During the day, Zodiac, Mizuda, and Himitsu explored the city together.
Himitsu: If there's one thing that's for certain, the city is always lively.
Mizuda: Why wouldn't it be? The people here are always happy, right, Zodiac? (Smiling.)
Zodiac shakes his head.
Zodiac: Why did you bring me here? I never agreed to come.
Mizuda: Come on, lighten up. There's no training today, so why not have some fun?
Himitsu: Plus, it's a great opportunity to get to know each other, don't you think?
Zodiac: Sure.
As they continue walking, they see Mac waving at them.
Mac: Hello, Mizuda and everyone! How's it going?
Mizuda: Oh hi, Mac! Good to see you again. What have you been up to?
Mac: It's been good—just training and completing missions.
She looks concerned.
Mizuda: Don't overwork yourself, especially after that raid.
Mac's expression turns somber as she recalls the two men killed by the chief orc.
Mizuda: I'm sorry you had to witness your friends' deaths; that must have been difficult.
Mac smiles at her.
Mac: It's okay; I barely knew them since I only worked with them a couple of times. People live, people die, but as long as we keep fighting, that's what matters.
Mizuda: You're absolutely right, Mac! Anyway, what brings you here today?
Mac starts to blush, looking nervous.
Himitsu: Ummm, why is your face turning red?
Mac: W-well, I was thinking that maybe you and I could hang out at the bar and spend some time together, if you don't mind?
Mizuda considers the offer.
Mizuda: That would be nice, but I already had plans with both Zodiac and Himitsu.
Mac's face falls. Himitsu then interjects.
Himitsu: It's okay, Mizuda; Zodiac and I can just walk around together.
Zodiac: What? I didn't agree to that!
Mizuda: Oh really? That will be perfect! You know where to find me and Mac.
Mac becomes excited and blushes even more.
Himitsu: Yep, the signs (points at the signs) should help us find you.
Mizuda: Great! Just don't go too far, and when it gets dark, come find us, okay?
Himitsu: We won't, don't worry! (Gives a thumbs up.)
Zodiac shakes his head. Mizuda and Mac head to the bar together, leaving Himitsu and Zodiac behind.
Himitsu: Okay, what should we do today?
Himitsu looks back and sees Zodiac walking.away.
Himitsu: H-HEY, WAIT UP!!!
He begins to run to catch up with him.
Zodiac: Why are you following me? Please go away.
Himitsu: Come on, there's no need to act like this. Let's find something to do together.
Zodiac: I'm fine. It's best if I remain alone.
Himitsu: Hmmm, would you like to check out the shops?
Zodiac offers a curt response.
Zodiac: No.
Himitsu: How about visiting the castle?
Zodiac: No.
Himitsu: Oh, I have an idea! What about horseback riding?
Zodiac: No.
Himitsu lowers his head in disappointment and reflects.
Himitsu: (muttering to himself) There must be something we can do together that he would enjoy. (Talking to Zodiac) Wait, I have an idea! I heard there's a place where you can duel others.
Zodiac continues walking, uninterested.
Zodiac: I'm not interested.
Himitsu: I also heard it involves swords.
Zodiac stops and turns to face him.
Zodiac: Are you being truthful? Because if you're not, I'll make you regret it.
Himitsu feels intimidated by his words.
Himitsu: No, I'm serious. There is a place where you can challenge others. They have some formidable fighters too.
Zodiac: (to himself) If he's telling the truth, perhaps I can see some strong fighters. He better not be lying. Very well, take me there.
Himitsu: R-really!? (beaming with excitement)
Zodiac: Do you want to die?
Himitsu: Oooook, then follow me.
Himitsu leads Zodiac to the dueling venue. As they walk, they observe children playing with their parents, people hosting shows, and more. After a few minutes, they arrive at a large building marked "Sword of Battles," with a burly guard stationed at the entrance.
Himitsu: Here it is. Let's go inside.
As they approach, the guard pushes Himitsu back.
Guard: What do you kids think you're doing here? Did you really believe I'd let you in? Think again.
Himitsu: Not to be mistaken, but I don't see any age requirement posted.
Guard: So?
Himitsu: So, why not let us in?
Guard: Because I said so!
Himitsu: But whyyyy?
Guard: Don't you kids have imaginary toys to play with? Haha. You're too young to be here. Now leave before I call your parents.
Himitsu begins to feel frustrated.
Himitsu: This is disappointing. It seems we won't be able to get in, Zodiac. I apologize.
Zodiac: I didn't come all this way just to turn back. I will handle this.
Himitsu: Excuse me? What are your intentions?
Zodiac approaches the guard.
Zodiac: What would it take for us to gain entry? Surely there's something you can do.
Guard: There's nothing you can do, so I suggest you leave. I don't have time for games.
Zodiac: Why? Are you intimidated by children?
The guard pauses.
Guard: Here's the deal: if you can block one of my attacks, I may allow you entry. What do you think?
Zodiac nods.
Zodiac: Let's proceed.
Himitsu: Zodiac, are you out of your mind?
Zodiac: No, I'm not. Please stand back and be quiet.
The guard smiles.
Guard: Excellent, but don't expect me to go easy on you.
They prepare for the confrontation as the guard unsheathes his sword, while Zodiac readies his dagger.
Guard: Alright, I hope you are prepared for this!
The guard charges, aiming for Zodiac's head. Zodiac blocks the attack easily and positions his dagger at the guard's neck.
Zodiac: Are you finished?
Guard: H-how is that even possible?! A child like you shouldn't possess such skill!
Himitsu (standing tall): Well, we received the best training, I suppose.
Zodiac sheaths his dagger.
Zodiac: So, can we enter, or would you like to challenge me again?
The guard shakes his head vigorously.
Guard: No, please come in! Don't be shy! (His forehead glistens with sweat.)
Himitsu: Perfect, let's proceed inside!
Meanwhile, Mizuda and Mac are at the bar, enjoying themselves and ordering numerous drinks.
Mac: Ahhhhhhh yeaaaaaaaaaah, I can keep going!!!
Mizuda finishes her eighth drink of rum.
Mizuda: Waaaaaa, what did you say? I think you should take a break!
Mac: Nahhhhhhhhhh, not until I beat you!!! HEY SEXY WAITRESS, BRING ME ANOTHER BOTTLE OR I'M GOING TO DRINK MY OWN URINE HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
Mizuda laughs heartily.
Mizuda: You are outrageous, Mac!
The waitress delivers another bottle, which he consumes entirely before collapsing.
Mac: HEY, LOOK AT ME, I'M A CLUMSY FOOL WHO CAN'T GET UP!!!
Mizuda: You're utterly ridiculous, bwahahaha!!!
Person 1: Can you two quiet down over there?
Person 2: Yes, you are quite bothersome!
As time goes on and other patrons grow irritated, they eventually settle down. Mac is now heaving into a bucket.
Mizuda: Are you alright, Mac?
Mac: Yes, we certainly consumed a lot, haha. I believe I lost track.
Mizuda: I did advise you to stop, but you chose not to listen.
Mac: I understand, but I can never back down from a drinking contest.
She smiles. Then Mac poses a serious question.
Mac: Hey, Mizuda?
Mizuda: Yes, what's on your mind?
Mac: I think I have feelings for you.
She smiles and gently pats him on the head.
Mizuda: Aww, I like you too! You're a wonderful friend!
Mac: But no, I mean I like you in a different way.
Mizuda: I feel the same, Mac! I never anticipated our friendship would grow this strong so quickly.
Mac becomes embarrassed and looks down.
Mac: (muttering) That's not what I intended…
Mizuda: I need to clean up, so I'll head to the washroom. I'll be right back.
Mizuda stands and walks toward the washroom while Mac glances at her.
Mac: She certainly has an impressive figure.
She turns back to Mac upon hearing his comment.
Mizuda: What did you say?
Mac: N-nothing, don't mind me, haha.
As Mizuda tidies up from the drinks, Daru is still training beneath the lava pit, drenched in sweat.
Daru: (collapses, lying on his back) Ahh, I need water!
Rito: Come on up! It's only been five hours, you crybaby.
Daru: (gazes at Rito) Only five hours, Rito? I'm exhausted; I feel terrible.
Daru stands and removes his t-shirt, revealing some definition in his physique.
Rito: Impressive genetics you have.
Daru: Huh? What do you mean?
Rito: Look at your body. We've only been training for a few days, and you've gained a significant amount of muscle. Not many can achieve that, especially considering you're only ten.
Daru: (smiling and flexing) Well, you're not wrong…
Rito: Okay, take it easy; don't let it get to your head.
Shortly after, Rito hears quick footsteps approaching.
Rito: What the—
Before Rito can finish, a man emerges from the shadows, running with his head down, out of breath.
Man: (struggling) H-h-h—
Rito: What?
Daru: Where did you come from? Are you alright?
Man: (lifts his head, still panting) H-H-H-H—
Rito: Wait, is that you, Gram?
Gram: (finally catches his breath) IT'S SO FREAKING HOT!!! MY SKIN IS BURNING!!
Rito: Hello! It's been a while. How have you been?
Gram: Did you even hear what I said?
Rito throws his jacket to Gram, who quickly puts it on.
Gram: Ah, much better.
Rito: Good to hear.
Gram: By the way, I need your help.
Daru: (approaches Rito) Wait, you know this person?
Rito: Yes, he's an old friend.
Gram: I'm not old, Rito! I'm fourteen! Did you hear anything I said?
Rito: Huh? (laughs) Yes, of course.
Gram: Okay… what did I say?
Rito: (laughs) Alright, you caught me; I got distracted. What do you need?
Gram glances to the left of Rito and notices Daru.
Gram: Who is this? WAIT, DID YOU HAVE A CHILD?!
Rito: What? No, are you out of your mind? (laughs)
Daru: (laughing) No, he's not my father.
Gram: Oh, in that case, who is he?
Rito: He's my student.
Gram: STUDENT?!? Are you training him and not me? I see how it is!
Rito: Not my problem, and yes, I am training him. (smiles)
Gram: (looks at Daru) Well then, you must be something special.
Daru: What do you mean by that?
Gram: Rito is notoriously difficult to motivate, so if he's training you, he must see something in you.
Daru: Huh… interesting. Well, his training sucks.
Rito: Hey, that's not my problem.
Gram starts to laugh heartily.
Gram: Anyway, Rito, I really need your help.
Rito: Right, you mentioned needing my assistance. What's going on?
Gram: The boulder in the village has fallen again.
Rito: It has fallen again? It hasn't been five months since the last time.
Gram: Yes, I know, but I was trying to locate you. I asked around, and people thought they saw you come up here.
Rito: Well, you found me. Let's go and fix it.
Gram: Great. Thank you so much, Rito.
Rito: No problem. (looks at Daru) Alright, Daru, let's go.
Daru: Wait, I'm coming?
Rito: Of course! You're the one who will be fixing it.
Daru: Wait, what?! Me?
Gram: Yes, really? You can't be serious, Rito. He's smaller than I am.
Daru: Hey! I'm not tiny!
Rito: Yes, I'm serious.
Gram: You do realize he's about my age, right?
Daru: I'm actually ten.
Gram: That's even worse.
Rito: Of course I know; I'm not blind.
Gram: Ah, this is unfortunate. (Daru and Gram shake their heads.)
Rito: Alright, let's proceed to the boulder!
Rito, Daru, and Gram leave to head to the boulder.
Gram: If you don't mind my asking, Daru, where are your parents?
Rito's expression shifts slightly.
Daru: Um, I'm not certain. I was found in a basket by a pond, and Zenshi and Rito took me in.
Gram: In a basket? What kind of person leaves their child alone at a pond? That's appalling!
Daru: Yes, I often ponder that as well. (chuckles)
Gram: I have one more question.
Daru: Yeah, what's up?
Gram: (Points) What does that tattoo symbol on your back signify?
Daru: Huh? Tattoo?
Rito: (Turns around) Yes, what symbol?
Gram: This one. Are you both telling me you have never seen this before?
Rito approaches and examines the symbol.
Rito: (Under his breath) The legend is true.
Daru: What was that, Rito?
Rito: Oh, nothing. I was merely noting that I've never encountered this before.
Gram: Hmm, well I suppose it's not important. (chuckles)
Rito: (Contemplating) Actually, it is quite significant.
Daru: If it's not important, let's head to the boulder.
Gram: You know, Rito (Rito looks at Gram), I find this individual quite likable.
Rito laughs.
Rito: (Laughs) Yes, he's a good kid.
Gram: By the way, Daru, my name is Gram Amora.
Daru: That's a cool last name.
Gram: Thank you, but people typically refer to me as Gram the Great.
Rito: (Laughs) No, they don't.
Gram: (Annoyed) THEY WILL ONE DAY!
Rito and the others resume their walk toward the boulder. After ten minutes, they finally arrive at the location where the boulder fell.
Daru: Whoa, why is there so much water?
Gram: Well, do you see that hole over there? (points)
Daru: Yes, that's where all the water is flowing from.
Gram: Every five months, the boulder falls due to the water pressure. We rely on Rito to replace it each time.
Rito: Precisely, and now it's your turn, Daru.
Daru: Alright, I'm prepared. Where is the boulder?
Gram and Rito: (Point) Right over there.
Daru spots the massive boulder.
Daru: (Nervously) Th-That's the boulder?
Gram: Yes, that's her.
Rito: Beautiful, isn't she?
Daru: (Looking at Rito and Gram) ARE YOU BOTH INSANE? I CAN'T LIFT THAT!
Rito: Of course you can. You lifted rocks during training.
Daru: Yeah, but not something that big! That boulder is enormous!
Rito: Well, it's your responsibility to put it back.
Gram: What Rito says is final.
Daru: Fine!
Rito and Gram sit on a nearby bench while Daru approaches the boulder, which seems to grow larger with each step.
Daru: This boulder is enormous! It's taller than two grown trees combined. How am I supposed to lift this?
Gram: Are you sure Daru can do this?
Rito: I'm confident he can.
Daru: Alright, come on, Daru! You can do this!
Daru bends down, placing his hands around the boulder for a good grip. He begins to lift.
Gram: Wait, what is he doing?
Rito: Just observe.
Daru: AHHHH!!! AHHH!! COME ON!! LIFT IT, Daru!!
Daru shouts, straining to lift the boulder.
Gram: Are you sure he can do this?
Rito: Please be quiet and watch; you talk too much.
Gram: (mumbling) "Be quiet, you talk too much."
Daru: COME ON, Daru! LIFT IT! COMMMMME ONNNN!
As Daru yells louder, his hair flickers from black to purple. He successfully lifts the boulder off the ground, but once elevated, his hair returns to its normal color.
Rito: (to himself) His hair?
Gram: NO WAY! WHAT!
Rito: (smiling) I told you.
Daru: AHHH! COME ON!
Daru walks with the boulder to place it back in its hole.
Daru: JUST A LITTLE FURTHER.
He reaches the hole and slams the boulder into position.
Daru: AHHHHHHHHH!
Gram: HOLY COW, HE ACTUALLY DID IT!
Rito: I told you. (smiling)
Gram rushes over to Daru to congratulate him.
Gram: Daru, that was incredible! The way you lifted it and carried it over—amazing work!
Daru: (laughs, out of breath) Thanks, Gram. I was just doing what I came here to do.
Gram: Well, you certainly accomplished it, but I must admit, you did it differently than Rito.
Daru: Huh? What do you mean?
Gram: Rito usually just rolls it over and picks it up. It's less work to lift it that way.
Daru's expression goes blank for a few seconds.
Daru: ARE YOU SERIOUS?! So you're saying I lifted it for no reason?!
Rito: (walking over) Yes, exactly—for no reason.
Daru: Why didn't you tell me? I could have done it the easier way.
Rito: (laughs) Not my problem.
Daru expresses frustration at Rito.
Gram: You guys are too funny. (laughs)