that? I am sorry to burst your bubble, but what I have been telling you is the truth. I have zero magical power. How on earth, or not earth," Aiba stumbled, “whatever, how would I defeat the Prime Shade with my complete inability to do anything magical.”
“Well, maybe you only need to steer Jun from the idea of attacking the Prime Shade. Anything that would keep him alive and well. I only wish that.”
-------------------
Although Jun never said anything, Aiba realized Jun had proceeded with his plan to destroy the Prime Shade. Aiba noticed Jun spending more time at the Circle and he remained occupied in his study into very late most nights. Several Circle mages would visit Jun and they convened regular meetings in Jun’s study. Strangely, Jun often invited Aiba to join him. Aiba would be in the room, sitting quietly, listening to the mages laying out strategies and battle plans. Aiba admitted he didn’t understand most of what they were saying, and he probably couldn’t care much. He was only too worried about Jun.
In one meeting, one of the Circle mages mentioned the name Aiba didn’t expect.
“Why don’t we bring in Ninomiya? I understand Ninomiya and you aren’t on a good term, but it’s hard to deny that he is one of the most powerful mages we have right now.”
Jun only stared at the guy who gave suggestion for a long moment before giving his answer.
“No.” it was brief.
“Ninomiya is at the frontier of Shade study. He’s arguably the most familiar with shades among all mages in Arashia, and he was, up until now, the only one that ever managed to summon a shade successfully. For someone with that qualification, it would be unwise not to invite him into our party.”
“I said no already. How many times do I need to tell you so you would stop plastering me with this issue?” Jun’s reply was icy cold. He looked at the mage with a piercing state. The guy immediately clamed his mouth.
“Pardon me, the First Enchanter.” He mumbled, not wanting to go against Jun’s intention, and backed down.
“What is it about Nino that you don’t like?” Aiba asked after the meeting was over and all the Circle mages were gone. Jun was surprised at the question. His eyebrows knotted together.
“Beside from the fact that he was up against me for my title?” Jun quibbed.
“I don’t think you would take it personally. It’s only a competition, wasn’t it?” Aiba pointed out.
“It’s not just any competition. Nino knew how much it was meant to me. Becoming the First Enchanter has always been my dream. He had never cared for the position. For crying out loud, he didn’t even like being a member of the Circle.” Jun vented out his heated respond. There were flickers in his eyes illustrating how angry and serious he meant with his words. “Nino just couldn’t allow the thought of anyone being better than him.”
“That doesn’t sound like Nino.” Aiba couldn’t help commenting.
“And what would you know about him? Did Ohno tell you about Nino?” Jun eyed him questioningly. He immediately added, “Oh-chan looks at everyone positively because he brings about the best in all of us. But believe me, we all have our dark sides, our poor quality. For me, it may be my pride. For Nino, it is his need to be clever and snarky. He had always been considered the most powerful mage of our generation, and he had to prove that publicly.”
“I think he worries about you,” Aiba said in a low, soft voice.
“Nino summoned a Shade.” Jun said immediately in reply. He looked hurt and betrayed. “Only the ones with the darkest heart would be able to do that.”
----------
“Jun thinks I am evil because I happened to summon something no one else can?” Nino’s voice was so high and loud. “That’s not fair. I know he has been resentful that I was better than him at school, but this is too much.” Nino shook his head dejectedly although Aiba sensed he said it half-jokingly.
Aiba and Nino met at their usual place, the garden of Ohno mansion, a few days after. Aiba conferred to Nino his increasing concern that Jun was going to go through with the plan very soon.
“I fear he would go on with it as soon as he feels ready. What are we going to do if he does? How am I going to save him like I need to?” Aiba lamented. From the information he gathered from Jun’s preparation meeting, he didn’t see how he could be of any use in it. Especially now that Aiba knew he wasn’t tied magically with Jun through their summoning bond, Aiba saw even less chance he could be of any help. As the time went by and Jun had shown him more generosity, Aiba wanted to help Jun sincerely and not just because Nino told him too. He truly wished that he could find a way to help Jun defeat the Prime Shade.
But considering he was a normal human, not one of these powerful mages, nor a magical creature, Aiba questioned he could really do anything.
Aiba sighed. He never felt this worried in my life – and that included the first time he realized he was stuck in this world.
“I hear Jun is looking for a way to send you home. He has been consulting with Sho’s colleagues who did extensive research on summon creatures, and naturally those guys would need to consult me. I think they almost find a loophole to finally get you home.”
Nino’s revelation surprised Aiba. He turned immediately to his summoner.
“But you said I can only return if I fulfill your wish.”
Nino shrugged, “Apparently, you can get around that if you use a specific powerful portal spell coupled with some enchantments to ensure you would land on your world, not some weird places. Sho just told me. Jun figured that out and he confirmed that with Sho this morning.”
Nino was about to elaborate, but he realized something and made a big ‘O’ with his mouth.
“Ops. Did I just ruin the surprise? Jun probably would want to tell you himself.”
Somehow, Nino’s words made Aiba blushed. Aiba didn’t know why. There was no reason for his reaction.
But gosh, wouldn’t it be nice if he hears this directly from Jun? Aiba daydreamed.
“I guess you’ve got to act surprised when he breaks the news to you. You wouldn’t want to disappoint him, would you?” Nino smiled at him teasingly. Aiba blushed even more. Was he that easy to read?
--------------
Aiba returned to the Matsumoto mansion in the late afternoon. He wanted to be there before Jun returned home, in case Jun wanted to give him the news right away. Aiba thought about finally being able to go home. It should be good news, but he felt strangely lonely. Would he be able to see Jun again after he returned?
Aiba shook his head thinking how silly his thoughts sounded. Of course, he would never see Jun again. It wouldn’t be so bad. Everything would just go back to the way it was.
That’s the thing. Would he be able to go back to the way he was after he had witnessed this incredible world?
And there was Jun. How could Aiba ever go back to how he felt before he came here?
Aiba was surprised that when he arrived home and found a letter on his bed. Intricated handwritten letters of a language Aiba didn’t know filled the page. He remembered it was Jun’s handwriting. Naturally, he couldn’t read the language. However, when Aiba’s hand traced on Jun’s writing, the letters changed into something Aiba could read.
Dear Aiba,
I wish I could have told you this in person, but I fear I wouldn’t have the courage to do what need to be done. I have to go on the mission that we have planned for so long. The other mages think that I should bring you with me. They say you would be of much help. However, it’s our fight and I shouldn’t endanger you in our attempt to rid the empire of its long-standing threat. Please pray to your gods that we would succeed.
I also bear good news. With Sho’s help, I have found the way to bring you home. If my mission is a success, I will return to open the portal to your world myself. I would love to see how your world looks like. Do you think maybe I can cross to your world and you can show me around? However, if I am not here, I have enlisted the person I trust the most for the task. Either way you will be in good hands (although I much prefer the former option to the later.)
I am afraid of saying good bye, so I won’t. I hope I would be able to see you again.
Yours,
Jun
PS. Don’t be surprised that you can read my handwriting. The bond that we share through the summoning would allow you to read anything that I write, in any languages.
If only the bond would allow you to read my mind…
Aiba’s hands were trembling and his whole body was shaking. Jun still didn't know he didn't sumon Aiba. He wrote the letter that only those with an intimated bond would be able to read.
Yet, somehow, Jun could write a letter in language of another world, and Aiba could read his letter.
Aiba didn’t realize he had slumped onto his bed and remained there until someone barged into his room.
“Aiba! Where’s Jun?” It was Nino. His hand still clutched a piece of paper tightly. It seemed Nino also got a letter and he came to the mansion immediately. Aiba alternated between looking at Nino and the letter in his hand. Finally, Aiba found his voice.
“He’s gone.” Aiba said in almost a whisper.
“Where to? Why would he send me a letter and ask me to perform the ritual to open the portal for you?”
“He left on the mission. He left for the Prime Shade.” Aiba’s voice quivered. He didn’t know why he was so afraid. Very afraid.
“What?!? Without me?” Nino said in almost a scream. “And why didn’t you go with him?!?”
“He left without me.” Aiba mumbled. He felt the burning on his hand where Jun’s letter rested. “I am only a human. I would only be a burden.”
Nino snatched Aiba’s arm and grabbed it tight.
“What are you talking about? Have you listened to anything I told you? When I casted my second summoning spell in the arena, I wished for a creature that could save Jun. And you appeared. I don’t know why, I don’t know how, but I am certain you would be able to keep him from harm as long as you are with him.”
He gave Aiba such a strong, determined look. “I am going after him. He thought he was the only one who had information on the exact location of the Prime Shade. It’s like he forgot that his father wasn’t the only one on that doomed mission.”
Nino let go of Aiba but kept his eyes firmly on him. “Are you coming?”
Aiba didn’t need him to ask twice.
---------------
Aiba rode with Nino out west. The enchanted steed ran like a wind even after nightfall. Nino steered his mount through series of small roads and a makeshift path leading deep into the thick wood.
“Jun’s father found that the Prime Shade lived closer to this city than we previously believed. Because it continues to feed off negative magic or dark magic, Prime Shade needs to remain in some proximity to cities. And no city is as filled with magic as ours.”
As he explained, Nino held onto a small crystal on his necklace. It glowed and changed in colors as they continued forward. The crystal seemed to radiate pure white if they were on the right track.
“It’s the pathfinder crystal. My father had left one in his study when he joined Jun’s father expedition. I always thought this was the only one left and I tried to hide it from the others. I knew what Jun wanted, but I didn’t want him to attempt the same thing our fathers did. Unfortunately, the crystal only works when the moon is up, and incidentally night is the only time Prime Shade would materialize. During the day, they would disperse into dark energy, unable to be traced or tracked down.”
Aiba didn’t like the idea of it. Jun was ahead of them, tracking this Prime Shade evil, and most likely would attempt to engage and destroy it. However, he could only attempt that in the time when the Prime Shade was the strongest.
Aiba prayed that they would be in time, even though he wasn’t certain what he or Nino could do when they caught up with Jun’s team. Would they be forced to turn back? Would Jun be angry with them instead of understanding their concerns?
“It’s close.” Nino said in almost a whisper. He must be as stressed and worried as Aiba because he gripped the rein tightly.
The crystal glowed bright when they head sounds of explosions and fighting. Aiba’s heart beat fast. He knew something went wrong. He remembered the strategy Jun concocted with his team. They were going to use the mixture of binding, sealing, and banishment magic to imprison the Prime Shade. The selection of Circle mages Jun selected for the group filled with those specialized in such magics. They weren't the best fighters. Jun didn't think he would need fighters. If things went according to Jun’s plan, there would be little need for fights.
Clearly things didn't go according to Jun's plan.
Nino probably realized the same thing. He hurried his mount until they emerged from thick forest.
In front of them was a very large clearing. And there in the middle was the largest, darkest creature Aiba had ever seen. It was more heinous than the shade Aiba encountered in the arena, and probably ten times larger.
“What the hell is that?!” Aiba screamed, inevitably causing commotion. The Prime Shade instantly turned to him and Nino. Its mouth opened wide but Aiba could see nothing, except darkness, inside.
“What are you doing here? Get out!” cried Jun, who was standing on the other side of the field. Aiba immediately turned and saw Jun, battered from the fight but otherwise alive. The same couldn’t be said for other Circle mages that came with Jun. Several bodies laid scattered around the large area. Aiba prayed they were still alive.
Jun continued to point and to scream at them.
“Why do you bring him here? You are supposed to send him..”
Jun didn’t get a chance to finish his sentence. A dark glow energy ball was shot from Prime Shade mouth to his location. Jun narrowly escaped the direct impact with a quick dash, but the resulting explosion still sent him flew off his feet and landed heavily some distance away. He grunted and struggled to recover from the attack, but the Prime Shade already sent another energy ball in his direction. Jun instinctively lifted his good arm up to shield himself from the dark magic, although it wouldn’t be enough.
Aiba’s heart dropped on the ground. He could barely watch. However, before the attack reached Jun, a glowing white barrier sprung around him and dispersed the dark energy with ease. Aiba turned to his side and saw Nino extending his arm forward, clearly exerting his magical energy in creating the barrier.
The Prime Shade turned to Nino and glowed angrily at him.
“Yeah, right, greeting to you too.” Nino smirked at the creature. His other hand raised upward to create another barrier around himself as series of dark magic arrows sprung from every part of the Prime Shade and bombarded at Nino’s location. When the resulting explosions subsided, Nino was already on one knee but still able to maintain both barriers.
Aiba knew he had to do something. He saw Jun recovering and getting up on his feet. If he could get some moment to move across the field, they might be able to escape into the forest together. That hideous thing wasn’t going to follow them through thick forest, was it?
Aiba didn’t know the answer to his question. He didn’t know if his plan was a good one. But he ran across the field anyway. He’s fast. Maybe he could act as the distraction while Jun and Nino made their way to safety. Yes, that would work.
Aiba continued running as fast as he could. He heard series of explosions behind him and felt the heat radiating on to his back. Aiba kept running.
Until he tripped and landed spectacularly on his stomach.
Aiba looked up. He saw Jun running toward him. At the same time, Prime Shade readied its next attack and the dark energy ball was already half-way toward him.
Damn it. Jun hasn’t kissed him yet.
Aiba was so ready for burning scorch but it didn’t come. He opened his eyes and saw Jun, standing only a distance away, looking at him like he saw a ghost.
What had just happened?
Aiba turned just in time to see another dark energy shot collided into his body. However, it didn’t explode. It’s just simply… absorbed?... into his body.
What?!?
Aiba didn’t get a chance to think on spot because a strong hand snatched his and started dragging him along. It was Jun. The shield around Jun was still intact and Jun obviously intended to use that shield to cover Aiba as well. They ran together to where Nino was standing.
Then, Aiba got an epiphany. Or more like a theory.
He abruptly pulled his hand from Jun’s and ran back, at the same time waving, screaming for the Prime Shade to focus on him. Jun wanted to run after Aiba, yet his injured leg slowed him down. Aiba made a good distance away from Jun when he stopped suddenly and stood still waiting for the Prime Shade attack.
Jun could only look in horror as an array of dark magic arrows landing on Aiba. He feared for the worst.
However, the strangest thing happened. Like before, those dark energy attacks were absorbed completely by Aiba’s body. From that distance, Aiba stood with a smile, beaming at Jun.
“Hey, Jun, you know what, I figure out how I can save you.” Aiba shouted. “You guys said this thing lived off negative magical energy and magic residuals, right? What about it coming into contact with someone with zero magical energy like me?” Aiba’s smiled widened even more before he turned fully toward the Prime Shade “Let’s hope this work.”
Then Aiba ran directly toward it.
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Aiba twisted and turned as he slowly regained conscious. He heard the familiar sounds of traffic outside his apartment window and the warm Spring sun coming through his partly opened curtain, hitting his face. Aiba inhaled deeply to his favorite fabric softener scent of his bedsheet and pillow case.
His brain slowly began to function. He gradually recalled the last few moment before he woke up - the Prime Shade, the explosions, and the last face that he saw before his conscious faded away. Jun.
Aiba immediately sprang up. He was instantly fully awake and alarmed. It was as he feared. He was in his own bed, in his own apartment. Aiba instantly sensed a large hole in his chest, as if something had sucked his heart out.
It was a dream. A very long, very best dream. But it still was only a dream.
Aiba immediately dropped back in bed, heartbroken. His tear threatened to come out. The loss was so real and it hurt as badly.
Then, Aiba heard a cranking from his kitchen. Someone or something was inside. He immediately dashed from his bed and ran into the kitchen.
In there was Jun with an apron, trying to figure out how to use Aiba’s coffee machine. Jun turned to greet Aiba.
“Oh hi, you are awake! I heard from Nino that “a coffee” may help when you wake up. Didn’t know it would be this effective. I haven’t even made it yet. I don’t know how you people manage to stay alive without magic to help even making a simple concoction.”
Jun was about to continue his rant, but Aiba cut him with a hug and a kiss.
After a long, well-deserve kiss, they were parted. Jun still panted a little when he commented, “Whao, I didn’t know you are this good, otherwise I would have done it long time ago.”
Aiba smiled. He pulled Jun in for another one. This time when they parted, he immediately asked, “So you are real? Am I not dreaming?”
“Of course, not!” Jun laughed. He still held Aiba close with both hands on Aiba’s waist. “You are a weird creature, you know that, right? You singlehandedly absorbed the Prime Shade, then you fell into a deep slumber for one whole year. Now you wake up, you still want everything to be only a dream?”
Aiba beamed back a smile. “Actually, this can be anything, anywhere, as long as it has you in it.”
“We can talk about where we want to live later. Let’s show me how to use your electronics first.”
If learning how to use a coffee machine was the first step toward getting Jun familiar with his world, Aiba was so happy to oblige.
no subject
Date: 2018-04-23 05:53 am (UTC)First of all, the story was amazing! I can't believe my mere prompt turned out like this. It is so beautiful and amazing, I can't find proper words to describe how happy I am and how I loved this story! This is the first time someone ever wrote a fic for me and it couldn't be better!
I really like how you created a world for this fic, I know fantasy is a hard genre to pull it off however you managed to make it absolutely perfect.
I really really liked how lost Aiba was in the fic, omg poor him, everyone thinking that he is some kind of dangerous man but he was so adorable! Like a lost kitten, trying to get everyone believe that he was just a normal guy 😂 Also thank you for including Aimiya BFF in the story, and thank you for giving Nino a lovely screen time in the fic! Also I really really liked Sho being the librarian! Intelligent Sho was such a nice touch! And of course, matsumiya being rivals were absolutely amazing, I had so much fun when Nino said he was better than him in the school :D that brat! But I am so touched how much he cared for Jun to the point summoning Aiba to save him, and I really really loved how Aiba defeated the Prime Shade. It was so logical and I don't think I could think anything better than this! Zero magical power vs the Prime Shade, this is absolutely amazing!
Also thank you for the happy ending :") it made me soooo happy to have Jun in world, Aiba would help him to get accustomed to this world and without magic ♡＼(￣▽￣)／♡
What a lovely story is this, honestly, I will just go back to start and read it as many times as I can >///////<
Thank you very very much dear Anon! I really really enjoyed the fic, it was so good!
And thank you very much for everything you had done dear mod ♥️🙏