Part 1
Banchou Sarayashiki. The original setting for the legend of the
dish-counting ghost who kept muttering to itself, "one is missing."
In the special Tokyo ward of Chiyoda, the Banchou area was a very high
class residential neighborhood where high ranking warriors and lordslived since the Edo period.
The home of the Sayanomiya family in Sanbanchou was quite close to the
Tokyo Imperial Palace.
Hidden in a very inconspicuous location on the roadside amongst many
offices and luxury apartments, the Sayanomiya residence was a western
style mansion built in the Taisho era.
Based on its physical location, the property value should have been quite
high, but the house did not leave a good impression on people.
Not only was it extremely old and decrepit, but it was also dark like a
haunted house and felt like there were ghosts and monsters.
Arriving here in Amakasu's car, Yuri began to feel a sense of unease.
As if something ominous lurked there—a most unpleasant presence. By
the way, this was her first visit to the Sayanomiya residence.
"I've already informed the other side beforehand, so let's go. Please walk
over here."
Before them, Amakasu pointed to the entrance. Yuri and Liliana followed
his direction.
It took two minutes to walk to the front door from the parking lot through the
front yard.
"The house is smaller than expected... As the leader of the family that
commands the History Compilation Committee, is this not too cramped?"
Liliana surveyed the house.
"Considering the land prices of this neighborhood, this house is a bargain.
Actually, there's a bigger house at Setagaya. This is just a secondary
residence and the current owner Kaoru-san is the next family head."
With a great sense of familiarity, Amakasu opened the front door.
The one who greeted them was a young man in a formal butler uniform.
This man displayed highly trained skills of a hotel attendant. Amakasu
engaged him in whispers before walking inside.
Yuri and Liliana followed behind him and reached a room that seemed to
be the study.
"Kyoko, how is it going? Calling me so suddenly. Tomorrow? Sorry,
something is scheduled already. Hahaha, how can that be possible? It's
not a date of course. Don't have strange suspicions."
This pleasant voice was familiar to Yuri.
In the study, Sayanomiya Kaoru had just hung up her cellphone.
Noticing Amakasu, Yuri, and Liliana, Kaoru was just about to greet them
when the cellphone rang again. Glancing at the LCD, she said "sorry" and
picked up the call.
"It's been a while, Haremi. Yes, I am fine too. Sorry, I have some things to
discuss right now. May I hang up? Oh... I remember next week's promise
very well, then goodbye."
Finishing the call with simplicity, Kaoru hung up, but then it rang again.
"Who is it this time... Kiyoko?"
"No, it's Ayano, but I'll pick it up later since everyone has gathered."
Watching the next Sayanomiya family head shrug her shoulders, Amakasu
nagged in earnest.
"Kaoru-san, what are you planning if you don't reveal your gender to all
these girls who have fallen for you? To be tricked and left completely in the
dark, aren't they pitiful?"
"But even if I told them the truth, there are many girls who would go 'it does
not matter.' I was very surprised."
In a different way, this Hime-Miko was no less a troublesome character
than Ena.
Numerous girls admired Kaoru and fell head over heels in love with her.
However, she seemed to enjoy this and actively socialized with them.
"Let me introduce for Liliana-san. This is Sayanomiya Kaoru-san. The
Tokyo Branch Chief of the History Compilation Committee and next
Sayanomiya family head, plus a member of the Hime-Miko."
"...Did you say Hime-Miko?"
Liliana stared in surprise.
She must have been greatly shocked. Kaoru was wearing a white shirt and
tie with men's dress pants. Though very pretty, it was an image too far
removed from that of a delicate young girl.
With an elegant smile and refined airs, Kaoru greeted her European guest.
"A pleasure to meet you, Liliana Kranjcar-san. My appearance may
suggest otherwise, but I am still Yuri and Ena's colleague, though I've
heard countless times that it is impossible to imagine me wearing a miko's
outfit."
Kaoru made a gesture towards the sofa couch, and Liliana and Yuri each
took a seat.
As they sat down, Kaoru took a seat opposite them while Amakasu stood
ready behind her.
"I already heard Yuri and Liliana's request on the phone just now. Let's
start with the conclusion. If you agree to our conditions, then assisting you
is not a problem."
"Is this okay, Kaoru-san? The previous previous generation will have
objections."
"There will be troubles from that side, but provided equivalent value is
exchanged, I will not be stingy. Of course, it still depends on the terms of
the agreement."
As the master and subordinate conversed, Liliana interrupted.
"Do not forget we still have the option of seizing by force."
"That's not good, you've met Ena right? Amongst those involved with the
Committee, there exist talents who rival the martial and magical abilities of
the Great Knights. My honest advice is please do not act recklessly."
Liliana scoffed in disdain but backed down from her declaration.
Regardless of the outcome of starting a fight here, if she were to be
pursued by several elites she had little chance of winning. Liliana
understood very well that as long as it was within this country, the other
side had the home field advantage.
"Even if I am attacked here, Amakasu-san will take the knife for me, right?"
"Sorry but I must refuse, please do not expect loyalty that exceeds my pay
grade."
"Uh... fine whatever."
Kaoru coughed at Amakasu's response that left her hanging in
embarrassment.
"Liliana-san and Yuri, let's get to the main point."
Yuri prepared herself, for she understood well the extreme craftiness of the
cross-dressing miko before her eyes. Even Ena, who always did things her
own way, described Kaoru as "very troublesome!" If possible, it would be
best to minimize contact with her.
"Yes, let me give an example, if our condition for providing the ingredients
is to request that Liliana-san return to her country... Is this acceptable?"
"I will never accept such a condition!"
Liliana angrily refused while Kaoru laughed "hoho."
A very likable and open smile. This was one of her weapons.
"Ah, if the number of Europeans around Kusanagi increased, it won't be
good for him. Like this time, it was Ena's excuse for getting involved.
Disregarding the [Copper Black Cross] for now, I hope you, Liliana-san of
the [Bronze Black Cross], can exercise some self-discipline."
"Why is it fine for Erica but not me?"
"Yes—perhaps if I put it this way, you will be angry... Because you are a
girl who doesn't know adult ways of communication."
Kaoru spoke with profound meaning in her words.
Her beautiful face, resembling both a young man's and woman's at the
same time, was shrouded by a mysterious sense of melancholy.
"If I were to negotiate with Erica, I'm sure a deal could be reached via a
very interesting discussion. But after hearing about your exploits in Japan
since your arrival, I don't think you are that kind of person, Liliana
Kranjcar."
Striking directly at the other party's vulnerabilities and instigating a battle of
words. Kaoru was getting serious.
"These past three months, we have acquiesced to Erica-san's existence
because she has accepted us—in particularly accepted coexistence with
Yuri who was sent by us. Take the trip to Sardinia for example, if Erica-san
wished, she could have left Yuri alone in Japan."
Now that it was mentioned, she apparently had a clear grasp of the latest
developments of Godou and Yuri (plus the History Compilation
Committee).
Yuri recalled the summer holiday and the way Erica said 'I want to let you
and Godou deepen your friendship' while she expressed her acceptance of
Yuri through her attitude.
"However, Liliana-san is not like that... As soon as you arrived in Japan,
you have stuck to Kusanagi-san like glue and treated Erica-san and our
Yuri with hostility. You have given us sufficient cause to eliminate you."
"Eliminating hazards to the master is part of a knight's duty!"
Liliana responded with a warrior's style, causing Kaoru to elegantly force a
smile.
"However, Kusanagi is not just your master. At the same time, he is also
Erica-san and Yuri-san's master, as well as the [King] of all magi in the
world. If you can't understand what I'm getting at, then Liliana-san is just a
knight bodyguard at best. Am I correct?"
"Is there anything wrong with being a bodyguard? That is part of a knight's
duty in serving the king!"
"Yes, nothing wrong with that, but while you are toiling away doing a guard
and a servant's job, Erica-san and I are already fighting for the prime
minister's position. Also, either Erica or Yuri, whom I recommended, could
become his first lady. Is this fine as well?"
Under the mischievous questioning of the cross-dressing Hime-Miko,
Liliana's eyes began to show signs of consternation.
"The History Compilation Committee is already planning on pledging their
loyalty to Kusanagi Godou!?"
"I am just saying that this outcome is very likely, but it is still under review...
Just kidding. Were it true, those troublesome elders would not be a
problem any longer."
Kaoru pretended to be joking, but Yuri understood. Since the words just
said—especially the last sentence, did not feel like just a joke.
"Even so, why must I return to my country?"
"It was just an example. Seeing as we will all eventually serve the same
[King] as our master, I propose we cooperate. If possible, could you look
after Yuri a bit? From your standpoint, having us as an ally should be
advantageous, right?"
"What you mean is... for me to ally with the History Compilation
Committee?"
"You don't have to answer straight away, but give it careful consideration.
Also, though this is just my personal opinion, if you want to resist Erica, it'd
be best to do some preparatory work first."
"Umm... Fine, I will consider whether to ally with you or not."
Kaoru resumed her friendly smiling face as a result of Liliana backing
down.
In truth, she never even considered getting rid of the knight from the
[Bronze Black Cross].
Even a strong competitor could be turned into a chess piece under her
control. This was Kaoru's style. The preceding conversation was planned
exactly for this result. Yuri realized with a fright. After Liliana's turn, she
was going to be next.
"Next, Yuri. I hope you can make a few clarifications."
Indeed it came. Kaoru explained calmly.
"So far, we simply requested that you play the role of Godou's lover in
name only. But as you probably know, as soon as Ena was sent here, the
situation changed drastically."
Yuri began to consider her options as she listened to Kaoru's fluent
explanation.
Her spirit sense activated to inform her the gist of Kaoru's demands.
Ena and Erica were currently absent. More importantly, Godou was not
here either. Yuri could subtly sense the intentions of the History
Compilation Committee and Sayanomiya Kaoru. How should she answer
in such a situation?
"I don't like tasteless acts and have no intention of forcing a loveless
relationship on someone. So it's probably time for you..."
"No problem."
Determined, Yuri interrupted Kaoru with steady confidence.
"The feelings between Godou-san and I will not end in simple friendship."
With an expression of decisiveness, Yuri looked straight into the face of the
androgynous beauty.
Kaoru showed a rare expression of seriousness. Liliana went "Eh!?"
followed by Amakasu making a "oh~~" expression from behind the sofa.
"I-I am not sure if I can become that great one's wife, but I will definitely
achieve the closest position to that."
"Is this what your spirit vision told you? Or your own wish?"
Faced with Kaoru's sudden question, Yuri blushed and replied:
"Both... probably. The first time I saw Godou-san, I had a feeling that I
would form an extraordinary relationship with him. Even now, whenever I
think about his safety... I am full of unease."
From the start, before meeting Kusanagi Godou.
The thought of meeting the brutal Campione had terrified Yuri in the past.
But after the first meeting, she was able to relax her nervous emotions, and
all her worries disappeared. In fact, she started lecturing the world
renowned Devil King.
From that moment, she felt that she could get along well with him.
Now, whenever she thought about him who had gone missing and his
current safety—
Unease and fear precipitated in the depths of her heart. He must be saved,
so Yuri must change herself and prayed to see him back safe and sound.
As these thoughts and feelings melded into one, an incredible idea came
to mind.
Entrusting herself to this idea and working hard towards it within her ability,
Yuri made her decision.
"I see. Then you will offer your chastity to Kusanagi, is that correct?"
"S-Sayanomiya! W-What are you saying!?"
"C-Correct. I cannot give it to him right away, but in the foreseeable future,
it will likely be inevitable..."
"Mariya Yuri, stop joining in this farce, what on earth are you saying!?"
Yuri ignored Liliana's protests and declared her will. Kaoru smiled wryly
and said:
"Well, now that everything has been spelled out to this extent, I have
nothing more to say. It's sufficient, Yuri."
"T-Then, may I add something?"
Enduring everyone's gaze focusing on her, Yuri spoke:
"I will follow Godou-san to the corners of the world, and even if the
Committee commands me to harm him, I will never comply. If he decides
to distance himself away from the Committee, then I will leave the
Committee in order to follow him. Please do not forget this!"
Riding on her rising emotion, Yuri made the above declaration.
Kaoru and Amakasu looked at each other after going "Hey, this is really..."
and "She's quite something." Then a mischievous expression crossed the
master's face before she resumed seriously:
"I will bear that in mind, Hime. Then Amakasu, as the wedding gift, go take
that out."
"Ah—I really have to go to the storeroom after all? No other way around
it..."
As soon as the word "storeroom" was spoken, the tables in the study
began to shake, and so did the bookshelves.
It did not seem like an earthquake. From the corner of the room, the sharp
noise of something breaking could be heard.
Yuri and Liliana exchanged glances, as a witch she sensed it—here in this
building existed an inhuman resident.
"You two already realized? Amazing, how very sharp of you. The herbs
you need are kept in my family's storeroom. In it are the collections of the
ancestors over the ages. Whenever anyone wants to touch them,
great-grandfather gets very naggy and will even make a troublesome
commotion."
"Kaoru-san's great-grandfather—the previous previous Sayanomiya family
head!"
Sayanomiya Koremichi. The founder of the History Compilation Committee
who went to Europe to study foreign magic. Born in the Meiji period and
passed away in the fortieth year of the Shouwa period.
Recalling his biographical details, Yuri fell silent. This meant...
"All the heads of the Sayanomiya family, throughout the ages, were avid
and compulsive collectors. Even after their deaths, they would watch over
those collections. Other than Amakasu receiving a few near death
experiences on his way to retrieving things from the storeroom, there is no
real danger, so don't worry."
"That is why I said. Please do not ask me to do things exceeding my pay
grade! I just can't stand this!"
"What's wrong, shouldn't a ninja serve the public selflessly?"
"That ridiculous description is what binds us to labor under extremely
hazardous working conditions!"
Yuri and Liliana's eyes widened with surprise at the revelation of the
haunted house from the little argument between the superior and her
subordinate.
In any case, they were now properly prepared to save Godou and the rest.
"Then let us start preparing the ritual for entering the Astral Plane... To be
honest, I have only used this kind of high level magic once, so I cannot be
completely confident."
Liliana seemed to be trying to chase away her doubt.
"But I will try my best, and I hope everyone will assist me."
"If that's the case, I have a suggestion. Due to spell specializations, even
though you are both miko, letting Yuri handle the aspects of the Astral
Plane will allow much faster progress."
Kaoru spoke as she glanced over.
Yuri also agreed, since her spirit vision was what western magi called
extracting [Memories of the Void]. In that case, the one most suited to
taking action on the other side was—
Part 2
Meanwhile, the two trapped in the Netherworld could do nothing but take it
easy.
Their location was still the same. Amongst the empty streets and within the
empty park, Godou sat on the grass while Erica lazily used his thigh as a
pillow to lie on.
"Is it really okay for us to do nothing like this..."
"It can't be helped, because there is nothing we can do."
Compared to the worried Godou, Erica was very relaxed.
"Knowing we have disappeared, Yuri and Liliana will surely start searching,
so all we need to do is wait for them."
"Can we be found?"
"It's not impossible, given the combination of Yuri's spirit vision and
Liliana's magic... But it could take a while. The only concern is how long
the [Youth]'s protection will hold out for."
Erica analyzed calmly as she pressed her cheek against Godou's lap
pillow.
"Probably quite a while, but the protection cannot sustain itself
indefinitely... So, the only thing we can do now is affirm our love for each
other."
"How did it come to this!? We should be using our time for something more
constructive!"
"With my knowledge and magic, nothing can be done about the current
situation. Same for Godou's authority. Look, there's nothing to do but wait.
So, let's do something that neither of us will regret."
Lying on Godou's lap, Erica turned to face him.
Seeing her happiness and satisfaction, incomparable to past expressions,
Godou's heart began to race.
"Godou was great just now... That savagery, and even ordering me
around... Hoho, injecting some freshness like that once in a while is not
bad."
"I-Is that so? Whatever, if you didn't mind, it's fine."
Godou suppressed his anxiety.
The way he lost control just now was probably under the influence of
Verethragna's authority.
During the ritual, he and Erica seemed like they were caught in a very
abnormal state.
"Yes, about the protection obtained just now."
Unfazed by Godou's anxiety, Erica caressed her abdomen.
"Right here, there seems to be a very warm and vigorous mass of life
energy. Just feeling this spot makes me feel very happy... As if our child
was in my womb."
"What—!? Y-Your description is too inappropriate!"
"Ah, but I am the one feeling it, so your objection is overruled. By the way,
can I have a real baby with you?"
"No! Please save your dream speech for when you are sleeping!"
Resolutely refusing Erica's request, Godou made a decision.
When someone precious was caught in a crisis, the [Youth] could be used
to protect that person. But using that technique required engaging in
certain activities...
Forbidden. He must seal the [Youth] and never use it ever again.
"Really, can't you continue to show me that manliness from just now?"
Erica was beginning to have fits like a spoiled child.
But given the vulnerable expression on her face as she rested on his thigh,
she was so cute that it must be cheating.
If the two of them continued being isolated like that, how much longer
could he endure? Who could have thought it was so difficult to ignore the
cries of "just give in to temptation" in the depths of his heart?
Godou was going mad from unease and anxiety.
"—Godou-san, Erica-san!"
A familiar cute voice.
Lifting his head, he saw Mariya Yuri appear in her miko outfit.
Finally. The familiar face he missed. However, Godou felt rather
embarrassed to be caught in such a posture in the middle of that kind of
conversation!
"Yuri! You found us after all!"
Changing her pleading attitude, Erica went back to her usual cheerful
voice, finally getting up from Godou's lap.
"Yes, yes. But what were you two doing in that kind of posture... Too
shameless!"
Yuri scolded loudly.
Godou bowed his head in shame. It was just as she described, and he
could not bear to face her in that kind of situation.
"What's the matter, it's been a while since I got some alone time with
Godou. However... Fine, I did take advantage of the situation, so I will
speak to Godou and let you have him next time. Does that work?"
Just as Erica responded to Yuri with a beautiful smile that was impossible
to refuse, Godou's heart yelled out "That clearly won't work!"
"N-Next time for me... Erica-san, please do not say that. B-Because I... still
have not prepared myself yet..."
Yuri spoke softly and was blushing as if she had a high fever.
She even stole a glance at Godou but quickly shifted her gaze away. What
was going on? Godou felt troubled, for Yuri was acting a bit differently from
before.
"M-Mariya what is going on with her..."
"I think she has accepted certain things, and made many preparations.
Since she always had that intention, it's probably time for you to be
prepared."
As Godou muttered, unable to grasp the situation, Erica whispered in
response.
Prepare? Intention? What does it all mean?
"Did Lily send you over here? Who could have thought she even got the
potion."
"Yes, thanks to the assistance of the History Compilation Committee, we
finally reached this place. Liliana-san, who performed the ritual, actually
wanted to come herself... But since it would be more convenient for me to
travel to the Netherworld..."
"Yes, with powerful spirit vision, Yuri can easily obtain information from this
world."
Seamlessly, the two of them transitioned the conversation to practical
matters.
More convenient for Yuri to be here? Seeing Godou's incredulous
expression, Erica immediately explained.
"You must have experienced it already. If you want information, you can
obtain it through spirit vision. When Yuri came to this world, she
immediately found us using spirit vision and easily used that image to fly
here instantaneously. Am I correct?"
"Yes, but just to be safe, it is best to avoid using spirit vision here as much
as possible."
Yuri surveyed the surroundings as she spoke with apprehension.
"Yes, compared to the real world, my power becomes stronger here.
However... if any minor mistake is made, it could become dangerous—this
is the kind of unpleasant feeling I am getting."
Godou recalled Ena who went too far with divine possession.
"If so, then the faster we get out the better. Actually, Seishuuin already
returned to earth, and just like the way Mariya described, she has become
abnormal. The power of Susanoo and Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi has
invaded her body, and we must save her."
"Eh!? Something went wrong when Ena performed divine possession in
the Netherworld?"
After showing great surprise, Yuri became serious.
"If that is the case, then we cannot dally... Everyone, please come to my
side."
Godou and Erica approached as Yuri directed.
As if praying far away to the other side, Yuri closed her eyes and was
surrounded by blue light.
Was this the marker to bring them all back to earth?
As the thought crossed his mind, Godou's body was pulled up high into the
air. The surface of the Netherworld he had been standing on became very
distant almost instantly.
By the time he realized it, Godou and the rest were in the yard of a house
he had never visited before.
They were back in their original world? Though he did not know how much
time has passed, the sky was completely dark. The majestic Tokyo
Imperial Palace could be seen not far away, so this must be the central
part of the Chiyoda ward.
Within the premises of an ancient mansion, this must be the home of
someone rich.
Suddenly, he noticed complicated and strange shapes and diagrams
inscribed neatly on the ground as well as indecipherable letters and
pictograms that seemed like a spell.
These were likely the remnants of magic. Godou looked around.
Beside him were Erica and Yuri who looked exhausted, while Liliana
Kranjcar was also running towards him.
"Kusanagi Godou! You have returned safely!"
Fairy-like and silver-haired, the witch was especially emotional as she
fought back tears.
Feeling apologetic for making her worry so much, Godou also noticed two
other people.
The suited figure of Amakasu and a handsome fellow in a corner of the
yard.
"Kusanagi-san, your safe return is more important than anything. Let me
express my utmost joy at your homecoming."
"Amakasu-san! You came at the right time, do you know where is
Seishuuin now!?"
In the same instant as he questioned the plain looking agent.
A chilling wind began to blow and strengthen, and it even started to rain.
—A storm was arriving. Godou clearly felt battle vigor awaken from within
his body.
This was surely in reaction to something similar to a god nearby.
"This must be caused by Seishuuin Ena and Ama no Murakumo no
Tsurugi."
"Erica, you can tell?"
"Yes, probably because Godou gave me Verethragna's protection, I can
feel it."
At some point in time, everyone's gaze had focused on Godou and Erica.
Yuri, Liliana, Amakasu, as well as the handsome character seen for the
first time.
The last person was androgynous and possessed good looks that could
very well belong to either a handsome youth or a beautiful girl. He or she
smiled at Godou and nodded.
"I am Sayanomiya Kaoru, and Amakasu's boss, as well as a Hime-Miko
like Yuri and Ena."
"Hime-Miko?"
"Many people have expressed surprise at that, but let's put it aside. Just
now, did you say Ena and Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi are responsible
for this? Could you explain the details of the situation to me?"
Someone clearly around the same age group, but turning out to be
Amakasu's boss. Godou felt there was something problematic with
Sayanomiya Kaoru's self-introduction. As he prepared to respond...
'—Save it, because the Campione has returned to this world.'
The voice identical to that troublesome girl.
But it was definitely not her normal tone of voice.
Seishuuin Ena's body stood with Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi on the wall
that surrounded the house.
The figure of Ena drenched in rain, gave a kind of hollow impression like
some sort of puppet or a doll.
Was it because Yuri or Amakasu were being watched? Or did the divine
blade have supernatural senses that discovered the Campione's return?
No matter what, the timing of her appearance was rather delicate.
Godou was determined. If this continued, so long as she continued to be
possessed in this state, Ena's body would eventually collapse. She needed
some sense beaten into her to wake up... But the question was how should
she be beaten?
Verethragna's ten incarnations were all too powerful to be used against
humans.
As Godou hesitated, Liliana stepped forward.
"Kusanagi Godou, please leave this to me. All we need to do is catch that
woman, right? I cannot tolerate her rampaging around any further."
"Lily, she is currently not someone you can handle alone, I will join in too."
Naturally, the speaker was Erica.
Cuore di Leone and Il Maestro.
The two knights' respective magic swords appeared in their hands. Then
their brightly colored bandiera capes were also summoned around their
shoulders.
The cape striped red and black and the cape striped blue and black.
These were what the Templar Knights called the flags of army
commanders and brave knights. On Godou's right stood Erica in red, while
on the left was Liliana in blue.
In front of the red and blue knights, the Hime-Miko wielding the sword
spoke without moving her lips.
'...Mere humans challenging me—the divine blade—and my miko? Rude
fellows who do not know their place.'
This contempt came not from the miko, but from the divine blade.
However, its will to fight had been provoked, and Ena jumped down from
the wall onto the road outside. Presumably, to find an open area, she
began running towards the main road.
Even though she was controlled like a puppet, her motions were
extraordinarily swift.
Erica and Liliana also pursued with speed akin to flying.
Godou also frantically ran after them. From the scenery he recognized, this
[4]
was the area around Chidorigafuchi.At the cemetery entrance was an intersection, and opposite was a road for
taking walks where trees were densely planted. Nearby was the Shuto
Expressway as well as the palace moat of Chidorigafuchi, the stone walls
surrounding the Imperial Palace, and many cherry blossom trees.
As Godou raced after them, a two on one battle was already unfolding
along the green lanes of Chidorigafuchi.
On the hundreds of meters of walking lanes along the moat of the Imperial
Palace, large numbers of cherry blossom trees were planted (primarily of
the Yoshino cherry variety), turning into a beautiful sight every spring.
"What time is it now?"
"Almost one in the morning, though this usually has busy traffic, there are
almost no pedestrians at this time."
To Godou's yelled question, Amakasu responded swiftly.
This young man easily caught up to Godou who was running at full
strength.
(As a side note, Yuri was left behind long ago, while Kaoru showed no
intention of following and only motioned for Amakasu to chase after them.)
During the last battle against Ena, who was controlled by Ama no
Murakumo no Tsurugi, Erica met with great defeat once.
Though it was now two against one, could they handle it? Using a
Campione's authority will definitely kill Ena. Godou was caught in a
dilemma as he worried about the outcome of the battle.
[5]
"Eli Eli lama sabachthani? Oh Lord, why hast thou forsaken me?""People, listen to David's song of mourning! How are the mighty fallen, and
[6]
the weapons of war perished!"The red and blue knights employed their trump cards from the very start.
Both were lyrics singing praises to unparalleled warriors—quotes from the
songs of the heroic King David.
The strongest secret moves that could even damage a god. Erica did not
use it in the Netherworld because she deemed it too dangerous to use
spells which consumed too much magical power.
"But be not thou far from me, O Lord: O my strength, haste thee to help
me. Deliver my soul from the sword; Save me from the lion's mouth: for
[7]
thou hast heard me from the horns of wild oxen!"Filled with despair, Erica's mournful wails resounded.
These were the "Golgotha Spells Words." Also known as the song of
disaster, this was the hymn that Jesus Christ sang before he died while
crucified at the site of Golgotha.
"From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of
[8]
Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not empty!"Liliana's mournful requiem also reverberated in the surroundings.
This was the "Song of the Bow." A song of mourning that expressed the
overwhelming pain and sorrow when the heroic King David grieved for his
former master Saul and ally Jonathan.
"I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation
[9]
will I praise thee.""O sword of Saul, the warrior's weapon fast as an eagle and strong as a
lion. Descend into my hand now!"
The spell words of hate and despair were infused into Erica's magic sword.
The spell words of the ancient hero were infused into Liliana's magic
sword.
The enemy, who forced them to use their strongest weapons to assure
victory, also began to chant a song of magic in a robotic voice.
[10]
"Awesome beyond speech, O dread theme for my profane tongue..."Was the one chanting Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi, or Ena?
From the fact that her lips moved, it was probably the latter. Before it could
be fully discerned, the Hime-Miko's body moved like a puppet according to
the rhythm of the song.
"That illustrious Sovereign, Our mighty Lord, Who reared his imperial
[11]
palace / On the Makami plain of Asuka..."Erica used Cuore di Leone to block the horizontal slash of Ama no
Murakumo no Tsurugi.
However, her whole body was sent flying.
She did not have the power to overcome the slashing attack.
Under similar circumstances in the Netherworld, her beloved sword had
originally been cut into two. This time it withstood the attack, thanks to the
infusion of the spell words of Golgotha.
"Now keeps his divine state, Sepulchered in stone. He it was who
[12]
descended to dwell / At the pavilion of Wazami Field..."Having sent Erica flying, the divine blade next attacked Liliana.
The blue knight attempted to entangle Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi using
Il Maestro, but was not successful, and like Erica, she too was blown away.
"In yonder province of the realm, Across the pass of high-forested Fuwa,
there to rule the under-heaven -- To wield the scepter over his wide
[13]
domain..."Ena moved her arms, legs and body with stiff movements like a puppet.
Nevertheless, her divine sword still managed to swiftly send the knights
into a deadly crisis.
Despite being two against one, the two realized they were outmatched if
they fought separately and began to confer.
"Although I hate to do this, we must now cooperate. Attack or defend,
which do you choose?"
"I will defend and Lily attack. If there is a chance, use the bow attack!"
"Is that okay? If it hits, that miko cannot stay unharmed."
"It can't be helped, since she is using that kind of power, but try to use
sword attacks as much as possible!"
"Understood!"
The two knights leaned against each other tightly.
Entrusting one side of their bodies to each other, Erica on the left and
Liliana on the right, began to advance at the same speed.
Though they moved just as fast as before, their attacks were no longer as
loose or disparate.
When the divine sword came slicing, Erica blocked ingeniously but did not
counterattack.
If one were to keep defending in a one on one battle, the opponent would
easily follow up their attacks. Without stopping the enemy's advance, one
would end up in a disadvantaged position, however—
In place of Erica who focused on defense, Liliana now concentrated on
attacking.
Completely ignoring defense, she started a series of attacks with such
ferocity and intimidation that even the Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi could
not counterattack as usual.
'...'
The divine sword and the miko did not say a word, but they clearly became
more alert.
This was due to Erica and Liliana's formation, their distribution of offensive
and defensive duties, their ever changing swapping of positions, and their
brave simultaneous advance.
The Hime-Miko, who had held an overwhelming advantage against two
opponents, was now being suppressed for the first time.
Godou was greatly surprised to see the red and blue knights cooperating
brilliantly at a crucial moment.
"Erica! I will now prepare the bow and arrow, please endure."
"Got it!"
In order to protect her partner, Erica stepped forward. Behind her, Liliana
put away her magic sword, and in replacement a longbow giving off blue
light appeared in her left hand—the Bow of Jonathan!
Godou had once heard about it during the battle against Perseus.
"The Song of the Bow" was the spell to create the Sword of Saul and the
Bow of Jonathan.
Like Erica's magic sword infused with the "Golgotha Spell Words", the
former was a sharp blade that can even cut gods.
The latter could summon using the spell words a bow for shooting attacks.
The number of shots was limited by the amount of remaining magical
power. After one or two misses, the precious trump card would be wasted.
In the battle against Perseus, Godou saw her fire multiple arrows at once.
This was an illusion used to confuse enemies to ensure the target was hit
with certainty.
Summoning this trump card, Liliana was now seeking a decisive end to the
battle!
—However the Hime-Miko saw through her intentions, and prepared to use
her own trump card.
"Who summoned his Eastland host; And ordered our prince, Imperial son
as he was, To pacify the furious men / And subjugate all the unruly
[14]
lands."The spell song for vanquishing barbarians. Ena's body proceeded to raise
Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi above her head.
Wind swirled and gathered.
From beneath Ena's feet, the violent wind blew like a vortex, forming a
mini-tornado.
"Lily, hurry!"
"I know! O Bow of Jonathan, the warrior's weapon fast as an eagle and
strong as a lion—!"
In Liliana's right hand appeared four arrows with blue light.
At that instant, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi slashed horizontally. Erica
tried to block with Cuore di Leone but was deflected away.
Both Erica and Liliana's bodies were devoured by the tornado formed from
under Ena's feet.
"Gaaaaaaaaaaaah!"
"Waaaaaaaaaaaah!?"
Along with their screams, the two knights were blown high up into the air
by the tornado.
Thrown into the air and then mercilessly dropped onto the ground! Liliana's
blue bow and arrows disappeared from her hands, and she seemed to
have fainted.
"E-Erica-san, Liliana-san!"
"Things are not looking well, Kusanagi-san, what are you going to do?"
Arriving out of breath, Yuri saw this decisive scene, and her face instantly
turned white.
Beside her was Amakasu questioning calmly. Godou ignored the two of
them and ran towards Ena.
'—Finally, the god-slayer.'
Lips motionless, the Hime-Miko spoke softly with blank stares.
Godou was speechless; the opponent was definitely very strong.
However, even if Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was a divine sword, what
it controls was still a human body whose strength was limited. A
Campione's instincts allowed Godou to discern the true nature of the
enemy.
Seishuuin Ena whose body was taken by the divine sword, possessed
power that surpassed human magi.
Her current level was probably about the same as the dragon at Naples or
the divine beasts sighted at Sardinia.
But compared to a [Heretic God], it was not a huge threat.
For example if the [Camel] was used, a simple victory was likely assured.
However, Ena's body would be at risk if it had to withstand an attack from
Godou's authority.
Emergency situations required emergency measures. Still...
"Godou, it's not your turn yet. Can you leave things to me?"
Someone was speaking to him.
The origin of the voice was Erica who was struggling to get up.
Summoning Cuore di Leone to her side, she used it as a crutch for
support.
"If I fall down here and keep getting defeated by her, it would tarnish my
reputation, Erica Blandelli's."
"Okay, you should just lie down and rest, you've reached your limits!"
"No—the battle has just begun... I was about to glamorously reverse the
tides of battle in the second round? Do not get in my way...!"
Erica got up completely.
Though she was putting up a front, she did make an intense declaration
that did not fit her usual style.
She gazed at Ena with burning pupils, the Hime-Miko responded with a
puppet's gaze and expression.
Stop her? Or let her continue fighting? Of course she must be stopped.
There was no doubt. If she continued fighting, she would die. After
concluding Erica had no hope of winning, she must be stopped no matter
what—
...Wait a minute. Was there really no hope of winning?
The divine sword had sent Liliana flying and unconscious with just one
strike.
Nevertheless, Erica withstood it. Since she had been consuming her magic
and receiving attacks all this time, she should be weaker than Liliana.
Could there be a power protecting her? —Of course!
As Godou realized this point, his eyes met with Erica.
His gaze moved down towards her lower abdomen.
Accompanying the expression of sudden realization, she placed her hand
over her abdomen there. It looked like she had noticed as well.
"I forgot. My body currently has Godou's protection within it... I beseech the
source of my magic, the seal of the [Copper Black Cross], grant unto me
the knight's medal of honor!"
Carrying magical power, spell words were spoken out from her mouth.
At the same time, a change was produced.
Erica's red and black bandiera transformed into a long mantle-like coat, its
lower hem reaching down to her knees. Fluttering intensely, its form was
like a ferocious bird of prey with its wings spread out.
Then there was Cuore di Leone.
Originally a slender sword, the steel of the lion transformed into the form of
a lance.
The steel barbs made it resemble a cavalry lance used by medieval
knights of legend. Were its length shortened to about two meters or so, it
would be a one-handed infantry lance.
Holding this lance in her right hand, she held an oval iron shield in her left.
The colors of bright red and jet black crisscrossed her fluttering battle
garment. Equipped with a knight's lance and shield, Erica's heroic figure
was that of a paladino crowned with a crest of the cross.
"Eh? Why does Erica-san have Godou-san's—Verethragna's power!?"
Yuri was very surprised and probably saw the reason of the change using
spirit vision.
But Godou was equally surprised for he never expected the [Youth]'s
protection to bring about such a change—victory was possible.
"Erica, is it possible? Can you defeat Seishuuin?"
"Of course! In my current state, I will not lose to that woman again!"
This promise heralded the beginning of the second round.
Despite clumsy footsteps, Ena charged forward with exceptional speed.
Holding the divine sword with both hands, she slashed diagonally from the
top right to the bottom left.
Erica used the oval shield to block.
The jet-black divine sword clashed intensely with the shield. Sparks flew
from where they made contact, releasing intense divine power. They were
evenly matched.
However, on Erica's side, she still had a lance in her other hand.
She thrust with all her might, but before the point reached its destination,
Ena's body had jumped backwards like a locust.
Hence, Erica kicked at the ground.
Faced with Ena's retreat, she charged forward like a stallion.
A surge of continuous attacks like the onslaught of wrathful waves. Ena
rolled along the ground, evading the dozens of attacks from the lance tip.
In the process of rolling, she still managed to use her sword to slash at the
calves of the pursuing Erica.
With outstanding reflexes, Erica evaded using small steps to the side.
Stopping Erica's wave of attacks, Ena quickly got up.
"How amazing, for her to fight evenly with Ena-san who is being controlled
by Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi, it's the very image of a fierce demonic
god."
Amakasu sounded very impressed.
Yuri and Liliana, who had regained consciousness, were also watching the
battle with surprise.
"Kusanagi Godou... Is that the effect of the final [Youth] incarnation? What
a terrifying power. Anyway, for Erica to have stolen first place, I really must
complain."
Under Yuri's care, Liliana seemed a bit regretful.
The process of bestowing protection must definitely be kept secret. Godou
swore to himself as he nodded lightly.
Then a surprising turn of events occurred, for Ena started laughing.
"Ha! Ha, hahahahaha! Too great, Erica-san, I am truly impressed, I never
thought that you can be just as strong as me, who has absorbed divine
power."
The cheerful soprano voice that had been absent for so long.
Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi has allowed Ena to speak, unlike the earlier
clear cold tones.
This was the original voice of the lovely swordsman who casually enjoyed
all the chaos being wrought. Godou wondered if it was because the state
of divine possession had been released, but immediately knew he was
wrong.
This was because the battle spirit infused in her, from Susanoo and Ama
no Murakumo no Tsurugi, had become even more heightened.
"Excellent, then let's have a true duel once again, starting now!"
Yelling out, Ena's jet-black divine blade flashed brightly.
With noisy scattering sparks, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi gave off
blue-white lightning. Bearing the divine power of the conquering steel god
and heavenly child of storms and king of Susa—Susanoo, its power was
increasing.
Ena brandished the sword as easily as if it were her own limb, holding it
tightly with both hands straight in front of her chest.
Up until now, she had been in a state completely dominated by divine
power and spirit, without a shred of emotion.
However, through the joy and thrill of battle, Ena finally retrieved her
emotions.
Then she entered a state of resonance with Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi!
"Last time I defeated you with this move, so what will happen this time?
Ama no Murakumo! Seize it!"
Ena pointed the blade at Erica, and it gave off a terrifying pulse that
attacked the female knight.
Very clearly, it was an attack that absorbed magical power.
"Useless, your move won't work a second time!"
Erica grabbed the lower hem of her red and black coat and waved.
This blocked the pulse from the divine sword. The piece of fabric seemed
to possess magical defensive ability almost equal to a Campione's.
Ena smirked unfazed, lifting the divine sword upwards.
As Erica defended her body with the shield, she aimed the lance at Ena. It
was the stance of a frontal charge.
—A direct conclusion to the duel.
As Ena declared, both sides prepared for the end.
The two charged forward at the same time and collided violently.
As the divine sword swung down, the lance was thrust forward!
Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi struck Erica on the shoulder, but the blade's
point of contact was the part near the hilt.
Cuore di Leone pierced into Ena's body, but it was just a glancing blow to
the left abdomen.
Neither blow was decisive.
Erica's charge was too rapid and thus did not get cut by Ama no
Murakumo no Tsurugi's sharpest part; with motions like a wild beast, Ena
had narrowly evaded Erica's fatal attack at the last second.
However, this exchange had not ended.
It was true that the attack of the lance was evaded.
However, with the shield raised high, Erica charged with her entire body.
This was the real frontal charge!
Ena's delicate body was blown away as if struck by a car collision.
"Hmm—!?"
"This is a knight's style... A frontal charge to break through the enemy's
ranks. Do you feel it?"
To the fallen Ena, with irregular breathing, Erica declared victory.
However, the winning side also sank to her knees immediately.
Her bandiera and Cuore di Leone had returned to normal, and it looked
like she too was at her limits.
"Yes, felt it... I surrender."
Ena tried to use Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi as a crutch for support...
but finally gave up.
Holding the divine blade, she was lying on the road. Though her body was
immobile, her face showed a satisfied expression.
It resembled those youth movies during the Shouwa period, with the
requisite performance at the end of a riverside duel. Godou shrugged his
shoulders but suddenly noticed.
The storm, which appeared with Ena, had not subsided. In fact, it seemed
to be getting stronger?
As the violent wind howled, massive raindrops bombarded Godou and the
surface of the road.
"—Mariya!"
"Godou-san, it has not ended yet! Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi intends to
continue fighting!"
In the instant he asked Yuri, he got the answer.
Godou rushed towards the divine sword, planning to snap it in half—but
was a step too late.
Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi began to expand in size.
The roughly one-meter blade expanded nonstop and started to change its
form.
...Very long. By visual estimates, it was roughly twenty meters or so.
The jet-black blade became a body, forming arms and legs. Ama no
Murakumo no Tsurugi had transformed into a giant.
A sword originally the weight of a woodcutter's tool, its blade now pointed
up towards the heavens to form a vertical body.
Connected to two sides of its body were two blades—the arms, and around
the approximate position of the elbows there were even joints for the arms
to bend.
Then there were the legs, made of solid steel, thicker and heavier than
even the body and the arms.
Compared to the length of the body, the legs were rather short, giving a
somewhat unpleasant look. Overall, it gave off an extremely sharp feeling.
The giant of blades. Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi has transformed into a
giant of blades who could slice through everything with a simple swing.
Ena's body was stuck inside a location corresponding to the shoulder.
"Your Majesty..."
From within Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi, a quiet voice was heard.
"Seishuuin, are you ok? Can you escape from there!?"
"No—looks like not... I have no strength. Can Ena make a request?"
It was Ena's normal voice, this time she really seems to be released from
divine possession.
"If you are asking to be saved, just wait a little, I am already thinking about
how to save you."
"No, I don't want to bring you any more trouble..."
Ena responded to Godou in a philosophical tone.
As they conversed, the sword giant—Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi
started moving on its short stubby legs, its direction of advance was
towards Godou!
"Ama no Murakumo is still in high spirits for a battle with Your Majesty.
Since that's the case, could Your Majesty please defeat it quickly with your
power? It should be a simple task, right? Please do not mind Ena..."
"What do you mean, don't mind you!?"
"After all, everything is my fault... My own willfulness. But in the end, I did
get to fight a very interesting and meaningful battle, so Ena has no regrets.
Please do not mind and quickly defeat it. Farewell."
Towards the end, Ena's voice could no longer be heard.
In its place, was the approaching Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi. Though it
had transformed into a giant of blades, its legs were very short and did not
have any joints, so it was sliding along as if kneeling.
Godou looked around at everyone present.
Erica had already used up all her strength in the intense battle just now.
The [Youth] protection has disappeared, and all her magic and stamina
were consumed. Even so, she was still struggling to stand up to protect
Godou.
Liliana, who had been knocked out earlier by Ena's attack, was trying to
use her shaking body to summon Il Maestro and likewise planned to battle.
On the other hand, Yuri was watching with worried eyes the divine blade
that had devoured Ena.
Then there was Amakasu calmly muttering things like "Ara ara, how
troublesome." Though he spoke like that, it was clear that he did not have
the power to defeat the berserk Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi.
The first thing to do was to leave this place and keep everyone at a safe
distance.
Deciding that, Godou began to run.
Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi's legs were short and its mobility was
terrible. No matter how gigantic it was, running away from it should be a
simple task—but just as this thought entered Godou's mind...
Just as he was running past, the sword monster suddenly caught up with
unexpected speed.
Due to an ominous feeling, Godou watched his back as he continued
running. Thanks to that, he confirmed his suspicions as Ama no Murakumo
no Tsurugi sliced down with its right arm blade.
A sound of swish. This was a sound that could split apart air and even rain
water.
If the blade had aimed forward another few tens of centimeters, Godou's
body would have been sliced cleanly in half.
Such a sharp sword and its range of attack was so wide!
"No way, Your Majesty... Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi has no plans for
mercy, so please destroy it quickly... Hurry, or else it will catch up to you!"
It was Ena's voice again, and it seemed like she has not lost
consciousness. But there was no leisure to listen to her.
Godou stopped looking back.
Running full speed ahead, he definitely will not be caught.
Racing along Chidorigafuchi, the Imperial Palace could be seen opposite.
Decorating along the palace moat were the conspicuous trees, the very
well-known cherry blossoms.
Since he had increased the distance between them, Godou finally stopped
running.
The blade monster transformed from Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was
chasing along at a clumsy pace. To be honest, it was very slow and it
would be easy to just keep running away, but that would only defer the
problem without solving it.
"Kusanagi-san, only one solution remains. Didn't Ena say it already?"
Suddenly a man's voice came from beside him.
Turning to the source, Godou caught a fright. Amakasu was standing there
without any signs of being out of breath.
"W-When did you follow along?"
"I've been chasing from behind all along. I can run pretty fast you know.
Anyway, that thing there is more important, if we let that gigantic divine
sword rampage, who knows how the situation will develop..."
Amakasu made a very reasonable complaint.
But Godou pointed out the detail he had ignored.
"Is it ok to let Seishuuin get caught in between? She is currently bound
tightly to the sword!?"
"My opinion is that it can't be helped. As she said so herself, it is all her
fault. In this kind of situation, even my boss, Sayanomiya Kaoru, will
approve as the one responsible for the History Compilation Committee.
Because there is no other way."
No other way... Was it really true? No, Godou did not agree.
He had not done what he should. Nothing had been attempted. In such a
situation, concluding "no other way" would be too hasty!
"If so, I will say only this. No matter what, I will save Seishuuin first, then
handle the monster later. How's that?"
"Oh, there's such a convenient plan? How are you going to do it?"
"There's no plan yet! I'll just think it up as I go along! This is dangerous.
You retreat first!"
Hearing Godou's answer, Amakasu showed an expression of surprise.
But there was no time to tend to Amakasu as Godou focused his attention
on the approaching Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi.
Once again, it swung down its right arm blade. The massive blade
approached Godou's head. So fast! Despite its immense body size, its
sword strikes were extraordinarily skilled.
However, it was precisely the reason this could be used. The incarnation
that was unlocked when facing a high-speed attack.
Godou used the [Raptor].
Other than himself, everything in the world slowed down, and only Godou
accelerated.
Calmly dodging the giant block of steel that was about to slice his head off,
he then rushed onto the body of the blade using the massive increase in
agility and jumping ability.
Easily running along the surface of the blade that was acting as an arm, he
reached the shoulder location where Ena was buried.
The imprisoned Hime-Miko showed a relaxed expression that seemed to
say, "My life has no regrets—"
What a worrying fellow, and yet she is acting so casual... A little shocked,
Godou grabbed Ena's shoulder.
Pulling hard, though she seemed to be stuck tight, her body budged
slightly.
Very good, now pull once again with full strength. Excellent, she is finally
released.
Even at this moment, Ena still carried that spaced out expression. That
was only natural considering Godou was still in a state of acceleration.
Carrying the uniformed miko in his arms, Godou jumped off from the back
of Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi.
He originally wanted to attack it from behind.
Regrettably, the [Raptor] authority did not have the destructive power to
defeat this thing, so Godou gave up the notion.
Looking ahead, he found Yuri running towards him.
Panting heavily, she stopped to catch her breath. To Godou in his
accelerated state, Yuri looked completely motionless.
Erica and Liliana also came in pursuit.
Due to their injuries, even Yuri arrived faster than them. Godou set down
Ena before them. Next, how should he take care of Ama no Murakumo no
Tsurugi?
Though he had thought of a way, would it work as planned? Godou
prepared to use the next incarnation.
The accelerated state ended and returned to normal.
"Mmm... no good after all. M-My chest—!"
Godou pressed his hand against his heart as he sank to his knees and
collapsed forward.
Using the [Raptor] incarnation resulted in after effects of heart pain and a
temporary state of immobility. His wishful thinking had been too naive.
"...G-Godou-san, why are you here!? Even Ena-san!?"
"Eh? I was clearly caught by Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi? Why are Ena
and Your Majesty here?"
The voices of the Hime-Miko pair were heard.
However, Godou had no time to pay attention to them. Simply enduring the
pain was consuming all his strength.
Before he realized it, the Hime-Miko pair had held him in their arms and
placed him in a sitting position.
"You used the [Raptor] incarnation, right? Which is how you rescued
Ena-san..."
"Yes, that's right. I can destroy that sword if my condition improves slightly,
but right now, it's impossible. You two should run away..."
Godou suggested as he nodded to the highly observant Yuri.
The pain in his heart was unbearable, but at the very least, he must make
sure these two are saved—
Having lost him from its sights, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was turning
left and right, searching for signs of Godou. In this situation, as long as
they did not take him along, they should be able to escape successfully.
However, Ena spoke quietly beside him.
"No, Ena will not escape. Because for things to come to this, Ena is
responsible, and Ama no Murakumo is Ena's partner... I will slow him
down, you guys escape first."
"Idiot! Even if you risk your life, you won't be able to stall for long!"
Though it was true, the Hime-Miko of the Sword was not deterred.
Damn it, I put in so much effort to save you—as Godou gnashed his teeth,
Yuri spoke decisively:
"Godou-san, you just need the ability to move temporarily, right?"
Yuri asked with a stern expression.
That unrelenting beauty, made Godou and Ena withdraw their words of
protest.
"Yes, yes, as long as I can concentrate for a while..."
Concentrating his spirit and power. Unless he did that, he would not be
able to control that particular incarnation well. However, the pain in his
chest was making him powerless. Yet he was so close to victory!
As Godou gnashed his teeth...
Yuri's face suddenly drew near. No, not only her face, even her lips were
approaching.
Brief contact? Lips to lips?
By the time Godou realized what was going on, he was already being
kissed by Yuri!
Magical power flowed along with her sweet breath, and the pain in his
chest was relieved. Why?
"Yes, if you don't apply spells from within the body, it will not work on the
Devil Kings. So that's what it meant!"
"Yes, that is correct. Just now I poured restoration magic in through the
mouth..."
Shivering from embarrassment, Yuri conversed with Ena.
As Godou lay shocked, he silently watched Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi.
It seemed to have noticed his location, and was advancing in a sliding
manner, about twenty meters away.
"Understood! Then Your Majesty, although Ena doesn't understand
completely, I will also assist you. So you must win!"
"E-Ena!? Why, there is no need for you too..."
It came again, this time it was Seishuuin Ena who approached with her
lips.
This was the third person he kissed today.
With the sound of "chuu~," the lips pressed together, gave off a sound like
a light gust of wind.
His pain mostly subsided, but the extremities of his arms and legs were
numb and his whole body felt powerless. The other side effect of the
[Raptor] — the state of immobility had begun.
But there was still time to use that.
The power of the [Boar] incarnation—the ability to call forth the pitch-black
gigantic beast from another world!
"May spines be crushed, may bones be broken, tendons torn; hair, brains,
and blood mingled and trampled together with the earth. The one
unblunted and unapproachable! Oath-breaking sinners be purged by the
iron hammer of justice!"
After roaring with full strength, the entire pedestrian walking lane turned
black.
The pitch-black [Boar] with its burly body, charged and ran out. The
incarnation that could only be summoned to destroy a massive object, its
target was now the gigantic Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi.
The massive monster, whose body length measured twenty meters
roughly, dwarfed the strange giant sword.
Chidorigafuchi had become the stage for the monster battle between the
tall giant of blades and the [Boar].
The giant used its sharp and heavy blade to cut open the thick hide and
muscles of the enormous jet-black beast, but it immediately realized that
resistance was futile.
In terms of destructive power, their levels differed too much.
As the [Boar] bled blue-black blood, it roared joyfully, thrusting the tusks
that did not lose to its opponent in sharpness, and using its entire body
weight to charge, kick, and trample.
Finally, from its mouth came a roar mixed with supersonic waves.
Suffering these violent attacks, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was sent
flying repeatedly.
"Who could have thought that the difference in level was so vast between a
messenger of god and something controlled directly by a god or a
Campione..."
Godou lightly exclaimed as he continued to lie motionless for the time
being.
There was nothing he could do to escape from the battlefield or tear his
gaze away from the horrific sight.
Chasing after Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi into Chidorigafuchi, the [Boar]
leapt into the palace moat, turning it into a battle in water. The surrounding
stone walls of the Imperial Palace crumbled as it suffered the battering
impacts of the monsters' bodies and the slashing attacks of the giant
sword. It was now time for unrestrained destruction.
Chidorigafuchi's landscape was being destroyed completely by the current
events.
Every time the giant beast and the giant sword clashed violently, massive
sprays of water splashed about from the palace moat.
The moat itself was being demolished, scooped out, sliced open, and
trampled by monstrous power.
The cherry blossom trees that brought joy to people every spring was
being seriously vandalized. Snapped, crushed, pulverized... Tokyo's
famous cherry blossom sighting spot was gradually disappearing.
"Amazing, Kusanagi-san. Who knew Your Majesty could be so powerful!"
Ena was watching Godou with glimmering eyes, while Yuri and Godou
sighed deeply.
"Sorry, Mariya, it became like this again..."
"No, no, this was unavoidable... I will pay penance together with you."
"Ending up like this again, anyway, let's just say it was to be expected."
"Yes, even for something created by the gods to fight directly against a
Campione, resulting in this dismal state was most natural. There can be no
other outcome."
As destruction continued to be wrought, Erica and Liliana lightly exclaimed,
having gathered together.
These two carried not the slightest sense of guilt in their tone of voice.
On the other hand, Amakasu had vanished at some point, probably to
begin a cover-up operation for this incident.
And so, the culprits of this tragedy watched on, as the pitch-black [Boar]
enjoyed its time destroying Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi, trampling
Chidorigafuchi, and letting loose roars of victory that resounded across the
sky.