Chapter 4

Location-wise, Isamu currently stands atop an electric pole, gazing down at the low-level demon creatures that have gathered around. These creatures feel threatened by Isamu's presence and let out menacing growls. However, there is no sign of fear on Isamu's face; instead, a small smile graces the corner of his lips.

In his hand, Isamu holds a rather long iron pipe. He hasn't brought any actual weapons with him, as he possesses the ability to create a weapon out of anything that has a long shape. With the iron pipe in his hand, Isamu begins to focus, carefully infusing it with his aura. Aura is a power in martial arts that involves compressing negative emotions into energy.

The newly created blade on the iron pipe starts to glow with a faint light emanating from the aura infused into it. Isamu feels confident with his handcrafted weapon, ready to face the demon creatures below. With a swift and agile movement, he leaps down from the electric pole, landing softly amidst the demons.

From the perspective of the low-level demons, they suddenly sense an overwhelming and ominous energy emanating from Isamu's presence. Their bodies tremble under the unimaginable pressure. As Isamu gazes at them with a determined look, a deeper sense of fear takes root within the demons.

"Let's get this done quickly..." Isamu utters a single word, but it carries significant weight. Those words mark the beginning of terror for these demons. They attempt to withstand the terror emanating from Isamu's aura, but none can escape the sense of dread that grips them.

Isamu swiftly steps forward, his aura-infused sword glowing brightly. In an instant, he's in the midst of the demons, and his first attack swiftly and brutally destroys one of the demons. The demon's body explodes in light from Isamu's sword strike.

In the battle, Isamu wields his sword with graceful, gentle, and deadly movements. Each motion resembles a smooth yet powerful dance. He combines speed and precision with the concentrated power of his aura in each strike, creating a captivating and deadly fusion.

His movements are never excessive. Each sword strike is well-controlled, without any wasteful energy expenditure. Each slash or thrust is directed accurately, hitting crucial points on the enemy's body. He avoids unnecessary motions, focusing on efficiency and accuracy in each attack.

As he moves, his body seems to dance across the battlefield. He evades enemy attacks with agile and nimble movements, seemingly effortlessly. However, beneath it all, he maintains a high level of vigilance and readiness to face any incoming strikes.

During his attacks, his sword moves at lightning speed. He employs techniques of lifting and spinning the sword, bypassing enemy defenses. Each cut is a precise and powerful blow, easily breaking through the enemy's defense.

As the battle reaches its peak, Isamu often uses combination attack-movements that confuse his enemies. He rotates his body swiftly, evading enemy attacks while launching counterattacks. His movements are fluid and harmonious, appearing like unexpected shadows.

... Maria arrives just as Isamu is engaged in his onslaught against the demons. Maria's sharp gaze remains fixed on Isamu's swordplay, which is both skillful and deadly. She is captivated by each beautifully carved movement, akin to a dance under the moonlight. Isamu's every sword attack and movement is controlled and none are wasted.

After dispatching the last demon, Isamu discards the sword he created. However, he soon senses the presence of someone observing him. With a small smile, Isamu feels a hint of amusement towards the person trying to monitor his actions.

While Maria is still entranced by Isamu's final movements, she suddenly feels a jolt of surprise from behind. "Bah!" the exclamation escapes Maria, catching her off guard. She swiftly turns with reflexive speed, locking eyes with Isamu in a mixture of surprise and confusion.

Isamu chuckles softly, finding humor in this simple joke. "Seems like I managed to surprise you, huh?" he says in a relaxed tone. But from Maria's expression, he can also sense underlying admiration and intrigue.

Maria stares at Isamu with a blend of astonishment and confusion. Yet, Isamu's casual words and smile slowly transform her expression into a faint pout, as if he's teasing her.

"Seems like I managed to surprise you, huh?" Isamu repeats calmly.

Maria chooses not to reveal just how startled she was by the sudden surprise. She gives a slight grin, attempting to maintain her cool demeanor. "You're quite skilled at catching people off guard, it seems."

However, Maria's surprise and confusion soon shift into curiosity. She senses something different about Isamu and wants to know more. "Hmmm, when did you acquire these skills? You also possess vast knowledge about demons and magic."

Isamu only smiles broadly. "I have a few talents. I'm proficient in several martial arts techniques, knowledgeable about magic, and skilled in swordsmanship."

Maria listens attentively, appearing increasingly intrigued. "You're skilled in martial arts, magic, and swordsmanship?" Maria repeats, furrowing her brow. "It's not common to see someone with such a combination of skills."

Isamu nods. "Yes, it's a bit unique, but it's all a result of training and accumulated experience."

Then, they decide to find a suitable spot to talk. At that moment, Maria is the one who breaks the silence. "Ano... I want to thank you for helping us again. As Mio-sama's servant and guardian, I feel embarrassed."

Isamu smiles warmly upon hearing Maria's gratitude. "No need to feel embarrassed. We all need assistance from time to time, and I'm glad I could help. Besides, you're not strangers to me now."

Maria shakes her head with a hint of a pout. "I still feel embarrassed. I should be stronger and better at protecting Mio-sama."

Isamu understands. "When it comes to protecting those we care about, physical strength isn't the only important thing. Courage and determination play a significant role too. And you clearly have both."

Maria looks somewhat perplexed by Isamu's praise. "Don't exaggerate, I'm not as capable as you think."

Isamu gives a gentle smile. "There's nothing wrong with acknowledging your own strength and bravery."

However, Maria seems hesitant to accept praise so easily. "Ck, whatever. But don't think I'll keep needing your help all the time, so don't assume you can just waltz into our lives."

Isamu merely chuckles at Maria's tsundere nature. "Don't worry, I don't intend to disrupt your lives. I just want to help if it's needed."

Their conversation pauses for a moment as Maria shifts her gaze. She appears unsure for a moment before finally asking seriously, "But, honestly, why are you willing to help us? I know you've just returned from a tiring and dangerous adventure. What's your reason for helping the two of us?"

Isamu contemplates for a moment before answering sincerely, "The reason I help you is because I believe in the importance of aiding others. I have a principle that if I have the ability to help, then I should. You both were in danger, and I know what it's like to face enemies alone. Additionally, it feels like I should help you, even though I'm not entirely sure why."

Maria stares at Isamu with an intense gaze. "Are you always like this? Acting without much thought?"

Isamu gives a gentle smile. "Not always, but in cases like this, my heart tells me to help. You know, sometimes we have to listen to our feelings too."

Maria still seems hesitant, but there's a hint of relief in her eyes. "I'll consider what you've said."

Isamu nods. "Of course, take your time. I don't want to impose anything."

Their conversation momentarily fades, and the atmosphere becomes tranquil once again. Isamu feels relieved to have answered Maria's question honestly. He hopes that over time, they can continue to understand each other better.

... After their brief conversation, they decide to head back to their resting spot. Interestingly, Maria serves a cold drink – a type of freshly squeezed orange ice – for Isamu. They sit together in a comfortable space, enjoying their beverages in a more relaxed ambiance.

However, Maria suddenly decides to express an apology. Isamu accepts the drink offered by Maria with a thankful smile. "Thank you for the drink," he says.

Isamu is surprised by the sudden apology from Maria. He looks at her with a mixture of surprise and puzzlement. "I apologize for my behavior earlier..." Maria speaks softly, her face slightly reddened.

Isamu lets out a soft chuckle. "No need to apologize, Maria. I understand the situation might have been a bit complicated. I just wanted to help, so don't worry about it."

Maria pauses for a moment, then nods slowly. "Thank you, Isamu. I just... tend to be skeptical of newcomers, especially in situations like this."

Isamu smiles understandingly. "It's okay, I understand your feelings. Everyone is cautious about strangers, especially in a dangerous world like this."

They continue to enjoy their drinks in a brief silence. The atmosphere becomes more comfortable and familiar after this honest conversation. Isamu senses that their relationship is gradually improving, and he hopes to continue building trust with them.

After a while, Isamu offers a friendly smile. "So, what's your plan for tomorrow? Do the two of you have any plans after staying here?"

Maria looks at Isamu with a thoughtful expression. "We don't have definite plans yet, but we'll try to talk to Lord Jin tomorrow. Let's see what he can do to help us."

Isamu nods. "Sounds like a good plan. I can accompany you to his location if you'd like."

Maria appears somewhat contemplative, but eventually, she nods in agreement. "Thank you, that would be really helpful."

Isamu smiles and raises his glass. "Alright, let's hope for the best with tomorrow's plan. May everything go smoothly."