Test of strength

You are surprised by how happy everyone in Maya’s village is to see her, considering that she’s the only non-human other than Daigo. But then you think about how wonderful she always is and you chuckle. No one can dislike her once they get to know her. The girls all mingle with the villagers, but Maya stays by your side, holding your hand and occasionally looking at you with a brilliant smile.

At one point she quietly says to you, “Thank you for giving me a chance to see them again, my Josh. And thank you for...well, everything.”

You smile and kiss her as you follow the crowd over to a table, where Uzume waits to arm wrestle Daigo. Good natured betting has begun, and Daigo walks to the table with a grin. “Last chance to back down, Uzume.”

Uzume grins and puts her arm down, ready to begin. Daigo locks hands with her and the crowd counts down.

“3! 2! 1! Go!”

Both of them strain immediately, Uzume’s arm bulging as she applies a massive push. Daigo’s arm bulges similarly, but he shows no signs of strain in his face.

His grin widens. “You’re very strong. Almost caught me off guard.”

Uzume chuckles and grunts, and her brow furrows as she slowly forces his arm down. Daigo raises an eyebrow and watches as his arm lowers. “Interesting. You get stronger the longer you use your strength. I better end this, then.”

With that, he strains, forcing Uzume’s arm over. There’s a tense moment where she almost pushes back, but it’s too late as her hand hits the table. They release their grip and grin at each other. Uzume laughs. “Didn’t think you’d catch on so fast. Almost had you going!”

Daigo chuckles. “I’m a fast learner. Even for an Oni, that’s a powerful ability. It’ll be useful as you fight the demon lord.”

You nod as you come in closer. “Indeed. Uzume, that was impressive. Remind me not to get in your way.”

Uzume smiles. “I wouldn’t dream of hurting you, Josh. You’re far too much fun! I just got to arm wrestle a dragon!”

Everyone laughs, and Daigo nods. “And almost won! Now, I think you all should relax. Tomorrow the guide will be here and we can talk plans. For now, I’ll get dinner for everyone!”